[POLYGYNAX IN THE TREATMENT OF VAGINAL INFECTIONS IN PREGNANT AND NON-PREGNANT WOMEN--CLINICAL EXPERIENCE].

PubMed

Popovski, N; Popovski, K; Nedelkovski, V

2016-01-01

Vaginal infections /VI/ represent some of the most common diseases by infection of FGS. The aim of this study is to analyze clinical and bacteriological efficacy of Polygynax in the treatment of vaginal infections and to take into account the correlation between the results of microbiological controls and reduction of clinical symptoms. The study included 100 patients, including 50 pregnant and non-pregnant 50 for a period of 3 months. All of them was diagnosed with vaginitis clinical examination, taken material from vagina for microbiological testing. The studied women was conducted targeted therapy Polygynax 12 capsules, in the form of vaginal capsules for 12 days, after which the sample control microbiology. Behind the subjective complaints of the patient and to reduce them as a result of treatment. The effective implementation of Polygynax 12 capsules is equally good as in non-pregnant and pregnant women. In a summary of the survey data to make relevant analyzes and conclusions from the results.

Mercury Capsule Separation Tests

NASA Image and Video Library

1960-04-01

Mercury capsule separation from Redstone booster in the Altitude Wind Tunnel (AWT): NASA Lewis conducted full-scale separation tests of the posigrade rockets that were fired after the Redstone rockets burned out. The researchers studied the effect of the posigrade rockets firing on the Redstone booster and retrograde package. This film shows the Mercury capsule being mounted to the Redstone missile model in the Altitude Wind Tunnel. The capsule's engines are fired and it horizontally separates from the Atlas. After firing the capsule swings from an overhead crane.

Challenges of CPAS Flight Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Eric S.; Morris, Aaron L.

2011-01-01

The Crew Exploration Vehicle Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) is being designed to land the Orion Crew Module (CM) at a safe rate of descent at splashdown via a series of Drogue, Pilot, and Main parachutes. Because Orion is considerably larger and heavier than Apollo, many of the flight test techniques developed during the Apollo program must be modified. The Apollo program had a dedicated C-133 aircraft, which was modified to allow a simple airdrop of "boilerplate" flight test vehicles. However, the CPAS program must use either commercial or military assets with minimal modifications to airframes or procedures. Conceptual envelopes from 2-Degree Of Freedom trajectories are presented for several existing and novel architectures. Ideally, the technique would deliver a representative capsule shape to the desired altitude and dynamic pressure at test initiation. However, compromises must be made on the characteristics of trajectories or the fidelity of test articles to production hardware. Most of the tests to date have used traditional pallet and weight tub or missile-shaped test vehicles. New test vehicles are being designed to better incorporate Orion structural components and deploy parachutes in a more representative fashion. The first attempt to test a capsule-shaped vehicle failed due to unexpected events while setting up the test condition through a series of complex procedures. In order to avoid the loss of another expensive test article which will delay the program, simpler deployment methods are being examined and more positive control of the vehicle will be maintained. Existing challenges include interfacing with parent aircraft, separating test vehicles, achieving test conditions, and landing within limited test ranges. All these challenges must be met within cost and schedule limits.

21 CFR 343.90 - Dissolution and drug release testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...) Aspirin capsules. Aspirin capsules must meet the dissolution standard for aspirin capsules as contained in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) 23 at page 132. (c) Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets. Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets must meet...

21 CFR 343.90 - Dissolution and drug release testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

...) Aspirin capsules. Aspirin capsules must meet the dissolution standard for aspirin capsules as contained in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) 23 at page 132. (c) Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets. Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets must meet...

21 CFR 343.90 - Dissolution and drug release testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

...) Aspirin capsules. Aspirin capsules must meet the dissolution standard for aspirin capsules as contained in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) 23 at page 132. (c) Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets. Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets must meet...

21 CFR 343.90 - Dissolution and drug release testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

...) Aspirin capsules. Aspirin capsules must meet the dissolution standard for aspirin capsules as contained in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) 23 at page 132. (c) Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets. Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets must meet...

21 CFR 343.90 - Dissolution and drug release testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...) Aspirin capsules. Aspirin capsules must meet the dissolution standard for aspirin capsules as contained in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) 23 at page 132. (c) Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets. Aspirin delayed-release capsules and aspirin delayed-release tablets must meet...

The structure and ultrastructure of the egg capsule of Brachyptera risi (Plecoptera, Nemouroidea, Taeniopterygidae) with some remarks concerning choriogenesis.

PubMed

Michalik, Anna; Rościszewska, Elżbieta; Miliša, Marko

2015-02-01

The organization of the egg capsule of the euholognathan stonefly, which represents the family Taeniopterygidae (Nemuroidea) was investigated using light and electron microscopy techniques. The presence of a complex, multilayered egg capsule, composed of a vitelline envelope, multilayered chorion, and extrachorion is described. The morphology of the eggshell of Brachyptera risi was compared with that of euholognthan and systellognathan egg coverings and the ground plan of the egg capsule in Plecoptera was discussed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Development of remote welding techniques for in-pile IASCC capsules and evaluation of material integrity on capsules for long irradiation period

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibata, A.; Nakano, J.; Ohmi, M.; Kawamata, K.; Nakagawa, T.; Tsukada, T.

2012-03-01

To simulate irradiation assisted stress corrosion cracking (IASCC) behavior by in-pile experiments, it is necessary to irradiate specimens up to a neutron fluence that is higher than the IASCC threshold fluence. Pre-irradiated specimens must be relocated from pre-irradiation capsules to in-pile capsules. Hence, a remote welding machine has been developed. And the integrity of capsule housing for a long term irradiation was evaluated by tensile tests in air and slow strain rate tests in water. Two type specimens were prepared. Specimens were obtained from the outer tubes of capsule irradiated to 1.0-3.9 × 1026 n/m2 (E > 1 MeV). And specimens were irradiated in a leaky capsule to 0.03-1.0 × 1026 n/m2. Elongation more than 15% in tensile test at 423 K was confirmed and no IGSCC fraction was shown in SSRT at 423 K which was estimated as temperature at the outer tubes of the capsule under irradiation.

Remote magnetic manipulation of a wireless capsule endoscope in the esophagus and stomach of humans (with videos).

PubMed

Swain, Paul; Toor, Arifa; Volke, Frank; Keller, Jutta; Gerber, Jeremy; Rabinovitz, Elisha; Rothstein, Richard I

2010-06-01

Remote manipulation of wireless capsule endoscopes might improve diagnostic accuracy and facilitate therapy. To test a new capsule-manipulation system. University hospital. A first-in-human study tested a new magnetic maneuverable wireless capsule in a volunteer. A wireless capsule endoscope was modified to include neodymium-iron-boron magnets. The capsule's magnetic switch was replaced with a thermal one and turned on by placing it in hot water. One imager was removed from the PillCam colon-based capsule, and the available space was used to house the magnets. A handheld external magnet was used to manipulate this capsule in the esophagus and stomach. The capsule was initiated by placing it in a microg of hot water. The capsule was swallowed and observed in the esophagus and stomach by using a gastroscope. Capsule images were viewed on a real-time viewer. The capsule was manipulated in the esophagus for 10 minutes. It was easy to make the capsule turn somersaults and to angulate at the cardioesophageal junction. In the stomach, it was easy to move the capsule back from the pylorus to the cardioesophageal junction and hold/spin the capsule at any position in the stomach. The capsule in the esophagus and stomach did not cause discomfort. Magnetic force varies with the fourth power of distance. This study suggests that remote manipulation of a capsule in the esophagus and stomach of a human is feasible and might enhance diagnostic endoscopy as well as enable therapeutic wireless capsule endoscopy. Copyright 2010 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of capsule assemblies, phase 3

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keeton, A. R.; Stemann, L. G.

1973-01-01

Thirteen capsule assemblies were fabricated for evaluation of fuel pin design concepts for a fast spectrum lithium cooled compact space power reactor. These instrumented assemblies were designed for real time test of prototype fuel pins. Uranium mononitride fuel pins were encased in AISI 304L stainless steel capsules. Fabrication procedures were fully qualified by process development and assembly qualification tests. Instrumentation reliability was achieved utilizing specially processed and closely controlled thermocouple hot zone fabrication and by thermal screening tests. Overall capsule reliability was achieved with an all electron beam welded assembly.

Corrosion of 316 stainless steel in high temperature molten Li2BeF4 (FLiBe) salt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Guiqiu; Kelleher, Brian; Cao, Guoping; Anderson, Mark; Allen, Todd; Sridharan, Kumar

2015-06-01

In support of structural material development for the fluoride-salt-cooled high-temperature reactor (FHR), corrosion tests of 316 stainless steel were performed in the potential primary coolant, molten Li2BeF4 (FLiBe) at 700 °C for an exposure duration up to 3000 h. Tests were performed in both 316 stainless steel and graphite capsules. Corrosion in both capsule materials occurred by the dissolution of chromium from the stainless steel into the salt which led to the depletion of chromium predominantly along the grain boundaries of the test samples. The samples tested in graphite capsules showed a factor of two greater depth of corrosion attack as measured in terms of chromium depletion, compared to those tested in 316 stainless steel capsules. The samples tested in graphite capsules showed the formation of Cr7C3 particulate phases throughout the depth of the corrosion layer. Samples tested in both types of capsule materials showed the formation of MoSi2 phase due to increased activity of Mo and Si as a result of Cr depletion, and furthermore corrosion promoted the formation of a α-ferrite phase in the near-surface regions of the 316 stainless steel. Based on the corrosion tests, the corrosion attack depth in FLiBe salt was predicted as 17.1 μm/year and 31.2 μm/year for 316 stainless steel tested in 316 stainless steel and in graphite capsules respectively. It is in an acceptable range compared to the Hastelloy-N corrosion in the Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) fuel salt.

Development of the inverted visceral yolk sac in three species of caviids (Rodentia, Caviomorpha, Caviidae).

PubMed

Miglino, M A; Franciolli, A L R; de Oliveira, M F; Ambrósio, C E; Bonatelli, M; Machado, M R F; Mess, A

2008-08-01

Guinea pig related rodents possess numerous derived placental characters. We attempt to identify diversity within the visceral yolk sac and its association with the chorioallantoic placenta in three species of caviids, two of them possessing a capsule formed by the decidua that covers the chorioallantoic placenta. The results verify that in early pregnancy all three species have an inverted yolk sac placenta. In advanced pregnancy the species differ: Galea spixii, as representative without a capsule, bear a yolk sac in apposition to the chorioallantoic placenta with signs of exchange activity until term. Galea is similar to other caviomorphs in this respect. In Dasyprocta leporina and Cuniculus paca, the representatives possessing a capsule, the yolk sac endoderm lacks signs of substance exchange. Evidently, the presence of a capsule prevents such an interaction. The variations established here must be considered if animal models for human placentation are required which have restricted access to the chorioallantoic placenta from the outside.

Assessment of the quality of simvastatin capsules from compounding pharmacies.

PubMed

Markman, Blanca Elena Ortega; Rosa, Paulo César Pires; Koschtschak, Maria Regina Walter

2010-12-01

To validate a method for determining the simvastatin content of compounded capsules, using high performance liquid chromatography. Eighteen samples of simvastatin 40 mg capsules from compounding pharmacies in the cities of São Paulo, Guarulhos, São Bernardo do Campo and Campinas, Southeastern Brazil, prescribed for fictitious patients were assessed. The analyses were based on the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia and on the high performance liquid chromatography method, optimized and validated in accordance with national and international standards for identification and quantification tests on compounded capsules. The mean weight of the capsules ranged from 70 mg to 316 mg; four samples presented weight variation outside of the specification. The simvastatin content in the capsules was within the specification in 11 samples. In six, the content ranged from 4% to 87% of the declared quantity, thereby not complying with the content requirements for the active agent. For one sample, no content or uniformity determinations were performed. In the content uniformity test, 15 samples presented indices of less than 85%, with relative standard deviations greater than 6%. Three pharmacies had met the specification in this test. In the dissolution test, eight samples presented unsatisfactory results in the first stage of the test, while the remainder presented inconclusive results. The method used was shown to be suitable for application to quality control, and it revealed the poor quality of the simvastatin capsules produced by some compounding pharmacies.

Mercury Capsule Retrorocket Test in the Altitude Wind Tunnel

NASA Image and Video Library

1960-09-21

A mechanic at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center prepares the inverted base of a Mercury capsule for a test of its posigrade retrorockets inside the Altitude Wind Tunnel. In October 1959 NASA’s Space Task Group allocated several Project Mercury assignments to Lewis. The Altitude Wind Tunnel was modified to test the Atlas separation system, study the escape tower rocket plume, train astronauts to bring a spinning capsule under control, and calibrate the capsule’s retrorockets. The turning vanes, makeup air pipes, and cooling coils were removed from the wide western end of the tunnel to create a 51-foot diameter test chamber. The Mercury capsule had a six-rocket retro-package affixed to the bottom of the capsule. Three of these were posigrade rockets used to separate the capsule from the booster and three were retrograde rockets used to slow the capsule for reentry into the earth’s atmosphere. Performance of the retrorockets was vital since there was no backup system. Qualification tests of the retrorockets began in April 1960 on a retrograde thrust stand inside the southwest corner of the Altitude Wind Tunnel. These studies showed that a previous issue concerning the delayed ignition of the propellant had been resolved. Follow-up test runs verified reliability of the igniter’s attachment to the propellant. In addition, the capsule’s retrorockets were calibrated so they would not alter the capsule’s attitude when fired.

Ballistic Range Testing of the Mars Exploration Rover Entry Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoenenberger, Mark; Hathaway, Wayne; Yates, Leslie; Desai, Prasun

2005-01-01

Results from a 25 shot ballistic range test of the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) aeroshell are presented. The supersonic pitch damping properties of the MER capsule were characterized between Mach = 1.5 and Mach = 3.5 and total angles-of-attack from 0 degrees to greater than 25 degrees. Three capsule center-of-gravity positions were tested across this range of conditions, 0.27, 0.30 and 0.33 body diameters aft of the nose. Parameter identification results show that the capsule is dynamically unstable at low angles-of-attack across the Mach numbers tested, with instability increasing with lower speeds. This dynamic instability was seen to increase with aft center-of-gravity movement. The MER outer mold line was very similar to the successful Mars Pathfinder capsule with only minor modifications. Pathfinder relied on Viking forced oscillation data for preflight predictions. The pitch damping data calculated from this test program are shown to more accurately reproduce the measured Path finder flight data.

pH-Responsive Capsules Engineered from Metal-Phenolic Networks for Anticancer Drug Delivery.

PubMed

Ping, Yuan; Guo, Junling; Ejima, Hirotaka; Chen, Xi; Richardson, Joseph J; Sun, Huanli; Caruso, Frank

2015-05-06

A new class of pH-responsive capsules based on metal-phenolic networks (MPNs) for anticancer drug loading, delivery and release is reported. The fabrication of drug-loaded MPN capsules, which is based on the formation of coordination complexes between natural polyphenols and metal ions over a drug-coated template, represents a rapid strategy to engineer robust and versatile drug delivery carriers. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The Orion Test Capsule and a number of other items used in the c

NASA Image and Video Library

2013-08-07

The Orion Test Capsule and a number of other items used in the capsule recovery at being transported down the James River on a Navy INLS "Improved Navy Lighterage System" from Fort Eustis from where it was loaded. Its liquid route will take them to Little Creek Amphibious Base in Norfolk, where it will stay until scheduled recovery test will be performed.

Launch Pad Activities

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-09-08

Big Joe Capsule Launch Pad Activities: This film covers both the Big Joe and a Little Joe Project Mercury flight test with a research and development version of the Mercury capsule. Big Joe was an Atlas missile that successfully launched a boilerplate model of the Mercury capsule on September 9, 1959. The lower half of the capsule was created at NASA Lewis. The scenes include coverage of the assembly and erection of the boosters, delivery of the capsules, mating of the capsules to the boosters, prelaunch views of the capsule and boosters on launchers, mission control, the launches, and recovery.

Reentry Motion and Aerodynamics of the MUSES-C Sample Return Capsule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishii, Nobuaki; Yamada, Tetsuya; Hiraki, Koju; Inatani, Yoshifumi

The Hayabusa spacecraft (MUSES-C) carries a small capsule for bringing asteroid samples back to the earth. The initial spin rate of the reentry capsule together with the flight path angle of the reentry trajectory is a key parameter for the aerodynamic motion during the reentry flight. The initial spin rate is given by the spin-release mechanism attached between the capsule and the mother spacecraft, and the flight path angle can be modified by adjusting the earth approach orbit. To determine the desired values of both parameters, the attitude motion during atmospheric flight must be clarified, and angles of attack at the maximum dynamic pressure and the parachute deployment must be assessed. In previous studies, to characterize the aerodynamic effects of the reentry capsule, several wind-tunnel tests were conducted using the ISAS high-speed flow test facilities. In addition to the ground test data, the aerodynamic properties in hypersonic flows were analyzed numerically. Moreover, these data were made more accurate using the results of balloon drop tests. This paper summarized the aerodynamic properties of the reentry capsule and simulates the attitude motion of the full-configuration capsule during atmospheric flight in three dimensions with six degrees of freedom. The results show the best conditions for the initial spin rates and flight path angles of the reentry trajectory.

Capsule Escape Tests - Wallops Island

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-05-14

Caption: Off the pad abort shot at Wallops using Langley PARD designed full scale capsule with Recruit rocket and extended skirt main parachute. Shows sequential images of launch and capsule splashdown.

The structure and ultrastructure of the egg capsules of stoneflies of the genus Isoperla (Insecta, Plecoptera, Perlodidae).

PubMed

Michalik, Anna; Miliša, Marko; Michalik, Katarzyna; Rościszewska, Elżbieta

2017-11-01

The egg capsules of five systellognathan stoneflies species representing the genus Isoperla (Plecoptera, Perlodidae) have been investigated using light and electron microscopes (SEM and TEM). We consider the structural modifications of egg coverings (egg capsules, eggshells) like: a shape of a capsule, presence of structures fixing an egg to the substratum under water, intrachorionic aeropylar system facilitating gas exchange as a factor adapting an egg/embryo to the environment. The structures protecting eggs against desiccation during a female flight before oviposition into water as well as against the dangers of external mechanical injury caused by turbulences in rapid water currents of mountain streams are described and discussed. The ground plan of the egg capsule in arctoperlarian stoneflies is also discussed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Analysis and Experimental Qualification of an Irradiation Capsule Design for Testing Pressurized Water Reactor Fuel Cladding in the High Flux Isotope Reactor

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

Smith, Kurt R.; Howard, Richard H.; Daily, Charles R.

The Advanced Fuels Campaign within the Fuel Cycle Research and Development program of the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy is currently investigating a number of advanced nuclear fuel cladding concepts to improve the accident tolerance of light water reactors. Alumina-forming ferritic alloys (e.g., FeCrAl) are some of the leading candidates to replace traditional zirconium alloys due to their superior oxidation resistance, provided no prohibitive irradiation-induced embrittlement occurs. Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed experimental designs to irradiate thin-walled cladding tubes with representative pressurized water reactor geometry in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) under relevant temperatures. These designsmore » allow for post-irradiation examination (PIE) of cladding that closely resembles expected commercially viable geometries and microstructures. The experiments were designed using relatively inexpensive rabbit capsules for the irradiation vehicle. The simplistic designs combined with the extremely high neutron flux in the HFIR allow for rapid testing of a large test matrix, thus reducing the time and cost needed to advanced cladding materials closer to commercialization. The designs are flexible in that they allow for testing FeCrAl alloys, stainless steels, Inconel alloys, and zirconium alloys (as a reference material) both with and without hydrides. This will allow a direct comparison of the irradiation performance of advanced cladding materials with traditional zirconium alloys. PIE will include studies of dimensional change, microstructure variation, mechanical performance, etc. This work describes the capsule design, neutronic and thermal analyses, and flow testing that were performed to support the qualification of this new irradiation vehicle.« less

AGR-5/6/7 Irradiation Test Predictions using PARFUME

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

Skerjanc, William F.

PARFUME, (PARticle FUel ModEl) a fuel performance modeling code used for high temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), was used to model the Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR)-5/6/7 irradiation test using predicted physics and thermal hydraulics data. The AGR-5/6/7 test consists of the combined fifth, sixth, and seventh planned irradiations of the AGR Fuel Development and Qualification Program. The AGR-5/6/7 test train is a multi-capsule, instrumented experiment that is designed for irradiation in the 133.4-mm diameter north east flux trap (NEFT) position of Advanced Test Reactor (ATR). Each capsule contains compacts filled with uranium oxycarbide (UCO) unaltered fuel particles. This report documents themore » calculations performed to predict the failure probability of tristructural isotropic (TRISO)-coated fuel particles during the AGR-5/6/7 experiment. In addition, this report documents the calculated source term from the driver fuel. The calculations include modeling of the AGR-5/6/7 irradiation that is scheduled to occur from October 2017 to April 2021 over a total of 13 ATR cycles, including nine normal cycles and four Power Axial Locator Mechanism (PALM) cycle for a total between 500 – 550 effective full power days (EFPD). The irradiation conditions and material properties of the AGR-5/6/7 test predicted zero fuel particle failures in Capsules 1, 2, and 4. Fuel particle failures were predicted in Capsule 3 due to internal particle pressure. These failures were predicted in the highest temperature compacts. Capsule 5 fuel particle failures were due to inner pyrolytic carbon (IPyC) cracking causing localized stresses concentrations in the SiC layer. This capsule predicted the highest particle failures due to the lower irradiation temperature. In addition, shrinkage of the buffer and IPyC layer during irradiation resulted in formation of a buffer-IPyC gap. The two capsules at the two ends of the test train, Capsules 1 and 5 experienced the smallest buffer-IPyC gap formation due to the lower irradiation fluences and temperatures. Capsule 3 experienced the largest buffer-IPyC gap formation of just under 24 µm. The release fraction of fission products Ag, Cs, and Sr silver (Ag), cesium (Cs), and strontium (Sr) vary depending on capsule location and irradiation temperature. The maximum release fraction of Ag occurs in Capsule 3, reaching up to 84.8% for the TRISO fuel particles. The release fraction of the other two fission products, Cs and Sr are much smaller and, in most cases, less than 1%. The notable exception is again in Capsule 3, where the release fraction for Cs and Sr reach up to 9.7% and 19.1%, respectively.« less

Suture marker lesion detection in the colon by self-stabilizing and unmodified capsule endoscopes: pilot study in acute canine models.

PubMed

Filip, Dobromir; Yadid-Pecht, Orly; Muench, Gregory; Mintchev, Martin P; Andrews, Christopher N

2013-02-01

Capsule endoscopy is a noninvasive method for examining the small intestine. Recently, this method has been used to visualize the colon. However, the capsule often tumbles in the wider colon lumen, resulting in potentially missed pathology. In addition, the capsule does not have the ability to distend collapsed segments of the organ. Self-stabilizing capsule endoscopy is a new method of visualizing the colon without tumbling and with the ability to passively distend colon walls. To quantitatively compare the detection rate of intraluminal suture marker lesions for colonoscopy by using a custom-modified, self-stabilizing capsule endoscope (SCE); an unmodified capsule endoscope (CE) of the same brand; and a standard colonoscope. Four mongrel dogs underwent laparotomy and the implantation of 5 to 8 suture markers to approximate colon lesions. Each dog had both capsule endoscopy and self-stabilizing capsule endoscopy, administered consecutively in random order. In each case, the capsule was inserted endoscopically into the proximal lumen of the colon followed by pharmacologically induced colon peristalsis to propel it distally through the colon. Blinded standard colonoscopy was performed by an experienced gastroenterologist after the capsule endoscopies. Experimental study in a live canine model. Four dogs. Laparotomy, capsule endoscopy, colonoscopy. Comparison of the marker detection rate of the SCE to that of the unmodified MiroCam CE and a colonoscope. The average percentages of the marker detection rate for unmodified capsule endoscopy, self-stabilizing capsule endoscopy, and colonoscopy, respectively, were 31.1%, 86%, and 100% (P < .01), with both self-stabilizing capsule endoscopy and colonoscopy performing significantly better than the unmodified capsule endoscopy. Acute canine model, suture markings poorly representative of epithelial polyps, limited number of animals. The proposed self-stabilizing capsule endoscope delivered a significant improvement in detection rates of colon suture markings when compared with the unmodified capsule endoscope. Copyright © 2013 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

EXPERT: An atmospheric re-entry test-bed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Massobrio, F.; Viotto, R.; Serpico, M.; Sansone, A.; Caporicci, M.; Muylaert, J.-M.

2007-06-01

In recognition of the importance of an independent European access to the International Space Station (ISS) and in preparation for the future needs of exploration missions, ESA is conducting parallel activities to generate flight data using atmospheric re-entry test-beds and to identify vehicle design solutions for human and cargo transportation vehicles serving the ISS and beyond. The EXPERT (European eXPErimental Re-entry Test-bed) vehicle represents the major on-going development in the first class of activities. Its results may also benefit in due time scientific missions to planets with an atmosphere and future reusable launcher programmes. The objective of EXPERT is to provide a test-bed for the validation of aerothermodynamics models, codes and ground test facilities in a representative flight environment, to improve the understanding of issues related to analysis, testing and extrapolation to flight. The vehicle will be launched on a sub-orbital trajectory using a Volna missile. The EXPERT concept is based on a symmetrical re-entry capsule whose shape is composed of simple geometrical elements. The suborbital trajectory will reach 120 km altitude and a re-entry velocity of 5 6km/s. The dimensions of the capsule are 1.6 m high and 1.3 m diameter; the overall mass is in the range of 250 350kg, depending upon the mission parameters and the payload/instrumentation complement. A consistent number of scientific experiments are foreseen on-board, from innovative air data system to shock wave/boundary layer interaction, from sharp hot structures characterisation to natural and induced regime transition. Currently the project is approaching completion of the phase B, with Alenia Spazio leading the industrial team and CIRA coordinating the scientific payload development under ESA contract.

Quantitative transmission Raman spectroscopy of pharmaceutical tablets and capsules.

PubMed

Johansson, Jonas; Sparén, Anders; Svensson, Olof; Folestad, Staffan; Claybourn, Mike

2007-11-01

Quantitative analysis of pharmaceutical formulations using the new approach of transmission Raman spectroscopy has been investigated. For comparison, measurements were also made in conventional backscatter mode. The experimental setup consisted of a Raman probe-based spectrometer with 785 nm excitation for measurements in backscatter mode. In transmission mode the same system was used to detect the Raman scattered light, while an external diode laser of the same type was used as excitation source. Quantitative partial least squares models were developed for both measurement modes. The results for tablets show that the prediction error for an independent test set was lower for the transmission measurements with a relative root mean square error of about 2.2% as compared with 2.9% for the backscatter mode. Furthermore, the models were simpler in the transmission case, for which only a single partial least squares (PLS) component was required to explain the variation. The main reason for the improvement using the transmission mode is a more representative sampling of the tablets compared with the backscatter mode. Capsules containing mixtures of pharmaceutical powders were also assessed by transmission only. The quantitative results for the capsules' contents were good, with a prediction error of 3.6% w/w for an independent test set. The advantage of transmission Raman over backscatter Raman spectroscopy has been demonstrated for quantitative analysis of pharmaceutical formulations, and the prospects for reliable, lean calibrations for pharmaceutical analysis is discussed.

Maraia Capsule Flight Testing and Results for Entry, Descent, and Landing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sostaric, Ronald R.; Strahan, Alan L.

2016-01-01

The Maraia concept is a modest size (150 lb., 30" diameter) capsule that has been proposed as an ISS based, mostly autonomous earth return capability to function either as an Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) technology test platform or as a small on-demand sample return vehicle. A flight test program has been completed including high altitude balloon testing of the proposed capsule shape, with the purpose of investigating aerodynamics and stability during the latter portion of the entry flight regime, along with demonstrating a potential recovery system. This paper includes description, objectives, and results from the test program.

Internalization of Red Blood Cell-Mimicking Hydrogel Capsules with pH-Triggered Shape Responses

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We report on naturally inspired hydrogel capsules with pH-induced transitions from discoids to oblate ellipsoids and their interactions with cells. We integrate characteristics of erythrocytes such as discoidal shape, hollow structure, and elasticity with reversible pH-responsiveness of poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) to design a new type of drug delivery carrier to be potentially triggered by chemical stimuli in the tumor lesion. The capsules are fabricated from cross-linked PMAA multilayers using sacrificial discoid silicon templates. The degree of capsule shape transition is controlled by the pH-tuned volume change, which in turn is regulated by the capsule wall composition. The (PMAA)15 capsules undergo a dramatic 24-fold volume change, while a moderate 2.3-fold volume variation is observed for more rigid PMAA–(poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PMAA–PVPON)5 capsules when solution pH is varied between 7.4 and 4. Despite that both types of capsules exhibit discoid-to-oblate ellipsoid transitions, a 3-fold greater swelling in radial dimensions is found for one-component systems due to a greater degree of the circular face bulging. We also show that (PMAA–PVPON)5 discoidal capsules interact differently with J774A.1 macrophages, HMVEC endothelial cells, and 4T1 breast cancer cells. The discoidal capsules show 60% lower internalization as compared to spherical capsules. Finally, hydrogel capsules demonstrate a 2-fold decrease in size upon internalization. These capsules represent a unique example of elastic hydrogel discoids capable of pH-induced drastic and reversible variations in aspect ratios. Considering the RBC-mimicking shape, their dimensions, and their capability to undergo pH-triggered intracellular responses, the hydrogel capsules demonstrate considerable potential as novel carriers in shape-regulated transport and cellular uptake. PMID:24848786

A discrete-time localization method for capsule endoscopy based on on-board magnetic sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salerno, Marco; Ciuti, Gastone; Lucarini, Gioia; Rizzo, Rocco; Valdastri, Pietro; Menciassi, Arianna; Landi, Alberto; Dario, Paolo

2012-01-01

Recent achievements in active capsule endoscopy have allowed controlled inspection of the bowel by magnetic guidance. Capsule localization represents an important enabling technology for such kinds of platforms. In this paper, the authors present a localization method, applied as first step in time-discrete capsule position detection, that is useful for establishing a magnetic link at the beginning of an endoscopic procedure or for re-linking the capsule in the case of loss due to locomotion. The novelty of this approach consists in using magnetic sensors on board the capsule whose output is combined with pre-calculated magnetic field analytical model solutions. A magnetic field triangulation algorithm is used for obtaining the position of the capsule inside the gastrointestinal tract. Experimental validation has demonstrated that the proposed procedure is stable, accurate and has a wide localization range in a volume of about 18 × 103 cm3. Position errors of 14 mm along the X direction, 11 mm along the Y direction and 19 mm along the Z direction were obtained in less than 27 s of elaboration time. The proposed approach, being compatible with magnetic fields used for locomotion, can be easily extended to other platforms for active capsule endoscopy.

A study of cervical spine kinematics and joint capsule strain in rear impacts using a human FE model.

PubMed

Kitagawa, Yuichi; Yasuki, Tsuyoshi; Hasegawa, Junji

2006-11-01

Many efforts have been made to understand the mechanism of whiplash injury. Recently, the cervical facet joint capsules have been focused on as a potential site of injury. An experimental approach has been taken to analyze the vertebral motion and to estimate joint capsule stretch that was thought to be a potential cause of pain. The purpose of this study is to analyze the kinematics of the cervical facet joint using a human FE model in order to better understand the injury mechanism. The Total Human Model for Safety (THUMS) was used to visually analyze the local and global kinematics of the spine. Soft tissues in the neck were newly modeled and introduced into THUMS for estimating the loading level in rear impacts. The model was first validated against human test data in the literature by comparing vertebrae motion as well as head and neck responses. Joint capsule strain was estimated from a maximum principal strain output from the elements representing the capsule tissues. A rear-end collision was then simulated using THUMS and a prototype seat model, assuming a delta-V of 25 km/h. The trajectory of the vertebrae was analyzed in a local coordinate system defined along the joint surface. Strain growth in the joint capsules was explained, as related to contact events between the occupant and the seat. A new seat concept was proposed to help lessen the loading level to the neck soft tissues. The foam material of the seat back was softened, the initial gap behind the head was reduced and the head restraint was stiffened for firm support. The lower seat back frame was also reinforced to withstand the impact severity at the given delta-V. Another rear impact simulation was conducted using the new seat concept model to examine the effectiveness of the new concept. The joint capsule strain was found to be relatively lower with the new seat concept. The study also discusses the influence of seat parameters to the vertebral motion and the resultant strain in the joint capsules. The meaning of the contact timing of the head to the head restraint was examined based on the results in terms of correlation with injury indicators such as NIC and the joint capsule strain.

Magnetic control system targeted for capsule endoscopic operations in the stomach--design, fabrication, and in vitro and ex vivo evaluations.

PubMed

Lien, Gi-Shih; Liu, Chih-Wen; Jiang, Joe-Air; Chuang, Cheng-Long; Teng, Ming-Tsung

2012-07-01

This paper presents a novel solution of a hand-held external controller to a miniaturized capsule endoscope in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Traditional capsule endoscopes move passively by peristaltic wave generated in the GI tract and the gravity, which makes it impossible for endoscopists to manipulate the capsule endoscope to the diagnostic disease areas. In this study, the main objective is to present an endoscopic capsule and a magnetic field navigator (MFN) that allows endoscopists to remotely control the locomotion and viewing angle of an endoscopic capsule. The attractive merits of this study are that the maneuvering of the endoscopic capsule can be achieved by the external MFN with effectiveness, low cost, and operation safety, both from a theoretical and an experimental point of view. In order to study the magnetic interactions between the endoscopic capsule and the external MFN, a magnetic-analysis model is established for computer-based finite-element simulations. In addition, experiments are conducted to show the control effectiveness of the MFN to the endoscopic capsule. Finally, several prototype endoscopic capsules and a prototype MFN are fabricated, and their actual capabilities are experimentally assessed via in vitro and ex vivo tests using a stomach model and a resected porcine stomach, respectively. Both in vitro and ex vivo test results demonstrate great potential and practicability of achieving high-precision rotation and controllable movement of the capsule using the developed MFN.

KSC-2011-8178

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From a boat in the Atlantic Ocean, workers secure lines to an Orion flight test capsule during preparations for testing the capsule as their colleagues look on from the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

Short article: Aspiration of capsule endoscopes: a comprehensive review of the existing literature.

PubMed

Yung, Diana E; Plevris, John N; Koulaouzidis, Anastasios

2017-04-01

Capsule endoscopy (CE) has an excellent safety profile. Although retention is the most cited complication, capsule aspiration is less frequent and is often reported only as isolated cases. This study represents a systematic effort to compile and scrutinize the available data on capsule aspiration to provide comprehensive and conclusive information on this CE complication. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure. The search terms used were 'capsule endoscopy' AND 'aspiration' (both terms searched as keyword and MeSH). We included case reports and/or series on capsule aspiration, as well as observational cohort studies that reported capsule aspiration among their complications/outcomes. Thirty-four case reports with 37 cases of capsule aspiration were identified. A further four observational studies reported aspiration as part of a cohort of patients undergoing CE. 94.6% of aspirations occurred in elderly men. 87.1% had significant comorbidities. 59.5% had symptoms on aspiration, with cough reported most frequently. The most common location of aspiration was the right main bronchus. Half of the patients required intervention for capsule retrieval; bronchoscopy was the most common management, with good effect. There was a single fatality following capsule aspiration, not directly related to the procedure, and one case of aspiration pneumonia. Outcomes were good for all other patients. The estimated overall aspiration rate is 0.1%. Although very rare and generally safely managed, capsule aspiration should be anticipated in certain patient groups and capsule administration should be approached with necessary precautions.

Status Report on Irradiation Capsules Designed to Evaluate FeCrAl-UO 2 Interactions

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

Field, Kevin G.; Howard, Richard H.

This status report provides the background and current status of a series of irradiation capsules that were designed and are being built to test the interactions between candidate FeCrAl cladding for enhanced accident tolerant applications and prototypical enriched commercial UO 2 fuel in a neutron radiation environment. These capsules will test the degree, if any, of fuel cladding chemical interactions (FCCI) between FeCrAl and UO 2. The capsules are to be irradiated in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory to burn-ups of 10, 30, and 50 GWd/MT with a nominal target temperature at the interfaces between themore » pellets and clad of 350°C.« less

Contraception with subdermal ST-1435 capsules: side-effects, endocrine profiles and liver function related to different lengths of capsules.

PubMed

Kurunmäki, H; Toivonen, J; Lähteenmäki, P; Luukkainen, T

1985-03-01

One Silastic capsule of 15 mm, 20 mm or 30 mm length was inserted subcutaneously into the ventral aspect of the left forearm or upper arm of 28 healthy women during menstrual bleeding or not later than on the seventh day of the menstrual cycle. A new capsule of the same length was inserted after six months and both capsules were removed twelve months after the first insertion. Side-effects, including changes in body weight, blood pressure, menstrual bleeding and liver function test results, were registered. Blood samples were taken from selected subjects twice a week during the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th and 12th month of use. Plasma concentrations of ST-1435 were measured by radioimmunoassay and the effects of treatment on pituitary and ovarian function were determined by assaying plasma concentrations of LH, FSH, estradiol and progesterone. There were no differences in hormonal side-effects between subjects who had a 30 mm capsule or subjects who had 20 mm or 15 mm capsules, but subjects who had 20 or 15 mm capsules had significantly longer bleeding or spotting periods in comparison with subjects who had a 30 mm capsule. There were no changes in blood pressure, body weight or liver function test results in comparison with pre-insertion values. The plasma level of ST-1435 was not significantly higher during the use of 30 mm capsules than during the use of 20 or 15 mm capsules. During the use of the shorter ST-1435 capsules, plasma estradiol elevation and slightly suppressed FSH were seen, while the use of longer capsules resulted in a slight suppression of LH. Progesterone concentrations during monitored cycles indicated anovulation. No pregnancies occurred during the study period of one year. The continuation rate at one year was 71% in the 30 mm capsule group and 57% in the 20 and 15 mm capsule groups taken together.

Apparatus and method for simulating material damage from a fusion reactor

DOEpatents

Smith, Dale L.; Greenwood, Lawrence R.; Loomis, Benny A.

1989-01-01

An apparatus and method for simulating a fusion environment on a first wall or blanket structure. A material test specimen is contained in a capsule made of a material having a low hydrogen solubility and permeability. The capsule is partially filled with a lithium solution, such that the test specimen is encapsulated by the lithium. The capsule is irradiated by a fast fission neutron source.

Apparatus and method for simulating material damage from a fusion reactor

DOEpatents

Smith, D.L.; Greenwood, L.R.; Loomis, B.A.

1988-05-20

This paper discusses an apparatus and method for simulating a fusion environment on a first wall or blanket structure. A material test specimen is contained in a capsule made of a material having a low hydrogen solubility and permeability. The capsule is partially filled with a lithium solution, such that the test specimen is encapsulated by the lithium. The capsule is irradiated by a fast fission neutron source.

Apparatus and method for simulating material damage from a fusion reactor

DOEpatents

Smith, Dale L.; Greenwood, Lawrence R.; Loomis, Benny A.

1989-03-07

An apparatus and method for simulating a fusion environment on a first wall or blanket structure. A material test specimen is contained in a capsule made of a material having a low hydrogen solubility and permeability. The capsule is partially filled with a lithium solution, such that the test specimen is encapsulated by the lithium. The capsule is irradiated by a fast fission neutron source.

Research study on neck injury lessening with active head restraint using human body FE model.

PubMed

Kitagawa, Yuichi; Yasuki, Tsuyoshi; Hasegawa, Junji

2008-12-01

The objective of this study is to examine the effectiveness of the active head restraint system in reducing neck injury risk of car occupants in low-speed rear impacts. A human body FE model "THUMS" was used to simulate head and neck kinematics of the occupant and to evaluate loading to the neck. Joint capsule strain was calculated to predict neck injury risk as well as NIC. The validity of the model was confirmed comparing its mechanical responses to those in human subjects in the literatures. Seat FE models were also prepared representing one with a fixed head restraint and the other one with an active head restraint system. The active head restraint system was designed to move the head restraint forward and upward when the lower unit was lower unit was loaded by the pelvis. Rear impact simulations were performed assuming a triangular acceleration pulse at a delta-V of 25 km/h. The model reproduced similar head and neck motions to those measured in the human volunteer test, except for active muscular responses. The calculated joint capsule strain also showed a good match with those of PMHS tests in the literature. A rear-impact simulation was conducted using the model with the fixed head restraint. The result revealed that NIC was strongly correlated with the relative acceleration between the head and the torso and that its maximum peak appeared when the head contacted the head restraint. It was also found that joint capsule strain grew in later timing synchronizing with the relative displacement. Another simulation with the active head restraint system showed that both NIC and joint capsule strain were lowered owing to the forward and upward motion of the head restraint. A close investigation of the vertebral motion indicated that the active head restraint reduced the magnitude of shear deformation in the facet joint, which contributed to the strain growth in the fixed head restraint case. Rear-impact simulations were conducted using a human body FE model, THUMS, representing an average-size male occupant. The cervical system including the facet joint capsules was incorporated to the model. The validity of the model was examined comparing its mechanical responses to those in the literature such as the whole body motion of the volunteer subject and the vertebral motion in the PMHS tests. Rear-impact simulations were conducted using the validated THUMS model and two prototype seat models; one had a fixed head restraint and the other one was equipped with an active head restraint system. The active head restraint system works moving the head restraint forward and upward when the lower unit is loaded by the pelvis. The head and neck kinematics and responses were analyzed from the simulation results. The force and acceleration rose at the pelvis first, followed by T1 and the head. The early timing of force rise and its magnitude indicated that the pelvis force was a good trigger for the active head restraint system. The results showed that the head was supported earlier in a case with the active head restraint system, and both NIC and joint capsule strain were lowered. The study also analyzed the mechanism of strain growth in the joint capsules. Relatively greater strain was observed in the direction of the facet joint surface, which was around 45 degrees inclined to the spinal column. The forward and upward motion of the active head restraint were aligned with the direction of the joint deformation and contributed to lower strain in the joint capsules. The results indicated that the active head restraint could help reduce the neck injury risk not only by supporting the head at an early timing but also through its trajectory stopping the joint deformation.

Influence of capsule shell composition on the performance indicators of hypromellose capsule in comparison to hard gelatin capsules.

PubMed

Al-Tabakha, Moawia M; Arida, Adi Issam; Fahelelbom, Khairi M S; Sadek, Bassem; Saeed, Dima Ahmed; Abu Jarad, Rami A; Jawadi, Jeevani

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the in vitro performances of "vegetable" capsules in comparison to hard gelatin capsules in terms of shell weight variation, reaction to different humidity conditions, resistance to stress in the absence of moisture, powder leakage, disintegration and dissolution. Two types of capsules made of HPMC produced with (Capsule 2) or without (Capsule 3) a gelling agent and hard gelatin capsules (Capsule 1) were assessed. Shell weight variability was relatively low for all tested capsules shells. Although Capsule 1 had the highest moisture content under different humidity conditions, all capsule types were unable to protect the encapsulated hygroscopic polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) powder from surrounding humidity. The initial disintegration for all Capsule 1 occurred within 3 min, but for other types of capsules within 6 min (n = 18). Dissolution of acetaminophen was better when the deionized water (DIW) temperature increased from 32 to 42 °C in case of Capsule 1, but the effect of temperature was not significant for the other types of capsules. Acetaminphen dissolution from Capsule 1 was the fastest (i.e. >90% in 10 min) and independent of the media pH or contents unlike Capsule 2 which was influenced by the pH and dissolution medium contents. It is feasible to use hypromellose capsules shells with or without gelling agent for new lines of pharmaceutical products, however, there is a window for capsule shells manufacturing companies to improve the dissolution of their hypromellose capsules to match the conventional gelatin capsule shells and eventually replace them.

AGR-2 Irradiation Test Final As-Run Report, Rev 2

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

Collin, Blaise P.

2014-08-01

This document presents the as-run analysis of the AGR-2 irradiation experiment. AGR-2 is the second of the planned irradiations for the Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR) Fuel Development and Qualification Program. Funding for this program is provided by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) Technical Development Office (TDO) program. The objectives of the AGR-2 experiment are to: (a) Irradiate UCO (uranium oxycarbide) and UO 2 (uranium dioxide) fuel produced in a large coater. Fuel attributes are based on results obtained from the AGR-1 test and other project activities. (b) Provide irradiated fuel samplesmore » for post-irradiation experiment (PIE) and safety testing. (c) Support the development of an understanding of the relationship between fuel fabrication processes, fuel product properties, and irradiation performance. The primary objective of the test was to irradiate both UCO and UO 2 TRISO (tri-structural isotropic) fuel produced from prototypic scale equipment to obtain normal operation and accident condition fuel performance data. The UCO compacts were subjected to a range of burnups and temperatures typical of anticipated prismatic reactor service conditions in three capsules. The test train also includes compacts containing UO 2 particles produced independently by the United States, South Africa, and France in three separate capsules. The range of burnups and temperatures in these capsules were typical of anticipated pebble bed reactor service conditions. The results discussed in this report pertain only to U.S. produced fuel. In order to achieve the test objectives, the AGR-2 experiment was irradiated in the B-12 position of the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) for a total irradiation duration of 559.2 effective full power days (EFPD). Irradiation began on June 22, 2010, and ended on October 16, 2013, spanning 12 ATR power cycles and approximately three and a half calendar years. The test contained six independently controlled and monitored capsules. Each U.S. capsule contained 12 compacts of either UCO or UO2 AGR coated fuel. No fuel particles failed during the AGR-2 irradiation. Final burnup values on a per compact basis ranged from 7.26 to 13.15% FIMA (fissions per initial heavy-metal atom) for UCO fuel, and 9.01 to 10.69% FIMA for UO 2 fuel, while fast fluence values ranged from 1.94 to 3.47 x 10 25 n/m 2 (E >0.18 MeV) for UCO fuel, and from 3.05 to 3.53 x 10 25 n/m 2 (E >0.18 MeV) for UO 2 fuel. Time-average volume-average (TAVA) temperatures on a capsule basis at the end of irradiation ranged from 987°C in Capsule 6 to 1296°C in Capsule 2 for UCO, and from 996 to 1062°C in UO 2-fueled Capsule 3. By the end of the irradiation, all of the installed thermocouples (TCs) had failed. Fission product release-to-birth (R/B) ratios were quite low. In the UCO capsules, R/B values during the first three cycles were below 10 -6 with the exception of the hotter Capsule 2, in which the R/Bs reached 2 x 10 -6. In the UO 2 capsule (Capsule 3), the R/B values during the first three cycles were below 10 -7. R/B values for all following cycles are not reliable due to gas flow and cross talk issues.« less

Gravimetric Analysis of Particulate Matter using Air Samplers Housing Internal Filtration Capsules.

PubMed

O'Connor, Sean; O'Connor, Paula Fey; Feng, H Amy; Ashley, Kevin

2014-10-01

An evaluation was carried out to investigate the suitability of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) internal capsules, housed within air sampling devices, for gravimetric analysis of airborne particles collected in workplaces. Experiments were carried out using blank PVC capsules and PVC capsules spiked with 0,1 - 4 mg of National Institute of Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material ® (NIST SRM) 1648 (Urban Particulate Matter) and Arizona Road Dust (Air Cleaner Test Dust). The capsules were housed within plastic closed-face cassette samplers (CFCs). A method detection limit (MDL) of 0,075 mg per sample was estimated. Precision S r at 0,5 - 4 mg per sample was 0,031 and the estimated bias was 0,058. Weight stability over 28 days was verified for both blanks and spiked capsules. Independent laboratory testing on blanks and field samples verified long-term weight stability as well as sampling and analysis precision and bias estimates. An overall precision estimate Ŝ rt of 0,059 was obtained. An accuracy measure of ±15,5% was found for the gravimetric method using PVC internal capsules.

Gravimetric Analysis of Particulate Matter using Air Samplers Housing Internal Filtration Capsules

PubMed Central

O'Connor, Sean; O'Connor, Paula Fey; Feng, H. Amy

2015-01-01

Summary An evaluation was carried out to investigate the suitability of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) internal capsules, housed within air sampling devices, for gravimetric analysis of airborne particles collected in workplaces. Experiments were carried out using blank PVC capsules and PVC capsules spiked with 0,1 – 4 mg of National Institute of Standards and Technology Standard Reference Material® (NIST SRM) 1648 (Urban Particulate Matter) and Arizona Road Dust (Air Cleaner Test Dust). The capsules were housed within plastic closed-face cassette samplers (CFCs). A method detection limit (MDL) of 0,075 mg per sample was estimated. Precision Sr at 0,5 - 4 mg per sample was 0,031 and the estimated bias was 0,058. Weight stability over 28 days was verified for both blanks and spiked capsules. Independent laboratory testing on blanks and field samples verified long-term weight stability as well as sampling and analysis precision and bias estimates. An overall precision estimate Ŝrt of 0,059 was obtained. An accuracy measure of ±15,5% was found for the gravimetric method using PVC internal capsules. PMID:26435581

Active locomotion of a paddling-based capsule endoscope in an in vitro and in vivo experiment (with videos).

PubMed

Kim, Hee Man; Yang, Sungwook; Kim, Jinseok; Park, Semi; Cho, Jae Hee; Park, Jeong Youp; Kim, Tae Song; Yoon, Eui-Sung; Song, Si Young; Bang, Seungmin

2010-08-01

Capsule endoscopy that could actively move and approach a specific site might be more valuable for the diagnosis or treatment of GI diseases. We tested the performance of active locomotion of a novel wired capsule endoscope with a paddling-based locomotion mechanism, using 3 models: a silicone tube, an extracted porcine colon, and a living pig. In vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments in a pig model. Study in an animal laboratory. For the in vitro test, the locomotive capsule was controlled to actively move from one side of a silicone tube to the other by a controller-operated automatic traveling program. The velocity was calculated by following a video recording. We performed ex vivo tests by using an extracted porcine colon in the same manner we performed the in vitro test. In in vivo experiments, the capsule was inserted into the rectum of a living pig under anesthesia, and was controlled to move automatically forward. After 8 consecutive trials, the velocity was calculated. Elapsed time, velocity, and mucosal damage. The locomotive capsule showed stable and active movement inside the lumen both in vitro and ex vivo. The velocity was 60 cm/min in the silicone tube, and 36.8 and 37.5 cm/min in the extracted porcine colon. In the in vivo experiments, the capsule stably moved forward inside the colon of a living pig without any serious complications. The mean velocity was 17 cm/min over 40 cm length. We noted pinpoint erythematous mucosal injuries in the colon. Porcine model experiments, wired capsule endoscope. The novel paddling-based locomotive capsule endoscope performed fast and stable movement in a living pig colon with consistent velocity. Further investigation is necessary for practical use in humans. Copyright 2010 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Ultrasonic technique for inspection of GPHS capsule girth weld integrity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Placr, Arnost

1993-05-01

An innovative nondestructive examination (NDE) technique for the inspection of integrity of General Purpose Heat Source (GPHS) capsule girth welds was developed employing a Lamb wave as the mode of the sound propagation. Reliability of the Lamb wave technique was tested on GPHS capsules using plutonium pallet simulators. All ten capsules, which were previously rejected, passed ultrasonic (UT) inspection using the Lamb wave technique.

As-Run Physics Analysis for the UCSB-1 Experiment in the Advanced Test Reactor

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

Nielsen, Joseph Wayne

2015-09-01

The University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) -1 experiment was irradiated in the A-10 position of the ATR. The experiment was irradiated during cycles 145A, 145B, 146A, and 146B. Capsule 6A was removed from the test train following Cycle 145A and replaced with Capsule 6B. This report documents the as-run physics analysis in support of Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) of the test. This report documents the as-run fluence and displacements per atom (DPA) for each capsule of the experiment based on as-run operating history of the ATR. Average as-run heating rates for each capsule are also presented in this report tomore » support the thermal analysis.« less

Design and testing of tubular polymeric capsules for self-healing of concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Araújo, M.; Van Tittelboom, K.; Feiteira, J.; Gruyaert, E.; Chatrabhuti, S.; Raquez, J.-M.; Šavija, B.; Alderete, N.; Schlangen, E.; De Belie, N.

2017-10-01

Polymeric healing agents have proven their efficiency to heal cracks in concrete in an autonomous way. However, the bottleneck for valorisation of self-healing concrete with polymeric healing agents is their encapsulation. In the present work, the suitability of polymeric materials such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polystyrene (PS) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) as carriers for healing agents in self-healing concrete has been evaluated. The durability of the polymeric capsules in different environments (demineralized water, salt water and simulated concrete pore solution) and their compatibility with various healing agents have been assessed. Next, a numerical model was used to simulate capsule rupture when intersected by a crack in concrete and validated experimentally. Finally, two real-scale self-healing concrete beams were made, containing the selected polymeric capsules (with the best properties regarding resistance to concrete mixing and breakage upon crack formation) or glass capsules and a reference beam without capsules. The self-healing efficiency was determined after crack creation by 3-point-bending tests.

Polar tent for reduced perturbation of NIF ignition capsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hammel, B. A.; Pickworth, L.; Stadermann, M.; Field, J.; Robey, H.; Scott, H. A.; Smalyuk, V.

2016-10-01

In simulations, a tent that contacts the capsule near the poles and departs tangential to the capsule surface greatly reduces the capsule perturbation, and the resulting mass injected into the hot-spot, compared to current capsule support methods. Target fabrication appears feasible with a layered tent (43-nm polyimide + 8-nm C) for increased stiffness. We are planning quantitative measurements of the resulting shell- ρR perturbation near peak implosion velocity (PV) using enhanced self-emission backlighting, achieved by adding 1% Ar to the capsule fill in Symcaps (4He + H). Layered DT implosions are also planned for an integrated test of capsule performance. We will describe the design and simulation predictions. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Determining the Ibuprofen Concentration in Liquid-Filled Gelatin Capsules to Practice Collecting and Interpreting Experimental Data, and Evaluating the Methods and Accuracy of Quality Testing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wheate, Nial J.; Apps, Michael G.; Khalifa, Hazer; Doughty, Alan; Patel, Alpesh Ramanlal

2017-01-01

A laboratory experiment to determine the concentration of the anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen in liquid gelatin capsule dosage forms, suitable for undergraduate chemistry or pharmacy students, is described. Either individually, or in small teams, the students digest two 200 mg capsules in a KOH solution. While the capsules are digesting the…

Stennis time capsule

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-10-15

Stennis Space Center Director Patrick Scheuermann (right) and Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command Chief of Staff James Pettigrew drop the first shovelfuls of dirt on a time capsule to be opened on the rocket engine test facility's 100th anniversary in 2061. The time capsule was placed in front of the Roy S. Estess Building on Oct. 25 as Stennis concluded celebrations of its 50th anniversary. NASA publicly announced plans to build the rocket engine test site Oct. 25, 1961.

Cystic adventitial degeneration: ectopic ganglia from adjacent joint capsules.

PubMed

Ortmann, J; Widmer, M K; Gretener, S; Do, D D; Willenberg, T; Daliri, A; Baumgartner, I

2009-11-01

Cystic adventitial degeneration is a rare non-atherosclerotic cause of peripheral arterial occlusive disease, mainly seen in young men without other evidence of vascular disease. Diagnosis will be established by clinical findings and by ultrasound or angiography and can be treated by excision or enucleation of the affected arterial segment or by percutaneous ultrasound-guided aspiration. However, the etiology of adventitial cysts remains unknown. We report a case of cystic adventitial degeneration showing a connection between the joint capsule and the adventitial cyst, supporting the theory that cystic adventitial degeneration may represent ectopic ganglia from adjacent joint capsules.

Analysis of Fission Products on the AGR-1 Capsule Components

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

Paul A. Demkowicz; Jason M. Harp; Philip L. Winston

2013-03-01

The components of the AGR-1 irradiation capsules were analyzed to determine the retained inventory of fission products in order to determine the extent of in-pile fission product release from the fuel compacts. This includes analysis of (i) the metal capsule components, (ii) the graphite fuel holders, (iii) the graphite spacers, and (iv) the gas exit lines. The fission products most prevalent in the components were Ag-110m, Cs 134, Cs 137, Eu-154, and Sr 90, and the most common location was the metal capsule components and the graphite fuel holders. Gamma scanning of the graphite fuel holders was also performed tomore » determine spatial distribution of Ag-110m and radiocesium. Silver was released from the fuel components in significant fractions. The total Ag-110m inventory found in the capsules ranged from 1.2×10 2 (Capsule 3) to 3.8×10 1 (Capsule 6). Ag-110m was not distributed evenly in the graphite fuel holders, but tended to concentrate at the axial ends of the graphite holders in Capsules 1 and 6 (located at the top and bottom of the test train) and near the axial center in Capsules 2, 3, and 5 (in the center of the test train). The Ag-110m further tended to be concentrated around fuel stacks 1 and 3, the two stacks facing the ATR reactor core and location of higher burnup, neutron fluence, and temperatures compared with Stack 2. Detailed correlation of silver release with fuel type and irradiation temperatures is problematic at the capsule level due to the large range of temperatures experienced by individual fuel compacts in each capsule. A comprehensive Ag 110m mass balance for the capsules was performed using measured inventories of individual compacts and the inventory on the capsule components. For most capsules, the mass balance was within 11% of the predicted inventory. The Ag-110m release from individual compacts often exhibited a very large range within a particular capsule.« less

Pharmacokinetic equivalence of a levothyroxine sodium soft capsule manufactured using the new food and drug administration potency guidelines in healthy volunteers under fasting conditions.

PubMed

Colucci, Philippe; D'Angelo, Pina; Mautone, Giuseppe; Scarsi, Claudia; Ducharme, Murray P

2011-06-01

To assess the pharmacokinetic equivalence of a new soft capsule formulation of levothyroxine versus a marketed reference product and to assess the soft capsule formulated with stricter potency guidelines versus the capsule before the implementation of the new potency rule. Two single-dose randomized two-way crossover pharmacokinetic equivalence studies and one dosage form proportionality single-dose study comparing low, medium, and high strengths of the new formulation. All three studies were performed in a clinical setting. Participants were healthy male and female adult subjects with normal levothyroxine levels. A total of 90 subjects participated in the three studies. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated on baseline- adjusted concentrations. The first pharmacokinetic equivalence study compared the levothyroxine sodium soft capsule formulation (Tirosint) with the reference Synthroid tablets and the two products were considered bioequivalent. The dosage form proportionality study compared the 50-, 100-, and 150-μg test capsules strengths dosed at the same level (600 μg) and all three strengths were considered equivalent when given at the same dosage. The last study compared the test capsule used in the first two studies with a new capsule formulation following the new potency guideline (±5%) set forward by the Food and Drug Administration and the two capsules were considered bioequivalent. Doses were well tolerated by subjects in all three studies with no serious adverse events reported. The levothyroxine soft capsule formulated with the stricter new potency guideline set forward by the Food and Drug Administration met equivalence criteria in terms of rate and extent of exposure under fasting conditions to the reference tablet formulation. Clinical doses of the capsule formulation can be given using any combination of the commercialized strengths.

Adhesion of lens capsule to intraocular lenses of polymethylmethacrylate, silicone, and acrylic foldable materials: an experimental study

PubMed Central

Oshika, T.; Nagata, T.; Ishii, Y.

