Mechanical strain induces involution-associated events in mammary epithelial cells

PubMed Central

Quaglino, Ana; Salierno, Marcelo; Pellegrotti, Jesica; Rubinstein, Natalia; Kordon, Edith C

2009-01-01

Background Shortly after weaning, a complex multi-step process that leads to massive epithelial apoptosis is triggered by tissue local factors in the mouse mammary gland. Several reports have demonstrated the relevance of mechanical stress to induce adaptive responses in different cell types. Interestingly, these signaling pathways also participate in mammary gland involution. Then, it has been suggested that cell stretching caused by milk accumulation after weaning might be the first stimulus that initiates the complete remodeling of the mammary gland. However, no previous report has demonstrated the impact of mechanical stress on mammary cell physiology. To address this issue, we have designed a new practical device that allowed us to evaluate the effects of radial stretching on mammary epithelial cells in culture. Results We have designed and built a new device to analyze the biological consequences of applying mechanical stress to cells cultured on flexible silicone membranes. Subsequently, a geometrical model that predicted the percentage of radial strain applied to the elastic substrate was developed. By microscopic image analysis, the adjustment of these calculations to the actual strain exerted on the attached cells was verified. The studies described herein were all performed in the HC11 non-tumorigenic mammary epithelial cell line, which was originated from a pregnant BALB/c mouse. In these cells, as previously observed in other tissue types, mechanical stress induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation and c-Fos mRNA and protein expression. In addition, we found that mammary cell stretching triggered involution associated cellular events as Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) expression induction, STAT3 activation and AKT phosphorylation inhibition. Conclusion Here, we show for the first time, that mechanical strain is able to induce weaning-associated events in cultured mammary epithelial cells. These results were obtained using a new practical and affordable device specifically designed for such a purpose. We believe that our results indicate the relevance of mechanical stress among the early post-lactation events that lead to mammary gland involution. PMID:19615079

Label-free image-based detection of drug resistance with optofluidic time-stretch microscopy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kobayashi, Hirofumi; Lei, Cheng; Mao, Ailin; Jiang, Yiyue; Guo, Baoshan; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2017-02-01

Acquired drug resistance is a fundamental predicament in cancer therapy. Early detection of drug-resistant cancer cells during or after treatment is expected to benefit patients from unnecessary drug administration and thus play a significant role in the development of a therapeutic strategy. However, the development of an effective method of detecting drug-resistant cancer cells is still in its infancy due to their complex mechanism in drug resistance. To address this problem, we propose and experimentally demonstrate label-free image-based drug resistance detection with optofluidic time-stretch microscopy using leukemia cells (K562 and K562/ADM). By adding adriamycin (ADM) to both K562 and K562/ADM (ADM-resistant K562 cells) cells, both types of cells express unique morphological changes, which are subsequently captured by an optofluidic time-stretch microscope. These unique morphological changes are extracted as image features and are subjected to supervised machine learning for cell classification. We hereby have successfully differentiated K562 and K562/ADM solely with label-free images, which suggests that our technique is capable of detecting drug-resistant cancer cells. Our optofluidic time-stretch microscope consists of a time-stretch microscope with a high spatial resolution of 780 nm at a 1D frame rate of 75 MHz and a microfluidic device that focuses and orders cells. We compare various machine learning algorithms as well as various concentrations of ADM for cell classification. Owing to its unprecedented versatility of using label-free image and its independency from specific molecules, our technique holds great promise for detecting drug resistance of cancer cells for which its underlying mechanism is still unknown or chemical probes are still unavailable.

In situ quantitative evaluation of osteoblastic collagen synthesis under cyclic strain by using second-harmonic-generation microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsubara, Oki; Hase, Eiji; Minamikawa, Takeo; Yasui, Takeshi; Sato, Katsuya

2016-03-01

Osteoblast-produced collagen matrix in bone is influenced by the mechanical stimulus from their surroundings. However, it has been still unclear how mechanical stimulus affects collagen production by osteoblasts. Therefore, it is strongly required to investigate the characteristics of osteoblastic bone regenerative tissue engineering. Recently, second-harmonic-generation (SHG) microscope has attracted attention for in situ visualization of collagen fiber because of less invasiveness, unstaining and no fixation, as well as high spatial resolution and 3D imaging. Using SHG microscopy, one can track the temporal dynamics of collagen fiber during the cultured period of the sample. We applied cyclic stretch strain to osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) by using originally developed cell stretching device. The stimulation time was set to 5min or 3hours with same strain 5% and same frequency 0.5Hz. Cells were seeded onto the PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) rubber chamber at a density of 50,000 cells/cm2 and cultured in α-MEM with 10% FBS, 1% P/S, 1% Ascorbic acid, 0.2% hydrocortisone and 2% β-Glycerophosphate. SHG imaging was carried out every 7 days. As a result, we confirmed from SHG image that the collagen production was enhanced by the cyclic stretch strain, stretch stimulation time and stretch application term.

Recent developments of truly stretchable thin film electronic and optoelectronic devices.

PubMed

Zhao, Juan; Chi, Zhihe; Yang, Zhan; Chen, Xiaojie; Arnold, Michael S; Zhang, Yi; Xu, Jiarui; Chi, Zhenguo; Aldred, Matthew P

2018-03-29

Truly stretchable electronics, wherein all components themselves permit elastic deformation as the whole devices are stretched, exhibit unique advantages over other strategies, such as simple fabrication process, high integrity of entire components and intimate integration with curvilinear surfaces. In contrast to the stretchable devices using stretchable interconnectors to integrate with rigid active devices, truly stretchable devices are realized with or without intentionally employing structural engineering (e.g. buckling), and the whole device can be bent, twisted, or stretched to meet the demands for practical applications, which are beyond the capability of conventional flexible devices that can only bend or twist. Recently, great achievements have been made toward truly stretchable electronics. Here, the contribution of this review is an effort to provide a panoramic view of the latest progress concerning truly stretchable electronic devices, of which we give special emphasis to three kinds of thin film electronic and optoelectronic devices: (1) thin film transistors, (2) electroluminescent devices (including organic light-emitting diodes, light-emitting electrochemical cells and perovskite light-emitting diodes), and (3) photovoltaics (including organic photovoltaics and perovskite solar cells). We systematically discuss the device design and fabrication strategies, the origin of device stretchability and the relationship between the electrical and mechanical behaviors of the devices. We hope that this review provides a clear outlook of these attractive stretchable devices for a broad range of scientists and attracts more researchers to devote their time to this interesting research field in both industry and academia, thus encouraging more intelligent lifestyles for human beings in the coming future.

High-Throughput Accurate Single-Cell Screening of Euglena gracilis with Fluorescence-Assisted Optofluidic Time-Stretch Microscopy.

PubMed

Guo, Baoshan; Lei, Cheng; Ito, Takuro; Jiang, Yiyue; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2016-01-01

The development of reliable, sustainable, and economical sources of alternative fuels is an important, but challenging goal for the world. As an alternative to liquid fossil fuels, algal biofuel is expected to play a key role in alleviating global warming since algae absorb atmospheric CO2 via photosynthesis. Among various algae for fuel production, Euglena gracilis is an attractive microalgal species as it is known to produce wax ester (good for biodiesel and aviation fuel) within lipid droplets. To date, while there exist many techniques for inducing microalgal cells to produce and accumulate lipid with high efficiency, few analytical methods are available for characterizing a population of such lipid-accumulated microalgae including E. gracilis with high throughout, high accuracy, and single-cell resolution simultaneously. Here we demonstrate high-throughput, high-accuracy, single-cell screening of E. gracilis with fluorescence-assisted optofluidic time-stretch microscopy-a method that combines the strengths of microfluidic cell focusing, optical time-stretch microscopy, and fluorescence detection used in conventional flow cytometry. Specifically, our fluorescence-assisted optofluidic time-stretch microscope consists of an optical time-stretch microscope and a fluorescence analyzer on top of a hydrodynamically focusing microfluidic device and can detect fluorescence from every E. gracilis cell in a population and simultaneously obtain its image with a high throughput of 10,000 cells/s. With the multi-dimensional information acquired by the system, we classify nitrogen-sufficient (ordinary) and nitrogen-deficient (lipid-accumulated) E. gracilis cells with a low false positive rate of 1.0%. This method holds promise for evaluating cultivation techniques and selective breeding for microalgae-based biofuel production.

Optoelectronic tweezers for the measurement of the relative stiffness of erythrocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neale, Steven L.; Mody, Nimesh; Selman, Colin; Cooper, Jonathan M.

2012-10-01

In this paper we describe the first use of Optoelectronic Tweezers (OET), an optically controlled micromanipulation method, to measure the relative stiffness of erythrocytes in mice. Cell stiffness is an important measure of cell health and in the case of erythrocytes, the most elastic cells in the body, an increase in cell stiffness can indicate pathologies such as type II diabetes mellitus or hypertension (high blood pressure). OET uses a photoconductive device to convert an optical pattern into and electrical pattern. The electrical fields will create a dipole within any polarisable particles in the device, such as cells, and non-uniformities of the field can be used to place unequal forces onto each side of the dipole thus moving the particle. In areas of the device where there are no field gradients, areas of constant illumination, the force on each side of the dipole will be equal, keeping the cell stationary, but as there are opposing forces on each side of the cell it will be stretched. The force each cell will experience will differ slightly so the stretching will depend on the cells polarisability as well as its stiffness. Because of this a relative stiffness rather than absolute stiffness is measured. We show that with standard conditions (20Vpp, 1.5MHz, 10mSm-1 medium conductivity) the cell's diameter changes by around 10% for healthy mouse erythrocytes and we show that due to the low light intensities required for OET, relative to conventional optical tweezers, multiple cells can be measured simultaneously.

Sorting on the basis of deformability of single cells in a femtosecond laser fabricated optofluidic device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bragheri, F.; Paiè, P.; Yang, T.; Nava, G.; Martınez Vázquez, R.; Di Tano, M.; Veglione, M.; Minzioni, P.; Mondello, C.; Cristiani, I.; Osellame, R.

2015-03-01

Optical stretching is a powerful technique for the mechanical phenotyping of single suspended cells that exploits cell deformability as an inherent functional marker. Dual-beam optical trapping and stretching of cells is a recognized tool to investigate their viscoelastic properties. The optical stretcher has the ability to deform cells through optical forces without physical contact or bead attachment. In addition, it is the only method that can be combined with microfluidic delivery, allowing for the serial, high-throughput measurement of the optical deformability and the selective sorting of single specific cells. Femtosecond laser micromachining can fabricate in the same chip both the microfluidic channel and the optical waveguides, producing a monolithic device with a very precise alignment between the components and very low sensitivity to external perturbations. Femtosecond laser irradiation in a fused silica chip followed by chemical etching in hydrofluoric acid has been used to fabricate the microfluidic channels where the cells move by pressure-driven flow. With the same femtosecond laser source two optical waveguides, orthogonal to the microfluidic channel and opposing each other, have been written inside the chip. Here we present an optimized writing process that provides improved wall roughness of the micro-channels allowing high-quality imaging. In addition, we will show results on cell sorting on the basis of mechanical properties in the same device: the different deformability exhibited by metastatic and tumorigenic cells has been exploited to obtain a metastasis-cells enriched sample. The enrichment is verified by exploiting, after cells collection, fluorescence microscopy.

A Solid-State Intrinsically Stretchable Polymer Solar Cell.

PubMed

Li, Lu; Liang, Jiajie; Gao, Huier; Li, Ying; Niu, Xiaofan; Zhu, Xiaodan; Xiong, Yan; Pei, Qibing

2017-11-22

An organic solar cell based on a bulk heterojunction of a conjugated polymer and a methanofullerene PC 61 BM or PC 71 BM exhibits a complex morphology that controls both its photovoltaic and mechanical compliance (flexibility and stretchability). Here, the donor-acceptor blend of poly(thieno[3,4-b]-thiophene/benzodithiophene) (PTB7) and PC 71 BM containing a small amount of diiodooctane (DIO) in the spin-casting solution is reported to exhibit elastic deformability. The blend comprises nanometer-size, nanocrystalline grains that are relatively uniformly distributed. Large external deformation is accommodated by relative sliding between the grains. Reorientation of the nanocrystallites and the global reorientation of the PTB7 polymer chain were observed along the stretching direction up to 100% strain, which was reversible as the blend was allowed to relax to 0% strain. The polymer solar cell based on PTB7:PC 71 BM:DIO with such reversible morphological changes exhibited a rubbery elasticity at room temperature. The device could be stretched up to 100% strain, and the power-conversion efficiency shows a slight increase up to 30% strain and a global increase of power generation as the photoactive area increases with strain. Solar cells were fabricated employing a layer of the PTB7:PC 71 BM:DIO blend sandwiched between a pair of stretchable transparent electrodes, each comprising a stack of a silver nanowire percolation network and a single-wall carbon nanotube network embedded in the surface of a poly(urethane acylate) elastomer film. The solar cells were semitransparent and could be stretched like a rubbery film by as much as 100% strain. The measured power-conversion efficiency was 3.48%, which was increased to 3.67% after one cycle of stretching to 50% strain and lowered to 2.99% after 100 stretching cycles. The total power generation from the cells was significantly increased, thanks to the expanded active area as the cells were stretched.

Comparing passive angle-torque curves recorded simultaneously with a load cell versus an isokinetic dynamometer during dorsiflexion stretch tolerance assessments.

PubMed

Buckner, Samuel L; Jenkins, Nathaniel D M; Costa, Pablo B; Ryan, Eric D; Herda, Trent J; Cramer, Joel T

2015-05-01

The purpose of the present study was to compare the passive angle-torque curves and the passive stiffness (PS, N m °(-)(1)) values recorded simultaneously from a load cell versus an isokinetic dynamometer during dorsiflexion stretch tolerance assessments in vivo. Nine healthy men (mean ± SD age = 21.4 ± 1.6 years) completed stretch tolerance assessments on a custom-built apparatus where passive torque was measured simultaneously from an isokinetic dynamometer and a load cell. Passive torque values that corresponded with the last 10° of dorsiflexion, verified by surface electromyographic amplitude, were analyzed for each device (θ1, θ2, θ3, …, θ10). Passive torque values measured with the load cell were greater (p ≤ 0.05) than the dynamometer torque values for θ4 through θ10. There were more statistical differentiations among joint angles for passive torque measured by the load cell, and the load cell measured a greater (p ≤ 0.01) increase in passive torque and PS than the isokinetic dynamometer. These findings suggested that when examining the angle-torque curves from passive dorsiflexion stretch tolerance tests, a load cell placed under the distal end of the foot may be more sensitive than the torque recorded from an isokinetic dynamometer. Copyright © 2015 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

SmartStretch™ technology. I. Improving the tenderness of sheep topsides (m. semimembranosus) using a meat stretching device.

PubMed

Toohey, E S; van de Ven, R; Thompson, J M; Geesink, G H; Hopkins, D L

2012-06-01

This study evaluated the effect of stretching hot-boned sheep topsides using a pre-production prototype device (SmartStretch™). To test this effect, 40 sheep from 3 consignments were assessed. Left and right topsides were collected pre-rigour and randomly allocated to one of four treatments; 0 days ageing+SmartStretch™, 0 days ageing+no stretch, 5 days ageing+SmartStretch™ and 5 days ageing+no stretch. Meat from the 0 days aged+no stretch treatment was the least tender and the 5 days ageing+SmartStretch™ treatment resulted in the most tender meat. The m. semimembranosus from topsides stretched using the SmartStretch™ prototype device had a lower cooking loss percentage (P<0.001) and longer sarcomeres (P<0.001) than non-stretched m. semimembranosus. There was no effect of SmartStretch™ on myofibrillar degradation measured using particle size analysis (PSA), but there was an ageing effect (P<0.001). The tenderness of stretched m. semimembranosus showed significant improvement over non-stretched m. semimembranosus. Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Uni-Directional Cell Stretching Device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feeback, Daniel L. (Inventor); Clarke, Mark S. F. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for applying various degrees of linear, mechanical loads on mammalian tissues, and in particular, for effecting linear stretching of tissue and simulating changes in hydrostatic pressures encountered during tissue contraction in vivo. The apparatus is useful for the study of mechanical loading in human tissue, and specifically, for permitting the evaluation of the effects of mechanical loading of skeletal or cardiac tissue and of the effects of removal of mechanical loading due to inactivity or the like, and the subsequent reapplication of load to these tissues.

In Vitro Stretch Injury Induces Time- and Severity-Dependent Alterations of STEP Phosphorylation and Proteolysis in Neurons

PubMed Central

Mesfin, Mahlet N.; von Reyn, Catherine R.; Mott, Rosalind E.; Putt, Mary E.

2012-01-01

Abstract Striatal-enriched tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) has been identified as a component of physiological and pathophysiological signaling pathways mediated by N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor/calcineurin/calpain activation. Activation of these pathways produces a subsequent change in STEP isoform expression or activation via dephosphorylation. In this study, we evaluated changes in STEP phosphorylation and proteolysis in dissociated cortical neurons after sublethal and lethal mechanical injury using an in vitro stretch injury device. Sublethal stretch injury produces minimal changes in STEP phosphorylation at early time points, and increased STEP phosphorylation at 24 h that is blocked by the NMDA-receptor antagonist APV, the calcineurin-inhibitor FK506, and the sodium channel blocker tetrodotoxin. Lethal stretch injury produces rapid STEP dephosphorylation via NR2B-containing NMDA receptors, but not calcineurin, and a subsequent biphasic phosphorylation pattern. STEP61 expression progressively increases after sublethal stretch with no change in calpain-mediated STEP33 formation, while lethal stretch injury results in STEP33 formation via a NR2B-containing NMDA receptor pathway within 1 h of injury. Blocking calpain activation in the initial 30 min after stretch injury increases the ratio of active STEP in cells and blocks STEP33 formation, suggesting that STEP is an early substrate of calpain after mechanical injury. There is a strong correlation between the amount of STEP33 formed and the degree of cell death observed after lethal stretch injury. In summary, these data demonstrate that previously characterized pathways of STEP regulation via the NMDA receptor are generally conserved in mechanical injury, and suggest that calpain-mediated cleavage of STEP33 should be further examined as an early marker of neuronal fate after stretch injury. PMID:22435660

Effectiveness of a Load-Imposing Device for Cyclic Stretching of Isolated Human Bronchi: A Validation Study

PubMed Central

Le Guen, Morgan; Naline, Emmanuel; Grassin-Delyle, Stanislas; Devillier, Philippe; Faisy, Christophe

2015-01-01

Background Mechanical ventilation may induce harmful effects in the airways of critically ill patients. Nevertheless, the effects of cyclic stretching caused by repetitive inflation-deflation of the bronchial compartment have not been well characterized in humans. The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of a load-imposing device for the cyclic stretching of human bronchi. Methods Intact bronchial segments were removed from 128 thoracic surgery patients. After preparation and equilibration in an organ bath, bronchi were stretched repetitively and cyclically with a motorized transducer. The peak force imposed on the bronchi was set to 80% of each individual maximum contraction in response to acetylcholine and the minimal force corresponded to the initial basal tone before stretching. A 1-min cycle (stretching for 15 sec, relaxing for 15 sec and resting for 30 sec) was applied over a time period ranging from 5 to 60 min. The device's performance level was assessed and the properties of the stretched bronchi were compared with those of paired, non-stretched bronchi. Results Despite the intrinsic capacities of the device, the targets of the tension adjustments remained variable for minimal tension (156–178%) while the peak force set point was unchanged (87–115%). In the stretched bronchi, a time-dependent rise in basal tone (P <.05 vs. non-stretched) was apparent after as little as 5 min of cyclic stretching. The stretch-induced rise in basal tone continued to increase (P <.01) after the stretching had ended. Only 60 min of cyclic stretching was associated with a significant (P <.05) increase in responsiveness to acetylcholine, relative to non-stretched bronchi. Conclusions Low-frequency, low-force, cyclic loading of human bronchi is associated with elevated basal tone and acetylcholine responsiveness. The present experimental model is likely to be a useful tool for future investigations of the bronchial response to repetitive stress during mechanical ventilation. PMID:26011598

Quantification and significance of fluid shear stress field in biaxial cell stretching device.

PubMed

Thompson, Mark S; Abercrombie, Stuart R; Ott, Claus-Eric; Bieler, Friederike H; Duda, Georg N; Ventikos, Yiannis

2011-07-01

A widely used commercially available system for the investigation of mechanosensitivity applies a biaxial strain field to cells cultured on a compliant silicone substrate membrane stretched over a central post. As well as intended substrate strain, this device also provides a fluid flow environment for the cultured cells. In order to interpret the relevance of experiments using this device to the in vivo and clinical situation, it is essential to characterise both substrate and fluid environments. While previous work has detailed the substrate strain, the fluid shear stresses, to which bone cells are known to be sensitive, are unknown. Therefore, a fluid structure interaction computational fluid dynamics model was constructed, incorporating a finite element technique capable of capturing the contact between the post and the silicone substrate membrane, to the underside of which the pump control pressure was applied. Flow verification experiments using 10-μm-diameter fluorescent microspheres were carried out. Fluid shear stress increased approximately linearly with radius along the on-post substrate membrane, with peak values located close to the post edge. Changes in stimulation frequency and culture medium viscosity effected proportional changes in the magnitude of the fluid shear stress (peak fluid shear stresses varied in the range 0.09-3.5 Pa), with minor effects on temporal and spatial distribution. Good agreement was obtained between predicted and measured radial flow patterns. These results suggest a reinterpretation of previous data obtained using this device to include the potential for a strong role of fluid shear stress in mechanosensitivity.

Stretchable Biofuel Cells as Wearable Textile-based Self-Powered Sensors.

PubMed

Jeerapan, Itthipon; Sempionatto, Juliane R; Pavinatto, Adriana; You, Jung-Min; Wang, Joseph

2016-12-21

Highly stretchable textile-based biofuel cells (BFCs), acting as effective self-powered sensors, have been fabricated using screen-printing of customized stress-enduring inks. Due to synergistic effects of nanomaterial-based engineered inks and the serpentine designs, these printable bioelectronic devices endure severe mechanical deformations, e.g., stretching, indentation, or torsional twisting. Glucose and lactate BFCs with the single enzyme and membrane-free configurations generated the maximum power density of 160 and 250 µW cm -2 with the open circuit voltages of 0.44 and 0.46 V, respectively. The textile-BFCs were able to withstand repeated severe mechanical deformations with minimal impact on its structural integrity, as was indicated from their stable power output after 100 cycles of 100% stretching. By providing power signals proportional to the sweat fuel concentration, these stretchable devices act as highly selective and stable self-powered textile sensors. Applicability to sock-based BFC and self-powered biosensor and mechanically compliant operations was demonstrated on human subjects. These stretchable skin-worn "scavenge-sense-display" devices are expected to contribute to the development of skin-worn energy harvesting systems, advanced non-invasive self-powered sensors and wearable electronics on a stretchable garment.

Optical Deformability as New Diagnostic Cell Marker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guck, Jochen; Lincoln, Bryan; Schinkinger, Stefan; Wottawah, Falk; Moore, Samantha; Ananthakrishnan, Revathi; Kas, Josef

2002-03-01

The optical stretcher is a novel laser tool that can deform individual cells in rapid succession. When a cell is trapped between two counterpropagating laser beams the optically induced surface forces stretch the cell along the laser axis. The degree of stretching depends on the optical properties, which determine the forces, as well as the mechanical properties, which govern the response of the cell to the forces. Our results show that different cells can be distinguished based on their optical deformability, which naturally suggests using the optical deformability of cells as a novel cell marker. Many diseases are reflected in an altered cytoskeleton, which leads to a different optical deformability. An important example is the malignant transformation of cells, which is accompanied by a decrease in cytoskeletal integrity and, consequently, cell elasticity. Using optical deformability as cell marker holds the promise of earlier detection and improved diagnosis of cancer. In this context, the optical stretcher can be used as a diagnostic device to detect and sort abnormal cells. Future applications in the study of the normal differentiation of cells from stem cells to mature cells are envisioned.

Stretch Injury of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Derived Neurons in a 96 Well Format

PubMed Central

Sherman, Sydney A.; Phillips, Jack K.; Costa, J. Tighe; Cho, Frances S.; Oungoulian, Sevan R.; Finan, John D.

2016-01-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity with limited therapeutic options. Traumatic axonal injury (TAI) is an important component of TBI pathology. It is difficult to reproduce TAI in animal models of closed head injury, but in vitro stretch injury models reproduce clinical TAI pathology. Existing in vitro models employ primary rodent neurons or human cancer cell line cells in low throughput formats. This in vitro neuronal stretch injury model employs human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons (hiPSCNs) in a 96 well format. Silicone membranes were attached to 96 well plate tops to create stretchable, culture substrates. A custom-built device was designed and validated to apply repeatable, biofidelic strains and strain rates to these plates. A high content approach was used to measure injury in a hypothesis-free manner. These measurements are shown to provide a sensitive, dose-dependent, multi-modal description of the response to mechanical insult. hiPSCNs transition from healthy to injured phenotype at approximately 35% Lagrangian strain. Continued development of this model may create novel opportunities for drug discovery and exploration of the role of human genotype in TAI pathology. PMID:27671211

Measurement of Resistive Plantar Flexion Torque of the Ankle during Passive Stretch in Healthy Subjects and Patients with Poststroke Hemiplegia.