1998-01-01

AIMS—To investigate the adhesion characteristics of several intraocular lenses (IOLs) to the simulated and rabbit lens capsule.
METHODS—Adhesive force to bovine collagen sheets was measured in water with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), three piece silicone, and acrylic foldable IOLs. In rabbit eyes, phacoemulsification and IOL implantation were performed. Three weeks later, adhesion between the anterior/posterior capsules and IOL optic was tested, and the capsule was examined histologically.
RESULTS—The mean adhesive force to the collagen sheet was 1697 (SD 286) mg for acrylic foldable, 583 (49) mg for PMMA, and 0 mg for silicone IOLs (p=0.0003, Kruskal-Wallis test). Scores (0-5) of adhesion between rabbit anterior capsule and IOL optic were 4.50 (0.55) for acrylic foldable, 3.20 (0.84) for PMMA, and 0.40 (0.55) for silicone IOLs (p=0.004). Scores between rabbit posterior capsule and IOL optic displayed a similar tendency; 4.50 (0.84) for acrylic foldable, 3.00 (1.00) for PMMA, and 0.40 (0.55) for silicone IOLs (p=0.021). Histological observation indicated that the edge of IOL optic suppressed the migration of lens epithelial cells towards the centre of the posterior capsule. This inhibitory effect was most pronounced with acrylic foldable IOL and least with silicone IOL.
CONCLUSIONS—The acrylic foldable IOL adhered to the lens capsule more than the PMMA IOL, and the silicone IOL showed no adhesiveness. These differences seem to play a role in preventing lens epithelial cells from migrating and forming posterior capsule opacification.

 Keywords: intraocular lens; lens capsule; posterior capsule opacification; adhesion PMID:9713064

Application of Bio-digestion for Capsule Gelatin-- From the Pharmaceutical Wastes to the Manure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, C.; Huang, S.; Chang, Y.; Wen, J.

2013-12-01

The purpose of this study was to bio-digest the capsule gelatin from the waste of pharmaceutical processes such as cutting and stamping for capsule shells producing. We screened soil bacterial flora for capsule gelatin biolysis, and found the most competent one named Yuntech-7. A 15% (w/w) of capsule gelatin could fully digested by Yuntech-7 for 3 days growth with an N-limited medium in a 37°C incubator. In order to recycle and reuse the gelatin waste, the different percentages of capsule gelatin were co-composted with the vegetable residues to produce manure in an anaerobic fermentation by an extra Yuntech-7 inoculation. After 14 days incubation, we collected the filtrate to examine the contents of N, P, and K. The data shows that the P and K keep the same value by roughly between the blank and the control sets, but the total N values were approximately a 5-fold increase in 20% and a 10-fold increase in 40% of capsule gelatin integrated. We suggested that the capsule gelatin was majorly decomposed by Yuntech-7, because the total N value was no observable change in the capsule gelatin and vegetable residues co-compost with a Yuntech-7-free condition. We also performed some field tests using the capsule gelatin generated liquid manure, and the preliminary test shows the plants got great benefits on culture size and in environmental resistance. In conclusion, the process in bio-digestion of waste capsule gelatin by soil bacteria, Yuntech-7, was produced a valuable manure not only aliment the plants but also complement the soil bacterial populations.

Water Landing Characteristics of a Reentry Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1958-01-01

Experimental and theoretical investigations have been made to determine the water-landing characteristics of a conical-shaped reentry capsule having a segment of a sphere as the bottom. For the experimental portion of the investigation, a 1/12-scale model capsule and a full-scale capsule were tested for nominal flight paths of 65 deg and 90 deg (vertical), a range of contact attitudes from -30 deg to 30 deg, and a full-scale vertical velocity of 30 feet per second at contact. Accelerations were measured by accelerometers installed at the centers of gravity of the model and full-scale capsules. For the model test the accelerations were measured along the X-axis (roll) and Z-axis (yaw) and for the full-scale test they were measured along the X-axis (roll), Y-axis (pitch), and Z-axis (yaw). Motions and displacements of the capsules that occurred after contact were determined from high-speed motion pictures. The theoretical investigation was conducted to determine the accelerations that might occur along the X-axis when the capsule contacted the water from a 90 deg flight path at a 0 deg attitude. Assuming a rigid body, computations were made from equations obtained by utilizing the principle of the conservation of momentum. The agreement among data obtained from the model test, the full-scale test, and the theory was very good. The accelerations along the X-axis, for a vertical flight path and 0 deg attitude, were in the order of 40g. For a 65 deg flight path and 0 deg attitude, the accelerations along the X-axis were in the order of 50g. Changes in contact attitude, in either the positive or negative direction from 0 deg attitude, considerably reduced the magnitude of the accelerations measured along the X-axis. Accelerations measured along the Y- and Z-axes were relatively small at all test conditions.

Water-Landing Characteristics of a Reentry Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McGehee, John R.; Hathaway, Melvin E.; Vaughan, Victor L., Jr.

1959-01-01

Experimental and theoretical investigations have been made to determine the water-landing characteristics of a conical-shaped reentry capsule having a segment of a sphere as the bottom. For the experimental portion of the investigation, a 1/12-scale model capsule and a full-scale capsule were tested for nominal flight paths of 65 deg and 90 deg (vertical), a range of contact attitudes from -30 deg to 30 deg, and a full-scale vertical velocity of 30 feet per second at contact. Accelerations were measured by accelerometers installed at the centers of gravity of the model and full-scale capsules. For the model test the accelerations were measured along the X-axis (roll) and Z-axis (yaw) and for the full-scale test they were measured along the X-axis (roll), Y-axis (pitch), and Z-axis (yaw). Motions and displacements of the capsules that occurred after contact were determined from high-speed motion pictures. The theoretical investigation was conducted to determine the accelerations that might occur along the X-axis when the capsule contacted the water from a 90 deg flight path at a 0 deg attitude. Assuming a rigid body, computations were made from equations obtained by utilizing the principle of the conservation of momentum. The agreement among data obtained from the model test, the full-scale test, and the theory was very good. The accelerations along the X-axis, for a vertical flight path and 0 deg attitude, were in the order of 40g. For a 65 deg flight path and 0 deg attitude, the accelerations along the X-axis were in the order of 50g. Changes in contact attitude, in either the positive or negative direction from 0 deg attitude, considerably reduced the magnitude of the accelerations measured along the X-axis. Accelerations measured along the Y- and Z-axes were relatively small at all test conditions.

Modeling and Depletion Simulations for a High Flux Isotope Reactor Cycle with a Representative Experiment Loading

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

Chandler, David; Betzler, Ben; Hirtz, Gregory John

2016-09-01

The purpose of this report is to document a high-fidelity VESTA/MCNP High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) core model that features a new, representative experiment loading. This model, which represents the current, high-enriched uranium fuel core, will serve as a reference for low-enriched uranium conversion studies, safety-basis calculations, and other research activities. A new experiment loading model was developed to better represent current, typical experiment loadings, in comparison to the experiment loading included in the model for Cycle 400 (operated in 2004). The new experiment loading model for the flux trap target region includes full length 252Cf production targets, 75Se productionmore » capsules, 63Ni production capsules, a 188W production capsule, and various materials irradiation targets. Fully loaded 238Pu production targets are modeled in eleven vertical experiment facilities located in the beryllium reflector. Other changes compared to the Cycle 400 model are the high-fidelity modeling of the fuel element side plates and the material composition of the control elements. Results obtained from the depletion simulations with the new model are presented, with a focus on time-dependent isotopic composition of irradiated fuel and single cycle isotope production metrics.« less

The presence and influence of posterior capsule tightness on different shoulder problems.

PubMed

Duzgun, Irem; Turgut, Elif; Çinar-Medeni, Özge; Kafa, Nihan; Tuna, Zeynep; Elbasan, Bulent; Oskay, Deran

2017-01-01

In the literature it has been shown that posterior capsule flexibility is a precursor to shoulder problems. However, no study thus far has shown the influence of the flexibility of posterior capsule in different shoulder pathologies. This study set about to compare the role of posterior capsule tightness in different shoulder problems. One-hundred-twenty-five patients diagnosed with shoulder subacromial impingement syndrome (n= 52), partial rotator cuff tear (n= 31) or frozen shoulder (n= 42) and 30 asymptomatic peers participated in the study. Horizontal adduction was assessed in side-lying position for posterior capsule tightness. Pain was measured via the visual analogue scale and shoulder range of motion and active total elevation was assessed with goniometer. Hand behind the back (HBB) test was assessed the active internal rotation by measuring the distance between T5 and the thumb. It was found that the affected side of the posterior capsules of the patients with subacromial impingement syndrome (p< 0.001), partial rotator cuff tear (p< 0.001) and frozen shoulder (p< 0.001) was stiffer than their healthy side. There were significant differences among groups in the level of tightness in the posterior capsule between the affected and the healthy sides (p< 0.001). All range of motion of the shoulder including HBB test and the posterior capsule tightness of the affected side are found to be correlated (p< 0.05). This study emphasized that the posterior capsule's susceptibility to tightness is most evident in frozen shoulder among different shoulder problems.

Flow visualization around a rotating body in a wind tunnel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hiraki, K.; Zaitsu, D.; Yanaga, Y.; Kleine, H.

2017-02-01

The rotational behavior of capsule-shaped models is investigated in the transonic wind tunnel of JAXA. A special support is developed to allow the model to rotate around the pitch, yaw and roll axes. This 3-DOF free rotational mounting apparatus achieves the least frictional torque from the support and the instruments. Two types of capsule models are prepared, one is drag type (SPH model) and the other is lift type (HTV-R model). The developed mounting apparatus is used in the wind tunnel tests with these capsule models. In a flow of Mach 0.9, the SPH model exhibits oscillations in pitch and yaw, and it rolls half a turn during the test. Similarly, the HTV-R model exhibits pitch and yaw oscillations in a flow of Mach 0.5. Moreover, it rolls multiple times during the test. In order to investigate the flow field around the capsule, the combined technique of color schlieren and surface tufts is applied. This visualization clearly shows the flow reattachment on the back surface of a capsule, which is suspected to induce the rapid rolling motion.

Mercury Project

NASA Image and Video Library

1958-06-24

Testing of Mercury Capsule Shape A by the Hydrodynamics Division of Langley. Joseph Shortal wrote (vol. 3, p. 19): The Hydrodynamics Division provided assistance in determining landing loads. In this connection, after PARD engineers had unofficially approached that division to make some water impact tests with the boilerplate capsule, J.B. Parkinson, Hydrodynamics Chief visited Shortal to find out if the request had his support. Finding out that it did, Parkinson said, Its your capsule. If you want us to drop it in the water, we will do it. From Shortal (Vol. 3, p. 16): The basic design of the capsule was made by M.A. Faget and his coworkers at PARD during the winter of 1957-1958. It was natural, then, that extensive use was made of the facilities at Wallops during the development of the spacecraft. The tests at Wallops consisted of 26 full-size capsules, either launched from the ground by rocket power or dropped from airplanes at high altitude and 28 scaled models, either rocket boosted or released from balloons. Emphasis in the Wallops program was on dynamic stability and aerodynamic heating of the capsule, and effectiveness of the pilot-escape and parachute-recovery systems. The biggest part of the Wallops program was the series of full-size capsules, rocket launched with the Little Joe booster, developed especially for Mercury. -- Published in Joseph A. Shortal, History of Wallops Station: Origins and Activities Through 1949, (Wallops Island, VA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Wallops Station, nd), Comment Edition.

Application of Background Oriented Schlieren for Altitude Testing of Rocket Engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wernet, Mark P.; Stiegemeier, Benjamin R.

2017-01-01

A series of experiments was performed to determine the feasibility of using the Background Oriented Schlieren, BOS, flow visualization technique to image a simulated, small, rocket engine, plume under altitude test conditions. Testing was performed at the NASA Glenn Research Centers Altitude Combustion Stand, ACS, using nitrogen as the exhaust gas simulant. Due to limited optical access to the facility test capsule, all of the hardware required to conduct the BOS were located inside the vacuum chamber. During the test series 26 runs were performed using two different nozzle configurations with pressures in the test capsule around 0.3 psia. No problems were encountered during the test series resulting from the optical hardware being located in the test capsule and acceptable resolution images were captured. The test campaign demonstrated the ability of using the BOS technique for small, rocket engine, plume flow visualization during altitude testing.

Antenna Measurements: Test & Analysis of the Radiated Emissions/Immunity of the NASA/Orion Spacecraft Dart Parachute Simulator & Prototype Capsule - The Crew Exploration Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Norgard, John D.

2012-01-01

For future NASA Manned Space Exploration of the Moon and Mars, a blunt body capsule, called the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV), composed of a Crew Module (CM) and a Service Module (SM), with a parachute decent assembly is planned for reentry back to Earth. A Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) is being developed for preliminary prototype parachute drop tests at the Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) to simulate high-speed reentry to Earth from beyond Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) and to provide measurements of position, velocity, acceleration, attitude, temperature, pressure, humidity, and parachute loads. The primary and secondary (backup) avionics systems on CPAS also provide mission critical firing events to deploy, reef, and release the parachutes in three stages (extraction, drogues, mains) using mortars and pressure cartridge assemblies. In addition, a Mid-Air Delivery System (MDS) is used to separate the capsule from the sled that is used to eject the capsule from the back of the drop plane. Also, high-speed and high-definition cameras in a Video Camera System (VCS) are used to film the drop plane extraction and parachute landing events. Intentional and unintentional radiation emitted from and received by antennas and electronic devices on/in the CEV capsule, the MDS sled, and the VCS system are being tested for radiated emissions/immunity (susceptibility) (RE/RS). To verify Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) of the Orion capsule, Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) measurements are being made inside a semi-anechoic chamber at NASA/JSC on the components of the CPAS system. Measurements are made at 1m from the components-under-test (CUT). In addition, EMI measurements of the integrated CEV system are being made inside a hanger at YPG. These measurements are made in a complete circle, at 30? angles or less, around the Orion Capsule, the spacecraft system under-test (SUT). Near-field B-Dot probe measurements on the surface of the Orion capsule are being extrapolated outward to the 1m standard distance for comparison to the MIL-STD radiated emissions limit, and far-field hybrid antenna measurements at 3m are being extrapolated inward to the 1m distance for similar comparisons.

Development and Validation of Limited-Sampling Strategies for Predicting Amoxicillin Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Parameters

PubMed Central

Suarez-Kurtz, Guilherme; Ribeiro, Frederico Mota; Vicente, Flávio L.; Struchiner, Claudio J.

2001-01-01

Amoxicillin plasma concentrations (n = 1,152) obtained from 48 healthy subjects in two bioequivalence studies were used to develop limited-sampling strategy (LSS) models for estimating the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC), the maximum concentration of drug in plasma (Cmax), and the time interval of concentration above MIC susceptibility breakpoints in plasma (T>MIC). Each subject received 500-mg amoxicillin, as reference and test capsules or suspensions, and plasma concentrations were measured by a validated microbiological assay. Linear regression analysis and a “jack-knife” procedure revealed that three-point LSS models accurately estimated (R2, 0.92; precision, <5.8%) the AUC from 0 h to infinity (AUC0-∞) of amoxicillin for the four formulations tested. Validation tests indicated that a three-point LSS model (1, 2, and 5 h) developed for the reference capsule formulation predicts the following accurately (R2, 0.94 to 0.99): (i) the individual AUC0-∞ for the test capsule formulation in the same subjects, (ii) the individual AUC0-∞ for both reference and test suspensions in 24 other subjects, and (iii) the average AUC0-∞ following single oral doses (250 to 1,000 mg) of various amoxicillin formulations in 11 previously published studies. A linear regression equation was derived, using the same sampling time points of the LSS model for the AUC0-∞, but using different coefficients and intercept, for estimating Cmax. Bioequivalence assessments based on LSS-derived AUC0-∞'s and Cmax's provided results similar to those obtained using the original values for these parameters. Finally, two-point LSS models (R2 = 0.86 to 0.95) were developed for T>MICs of 0.25 or 2.0 μg/ml, which are representative of microorganisms susceptible and resistant to amoxicillin. PMID:11600352

Mercury: impact studies

NASA Image and Video Library

1958-08-05

Photographed on: 08 05 1958. -- Impact test conducted by Langley's Hydrodynamics Division. The Division conducted a series of impact studies with full scale and model capsules of the original capsule shape A. Joseph Shortal wrote (Vol. 3, p. 16): The basic design of the capsule was made by M.A. Faget and his coworkers at PARD during the winter of 1957-1958. It was natural, then, that extensive use was made of the facilities at Wallops during the development of the spacecraft. The tests at Wallops consisted of 26 full-size capsules, either launched from the ground by rocket power or dropped from airplanes at high altitude and 28 scaled models, either rocket boosted or released from balloons. Emphasis in the Wallops program was on dynamic stability and aerodynamic heating of the capsule, and effectiveness of the pilot-escape and parachute-recovery systems. The biggest part of the Wallops program was the series of full-size capsules, rocket launched with the Little Joe booster, developed especially for Mercury. -- Published in Joseph A. Shortal, History of Wallops Station: Origins and Activities Through 1949, (Wallops Island, VA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Wallops Station, nd), Comment Edition.

Mercury: impact studies

NASA Image and Video Library

1958-09-07

Photographed on: 08 05 1958. -- Impact test conducted by Langley's Hydrodynamics Division. The Division conducted a series of impact studies with full scale and model capsules of the original capsule shape A. Joseph Shortal wrote (Vol. 3, p. 16): The basic design of the capsule was made by M.A. Faget and his coworkers at PARD during the winter of 1957-1958. It was natural, then, that extensive use was made of the facilities at Wallops during the development of the spacecraft. The tests at Wallops consisted of 26 full-size capsules, either launched from the ground by rocket power or dropped from airplanes at high altitude and 28 scaled models, either rocket boosted or released from balloons. Emphasis in the Wallops program was on dynamic stability and aerodynamic heating of the capsule, and effectiveness of the pilot-escape and parachute-recovery systems. The biggest part of the Wallops program was the series of full-size capsules, rocket launched with the Little Joe booster, developed especially for Mercury. -- Published in Joseph A. Shortal, History of Wallops Station: Origins and Activities Through 1949, (Wallops Island, VA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Wallops Station, nd), Comment Edition.

Measurement Properties of the Smartphone-Based B-B Score in Current Shoulder Pathologies

PubMed Central

Pichonnaz, Claude; Duc, Cyntia; Gleeson, Nigel; Ancey, Céline; Jaccard, Hervé; Lécureux, Estelle; Farron, Alain; Jolles, Brigitte M.; Aminian, Kamiar

2015-01-01

This study is aimed at the determination of the measurement properties of the shoulder function B-B Score measured with a smartphone. This score measures the symmetry between sides of a power-related metric for two selected movements, with 100% representing perfect symmetry. Twenty healthy participants, 20 patients with rotator cuff conditions, 23 with fractures, 22 with capsulitis, and 23 with shoulder instabilities were measured twice across a six-month interval using the B-B Score and shoulder function questionnaires. The discriminative power, responsiveness, diagnostic power, concurrent validity, minimal detectable change (MDC), minimal clinically important improvement (MCII), and patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) were evaluated. Significant differences with the control group and significant baseline—six-month differences were found for the rotator cuff condition, fracture, and capsulitis patient groups. The B-B Score was responsive and demonstrated excellent diagnostic power, except for shoulder instability. The correlations with clinical scores were generally moderate to high, but lower for instability. The MDC was 18.1%, the MCII was 25.2%, and the PASS was 77.6. No floor effect was observed. The B-B Score demonstrated excellent measurement properties in populations with rotator cuff conditions, proximal humerus fractures, and capsulitis, and can thus be used as a routine test to evaluate those patients. PMID:26506355

Using Numerical Modeling to Simulate Space Capsule Ground Landings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heymsfield, Ernie; Fasanella, Edwin L.

2009-01-01

Experimental work is being conducted at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration s (NASA) Langley Research Center (LaRC) to investigate ground landing capabilities of the Orion crew exploration vehicle (CEV). The Orion capsule is NASA s replacement for the Space Shuttle. The Orion capsule will service the International Space Station and be used for future space missions to the Moon and to Mars. To evaluate the feasibility of Orion ground landings, a series of capsule impact tests are being performed at the NASA Langley Landing and Impact Research Facility (LandIR). The experimental results derived at LandIR provide means to validate and calibrate nonlinear dynamic finite element models, which are also being developed during this study. Because of the high cost and time involvement intrinsic to full-scale testing, numerical simulations are favored over experimental work. Subsequent to a numerical model validated by actual test responses, impact simulations will be conducted to study multiple impact scenarios not practical to test. Twenty-one swing tests using the LandIR gantry were conducted during the June 07 through October 07 time period to evaluate the Orion s impact response. Results for two capsule initial pitch angles, 0deg and -15deg , along with their computer simulations using LS-DYNA are presented in this article. A soil-vehicle friction coefficient of 0.45 was determined by comparing the test stopping distance with computer simulations. In addition, soil modeling accuracy is presented by comparing vertical penetrometer impact tests with computer simulations for the soil model used during the swing tests.

Project Mercury Escape Tower Rockets Tests

NASA Image and Video Library

1960-04-21

A Mercury capsule is mounted inside the Altitude Wind Tunnel for a test of its escape tower rockets at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. In October 1959 NASA’s Space Task Group allocated several Project Mercury assignments to Lewis. The Altitude Wind Tunnel was quickly modified so that its 51-foot diameter western leg could be used as a test chamber. The final round of tests in the Altitude Wind Tunnel sought to determine if the smoke plume from the capsule’s escape tower rockets would shroud or compromise the spacecraft. The escape tower, a 10-foot steel rig with three small rockets, was attached to the nose of the Mercury capsule. It could be used to jettison the astronaut and capsule to safety in the event of a launch vehicle malfunction on the pad or at any point prior to separation from the booster. Once actuated, the escape rockets would fire, and the capsule would be ejected away from the booster. After the capsule reached its apex of about 2,500 feet, the tower, heatshield, retropackage, and antenna would be ejected and a drogue parachute would be released. Flight tests of the escape system were performed at Wallops Island as part of the series of Little Joe launches. Although the escape rockets fired prematurely on Little Joe’s first attempt in August 1959, the January 1960 follow-up was successful.

In Vivo Characterization of a Wireless Telemetry Module for a Capsule Endoscopy System Utilizing a Conformal Antenna.

PubMed

Faerber, Julia; Cummins, Gerard; Pavuluri, Sumanth Kumar; Record, Paul; Rodriguez, Adrian R Ayastuy; Lay, Holly S; McPhillips, Rachael; Cox, Benjamin F; Connor, Ciaran; Gregson, Rachael; Clutton, Richard Eddie; Khan, Sadeque Reza; Cochran, Sandy; Desmulliez, Marc P Y

2018-02-01

This paper describes the design, fabrication, packaging, and performance characterization of a conformal helix antenna created on the outside of a capsule endoscope designed to operate at a carrier frequency of 433 MHz within human tissue. Wireless data transfer was established between the integrated capsule system and an external receiver. The telemetry system was tested within a tissue phantom and in vivo porcine models. Two different types of transmission modes were tested. The first mode, replicating normal operating conditions, used data packets at a steady power level of 0 dBm, while the capsule was being withdrawn at a steady rate from the small intestine. The second mode, replicating the worst-case clinical scenario of capsule retention within the small bowel, sent data with stepwise increasing power levels of -10, 0, 6, and 10 dBm, with the capsule fixed in position. The temperature of the tissue surrounding the external antenna was monitored at all times using thermistors embedded within the capsule shell to observe potential safety issues. The recorded data showed, for both modes of operation, a low error transmission of 10 -3 packet error rate and 10 -5 bit error rate and no temperature increase of the tissue according to IEEE standards.

[A randomized, controlled, double-blind trial of Huannao Yicong capsule in senile patients with mild cognitive impairment].

PubMed

Li, Hao; Yao, Ming-Jiang; Zhao, Wen-Ming; Guan, Jie; Cai, Lin-Lin; Cui, Ling

2008-01-01

To observe the effect and explore the mechanism of Huannao Yicong capsule in treating senile patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The investigational drugs were packed by blind method. A randomized, double-blind and controlled trial was conducted on ninety senile patients with MCI. Other forty-five senile healthy persons were recruited to the healthy control group. The ninety senile patients were randomly divided into the Huannao Yicong capsule-treated group (45 patients administered with three Huannao Yicong capsules and two aniracetam capsule analogues) and aniracetam-treated group (45 patients treated with two aniracetam capsules and three Huannao Yicong capsule analogues). Patients in the two groups were treated three times daily for 16 weeks. Memory, traditional Chinese medicine syndrome, cerebral blood flow, free radicals and inflammatory mediators, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), acetylcholinesterase (AchE), interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined before and after the treatment. Blood lipids, including triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), apolipoprotein A-1 (ApoA-1) and apolipoprotein B-100 (ApoB-100), were detected before and after the treatment. The safety indexes, such as routine tests of blood and urine, hepatic and renal function tests and electrocardiogram (ECG) were taken before and after the treatment. Index score of clinical memory scale in senile healthy people was significantly higher than that in MCI patients before treatment (P<0.01), and the content of AchE, IL-1alpha and IL-6 was obviously lower (P<0.01, P<0.05), the activity of SOD was higher (P<0.05). No significant difference was found in direction memory of clinical memory scale between the two treatment groups. Other index scores of clinical memory scale and traditional Chinese medicine syndrome in patients of Huannao Yicong capsule-treated group were significantly improved as compared with those of the aniracetam-treated group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The blood flow parameters of anterior cerebral artery, posterior cerebral artery and resistant index in patients of Huannao Yicong capsule-treated group were increased significantly (P<0.01, P<0.05). Huannao Yicong capsule could significantly increase the activity of serum SOD and decrease the content of AchE, IL-1alpha and IL-6 (P<0.01, P<0.05), better than aniracetam. Furthermore, Huannao Yicong capsule could significantly improve the blood lipid, such as the level of TG, LDL-C, HDL-C, ApoA-1 and ApoB-100 (P<0.01, P<0.05), and better than aniracetam (P<0.01, P<0.05). No significant changes were found after treatment in safety indexes, such as routine tests of blood and urine, hepatic and renal function tests and ECG. Huannao Yicong capsule has better therapeutic effect than aniracetam capsule in treating senile mild cognitive impairment.

RERTR-12 Insertion 2 Irradiation Summary Report

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

D. M. Perez; G. S. Chang; D. M. Wachs

2012-09-01

The Reduced Enrichment for Research and Test Reactor (RERTR) experiment RERTR-12 was designed to provide comprehensive information on the performance of uranium-molybdenum (U-Mo) based monolithic fuels for research reactor applications.1 RERTR-12 insertion 2 includes the capsules irradiated during the last three irradiation cycles. These capsules include Z, Y1, Y2 and Y3 type capsules. The following report summarizes the life of the RERTR-12 insertion 2 experiment through end of irradiation, including as-run neutronic analysis results, thermal analysis results and hydraulic testing results.

Investigating the Impact of Drug Crystallinity in Amorphous Tacrolimus Capsules on Pharmacokinetics and Bioequivalence Using Discriminatory In Vitro Dissolution Testing and Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Simulation.

PubMed

Purohit, Hitesh S; Trasi, Niraj S; Sun, Dajun D; Chow, Edwin C Y; Wen, Hong; Zhang, Xinyuan; Gao, Yi; Taylor, Lynne S

2018-05-01

Delivering a drug in amorphous form in a formulated product is a strategy used to enhance the apparent solubility of a drug substance and its oral bioavailability. Drug crystallization in such products may occur during the manufacturing process or on storage, reducing the solubility advantage of the amorphous drug. However, the impact of partial drug crystallization in the drug product on the resulting bioavailability and pharmacokinetics is unknown. In this study, dissolution testing of commercial tacrolimus capsules (which are formulated to contain amorphous drug), both fresh and those containing different amounts of crystalline drug, was conducted using both United States Pharmacopeia and noncompendial dissolution tests with different dissolution media and volumes. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) absorption model was developed to predict the impact of crystallinity extent on the oral absorption of the products and to evaluate the discriminatory ability of the different dissolution methods. Virtual bioequivalence simulations between partially crystallized tacrolimus capsules versus fresh Prograf or generic tacrolimus capsules were performed using the PBPK model and in vitro dissolution data of the various fresh and partially crystallized capsules under United States Pharmacopeia and noncompendial dissolution conditions. The results suggest that compendial dissolution tests may not be sufficiently discriminatory with respect to the presence of crystallinity in an amorphous formulation. Nonsink dissolution tests using lower dissolution volumes generate more discriminatory profiles that predict different pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus capsules containing different extents of drug crystallinity. In conclusion, the PBPK modeling approach can be used to assess the impact of partial drug crystallinity in the formulated product and to guide the development of appropriate dissolution methods. Copyright © 2018 American Pharmacists Association®. All rights reserved.

Investigation of albumin-derived perfluorocarbon-based capsules by holographic optical trapping

PubMed Central

Köhler, Jannis; Ruschke, Jegor; Ferenz, Katja Bettina; Esen, Cemal; Kirsch, Michael; Ostendorf, Andreas

2018-01-01

Albumin-derived perfluorocarbon-based capsules are promising as artificial oxygen carriers with high solubility. However, these capsules have to be studied further to allow initial human clinical tests. The aim of this paper is to provide and characterize a holographic optical tweezer to enable contactless trapping and moving of individual capsules in an environment that mimics physiological (in vivo) conditions most effectively in order to learn more about the artificial oxygen carrier behavior in blood plasma without recourse to animal experiments. Therefore, the motion behavior of capsules in a ring shaped or vortex beam is analyzed and optimized on account of determination of the optical forces in radial and axial direction. In addition, due to the customization and generation of dynamic phase holograms, the optical tweezer is used for first investigations on the aggregation behavior of the capsules and a statistical evaluation of the bonding in dependency of different capsule sizes is performed. The results show that the optical tweezer is sufficient for studying individual perfluorocarbon-based capsules and provide information about the interaction of these capsules for future use as artificial oxygen carriers. PMID:29552409

Thermal energy storage characteristics of micro-nanoencapsulated heneicosane and octacosane with poly(methylmethacrylate) shell.

PubMed

Sarı, Ahmet; Alkan, Cemil; Biçer, Alper

2016-05-01

In this study, PMMA/heneicosane (C21) and PMMA/octacosane (C28) micro-nano capsules were fabricated via emulsion polymerisation method. The chemical structures of the fabricated capsules were verified with the FT-IR spectroscopy analysis. The results of POM, SEM and PSD analysis indicated that most of the capsules were consisted of micro/nano-sized spheres with compact surface. The DSC measurements showed that the capsules had melting temperature in the range of about 39-60 °C and latent heat energy storage capacity in the range of about 138-152 J/g. The results of TGA showed that sublimit temperature values regarding the first degradation steps of both capsules were quite over the phase change or working temperatures of encapsulated paraffins. The thermal cycling test exhibited that the capsules had good thermal reliability and chemical stability. Additionally, the prepared capsules had reasonably high thermal conductivity.

Asymptomatic bronchial aspiration and prolonged retention of a capsule endoscope: a case report.

PubMed

Pezzoli, Alessandro; Fusetti, Nadia; Carella, Alessandra; Gullini, Sergio

2011-08-02

Capsule endoscopy has, over the last few years, become a first-line test to visualize the mucosa of the small intestine. This technique is generally considered safe and does not cause discomfort for patients. However, although patients may have difficulty in swallowing the capsule, bronchial aspiration of a capsule endoscope is a very rare complication. We report the case of an 82-year-old man who experienced prolonged bronchial aspiration of a capsule endoscope without relevant symptoms, followed by a spontaneous return of the capsule to the gastrointestinal tract. An 82-year-old Caucasian man was referred to our unit from another local hospital to undergo capsule endoscopy. He swallowed the capsule without any apparent difficulties and did not show any overt symptoms. The following day, when we reviewed the capsule endoscopy images, we realized that the capsule was in the bronchial system and remained there for the duration of the study. An urgent X-ray of the chest confirmed the presence of the capsule in the left side of the bronchopulmonary tree. Two days later a repeat chest X-ray showed the capsule in the right bronchus. After two days the capsule was retrieved in the feces. Our patient remained asymptomatic during the entire admission period. Aspiration of a capsule endoscope is a rare complication; to the best of our knowledge this is the first reported case in which a capsule endoscope remained for six days in the bronchial system of a patient without causing airway compromise or pneumonitis and spontaneously returned to the gastrointestinal tract.

The intelligent, painless, "germ-free" colonoscopy: A Columbus' egg for increasing population adherence to colorectal cancer screening?

PubMed

Perri, Francesco; Iacobellis, Angelo; Gentile, Marco; Tumino, Emanuele; Andriulli, Angelo

2010-12-01

Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Although it is widely accepted that CRC screening in average risk populations lowers CRC incidence and mortality, a disappointedly low adherence rate to both faecal occult blood testing and colonoscopy-based screening programs has been observed in Italy and in other European countries. Main reasons for the low acceptance of colonoscopy-based CRC screening has been ascribed to lack of recommendations given by general practitioners, fear of discomfort or complications, embarrassment, and avoidance of unpleasant preparation. New advances in endoscopic technology such as colon capsule and robotic colonoscopy might represent the ideal tool for CRC screening since they reduce or eliminate procedure-related pain and discomfort. Moreover, no disinfection between procedures is required. Motion of the new probes along the gastrointestinal tract is achieved either in passive modality by utilizing the gut peristalsis (colon capsule) or in active "intelligent" modality by means of computer-assisted propulsion (robotic colonoscopy). In this review, the preliminary clinical results obtained with the new devices are summarized. It is expected that the new instruments will be soon available in clinical practice with the hope of increasing adherence to CRC screening programs. Copyright © 2010 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

KSC-2012-5588

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Test operators examine a model capsule after a of test inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5581

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Test operators prepare a model capsule ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Stennis time capsule

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-10-15

Stennis Space Center Director Patrick Scheuermann (right) and Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command Chief of Staff James Pettigrew drop the first shovelfuls of dirt on a time capsule to be opened on the rocket engine test facility's 100th anniversary in 2061. The time capsule was placed in front of the Roy S. Estess Building on Oct. 25 as Stennis concluded celebrations of its 50th anniversary.

Photogrammetric Measurements of CEV Airbag Landing Attenuation Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barrows, Danny A.; Burner, Alpheus W.; Berry, Felecia C.; Dismond, Harriett R.; Cate, Kenneth H.

2008-01-01

High-speed photogrammetric measurements are being used to assess the impact dynamics of the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) for ground landing contingency upon return to earth. Test articles representative of the Orion capsule are dropped at the NASA Langley Landing and Impact Research (LandIR) Facility onto a sand/clay mixture representative of a dry lakebed from elevations as high as 62 feet (18.9 meters). Two different types of test articles have been evaluated: (1) half-scale metal shell models utilized to establish baseline impact dynamics and soil characterization, and (2) geometric full-scale drop models with shock-absorbing airbags which are being evaluated for their ability to cushion the impact of the Orion CEV with the earth s surface. This paper describes the application of the photogrammetric measurement technique and provides drop model trajectory and impact data that indicate the performance of the photogrammetric measurement system.

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

Mitrani, J

Bayesian networks (BN) are an excellent tool for modeling uncertainties in systems with several interdependent variables. A BN is a directed acyclic graph, and consists of a structure, or the set of directional links between variables that depend on other variables, and conditional probabilities (CP) for each variable. In this project, we apply BN's to understand uncertainties in NIF ignition experiments. One can represent various physical properties of National Ignition Facility (NIF) capsule implosions as variables in a BN. A dataset containing simulations of NIF capsule implosions was provided. The dataset was generated from a radiation hydrodynamics code, and itmore » contained 120 simulations of 16 variables. Relevant knowledge about the physics of NIF capsule implosions and greedy search algorithms were used to search for hypothetical structures for a BN. Our preliminary results found 6 links between variables in the dataset. However, we thought there should have been more links between the dataset variables based on the physics of NIF capsule implosions. Important reasons for the paucity of links are the relatively small size of the dataset, and the sampling of the values for dataset variables. Another factor that might have caused the paucity of links is the fact that in the dataset, 20% of the simulations represented successful fusion, and 80% didn't, (simulations of unsuccessful fusion are useful for measuring certain diagnostics) which skewed the distributions of several variables, and possibly reduced the number of links. Nevertheless, by illustrating the interdependencies and conditional probabilities of several parameters and diagnostics, an accurate and complete BN built from an appropriate simulation set would provide uncertainty quantification for NIF capsule implosions.« less

Spawn in two deep-sea volute gastropods (Neogastropoda: Volutidae) from southwestern Atlantic waters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penchaszadeh, Pablo E.; Teso, Valeria; Pastorino, Guido

2017-12-01

The gastropods Odontocymbiola pescalia and Provocator corderoi and their egg capsules were collected by the R/V Puerto Deseado from the Mar del Plata Submarine Canyon ( 37°53‧S, at depths of 291-1404 m) and from Burdwood Bank ( 54°27‧S, 128-785 m). Odontocymbiola pescalia egg capsules measured 15.67 ± 3.38 mm in diameter. They were subspherical in shape with an external calcareous layer. Each egg capsule contained 3-5 embryos and white material as extra embryonic food. Embryos grew to a size of up to 9.3 ± 1.1 mm in mean shell length before hatching as crawling juveniles. The spawn of P. corderoi consisted of a single dome shaped egg capsule of 14.17 ± 1.5 mm in diameter, attached to hard substrata by a basal membrane with a rounded outline. A curved semilunar furrow (seam) on one side of the capsules was always present. The number of embryos per capsule was 2-6. Embryos hatched as crawling juveniles with a shell length of 5.9 ± 0.6 mm. The size and number of whorls in the hatchling shell suggested a slow rate of development, akin to many other deep-sea invertebrates. The egg capsules and reproductive development strategies of both species were compared with those from other congeneric representatives.

KSC-2011-8172

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA's Liberty Star ship heads into the Atlantic Ocean where tests will be performed on an Orion flight test capsule. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KSC-2011-8179

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Testing is under way on an Orion flight test capsule in the Atlantic Ocean. The tests are being monitored by workers aboard NASA's Liberty Star ship. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KSC-2011-8180

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Testing is under way on an Orion flight test capsule in the Atlantic Ocean. The tests are being monitored by workers aboard NASA's Liberty Star ship. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

Rapid Access Real-Time device and Rapid Access software: new tools in the armamentarium of capsule endoscopy.

PubMed

Spada, Cristiano; Riccioni, Maria Elena; Costamagna, Guido

2007-07-01

Small bowel capsule endoscopy represents a significant advance in the investigation of the small bowel, allowing direct visualization of this section of the gastrointestinal system. More recently, new video capsules have been released, specifically designed to investigate the esophagus and the colon. In June 2006, Given Imaging Ltd received marketing clearance from the US FDA for the Rapid Access Real-Time (RT) and Rapid Access software. The Rapid Access RT is a handheld device that enables real-time viewing during capsule endoscopy procedures. To date, the clinical benefits of this device are unknown as studies on the Rapid Access RT system have not yet been published. However, it appears that the Rapid Access RT system may reduce the examination and reading time, and may impact significantly in cases where it is important to know the precise localization of the capsule (during PillCam ESO ingestion procedures, PillCam Colon examinations or when delayed gastric transit is suspected) or in case of severe gastrointestinal bleeding (when a therapeutic procedure is required urgently).

Properties of the spindle-to-cusp transition in extensional capsule dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dodson, W. R., III; Dimitrakopoulos, P.

2014-05-01

Our earlier letter (Dodson W. R. III and Dimitrakopoulos P., Phys. Rev. Lett., 101 (2008) 208102) revealed that a (strain-hardening) Skalak capsule in a planar extensional Stokes flow develops for stability reasons steady-state shapes whose edges from spindled become cusped with increasing flow rate owing to a transition of the edge tensions from tensile to compressive. A bifurcation in the steady-state shapes was also found (i.e. existence of both spindled and cusped edges for a range of high flow rates) by implementing different transient processes, owing to the different evolution of the membrane tensions. In this paper we show that the bifurcation range is wider at higher viscosity ratio (owing to the lower transient membrane tensions accompanied the slower capsule deformation starting from the quiescent capsule shape), while it contracts and eventually disappears as the viscosity ratio decreases. The spindle-to-cusp transition is shown to represent a self-similar finite-time singularity formation which for real capsules with very small but finite thickness is expected to be an apparent singularity, i.e. formation of very large (but finite) positive and negative edge curvatures.

Effect of Shufeng Jiedu capsules as a broad-spectrum antibacterial.

PubMed

Bao, Yanyan; Gao, Yingjie; Cui, Xiaolan

2016-02-01

This study sought to investigate the broad-spectrum antibacterial action of an alternative medicine, Shufeng Jiedu capsules (SFJDC). Antibacterial testing was performed to determine whether SFJDC had broad-spectrum antibacterial action in vitro, and testing was performed to verify whether SFJDC prevented death due to a Streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus infection in mice. Results of antibacterial testing suggested that SFJDC are a broad-spectrum antibacterial and that SFJDC are superior to Lianhua Qingwen capsules as a broad-spectrum antibacterial. Results of testing revealed that SFJDC lowered the mortality rate, it reduced mortality, it increased average survival time, and it increased the lifespan of mice dying due to a Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus infection. Thus, SFJDC could become a complement to broad-spectrum antimicrobials in clinical settings.

Compatibility tests of materials for a lithium-cooled space power reactor concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sinclair, J. H.

1973-01-01

Materials for a lithium-cooled space power reactor concept must be chemically compatible for up to 50,000 hr at high temperature. Capsule tests at 1040 C (1900 F) were made of material combinations of prime interest: T-111 in direct contact with uranium mononitride (UN), Un in vacuum separated from T-111 by tungsten wire, UN with various oxygen impurity levels enclosed in tungsten wire lithium-filled T-111 capsules, and TZM and lithium together in T-111 capsules. All combinations were compatible for over 2800 hr except for T-111 in direct contact with UN.

Application of a frequency distribution method for determining instars of the beet armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) from widths of cast head capsules

Treesearch

Y. Chen; S. J. Seybold

2013-01-01

Instar determination of field-collected insect larvae has generally been based on the analysis of head capsule width frequency distributions or bivariate plotting, but few studies have tested the validity of such methods. We used head capsules from exuviae of known instars of the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae),...

Formulation, stability testing, and analytical characterization of melatonin-based preparation for clinical trial.

PubMed

Filali, Samira; Bergamelli, Charlotte; Lamine Tall, Mamadou; Salmon, Damien; Laleye, Diane; Dhelens, Carole; Diouf, Elhadji; Pivot, Christine; Pirot, Fabrice

2017-08-01

A new institutional clinical trial assessed the improvement of sleep disorders in 40 children with autism treated by immediate-release melatonin formulation in different regimens (0.5 mg, 2 mg, and 6 mg daily) for one month. The objectives of present study were to (i) prepare low-dose melatonin hard capsules for pediatric use controlled by two complementary methods and (ii) carry out a stability study in order to determine a use-by-date. Validation of preparation process was claimed as ascertained by mass uniformity of hard capsules. Multicomponent analysis by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transformed infrared (ATR-FTIR) of melatonin/microcrystalline cellulose mixture allowed to identify and quantify relative content of active pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients. Absolute melatonin content analysis by high performance liquid chromatography in 0.5 mg and 6 mg melatonin capsules was 93.6%±4.1% and 98.7%±6.9% of theoretical value, respectively. Forced degradation study showed a good separation of melatonin and its degradation products. The capability of the method was 15, confirming a risk of false negative <0.01%. Stability test and dissolution test were compliant over 18 months of storage with European Pharmacopoeia. Preparation of melatonin hard capsules was completed manually and melatonin in hard capsules was stable for 18 months, in spite of low doses of active ingredient. ATR-FTIR offers a real alternative to HPLC for quality control of high-dose melatonin hard capsules before the release of clinical batches.

Bioequivalence of a methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release preparation: comparison of an intact capsule and an opened capsule sprinkled on applesauce.

PubMed

Fischer, R; Schütz, H; Grossmann, M; Leis, H J; Ammer, R

2006-03-01

To assess bioequivalence between an intact capsule and the content of a capsule sprinkled on applesauce. Medikinet retard 20 mg capsules were obtained from Medice (Iserlohn, Germany). This was a single-center, completely randomized, open, 2-period, 2-sequence, balanced crossover study with a washout period of 1 week between administrations, in 12 healthy male and female subjects, aged 18-45 years. Blood samples were collected over 24 hours and methylphenidate plasma concentration-time data were used to calculate pharmacokinetic parameters for both administrations. The main parameters were (confirmatory) AUC0-tz (extent of BA), Cmax, tmax (rate of BA) and (descriptively) AUC0-infinity and t1/2. Equivalence was concluded if the 90% confidence interval (CI) for the ratio between test and reference was 0.80-1.25 (AUC0-tz). All 12 dosed subjects finished both treatment periods and were included in pharmacokinetic and safety analyses. 90% geometric confidence intervals for AUC0-tz and Cmax data were well within accepted bioequivalence limits. The study has shown that both treatment modes lead to similar pattern of absorption and elimination following single-dose administration in the fed state. The test treatment (content of capsule sprinkled over 15 ml applesauce) is bioequivalent to the reference treatment (intact capsule) in terms of extent and rate of absorption. Data collected from this study demonstrate that Medikinet retard capsules can be opened and the content sprinkled on a tablespoon of applesauce without influencing the rate and extent of bioavailability.

Regional gastrointestinal transit and pH studied in 215 healthy volunteers using the wireless motility capsule: influence of age, gender, study country and testing protocol.

PubMed

Wang, Y T; Mohammed, S D; Farmer, A D; Wang, D; Zarate, N; Hobson, A R; Hellström, P M; Semler, J R; Kuo, B; Rao, S S; Hasler, W L; Camilleri, M; Scott, S M

2015-09-01

The wireless motility capsule (WMC) offers the ability to investigate luminal gastrointestinal (GI) physiology in a minimally invasive manner. To investigate the effect of testing protocol, gender, age and study country on regional GI transit times and associated pH values using the WMC. Regional GI transit times and pH values were determined in 215 healthy volunteers from USA and Sweden studied using the WMC over a 6.5-year period. The effects of test protocol, gender, age and study country were examined. For GI transit times, testing protocol was associated with differences in gastric emptying time (GET; shorter with protocol 2 (motility capsule ingested immediately after meal) vs. protocol 1 (motility capsule immediately before): median difference: 52 min, P = 0.0063) and colonic transit time (CTT; longer with protocol 2: median 140 min, P = 0.0189), but had no overall effect on whole gut transit time. Females had longer GET (by median 17 min, P = 0.0307), and also longer CTT by (104 min, P = 0.0285) and whole gut transit time by (263 min, P = 0.0077). Increasing age was associated with shorter small bowel transit time (P = 0.002), and study country also influenced small bowel and CTTs. Whole gut and CTTs showed clustering of data at values separated by 24 h, suggesting that describing these measures as continuous variables is invalid. Testing protocol, gender and study country also significantly influenced pH values. Regional GI transit times and pH values, delineated using the wireless motility capsule (WMC), vary based on testing protocol, gender, age and country. Standardisation of testing is crucial for cross-referencing in clinical practice and future research. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

3D Printed Programmable Release Capsules.

PubMed

Gupta, Maneesh K; Meng, Fanben; Johnson, Blake N; Kong, Yong Lin; Tian, Limei; Yeh, Yao-Wen; Masters, Nina; Singamaneni, Srikanth; McAlpine, Michael C

2015-08-12

The development of methods for achieving precise spatiotemporal control over chemical and biomolecular gradients could enable significant advances in areas such as synthetic tissue engineering, biotic-abiotic interfaces, and bionanotechnology. Living organisms guide tissue development through highly orchestrated gradients of biomolecules that direct cell growth, migration, and differentiation. While numerous methods have been developed to manipulate and implement biomolecular gradients, integrating gradients into multiplexed, three-dimensional (3D) matrices remains a critical challenge. Here we present a method to 3D print stimuli-responsive core/shell capsules for programmable release of multiplexed gradients within hydrogel matrices. These capsules are composed of an aqueous core, which can be formulated to maintain the activity of payload biomolecules, and a poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA, an FDA approved polymer) shell. Importantly, the shell can be loaded with plasmonic gold nanorods (AuNRs), which permits selective rupturing of the capsule when irradiated with a laser wavelength specifically determined by the lengths of the nanorods. This precise control over space, time, and selectivity allows for the ability to pattern 2D and 3D multiplexed arrays of enzyme-loaded capsules along with tunable laser-triggered rupture and release of active enzymes into a hydrogel ambient. The advantages of this 3D printing-based method include (1) highly monodisperse capsules, (2) efficient encapsulation of biomolecular payloads, (3) precise spatial patterning of capsule arrays, (4) "on the fly" programmable reconfiguration of gradients, and (5) versatility for incorporation in hierarchical architectures. Indeed, 3D printing of programmable release capsules may represent a powerful new tool to enable spatiotemporal control over biomolecular gradients.

Cluster Development Test 2: An Assessment of a Failed Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Machin, Ricardo A.; Evans, Carol T.

2009-01-01

On 31 July 2008 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Crew Exploration Vehicle Parachute Assembly System team conducted the final planned cluster test of the first generation parachute recovery system design. The two primary test objectives were to demonstrate the operation of the complete parachute system deployed from a full scale capsule simulator and to demonstrate the test technique of separating the capsule simulator from the Low Velocity Air Drop pallet used to extract the test article from a United States Air Force C-17 aircraft. The capsule simulator was the Parachute Test Vehicle with an accurate heat shield outer mold line and forward bay compartment of the Crew Exploration Vehicle Command Module. The Parachute Test Vehicle separated cleanly from the pallet following extraction, but failed to reach test conditions resulting in the failure of the test and the loss of the test assets. No personnel were injured. This paper will discuss the design of the test and the findings of the team that investigated the test, including a discussion of what were determined to be the root causes of the failure.

Fuel Cycle Research and Development Accident Tolerant Fuels Series 1 (ATF-1) Irradiation Testing FY 2016 Status Report

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

Core, Gregory Matthew

This report contains a summary of irradiation testing of Fuel Cycle Research and Development (FCRD) Accident Tolerant Fuels Series 1 (ATF 1) experiments performed at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) in FY 2016. ATF 1 irradiation testing work performed in FY 2016 included design, analysis, and fabrication of ATF-1B drop in capsule ATF 1 series experiments and irradiation testing of ATF-1 capsules in the ATR.

SLI381 (Adderall XR), a two-component, extended-release formulation of mixed amphetamine salts: bioavailability of three test formulations and comparison of fasted, fed, and sprinkled administration.

PubMed

Tulloch, Simon J; Zhang, Yuxin; McLean, Angus; Wolf, Kathleen N

2002-11-01

To assess the bioavailability of three test formulations of a single dose of extended-release Adderall 20-mg capsules compared with two doses of immediate-release Adderall 10-mg tablets, and to assess the bioequivalence of a single 30-mg dose of the chosen extended-release Adderall formulation (designated as SLI381) administered in applesauce (sprinkled) and the same dose administered as an intact capsule with or without food. Randomized, open-label, crossover study. Clinical research unit. Forty-one healthy adults. Study A had four treatment sequences: three test formulations (A, B, and C) of a single dose of extended-release Adderall 20 mg, and two 10-mg doses of Adderall given 4 hours apart. Study B had three treatment sequences: a single dose of SLI381 30 mg as an intact capsule after overnight fast, an intact capsule after a high-fat breakfast, and the contents of a capsule sprinkled in 1 tablespoon of applesauce. The 20-mg test formulation A had comparable pharmacokinetic profiles and bioequivalence in rate and extent of drug absorption to Adderall 10 mg twice/day for both d- and l-amphetamine. Formulations B and C had statistically significant differences from the reference drug in some pharmacokinetic parameters. A 30-mg dose of SLI381 showed no significant differences in rate and extent of absorption of d- and l-amphetamine for fasted or sprinkled conditions compared with the high-fat meal condition. SLI381 20 mg/day is bioequivalent to Adderall 10 mg twice/day. SLI381 30 mg administered in applesauce is bioequivalent in terms of both rate and extent of absorption to the same dose administered as an intact capsule in both fasted and fed states.

In-reactor performance of LWR-type tritium target rods

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

Lanning, D.D.; Paxton, M.M.; Crumbaugh, L.

Pacific Northwest Laboratory has conducted several 1-yr irradiation tests of light water reactor-type tritium target rods. These tests have been sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of New Production Reactors. The first test, designated water capsule-1 (WC-1), was conducted in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory from November 1989 to December 1990. The test vehicle contained a single 4-ft target rod within a pressurized water capsule. The capsule maintained the rod at pressurized water reactor (PWR)-type water temperature and pressure conditions. Posttest nondestructive examinations of the WC-1 rod involved visual examinations, dimensional checks,more » gamma scanning, and neutron radiography. The results indicate that the rod maintained the integrity of its pressure seal and was otherwise unaltered both mechanically and dimensionally by its irradiation and posttest handling.« less

KSC-2011-8177

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers, on the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship and in a boat in the Atlantic Ocean, prepare to begin testing of an Orion flight test capsule. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KSC-2011-8175

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers on the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship prepare for testing in the Atlantic Ocean of an Orion flight test capsule to begin. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KSC-2011-8176

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Workers on the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship prepare for testing in the Atlantic Ocean of an Orion flight test capsule to begin. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

An in-flight radiography platform to measure hydrodynamic instability growth in inertial confinement fusion capsules at the National Ignition Facility

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

Raman, K. S.; Smalyuk, V. A.; Casey, D. T.

2014-07-15

A new in-flight radiography platform has been established at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to measure Rayleigh–Taylor and Richtmyer–Meshkov instability growth in inertial confinement fusion capsules. The platform has been tested up to a convergence ratio of 4. An experimental campaign is underway to measure the growth of pre-imposed sinusoidal modulations of the capsule surface, as a function of wavelength, for a pair of ignition-relevant laser drives: a “low-foot” drive representative of what was fielded during the National Ignition Campaign (NIC) [Edwards et al., Phys. Plasmas 20, 070501 (2013)] and the new high-foot [Dittrich et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 112,more » 055002 (2014); Park et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 112, 055001 (2014)] pulse shape, for which the predicted instability growth is much lower. We present measurements of Legendre modes 30, 60, and 90 for the NIC-type, low-foot, drive, and modes 60 and 90 for the high-foot drive. The measured growth is consistent with model predictions, including much less growth for the high-foot drive, demonstrating the instability mitigation aspect of this new pulse shape. We present the design of the platform in detail and discuss the implications of the data it generates for the on-going ignition effort at NIF.« less

Simulation and evaluation of rupturable coated capsules by finite element method.

PubMed

Yang, Yan; Fang, Jie; Shen, Lian; Shan, Weiguang

2017-03-15

The objective of this study was to simulate and evaluate the burst behavior of rupturable coated capsules by finite element method (FEM). Film and coated capsules were prepared by dip-coating method and their dimensions were determined by stereomicroscope. Mechanical properties of the film were measured by tensile test and used as material properties of FEM models. Swelling pressure was determined by restrained expansion method and applied to the internal surface of FEM models. Water uptake of coated capsules was determined to study the formation of internal pressure. Burst test and in vitro dissolution was used to verify the FEM models, which were used to study and predict the coating burst behavior. Simulated results of coating burst behavior were well agreed with the experiment results. Swelling pressure, material properties and dimensions of coating had influence on the maximum stress. Burst pressure and critical L-HPC content were calculated for burst prediction and formulation optimization. FEM simulation was a feasible way to simulate and evaluate the burst behavior of coated capsules. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Carbide fuel pin and capsule design for irradiations at thermionic temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, B. L.; Slaby, J. G.; Mattson, W. F.; Dilanni, D. C.

1973-01-01

The design of a capsule assembly to evaluate tungsten-emitter - carbide-fuel combinations for thermionic fuel elements is presented. An inpile fuel pin evaluation program concerned with clad temperture, neutron spectrum, carbide fuel composition, fuel geometry,fuel density, and clad thickness is discussed. The capsule design was a compromise involving considerations between heat transfer, instrumentation, materials compatibility, and test location. Heat-transfer calculations were instrumental in determining the method of support of the fuel pin to minimize axial temperature variations. The capsule design was easily fabricable and utilized existing state-of-the-art experience from previous programs.

Comparative Bioavailability of Sulindac in Capsule and Tablet Formulations

PubMed Central

Reid, Joel M.; Mandrekar, Sumithra J.; Carlson, Elsa C.; Harmsen, W. Scott; Green, Erin M.; McGovern, Renee M.; Szabo, Eva; Ames, Matthew M.; Boring, Daniel; Limburg, Paul J.

2008-01-01

The cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme appears to be an important target for cancer chemoprevention. Given the recent emergence of potentially serious cardiovascular toxicity associated with selective COX-2 inhibitors, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2, have received renewed attention as candidate chemoprevention agents. Sulindac has demonstrated consistent chemopreventive potential in preclinical studies, as well as in a limited number of clinical trials reported to date. For the current pharmacokinetic study, sulindac capsules were prepared to facilitate ample agent supplies for future intervention studies. Encapsulation of the parent compound (sulindac sulfoxide) can be readily accomplished, but the effects of alternate formulations on bioavailability have not been rigorously examined. In the present single-dose, two-period crossover trial, we conducted pharmacokinetic analyses of sulindac in capsule (test) versus tablet (reference) formulations. Overall, bioavailability appeared to be higher for the capsule compared to the tablet formulation, based on test-to-reference pharmacokinetic parameter ratios for the parent compound. However, additional analyses based on the sulfide and sulfone metabolites of sulindac with the same pharmacokinetic parameters indicated similar chemopreventive exposures between the capsule and tablet formulations. These data support the use of sulindac capsules, which can be readily prepared with matching placebos, in future blinded chemoprevention trials. PMID:18349286

Capsular locomotive microrobot for gastrointestinal tract.

PubMed

Park, Sukho; Park, Hyunjun; Park, Sungjin; Jee, Changyeol; Kim, Jinseok; Kim, Byungkyu

2006-01-01

Diagnosis using a flexible endoscope in gastro-intestinal tract becomes very important. In addition, the endoscope is a basic tool of diagnosis and treatment for digestive organ. However, the operation of endoscope is very labor intensive work and gives patients some pains. Therefore, the capsule-type endoscope is developed for the diagnosis of digestive organs. For its conveniences for diagnosis, the capsule endoscope comes into the spotlight. However, it is passively moved by the peristaltic waves of gastro-intestinal tract and thus has some limitations for doctor to get the image of the organ and to diagnose more thoroughly. In order to solve these problems, therefore, a locomotive mechanism of capsule endoscopes has being developed. For the locomotion in the gastro-intestinal tract, our proposed capsule-type microrobot has synchronized multiple legs that are actuated by a linear actuator and two mobile cylinders inside of the capsule. For the feasibility test of the proposed locomotive mechanism, a series of in-vitro experiments using small intestine without incision were carried out. In addition, in-vivo animal tests under a general anesthesia are also executed. From the experimental results, we conclude that the proposed locomotive mechanism is not only applicable to micro capsule endoscopes but also effective to advance inside of intestinal tract.

Constraints on oxygen fugacity within metal capsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faul, Ulrich H.; Cline, Christopher J., II; Berry, Andrew; Jackson, Ian; Garapić, Gordana

2018-06-01

Experiments were conducted with olivine encapsulated or wrapped in five different metals (Pt, Ni, Ni_{70}Fe_{30}, Fe, and Re) to determine the oxygen fugacity in the interior of large capsules used for deformation and seismic property experiments. Temperature (1200°C), pressure (300 MPa), and duration (24 h) were chosen to represent the most common conditions in these experiments. The oxygen fugacity was determined by analysing the Fe content of initially pure Pt particles that were mixed with the olivine powder prior to the experiments. Oxygen fugacities in the more oxidizing metal containers are substantially below their respective metal-oxide buffers, with the fO_2 of sol-gel olivine in Ni about 2.5 orders of magnitude below Ni-NiO. Analysis of olivine and metal blebs reveals three different length-, and hence diffusive time scales: (1) Fe loss to the capsule over ˜ 100 μ m, (2) fO_2 gradients at the sample-capsule interface up to 2 mm into the sample, and (3) constant interior fO_2 values with an ordering corresponding to the capsule material. The inferred diffusive processes are: Fe diffusion in olivine with a diffusivity ˜ 10^{-14} m^2/s, diffusion possibly of oxygen along grain boundaries with a diffusivity ˜ 10^{-12} m^2/s, and diffusion possibly involving pre-existing defects with a diffusivity ˜ 10^{-10} m^2/s. The latter, fast adjustment to changing fO_2 may consist of a rearrangement of pre-existing defects, representing a metastable equilibrium, analogous to decoration of pre-existing defects by hydrogen. Full adjustment to the external fO_2 requires atomic diffusion.

KSC-2012-5584

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule seen ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5580

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule seen ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5583

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule seen ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5585

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule falls during tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5587

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule falls during tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5589

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule following a test inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5582

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule seen ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5586

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A model capsule falls during tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Underway Recovery Test 6 (URT-6) - Day 4 Afternoon Activities

NASA Image and Video Library

2018-01-20

Sailors from the USS Anchorage simulate “Oscar,” a dummy used for man overboard drills, to the medical unit. During Underway Recovery Test 6, the USS Anchorage’s man overboard drill gave Kennedy Space Center’s NASA Recovery Team a glimpse of one way an astronaut could be brought from a small boat onto the ship using a stretcher. Once the Orion capsule splashes down in the Pacific Ocean, astronauts can choose to stay in the capsule until it is pulled into the well deck of the Navy vessel, or have a diver retrieve them in the open water and then get the capsule later.

Underway Recovery Test 6 (URT-6) - Day 4 Afternoon Activities

NASA Image and Video Library

2018-01-20

USS Anchorage’s Deck Department is heaving around the line as they bring up “Oscar,” a dummy used for man overboard drills. During Underway Recovery Test 6, the USS Anchorage’s man overboard drill gave Kennedy Space Center’s NASA Recovery Team a glimpse of one way an astronaut could be brought from a small boat onto the ship using a stretcher. Once the Orion capsule splashes down in the Pacific Ocean, astronauts can choose to stay in the capsule until it is pulled into the well deck of the Navy vessel, or have a diver retrieve them first and then get the capsule later.

Mercury Capsule Model in the 1- by 1-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-10-21

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) researchers install a small-scale model of the capsule for Project Mercury in the 1- by 1-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel at the Lewis Research Center. NASA Lewis conducted a variety of tests for Project Mercury, including retrorocket calibration, escape tower engine performance, and separation of the capsule from simulated Atlas and Redstone boosters. The test of this capsule and escape tower model in the 1- by 1-foot tunnel were run in January and February 1960. The 1-by 1-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel had a 15-inch long test section, seen here, that was one foot wide and one foot high. The sides were made of glass to allow cameras to capture the supersonic air flow over the models. The tunnel could generate air flows from Mach 1.3 to 3.0. At the time, it was one of nine small supersonic wind tunnels at Lewis. These tunnels used the exhauster and compressor equipment of the larger facilities. The 1- by 1 tunnel, which began operating in the early 1950s, was built inside a test cell in the expansive Engine Research Building. During the 1950s the 1- by 1 was used to study a variety of inlets, nozzles, and cones for missiles and scramjets. The Mercury capsule tests were among the last at the facility for many years. The tunnel was mothballed in 1960. The 1- by 1 was briefly restored in 1972, then brought back online for good in 1979. The facility has maintained a brisk operating schedule ever since.

Is the use of AGILE patency capsule prior to videocapsule endoscopy useful in all patients with spondyloarthritis?

PubMed

Gheorghe, Andrada; Zahiu, Denise Carmen Mihaela; Voiosu, Theodor Alexandru; Mateescu, Bogdan Radu; Voiosu, Mihail Radu; Rimbaş, Mihai

2017-06-01

As already known, spondyloarthritis patients present a striking resemblance in intestinal inflammation with early Crohn's disease. Moreover, the frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is an important part of their treatment. Both conditions could lead to intestinal stenoses. Therefore we proposed to investigate the usefulness of the patency capsule test in patients with spondyloarthritis. 64 consecutive patients (33 males; mean age 38 ± 11 years) that fulfilled the AMOR criteria for seronegative spondyloarthropathy (59.4% ankylosing spondylitis) lacking symptoms or signs of intestinal stenosis were enrolled and submitted to an AGILE™ capsule patency test followed by a video capsule endoscopy (PillCam SB2™), as part of a protocol investigating the presence of intestinal inflammatory lesions. After reviewing the VCE recordings, the Lewis score (of small bowel inflammatory involvement) was computed. In only 5 patients (7.8%) of the study group, the luminal patency test was negative. However, there was no retention of the videocapsule in any of the patients. From the 59 patients with a positive patency test, 3 patients presented single small bowel stenoses (two with ulcerated overlying inflamed mucosa, one cicatricial), all being traversed by the videocapsule along the length of the recording. None of the patients with a negative test had bowel stenoses. There was no correlation between the patency test and the Lewis score, the C reactive protein value, diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease, or the family history of spondyloarthritis, psoriasis or inflammatory bowel disease. The AGILE patency capsule does not seem to be a useful tool for all patients with spondyloarthritis prior to small bowel videocapsule endoscopy (ClinicalTrial.gov ID NCT 00768950).

The Orion Pad Abort 1 Flight Test A Highly Successful Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sinclair, Robert; Taylor, Anthony P. (Tony); Johnston, Justin

2011-01-01

The Orion Pad Abort 1 (PA-1) flight test was designed as an early demonstration of the Launch Abort System (LAS) for the Orion capsule. The LAS was designed developed and manufactured by the Lockheed Martin/Orbital Sciences team. At inception it was realized that recovery of the Orion Capsule simulator would be useful from an engineering analysis and data recovery point of view. Additionally this test represented a flight opportunity for the Orion parachute system, which in a real abort would provide final landing deceleration. The Orion parachute program is named CPAS (CEV Parachute Assembly System). Thus CPAS became a part of the PA-1 flight, as a secondary test objective. At program kick off, the CPAS system was in the design state described below. Airbag land landing of the spacecraft was the program baseline. This affected the rigging of the parachutes. The system entry deployment conditions and vehicle mass have both evolved since that original design. It was decided to use the baseline CPAS Generation 1 (Gen 1) parachute system for the recovery of the PA-1 flight. As CPAS was a secondary test objective, the system would be delivered in its developmental state. As the PA-1 program evolved, the parachute recovery system (CPAS) moved from a secondary objective to a more important portion of the program. Tests were added, weights and deployment conditions changed and some hardware portions of the CPAS configuration were not up to the new challenges. Additional tests were added to provide confidence in the developmental system. This paper will review a few of these aspects with the goal of showing some preliminary and qualitative results from what we believe was a highly successful test.

Placement Decisions for First-Time-in-College Students Using the Computerized Placement Test. Information Capsule.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bashford, Joanne

This information capsule explores the effectiveness of score ranges on the Computerized Placement Test (CPT), used to assess the skills of entry-level students at Miami-Dade Community College and place first-time-in-college students in classes. Data are provided for students entering in Fall terms 1996 and 1997 showing the number of students…

One-Dimensional Thermal Violence Cook-Off Test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cook, Malcolm; Stennett, Christopher; University of Cranfield, Shrivenham, Swindon, SN6 8LA Team; AWE plc, Aldermaston, Reading Bershire, RG7 4PR, UK Team

2017-06-01

The One-Dimensional Thermal Violence (ODTV) test is designed to quantify and rank the violence of HE charges when heated to elevated temperatures. The test design consists of a central spherical explosive pellet encased in two aluminium barrel shaped halves, fitted with a copper sealing ring, encased by two aluminium locking rings placed over them from either end. The outer surface of the capsule is heated uniformly by placing in a pre-heated molten solder bath. This allows the time-to-explosion to be recorded for different initial bath temperatures. The ODTV capsule can hold samples up to 30mm in diameter. Diagnostics include both thermocouples and Photon Dopler Velocimetry (PDV). A series of live firings have been carried out on a range of bespoke HMX/HTPB explosives. These include HMX/HTPB mix ratios of 95/5, 92/8, 90/10, 88/12 and 85/15. These tests showed that the ODTV capsule had sufficient confinement and size that it could capture the spectrum of events expected from these formulations. It has been demonstrated that the deformation of the heater cup (that houses the molten solder) can be used as an additional violence metric along with the fragmentation and PDV wall velocities of the aluminium ODTV capsule.

Thermoregulation of Capsule Production by Streptococcus pyogenes

PubMed Central

Kang, Song Ok; Wright, Jordan O.; Tesorero, Rafael A.; Lee, Hyunwoo; Beall, Bernard; Cho, Kyu Hong

2012-01-01

The capsule of Streptococcus pyogenes serves as an adhesin as well as an anti-phagocytic factor by binding to CD44 on keratinocytes of the pharyngeal mucosa and the skin, the main entry sites of the pathogen. We discovered that S. pyogenes HSC5 and MGAS315 strains are further thermoregulated for capsule production at a post-transcriptional level in addition to the transcriptional regulation by the CovRS two-component regulatory system. When the transcription of the hasABC capsular biosynthetic locus was de-repressed through mutation of the covRS system, the two strains, which have been used for pathogenesis studies in the laboratory, exhibited markedly increased capsule production at sub-body temperature. Employing transposon mutagenesis, we found that CvfA, a previously identified membrane-associated endoribonuclease, is required for the thermoregulation of capsule synthesis. The mutation of the cvfA gene conferred increased capsule production regardless of temperature. However, the amount of the capsule transcript was not changed by the mutation, indicating that a post-transcriptional regulator mediates between CvfA and thermoregulated capsule production. When we tested naturally occurring invasive mucoid strains, a high percentage (11/53, 21%) of the strains exhibited thermoregulated capsule production. As expected, the mucoid phenotype of these strains at sub-body temperature was due to mutations within the chromosomal covRS genes. Capsule thermoregulation that exhibits high capsule production at lower temperatures that occur on the skin or mucosal surface potentially confers better capability of adhesion and invasion when S. pyogenes penetrates the epithelial surface. PMID:22615992

Reinforcing effects of caffeine in coffee and capsules.

PubMed

Griffiths, R R; Bigelow, G E; Liebson, I A

1989-09-01

In a residential research ward the reinforcing and subjective effects of caffeine were studied under double-blind conditions in volunteer subjects with histories of heavy coffee drinking. In Experiment 1, 6 subjects had 13 opportunities each day to self-administer either a caffeine (100 mg) or a placebo capsule for periods of 14 to 61 days. All subjects developed a clear preference for caffeine, with intake of caffeine becoming relatively stable after preference had been attained. Preference for caffeine was demonstrated whether or not preference testing was preceded by a period of 10 to 37 days of caffeine abstinence, suggesting that a recent history of heavy caffeine intake (tolerance/dependence) was not a necessary condition for caffeine to function as a reinforcer. In Experiment 2, 6 subjects had 10 opportunities each day to self-administer a cup of coffee or (on different days) a capsule, dependent upon completing a work requirement that progressively increased and then decreased over days. Each day, one of four conditions was studied: caffeinated coffee (100 mg/cup), decaffeinated coffee, caffeine capsules (100 mg/capsule), or placebo capsules. Caffeinated coffee maintained the most self-administration, significantly higher than decaffeinated coffee and placebo capsules but not different from caffeine capsules. Both decaffeinated coffee and caffeine capsules were significantly higher than placebo capsules but not different from each other. In both experiments, subject ratings of "linking" of coffee or capsules covaried with the self-administration measures. These experiments provide the clearest demonstrations to date of the reinforcing effects of caffeine in capsules and in coffee.

Reinforcing effects of caffeine in coffee and capsules.

PubMed Central

Griffiths, R R; Bigelow, G E; Liebson, I A

1989-01-01

In a residential research ward the reinforcing and subjective effects of caffeine were studied under double-blind conditions in volunteer subjects with histories of heavy coffee drinking. In Experiment 1, 6 subjects had 13 opportunities each day to self-administer either a caffeine (100 mg) or a placebo capsule for periods of 14 to 61 days. All subjects developed a clear preference for caffeine, with intake of caffeine becoming relatively stable after preference had been attained. Preference for caffeine was demonstrated whether or not preference testing was preceded by a period of 10 to 37 days of caffeine abstinence, suggesting that a recent history of heavy caffeine intake (tolerance/dependence) was not a necessary condition for caffeine to function as a reinforcer. In Experiment 2, 6 subjects had 10 opportunities each day to self-administer a cup of coffee or (on different days) a capsule, dependent upon completing a work requirement that progressively increased and then decreased over days. Each day, one of four conditions was studied: caffeinated coffee (100 mg/cup), decaffeinated coffee, caffeine capsules (100 mg/capsule), or placebo capsules. Caffeinated coffee maintained the most self-administration, significantly higher than decaffeinated coffee and placebo capsules but not different from caffeine capsules. Both decaffeinated coffee and caffeine capsules were significantly higher than placebo capsules but not different from each other. In both experiments, subject ratings of "linking" of coffee or capsules covaried with the self-administration measures. These experiments provide the clearest demonstrations to date of the reinforcing effects of caffeine in capsules and in coffee. PMID:2794839

Moisture diffusion and permeability characteristics of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose and hard gelatin capsules.

PubMed

Barham, Ahmad S; Tewes, Frederic; Healy, Anne Marie

2015-01-30

The primary objective of this paper is to compare the sorption characteristics of hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) and hard gelatin (HG) capsules and their ability to protect capsule contents. Moisture sorption and desorption isotherms for empty HPMC and HG capsules have been investigated using dynamic vapour sorption (DVS) at 25°C. All sorption studies were analysed using the Young-Nelson model equations which distinguishes three moisture sorption types: monolayer adsorption moisture, condensation and absorption. Water vapour diffusion coefficients (D), solubility (S) and permeability (P) parameters of the capsule shells were calculated. ANOVA was performed with the Tukey comparison test to analyse the effect of %RH and capsule type on S, P, and D parameters. The moisture uptake of HG capsules were higher than HPMC capsules at all %RH conditions studied. It was found that values of D and P across HPMC capsules were greater than for HG capsules at 0-40 %RH; whereas over the same %RH range S values were higher for HG than for HPMC capsules. S values decreased gradually as the %RH was increased up to 60% RH. To probe the effect of moisture ingress, spray dried lactose was loaded into capsules. Phase evolution was characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The capsules under investigation are not capable of protecting spray dried lactose from induced solid state changes as a result of moisture uptake. For somewhat less moisture sensitive formulations, HPMC would appear to be a better choice than HG in terms of protection of moisture induced deterioration. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of preparation conditions on properties and permeability of chitosan-sodium hexametaphosphate capsules.

PubMed

Angelova, N; Hunkeler, D

2001-01-01

Capsules were obtained by interpolymer complexation between chitosan (polycation) and sodium hexametaphosphate (SMP, oligoanion). The effect of the preparation conditions on the capsule characteristics was evaluated. Specifically, the influence of variables such as pH, ionic strength, reagent concentration, and additives on the capsule permeability properties was investigated using dextran as a model permeant. The capsule membrane permeability was found to increase by decreasing the chitosan/SMP ratio as well as adding mannitol to the oligoanion recipient bath. Increasing the ionic strength or the pH of the initial chitosan solution was also found to enhance the membrane permeability, moving the membrane exclusion limit to higher values. Generally, the capsules prepared tinder all tested conditions had a relatively low permeability which rarely exceeded a molecular cut-off of 40 kD based on dextran standards. Furthermore, the diffusion rate showed a strong temporal dependence, indicating that the capsules prepared under various conditions exhibit different apparent pore size densities on the surface. The results indicated that, in order to obtain the desired capsule mass-transfer properties, the preparation conditions should be carefully considered and adjusted. Adding a polyol as well as low salt amount (less than 0.15%) is preferable as a means of modulating the diffusion characteristics, without disturbing the capsule mechanical stability.

Hydrocolloid liquid-core capsules for the removal of heavy-metal cations from water.

PubMed

Nussinovitch, A; Dagan, O

2015-12-15

Liquid-core capsules with a non-crosslinked alginate fluidic core surrounded by a gellan membrane were produced in a single step to investigate their ability to adsorb heavy metal cations. The liquid-core gellan-alginate capsules, produced by dropping alginate solution with magnesium cations into gellan solution, were extremely efficient at adsorbing lead cations (267 mg Pb(2+)/g dry alginate) at 25 °C and pH 5.5. However, these capsules were very weak and brittle, and an external strengthening capsule was added by using magnesium cations. The membrane was then thinned with the surfactant lecithin, producing capsules with better adsorption attributes (316 mg Pb(+2)/g dry alginate vs. 267 mg Pb(+2)/g dry alginate without lecithin), most likely due to the thinner membrane and enhanced mass transfer. The capsules' ability to adsorb other heavy-metal cations - copper (Cu(2+)), cadmium (Cd(2+)) and nickel (Ni(2+)) - was tested. Adsorption efficiencies were 219, 197 and 65 mg/g, respectively, and were correlated with the cation's affinity to alginate. Capsules with the sorbed heavy metals were regenerated by placing in a 1M nitric acid suspension for 24h. Capsules could undergo three regeneration cycles before becoming damaged. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of sinker shapes on dissolution profiles.

PubMed

Soltero, R A; Hoover, J M; Jones, T F; Standish, M

1989-01-01

In dissolution testing, according to the U.S. Pharmacopeia, a nonreactive stainless steel wire helix is typically used to sink dosage forms that would otherwise float. The objective of this investigation was to determine if other sinker shapes will influence the rate, extent, or variability of dissolution. Criteria for the optimal sinker were defined. Various new sinker designs were fabricated, tested, and classified. Four classes of sinker shapes were defined: longitudinal, lateral, screen enclosures, and internal weights. Longitudinal sinkers contact the dosage forms on the long axis. Lateral sinkers either wrap around or contact capsule dosage forms in the middle, such as the line where the top and bottom halves of a capsule shell come together. Screen enclosures are of two types: either a wire cage, which holds the entire capsule, or a circular piece of wire screen placed on top of the capsule. Internal weights consist of two steel ball bearings, one inserted into each end of the capsule. The investigation consisted of four studies: (1) visual observation of the dissolution performance using 12 different sinkers; (2) the effect on drug release from nine classified sinkers on two different capsule formulations; (3) side-by-side comparison between the selected optimal longitudinal U clip and the wire helix lateral type sinkers; and (4) hydrodynamic effects caused by the use of the longitudinal U clip and the wire helix lateral type sinkers in the absence of capsule shells. We concluded that capsules sunk with either of the two longitudinal sinkers, the U clip or the paper clip, have faster, more complete dissolution and less variable results than did lateral type sinkers.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

SECM half-inch tethered endoscopic capsule (HITEC) for esophageal imaging (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, DongKyun; Kim, Minkyu; Carruth, Robert W.; Lu, Weina; Wu, Tao; Alali, Sanaz; Do, Dukho; Soomro, Amna R.; Grant, Catriona N.; Tiernan, Aubrey R.; Rosenberg, Mireille; Nishioka, Norman S.; Tearney, Guillermo J.

2016-03-01

Spectrally encoded confocal microscopy (SECM) is a high-speed confocal endomicroscopy technology that can image extremely large regions of human tissue at cellular resolution within a short imaging time. Previously, we have developed a 7-mm-diameter SECM endoscopic capsule and successfully demonstrated imaging of human esophagus in vivo. Even though we were able to successfully capture images with the previous capsule, it suffered from two limitations: (1) the capsule had a small diameter, which provided a limited contact between SECM capsule and esophagus; and (2) speckle noise in SECM images made it challenging to appreciate cellular features. In this paper, we present a new SECM capsule, termed SECM half-inch tethered endoscopic capsule (HITEC), which addresses the two aforementioned technical challenges. With the SECM HITEC, a dual-clad fiber was used to reduce the speckle noise. Miniature GRIN optics was used to increase the NA of the fiber from 0.09 to 0.25, which made it possible to build a SECM capsule with large diameter (12.7 mm) while maintaining a short rigid length (22 mm). A water-immersion objective lens was custom designed and manufactured to provide high NA of 0.7. We have manufactured the SECM HITEC catheter and tested its optical and mechanical performance. Lateral and axial resolution was measured as 1.2 µm and 13 µm, respectively. We have imaged swine esophageal tissues ex vivo, and SECM images clearly visualized cell nuclei. Non-uniform rotational distortion (NURD) was small, less than 5%. Preliminary results suggest that SECM HITEC provides sufficient optical and mechanical performance for tissue imaging. In a future clinical study, we will test the feasibility of utilizing SECM HITEC for improved cellular imaging human of the human esophagus in vivo.

Over-the-counter pharmaceuticals: exploratory research of consumer preference toward solid oral dosage forms.

PubMed

Reisenwitz, T H; Wimbish, G J

1996-01-01

The capsule dosage form in nonprescription pharmaceuticals persists as being one of the most vulnerable to product tampering. This study examines consumer preference toward three solid oral dosage forms (capsules, caplets, and tablets) in nonprescription products. Thirteen independent variables representing dosage form attributes are measured on semantic differential scales. The data are analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and factor analysis. Implications for the pharmaceutical marketer are noted. Future directions for research are also outlined.

Detecting the activation of a self-healing mechanism in concrete by acoustic emission and digital image correlation.

PubMed

Tsangouri, E; Aggelis, D G; Van Tittelboom, K; De Belie, N; Van Hemelrijck, D

2013-01-01

Autonomous crack healing in concrete is obtained when encapsulated healing agent is embedded into the material. Cracking damage in concrete elements ruptures the capsules and activates the healing process by healing agent release. Previously, the strength and stiffness recovery as well as the sealing efficiency after autonomous crack repair was well established. However, the mechanisms that trigger capsule breakage remain unknown. In parallel, the conditions under which the crack interacts with embedded capsules stay black-box. In this research, an experimental approach implementing an advanced optical and acoustic method sets up scopes to monitor and justify the crack formation and capsule breakage of concrete samples tested under three-point bending. Digital Image Correlation was used to visualize the crack opening. The optical information was the basis for an extensive and analytical study of the damage by Acoustic Emission analysis. The influence of embedding capsules on the concrete fracture process, the location of capsule damage, and the differentiation between emissions due to capsule rupture and crack formation are presented in this research. A profound observation of the capsules performance provides a clear view of the healing activation process.

Detecting the Activation of a Self-Healing Mechanism in Concrete by Acoustic Emission and Digital Image Correlation

PubMed Central

Tsangouri, E.; Aggelis, D. G.; Van Tittelboom, K.; De Belie, N.; Van Hemelrijck, D.

2013-01-01

Autonomous crack healing in concrete is obtained when encapsulated healing agent is embedded into the material. Cracking damage in concrete elements ruptures the capsules and activates the healing process by healing agent release. Previously, the strength and stiffness recovery as well as the sealing efficiency after autonomous crack repair was well established. However, the mechanisms that trigger capsule breakage remain unknown. In parallel, the conditions under which the crack interacts with embedded capsules stay black-box. In this research, an experimental approach implementing an advanced optical and acoustic method sets up scopes to monitor and justify the crack formation and capsule breakage of concrete samples tested under three-point bending. Digital Image Correlation was used to visualize the crack opening. The optical information was the basis for an extensive and analytical study of the damage by Acoustic Emission analysis. The influence of embedding capsules on the concrete fracture process, the location of capsule damage, and the differentiation between emissions due to capsule rupture and crack formation are presented in this research. A profound observation of the capsules performance provides a clear view of the healing activation process. PMID:24381518

Subsonic Dynamics of Stardust Sample Return Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitcheltree, Robert A.; Fremaux, Charles M.

1997-01-01

Subsonic dynamic stability tests performed in the NASA Langley 20-Foot Vertical Spin-Tunnel on a 0.238 scale model of the Stardust Sample Return Capsule are discussed. The tests reveal that the blunted 60 degree half-angle cone capsule is dynamically unstable at low subsonic conditions due to the aft location of the center-of-gravity (0.351 body diameters back from the nose). The divergent behavior of the capsule continued when the center-of-gravity was moved to 0.337 and 0.313 body diameters back from the nose. When the center-of-gravity was moved further forward to 0.290 body diameters back from the nose, the vehicle established itself in a limit cycle with amplitude around 10 degrees. Two afterbody modifications were examined which proved unsuccessful in alleviating the instability of the original design. Finally, the addition of different sized parachutes was examined as a means to stabilize the vehicle. The parachute tests indicate that a parachute with equivalent full scale drag area of at least 2.24 ft. is necessary to assure large perturbations are damped.

A Conserved UDP-Glucose Dehydrogenase Encoded outside the hasABC Operon Contributes to Capsule Biogenesis in Group A Streptococcus

PubMed Central

Cole, Jason N.; Aziz, Ramy K.; Kuipers, Kirsten; Timmer, Anjuli M.; Nizet, Victor

2012-01-01

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a human-specific bacterial pathogen responsible for serious morbidity and mortality worldwide. The hyaluronic acid (HA) capsule of GAS is a major virulence factor, contributing to bloodstream survival through resistance to neutrophil and antimicrobial peptide killing and to in vivo pathogenicity. Capsule biosynthesis has been exclusively attributed to the ubiquitous hasABC hyaluronan synthase operon, which is highly conserved across GAS serotypes. Previous reports indicate that hasA, encoding hyaluronan synthase, and hasB, encoding UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenase, are essential for capsule production in GAS. Here, we report that precise allelic exchange mutagenesis of hasB in GAS strain 5448, a representative of the globally disseminated M1T1 serotype, did not abolish HA capsule synthesis. In silico whole-genome screening identified a putative HasB paralog, designated HasB2, with 45% amino acid identity to HasB at a distant location in the GAS chromosome. In vitro enzymatic assays demonstrated that recombinant HasB2 is a functional UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenase enzyme. Mutagenesis of hasB2 alone slightly decreased capsule abundance; however, a ΔhasB ΔhasB2 double mutant became completely acapsular. We conclude that HasB is not essential for M1T1 GAS capsule biogenesis due to the presence of a newly identified HasB paralog, HasB2, which most likely resulted from gene duplication. The identification of redundant UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenases underscores the importance of HA capsule expression for M1T1 GAS pathogenicity and survival in the human host. PMID:22961854

Implementing Capsule Representation in a Total Hip Dislocation Finite Element Model

PubMed Central

Stewart, Kristofer J; Pedersen, Douglas R; Callaghan, John J; Brown, Thomas D

2004-01-01

Previously validated hardware-only finite element models of THA dislocation have clarified how various component design and surgical placement variables contribute to resisting the propensity for implant dislocation. This body of work has now been enhanced with the incorporation of experimentally based capsule representation, and with anatomic bone structures. The current form of this finite element model provides for large deformation multi-body contact (including capsule wrap-around on bone and/or implant), large displacement interfacial sliding, and large deformation (hyperelastic) capsule representation. In addition, the modular nature of this model now allows for rapid incorporation of current or future total hip implant designs, accepts complex multi-axial physiologic motion inputs, and outputs case-specific component/bone/soft-tissue impingement events. This soft-tissue-augmented finite element model is being used to investigate the performance of various implant designs for a range of clinically-representative soft tissue integrities and surgical techniques. Preliminary results show that capsule enhancement makes a substantial difference in stability, compared to an otherwise identical hardware-only model. This model is intended to help put implant design and surgical technique decisions on a firmer scientific basis, in terms of reducing the likelihood of dislocation. PMID:15296198

Encapsulated Bacillus anthracis interacts closely with liver endothelium.

PubMed

Piris-Gimenez, Alejandro; Corre, Jean-Philippe; Jouvion, Gregory; Candela, Thomas; Khun, Huot; Goossens, Pierre L

2009-11-01

The Bacillus anthracis poly-gamma-D-glutamate capsule is essential for virulence. It impedes phagocytosis and protects bacilli from the immune system, thus promoting systemic dissemination. To further define the virulence mechanisms brought into play by the capsule, we characterized the interactions between encapsulated nontoxinogenic B. anthracis and its host in vivo through histological analysis, perfusion, and competition experiments with purified capsule. Clearance of encapsulated bacilli from the blood was rapid (>90% clearance within 5 min), with 75% of the bacteria being trapped in the liver. Competition experiments with purified capsule polyglutamate inhibited this interaction. At the septicemic phase of cutaneous infection with spores, the encapsulated bacilli were trapped in the vascular spaces of the liver and interacted closely with the liver endothelium in the sinusoids and terminal and portal veins. They often grow as microcolonies containing capsular material shed by the bacteria. We show that, in addition to its inhibitory effect on the interaction with the immune system, the capsule surrounding B. anthracis plays an active role in mediating the trapping of the bacteria within the liver and may thus contribute to anthrax pathogenesis. Because other microorganisms produce polyglutamate, it may also represent a general mechanism of virulence or in vivo survival.

A Smart Capsule System for Automated Detection of Intestinal Bleeding Using HSL Color Recognition

PubMed Central

Liu, Hongying; Yan, Xueping; Jia, Ziru; Pi, Xitian

2016-01-01

There are no ideal means for the diagnosis of intestinal bleeding diseases as of now, particularly in the small intestine. This study investigated an intelligent intestinal bleeding detection capsule system based on color recognition. After the capsule is swallowed, the bleeding detection module (containing a color-sensitive adsorptive film that changes color when absorbing intestinal juice,) is used to identify intestinal bleeding features. A hue-saturation-light color space method can be applied to detect bleeding according to the range of H and S values of the film color. Once bleeding features are recognized, a wireless transmission module is activated immediately to send an alarm signal to the outside; an in vitro module receives the signal and sends an alarm. The average power consumption of the entire capsule system is estimated to be about 2.1mW. Owing to its simplicity, reliability, and effectiveness, this system represents a new approach to the clinical diagnosis of intestinal bleeding diseases. PMID:27902728

KSC-2011-8173

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An Orion flight test capsule aboard the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship is moments away from being pulled overboard into the Atlantic Ocean. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KSC-2011-8174

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An Orion flight test capsule makes a splash into the Atlantic Ocean as it slides from the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship into the water. The Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) on the capsule, which began at-sea operations Nov. 29, is under way. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

A paradigm for peptide vaccine delivery using viral epitopes encapsulated in degradable polymer hydrogel capsules.

PubMed

Chong, Siow-Feng; Sexton, Amy; De Rose, Robert; Kent, Stephen J; Zelikin, Alexander N; Caruso, Frank

2009-10-01

We report on the use of degradable polymer capsules as carriers for the delivery of oligopeptide antigens to professional antigen presenting cells (APCs). To achieve encapsulation, oligopeptide sequences were covalently linked to a negatively charged carrier polymer via biodegradable linkages and the resulting conjugate was then adsorbed onto amine-functionalized silica particles. These peptide-coated particles were then used as templates for the layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition of thiolated poly(methacrylic acid) (PMA(SH)) and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVPON) multilayers. Removal of the silica core and disruption of the hydrogen bonding between PMA(SH) and PVPON by altering the solution pH yielded disulfide-stabilized PMA capsules that retain the encapsulated cargo in an oxidative environment. In the presence of a natural reducing agent, glutathione, cleavage of the disulfide bonds causes release of the peptide from the capsules. The developed strategy provides control over peptide loading into polymer capsules and yields colloidally stable micron- and submicron-sized carriers with uniform size and peptide loading. The conjugation and encapsulation procedures were proven to be non-degrading to the peptide vaccines. The peptide-loaded capsules were successfully used to deliver their cargo to APCs and activate CD8 T lymphocytes in a non-human primate model of SIV infection ex vivo. The reported approach represents a novel paradigm in the delivery of peptide vaccines and other therapeutic agents.

Towards active capsular endoscopy: preliminary results on a legged platform.

PubMed

Menciassi, Arianna; Stefanini, Cesare; Orlandi, Giovanni; Quirini, Marco; Dario, Paolo

2006-01-01

This paper illustrates the problem of active locomotion in the gastrointestinal tract for endoscopic capsules. Authors analyze the problem of locomotion in unstructured, flexible and tubular environments and explain the reasons leading to the selection of a legged system. They present a theoretical simulation of legged capsule locomotion, which is used to define the optimal parameters for capsule design and gait selection. Finally, a legged capsule--about 3 cm3 in volume--is presented; it consists of 4 back legs whose actuation is achieved thanks to a miniaturized DC brushless motor. In vitro tests demonstrate good performance in terms of achievable speed (92 mm/min).

PORT II

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muniz, Beau

2009-01-01

One unique project that the Prototype lab worked on was PORT I (Post-landing Orion Recovery Test). PORT is designed to test and develop the system and components needed to recover the Orion capsule once it splashes down in the ocean. PORT II is designated as a follow up to PORT I that will utilize a mock up pressure vessel that is spatially compar able to the final Orion capsule.

Mercury Project

NASA Image and Video Library

1961-01-01

Ham, a three-year-old chimpanzee, in the spacesuit he would wear for the second Mercury- Redstone (MR-2) suborbital test flight in January, 1961. NASA used chimpanzees and other primates to test the Mercury capsule before launching the fisrt American astronaut, Alan Shepard, in May 1961. The Mercury capsule rode atop a modified Redstone rocket, developed by Dr. Wernher von Braun and the German Rocket Team in Huntsville, Alabama.

Ham in Spacesuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1961-01-01

Ham, a three-year-old chimpanzee, in the spacesuit he would wear for the second Mercury- Redstone (MR-2) suborbital test flight in January, 1961. NASA used chimpanzees and other primates to test the Mercury capsule before launching the fisrt American astronaut, Alan Shepard, in May 1961. The Mercury capsule rode atop a modified Redstone rocket, developed by Dr. Wernher von Braun and the German Rocket Team in Huntsville, Alabama.

Enteric coating of soft gelatin capsules by spouted bed: effect of operating conditions on coating efficiency and on product quality.

PubMed

Pissinati, Rafael; Oliveira, Wanderley Pereira

2003-05-01

The present study was conducted in order to analyze the viability of the spouted bed process for application of a gastric-resistant coating to soft gelatin capsules. The variables investigated were: included angle of conical base, (gamma), the relation between the feed mass flow rate of the coating suspension and the feed mass flow rate of spouting gas (W(s)/W(g)); the ratio between the flow rate of the spouting gas and the flow rate at minimum spouting condition (Q/Q(ms)); the mass of capsules in the bed (M(0)), and the capsule's size. The product quality was measured by disintegration tests, traction x deformation tests, image analysis and by the evaluation of the coating mass distribution and shape factor variation during the coating operation. The experiments were performed in a spouted bed with a column diameter of 200 mm and included a conical base angle of 40 degrees. The best coating efficiency values were obtained for M(0)=300 g. Coating efficiency tended to increase with increasing W(s)/W(g) ratio. Disintegration tests showed that the gastric-resistant effect was obtained with a coating mass of 3.86 mg/cm(2). The shape factor increase during the coating operation. The capsule's coating mass distribution tended to maintain the original distribution.

KSC-2012-5579

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA Aerospace Engineer Jeff Hagen prepares a model capsule ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to test a rotor system landing design. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Underway Recovery Test 6 (URT-6) - Day 4 Afternoon Activities

NASA Image and Video Library

2018-01-20

Chief Warrant Officer Ferrari from the USS Anchorage inspects the Deck Department as they prepare to bring in “Oscar,” a dummy used for man overboard drills. During Underway Recovery Test 6, the USS Anchorage’s man overboard drill gave Kennedy Space Center’s NASA Recovery Team a glimpse of one way an astronaut could be brought from a small boat onto the ship using a stretcher. Once the Orion capsule splashes down in the Pacific Ocean, astronauts can choose to stay in the capsule until it is pulled into the well deck of the Navy vessel, or have a diver retrieve them first and then get the capsule later.

Recovery of the Little Joe 5A spacecraft

NASA Image and Video Library

1961-03-18

S61-01398 (18 March 1961) --- View of the recovery of the Little Joe-5A spacecraft which lifted off on March 18, 1961 from Wallops Island. The photo was taken from the recovery helicopter and shows the craft's parachute still attached and floating in the water next to the capsule. Little Joe-5A was a suborbital flight to test the Mercury capsule. The escape rocket motor fired prematurely and prior to capsule release. Photo credit: NASA

A modular and programmable development platform for capsule endoscopy system.

PubMed

Khan, Tareq Hasan; Shrestha, Ravi; Wahid, Khan A

2014-06-01

The state-of-the-art capsule endoscopy (CE) technology offers painless examination for the patients and the ability to examine the interior of the gastrointestinal tract by a noninvasive procedure for the gastroenterologists. In this work, a modular and flexible CE development system platform consisting of a miniature field programmable gate array (FPGA) based electronic capsule, a microcontroller based portable data recorder unit and computer software is designed and developed. Due to the flexible and reprogrammable nature of the system, various image processing and compression algorithms can be tested in the design without requiring any hardware change. The designed capsule prototype supports various imaging modes including white light imaging (WLI) and narrow band imaging (NBI), and communicates with the data recorder in full duplex fashion, which enables configuring the image size and imaging mode in real time during examination. A low complexity image compressor based on a novel color-space is implemented inside the capsule to reduce the amount of RF transmission data. The data recorder contains graphical LCD for real time image viewing and SD cards for storing image data. Data can be uploaded to a computer or Smartphone by SD card, USB interface or by wireless Bluetooth link. Computer software is developed that decompresses and reconstructs images. The fabricated capsule PCBs have a diameter of 16 mm. An ex-vivo animal testing has also been conducted to validate the results.

AGR-3/4 Irradiation Test Train Disassembly and Component Metrology First Look Report

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

Stempien, John Dennis; Rice, Francine Joyce; Harp, Jason Michael

2016-03-01

The AGR-3/4 experiment was designed to study fission product transport within graphitic matrix material and nuclear-grade graphite. To this end, this experiment consisted of 12 capsules, each fueled with 4 compacts containing UCO TRISO particles as driver fuel and 20 UCO designed-to-fail (DTF) fuel particles in each compact. The DTF fuel was fabricated with a thin pyrocarbon layer which was intended to fail during irradiation and provide a source of fission products. These fission products could then migrate through the compact and into the surrounding concentric rings of graphitic matrix material and/or nuclear graphite. Through post-irradiation examination (PIE) of themore » rings (including physical sampling and gamma scanning) fission product concentration profiles within the rings can be determined. These data can be used to elucidate fission product transport parameters (e.g. diffusion coefficients within the test materials) which will be used to inform and refine models of fission product transport. After irradiation in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) had been completed in April 2014, the AGR-3/4 experiment was shipped to the Hot Fuel Examination Facility (HFEF) at the Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC) for inspection, disassembly, and metrology. The AGR-3/4 test train was received at MFC in two separate shipments between February and April 2015. Visual examinations of the test train exterior did not indicate dimensional distortion, and only two small discolored areas were observed at the bottom of Capsules 8 and 9. No corresponding discoloration was found on the inside of these capsules, however. Prior to disassembly, the two test train sections were subject to analysis via the Precision Gamma Scanner (PGS), which did not indicate that any gross fuel relocation had occurred. A series of specialized tools (including clamps, cutters, and drills) had been designed and fabricated in order to carry out test train disassembly and recovery of capsule components (graphite rings and fuel compacts). This equipment performed well for separating each capsule in the test train and extracting the capsule components. Only a few problems were encountered. In one case, the outermost ring (the sink ring) was cracked during removal of the capsule through tubes. Although the sink ring will be analyzed in order to obtain a mass balance of fission products in the experiment, these cracks do not pose a major concern because the sink ring will not be analyzed in detail to obtain the spatial distribution of fission products. In Capsules 4 and 5, the compacts could not be removed from the inner rings. Strategies for removing the compacts are being evaluated. Sampling the inner rings with the compacts in-place is also an option. Dimensional measurements were made on the compacts, inner rings, outer rings, and sink rings. The diameters of all compacts decreased by 0.5 to 2.0 %. Generally, the extent of diametric shrinkage increased linearly with increasing neutron fluence. Most compact lengths also decreased. Compact lengths decreased with increasing fluence, reaching maximum shrinkage of about 0.9 % at a fast fluence of 4.0x10 25 n/m 2 E > 0.18 MeV. Above this fluence, the extent of length shrinkage appeared to decrease with fluence, and two compacts from Capsule 7 were found to have slightly increased in length (< 0.1 %) after a fluence of 5.2x10 25 n/m 2.« less

AGR-3/4 Irradiation Test Train Disassembly and Component Metrology First Look Report

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

Stempien, John Dennis; Rice, Francine Joyce; Harp, Jason Michael

The AGR-3/4 experiment was designed to study fission product transport within graphitic matrix material and nuclear-grade graphite. To this end, this experiment consisted of 12 capsules, each fueled with 4 compacts containing UCO TRISO particles as driver fuel and 20 UCO designed-to-fail (DTF) fuel particles in each compact. The DTF fuel was fabricated with a thin pyrocarbon layer which was intended to fail during irradiation and provide a source of fission products. These fission products could then migrate through the compact and into the surrounding concentric rings of graphitic matrix material and/or nuclear graphite. Through post-irradiation examination (PIE) of themore » rings (including physical sampling and gamma scanning) fission product concentration profiles within the rings can be determined. These data can be used to elucidate fission product transport parameters (e.g. diffusion coefficients within the test materials) which will be used to inform and refine models of fission product transport. After irradiation in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) had been completed in April 2014, the AGR-3/4 experiment was shipped to the Hot Fuel Examination Facility (HFEF) at the Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC) for inspection, disassembly, and metrology. The AGR-3/4 test train was received at MFC in two separate shipments between February and April 2015. Visual examinations of the test train exterior did not indicate dimensional distortion, and only two small discolored areas were observed at the bottom of Capsules 8 and 9. No corresponding discoloration was found on the inside of these capsules, however. Prior to disassembly, the two test train sections were subject to analysis via the Precision Gamma Scanner (PGS), which did not indicate that any gross fuel relocation had occurred. A series of specialized tools (including clamps, cutters, and drills) had been designed and fabricated in order to carry out test train disassembly and recovery of capsule components (graphite rings and fuel compacts). This equipment performed well for separating each capsule in the test train and extracting the capsule components. Only a few problems were encountered. In one case, the outermost ring (the sink ring) was cracked during removal of the capsule through tubes. Although the sink ring will be analyzed in order to obtain a mass balance of fission products in the experiment, these cracks do not pose a major concern because the sink ring will not be analyzed in detail to obtain the spatial distribution of fission products. In Capsules 4 and 5, the compacts could not be removed from the inner rings. Strategies for removing the compacts are being evaluated. Sampling the inner rings with the compacts in-place is also an option. Dimensional measurements were made on the compacts, inner rings, outer rings, and sink rings. The diameters of all compacts decreased by 0.5 to 2.0 %. Generally, the extent of diametric shrinkage increased linearly with increasing neutron fluence. Most compact lengths also decreased. Compact lengths decreased with increasing fluence, reaching maximum shrinkage of about 0.9 % at a fast fluence of 4.0x1025 n/m2 E > 0.18 MeV. Above this fluence, the extent of length shrinkage appeared to decrease with fluence, and two compacts from Capsule 7 were found to have slightly increased in length (< 0.1 %) after a fluence of 5.2x1025 n/m2.« less

AGR-3/4 Irradiation Test Predictions using PARFUME

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

Skerjanc, William Frances; Collin, Blaise Paul

2016-03-01

PARFUME, a fuel performance modeling code used for high temperature gas reactors, was used to model the AGR-3/4 irradiation test using as-run physics and thermal hydraulics data. The AGR-3/4 test is the combined third and fourth planned irradiations of the Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR) Fuel Development and Qualification Program. The AGR-3/4 test train consists of twelve separate and independently controlled and monitored capsules. Each capsule contains four compacts filled with both uranium oxycarbide (UCO) unaltered “driver” fuel particles and UCO designed-to-fail (DTF) fuel particles. The DTF fraction was specified to be 1×10-2. This report documents the calculations performed to predictmore » failure probability of TRISO-coated fuel particles during the AGR-3/4 experiment. In addition, this report documents the calculated source term from both the driver fuel and DTF particles. The calculations include the modeling of the AGR-3/4 irradiation that occurred from December 2011 to April 2014 in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) over a total of ten ATR cycles including seven normal cycles, one low power cycle, one unplanned outage cycle, and one Power Axial Locator Mechanism cycle. Results show that failure probabilities are predicted to be low, resulting in zero fuel particle failures per capsule. The primary fuel particle failure mechanism occurred as a result of localized stresses induced by the calculated IPyC cracking. Assuming 1,872 driver fuel particles per compact, failure probability calculated by PARFUME leads to no predicted particle failure in the AGR-3/4 driver fuel. In addition, the release fraction of fission products Ag, Cs, and Sr were calculated to vary depending on capsule location and irradiation temperature. The maximum release fraction of Ag occurs in Capsule 7 reaching up to 56% for the driver fuel and 100% for the DTF fuel. The release fraction of the other two fission products, Cs and Sr, are much smaller and in most cases less than 1% for the driver fuel. The notable exception occurs in Capsule 7 where the release fraction for Cs and Sr reach up to 0.73% and 2.4%, respectively, for the driver fuel. For the DTF fuel in Capsule 7, the release fraction for Cs and Sr are estimated to be 100% and 5%, respectively.« less

In vitro and in vivo antileishmanial activity of Artemisia annua L. leaf powder and its potential usefulness in the treatment of uncomplicated cutaneous leishmaniasis in humans.

PubMed

Mesa, Luz Estella; Vasquez, Daniel; Lutgen, Pierre; Vélez, Iván Darío; Restrepo, Adriana María; Ortiz, Isabel; Robledo, Sara María

2017-01-01

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a tropical disease that affects millions of individuals worldwide. The current drugs for CL may be effective but have serious side effects; hence, alternatives are urgently needed. Although plant-derived materials are used for the treatment of various diseases in 80% of the global population, the validation of these products is essential. Gelatin capsules containing dried Artemisia annua leaf powder were recently developed as a new herbal formulation (totum) for the oral treatment of malaria and other parasitic diseases. Here, we aimed to determine the usefulness of A. annua gel capsules in CL. The antileishmanial activity and cytotoxicity of A. annua L. capsules was determined via in vitro and in vivo studies. Moreover, a preliminary evaluation of its therapeutic potential as antileishmanial treatment in humans was conducted in 2 patients with uncomplicated CL. Artemisia annua capsules showed moderate in vitro activity in amastigotes of Leishmania (Viannia) panamensis; no cytotoxicity in U-937 macrophages or genotoxicity in human lymphocytes was observed. Five of 6 (83.3%) hamsters treated with A. annua capsules (500mg/kg/day) for 30 days were cured, and the 2 examined patients were cured 45 days after initiation of treatment with 30g of A. annua capsules, without any adverse reactions. Both patients remained disease-free 26 and 24 months after treatment completion. Capsules of A. annua L. represent an effective treatment for uncomplicated CL, although further randomized controlled trials are needed to validate its efficacy and safety.

Development of thermal protection system of the MUSES-C/DASH reentry capsule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Tetsuya; Inatani, Yoshifumi; Honda, Masahisa; Hirai, Ken'ich

2002-07-01

In the final phase of the MUSES-C mission, a small capsule with asteroid sample conducts reentry flight directly from the interplanetary transfer orbit at the velocity over 12 km/s. The severe heat flux, the complicated functional requirements, and small weight budget impose several engineering challenges on the designing of the thermal protection system of the capsule. The heat shield is required to function not only as ablator but also as a structural component. The cloth-layered carbon-phenolic ablator, which has higher allowable stress, is developed in newly-devised fabric method for avoiding delamination due to the high aerodynamic heating. The ablation analysis code, which takes into account of the effect of pyrolysis gas on the surface recession rate, has been developed and verified in the arc-heating tests in the facility environment of broad range of enthalpy level. The capsule was designed to be ventilated during the reentry flight up to about atmospheric pressure by the time of parachute deployment by being sealed with porous flow-restrict material. The designing of the thermal protection system, the hardware specifications, and the ground-based test programs of both MUSES-C and DASH capsule are summarized and discussed here in this paper.

NASA Dryden technicians work on a fit-check mockup in preparation for systems installation work on an Orion boilerplate crew capsule for launch abort testing.

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-01-24

NASA Dryden technicians work on a fit-check mockup in preparation for systems installation work on an Orion boilerplate crew capsule for launch abort testing. A mockup Orion crew module has been constructed by NASA Dryden Flight Research Center's Fabrication Branch. The mockup is being used to develop integration procedures for avionics and instrumentation in advance of the arrival of the first abort flight test article.

NASA Dryden technicians take measurements inside a fit-check mockup for prior to systems installation on a boilerplate Orion launch abort test crew capsule.

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-01-24

NASA Dryden technicians take measurements inside a fit-check mockup for prior to systems installation on a boilerplate Orion launch abort test crew capsule. A mockup Orion crew module has been constructed by NASA Dryden Flight Research Center's Fabrication Branch. The mockup is being used to develop integration procedures for avionics and instrumentation in advance of the arrival of the first abort flight test article.

Microencapsulation of 2-octylcyanoacrylate tissue adhesive for self-healing acrylic bone cement.

PubMed

Brochu, Alice B W; Chyan, William J; Reichert, William M

2012-10-01

Here, we report the first phase of developing self-healing acrylic bone cement: the preparation and characterization of polyurethane (PUR) microcapsules containing a medical cyanoacrylate tissue adhesive. Capsules were prepared by interfacial polymerization of a toluene-2,4-diisocyanate-based polyurethane prepolymer with 1,4-butanediol to encapsulate 2-octylcyanoacrylate (OCA). Various capsule characteristics, including: resultant morphology, average size and size distribution, shell thickness, content and reactivity of encapsulated agent, and shelf life are investigated and their reliance on solvent type and amount, surfactant type and amount, temperature, pH, agitation rate, reaction time, and mode of addition of the oil phase to the aqueous phase are presented. Capsules had average diameters ranging from 74 to 222 μm and average shell thicknesses ranging from 1.5 to 6 μm. The capsule content was determined via thermogravimetric analysis and subsequent analysis of the capsules following up to 8 weeks storage revealed minimal loss of core contents. Mechanical testing of OCA-containing capsules showed individual capsules withstood compressive forces up to a few tenths of Newtons, and the contents released from crushed capsules generated tensile adhesive forces of a few Newtons. Capsules were successfully mixed into the poly(methyl methacrylate) bone cement, surviving the mixing process, exposure to methyl methacrylate monomer, and the resulting exothermic matrix curing. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Cost effective use of audiograms after pediatric temporal bone fractures.

PubMed

Frisenda, Julia L; Schroeder, James W; Ryan, Maura E; Valika, Taher S; Billings, Kathleen R

2015-11-01

To identify the relationship of pediatric temporal fractures to the incidence and type of hearing loss present. To analyze the timing and utility of audiometric testing in children with temporal bone fractures. Retrospective case series of 50 pediatric patients with temporal bone fractures who were treated at an urban, tertiary care children's hospital from 2008 to 2014. A statistical analysis of predictors of hearing loss after temporal bone fracture was performed. Fifty-three fractures (69.7%) in 50 patients involved the petrous portion of the temporal bone. The mean age of patients was 7.13 years, and 39 (73.6%) were male. A fall was the most common mechanism of injury in 28 (52.8%) patients, followed by crush injury (n=14, 26.2%), and vehicular trauma (n=10, 18.9%). All otic capsule violating fractures were associated with a sensorineural hearing loss (n=4, 7.5%, p=0.002). Three of four otic capsule sparing fractures were associated with ossicular dislocation, with a corresponding mixed or conductive hearing loss on follow up audiometric testing. The majority of otic capsule sparing fracture patients (n=19/43, 44.2%) who had follow up audiograms had normal hearing, and those with otic capsule violating fractures were statistically more likely to have persistent hearing loss than those with otic capsule sparing fractures (p=0.01). Patients with otic capsule violating fractures or those with ossicular disruption are at higher risk for persistent hearing loss. Cost-saving may be accrued by selecting only those patients at high risk for persistent hearing loss for audiometric testing after temporal bone fractures. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Primate Ham - Fitted Suit - Couch - Mercury-Redstone (MR)-2 - Capsule #5

NASA Image and Video Library

1961-01-23

S63-20801 (23 Jan. 1961) --- Primate chimpanzee ?Ham?, in his spacesuit, is fitted into the couch of the Mercury-Redstone 2 (MR-2) capsule #5 prior to its test flight which was conducted on Jan. 31, 1961. Photo credit: NASA

Experimental Investigation of Shock Initiation in Mixtures of Manganese and Sulfur

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jetté, F. X.; Goroshin, S.; Higgins, A. J.

2009-12-01

Equimolar mixtures of manganese powder and sulfur at different starting densities were tested in two different types of steel recovery capsules in order to study the shock initiation phenomenon in Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis (SHS) mixtures. Two different sizes of Mn particles were used for these experiments, <10 μm and -325 mesh (<44 μm). This mixture was selected due to the large exothermic heat release of the manganese-sulfur reaction (214 kJ/mol), which causes the reaction to be self-sustaining once initiated. The test samples were placed in planar recovery capsules and a strong shock was delivered via the detonation of a charge of amine-sensitized nitromethane. Various shock strengths were achieved by placing different thicknesses of PMMA attenuator discs between the explosive charge and the capsule. The results confirmed that shock-induced reactions can be produced in highly non-porous mixtures. It was also found that shock interactions with the side walls of the recovery capsule can play a significant role in the initiation.

Reconstruction of Orion Engineering Development Unit (EDU) Parachute Inflation Loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Eric S.

2013-01-01

The process of reconstructing inflation loads of Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) has been updated as the program transitioned to testing Engineering Development Unit (EDU) hardware. The equations used to reduce the test data have been re-derived based on the same physical assumptions made by simulations. Due to instrumentation challenges, individual parachute loads are determined from complementary accelerometer and load cell measurements. Cluster inflations are now simulated by modeling each parachute individually to better represent different inflation times and non-synchronous disreefing. The reconstruction procedure is tailored to either infinite mass or finite mass events based on measurable characteristics from the test data. Inflation parameters are determined from an automated optimization routine to reduce subjectivity. Infinite mass inflation parameters have been re-defined to avoid unrealistic interactions in Monte Carlo simulations. Sample cases demonstrate how best-fit inflation parameters are used to generate simulated drag areas and loads which favorably agree with test data.

A novel diagnostic tool for detecting functional patency of the small bowel: the Given patency capsule.

PubMed

Spada, C; Spera, G; Riccioni, M; Biancone, L; Petruzziello, L; Tringali, A; Familiari, P; Marchese, M; Onder, G; Mutignani, M; Perri, V; Petruzziello, C; Pallone, F; Costamagna, G

2005-09-01

The current visualization of small-bowel strictures using traditional radiological methods is associated with high radiation doses and false-negative results. These methods do not always reveal small-bowel patency for solids. The aim is to assess the safety of the Given patency system and its ability to detect intestinal strictures in patients with strictures that are known or suspected radiologically. The Given patency capsule is composed of lactose, remains intact in the gastrointestinal tract for 40-100 hours post ingestion, and disintegrates thereafter. A total of 34 patients with small-bowel stricture were prospectively enrolled; 30 had a previous diagnosis of Crohn's disease, three had adhesion syndrome and in one ischemic enteritis was suspected. Of the patients, 15 (44.1 %) had previously undergone surgery. Following ingestion, the capsule was monitored for integrity and transit time, using a specially designed Given scanner and also radiologically. Seventeen patients had been enrolled with the intent of using the patency capsule as a preliminary test in patients with small-bowel strictures before undergoing video capsule endoscopy. 30 patients (88.2 %) retrieved the capsule in the stool; it was intact in 20 (median transit time 22 hours), and disintegrated in 10 patients (median transit time 53 hours). Six patients complained of abdominal pain which disappeared within 24 hours. The scanner successfully indicated the presence of the capsule in 94 % of cases. Ten patients underwent video capsule endoscopy following the patency capsule examination; in all of these the video capsule passed through the small-bowel stricture. This feasibility study has shown that the Given patency capsule is a safe, effective, and convenient tool for assessment of functional patency of the small bowel. It can indicate functional patency even in cases where traditional radiology indicates stricture.

Semisolid matrix filled capsules: an approach to improve dissolution stability of phenytoin sodium formulation.

PubMed

El Massik, M A; Abdallah, O Y; Galal, S; Daabis, N A

2003-05-01

Seven semisolid fill bases were selected for the formulation of 24 capsule formulations, each containing 100 mg of phenytoin sodium. The fill materials were selected based on the water absorption capacity of their mixtures with phenytoin sodium. The fill matrices included lipophilic bases (castor oil, soya oil, and Gelucire (G) 33/01), amphiphilic bases (G 44/14 and Suppocire BP), and water-soluble bases (PEG 4000 and PEG 6000). The drug:base ratio was 1:2. Excipients such as lecithin, docusate sodium, and poloxamer 188 were added to some formulations. The dissolution rate study indicated that formulations containing lipophilic and amphiphilic bases showed the best release profiles. These are F4 (castor oil-1% docusate sodium); F10 (castor oil-3% poloxamer 188); F14 (G33/01-10% lecithin); F17 (G33/01-1% docusate sodium), and F20 (Suppocire BP). Further, the dissolution stability of the five formulations above was assessed by an accelerated stability study at 30 degrees C and 75% RH using standard Epanutin capsules for comparison. The study included the test and standard capsules either packed in the container of marketed Epanutin capsules (packed) or removed from their outer pack (unpacked). Release data indicated superior release rates of castor oil based formulations (F4 and F10) relative to standard capsules in both the unpacked and packed forms. For instance, the extent of drug release at 30 min after 1 month was 91% for F4 and F10 and 20% for standard capsules. Drug release from packed capsules after 6 months storage was 88% for both formulations F4 and F10 and 35% for standard capsules. In conclusion, the pharmaceutical quality of phenytoin sodium capsules can be improved by using a semisolid lipophilic matrix filled in hard gelatin capsules.

Oxygen fugacity and piston cylinder capsule assemblies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jakobsson, S.

2011-12-01

A double capsule assembly designed to control oxygen fugacity in piston cylinder experiments has been tested at 1200 °C and 10 kbar. The assembly consists of an outer Pt-capsule containing a solid buffer (Ni-NiO or Co-CoO plus H2O) and an inner AuPd-capsule containing the sample, H2O and a Pt-wire. To prevent direct contact with the buffer phases the AuPd-capsule is embedded in finely ground Al2O3 along with some coarser, fractured Al2O3 facilitating fluid inclusion formation. No water loss is observed in the sample even after 48 hrs but a slight increase in water content is observed in longer duration runs due to oxygen and hydrogen diffusion into the AuPd-capsule. Carbon from the furnace also diffuses through the outer Pt-capsule but reacts with H2O in the outer capsule to form CO2 and never reaches the inner capsule. Oxygen fugacity of runs in equilibrium with the Ni-NiO and Co-CoO buffers was measured by analyzing the Fe content of the Pt-wire in the sample1 and by analyzing Fe dissolved in the AuPd capsule2. The second method gives values that are in good agreement with established buffer whereas results from the first method are one half to one log units higher than the established values. References 1. E. Medard, C. A. McCammon, J. A. Barr, T. L. Grove, Am. Mineral. 93, 1838 (2008). 2. J. Barr, T. Grove, Contrib. Mineral. Petrol. 160, 631 (2010)

Shape memory alloy-based biopsy device for active locomotive intestinal capsule endoscope.

PubMed

Le, Viet Ha; Hernando, Leon-Rodriguez; Lee, Cheong; Choi, Hyunchul; Jin, Zhen; Nguyen, Kim Tien; Go, Gwangjun; Ko, Seong-Young; Park, Jong-Oh; Park, Sukho

2015-03-01

Recently, capsule endoscopes have been used for diagnosis in digestive organs. However, because a capsule endoscope does not have a locomotive function, its use has been limited to small tubular digestive organs, such as small intestine and esophagus. To address this problem, researchers have begun studying an active locomotive intestine capsule endoscope as a medical instrument for the whole gastrointestinal tract. We have developed a capsule endoscope with a small permanent magnet that is actuated by an electromagnetic actuation system, allowing active and flexible movement in the patient's gut environment. In addition, researchers have noted the need for a biopsy function in capsule endoscope for the definitive diagnosis of digestive diseases. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel robotic biopsy device for active locomotive intestine capsule endoscope. The proposed biopsy device has a sharp blade connected with a shape memory alloy actuator. The biopsy device measuring 12 mm in diameter and 3 mm in length was integrated into our capsule endoscope prototype, where the device's sharp blade was activated and exposed by the shape memory alloy actuator. Then the electromagnetic actuation system generated a specific motion of the capsule endoscope to extract the tissue sample from the intestines. The final biopsy sample tissue had a volume of about 6 mm(3), which is a sufficient amount for a histological analysis. Consequently, we proposed the working principle of the biopsy device and conducted an in-vitro biopsy test to verify the feasibility of the biopsy device integrated into the capsule endoscope prototype using the electro-magnetic actuation system. © IMechE 2015.