PubMed

Mizuno, Shiho; Sonoda, Shigeru; Takeda, Kotaro; Maeshima, Shinichiro

2016-04-01

Quantification of increased muscle tone for patients with spasticity has been performed to date using various devices to replace the manual scales, such as the modified Ashworth scale or the Tardieu scale. We developed a device that could measure resistive plantar flexion (PF) torque of the ankle during passive dorsiflexion (DF) as an indicator of muscle tone of ankle plantar flexors. The primary objective was to explore the test-retest intrarater reliability of a custom-built device. Participants were 11 healthy subjects (7 men, 4 women; mean age 47.0 years) and 22 patients with poststroke hemiplegia (11 hemorrhagic, 11 ischemic; 14 men, 8 women; mean age 57.2 years). The device was affixed to the ankle. Subjects were seated with knees either flexed or extended. The ankle was passively dorsiflexed from 20° of PF to more than 10° of DF at 5°/second (slow stretch) or 90°/second (fast stretch). Angle and torque were measured twice during the stretches. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of torque at 10° of DF (T10) in the 4 conditions-slow and fast stretches with knee flexed or extended-were calculated. The T10 ICCs of the 4 conditions were .95-.99 in both groups. The healthy subjects showed significantly higher T10 of knee extension than of knee flexion during slow and fast stretches. The patients showed increased velocity-dependent torque during fast stretches. Excellent reliability was observed. The device is suitable for measuring resistive PF torque during passive stretch in a flexed knee condition. Copyright © 2016 National Stroke Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of Device to Evoke Stretch Reflexes by Use of Electromagnetic Force for the Rehabilitation of the Hemiplegic Upper Limb after Stroke

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayashi, Ryota; Ishimine, Tomoyasu; Kawahira, Kazumi; Yu, Yong; Tsujio, Showzow

In this research, we focus on the method of rehabilitation with stretch reflexes for the hemiplegic upper limb in stroke patients. We propose a new device which utilizes electromagnetic force to evoke stretch reflexes. The device can exert an assisting force safely, because the electromagnetic force is non contact force. In this paper, we develop a support system applying the proposed device for the functional recovery training of the hemiplegic upper limb. The results obtained from several clinical tests with and without our support system are compared. Then we discuss the validity of our support system.

Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue

PubMed Central

Kobayashi, Kazuhiro; Hama, Takanori; Murakami, Kasumi; Ogawa, Rei

2016-01-01

Objective: In this study, we evaluated the effect of scalp massage on hair in Japanese males and the effect of stretching forces on human dermal papilla cells in vitro. Methods: Nine healthy men received 4 minutes of standardized scalp massage per day for 24 weeks using a scalp massage device. Total hair number, hair thickness, and hair growth rate were evaluated. The mechanical effect of scalp massage on subcutaneous tissue was analyzed using a finite element method. To evaluate the effect of mechanical forces, human dermal papilla cells were cultured using a 72-hour stretching cycle. Gene expression change was analyzed using DNA microarray analyses. In addition, expression of hair cycle-related genes including IL6, NOGGIN, BMP4, and SMAD4 were evaluated using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results: Standardized scalp massage resulted in increased hair thickness 24 weeks after initiation of massage (0.085 ± 0.003 mm vs 0.092 ± 0.001 mm). Finite element method showed that scalp massage caused z-direction displacement and von Mises stress on subcutaneous tissue. In vitro, DNA microarray showed gene expression change significantly compared with nonstretching human dermal papilla cells. A total of 2655 genes were upregulated and 2823 genes were downregulated. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction demonstrated increased expression of hair cycle–related genes such as NOGGIN, BMP4, SMAD4, and IL6ST and decrease in hair loss–related genes such as IL6. Conclusions: Stretching forces result in changes in gene expression in human dermal papilla cells. Standardized scalp massage is a way to transmit mechanical stress to human dermal papilla cells in subcutaneous tissue. Hair thickness was shown to increase with standardized scalp massage. PMID:26904154

Stretchable Lithium-Ion Batteries Enabled by Device-Scaled Wavy Structure and Elastic-Sticky Separator

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

Liu, Wei; Chen, Jun; Chen, Zheng

Fast developments and substantial achievements have been shaping the field of wearable electronic devices, resulting in the persistent requirement for stretchable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Despite recent progress in stretchable electrodes, stretching full batteries, including electrodes, separator, and sealing material, remains a great challenge. Here, a simple design concept for stretchable LIBs via a wavy structure at the full battery device scale is reported. All components including the package are capable of being reversibly stretched by folding the entire pouch cell into a wavy shape with polydimethylsiloxane filled in each valley region. In addition, the stretchable, sticky, and porous polyurethane/poly(vinylidene fluoride)more » membrane is adopted as a separator for the first time, which can maintain intimate contact between electrodes and separator to continuously secure ion pathway under dynamic state. Commercial cathode, anode, and package can be utilized in this rationally designed wavy battery to enable stretchability. The results indicate good electrochemical performances and long-term stability at repeatable release–stretch cycles. A high areal capacity of 3.6 mA h cm -2 and energy density of up to 172 W h L -1 can be achieved for the wavy battery. The promising results of the cost-effective wavy battery with high stretchability shed light on the development of stretchable energy storages.« less

Stretchable Lithium-Ion Batteries Enabled by Device-Scaled Wavy Structure and Elastic-Sticky Separator

DOE PAGES

Liu, Wei; Chen, Jun; Chen, Zheng; ...

2017-07-17

Fast developments and substantial achievements have been shaping the field of wearable electronic devices, resulting in the persistent requirement for stretchable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Despite recent progress in stretchable electrodes, stretching full batteries, including electrodes, separator, and sealing material, remains a great challenge. Here, a simple design concept for stretchable LIBs via a wavy structure at the full battery device scale is reported. All components including the package are capable of being reversibly stretched by folding the entire pouch cell into a wavy shape with polydimethylsiloxane filled in each valley region. In addition, the stretchable, sticky, and porous polyurethane/poly(vinylidene fluoride)more » membrane is adopted as a separator for the first time, which can maintain intimate contact between electrodes and separator to continuously secure ion pathway under dynamic state. Commercial cathode, anode, and package can be utilized in this rationally designed wavy battery to enable stretchability. The results indicate good electrochemical performances and long-term stability at repeatable release–stretch cycles. A high areal capacity of 3.6 mA h cm -2 and energy density of up to 172 W h L -1 can be achieved for the wavy battery. The promising results of the cost-effective wavy battery with high stretchability shed light on the development of stretchable energy storages.« less

A Portable Sensory Augmentation Device for Balance Rehabilitation Using Fingertip Skin Stretch Feedback.

PubMed

Pan, Yi-Tsen; Yoon, Han U; Hur, P

2017-01-01

Neurological disorders are the leading causes of poor balance. Previous studies have shown that biofeedback can compensate for weak or missing sensory information in people with sensory deficits. These biofeedback inputs can be easily recognized and converted into proper information by the central nervous system (CNS), which integrates the appropriate sensorimotor information and stabilizes the human posture. In this study, we proposed a form of cutaneous feedback which stretches the fingertip pad with a rotational contactor, so-called skin stretch. Skin stretch at a fingertip pad can be simply perceived and its small contact area makes it favored for small wearable devices. Taking advantage of skin stretch feedback, we developed a portable sensory augmentation device (SAD) for rehabilitation of balance. SAD was designed to provide postural sway information through additional skin stretch feedback. To demonstrate the feasibility of the SAD, quiet standing on a force plate was evaluated while sensory deficits were simulated. Fifteen healthy young adults were asked to stand quietly under six sensory conditions: three levels of sensory deficits (normal, visual deficit, and visual + vestibular deficits) combined with and without augmented sensation provided by SAD. The results showed that augmented sensation via skin stretch feedback helped subjects correct their posture and balance, especially as the deficit level of sensory feedback increased. These findings demonstrate the potential use of skin stretch feedback in balance rehabilitation.

Orientation-specific responses to sustained uniaxial stretching in focal adhesion growth and turnover

PubMed Central

Chen, Yun; Pasapera, Ana M.; Koretsky, Alan P.; Waterman, Clare M.

2013-01-01

Cells are mechanosensitive to extracellular matrix (ECM) deformation, which can be caused by muscle contraction or changes in hydrostatic pressure. Focal adhesions (FAs) mediate the linkage between the cell and the ECM and initiate mechanically stimulated signaling events. We developed a stretching apparatus in which cells grown on fibronectin-coated elastic substrates can be stretched and imaged live to study how FAs dynamically respond to ECM deformation. Human bone osteosarcoma epithelial cell line U2OS was transfected with GFP-paxillin as an FA marker and subjected to sustained uniaxial stretching. Two responses at different timescales were observed: rapid FA growth within seconds after stretching, and delayed FA disassembly and loss of cell polarity that occurred over tens of minutes. Rapid FA growth occurred in all cells; however, delayed responses to stretch occurred in an orientation-specific manner, specifically in cells with their long axes perpendicular to the stretching direction, but not in cells with their long axes parallel to stretch. Pharmacological treatments demonstrated that FA kinase (FAK) promotes but Src inhibits rapid FA growth, whereas FAK, Src, and calpain 2 all contribute to delayed FA disassembly and loss of polarity in cells perpendicular to stretching. Immunostaining for phospho-FAK after stretching revealed that FAK activation was maximal at 5 s after stretching, specifically in FAs oriented perpendicular to stretch. We hypothesize that orientation-specific activation of strain/stress-sensitive proteins in FAs upstream to FAK and Src promote orientation-specific responses in FA growth and disassembly that mediate polarity rearrangement in response to sustained stretch. PMID:23754369

Periostin inhibits mechanical stretch-induced apoptosis in osteoblast-like MG-63 cells.

PubMed

Yu, Kai-Wen; Yao, Chung-Chen; Jeng, Jiiang-Huei; Shieh, Hao-Ying; Chen, Yi-Jane

2018-04-01

Appropriate mechanical stress plays an important role in regulating the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts, whereas high-level mechanical stress may be harmful and compromise cell survival. Periostin, a matricellular protein, is essential in maintaining functional integrity of bone and collagen-rich connective tissue in response to mechanical stress. This study investigated whether or not high-level mechanical stretch induces cell apoptosis and the regulatory role of periostin in mechanical stretch-induced apoptosis in osteoblastic cells. Osteoblast-like MG-63 cells were seeded onto Bio-Flex I culture plates and subjected to cyclic mechanical stretching (15% elongation, 0.1 Hz) in a Flexercell tension plus system-5000. The same process was applied to cells pre-treated with exogenous human recombinant periostin before mechanical stretching. We used a chromatin condensation and membrane permeability dead cell apoptosis kit to evaluate the stretch-induced cell responses. Expression of caspase-3 and cPARP was examined by immunofluorescent stain and flow cytometry. The expression of periostin in MG-63 cells is involved in the TGF-β signaling pathway. High-level cyclic mechanical stretch induced apoptotic responses in MG-63 osteoblastic cells. The percentages of apoptotic cells and cells expressing cPARP protein increased in the groups of cells subjected to mechanical stretch, but these responses were absent in the presence of exogenous periostin. Our study revealed that high-level mechanical stretch induces apoptotic cell death, and that periostin plays a protective role against mechanical stretch-induced apoptosis in osteoblastic cells. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Fabrication, characterization and annealing of polymer-fullerene bulk heterojunction organic solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Trupti; Singhal, R.; Vishnoi, R.; Biswas, S. K.

2017-05-01

The structural and optical properties of bulk heterojunction (BHJ) organic solar cell devices have been studied before and after heat treatment. The BHJ structure is fabricated by making the blend of Poly [3-hexylthiophene] (P3HT) and Phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) for active layer. After the heat treatment at 140 °C temperature, the device is characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement, Raman spectroscopy and UV-visible absorption spectroscopy. The reduced intensity of XRD peak corresponding to (100) plane and decreased crystallite size was observed after annealing. The Raman peak intensity corresponding to C=C stretching mode and optical absorption peak intensity is also found to be reduced after the heat treatment to the device. The diminished intensitiesafter annealing may be due to diffusion of Al into active layer.

Stretchable Electrochemical Sensor for Real-Time Monitoring of Cells and Tissues.

PubMed

Liu, Yan-Ling; Jin, Zi-He; Liu, Yan-Hong; Hu, Xue-Bo; Qin, Yu; Xu, Jia-Quan; Fan, Cui-Fang; Huang, Wei-Hua

2016-03-24

Stretchable electrochemical sensors are conceivably a powerful technique that provides important chemical information to unravel elastic and curvilinear living body. However, no breakthrough was made in stretchable electrochemical device for biological detection. Herein, we synthesized Au nanotubes (NTs) with large aspect ratio to construct an effective stretchable electrochemical sensor. Interlacing network of Au NTs endows the sensor with desirable stability against mechanical deformation, and Au nanostructure provides excellent electrochemical performance and biocompatibility. This allows for the first time, real-time electrochemical monitoring of mechanically sensitive cells on the sensor both in their stretching-free and stretching states as well as sensing of the inner lining of blood vessels. The results demonstrate the great potential of this sensor in electrochemical detection of living body, opening a new window for stretchable electrochemical sensor in biological exploration. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Extremely Elastic Wearable Carbon Nanotube Fiber Strain Sensor for Monitoring of Human Motion.

PubMed

Ryu, Seongwoo; Lee, Phillip; Chou, Jeffrey B; Xu, Ruize; Zhao, Rong; Hart, Anastasios John; Kim, Sang-Gook

2015-06-23

The increasing demand for wearable electronic devices has made the development of highly elastic strain sensors that can monitor various physical parameters an essential factor for realizing next generation electronics. Here, we report an ultrahigh stretchable and wearable device fabricated from dry-spun carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers. Stretching the highly oriented CNT fibers grown on a flexible substrate (Ecoflex) induces a constant decrease in the conductive pathways and contact areas between nanotubes depending on the stretching distance; this enables CNT fibers to behave as highly sensitive strain sensors. Owing to its unique structure and mechanism, this device can be stretched by over 900% while retaining high sensitivity, responsiveness, and durability. Furthermore, the device with biaxially oriented CNT fiber arrays shows independent cross-sensitivity, which facilitates simultaneous measurement of strains along multiple axes. We demonstrated potential applications of the proposed device, such as strain gauge, single and multiaxial detecting motion sensors. These devices can be incorporated into various motion detecting systems where their applications are limited to their strain.

Fluidization, resolidification, and reorientation of the endothelial cell in response to slow tidal stretches

PubMed Central

Krishnan, Ramaswamy; Canović, Elizabeth Peruski; Iordan, Andreea L.; Rajendran, Kavitha; Manomohan, Greeshma; Pirentis, Athanassios P.; Smith, Michael L.; Butler, James P.; Fredberg, Jeffrey J.

2012-01-01

Mechanical stretch plays an important role in regulating shape and orientation of the vascular endothelial cell. This morphological response to stretch is basic to angiogenesis, neovascularization, and vascular homeostasis, but mechanism remains unclear. To elucidate mechanisms, we used cell mapping rheometry to measure traction forces in primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells subjected to periodic uniaxial stretches. Onset of periodic stretch of 10% strain amplitude caused a fluidization response typified by attenuation of traction forces almost to zero. As periodic stretch continued, the prompt fluidization response was followed by a slow resolidification response typified by recovery of the traction forces, but now aligned along the axis perpendicular to the imposed stretch. Reorientation of the cell body lagged reorientation of the traction forces, however. Together, these observations demonstrate that cellular reorientation in response to periodic stretch is preceded by traction attenuation by means of cytoskeletal fluidization and subsequent traction recovery transverse to the stretch direction by means of cytoskeletal resolidification. PMID:22700796

An innovative stand-alone bioreactor for the highly reproducible transfer of cyclic mechanical stretch to stem cells cultured in a 3D scaffold.

PubMed

Govoni, Marco; Lotti, Fabrizio; Biagiotti, Luigi; Lannocca, Maurizio; Pasquinelli, Gianandrea; Valente, Sabrina; Muscari, Claudio; Bonafè, Francesca; Caldarera, Claudio M; Guarnieri, Carlo; Cavalcanti, Silvio; Giordano, Emanuele

2014-10-01

Much evidence in the literature demonstrates the effect of cyclic mechanical stretch in maintaining, or addressing, a muscle phenotype. Such results were obtained using several technical approaches, useful for the experimental collection of proofs of principle but probably unsuitable for application in clinical regenerative medicine. Here we aimed to design a reliable innovative bioreactor, acting as a stand-alone cell culture incubator, easy to operate and effective in addressing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded onto a 3D bioreabsorbable scaffold, towards a muscle phenotype via the transfer of a controlled and highly-reproducible cyclic deformation. Electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and biochemical analysis of the obtained pseudotissue constructs showed that cells 'trained' over 1 week: (a) displayed multilayer organization and invaded the 3D mesh of the scaffold; and (b) expressed typical markers of muscle cells. This effect was due only to physical stimulation of the cells, without the need of any other chemical or genetic manipulation. This device is thus proposed as a prototypal instrument to obtain pseudotissue constructs to test in cardiovascular regenerative medicine, using good manufacturing procedures. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cyclic stretch-induced stress fiber dynamics - Dependence on strain rate, Rho-kinase and MLCK

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

Lee, Chin-Fu; Haase, Candice; Deguchi, Shinji

2010-10-22

Research highlights: {yields} Cyclic stretch induces stress fiber disassembly, reassembly and fusion perpendicular to the direction of stretch. {yields} Stress fiber disassembly and reorientation were not induced at low stretch frequency. {yields} Stretch caused actin fiber formation parallel to stretch in distinct locations in cells treated with Rho-kinase and MLCK inhibitors. -- Abstract: Stress fiber realignment is an important adaptive response to cyclic stretch for nonmuscle cells, but the mechanism by which such reorganization occurs is not known. By analyzing stress fiber dynamics using live cell microscopy, we revealed that stress fiber reorientation perpendicular to the direction of cyclic uniaxialmore » stretching at 1 Hz did not involve disassembly of the stress fiber distal ends located at focal adhesion sites. Instead, these distal ends were often used to assemble new stress fibers oriented progressively further away from the direction of stretch. Stress fiber disassembly and reorientation were not induced when the frequency of stretch was decreased to 0.01 Hz, however. Treatment with the Rho-kinase inhibitor (Y27632) reduced stress fibers to thin fibers located in the cell periphery which bundled together to form thick fibers oriented parallel to the direction of stretching at 1 Hz. In contrast, these thin fibers remained diffuse in cells subjected to stretch at 0.01 Hz. Cyclic stretch at 1 Hz also induced actin fiber formation parallel to the direction of stretch in cells treated with the myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) inhibitor ML-7, but these fibers were located centrally rather than peripherally. These results shed new light on the mechanism by which stress fibers reorient in response to cyclic stretch in different regions of the actin cytoskeleton.« less

Integrated strain array for cellular mechanobiology studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simmons, C. S.; Sim, J. Y.; Baechtold, P.; Gonzalez, A.; Chung, C.; Borghi, N.; Pruitt, B. L.

2011-05-01

We have developed an integrated strain array for cell culture enabling high-throughput mechano-transduction studies. Biocompatible cell culture chambers were integrated with an acrylic pneumatic compartment and microprocessor-based control system. Each element of the array consists of a deformable membrane supported by a cylindrical pillar within a well. For user-prescribed waveforms, the annular region of the deformable membrane is pulled into the well around the pillar under vacuum, causing the pillar-supported region with cultured cells to be stretched biaxially. The optically clear device and pillar-based mechanism of operation enables imaging on standard laboratory microscopes. Straightforward fabrication utilizes off-the-shelf components, soft lithography techniques in polydimethylsiloxane and laser ablation of acrylic sheets. Proof of compatibility with basic biological assays and standard imaging equipment were accomplished by straining C2C12 skeletal myoblasts on the device for 6 h. At higher strains, cells and actin stress fibers realign with a circumferential preference.

Reduced IL-10 Production in Fetal Type II Epithelial Cells Exposed to Mechanical Stretch Is Mediated via Activation of IL-6-SOCS3 Signaling Pathway

PubMed Central

Hawwa, Renda L.; Huang, Zheping; Sharma, Surendra; Sanchez-Esteban, Juan

2013-01-01

An imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is a key factor in the lung injury of premature infants exposed to mechanical ventilation. Previous studies have shown that lung cells exposed to stretch produces reduced amounts of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The objective of these studies was to analyze the signaling mechanisms responsible for the decreased IL-10 production in fetal type II cells exposed to mechanical stretch. Fetal mouse type II epithelial cells isolated at embryonic day 18 were exposed to 20% stretch to simulate lung injury. We show that IL-10 receptor gene expression increased with gestational age. Mechanical stretch decreased not only IL-10 receptor gene expression but also IL-10 secretion. In contrast, mechanical stretch increased release of IL-6. We then investigated IL-10 signaling pathway-associated proteins and found that in wild-type cells, mechanical stretch decreased activation of JAK1 and TYK2 and increased STAT3 and SOCS3 activation. However, opposite effects were found in cells isolated from IL-10 knockout mice. Reduction in IL-6 secretion by stretch was observed in cells isolated from IL-10 null mice. To support the idea that stretch-induced SOCS3 expression via IL-6 leads to reduced IL-10 expression, siRNA-mediated inhibition of SOCS3 restored IL-10 secretion in cells exposed to stretch and decreased IL-6 secretion. Taken together, these studies suggest that the inhibitory effect of mechanical stretch on IL-10 secretion is mediated via activation of IL-6-STAT3-SOCS3 signaling pathway. SOCS3 could be a therapeutic target to increase IL-10 production in lung cells exposed to mechanical injury. PMID:23527226

Reduced IL-10 production in fetal type II epithelial cells exposed to mechanical stretch is mediated via activation of IL-6-SOCS3 signaling pathway.

PubMed

Hokenson, Michael A; Wang, Yulian; Hawwa, Renda L; Huang, Zheping; Sharma, Surendra; Sanchez-Esteban, Juan

2013-01-01

An imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is a key factor in the lung injury of premature infants exposed to mechanical ventilation. Previous studies have shown that lung cells exposed to stretch produces reduced amounts of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The objective of these studies was to analyze the signaling mechanisms responsible for the decreased IL-10 production in fetal type II cells exposed to mechanical stretch. Fetal mouse type II epithelial cells isolated at embryonic day 18 were exposed to 20% stretch to simulate lung injury. We show that IL-10 receptor gene expression increased with gestational age. Mechanical stretch decreased not only IL-10 receptor gene expression but also IL-10 secretion. In contrast, mechanical stretch increased release of IL-6. We then investigated IL-10 signaling pathway-associated proteins and found that in wild-type cells, mechanical stretch decreased activation of JAK1 and TYK2 and increased STAT3 and SOCS3 activation. However, opposite effects were found in cells isolated from IL-10 knockout mice. Reduction in IL-6 secretion by stretch was observed in cells isolated from IL-10 null mice. To support the idea that stretch-induced SOCS3 expression via IL-6 leads to reduced IL-10 expression, siRNA-mediated inhibition of SOCS3 restored IL-10 secretion in cells exposed to stretch and decreased IL-6 secretion. Taken together, these studies suggest that the inhibitory effect of mechanical stretch on IL-10 secretion is mediated via activation of IL-6-STAT3-SOCS3 signaling pathway. SOCS3 could be a therapeutic target to increase IL-10 production in lung cells exposed to mechanical injury.

Combining Dynamic Stretch and Tunable Stiffness to Probe Cell Mechanobiology In Vitro

PubMed Central

Throm Quinlan, Angela M.; Sierad, Leslie N.; Capulli, Andrew K.; Firstenberg, Laura E.; Billiar, Kristen L.

2011-01-01

Cells have the ability to actively sense their mechanical environment and respond to both substrate stiffness and stretch by altering their adhesion, proliferation, locomotion, morphology, and synthetic profile. In order to elucidate the interrelated effects of different mechanical stimuli on cell phenotype in vitro, we have developed a method for culturing mammalian cells in a two-dimensional environment at a wide range of combined levels of substrate stiffness and dynamic stretch. Polyacrylamide gels were covalently bonded to flexible silicone culture plates and coated with monomeric collagen for cell adhesion. Substrate stiffness was adjusted from relatively soft (G′ = 0.3 kPa) to stiff (G′ = 50 kPa) by altering the ratio of acrylamide to bis-acrylamide, and the silicone membranes were stretched over circular loading posts by applying vacuum pressure to impart near-uniform stretch, as confirmed by strain field analysis. As a demonstration of the system, porcine aortic valve interstitial cells (VIC) and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) were plated on soft and stiff substrates either statically cultured or exposed to 10% equibiaxial or pure uniaxial stretch at 1Hz for 6 hours. In all cases, cell attachment and cell viability were high. On soft substrates, VICs cultured statically exhibit a small rounded morphology, significantly smaller than on stiff substrates (p<0.05). Following equibiaxial cyclic stretch, VICs spread to the extent of cells cultured on stiff substrates, but did not reorient in response to uniaxial stretch to the extent of cells stretched on stiff substrates. hMSCs exhibited a less pronounced response than VICs, likely due to a lower stiffness threshold for spreading on static gels. These preliminary data demonstrate that inhibition of spreading due to a lack of matrix stiffness surrounding a cell may be overcome by externally applied stretch suggesting similar mechanotransduction mechanisms for sensing stiffness and stretch. PMID:21858051

Hybrid mechanosensing system to generate the polarity needed for migration in fish keratocytes

PubMed Central

Okimura, Chika; Iwadate, Yoshiaki

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Crawling cells can generate polarity for migration in response to forces applied from the substratum. Such reaction varies according to cell type: there are both fast- and slow-crawling cells. In response to periodic stretching of the elastic substratum, the intracellular stress fibers in slow-crawling cells, such as fibroblasts, rearrange themselves perpendicular to the direction of stretching, with the result that the shape of the cells extends in that direction; whereas fast-crawling cells, such as neutrophil-like differentiated HL-60 cells and Dictyostelium cells, which have no stress fibers, migrate perpendicular to the stretching direction. Fish epidermal keratocytes are another type of fast-crawling cell. However, they have stress fibers in the cell body, which gives them a typical slow-crawling cell structure. In response to periodic stretching of the elastic substratum, intact keratocytes rearrange their stress fibers perpendicular to the direction of stretching in the same way as fibroblasts and migrate parallel to the stretching direction, while blebbistatin-treated stress fiber-less keratocytes migrate perpendicular to the stretching direction, in the same way as seen in HL-60 cells and Dictyostelium cells. Our results indicate that keratocytes have a hybrid mechanosensing system that comprises elements of both fast- and slow-crawling cells, to generate the polarity needed for migration. PMID:27124267

Mechanical stretch triggers rapid epithelial cell division through Piezo1.