Computer-Based Assessments. Information Capsule. Volume 0918

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blazer, Christie

2010-01-01

This Information Capsule reviews research conducted on computer-based assessments. Advantages and disadvantages associated with computer-based testing programs are summarized and research on the comparability of computer-based and paper-and-pencil assessments is reviewed. Overall, studies suggest that for most students, there are few if any…

Cryptococcus neoformans Capsular Enlargement and Cellular Gigantism during Galleria mellonella Infection

PubMed Central

García-Rodas, Rocío; Casadevall, Arturo; Rodríguez-Tudela, Juan Luís; Cuenca-Estrella, Manuel; Zaragoza, Oscar

2011-01-01

We have studied infection of Cryptococcus neoformans in the non-vertebrate host Galleria mellonella with particular interest in the morphological response of the yeast. Inoculation of C. neoformans in caterpillars induced a capsule-independent increase in haemocyte density 2 h after infection. C. neoformans manifested a significant increase in capsule size after inoculation into the caterpillar. The magnitude of capsule increase depended on the temperature, being more pronounced at 37°C than at 30°C, which correlated with an increased virulence of the fungus and reduced phagocytosis at 37°C. Capsule enlargement impaired phagocytosis by haemocytes. Incubation of the yeast in G. mellonella extracts also resulted in capsule enlargement, with the polar lipidic fraction having a prominent role in this effect. During infection, the capsule decreased in permeability. A low proportion of the cells (<5%) recovered from caterpillars measured more than 30 µm and were considered giant cells. Giant cells recovered from mice were able to kill the caterpillars in a manner similar to regular cells obtained from in vivo or grown in vitro, establishing their capacity to cause disease. Our results indicate that the morphological transitions exhibited by C. neoformans in mammals also occur in a non-vertebrate host system. The similarities in morphological transitions observed in different animal hosts and in their triggers are consistent with the hypothesis that the cell body and capsular responses represent an adaptation of environmental survival strategies to pathogenesis. PMID:21915338

Boeing's Dart and Starliner Parachute System Test

NASA Image and Video Library

2018-02-22

Boeing conducted the first in a series of reliability tests of its CST-100 Starliner flight drogue and main parachute system by releasing a long, dart-shaped test vehicle from a C-17 aircraft over Yuma, Arizona. Two more tests are planned using the dart module, as well as three similar reliability tests using a high fidelity capsule simulator designed to simulate the CST-100 Starliner capsule’s exact shape and mass. In both the dart and capsule simulator tests, the test spacecraft are released at various altitudes to test the parachute system at different deployment speeds, aerodynamic loads, and or weight demands. Data collected from each test is fed into computer models to more accurately predict parachute performance and to verify consistency from test to test.

The development of pyro shock test requirements for Viking Lander Capsule components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barrett, S.

1975-01-01

The procedure used to derive component-level pyro shock specifications for the Viking Lander Capsule (VLC) is described. Effects of shock path distance and mechanical joints between the device and the point at which the environment is to be estimated are accounted for in the method. The validity of the prediction technique was verified by a series of shock tests on a full-scale structural model of the lander body.

Effects of low-pressure air on oxygen contamination and lithium corrosion of a tantalum alloy, T-111, at 980 and 1260 C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gahn, R. F.

1974-01-01

The effects were studied of low-pressure air on contamination and corrosion in the tantalum alloy T-111/lithium system at 980 and 1260 C. Capsules of T-111 containing lithium were exposed to six vacuum levels between 1 x 10 to the 8th power and 0.0003 torr by controlled air leakage into a vacuum system. Capsules exposed at 980 C and 0.0002 torr failed from intragranular oxidation. The remainder of the capsules completed the 96-hour tests. The depth of oxygen contamination was greater at 980 C than at 1260 C. Tests made at 0.0001 and 0.00001 torr levels caused large increases in the oxygen content of the T-111. Tests at 0.000001 torr or less produced no significant contamination. No lithium corrosion of the T-111 was observed under any of the conditions.

AGR-1 Irradiation Test Final As-Run Report, Rev. 3

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

Collin, Blaise P.

2015-01-01

This document presents the as-run analysis of the AGR-1 irradiation experiment. AGR-1 is the first of eight planned irradiations for the Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR) Fuel Development and Qualification Program. Funding for this program is provided by the US Department of Energy (DOE) as part of the Next-Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP) project. The objectives of the AGR-1 experiment are: 1. To gain experience with multi-capsule test train design, fabrication, and operation with the intent to reduce the probability of capsule or test train failure in subsequent irradiation tests. 2. To irradiate fuel produced in conjunction with the AGR fuel processmore » development effort. 3. To provide data that will support the development of an understanding of the relationship between fuel fabrication processes, fuel product properties, and irradiation performance. In order to achieve the test objectives, the AGR-1 experiment was irradiated in the B-10 position of the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) for a total duration of 620 effective full power days of irradiation. Irradiation began on December 24, 2006 and ended on November 6, 2009 spanning 13 ATR cycles and approximately three calendar years. The test contained six independently controlled and monitored capsules. Each capsule contained 12 compacts of a single type, or variant, of the AGR coated fuel. No fuel particles failed during the AGR-1 irradiation. Final burnup values on a per compact basis ranged from 11.5 to 19.6 %FIMA, while fast fluence values ranged from 2.21 to 4.39 x 10 25 n/m 2 (E >0.18 MeV). We’ll say something here about temperatures once thermal recalc is done. Thermocouples performed well, failing at a lower rate than expected. At the end of the irradiation, nine of the originally-planned 19 TCs were considered functional. Fission product release-to-birth (R/B) ratios were quite low. In most capsules, R/B values at the end of the irradiation were at or below 10 -7 with only one capsule significantly exceeding this value. A maximum R/B of around 2 x 10 -7 was reached at the end of the irradiation in Capsule 5. Several shakedown issues were encountered and resolved during the first three cycles. These include the repair of minor gas line leaks; repair of faulty gas line valves; the need to position moisture monitors in regions of low radiation fields for proper functioning; the enforcement of proper on-line data storage and backup, the need to monitor thermocouple performance, correcting for detector spectral gain shift, and a change in the mass flow rate range of the neon flow controllers.« less

Comparative analysis of EPA and DHA in fish oil nutritional capsules by GC-MS.

PubMed

Yi, Tao; Li, Shuk-Man; Fan, Jia-Yi; Fan, Lan-Lan; Zhang, Zhi-Feng; Luo, Pei; Zhang, Xiao-Jun; Wang, Jian-Gang; Zhu, Lin; Zhao, Zhong-Zhen; Chen, Hu-Biao

2014-12-13

Fish oil is a popular nutritional product consumed in Hong Kong. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the two main bioactive components responsible for the health benefits of fish oil. Market survey in Hong Kong demonstrated that various fish oil capsules with different origins and prices are sold simultaneously. However, these capsules are labelled with same ingredient levels, namely EPA 180 mg/g and DHA 120 mg/g. This situation makes the consumers very confused. To evaluate the quality of various fish oil capsules, a comparative analysis of the contents of EPA and DHA in fish oil is crucial. A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method was developed for identification and determination of EPA and DHA in fish oil capsules. A comprehensive validation of the developed method was conducted. Ten batches of fish oil capsules samples purchased from drugstores of Hong Kong were analyzed by using the developed method. The present method presented good sensitivity, precision and accuracy. The limits of detection (LOD) for EPA and DHA were 0.08 ng and 0.21 ng, respectively. The relative standard deviation (RSD) values of EPA and DHA for repeatability tests were both less than 1.05%; and the recovery for accuracy test of EPA and DHA were 100.50% and 103.83%, respectively. In ten fish oil samples, the contents of EPA ranged from 39.52 mg/g to 509.16 mg/g, and the contents of DHA ranged from 35.14 mg/g to 645.70 mg/g. The present method is suitable for the quantitative analysis of EPA and DHA in fish oil capsules. There is a significant variation in the contents of the quantified components in fish oil samples, and there is not a linear relationship between price and contents of EPA and DHA. Strict supervision of the labelling of the fish oil capsules is urgently needed.

Centrarchid fish as paratenic hosts of the giant kidney worm, Dioctophyma renale (Goeze, 1782), in Ontario, Canada.

PubMed

Measures, L N; Anderson, R C

1985-01-01

Infective larvae of Dioctophyma renale were found in the hypaxial musculature of pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus L.) from three lakes in Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada. This represents the first report of D. renale in centrarchid fish. In the three lakes surveyed prevalence and mean intensity ranged from 5 to 23% and one to two larvae respectively. Larvae elicited a mild granulomatous reaction in pumpkinseed. Two ferrets were each given five larvae from pumpkinseed. Adult D. renale were recovered from the right kidney capsule of ferrets 108 and 134 days post-infection. An opening in the ventral surface of the right kidney capsule was present in one ferret. Chronic peritonitis was associated with eggs of D. renale and cellular debris which probably entered the abdominal cavity from the right kidney capsule.

Intestinal biomechanics simulator for robotic capsule endoscope validation.

PubMed

Slawinski, Piotr R; Oleynikov, Dmitry; Terry, Benjamin S

2015-01-01

This work describes the development and validation of a novel device which simulates important forces experienced by Robotic Capsule Endoscopes (RCE) in vivo in the small intestine. The purpose of the device is to expedite and lower the cost of RCE development. Currently, there is no accurate in vitro test method nor apparatus to validate new RCE designs; therefore, RCEs are tested in vivo at a cost of ∼$1400 per swine test. The authors have developed an in vitro RCE testing device which generates two peristaltic waves to accurately simulate the two biomechanical actions of the human small intestine that are most relevant to RCE locomotion: traction force and contact force. The device was successfully calibrated to match human physiological ranges for traction force (4-40 gf), contact force (80-500 gf) and peristaltic wave propagation speed (0.08-2 cm s(-1)) for a common RCE capsule geometry of 3.5 cm length and 1.5 cm diameter.

Development and Testing of a Magnetically Actuated Capsule Endoscopy for Obesity Treatment

PubMed Central

Do, Thanh Nho; Seah, Tian En Timothy; Yu, Ho Khek; Phee, Soo Jay

2016-01-01

Intra-gastric balloons (IGB) have become an efficient and less invasive method for obesity treatment. The use of traditional IGBs require complex insertion tools and flexible endoscopes to place and remove the balloon inside the patient’s stomach, which may cause discomfort and complications to the patient. This paper introduces a new ingestible weight-loss capsule with a magnetically remote-controlled inflatable and deflatable balloon. To inflate the balloon, biocompatible effervescent chemicals are used. As the source of the actuation is provided via external magnetic fields, the magnetic capsule size can be significantly reduced compared to current weight-loss capsules in the literature. In addition, there are no limitations on the power supply. To lose weight, the obese subject needs only to swallow the magnetic capsule with a glass of water. Once the magnetic capsule has reached the patient’s stomach, the balloon will be wirelessly inflated to occupy gastric space and give the feeling of satiety. The balloon can be wirelessly deflated at any time to allow the magnetic capsule to travel down the intestine and exit the body via normal peristalsis. The optimal ratio between the acid and base to provide the desired gas volume is experimentally evaluated and presented. A prototype capsule (9.6mm x 27mm) is developed and experimentally validated in ex-vivo experiments. The unique ease of delivery and expulsion of the proposed magnetic capsule is slated to make this development a good treatment option for people seeking to lose excess weight. PMID:26815309

The Impact of School Buildings on Learning. Information Capsule. Volume 1204

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blazer, Christie

2012-01-01

This Information Capsule examines the impact of deteriorating school buildings on students and teachers. Research indicates that students attending schools that are in poor physical condition score lower on achievement tests than students in newer, functional buildings. Studies suggest that several specific factors contribute to lower levels of…

Swallowing Tablets and Capsules Increases the Risk of Penetration and Aspiration in Patients with Stroke-Induced Dysphagia.

PubMed

Schiele, Julia T; Penner, Heike; Schneider, Hendrik; Quinzler, Renate; Reich, Gabriele; Wezler, Nikolai; Micol, William; Oster, Peter; Haefeli, Walter E

2015-10-01

We evaluated the prevalence of difficulties swallowing solid dosage forms in patients with stroke-induced dysphagia and whether swallowing tablets/capsules increases their risk of penetration and aspiration. Concurrently, we explored whether routinely performed assessment tests help identify patients at risk. Using video endoscopy, we evaluated how 52 patients swallowed four different placebos (round, oval, and oblong tablets and a capsule) with texture-modified water (TMW, pudding consistency) and milk and rated their swallowing performance according to the Penetration Aspiration Scale (PAS). Additionally, Daniels Test, Bogenhausener Dysphagiescore, Scandinavian Stroke Scale, Barthel Index, and Tinetti's Mobility Test were conducted. A substantial proportion of the patients experienced severe difficulties swallowing solid oral dosage forms (TMW: 40.4 %, milk: 43.5 %). Compared to the administration of TMW/milk alone, the placebos increased the PAS values in the majority of the patients (TMW: median PAS from 1.5 to 2.0; milk: median PAS from 1.5 to 2.5, each p value <0.0001) and residue values were significantly higher (p < 0.05). Whereas video-endoscopic examination reliably identified patients with difficulties swallowing medication, neither patients' self-evaluation nor one of the routinely performed bedside tests did. Therefore, before video-endoscopic evaluation, many drugs were modified unnecessarily and 20.8 % of these were crushed inadequately, although switching to another dosage form or drug would have been possible. Hence, safety and effectiveness of swallowing tablets and capsules should be evaluated routinely in video-endoscopic examinations, tablets/capsules should rather be provided with TMW than with milk, and the appropriateness of "non per os except medication" orders for dysphagic stroke patients should be questioned.

Simultaneous detection of bovine and porcine DNA in pharmaceutical gelatin capsules by duplex PCR assay for Halal authentication.

PubMed

Nikzad, Jafar; Shahhosseini, Soraya; Tabarzad, Maryam; Nafissi-Varcheh, Nastaran; Torshabi, Maryam

2017-02-14

In the pharmaceutical industry, hard- and soft-shelled capsules are typically made from gelatin, commonly derived from bovine and porcine sources. To ensure that pharmaceutical products comply with halal regulations in Muslim countries (no porcine products allowed), development of a valid, reliable, quick, and most importantly, cost-effective tests are of utmost importance. We developed a species-specific duplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting 149 bp porcine and 271 bp bovine mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) to simultaneously detect both porcine and bovine DNA (in one reaction at the same time) in gelatin. Some additional simplex PCR tests (targeting 126 bp bovine and 212 bp porcine mtDNA) and real-time PCR using a commercially available kit (for identification of porcine DNA) were used to verify the selectivity and sensitivity of our duplex PCR. After optimization of DNA extraction and PCR methods, hard/soft pharmaceutical gelatin capsules (containing drug) were tested for the presence of porcine and/or bovine DNA. Duplex PCR detected the presence of as little as 0.1% porcine DNA, which was more accurate than the commercially available kit. Of all gelatin capsules tested (n = 24), 50% contained porcine DNA (pure porcine gelatin alone or in combination with bovine gelatin). Duplex PCR presents an easy-to-follow, quick, low-cost and reliable method to simultaneously detect porcine and bovine DNAs (>100 bp) in minute amounts in highly processed gelatin-containing pharmaceutical products (with a 0.1% sensitivity for porcine DNA) which may be used for halal authentication. Simultaneous detection of porcine and bovine DNA in gelatin capsules by duplex PCR.

AIR insulin capsules of different dose strengths may be combined to yield equivalent pharmacokinetics and glucodynamics.

PubMed

de la Peña, Amparo; Seger, Mary; Rave, Klaus; Heinemann, Lutz; Silverman, Bernard; Muchmore, Douglas B

2009-09-01

In order to assess pharmacokinetic (PK) and glucodynamic (GD) attributes relevant to the end user of an inhaled insulin, this study examined the exposure and GD effect of doses of AIR inhaled insulin (Eli Lilly and Co., Indianapolis, IN) (AIR is a registered trademark of Alkermes, Inc., Cambridge, MA) by combining capsules of different strengths in healthy subjects. Fifty-nine healthy, nonsmoking, male or female subjects with normal pulmonary function were enrolled in an open-label, randomized, crossover study. Subjects underwent up to five euglycemic glucose clamp procedures, separated by 5-18 days. The five AIR insulin treatments tested included one 6 unit-equivalent (U-eq) capsule containing 2.6 mg of insulin, three 2 U-eq (0.9 mg) capsules (2.7 mg total), one 10 U-eq (3.9 mg) capsule, one 6 U-eq capsule plus two 2 U-eq capsules (4.4 mg total), and two 10 U-eq capsules (7.8 mg total). Samples for PK and GD assessments were taken up to 10 h post-dose. Based on both PK (area under the curve from time 0 to time of return to baseline and maximum concentration) and GD (total amount of glucose infused and maximum glucose infusion rate) responses, administration of a 6 U-eq capsule was equivalent to three 2 U-eq capsules; 90% confidence intervals for the ratios were contained within the interval (0.8, 1.25). Similarly, both overall exposure and glucodynamic response after administration of a 10 U-eq capsule were comparable to the 6 U-eq plus two 2 U-eq capsule combination. AIR insulin exhibited PK dose proportionality and dose-dependent increases in GD responses over the 2.6-7.8 mg dose range. AIR insulin exhibited dose strength interchangeability and dose proportionality after single-dose administration in healthy subjects.

Non-invasive measurement of pan-colonic pressure over a whole digestive cycle: Clinical applications of a capsule-style manometric system

PubMed Central

Zhang, Wen-Qiang; Yan, Guo-Zheng; Yu, Lian-Zhi; Yang, Xin-Qing

2006-01-01

AIM: To study the prolonged colonic motility under normal conditions with a novel capsule-style micro-system and to assess its clinical significance. METHODS: A single use telemetry capsule (10 mm in diameter, 20 mm in length) embedded with a pressure sensor was ingested by the subjects. The sensor is capable of transmitting colonic pressure wirelessly for more than 130 h. The time of capsule entering the segmental colon was detected by ultrasound. The ultrasonic electrodes were mounted on the surface of the ileocecum and navel and at the junction of the left and rectosigmoid colon of the subjects in sequence, which were identified by abdominal X-rays with radiopaque markers. To verify the accuracy and reliability of ultrasonic detection of telemetry capsules at key points of colon, the segmental colonic transit time was simultaneously recorded by using radiopaque markers. RESULTS: The signal lamp showed that all recorders could receive the radio signal transmitted by the telemetry capsule. The X-rays showed that all telemetry capsules were detected successfully when they were passing through the key points of colon. There was a significant correlation between the transit results obtained by ultrasonic detection or by radiopaque markers. Colorectal recording was obtained from 20 healthy subjects during 613 h (411 h during waking, 202 h during sleep). Compared to waking, the number of pressure contractions and the area under pressure contractions were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased during sleep (21 ± 5 h-1 vs 15 ± 4 h-1, 463 ± 54 mmHg·s/min vs 342 ± 45 mmHg·s/min). The colonic motility exhibited significant regional variations both in the circadian behavior and in response to waking and meal. CONCLUSION: The capsule-style micro-system is reliable and noninvasive, and may represent a useful tool for the study of physiology and pathology of colonic motor disorders. PMID:17171801

Electron microscopic examination of the anterior lens capsule in a case of Alport's syndrome.

PubMed

Citirik, Mehmet; Batman, Cosar; Men, Gamze; Tuncel, Murvet; Zilelioglu, Orhan

2007-09-01

To report a case of Alport's syndrome and to present electronmicroscopic examination findings of the anterior lens capsule of this patient. A 21-year-old man was referred for low visual acuity and retinal pigment epithelial changes in the left eye. The patient and his relatives underwent detailed ophthalmological examination, including electrophysiological testing. The patient also underwent electronmicroscopic examination of the anterior lens capsule. His visual acuity was 6/18 OD and 6/15 OS. Anterior lenticonus and subcapsular opacities were observed in the left eye. Cataract extraction by phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation was performed for his poor visual performance. During the capsulorhexis, the remarkably thin and fragile anterior capsule was noted and removed. Ultrastructural analysis of the anterior lens capsule showed a thinner central zone compared with the periphery. The course of Alport's syndrome can be ameliorated by early diagnosis. Therefore, the ophthalmological examination of a patient with anterior lenticonus must be combined with a detailed medical evaluation. Ultrastructural analysis of the lens capsule can support the diagnosis of Alport's syndrome.

[Evaluation of nopal capsules in diabetes mellitus].

PubMed

Frati Munari, A C; Vera Lastra, O; Ariza Andraca, C R

1992-01-01

To find out if commercial capsules with dried nopal (prickle-pear cactus, Opuntia ficus indica may have a role in the management of diabetes mellitus, three experiments were performed: 30 capsules where given in fasting condition to 10 diabetic subjects and serum glucose was measured through out 3 hours; a control test was performed with 30 placebo capsules. OGTT with previous intake of 30 nopal or placebo capsules was performed in ten healthy individuals. In a crossover and single blinded study 14 diabetic patients withdrew the oral hypoglycemic treatment and received 10 nopal or placebo capsules t.i.d. during one week; serum glucose, cholesterol and tryglycerides levels were measured before and after each one-week period. Five healthy subjects were also studied in the same fashion. Opuntia capsules did not show acute hypoglycemic effect and did not influence OGTT. In diabetic patients serum glucose, cholesterol and tryglycerides levels did not change with Opuntia, but they increased with placebo (P < 0.01 glucose and cholesterol, P = NS triglycerides). In healthy individuals glycemia did not change with nopal, while cholesterol and triglycerides decreased (P < 0.01 vs. placebo). The intake of 30 Opuntia capsules daily in patients with diabetes mellitus had a discrete beneficial effect on glucose and cholesterol. However this dose is unpractical and at present it is not recommended in the management of diabetes mellitus.

High-density carbon capsule experiments on the national ignition facility

DOE PAGES

Ross, J. S.; Ho, D.; Milovich, J.; ...

2015-02-25

Indirect-drive implosions with a high-density carbon (HDC) capsule were conducted on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to test HDC properties as an ablator material for inertial confinement fusion. In this study, a series of five experiments were completed with 76-μm-thick HDC capsules using a four-shock laser pulse optimized for HDC. The pulse delivered a total energy of 1.3 MJ with a peak power of 360 TW. The experiment demonstrated good laser to target coupling (~90 %) and excellent nuclear performance. Lastly, a deuterium and tritium gas-filled HDC capsule implosion produced a neutron yield of 1.6×10 15 ± 3×10 13, amore » yield over simulated in one dimension of 70%.« less

SU-E-J-101: Retroactive Calculation of TLD and Film Dose in Anthropomorphic Phantom as Assessment of Updated TPS Performance

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

Alkhatib, H; Oves, S

Purpose: To demonstrate a quick and comprehensive method verifying the accuracy of the updated dose model by recalculating dose distribution in an anthropomorphic phantom with a new version of the TPS and comparing the results to measured values. Methods: CT images and IMRT plan of an RPC anthropomorphic head phantom, previously calculated by Pinnacle 9.0, was re-computed using Pinnacle 9.2 and 9.6. The dosimeters within the phantom include four TLD capsules representing a primary PTV, two TLD capsules representing a secondary PTV, and two TLD capsules representing an organ at risk. Also included were three sheets of Gafchromic film. Performancemore » of the updated TPS version was assessed by recalculating point doses and dose profiles corresponding to TLD and film position respectively and then comparing the results to reported values by the RPC. Results: Comparing calculated doses to reported measured doses from the RPC yielded an average disagreement of 1.48%, 2.04% and 2.10% for versions 9.0, 9.2, 9.6 respectively. Computed doses points all meet the RPC's passing criteria with the exception of the point representing the superior organ at risk in version 9.6. However, qualitative analysis of the recalculated dose profiles showed improved agreement with those of the RPC, especially in the penumbra region. Conclusion: This work has demonstrated the calculation results of Pinnacle 9.2 and 9.6 vs 9.0 version. Additionally, this study illustrates a method for the user to gain confidence upgrade to a newer version of the treatment planning system.« less

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

Not Available

This volume contains the interim change notice for physical testing. Covered are: properties of solutions, slurries, and sludges; rheological measurement with cone/plate viscometer; % solids determination; particle size distribution by laser scanning; penetration resistance of radioactive waste; operation of differential scanning calorimeter, thermogravimetric analyzer, and high temperature DTA and DSC; sodium rod for sodium bonded fuel; filling SP-100 fuel capsules; sodium filling of BEATRIX-II type capsules; removal of alkali metals with ammonia; specific gravity of highly radioactive solutions; bulk density of radioactive granular solids; purification of Li by hot gettering/filtration; and Li filling of MOTA capsules.

Symptomatic retention of the Agile® patency capsule.

PubMed

Egea Valenzuela, Juan; Estrella Díez, Esther; Alberca de Las Parras, Fernando

2017-06-01

The Agile® capsule has shown to be useful when evaluating the patency of the small bowel in patients prior to capsule endoscopy studies. It is a safe tool and a low rate of complications have been reported, highlighting symptomatic retention, although references in literature are scarce and it is only observed in 1.2% of the procedures. We present the case of a symptomatic retention of this device in a patient with previously known colonic Crohn's disease in who a small bowel study was indicated and was sent for prior patency test.

Acute effect of scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques and classic exercises in adhesive capsulitis: a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Balcı, Nilay Comuk; Yuruk, Zeliha Ozlem; Zeybek, Aslican; Gulsen, Mustafa; Tekindal, Mustafa Agah

2016-01-01

[Purpose] The aim of our study was to compare the initial effects of scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques and classic exercise interventions with physiotherapy modalities on pain, scapular dyskinesis, range of motion, and function in adhesive capsulitis. [Subjects and Methods] Fifty-three subjects were allocated to 3 groups: scapular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation exercies and physiotherapy modalities, classic exercise and physiotherapy modalities, and only physiotherapy modalities. The intervention was applied in a single session. The Visual Analog Scale, Lateral Scapular Slide Test, range of motion and Simple Shoulder Test were evaluated before and just after the one-hour intervention in the same session (all in one session). [Results] All of the groups showed significant differences in shoulder flexion and abduction range of motion and Simple Shoulder Test scores. There were statistically significant differences in Visual Analog Scale scores in the proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and control groups, and no treatment method had significant effect on the Lateral Scapular Slide Test results. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups before and after the intervention. [Conclusion] Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, classic exercise, and physiotherapy modalities had immediate effects on adhesive capsulitis in our study. However, there was no additional benefit of exercises in one session over physiotherapy modalities. Also, an effective treatment regimen for shoulder rehabilitation of adhesive capsulitis patients should include scapular exercises. PMID:27190456

Collecting cometary soil samples? Development of the ROSETTA sample acquisition system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coste, P. A.; Fenzi, M.; Eiden, Michael

1993-01-01

In the reference scenario of the ROSETTA CNRS mission, the Sample Acquisition System is mounted on the Comet Lander. Its tasks are to acquire three kinds of cometary samples and to transfer them to the Earth Return Capsule. Operations are to be performed in vacuum and microgravity, on a probably rough and dusty surface, in a largely unknown material, at temperatures in the order of 100 K. The concept and operation of the Sample Acquisition System are presented. The design of the prototype corer and surface sampling tool, and of the equipment for testing them at cryogenic temperatures in ambient conditions and in vacuum in various materials representing cometary soil, are described. Results of recent preliminary tests performed in low temperature thermal vacuum in a cometary analog ice-dust mixture are provided.

Performance of dry powder inhalers with single dosed capsules in preschool children and adults using improved upper airway models.

PubMed

Lindert, Sandra; Below, Antje; Breitkreutz, Joerg

2014-02-06

The pulmonary administration of pharmaceutical aerosols to patients is affected by age-dependent variations in the anatomy of the upper airways and the inhalation pattern. Considering this aspect, different upper airway models, representing the geometries of adults and preschool children, and a conventional induction port according to the European Pharmacopeia were used for in vitro testing of dry powder inhalers with single dosed capsules (Cyclohaler®, Handihaler® and Spinhaler®). Deposition measurements were performed using steady flow rates of 30 and 60 L/min for the Handihaler®/Spinhaler® and 30, 60 and 75 L/min for the Cyclohaler®. The inhalation volume was set at 1 L. For the Cyclohaler®, the in vitro testing was supplemented by a pediatric inhalation profile. Slight differences of pulmonary deposition between the idealized adult (11%-15%) and pediatric (9%-11%) upper airway model were observed for the Cyclohaler®. The applied pediatric inhalation profile resulted in a reduction of pulmonary deposition by 5% compared to steady conditions and indicated the influence of the inhalation pattern on the amount of pulmonary deposited particles. The comparison of two pediatric upper airway models showed no differences. The performance of the Handihaler® was similar to the Cyclohaler®. The Spinhaler® showed an insufficient performance and limited reproducibility in our investigations.

Efficacy of a capsule conjugate vaccine against inhalational anthrax in rabbits and monkeys.

PubMed

Chabot, Donald J; Joyce, Joseph; Caulfield, Michael; Cook, James; Hepler, Robert; Wang, Su; Vietri, Nicholas J; Ruthel, Gordon; Shoop, Wesley; Pitt, Louise; Leffel, Elizabeth; Ribot, Wilson; Friedlander, Arthur M

2012-01-20

Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, is recognized as one of the most serious bioterrorism threats. The current human vaccines are based on the protective antigen component of the anthrax toxins. Concern about possible vaccine resistant strains and reliance on a single antigen has prompted the search for additional immunogens. Bacterial capsules, as surface-expressed virulence factors, are well-established components of several licensed vaccines. In a previous study we showed that an anthrax vaccine consisting of the B. anthracis poly-γ-D-glutamic acid capsule covalently conjugated to the outer membrane protein complex of Neisseria meningitidis serotype B protected mice against parenteral B. anthracis challenge. Here we tested this vaccine in rabbits and monkeys against an aerosol spore challenge. The vaccine induced anti-capsule antibody responses in both species, measured by ELISA and a macrophage opsono-adherence assay. While rabbits were not protected against a high aerosol challenge dose, significant protection was observed in monkeys receiving the capsule conjugate vaccine. The results confirm that the capsule is a protective immunogen against anthrax, being the first non-toxin antigen shown to be efficacious in monkeys and suggest that addition of capsule may broaden and enhance the protection afforded by protective antigen-based vaccines. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Simulating Space Capsule Water Landing with Explicit Finite Element Method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, John T.; Lyle, Karen H.

2007-01-01

A study of using an explicit nonlinear dynamic finite element code for simulating the water landing of a space capsule was performed. The finite element model contains Lagrangian shell elements for the space capsule and Eulerian solid elements for the water and air. An Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) solver and a penalty coupling method were used for predicting the fluid and structure interaction forces. The space capsule was first assumed to be rigid, so the numerical results could be correlated with closed form solutions. The water and air meshes were continuously refined until the solution was converged. The converged maximum deceleration predicted is bounded by the classical von Karman and Wagner solutions and is considered to be an adequate solution. The refined water and air meshes were then used in the models for simulating the water landing of a capsule model that has a flexible bottom. For small pitch angle cases, the maximum deceleration from the flexible capsule model was found to be significantly greater than the maximum deceleration obtained from the corresponding rigid model. For large pitch angle cases, the difference between the maximum deceleration of the flexible model and that of its corresponding rigid model is smaller. Test data of Apollo space capsules with a flexible heat shield qualitatively support the findings presented in this paper.

Therapeutic Application of Phage Capsule Depolymerases against K1, K5, and K30 Capsulated E. coli in Mice.

PubMed

Lin, Han; Paff, Matthew L; Molineux, Ian J; Bull, James J

2017-01-01

Capsule depolymerase enzymes offer a promising class of new antibiotics. In vivo studies are encouraging but it is unclear how well this type of phage product will generalize in therapeutics, or whether different depolymerases against the same capsule function similarly. Here, in vivo efficacy was tested using cloned bacteriophage depolymerases against Escherichia coli strains with three different capsule types: K1, K5, and K30. When treating infections with the cognate capsule type in a mouse thigh model, the previously studied K1E depolymerase rescued poorly, whereas K1F, K1H, K5, and K30 depolymerases rescued well. K30 gp41 was identified as the catalytically active protein. In contrast to the in vivo studies, K1E enzyme actively degraded K1 capsule polysaccharide in vitro and sensitized K1 bacteria to serum killing. The only in vitro correlate of poor K1E performance in vivo was that the purified enzyme did not form the expected trimer. K1E appeared as an 18-mer which might limit its in vivo distribution. Overall, depolymerases were easily identified, cloned from phage genomes, and as purified proteins they proved generally effective.

Quality evaluation of probiotic capsule prepared from alginate, carrageenan and tofu waste flour based on bacterial activity and organoleptic test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muhardina, V.; Ermaya, D.; Aisyah, Y.; Haryani, S.

2018-02-01

Probiotic capsule is an innovation in functional food sector. It is used to preserve the living cells of probiotic bacteria during processing and storage. In this research, the improvement of probiotic viability is studied by using two kinds of encapsulating biomaterials and different concentration of tofu waste flour. Extrusion is selected method for encapsulation process. The purpose of this study is to examine the quality of probiotic capsule by evaluating the lactic acid bacteria performance and its physical characteristic. The article provides the data of probiotic bacteria activity related to their living cells present in capsule, activity in fermentation media compare to uncapsulated bacteria, and panelists’ preferences of capsule’s physical properties. The data is analyzed statistically by using ANOVA. The result shows that variables in this study affect the number of bacteria, their metabolic activity in producing acid during fermentation, and physical appearance of the capsule. Combination of alginate and tofu waste flour allows the multiplication of bacteria to a high number, and forms elastic, yellow and cloudy capsule, while with carrageenan, it causes the growth of a few numbers of bacteria which affects to a moderate pH and produces elastic, creamy and transparent capsule.

Space capsule mounted in the Full Scale Wind Tunnel

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-01-22

The Mercury space capsule undergoing tests in Full Scale Wind Tunnel, January 1959. Photograph published in Winds of Change, 75th Anniversary NASA publication, page 75, by James Schultz. Also Photograph published in Engineer in Charge: A History of the Langley Aeronautical Laboratory, 1917-1958, page 389, by James R. Hansen.

Release of Boilerplate Mercury Capsule Sequence

NASA Image and Video Library

1958-12-16

Photographed on: 12 16 58. -- L58-1083a caption: Sequenced pictures showing events from release of boilerplate Mercury capsule from C-130 airplane to opening of recovery parachute, December 1958. Photograph published in A New Dimension Wallops Island Flight Test Range: The First Fifteen Years by Joseph Shortal. A NASA publication, page 644.

Utility of high-resolution anorectal manometry and wireless motility capsule in the evaluation of patients with Parkinson's disease and chronic constipation

PubMed Central

Su, Andrew; Gandhy, Rita; Barlow, Carrolee; Triadafilopoulos, George

2016-01-01

Background The aetiology of constipation in Parkinson's disease remains poorly understood. Defaecatory dyssynergia, anal sphincter spasticity and slow transit constipation may, individually or collectively, play a role. Aims In this retrospective cohort analysis of patients with Parkinson's disease and chronic constipation, we determined the utility of high-resolution anorectal manometry, balloon expulsion and wireless motility capsule testing in defining the underlying aetiology for constipation. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, consecutive patients with Parkinson's disease and chronic constipation underwent clinical assessment, manometry with balloon expulsion and wireless motility capsule testing using standard protocols. Results We studied 66 patients fulfilling Rome IV criteria for functional constipation. Most patients (89%) had abnormal manometry, exhibiting various types of defaecatory dyssynergia (mostly types II and IV), abnormal balloon expulsion, diminished rectal sensation and, in some, lacking rectoanal inhibitory reflex. 62% exhibited colonic transit delay by wireless motility capsule study, while 57% had combined manometric and transit abnormalities, suggesting of overlap constipation. Symptoms of infrequent defaecation, straining and incomplete evacuation were not discriminatory. There was a relationship between constipation scores and colonic transit times (p=0.01); Parkinson's disease scores and duration were not correlated with either the manometric or transit findings. Faecal incontinence was seen in 26% of the patients. Conclusions Chronic constipation in patients with Parkinson's disease may reflect pelvic floor dyssynergia, slow transit constipation or both, and may be associated with faecal incontinence, suggesting both motor and autonomic dysfunction. Anorectal manometry and wireless motility capsule testing are useful in the assessment of these patients. PMID:27843572

Electrosprayed Multi-Core Alginate Microcapsules as Novel Self-Healing Containers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hia, Iee Lee; Pasbakhsh, Pooria; Chan, Eng-Seng; Chai, Siang-Piao

2016-10-01

Alginate microcapsules containing epoxy resin were developed through electrospraying method and embedded into epoxy matrix to produce a capsule-based self-healing composite system. These formaldehyde free alginate/epoxy microcapsules were characterized via light microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that epoxy resin was successfully encapsulated within alginate matrix to form porous (multi-core) microcapsules with pore size ranged from 5-100 μm. The microcapsules had an average size of 320 ± 20 μm with decomposition temperature at 220 °C. The loading capacity of these capsules was estimated to be 79%. Under in situ healing test, impact specimens showed healing efficiency as high as 86% and the ability to heal up to 3 times due to the multi-core capsule structure and the high impact energy test that triggered the released of epoxy especially in the second and third healings. TDCB specimens showed one-time healing only with the highest healing efficiency of 76%. The single healing event was attributed by the constant crack propagation rate of TDCB fracture test. For the first time, a cost effective, environmentally benign and sustainable capsule-based self-healing system with multiple healing capabilities and high healing performance was developed.

Electrosprayed Multi-Core Alginate Microcapsules as Novel Self-Healing Containers.

PubMed

Hia, Iee Lee; Pasbakhsh, Pooria; Chan, Eng-Seng; Chai, Siang-Piao

2016-10-03

Alginate microcapsules containing epoxy resin were developed through electrospraying method and embedded into epoxy matrix to produce a capsule-based self-healing composite system. These formaldehyde free alginate/epoxy microcapsules were characterized via light microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that epoxy resin was successfully encapsulated within alginate matrix to form porous (multi-core) microcapsules with pore size ranged from 5-100 μm. The microcapsules had an average size of 320 ± 20 μm with decomposition temperature at 220 °C. The loading capacity of these capsules was estimated to be 79%. Under in situ healing test, impact specimens showed healing efficiency as high as 86% and the ability to heal up to 3 times due to the multi-core capsule structure and the high impact energy test that triggered the released of epoxy especially in the second and third healings. TDCB specimens showed one-time healing only with the highest healing efficiency of 76%. The single healing event was attributed by the constant crack propagation rate of TDCB fracture test. For the first time, a cost effective, environmentally benign and sustainable capsule-based self-healing system with multiple healing capabilities and high healing performance was developed.

Electrosprayed Multi-Core Alginate Microcapsules as Novel Self-Healing Containers

PubMed Central

Hia, Iee Lee; Pasbakhsh, Pooria; Chan, Eng-Seng; Chai, Siang-Piao

2016-01-01

Alginate microcapsules containing epoxy resin were developed through electrospraying method and embedded into epoxy matrix to produce a capsule-based self-healing composite system. These formaldehyde free alginate/epoxy microcapsules were characterized via light microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that epoxy resin was successfully encapsulated within alginate matrix to form porous (multi-core) microcapsules with pore size ranged from 5–100 μm. The microcapsules had an average size of 320 ± 20 μm with decomposition temperature at 220 °C. The loading capacity of these capsules was estimated to be 79%. Under in situ healing test, impact specimens showed healing efficiency as high as 86% and the ability to heal up to 3 times due to the multi-core capsule structure and the high impact energy test that triggered the released of epoxy especially in the second and third healings. TDCB specimens showed one-time healing only with the highest healing efficiency of 76%. The single healing event was attributed by the constant crack propagation rate of TDCB fracture test. For the first time, a cost effective, environmentally benign and sustainable capsule-based self-healing system with multiple healing capabilities and high healing performance was developed. PMID:27694922

Development of an Implantable WBAN Path-Loss Model for Capsule Endoscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aoyagi, Takahiro; Takizawa, Kenichi; Kobayashi, Takehiko; Takada, Jun-Ichi; Hamaguchi, Kiyoshi; Kohno, Ryuji

An implantable WBAN path-loss model for a capsule endoscopy which is used for examining digestive organs, is developed by conducting simulations and experiments. First, we performed FDTD simulations on implant WBAN propagation by using a numerical human model. Second, we performed FDTD simulations on a vessel that represents the human body. Third, we performed experiments using a vessel of the same dimensions as that used in the simulations. On the basis of the results of these simulations and experiments, we proposed the gradient and intercept parameters of the simple path-loss in-body propagation model.

Design of a video capsule endoscopy system with low-power ASIC for monitoring gastrointestinal tract.

PubMed

Liu, Gang; Yan, Guozheng; Zhu, Bingquan; Lu, Li

2016-11-01

In recent years, wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) has been a state-of-the-art tool to examine disorders of the human gastrointestinal tract painlessly. However, system miniaturization, enhancement of the image-data transfer rate and power consumption reduction for the capsule are still key challenges. In this paper, a video capsule endoscopy system with a low-power controlling and processing application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) is designed and fabricated. In the design, these challenges are resolved by employing a microimage sensor, a novel radio frequency transmitter with an on-off keying modulation rate of 20 Mbps, and an ASIC structure that includes a clock management module, a power-efficient image compression module and a power management unit. An ASIC-based prototype capsule, which measures Φ11 mm × 25 mm, has been developed here. Test results show that the designed ASIC consumes much less power than most of the other WCE systems and that its total power consumption per frame is the least. The image compression module can realize high near-lossless compression rate (3.69) and high image quality (46.2 dB). The proposed system supports multi-spectral imaging, including white light imaging and autofluorescence imaging, at a maximum frame rate of 24 fps and with a resolution of 400 × 400. Tests and in vivo trials in pigs have proved the feasibility of the entire system, but further improvements in capsule control and compression performance inside the ASIC are needed in the future.

Combined Instrumentation Package COMARS+ for the ExoMars Schiaparelli Lander

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gülhan, Ali; Thiele, Thomas; Siebe, Frank; Kronen, Rolf

2018-02-01

In order to measure aerothermal parameters on the back cover of the ExoMars Schiaparelli lander the instrumentation package COMARS+ was developed by DLR. Consisting of three combined aerothermal sensors, one broadband radiometer sensor and an electronic box the payload provides important data for future missions. The aerothermal sensors called COMARS combine four discrete sensors measuring static pressure, total heat flux, temperature and radiative heat flux at two specific spectral bands. The infrared radiation in a broadband spectral range is measured by the separate broadband radiometer sensor. The electronic box of the payload is used for amplification, conditioning and multiplexing of the sensor signals. The design of the payload was mainly carried out using numerical tools including structural analyses, to simulate the main mechanical loads which occur during launch and stage separation, and thermal analyses to simulate the temperature environment during cruise phase and Mars entry. To validate the design an extensive qualification test campaign was conducted on a set of qualification models. The tests included vibration and shock tests to simulate launch loads and stage separation shocks. Thermal tests under vacuum condition were performed to simulate the thermal environment of the capsule during the different flight phases. Furthermore electromagnetic compatibility tests were conducted to check that the payload is compatible with the electromagnetic environment of the capsule and does not emit electromagnetic energy that could cause electromagnetic interference in other devices. For the sensor heads located on the ExoMars back cover radiation tests were carried out to verify their radiation hardness. Finally the bioburden reduction process was demonstrated on the qualification hardware to show the compliance with the planetary protection requirements. To test the actual heat flux, pressure and infrared radiation measurement under representative conditions, aerothermal tests were performed in an arc-heated wind tunnel facility. After all qualification tests were passed successfully, the acceptance test campaign for the flight hardware at acceptance level included the same tests than the qualification campaign except shock, radiation hardness and aerothermal tests. After passing all acceptance tests, the COMARS+ flight hardware was integrated into the Schiaparelli capsule in January 2015 at the ExoMars integration site at Thales Alenia Space in Turin. Although the landing of Schiaparelli failed, resulting in the loss of most COMARS+ flight data because they were stored on the lander, some data points were directly transmitted to the orbiter at low sampling rate during the entry phase. These data indicate that all COMARS+ sensors delivered useful data until parachute deployment with the exception of the plasma black-out phase. Since measured structure and sensor housing temperatures are far below predicted pre-flight values, a new calibration using COMARS+ spare sensors at temperatures below 0 °C is necessary.

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

Jubin, Robert Thomas; Bruffey, Stephanie H.

Legacy samples composed of 85Kr encapsulated in solid zeolite 5A material and five small metal tubes containing a mixture of the zeolite combined with a glass matrix resulting from hot isostatic pressing have been preserved. The samples were a result of krypton R&D encapsulation efforts in the late 1970s performed at the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant. These samples were shipped to Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in mid-FY 2014. Upon receipt the outer shipping package was opened, and the inner package, removed and placed in a radiological hood. The individual capsules were double bagged as they were removed from themore » inner shipping pig and placed into individual glass sample bottles for further analysis. The five capsules were then x-ray imaged. Capsules 1 and 4 appear intact and to contain an amorphous mass within the capsules. Capsule 2 clearly shows the saw marks on the capsule and a quantity of loose pellet or bead-like material remaining in the capsule. Capsule 3 shows similar bead-like material within the intact capsule. Capsule 5 had been opened at an undetermined time in the past. The end of this capsule appears to have been cut off, and there are additional saw marks on the side of the capsule. X-ray tomography allowed the capsules to be viewed along the three axes. Of most interest was determining whether there was any residual material in the closed end of Capsule 5. The images confirmed the presence of residual material within this capsule. The material appears to be compacted but still retains some of the bead-like morphology. Based on the nondestructive analysis (NDA) results, a proposed path forward was formulated to advance this effort toward the original goals of understanding the effects of extended storage on the waste form and package. Based on the initial NDA and the fact that there are at least two breached samples, it was proposed that exploratory tests be conducted with the breached specimens before opening the three intact capsules. Portions of these would be analyzed to determine the fraction of krypton/xenon remaining in the matrix and the amount of rubidium remaining in the matrix. The inner surface of the breached capsules would be examined for corrosion. The materials contained in Capsules 2 and 5 have been examined. There appears to be a relatively uniform distribution of Kr and Rb throughout the pellets examined. The chemical composition of the pellets appears to be consistent with 5A molecular sieves. The material contained within Capsule 5 showed ~1 at. % lead. The origin of the Pb is currently indeterminate. X-ray diffraction analysis shows a significant shift from the 5A structure, most likely due to the Kr encapsulation / sintering process that occurred when the samples were made. The capsule walls were also examined and showed extensive corrosion throughout. Elemental mapping of the capsule material appeared consistent with carbon steel, while the weld material appeared consistent with a stainless steel. The interior surface of the capsule appeared to have a layer of material containing Al, Si, and Ca similar to the 5A molecular sieve. Analysis for Rb within the corrosion sites was inconclusive.« less

A Nonequilibrium Finite-Rate Carbon Ablation Model for Radiating Earth Re-entry Flows

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-17

model was a short half-cylinder made of isomolded graphite and was tested in 8.6 km/ s Earth entry ow. The model surface was heated within a temperature...capsule [98, 49, 112]. For the Star- dust return capsule that had an Earth entry velocity of 12 km/ s , equilibrium surface recession was over predicted...was tested at 8.6 km/ s Earth entry ow monitored by ultraviolet (UV) spec- trometry. The experiments pre-heated the model to high temperatures to

SHERPA Electromechanical Test Bed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wason, John D.

2005-01-01

SHERPA (Strap-on High-altitude Entry Reconnaissance and Precision Aeromaneuver system) is a concept for low-cost-high-accuracy Martian reentry guidance for small scout-class missions with a capsule diameter of approximately 1 meter. This system uses moving masses to change the center of gravity of the capsule in order to control the lift generated by the controlled imbalance. This project involved designing a small proof-of-concept demonstration system that can be used to test the concept through bench-top testing, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and eventually through a drop test from a helicopter. This project has focused on the Mechatronic design aspects of the system including the mechanical, electrical, computer, and low-level control of the concept demonstration system.

Virtual chromoendoscopy improves the diagnostic yield of small bowel capsule endoscopy in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.

PubMed

Boal Carvalho, Pedro; Magalhães, Joana; Dias de Castro, Francisca; Gonçalves, Tiago Cúrdia; Rosa, Bruno; Moreira, Maria João; Cotter, José

2016-02-01

Small bowel capsule endoscopy represents the initial investigation for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. Flexible spectral imaging colour enhancement (FICE) is a virtual chromoendoscopy technique designed to enhance mucosal lesions, available in different settings according to light wavelength-- FICE1, 2 and 3. To compare the diagnostic yield of FICE1 and white light during capsule endoscopy in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. Retrospective single-centre study including 60 consecutive patients referred for small bowel capsule endoscopy for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopies were independently reviewed in FICE1 and white light; findings were then reviewed by another researcher, establishing a gold standard. Diagnostic yield was defined as the presence of lesions with high bleeding potential (P2) angioectasias, ulcers or tumours. Diagnostic yield using FICE1 was significantly higher than white light (55% vs. 42%, p=0.021). A superior number of P2 lesions was detected with FICE1 (74 vs. 44, p=0.003), particularly angioectasias (54 vs. 26, p=0.002), but not ulcers or tumours. FICE1 was significantly superior to white light, resulting in a 13% improvement in diagnostic yield, and potentially bleeding lesions particularly angioectasias were more often observed. Our results support the use of FICE1 while reviewing small bowel capsule endoscopy for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. Copyright © 2015 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantitative determination of dimethicone in commercial tablets and capsules by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and antifoaming activity test.

PubMed

Torrado, G; García-Arieta, A; de los Ríos, F; Menéndez, J C; Torrado, S

1999-03-01

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and antifoaming activity test have been employed for the quantitative analysis of dimethicone. Linearity, accuracy and precision are presented for both methods. These methods have been also used to compare different dimethicone-containing proprietary medicines. FTIR spectroscopy has shown to be adequate for quantitation of dimethicone in commercial tablets and capsules in order to comply with USP requirements. The antifoaming activity test is able to detect incompatibilities between dimethicone and other constituents. The presence of certain enzymes in some medicinal products increases the defoaming properties of these formulations.

Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of the Major Constituents in Chinese Medical Preparation Lianhua-Qingwen Capsule by UPLC-DAD-QTOF-MS

PubMed Central

Jia, Weina; Wang, Chunhua; Wang, Yuefei; Pan, Guixiang; Jiang, Miaomiao; Li, Zheng; Zhu, Yan

2015-01-01

Lianhua-Qingwen capsule (LQC) is a commonly used Chinese medical preparation to treat viral influenza and especially played a very important role in the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2002-2003 in China. In this paper, a rapid ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detector and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-DAD-QTOF-MS) method was established for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the major constituents of LQC. A total of 61 compounds including flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, anthraquinones, triterpenoids, iridoids, and other types of compounds were unambiguously or tentatively identified by comparing the retention times and accurate mass measurement with reference compounds or literature data. Among them, twelve representative compounds were further quantified as chemical markers in quantitative analysis, including salidroside, chlorogenic acid, forsythoside E, cryptochlorogenic acid, amygdalin, sweroside, hyperin, rutin, forsythoside A, phillyrin, rhein, and glycyrrhizic acid. The UPLC-DAD method was evaluated with linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), precision, stability, repeatability, and recovery tests. The results showed that the developed quantitative method was linear, sensitive, and precise for the quality control of LQC. PMID:25654135

Design, fabrication, and operation of capsules for the irradiation testing of candidate advanced space reactor fuel pins

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thoms, K. R.

1975-01-01

Fuel irradiation experiments were designed, built, and operated to test uranium mononitride (UN) fuel clad in tungsten-lined T-111 and uranium dioxide fuel clad in both tungsten-lined T-111 and tungsten-lined Nb-1% Zr. A total of nine fuel pins was irradiated at average cladding temperatures ranging from 931 to 1015 C. The UN experiments, capsules UN-4 and -5, operated for 10,480 and 10,037 hr, respectively, at an average linear heat generation rate of 10 kW/ft. The UO2 experiment, capsule UN-6, operated for 8333 hr at an average linear heat generation rate of approximately 5 kW/ft. Following irradiation, the nine fuel pins were removed from their capsules, externally examined, and sent to the NASA Plum Brook Facility for more detailed postirradiation examination. During visual examination, it was discovered that the cladding of the fuel pin containing dense UN in each of capsules UN-4 and -5 had failed, exposing the UN fuel to the NaK in which the pins were submerged and permitting the release of fission gas from the failed pins. A rough analysis of the fission gas seen in samples of the gas in the fuel pin region indicated fission gas release-to-birth rates from these fuel pins in the range of .00001.

Onboard Science Insights and Vehicle Dynamics from Scale-Model Trials of the Titan Mare Explorer (TiME) Capsule at Laguna Negra, Chile.

PubMed

Lorenz, Ralph D; Cabrol, Nathalie A

2018-05-01

A scale model of the proposed Titan Mare Explorer capsule was deployed at the Planetary Lake Lander field site at Laguna Negra, Chile. The tests served to calibrate models of wind-driven drift of the capsule and to understand its attitude motion in the wave field, as well as to identify dynamic and acoustic signatures of shoreline approach. This information enables formulation of onboard trigger criteria for near-shore science data acquisition. Key Words: Titan-Vehicle dynamics-Science autonomy-Lake. Astrobiology 18, 607-618.

KSC-2012-4247

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-08-03

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Lockheed Martin's Jules Schneider, right, shows details of the preparation hardware used for the Orion capsule to Charles Bolden, NASA administrator, center. The Orion capsule will make an uncrewed flight test in 2014. The spacecraft is in the high bay at the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shifflett

SpaceX Dragon Air Circulation System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hernandez, Brenda; Piatrovich, Siarhei; Prina, Mauro

2011-01-01

The Dragon capsule is a reusable vehicle being developed by Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) that will provide commercial cargo transportation to the International Space Station (ISS). Dragon is designed to be a habitable module while it is berthed to ISS. As such, the Dragon Environmental Control System (ECS) consists of pressure control and pressure equalization, air sampling, fire detection, illumination, and an air circulation system. The air circulation system prevents pockets of stagnant air in Dragon that can be hazardous to the ISS crew. In addition, through the inter-module duct, the air circulation system provides fresh air from ISS into Dragon. To utilize the maximum volume of Dragon for cargo packaging, the Dragon ECS air circulation system is designed around cargo rack optimization. At the same time, the air circulation system is designed to meet the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) inter-module and intra-module ventilation requirements and acoustic requirements. A flight like configuration of the Dragon capsule including the air circulation system was recently assembled for testing to assess the design for inter-module and intra-module ventilation and acoustics. The testing included the Dragon capsule, and flight configuration in the pressure section with cargo racks, lockers, all of the air circulation components, and acoustic treatment. The air circulation test was also used to verify the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of the Dragon capsule. The CFD model included the same Dragon internal geometry that was assembled for the test. This paper will describe the Dragon air circulation system design which has been verified by testing the system and with CFD analysis.

Construction of the vessel-collateral theory and its guidance for prevention and treatment of vasculopathy.

PubMed

Wu, Yiling

2011-06-01

According to the self-discipline of traditional Chinese medicine, vessel-collateral theory was constructed systematically, which was important to improving prevention and treatment level of vasculopathy. The hypothesis of "homeostasis (Cheng), compensatory auto-adaptation (Zhi), regulation (Tiao) and equilibrium (Ping)" based on the "qi-yin-yang-five elements" coupled with the ying (nutrients)-wei (defense) theory, has become the core content of the vessel-collateral theory. Clinical and laboratory trials have been developed to further confirm the scientific connotations of the hypothesis, such as Tong Xin Luo capsule, as the representative drugs of vessel collateral theory, showed good efficacy in protecting the vascular endothelium, stabilizing the vulnerable plaque and reducing the blood vessel spasm. "Sou, ti, shu, tong" was the characteristics of Tong Xin Luo capsule in treating "microvascular damage" as the core mechanism of acute myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction and microvascular complications of diabetes. Shen Song Yang Xin capsules in the treatment of arrhythmia have made integrated adjustment advantage. Qi Li Qiang Xin capsules have been made treating both manifestation and root cause of chronic heart failure. These research have improved prevention and treatment level of major vascular system diseases.

Microarray-based comparative genomic profiling of reference strains and selected Canadian field isolates of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae

PubMed Central

Gouré, Julien; Findlay, Wendy A; Deslandes, Vincent; Bouevitch, Anne; Foote, Simon J; MacInnes, Janet I; Coulton, James W; Nash, John HE; Jacques, Mario

2009-01-01

Background Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, the causative agent of porcine pleuropneumonia, is a highly contagious respiratory pathogen that causes severe losses to the swine industry worldwide. Current commercially-available vaccines are of limited value because they do not induce cross-serovar immunity and do not prevent development of the carrier state. Microarray-based comparative genomic hybridizations (M-CGH) were used to estimate whole genomic diversity of representative Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae strains. Our goal was to identify conserved genes, especially those predicted to encode outer membrane proteins and lipoproteins because of their potential for the development of more effective vaccines. Results Using hierarchical clustering, our M-CGH results showed that the majority of the genes in the genome of the serovar 5 A. pleuropneumoniae L20 strain were conserved in the reference strains of all 15 serovars and in representative field isolates. Fifty-eight conserved genes predicted to encode for outer membrane proteins or lipoproteins were identified. As well, there were several clusters of diverged or absent genes including those associated with capsule biosynthesis, toxin production as well as genes typically associated with mobile elements. Conclusion Although A. pleuropneumoniae strains are essentially clonal, M-CGH analysis of the reference strains of the fifteen serovars and representative field isolates revealed several classes of genes that were divergent or absent. Not surprisingly, these included genes associated with capsule biosynthesis as the capsule is associated with sero-specificity. Several of the conserved genes were identified as candidates for vaccine development, and we conclude that M-CGH is a valuable tool for reverse vaccinology. PMID:19239696

Pharmacokinetics of propafenone hydrochloride sustained-release capsules in male beagle dogs.

PubMed

Pan, Liping; Qian, Yafang; Cheng, Minlu; Gu, Pan; He, Yanna; Xu, Xiaowen; Ding, Li

2015-01-01

This paper describes the development and validation of a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric assay for propafenone and its application to a pharmacokinetic study of propafenone administered as a new propafenone hydrochloride sustained-release capsule (SR-test), as an instant-release tablet (IR-reference) and as the market leader sustained-release capsule (Rythmol, SR-reference) in male beagle dogs (n=8). In Study A comparing SR-test with IR-reference in a crossover design T max and t 1/2 of propafenone for SR-test were significantly higher than those for IR-reference while C max and AUC were lower demonstrating the sustained release properties of the new formulation. In Study B comparing SR-test with SR-reference the observed C max and AUC of propafenone for SR-test (124.5±140.0 ng/mL and 612.0±699.2 ng·h/mL, respectively) were higher than for SR-reference (78.52±72.92 ng/mL and 423.6±431.6 ng·h/mL, respectively) although the differences were not significant. Overall, the new formulation has as good if not better sustained release characteristics to the market leader formulation.

WESF (173)Cs gamma ray sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kenna, B. T.

1984-10-01

The Waste Encapsulation and Storage Facility (WESP) at Hanford, Washington has been separating cesium from stored liquid defense waste since 1945. This is done to alleviate the heat generated by the decay of radioactive Cs137. The cesium is converted to CsCl, doubly encapsulated in 316l stainless steel, and placed in storage. The potential utility of these Cs137 capsules as gamma radiation sources was demonstrated. Registration of the capsule with the NRC as a sealed gamma source would facilitate the licensing of non-DOE irradiation facilities using this source. To grant this registration, the NRC requires characteristics of the capsule. It must also be demonstrated that the capsule will maintain its integrity under both normal circumstances and specified abnormal conditions. The required information is provided through collation of results of studies and tests done previously by other laboratories.

Macroscopic and histological investigation of guanaco footpads (Lama guanicoe, Müller 1776).

PubMed

König, Horst Erich; Skewes, Oscar; Helmreich, Magda; Böck, Peter

2015-03-01

The surface of guanaco footpads is characterized by hairless skin with up to 4-mm-thick stratum corneum that protects from abrasion. The horny layer is pliable and elastic, and ensures firm contact with irregular ground. It is padded with a particular structure of the subcutaneous layer, the digital cushion. The flat cushions of each of the two digits are of elongated ovate shape, each about 45-mm long, up to 20-mm wide, and 8-mm thick. The cushions are lined by a 1-2-mm-thick capsule that resembles a tunica albuginea. The capsule consists of coarse collagen fibers, with elastic fibers absent. The cushion capsule and dermis approach each other, and fuse along a line that runs parallel to the longitudinal axes of cushion and digit. Loose connective tissue rich in elastic fibers and acidic glycosaminoglycans separates dermis and cushion capsule lateral to the narrow interconnecting zone. The cushion capsule encloses cloudy yellowish, gelatinous material. Microscopy shows bundles of elastic fibers in abundant mucinous matrix. Tightly gathered elastic bundles adjoin the inner surface of the capsule. Rough cords of elastic fibers branch out from there and traverse to the opposite side. The cushion is pressed flat, and elastic fibers are stretched when bearing weight. With relief of load, elastic fibers contract and reset the cushion's shape. Contractile cells are absent. A resistant capsule and easily malleable mucinous contents establish the functioning as a gel pad. Mucinous connective tissue between elastic fiber bundles contains abundant basophilic matrix. Hyaluronan, chondroitin sulfate, and dermatan sulfate are main matrix constituents. Spindle-shaped or stellate fibroblasts contain vimentin, S100 protein, and neuron specific enolase. Moprhology, staining characteristics and synthesis activities of these cells meet the criteria to be classified as myxoid cells. The connective tissue in guanaco digital cushions represents myxoid tissue. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Detailed implosion modeling of deuterium-tritium layered experiments on the National Ignition Facilitya)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, D. S.; Hinkel, D. E.; Eder, D. C.; Jones, O. S.; Haan, S. W.; Hammel, B. A.; Marinak, M. M.; Milovich, J. L.; Robey, H. F.; Suter, L. J.; Town, R. P. J.

2013-05-01

More than two dozen inertial confinement fusion ignition experiments with cryogenic deuterium-tritium layers have now been performed on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [G. H. Miller et al., Opt. Eng. 443, 2841 (2004)]. Each of these yields a wealth of data including neutron yield, neutron down-scatter fraction, burn-averaged ion temperature, x-ray image shape and size, primary and down-scattered neutron image shape and size, etc. Compared to 2-D radiation-hydrodynamics simulations modeling both the hohlraum and the capsule implosion, however, the measured capsule yield is usually lower by a factor of 5 to 10, and the ion temperature varies from simulations, while most other observables are well matched between experiment and simulation. In an effort to understand this discrepancy, we perform detailed post-shot simulations of a subset of NIF implosion experiments. Using two-dimensional HYDRA simulations [M. M. Marinak, et al., Phys. Plasmas 8, 2275 (2001).] of the capsule only, these simulations represent as accurately as possible the conditions of a given experiment, including the as-shot capsule metrology, capsule surface roughness, and ice layer defects as seeds for the growth of hydrodynamic instabilities. The radiation drive used in these capsule-only simulations can be tuned to reproduce quite well the measured implosion timing, kinematics, and low-mode asymmetry. In order to simulate the experiments as accurately as possible, a limited number of fully three-dimensional implosion simulations are also being performed. Despite detailed efforts to incorporate all of the effects known and believed to be important in determining implosion performance, substantial yield discrepancies remain between experiment and simulation. Some possible alternate scenarios and effects that could resolve this discrepancy are discussed.

Hyperspectral techniques in analysis of oral dosage forms.

PubMed

Hamilton, Sara J; Lowell, Amanda E; Lodder, Robert A

2002-10-01

Pharmaceutical oral dosage forms are used in this paper to test the sensitivity and spatial resolution of hyperspectral imaging instruments. The first experiment tested the hypothesis that a near-infrared (IR) tunable diode-based remote sensing system is capable of monitoring degradation of hard gelatin capsules at a relatively long distance (0.5 km). Spectra from the capsules were used to differentiate among capsules exposed to an atmosphere containing 150 ppb formaldehyde for 0, 2, 4, and 8 h. Robust median-based principal component regression with Bayesian inference was employed for outlier detection. The second experiment tested the hypothesis that near-IR imaging spectrometry of tablets permits the identification and composition of multiple individual tablets to be determined simultaneously. A near-IR camera was used to collect thousands of spectra simultaneously from a field of blister-packaged tablets. The number of tablets that a typical near-IR camera can currently analyze simultaneously was estimated to be approximately 1300. The bootstrap error-adjusted single-sample technique chemometric-imaging algorithm was used to draw probability-density contour plots that revealed tablet composition. The single-capsule analysis provides an indication of how far apart the sample and instrumentation can be and still maintain adequate signal-to-noise ratio (S/N), while the multiple-tablet imaging experiment gives an indication of how many samples can be analyzed simultaneously while maintaining an adequate S/N and pixel coverage on each sample.

KSC-2012-4248

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-08-03

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Lockheed Martin's Jules Schneider, right, shows the upper portion of the Orion capsule to Charles Bolden, NASA administrator, center, as NASA's Scott Wilson looks on. The Orion capsule will make an uncrewed flight test in 2014. The spacecraft is in the high bay at the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shifflett

KSC-2012-4246

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-08-03

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Lockheed Martin's Jules Schneider, right, shows the upper portion of the Orion capsule to Charles Bolden, NASA administrator, center, as NASA's Scott Wilson looks on. The Orion capsule will make an uncrewed flight test in 2014. The spacecraft is in the high bay at the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shifflett

Aerodynamics for the Mars Phoenix Entry Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edquist, Karl T.; Desai, Prasun N.; Schoenenberger, Mark

2008-01-01

Pre-flight aerodynamics data for the Mars Phoenix entry capsule are presented. The aerodynamic coefficients were generated as a function of total angle-of-attack and either Knudsen number, velocity, or Mach number, depending on the flight regime. The database was constructed using continuum flowfield computations and data from the Mars Exploration Rover and Viking programs. Hypersonic and supersonic static coefficients were derived from Navier-Stokes solutions on a pre-flight design trajectory. High-altitude data (free-molecular and transitional regimes) and dynamic pitch damping characteristics were taken from Mars Exploration Rover analysis and testing. Transonic static coefficients from Viking wind tunnel tests were used for capsule aerodynamics under the parachute. Static instabilities were predicted at two points along the reference trajectory and were verified by reconstructed flight data. During the hypersonic instability, the capsule was predicted to trim at angles as high as 2.5 deg with an on-axis center-of-gravity. Trim angles were predicted for off-nominal pitching moment (4.2 deg peak) and a 5 mm off-axis center-ofgravity (4.8 deg peak). Finally, hypersonic static coefficient sensitivities to atmospheric density were predicted to be within uncertainty bounds.

A sealed capsule system for biological and liquid shock-recovery experiments.

PubMed

Leighs, James A; Appleby-Thomas, Gareth J; Stennett, Chris; Hameed, Amer; Wilgeroth, James M; Hazell, Paul J

2012-11-01

This paper presents an experimental method designed to one-dimensionally shock load and subsequently recover liquid samples. Resultant loading profiles have been interrogated via hydrocode simulation as the nature of the target did not allow for direct application of the diagnostics typically employed in shock physics (e.g., manganin stress gauges or Heterodyne velocimeter (Het-V)). The target setup has been experimentally tested using aluminium flyer plates accelerated by a 50-mm bore single-stage gas-gun reaching projectile impact velocities of up to ~500 ms(-1) (corresponding to peak pressures of up to ca. 4 GPa being experienced by fluid samples). Recovered capsules survived well showing only minor signs of damage. Modelled gauge traces have been validated through the use of a (slightly modified) experiment in which a Het-V facing the rear of the inner capsule was employed. In these tests, good correlation between simulated and experimental traces was observed.

A sealed capsule system for biological and liquid shock-recovery experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leighs, James A.; Appleby-Thomas, Gareth J.; Stennett, Chris; Hameed, Amer; Wilgeroth, James M.; Hazell, Paul J.

2012-11-01

This paper presents an experimental method designed to one-dimensionally shock load and subsequently recover liquid samples. Resultant loading profiles have been interrogated via hydrocode simulation as the nature of the target did not allow for direct application of the diagnostics typically employed in shock physics (e.g., manganin stress gauges or Heterodyne velocimeter (Het-V)). The target setup has been experimentally tested using aluminium flyer plates accelerated by a 50-mm bore single-stage gas-gun reaching projectile impact velocities of up to ˜500 ms-1 (corresponding to peak pressures of up to ca. 4 GPa being experienced by fluid samples). Recovered capsules survived well showing only minor signs of damage. Modelled gauge traces have been validated through the use of a (slightly modified) experiment in which a Het-V facing the rear of the inner capsule was employed. In these tests, good correlation between simulated and experimental traces was observed.

KSC-2012-3710

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket arrives at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2520

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-04

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In a processing hangar at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, Space Exploration Technologies technicians close the hatch of the Dragon capsule. The hatch was open for cargo to be stowed in the capsule in preparation for its scheduled April 30 liftoff aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. Known as SpaceX, the launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of checkout procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. The cargo includes food and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries, and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two private companies to launch cargo safely to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3713

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The 227-foot-tall 69.2 meter) SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket arrives at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3715

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stands at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3720

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stands at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2850

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-17

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket makes its way to the pad at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3714

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Under the watchful eye of technicians, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket arrives at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2519

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-04

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In a processing hangar at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, Space Exploration Technologies technicians prepare to close the hatch of the Dragon capsule. The hatch was open for cargo to be stowed in the capsule in preparation for its scheduled April 30 liftoff aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. Known as SpaceX, the launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of checkout procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. The cargo includes food and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries, and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two private companies to launch cargo safely to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3722

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stands at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3721

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The 227-foot-tall 69.2 meter) SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stands at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3711

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In this nose-on view, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket arrives at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

The Wireless Motility Capsule: a One-Stop Shop for the Evaluation of GI Motility Disorders.

PubMed

Saad, Richard J

2016-03-01

The wireless motility and pH capsule (WMC) provides an office-based test to simultaneously assess both regional and whole gut transit. Ingestion of this non-digestible capsule capable of measuring temperature, pH, and the pressure of its immediate surroundings allows for the measurement of gastric, small bowel, and colonic transit times in an ambulatory setting. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the evaluation of suspected conditions of delayed gastric emptying and the evaluation of colonic transit in chronic idiopathic constipation, WMC should be considered in suspected gastrointestinal motility disorders as it provides a single study capable of simultaneously assessing for regional, multiregional, or generalized motility disorders. Specific indications for testing with the WMC should include the evaluation of suspect cases of gastroparesis, small bowel dysmotility, and slow transit constipation, as well as symptom syndromes suggestive of a multiregional or generalized gastrointestinal transit delay.

The Anterolateral Capsule of the Knee Behaves Like a Sheet of Fibrous Tissue.

PubMed

Guenther, Daniel; Rahnemai-Azar, Amir A; Bell, Kevin M; Irarrázaval, Sebastián; Fu, Freddie H; Musahl, Volker; Debski, Richard E

2017-03-01

The function of the anterolateral capsule of the knee has not been clearly defined. However, the contribution of this region of the capsule to knee stability in comparison with other anterolateral structures can be determined by the relative force that each structure carries during loading of the knee. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to determine the forces in the anterolateral structures of the intact and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient knee in response to an anterior tibial load and internal tibial torque. It was hypothesized that the anterolateral capsule would not function like a traditional ligament (ie, transmitting forces only along its longitudinal axis). Controlled laboratory study. Loads (134-N anterior tibial load and 7-N·m internal tibial torque) were applied continuously during flexion to 7 fresh-frozen cadaveric knees in the intact and ACL-deficient state using a robotic testing system. The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) and the anterolateral capsule were separated from the surrounding tissue and from each other. This was done by performing 3 vertical incisions: lateral to the LCL, medial to the LCL, and lateral to the Gerdy tubercle. Attachments of the LCL and anterolateral capsule were detached from the underlying tissue (ie, meniscus), leaving the insertions and origins intact. The force distribution in the anterolateral capsule, ACL, and LCL was then determined at 30°, 60°, and 90° of knee flexion using the principle of superposition. In the intact knee, the force in the ACL in response to an anterior tibial load was greater than that in the other structures ( P < .001). However, in response to an internal tibial torque, no significant differences were found between the ACL, LCL, and forces transmitted between each region of the anterolateral capsule after capsule separation. The anterolateral capsule experienced smaller forces (~50% less) compared with the other structures ( P = .048). For the ACL-deficient knee in response to an anterior tibial load, the force transmitted between each region of the anterolateral capsule was 434% greater than was the force in the anterolateral capsule ( P < .001) and 54% greater than the force in the LCL ( P = .036) at 30° of flexion. In response to an internal tibial torque at 30°, 60°, or 90° of knee flexion, no significant differences were found between the force transmitted between each region of the anterolateral capsule and the LCL. The force in the anterolateral capsule was significantly smaller than that in the other structures at all knee flexion angles for both loading conditions ( P = .004 for anterior tibial load and P = .04 for internal tibial torque). The anterolateral capsule carries negligible forces in the longitudinal direction, and the forces transmitted between regions of the capsule were similar to the forces carried by the other structures at the knee, suggesting that it does not function as a traditional ligament. Thus, the anterolateral capsule should be considered a sheet of tissue. Surgical repair techniques for the anterolateral capsule should restore the ability of the tissue to transmit forces between adjacent regions of the capsule rather than along its longitudinal axis.

Regional white matter abnormalities in drug-naive, first-episode schizophrenia patients and their healthy unaffected siblings.

PubMed

Lyu, Hailong; Hu, Maorong; Eyler, Lisa T; Jin, Hua; Wang, Juan; Ou, Jianjun; Guo, Xiaofeng; He, Zhong; Liu, Fang; Zhao, Jingping; Guo, Wenbin

2015-03-01

Shared neuropathological features between schizophrenia patients and their siblings may represent intermediate phenotypes of schizophrenia and can be used to investigate genetic susceptibility to the illness. This study aimed to discover regional white matter abnormalities in first-episode schizophrenia (FES) patients and their unaffected siblings compared to healthy subjects in the Chinese Han population using optimized Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM). A total of 51 drug-naive, FES patients, 45 of their unaffected siblings and 59 healthy comparisons were studied with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). FES patients exhibited significant regional white matter deficits in the left inferior frontal gyrus and left joint of external capsule and internal capsule compared with healthy subjects (corrected FDR, p<0.005). The sibling group also showed significant white matter deficits in these two regions compared with the healthy comparison group (uncorrected, p<0.001). White matter deficits with a less stringent threshold for significance in the left cerebellum anterior lobe, left middle frontal gyrus, left hippocampus, right anterior cingulate and right internal capsule were observed in patients compared to their siblings. Our findings extend those from previous VBM analyses showing that FES patients and their unaffected siblings may share white matter deficits in the left inferior frontal gyrus and the left joint of external capsule and internal capsule. These regional white matter deficits may be related to genetic factors related to schizophrenia susceptibility. © The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists 2014.

In vivo osteogenic differentiation of stem cells inside compartmentalized capsules loaded with co-cultured endothelial cells.

PubMed

Correia, Clara R; Santos, Tírcia C; Pirraco, Rogério P; Cerqueira, Mariana T; Marques, Alexandra P; Reis, Rui L; Mano, João F

2017-04-15

Capsules coated with polyelectrolytes and co-encapsulating adipose stem (ASCs) and endothelial (ECs) cells with surface modified microparticles are developed. Microparticles and cells are freely dispersed in a liquified core, responsible to maximize the diffusion of essential molecules and allowing the geometrical freedom for the autonomous three-dimensional (3D) organization of cells. While the membrane wraps all the instructive cargo elements within a single structure, the microparticles provide a solid 3D substrate for the encapsulated cells. Our hypothesis is that inside this isolated biomimetic 3D environment, ECs would lead ASCs to differentiate into the osteogenic lineage to ultimately generate a mineralized tissue in vivo. For that, capsules encapsulating only ASCs (MONO capsules) or co-cultured with ECs (CO capsules) are subcutaneously implanted in nude mice up to 6weeks. Capsules implanted immediately after production or after 21days of in vitro osteogenic stimulation are tested. The most valuable outcome of the present study is the mineralized tissue in CO capsules without in vitro pre-differentiation, with similar levels compared to the pre-stimulated capsules in vitro. We believe that the proposed bioencapsulation strategy is a potent self-regulated system, which might find great applicability in bone tissue engineering. The diffusion efficiency of essential molecules for cell survival is a main issue in cell encapsulation. Former studies reported the superior biological outcome of encapsulated cells within liquified systems. However, most cells used in TE are anchorage-dependent, requiring a solid substrate to perform main cellular processes. We hypothesized that liquified capsules encapsulating microparticles are a promising attempt. Inspired by the multiphenotypic cellular environment of bone, we combine the concept of liquified capsules with co-cultures of stem and endothelial cells. After implantation, results show that co-cultured capsules without in vitro stimulation were able to form a mineralized tissue in vivo. We believe that the present ready-to-use TE strategy requiring minimum in vitro manipulation will find great applicability in bone tissue engineering. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Reentry Capsule for Sample Return from Asteroids in the Planetary Exploration Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inatani, Yoshifumi

2018-04-01

For carrying sample from the bodies of interplanetary space, a wide range of knowledge of reentry technology is needed. HAYABUSA(MUSES-C) was an asteroid explorer returned to the earth after the 7 years of voyage, and its capsule reenters into the Earth’s atmosphere, which was a good example of reentry technology implemented to the flight vehicle. It performed a safe reentry flight and recovery. For the design of the capsule, many considerations were made due to its higher entry velocity and higher aerodynamic heating than those of normal reentry from the low earth orbit. Taking into account the required functions throughout the orbital flight, reentry flight, and descent/recovery phase, the capsule was deigned, tested, manufactured and flight demonstrated finally. The paper presents the concept of the design and qualification approach of the small space capsule of the asteroid sample and return mission. And presented are how the reentry flight was performed and a brief overview of the post flight analysis primarily for these design validation purposes and for the better understanding of the flight results.

Visualization of Flow Separation Around an Atmospheric Entry Capsule at Low-Subsonic Mach Number Using Background-Oriented Schlieren (BOS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mizukaki, Toshiharu; Borg, Stephen E.; Danehy, Paul M.; Murman, Scott M.

2014-01-01

This paper presents the results of visualization of separated flow around a generic entry capsule that resembles the Apollo Command Module (CM) and the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV). The model was tested at flow speeds up to Mach 0.4 at a single angle of attack of 28 degrees. For manned spacecraft using capsule-shaped vehicles, certain flight operations such as emergency abort maneuvers soon after launch and flight just prior to parachute deployment during the final stages of entry, the command module may fly at low Mach number. Under these flow conditions, the separated flow generated from the heat-shield surface on both windward and leeward sides of the capsule dominates the wake flow downstream of the capsule. In this paper, flow visualization of the separated flow was conducted using the background-oriented schlieren (BOS) method, which has the capability of visualizing significantly separated wake flows without the particle seeding required by other techniques. Experimental results herein show that BOS has detection capability of density changes on the order of 10(sup-5).

A Comparison of the Irradiation Creep Behavior of Several Graphites

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

Burchell, Timothy D; Windes, Will

2016-01-01

Graphite creep strain data from the irradiation creep capsule Advanced Graphite Creep-1 (AGC-1) are reported. This capsule was the first (prototype) of a series of five or six capsules planned as part of the AGC experiment, which was designed to fully characterize the effects of neutron irradiation and the radiation creep behavior of current nuclear graphite. The creep strain data and analysis are reported for the six graphite grades incorporated in the capsule. The AGC-1 capsule was irradiated in the Advanced Test Reactor at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) at approximately 700 C and to a peak dose of 7 dpamore » (displacements per atom). The specimen s final dose, temperature, and stress conditions have been reported by INL and were used during this analysis. The derived creep coefficients (K) were calculated for each grade and were found to compare well to literature data for the creep coefficient, even under the wide range of AGC-1 specimen temperatures. Comparisons were made between AGC-1 data and historical grade data for creep coefficients.« less

Controllable fabrication and characterization of biocompatible core-shell particles and hollow capsules as drug carrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Lingyun; Gong, Xinglong; Xuan, Shouhu; Zhang, Hong; Gong, Xiuqing; Jiang, Wanquan; Chen, Zuyao

2006-10-01

SiO 2@CdSe core-shell particles were fabricated by controllable deposition CdSe nanoparticles on silica colloidal spheres. Step-wise coating process was tracked by the TEM and XRD measurements. In addition, SiO 2@CdSe/polypyrrole(PPy) multi-composite particles were synthesized based on the as-prepared SiO 2@CdSe particles by cationic polymerization. The direct electrochemistry of myoglobin (Mb) could be performed by immobilizing Mb on the surface of SiO 2@CdSe particles. Immobilized with Mb, SiO 2@CdSe/PPy-Mb also displayed good bioelectrochemical activity. It confirmed the good biocompatible property of the materials with protein. CdSe hollow capsules were further obtained as the removal of the cores of SiO 2@CdSe spheres. Hollow and porous character of CdSe sub-meter size capsules made them becoming hopeful candidates as drug carriers. Doxorubicin, a typical an antineoplastic drug, was introduced into the capsules. A good sustained drug release behavior of the loading capsules was discovered via performing a release test in the PBS buffer (pH 7.4) solution at 310 k. Furthermore, SiO 2@CdSe/PPy could be converted to various smart hollow capsules via selectively removal of their relevant components.

Comparative study of antibiotic-containing polymethylmetacrylate capsules and beads.

PubMed

Borzsei, László; Mintál, Tibor; Horváth, Aranka; Koós, Zoltán; Kocsis, Béla; Nyárády, József

2006-01-01

This study aimed at making local antibiotic therapy wider in cases of chronic suppurations by administering antibiotics which previously could not be given in this way through the conventional polymethylmetacrylate (PMMA) carrier techniques. Capsules from this material were produced with a pressing machine designed and laid out by us. The characteristics of antibiotic penetration from this novel carrier were compared to those of PMMA beads. The time-dependent outflow of amikacin, clindamycin, pefloxacin, piperacillin + tazobactam, amoxicillin + clavulanic acid and cefotaxime was examined from the capsules and the beads with standard microbiological techniques using the Micrococcus luteus ATCC9341 test strain. The diameter of the inhibitory zones was measured after 24 h incubation at 37 degrees C and converted to mug/ml antibiotic concentrations. Our results revealed that all antibiotics showed longer-lasting and higher concentration outflow from the PMMA capsules than from the beads. Therefore, these capsules can provide a more promising new opportunity for specific local antimicrobial treatment in cases of chronic suppurative bone and soft tissue injuries. In these cases the polymerization has already been completed and the heat does not influence the structure of the antibiotics; therefore, it can be inserted into the capsules in powder or solution form. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.

AGR-2: The first irradiation of French HTR fuel in Advanced Test Reactor

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

T. Lambert; B. Grover; P. Guillermier

AGR-2, the second irradiation of the US program for qualification of the NGNP fuel, is open to international participation within the scope of the Generation IV International Forum. In this frame, it includes in its multi-capsule irradiation rig an irradiation of French HTR fuel manufactured in the CAPRI line (GAIA facility at CEA/Cadarache and AREVA/CERCA compacting line at Romans). The AGR-2 irradiation is designed to place our first fabrications of HTR particles under operating conditions that are representative of ANTARES project while keeping close to the test range of the German fuel as much as possible, which is the referencemore » in terms of irradiation behavior. A few batches of particles and 12 fuel compacts were produced and characterized in 2009 by CEA and CERCA. The fuel main characteristics are in conformity with our specifications and in compliance with INL requirements. The AGR-2 experiment is based on the design and devices used in the first experiment of the AGR program. The design makes it possible to monitor the irradiation conditions and in particular, the temperature, the power and the fission products released from fuel particles. The in pile equipment consists of a multi-capsule device designed to simultaneously irradiate six independent capsules with temperature control. The out-of-core part consists of the equipment for actively controlling temperature and measuring the fission products release on-line. The target conditions for the irradiation experiment were defined with the aim of comparing the results obtained under irradiation with German particles along with the objectives of reaching burn-up and fluence targets to validate the behavior of our fuel in a significant range (15% FIMA – 5 × 1025 n/m2 at 600 EFPD with centerline fuel temperature about 1100 degrees C). These conditions have to be representative of ANTARES project characteristics. These target conditions were compared with final results from neutron and thermal design studies performed by INL team, and preliminary thermal mechanical ATLAS calculations were carried out by CEA from this pre-design. Despite the mean burn-up achieved in approximately 600 EFPD being a little high (16.3% FIMA max. associated with a low fluence up to 2.85 × 1025 n/m2), this irradiation will nevertheless encompass the range of irradiation effects covered in our experimental objectives (maximum stress peak at start of irradiation then sign inversion of the stress in the SiC layer). In addition, the fluence and burn-up acceleration factors are very similar to those of the German reference experiments. This experimental irradiation began in July 2010 in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and first results have been acquired.« less

Effect of a controlled-release albendazole capsule on parasitism and productivity of sheep.

PubMed

Corba, J; Krupicer, I; Legény, J; Juris, P; Veselý, L

1991-11-01

The efficacy of intraruminal albendazole (ABZ) capsules (Profitril-Captec) and the effect of treatment on productivity were studied in 300 ewes infected with gastrointestinal nematodes and the trematode Dicrocoelium dendriticum. Coprological tests revealed that treated animals remained negative for 10 weeks after the administration of capsules. Contamination of pasture with nematode larvae was significantly reduced during the whole experiment. Necropsy of 14 animals (seven treated and seven untreated) showed 96.9-99.2% efficacy against the nematodes Nematodirus spp., Oesophagostomum spp., Cooperia spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Trichuris ovis, while efficacy was 88.5% against D. dendriticum. During the 6 month pasture season (May-October 1989), treated ewes produced on average 2.56 kg cheese and 0.6 kg wool per ewe more than untreated controls. Our study confirms the reliability of the ABZ slow-release capsules over 90 days and the positive effect of treatment on nematode contamination of pasture and ewe productivity.

Development of Performance Measurement for Freight Transportation : Research Project Capsule

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-10-01

The new Moving Ahead for : Progress in the 21st Century : Act (MAP-21), passed by the : U.S Senate and pending at : the U.S. House of Representatives, requests the national freight network to : incorporate concepts of performance and accountabilit...

Composite Structures Materials Testing for the Orion Crew Vehicle Heat Shield

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khemani, Farah N.

2011-01-01

As research is being performed for the new heat shield for the Orion capsule, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is developing the first composite heat shield. As an intern of the Structures Branch in the Engineering Directorate (ES 2), my main task was to set up a test plan to determine the material properties of the honeycomb that will be used on the Orion Crew Module heat shield to verify that the composite is suitable for the capsule. Before conducting composite shell tests, which are performed to simulate the crush performance of the heat shield on the capsule, it is necessary to determine the compression and shear properties of the composite used on the shell. During this internship, I was responsible for developing a test plan, designing parts for the test fixtures as well as getting them fabricated for the honeycomb shear and compression testing. This involved work in Pro/Engineer as well as coordinating with Fab Express, the Building 9 Composite Shop and the Structures Test Laboratory (STL). The research and work executed for this project will be used for composite sandwich panel testing in the future as well. As a part of the Structures Branch, my main focus was to research composite structures. This involves system engineering and integration (SE&I) integration, manufacturing, and preliminary testing. The procedures for these projects that were executed during this internship included design work, conducting tests and performing analysis.

Theoretical study of symmetry of flux onto a capsule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duan, Hao; Wu, Changshu; Pei, Wenbing; Zou, Shiyang

2015-09-01

An analytic model to describe the flux asymmetry onto a capsule based on the viewfactor approximation is developed and verified with numerical simulations. By using a nested spheres technique to represent the various sources of flux asymmetry, the model can treat spherically and cylindrically symmetric hohlraums, e.g., cylinder, elliptic, and rugby. This approach includes the more realistic case of frequency-dependent flux asymmetry compared with the more standard frequency-integrated or single-frequency approaches [D. W. Phillion and S. M. Pollaine, Phys. Plasmas 1, 2963 (1994)]. Correspondingly, the approach can be used to assess x-ray preheat asymmetry generated from localized laser absorption in the high-Z hohlraum wall. For spherical hohlraums with 4, 6, or 8 laser entrance holes (LEHs), an optimal configuration of LEHs, laser spot placement, and angle-of-incidence of the single-ringed laser beams is defined. An analogy between minimizing the flux asymmetry onto a capsule and the Thomson problem of point charge placement on a sphere for minimized energy is shown.

Theoretical study of symmetry of flux onto a capsule

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

Duan, Hao; Wu, Changshu; Zou, Shiyang, E-mail: duan-hao@iapcm.ac.cn

2015-09-15

An analytic model to describe the flux asymmetry onto a capsule based on the viewfactor approximation is developed and verified with numerical simulations. By using a nested spheres technique to represent the various sources of flux asymmetry, the model can treat spherically and cylindrically symmetric hohlraums, e.g., cylinder, elliptic, and rugby. This approach includes the more realistic case of frequency-dependent flux asymmetry compared with the more standard frequency-integrated or single-frequency approaches [D. W. Phillion and S. M. Pollaine, Phys. Plasmas 1, 2963 (1994)]. Correspondingly, the approach can be used to assess x-ray preheat asymmetry generated from localized laser absorption inmore » the high-Z hohlraum wall. For spherical hohlraums with 4, 6, or 8 laser entrance holes (LEHs), an optimal configuration of LEHs, laser spot placement, and angle-of-incidence of the single-ringed laser beams is defined. An analogy between minimizing the flux asymmetry onto a capsule and the Thomson problem of point charge placement on a sphere for minimized energy is shown.« less

LBP based detection of intestinal motility in WCE images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallo, Giovanni; Granata, Eliana

2011-03-01

In this research study, a system to support medical analysis of intestinal contractions by processing WCE images is presented. Small intestine contractions are among the motility patterns which reveal many gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia, paralytic ileus, irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial overgrowth. The images have been obtained using the Wireless Capsule Endoscopy (WCE) technique, a patented, video colorimaging disposable capsule. Manual annotation of contractions is an elaborating task, since the recording device of the capsule stores about 50,000 images and contractions might represent only the 1% of the whole video. In this paper we propose the use of Local Binary Pattern (LBP) combined with the powerful textons statistics to find the frames of the video related to contractions. We achieve a sensitivity of about 80% and a specificity of about 99%. The achieved high detection accuracy of the proposed system has provided thus an indication that such intelligent schemes could be used as a supplementary diagnostic tool in endoscopy.

Contraindications for video capsule endoscopy

PubMed Central

Bandorski, Dirk; Kurniawan, Niehls; Baltes, Peter; Hoeltgen, Reinhard; Hecker, Matthias; Stunder, Dominik; Keuchel, Martin

2016-01-01

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) has been applied in the last 15 years in an increasing field of applications. Although many contraindications have been put into perspective, some precautions still have to be considered. Known stenosis of the gastrointestinal tract is a clear contraindication for VCE unless surgery is already scheduled or at least has been considered as an optional treatment modality. In patients with a higher incidence of stenosis, as in an established diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, clinical signs of obstruction, prior radiation or surgical small bowel resection, a preceding test with the self-dissolving patency capsule can override this contraindication. Endoscopic placement of the capsule should be considered in patients with swallowing disorders to avoid aspiration. Esophageal or gastric motility disorders may require endoscopic capsule transport or application of prokinetics if the real-time viewer proofs delayed transit. In pregnant women, VCE should be restricted to urgent cases where diagnosis cannot be postponed after delivery, as data on safety are missing. There is theoretical and clinical evidence that patients with implanted cardiac devices such as a pacemaker, cardioverters or left heart assist devices, can safely undergo VCE in spite of still existing contraindication by manufacturers. Children from the age of 2 years have safely undergone VCE. Although video capsules are not proven safe with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), first single cases of patients incidentally undergoing MRI with an incorporated capsule have been reported, showing susceptibility artifacts but no signs of clinical harm. PMID:28018097

Mercury Capsule Construction at the NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-08-21

A NASA mechanic secures the afterbody to a Mercury capsule in the hangar at the Lewis Research Center. The capsule was one of two built at Lewis for the “Big Joe” launches scheduled for September 1959. The initial phase of Project Mercury consisted of a series of unmanned launches using the Air Force’s Redstone and Atlas boosters and the Langley-designed Little Joe boosters. The first Atlas launch, referred to as “Big Joe”, was a single attempt early in Project Mercury to use a full-scale Atlas booster to simulate the reentry of a mock-up Mercury capsule without actually placing it in orbit. The overall design of Big Joe had been completed by December 1958, and soon thereafter project manager Aleck Bond assigned NASA Lewis the task of designing the electronic instrumentation and automatic stabilization system. Lewis also constructed the capsule’s lower section, which contained a pressurized area with the electronics and two nitrogen tanks for the retrorockets. Lewis technicians were responsible for assembling the entire capsule: the General Electric heatshield, NASA Langley afterbody and recovery canister, and Lewis electronics and control systems. On June 9, 1959, the capsule was loaded on an air force transport aircraft and flown to Cape Canaveral. A team of 45 test operations personnel from Lewis followed the capsule to Florida and spent the ensuing months preparing it for launch. The launch took place in the early morning hours of September 9, 1959.

Axial strength test for round flat faced versus capsule shaped bilayer tablets.

PubMed

Franck, Jason; Abebe, Admassu; Keluskar, Rekha; Martin, Kyle; Majumdar, Antara; Kottala, Niranjan; Stamato, Howard

2015-03-01

There has been increasing interest in fixed dose combination (FDC) therapy. Multi-layer tablets are a popular choice among various technologies to deliver FDCs. In most cases, round flat faced tooling is used in testing tablets as they have the simplest geometry. However, shaped tooling is more common for commercial products and may have an effect on bilayer tablet strength. Capsule shaped bilayer tablets, similar to a commercial image, and holders conforming to the tablet topology, were compared with similar round flat faced bilayer tablets and their corresponding holders. Bilayer tablets were subjected to an axial test device, until fracture and the quantitative breaking force value was recorded. As the second layer compression force increases, regardless of holder design, an increase in breaking force occurs as expected. This consistent trend provides insight regarding the breaking force of capsule shaped bilayer tablets. The results of this study show that at lower second layer compression forces, tablet geometry does not significantly impact the results. However, at higher compression forces, a significant difference in breaking force between tablet geometries exists. Therefore, using a test geometry close to the final commercial tablet image is recommended to have the most accurate prediction for tablet breakage.

MERCURY-ATLAS (MA)-2 - LIFTOFF - CAPE

NASA Image and Video Library

1961-02-21

S61-01226 (21 Feb. 1961) --- Launch of the unmanned Mercury-Atlas 2 (MA-2) vehicle for a suborbital test flight of the Mercury capsule. The upper part of Atlas is stengthened by an eight-inch wide stainless steel band. The capsule was recovered less than one hour after launch. The altitude was 108 miles. Speed was 13,000 mph. Recovered 1,425 miles downrange. Photo credit: NASA

KSC-2012-6433

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6444

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6434

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6442

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6441

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6440

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6432

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6443

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6431

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6437

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6435

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6436

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6439

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

KSC-2012-6438

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-12-05

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians prepare to fit a special fixture around an Orion capsule inside the high bay of the Operations & Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The fixture is designed to enable precise pre-launch processing of the Orion spacecraft. An Orion capsule is being prepared to make a flight test in 2014 on a mission that will not carry any astronauts. Photo by Tim Jacobs

Impact of Proteins on the Uptake, Distribution, and Excretion of Phenolics in the Human Body.

PubMed

Draijer, Richard; van Dorsten, Ferdi A; Zebregs, Yvonne E; Hollebrands, Boudewijn; Peters, Sonja; Duchateau, Guus S; Grün, Christian H

2016-12-15

Polyphenols, a complex group of secondary plant metabolites, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been studied in depth for their health-related benefits. The activity of polyphenols may, however, be hampered when consumed together with protein-rich food products, due to the interaction between polyphenols and proteins. To that end we have tested the bioavailability of representatives of a range of polyphenol classes when consumed for five days in different beverage matrices. In a placebo-controlled, randomized, cross-over study, 35 healthy males received either six placebo gelatine capsules consumed with 200 mL of water, six capsules with 800 mg polyphenols derived from red wine and grape extracts, or the same dose of polyphenols incorporated into 200 mL of either pasteurized dairy drink, soy drink (both containing 3.4% proteins) or fruit-flavoured protein-free drink . At the end of the intervention urine and blood was collected and analysed for a broad range of phenolic compounds using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Liquid Chromatography-Multiple Reaction Monitoring-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MRM-MS), and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy techniques. The plasma and urine concentrations of the polyphenols identified increased with all formats, including the protein-rich beverages. Compared to capsule ingestion, consumption of polyphenol-rich beverages containing either dairy, soy or no proteins had minor to no effect on the bioavailability and excretion of phenolic compounds in plasma (118% ± 9%) and urine (98% ± 2%). We conclude that intake of polyphenols incorporated in protein-rich drinks does not have a major impact on the bioavailability of a range of different polyphenols and phenolic metabolites.

Zonal Rate Model for Axial and Radial Flow Membrane Chromatography. Part I: Knowledge Transfer Across Operating Conditions and Scales

PubMed Central

Ghosh, Pranay; Vahedipour, Kaveh; Lin, Min; Vogel, Jens H; Haynes, Charles A; von Lieres, Eric

2013-01-01

The zonal rate model (ZRM) has previously been applied for analyzing the performance of axial flow membrane chromatography capsules by independently determining the impacts of flow and binding related non-idealities on measured breakthrough curves. In the present study, the ZRM is extended to radial flow configurations, which are commonly used at larger scales. The axial flow XT5 capsule and the radial flow XT140 capsule from Pall are rigorously analyzed under binding and non-binding conditions with bovine serum albumin (BSA) as test molecule. The binding data of this molecule is much better reproduced by the spreading model, which hypothesizes different binding orientations, than by the well-known Langmuir model. Moreover, a revised cleaning protocol with NaCl instead of NaOH and minimizing the storage time has been identified as most critical for quantitatively reproducing the measured breakthrough curves. The internal geometry of both capsules is visualized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The flow in the external hold-up volumes of the XT140 capsule was found to be more homogeneous as in the previously studied XT5 capsule. An attempt for model-based scale-up was apparently impeded by irregular pleat structures in the used XT140 capsule, which might lead to local variations in the linear velocity through the membrane stack. However, the presented approach is universal and can be applied to different capsules. The ZRM is shown to potentially help save valuable material and time, as the experiments required for model calibration are much cheaper than the predicted large-scale experiment at binding conditions. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1129–1141. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. PMID:23097218

Aero-thermo-dynamic analysis of a low ballistic coefficient deployable capsule in Earth re-entry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuppardi, G.; Savino, R.; Mongelluzzo, G.

2016-10-01

The paper deals with a microsatellite and the related deployable recovery capsule. The aero-brake is folded at launch and deployed in space and is able to perform a de-orbiting controlled re-entry. This kind of capsule, with a flexible, high temperature resistant fabric, thanks to its lightness and modulating capability, can be an alternative to the current ;conventional; recovery capsules. The present authors already analyzed the trajectory and the aerodynamic behavior of low ballistic coefficient capsules during Earth re-entry and Mars entry. In previous studies, aerodynamic longitudinal stability analysis and evaluation of thermal and aerodynamic loads for a possible suborbital re-entry demonstrator were carried out in both continuum and rarefied regimes. The present study is aimed at providing preliminary information about thermal and aerodynamic loads and longitudinal stability for a similar deployable capsule, as well as information about the electronic composition of the plasma sheet and its possible influence on radio communications at the altitudes where GPS black-out could occur. Since the computer tests were carried out at high altitudes, therefore in rarefied flow fields, use of Direct Simulation Monte Carlo codes was mandatory. The computations involved both global aerodynamic quantities (drag and longitudinal moment coefficients) and local aerodynamic quantities (heat flux and pressure distributions along the capsule surface). The results verified that the capsule at high altitude (150 km) is self-stabilizing; it is stable around the nominal attitude or at zero angle of attack and unstable around the reverse attitude or at 180° angle of attack. The analysis also pointed out the presence of extra statically stable equilibrium trim points.

[Comparison of dissolution profile and plasma concentration-time profile of the thalidomide formulations made by Japanese, Mexican and British companies].

PubMed

Fujita, Yukiyoshi; Yamamoto, Koujirou; Aomori, Tohru; Murakami, Hirokazu; Horiuchi, Ryuya

2008-10-01

Thalidomide is an important advance in the treatment of multiple myeloma. In Japan thalidomide is now on the approval step for the treatment of multiple myeloma. The drug has some bothersome side effects such as defect of organogenesis, neuropathy, constipation and fatigue, but is likely more effective than standard chemotherapy and is changing multiple myeloma treatment. At this moment, Japanese patients must import the thalidomide preparations from Mexico, Britain and elsewhere, but after approval, they patients will be able to get the new Japanese thalidomide capsules. In order to determine appropriate amounts of Japanese thalidomide capsules in the treatment of multiple myeloma, we compared the dissolution profile and plasma thalidomide concentrations of Japanese and British capsules and Mexican tablets. The dissolution test was performed according to the Japanese and the United States Pharmacopoeia. The pharmacokinetic data for Japanese capsules were obtained from the clinical trial in Japanese subjects and compared with those data published for other formulations. The dissolution rate of the Japanese capsule was the fastest, followed by British and Mexican formulations. The pharmacokinetic profiles of Japanese and British capsules were similar, while the 100 mg Japanese thalidomide capsule demonstrated a 1.6-fold higher maximum plasma concentration than the 200 mg Mexican thalidomide tablet (1.7 vs. 1.1 microg/ml), greatly shortened t(max) (4.5 vs. 6.2 h), and the apparent half life was only one-third of the Mexican tablet (4.8 vs. 13.5 h). A comparison of the dissolution and the pharmacokinetic absorption profiles demonstrated a rank-order correlation. Physicians and pharmacists should be aware of the probable alteration in plasma thalidomide concentration when switching to the Japanese capsule, especially from the Mexican tablet, and should monitor clinical response carefully.

Capsule endoscopy: Current practice and future directions

PubMed Central

Hale, Melissa F; Sidhu, Reena; McAlindon, Mark E

2014-01-01

Capsule endoscopy (CE) has transformed investigation of the small bowel providing a non-invasive, well tolerated means of accurately visualising the distal duodenum, jejunum and ileum. Since the introduction of small bowel CE thirteen years ago a high volume of literature on indications, diagnostic yields and safety profile has been presented. Inclusion in national and international guidelines has placed small bowel capsule endoscopy at the forefront of investigation into suspected diseases of the small bowel. Most commonly, small bowel CE is used in patients with suspected bleeding or to identify evidence of active Crohn’s disease (CD) (in patients with or without a prior history of CD). Typically, CE is undertaken after upper and lower gastrointestinal flexible endoscopy has failed to identify a diagnosis. Small bowel radiology or a patency capsule test should be considered prior to CE in those at high risk of strictures (such as patients known to have CD or presenting with obstructive symptoms) to reduce the risk of capsule retention. CE also has a role in patients with coeliac disease, suspected small bowel tumours and other small bowel disorders. Since the advent of small bowel CE, dedicated oesophageal and colon capsule endoscopes have expanded the fields of application to include the investigation of upper and lower gastrointestinal disorders. Oesophageal CE may be used to diagnose oesophagitis, Barrett’s oesophagus and varices but reliability in identifying gastroduodenal pathology is unknown and it does not have biopsy capability. Colon CE provides an alternative to conventional colonoscopy for symptomatic patients, while a possible role in colorectal cancer screening is a fascinating prospect. Current research is already addressing the possibility of controlling capsule movement and developing capsules which allow tissue sampling and the administration of therapy. PMID:24976712

Development of rearing and testing protocols for a new freshwater sediment test species: the gastropod Valvata piscinalis.

PubMed

Ducrot, Virginie; Cognat, Claudine; Mons, Raphaël; Mouthon, Jacques; Garric, Jeanne

2006-03-01

This paper aimed at proposing rearing and testing protocols for Valvata piscinalis, a new potential species for sediment toxicity testing. Such tests were developed since this species reliably represents the bio/ecological characteristics of other gastropods. It may thus be representative of their sensitivity to chemicals. V. piscinalis was successfully cultured in our laboratory for six generations. Cultures provided a high productivity for a low working time and low costs. The tests conditions we proposed seemed to be relevant for the development of reliable tests with this species. Indeed, hatching probability of egg-capsules, as well as embryo, newborn and juvenile survival rates, were close to 100%. Moreover, growth rates and fecundity were significantly higher than in field and in other laboratory studies. Partial life-cycle tests on clean sediments were achieved for various feeding levels to determine survival, growth and reproduction patterns, ad libitum feeding level and life cycle parameters values. Ad libitum feeding levels for newborn, juveniles and adults were 0.1, 0.4 and 0.8 mg Tetramin/individual/working day. Growth tests with zinc-spiked sediments provided a no-effect concentration and a lowest effect concentration of respectively 200 and 624 mg zinc/kg dry sediment. Other growth tests on spiked sediments we ran at our laboratory with second, third and fourth instars larvae of Chironomus riparius pointed out that V. piscinalis was more sensible to zinc than the chironomid, which is a routine test species in ecotoxicology. According to these results, V. piscinalis is a promising candidate species for sediment toxicity testing.

A novel flexible microfluidic meshwork to reduce fibrosis in glaucoma surgery.

PubMed

Amoozgar, Behzad; Wei, Xiaoling; Hui Lee, Jun; Bloomer, Michele; Zhao, Zhengtuo; Coh, Paul; He, Fei; Luan, Lan; Xie, Chong; Han, Ying

2017-01-01

Fibrosis and hence capsule formation around the glaucoma implants are the main reasons for glaucoma implant failure. To address these issues, we designed a microfluidic meshwork and tested its biocompatibility in a rabbit eye model. The amount of fibrosis elicited by the microfluidic meshwork was compared to the amount elicited by the plate of conventional glaucoma drainage device. Six eyes from 3 New Zealand albino rabbits were randomized to receive either the novel microfluidic meshwork or a plate of Ahmed glaucoma valve model PF7 (AGV PF7). The flexible microfluidic implant was made from negative photoresist SU-8 by using micro-fabrication techniques. The overall size of the meshwork was 7 mm × 7 mm with a grid period of 100 μm. Both implants were placed in the subtenon space at the supratemporal quadrant in a standard fashion. There was no communication between the implants and the anterior chamber via a tube. All animal eyes were examined for signs of infection and implant erosion on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 and then monthly. Exenterations were performed in which the entire orbital contents were removed at 3 months. Histology slides of the implant and the surrounding tissues were prepared and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Thickness of the fibrous capsules beneath the implants were measured and compared with paired student's t-test between the two groups. The gross histological sections showed that nearly no capsule formed around the microfluidic meshwork in contrast to the thick capsule formed around the plate of AGV PF7. Thickness of the fibrotic capsules beneath the AGV PF7 plate from the 3 rabbit eyes was 90μm, 82μm, and 95 μm, respectively. The thickness at the bottom of fibrotic capsules around the new microfluidic implant were 1μm, 2μm, and 1μm, respectively. The difference in thickness of capsule between the two groups was significant (P = 0.002). No complications were noticed in the 6 eyes, and both implants were tolerated well by all rabbits. The microfluidic meshwork elicited minimal fibrosis and capsule formation after 3-months implantation in a rabbit model. This provides promising evidence to aid in future development of a new glaucoma drainage implant that will elicit minimal scar formation and provide better long-term surgical outcomes.

Feasibility of a colon capsule overnight procedure followed by colonoscopy.

PubMed

Brechmann, T; Schmiegel, W; Klute, L; Rösch, T; Pox, C

2016-02-01

Due to limited acceptance of colonoscopy as diagnostic and screening test alternatives are warranted. Colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) has been shown to be a possible filter test, but because of logistical issues a second bowel preparation is usually required, if consecutive colonoscopy is needed. We therefore evaluated the feasibility of a single bowel preparation for both overnight CCE and (therapeutical) colonoscopy thereafter. Patients from two university hospitals referred to undergo colonoscopy were prospectively included in a dual centre feasibility study. A polyethylene glycol (PEG) based bowel preparation-schedule with ingestion of a colon capsule endoscopy (CCE) at 10pm and subsequent colonoscopy at about 12am on the next day was investigated. The first generation PillCam colon capsule was used with 4 different preparation protocols containing several prokinetics in different compositions (i. e. metoclopramide, erythromycin, sennosoides). The main endpoint was the proportion of patients who completed both CCE and colonoscopy; secondary endpoints were capsule transit times, amount of colon seen on CCE, bowel cleanliness, sensitivity and specifity of CCE and patients' acceptance. 50 patients between 18 and 75 years were included. The sequence of overnight colon capsule endoscopy and colonoscopy was successfully completed in all but one (one refused colonoscopy). The capsule was excreted during recording time in 86 % of examinations, visualization of the complete colon was possible in 60 %, but adequate colon preparation was achieved in only 45 % irrespective of the regimen used. The preparation regimen consisting of a PEG-solution, erythromycin as prokinetic drug followed by PEG-solution as boost showed the largest proportion of adequate preparations. Overall sensitivity and specificity of CCE for polyps of any size were 65 % and 76 %, respectively. 26 of 30 patients (86.7 %) returned the subjective assessment questionnaire. 23 patients (88 %) reported mild to no discomfort or embarrassment during CCE, whereas 15 patients (58 %) did during the preparation procedure. Drinking the purgative solution was the most inconvenient step in 84 % of cases, drinking the boosts during CCE the second inconvenient step (60 %). Overnight CCE-procedure followed by direct capsule-reading is feasible and safe and might avoid repetitive bowel preparation for subsequent colonoscopy. The bowel preparation needs to be improved. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

A Passive Earth-Entry Capsule for Mars Sample Return

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitcheltree, Robert A.; Kellas, Sotiris

1999-01-01

A combination of aerodynamic analysis and testing, aerothermodynamic analysis, structural analysis and testing, impact analysis and testing, thermal analysis, ground characterization tests, configuration packaging, and trajectory simulation are employed to determine the feasibility of an entirely passive Earth entry capsule for the Mars Sample Return mission. The design circumvents the potential failure modes of a parachute terminal descent system by replacing that system with passive energy absorbing material to cushion the Mars samples during ground impact. The suggested design utilizes a spherically blunted 45-degree half-angle cone forebody with an ablative heat shield. The primary structure is a hemispherical, composite sandwich enclosing carbon foam energy absorbing material. Though no demonstration test of the entire system is included, results of the tests and analysis presented indicate that the design is a viable option for the Mars Sample Return Mission.

Experimental investigation of a bioartificial capsule flowing in a narrow tube

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Risso, Frédéric; Collé-Paillot, Fabienne; Zagzoule, Mokhtar

This work is an experimental study of the motion and deformation of a bioartificial capsule flowing in a tube of 4 mm diameter. The capsules, initially designed for medical applications, are droplets of salt water surrounded by a thin polymeric membrane. They are immersed in a very viscous Newtonian silicone oil that flows through a tube in the Stokes regime. The properties of the capsules were carefully determined. Two previous experimental papers were devoted to their characterization by osmotic swelling and compression between two plates. The present work also provides a series of tests that allows an accurate definition of the experimental model under investigation. The capsules are buoyant and initially quasi-spherical. Nevertheless, buoyancy and small departures from sphericity are shown to have no significant effects, provided the flowing velocity is large enough for the viscous stress to become predominant. The capsules are also initially slightly over-inflated, but there is no mass transfer through the membrane during the present experiments. Their volume therefore remains constant. The membrane can be described as an elastic two-dimensional material, the elastic moduli of which are independent of the deformation. Far from the tube ends, the capsule reaches a steady state that depends on two parameters: the capillary number, Ca; and the ratio of the radius of the capsule to that of the tube, a/R. The capillary number, which compares the hydrodynamic stresses to the elastic tensions in the membrane, was varied between 0 and 0.125. The radius ratio, which measures the magnitude of the confinement, was varied from 0.75 to 0.95. In the range investigated, the membrane material always remains in the elastic domain. At fixed a/R, the capsule is stretched in the axial direction when Ca is increased. The process of deformation involves two main stages. At small to moderate Ca, the lateral dimension of the capsule decreases whereas its axial length increases. The capsule is rounded at both ends, but the curvature of its rear decreases as Ca increases. At large Ca, the rear buckles inward. Then, the negative rear curvature goes on decreasing whereas the lateral dimension of the capsule reaches a constant value. On the other hand, increasing a/R promotes the deformation: the process remains qualitatively the same, but the different stages are attained for smaller values of Ca. Comparisons with available numerical simulations show that the results are strongly dependent on the properties of the capsules.

Contrast Dispersion Pattern and Efficacy of Corticosteroid at the Glenohumeral Joint in Adhesive Capsulitis.

PubMed

Kim, Sang Jun; Choi, Yu Seong

2015-01-01

Corticosteroid injection has a wide range of success in adhesive capsulitis but the reason for this has not yet been explained. We hypothesized that this difference might be due to the distribution of the corticosteroids injected into the joint cavity because particulate steroid deposits in the capsule and will not be moved over time by shoulder motion. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the therapeutic efficacy of particulate corticosteroid injection into the glenohumeral joint differs according to the dispersion pattern. Prospective evaluation. Outpatient clinics at a tertiary university hospital. Seventy-two patients diagnosed as having adhesive capsulitis received a corticosteroid injection at the glenohumeral joint. The posterior capsule and the subscapular bursa were selected as dispersion sites and the dispersion of contrast dye was expressed as a ratio (%). Two weeks and 3 months after the injection clinical improvement ("not improved," "slightly improved," "much improved"), numeric rating scale (NRS), and passive range of motions (PROM) were evaluated. The dispersion of the contrast dye was compared according to the clinical improvements by an analysis of variance test. Pearson correlation test was done to find the relationship between PROM and the dispersion and between change of NRS and the dispersion. The distribution in the subscapular area was 30.0% in the "much improved" group, 22.0% in the "slightly improved" group, and 37.1% in the "no improvement" group which was not significantly different (P = 0.179). Correlations between changes of NRS and the dye distribution were not statistically significant (P = 0.429 at 2 weeks and P = 0.629 at 3 months). The change of passive external rotation 3 months after the injection was significantly correlated with the dye distribution (P = 0.035). Because of diverse pathologic findings in adhesive capsulitis, further studies will be needed to address the effect of the dye distribution on the pain improvement according to pathologic findings revealed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). External rotation of the shoulder in adhesive capsulitis has greater improvement as the corticosteroid solutions injected into the glenohumeral joint are increasingly dispersed to the subscapularis area. However, this does not affect the pain improvement after the injection.

Resistance to densification, tensile strength and capsule-filling performance of some pharmaceutical diluents.

PubMed

Nikolakakis, I; Aragon, O B; Malamataris, S

1998-07-01

The purpose of this study was to compare some indicators of capsule-filling performance, as measured by tapped density under different conditions, and elucidate possible quantitative relationships between variation of capsule fill-weight (%CV) and gravitational and inter-particle forces (attractive or frictional) derived from measurements of particle size, true density, low compression and tensile strength. Five common pharmaceutical diluents (lactose, maize starch, talc, Emcocel and Avicel) were investigated and two capsule-filling methods (pouring powder and dosator nozzle) were employed. It was found that for the pouring-type method the appropriateness of Hausner's ratio (HR), Carr's compressibility index (CC%) and Kawakita's constant (alpha) as indicators of capsule fill-weight variation decreases in the order alpha > CC% > HR; the appropriateness of these indicators also decreases with increasing cylinder size and with impact velocity during tapping. For the dosator-type method the appropriateness of the indicators decreases in the order HR > CC% > alpha, the opposite of that for the pouring-type method; the appropriateness of the indicators increases with decreasing cylinder size and impact velocity. The relationship between %CV and the ratio of inter-particle attractive to gravitational forces calculated from measurements of particle size and true density (Fvdw/Wp) was more significant for the pouring-type capsule-filling method. For the dosator-type method a significant relationship (1% level) was found between %CV and the product of Fvdw/Wp and a function expressing the increase, with packing density (p(f)), in the ratio of frictional to attractive inter-particle forces derived from compression (P) and tensile-strength (T) testing, d(log(P/T))/d(p(f)). The value of tapped density in predictions of capsule-filling performance is affected by the testing conditions in a manner depending on the filling method applied. For the pouring-type method predictions can be based on the ratio of attractive (inter-particle) to gravitational forces, whereas for the dosator-type method the contribution of frictional and attractive forces should, because of packing density change, also be taken into account.

KSC-2012-5576

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Astronauts Mike Fossum and Cady Coleman look over a model capsule fit with rotor blades ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5575

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA's Johnson Space Center Aerospace Engineer Jeff Hagen attaches a rotor to the top of a model capsule ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Capsule Design for Blue Light Therapy against Helicobacter pylori.

PubMed

Li, Zhangyong; Ren, Binbin; Tan, Haiyan; Liu, Shengrong; Wang, Wei; Pang, Yu; Lin, Jinzhao; Zeng, Chen

2016-01-01

A photo-medical capsule that emits blue light for Helicobacter pylori treatment was described in this paper. The system consists of modules for pH sensing and measuring, light-emitting diode driver circuit, radio communication and microcontroller, and power management. The system can differentiate locations by monitoring the pH values of the gastrointestinal tract, and turn on and off the blue light according to the preset range of pH values. Our experimental tests show that the capsule can operate in the effective light therapy mode for more than 32 minutes and the wireless communication module can reliably transmit the measured pH value to a receiver located outside the body.

Novel PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Method for Determining Serotypes or Serogroups of Streptococcus pneumoniae Isolates

PubMed Central

Batt, Sarah L.; Charalambous, Bambos M.; McHugh, Timothy D.; Martin, Siobhan; Gillespie, Stephen H.

2005-01-01

Serotyping Streptococcus pneumoniae is a technique generally confined to reference laboratories, as purchasing pneumococcal antisera is a huge investment. Many attempts have been made to modify serological agglutination techniques to make them more accessible, and more recently developments in serotyping have focused on molecular techniques. This paper describes a PCR assay which amplifies the entire capsulation locus between dexB and aliA. Amplicons are digested to produce serotype-specific patterns. We have shown, using 81 epidemiologically unrelated strains representing 46 different serotypes, that the patterns correlate with a 90 to 100% similarity range for the same serotype or serogroup. Prospective testing of 73 isolates of unknown serotype confirmed reliable serotype attribution, and serotype profiles are reproducible on repeated testing. Once our database contains all 90 serotypes, this technique should be fully portable, cost-effective, and useful in any laboratory with sufficient molecular experience. PMID:15956380

Cable attachment for a radioactive brachytherapy source capsule

DOEpatents

Gross, Ian G; Pierce, Larry A

2006-07-18

In cancer brachytherapy treatment, a small californium-252 neutron source capsule is attached to a guide cable using a modified crimping technique. The guide cable has a solid cylindrical end, and the attachment employs circumferential grooves micromachined in the solid cable end. The attachment was designed and tested, and hardware fabricated for use inside a radioactive hot cell. A welding step typically required in other cable attachments is avoided.