PubMed

Gudipaty, S A; Lindblom, J; Loftus, P D; Redd, M J; Edes, K; Davey, C F; Krishnegowda, V; Rosenblatt, J

2017-03-02

Despite acting as a barrier for the organs they encase, epithelial cells turn over at some of the fastest rates in the body. However, epithelial cell division must be tightly linked to cell death to preserve barrier function and prevent tumour formation. How does the number of dying cells match those dividing to maintain constant numbers? When epithelial cells become too crowded, they activate the stretch-activated channel Piezo1 to trigger extrusion of cells that later die. However, it is unclear how epithelial cell division is controlled to balance cell death at the steady state. Here we show that mammalian epithelial cell division occurs in regions of low cell density where cells are stretched. By experimentally stretching epithelia, we find that mechanical stretch itself rapidly stimulates cell division through activation of the Piezo1 channel. To stimulate cell division, stretch triggers cells that are paused in early G2 phase to activate calcium-dependent phosphorylation of ERK1/2, thereby activating the cyclin B transcription that is necessary to drive cells into mitosis. Although both epithelial cell division and cell extrusion require Piezo1 at the steady state, the type of mechanical force controls the outcome: stretch induces cell division, whereas crowding induces extrusion. How Piezo1-dependent calcium transients activate two opposing processes may depend on where and how Piezo1 is activated, as it accumulates in different subcellular sites with increasing cell density. In sparse epithelial regions in which cells divide, Piezo1 localizes to the plasma membrane and cytoplasm, whereas in dense regions in which cells extrude, it forms large cytoplasmic aggregates. Because Piezo1 senses both mechanical crowding and stretch, it may act as a homeostatic sensor to control epithelial cell numbers, triggering extrusion and apoptosis in crowded regions and cell division in sparse regions.

Simultaneous Study of Mechanical Stretch-Induced Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis on C2C12 Myoblasts.

PubMed

Feng, Yu; Tian, Xiang-Yang; Sun, Peng; Cheng, Ze-Peng; Shi, Reng-Fei

2018-06-27

Mechanical stretch may cause myoblasts to either proliferate or undergo apoptosis. Identifying the molecular events that switch the fate of a stretched cell from proliferation to apoptosis is practically important in the field of regenerative medicine. A recent study on vascular smooth muscle cells illustrated that identification of these events may be achieved by addressing the stretch-induced opposite cellular outcomes simultaneously within a single investigation. To define conditions or a model in which both proliferation and apoptosis can be studied at the same time, we exposed in vitro cultured C2C12 myoblasts to a cyclic mechanical stretch regimen of 15% elongation at a stretching frequency of 1 Hz for 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8 h every day, consecutively, for 3 days. Both proliferation and apoptosis were observed. Moreover, as the duration of the stretch was prolonged, cell proliferation increased until it peaked at the optimal stretching duration. Afterwards, apoptosis gradually prevailed. Therefore, we established a model in which stretch-induced cell proliferation and apoptosis can be studied simultaneously. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The direction of stretch-induced cell and stress fiber orientation depends on collagen matrix stress.

PubMed

Tondon, Abhishek; Kaunas, Roland

2014-01-01

Cell structure depends on both matrix strain and stiffness, but their interactive effects are poorly understood. We investigated the interactive roles of matrix properties and stretching patterns on cell structure by uniaxially stretching U2OS cells expressing GFP-actin on silicone rubber sheets supporting either a surface-adsorbed coating or thick hydrogel of type-I collagen. Cells and their actin stress fibers oriented perpendicular to the direction of cyclic stretch on collagen-coated sheets, but oriented parallel to the stretch direction on collagen gels. There was significant alignment parallel to the direction of a steady increase in stretch for cells on collagen gels, while cells on collagen-coated sheets did not align in any direction. The extent of alignment was dependent on both strain rate and duration. Stretch-induced alignment on collagen gels was blocked by the myosin light-chain kinase inhibitor ML7, but not by the Rho-kinase inhibitor Y27632. We propose that active orientation of the actin cytoskeleton perpendicular and parallel to direction of stretch on stiff and soft substrates, respectively, are responses that tend to maintain intracellular tension at an optimal level. Further, our results indicate that cells can align along directions of matrix stress without collagen fibril alignment, indicating that matrix stress can directly regulate cell morphology.

Modification of the coil-stretch transition by confinement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doyle, Patick; Tang, Jing; Jones, Jeremy

2010-03-01

Large double stranded DNA are both a powerful system to study polymer dynamics at the single molecule level and also important molecules for genomic applications. While homogenous electric fields are routinely used to separate DNA in gels, DNA deformation in more complex fields has been less widely studied. We will demonstrate how micro/nanofluidic devices allow for the generation of electric fields with well-defined kinematics for trapping, stretching and then watching DNA relax back to equilibrium. The dimensions of the devices highly confine DNA and subsequently change both their conformation and dynamics. We will show how these confinements effects change the coil-stretch transition of a DNA being electrophoretically stretched in a purely elongational electrical field. We experimentally show that a two-stage coil stretch transition occurs and develop a simple dumbbell model which captures most of the relevant physics. We trace the origin of this phenomena to the modification of the effective spring law due to confinement.

Pulmonary atelectasis during low stretch ventilation: "open lung" versus "lung rest" strategy.

PubMed

Fanelli, Vito; Mascia, Luciana; Puntorieri, Valeria; Assenzio, Barbara; Elia, Vincenzo; Fornaro, Giancarlo; Martin, Erica L; Bosco, Martino; Delsedime, Luisa; Fiore, Tommaso; Grasso, Salvatore; Ranieri, V Marco

2009-03-01

Limiting tidal volume (VT) may minimize ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). However, atelectasis induced by low VT ventilation may cause ultrastructural evidence of cell disruption. Apoptosis seems to be involved as protective mechanisms from VILI through the involvement of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). We examined the hypothesis that atelectasis may influence the response to protective ventilation through MAPKs. Prospective randomized study. University animal laboratory. Adult male 129/Sv mice. Isolated, nonperfused lungs were randomized to VILI: VT of 20 mL/kg and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) zero; low stretch/lung rest: VT of 6 mL/kg and 8-10 cm H2O of PEEP; low stretch/open lung: VT of 6 mL/kg, two recruitment maneuvers and 14-16 cm H2O of PEEP. Ventilator settings were adjusted using the stress index. Both low stretch strategies equally blunted the VILI-induced derangement of respiratory mechanics (static volume-pressure curve), lung histology (hematoxylin and eosin), and inflammatory mediators (interleukin-6, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 [enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay], and inhibitor of nuclear factor-kB[Western blot]). VILI caused nuclear swelling and membrane disruption of pulmonary cells (electron microscopy). Few pulmonary cells with chromatin condensation and fragmentation were seen during both low stretch strategies. However, although cell thickness during low stretch/open lung was uniform, low stretch/lung rest demonstrated thickening of epithelial cells and plasma membrane bleb formation. Compared with the low stretch/open lung, low stretch/lung rest caused a significant decrease in apoptotic cells (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated deoxyuridine-triphosphatase nick end-labeling) and tissue expression of caspase-3 (Western blot). Both low stretch strategies attenuated the activation of MAPKs. Such reduction was larger during low stretch/open lung than during low stretch/lung rest (p < 0.001). Low stretch strategies provide similar attenuation of VILI. However, low stretch/lung rest strategy is associated to less apoptosis and more ultrastructural evidence of cell damage possibly through MAPKs-mediated pathway.

Fast-crawling cell types migrate to avoid the direction of periodic substratum stretching

PubMed Central

Okimura, Chika; Ueda, Kazuki; Sakumura, Yuichi; Iwadate, Yoshiaki

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT To investigate the relationship between mechanical stimuli from substrata and related cell functions, one of the most useful techniques is the application of mechanical stimuli via periodic stretching of elastic substrata. In response to this stimulus, Dictyostelium discoideum cells migrate in a direction perpendicular to the stretching direction. The origins of directional migration, higher migration velocity in the direction perpendicular to the stretching direction or the higher probability of a switch of migration direction to perpendicular to the stretching direction, however, remain unknown. In this study, we applied periodic stretching stimuli to neutrophil-like differentiated HL-60 cells, which migrate perpendicular to the direction of stretch. Detailed analysis of the trajectories of HL-60 cells and Dictyostelium cells obtained in a previous study revealed that the higher probability of a switch of migration direction to that perpendicular to the direction of stretching was the main cause of such directional migration. This directional migration appears to be a strategy adopted by fast-crawling cells in which they do not migrate faster in the direction they want to go, but migrate to avoid a direction they do not want to go. PMID:26980079

A 3D magnetic tissue stretcher for remote mechanical control of embryonic stem cell differentiation.

PubMed

Du, Vicard; Luciani, Nathalie; Richard, Sophie; Mary, Gaëtan; Gay, Cyprien; Mazuel, François; Reffay, Myriam; Menasché, Philippe; Agbulut, Onnik; Wilhelm, Claire

2017-09-12

The ability to create a 3D tissue structure from individual cells and then to stimulate it at will is a major goal for both the biophysics and regenerative medicine communities. Here we show an integrated set of magnetic techniques that meet this challenge using embryonic stem cells (ESCs). We assessed the impact of magnetic nanoparticles internalization on ESCs viability, proliferation, pluripotency and differentiation profiles. We developed magnetic attractors capable of aggregating the cells remotely into a 3D embryoid body. This magnetic approach to embryoid body formation has no discernible impact on ESC differentiation pathways, as compared to the hanging drop method. It is also the base of the final magnetic device, composed of opposing magnetic attractors in order to form embryoid bodies in situ, then stretch them, and mechanically stimulate them at will. These stretched and cyclic purely mechanical stimulations were sufficient to drive ESCs differentiation towards the mesodermal cardiac pathway.The development of embryoid bodies that are responsive to external stimuli is of great interest in tissue engineering. Here, the authors culture embryonic stem cells with magnetic nanoparticles and show that the presence of magnetic fields could affect their aggregation and differentiation.

Nanoscale movements of cellulose microfibrils in primary cell walls.

PubMed

Zhang, Tian; Vavylonis, Dimitrios; Durachko, Daniel M; Cosgrove, Daniel J

2017-04-28

The growing plant cell wall is commonly considered to be a fibre-reinforced structure whose strength, extensibility and anisotropy depend on the orientation of crystalline cellulose microfibrils, their bonding to the polysaccharide matrix and matrix viscoelasticity 1-4 . Structural reinforcement of the wall by stiff cellulose microfibrils is central to contemporary models of plant growth, mechanics and meristem dynamics 4-12 . Although passive microfibril reorientation during wall extension has been inferred from theory and from bulk measurements 13-15 , nanometre-scale movements of individual microfibrils have not been directly observed. Here we combined nanometre-scale imaging of wet cell walls by atomic force microscopy (AFM) with a stretching device and endoglucanase treatment that induces wall stress relaxation and creep, mimicking wall behaviours during cell growth. Microfibril movements during forced mechanical extensions differ from those during creep of the enzymatically loosened wall. In addition to passive angular reorientation, we observed a diverse repertoire of microfibril movements that reveal the spatial scale of molecular connections between microfibrils. Our results show that wall loosening alters microfibril connectivity, enabling microfibril dynamics not seen during mechanical stretch. These insights into microfibril movements and connectivities need to be incorporated into refined models of plant cell wall structure, growth and morphogenesis.

Evaluating the contribution of a neural component of ankle joint resistive torque in patients with stroke using a manual device.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Toshiki; Leung, Aaron K L; Akazawa, Yasushi; Hutchins, Stephen W

2011-01-01

To investigate the methodology using a manual ankle joint resistive torque measurement device to evaluate the contribution of the neural component of ankle joint resistive torque in patients with stroke. Within-subject comparison to compare the ankle joint resistive torque between fast and slow stretching conditions. Ten patients with stroke participated in this study. The incremental ratio of ankle joint resistive torque at the ankle angular position of 5degrees dorsiflexion under the fast stretching condition in comparison to the slow one was calculated in each patient. A significant increase (p<0.01) in the ankle joint resistive torque was demonstrated under the fast stretching condition in comparison to the slow one in all patients and the mean ankle joint resistive torque was 4.6 (SD=1.7) Nm under the slow stretching condition, while it was 8.4 (SD=4.1) Nm under the fast stretching condition at the ankle angular position of 5 degrees dorsiflexion. The incremental ratio ranged from 9.4-139.3% among the patients. The results of this study demonstrated the potential advantage of the device to evaluate the contribution of the neural component of ankle joint resistive torque.

Role of androgen receptor on cyclic mechanical stretch-regulated proliferation of C2C12 myoblasts and its upstream signals: IGF-1-mediated PI3K/Akt and MAPKs pathways.

PubMed

Ma, Yiming; Fu, Shaoting; Lu, Lin; Wang, Xiaohui

2017-07-15

To detect the effects of androgen receptor (AR) on cyclic mechanical stretch-modulated proliferation of C2C12 myoblasts and its pathways: roles of IGF-1, PI3K and MAPK. C2C12 were randomly divided into five groups: un-stretched control, six or 8 h of fifteen percent stretch, and six or 8 h of twenty percent stretch. Cyclic mechanical stretch of C2C12 were completed using a computer-controlled FlexCell Strain Unit. Cell proliferation and IGF-1 concentration in medium were detected by CCK8 and ELISA, respectively. Expressions of AR and IGF-1R, and expressions and activities of PI3K, p38 and ERK1/2 in stretched C2C12 cells were determined by Western blot. ①The proliferation of C2C12 cells, IGF-1 concentration in medium, expressions of AR and IGF-1R, and activities of PI3K, p38 and ERK1/2 were increased by 6 h of fifteen percent stretch, while decreased by twenty percent stretch for six or 8 h ②The fifteen percent stretch-increased proliferation of C2C12 cells was reversed by AR inhibitor, Flutamide. ③The increases of AR expression, activities of PI3K, p38 and ERK1/2 resulted from fifteen percent stretch were attenuated by IGF-1 neutralizing antibody, while twenty percent stretch-induced decreases of the above indicators were enhanced by recombinant IGF-1. ④Specific inhibitors of p38, ERK1/2 and PI3K all decreased the expression of AR in fifteen percent and twenty percent of stretched C2C12 cells. Cyclic mechanical stretch modulated the proliferation of C2C12 cells, which may be attributed to the alterations of AR via IGF-1-PI3K/Akt and IGF-1-MAPK (p38, ERK1/2) pathways in C2C12 cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Unravelling the effects of mechanical physiological conditioning on cardiac adipose tissue-derived progenitor cells in vitro and in silico.

PubMed

Llucià-Valldeperas, Aida; Bragós, Ramon; Soler-Botija, Carolina; Roura, Santiago; Gálvez-Montón, Carolina; Prat-Vidal, Cristina; Perea-Gil, Isaac; Bayes-Genis, Antoni

2018-01-11

Mechanical conditioning is incompletely characterized for stimulating therapeutic cells within the physiological range. We sought to unravel the mechanism of action underlying mechanical conditioning of adipose tissue-derived progenitor cells (ATDPCs), both in vitro and in silico. Cardiac ATDPCs, grown on 3 different patterned surfaces, were mechanically stretched for 7 days at 1 Hz. A custom-designed, magnet-based, mechanical stimulator device was developed to apply ~10% mechanical stretching to monolayer cell cultures. Gene and protein analyses were performed for each cell type and condition. Cell supernatants were also collected to analyze secreted proteins and construct an artificial neural network. Gene and protein modulations were different for each surface pattern. After mechanostimulation, cardiac ATDPCs increased the expression of structural genes and there was a rising trend on cardiac transcription factors. Finally, secretome analyses revealed upregulation of proteins associated with both myocardial infarction and cardiac regeneration, such as regulators of the immune response, angiogenesis or cell adhesion. To conclude, mechanical conditioning of cardiac ATDPCs enhanced the expression of early and late cardiac genes in vitro. Additionally, in silico analyses of secreted proteins showed that mechanical stimulation of cardiac ATDPCs was highly associated with myocardial infarction and repair.

Feedback-controlled and programmed stretching of the ankle plantarflexors and dorsiflexors in stroke: effects of a 4-week intervention program.

PubMed

Selles, Ruud W; Li, Xiaoyan; Lin, Fang; Chung, Sun G; Roth, Elliot J; Zhang, Li-Qun

2005-12-01

To investigate the effect of repeated feedback-controlled and programmed "intelligent" stretching of the ankle plantar- and dorsiflexors to treat subjects with ankle spasticity and/or contracture in stroke. Noncontrolled trial. Institutional research center. Subjects with spasticity and/or contracture after stroke. Stretching of the plantar- and dorsiflexors of the ankle 3 times a week for 45 minutes during a 4-week period by using a feedback-controlled and programmed stretching device. Passive and active range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, joint stiffness, joint viscous damping, reflex excitability, comfortable walking speed, and subjective experiences of the subjects. Significant improvements were found in the passive ROM, maximum voluntary contraction, ankle stiffness, and comfortable walking speed. The visual analog scales indicated very positive subjective evaluation in terms of the comfort of stretching and the effect on their involved ankle. Repeated feedback-controlled or intelligent stretching had a positive influence on the joint properties of the ankle with spasticity and/or contracture after stroke. The stretching device may be an effective and safe alternative to manual passive motion treatment by a therapist and has potential to be used to repeatedly and regularly stretch the ankle of subjects with spasticity and/or contracture without daily involvement of clinicians or physical therapists.

A technique for chronic, extraluminal measurement of uterine activity.

PubMed

Capraro, D L; Lee, J G; Sharp, D C

1977-08-01

The construction, calibration, and surgical placement of a device for monitoring uterine motility are described. The device, a linear stretch gauge, consisted of a length of flexible tubing filled with mercury and connected at both ends to copper wire leads. An increase in the length of the mercury-filled tubing caused a change in resistance. This change was quantitated, using a modified Wheatstone bridge circuit. In in vitro test, the stretch gauges demonstrated linear response in millivolt output to elongation over a range that was comparable to physiologic responses observed with the gauges placed in vivo. If surgically placed around 1 uterine horn, stretch gauges responded to uterine contractile events with specificity and sensitivity. Calibration of the device at time of placement permitted monitoring for possible increases in uterine circumference.

Quantifying effects of cyclic stretch on cell-collagen substrate adhesiveness of vascular endothelial cells.

PubMed

Omidvar, Ramin; Tafazzoli-Shadpour, Mohammad; Mahmoodi-Nobar, Farbod; Azadi, Shohreh; Khani, Mohammad-Mehdi

2018-05-01

Vascular endothelium is continuously subjected to mechanical stimulation in the form of shear forces due to blood flow as well as tensile forces as a consequence of blood pressure. Such stimuli influence endothelial behavior and regulate cell-tissue interaction for an optimized functionality. This study aimed to quantify influence of cyclic stretch on the adhesive property and stiffness of endothelial cells. The 10% cyclic stretch with frequency of 1 Hz was applied to a layer of endothelial cells cultured on a polydimethylsiloxane substrate. Cell-substrate adhesion of endothelial cells was examined by the novel approach of atomic force microscope-based single-cell force spectroscopy and cell stiffness was measured by atomic force microscopy. Furthermore, the adhesive molecular bonds were evaluated using modified Hertz contact theory. Our results show that overall adhesion of endothelial cells with substrate decreased after cyclic stretch while they became stiffer. Based on the experimental results and theoretical modeling, the decrease in the number of molecular bonds after cyclic stretch was quantified. In conclusion, in vitro cyclic stretch caused alterations in both adhesive capacity and elastic modulus of endothelial cells through mechanotransductive pathways as two major determinants of the function of these cells within the cardiovascular system.

Mechanical stretch endows mesenchymal stem cells stronger angiogenic and anti-apoptotic capacities via NFκB activation

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

Zhu, Zhuoli; Gan, Xueqi; Fan, Hongyi

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been broadly used for tissue regeneration and repair due to their broad differentiation potential and potent paracrine properties such as angiogenic capacity. Strategies to increase their survival rate after transplantation and the angiogenic ability are of priority for the utility of MSCs. In this study, we found that mechanical stretch (10% extension, 30 cycles/min cyclic stretch) preconditioning increase the angiogenic capacity via VEGFA induction. In addition, mechanical stretch also increases the survival rate of mesenchymal stem cells under nutrients deprivation. Consistent with the increase VEGFA expression and resistance to apoptosis, nuclear localization of NFκB activity p65more » increased upon mechanical stretch. Inhibition of NFκB activity by BAY 11-708 blocks the pro-angiogenesis and anti-apoptosis function of mechanical stretch. Taken together, our findings here raise the possibility that mechanical stretch preconditioning might enhance the therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells. - Highlights: • Mechanical stretch increases the angiogenic capacity via VEGFA induction in MSCs. • Mechanical stretch increases the survival rate of MSCs under nutrients deprivation. • Mechanical stretch manipulates MSCs via the activation of NFκB.« less

Characterization of size-dependent mechanical properties of tip-growing cells using a lab-on-chip device.

PubMed

Hu, Chengzhi; Munglani, Gautam; Vogler, Hannes; Ndinyanka Fabrice, Tohnyui; Shamsudhin, Naveen; Wittel, Falk K; Ringli, Christoph; Grossniklaus, Ueli; Herrmann, Hans J; Nelson, Bradley J

2016-12-20

Quantification of mechanical properties of tissues, living cells, and cellular components is crucial for the modeling of plant developmental processes such as mechanotransduction. Pollen tubes are tip-growing cells that provide an ideal system to study the mechanical properties at the single cell level. In this article, a lab-on-a-chip (LOC) device is developed to quantitatively measure the biomechanical properties of lily (Lilium longiflorum) pollen tubes. A single pollen tube is fixed inside the microfluidic chip at a specific orientation and subjected to compression by a soft membrane. By comparing the deformation of the pollen tube at a given external load (compressibility) and the effect of turgor pressure on the tube diameter (stretch ratio) with finite element modeling, its mechanical properties are determined. The turgor pressure and wall stiffness of the pollen tubes are found to decrease considerably with increasing initial diameter of the pollen tubes. This observation supports the hypothesis that tip-growth is regulated by a delicate balance between turgor pressure and wall stiffness. The LOC device is modular and adaptable to a variety of cells that exhibit tip-growth, allowing for the straightforward measurement of mechanical properties.

Frequency and peak stretch magnitude affect alveolar epithelial permeability.

PubMed

Cohen, T S; Cavanaugh, K J; Margulies, S S

2008-10-01

The present study measured stretch-induced changes in transepithelial permeability to uncharged tracers (1.5-5.5 A) using cultured monolayers of alveolar epithelial type-I like cells. Cultured alveolar epithelial cells were subjected to uniform cyclic (0, 0.25 and 1.0 Hz) biaxial stretch from 0% to 12, 25 or 37% change in surface area (DeltaSA) for 1 h. Significant changes in permeability of cell monolayers were observed when stretched from 0% to 37% DeltaSA at all frequencies, and from 0% to 25% DeltaSA only at high frequency (1 Hz), but not at all when stretched from 0% to 12% DeltaSA compared with unstretched controls. At stretch oscillation amplitudes of 25 and 37% DeltaSA, imposed at 1 Hz, tracer permeability increased compared with that at 0.25 Hz. Cells subjected to a single stretch cycle at 37% DeltaSA (0.25 Hz), to simulate a deep sigh, were not distinguishable from unstretched controls. Reducing stretch oscillation amplitude while maintaining a peak stretch of 37% DeltaSA (0.25 Hz) via the application of a simulated post-end-expiratory pressure did not protect barrier properties. In conclusion, peak stretch magnitude and stretch frequency were the primary determining factors for epithelial barrier dysfunction, as opposed to oscillation amplitude.

Jamming dynamics of stretch-induced surfactant release by alveolar type II cells

PubMed Central

Majumdar, Arnab; Arold, Stephen P.; Bartolák-Suki, Erzsébet; Parameswaran, Harikrishnan

2012-01-01

Secretion of pulmonary surfactant by alveolar epithelial type II cells is vital for the reduction of interfacial surface tension, thus preventing lung collapse. To study secretion dynamics, rat alveolar epithelial type II cells were cultured on elastic membranes and cyclically stretched. The amounts of phosphatidylcholine, the primary lipid component of surfactant, inside and outside the cells, were measured using radiolabeled choline. During and immediately after stretch, cells secreted less surfactant than unstretched cells; however, stretched cells secreted significantly more surfactant than unstretched cells after an extended lag period. We developed a model based on the hypothesis that stretching leads to jamming of surfactant traffic escaping the cell, similar to vehicular traffic jams. In the model, stretch increases surfactant transport from the interior to the exterior of the cell. This transport is mediated by a surface layer with a finite capacity due to the limited number of fusion pores through which secretion occurs. When the amount of surfactant in the surface layer approaches this capacity, interference among lamellar bodies carrying surfactant reduces the rate of secretion, effectively creating a jam. When the stretch stops, the jam takes an extended time to clear, and subsequently the amount of secreted surfactant increases. We solved the model analytically and show that its dynamics are consistent with experimental observations, implying that surfactant secretion is a fundamentally nonlinear process with memory representing collective behavior at the level of single cells. Our results thus highlight the importance of a jamming dynamics in stretch-induced cellular secretory processes. PMID:22033531

Skin-like pressure and strain sensors based on transparent elastic films of carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Lipomi, Darren J; Vosgueritchian, Michael; Tee, Benjamin C-K; Hellstrom, Sondra L; Lee, Jennifer A; Fox, Courtney H; Bao, Zhenan

2011-10-23

Transparent, elastic conductors are essential components of electronic and optoelectronic devices that facilitate human interaction and biofeedback, such as interactive electronics, implantable medical devices and robotic systems with human-like sensing capabilities. The availability of conducting thin films with these properties could lead to the development of skin-like sensors that stretch reversibly, sense pressure (not just touch), bend into hairpin turns, integrate with collapsible, stretchable and mechanically robust displays and solar cells, and also wrap around non-planar and biological surfaces such as skin and organs, without wrinkling. We report transparent, conducting spray-deposited films of single-walled carbon nanotubes that can be rendered stretchable by applying strain along each axis, and then releasing this strain. This process produces spring-like structures in the nanotubes that accommodate strains of up to 150% and demonstrate conductivities as high as 2,200 S cm(-1) in the stretched state. We also use the nanotube films as electrodes in arrays of transparent, stretchable capacitors, which behave as pressure and strain sensors.