KSC-2012-4038

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-24

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The instrument package and capsule built by Rocket University participants for a high-altitude balloon flight. The test flight was used to evaluate the stability of an instrumented capsule as it fell to Earth before its parachute opened. Rocket University is a program of courses, workshops, labs and projects offered to engineering and research pros of all stripes to keep their skills fresh and broaden their experiences. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-4034

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-24

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Rocket University participants inspect a capsule that is being prepared for a high-altitude balloon flight. The test flight was used to evaluate the stability of an instrumented capsule as it fell to Earth before its parachute opened. Rocket University is a program of courses, workshops, labs and projects offered to engineering and research pros of all stripes to keep their skills fresh and broaden their experiences. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Development of orally disintegrating tablets comprising controlled-release multiparticulate beads

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Melperone is an atypical antipsychotic agent that has shown a wide spectrum of neuroleptic properties, particularly effective in the treatment of senile dementia and Parkinson’s-associated psychosis, and is marketed in Europe as an immediate-release (IR) tablet and syrup. An orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) dosage form would be advantageous for patients who experience difficulty in swallowing large tablets or capsules or those who experience dysphagia. Controlled-release (CR) capsule and ODT formulations containing melperone HCl were developed with target in vitro release profiles suitable for a once-daily dosing regimen. Both dosage forms allow for the convenient production of dose-proportional multiple strengths. Two ODT formulations exhibiting fast and medium release profiles and one medium release profile capsule formulation (each 50 mg) were tested in vivo using IR syrup as the reference. The two medium release formulations were shown to be bioequivalent to each other and are suitable for once-daily dosing. Based on the analytical and organoleptic test results, as well as the blend uniformity and in-process compression data at various compression forces using coated beads produced at one-tenth (1/10) commercial scale, both formulations in the form of CR capsules and CR ODTs have shown suitability for progression into further clinical development. PMID:22356215

NASA Photographer Prepares to Film a Mercury Capsule

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-06-21

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) photographer Arthur Laufman sets up a camera to film a Mercury capsule that was constructed by the Lewis Research Center staff. Lewis engineers and mechanics built two of the capsules for the upcoming Big Joe launches in September 1959. Big Joe was an attempt early in Project Mercury to use a full-scale Atlas booster to simulate the reentry of a mock-up Mercury capsule without actually placing it in orbit. The Photographic Branch, referred to as the Photo Lab, was part of the center’s Technical Reports Division. Originally the group performed normal and high-speed still image and motion picture photography. The photographers documented construction, performed publicity work, created images for reports, photographed data on manometer boards, and recorded test footage. Laufman joined the Photo Lab staff in 1948 and began producing full-length technical films as a tool to educate those outside of the agency on the research being conducted at Lewis. He worked with engineers to determine proper subjects for these films and develop a script. Laufman not only filmed tests, but also supporting footage of facilities, models, and staff members. He then edited the footage and added audio, visuals, and narration. The film masters were assigned standard identification numbers and add to the Photo Lab’s catalogue.

[Effects of glycosides of Tripterygium wilfordii, methyltestosterone and zhuanggushenjin capsule on nitric oxide synthase in rat testes].

PubMed

Ren, Ya-Ping; Sun, Li; Jiang, Wei; Hu, Chun-Ping

2005-05-01

To investigate the effects of glycosides of tripterygium wilfordii (GTW), methyltestosterone and Zhuanggushenjin capsule on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in rat testes. Forty-five rats were equally divided into 5 groups, and respectively given GTW [10 mg/(kg x d)], methyltestosterone [2 mg/(kg x d)], Zhuanggushenjin capsule [0.3 g/(kg x d)], distilled water plus Tween 80 (control I), and distilled water alone (control II) for 4 weeks. At the end of the 5th week, the immunochemical ABC method was used to observe the effects of the three drugs on the NOS positive Leydig cells of the rats. Compared with control II, the GTW group had a significant decrease in the numbers of nNOS and eNOS positive Leydig cells, the methyltestosterone group showed an increase in the number of nNOS but a decrease in that of eNOS positive Leydig cells, and the Zhuanggushenjin group had an increase in the numbers of both nNOS and eNOS positive Leydig cells. GTW can reduce NO production by inhibiting eNOS and nNOS, and hence influence the spermatogenic process. Zhuanggushenjin capsule plays an important role in improving male sexual function by enhancing nNOS and eNOS expression and NO synthesis.

Evaluation of friction enhancement through soft polymer micro-patterns in active capsule endoscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buselli, Elisa; Pensabene, Virginia; Castrataro, Piero; Valdastri, Pietro; Menciassi, Arianna; Dario, Paolo

2010-10-01

Capsule endoscopy is an emerging field in medical technology. Despite very promising innovations, some critical issues are yet to be addressed, such as the management and possible exploitation of the friction in the gastrointestinal environment in order to control capsule locomotion more actively. This paper presents the fabrication and testing of bio-inspired polymeric micro-patterns, which are arrays of cylindrical pillars fabricated via soft lithography. The aim of the work is to develop structures that enhance the grip between an artificial device and the intestinal tissue, without injuring the mucosa. In fact, the patterns are intended to be mounted on microfabricated legs of a capsule robot that is able to move actively in the gastrointestinal tract, thus improving the robot's traction ability. The effect of micro-patterned surfaces on the leg-slipping behaviour on colon walls was investigated by considering both different pillar dimensions and the influence of tissue morphology. Several in vitro tests on biological samples demonstrated that micro-patterns of pillars made from a soft polymer with an aspect ratio close to 1 enhanced friction by 41.7% with regard to flat surfaces. This work presents preliminary modelling of the friction and adhesion forces in the gastrointestinal environment and some design guidelines for endoscopic devices.

LWR pressure vessel surveillance dosimetry improvement program: LWR power reactor surveillance physics-dosimetry data base compendium

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

McElroy, W.N.

1985-08-01

This NRC physics-dosimetry compendium is a collation of information and data developed from available research and commercial light water reactor vessel surveillance program (RVSP) documents and related surveillance capsule reports. The data represents the results of the HEDL least-squares FERRET-SAND II Code re-evaluation of exposure units and values for 47 PWR and BWR surveillance capsules for W, B and W, CE, and GE power plants. Using a consistent set of auxiliary data and dosimetry-adjusted reactor physics results, the revised fluence values for E > 1 MeV averaged 25% higher than the originally reported values. The range of fluence values (new/old)more » was from a low of 0.80 to a high of 2.38. These HEDL-derived FERRET-SAND II exposure parameter values are being used for NRC-supported HEDL and other PWR and BWR trend curve data development and testing studies. These studies are providing results to support Revision 2 of Regulatory Guide 1.99. As stated by Randall (Ra84), the Guide is being updated to reflect recent studies of the physical basis for neutron radiation damage and efforts to correlate damage to chemical composition and fluence.« less

Automatic patient-adaptive bleeding detection in a capsule endoscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Yun Sub; Kim, Yong Ho; Lee, Dong Ha; Lee, Sang Ho; Song, Jeong Joo; Kim, Jong Hyo

2009-02-01

We present a method for patient-adaptive detection of bleeding region for a Capsule Endoscopy (CE) images. The CE system has 320x320 resolution and transmits 3 images per second to receiver during around 10-hour. We have developed a technique to detect the bleeding automatically utilizing color spectrum transformation (CST) method. However, because of irregular conditions like organ difference, patient difference and illumination condition, detection performance is not uniform. To solve this problem, the detection method in this paper include parameter compensation step which compensate irregular image condition using color balance index (CBI). We have investigated color balance through sequential 2 millions images. Based on this pre-experimental result, we defined ΔCBI to represent deviate of color balance compared with standard small bowel color balance. The ΔCBI feature value is extracted from each image and used in CST method as parameter compensation constant. After candidate pixels were detected using CST method, they were labeled and examined with a bleeding character. We tested our method with 4,800 images in 12 patient data set (9 abnormal, 3 normal). Our experimental results show the proposed method achieves (before patient adaptive method : 80.87% and 74.25%, after patient adaptive method : 94.87% and 96.12%) of sensitivity and specificity.

The influence of size on the toxicity of an encapsulated pesticide: a comparison of micron- and nano-sized capsules.

PubMed

Meredith, Alicea N; Harper, Bryan; Harper, Stacey L

2016-01-01

Encapsulation technology involves entrapping a chemical active ingredient (a.i.) inside a hollow polymeric shell and has been applied to commercial pesticide manufacturing for years to produce capsule suspension (CS) formulations with average particle sizes in the micron-scale. The few literature sources that investigate the environmental fate and toxicity to non-target organisms of encapsulated commercially available pesticide products with regard to capsule size report on average sizes between 20 and 50 μm. Here, we have identified a CS formulation with an average capsule size of approximately 2 μm with some capsules extending into the nanometer scale (~200 nm). Determining how carrier size influences toxicity is important to understanding if current pesticide risk assessments are sufficient to protect against products that incorporate encapsulation technology. Here, a commercial pyrethroid CS pesticide with lambda-cyhalothrin (λ-Cy) as the a.i. was separated into two suspensions, a fraction consisting of nano-sized capsules (~250 nm) and a fraction of micron-sized capsules (~2200 nm) in order to investigate the influence of capsule size on toxicity to embryonic zebrafish, Danio rerio. Toxicity was evaluated 24h after exposure to equivalent amounts of a.i. by the presence and severity of pyrethroid-specific tremors, 14 sublethal developmental impacts and mortality. Fish exposed to greater than 20 μg a.i. L(-1) technical λ-Cy or formulated product experienced curvature of the body axis, pericardial edema, craniofacial malformations, and mortality. Exposure to the unfractionated formulation, micro fraction, nano fraction and technical a.i. resulted in no significant differences in the occurrence of sublethal impacts or mortality; however, the technical a.i. exposure resulted in significantly less fish experiencing tremors and shorter tremors compared to any of the formulated product exposures. This suggests that the capsule size does not influence the toxic response of the entrapped λ-Cy, but the presence or absence of the capsules does. Testing across other encapsulated products is needed to determine if size does not have influence on toxicity regardless of encapsulation technology. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Boilerplate Capsule Test Technique for the Orion Parachute Test Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, James W.; Fraire, Usbaldo, Jr.

2013-01-01

The test program developing parachutes for the Orion/MPCV includes drop tests of a Parachute Test Vehicle designed to emulate the wake of the Orion capsule. Delivery of this test vehicle to the initial velocity, altitude, and orientation required for the test is a difficult problem involving multiple engineering disciplines. The available delivery of aircraft options imposed constraints on the test vehicle development and concept of operations. This paper describes the development of this test technique. The engineering challenges include the extraction from an aircraft and separation of two aerodynamically unstable vehicles, one of which will be delivered to a specific orientation with reasonably small rates. The desired attitude is achieved by precisely targeting the separation point using on-board monitoring of the motion. The design of the test vehicle is described. The trajectory simulations and other analyses used to develop this technique and predict the behavior of the test article are reviewed in detail. The application of the technique on several successful drop tests is summarized.

Phospholipids Trigger Cryptococcus neoformans Capsular Enlargement during Interactions with Amoebae and Macrophages

PubMed Central

Chrisman, Cara J.; Albuquerque, Patricia; Guimaraes, Allan J.; Nieves, Edward; Casadevall, Arturo

2011-01-01

A remarkable aspect of the interaction of Cryptococcus neoformans with mammalian hosts is a consistent increase in capsule volume. Given that many aspects of the interaction of C. neoformans with macrophages are also observed with amoebae, we hypothesized that the capsule enlargement phenomenon also had a protozoan parallel. Incubation of C. neoformans with Acanthamoeba castellanii resulted in C. neoformans capsular enlargement. The phenomenon required contact between fungal and protozoan cells but did not require amoeba viability. Analysis of amoebae extracts showed that the likely stimuli for capsule enlargement were protozoan polar lipids. Extracts from macrophages and mammalian serum also triggered cryptococcal capsular enlargement. C. neoformans capsule enlargement required expression of fungal phospholipase B, but not phospholipase C. Purified phospholipids, in particular, phosphatidylcholine, and derived molecules triggered capsular enlargement with the subsequent formation of giant cells. These results implicate phospholipids as a trigger for both C. neoformans capsule enlargement in vivo and exopolysaccharide production. The observation that the incubation of C. neoformans with phospholipids led to the formation of giant cells provides the means to generate these enigmatic cells in vitro. Protozoan- or mammalian-derived polar lipids could represent a danger signal for C. neoformans that triggers capsular enlargement as a non-specific defense mechanism against potential predatory cells. Hence, phospholipids are the first host-derived molecules identified to trigger capsular enlargement. The parallels apparent in the capsular response of C. neoformans to both amoebae and macrophages provide additional support for the notion that certain aspects of cryptococcal virulence emerged as a consequence of environmental interactions with other microorganisms such as protists. PMID:21637814

Entry Trajectory Issues for the Stardust Sample Return Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Desai, Prasun N.; Mitcheltree, Robert A.; Cheatwood, F. McNeil

1999-01-01

The Stardust mission was successfully launched on February 7, 1999. It will be the first mission to return samples from a comet. The sample return capsule, which is passively controlled during the fastest Earth entry ever, will land by parachute in Utah. The present study describes the analysis of the entry, descent, and landing of the returning sample capsule utilizing the final, launch configuration capsule mass properties. The effects of two aerodynamic instabilities are revealed (one in the high altitude free molecular regime and the other in the transonic/subsonic flow regime). These instabilities could lead to unacceptably large excursions in the angle-of-attack near peak heating and main parachute deployment, respectively. To reduce the excursions resulting from the high altitude instability, the entry spin rate of the capsule is increased. To stabilize the excursions from the transonic/subsonic instability, a drogue chute with deployment triggered by a gravity-switch and timer is added prior to main parachute deployment. A Monte Carlo dispersion analysis of the modified entry (from which the impact of off-nominal conditions during the entry is ascertained) predicts that the capsule attitude excursions near peak heating and drogue chute deployment are within Stardust mission limits. Additionally, the size of the resulting 3-sigma landing ellipse is 60.8 km in downrange by 19.9 km in crossrange, which is within the Utah Test and Training Range boundaries.

An empirical study of the toxic capsule crisis in China: risk perceptions and behavioral responses.

PubMed

Feng, Tianjun; Keller, L Robin; Wu, Ping; Xu, Yifan

2014-04-01

The outbreak of the toxic capsule crisis during April 2012 aroused widespread public concern about the risk of chromium-contaminated capsules and drug safety in China. In this article, we develop a conceptual model to investigate risk perceptions of the pharmaceutical drug capsules and behavioral responses to the toxic capsule crisis and the relationship between associated factors and these two variables. An online survey was conducted to test the model, including questions on the measures of perceived efficacy of the countermeasures, trust in the State FDA (Food and Drug Administration), trust in the pharmaceutical companies, trust in the pharmaceutical capsule producers, risk perception, concern, need for information, information seeking, and risk avoidance. In general, participants reported higher levels of risk perception, concern, and risk avoidance, and lower levels of trust in the three different stakeholders. The results from the structural equation modeling procedure suggest that perceived efficacy of the countermeasures is a predictor of each of the three trust variables; however, only trust in the State FDA has a dampening impact on risk perception. Both risk perception and information seeking are significant determinants of risk avoidance. Risk perception is also positively related to concern. Information seeking is positively related to both concern and need for information. The theoretical and policy implications are also discussed. © 2013 Society for Risk Analysis.

Modulation of the Foreign Body Reaction for Implants in the Subcutaneous Space: Microdialysis Probes as Localized Drug Delivery/Sampling Devices

PubMed Central

Mou, Xiaodun; Lennartz, Michelle R; Loegering, Daniel J; Stenken, Julie A

2011-01-01

Modulation of the foreign body reaction is considered to be an important step toward creation of implanted sensors with reliable long-term performance. In this work, microdialysis probes were implanted into the subcutaneous space of Sprague-Dawley rats. The probe performance was evaluated by comparing collected endogenous glucose concentrations with internal standard calibration (2-deoxyglucose, antipyrine, and vitamin B12). Probes were tested until failure, which for this work was defined as loss of fluid flow. In order to determine the effect of fibrous capsule formation on probe function, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1/CC chemokine ligand 2 (MCP-1/CCL2) was delivered locally via the probe to increase capsule thickness and dexamethasone 21-phosphate was delivered to reduce capsule thickness. Probes delivering MCP-1 had a capsule that was twice the thickness (500–600 μm) of control probes (200–225 μm) and typically failed 2 days earlier than control probes. Probes delivering dexamethasone 21-phosphate had more fragile capsules and the probes typically failed 2 days later than controls. Unexpectedly, extraction efficiency and collected glucose concentrations exhibited minor differences between groups. This is an interesting result in that the foreign body capsule formation was related to the duration of probe function but did not consistently relate to probe calibration. PMID:21722577

Levothyroxine soft capsules demonstrate bioequivalent pharmacokinetic exposure with the European reference tablets in healthy volunteers under fasting conditions.

PubMed

Al-Numani, Dina; Scarsi, Claudia; Ducharme, Murray P

2016-02-01

To assess the bioequivalence (BE) potential under fasting conditions between levothyroxine soft capsules and the European reference tablet formulation. Two studies were conducted to assess the BE potential as per European regulations. Study 1 was a two-way crossover BE study comparing a high strength of levothyroxine soft capsules versus levothyroxine tablets (200 μg), while study 2 was a three-way crossover dosage form proportionality study between low, medium, and high strengths of soft capsules. 70 healthy adult subjects participated in the two studies. Each treatment consisted of a 600-μg dose of levothyroxine sodium, administered under fasting conditions. Blood samples were collected for levothyroxine (T4) assay prior to dosing and up to 72 hours post dose. A washout of 35 days separated treatments in each study. Pharmacokinetics was assessed using noncompartmental methods. A total of 61 subjects completed the studies. Baseline-adjusted total T4 ratios (test/reference) and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) between soft capsules and tablets were within 80.00 - 125.00%. Comparison of the three strengths of soft capsules indicated pharmacokinetic equivalence between them (ratios and 90% CIs were contained within 80.00 - 125.00%). Overall, levothyroxine sodium was well tolerated with all products when given as single oral doses of 600 μg, except for 1 serious adverse event of secondary bacteremia reported in study 2, deemed not to be related to treatment. Levothyroxine soft capsules meet BE criteria in terms of systemic exposure when compared to a European reference tablet under fasting conditions in healthy volunteers.

On-the-fly detection of images with gastritis aspects in magnetically guided capsule endoscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mewes, P. W.; Neumann, D.; Juloski, A. L.; Angelopoulou, E.; Hornegger, J.

2011-03-01

Capsule Endoscopy (CE) was introduced in 2000 and has since become an established diagnostic procedure for the small bowel, colon and esophagus. For the CE examination the patient swallows the capsule, which then travels through the gastrointestinal tract under the influence of the peristaltic movements. CE is not indicated for stomach examination, as the capsule movements can not be controlled from the outside and the entire surface of the stomach can not be reliably covered. Magnetically-guided capsule endoscopy (MGCE) was introduced in 2010. For the MGCE procedure the stomach is filled with water and the capsule is navigated from the outside using an external magnetic field. During the examination the operator can control the motion of the capsule in order to obtain a sufficient number of stomach-surface images with diagnostic value. The quality of the examination depends on the skill of the operator and his ability to detect aspects of interest in real time. We present a novel computer-assisted diagnostic-procedure (CADP) algorithm for indicating gastritis pathologies in the stomach during the examination. Our algorithm is based on pre-processing methods and feature vectors that are suitably chosen for the challenges of the MGCE imaging (suspended particles, bubbles, lighting). An image is classified using an ada-boost trained classifier. For the classifier training, a number of possible features were investigated. Statistical evaluation was conducted to identify relevant features with discriminative potential. The proposed algorithm was tested on 12 video sequences stemming from 6 volunteers. A mean detection rate of 91.17% was achieved during leave-one out cross-validation.

A detailed description of the uncertainty analysis for high area ratio rocket nozzle tests at the NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davidian, Kenneth J.; Dieck, Ronald H.; Chuang, Isaac

1987-01-01

A preliminary uncertainty analysis was performed for the High Area Ratio Rocket Nozzle test program which took place at the altitude test capsule of the Rocket Engine Test Facility at the NASA Lewis Research Center. Results from the study establish the uncertainty of measured and calculated parameters required for the calculation of rocket engine specific impulse. A generalized description of the uncertainty methodology used is provided. Specific equations and a detailed description of the analysis is presented. Verification of the uncertainty analysis model was performed by comparison with results from the experimental program's data reduction code. Final results include an uncertainty for specific impulse of 1.30 percent. The largest contributors to this uncertainty were calibration errors from the test capsule pressure and thrust measurement devices.

A detailed description of the uncertainty analysis for High Area Ratio Rocket Nozzle tests at the NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davidian, Kenneth J.; Dieck, Ronald H.; Chuang, Isaac

1987-01-01

A preliminary uncertainty analysis has been performed for the High Area Ratio Rocket Nozzle test program which took place at the altitude test capsule of the Rocket Engine Test Facility at the NASA Lewis Research Center. Results from the study establish the uncertainty of measured and calculated parameters required for the calculation of rocket engine specific impulse. A generalized description of the uncertainty methodology used is provided. Specific equations and a detailed description of the analysis are presented. Verification of the uncertainty analysis model was performed by comparison with results from the experimental program's data reduction code. Final results include an uncertainty for specific impulse of 1.30 percent. The largest contributors to this uncertainty were calibration errors from the test capsule pressure and thrust measurement devices.

Relative Bioavailabilities of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate and d-Amphetamine in Healthy Adults in an Open-Label, Randomized, Crossover Study After Mixing Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate With Food or Drink

PubMed Central

Ermer, James; Corcoran, Mary; Lasseter, Kenneth

2016-01-01

Background: This open-label, crossover study examined lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) and d-amphetamine pharmacokinetics in healthy adults after administration of an intact LDX capsule or after the capsule was emptied into orange juice or yogurt and the contents consumed. Methods: Healthy adult volunteers (N = 30) were administered a 70-mg LDX capsule or the contents of a 70-mg capsule mixed with yogurt or orange juice using a 3-way crossover design. Blood samples were collected serially for up to 96 hours after dose. Pharmacokinetic endpoints included maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration versus time curve from zero to infinity (AUC0–∞) or to last assessment (AUClast). Relative LDX and d-amphetamine bioavailabilities from the contents of a 70-mg LDX capsule mixed with orange juice or yogurt were compared with those from the intact LDX capsule using bioequivalence-testing procedures. Results: Geometric least squares mean ratios (90% confidence intervals [CIs]) for d-amphetamine (active moiety) were within the prespecified bioequivalence range (0.80–1.25) when the contents of a 70-mg LDX capsule were mixed with orange juice [Cmax: 0.971 (0.945, 0.998); AUC0–∞: 0.986 (0.955, 1.019); AUClast: 0.970 (0.937, 1.004)] or yogurt [Cmax: 0.970 (0.944, 0.997); AUC0–∞: 0.945 (0.915, 0.976); AUClast: 0.944 (0.912, 0.977)]. Geometric least squares mean ratios (90% CIs) for LDX (inactive prodrug) were below the accepted range when the contents of a 70-mg LDX capsule were mixed with orange juice [Cmax: 0.641 (0.582, 0.707); AUC0–∞: 0.716 (0.647, 0.792); AUClast: 0.708 (0.655, 0.766)]; the lower 90% CI for Cmax [0.828 (0.752, 0.912)] was below the accepted range when the contents of a 70-mg LDX capsule were mixed with yogurt. Conclusions: Relative bioavailability of d-amphetamine (the active moiety) did not differ across administrations, which suggests that emptying an LDX capsule into orange juice or yogurt and consuming it is an alternative to intact capsules. PMID:27661399

Liquid-Solid Self-Lubricated Coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armada, S.; Schmid, R.; Equey, S.; Fagoaga, I.; Espallargas, N.

2013-02-01

Self-lubricated coatings have been a major topic of interest in thermal spray in the last decades. Self-lubricated coatings obtained by thermal spray are exclusively based on solid lubricants (PTFE, h-BN, graphite, MoS2, etc.) embedded in the matrix. Production of thermal spray coatings containing liquid lubricants has not yet been achieved because of the complexity of keeping a liquid in a solid matrix during the spraying process. In the present article, the first liquid-solid self-lubricating thermal spray coatings are presented. The coatings are produced by inserting lubricant-filled capsules inside a polymeric matrix. The goal of the coating is to release lubricant to the system when needed. The first produced coatings consisted solely of capsules for confirming the feasibility of the process. For obtaining such a coating, the liquid-filled capsules were injected in the thermal spray flame without any other feedstock material. Once the concept and the idea were proven, a polymer was co-sprayed together with the capsules to obtain a coating containing the lubricant-filled capsules distributed in the solid polymeric matrix. The coatings and the self-lubricated properties have been investigated by means of optical microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and tribological tests.

Exploding a myth: the capsule dehiscence mechanism and the function of pseudostomata in Sphagnum.

PubMed

Duckett, Jeffrey G; Pressel, Silvia; P'ng, Ken M Y; Renzaglia, Karen S

2009-01-01

The nineteenth century air-gun explanation for explosive spore discharge in Sphagnum has never been tested experimentally. Similarly, the function of the numerous stomata ubiquitous in the capsule walls has never been investigated. Both intact and pricked Sphagnum capsules, that were allowed to dry out, all dehisced over an 8-12 h period during which time the stomatal guard cells gradually collapsed and their potassium content, measured by X-ray microanalysis in a cryoscanning electron microscope, gradually increased. By contrast, guard cell potassium fell in water-stressed Arabidopsis. The pricking experiments demonstrate that the air-gun notion for explosive spore discharge in Sphagnum is inaccurate; differential shrinkage of the capsule walls causes popping off the rigid operculum. The absence of evidence for a potassium-regulating mechanism in the stomatal guard cells and their gradual collapse before spore discharge indicates that their sole role is facilitation of sporophyte desiccation that ultimately leads to capsule dehiscence. Our novel functional data on Sphagnum, when considered in relation to bryophyte phylogeny, suggest the possibility that stomata first appeared in land plants as structures that facilitated sporophyte drying out before spore discharge and only subsequently acquired their role in the regulation of gaseous exchange.

Use of proficiency samples to assess diagnostic laboratories in France performing a Trichinella digestion assay.

PubMed

Vallée, Isabelle; Macé, Pauline; Forbes, Lorry; Scandrett, Brad; Durand, Benoit; Gajadhar, Alvin; Boireau, Pascal

2007-07-01

Routine diagnosis of animal trichinellosis for food safety and trade relies on a method of artificial digestion to free Trichinella muscle larvae from meat for subsequent identification by microscopy. As part of a quality control system, the French National Reference Laboratory (NRL) initiated ring trials to determine the sensitivity of the test performed in the 72 routine diagnostic laboratories in France. A method was devised to obtain calibrated meat samples containing known numbers of capsules with Trichinella spiralis muscle larvae. This method was based on an incomplete artificial digestion of Trichinella-infected mice carcasses to allow the collection of intact Trichinella capsules. Capsules were placed into a meatball of 100 +/- 2 g of pork and horsemeat to produce proficiency samples. Three categories of samples were prepared: small (3 to 5 capsules), medium (7 to 10), and large (12 to 15). The sensitivity was expressed as the percentage of muscle larvae recovered from each proficiency sample. Reproducibility was tested with ring trials organized between two NRLs (France and Canada), and a reference sensitivity of 84.9% was established. National ring trials were then organized in France, with the 72 routine diagnostic laboratories each receiving four proficiency samples per session. After five sessions, an improvement in the digest test sensitivity was observed. Results at the fifth session indicated sensitivities of 78.60% +/- 23.70%, 81.19% +/- 19.59%, and 80.52% +/- 14.71% muscle larvae for small, medium, and large samples, respectively. This study supports the use of proficiency samples to accurately evaluate the performance of routine diagnostic laboratories that conduct digestion tests for animal trichinellosis diagnosis.

Effect of calyx capsule-ethanol extract Hibiscus sabdariffa L. on renal function of healthy volunteers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harun, N.; Darmawan, E.; Nurani, L. H.

2017-11-01

Hibiscus sabdariffa contains flavonoid, triterpenoid, anthocyanin which function as immunostimulant. H. sabdariffa is considered safe for animal renal; nonetheless, there are known side effects of which need to be further investigated for human renal. This research aims to investigate the effect of calyx capsule-ethanol extract H. sabdariffa for renal function of healthy male and female for 30 days period by monitoring Scr and Clcr component in their blood samples. The method of this experimental research was by pre and post-treatment by involving 20 healthy volunteers who have met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The volunteers have completed the informed consent for this experiment. Furthermore, volunteers were divided into two groups (10 male and 10 female). Each group was given orally 500 mg of calyx capsule-ethanol extract H. sabdariffa per day for 30 days period. Blood tests were taken on day 0, day 30 after consuming the capsule and day 45 (15 days after the last day of capsule intake) in order to measure the Scr and Clcr concentration in the blood samples by using Jaffe dan Cockcroft-Gault method. The results of each sampling day were further analyzed statistically and compared using Repeated ANOVA dan Friedman test. The results suggest that there was a difference in the renal function on day 0, 30 and 45 samplings. However, there was no significant difference in Scr dan Clcr concentrations on female and male volunteers (p>0.05). Specifically, the type of gender affects Scr concentration (p<0.05) however, it does not affect Clcr concentration (p>0.05). In addition, age and Body Mass Index (BMI) does not affect Scr and Clcr concentrations (p>0.05). The side effects discovered through the monitoring increased in mixturition and bloatedness. Calyx capsule-ethanol extract H. sabdariffa does not affect on renal function of healthy volunteers.

[Effect of a dehydrated extract of nopal (Opuntia ficus indica Mill.) on blood glucose].

PubMed

Frati-Munari, A C; de León, C; Ariza-Andraca, R; Bañales-Ham, M B; López-Ledesma, R; Lozoya, X

1989-01-01

To assess if a dehydrated extract of nopal stems retains the effect on glycemia of the entire nopal stems two experiments were performed. A. Six patients with type II diabetes mellitus in fasting condition received 30 capsules containing 10.1 +/- 0.3 g of the extract, and serum glucose levels were measured hourly from 0 to 180 minutes. B. Six healthy volunteers received 30 capsules with the extract followed by 74 g of dextrose orally. Serum glucose measurements were made in a similar fashion. In each experiment a control test with empty capsules was performed. Nopal extract did not reduce fasting glycemia in diabetic subjects. Nevertheless, the extract diminished the increase of serum glucose which followed a dextrose load. Peak serum glucose was 20.3 +/- 18.2 mg/dl (X +/- SD) lower in the test with nopal than in the control one (P less than 0.025). Dehydrated extract of nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica Mill) did not show acute hypoglycemic effect, although could attenuate postprandial hyperglycemia.

KSC-2012-2854

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-17

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Umbilical lines connect the strongback to the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket which has just arrived on the pad at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2852

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-17

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A strongback lifts the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket into a vertical position on the pad at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2847

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-17

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Preparations are under way to roll the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket out of the processing facility to the pad at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-3718

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-04-29

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Partially hidden behind a flame and exhaust deflector, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stands at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2862

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-18

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A photographer sets up his remote camera at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. In the background, final preparations are under way to launch the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Liftoff with the Dragon capsule on top is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KSC-2012-2849

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-17

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket rolls between the lightning protection system towers surrounding the pad at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Dragon capsule aboard is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-2861

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-05-18

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A strongback provides connections to the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket as final preparations for launch are completed at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the Dragon capsule on top is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

The relative bioavailability and fasting pharmacokinetics of three formulations of olmesartan medoxomil 20-mg capsules and tablets in healthy Chinese male volunteers: An open-label, randomized-sequence, single-dose, three-way crossover study.

PubMed

Li, Kun-Yan; Liang, Jian-Ping; Hu, Bing-Qiang; Qiu, Yu; Luo, Chen-Hui; Jiang, Yun; Lin, Xiao-Ping; Yang, Nong

2010-08-01

Olmesartan medoxomil is an angiotensin II-receptor antagonist used in the treatment of hypertension. It is a prodrug and is converted to the pharmacologically active compound on de-esterification by arylesterase in the gastrointestinal tract. This study investigated the relative bioavailability and fasting pharmacokinetic properties of olmesartan after single doses of a 20-mg test tablet, a 20-mg test capsule, and a commercially available 20-mg reference tablet in healthy Chinese male volunteers. The study was conducted to satisfy Chinese State Food and Drug Administration regulatory requirements for approval of a generic formulation of olmesartan medoxomil. This study had an open-label, randomized-sequence, single-dose, 3-treatment, 3-period crossover design. Healthy volunteers were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive a single 20-mg dose of the test tablet, test capsule, or reference tablet, each administered after a 12-hour overnight fast, followed by a 1-week washout period and administration of the alternate formulation. Blood samples were obtained at baseline and at 0.5, 1, 1.5,2,2.5,3,4,6,8,12,24,36, and 48 hours after dosing. Tolerability was assessed based on vital signs and laboratory values obtained before and after administration of study drug. The formulations were assumed to be bioequivalent if the 90% CIs for the log-transformed ratios of C(max), AUC(0-t), and AUC(0-∞) were within the predetermined equivalence range (70%-143% for C(max); 80%-125% for AUC(0-t) and AUC(0-∞)), as established by the Chinese State Food and Drug Administration. Twenty-one healthy male subjects (mean age, 21 years [range, 18-25 years]; weight, 62.1 kg [range, 54.0-80.0 kg]) were enrolled in and completed the study. No period or sequence effect was observed. The mean AUC(0-∞) values for the test tablet, test capsule, and reference tablet were 3993 (1070), 3567 (850), and 3849 (872) ng/mL/h, respectively. The 90% CIs for the log-transformed ratios of test tablet to reference tablet for C(max), AUC(0-48), and AUC(0-∞) were 103.9 to 124.9, 94.0 to 111.5, and 94.4 to 111.7, respectively (all, P = NS). The corresponding 90% CIs for the log-transformed ratios of test capsule to reference tablet were 90.8 to 109.2, 84.9 to 107.9, and 85.1 to 100.7 (all, P = NS). Ten adverse events were reported during the study; 7 subjects complained of pain during blood sampling, and 3 had a blocked venous catheter. No treatment-related adverse events were reported or observed. In this single-dose crossover study in healthy Chinese male volunteers, the test and reference formulations of olmesartan medoxomil 20-mg capsules and tablets met the regulatory criteria for assuming bioequivalence. The 3 formulations were well tolerated. Copyright © 2010 Excerpta Medica Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantitative analysis of patients with celiac disease by video capsule endoscopy: A deep learning method.

PubMed

Zhou, Teng; Han, Guoqiang; Li, Bing Nan; Lin, Zhizhe; Ciaccio, Edward J; Green, Peter H; Qin, Jing

2017-06-01

Celiac disease is one of the most common diseases in the world. Capsule endoscopy is an alternative way to visualize the entire small intestine without invasiveness to the patient. It is useful to characterize celiac disease, but hours are need to manually analyze the retrospective data of a single patient. Computer-aided quantitative analysis by a deep learning method helps in alleviating the workload during analysis of the retrospective videos. Capsule endoscopy clips from 6 celiac disease patients and 5 controls were preprocessed for training. The frames with a large field of opaque extraluminal fluid or air bubbles were removed automatically by using a pre-selection algorithm. Then the frames were cropped and the intensity was corrected prior to frame rotation in the proposed new method. The GoogLeNet is trained with these frames. Then, the clips of capsule endoscopy from 5 additional celiac disease patients and 5 additional control patients are used for testing. The trained GoogLeNet was able to distinguish the frames from capsule endoscopy clips of celiac disease patients vs controls. Quantitative measurement with evaluation of the confidence was developed to assess the severity level of pathology in the subjects. Relying on the evaluation confidence, the GoogLeNet achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity for the testing set. The t-test confirmed the evaluation confidence is significant to distinguish celiac disease patients from controls. Furthermore, it is found that the evaluation confidence may also relate to the severity level of small bowel mucosal lesions. A deep convolutional neural network was established for quantitative measurement of the existence and degree of pathology throughout the small intestine, which may improve computer-aided clinical techniques to assess mucosal atrophy and other etiologies in real-time with videocapsule endoscopy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of a Smart Release Algorithm for Mid-Air Separation of Parachute Test Articles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moore, James W.

2011-01-01

The Crew Exploration Vehicle Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) project is currently developing an autonomous method to separate a capsule-shaped parachute test vehicle from an air-drop platform for use in the test program to develop and validate the parachute system for the Orion spacecraft. The CPAS project seeks to perform air-drop tests of an Orion-like boilerplate capsule. Delivery of the boilerplate capsule to the test condition has proven to be a critical and complicated task. In the current concept, the boilerplate vehicle is extracted from an aircraft on top of a Type V pallet and then separated from the pallet in mid-air. The attitude of the vehicles at separation is critical to avoiding re-contact and successfully deploying the boilerplate into a heatshield-down orientation. Neither the pallet nor the boilerplate has an active control system. However, the attitude of the mated vehicle as a function of time is somewhat predictable. CPAS engineers have designed an avionics system to monitor the attitude of the mated vehicle as it is extracted from the aircraft and command a release when the desired conditions are met. The algorithm includes contingency capabilities designed to release the test vehicle before undesirable orientations occur. The algorithm was verified with simulation and ground testing. The pre-flight development and testing is discussed and limitations of ground testing are noted. The CPAS project performed a series of three drop tests as a proof-of-concept of the release technique. These tests helped to refine the attitude instrumentation and software algorithm to be used on future tests. The drop tests are described in detail and the evolution of the release system with each test is described.

GRC-2007-C-02471

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-12-19

Orion Capsule and Launch Abort System (LAS) installed in the NASA Glenn 8x6 Supersonic Wind Tunnel for testing. This test is an Aero Acoustic test of the LAS. Pictured is the calibration of the model's angle of attack

GRC-2007-C-02472

NASA Image and Video Library

2003-12-19

Orion Capsule and Launch Abort System (LAS) installed in the NASA Glenn 8x6 Supersonic Wind Tunnel for testing. This test is an Aero Acoustic test of the LAS. Pictured is the calibration of the model's angle of attack

Irradiation test of tungsten clad uranium carbide-zirconium carbide ((U,Zr)C) specimens for thermionic reactor application at conditions conductive to long-term performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Creagh, J. W. R.; Smith, J. R.

1973-01-01

Uranium carbide fueled, thermionic emitter configurations were encapsulated and irradiated. One capsule contained a specimen clad with fluoride derived chemically vapor deposited (CVD) tungsten. The other capsule used a duplex clad specimen consisting of chloride derived on floride derived CVD tungsten. Both fuel pins were 16 millimeters in diameter and contained a 45.7-millimeter length of fuel.

Performance of acidified 14C-urea capsule breath test during pantoprazole and ranitidine treatment.

PubMed

Oztürk, Emel; Yeşilova, Zeki; Ilgan, Seyfettin; Ozgüven, Mehmet; Dağalp, Kemal

2009-07-01

Urea breath test (UBT) results could be false negative in patients taking antisecretory drugs. This effect would be prevented by citric acid administration during UBT. We prospectively investigated whether acidified 14C-urea capsule prevents false negative UBT results in patients taking antisecretory drugs and show interference with the duration of medications. Sixty Helicobacter pylori positive patients were included. Pantoprazole (40 mg/day) was given to 27 patients for 28 days and ranitidine (300 mg. o.d.) to 33 patients for 60 days. Urea breath tests were repeated on days 14 and 28 in both groups and on day 60 in the ranitidine group. The baseline mean breath counts of two groups did not show any significant difference. Pantoprazole led to a significant decrease in mean breath counts on day 14 (P < 0.005). Six of 27 and 3 of 25 patients taking pantoprazole developed negative or equivocal UBT results on days 14 and 28, respectively. Two of 32, 2 of 32 and 3 of 21 patients taking ranitidine developed negative or equivocal UBT results on days 14, 28 and 60, respectively. The use of acidified 14C-urea capsule did not prevent false negative UBT results in patients taking pantoprazole and ranitidine, and the duration of medication does not affect the test results.

Capsule symmetry sensitivity and hohlraum symmetry calculations for the z-pinch driven hohlraum high-yield concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vesey, Roger; Cuneo, M. E.; Hanson Porter, D. L., Jr.; Mehlhorn, T. A.; Ruggles, L. E.; Simpson, W. W.; Hammer, J. H.; Landen, O.

2000-10-01

Capsule radiation symmetry is a crucial issue in the design of the z-pinch driven hohlraum approach to high-yield inertial confinement fusion [1]. Capsule symmetry may be influenced by power imbalance of the two z-pinch x-ray sources, and by hohlraum effects (geometry, time-dependent albedo, wall motion). We have conducted two-dimensional radiation-hydrodynamics calculations to estimate the symmetry sensitivity of the 220 eV beryllium ablator capsule that nominally yields 400 MJ in this concept. These estimates then determine the symmetry requirements to be met by the hohlraum design (for even Legendre modes) and by the top-bottom pinch imbalance and mistiming (for odd Legendre modes). We have used a combination of 2- and 3-D radiosity ("viewfactor"), and 2-D radiation-hydrodynamics calculations to identify hohlraum geometries that meet these symmetry requirements for high-yield, and are testing these models against ongoing Z foam ball symmetry experiments. 1. J. H. Hammer et al., Phys. Plas. 6, 2129 (1999).

Measuring radial profiles of nuclear burn in ICF implosions at OMEGA and the NIF using proton emission imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seguin, F. H.; Rinderknecht, H. G.; Rosenberg, M.; Zylstra, A.; Frenje, J.; Li, C. K.; Petrasso, R.; Marshall, F. J.; Sangster, T. C.; Hoffman, N. M.; Amendt, P. A.; Bellei, C.; Le Pape, S.; Wilks, S. C.

2014-10-01

Fusion reactions in ICF implosions of D3He-filled capsules produce 14.7-MeV D3He protons and 3-MeV DD protons. Measurements of the spatial distributions of the D3He and DD reactions are studied with a penumbral imaging system that utilizes a CR-39-based imaging detector to simultaneously record separate penumbral images of the two types of protons. Measured burn profiles are useful for studying implosion physics and provide a critical test for benchmarking simulations. Recent implosions at OMEGA of CD capsules containing 3He gas fill and SiO2 capsules containing low-pressure D3He gas were expected to have hollow D3He burn profiles (in the 3He-filled capsule, due to fuel-shell mix), but penumbral imaging showed that the reactions were centrally peaked due to enhanced ion diffusion. The imaging technique is to be implemented soon on the NIF. This work was supported in part by NLUF, DOE, and LLE.

Food additives and behavior in 8- to 9-year-old children in Hong Kong: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

PubMed

Lok, Kris Y W; Chan, Ruth S M; Lee, Vivian W Y; Leung, Patrick W; Leung, Cynthia; Leung, Jason; Woo, Jean

2013-01-01

To test the individual effect of artificial food colorings (AFCs) and a preservative on the behavior of the general Chinese population. One hundred thirty children (70 boys and 60 girls) in Hong Kong with a mean age of 8.64 years were enlisted to the study with a within-subject crossover between AFCs, a preservative (sodium benzoate), and a placebo capsule. Two behavior scores were used including the strengths and weaknesses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and normal behavior rating scale and the child behavior checklist-teacher report form. Capsule A containing AFCs and Capsule B containing sodium benzoate had no significant adverse effect compared with placebo in both behavior scores. This result persisted when analysis was restricted to children with 85% consumption of capsule (per protocol analysis). There seem to be no significant associations between AFCs and a preservative on Chinese children's behavior at the age of 8 to 9 years. Future directions and implications of this research are discussed.

The best of Nimbus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

Some of the highlights of the Nimbus six-year history are reviewed. From the hundreds of thousands of pictures and other results available, attempts have been made to select those which best represent the many data types and application areas. These results provide a capsule summary of the history and achievements of the Nimbus program.

An Expert Vision System for Autonomous Land Vehicle Road Following.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

TR-138, Center for Automa- tioii Hesearch, University of Maryland, July 1985. ’Miinskyl Minsky , Marvin , "A Framework for Representing Knowledge", in...relationships, frames have been chosen to model objects , Minsky ]. A frame is a data structure containing a set of slots (or attributes) which en- capsulate

AGC-2 Specimen Post Irradiation Data Package Report

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

Windes, William Enoch; Swank, W. David; Rohrbaugh, David T.

This report documents results of the post-irradiation examination material property testing of the creep, control, and piggyback specimens from the irradiation creep capsule Advanced Graphite Creep (AGC)-2 are reported. This is the second of a series of six irradiation test trains planned as part of the AGC experiment to fully characterize the neutron irradiation effects and radiation creep behavior of current nuclear graphite grades. The AGC-2 capsule was irradiated in the Idaho National Laboratory Advanced Test Reactor at a nominal temperature of 600°C and to a peak dose of 5 dpa (displacements per atom). One-half of the creep specimens weremore » subjected to mechanical stresses (an applied stress of either 13.8, 17.2, or 20.7 MPa) to induce irradiation creep. All post-irradiation testing and measurement results are reported with the exception of the irradiation mechanical strength testing, which is the last destructive testing stage of the irradiation testing program. Material property tests were conducted on specimens from 15 nuclear graphite grades using a similar loading configuration as the first AGC capsule (AGC-1) to provide easy comparison between the two capsules. However, AGC-2 contained an increased number of specimens (i.e., 487 total specimens irradiated) and replaced specimens of the minor grade 2020 with the newer grade 2114. The data reported include specimen dimensions for both stressed and unstressed specimens to establish the irradiation creep rates, mass and volume data necessary to derive density, elastic constants (Young’s modulus, shear modulus, and Poisson’s ratio) from ultrasonic time-of-flight velocity measurements, Young’s modulus from the fundamental frequency of vibration, electrical resistivity, and thermal diffusivity and thermal expansion data from 100–500°C. No data outliers were determined after all measurements were completed. A brief statistical analysis was performed on the irradiated data and a limited comparison between pre- and post-irradiation properties is presented. A more complete evaluation of trends in the material property changes, as well as irradiation-induced creep due to irradiation, temperature, and applied load on specimens will be discussed in later AGC-2 post-irradiation examination analysis reports.« less

Colon Capsule Endoscopy for the Detection of Colorectal Polyps: An Economic Analysis

PubMed Central

Palimaka, Stefan; Blackhouse, Gord; Goeree, Ron

2015-01-01

Background Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in Ontario. Most cases of colorectal cancer are preventable through early diagnosis and the removal of precancerous polyps. Colon capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive test for detecting colorectal polyps. Objectives The objectives of this analysis were to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and the impact on the Ontario health budget of implementing colon capsule endoscopy for detecting advanced colorectal polyps among adult patients who have been referred for computed tomographic (CT) colonography. Methods We performed an original cost-effectiveness analysis to assess the additional cost of CT colonography and colon capsule endoscopy resulting from misdiagnoses. We generated diagnostic accuracy data from a clinical evidence-based analysis (reported separately), and we developed a deterministic Markov model to estimate the additional long-term costs and life-years lost due to false-negative results. We then also performed a budget impact analysis using data from Ontario administrative sources. One-year costs were estimated for CT colonography and colon capsule endoscopy (replacing all CT colonography procedures, and replacing only those CT colonography procedures in patients with an incomplete colonoscopy within the previous year). We conducted this analysis from the payer perspective. Results Using the point estimates of diagnostic accuracy from the head-to-head study between colon capsule endoscopy and CT colonography, we found the additional cost of false-positive results for colon capsule endoscopy to be $0.41 per patient, while additional false-negatives for the CT colonography arm generated an added cost of $116 per patient, with 0.0096 life-years lost per patient due to cancer. This results in an additional cost of $26,750 per life-year gained for colon capsule endoscopy compared with CT colonography. The total 1-year cost to replace all CT colonography procedures with colon capsule endoscopy in Ontario is about $2.72 million; replacing only those CT colonography procedures in patients with an incomplete colonoscopy in the previous year would cost about $740,600 in the first year. Limitations The difference in accuracy between colon capsule endoscopy and CT colonography was not statistically significant for the detection of advanced adenomas (≥ 10 mm in diameter), according to the head-to-head clinical study from which the diagnostic accuracy was taken. This leads to uncertainty in the economic analysis, with results highly sensitive to changes in diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions The cost-effectiveness of colon capsule endoscopy for use in patients referred for CT colonography is $26,750 per life-year, assuming an increased sensitivity of colon capsule endoscopy. Replacement of CT colonography with colon capsule endoscopy is associated with moderate costs to the health care system. PMID:26366240

KSC-2012-5574

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA's Johnson Space Center Aerospace Engineer Jeff Hagen, left, and engineering intern Emmanuel Nyangweso attach rotors to the top of a model capsule ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3612

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, center, talks to the media in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the arrival in Florida of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule, behind him. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3625

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Dan Dumbacher, NASA deputy associate administrator for Exploration Systems Development, addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3621

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA astronaut Ricky Arnold addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3639

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3630

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3629

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3613

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, left, and NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver discuss NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3620

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3638

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3627

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3628

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3606

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, left, and NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana inspect NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3631

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3626

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3622

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3640

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Mark Geyer, Orion program manager, addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3632

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Orion Program Manager Mark Geyer addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Chemo-physical properties of renal capsules under ultraviolet-c exposure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baghapour, Sh.; Parvin, P.; Reyhani, A.; Mortazavi, S. Z.; Mokhtari, S.; Amjadi, A.

2014-08-01

The renal capsule tissue of lamb was irradiated with ultraviolet-C light and the treated samples were analyzed by uniaxial tensile test, dynamic mechanical analysis, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact angle measurements. It was shown that the skin cross-linking is dominant in low doses in accordance with the contact angle assessment. Conversely, the strong bulk degradation takes place at high doses. Similarly, the bulk cross-linking affects the mechanical tests as to enhance the stiffness at low doses, whereas strong degradation occurs at high doses that mainly arises from the strong bulk chain scission.

Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy for Surface Measurement of Liver Pathology.

PubMed

Nilsson, Jan H; Reistad, Nina; Brange, Hannes; Öberg, Carl-Fredrik; Sturesson, Christian

2017-01-01

Liver parenchymal injuries such as steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and sinusoidal obstruction syndrome can lead to increased morbidity and liver failure after liver resection. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) is an optical measuring method that is fast, convenient, and established. DRS has previously been used on the liver with an invasive technique consisting of a needle that is inserted into the parenchyma. We developed a DRS system with a hand-held probe that is applied to the liver surface. In this study, we investigated the impact of the liver capsule on DRS measurements and whether liver surface measurements are representative of the whole liver. We also wanted to confirm that we could discriminate between tumor and liver parenchyma by DRS. The instrumentation setup consisted of a light source, a fiber-optic contact probe, and two spectrometers connected to a computer. Patients scheduled for liver resection due to hepatic malignancy were included, and DRS measurements were performed on the excised liver part with and without the liver capsule and alongside a newly cut surface. To estimate the scattering parameters and tissue chromophore volume fractions, including blood, bile, and fat, the measured diffuse reflectance spectra were applied to an analytical model. In total, 960 DRS spectra from the excised liver tissue of 18 patients were analyzed. All factors analyzed regarding tumor versus liver tissue were significantly different. When measuring through the capsule, the blood volume fraction was found to be 8.4 ± 3.5%, the lipid volume fraction was 9.9 ± 4.7%, and the bile volume fraction was 8.2 ± 4.6%. No differences could be found between surface measurements and cross-sectional measurements. In measurements with/without the liver capsule, the differences in volume fraction were 1.63% (0.75-2.77), -0.54% (-2.97 to 0.32), and -0.15% (-1.06 to 1.24) for blood, lipid, and bile, respectively. This study shows that it is possible to manage DRS measurements through the liver capsule and that surface DRS measurements are representative of the whole liver. The results are consistent with data published earlier on the combination of liver chromophores. The results encourage us to proceed with in vivo measurements for further quantification of the liver's composition and assessment of parenchymal damage such as steatosis and fibrosis grade. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Survival of Free and Encapsulated Human and Rat Islet Xenografts Transplanted into the Mouse Bone Marrow

PubMed Central

Meier, Raphael P. H.; Seebach, Jörg D.; Morel, Philippe; Mahou, Redouan; Borot, Sophie; Giovannoni, Laurianne; Parnaud, Geraldine; Montanari, Elisa; Bosco, Domenico; Wandrey, Christine; Berney, Thierry; Bühler, Leo H.; Muller, Yannick D.

2014-01-01

Bone marrow was recently proposed as an alternative and potentially immune-privileged site for pancreatic islet transplantation. The aim of the present study was to assess the survival and rejection mechanisms of free and encapsulated xenogeneic islets transplanted into the medullary cavity of the femur, or under the kidney capsule of streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice. The median survival of free rat islets transplanted into the bone marrow or under the kidney capsule was 9 and 14 days, respectively, whereas that of free human islets was shorter, 7 days (bone marrow) and 10 days (kidney capsule). Infiltrating CD8+ T cells and redistributed CD4+ T cells, and macrophages were detected around the transplanted islets in bone sections. Recipient mouse splenocytes proliferated in response to donor rat stimulator cells. One month after transplantation under both kidney capsule or into bone marrow, encapsulated rat islets had induced a similar degree of fibrotic reaction and still contained insulin positive cells. In conclusion, we successfully established a small animal model for xenogeneic islet transplantation into the bone marrow. The rejection of xenogeneic islets was associated with local and systemic T cell responses and macrophage recruitment. Although there was no evidence for immune-privilege, the bone marrow may represent a feasible site for encapsulated xenogeneic islet transplantation. PMID:24625569

In-vitro and in-vivo evidence of dose-dependent decrease of uropathogenic Escherichia coli virulence after consumption of commercial Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) capsules.

PubMed

Lavigne, J-P; Bourg, G; Combescure, C; Botto, H; Sotto, A

2008-04-01

This study evaluated the antibacterial efficacy of the consumption of cranberry capsules vs. placebo in the urine of healthy volunteers. A first double-blind, randomised, crossover trial involved eight volunteers who had followed three regimens, with or without cranberry, with a wash-out period of at least 6 days between each regimen. Twelve hours after consumption of cranberry or placebo hard capsules, the first urine of the morning was collected. Different Escherichia coli strains were cultured in the urine samples. Urinary antibacterial adhesion activity was measured in vitro using the human T24 epithelial cell-line, and in vivo using the Caenorhabditis elegans killing model. With the in-vitro model, 108 mg of cranberry induced a significant reduction in bacterial adherence to T24 cells as compared with placebo (p <0.001). A significant dose-dependent decrease in bacterial adherence in vitro was noted after the consumption of 108 and 36 mg of cranberry (p <0.001). The in-vivo model confirmed that E. coli strains had a reduced ability to kill C. elegans after growth in the urine of patients who consumed cranberry capsules. Overall, these in-vivo and in-vitro studies suggested that consumption of cranberry juice represents an interesting new strategy to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection.

In-vitro and in-vivo evidence of dose-dependent decrease of uropathogenic Escherichia coli virulence after consumption of commercial Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) capsules

PubMed Central

Lavigne, Jean-Philippe; Bourg, Gisèle; Combescure, Christophe; Botto, Henri; Sotto, Albert

2008-01-01

This study evaluated the antibacterial efficacy of the consumption of cranberry capsules vs. placebo in the urine of healthy volunteers. A first double-blind, randomised, crossover trial involved eight volunteers who had followed three regimens, with or without cranberry, with a wash-out period of at least 6 days between each regimen. Twelve hours after consumption of cranberry or placebo hard capsules, the first urine of the morning was collected. Different Escherichia coli strains were cultured in the urine samples. Urinary antibacterial adhesion activity was measured in vitro using the human T24 epithelial cell-line, and in vivo using the Caenorhabditis elegans killing model. With the in-vitro model, 108 mg of cranberry induced a significant reduction in bacterial adherence to T24 cells as compared with placebo (p <0.001). A significant dose-dependent decrease in bacterial adherence in vitro was noted after the consumption of 108 and 36 mg of cranberry (p <0.001). The in-vivo model confirmed that E. coli strains had a reduced ability to kill C. elegans after growth in the urine of patients who consumed cranberry capsules. Overall, these in-vivo and in-vitro studies suggested that consumption of cranberry juice represents an interesting new strategy to prevent recurrent urinary tract infection. PMID:18190583

Phylogenetic relationships among the North American cleomoids (Cleomaceae): a test of Iltis's reduction series.

PubMed

Riser, James P; Cardinal-McTeague, Warren M; Hall, Jocelyn C; Hahn, William J; Sytsma, Kenneth J; Roalson, Eric H

2013-10-01

A monophyletic group composed of five genera of the Cleomaceae represents an intriguing lineage with outstanding taxonomic and evolutionary questions. Generic boundaries are poorly defined, and historical hypotheses regarding the evolution of fruit type and phylogenetic relationships provide testable questions. This is the first detailed phylogenetic investigation of all 22 species in this group. We use this phylogenetic framework to assess generic monophyly and test Iltis's evolutionary "reduction series" hypothesis regarding phylogeny and fruit type/seed number. • Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses of four plastid intergenic spacer region sequences (rpl32-trnL, trnQ-rps16, ycf1-rps15, and psbA-trnH) and one nuclear (ITS) region were used to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships among the NA cleomoid species. Stochastic mapping and ancestral-state reconstruction were used to study the evolution of fruit type. • Both analyses recovered nearly identical phylogenies. Three of the currently recognized genera (Wislizenia, Carsonia, and Oxystylis) are monophyletic while two (Cleomella and Peritoma) are para- or polyphyletic. There was a single origin of the two-seeded schizocarp in the ancestor of the Oxystylis-Wislizenia clade and a secondary derivation of elongated capsule-type fruits in Peritoma from a truncated capsule state in Cleomella. • Our well-resolved phylogeny supports most of the current species circumscriptions but not current generic circumscriptions. Additionally, our results are inconsistent with Iltis's hypothesis of species with elongated many-seed fruits giving rise to species with truncated few-seeded fruits. Instead, we find support for the reversion to elongated multiseeded fruits from a truncate few-seeded ancestor in Peritoma.

Capsule modeling of high foot implosion experiments on the National Ignition Facility

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

Clark, D. S.; Kritcher, A. L.; Milovich, J. L.

This study summarizes the results of detailed, capsule-only simulations of a set of high foot implosion experiments conducted on the National Ignition Facility (NIF). These experiments span a range of ablator thicknesses, laser powers, and laser energies, and modeling these experiments as a set is important to assess whether the simulation model can reproduce the trends seen experimentally as the implosion parameters were varied. Two-dimensional (2D) simulations have been run including a number of effects—both nominal and off-nominal—such as hohlraum radiation asymmetries, surface roughness, the capsule support tent, and hot electron pre-heat. Selected three-dimensional simulations have also been run tomore » assess the validity of the 2D axisymmetric approximation. As a composite, these simulations represent the current state of understanding of NIF high foot implosion performance using the best and most detailed computational model available. While the most detailed simulations show approximate agreement with the experimental data, it is evident that the model remains incomplete and further refinements are needed. Nevertheless, avenues for improved performance are clearly indicated.« less

Capsule modeling of high foot implosion experiments on the National Ignition Facility

DOE PAGES

Clark, D. S.; Kritcher, A. L.; Milovich, J. L.; ...

2017-03-21

This study summarizes the results of detailed, capsule-only simulations of a set of high foot implosion experiments conducted on the National Ignition Facility (NIF). These experiments span a range of ablator thicknesses, laser powers, and laser energies, and modeling these experiments as a set is important to assess whether the simulation model can reproduce the trends seen experimentally as the implosion parameters were varied. Two-dimensional (2D) simulations have been run including a number of effects—both nominal and off-nominal—such as hohlraum radiation asymmetries, surface roughness, the capsule support tent, and hot electron pre-heat. Selected three-dimensional simulations have also been run tomore » assess the validity of the 2D axisymmetric approximation. As a composite, these simulations represent the current state of understanding of NIF high foot implosion performance using the best and most detailed computational model available. While the most detailed simulations show approximate agreement with the experimental data, it is evident that the model remains incomplete and further refinements are needed. Nevertheless, avenues for improved performance are clearly indicated.« less

Using Quality of Life Measures in a Phase I Clinical Trial of Noni in Patients with Advanced Cancer to Select a Phase II Dose

PubMed Central

Issell, Brian F.; Gotay, Carolyn C.; Pagano, Ian; Franke, A. Adrian

2015-01-01

Purpose We conducted a Phase I study of noni in patients with advanced cancer. Quality of life measures were examined as an alternate way to select a Phase II dose of this popular dietary supplement. Patients and Methods Starting at two capsules twice daily (2 grams), the dose suggested for marketed products, dose levels were escalated by 2 grams daily in cohorts of at least five patients until a maximum tolerated dose was found. Patients completed QLQ-C30 Quality of Life, and the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), questionnaires at baseline and at four week intervals. Scopoletin was measured in blood and urine collected at baseline and at approximately four week intervals. Results Fifty-one patients were enrolled at seven dose levels. Seven capsules four times daily (14 grams) was the maximum tolerated dose. No dose limiting toxicity was found but four of eight patients at this level withdrew from the study due to the challenges of ingesting so many capsules. There was a dose response for self reported physical functioning and the control of pain and fatigue. Patients taking four capsules four times daily experienced less fatigue than patients taking lower or higher doses. A relationship between noni dose and blood and urinary scopoletin concentrations was found. Conclusion Measuring quality of life to determine a dose for subsequent Phase II testing is feasible. A noni dose of four capsules four times daily (8 grams) is recommended for Phase II testing where controlling fatigue and maintaining physical function is the efficacy of interest. Scopoletin is a measurable noni ingredient for pharmacokinetic studies in patients with cancer. PMID:22435516

Flu Vaccine Skin Patch Tested

MedlinePlus

... Subscribe September 2017 Print this issue Health Capsule Flu Vaccine Skin Patch Tested En español Send us ... Each year, millions of people nationwide catch the flu. The best way to protect yourself is to ...