Longitudinal growth of skeletal myotubes in vitro in a new horizontal mechanical cell stimulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vandenburgh, Herman H.; Karlisch, Patricia

1989-01-01

A tissue-culture model system for growing skeletal-muscle cells under more dynamic conditions than found in normal tissue-culture environments is described. A computerized device presented allows mechanical stimulation of the cell's substratum by 300 to 400 pct in length in the horizontal plane. Cell growth rates and skeletal-muscle organogenesis are stimulated in this in vitro system. It is noted that longitudinal myotube growth observed is accompanied by increased rates of cell proliferation and myoblast fusion. Prestretching the collagen-coated substratum before cell plating is shown to lead to increased cell proliferation, myotube orientation, and longitudinal myotube growth. The effects of substratum stretching on myogenesis in the model system are also assessed and attributed to alterations in the cell's extracellular matrix.

Limb Lengthening Surgery: Internal Lengthening Device (For Parents)

MedlinePlus

... and bathing. Your child will need help doing stretching and strengthening exercises. These are a very important ... therapy in a pool). Help your child with stretching and strengthening exercises. Give your child medicine for ...

A durable and biocompatible ascorbic acid-based covalent coating method of polydimethylsiloxane for dynamic cell culture.

PubMed

Leivo, Joni; Virjula, Sanni; Vanhatupa, Sari; Kartasalo, Kimmo; Kreutzer, Joose; Miettinen, Susanna; Kallio, Pasi

2017-07-01

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is widely used in dynamic biological microfluidic applications. As a highly hydrophobic material, native PDMS does not support cell attachment and culture, especially in dynamic conditions. Previous covalent coating methods use glutaraldehyde (GA) which, however, is cytotoxic. This paper introduces a novel and simple method for binding collagen type I covalently on PDMS using ascorbic acid (AA) as a cross-linker instead of GA. We compare the novel method against physisorption and GA cross-linker-based methods. The coatings are characterized by immunostaining, contact angle measurement, atomic force microscopy and infrared spectroscopy, and evaluated in static and stretched human adipose stem cell (hASC) cultures up to 13 days. We found that AA can replace GA as a cross-linker in the covalent coating method and that the coating is durable after sonication and after 6 days of stretching. Furthermore, we show that hASCs attach and proliferate better on AA cross-linked samples compared with physisorbed or GA-based methods. Thus, in this paper, we provide a new PDMS coating method for studying cells, such as hASCs, in static and dynamic conditions. The proposed method is an important step in the development of PDMS-based devices in cell and tissue engineering applications. © 2017 The Author(s).

Highly Stretchable Fully-Printed CNT-Based Electrochemical Sensors and Biofuel Cells: Combining Intrinsic and Design-Induced Stretchability.

PubMed

Bandodkar, Amay J; Jeerapan, Itthipon; You, Jung-Min; Nuñez-Flores, Rogelio; Wang, Joseph

2016-01-13

We present the first example of an all-printed, inexpensive, highly stretchable CNT-based electrochemical sensor and biofuel cell array. The synergistic effect of utilizing specially tailored screen printable stretchable inks that combine the attractive electrical and mechanical properties of CNTs with the elastomeric properties of polyurethane as a binder along with a judiciously designed free-standing serpentine pattern enables the printed device to possess two degrees of stretchability. Owing to these synergistic design and nanomaterial-based ink effects, the device withstands extremely large levels of strains (up to 500% strain) with negligible effect on its structural integrity and performance. This represents the highest stretchability offered by a printed device reported to date. Extensive electrochemical characterization of the printed device reveal that repeated stretching, torsional twisting, and indenting stress has negligible impact on its electrochemical properties. The wide-range applicability of this platform to realize highly stretchable CNT-based electrochemical sensors and biofuel cells has been demonstrated by fabricating and characterizing potentiometric ammonium sensor, amperometric enzyme-based glucose sensor, enzymatic glucose biofuel cell, and self-powered biosensor. Highly stretchable printable multianalyte sensor, multifuel biofuel cell, or any combination thereof can thus be realized using the printed CNT array. Such combination of intrinsically stretchable printed nanomaterial-based electrodes and strain-enduring design patterns holds considerable promise for creating an attractive class of inexpensive multifunctional, highly stretchable printed devices that satisfy the requirements of diverse healthcare and energy fields wherein resilience toward extreme mechanical deformations is mandatory.

Low-level stretching accelerates cell migration into a gap.

PubMed

Toume, Samer; Gefen, Amit; Weihs, Daphne

2017-08-01

We observed that radially stretching cell monolayers at a low level (3%) increases the rate at which they migrate to close a gap formed by in vitro injury. Wound healing has been shown to accelerate in vivo when deformations are topically applied, for example, by negative pressure wound therapy. However, the direct effect of deformations on cell migration during gap closure is still unknown. Thus, we have evaluated the effect of radially applied, sustained (static) tensile strain on the kinematics of en mass cell migration. Monolayers of murine fibroblasts were cultured on stretchable, linear-elastic substrates that were subjected to different tensile strains, using a custom-designed three-dimensionally printed stretching apparatus. Immediately following stretching, the monolayer was 'wounded' at its centre, and cell migration during gap closure was monitored and quantitatively evaluated. We observed a significant increase in normalised migration rates and a reduction of gap closure time with 3% stretching, relative to unstretched controls or 6% stretch. Interestingly, the initial gap area was linearly correlated with the maximum migration rate, especially when stretching was applied. Therefore, small deformations applied to cell monolayers during gap closure enhance en mass cell migration associated with wound healing and can be used to fine-tune treatment protocols. © 2016 Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Actin isoform and alpha 1B-adrenoceptor gene expression in aortic and coronary smooth muscle is influenced by cyclical stretch.

PubMed

Lundberg, M S; Sadhu, D N; Grumman, V E; Chilian, W M; Ramos, K S

1995-09-01

The occurrence of vascular domains with specific biological and pharmacological characteristics suggests that smooth muscle cells in different arteries may respond differentially to a wide range of environmental stimuli. To determine if some of these vessel-specific differences may be attributable to mechano-sensitive gene regulation, the influence of cyclical stretch on the expression of actin isoform and alpha 1B-adrenoceptor genes was examined in aortic and coronary smooth muscle cells. Cells were seeded on an elastin substrate and subjected to maximal stretching (24% elongation) and relaxation cycles at a frequency of 120 cycles/min in a Flexercell strain unit for 72 h. Total RNA was extracted and hybridized to radiolabeled cDNA probes to assess gene expression. Stretch caused a greater reduction of actin isoform mRNA levels in aortic smooth muscle cells as compared to cells from the coronary artery. Steady-state mRNA levels of alpha 1B-adrenoceptor were also decreased by cyclical stretch in both cell types but the magnitude of the response was greater in coronary smooth muscle cells. No changes in alpha 1B-adrenoceptor or beta/gamma-actin steady-state mRNA levels were observed in H4IIE cells, a nonvascular, immortalized cell line. The relative gene expression of heat shock protein 70 was not influenced by the cyclic stretch regimen in any of these cell types. These results suggest that stretch may participate in the regulation of gene expression in vascular smooth muscle cells and that this response exhibits some degree of cell-specificity.

Dependence of Actuation Strain of Dielectric Elastomer on Equi-biaxial, Pure Shear and Uniaxial Modes of Pre-stretching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Ajeet; Ahmad, Dilshad; Patra, Karali

2018-02-01

A dielectric elastomer is capable of large deformation under three basic modes of deformation: equi-biaxial, pure shear and uniaxial. Pre-stretching of dielectric elastomer improves the actuation strain appreciably. Experimental results shows that pre-stretching using equal biaxial mode can result to higher actuation strain compared to other two modes of stretching, i.e., uniaxial and pure shear. However, analysis of the experimental results shows that the actuation strain is independent of the modes of pre-stretching rather it is dependent upon the thickness stretch. For same thickness stretch at a particular voltage, the actuation strain is almost similar for all pre-stretching modes. Power trend lines are obtained to predict the actuation strain at any thickness stretch for a particular voltage. The present analysis opens the door to easily design the actuators, sensors and energy harvesting devices.

Strain Multiplexed Metasurface Holograms on a Stretchable Substrate.

PubMed

Malek, Stephanie C; Ee, Ho-Seok; Agarwal, Ritesh

2017-06-14

We demonstrate reconfigurable phase-only computer-generated metasurface holograms with up to three image planes operating in the visible regime fabricated with gold nanorods on a stretchable polydimethylsiloxane substrate. Stretching the substrate enlarges the hologram image and changes the location of the image plane. Upon stretching, these devices can switch the displayed holographic image between multiple distinct images. This work opens up the possibilities for stretchable metasurface holograms as flat devices for dynamically reconfigurable optical communication and display. It also confirms that metasurfaces on stretchable substrates can serve as platform for a variety of reconfigurable optical devices.

Cyclic mechanical stretch enhances BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells.

PubMed

Song, Yang; Tang, Yinhong; Song, Jinlin; Lei, Mingxing; Liang, Panpan; Fu, Tiwei; Su, Xudong; Zhou, Pengfei; Yang, Li; Huang, Enyi

2018-04-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether mechanical stretch can enhance the bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9)-induced osteogenic differentiation in MSCs. Recombinant adenoviruses were used to overexpress the BMP9 in C3H10T1/2 MSCs. Cells were seeded onto six-well BioFlex collagen I-coated plates and subjected to cyclic mechanical stretch [6% elongation at 60 cycles/minute (1 Hz)] in a Flexercell FX-4000 strain unit for up to 12 hours. Immunostaining and confocal microscope were used to detect cytoskeleton organization. Cell cycle progression was checked by flow cytometry. Alkaline phosphatase activity was measured with a Chemiluminescence Assay Kit and was quantified with a histochemical staining assay. Matrix mineralization was examined by Alizarin Red S Staining. Mechanical stretch induces cytoskeleton reorganization and inhibits cell proliferation by preventing cells entry into S phase of the cell cycle. Although mechanical stretch alone does not induce the osteogenic differentiation of C3H10T1/2 MSCs, co-stimulation with mechanical stretch and BMP9 enhances alkaline phosphatase activity. The expression of key lineage-specific regulators (e.g., osteocalcin (OCN), SRY-related HMG-box 9, and runt-related transcription factor 2) is also increased after the co-stimulation, compared to the mechanical stretch stimulation along. Furthermore, mechanical stretch augments the BMP9-mediated bone matrix mineralization of C3H10T1/2 MSCs. Our results suggest that mechanical stretch enhances BMP9-induced osteoblastic lineage specification in C3H10T1/2 MSCs.

21 CFR 880.6775 - Powered patient transfer device.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES GENERAL HOSPITAL AND PERSONAL USE DEVICES General Hospital and Personal Use... band stretched over long rollers that can advance itself under a patient and transfer the patient with...

Cyclic mechanical stretch contributes to network development of osteocyte-like cells with morphological change and autophagy promotion but without preferential cell alignment in rat.

PubMed

Inaba, Nao; Kuroshima, Shinichiro; Uto, Yusuke; Sasaki, Muneteru; Sawase, Takashi

2017-09-01

Osteocytes play important roles in controlling bone quality as well as preferential alignment of biological apatite c -axis/collagen fibers. However, the relationship between osteocytes and mechanical stress remains unclear due to the difficulty of three-dimensional (3D) culture of osteocytes in vitro . The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of cyclic mechanical stretch on 3D-cultured osteocyte-like cells. Osteocyte-like cells were established using rat calvarial osteoblasts cultured in a 3D culture system. Cyclic mechanical stretch (8% amplitude at a rate of 2 cycles min -1 ) was applied for 24, 48 and 96 consecutive hours. Morphology, cell number and preferential cell alignment were evaluated. Apoptosis- and autophagy-related gene expression levels were measured using quantitative PCR. 3D-cultured osteoblasts became osteocyte-like cells that expressed osteocyte-specific genes such as Dmp1 , Cx43 , Sost , Fgf23 and RANKL , with morphological changes similar to osteocytes. Cell number was significantly decreased in a time-dependent manner under non-loaded conditions, whereas cyclic mechanical stretch significantly prevented decreased cell numbers with increased expression of anti-apoptosis-related genes. Moreover, cyclic mechanical stretch significantly decreased cell size and ellipticity with increased expression of autophagy-related genes, LC3b and atg7 . Interestingly, preferential cell alignment did not occur, irrespective of mechanical stretch. These findings suggest that an anti-apoptotic effect contributes to network development of osteocyte-like cells under loaded condition. Spherical change of osteocyte-like cells induced by mechanical stretch may be associated with autophagy upregulation. Preferential alignment of osteocytes induced by mechanical load in vivo may be partially predetermined before osteoblasts differentiate into osteocytes and embed into bone matrix.

Water equivalent thickness of immobilization devices in proton therapy planning - Modelling at treatment planning and validation by measurements with a multi-layer ionization chamber.

PubMed

Fellin, Francesco; Righetto, Roberto; Fava, Giovanni; Trevisan, Diego; Amelio, Dante; Farace, Paolo

2017-03-01

To investigate the range errors made in treatment planning due to the presence of the immobilization devices along the proton beam path. The measured water equivalent thickness (WET) of selected devices was measured by a high-energy spot and a multi-layer ionization chamber and compared with that predicted by treatment planning system (TPS). Two treatment couches, two thermoplastic masks (both un-stretched and stretched) and one headrest were selected. At TPS, every immobilization device was modelled as being part of the patient. The following parameters were assessed: CT acquisition protocol, dose-calculation grid-sizes (1.5 and 3.0mm) and beam-entrance with respect to the devices (coplanar and non-coplanar). Finally, the potential errors produced by a wrong manual separation between treatment couch and the CT table (not present during treatment) were investigated. In the thermoplastic mask, there was a clear effect due to beam entrance, a moderate effect due to the CT protocols and almost no effect due to TPS grid-size, with 1mm errors observed only when thick un-stretched portions were crossed by non-coplanar beams. In the treatment couches the WET errors were negligible (<0.3mm) regardless of the grid-size and CT protocol. The potential range errors produced in the manual separation between treatment couch and CT table were small with 1.5mm grid-size, but could be >0.5mm with a 3.0mm grid-size. In the headrest, WET errors were negligible (0.2mm). With only one exception (un-stretched mask, non-coplanar beams), the WET of all the immobilization devices was properly modelled by the TPS. Copyright © 2017 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of direct current electric fields on lung cancer cell electrotaxis in a PMMA-based microfluidic device.

PubMed

Li, Yaping; Xu, Tao; Chen, Xiaomei; Lin, Shin; Cho, Michael; Sun, Dong; Yang, Mengsu

2017-03-01

Tumor metastasis is the primary cause of cancer death. Numerous studies have demonstrated the electrotactic responses of various cancer cell types, and suggested its potential implications in metastasis. In this study, we used a microfluidic device to emulate endogenous direct current electric field (dcEF) environment, and studied the electrotactic migration of non-small cell lung cancer cell lines (H460, HCC827, H1299, and H1975) and the underlying mechanisms. These cell lines exhibited greatly different response in applied dcEFs (2-6 V/cm). While H460 cells (large cell carcinoma) showed slight migration toward cathode, H1299 cells (large cell carcinoma) showed increased motility and dcEF-dependent anodal migration with cell reorientation. H1975 cells (adenocarcinoma) showed dcEF-dependent cathodal migration with increased motility, and HCC827 cells (adenocarcinoma) responded positively in migration speed and reorientation but minimally in migrating directions to dcEF. Activation of MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways was found to be associated with the realignment and directed migration of lung cancer cells. In addition, both Ca 2+ influx through activated stretch-activated calcium channels (SACCs) (but not voltage-gated calcium channels, VGCCs) and Ca 2+ release from intracellular storage were involved in lung cancer cell electrotactic responses. The results demonstrated that the microfluidic device provided a stable and controllable microenvironment for cell electrotaxis study, and revealed that the electrotactic responses of lung cancer cells were heterogeneous and cell-type dependent, and multiple signals contributed to lung cancer cells electrotaxis.

Short pulse laser stretcher-compressor using a single common reflective grating

DOEpatents

Erbert, Gaylen V.; Biswal, Subrat; Bartolick, Joseph M.; Stuart, Brent C.; Telford, Steve

2004-05-25

The present invention provides an easily aligned, all-reflective, aberration-free pulse stretcher-compressor in a compact geometry. The stretcher-compressor device is a reflective multi-layer dielectric that can be utilized for high power chirped-pulse amplification material processing applications. A reflective grating element of the device is constructed: 1) to receive a beam for stretching of laser pulses in a beam stretcher beam path and 2) to also receive stretched amplified pulses to be compressed in a compressor beam path through the same (i.e., common) reflective multilayer dielectric diffraction grating. The stretched and compressed pulses are interleaved about the grating element to provide the desired number of passes in each respective beam path in order to achieve the desired results.

Nitric oxide regulates stretch-induced proliferation in C2C12 myoblasts.

PubMed

Soltow, Quinlyn A; Lira, Vitor A; Betters, Jenna L; Long, Jodi H D; Sellman, Jeff E; Zeanah, Elizabeth H; Criswell, David S

2010-09-01

Mechanical stretch of skeletal muscle activates nitric oxide (NO) production and is an important stimulator of satellite cell proliferation. Further, cyclooxygenase (COX) activity has been shown to promote satellite cell proliferation in response to stretch. Since COX-2 expression in skeletal muscle can be regulated by NO we sought to determine if NO is required for stretch-induced myoblast proliferation and whether supplemental NO can counter the effects of COX-2 and NF-kappaB inhibitors. C2C12 myoblasts were cultured for 24 h, then switched to medium containing either the NOS inhibitor, L-NAME (200 microM), the COX-2 specific inhibitor NS-398 (100 microM), the NF-kappaB inhibiting antioxidant, PDTC (5 mM), the nitric oxide donor, DETA-NONOate (10-100 microM) or no supplement (control) for 24 h. Subgroups of each treatment were exposed to 1 h of 15% cyclic stretch (1 Hz), and were then allowed to proliferate for 24 h before fixing. Proliferation was measured by BrdU incorporation during the last hour before fixing, and DAPI stain. Stretch induced a twofold increase in nuclear number compared to control, and this effect was completely inhibited by L-NAME, NS-398 or PDTC (P < 0.05). Although DETA-NONOate (10 microM) did not affect basal proliferation, the NO-donor augmented the stretch-induced increase in proliferation and rescued stretch-induced proliferation in NS-398-treated cells, but not in PDTC-treated cells. In conclusion, NO, COX-2, and NF-kappaB are necessary for stretch-induced proliferation of myoblasts. Although COX-2 and NF-kappaB are both involved in basal proliferation, NO does not affect basal growth. Thus, NO requires the synergistic effect of stretch in order to induce muscle cell proliferation.

Orientation and length of mammalian skeletal myocytes in response to a unidirectional stretch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collinsworth, A. M.; Torgan, C. E.; Nagda, S. N.; Rajalingam, R. J.; Kraus, W. E.; Truskey, G. A.

2000-01-01

Effects of mechanical forces exerted on mammalian skeletal muscle cells during development were studied using an in vitro model to unidirectionally stretch cultured C2C12 cells grown on silastic membrane. Previous models to date have not studied these responses of the mammalian system specifically. The silastic membrane upon which these cells were grown exhibited linear strain behavior over the range of 3.6-14.6% strain, with a Poisson's ratio of approximately 0.5. To mimic murine in utero long bone growth, cell substrates were stretched at an average strain rate of 2.36%/day for 4 days or 1.77%/day for 6 days with an overall membrane strain of 9.5% and 10.6%, respectively. Both control and stretched fibers stained positively for the contractile protein, alpha-actinin, demonstrating muscle fiber development. An effect of stretch on orientation and length of myofibers was observed. At both strain rates, stretched fibers aligned at a smaller angle relative to the direction of stretch and were significantly longer compared to randomly oriented control fibers. There was no effect of duration of stretch on orientation or length, suggesting the cellular responses are independent of strain rate for the range tested. These results demonstrate that, under conditions simulating mammalian long bone growth, cultured myocytes respond to mechanical forces by lengthening and orienting along the direction of stretch.

Cyclic stretch induces cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression in vascular endothelial cells via activation of nuclear factor kappa-{beta}

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

Zhao, Haige; Hiroi, Toyoko; Hansen, Baranda S.

2009-11-27

Vascular endothelial cells respond to biomechanical forces, such as cyclic stretch and shear stress, by altering gene expression. Since endothelial-derived prostanoids, such as prostacyclin and thromboxane A{sub 2}, are key mediators of endothelial function, we investigated the effects of cyclic stretch on the expression of genes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells controlling prostanoid synthesis: cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostacyclin synthase (PGIS) and thromboxane A{sub 2} synthase (TXAS). COX-2 and TXAS mRNAs were upregulated by cyclic stretch for 24 h. In contrast, PGIS mRNA was decreased and stretch had no effect on COX-1 mRNA expression. We further show that stretch-inducedmore » upregulation of COX-2 is mediated by activation of the NF-{kappa}{beta} signaling pathway.« less

Development of an Intelligent Stretching Device for Ankle Joints With Contracture/Spasticity

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-10-25

percentage corresponded to background dorsi-flexion muscle contraction and 0% was the relaxed state. Next, tendon reflexes were evaluated...the representative cases, joint stiffness was reduced markedly after stretching across the range of muscle contraction (Fig. 5), including both

Formation of Highly Aligned Collagen Nanofibers by Continuous Cyclic Stretch of a Collagen Hydrogel Sheet.

PubMed

Nam, Eunryel; Lee, Won Chul; Takeuchi, Shoji

2016-07-01

A collagen sheet with highly aligned collagen fibers is fabricated by continuous cyclic stretch. The rearrangement of the collagen fibers depends on the different process parameters of the cyclic stretch, including magnitude, frequency, and period of stretch. The collagen fibers are aligned perpendicularly to the direction of the stretch. Corneal stromal cells and smooth muscle cells cultivated on the highly aligned collagen sheet show alignment along the collagen fibers without the stretch during culture. Thus, the sheet can be a suitable scaffold for use in regenerative medicine. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Mechanical stretch induces MMP-2 release and activation in lung endothelium: role of EMMPRIN.

PubMed

Haseneen, Nadia A; Vaday, Gayle G; Zucker, Stanley; Foda, Hussein D

2003-03-01

High-volume mechanical ventilation leads to ventilator-induced lung injury. This type of lung injury is accompanied by an increased release and activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). To investigate the mechanism leading to the increased MMP release, we systematically studied the effect of mechanical stretch on human microvascular endothelial cells isolated from the lung. We exposed cells grown on collagen 1 BioFlex plates to sinusoidal cyclic stretch at 0.5 Hz using the Flexercell system with 17-18% elongation of cells. After 4 days of cell stretching, conditioned media and cell lysate were collected and analyzed by gelatin, casein, and reverse zymograms as well as Western blotting. RT-PCR of mRNA extracted from stretched cells was performed. Our results show that 1) cyclic stretch led to increased release and activation of MMP-2 and MMP-1; 2) the activation of MMP-2 was accompanied by an increase in membrane type-1 MMP (MT1-MMP) and inhibited by a hydroxamic acid-derived inhibitor of MMPs (Prinomastat, AG3340); and 3) the MMP-2 release and activation were preceded by an increase in production of extracellular MMP inducer (EMMPRIN). These results suggest that cyclic mechanical stretch leads to MMP-2 activation through an MT1-MMP mechanism. EMMPRIN may play an important role in the release and activation of MMPs during lung injury.

Quantitative phase imaging for enhanced assessment of optomechanical cancer cell properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Kemper, Björn; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2018-02-01

Optical cell stretching provides label-free investigations of cells by measuring their biomechanical properties based on deformability determination in a fiber optical two-beam trap. However, the stretching forces in this two-beam laser trap depend on the optical properties of the investigated specimen. Therefore, we characterized in parallel four cancer cell lines with varying degree of differentiation utilizing quantitative phase imaging (QPI) and optical cell stretching. The QPI data allowed enhanced assessment of the mechanical cell properties measured with the optical cell stretcher and demonstrates the high potential of cell phenotyping when both techniques are combined.

Muscle progenitor cells proliferation doesn't sufficiently contribute to maintaining stretched soleus muscle mass during gravitational unloading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarakina, M. V.; Turtikova, O. V.; Nemirovskaya, T. L.; Kokontcev, A. A.; Shenkman, B. S.

Skeletal muscle work hypertrophy is usually connected with muscle progenitor satellite cells (SC) activation with subsequent incorporation of their nuclei into myofibers. Passive stretch of unloaded muscle was earlier established to prevent atrophic processes and is accompanied by enhanced protein synthesis. We hypothesized that elimination of SC proliferation capacity by γ-irradiation would partly avert stretched muscle fiber capability to maintain their size under the conditions of gravitational unloading. To assess the role of muscle progenitor (satellite) cells in development of passive stretch preventive effect SC proliferation was suppressed by local exposing to ionized radiation (2500 rad), subsequent hindlimb suspension or hindlimb suspension with concomitant passive stretch were carried out. Reduction of myofiber cross-sectional area and decrease in myonuclei number accompanying unloaded muscle atrophy were completely abolished by passive stretch both in irradiated and sham-treated animals. We conclude that SC did not make essential contribution to passive stretch preventive action under the conditions of simulated weightlessness.

Efficient and mechanically robust stretchable organic light-emitting devices by a laser-programmable buckling process

PubMed Central

Yin, Da; Feng, Jing; Ma, Rui; Liu, Yue-Feng; Zhang, Yong-Lai; Zhang, Xu-Lin; Bi, Yan-Gang; Chen, Qi-Dai; Sun, Hong-Bo

2016-01-01

Stretchable organic light-emitting devices are becoming increasingly important in the fast-growing fields of wearable displays, biomedical devices and health-monitoring technology. Although highly stretchable devices have been demonstrated, their luminous efficiency and mechanical stability remain impractical for the purposes of real-life applications. This is due to significant challenges arising from the high strain-induced limitations on the structure design of the device, the materials used and the difficulty of controlling the stretch-release process. Here we have developed a laser-programmable buckling process to overcome these obstacles and realize a highly stretchable organic light-emitting diode with unprecedented efficiency and mechanical robustness. The strained device luminous efficiency −70 cd A−1 under 70% strain - is the largest to date and the device can accommodate 100% strain while exhibiting only small fluctuations in performance over 15,000 stretch-release cycles. This work paves the way towards fully stretchable organic light-emitting diodes that can be used in wearable electronic devices. PMID:27187936

Fluctuation-driven mechanotransduction regulates mitochondrial-network structure and function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartolák-Suki, Erzsébet; Imsirovic, Jasmin; Parameswaran, Harikrishnan; Wellman, Tyler J.; Martinez, Nuria; Allen, Philip G.; Frey, Urs; Suki, Béla

2015-10-01

Cells can be exposed to irregular mechanical fluctuations, such as those arising from changes in blood pressure. Here, we report that ATP production, assessed through changes in mitochondrial membrane potential, is downregulated in vascular smooth muscle cells in culture exposed to monotonous stretch cycles when compared with cells exposed to a variable cyclic stretch that incorporates physiological levels of cycle-by-cycle variability in stretch amplitude. Variable stretch enhances ATP production by increasing the expression of ATP synthase’s catalytic domain, cytochrome c oxidase and its tyrosine phosphorylation, mitofusins and PGC-1α. Such a fluctuation-driven mechanotransduction mechanism is mediated by motor proteins and by the enhancement of microtubule-, actin- and mitochondrial-network complexity. We also show that, in aorta rings isolated from rats, monotonous stretch downregulates--whereas variable stretch maintains--physiological vessel-wall contractility through mitochondrial ATP production. Our results have implications for ATP-dependent and mechanosensitive intracellular processes.

Comparison of custom and prefabricated orthoses in the initial treatment of proximal plantar fasciitis.

PubMed

Pfeffer, G; Bacchetti, P; Deland, J; Lewis, A; Anderson, R; Davis, W; Alvarez, R; Brodsky, J; Cooper, P; Frey, C; Herrick, R; Myerson, M; Sammarco, J; Janecki, C; Ross, S; Bowman, M; Smith, R

1999-04-01

Fifteen centers for orthopaedic treatment of the foot and ankle participated in a prospective randomized trial to compare several nonoperative treatments for proximal plantar fasciitis (heel pain syndrome). Included were 236 patients (160 women and 76 men) who were 16 years of age or older. Most reported duration of symptoms of 6 months or less. Patients with systemic disease, significant musculoskeletal complaints, sciatica, or local nerve entrapment were excluded. We randomized patients prospectively into five different treatment groups. All groups performed Achilles tendon- and plantar fascia-stretching in a similar manner. One group was treated with stretching only. The other four groups stretched and used one of four different shoe inserts, including a silicone heel pad, a felt pad, a rubber heel cup, or a custom-made polypropylene orthotic device. Patients were reevaluated after 8 weeks of treatment. The percentages improved in each group were: (1) silicone insert, 95%; (2) rubber insert, 88%; (3) felt insert, 81%; (4)stretching only, 72%; and (5) custom orthosis, 68%. Combining all the patients who used a prefabricated insert, we found that their improvement rates were higher than those assigned to stretching only (P = 0.022) and those who stretched and used a custom orthosis (P = 0.0074). We conclude that, when used in conjunction with a stretching program, a prefabricated shoe insert is more likely to produce improvement in symptoms as part of the initial treatment of proximal plantar fasciitis than a custom polypropylene orthotic device.

Directional Cell Migration in Response to Repeated Substratum Stretching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okimura, Chika; Iwadate, Yoshiaki

2017-10-01

Crawling migration plays an essential role in a variety of biological phenomena, including development, wound healing, and immune system function. Migration properties such as anterior-posterior polarity, directionality, and velocity are regulated not only by the reception of a chemoattractant but also by sensing mechanical inputs from the external environment. In this review, we describe the mechanical response of migrating cells, particularly under repeated stretching of the elastic substratum, highlighting the fact that there appear to be two independent mechanosensing systems that generate the polarity needed for migration. Cells that have no stress fibers, such as Dictyostelium cells and neutrophil-like differentiated HL-60 cells, migrate perpendicular to the stretching direction via myosin II localization. Cells that do possess stress fibers, however, such as fish keratocytes, migrate parallel to the stretching via a stress-fiber-dependent process.

Discerning the role of mechanosensors in regulating proximal tubule function

PubMed Central

Weisz, Ora A.

2015-01-01

All cells in the body experience external mechanical forces such as shear stress and stretch. These forces are sensed by specialized structures in the cell known as mechanosensors. Cells lining the proximal tubule (PT) of the kidney are continuously exposed to variations in flow rates of the glomerular ultrafiltrate, which manifest as changes in axial shear stress and radial stretch. Studies suggest that these cells respond acutely to variations in flow by modulating their ion transport and endocytic functions to maintain glomerulotubular balance. Conceptually, changes in the axial shear stress in the PT could be sensed by three known structures, namely, the microvilli, the glycocalyx, and primary cilia. The orthogonal component of the force produced by flow exhibits as radial stretch and can cause expansion of the tubule. Forces of stretch are transduced by integrins, by stretch-activated channels, and by cell-cell contacts. This review summarizes our current understanding of flow sensing in PT epithelia, discusses challenges in dissecting the role of individual flow sensors in the mechanosensitive responses, and identifies potential areas of opportunity for new study. PMID:26662200

Cyclic stretch-induced the cytoskeleton rearrangement and gene expression of cytoskeletal regulators in human periodontal ligament cells.

PubMed

Wu, Yaqin; Zhuang, Jiabao; Zhao, Dan; Zhang, Fuqiang; Ma, Jiayin; Xu, Chun

2017-10-01

This study aimed to explore the mechanism of the stretch-induced cell realignment and cytoskeletal rearrangement by identifying several mechanoresponsive genes related to cytoskeletal regulators in human PDL cells. After the cells were stretched by 1, 10 and 20% strains for 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 12 or 24 h, the changes of the morphology and content of microfilaments were recorded and calculated. Meanwhile, the expression of 84 key genes encoding cytoskeletal regulators after 6 and 24 h stretches with 20% strain was detected by using real-time PCR array. Western blot was applied to identify the protein expression level of several cytoskeletal regulators encoded by these differentially expressed genes. The confocal fluorescent staining results confirmed that stretch-induced realignment of cells and rearrangement of microfilaments. Among the 84 genes screened, one gene was up-regulated while two genes were down-regulated after 6 h stretch. Meanwhile, three genes were up-regulated while two genes were down-regulated after 24 h stretch. These genes displaying differential expression included genes regulating polymerization/depolymerization of microfilaments (CDC42EP2, FNBP1L, NCK2, PIKFYVE, WASL), polymerization/depolymerization of microtubules (STMN1), interacting between microfilaments and microtubules (MACF1), as well as a phosphatase (PPP1R12B). Among the proteins encoded by these genes, the protein expression level of Cdc42 effector protein-2 (encoded by CDC42EP2) and Stathmin-1 (encoded by STMN1) was down-regulated, while the protein expression level of N-WASP (encoded by WASL) was up-regulated. The present study confirmed the cyclic stretch-induced cellular realignment and rearrangement of microfilaments in the human PDL cells and indicated several force-sensitive genes with regard to cytoskeletal regulators.

3.0-3.7μm infrared sensor system for cell analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van den Driesche, Sander; Witarski, Wojciech; Vellekoop, Michael J.

2009-05-01

In this contribution we present a novel LED-photodiode based infrared absorbance sensor in the wavelength range of 3.0 - 3.7 μm for cell analysis. Instead of using time consuming and expensive labelling and staining techniques to distinguish healthy from malignant cell types, this IR sensor system can perform faster, cheaper and without the need of additional chemicals. Depending on the used narrow bandpass filters, absorbance due to specific molecular vibration can be measured, such as the functional absorbance peaks at 3.38 μm (CH3-antisymmetric stretch), 3.42 μm (CH2- antisymmetric stretch), 3.48 μm (CH3-symmetric stretch) and 3.51 μm (CH2-symmetric stretch). For normalization and baseline correction the absorbance at wavelengths 3.33 and 3.57 μm are used. By recording the IR absorbance spectra of healthy and malignant epithelial kidney cell lines with an IR spectroscope, we found significant differences in the absorbance ratio 3.51 μm / 3.42 μm (CH2-symmetric/antisymmetric stretch). This result has led us to a sensor concept where only four wavelengths are being measured. In the 3.0 - 3.7 μm wavelength region a low cost LED-photodiode system can be used instead of a spectroscope. Yeast cells, which also contain the CH2 symmetric and antisymmetric stretch bands, are used to validate this sensor system and to make a first comparison of the system to spectroscopic recordings. Sensor experiments on dried spots of baker's yeast on calcium-fluoride slides yielded a comparable CH2 stretch ratio with the IR spectroscope measurement. This confirms the usability of the sensor to measure the CH2 stretch ratio and its potential for fast, label-free and low cost screening of cell samples.

Metal-polymer nanocomposites for stretchable optics and plasmonics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Potenza, Marco A. C.; Minnai, Chloé; Milani, Paolo

2016-12-01

Stretchable and conformable optical devices open very exciting perspectives for the fabrication of systems incorporating diffracting and optical power in a single element and of tunable plasmonic filters and absorbers. The use of nanocomposites obtained by inserting metallic nanoparticles produced in the gas phase into polymeric matrices allows to effectively fabricate cheap and simple stretchable optical elements able to withstand thousands of deformations and stretching cycles without any degradation of their optical properties. The nanocomposite-based reflective optical devices show excellent performances and stability compared to similar devices fabricated with standard techniques. The nanocomposite-based devices can be therefore applied to arbitrary curved non-optical grade surfaces in order to achieve optical power and to minimize aberrations like astigmatism. Examples discussed here include stretchable reflecting gratings, plasmonic filters tunable by mechanical stretching and light absorbers.

Role of Ca2+ signaling in initiation of stretch-induced apoptosis in neonatal heart cells.

PubMed

Liao, Xu Dong; Tang, Ai Hui; Chen, Quan; Jin, Hai Jing; Wu, Cai Hong; Chen, Lan-Ying; Wang, Shi Qiang

2003-10-17

Abnormal mechanical load, as seen in hypertension, is found to induce heart cell apoptosis, yet the signaling link between cell stretch and apoptotic pathways is not known. Using an in vitro stretch model mimicking diastolic pressure stress, here we show that Ca(2+) signaling participates essentially in the early stage of stretch-induced apoptosis. In neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, the moderate 20% stretch resulted in tonic elevation of intracellular free Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)](i)). Buffering [Ca(2+)](i) by EGTA-AM, suppressing ryanodine-sensitive Ca(2+) release, and blocking L-type Ca(2+) channels all prevented the stretch-induced apoptosis as assessed by phosphatidylserine exposure and nuclear fragmentation. Notably, Ca(2+) suppression also prevented known stretch-activated apoptotic events, including caspase-3/-9 activation, mitochondrial membrane potential corruption, and reactive oxygen species production, suggesting that Ca(2+) signaling is the upstream of these events. Since [Ca(2+)](i) did not change without activating mechanosensitive Ca(2+) entry, we conclude that stretch-induced Ca(2+) entry, via the Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release mechanism, plays an important role in initiating apoptotic signaling during mechanical stress.

Mechanical stretch is a highly selective regulator of gene expression in human bladder smooth muscle cells.

PubMed

Adam, Rosalyn M; Eaton, Samuel H; Estrada, Carlos; Nimgaonkar, Ashish; Shih, Shu-Ching; Smith, Lois E H; Kohane, Isaac S; Bägli, Darius; Freeman, Michael R

2004-12-15

Application of mechanical stimuli has been shown to alter gene expression in bladder smooth muscle cells (SMC). To date, only a limited number of "stretch-responsive" genes in this cell type have been reported. We employed oligonucleotide arrays to identify stretch-sensitive genes in primary culture human bladder SMC subjected to repetitive mechanical stimulation for 4 h. Differential gene expression between stretched and nonstretched cells was assessed using Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM). Expression of 20 out of 11,731 expressed genes ( approximately 0.17%) was altered >2-fold following stretch, with 19 genes induced and one gene (FGF-9) repressed. Using real-time RT-PCR, we tested independently the responsiveness of 15 genes to stretch and to platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB), another hypertrophic stimulus for bladder SMC. In response to both stimuli, expression of 13 genes increased, 1 gene (FGF-9) decreased, and 1 gene was unchanged. Six transcripts (HB-EGF, BMP-2, COX-2, LIF, PAR-2, and FGF-9) were evaluated using an ex vivo rat model of bladder distension. HB-EGF, BMP-2, COX-2, LIF, and PAR-2 increased with bladder stretch ex vivo, whereas FGF-9 decreased, consistent with expression changes observed in vitro. In silico analysis of microarray data using the FIRED algorithm identified c-jun, AP-1, ATF-2, and neurofibromin-1 (NF-1) as potential transcriptional mediators of stretch signals. Furthermore, the promoters of 9 of 13 stretch-responsive genes contained AP-1 binding sites. These observations identify stretch as a highly selective regulator of gene expression in bladder SMC. Moreover, they suggest that mechanical and growth factor signals converge on common transcriptional regulators that include members of the AP-1 family.

Neural effects of muscle stretching on the spinal reflexes in multiple lower-limb muscles.

PubMed

Masugi, Yohei; Obata, Hiroki; Inoue, Daisuke; Kawashima, Noritaka; Nakazawa, Kimitaka

2017-01-01

While previous studies have shown that muscle stretching suppresses monosynaptic spinal reflex excitability in stretched muscles, its effects on non-stretched muscles is still largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of muscle stretching on monosynaptic spinal reflex in non-stretched muscles. Ten healthy male subjects participated in this study. Muscle stretching of the right triceps surae muscle was performed using a motor torque device for 1 minute. Three different dorsiflexion torques (at approximately 5, 10, and 15 Nm) were applied during muscle stretching. Spinal reflexes evoked by transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation were recorded in both the lower-limb muscles before, during, and at 0 and 5 min following muscle stretching. The amplitudes of the spinal reflexes in both the stretched and non-stretched muscles in the right (ipsilateral) leg were smaller during stretching compared to before, and at 0 and 5 min after stretching. Furthermore, the degree of reduction in the amplitude of the spinal reflexes in the right (ipsilateral) leg muscles increased significantly as the dorsiflexion torque (i.e., stretching of the right triceps surae muscles) increased. In contrast, reduction in the amplitude of the spinal reflexes with increasing dorsiflexion torque was not seen in the left (contralateral) leg muscles. Our results clearly indicate that muscle stretching has inhibitory effects on monosynaptic spinal reflexes, not only in stretched muscles, but also in non-stretched muscles of the ipsilateral leg.

Neural effects of muscle stretching on the spinal reflexes in multiple lower-limb muscles

PubMed Central

Obata, Hiroki; Inoue, Daisuke; Kawashima, Noritaka; Nakazawa, Kimitaka

2017-01-01

While previous studies have shown that muscle stretching suppresses monosynaptic spinal reflex excitability in stretched muscles, its effects on non-stretched muscles is still largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of muscle stretching on monosynaptic spinal reflex in non-stretched muscles. Ten healthy male subjects participated in this study. Muscle stretching of the right triceps surae muscle was performed using a motor torque device for 1 minute. Three different dorsiflexion torques (at approximately 5, 10, and 15 Nm) were applied during muscle stretching. Spinal reflexes evoked by transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation were recorded in both the lower-limb muscles before, during, and at 0 and 5 min following muscle stretching. The amplitudes of the spinal reflexes in both the stretched and non-stretched muscles in the right (ipsilateral) leg were smaller during stretching compared to before, and at 0 and 5 min after stretching. Furthermore, the degree of reduction in the amplitude of the spinal reflexes in the right (ipsilateral) leg muscles increased significantly as the dorsiflexion torque (i.e., stretching of the right triceps surae muscles) increased. In contrast, reduction in the amplitude of the spinal reflexes with increasing dorsiflexion torque was not seen in the left (contralateral) leg muscles. Our results clearly indicate that muscle stretching has inhibitory effects on monosynaptic spinal reflexes, not only in stretched muscles, but also in non-stretched muscles of the ipsilateral leg. PMID:28662201

Pinched-flow hydrodynamic stretching of single-cells.

PubMed

Dudani, Jaideep S; Gossett, Daniel R; Tse, Henry T K; Di Carlo, Dino

2013-09-21

Reorganization of cytoskeletal networks, condensation and decondensation of chromatin, and other whole cell structural changes often accompany changes in cell state and can reflect underlying disease processes. As such, the observable mechanical properties, or mechanophenotype, which is closely linked to intracellular architecture, can be a useful label-free biomarker of disease. In order to make use of this biomarker, a tool to measure cell mechanical properties should accurately characterize clinical specimens that consist of heterogeneous cell populations or contain small diseased subpopulations. Because of the heterogeneity and potential for rare populations in clinical samples, single-cell, high-throughput assays are ideally suited. Hydrodynamic stretching has recently emerged as a powerful method for carrying out mechanical phenotyping. Importantly, this method operates independently of molecular probes, reducing cost and sample preparation time, and yields information-rich signatures of cell populations through significant image analysis automation, promoting more widespread adoption. In this work, we present an alternative mode of hydrodynamic stretching where inertially-focused cells are squeezed in flow by perpendicular high-speed pinch flows that are extracted from the single inputted cell suspension. The pinched-flow stretching method reveals expected differences in cell deformability in two model systems. Furthermore, hydraulic circuit design is used to tune stretching forces and carry out multiple stretching modes (pinched-flow and extensional) in the same microfluidic channel with a single fluid input. The ability to create a self-sheathing flow from a single input solution should have general utility for other cytometry systems and the pinched-flow design enables an order of magnitude higher throughput (65,000 cells s(-1)) compared to our previously reported deformability cytometry method, which will be especially useful for identification of rare cell populations in clinical body fluids in the future.

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

Nuzzo, Ralph G.; Rogers, John A.; Menard, Etienne

The invention provides methods and devices for fabricating printable semiconductor elements and assembling printable semiconductor elements onto substrate surfaces. Methods, devices and device components of the present invention are capable of generating a wide range of flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices and arrays of devices on substrates comprising polymeric materials. The present invention also provides stretchable semiconductor structures and stretchable electronic devices capable of good performance in stretched configurations.

Tissue-specific mechanical and geometrical control of cell viability and actin cytoskeleton alignment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Dong; Zheng, Wenfu; Xie, Yunyan; Gong, Peiyuan; Zhao, Fang; Yuan, Bo; Ma, Wanshun; Cui, Yan; Liu, Wenwen; Sun, Yi; Piel, Matthieu; Zhang, Wei; Jiang, Xingyu

2014-08-01

Different tissues have specific mechanical properties and cells of different geometries, such as elongated muscle cells and polygonal endothelial cells, which are precisely regulated during embryo development. However, the mechanisms that underlie these processes are not clear. Here, we built an in vitro model to mimic the cellular microenvironment of muscle by combining both mechanical stretch and geometrical control. We found that mechanical stretch was a key factor that determined the optimal geometry of myoblast C2C12 cells under stretch, whereas vascular endothelial cells and fibroblasts had no such dependency. We presented the first experimental evidence that can explain why myoblasts are destined to take the elongated geometry so as to survive and maintain parallel actin filaments along the stretching direction. The study is not only meaningful for the research on myogenesis but also has potential application in regenerative medicine.

Force determination in lateral magnetic tweezers combined with TIRF microscopy.

PubMed

Madariaga-Marcos, J; Hormeño, S; Pastrana, C L; Fisher, G L M; Dillingham, M S; Moreno-Herrero, F

2018-03-01

Combining single-molecule techniques with fluorescence microscopy has attracted much interest because it allows the correlation of mechanical measurements with directly visualized DNA : protein interactions. In particular, its combination with total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRF) is advantageous because of the high signal-to-noise ratio this technique achieves. This, however, requires stretching long DNA molecules across the surface of a flow cell to maximize polymer exposure to the excitation light. In this work, we develop a module to laterally stretch DNA molecules at a constant force, which can be easily implemented in regular or combined magnetic tweezers (MT)-TIRF setups. The pulling module is further characterized in standard flow cells of different thicknesses and glass capillaries, using two types of micrometer size superparamagnetic beads, long DNA molecules, and a home-built device to rotate capillaries with mrad precision. The force range achieved by the magnetic pulling module was between 0.1 and 30 pN. A formalism for estimating forces in flow-stretched tethered beads is also proposed, and the results compared with those of lateral MT, demonstrating that lateral MT achieve higher forces with lower dispersion. Finally, we show the compatibility with TIRF microscopy and the parallelization of measurements by characterizing DNA binding by the centromere-binding protein ParB from Bacillus subtilis. Simultaneous MT pulling and fluorescence imaging demonstrate the non-specific binding of BsParB on DNA under conditions restrictive to condensation.

Maturation of human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hESC-CMs) in 3D collagen matrix: Effects of niche cell supplementation and mechanical stimulation.

PubMed

Zhang, W; Kong, C W; Tong, M H; Chooi, W H; Huang, N; Li, R A; Chan, B P

2017-02-01

Cardiomyocytes derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC-CMs) are regarded as a promising source for regenerative medicine, drug testing and disease modeling. Nevertheless, cardiomyocytes are immature in terms of their contractile structure, metabolism and electrophysiological properties. Here, we fabricate cardiac muscle strips by encapsulating hESC-CMs in collagen-based biomaterials. Supplementation of niche cells at 3% to the number of hESC-CMs enhance the maturation of the hESC-CMs in 3D tissue matrix. The benefits of adding mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are comparable to that of adding fibroblasts. These two cell types demonstrate similar effects in promoting the compaction and cell spreading, as well as expression of maturation markers at both gene and protein levels. Mechanical loading, particularly cyclic stretch, produces engineered cardiac tissues with higher maturity in terms of twitch force, elastic modulus, sarcomere length and molecular signature, when comparing to static stretch or non-stretched controls. The current study demonstrates that the application of niche cells and mechanical stretch both stimulate the maturation of hESC-CMs in 3D architecture. Our results therefore suggest that this 3D model can be used for in vitro cardiac maturation study. Cardiomyocytes derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESC-CMs) are regarded as being a promising source of cells for regenerative medicine, drug testing and disease modeling. Nevertheless, cardiomyocytes are immature in terms of their contractile structure, metabolism and electrophysiological properties. In the current study, we have fabricated cardiac muscle strips by encapsulating hESC-CMs in collagen-based biomaterials and demonstrated that supplementation of mesenchymal niche cells as well as provision of mechanical loading particularly stretching have significantly promoted the maturation of the cardiomyocytes and hence improved the mechanical functional characteristics of the tissue strips. Specifically, with 3% niche cells including both fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells, a more mature hESC-CMs derived cardiac strip was resulted, in terms of compaction and spreading of cells, and upregulation of molecular signature in both gene and protein expression of maturation. Mechanical loading, particularly cyclic stretch, produces engineered cardiac tissues with higher maturity in terms of molecular signature markers and functional parameters including twitch force, elastic modulus and sarcomere length, when comparing with static stretch or non-stretched controls. The current study demonstrates that the application of niche cells and mechanical stretch both stimulate the maturation of hESC-CMs in 3D architecture, resulting in more mature cardiac strips. Our results contribute to bioengineering of functional heart tissue strips for drug screening and disease modeling. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stretchable conducting materials with multi-scale hierarchical structures for biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Hyun; Shim, Bong Sup

2014-08-01

Electrogenetic tissues in human body such as central and peripheral nerve systems, muscular and cardiomuscular systems are soft and stretchable materials. However, most of the artificial materials, interfacing with those conductive tissues, such as neural electrodes and cardiac pacemakers, have stiff mechanical properties. The rather contradictory properties between natural and artificial materials usually cause critical incompatibility problems in implanting bodymachine interfaces for wide ranges of biomedical devices. Thus, we developed a stretchable and electrically conductive material with complex hierarchical structures; multi-scale microstructures and nanostructural electrical pathways. For biomedical purposes, an implantable polycaprolactone (PCL) membrane was coated by molecularly controlled layer-bylayer (LBL) assembly of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) or poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). The soft PCL membrane with asymmetric micro- and nano-pores provides elastic properties, while conductive SWNT or PEDOT coating preserves stable electrical conductivity even in a fully stretched state. This electrical conductivity enhanced ionic cell transmission and cell-to-cell interactions as well as electrical cellular stimulation on the membrane. Our novel stretchable conducting materials will overcome long-lasting challenges for bioelectronic applications by significantly reducing mechanical property gaps between tissues and artificial materials and by providing 3D interconnected electro-active pathways which can be available even at a fully stretched state.

Characterization of biomechanical properties of cells through dielectrophoresis-based cell stretching and actin cytoskeleton modeling.