Design and preliminary testing of a novel skin expander for total ear reconstruction in a rabbit model.

PubMed

Xiong, Wu; Yan, Yu; Hu, Feng; Liu, Can; Wang, Shaohua; Chen, Jia; Wang, Xueqi; Zhou, Jianda

2016-01-01

Ear reconstruction is one of the most complicated and challenging techniques in plastic surgery because of the histologic and anatomic properties of the ear. Success depends on fitting the auriform cartilage scaffold into the overlying skin, but current approaches can just give results that are not lifelike and can lead to complications. A novel double-capsule, double-valve plastic ear expander was designed and implanted subcutaneously on either side of the dorsum of six New Zealand white rabbits (two expanders per rabbit). The outer capsule was expanded by injecting approximately 120 mL of physiological saline, then withdrawing the liquid on two occasions. Next, the ear-shaped inner capsule was filled with high-hardness plaster, and the external capsule was emptied such that the expanded skin flap and external capsule responded to the negative pressure and closed over the ear-shaped inner capsule. As a result, the skin flap adopted an ear shape. The ear expander was left in place for 4 wk, removed with the help of a mini-incision, and stripped of its fibrous capsule. To simulate human ear reconstruction, the expander was replaced with an auriform silicone prosthesis, and the effects of auricular reconstruction were observed dynamically. All 12 skin flaps maintained abundant blood supply, created a clear outline of the ear framework, and produced a lifelike result. No complications were observed during the 4-wk observation period. The expanded skin flaps described here can mold to the desired contours and appear lifelike, as well as maintain abundant blood supply. This may provide a simpler approach to total ear reconstruction that reduces risk of complications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Successful esophageal pH monitoring with Bravo capsule in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease].

PubMed

Valdovinos Díaz, Miguel A; Remes Troche, José Ma; Ruiz Aguilar, Juan Carlos; Schmulson, Max J; Valdovinos-Andraca, Francisco

2004-01-01

Esophageal 24-h pH monitoring (24-pH) is the most useful test to diagnose and treat patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The traditional system for 24-pH requires transnasal introduction of a catheter with pH sensors. This technique produces discomfort, inconvenience and interference with daily activity. Recently, the Bravo pH system has been proposed as an alternative and promising method for 24-pH. In this study, the initial experience in Mexico with this system is reported. To evaluate safety, tolerability and performance of the pH Bravo capsule in patients with GERD. Patients with GERD symptoms at least twice a week during the last three months, with indication for 24-pH were evaluated. pH Bravo capsule was placed 6 cm above squamocolumnar junction (SCJ). Symptoms, quality and duration of pH tracings, capsule detachment and patient global satisfaction were evaluated. Eleven patients (nine female, two male) mean age 42 years (range 26-62 years), two with erosive and nine with non-erosive GERD were studied. pH capsule was correctly positioned at 6 cm above SCJ in all patients. Nine patients noted a mild foreign body sensation (especially while eating) and four had mild chest pain; two patients had no discomfort. Capsule detachment occurred spontaneously in all patients on day 10. pH record for > 43 h was obtained in the 11 patients. There were no differences in pH parameters between days 1 and 2. Two patients with normal acid exposure on day 1 had abnormal pH parameters on day 2. Esophageal pH monitoring with Bravo capsule is a safe, reliable and tolerable method in patients with GERD. Extended pH recordings increases abnormal esophageal acid exposure detection in patients with this disease.

KSC-2011-8151

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA's Liberty Star ship departs Port Canaveral in Florida with an Orion flight test capsule secured to its deck. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KSC-2011-8152

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA's Liberty Star ship departs Port Canaveral in Florida with an Orion flight test capsule secured to its deck. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

Hydro-instability growth of perturbation seeds from alternate capsule-support strategies in indirect-drive implosions on National Ignition Facility

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

Martinez, D. A.; Smalyuk, V. A.; MacPhee, A. G.

Hydrodynamic instability growth of the capsule support membranes (or “tents”) and fill tubes has been studied in spherical, glow discharge polymer plastic capsule implosions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In NIF implosions, the capsules are supported by tents because the nominal 10-μm thick fill tubes are not strong enough to support capsules by themselves. After it was recognized that the tents had a significant impact of implosion stability, new support methods were investigated, including thicker, 30-μm diameter fill tubes and cantilevered fill tubes, as described in this article. A new “sub-scale” version of the existing x-ray radiography platform wasmore » developed for measuring growing capsule perturbations in the acceleration phase of implosions. It was calibrated using hydrodynamic growth measurements of pre-imposed capsule modulations with Legendre modes of 60, 90, 110, and 140 at convergence ratios up to ~2.4. Subsequent experiments with 3-D perturbations have studied instability growth of 10-μm and 30-μm thick fill tubes to compare them with 30-nm thick tent perturbations at convergence ratios up to ~3. In other experiments, the perturbations from cantilevered fill tubes were measured and compared to the tent perturbations. The cantilevered fill tubes were supported by 12-μm thick SiC rods, offset by 100 μm, 200 μm, and 300 μm from the capsule surfaces. Based on these experiments, 30-μm thick fill tubes and 300-μm offset cantilevered fill tubes were recommended for further tests using layered deuterium-tritium implosions. In conclusion, the effects of x-ray shadowing during the drive and oxygen-induced perturbations during target assembly produced additional seeds for instabilities and were also measured in these experiments.« less

Development of Naphthalene PLIF for Visualizing Ablation Products From a Space Capsule Heat Shield

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Combs, C. S.; Clemens, N. T.; Danehy, P. M.

2014-01-01

The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) will use an ablative heat shield. To better design this heat shield and others that will undergo planetary entry, an improved understanding of the ablation process would be beneficial. Here, a technique developed at The University of Texas at Austin that uses planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of a low-temperature sublimating ablator (naphthalene) to enable visualization of the ablation products in a hypersonic flow is applied. Although high-temperature ablation is difficult and expensive to recreate in a laboratory environment, low-temperature sublimation creates a limited physics problem that can be used to explore ablation-product transport in a hypersonic flow-field. In the current work, a subscale capsule reentry vehicle model with a solid naphthalene heat shield has been tested in a Mach 5 wind tunnel. The PLIF technique provides images of the spatial distribution of sublimated naphthalene in the heat-shield boundary layer, separated shear layer, and backshell recirculation region. Visualizations of the capsule shear layer using both naphthalene PLIF and Schlieren imaging compared favorably. PLIF images have shown high concentrations of naphthalene in the capsule separated flow region, intermittent turbulent structures on the heat shield surface, and interesting details of the capsule shear layer structure. It was shown that, in general, the capsule shear layer appears to be more unsteady at lower angels of attack. The PLIF images demonstrated that during a wind tunnel run, as the model heated up, the rate of naphthalene ablation increased, since the PLIF signal increased steadily over the course of a run. Additionally, the shear layer became increasingly unsteady over the course of a wind tunnel run, likely because of increased surface roughness but also possibly because of the increased blowing. Regions with a relatively low concentration of naphthalene were also identified in the capsule backshell recirculation region and are most likely the result of cross-flow-induced vortices on the capsule afterbody.

Hydro-instability growth of perturbation seeds from alternate capsule-support strategies in indirect-drive implosions on National Ignition Facility

DOE PAGES

Martinez, D. A.; Smalyuk, V. A.; MacPhee, A. G.; ...

2017-10-20

Hydrodynamic instability growth of the capsule support membranes (or “tents”) and fill tubes has been studied in spherical, glow discharge polymer plastic capsule implosions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In NIF implosions, the capsules are supported by tents because the nominal 10-μm thick fill tubes are not strong enough to support capsules by themselves. After it was recognized that the tents had a significant impact of implosion stability, new support methods were investigated, including thicker, 30-μm diameter fill tubes and cantilevered fill tubes, as described in this article. A new “sub-scale” version of the existing x-ray radiography platform wasmore » developed for measuring growing capsule perturbations in the acceleration phase of implosions. It was calibrated using hydrodynamic growth measurements of pre-imposed capsule modulations with Legendre modes of 60, 90, 110, and 140 at convergence ratios up to ~2.4. Subsequent experiments with 3-D perturbations have studied instability growth of 10-μm and 30-μm thick fill tubes to compare them with 30-nm thick tent perturbations at convergence ratios up to ~3. In other experiments, the perturbations from cantilevered fill tubes were measured and compared to the tent perturbations. The cantilevered fill tubes were supported by 12-μm thick SiC rods, offset by 100 μm, 200 μm, and 300 μm from the capsule surfaces. Based on these experiments, 30-μm thick fill tubes and 300-μm offset cantilevered fill tubes were recommended for further tests using layered deuterium-tritium implosions. In conclusion, the effects of x-ray shadowing during the drive and oxygen-induced perturbations during target assembly produced additional seeds for instabilities and were also measured in these experiments.« less

Hydro-instability growth of perturbation seeds from alternate capsule-support strategies in indirect-drive implosions on National Ignition Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinez, D. A.; Smalyuk, V. A.; MacPhee, A. G.; Milovich, J.; Casey, D. T.; Weber, C. R.; Robey, H. F.; Chen, K.-C.; Clark, D. S.; Crippen, J.; Farrell, M.; Felker, S.; Field, J. E.; Haan, S. W.; Hammel, B. A.; Hamza, A. V.; Stadermann, M.; Hsing, W. W.; Kroll, J. J.; Landen, O. L.; Nikroo, A.; Pickworth, L.; Rice, N.

2017-10-01

Hydrodynamic instability growth of the capsule support membranes (or "tents") and fill tubes has been studied in spherical, glow discharge polymer plastic capsule implosions at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [Campbell et al., AIP Conf. Proc. 429, 3 (1998)]. In NIF implosions, the capsules are supported by tents because the nominal 10-μm thick fill tubes are not strong enough to support capsules by themselves. After it was recognized that the tents had a significant impact of implosion stability, new support methods were investigated, including thicker, 30-μm diameter fill tubes and cantilevered fill tubes, as described in this article. A new "sub-scale" version of the existing x-ray radiography platform was developed for measuring growing capsule perturbations in the acceleration phase of implosions. It was calibrated using hydrodynamic growth measurements of pre-imposed capsule modulations with Legendre modes of 60, 90, 110, and 140 at convergence ratios up to ˜2.4. Subsequent experiments with 3-D perturbations have studied instability growth of 10-μm and 30-μm thick fill tubes to compare them with 30-nm thick tent perturbations at convergence ratios up to ˜3. In other experiments, the perturbations from cantilevered fill tubes were measured and compared to the tent perturbations. The cantilevered fill tubes were supported by 12-μm thick SiC rods, offset by 100 μm, 200 μm, and 300 μm from the capsule surfaces. Based on these experiments, 30-μm thick fill tubes and 300-μm offset cantilevered fill tubes were recommended for further tests using layered deuterium-tritium implosions. The effects of x-ray shadowing during the drive and oxygen-induced perturbations during target assembly produced additional seeds for instabilities and were also measured in these experiments.

Bipolar Radiofrequency Facet Ablation of the Lumbar Facet Capsule: An Adjunct to Conventional Radiofrequency Ablation for Pain Management

PubMed Central

Palea, Ovidiu; Granville, Michelle

2017-01-01

Radiofrequency facet ablation (RFA) has been performed using the same technique for over 50 years. Except for variations in electrode size, tip shape, and change in radiofrequency (RF) stimulation parameters, using standard, pulsed, and cooled RF wavelengths, the target points have remained absolutely unchanged from the original work describing RFA for lumbar pain control. Degenerative changes in the facet joint and capsule are the primary location for the majority of lumbar segmental pathology and pain. Multiple studies show that the degenerated facet joint is richly innervated as a result of the inflammatory overgrowth of the synovium. The primary provocative clinical test to justify an RFA is to perform an injection with local anesthetic into the facet joint and the posterior capsule and confirm pain relief. However, after a positive response, the radiofrequency lesion is made not to the facet joint but to the more proximal fine nerve branches that innervate the joint. The accepted target points for the recurrent sensory branch ignore the characteristic rich innervation of the pathologic lumbar facet capsule and assume that lesioning of these recurrent branches is sufficient to denervate the painful pathologic facet joint. This report describes the additional targets and technical steps for further coagulation points along the posterior capsule of the lumbar facet joint and the physiologic studies of the advantage of the bipolar radiofrequency current in this location. Bipolar RF to the facet capsule is a simple, extra step that easily creates a large thermo-coagulated lesion in this capsule region of the pathologic facet joint. Early studies demonstrate bipolar RF to the facet capsule can provide long-term pain relief when used alone for specific localized facet joint pain, to coagulate lumbar facet cysts to prevent recurrence, and to get more extensive pain control by combining it with traditional lumbar RFA, especially when RFA is repeated. PMID:29119066

Bipolar Radiofrequency Facet Ablation of the Lumbar Facet Capsule: An Adjunct to Conventional Radiofrequency Ablation for Pain Management.

PubMed

Jacobson, Robert E; Palea, Ovidiu; Granville, Michelle

2017-09-01

Radiofrequency facet ablation (RFA) has been performed using the same technique for over 50 years. Except for variations in electrode size, tip shape, and change in radiofrequency (RF) stimulation parameters, using standard, pulsed, and cooled RF wavelengths, the target points have remained absolutely unchanged from the original work describing RFA for lumbar pain control. Degenerative changes in the facet joint and capsule are the primary location for the majority of lumbar segmental pathology and pain. Multiple studies show that the degenerated facet joint is richly innervated as a result of the inflammatory overgrowth of the synovium. The primary provocative clinical test to justify an RFA is to perform an injection with local anesthetic into the facet joint and the posterior capsule and confirm pain relief. However, after a positive response, the radiofrequency lesion is made not to the facet joint but to the more proximal fine nerve branches that innervate the joint. The accepted target points for the recurrent sensory branch ignore the characteristic rich innervation of the pathologic lumbar facet capsule and assume that lesioning of these recurrent branches is sufficient to denervate the painful pathologic facet joint. This report describes the additional targets and technical steps for further coagulation points along the posterior capsule of the lumbar facet joint and the physiologic studies of the advantage of the bipolar radiofrequency current in this location. Bipolar RF to the facet capsule is a simple, extra step that easily creates a large thermo-coagulated lesion in this capsule region of the pathologic facet joint. Early studies demonstrate bipolar RF to the facet capsule can provide long-term pain relief when used alone for specific localized facet joint pain, to coagulate lumbar facet cysts to prevent recurrence, and to get more extensive pain control by combining it with traditional lumbar RFA, especially when RFA is repeated.

Morpho-functional evaluation of small bowel using wireless motility capsule and video capsule endoscopy in patients with known or suspected Crohn's disease: pilot study.

PubMed

Yung, Diana; Douglas, Sarah; Hobson, Anthony R; Giannakou, Andry; Plevris, John N; Koulaouzidis, Anastasios

2016-04-01

SmartPill(®) (Given Imaging Corp.,Yoqneam,Israel) is an ingestible, non-imaging capsule that records physiological data including contractions and pH throughout the gastrointestinal tract. There are scarce data looking at SmartPill(®) assessment of patients with known/suspected small-bowel Crohn's Disease (CD). This pilot study aims to investigate feasibility and safety of SmartPill(®) to assess gut motility in this group.  Over 1 year, patients with known/suspected CD, referred for small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE), were invited to participate and 12 were recruited (7 female, 5 male, mean age 44.2 ± 16.6 years). They underwent hydrogen breath test to exclude small-bowel bacterial overgrowth, patency capsule (Agile(®)), and provided stool samples for fecal calprotectin (FC). Patients ingested PillCam(®)SB2 and SmartPill(®) 4 hours apart. Using unpublished data, 33 healthy controls also were identified for the study. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Of the 12 patients enrolled, 10 underwent complete Smartpill(®) examination (1 stomach retention, 1 dropout). Pillcam(®) was complete in 10 (1 dropout, 1 stomach retention). Mean fecal calprotectin was 340 ± 307.71 mcg/g. The study group had longer transit times and lower gut motility index than did the controls. The difference in motility appears to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). Longer transit times for SmartPill(®) (not statistically significant) may have been due to different specifications between the capsules. Limitations included transient Smartpill(®) signal loss (5/10 studies). This is the first pilot to attempt combining SBCE and SmartPill(®) to assess small-bowel CD. Data on motility in CD are scarce. Multimodal information can provide a clearer clinical picture. Despite concerns about capsule retention in CD patients, SmartPill(®) seems safe for use if a patency capsule is employed beforehand.

Pharmacokinetics of Caffeine in the Lens Capsule/Epithelium After Peroral Intake: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Study.

PubMed

Kronschläger, Martin; Stimpfl, Thomas; Ruiß, Manuel; Hirnschall, Nino; Leisser, Christoph; Findl, Oliver

2018-04-01

To determine the pharmacokinetics of perorally administered caffeine, a widely consumed and potent dietary antioxidant, in the anterior lens capsule and lens epithelial cells, a crucial cell monolayer for cataract development. Bilateral cataract patients were scheduled for cataract surgery with a caffeine abstinence of 1 week before surgery of each eye. At the day of surgery of the second eye patients were administered no drink (0-mg group) or coffee with 60-, 120-, or 180-mg caffeine. After capsulorhexis the lens capsule including lens epithelial cells was transferred to a test tube for analysis of caffeine concentration by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Coffee consumption significantly (P < 0.05) increased caffeine levels of the lens capsule/epithelium in the 60-, 120-, and 180-mg group. Caffeine concentrations (caffeine ng/lens capsule/epithelium) measured as difference between 1st and 2nd eye were -0.52 ± 1.16 (0-mg group, n = 7), 1.88 ± 2.02 (60-mg group, n = 8), 2.09 ± 0.67 (120-mg group, n = 9), and 3.68 ± 1.86 (180-mg group, n = 9). The increase constant of caffeine in a linear regression model was estimated as a 95% CI 0.02 ± 0.0046 (degrees of freedom; 25; r = 0.85). Peroral intake of coffee significantly increased caffeine concentrations in the lens capsule and lens epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. This information is important for further investigations on preventing cataract.

Wetted foam liquid fuel ICF target experiments

DOE PAGES

Olson, R. E.; Leeper, R. J.; Yi, S. A.; ...

2016-05-26

We are developing a new NIF experimental platform that employs wetted foam liquid fuel layer ICF capsules. We will use the liquid fuel layer capsules in a NIF sub-scale experimental campaign to explore the relationship between hot spot convergence ratio (CR) and the predictability of hot spot formation. DT liquid layer ICF capsules allow for flexibility in hot spot CR via the adjustment of the initial cryogenic capsule temperature and, hence, DT vapor density. Our hypothesis is that the predictive capability of hot spot formation is robust and 1D-like for a relatively low CR hot spot (CR~15), but will becomemore » less reliable as hot spot CR is increased to CR>20. Simulations indicate that backing off on hot spot CR is an excellent way to reduce capsule instability growth and to improve robustness to low-mode x-ray flux asymmetries. In the initial experiments, we will test our hypothesis by measuring hot spot size, neutron yield, ion temperature, and burn width to infer hot spot pressure and compare to predictions for implosions with hot spot CR's in the range of 12 to 25. Larger scale experiments are also being designed, and we will advance from sub-scale to full-scale NIF experiments to determine if 1D-like behavior at low CR is retained as the scale-size is increased. The long-term objective is to develop a liquid fuel layer ICF capsule platform with robust thermonuclear burn, modest CR, and significant α-heating with burn propagation.« less

Project Mercury; Little Joe

NASA Image and Video Library

1959-07-30

Assembling the Little Joe capsules. The capsules were manufactured in-house by Langley technicians. Three capsules are shown here in various stages of assembly. The escape tower and rocket motors shown on the completed capsule would be removed before shipping and finally assembly for launching at Wallops Island. Joseph Shortal wrote (vol. 3, p. 32): Design of the Little Joe capsules began at Langley before McDonnell started on the design of the Mercury capsule and was, therefore, a separate design. Although it was not designed to carry a man, it did have to carry a monkey. It had to meet the weight and center of gravity requirements of Mercury and withstand the same aerodynamic loads during the exit trajectory. Although in comparison with the overall Mercury Project, Little Joe was a simple undertaking, the fact that an attempt was made to condense a normal two-year project into a 6-month one with in house labor turned it into a major undertaking for Langley. Project Mercury: Little Joe: Boilerplate Mercury spacecraft undergo fabrication at the shops of the Langley Research Center. They will launched atop Little Joe rockets to test the spacecraft recovery systems. -- Published in Joseph A. Shortal, History of Wallops Station: Origins and Activities Through 1949, (Wallops Island, VA: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Wallops Station, nd), Comment Edition. L59-4947 Technicians prepare a Little Joe launch vehicle prototype for the Mercury space program, 1959. Photograph published in Winds of Change, 75th Anniversary NASA publication, page 76, by James Schultz

Heat Pipe and Thermal Energy Storage and Corrosion Studies (1988)

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

of air environment melting and end cap TIG welding [2]. Because of its severity, vacuum thermal cycling of the salt clad capsules between salt eutectic...melting of the salt under an inert gas atmosphere and welding of the specimen capsules by electron beam welding in contrast to previously used methods...electron beam welding . However, no ill effects were believed to have occurred on the overall testing program. Ultrapure fluoride salts LiF, MgF2, NaF

KSC-2012-4036

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-24

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Ron Sterick, a participant in the Rocket University program, inspects a capsule and parachute that are being prepared for a high-altitude balloon flight. The test flight was used to evaluate the stability of an instrumented capsule as it fell to Earth before its parachute opened. Rocket University is a program of courses, workshops, labs and projects offered to engineering and research pros of all stripes to keep their skills fresh and broaden their experiences. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Entry Dispersion Analysis for the Stardust Comet Sample Return Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Desai, Prasun N.; Mitcheltree, Robert A.; Cheatwood, F. McNeil

1997-01-01

Stardust will be the first mission to return samples from beyond the Earth-Moon system. The sample return capsule, which is passively controlled during the fastest Earth entry ever, will land by parachute in Utah. The present study analyzes the entry, descent, and landing of the returning sample capsule. The effects of two aerodynamic instabilities are revealed (one in the high altitude free molecular regime and the other in the transonic/subsonic flow regime). These instabilities could lead to unacceptably large excursions in the angle-of-attack near peak heating and main parachute deployment, respectively. To reduce the excursions resulting from the high altitude instability, the entry spin rate of the capsule is increased. To stabilize the excursions from the transonic/subsonic instability, a drogue chute with deployment triggered by an accelerometer and timer is added prior to main parachute deployment. A Monte Carlo dispersion analysis of the modified entry (from which the impact of off-nominal conditions during the entry is ascertained) shows that the capsule attitude excursions near peak heating and drogue chute deployment are within Stardust program limits. Additionally, the size of the resulting 3-sigma landing ellipse is 83.5 km in downrange by 29.2 km in crossrange, which is within the Utah Test and Training Range boundaries.

Effects of alga polysaccharide capsule shells on in-vivo bioavailability and disintegration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ting; Guo, Shuju; Ma, Lin; Yuan, Yi; Han, Lijun

2012-01-01

Gelatin has been used in hard capsule shells for more than a century, and some shortcomings have appeared, such as high moisture content and risk of transmitting diseases of animal origin to people. Based on available studies regarding gelatin and vegetable shells, we developed a new type of algal polysaccharide capsule (APPC) shells. To test whether our products can replace commercial gelatin shells, we measured in-vivo plasma concentration of 12 selected volunteers with a model drug, ibuprofen, using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), by calculating the relative bioavailability of APPC and Qualicaps® referenced to gelatin capsules and assessing bioequivalence of the three types of shells, and calculated pharmacokinetic parameters with the software DAS 2.0 (China). The results show that APPC shells possess bioequivalence with Qualicaps® and gelatin shells. Moreover, the disintegration behavior of four types of shells (APPC, Vegcaps®, Qualicaps® and gelatin shells) with the content of lactose and radioactive element (99mTc) was observed via gamma-scintigraphic images. The bioavailability and gamma-scintigraphic studies showed that APPC was not statistically different from other vegetable and gelatin capsule shells with respect to in-vivo behavior. Hence, it can be concluded that APPCs are exchangeable with other vegetable and gelatin shells.

KSC-98pc1639

NASA Image and Video Library

1998-11-12

The Stardust spacecraft sits in the Payload Hazardous Service Facility waiting to undergo installation and testing of the solar arrays, plus final installation and testing of spacecraft instruments followed by an overall spacecraft functional test. At the top is the re-entry capsule. Built by Lockheed Martin Astronautics near Denver, Colo., for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and NASA, the spacecraft Stardust will use a unique medium called aerogel to capture comet particles flying off the nucleus of comet Wild 2 in January 2004, plus collect interstellar dust for later analysis. Stardust will be launched aboard a Boeing Delta 7426 rocket from Complex 17, Cape Canaveral Air Station, targeted for Feb. 6, 1999. The collected samples will return to Earth in the re-entry capsule to be jettisoned from Stardust as it swings by Earth in January 2006

KSC-98pc1640

NASA Image and Video Library

1998-11-12

The Stardust spacecraft sits in the Payload Hazardous Service Facility waiting to undergo installation and testing of the solar arrays, plus final installation and testing of spacecraft instruments followed by an overall spacecraft functional test. At the top is the re-entry capsule. Built by Lockheed Martin Astronautics near Denver, Colo., for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and NASA, the spacecraft Stardust will use a unique medium called aerogel to capture comet particles flying off the nucleus of comet Wild 2 in January 2004, plus collect interstellar dust for later analysis. Stardust will be launched aboard a Boeing Delta 7426 rocket from Complex 17, Cape Canaveral Air Station, targeted for Feb. 6, 1999. The collected samples will return to Earth in the re-entry capsule to be jettisoned from Stardust as it swings by Earth in January 2006

Hypersonic Wind Tunnel Test of a Flare-type Membrane Aeroshell for Atmospheric Entry Capsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Kazuhiko; Koyama, Masashi; Kimura, Yusuke; Suzuki, Kojiro; Abe, Takashi; Koichi Hayashi, A.

A flexible aeroshell for atmospheric entry vehicles has attracted attention as an innovative space transportation system. In this study, hypersonic wind tunnel tests were carried out to investigate the behavior, aerodynamic characteristics and aerodynamic heating environment in hypersonic flow for a previously developed capsule-type vehicle with a flare-type membrane aeroshell made of ZYLON textile sustained by a rigid torus frame. Two different models with different flare angles (45º and 60º) were tested to experimentally clarify the effect of flare angle. Results indicate that flare angle of aeroshell has significant and complicate effect on flow field and aerodynamic heating in hypersonic flow at Mach 9.45 and the flare angle is very important parameter for vehicle design with the flare-type membrane aeroshell.

Evaluation of dynamic shear rheometer tests for emulsions : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-10-01

Currently, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) : requires ductility tests at 25C according to AASHTO T51 for emulsions and two : other tests, namely force ductility ratio at 4C and elastic recovery at 10C : accor...

Use of Containers to Carry Bulk and Break Bulk Commodities and Their Impact on Gulf Region Ports and International Trade : Research Project Capsule

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-09-01

Since their introduction in the 1950s, the use of containers now represents roughly 90% of : world trade. Their acceptance as the common denominator in international shipping has had : profound impacts throughout the shipping industry. More recently,...

Investigation of the performance of the disintegration test for dietary supplements.

PubMed

Almukainzi, May; Salehi, Mahnor; Araci Bou-Chacra, Nadia; Löbenberg, Raimar

2010-12-01

The aim of this study was to investigate how beaker size, basket assembly, use of disk, and immersion medium impact the disintegration time of dietary supplements. The disintegration times were determined for five tablet and two capsule products. A two-station disintegration tester was used with Apparatus A or Apparatus B as described in the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) chapters, <701> and <2040>. Two beakers complying with the harmonized specifications were used, one with a volume of 1,000 mL and one with a 1,500-mL volume. The disintegration data were analyzed using ANOVA for the following factors: beaker size, equipment (App A and B) and condition (with/without disk). Two tablet products were not sensitive to any changes in the test conditions or equipment configurations. One product was only partially sensitive to the test conditions. The other products showed impact on the disintegration time for all test conditions. The results revealed that these tablet products might pass or fail current USP disintegration requirements depending on the equipment configuration. Similar results were obtained for the two investigated capsule formulations. One product might fail current USP disintegration requirements if the large beaker was used, but might pass the disintegration requirements when the small beaker was used. Hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose capsules were mostly influenced if sodium instead of a potassium buffer was used as the immersion medium. The results demonstrate that the current harmonized ICH specifications for the disintegration test are insufficient to make the disintegration test into reliable test for dietary supplements.

KSC-2012-5577

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Astronauts Mike Fossum and Cady Coleman, both in blue flight suits, look over the model capsule fit with rotor blades ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA's Johnson Space Center Aerospace Engineer Jeff Hagen, right, fields questions about the project. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-5578

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Astronauts Mike Fossum and Cady Coleman, both in blue flight suits, listen as NASA's Johnson Space Center Aerospace Engineer Jeff Hagen explains the rotor mechanism for a model capsule ahead of tests inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The design would give a capsule the stability and control of a helicopter, but would not be powered. Instead, the wind passing over the rotors as the capsule descends would make the blades turn, a process called auto-rotation. The intent is to give real spacecraft a soft landing with enough control that they could touch down anywhere in the world, whether it be a runway or parking lot. In other words, wherever a helicopter could land, a spacecraft could land, too. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3623

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana, NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver and U.S. Senator Bill Nelson participate in an event in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3633

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – David Beaman, NASA Space Launch System spacecraft and payload integration manager, addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3636

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA astronaut Rex Walheim talks to Michael Leinbach, director of Human Spaceflight Operations for United Launch Alliance, in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay during an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3624

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana, NASA Deputy Administrator Lori Garver and U.S. Senator Bill Nelson participate in an event in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3641

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, NASA project engineer Trent Smith and NASA astronaut Nicole Stott share a moment of levity in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3635

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – John Karas, vice president and general manager of Human Spaceflight for Lockheed Martin Space Systems, addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3604

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson checks out NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Nelson and the spacecraft are in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking its arrival at Kennedy. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3607

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, NASA Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana and NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver discuss NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3615

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana and U.S. Senator Bill Nelson pose for a portrait in front of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3642

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson and NASA astronaut Nicole Stott pose for a portrait in front of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3634

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Pepper Phillips, program manager for NASA's Ground Systems Development and Operations, addresses the audience assembled in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

[In vitro drug release behavior of carrier made of porous glass ceramics].

PubMed

Wang, De-ping; Huang, Wen-hai; Zhou, Nai

2002-09-01

To conduct the in vitro test on drug release of rifampin encapsulated in a carrier made of porous phosphate glass ceramics and to analyze main factors which affect the drug release rate. A certain quantitative of rifampin was sealed in a hollow cylindrical capsule which consisted of chopped calcium phosphate crystal fiber obtained from glass crystallization. The rifampin concentration was measured in the simulated physiological solution in which the capsule soaked. Rifampin could be released in a constant rate from the porous glass ceramic carrier in a long time. The release rate was dependent on the size of crystal fiber and the wall thickness of the capsule. This kind of calcium phosphate glass ceramics can be a candidate of the carrier materials used as long term drug therapy after osteotomy surgery.

Public Risk Assessment of Off-Nominal Genesis Entries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mendeck, Gavin F.; Kadwa, Binaifer

2006-01-01

Public risk estimations were among the preparations for the entry of the Genesis sample return capsule. Personnel at the Johnson Space Center were requested to provide estimates of the public risk of off-nominal entries. These scenarios dealt with an incomplete trajectory maneuver that would result in the capsule landing outside of the controlled Utah Test and Training Range. Using a conservative approach to the inputs and assumptions, such off-nominal entries were demonstrated to fall within the project risk limits.

KSC-2012-4033

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-24

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Mike Lane, left, and Paul Paulick, both participants in the Rocket University program, inspect a capsule that is being prepared for a high-altitude balloon flight. The test flight was used to evaluate the stability of an instrumented capsule as it fell to Earth before its parachute opened. Rocket University is a program of courses, workshops, labs and projects offered to engineering and research pros of all stripes to keep their skills fresh and broaden their experiences. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2012-4035

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-24

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Paul Paulick, left, and Ron Sterick, both participants in the Rocket University program, inspect a capsule and parachute that are being prepared for a high-altitude balloon flight. The test flight was used to evaluate the stability of an instrumented capsule as it fell to Earth before its parachute opened. Rocket University is a program of courses, workshops, labs and projects offered to engineering and research pros of all stripes to keep their skills fresh and broaden their experiences. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Vice President Mike Pence Visits Kennedy Space Center

NASA Image and Video Library

2018-02-20

Vice President Mike Pence, second from right, and his wife, Karen Pence, tour the Blue Origin Manufacturing Facility near NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on Feb. 20, 2018. Vice President Pence viewed the flown New Shepard Booster and Crew Capsule. The Crew Capsule, in view, flew seven times, including a pad abort test and an escape test at maximum dynamic pressure. During his visit, Pence will chair a meeting of the National Space Council on Feb. 21, 2018 in the high bay of NASA Kennedy Space Center's Space Station Processing Facility. The council's role is to advise the president regarding national space policy and strategy, and review the nation's long-range goals for space activities.

LITTLE JOE 2 - LAUNCH VEHICLES - VA

NASA Image and Video Library

1961-04-13

G61-00030 (4 Nov. 1959) --- Launch of Little Joe-2 from Wallops Island carrying Mercury spacecraft test article. The suborbital test flight of the Mercury capsule was to test the escape system. Vehicle functioned perfectly, but escape rocket ignited several seconds too late. Photo credit: NASA

Dynamic Stability Testing of the Genesis Sample Return Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheatwood, F. McNeil; Winchenbach, Gerald L.; Hathaway, Wayne; Chapman, Gary

2000-01-01

This paper documents a series of free flight tests of a scale model of the Genesis Sample Return Capsule. These tests were conducted in the Aeroballistic Research Facility (ARF), located at Eglin AFB, FL, during April 1999 and were sponsored by NASA Langley Research Center. Because these blunt atmospheric entry shapes tend to experience small angle of attack dynamic instabilities (frequently leading to limit cycle motions), the primary purpose of the present tests was to determine the dynamic stability characteristics of the Genesis configuration. The tests were conducted over a Mach number range of 1.0 to 4.5. The results for this configuration indicate that the models were dynamically unstable at low angles of attack for all Mach numbers tested. At Mach numbers below 2.5, the models were also unstable at the higher angles of attack (above 15 deg), and motion amplitudes of up to 40 deg were experienced. Above Mach 2.5, the models were dynamically stable at the higher angles of attack.

KSC-2011-8154

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Port Canaveral in Florida, NASA's Liberty Star ship, with an Orion flight test capsule secured to its deck, passes the jetties as it heads toward the Atlantic Ocean. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KSC-2011-8156

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA's Liberty Star ship, with an Orion flight test capsule secured to its deck, passes through the mouth of Port Canaveral in Florida into the Atlantic Ocean. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KSC-2011-8153

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Port Canaveral in Florida, NASA's Liberty Star ship, with an Orion flight test capsule secured to its deck, heads out of port toward the Atlantic Ocean. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KSC-2011-8155

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA's Liberty Star ship, with an Orion flight test capsule secured to its deck, passes through the mouth of Port Canaveral in Florida on its way to the Atlantic Ocean. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KSC-2011-8150

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Port Canaveral in Florida, an Orion flight test capsule is secured to the deck of NASA's Liberty Star ship. Liberty Star has been enlisted to support the Crew Module Recovery Attach Fitting Test (CRAFT) which began at-sea operations Nov. 29. Multiple attach clips are being evaluated against the current recovery cleat configuration by U.S. Air Force pararescue jumpers (PJs) and a U.S. Navy diver. The 21st Century Ground Systems Program will use data collected from the tests to help develop ground operations support equipment that could be used to recover an uncrewed Orion flight test capsule after splashdown. The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle is NASA's next-generation spacecraft being developed for deep space missions to asteroids, moons and other interplanetary destinations throughout the solar system. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

Programmed cell delivery from biodegradable microcapsules for tissue repair.

PubMed

Draghi, L; Brunelli, D; Farè, S; Tanzi, M C

2015-01-01

Injectable and resorbable hydrogels are an extremely attractive class of biomaterials. They make it possible to fill tissue defects accurately with an undoubtedly minimally invasive approach and to locally deliver cells that support repair or regeneration processes. However, their use as a cell carrier is often hindered by inadequate diffusion in bulk. A possible strategy for overcoming this transport limitation might be represented by injection of rapidly degradable cell-loaded microcapsules, so that maximum material thickness is limited by sphere radius. Here, the possibility of achieving programmable release of viable cells from alginate-based microcapsules was explored in vitro, by evaluating variations in material stability resulting from changes in hydrogel composition and assessing cell viability after encapsulation and in vitro release from microcapsules. Degradation of pure alginate microspheres was varied from a few days to several weeks by varying sodium alginate and calcium chloride concentrations. The addition of poloxamer was also found to accelerate degradation significantly, with capsule breakdown almost complete by two weeks, while chitosan was confirmed to strengthen alginate cross-linking. The presence of viable cells inside microspheres was revealed after encapsulation, and released cells were observed for all the formulations tested after a time interval dependent on bead degradation speed. These findings suggest that it may be possible to fine tune capsule breakdown by means of simple changes in material formulation and regulate, and eventually optimize, cell release for tissue repair.

STS-95 Mission Insignia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1998-01-01

The STS-95 patch, designed by the crew, is intended to reflect the scientific, engineering, and historic elements of the mission. The Space Shuttle Discovery is shown rising over the sunlit Earth limb, representing the global benefits of the mission science and the solar science objectives of the Spartan Satellite. The bold number '7' signifies the seven members of Discovery's crew and also represents a historical link to the original seven Mercury astronauts. The STS-95 crew member John Glenn's first orbital flight is represented by the Friendship 7 capsule. The rocket plumes symbolize the three major fields of science represented by the mission payloads: microgravity material science, medical research for humans on Earth and in space, and astronomy.

Space Shuttle Projects

NASA Image and Video Library

1998-06-08

The STS-95 patch, designed by the crew, is intended to reflect the scientific, engineering, and historic elements of the mission. The Space Shuttle Discovery is shown rising over the sunlit Earth limb, representing the global benefits of the mission science and the solar science objectives of the Spartan Satellite. The bold number '7' signifies the seven members of Discovery's crew and also represents a historical link to the original seven Mercury astronauts. The STS-95 crew member John Glenn's first orbital flight is represented by the Friendship 7 capsule. The rocket plumes symbolize the three major fields of science represented by the mission payloads: microgravity material science, medical research for humans on Earth and in space, and astronomy.

Oral salt supplements to compensate for jejunostomy losses: comparison of sodium chloride capsules, glucose electrolyte solution, and glucose polymer electrolyte solution.

PubMed

Nightingale, J M; Lennard-Jones, J E; Walker, E R; Farthing, M J

1992-06-01

Six patients with jejunostomies and residual jejunal lengths of 105 to 250 cm took the same food and water each day for eight study days. In random order, three methods of salt replacement were tested, each over 48 hours, against a period without added salt. During the three test periods the patients took 120 mmol of sodium chloride daily, as salt in gelatine capsules, as an isotonic glucose electrolyte (280 mOsmol/kg; 30 kcal) solution, and as a glucose polymer (Maxijul) solution (280 mOsmol/kg; 200 kcal). The daily stomal output remained constant for each patient during the four test periods but varied between patients from 0.60 to 2.84 kg (daily intestinal fluid balance 0.74-2.61 kg). Without a salt supplement, three patients lost more sodium from the stoma than they took in by mouth (-25, -94, and -101 mmol/day) and the mean sodium balance for all six subjects was -16 mmol (range -101 to 79) daily. Extra salt was absorbed with each form of supplement (p less than 0.05); no patient with the glucose electrolyte solution (mean 96, range 0 to 226 mmol), but one patient with the glucose-polymer solution (mean 96, range -25 to 164 mmol) and two with the salt capsules (mean 66, range -8 to 145 mmol) were in negative balance. Two patients vomited with the salt capsules. There was only a small increase in energy absorption (mean 115 kcal) with the glucose polymer solution compared with the glucose electrolyte solution. A sipped glucose electrolyte solution seems to be the optimal mode of sodium replacement in patients with a high output jejunostomy.

Oral salt supplements to compensate for jejunostomy losses: comparison of sodium chloride capsules, glucose electrolyte solution, and glucose polymer electrolyte solution.

PubMed Central

Nightingale, J M; Lennard-Jones, J E; Walker, E R; Farthing, M J

1992-01-01

Six patients with jejunostomies and residual jejunal lengths of 105 to 250 cm took the same food and water each day for eight study days. In random order, three methods of salt replacement were tested, each over 48 hours, against a period without added salt. During the three test periods the patients took 120 mmol of sodium chloride daily, as salt in gelatine capsules, as an isotonic glucose electrolyte (280 mOsmol/kg; 30 kcal) solution, and as a glucose polymer (Maxijul) solution (280 mOsmol/kg; 200 kcal). The daily stomal output remained constant for each patient during the four test periods but varied between patients from 0.60 to 2.84 kg (daily intestinal fluid balance 0.74-2.61 kg). Without a salt supplement, three patients lost more sodium from the stoma than they took in by mouth (-25, -94, and -101 mmol/day) and the mean sodium balance for all six subjects was -16 mmol (range -101 to 79) daily. Extra salt was absorbed with each form of supplement (p less than 0.05); no patient with the glucose electrolyte solution (mean 96, range 0 to 226 mmol), but one patient with the glucose-polymer solution (mean 96, range -25 to 164 mmol) and two with the salt capsules (mean 66, range -8 to 145 mmol) were in negative balance. Two patients vomited with the salt capsules. There was only a small increase in energy absorption (mean 115 kcal) with the glucose polymer solution compared with the glucose electrolyte solution. A sipped glucose electrolyte solution seems to be the optimal mode of sodium replacement in patients with a high output jejunostomy. PMID:1624155

Relative bioequivalence evaluation of two oral atomoxetine hydrochloride capsules: a single dose, randomized, open-label, 2-period crossover study in healthy Chinese volunteers under fasting conditions.

PubMed

Shang, D-W; Guo, W; Zhou, F-C; Wang, X-P; Li, A-N; Zhang, L; Li, W-B; Lu, W; Wang, C-Y

2013-11-01

To evaluate the bioequivalence of a new formulation of atomoxetine hydrochloride (CAS 82248-59-7) capsules (test) and an available branded capsules (reference) after administration of a single 40 mg dose, randomized, open-label, 2-period crossover study was conducted in 22 healthy male Chinese subjects with a 1-week wash-out period. This study was designed for/the Honglin Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd and contracted to be done by the Beijing Anding Hospital in order to satisfy Chinese regulatory requirements to allow marketing of this generic product and performed according to the criteria of SFDA. Blood samples were collected before and 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12, 16 and 24 h after drug administration. Plasma concentrations were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detection. A non-compartmental method was used to calculate the pharmacokinetic parameters and evaluate bioequivalence of the 2 formulations. The 90% confidence interval (CI) of the ratios (test/reference) of atomoxetine for AUC0-24, AUC0-∞ and Cmax were 100.9% (93.6-108.8%), 103.1% (95.1-111.7%) and 105.2% (92.8-119.4%), respectively, which fell within the interval of 80-125% and 75-133%. No clinically significant changes or abnormalities were noted in laboratory data and vital signs. From these results it can be concluded that the test formulation of atomoxetine capsules met the regulatory criterion for bioequivalence to the reference formulation. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Comparison of Anti BPH capsule (herbal) and Terazosin HCl in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia.

PubMed

Nadeem, Hafiz Mohammad Rashid; Mohiuddin, Ejaz; UdDin, Shahab; Daniyal, Muhammad; Usmanghani, Khan

2017-01-01

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a disease of senile age, usually occurring> 60 years of age. BPH is a disease that involves cell proliferation of the prostate. Pathological hyperplasia affects the elements of the glandular and connective tissue of the prostate. This study is designed to scrutinize the efficacy and tolerability of herbal drug Anti BPH capsule for the management of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), in this study we select the 100 patients in which 50 received the Anti BPH capsule and 50 received the Terazosin HCl. We use the American Urological Association BPH Symptom Score Index Questionnaire to measure the quality of life of the patients. We compare the before treatment and after treatment results for each symptom. We record the following symptoms, incomplete emptying of bladder, Frequency, Intermittency, Urgency, Weak stream, Straining, Nocturia and weight of prostate gland by USG. We compare the both drug by using paired sample t-test. The level of significance of incomplete emptying of bladder before treatment and after treatment is 0.013 in test group and 0.032 in control group. Similarly the level of significance of Frequency before treatment and after treatment in test groups in, intermittency, Urgency, Weak stream, staining, Nocturia and mean weight of prostate gland are 0.007, 0.015, 0.044, 0.012, 0.017, 0.004 and 0.020; where as in control group afford as 0.031, 0.044, 0.044, 0.032, 0.024, 0.009 and 0.035 respectively. The herbal drug Anti BPH capsule is more effective in the treatment of BPH than Allopathic medicine Terazosin HCl.

Assessing the use of food coloring as an appropriate visual guide for homogenously mixed capsule powders in extemporaneous compounding.

PubMed

Hoffmann, Brittany; Carlson, Christie; Rao, Deepa A

2014-01-01

The purpose of this work was to assess the use of food colors as a visual aid to determine homogeneous mixing in the extemporaneous preparation of capsules. Six different batches of progesterone slow-release 200-mg capsules were prepared by different mixing methods until visually determined as homogeneous based on yellow food coloring distribution in the preparation by the Central Iowa Compounding Pharmacy, Des Moines, Iowa. UV-Vis spectrophotometry was used to extract and evaluate yellow food coloring content in each of these batches and compared to an in-house, small-batch geometric dilution preparation of progesterone slow- release 200-mg capsules. Of the 6 batches tested, only one, which followed the principles of additive dilution and an appropriate mixing time, was both visually and quantitatively homogeneous in the detection of yellow food coloring. The use of food coloring alone is not a valid quality-assurance tool in determining homogeneous mixing. Principles of geometric and/or additive dilution and appropriate mixing times along with the food color can serve as a quality-assurance tool.

A tale of tails: Sialidase is key to success in a model of phage therapy against K1-capsulated Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Bull, J J; Vimr, E R; Molineux, I J

2010-03-01

Prior studies treating mice infected with Escherichia coli O18:K1:H7 observed that phages requiring the K1 capsule for infection (K1-dep) were superior to capsule-independent (K1-ind) phages. We show that three K1-ind phages all have low fitness when grown on cells in serum whereas fitnesses of four K1-dep phages were high. The difference is serum-specific, as fitnesses in broth overlapped. Sialidase activity was associated with all K1-dep virions tested but no K1-ind virions, a phenotype supported by sequence analyses. Adding endosialidase to cells infected with K1-ind phage increased fitness in serum by enhancing productive infection after adsorption. We propose that virion sialidase activity is the primary determinant of high fitness on cells grown in serum, and thus in a mammalian host. Although the benefit of sialidase is specific to K1-capsulated bacteria, this study may provide a scientific rationale for selecting phages for therapeutic use in many systemic infections. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Biocompatible Capsules and Methods of Making

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loftus, David J. (Inventor)

2017-01-01

Embodiments of the invention include capsules for containing medical implants and delivery systems for release of active biological substances into a host body. Delivery systems comprise a capsule comprising an interior enclosed by walls, and a source of active biological substances enclosed within the capsule interior, wherein the active biological substances are free to diffuse across the capsule walls. The capsule walls comprise a continuous mesh of biocompatible fibers and a seal region where two capsule walls overlap. The interior of the capsule is substantially isolated from the medium surrounding the capsule, except for diffusion of at least one species of molecule between the capsule interior and the ambient medium, and prevents cell migration into or out of the capsule. Methods for preparing and using the capsules and delivery systems are provided.

[The Additional Role of Symptom-Reflux Association Analysis of Diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Using Bravo Capsule pH Test].

PubMed

Jung, Kyoungwon; Park, Moo In; Park, Seun Ja; Moon, Won; Kim, Sung Eun; Kim, Jae Hyun

2017-10-25

Since the development of ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring test to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), several parameters have been introduced. The aim of this study was to assess whether using the symptom index (SI), symptom sensitivity index (SSI), and symptom association probability (SAP), in addition to the DeMeester score (DS), would be useful for interpreting the Bravo pH monitoring test. A retrospective study, which included 68 patients with reflux symptoms refractory to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy who underwent a Bravo capsule pH test between October 2006 and May 2015, was carried out. Acid reflux parameters and symptom reflux association parameters were analyzed. The median percent time of total pH<4 and DS were 2.90% (interquartile range [IQR] 1.13-6.03%) and 11.10 (IQR 4.90-22.80), respectively. According to the analysis of the day-to-day variation in percent time of total pH<4 (r=0.724) and DS (r=0.537), there was a significant correlation between Day 1 and Day 2. The positive rate of Bravo test according to DS was 27 (39.7%). Although thirty patients experienced symptoms during the test, there were no significant differences of reflux parameters compared with other patients. In the symptom group, 7 patients (23.3%) were identified as having negative DS and an abnormal symptom-related index. There were no significant test-related complications. In addition to the analysis of traditional acid parameters of the Bravo capsule pH test, diagnosis of GERD, including reflux hypersensitivity, can be improved by performing an analysis of the symptom-reflux association and of the day-to-day variation.

On the Application of a Response Surface Technique to Analyze Roll-over Stability of Capsules with Airbags Using LS-Dyna

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horta, Lucas G.; Reaves, Mercedes C.

2008-01-01

As NASA moves towards developing technologies needed to implement its new Exploration program, studies conducted for Apollo in the 1960's to understand the rollover stability of capsules landing are being revisited. Although rigid body kinematics analyses of the roll-over behavior of capsules on impact provided critical insight to the Apollo problem, extensive ground test programs were also used. For the new Orion spacecraft being developed to implement today's Exploration program, new air-bag designs have improved sufficiently for NASA to consider their use to mitigate landing loads to ensure crew safety and to enable re-usability of the capsule. Simple kinematics models provide only limited understanding of the behavior of these air bag systems, and more sophisticated tools must be used. In particular, NASA and its contractors are using the LS-Dyna nonlinear simulation code for impact response predictions of the full Orion vehicle with air bags by leveraging the extensive air bag prediction work previously done by the automotive industry. However, even in today's computational environment, these analyses are still high-dimensional, time consuming, and computationally intensive. To alleviate the computational burden, this paper presents an approach that uses deterministic sampling techniques and an adaptive response surface method to not only use existing LS-Dyna solutions but also to interpolate from LS-Dyna solutions to predict the stability boundaries for a capsule on airbags. Results for the stability boundary in terms of impact velocities, capsule attitude, impact plane orientation, and impact surface friction are discussed.

Cryptococcus neoformans capsule protects cell from oxygen reactive species generated by antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prates, Renato Araujo; Hamblin, Michael R.; Kato, Ilka T.; Fuchs, Beth; Mylonakis, Eleytherios; Simões Ribeiro, Martha; Tegos, George

2011-03-01

Antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (APDI) is based on the utilization of substances that can photosensitize biological tissues and are capable of being activated in the presence of light. Cryptococcus neoformans is an yeast surrounded by a capsule composed primarily of glucoronoxylomannan that plays an important role in its virulence. This yeast causes infection on skin, lungs and brain that can be associated with neurological sequelae and neurosurgical interventions, and its conventional treatment requires prolonged antifungal therapy, which presents important adverse effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Cryptococcus neoformans capsule against reactive oxygen species generated by APDI. Cryptococcus neoformans KN99α, which is a strain able to produce capsule, and CAP59 that does not present capsule production were submitted to APDI using methylene blue (MB), rose bengal (RB), and pL-ce6 as photosensitizers (PS). Then microbial inactivation was evaluated by counting colony form units following APDI and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) illustrated localization as well as the preferential accumulation of PS into the fungal cells. C. neoformans KN99α was more resistant to APDI than CAP59 for all PSs tested. CLSM showed incorporation of MB and RB into the cytoplasm and a preferential uptake in mitochondria. A nuclear accumulation of MB was also observed. Contrarily, pL-ce6 appears accumulated in cell wall and cell membrane and minimal florescence was observed inside the fungal cells. In conclusion, the ability of C. neoformans to form capsule enhances survival following APDI.

Tethered capsule OCT endomicroscopy: from bench to bedside at the primary care office (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gora, Michalina J.; Simmons, Leigh H.; Tiernan, Aubrey R.; Grant, Catriona N.; Soomro, Amna R.; Walker Corkery, Elizabeth S.; Rosenberg, Mireille; Metlay, Joshua P.; Tearney, Guillermo J.

2016-03-01

We have developed a swallowable tethered capsule OCT endomicroscopy (TCE) device that acquires microscopic images of the entire esophagus in unsedated subjects in a quick and comfortable procedure. To test its capabilities of TCE to become a population-based screening device, we conducted a clinical feasibility study in the primary care office. The swept-source OCT imaging system (1310nm central wavelength, 40kHz A-line rate, 10um axial resolution) together with the tethered capsule catheter (11x25mm capsule attached to a flexible tether) were transferred to the PCP office where unsedated patients scheduled for non-urgent PCP visits swallowed the capsule and microscopic OCT images of the entire esophagus were collected. After the whole length of the esophagus was imaged, the catheter was disinfected for reuse. Twenty subjects were enrolled in the study, including nine female and eleven male. All TCE procedures were performed by a nurse and lasted in average 5:42 ± 1:54 min. High-resolution images of the esophagus were obtained in all seventeen subjects that swallowed the capsule. Our clinical experience in this cohort, subject feedback, image quality, and technological adaptations for efficient utilization in this setting will be presented. The ease and simplicity of the procedure combined with high quality of the images demonstrate the potential for this technology to become a population-based screening device. Technology limitations and future development guided by findings from this initial experience will be discussed with the goal of effectively translating TCE to the outpatient primary care setting.

Basics of compounding: Tips and hints: powders, capsules, tablets, suppositories, and sticks, part 1.

PubMed

Allen, Loyd V

2014-01-01

No matter the profession, professionals should never stop learning. This is especially true and important in the profession of compounding pharmacy. Compounding pharmacists are continuously faced with the challenge of finding new and inventive ways to assist patients with their individual and specific drug requirements. As compounding pharmacists learn, be it through formal continuing education or experience, they should be willing to share their knowledge with other compounders. In our goal of providing compounding pharmacists with additional knowledge to improve their skills in the art and practice of compounding, this article, which provides tips and hits on compounding with powders, capsules, tablets, suppositories, and sticks, represents the first in a series of articles to assist compounding pharmacists in the preparation of compounded medications.

Patch-Augmented Rotator Cuff Repair and Superior Capsule Reconstruction

PubMed Central

Petri, M.; Greenspoon, J.A.; Moulton, S.G.; Millett, P.J.

2016-01-01

Background: Massive rotator cuff tears in active patients with minimal glenohumeral arthritis remain a particular challenge for the treating surgeon. Methods: A selective literature search was performed and personal surgical experiences are reported. Results: For patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears, a reverse shoulder arthroplasty or a tendon transfer are often performed. However, both procedures have rather high complication rates and debatable long-term results, particularly in younger patients. Therefore, patch-augmented rotator cuff repair or superior capsule reconstruction (SCR) have been recently developed as arthroscopically applicable treatment options, with promising biomechanical and early clinical results. Conclusion: For younger patients with irreparable rotator cuff tears wishing to avoid tendon transfers or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, both patch-augmentation and SCR represent treatment options that may delay the need for more invasive surgery. PMID:27708733

Myxobolus goensis n. sp. (Myxozoa, Myxosporea, Myxobolidae), a parasite of the gills of Mugil cephalus (Osteichthyes, Mugilidae) from Goa, India.

PubMed

Eiras, J C; D'Souza, J

2004-09-01

Two species of Myxobolus are reported from the gills of Mugil cephalus collected at Goa, India: M. goensis n. sp. and M. parvus Shulman, 1962. Myxobolus goensis n. sp. forms digitiform or rounded plasmodia between the gill rakers. Their spores are oval in frontal view, with tapered anterior extremity, and lemon-shaped in lateral view, measuring 9.7 (9.5-10.5) microm in length, 6.6 (6-7.5) microm in width, and 5.2 (5-6) microm in thickness. The polar capsules are pyriform and unequal in size. The larger ones are 5.3 (4.5-6) microm long and 2.4 (2-3) microm wide; the smaller ones are 2.4 (2-3) microm long and 1.8 (1.5-2) microm wide. The polar filament forms five turns aligned perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the larger polar capsules. Within the smaller polar capsules the polar filament is difficult to observe and, apparently, forms three coils. The spores are distinctly different from other Myxobolus species infecting M. cephalus and other Mugil spp. Furthermore, the present material is also different from 204 Myxobolus species presenting differently sized polar capsules, representing nearly all the known species with this characteristic. The fact that only the M. cephalus specimens were infected among a sample of 206 fish specimens, comprising 27 different species, strongly suggests that this parasite is specific to M. cephalus.

Mercury Project

NASA Image and Video Library

1960-01-21

The launch of the Little Joe booster for the LJ1B mission on the launch pad from the wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Virginia, on January 21, 1960. This mission achieved the suborbital Mercury capsule test, testing of the escape system, and biomedical tests by using a monkey, named Miss Sam.

Double-balloon endoscopy as the primary method for small-bowel video capsule endoscope retrieval.

PubMed

Van Weyenberg, Stijn J B; Van Turenhout, Sietze T; Bouma, Gerd; Van Waesberghe, Jan Hein T M; Van der Peet, Donald L; Mulder, Chris J J; Jacobs, Maarten A J M

2010-03-01

Capsule retention in the small bowel is a known complication of small-bowel video capsule endoscopy. Surgery is the most frequently used method of capsule retrieval. To determine the incidence and causes of capsule retention and to describe double-balloon endoscopy (DBE) as the primary technique used for capsule retrieval. Retrospective analysis of all video capsule studies was performed at our center, and evaluation of the outcome of DBE was the first method used to retrieve entrapped video capsules. Tertiary referral center. A total of 904 patients who underwent small-bowel video capsule endoscopy. Capsule retrieval by DBE. The number of patients in whom capsule retention occurred and the number of patients in whom an entrapped capsule could be retrieved by using DBE. Capsule retention occurred in 8 patients (incidence 0.88%; 95% CI, 0.41%-1.80%) and caused acute small-bowel obstruction in 6 patients. All retained capsules were successfully removed during DBE. Five patients underwent elective surgery to treat the underlying cause of capsule retention. One patient required emergency surgery because of multiple small-bowel perforations. Retrospective design. In our series, the incidence of capsule retention was low. DBE is a reliable method for removing retained capsules and might prevent unnecessary surgery. If surgery is required, preoperative capsule retrieval allows preoperative diagnosis, adequate staging in case of malignancy, and optimal surgical planning. 2010 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Visualization of Flowfield Modification by RCS Jets on a Capsule Entry Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Danehy, P. M.; Inman, J. A.; Alderfer, D. W.; Buck, G. M.; Schwartz, R.