PubMed

Bai, Guohua; Li, Ying; Chu, Henry K; Wang, Kaiqun; Tan, Qiulin; Xiong, Jijun; Sun, Dong

2017-04-04

Cytoskeleton is a highly dynamic network that helps to maintain the rigidity of a cell, and the mechanical properties of a cell are closely related to many cellular functions. This paper presents a new method to probe and characterize cell mechanical properties through dielectrophoresis (DEP)-based cell stretching manipulation and actin cytoskeleton modeling. Leukemia NB4 cells were used as cell line, and changes in their biological properties were examined after chemotherapy treatment with doxorubicin (DOX). DEP-integrated microfluidic chip was utilized as a low-cost and efficient tool to study the deformability of cells. DEP forces used in cell stretching were first evaluated through computer simulation, and the results were compared with modeling equations and with the results of optical stretching (OT) experiments. Structural parameters were then extracted by fitting the experimental data into the actin cytoskeleton model, and the underlying mechanical properties of the cells were subsequently characterized. The DEP forces generated under different voltage inputs were calculated and the results from different approaches demonstrate good approximations to the force estimation. Both DEP and OT stretching experiments confirmed that DOX-treated NB4 cells were stiffer than the untreated cells. The structural parameters extracted from the model and the confocal images indicated significant change in actin network after DOX treatment. The proposed DEP method combined with actin cytoskeleton modeling is a simple engineering tool to characterize the mechanical properties of cells.

Duration Dependent Effect of Static Stretching on Quadriceps and Hamstring Muscle Force.

PubMed

Alizadeh Ebadi, Leyla; Çetin, Ebru

2018-03-13

The aim of this study was to determine the acute effect of static stretching on hamstring and quadriceps muscles' isokinetic strength when applied for various durations to elite athletes, to investigate the effect of different static stretching durations on isokinetic strength, and finally to determine the optimal stretching duration. Fifteen elite male athletes from two different sport branches (10 football and five basketball) participated in this study. Experimental protocol was designed as 17 repetitive static stretching exercises for hamstring and quadriceps muscle groups according to the indicated experimental protocols; ((A) 5 min jogging; (B) 5 min jogging followed by 15 s static stretching; (C) 5 min jogging followed by 30 s static stretching; (D) 5 min jogging, followed by static stretching for 45 s). Immediately after each protocol, an isokinetic strength test consisting of five repetitions at 60°/s speed and 20 repetitions at 180°/s speed was recorded for the right leg by the Isomed 2000 device. Friedman variance analysis test was employed for data analysis. According to the analyzes, it was observed that 5 min jogging and 15 s stretching exercises increased the isokinetic strength, whereas 30 and 45 s stretching exercises caused a decrease.

Duration Dependent Effect of Static Stretching on Quadriceps and Hamstring Muscle Force

PubMed Central

Çetin, Ebru

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine the acute effect of static stretching on hamstring and quadriceps muscles’ isokinetic strength when applied for various durations to elite athletes, to investigate the effect of different static stretching durations on isokinetic strength, and finally to determine the optimal stretching duration. Fifteen elite male athletes from two different sport branches (10 football and five basketball) participated in this study. Experimental protocol was designed as 17 repetitive static stretching exercises for hamstring and quadriceps muscle groups according to the indicated experimental protocols; ((A) 5 min jogging; (B) 5 min jogging followed by 15 s static stretching; (C) 5 min jogging followed by 30 s static stretching; (D) 5 min jogging, followed by static stretching for 45 s). Immediately after each protocol, an isokinetic strength test consisting of five repetitions at 60°/s speed and 20 repetitions at 180°/s speed was recorded for the right leg by the Isomed 2000 device. Friedman variance analysis test was employed for data analysis. According to the analyzes, it was observed that 5 min jogging and 15 s stretching exercises increased the isokinetic strength, whereas 30 and 45 s stretching exercises caused a decrease.

Cell origami: self-folding of three-dimensional cell-laden microstructures driven by cell traction force.

PubMed

Kuribayashi-Shigetomi, Kaori; Onoe, Hiroaki; Takeuchi, Shoji

2012-01-01

This paper describes a method of generating three-dimensional (3D) cell-laden microstructures by applying the principle of origami folding technique and cell traction force (CTF). We harness the CTF as a biological driving force to fold the microstructures. Cells stretch and adhere across multiple microplates. Upon detaching the microplates from a substrate, CTF causes the plates to lift and fold according to a prescribed pattern. This self-folding technique using cells is highly biocompatible and does not involve special material requirements for the microplates and hinges to induce folding. We successfully produced various 3D cell-laden microstructures by just changing the geometry of the patterned 2D plates. We also achieved mass-production of the 3D cell-laden microstructures without causing damage to the cells. We believe that our methods will be useful for biotechnology applications that require analysis of cells in 3D configurations and for self-assembly of cell-based micro-medical devices.

Testing device subjects elastic materials to biaxial deformations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Becker, G. W.

1965-01-01

Testing device stretches elastic materials biaxially over large deformation ranges and varies strain ratios in two perpendicular directions. The device is used in conjunction with a tensile testing machine, which holds the specimen and permits control over the direction and magnitude of the stresses applied.

The TopClosure® 3S System, for skin stretching and a secure wound closure.

PubMed

Topaz, Moris; Carmel, Narin-Nard; Silberman, Adi; Li, Ming Sen; Li, Yong Zhong

2012-07-01

The principle of stretching wound margins for primary wound closure is commonly practiced and used for various skin defects, leading at times to excessive tension and complications during wound closure. Different surgical techniques, skin stretching devices and tissue expanders have been utilized to address this issue. Previously designed skin stretching devices resulted in considerable morbidity. They were invasive by nature and associated with relatively high localized tissue pressure, frequently leading to necrosis, damage and tearing of skin at the wound margins. To assess the clinical effectiveness and performance and, to determine the safety of TopClosure® for gradual, controlled, temporary, noninvasive and invasive applications for skin stretching and secure wound closing, the TopClosure® device was applied to 20 patients for preoperative skin lesion removal and to secure closure of a variety of wound sizes. TopClosure® was reinforced with adhesives, staples and/or surgical sutures, depending on the circumstances of the wound and the surgeon's judgment. TopClosure® was used prior to, during and/or after surgery to reduce tension across wound edges. No significant complications or adverse events were associated with its use. TopClosure® was effectively used for preoperative skin expansion in preparation for dermal resection (e.g., congenital nevi). It aided closure of large wounds involving significant loss of skin and soft tissue by mobilizing skin and subcutaneous tissue, thus avoiding the need for skin grafts or flaps. Following surgery, it was used to secure closure of wounds under tension, thus improving wound aesthetics. A sample case study will be presented. We designed TopClosure®, an innovative device, to modify the currently practiced concept of wound closure by applying minimal stress to the skin, away from damaged wound edges, with flexible force vectors and versatile methods of attachment to the skin, in a noninvasive or invasive manner.

Cyclic stretching of soft substrates induces spreading and growth

PubMed Central

Cui, Yidan; Hameed, Feroz M.; Yang, Bo; Lee, Kyunghee; Pan, Catherine Qiurong; Park, Sungsu; Sheetz, Michael

2015-01-01

In the body, soft tissues often undergo cycles of stretching and relaxation that may affect cell behaviour without changing matrix rigidity. To determine whether transient forces can substitute for a rigid matrix, we stretched soft pillar arrays. Surprisingly, 1–5% cyclic stretching over a frequency range of 0.01–10 Hz caused spreading and stress fibre formation (optimum 0.1 Hz) that persisted after 4 h of stretching. Similarly, stretching increased cell growth rates on soft pillars comparative to rigid substrates. Of possible factors linked to fibroblast growth, MRTF-A (myocardin-related transcription factor-A) moved to the nucleus in 2 h of cyclic stretching and reversed on cessation; but YAP (Yes-associated protein) moved much later. Knockdown of either MRTF-A or YAP blocked stretch-dependent growth. Thus, we suggest that the repeated pulling from a soft matrix can substitute for a stiff matrix in stimulating spreading, stress fibre formation and growth. PMID:25704457

The influence of mechanical stretching on mitosis, growth, and adipose conversion in adipocyte cultures.

PubMed

Shoham, Naama; Gefen, Amit

2012-09-01

The mechanotransduction of adipocytes is not well characterized in the literature. In this study, we employ stochastic modeling fitted to experiments for characterizing the influence of mechanical stretching delivered to adipocyte monolayers on the probabilities of commitment to the adipocyte lineage, mitosis, and growth after mitosis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. We found that the probability of a cell to become committed to the adipocyte lineage in a single division when cultured on an elastic substrate was 0.025, which was indistinguishable between cultures that were radially stretched (to 12% strain) and control cultures. The probability of undergoing mitosis however was different between the groups, being 0.4 in the stretched cultures and 0.6 in the controls. The probability of growing after mitosis was affected by the stretching as well and was 0.9 and 0.8 in the stretched and control groups, respectively. We conclude that static stretching of the substrate of adipocyte cultures influences the mitotic potential of the cells as well as the growth potential post-mitosis. The present work provides better understanding of the mechanotransduction of adipocytes and in particular quantify how stretching influences the likelihood of cell proliferation and differentiation and, consequently, adipogenesis in the adipocyte cultures.

Stretching human mesenchymal stromal cells on stiffness-customized collagen type I generates a smooth muscle marker profile without growth factor addition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rothdiener, Miriam; Hegemann, Miriam; Uynuk-Ool, Tatiana; Walters, Brandan; Papugy, Piruntha; Nguyen, Phong; Claus, Valentin; Seeger, Tanja; Stoeckle, Ulrich; Boehme, Karen A.; Aicher, Wilhelm K.; Stegemann, Jan P.; Hart, Melanie L.; Kurz, Bodo; Klein, Gerd; Rolauffs, Bernd

2016-10-01

Using matrix elasticity and cyclic stretch have been investigated for inducing mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) differentiation towards the smooth muscle cell (SMC) lineage but not in combination. We hypothesized that combining lineage-specific stiffness with cyclic stretch would result in a significantly increased expression of SMC markers, compared to non-stretched controls. First, we generated dense collagen type I sheets by mechanically compressing collagen hydrogels. Atomic force microscopy revealed a nanoscale stiffness range known to support myogenic differentiation. Further characterization revealed viscoelasticity and stable biomechanical properties under cyclic stretch with >99% viable adherent human MSC. MSCs on collagen sheets demonstrated a significantly increased mRNA but not protein expression of SMC markers, compared to on culture flasks. However, cyclic stretch of MSCs on collagen sheets significantly increased both mRNA and protein expression of α-smooth muscle actin, transgelin, and calponin versus plastic and non-stretched sheets. Thus, lineage-specific stiffness and cyclic stretch can be applied together for inducing MSC differentiation towards SMCs without the addition of recombinant growth factors or other soluble factors. This represents a novel stimulation method for modulating the phenotype of MSCs towards SMCs that could easily be incorporated into currently available methodologies to obtain a more targeted control of MSC phenotype.

Optofluidic time-stretch microscopy: recent advances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Cheng; Nitta, Nao; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2018-06-01

Flow cytometry is an indispensable method for valuable applications in numerous fields such as immunology, pathology, pharmacology, molecular biology, and marine biology. Optofluidic time-stretch microscopy is superior to conventional flow cytometry methods for its capability to acquire high-quality images of single cells at a high-throughput exceeding 10,000 cells per second. This makes it possible to extract copious information from cellular images for accurate cell detection and analysis with the assistance of machine learning. Optofluidic time-stretch microscopy has proven its effectivity in various applications, including microalga-based biofuel production, evaluation of thrombotic disorders, as well as drug screening and discovery. In this review, we discuss the principles and recent advances of optofluidic time-stretch microscopy.

Optofluidic time-stretch microscopy: recent advances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Cheng; Nitta, Nao; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2018-04-01

Flow cytometry is an indispensable method for valuable applications in numerous fields such as immunology, pathology, pharmacology, molecular biology, and marine biology. Optofluidic time-stretch microscopy is superior to conventional flow cytometry methods for its capability to acquire high-quality images of single cells at a high-throughput exceeding 10,000 cells per second. This makes it possible to extract copious information from cellular images for accurate cell detection and analysis with the assistance of machine learning. Optofluidic time-stretch microscopy has proven its effectivity in various applications, including microalga-based biofuel production, evaluation of thrombotic disorders, as well as drug screening and discovery. In this review, we discuss the principles and recent advances of optofluidic time-stretch microscopy.

Methods and devices for fabricating and assembling printable semiconductor elements

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

Nuzzo, Ralph G.; Rogers, John A.; Menard, Etienne

The invention provides methods and devices for fabricating printable semiconductor elements and assembling printable semiconductor elements onto substrate surfaces. Methods, devices and device components of the present invention are capable of generating a wide range of flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices and arrays of devices on substrates comprising polymeric materials. The present invention also provides stretchable semiconductor structures and stretchable electronic devices capable of good performance in stretched configurations.

Methods and devices for fabricating and assembling printable semiconductor elements

DOEpatents

Nuzzo, Ralph G; Rogers, John A; Menard, Etienne; Lee, Keon Jae; Khang, Dahl-Young; Sun, Yugang; Meitl, Matthew; Zhu, Zhengtao

2014-03-04

The invention provides methods and devices for fabricating printable semiconductor elements and assembling printable semiconductor elements onto substrate surfaces. Methods, devices and device components of the present invention are capable of generating a wide range of flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices and arrays of devices on substrates comprising polymeric materials. The present invention also provides stretchable semiconductor structures and stretchable electronic devices capable of good performance in stretched configurations.

bullwinkle and shark regulate dorsal-appendage morphogenesis in Drosophila oogenesis.

PubMed

Tran, David H; Berg, Celeste A

2003-12-01

bullwinkle (bwk) regulates embryonic anteroposterior patterning and, through a novel germline-to-soma signal, morphogenesis of the eggshell dorsal appendages. We screened for dominant modifiers of the bullwinkle mooseantler eggshell phenotype and identified shark, which encodes an SH2-domain, ankyrin-repeat tyrosine kinase. At the onset of dorsal-appendage formation, shark is expressed in a punctate pattern in the squamous stretch cells overlying the nurse cells. Confocal microscopy with cell-type-specific markers demonstrates that the stretch cells act as a substrate for the migrating dorsal-appendage-forming cells and extend cellular projections towards them. Mosaic analyses reveal that shark is required in follicle cells for cell migration and chorion deposition. Proper shark RNA expression in the stretch cells requires bwk activity, while restoration of shark expression in the stretch cells suppresses the bwk dorsal-appendage phenotype. These results suggest that shark plays an important downstream role in the bwk-signaling pathway. Candidate testing implicates Src42A in a similar role, suggesting conservation with a vertebrate signaling pathway involving non-receptor tyrosine kinases.

mTOR-INDEPENDENT INDUCTION OF AUTOPHAGY IN TRABECULAR MESHWORK CELLS SUBJECTED TO BIAXIAL STRETCH

PubMed Central

Porter, Kristine M.; Jeyabalan, Nallathambi; Liton, Paloma B.

2014-01-01

The trabecular meshwork (TM) is part of a complex tissue that controls the exit of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye, and therefore helps maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP). Because of variations in IOP with changing pressure gradients and fluid movement, the TM and its contained cells undergo morphological deformations, resulting in distention and stretching. It is therefore essential for TM cells to continuously detect and respond to these mechanical forces and adapt their physiology to maintain proper cellular function and protect against mechanical injury. Here we demonstrate the activation of autophagy, a pro-survival pathway responsible for the degradation of long-lived proteins and organelles, in TM cells when subjected to biaxial static stretch (20 % elongation), as well as in high-pressure perfused eyes (30 mm Hg). Morphological and biochemical markers for autophagy found in the stretched cells include elevated LC3-II levels, increased autophagic flux, and the presence of autophagic figures in electron micrographs. Furthermore, our results indicate that the stretch-induced autophagy in TM cells occurs in an MTOR- and BAG3-independent manner. We hypothesize that activation of autophagy is part of the physiological response that allows TM cells to cope and adapt to mechanical forces. PMID:24583119

Hydraulic fracture during epithelial stretching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casares, Laura; Vincent, Romaric; Zalvidea, Dobryna; Campillo, Noelia; Navajas, Daniel; Arroyo, Marino; Trepat, Xavier

2015-03-01

The origin of fracture in epithelial cell sheets subject to stretch is commonly attributed to excess tension in the cells’ cytoskeleton, in the plasma membrane, or in cell-cell contacts. Here, we demonstrate that for a variety of synthetic and physiological hydrogel substrates the formation of epithelial cracks is caused by tissue stretching independently of epithelial tension. We show that the origin of the cracks is hydraulic; they result from a transient pressure build-up in the substrate during stretch and compression manoeuvres. After pressure equilibration, cracks heal readily through actomyosin-dependent mechanisms. The observed phenomenology is captured by the theory of poroelasticity, which predicts the size and healing dynamics of epithelial cracks as a function of the stiffness, geometry and composition of the hydrogel substrate. Our findings demonstrate that epithelial integrity is determined in a tension-independent manner by the coupling between tissue stretching and matrix hydraulics.

Hydraulic fracture during epithelial stretching

PubMed Central

Casares, Laura; Vincent, Romaric; Zalvidea, Dobryna; Campillo, Noelia; Navajas, Daniel; Arroyo, Marino; Trepat, Xavier

2015-01-01

The origin of fracture in epithelial cell sheets subject to stretch is commonly attributed to excess tension in the cells’ cytoskeleton, in the plasma membrane, or in cell-cell contacts. Here we demonstrate that for a variety of synthetic and physiological hydrogel substrates the formation of epithelial cracks is caused by tissue stretching independently of epithelial tension. We show that the origin of the cracks is hydraulic; they result from a transient pressure build-up in the substrate during stretch and compression maneuvers. After pressure equilibration cracks heal readily through actomyosin-dependent mechanisms. The observed phenomenology is captured by the theory of poroelasticity, which predicts the size and healing dynamics of epithelial cracks as a function of the stiffness, geometry and composition of the hydrogel substrate. Our findings demonstrate that epithelial integrity is determined in a tension-independent manner by the coupling between tissue stretching and matrix hydraulics. PMID:25664452

A Study of Parameters Affecting Fibroblast Morphology in Response to an Applied Mechanical Force

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grymes, Rosalind A.; Sawyer, Christine

1994-01-01

A precisely controlled stretch/relaxation regimen (20% elongation at 6.6 cycles/min) was applied to normal human fetal, neonatal and aged dermal fibroblasts cultured on flexible membranes. Culture conditions included poly (NH2) or collagen type I coated substrate membranes; control cultures were grown on the same pliable material in the absence of applied stretch. Direct observation and immunofluorescence analyses revealed a progressive change in cell body orientation limited to the stretched dermal fibroblast cultures. Monolayers gradually (over 4 days) acquired a symmetric, radial distribution equivalent to the biaxial array of the applied force. At high seeding density, alignment was inhibited in the fetal cell cultures. This cell strain required collagen type I coating for optimal attachment to the flexible membrane, preferring growth in three-dimensional cell 'balls' on the poly(NH2) coated substrate. Neonatal cells also required the collagen type I coating, but both neonatal and aged dermal fibroblasts aligned efficiently at all seeding densities examined. The randomly oriented neonatal cells on the unstretched control membranes spontaneously detached at confluence, as a single cell sheet. Their aligned counterparts did not detach until the applied stretch stimulus was removed. Low concentrations of cytochalasin D (62.5 ng/ml) disrupted the stretch-related alignment response. Rhodamine phalloidin staining visualized fewer actin stress fibers in stretched, aligned cells than in controls. Both intercellular interactions and cytoskeletal integrity mediate the response to mechanical strain. Normal rabbit corneal stroma fibroblasts (NRC) were also analyzed, and failed to orient under these conditions. This cell type may require a different regimen, or a longer time period, to demonstrate alignment behavior. Supported by NASA Space Biology RTOP 199-40-22 and the NASA-ARC Director's Discretionary Fund.

Decoupling the effect of shear stress and stretch on tissue growth & remodeling in a vascular graft.

PubMed

van Haaften, Eline E; Wissing, Tamar B; Rutten, Marcel; Bulsink, Jurgen A; Gashi, Kujtim; van Kelle, Mathieu A J; Smits, Anthal; Bouten, Carlijn; Kurniawan, Nicholas A

2018-06-07

The success of cardiovascular tissue engineering strategies largely depends on the mechanical environment in which cells develop a neo-tissue via growth and remodeling processes. This mechanical environment is defined by the local scaffold architecture to which cells adhere, i.e., the micro-environment, and by external mechanical cues to which cells respond, i.e., hemodynamic loading. The hemodynamic environment of early-developing blood vessels consists of both shear stress (due to blood flow) and circumferential stretch (due to blood pressure). Experimental platforms that recapitulate this mechanical environment in a controlled and tunable manner are thus critical for investigating cardiovascular tissue engineering. In traditional perfusion bioreactors, however, shear stress and stretch are coupled, hampering a clear delineation of their effects on cell and tissue response. Here, we uniquely designed a bioreactor that independently combines these two types of mechanical cues in eight parallel vascular grafts. The system is computationally and experimentally validated, through finite element analysis and culture of tissue constructs respectively, to distinguish various levels of shear stress (up to 5 Pa) and cyclic stretch (up to 1.10). To illustrate the usefulness of the system, we investigated the relative contribution of cyclic stretch (1.05 at 0.5 Hz) and shear stress (1 Pa) to tissue development. Both types of hemodynamic loading contributed to cell alignment, but the contribution of shear stress overruled stretch-induced cell proliferation and matrix (i.e., collagen and glycosaminoglycan) production. At a macroscopic level, cyclic stretching led to the most linear stress-stretch response, which was not related to the presence of shear stress. In conclusion, we have developed a bioreactor that is particularly suited to further unravel the interplay between hemodynamics and in situ tissue engineering processes. Using the new system, the present work highlights the importance of hemodynamic loading to the study of developing vascular tissues.

Optomechanical properties of cancer cells revealed by light-induced deformation and quantitative phase microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Budde, Björn; Isbach, Michael; Rommel, Christina; Kemper, Björn; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2015-05-01

There is a growing interest in cell biology and clinical diagnostics in label-free, optical techniques as the interaction with the sample is minimized and substances like dyes or fixatives do not affect the investigated cells. Such techniques include digital holographic microscopy (DHM) and the optical stretching by fiber optical two beam traps. DHM enables quantitative phase contrast imaging and thereby the determination of the cellular refractive index, dry mass and the volume, whereas optical cell stretching reveals the deformability of cells. Since optical stretching strongly depends on the optical properties and the shape of the investigated material we combined the usage of fiber optical stretching and DHM for the characterization of pancreatic tumor cells. The risk of tumors is their potential to metastasize, spread through the bloodstream and build distal tumors/metastases. The grade of dedifferentiation in which the cells lose their cell type specific properties is a measure for this metastatic potential. The less differentiated the cells are, the higher is their risk to metastasize. Our results demonstrate that pancreatic tumor cells, which are from the same tumor but vary in their grade of differentiation, show significant differences in their deformability. The retrieved data show that differentiated cells have a higher stiffness than less differentiated cells of the same tumor. Even cells that differ only in the expression of a single tumor suppressor gene which is responsible for cell-cell adhesions can be distinguished by their mechanical properties. Additionally, results from DHM measurements yield that the refractive index shows only few variations, indicating that it does not significantly influence optical cell stretching. The obtained results show a promising new approach for the phenotyping of different cell types, especially in tumor cell characterization and cancer diagnostics.

Loss of the Mechanotransducer Zyxin Promotes a Synthetic Phenotype of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

PubMed Central

Ghosh, Subhajit; Kollar, Branislav; Nahar, Taslima; Suresh Babu, Sahana; Wojtowicz, Agnieszka; Sticht, Carsten; Gretz, Norbert; Wagner, Andreas H; Korff, Thomas; Hecker, Markus

2015-01-01

Background Exposure of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) to excessive cyclic stretch such as in hypertension causes a shift in their phenotype. The focal adhesion protein zyxin can transduce such biomechanical stimuli to the nucleus of both endothelial cells and VSMCs, albeit with different thresholds and kinetics. However, there is no distinct vascular phenotype in young zyxin-deficient mice, possibly due to functional redundancy among other gene products belonging to the zyxin family. Analyzing zyxin function in VSMCs at the cellular level might thus offer a better mechanistic insight. We aimed to characterize zyxin-dependent changes in gene expression in VSMCs exposed to biomechanical stretch and define the functional role of zyxin in controlling the resultant VSMC phenotype. Methods and Results DNA microarray analysis was used to identify genes and pathways that were zyxin regulated in static and stretched human umbilical artery–derived and mouse aortic VSMCs. Zyxin-null VSMCs showed a remarkable shift to a growth-promoting, less apoptotic, promigratory and poorly contractile phenotype with ≈90% of the stretch-responsive genes being zyxin dependent. Interestingly, zyxin-null cells already seemed primed for such a synthetic phenotype, with mechanical stretch further accentuating it. This could be accounted for by higher RhoA activity and myocardin-related transcription factor-A mainly localized to the nucleus of zyxin-null VSMCs, and a condensed and localized accumulation of F-actin upon stretch. Conclusions At the cellular level, zyxin is a key regulator of stretch-induced gene expression. Loss of zyxin drives VSMCs toward a synthetic phenotype, a process further consolidated by exaggerated stretch. PMID:26071033

Alteration of human umbilical vein endothelial cell gene expression in different biomechanical environments.