2008-01-01

Nitric oxide planar laser-induced fluorescence (NO PLIF) has been used to visualize the flow on the aft-body of an entry capsule having an activated RCS jet in NASA Langley Research Center's 31-Inch Mach 10 wind tunnel facility. A capsule shape representative of the Apollo command module was tested. These tests were performed to demonstrate the ability of the PLIF method to visualize RCS jet flow while providing some preliminary input to NASA's Orion Vehicle design team. Two different RCS nozzle designs - conical and contoured - were tested. The conical and contoured nozzles had area ratios of 13.4 and 22.5 respectively. The conical nozzle had a half-angle of 10 . Low- and high-Reynolds number cases were investigated by changing the tunnel stagnation pressure from 350 psi to 1300 psi, resulting in freestream Reynolds numbers of 0.56 and 1.8 million per foot respectively. For both of these cases, three different jet plenum pressures were tested (nominally 56, 250 and 500 psi). A single angle-of-attack was investigated (24 degrees). NO PLIF uses an ultraviolet laser sheet to interrogate a slice in the flow containing seeded NO; this UV light excites fluorescence from the NO molecules which is detected by a high-speed digital camera. The system has spatial resolution of about 200 microns (2 pixel blurring) and has flow-stopping time resolution (approximately 1 microsecond). NO was seeded into the flow two different ways. First, the RCS jet fluid was seeded with approximately 1-5% NO, with the balance N2. This allowed observation of the shape, structure and trajectory of the RCS jets. Visualizations of both laminar and turbulent flow jet features were obtained. Visualizations were obtained with the tunnel operating at Mach 10 and also with the test section held at a constant pressure similar to the aftbody static pressure (0.04 psi) obtained during tunnel runs. These two conditions are called "tunnel on" and "tunnel off" respectively. Second, the forebody flow was seeded with a very low flowrate (<100 standard cubic centimeters per minute) of pure NO. This trace gas was entrained into and allowed visualization of the shear layer forming between the expansion fan on the shoulder of the model and the recirculating separated flow in the wake of the model. This shear layer was observed to be laminar in the absence of the RCS jet operation and turbulent above a certain RCS jet flowrate. Furthermore, the operation of the RCS jet is seen to push the shear layer out away from the model, with a higher jet pressures resulting in larger deflections. Figures show some data from this test, partially processed. In the final paper, these images will be processed and rendered on a three dimensional visualization of the test hardware for clearer visualization and interpretation of the flowfields.

Design and synthesis of organic-inorganic hybrid capsules for biotechnological applications.

PubMed

Shi, Jiafu; Jiang, Yanjun; Wang, Xiaoli; Wu, Hong; Yang, Dong; Pan, Fusheng; Su, Yanlei; Jiang, Zhongyi

2014-08-07

Organic-inorganic hybrid capsules, which typically possess a hollow lumen and a hybrid wall, have emerged as a novel and promising class of hybrid materials and have attracted enormous attention. In comparison to polymeric capsules or inorganic capsules, the hybrid capsules combine the intrinsic physical/chemical properties of the organic and inorganic moieties, acquire more degrees of freedom to manipulate multiple interactions, create hierarchical structures and integrate multiple functionalities. Thus, the hybrid capsules exhibit superior mechanical strength (vs. polymeric capsules) and diverse functionalities (vs. inorganic capsules), which may give new opportunities to produce high-performance materials. Much effort has been devoted to exploring innovative and effective methods for the synthesis of hybrid capsules that exhibit desirable performance in target applications. This tutorial review firstly presents a brief description of the capsular structure and hybrid materials in nature, then classifies the hybrid capsules into molecule-hybrid capsules and nano-hybrid capsules based upon the size of the organic and inorganic moieties in the capsule wall, followed by a detailed discussion of the design and synthesis of the hybrid capsules. For each kind of hybrid capsule, the state-of-the-art synthesis methods are described in detail and a critical comment is embedded. The applications of these hybrid capsules in biotechnological areas (biocatalysis, drug delivery, etc.) have also been summarized. Hopefully, this review will offer a perspective and guidelines for the future research and development of hybrid capsules.

SHARK: Flight Results of an UHTC-Based Nose Related to USV Hot Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gardi, R.; Del Vecchio, A.; Russo, G.; Marino, G.

2011-05-01

In the frame of USV program, CIRA is developing different projects aimed to develop new technologies for the future hypersonic vehicles. One of these technological projects is Sharp Hot Structures (SHS) and it is aimed to the realization of innovative thermo- structures, based on innovative material solution, able to sustain the heat loads generated during the hypersonic flight. Because the slender configuration of the USV program vehicles, SHS is focused on sharp geometries, like sharp leading edges and sharp nose cones. CIRA, for many years, is investigating the effectiveness of ultra high temperature ceramic materials (UHTC) by means of numerical simulations, ground testing in plasma torch and in SCIROCCO, the 70MW plasma wind tunnel (PWT) facility at CIRA. More recently CIRA is moving the experimentation in real flight environment, boarding UHTC components on the re-entering space capsules EXPERT and SHARK. The former is a European experimental test bed boarding a couple of UHTC fins, already qualified and integrated on the vehicle. SHARK is a 20kg capsule launched on March the 26th 2010 from Kiruna with the European sounding rocker Maxus-8. During the ascent parabola, the capsule was released and successfully executed its 15 minutes ballistic flight and then re-entered in the atmosphere from a 700km altitude. The capsule has been recovered on July the 1st and all data have been acquired. All the instrumentation worked nicely and the data acquisition continued even after the landing, confirming the robustness of the design.

Using Pressure- and Temperature-Sensitive Paint for Global Surface Pressure and Temperature Measurements on the Aft-Body of a Capsule Reentry Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watkins, A. Neal; Buck, Gregory M.; Leighty, Bradley D.; Lipford, William E.; Oglesby, Donald M.

2008-01-01

Pressure Sensitive Paint (PSP) and Temperature Sensitive Paint (TSP) were used to visualize and quantify the surface interactions of reaction control system (RCS) jets on the aft body of capsule reentry vehicle shapes. The first model tested was an Apollo-like configuration and was used to focus primarily on the effects of the forward facing roll and yaw jets. The second model tested was an early Orion Crew Module configuration blowing only out of its forward-most yaw jet, which was expected to have the most intense aerodynamic heating augmentation on the model surface. This paper will present the results from the experiments, which show that with proper system design, both PSP and TSP are effective tools for studying these types of interaction in hypersonic testing environments.

KSC-98pc1638

NASA Image and Video Library

1998-11-12

In the Payload Hazardous Service Facility, a worker looks over the re-entry capsule on top of the Stardust spacecraft. The spacecraft will undergo installation and testing of the solar arrays, plus final installation and testing of spacecraft instruments followed by an overall spacecraft functional test. Built by Lockheed Martin Astronautics near Denver, Colo., for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and NASA, the spacecraft Stardust will use a unique medium called aerogel to capture comet particles flying off the nucleus of comet Wild 2 in January 2004, plus collect interstellar dust for later analysis. Stardust will be launched aboard a Boeing Delta 7426 rocket from Complex 17, Cape Canaveral Air Station, targeted for Feb. 6, 1999. The collected samples will return to Earth in the re-entry capsule to be jettisoned from Stardust as it swings by Earth in January 2006

Evaluation of antiplasmodial properties of a cyanobacterium, Spirulina platensis and its mechanism of action.

PubMed

Wulandari, Diah Anggraini; Sidhartha, Elizabeth; Setyaningsih, Iriani; Marbun, Jonathan Marshall; Syafruddin, Din; Asih, Puji Budi Setia

2017-08-02

The rapid emergence of antimalarial drug resistance necessitates a continual effort on novel drug discovery. A cyanobacterium, Spirulina platensis, is a potential antimalarial agent that has been widely consumed as food supplement in the form of crude extract. It is known to possess antiviral, antibacterial and antifungi activities. This study examined the antimalarial activities of several Spirulina formulas against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7, in vitro. The tested Spirulina formulas included commercially available capsule, crude extract and alkaloid fraction. Results showed that all tested formula possessed antimalarial activities with the Spirulina capsule exhibited the highest activities (IC 50  = 2.16 μg/mL). Light and electron microscopies revealed interference of the Spirulina with the parasite hemozoin formation. In conclusion, all tested Spirulina formulas and fraction exhibited moderate to high antimalarial activities.

KSC-2012-3609

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, center, takes questions from the media in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the arrival in Florida of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule. NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver and Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana talk nearby. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3617

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana, Orion Program Manager Mark Geyer, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson and NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver pose for a portrait in front of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3614

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, Orion Program Manager Mark Geyer, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson and NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver pose for a portrait in front of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3608

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, center, takes questions from the media in Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the arrival in Florida of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule. NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver and Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana talk nearby. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3616

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From left, Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson and NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver pose for a portrait in front of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay following an event marking the spacecraft's arrival in Florida. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3603

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver, left, visits NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to participate in an event marking the arrival of NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule at Kennedy. With Garver in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay are, from left, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson and Trent Smith, NASA project engineer. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-2012-3605

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-07-02

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, left, checks out NASA's first space-bound Orion capsule at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. With Nelson in Kennedy's Operations and Checkout Building high bay for an event marking the spacecraft's arrival at Kennedy are NASA Deputy Director Lori Garver and Kennedy Director Robert Cabana. Slated for Exploration Flight Test-1, an uncrewed mission planned for 2014, the capsule will travel farther into space than any human spacecraft has gone in more than 40 years. The capsule was shipped to Kennedy from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans where the crew module pressure vessel was built. The Orion production team will prepare the module for flight at Kennedy by installing heat-shielding thermal protection systems, avionics and other subsystems. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Maneuver Analysis and Targeting Strategy for the Stardust Re-Entry Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Helfrich, Cliff; Bhat, Ramachand S.; Kangas, Julie A.; Wilson, Roby S.; Wong, Mau C.; Potts, Christopher L.; Williams, Kenneth E.

2006-01-01

The Stardust Sample Return Capsule (SRC) returned to Earth on January 15, 2006 after seven years of collecting interstellar and comet particles over three heliocentric revolutions, as shown in Figure 1. The SRC was carried on board the Stardust spacecraft, as shown in Figure 2. Because the spacecraft was built with unbalanced thrusters, turns and attitude control maintenance resulted in undesirable delta-v being imparted to the trajectory. As a result, a carefully planned maneuver strategy was devised to accurately target the Stardust capsule to the Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR). This paper provides an overview of the Stardust spacecraft and mission and describes the maneuver strategy that was employed to achieve the stringent targeting requirements for landing in Utah. In addition, an overview of Stardust maneuver analysis tools and techniques will also be presented.

Capsule physics comparison of National Ignition Facility implosion designs using plastic, high density carbon, and beryllium ablators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, D. S.; Kritcher, A. L.; Yi, S. A.; Zylstra, A. B.; Haan, S. W.; Weber, C. R.

2018-03-01

Indirect drive implosion experiments on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) [E. I. Moses et al., Phys. Plasmas 16, 041006 (2009)] have now tested three different ablator materials: glow discharge polymer plastic, high density carbon, and beryllium. How do these different ablators compare in current and proposed implosion experiments on NIF? What are the relative advantages and disadvantages of each? This paper compares these different ablator options in capsule-only simulations of current NIF experiments and potential future designs. The simulations compare the impact of the capsule fill tube, support tent, and interface surface roughness for each case, as well as all perturbations in combination. According to the simulations, each ablator is impacted by the various perturbation sources differently, and each material poses unique challenges in the pursuit of ignition on NIF.

A Real-Time Localization System for an Endoscopic Capsule Using Magnetic Sensors †

PubMed Central

Pham, Duc Minh; Aziz, Syed Mahfuzul

2014-01-01

Magnetic sensing technology offers an attractive alternative for in vivo tracking with much better performance than RF and ultrasound technologies. In this paper, an efficient in vivo magnetic tracking system is presented. The proposed system is intended to localize an endoscopic capsule which delivers biomarkers around specific locations of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. For efficiently localizing a magnetic marker inside the capsule, a mathematical model has been developed for the magnetic field around a cylindrical magnet and used with a localization algorithm that provides minimum error and fast computation. The proposed tracking system has much reduced complexity compared to the ones reported in the literature to date. Laboratory tests and in vivo animal trials have demonstrated the suitability of the proposed system for tracking a magnetic marker with expected accuracy. PMID:25379813

After-School Academic Enrichment Programs. Information Capsule. Volume 1509

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blazer, Christie

2016-01-01

The number of U.S. children attending after-school programs has been steadily increasing. In 2014, the most recent year for which data were available, approximately 10.2 million students, representing about 23 percent of U.S. families, were enrolled in an after-school program. Of the students attending after-school programs, the majority do so at…

Isolating Added Mass Load Components of CPAS Main Clusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Eric S.

2017-01-01

The current simulation for the Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) lacks fidelity in representing added mass for the 116 ft Do ringsail Main parachute. The availability of 3-D models of inflating Main canopies allowed for better estimation the enclosed air volume as a function of time. This was combined with trajectory state information to estimate the components making up measured axial loads. A proof-of-concept for an alternate simulation algorithm was developed based on enclosed volume as the primary independent variable rather than drag area growth. Databases of volume growth and parachute drag area vs. volume were developed for several flight tests. Other state information was read directly from test data, rather than numerically propagated. The resulting simulated peak loads were close in timing and magnitude to the measured loads data. However, results are very sensitive to data curve fitting and may not be suitable for Monte Carlo simulations. It was assumed that apparent mass was either negligible or a small fraction of enclosed mass, with little difference in results.

Modular "plug-and-play" capsules for multi-capsule environment in the gastrointestinal tract.

PubMed

Phee, S J; Ting, E K; Lin, L; Huynh, V A; Kencana, A P; Wong, K J; Tan, S L

2009-01-01

The invention of wireless capsule endoscopy has opened new ways of diagnosing and treating diseases in the gastrointestinal tract. Current wireless capsules can perform simple operations such as imaging and data collection (like temperature, pressure, and pH) in the gastrointestinal tract. Researchers are now focusing on adding more sophisticated functions such as drug delivery, surgical clips/tags deployment, and tissue samples collection. The finite on-board power on these capsules is one of the factors that limits the functionalities of these wireless capsules. Thus multiple application-specific capsules would be needed to complete an endoscopic operation. This would give rise to a multi-capsule environment. Having a modular "plug-and-play" capsule design would facilitate doctors in configuring multiple application-specific capsules, e.g. tagging capsule, for use in the gastrointestinal tract. This multi-capsule environment also has the advantage of reducing power consumption through asymmetric multi-hop communication.

A comparative study on liquid core formulation on the diameter on the alginate capsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Hui-Yen; Lee, Boon-Beng; Radzi, AkmalHadi Ma'; Zakaria, Zarina; Chan, Eng-Seng

2015-08-01

Liquid core capsule has vast application in biotechnology related industries such as pharmaceutical, medical, agriculture and food. Formulation of different types of capsule was important to determine the performance of the capsule. Generally, the liquid core capsule with different formulations generated different size of capsule.Therefore, the aim of this project is to investigate the effect of different liquid core solution formulations on the diameter of capsule. The capsule produced by extruding liquid core solutions into sodium alginate solution. Three types of liquid core solutions (chitosan, xanthan gum, polyethylene glycol (PEG)) were investigated. The results showed that there is significant change in capsule diameter despite in different types of liquid core solution were used and a series of capsule range in diameter of 3.1 mm to 4.5 mm were produced. Alginate capsule with chitosan formulation appeared to be the largest capsule among all.

Clinical utility of topiramate extended-release capsules (USL255): Bioequivalence of USL255 sprinkled and intact capsule in healthy adults and an in vitro evaluation of sprinkle delivery via enteral feeding tubes.

PubMed

Clark, Annie M; Pellock, John M; Holmay, Mary; Anders, Bob; Cloyd, James

2016-04-01

The objectives of these two studies were to determine if beads from extended-release topiramate capsules sprinkled onto soft food are bioequivalent to the intact capsule and if beads from the capsule can be passed through enteral gastrostomy (G-) and jejunostomy (J-) feeding tubes. Bioequivalence of 200-mg USL255 (Qudexy XR [topiramate] extended-release capsules) sprinkled onto soft food (applesauce) versus the intact capsule was evaluated in a phase 1, randomized, single-dose, crossover study (N=36). Pharmacokinetic evaluations included area under the curve (AUC), maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time to Cmax (Tmax), and terminal elimination half-life (t1/2). If 90% confidence intervals (CI) of the ratio of geometric least-squares means were between 0.80 and 1.25, AUC and Cmax were considered bioequivalent. In separate in vitro experiments, 100-mg USL255 beads were passed through feeding tubes using gentle syringe pressure to develop a clog-free bead-delivery method. Multiple tube sizes (14- to 18-French [Fr] tubes), dilutions (5 mg/15 mL-25 mg/15 mL), and diluents (deionized water, apple juice, Ketocal, sparkling water) were tested. Area under the curve and Cmax for USL255 beads sprinkled onto applesauce were bioequivalent to the intact capsule (GLSM [90% CI]: AUC0-t 1.01 [0.97-1.04], AUC0-∞ 1.02 [0.98-1.05]; Cmax 1.09 [1.03-1.14]). Median Tmax was 4h earlier for USL255 sprinkled versus the intact capsule (10 vs 14 h; p=0.0018), and t1/2 was similar (84 vs 82 h, respectively). In 14-Fr G-tubes, USL255 beads diluted in Ketocal minimized bead clogging versus deionized water. Recovery of USL255 beads diluted in deionized water was nearly 100% in 16-Fr G-, 18-Fr G-, and 18-Fr J-tubes. For patients with difficulty swallowing pills, USL255 sprinkled onto applesauce offers a useful once-daily option for taking topiramate. USL255 beads were also successfully delivered in vitro through ≥14-Fr G- or J-tubes, with tube clogging minimized by portioning the dose and using glidant diluents for smaller tubes. Copyright © 2016 Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Closed Chondromimetic Environment within Magnetic-Responsive Liquified Capsules Encapsulating Stem Cells and Collagen II/TGF-β3 Microparticles.

PubMed

Correia, Clara R; Gil, Sara; Reis, Rui L; Mano, João F

2016-06-01

TGF-β3 is enzymatically immobilized by transglutaminase-2 action to poly(l-lactic acid) microparticles coated with collagen II. Microparticles are then encapsulated with stem cells inside liquified spherical compartments enfolded with a permselective shell through layer-by-layer adsorption. Magnetic nanoparticles are electrostatically bound to the multilayered shell, conferring magnetic-response ability. The goal of this study is to engineer a closed environment inside which encapsulated stem cells would undergo a self-regulated chondrogenesis. To test this hypothesis, capsules are cultured in chondrogenic differentiation medium without TGF-β3. Their biological outcome is compared with capsules encapsulating microparticles without TGF-β3 immobilization and cultured in normal chondrogenic differentiation medium containing soluble TGF-β3. Glycosaminoglycans quantification demosntrates that similar chondrogenesis levels are achieved. Moreover, collagen fibrils resembling the native extracellular matrix of cartilage can be observed. Importantly, the genetic evaluation of characteristic cartilage markers confirms the successful chondrogenesis, while hypertrophic markers are downregulated. In summary, the engineered capsules are able to provide a suitable and stable chondrogenesis environment for stem cells without the need of TGF-β3 supplementation. This kind of self-regulated capsules with softness, robustness, and magnetic responsive characteristics is expected to provide injectability and in situ fixation, which is of great advantage for minimal invasive strategies to regenerate cartilage. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Pharmaceutical 3D printing: Design and qualification of a single step print and fill capsule.

PubMed

Smith, Derrick M; Kapoor, Yash; Klinzing, Gerard R; Procopio, Adam T

2018-06-10

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing (3DP) has a potential to change how we envision manufacturing in the pharmaceutical industry. A more common utilization for FDM 3DP is to build upon existing hot melt extrusion (HME) technology where the drug is dispersed in the polymer matrix. However, reliable manufacturing of drug-containing filaments remains a challenge along with the limitation of active ingredients which can sustain the processing risks involved in the HME process. To circumvent this obstacle, a single step FDM 3DP process was developed to manufacture thin-walled drug-free capsules which can be filled with dry or liquid drug product formulations. Drug release from these systems is governed by the combined dissolution of the FDM capsule 'shell' and the dosage form encapsulated in these shells. To prepare the shells, the 3D printer files (extension '.gcode') were modified by creating discrete zones, so-called 'zoning process', with individual print parameters. Capsules printed without the zoning process resulted in macroscopic print defects and holes. X-ray computed tomography, finite element analysis and mechanical testing were used to guide the zoning process and printing parameters in order to manufacture consistent and robust capsule shell geometries. Additionally, dose consistencies of drug containing liquid formulations were investigated in this work. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The ESX-5 System of Pathogenic Mycobacteria Is Involved In Capsule Integrity and Virulence through Its Substrate PPE10

PubMed Central

Ates, Louis S.; van der Woude, Aniek D.; Bestebroer, Jovanka; van Stempvoort, Gunny; Musters, René J. P.; Garcia-Vallejo, Juan J.; Picavet, Daisy I.; van de Weerd, Robert; Maletta, Massimiliano; Kuijl, Coenraad P.; van der Wel, Nicole N.; Bitter, Wilbert

2016-01-01

Mycobacteria produce a capsule layer, which consists of glycan-like polysaccharides and a number of specific proteins. In this study, we show that, in slow-growing mycobacteria, the type VII secretion system ESX-5 plays a major role in the integrity and stability of the capsule. We have identified PPE10 as the ESX-5 substrate responsible for this effect. Mutants in esx-5 and ppe10 both have impaired capsule integrity as well as reduced surface hydrophobicity. Electron microscopy, immunoblot and flow cytometry analyses demonstrated reduced amounts of surface localized proteins and glycolipids, and morphological differences in the capsular layer. Since capsular proteins secreted by the ESX-1 system are important virulence factors, we tested the effect of the mutations that cause capsular defects on virulence mechanisms. Both esx-5 and ppe10 mutants of Mycobacterium marinum were shown to be impaired in ESX-1-dependent hemolysis. In agreement with this, the ppe10 and esx5 mutants showed reduced recruitment of ubiquitin in early macrophage infection and intermediate attenuation in zebrafish embryos. These results provide a pivotal role for the ESX-5 secretion system and its substrate PPE10, in the capsular integrity of pathogenic mycobacteria. These findings open up new roads for research on the mycobacterial capsule and its role in virulence and immune modulation. PMID:27280885

Effective method of measuring the radioactivity of [ 131I]‐capsule prior to radioiodine therapy with significant reduction of the radiation exposure to the medical staff

PubMed Central

Lützen, Ulf; Zhao, Yi; Marx, Marlies; Imme, Thea; Assam, Isong; Siebert, Frank‐Andre; Culman, Juraj

2016-01-01

Radiation Protection in Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Radio Oncology is of the utmost importance. Radioiodine therapy is a frequently used and effective method for the treatment of thyroid disease. Prior to each therapy the radioactivity of the [ 131I]‐capsule must be determined to prevent misadministration. This leads to a significant radiation exposure to the staff. We describe an alternative method, allowing a considerable reduction of the radiation exposure. Two [ 131I]‐capsules (A01=2818.5; A02=73.55.0 MBq) were measured multiple times in their own delivery lead containers — that is to say, [ 131I]‐capsules remain inside the containers during the measurements (shielded measurement) using a dose calibrator and a well‐type and a thyroid uptake probe. The results of the shielded measurements were correlated linearly with the [ 131I]‐capsules radioactivity to create calibration curves for the used devices. Additional radioactivity measurements of 50 [ 131I]‐capsules of different radioactivities were done to validate the shielded measuring method. The personal skin dose rate (HP(0.07)) was determined using calibrated thermo luminescent dosimeters. The determination coefficients for the calibration curves were R2>0.9980 for all devices. The relative uncertainty of the shielded measurement was <6.8%. At a distance of 10 cm from the unshielded capsule the HP(0.07) was 46.18 μSv/(GBq⋅s), and on the surface of the lead container containing the [ 131I]‐capsule the HP(0.07) was 2.99 and 0.27 μSv/(GBq⋅s) for the two used container sizes. The calculated reduction of the effective dose by using the shielded measuring method was, depending on the used container size, 74.0% and 97.4%, compared to the measurement of the unshielded [ 131I]‐capsule using a dose calibrator. The measured reduction of the effective radiation dose in the practice was 56.6% and 94.9 for size I and size II containers. The shielded [ 131I]‐capsule measurement reduces the radiation exposure to the staff significantly and offers the same accuracy of the unshielded measurement in the same amount of time. In order to maintain the consistency of the measuring method, monthly tests have to be done by measuring a [ 131I]‐capsule with known radioactivity. PACS number(s): 93.85.Np, 92.20.Td, 87.50.yk, 87.53.Bn PMID:27455475

Biomechanical Effects of Acromioplasty on Superior Capsule Reconstruction for Irreparable Supraspinatus Tendon Tears.

PubMed

Mihata, Teruhisa; McGarry, Michelle H; Kahn, Timothy; Goldberg, Iliya; Neo, Masashi; Lee, Thay Q

2016-01-01

Acromioplasty is increasingly being performed for both reparable and irreparable rotator cuff tears. However, acromioplasty may destroy the coracoacromial arch, including the coracoacromial ligament, consequently causing a deterioration in superior stability even after superior capsule reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of acromioplasty on shoulder biomechanics after superior capsule reconstruction for irreparable supraspinatus tendon tears. The hypothesis was that acromioplasty with superior capsule reconstruction would decrease the area of subacromial impingement without increasing superior translation and subacromial contact pressure. Controlled laboratory study. Seven fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were evaluated using a custom shoulder testing system. Glenohumeral superior translation, the location of the humeral head relative to the glenoid, and subacromial contact pressure and area were compared among 4 conditions: (1) intact shoulder, (2) irreparable supraspinatus tendon tear, (3) superior capsule reconstruction without acromioplasty, and (4) superior capsule reconstruction with acromioplasty. Superior capsule reconstruction was performed using the fascia lata. Compared with the intact shoulder, the creation of an irreparable supraspinatus tear significantly shifted the humeral head superiorly in the balanced muscle loading condition (without superior force applied) (0° of abduction: 2.8-mm superior shift [P = .0005]; 30° of abduction: 1.9-mm superior shift [P = .003]) and increased both superior translation (0° of abduction: 239% of intact [P = .04]; 30° of abduction: 199% of intact [P = .02]) and subacromial peak contact pressure (0° of abduction: 308% of intact [P = .0002]; 30° of abduction: 252% of intact [P = .001]) by applying superior force. Superior capsule reconstruction without acromioplasty significantly decreased superior translation (0° of abduction: 86% of intact [P = .02]; 30° of abduction: 75% of intact [P = .002]) and subacromial peak contact pressure (0° of abduction: 47% of intact [P = .0002]; 30° of abduction: 83% of intact [P = .0005]; 60° of abduction: 38% of intact [P = .04]) compared with after the creation of a supraspinatus tear. Adding acromioplasty significantly decreased the subacromial contact area compared with superior capsule reconstruction without acromioplasty (0° of abduction: 26% decrease [P = .01]; 30° of abduction: 21% decrease [P = .009]; 60° of abduction: 61% decrease [P = .003]) and did not alter humeral head position, superior translation, or subacromial peak contact pressure. Superior capsule reconstruction repositioned the superiorly migrated humeral head and restored superior stability in the shoulder joint. Adding acromioplasty decreased the subacromial contact area without increasing the subacromial contact pressure. When superior capsule reconstruction is performed for irreparable rotator cuff tears, acromioplasty may help to decrease the postoperative risk of abrasion and tearing of the graft beneath the acromion. © 2015 The Author(s).

Implosion symmetry and ρR measurements on the National Ignition Facility from nascent 27-31 MeV tertiary protons (invited) (abstract)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrasso, Richard D.

1997-01-01

Tertiary protons with birth energies from ˜27 to 30.8 MeV result from the implosion of ignition-scale inertial confinement fusion targets, such as those planned for the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Measurement of the tertiaries' slowing can provide a determination of the imploded areal density of the fuel capsule, as well as implosion asymmetry that results from anisotropy of the areal density and plasma temperature. In order to determine the utility of tertiaries for all phases of the NIF, we analyze three representative cases: a gas capsule (0.7 kJ yield); a cryogenic fuel capsule that fails to ignite (15 kJ); and a cryogenic fuel capsule that ignites and burns (13 000 kJ). In each case, tertiaries escape from the capsule and convey critical information about implosion dynamics. In addition, we show that for some gas-capsule implosions anticipated on OMEGA, tertiaries may be the only species of energetic charged particles that can determine the fuel areal density. Presently, we are building a charge-coupled device (CCD)-based charged particle spectrometer for OMEGA and for NOVA. In addition to the tertiaries, the spectrometers are sensitive to a variety of the energetic charged particles, such as knock-on protons, deuterons, and tritons, and 3He-burnup protons. In fact the latter set of charged particles will usually be the dominant signal. We will describe the basic features of the spectrometers and the measured response of the CCDs to 1-5 MeV protons, 1-5 MeV alphas, and 14 MeV neutrons (and associated gammas), the latter constitute the principal source of noise. This work is done in collaboration with C. K. Li, D. Hicks, and F. Seguin of MIT; with B. Burke of LL/MIT; with M. Cable, S. Pollaine, S. Haan, T. Bernat, T. Phillips, and J. Kilkenny of LLNL; with J, Knauer, S. Cremer, C. Verdon, and B. Kremens of University of Rochester; and with C. Ruiz and R. Leeper of SNL. This work is supported in part by LLNL Subcontract B313875 and University of Rochester Subcontract 410025-G.

Preparation and pharmaceutical evaluation of new sustained-release capsule including starch-sponge matrix (SSM).

PubMed

Shibata, Nobuhito; Nishumura, Asako; Naruhashi, Kazumasa; Nakao, Yurie; Miura, Rieko

2010-05-01

The focus of current study was to demonstrate a new sustained-release capsule including starch-sponge matrix (SSM) and to investigate how the pharmaceutical properties of SSM affect the drug release or its pharmacokinetic properties. Three representative drugs (uranine [UN], indomethacin [IMC] and nifedipine [NFP]) with different physicochemical properties (LogP(ow): 0.10, 1.18 and 3.23, respectively) were selected as model drugs. Model drug was dispersioned in pastelike cornstarch (starch glue) after heating 2.0-3.0% cornstarch suspension with electromagnetic wave at 2450 MHz (700 W) for l min. Then the drug mixture was encapsulated into a gratin capsule by a syringe, and the SSM including drug was prepared by means of a freeze-dried method. Essentially, drug-free SSM has a porous and netlike structure, and the distribution aspect of model drugs in the SSM depends on physicochemical properties between cornstarch glue and drugs. UN with much lower lipophilicity exists in continues phase of SSM, and IMC or NFP with a moderate or a higher lipophilicity exist in continues phase or porous space of the SSM. In the in vitro dissolution study, the release rate of drug from the SSM was mainly dependent on the lipophilicities of drugs, showing a rank order of the release rate of UN>IMC>NFP. In addition, the in vitro release rate for each drug was well regulated by changing the initial concentration of cornstarch suspension. In vivo absorption studies after intraduodenal administration of SSM capsule including model drug revealed that the sustained-release effects also could be regulated by the initial concentration of starch suspension. Moreover, the sustained-release effect of SSM capsule was enhanced with an increase in the lipophilicity of drug, and local-residential and mucoadhesive properties of SSM in the intestine provided stable supply of drugs from the SSM. The SSM capsule we developed here shows promising results as an oral drug delivery system for sustained-release regulation or target specificity. 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A single capsule formulation of RHB-104 demonstrates higher anti-microbial growth potency for effective treatment of Crohn's disease associated with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis.

PubMed

Qasem, Ahmad; Safavikhasraghi, Mitra; Naser, Saleh A

2016-01-01

Most recently we reported that RHB‑104 triple antibiotics combination in culture is bactericidal and should be effective for treatment of Crohn's disease (CD)-associated with Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) (Alcedo et al. in Gut Pathog 14:32, 2016). The combination exhibited unique synergistic antimicrobial growth activity. The proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation contains active ingredients (63.3 % Clarithromycin (CLA), 6.7 % Clofazimine (CLO) and 30 % Rifabutin (RIF)). In our earlier study, we could not dissolve the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation in one compatible solvent. Consequently, we re-created RHB-104 analog by adding appropriate concentrations of each of the three antibiotics into the cultures. The Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for RHB-104 analog, CLA, CLO, RIF, CLA-CLO, CLA-RIF, CLO-RIF and their individual solvents were reported earlier (Alcedo et al. in Gut Pathog 14:32, 2016). In this study, we succeeded in dissolving the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation in a single proprietary solvent. This study is designed to compare of the MIC the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation to RHB-104 analog against MAP and other microorganisms. BD Bactec™ MGIT™ Para-TB medium (Sparks, MD) system was used to determine the MIC of the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation and RHB-104 analog and their solvents against MAP and several other microorganisms. The final concentration of solvents used to dissolve all the drugs were ≤0.5 % (v/v). The MIC for the RHB-104 proprietary solvent against MAP was consistent against all microorganisms tested in the study at 12.5 % (v/v). The MIC for the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation was similar to RHB-104 analog against several MAP clinical strains with MIC ≤ 0.2 μg/mL. The MIC for the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation was at 2.0 μg/mL against MAP strain MS 137 and M. avium strain JF7 compared to 4.0 ug/mL for RHB-104 analog. Similarly, the MIC of RHB-104 formulation capsule was significantly lower than RHB-104 analog against M. tuberculosis HR237, M. fortuitism subspecies fortuitum, M. smegmatis ATCC 27199, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19112. The data demonstrated that the proprietary RHB-104 capsule formulation is more potent in culture against Mycobacteria and other microorganisms especially those with MIC >0.2. Formulation of multi-drugs in a single capsule results in potent synergistic anti-microbial activity far exceeds treatment the culture with multi-individually dissolved drugs. RHB-104 capsule formulation should be more effective to eradicate MAP infection in patients with CD. The study provides evidence that combining weak antibiotics in one formulation might be the new silver bullet to combat bacteria.

Tethered SECM endoscopic capsule for the diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Do, Dukho; Kang, DongKyun; Tabatabaei, Nima; Grant, Catriona N.; Nishioka, Norman S.; Rosenberg, Mireille; Hesterberg, Paul E.; Yuan, Qian; Garber, John J.; Katz, Aubrey J.; Shreffler, Wayne G.; Tearney, Guillermo J.

2017-02-01

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is an inflammatory disease caused by inhaled or ingested food allergies, and characterized by the infiltration of eosinophils in the esophagus. The gold standard for diagnosing EoE is to conduct endoscopy and obtain multiple biopsy specimens from different portions of the esophagus; an exam is considered positive if more than 15 eosinophils per high power field (HPF) in any of the biopsies. This method of diagnosis is problematic because endoscopic biopsy is expensive and poorly tolerated and the esophageal eosinophil burden needs to be monitored frequently during the course of the disease. Spectrally encoded confocal microscopy (SECM) is a high-speed confocal microscopy technology that can visualize individual eosinophils in large microscopic images of the human esophagus, equivalent to more than 30,000 HPF. Previously, we have demonstrated that tethered capsule SECM can be conducted in unsedated subjects with diagnosed EoE. However, speckle noise and the relatively low resolution in images obtained with the first capsule prototypes made it challenging to distinguish eosinophils from other cells. In this work, we present a next-generation tethered SECM capsule, which has been modified to significantly improve image quality. First, we substituted the single mode fiber with a dual-clad fiber to reduce speckle noise. A gradient-index multimode fiber was fusion spliced at the tip of the dual-clad fiber to increase the effective numerical aperture of the fiber from 0.09 to 0.15, expanding the beam more rapidly to increase the illumination aperture at the objective. These modifications enabled the new SECM capsule to achieve a lateral resolution of 1.8 µm and an axial resolution of 16.1 µm, which substantially improves the capacity of this probe to visualize cellular features in human tissue. The total size of the SECM capsule remained 6.75 mm in diameter and 31 mm in length. We are now in the process of testing this new SECM capsule in humans. Early results using this new SECM capsule suggest that this technology has the potential to be an effective tool for the diagnosis of EoE.

Visualization of Capsule Reentry Vehicle Heat Shield Ablation Using Naphthalene PLIF

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Combs, Christopher S.; Clemens, Noel T.; Danehy, Paul M.

2014-01-01

The Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) will use an ablative heat shield and improved understanding of the ablation process would be beneficial for design purposes. Given that ablation is a multi-physics process involving heat and mass transfer, codes aiming to predict heat shield ablation are in need of experimental data pertaining to the turbulent transport of ablation products for validation. At The University of Texas at Austin, a technique is being developed that uses planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of a low-temperature sublimating ablator (naphthalene) to visualize the transport of ablation products in a supersonic flow. Since ablation at reentry temperatures can be difficult to recreate in a laboratory setting it is desirable to create a limited physics problem and simulate the ablation process at relatively low temperature conditions using naphthalene. A scaled Orion MPCV model with a solid naphthalene heat shield has been tested in a Mach 5 wind tunnel at various angles of attack in the current work. PLIF imaging reveals the distribution of the ablation products as they are transported into the heat-shield boundary layer and over the capsule shoulders into the separated shear layer and backshell recirculation region. Visualizations of the capsule shear layer using both naphthalene PLIF and Schlieren imaging compared favorably. High concentrations of naphthalene in the capsule separated flow region, intermittent turbulent structures on the heat shield surface, and interesting details of the capsule shear layer structure were observed using the naphthalene PLIF technique. The capsule shear layer was also shown to generally appear to be more turbulent at lower angles of attack. Furthermore, the PLIF signal increased steadily over the course of a run indicating that during a wind tunnel run the model heated up and the rate of naphthalene ablation increased. The shear layer showed increasing signs of turbulence over the course of a wind tunnel run as well, likely because of the combination of increased surface roughness and surface blowing rate. PLIF imaging also detected regions with a relatively low concentration of naphthalene in the capsule backshell recirculation region that are most likely the result of cross-flow-induced vortices on the capsule afterbody.

Validity, Reliability, and Inertia of Four Different Temperature Capsule Systems.

PubMed

Bongers, Coen C W G; Daanen, Hein A M; Bogerd, Cornelis P; Hopman, Maria T E; Eijsvogels, Thijs M H

2018-01-01

Telemetric temperature capsule systems are wireless, relatively noninvasive, and easily applicable in field conditions and have therefore great advantages for monitoring core body temperature. However, the accuracy and responsiveness of available capsule systems have not been compared previously. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the validity, reliability, and inertia characteristics of four ingestible temperature capsule systems (i.e., CorTemp, e-Celsius, myTemp, and VitalSense). Ten temperature capsules were examined for each system in a temperature-controlled water bath during three trials. The water bath temperature gradually increased from 33°C to 44°C in trials 1 and 2 to assess the validity and reliability, and from 36°C to 42°C in trial 3 to assess the inertia characteristics of the temperature capsules. A systematic difference between capsule and water bath temperature was found for CorTemp (0.077°C ± 0.040°C), e-Celsius (-0.081°C ± 0.055°C), myTemp (-0.003°C ± 0.006°C), and VitalSense (-0.017°C ± 0.023°C; P < 0.010), with the lowest bias for the myTemp system (P < 0.001). A systematic difference was found between trial 1 and trial 2 for CorTemp (0.017°C ± 0.083°C; P = 0.030) and e-Celsius (-0.007°C ± 0.033°C; P = 0.019), whereas temperature values of myTemp (0.001°C ± 0.008°C) and VitalSense (0.002°C ± 0.014°C) did not differ (P > 0.05). Comparable inertia characteristics were found for CorTemp (25 ± 4 s), e-Celsius (21 ± 13 s), and myTemp (19 ± 2 s), whereas the VitalSense system responded more slowly (39 ± 6 s) to changes in water bath temperature (P < 0.001). Although differences in temperature and inertia were observed between capsule systems, an excellent validity, test-retest reliability, and inertia was found for each system between 36°C and 44°C after removal of outliers.

Odor Control Test Plan of the Urine Containment Bag (UCB) for Orion Utilization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Casper, Stephanie; Williams, Nicole M. M.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this test is to evaluate the odor containment of the urine containment bag (UCB), P/N SDD46107234-306 in an environment simulating a spacecraft capsule. The goal is to determine the time of odor break through and the acceptability of the odor, once break through occurs. The goal is to simulate, as close as possible, the volume ratio (trash to free volume), trash content (vomit, urine, feces, and food trash), humidity and temperature of the capsule. The goal for minimum break through is 48 hours (Orion Block 0) from the start of the test. The goal for acceptability of odor is 2 weeks (including docked ISS time for Orion Block 0). Two UCB's will be tested simultaneously in different chambers. The one UCB will be tested empty, serving as a control. Odor break through will be based upon the when the filled UCB total organics exceeds that of the control (empty UCB) by a level detectable by a human panel (approximately 2 ppm).

Reduction of capsule endoscopy reading times by unsupervised image mining.

PubMed

Iakovidis, D K; Tsevas, S; Polydorou, A

2010-09-01

The screening of the small intestine has become painless and easy with wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) that is a revolutionary, relatively non-invasive imaging technique performed by a wireless swallowable endoscopic capsule transmitting thousands of video frames per examination. The average time required for the visual inspection of a full 8-h WCE video ranges from 45 to 120min, depending on the experience of the examiner. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to WCE reading time reduction by unsupervised mining of video frames. The proposed methodology is based on a data reduction algorithm which is applied according to a novel scheme for the extraction of representative video frames from a full length WCE video. It can be used either as a video summarization or as a video bookmarking tool, providing the comparative advantage of being general, unbounded by the finiteness of a training set. The number of frames extracted is controlled by a parameter that can be tuned automatically. Comprehensive experiments on real WCE videos indicate that a significant reduction in the reading times is feasible. In the case of the WCE videos used this reduction reached 85% without any loss of abnormalities.

Technique for Forming Solid D2 and D-T Layers for Shock Timing Experiments at the National Ignition Facility

DOE PAGES

Sater, J. D.; Espinosa-Loza, F.; Kozioziemski, B.; ...

2016-07-11

Capsule implosion experiments on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) are driven with a carefully tailored laser pulse that delivers a sequence of shocks to the ablator and fuel. In order to ensure the shocks converge at the desired position, the shock strength and velocity are measured in experimental platforms referred to as keyhole targets. We made shock measurements on capsules completely filled with liquid deuterium for the solid deuterium tritide (D-T) layer campaigns. Modeling has been used to extend these results to form an estimate of the shock properties in solid D-T layers. Furthermore, to verify and improve the surrogacymore » of the liquid-filled keyhole measurements, we have developed a technique to form a solid layer inside the keyhole capsule. The layer is typically uniform over a 400-μm-diameter area. This is sufficient to allow direct measurement of the shock velocity. This layering technique has been successfully applied to 13 experiments on the NIF. The technique may also be applicable to fast-igniter experiments since some proposed designs resemble keyhole targets. We discuss our method in detail and give representative results.« less

Novel MRI tests of orocecal transit time and whole gut transit time: studies in normal subjects

PubMed Central

Chaddock, G; Lam, C; Hoad, C L; Costigan, C; Cox, E F; Placidi, E; Thexton, I; Wright, J; Blackshaw, P E; Perkins, A C; Marciani, L; Gowland, P A; Spiller, R C

2014-01-01

Background Colonic transit tests are used to manage patients with Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Some tests used expose patients to ionizing radiation. The aim of this study was to compare novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests for measuring orocecal transit time (OCTT) and whole gut transit time (WGT), which also provide data on colonic volumes. Methods 21 healthy volunteers participated. Study 1: OCTT was determined from the arrival of the head of a meal into the cecum using MRI and the Lactose Ureide breath test (LUBT), performed concurrently. Study 2: WGT was assessed using novel MRI marker capsules and radio-opaque markers (ROMs), taken on the same morning. Studies were repeated 1 week later. Key Results OCTT measured using MRI and LUBT was 225 min (IQR 180–270) and 225 min (IQR 165–278), respectively, correlation rs = 0.28 (ns). WGT measured using MRI marker capsules and ROMs was 28 h (IQR 4–50) and 31 h ± 3 (SEM), respectively, correlation rs = 0.85 (p < 0.0001). Repeatability assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.45 (p = 0.017) and 0.35 (p = 0.058) for MRI and LUBT OCTT tests. Better repeatability was observed for the WGT tests, ICC being 0.61 for the MRI marker capsules (p = 0.001) and 0.69 for the ROM method (p < 0.001) respectively. Conclusions & Inferences The MRI WGT method is simple, convenient, does not use X-ray and compares well with the widely used ROM method. Both OCTT measurements showed modest reproducibility and the MRI method showed modest inter-observer agreement. PMID:24165044

Cost effectiveness of alternative imaging strategies for the diagnosis of small-bowel Crohn's disease.

PubMed

Levesque, Barrett G; Cipriano, Lauren E; Chang, Steven L; Lee, Keane K; Owens, Douglas K; Garber, Alan M

2010-03-01

The cost effectiveness of alternative approaches to the diagnosis of small-bowel Crohn's disease is unknown. This study evaluates whether computed tomographic enterography (CTE) is a cost-effective alternative to small-bowel follow-through (SBFT) and whether capsule endoscopy is a cost-effective third test in patients in whom a high suspicion of disease remains after 2 previous negative tests. A decision-analytic model was developed to compare the lifetime costs and benefits of each diagnostic strategy. Patients were considered with low (20%) and high (75%) pretest probability of small-bowel Crohn's disease. Effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained. Parameter assumptions were tested with sensitivity analyses. With a moderate to high pretest probability of small-bowel Crohn's disease, and a higher likelihood of isolated jejunal disease, follow-up evaluation with CTE has an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of less than $54,000/QALY-gained compared with SBFT. The addition of capsule endoscopy after ileocolonoscopy and negative CTE or SBFT costs greater than $500,000 per QALY-gained in all scenarios. Results were not sensitive to costs of tests or complications but were sensitive to test accuracies. The cost effectiveness of strategies depends critically on the pretest probability of Crohn's disease and if the terminal ileum is examined at ileocolonoscopy. CTE is a cost-effective alternative to SBFT in patients with moderate to high suspicion of small-bowel Crohn's disease. The addition of capsule endoscopy as a third test is not a cost-effective third test, even in patients with high pretest probability of disease. Copyright 2010 AGA Institute. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Launch of Little Joe I-B from Wallops Island

NASA Image and Video Library

1960-01-21

B60-00364 (4 Nov. 1959) --- Launch of Little Joe-2 from Wallops Island carrying Mercury spacecraft test article. The suborbital test flight of the Mercury capsule was to test the escape system. Vehicle functioned perfectly, but escape rocket ignited several seconds too late. Photo credit: NASA

Capsule Endoscope Aspiration after Repeated Attempts for Ingesting a Patency Capsule

PubMed Central

Mannami, Tomohiko; Ikeda, Genyo; Seno, Satoru; Sonobe, Hiroshi; Fujiwara, Nobukiyo; Komoda, Minori; Edahiro, Satoru; Ohtawa, Yasuyuki; Fujimoto, Yoshimi; Sato, Naohiro; Kambara, Takeshi; Waku, Toshihiko

2015-01-01

Capsule endoscope aspiration into the respiratory tract is a rare complication of capsule endoscopy. Despite the potential seriousness of this complication, no accepted methods exist to accurately predict and therefore prevent it. We describe the case of an 85-year-old male who presented for evaluation of iron deficiency anemia. He complained of dysphagia while ingesting a patency capsule, with several attempts over a period of 5 min before he was successful. Five days later, he underwent capsule endoscopy, where he experienced similar symptoms in swallowing the capsule. The rest of the examination proceeded uneventfully. On reviewing the captured images, the capsule endoscope was revealed to be aspirated, remaining in the respiratory tract for approximately 220 s before images of the esophagus and stomach appeared. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of a patient who experienced capsule endoscope aspiration after ingestion of a patency capsule. This case suggests that repeated attempts required for ingesting the patency capsule can predict capsule endoscope aspiration. We presume that paying sufficient attention to the symptoms of a patient who ingests a patency capsule could help us prevent serious complications such as aspiration of the capsule endoscope. In addition, this experience implies the potential risk for ingesting the patency capsule. We must be aware that the patency capsule could also be aspirated and there may be more unrecognized aspiration cases. PMID:26600772

Capsule Endoscope Aspiration after Repeated Attempts for Ingesting a Patency Capsule.

PubMed

Mannami, Tomohiko; Ikeda, Genyo; Seno, Satoru; Sonobe, Hiroshi; Fujiwara, Nobukiyo; Komoda, Minori; Edahiro, Satoru; Ohtawa, Yasuyuki; Fujimoto, Yoshimi; Sato, Naohiro; Kambara, Takeshi; Waku, Toshihiko

2015-01-01

Capsule endoscope aspiration into the respiratory tract is a rare complication of capsule endoscopy. Despite the potential seriousness of this complication, no accepted methods exist to accurately predict and therefore prevent it. We describe the case of an 85-year-old male who presented for evaluation of iron deficiency anemia. He complained of dysphagia while ingesting a patency capsule, with several attempts over a period of 5 min before he was successful. Five days later, he underwent capsule endoscopy, where he experienced similar symptoms in swallowing the capsule. The rest of the examination proceeded uneventfully. On reviewing the captured images, the capsule endoscope was revealed to be aspirated, remaining in the respiratory tract for approximately 220 s before images of the esophagus and stomach appeared. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of a patient who experienced capsule endoscope aspiration after ingestion of a patency capsule. This case suggests that repeated attempts required for ingesting the patency capsule can predict capsule endoscope aspiration. We presume that paying sufficient attention to the symptoms of a patient who ingests a patency capsule could help us prevent serious complications such as aspiration of the capsule endoscope. In addition, this experience implies the potential risk for ingesting the patency capsule. We must be aware that the patency capsule could also be aspirated and there may be more unrecognized aspiration cases.

Verification and implementation of set-up empirical models in pile design : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-08-01

The primary objectives of this research include: performing static and dynamic load tests on : newly instrumented test piles to better understand the set-up mechanism for individual soil : layers, verifying or recalibrating previously developed empir...

Feasibility of Dynamic Stability Measurements of Planetary Entry Capsules Using MSBS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britcher, Colin; Schoenenberger, Mark

2015-01-01

The feasibility of conducting dynamic stability testing of planetary entry capsules at low supersonic Mach numbers using a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS) is reviewed. The proposed approach would employ a spherical magnetic core, exert control in three degrees-of-freedom (i.e. x, y, z translations) and allow the model to freely rotate in pitch, yaw, and roll. A proof-of-concept system using an existing MSBS electromagnet array in a subsonic wind tunnel is described, with future potential for development of a new system for a supersonic wind tunnel.

Liberty Bell 7 Recovery Evaluation and Nondestructive Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Madaras, Eric I.; Smith, William L.

1999-01-01

An inspection of the Mercury capsule, Liberty Bell 7, and its contents was made on September 1 and 2, 1999. The condition of the capsule and its contents was consistent with long-term exposure to salt water and high pressures at the bottom of the ocean. Many of the metallic materials suffered corrosion, whereas the polymer-based materials seem to have survived remarkably well. No identifiable items or structures were found that appeared to have any scientific value. At this time, no further nondestructive evaluation appears to be justified.

Saturn Apollo Program

NASA Image and Video Library

1973-01-01

This illustration depicts a configuration of the Soyuz spacecraft for the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP). The ASTP was the first international docking of the U.S.'s Apollo spacecraft and the U.S.S.R.'s Soyuz spacecraft in space. For this project, the Soviets built another in their continuing series of Soyuz space capsules. The U.S. used the Saturn IB Apollo capsule. A joint engineering team from the two countries met to develop a docking system that permitted the two spacecraft to link in space and allowed the crews to travel from one spacecraft to the other.

Summary of CPAS EDU Testing Analysis Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Romero, Leah M.; Bledsoe, Kristin J.; Davidson, John.; Engert, Meagan E.; Fraire, Usbaldo, Jr.; Galaviz, Fernando S.; Galvin, Patrick J.; Ray, Eric S.; Varela, Jose

2015-01-01

The Orion program's Capsule Parachute Assembly System (CPAS) project is currently conducting its third generation of testing, the Engineering Development Unit (EDU) series. This series utilizes two test articles, a dart-shaped Parachute Compartment Drop Test Vehicle (PCDTV) and capsule-shaped Parachute Test Vehicle (PTV), both of which include a full size, flight-like parachute system and require a pallet delivery system for aircraft extraction. To date, 15 tests have been completed, including six with PCDTVs and nine with PTVs. Two of the PTV tests included the Forward Bay Cover (FBC) provided by Lockheed Martin. Advancements in modeling techniques applicable to parachute fly-out, vehicle rate of descent, torque, and load train, also occurred during the EDU testing series. An upgrade from a composite to an independent parachute simulation allowed parachute modeling at a higher level of fidelity than during previous generations. The complexity of separating the test vehicles from their pallet delivery systems necessitated the use the Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) simulator for modeling mated vehicle aircraft extraction and separation. This paper gives an overview of each EDU test and summarizes the development of CPAS analysis tools and techniques during EDU testing.

Biocompatibility of new nanostructural materials based on active silicate systems and hydroxyapatite: in vitro and in vivo study.

PubMed

Petrović, V; Opačić-Galić, V; Živković, S; Nikolić, B; Danilović, V; Miletić, V; Jokanović, V; Mitić-Ćulafić, D

2015-10-01

To evaluate in vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo inflammatory response to new nanostructural materials based on active calcium silicate systems (CS) and hydroxyapatite (HA-CS). Cytotoxicity of eluates of new nanostructural noncommercial materials CS and HA-CS, and MTA (White MTA, Angelus(®) Soluções Odontológicas, Londrina, Brazil) as a control, were tested using the MTT assay on MRC-5 cells. Eluates of set materials were tested in 100% and 50% concentrations, 24 h, 7 days and 21 days post-elution. The pH values were determined for undiluted eluates of set materials. Polyethylene tubes containing the test materials (CS, HA-CS, MTA) were implanted in subcutaneous tissue of Wistar rats. Histopathological examinations were conducted at 7, 15, 30 and 60 days after the implantation. Data were statistically analyzed using three-way and one-way anova Tukey's post hoc test as well as Kruskall-Wallis test with Dunn's post hoc test at α = 0.05. All materials significantly reduced cell viability; especially when undiluted eluates were used (P < 0.001). After 24 h elution, cell viability was 10 ± 1.8%, 49.5 ± 4.2% and 61 ± 7.4%, for MTA, and HA-CS, respectively. However, CS and HA-CS were significantly less toxic than the control material MTA (P < 0.05). Cytotoxicity could be at least partially attributed to pH kinetics over time. Dilution of eluates of all tested materials resulted in better cell survival. Histopathological examination indicated similar inflammatory reaction, vascular congestion and connective tissue integrity associated with CS, HA-CS and MTA at each observation period (P > 0.05). The only significant difference was found for capsule thickness, that is thicker capsule was associated with HA-CS compared to MTA at 60 days (P = 0.0039). HA-CS induced moderately thick capsules (median score 3, score range 2-3), whereas MTA resulted in thin capsule formation (median score 2, score range 1-3). Evaluation of cytotoxicity and inflammatory response indicated better biocompatibility of CS and HA-CS, in comparison with MTA (White MTA, Angelus(®) Soluções Odontológicas, Londrina, Brazil). © 2014 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Capsule endoscopy

MedlinePlus

Capsule enteroscopy; Wireless capsule endoscopy; Video capsule endoscopy (VCE); Small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) ... a computer and software turns them into a video. Your provider watches the video to look for ...

Effects of food on a gastrically degraded drug: azithromycin fast-dissolving gelatin capsules and HPMC capsules.

PubMed

Curatolo, William; Liu, Ping; Johnson, Barbara A; Hausberger, Angela; Quan, Ernest; Vendola, Thomas; Vatsaraj, Neha; Foulds, George; Vincent, John; Chandra, Richa

2011-07-01

Commercial azithromycin gelatin capsules (Zithromax®) are known to be bioequivalent to commercial azithromycin tablets (Zithromax®) when dosed in the fasted state. These capsules exhibit a reduced bioavailability when dosed in the fed state, while tablets do not. This gelatin capsule negative food effect was previously proposed to be due to slow and/or delayed capsule disintegration in the fed stomach, resulting in extended exposure of the drug to gastric acid, leading to degradation to des-cladinose-azithromycin (DCA). Azithromycin gelatin capsules were formulated with "superdisintegrants" to provide fast-dissolving capsules, and HPMC capsule shells were substituted for gelatin capsule shells, in an effort to eliminate the food effect. Healthy volunteers were dosed with these dosage forms under fasted and fed conditions; pharmacokinetics were evaluated. DCA pharmacokinetics were also evaluated for the HPMC capsule subjects. In vitro disintegration of azithromycin HPMC capsules in media containing food was evaluated and compared with commercial tablets and commercial gelatin capsules. When the two fast-dissolving capsule formulations were dosed to fed subjects, the azithromycin AUC was 38.9% and 52.1% lower than after fasted-state dosing. When HPMC capsules were dosed to fed subjects, the azithromycin AUC was 65.5% lower than after fasted-state dosing. For HPMC capsules, the absolute fasting-state to fed-state decrease in azithromycin AUC (on a molar basis) was similar to the increase in DCA AUC. In vitro capsule disintegration studies revealed extended disintegration times for commercial azithromycin gelatin capsules and HPMC capsules in media containing the liquid foods milk and Ensure®. Interaction of azithromycin gelatin and HPMC capsules with food results in slowed disintegration in vitro and decreased bioavailability in vivo. Concurrent measurement of serum azithromycin and the acid-degradation product DCA demonstrates that the loss of azithromycin bioavailability in the fed state is largely (and probably entirely) due to gastric degradation to DCA. Capsules can provide a useful and elegant dosage form for almost all drugs, but may result in a negative food effect for drugs as acid-labile as azithromycin.

Pharmaceutical quality of seven generic Levodopa/Benserazide products compared with original Madopar® / Prolopa®.

PubMed

Gasser, Urs E; Fischer, Anton; Timmermans, Jan P; Arnet, Isabelle

2013-04-23

By definition, a generic product is considered interchangeable with the innovator brand product. Controversy exists about interchangeability, and attention is predominantly directed to contaminants. In particular for chronic, degenerative conditions such as in Parkinson's disease (PD) generic substitution remains debated among physicians, patients and pharmacists. The objective of this study was to compare the pharmaceutical quality of seven generic levodopa/benserazide hydrochloride combination products marketed in Germany with the original product (Madopar® / Prolopa® 125, Roche, Switzerland) in order to evaluate the potential impact of Madopar® generics versus branded products for PD patients and clinicians. Madopar® / Prolopa® 125 tablets and capsules were used as reference material. The generic products tested (all 100 mg/25 mg formulations) included four tablet and three capsule formulations. Colour, appearance of powder (capsules), disintegration and dissolution, mass of tablets and fill mass of capsules, content, identity and amounts of impurities were assessed along with standard physical and chemical laboratory tests developed and routinely practiced at Roche facilities. Results were compared to the original "shelf-life" specifications in use by Roche. Each of the seven generic products had one or two parameters outside the specifications. Deviations for the active ingredients ranged from +8.4% (benserazide) to -7.6% (levodopa) in two tablet formulations. Degradation products were measured in marked excess (+26.5%) in one capsule formulation. Disintegration time and dissolution for levodopa and benserazide hydrochloride at 30 min were within specifications for all seven generic samples analysed, however with some outliers. Deviations for the active ingredients may go unnoticed by a new user of the generic product, but may entail clinical consequences when switching from original to generic during a long-term therapy. Degradation products may pose a safety concern. Our results should prompt caution when prescribing a generic of Madopar®/Prolopa®, and also invite to further investigations in view of a more comprehensive approach, both pharmaceutical and clinical.