PubMed

Shoajei, Shahrokh; Tafazzoli-Shahdpour, Mohammad; Shokrgozar, Mohammad Ali; Haghighipour, Nooshin

2014-05-01

Biomechanical environments affect the function of cells. In this study we analysed the effects of five mechanical stimuli on the gene expression of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in mRNA level using real-time PCR. The following loading regimes were applied on HUVECs for 48 h: intermittent (0-5 dyn/cm(2) , 1 Hz) and uniform (5 dyn/cm(2) ) shear stresses concomitant by 10% intermittent equiaxial stretch (1 Hz), uniform shear stress alone (5 dyn/cm(2) ), and intermittent uniaxial and equiaxial stretches (10%, 1 Hz). A new bioreactor was made to apply uniform/cyclic shear and tensile loadings. Three endothelial suggestive specific genes (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2, also known as FLK-1), von Willebrand Factor (vWF) and vascular endothelial-cadherin (VE-cadherin)), and two smooth muscle genes (α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SMMHC)) were chosen for assessment of alteration in gene expression of endothelial cells and transdifferentiation toward smooth cells following load applications. Shear stress alone enhanced the endothelial gene expression significantly, while stretching alone was identified as a transdifferentiating factor. Cyclic equiaxial stretch contributed less to elevation of smooth muscle genes compared to uniaxial stretch. Cyclic shear stress in comparison to uniform shear stress concurrent with cyclic stretch was more influential on promotion of endothelial genes expression. Influence of different mechanical stimuli on gene expression may open a wider horizon to regulate functions of cell for tissue engineering purposes. © 2013 International Federation for Cell Biology.

Mechanical Stretching Promotes Skin Tissue Regeneration via Enhancing Mesenchymal Stem Cell Homing and Transdifferentiation.

PubMed

Liang, Xiao; Huang, Xiaolu; Zhou, Yiwen; Jin, Rui; Li, Qingfeng

2016-07-01

Skin tissue expansion is a clinical procedure for skin regeneration to reconstruct cutaneous defects that can be accompanied by severe complications. The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been proven effective in promoting skin expansion and helping to ameliorate complications; however, systematic understanding of its mechanism remains unclear. MSCs from luciferase-Tg Lewis rats were intravenously transplanted into a rat tissue expansion model to identify homing and transdifferentiation. To clarify underlying mechanisms, a systematic approach was used to identify the differentially expressed genes between mechanically stretched human MSCs and controls. The biological significance of these changes was analyzed through bioinformatic methods. We further investigated genes and pathways of interest to disclose their potential role in mechanical stretching-induced skin regeneration. Cross sections of skin samples from the expanded group showed significantly more luciferase(+) and stromal cell-derived factor 1α (SDF-1α)(+), luciferase(+)keratin 14(+), and luciferase(+)CD31(+) cells than the control group, indicating MSC transdifferentiation into epidermal basal cells and endothelial cells after SDF-1α-mediated homing. Microarray analysis suggested upregulation of genes related to hypoxia, vascularization, and cell proliferation in the stretched human MSCs. Further investigation showed that the homing of MSCs was blocked by short interfering RNA targeted against matrix metalloproteinase 2, and that mechanical stretching-induced vascular endothelial growth factor A upregulation was related to the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (Jak-STAT) and Wnt signaling pathways. This study determines that mechanical stretching might promote skin regeneration by upregulating MSC expression of genes related to hypoxia, vascularization, and cell proliferation; enhancing transplanted MSC homing to the expanded skin; and transdifferentiation into epidermal basal cells and endothelial cells. Skin tissue expansion is a clinical procedure for skin regeneration to cover cutaneous defects that can be accompanied by severe complications. The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been proven effective in promoting skin expansion and ameliorating complications. This study, which sought to provide a systematic understanding of the mechanism, determined that mechanical stretching could upregulate MSC expression of genes related to hypoxia, vascularization, and cell proliferation; enhance transplanted MSC homing to the expanded skin tissue; and promote their transdifferentiation into epidermal basal cells and endothelial cells. ©AlphaMed Press.

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

Wang, Yimeng; Zhang, Xinping, E-mail: Zhangxinping@bjut.edu.cn; Zhang, Jian

We investigate stretching-induced microscopic deformations spatially distributed in a flexible plate of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and their applications in the broadening of the output spectrum of a femtosecond optical parametric oscillator. The hologram of the stretched PDMS plate was used to evaluate indirectly the microscopic deformations. The experimental results show that these deformations exhibit weak scattering and diffraction of light and induce negligible cavity loss, ensuring practical applications of the PDMS plate as an intracavity device for lasers. In combination with the thickness reduction of the PDMS plate through stretching, the distributed deformations enable smooth tuning of the output spectrum.

Gel stretch method: a new method to measure constitutive properties of cardiac muscle cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zile, M. R.; Cowles, M. K.; Buckley, J. M.; Richardson, K.; Cowles, B. A.; Baicu, C. F.; Cooper G, I. V.; Gharpuray, V.

1998-01-01

Diastolic dysfunction is an important cause of congestive heart failure; however, the basic mechanisms causing diastolic congestive heart failure are not fully understood, especially the role of the cardiac muscle cell, or cardiocyte, in this process. Before the role of the cardiocyte in this pathophysiology can be defined, methods for measuring cardiocyte constitutive properties must be developed and validated. Thus this study was designed to evaluate a new method to characterize cardiocyte constitutive properties, the gel stretch method. Cardiocytes were isolated enzymatically from normal feline hearts and embedded in a 2% agarose gel containing HEPES-Krebs buffer and laminin. This gel was cast in a shape that allowed it to be placed in a stretching device. The ends of the gel were held between a movable roller and fixed plates that acted as mandibles. Distance between the right and left mandibles was increased using a stepper motor system. The force applied to the gel was measured by a force transducer. The resultant cardiocyte strain was determined by imaging the cells with a microscope, capturing the images with a CCD camera, and measuring cardiocyte and sarcomere length changes. Cardiocyte stress was characterized with a finite-element method. These measurements of cardiocyte stress and strain were used to determine cardiocyte stiffness. Two variables affecting cardiocyte stiffness were measured, the passive elastic spring and viscous damping. The passive spring was assessed by increasing the force on the gel at 1 g/min, modeling the resultant stress vs. strain relationship as an exponential [sigma = A/k(ekepsilon - 1)]. In normal cardiocytes, A = 23.0 kN/m2 and k = 16. Viscous damping was assessed by examining the loop area between the stress vs. strain relationship during 1 g/min increases and decreases in force. Normal cardiocytes had a finite loop area = 1.39 kN/m2, indicating the presence of viscous damping. Thus the gel stretch method provided accurate measurements of cardiocyte constitutive properties. These measurements have allowed the first quantitative assessment of passive elastic spring properties and viscous damping in normal mammalian cardiocytes.

NMR of (133)Cs(+) in stretched hydrogels: One-dimensional, z- and NOESY spectra, and probing the ion's environment in erythrocytes.

PubMed

Kuchel, Philip W; Shishmarev, Dmitry; Puckeridge, Max; Levitt, Malcolm H; Naumann, Christoph; Chapman, Bogdan E

2015-12-01

(133)Cs nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was conducted on (133)Cs(+) in gelatin hydrogels that were either relaxed or stretched. Stretching generated a septet from this spin-7/2 nucleus, and its nuclear magnetic relaxation was studied via z-spectra, and two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser (NOESY) spectroscopy. Various spectral features were well simulated by using Mathematica and the software package SpinDynamica. Spectra of CsCl in suspensions of human erythrocytes embedded in gelatin gel showed separation of the resonances from the cation inside and outside the cells. Upon stretching the sample, the extracellular (133)Cs(+) signal split into a septet, while the intracellular peak was unchanged, revealing different alignment/ordering properties of the environment inside and around the cells. Differential interference contrast light microscopy confirmed that the cells were stretched when the overall sample was elongated. Analysis of the various spectral features of (133)Cs(+) reported here opens up applications of this K(+) congener for studies of cation-handling by metabolically-active cells and tissues in aligned states. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The stretch responsive microRNA miR-148a-3p is a novel repressor of IKBKB, NF-κB signaling, and inflammatory gene expression in human aortic valve cells

PubMed Central

Patel, Vishal; Carrion, Katrina; Hollands, Andrew; Hinton, Andrew; Gallegos, Thomas; Dyo, Jeffrey; Sasik, Roman; Leire, Emma; Hardiman, Gary; Mohamed, Salah A.; Nigam, Sanjay; King, Charles C.; Nizet, Victor; Nigam, Vishal

2015-01-01

Bicuspid aortic valves calcify at a significantly higher rate than normal aortic valves, a process that involves increased inflammation. Because we have previously found that bicuspid aortic valve experience greater stretch, we investigated the potential connection between stretch and inflammation in human aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs). Microarray, quantitative PCR (qPCR), and protein assays performed on AVICs exposed to cyclic stretch showed that stretch was sufficient to increase expression of interleukin and metalloproteinase family members by more than 1.5-fold. Conditioned medium from stretched AVICs was sufficient to activate leukocytes. microRNA sequencing and qPCR experiments demonstrated that miR-148a-3p was repressed in both stretched AVICs (43% repression) and, as a clinical correlate, human bicuspid aortic valves (63% reduction). miR-148a-3p was found to be a novel repressor of IKBKB based on data from qPCR, luciferase, and Western blot experiments. Furthermore, increasing miR-148a-3p levels in AVICs was sufficient to decrease NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) signaling and NF-κB target gene expression. Our data demonstrate that stretch-mediated activation of inflammatory pathways is at least partly the result of stretch-repression of miR-148a-3p and a consequent failure to repress IKBKB. To our knowledge, we are the first to report that cyclic stretch of human AVICs activates inflammatory genes in a tissue-autonomous manner via a microRNA that regulates a central inflammatory pathway.—Patel, V., Carrion, K., Hollands, A., Hinton, A., Gallegos, T., Dyo, J., Sasik, R., Leire, E., Hardiman, G., Mohamed, S. A., Nigam, S., King, C. C., Nizet, V., Nigam V. The stretch responsive microRNA miR-148a-3p is a novel repressor of IKBKB, NF-κB signaling, and inflammatory gene expression in human aortic valve cells. PMID:25630970

Impact of mechanical stretch on the cell behaviors of bone and surrounding tissues

PubMed Central

Yu, Hye-Sun; Kim, Jung-Ju; Kim, Hae-Won; Lewis, Mark P; Wall, Ivan

2016-01-01

Mechanical loading is recognized to play an important role in regulating the behaviors of cells in bone and surrounding tissues in vivo. Many in vitro studies have been conducted to determine the effects of mechanical loading on individual cell types of the tissues. In this review, we focus specifically on the use of the Flexercell system as a tool for studying cellular responses to mechanical stretch. We assess the literature describing the impact of mechanical stretch on different cell types from bone, muscle, tendon, ligament, and cartilage, describing individual cell phenotype responses. In addition, we review evidence regarding the mechanotransduction pathways that are activated to potentiate these phenotype responses in different cell populations. PMID:26977284

Raman Investigation of Temperature Profiles of Phospholipid Dispersions in the Biochemistry Laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Craig, Norman C.

2015-06-01

The temperature dependence of self-assembled, cell-like dispersions of phospholipids is investigated with Raman spectroscopy in the biochemistry laboratory. Vibrational modes in the hydrocarbon interiors of phospholipid bilayers are strongly Raman active, whereas the vibrations of the polar head groups and the water matrix have little Raman activity. From Raman spectra increases in fluidity of the hydrocarbon chains can be monitored with intensity changes as a function of temperature in the CH-stretching region. The experiment uses detection of scattered 1064-nm laser light (Nicolet NXR module) by a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (Nicolet 6700). A thermoelectric heater-cooler device (Melcor) gives convenient temperature control from 5 to 95°C for samples in melting point capillaries. Use of deuterium oxide instead of water as the matrix avoids some absorption of the exciting laser light and interference with intensity observations in the CH-stretching region. Phospholipids studied range from dimyristoylphosphotidyl choline (C14, transition T = 24°C) to dibehenoylphosphotidyl choline (C22, transition T = 74°C).

Cyclical cell stretching of skin-derived fibroblasts downregulates connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) production.

PubMed

Kanazawa, Yuichiro; Nomura, Jun; Yoshimoto, Shinya; Suzuki, Toshikazu; Kita, Kazuko; Suzuki, Nobuo; Ichinose, Masaharu

2009-01-01

Delayed healing of skin wounds can be caused by wound instability, whereas appropriate massage or exercise prevents sclerosis and scar contracture. However, the mechanism by which wound healing is related to mechanical stress has not been fully elucidated. The present study aimed to identify whether mechanical stretching of fibroblasts reduces their production of extracellular matrix. We transferred skin fibroblasts into collagen-coated elastic silicone chambers, cultured them on a stretching apparatus, and used RT-PCR to examine the effects of mechanical stretching on the expression levels of 17 genes related to extracellular matrix production and growth factor secretion. We found that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was downregulated after 24 hr of cell stretching. Specifically, the CTGF mRNA and protein levels were 50% and 48% of the control levels, respectively. These findings suggest that cyclic stretching of fibroblasts contributes to anti-fibrotic processes by reducing CTGF production.

Reduction of methanol crossover by thin cracked metal barriers at the interface between membrane and electrode in direct methanol fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Sungjun; Jang, Segeun; Kim, Sang Moon; Ahn, Chi-Yeong; Hwang, Wonchan; Cho, Yong-Hun; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Mansoo

2017-09-01

This work reports the successful reduction in methanol crossover by creating a thin cracked metal barrier at the interface between a Nafion® membrane and an electrode in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). The cracks are generated by simple mechanical stretching of a metal deposited Nafion® membrane as a result of the elastic mismatch between the two attached surfaces. The cracked metal barriers with varying strains (∼0.5 and ∼1.0) are investigated and successfully incorporated into the DMFC. Remarkably, the membrane electrode assembly with the thin metal crack exhibits comparable ohmic resistance as well as reduction of methanol crossover, which enhanced the device performance.

Physically-Induced Cytoskeleton Remodeling of Cells in Three-Dimensional Culture

PubMed Central

Lee, Sheng-Lin; Nekouzadeh, Ali; Butler, Boyd; Pryse, Kenneth M.; McConnaughey, William B.; Nathan, Adam C.; Legant, Wesley R.; Schaefer, Pascal M.; Pless, Robert B.

2012-01-01

Characterizing how cells in three-dimensional (3D) environments or natural tissues respond to biophysical stimuli is a longstanding challenge in biology and tissue engineering. We demonstrate a strategy to monitor morphological and mechanical responses of contractile fibroblasts in a 3D environment. Cells responded to stretch through specific, cell-wide mechanisms involving staged retraction and reinforcement. Retraction responses occurred for all orientations of stress fibers and cellular protrusions relative to the stretch direction, while reinforcement responses, including extension of cellular processes and stress fiber formation, occurred predominantly in the stretch direction. A previously unreported role of F-actin clumps was observed, with clumps possibly acting as F-actin reservoirs for retraction and reinforcement responses during stretch. Responses were consistent with a model of cellular sensitivity to local physical cues. These findings suggest mechanisms for global actin cytoskeleton remodeling in non-muscle cells and provide insight into cellular responses important in pathologies such as fibrosis and hypertension. PMID:23300512

Flexible and stretchable microbial fuel cells with modified conductive and hydrophilic textile.

PubMed

Pang, Sumiao; Gao, Yang; Choi, Seokheun

2018-02-15

We built a flexible, stretchable microbial fuel cell (MFC) by laminating two functional components: a bioanode textile with a conductive and hydrophilic polymer coating and a solid-state cathode textile loaded with silver oxide. The textile MFC used Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 as a biocatalyst to generate the maximum power and current density of 1.0µW/cm 2 and 6.3µA/cm 2 , respectively, which are comparable with or even higher than other flexible MFCs such as paper-based devices (~ a few µW/cm 2 ). Additionally, the textile MFC generated consistent power even with repeated 70 cycles of 50% stretching. A simple batch fabrication method simultaneously produced 20 individual 2cm × 2cm devices by using brushing, spraying, ironing, and computerized sewing, a process that will revolutionize the mass production of textile MFCs. This achievement is scientifically meaningful because developing textile MFCs requires integration of both electronic and fluidic components into the textile three-dimensionally. This flexible and stretchable energy harvesting device is expected to be easily integrated with the next generation stretchable electronics for realizing low-power, stand-alone, self-sustainable systems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Collagen and Stretch Modulate Autocrine Secretion of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 and Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Proteins from Differentiated Skeletal Muscle Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perrone, Carmen E.; Fenwick-Smith, Daniela; Vandenburgh, Herman H.

1995-01-01

Stretch-induced skeletal muscle growth may involve increased autocrine secretion of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) since IGF-1 is a potent growth factor for skeletal muscle hypertrophy, and stretch elevates IGF-1 mRNA levels in vivo. In tissue cultures of differentiated avian pectoralis skeletal muscle cells, nanomolar concentrations of exogenous IGF-1 stimulated growth in mechanically stretched but not static cultures. These cultures released up to 100 pg of endogenously produced IGF-1/micro-g of protein/day, as well as three major IGF binding proteins of 31, 36, and 43 kilodaltons (kDa). IGF-1 was secreted from both myofibers and fibroblasts coexisting in the muscle cultures. Repetitive stretch/relaxation of the differentiated skeletal muscle cells stimulated the acute release of IGF-1 during the first 4 h after initiating mechanical activity, but caused no increase in the long-term secretion over 24-72 h of IGF-1, or its binding proteins. Varying the intensity and frequency of stretch had no effect on the long-term efflux of IGF-1. In contrast to stretch, embedding the differentiated muscle cells in a three-dimensional collagen (Type I) matrix resulted in a 2-5-fold increase in long-term IGF-1 efflux over 24-72 h. Collagen also caused a 2-5-fold increase in the release of the IGF binding proteins. Thus, both the extracellular matrix protein type I collagen and stretch stimulate the autocrine secretion of IGF-1, but with different time kinetics. This endogenously produced growth factor may be important for the growth response of skeletal myofibers to both types of external stimuli.

Role of stretch reflex in voluntary movements. [of human foot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gottlieb, G. L.; Agarwal, G. C.

1975-01-01

The stretch reflex is often described as a spinal servomechanism, a device for assisting in the regulation of muscle length. Observation of the EMG response to mechanical interruption of voluntary movements fails to demonstrate a significant role for spinal reflexes at 40 msec latency. Two functional responses with latencies of 120 msec and 200 msec, implying supraspinal mediation, are observed.

Cyclic Mechanical Stretch Up-regulates Hepatoma-Derived Growth Factor Expression in Cultured Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells.

PubMed

Kao, Ying-Hsien; Chen, Po-Han; Sun, Cheuk-Kwan; Chang, Yo-Chen; Lin, Yu-Chun; Tsai, Ming-Shian; Lee, Po-Huang; Cheng, Cheng-I

2018-02-21

Hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF) is a potent mitogen for vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) during embryogenesis and injury repair of vessel walls. Whether mechanical stimuli modulate HDGF expression remains unknown. This study aimed at investigating whether cyclic mechanical stretch plays a regulatory role in HDGF expression and regenerative cytokine production in aortic SMCs. A SMC cell line was grown on a silicone-based elastomer chamber with extracellular matrix coatings (either type I collagen or fibronectin) and received cyclic and uni-axial mechanical stretches with 10% deformation at frequency 1 Hz. Morphological observation showed that fibronectin coating provided better cell adhesion and spreading and that consecutive 6 hours of cyclic mechanical stretch remarkably induced reorientation and realignment of SMCs. Western blotting detection demonstrated that continuous mechanical stimuli elicited up-regulation of HDGF and PCNA, a cell proliferative marker. Signal kinetic profiling study indicated that cyclic mechanical stretch induced signaling activity in RhoA/ROCK and PI3K/Akt cascades. Kinase inhibition study further showed that blockade of PI3K activity suppressed the stretch-induced TNF-a, whereas RhoA/ROCK inhibition significantly blunted the IL-6 production and HDGF over-expression. Moreover, siRNA-mediated HDGF gene silencing significantly suppressed constitutive expression of IL-6, but not TNF-α, in SMCs. These findings support the role of HDGF in maintaining vascular expression of IL-6, which has been regarded a crucial regenerative factor for acute vascular injury. In conclusion, cyclic mechanical stretch may maintain constitutive expression of HDGF in vascular walls and be regarded an important biophysical regulator in vascular regeneration. ©2018 The Author(s).

EASApprox® skin-stretching system: A secure and effective method to achieve wound closure.

PubMed

Song, Mingzhi; Zhang, Zhen; Liu, Tao; Liu, Song; Li, Gang; Liu, Zhaochang; Huang, Jingyang; Chen, Song; Li, Linan; Guo, Li; Qiu, Yang; Wan, Jiajia; Liu, Yuejian; Wu, Tao; Wang, Xiaoyong; Lu, Ming; Wang, Shouyu

2017-07-01

Large skin defects are commonly observed in the clinic and have attracted much attention recently. Therefore, finding an effective solution for large skin defects is a global problem. The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness of the EASApprox ® skin-stretching system for closing large skin defects. Skin defects (5×5 cm) were created on the forearms of 9 Bama miniature pigs, which were randomly divided into the following three groups: Direct suture, the new EASApprox ® skin-stretching device and Kirschner wires. Microcirculation was assessed before surgery and after wound closure. Following the different treatments, the defects were sutured, and wound healing was assessed based on a clinical score. Furthermore, microscopic and ultramicroscopic structures were evaluated, including collagen, elastic fibers and the microvessel density. Significant differences in the clinical score and microvessel density were observed among the groups. Additionally, the mean length obtained for elastic fibers was larger than that obtained for the other two groups. Finally, the new EASApprox ® skin-stretching device resulted in successful wound management and with only minor side effects on skin histology and microcirculation. Therefore, this method has the potential to be used for healing large skin defects.

Simulations of DNA stretching by flow field in microchannels with complex geometry.

PubMed

Huang, Chiou-De; Kang, Dun-Yen; Hsieh, Chih-Chen

2014-01-01

Recently, we have reported the experimental results of DNA stretching by flow field in three microchannels (C. H. Lee and C. C. Hsieh, Biomicrofluidics 7(1), 014109 (2013)) designed specifically for the purpose of preconditioning DNA conformation for easier stretching. The experimental results do not only demonstrate the superiority of the new devices but also provides detailed observation of DNA behavior in complex flow field that was not available before. In this study, we use Brownian dynamics-finite element method (BD-FEM) to simulate DNA behavior in these microchannels, and compare the results against the experiments. Although the hydrodynamic interaction (HI) between DNA segments and between DNA and the device boundaries was not included in the simulations, the simulation results are in fairly good agreement with the experimental data from either the aspect of the single molecule behavior or from the aspect of ensemble averaged properties. The discrepancy between the simulation and the experimental results can be explained by the neglect of HI effect in the simulations. Considering the huge savings on the computational cost from neglecting HI, we conclude that BD-FEM can be used as an efficient and economic designing tool for developing new microfluidic device for DNA manipulation.

Expression and proliferation profiles of PKC, JNK and p38MAPK in physiologically stretched human bladder smooth muscle cells

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

Wazir, Romel; Luo, De-Yi; Dai, Yi

2013-08-30

Highlights: •Stretch induces proliferation in human bladder smooth muscle cells (HBSMC). •5% Equibiaxial elongation produces maximum proliferation. •Physiologic stretch decreases apoptotic cell death. •PKC is involved in functional modulation of bladder. •JNK and p38 are not involved in proliferating HBSMC. -- Abstract: Objective: To determine protein kinase C (PKC), c-Jun NH2-Terminal Kinase (JNK) and P38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38MAPK) expression levels and effects of their respective inhibitors on proliferation of human bladder smooth muscle cells (HBSMCs) when physiologically stretched in vitro. Materials and methods: HBSMCs were grown on silicone membrane and stretch was applied under varying conditions; (equibiaxial elongation: 2.5%,more » 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%), (frequency: 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1 Hz). Optimal physiological stretch was established by assessing proliferation with 5-Bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) assay and flow cytometry. PKC, JNK and p38 expression levels were analyzed by Western blot. Specificity was maintained by employing specific inhibitors; (GF109203X for PKC, SP600125 for JNK and SB203580 for p38MAPK), in some experiments. Results: Optimum proliferation was observed at 5% equibiaxial stretch (BrdU: 0.837 ± 0.026 (control) to 1.462 ± 0.023)%, (P < 0.05) and apoptotic cell death rate decreased from 16.4 ± 0.21% (control) to 4.5 ± 0.13% (P < 0.05) applied at 0.1 Hz. Expression of PKC was upregulated with slight increase in JNK and no change in p38MAPK after application of stretch. Inhibition had effects on proliferation (1.075 ± 0.024, P < 0.05 GF109203X); (1.418 ± 0.021, P > 0.05 SP600125) and (1.461 ± 0.01, P > 0.05 SB203580). These findings show that mechanical stretch can promote magnitude-dependent proliferative modulation through PKC and possibly JNK but not via p38MAPK in hBSMCs.« less

Cell classification using big data analytics plus time stretch imaging (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jalali, Bahram; Chen, Claire L.; Mahjoubfar, Ata

2016-09-01

We show that blood cells can be classified with high accuracy and high throughput by combining machine learning with time stretch quantitative phase imaging. Our diagnostic system captures quantitative phase images in a flow microscope at millions of frames per second and extracts multiple biophysical features from individual cells including morphological characteristics, light absorption and scattering parameters, and protein concentration. These parameters form a hyperdimensional feature space in which supervised learning and cell classification is performed. We show binary classification of T-cells against colon cancer cells, as well classification of algae cell strains with high and low lipid content. The label-free screening averts the negative impact of staining reagents on cellular viability or cell signaling. The combination of time stretch machine vision and learning offers unprecedented cell analysis capabilities for cancer diagnostics, drug development and liquid biopsy for personalized genomics.

Cessation of cyclic stretch induces atrophy of C2C12 myotubes.

PubMed

Soltow, Quinlyn A; Zeanah, Elizabeth H; Lira, Vitor A; Criswell, David S

2013-05-03

Cyclic stretch of differentiated myotubes mimics the loading pattern of mature skeletal muscle. We tested a cell culture model of disuse atrophy by the cessation of repetitive bouts of cyclic stretch in differentiated C2C12 myotubes. Myotubes were subjected to cyclic strain (12%, 0.7 Hz, 1 h/d) on collagen-I-coated Bioflex plates using a computer-controlled vacuum stretch apparatus (Flexcell Int.) for 2 (2dSTR) or 5 (5dSTR) consecutive days. Control cultures were maintained in the Bioflex plates without cyclic stretch for 2d or 5d. Additionally, some cultures were stretched for 2 d followed by cessation of stretch for 3d (2dSTR3dCES). Cyclic stretching (5dSTR) increased myotube diameter and overall myotube area by ~2-fold (P<0.05) compared to non-stretched controls, while cessation of stretch (2dSTR3dCES) resulted in ~80% smaller myotubes than 5dSTR cells, and 40-50% smaller than non-stretched controls (P<0.05). Further, the calpain-dependent cleavage products of αII-spectrin (150 kDa) and talin increased (3.5-fold and 2.2-fold, respectively; P<0.05) in 2dSTR3dCES myotubes, compared to non-stretched controls. The 1h cyclic stretching protocol acutely increased the phosphorylation of Akt (+4.5-fold; P<0.05) and its downstream targets, FOXO3a (+4.2-fold; P<0.05) and GSK-3β (+1.8-fold; P<0.05), which returned to baseline by 48 h after cessation of stretch. Additionally, nitric oxide production increased during stretch and co-treatment with the NOS inhibitor, l-NAME, inhibited the effects of stretch and cessation of stretch. We conclude that cessation of cyclic stretching causes myotube atrophy by activating calpains and decreasing activation of Akt. Stretch-induced myotube growth, as well as activation of atrophy signaling with cessation of stretch, are dependent on NOS activity. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Intraglomerular pressure and mesangial stretching stimulate extracellular matrix formation in the rat.

PubMed Central

Riser, B L; Cortes, P; Zhao, X; Bernstein, J; Dumler, F; Narins, R G

1992-01-01

To define the interplay of glomerular hypertension and hypertrophy with mesangial extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, we examined the effects of glomerular capillary distention and mesangial cell stretching on ECM synthesis. The volume of microdissected rat glomeruli (Vg), perfused ex vivo at increasing flows, was quantified and related to the proximal intraglomerular pressure (PIP). Glomerular compliance, expressed as the slope of the positive linear relationship between PIP and Vg was 7.68 x 10(3) microns 3/mmHg. Total Vg increment (PIP 0-150 mmHg) was 1.162 x 10(6) microns 3 or 61% (n = 13). A 16% increase in Vg was obtained over the PIP range equivalent to the pathophysiological limits of mean transcapillary pressure difference. A similar effect of renal perfusion on Vg was also noted histologically in tissue from kidneys perfused/fixed in vivo. Cultured mesangial cells undergoing cyclic stretching increased their synthesis of protein, total collagen, and key components of ECM (collagen IV, collagen I, laminin, fibronectin). Synthetic rates were stimulated by cell growth and the degree of stretching. These results suggest that capillary expansion and stretching of mesangial cells by glomerular hypertension provokes increased ECM production which is accentuated by cell growth and glomerular hypertrophy. Mesangial expansion and glomerulosclerosis might result from this interplay of mechanical and metabolic forces. Images PMID:1430216

Stretching of red blood cells by optical tweezers quantified by digital holographic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardenas, Nelson; Yu, Lingfeng; Mohanty, Samarendra K.

2011-03-01

Red blood cells (RBC) possess unique viscoelastic characteristics which allow them to pass through capillaries narrower than their size. Measurement of viscoelastic property of cells (e.g. RBC) in low-force regime is of high significance as it represents conditions of membrane fluctuation in response to physiological conditions. Estimation of visco-elastic properties of RBC requires measurement of extent of deformation in RBC subjected to known force. Optical tweezers, being gentle and absolutely sterile, are emerging as the tool of choice for application of localized force on cells. However, stretching of RBC in very low force regime has not been quantified. Further, though deformations in transverse directions have been measured, vertical deformations due to stretching of cells cannot be quantified by classical microscopic images. Here, we report realization of offaxis digital holographic microscopy (DHM) for highly sensitive axial changes in RBC shape due to stretching by optical tweezers without attaching microscopic beads. The RBC was stretched in axial direction with nanometer precision by change of divergence of the trapping beam. The obtained deformation patterns were compared with the axial position of the tweezers focus. Since the pathophysiology of progression of diseases like malaria and cancer is reflected in the biophysical (both mechanical and material) properties of the cells, it is possible to identify the changes by simultaneous measurement of refractive index and elasticity using this approach.

A Novel Chip for Cyclic Stretch and Intermittent Hypoxia Cell Exposures Mimicking Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

PubMed

Campillo, Noelia; Jorba, Ignasi; Schaedel, Laura; Casals, Blai; Gozal, David; Farré, Ramon; Almendros, Isaac; Navajas, Daniel

2016-01-01

Intermittent hypoxia (IH), a hallmark of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of OSA-associated morbidities, especially in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Oxidative stress and inflammation induced by IH are suggested as main contributors of end-organ dysfunction in OSA patients and animal models. Since the molecular mechanisms underlying these in vivo pathological responses remain poorly understood, implementation of experimental in vitro cell-based systems capable of inducing high-frequency IH would be highly desirable. Here, we describe the design, fabrication, and validation of a versatile chip for subjecting cultured cells to fast changes in gas partial pressure and to cyclic stretch. The chip is fabricated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and consists of a cylindrical well-covered by a thin membrane. Cells cultured on top of the membrane can be subjected to fast changes in oxygen concentration (equilibrium time ~6 s). Moreover, cells can be subjected to cyclic stretch at cardiac or respiratory frequencies independently or simultaneously. Rat bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exposed to IH mimicking OSA and cyclic stretch at cardiac frequencies revealed that hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) expression was increased in response to both stimuli. Thus, the chip provides a versatile tool for the study of cellular responses to cyclical hypoxia and stretch.

The Effects of Combined Cyclic Stretch and Pressure on the Aortic Valve Interstitial Cell Phenotype

PubMed Central

Thayer, Patrick; Balachandran, Kartik; Rathan, Swetha; Yap, Choon Hwai; Arjunon, Sivakkumar; Jo, Hanjoong; Yoganathan, Ajit P.

2017-01-01

Aortic valve interstitial cells (VIC) can exhibit phenotypic characteristics of fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and smooth muscle cells. Others have proposed that valve cells become activated and exhibit myofibroblast or fibroblast characteristics during disease initiation and progression; however, the cues that modulate this phenotypic change remain unclear. We hypothesize that the mechanical forces experienced by the valve play a role in regulating the native phenotype of the valve and that altered mechanical forces result in an activated phenotype. Using a novel ex vivo cyclic stretch and pressure bioreactor, we subjected porcine aortic valve (AV) leaflets to combinations of normal and pathological stretch and pressure magnitudes. The myofibroblast markers α-SMA and Vimentin, along with the smooth muscle markers Calponin and Caldesmon, were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. Tissue structure was analyzed using Movat’s pentachrome staining. We report that pathological stretch and pressure inhibited the contractile and possibly myofibroblast phenotypes as indicated by downregulation of the proteins α-SMA, Vimentin, and Calponin. In particular, Calponin downregulation implies depolymerization of actin filaments and possible conversion to a more synthetic (non-contractile) phenotype. This agreed well with the increase in spongiosa and fibrosa thickness observed under elevated pressure and stretch that are typically indicative of increased matrix synthesis. Our study therefore demonstrates how cyclic stretch and pressure may possibly act together to modulate the AVIC phenotype. PMID:21347552

Navy Physical Conditioning Guide

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-03-30

walked, jogged in place, or performed calisthenic exercises like jumping jacks for 2-3 minutes; it is time to stretch. The static stretching exercises...manufacturer should be followed. 8 CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING The cardiovascular benefits of cross-country skiing have been well documented. Energy expenditure ...may also be used to strengthen the upper and lower body By increasing the resistance and repetition rates on this device, the energ, expenditure can be

Hyperglycemia Augments the Adipogenic Transdifferentiation Potential of Tenocytes and Is Alleviated by Cyclic Mechanical Stretch.

PubMed

Wu, Yu-Fu; Huang, Yu-Ting; Wang, Hsing-Kuo; Yao, Chung-Chen Jane; Sun, Jui-Sheng; Chao, Yuan-Hung

2017-12-28

Diabetes mellitus is associated with damage to tendons, which may result from cellular dysfunction in response to a hyperglycemic environment. Tenocytes express diminished levels of tendon-associated genes under hyperglycemic conditions. In contrast, mechanical stretch enhances tenogenic differentiation. However, whether hyperglycemia increases the non-tenogenic differentiation potential of tenocytes and whether this can be mitigated by mechanical stretch remains elusive. We explored the in vitro effects of high glucose and mechanical stretch on rat primary tenocytes. Specifically, non-tenogenic gene expression, adipogenic potential, cell migration rate, filamentous actin expression, and the activation of signaling pathways were analyzed in tenocytes treated with high glucose, followed by the presence or absence of mechanical stretch. We analyzed tenocyte phenotype in vivo by immunohistochemistry using an STZ (streptozotocin)-induced long-term diabetic mouse model. High glucose-treated tenocytes expressed higher levels of the adipogenic transcription factors PPAR γ and C/EBPs. PPARγ was also highly expressed in diabetic tendons. In addition, increased adipogenic differentiation and decreased cell migration induced by high glucose implicated a fibroblast-to-adipocyte phenotypic change. By applying mechanical stretch to tenocytes in high-glucose conditions, adipogenic differentiation was repressed, while cell motility was enhanced, and fibroblastic morphology and gene expression profiles were strengthened. In part, these effects resulted from a stretch-induced activation of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinases) and a concomitant inactivation of Akt. Our results show that mechanical stretch alleviates the augmented adipogenic transdifferentiation potential of high glucose-treated tenocytes and helps maintain their fibroblastic characteristics. The alterations induced by high glucose highlight possible pathological mechanisms for diabetic tendinopathy. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of mechanical stretch on tenocytes suggest that an appropriate physical load possesses therapeutic potential for diabetic tendinopathy.

Cyclic stretching force selectively up-regulates transforming growth factor-beta isoforms in cultured rat mesangial cells.

PubMed Central

Riser, B. L.; Cortes, P.; Heilig, C.; Grondin, J.; Ladson-Wofford, S.; Patterson, D.; Narins, R. G.

1996-01-01

Glomerular distention from increased intraglomerular pressure stretches mesangial cells (MCs). Stretching MCs in culture stimulates extracellular matrix accumulation, suggesting that this may be a mechanism for glomerular hypertension-associated glomerulosclerosis. We examined whether mechanical stretching serves as a stimulus for the synthesis and activation of the prosclerotic molecule transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, thus providing a potential system for auto-induction of extracellular matrix. Rat MCs cultured on flexible-bottom plates were subjected to cyclic stretching for up to 3 days and then assayed for TGF-beta mRNA, secretion of TGF-beta, and localization of active TGF-beta by immunostaining. MCs contained mRNA for all three mammalian isoforms of TGF-beta. Cyclic stretching for 36 hours increased TGF-beta1 and TGF-beta3 mRNA levels approximately twofold, without altering the levels of TGF-beta2 mRNA. This was followed at 48 to 72 hours by the increased secretion of both latent and active TGF-beta1. Latent, but not active, TGF-beta3 secretion also increased whereas the levels of TGF-beta2 were unaffected by mechanical force. The stretching force in this system is unequally distributed over the culture membrane. Localization of active TGF-beta by immunostaining demonstrated that the quantity of cell-associated cytokine across the culture was directly proportional to the zonal amplitude of the stretching force. These results demonstrate that stretching force stimulates MCs to selectively release and activate TGF-beta1. This mechanical induction of TGF-beta1 may help explain the increased extracellular matrix associated with intraglomerular hypertension. Images Figure 1 Figure 3 PMID:8669477

Stretch induced endothelin-1 secretion by adult rat astrocytes involves calcium influx via stretch-activated ion channels (SACs)

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

Ostrow, Lyle W., E-mail: lostrow1@jhmi.edu; Suchyna, Thomas M.; Sachs, Frederick

2011-06-24

Highlights: {yields} Endothelin-1 expression by adult rat astrocytes correlates with cell proliferation. {yields} Stretch-induced ET-1 is inhibited by GsMtx-4, a specific inhibitor of Ca{sup 2+} permeant SACs. {yields} The less specific SAC inhibitor streptomycin also inhibits ET-1 secretion. {yields} Stretch-induced ET-1 production depends on a calcium influx. {yields} SAC pharmacology may provide a new class of therapeutic agents for CNS pathology. -- Abstract: The expression of endothelins (ETs) and ET-receptors is often upregulated in brain pathology. ET-1, a potent vasoconstrictor, also inhibits the expression of astrocyte glutamate transporters and is mitogenic for astrocytes, glioma cells, neurons, and brain capillary endothelia.more » We have previously shown that mechanical stress stimulates ET-1 production by adult rat astrocytes. We now show in adult astrocytes that ET-1 production is driven by calcium influx through stretch-activated ion channels (SACs) and the ET-1 production correlates with cell proliferation. Mechanical stimulation using biaxial stretch (<20%) of a rubber substrate increased ET-1 secretion, and 4 {mu}M GsMTx-4 (a specific inhibitor of SACs) inhibited secretion by 30%. GsMTx-4 did not alter basal ET-1 levels in the absence of stretch. Decreasing the calcium influx by lowering extracellular calcium also inhibited stretch-induced ET-1 secretion without effecting ET-1 secretion in unstretched controls. Furthermore, inhibiting SACs with the less specific inhibitor streptomycin also inhibited stretch-induced ET-1 secretion. The data can be explained with a simple model in which ET-1 secretion depends on an internal Ca{sup 2+} threshold. This coupling of mechanical stress to the astrocyte endothelin system through SACs has treatment implications, since all pathology deforms the surrounding parenchyma.« less

Role of nesprin-1 in nuclear deformation in endothelial cells under static and uniaxial stretching conditions

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

Anno, Toshiro; Sakamoto, Naoya, E-mail: sakan@me.kawasaki-m.ac.jp; Sato, Masaaki

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nesprin-1 knockdown decreases widths of nuclei in ECs under static condition. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Nuclear strain caused by stretching is increased by nesprin-1 knockdown in ECs. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We model mechanical interactions of F-actin with the nucleus in stretched cells. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer F-actin bound to nesprin-1 may cause sustainable force transmission to the nucleus. -- Abstract: The linker of nucleus and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, including nesprin-1, has been suggested to be crucial for many biological processes. Previous studies have shown that mutations in nesprin-1 cause abnormal cellular functions and diseases, possibly because of insufficient force transmission to the nucleus through actin filamentsmore » (F-actin) bound to nesprin-1. However, little is known regarding the mechanical interaction between the nucleus and F-actin through nesprin-1. In this study, we examined nuclear deformation behavior in nesprin-1 knocked-down endothelial cells (ECs) subjected to uniaxial stretching by evaluating nuclear strain from lateral cross-sectional images. The widths of nuclei in nesprin-1 knocked-down ECs were smaller than those in wild-type cells. In addition, nuclear strain in nesprin-1 knocked-down cells, which is considered to be compressed by the actin cortical layer, increased compared with that in wild-type cells under stretching condition. These results indicate that nesprin-1 knockdown releases the nucleus from the tension of F-actin bound to the nucleus, thereby increasing allowance for deformation before stretching, and that F-actin bound to the nucleus through nesprin-1 causes sustainable force transmission to the nucleus.« less

Universal physical responses to stretch in the living cell

PubMed Central

Trepat, Xavier; Deng, Linhong; An, Steven S.; Navajas, Daniel; Tschumperlin, Daniel J.; Gerthoffer, William T.; Butler, James P.; Fredberg, Jeffrey J.

2008-01-01

With every beat of the heart, inflation of the lung or peristalsis of the gut, cell types of diverse function are subjected to substantial stretch. Stretch is a potent stimulus for growth, differentiation, migration, remodelling and gene expression1,2. Here, we report that in response to transient stretch the cytoskeleton fluidizes in such a way as to define a universal response class. This finding implicates mechanisms mediated not only by specific signalling intermediates, as is usually assumed, but also by non-specific actions of a slowly evolving network of physical forces. These results support the idea that the cell interior is at once a crowded chemical space3 and a fragile soft material in which the effects of biochemistry, molecular crowding and physical forces are complex and inseparable, yet conspire nonetheless to yield remarkably simple phenomenological laws. These laws seem to be both universal and primitive, and thus comprise a striking intersection between the worlds of cell biology and soft matter physics. PMID:17538621

Bidirectional optical switch based on electrowetting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chao; Li, Lei; Wang, Qiong-Hua

2013-05-01

In this paper, we demonstrate a bidirectional optical switch based on electrowetting. Four rectangular polymethyl methacrylate substrates are stacked to form the device and three ITO electrodes are fabricated on the bottom substrate. A black liquid droplet is placed on the middle of the ITO electrode and surrounded by silicone oil. When we apply a voltage to one ITO electrode, the droplet stretches and moves in one direction and a light beam is covered by the stretched droplet, while the droplet yields a space to let the original blocked light pass through. Due to the shift of the droplet, our device functions as a bidirectional optical switch. Our experiment shows that the device can obtain a wide optical attenuation from ˜1 dB to 30 dB and the transmission loss is ˜0.67 dB. The response time of the device is ˜177 ms. The proposed optical switch has potential applications in variable optical attenuators, electronic displays, and light shutters.

Deletion of eIF2β lysine stretches creates a dominant negative that affects the translation and proliferation in human cell line: A tool for arresting the cell growth.

PubMed

Salton, Gabrielle Dias; Laurino, Claudia Cilene Fernandes Correia; Mega, Nicolás Oliveira; Delgado-Cañedo, Andrés; Setterblad, Niclas; Carmagnat, Maryvonnick; Xavier, Ricardo Machado; Cirne-Lima, Elizabeth; Lenz, Guido; Henriques, João Antonio Pêgas; Laurino, Jomar Pereira

2017-08-03

Eukaryote initiation factor 2 subunit β (eIF2β) plays a crucial role in regulation protein synthesis, which mediates the interaction of eIF2 with mRNA. eIF2β contains evolutionarily conserved polylysine stretches in amino-terminal region and a zinc finger motif in the carboxy-terminus. The gene eIF2β was cloned under tetracycline transcription control and the polylysine stretches were deleted by site-directed mutagenesis (eIF2βΔ3K). The plasmid was transfected into HEK 293 TetR cells. These cells were analyzed for their proliferative and translation capacities as well as cell death rate. Experiments were performed using gene reporter assays, western blotting, flow cytometry, cell sorting, cell proliferation assays and confocal immunofluorescence. eIF2βΔ3K affected negatively the protein synthesis, cell proliferation and cell survival causing G2 cell cycle arrest and increased cell death, acting in a negative dominant manner against the native protein. Polylysine stretches are also essential for eIF2β translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, accumulating in the nucleolus and eIF2βΔ3K did not make this translocation. eIF2β is involved in the protein synthesis process and should act in nuclear processes as well. eIF2βΔ3K reduces cell proliferation and causes cell death. Since translation control is essential for normal cell function and survival, the development of drugs or molecules that inhibit translation has become of great interest in the scenario of proliferative disorders. In conclusion, our results suggest the dominant negative eIF2βΔ3K as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of proliferative disorders and that eIF2β polylysine stretch domains are promising targets for this.

Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activation and suppression of inflammatory response by cell stretching in rabbit synovial fibroblasts.

PubMed

Kunanusornchai, Wanlop; Muanprasat, Chatchai; Chatsudthipong, Varanuj

2016-12-01

Joint mobilization is known to be beneficial in osteoarthritis (OA) patients. This study aimed to investigate the effect of stretching on adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity and its role in modulating inflammation in rabbit synovial fibroblasts. Uniaxial stretching of isolated rabbit synovial fibroblasts for ten min was performed. Stretching-induced AMPK activation, its underlying mechanism, and its anti-inflammatory effect were investigated using Western blot. Static stretching at 20 % of initial length resulted in AMPK activation characterized by expression of phosphorylated AMPK and phosphorylated acetyl-Co A carboxylase. AMP-activated protein kinase phosphorylation peaked 1 h after stretching and declined toward resting activity. Using cell viability assays, static stretching did not appear to cause cellular damage. Activation of AMPK involves Ca 2+ influx via a mechanosensitive L-type Ca 2+ channel, which subsequently raises intracellular Ca 2+ and activates AMPK via Ca 2+ /calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ). Interestingly, stretching suppressed TNFα-induced expression of COX-2, iNOS, and phosphorylated NF-κB. These effects were prevented by pretreatment with compound C, an AMPK inhibitor. These results suggest that mechanical stretching suppressed inflammatory responses in synovial fibroblasts via a L-type Ca 2+ -channel-CaMKKβ-AMPK-dependent pathway which may underlie joint mobilization's ability to alleviate OA symptoms.

All-passive pixel super-resolution of time-stretch imaging

PubMed Central

Chan, Antony C. S.; Ng, Ho-Cheung; Bogaraju, Sharat C. V.; So, Hayden K. H.; Lam, Edmund Y.; Tsia, Kevin K.

2017-01-01

Based on image encoding in a serial-temporal format, optical time-stretch imaging entails a stringent requirement of state-of-the-art fast data acquisition unit in order to preserve high image resolution at an ultrahigh frame rate — hampering the widespread utilities of such technology. Here, we propose a pixel super-resolution (pixel-SR) technique tailored for time-stretch imaging that preserves pixel resolution at a relaxed sampling rate. It harnesses the subpixel shifts between image frames inherently introduced by asynchronous digital sampling of the continuous time-stretch imaging process. Precise pixel registration is thus accomplished without any active opto-mechanical subpixel-shift control or other additional hardware. Here, we present the experimental pixel-SR image reconstruction pipeline that restores high-resolution time-stretch images of microparticles and biological cells (phytoplankton) at a relaxed sampling rate (≈2–5 GSa/s)—more than four times lower than the originally required readout rate (20 GSa/s) — is thus effective for high-throughput label-free, morphology-based cellular classification down to single-cell precision. Upon integration with the high-throughput image processing technology, this pixel-SR time-stretch imaging technique represents a cost-effective and practical solution for large scale cell-based phenotypic screening in biomedical diagnosis and machine vision for quality control in manufacturing. PMID:28303936

Transcription upregulation via force-induced direct stretching of chromatin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tajik, Arash; Zhang, Yuejin; Wei, Fuxiang; Sun, Jian; Jia, Qiong; Zhou, Wenwen; Singh, Rishi; Khanna, Nimish; Belmont, Andrew S.; Wang, Ning

2016-12-01

Mechanical forces play critical roles in the function of living cells. However, the underlying mechanisms of how forces influence nuclear events remain elusive. Here, we show that chromatin deformation as well as force-induced transcription of a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged bacterial-chromosome dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) transgene can be visualized in a living cell by using three-dimensional magnetic twisting cytometry to apply local stresses on the cell surface via an Arg-Gly-Asp-coated magnetic bead. Chromatin stretching depended on loading direction. DHFR transcription upregulation was sensitive to load direction and proportional to the magnitude of chromatin stretching. Disrupting filamentous actin or inhibiting actomyosin contraction abrogated or attenuated force-induced DHFR transcription, whereas activating endogenous contraction upregulated force-induced DHFR transcription. Our findings suggest that local stresses applied to integrins propagate from the tensed actin cytoskeleton to the LINC complex and then through lamina-chromatin interactions to directly stretch chromatin and upregulate transcription.

Effects of Stretching Speed on Mechanical Rupture of Phospholipid/Cholesterol Bilayers: Molecular Dynamics Simulation

PubMed Central

Shigematsu, Taiki; Koshiyama, Kenichiro; Wada, Shigeo

2015-01-01

Rupture of biological cell membrane under mechanical stresses is critical for cell viability. It is triggered by local rearrangements of membrane molecules. We investigated the effects of stretching speed on mechanical rupture of phospholipid/cholesterol bilayers using unsteady molecular dynamics simulations. We focused on pore formation, the trigger of rupture, in a 40 mol% cholesterol-including bilayer. The unsteady stretching was modeled by proportional and temporal scaling of atom positions at stretching speeds from 0.025 to 30 m/s. The effects of the stretching speed on the critical areal strain, where the pore forms, is composed of two regimes. At low speeds (<1.0 m/s), the critical areal strain is insensitive to speed, whereas it significantly increases at higher speeds. Also, the strain is larger than that of a pure bilayer, regardless of the stretching speeds, which qualitatively agrees with available experimental data. Transient recovery of the cholesterol and phospholipid molecular orientations was evident at lower speeds, suggesting the formation of a stretch-induced interdigitated gel-like phase. However, this recovery was not confirmed at higher speeds or for the pure bilayer. The different responses of the molecular orientations may help explain the two regimes for the effect of stretching speed on pore formation. PMID:26471872

Mechanical stretch-induced serotonin release from pulmonary neuroendocrine cells: implications for lung development.

PubMed

Pan, Jie; Copland, Ian; Post, Martin; Yeger, Herman; Cutz, Ernest

2006-01-01

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNEC) produce amine (serotonin, 5-HT) and peptides (e.g., bombesin, calcitonin) with growth factor-like properties and are thought to play an important role in lung development. Because physical forces are essential for lung growth and development, we investigated the effects of mechanical strain on 5-HT release in PNEC freshly isolated from rabbit fetal lung and in the PNEC-related tumor H727 cell line. Cultures exposed to sinusoidal cyclic stretch showed a significant 5-HT release inhibitable with gadolinium chloride (10 nM), a blocker of mechanosensitive channels. In contrast to hypoxia (Po2 approximately 20 mmHg), stretch-induced 5-HT release was not affected by Ca2+-free medium or nifedipine (50 microM), excluding the exocytic pathway. In H727 cells, stretch failed to release calcitonin, a peptide stored within dense core vesicles (DCV), whereas hypoxia caused massive calcitonin release. 5-HT released by mechanical stretch is derived predominantly from the cytoplasmic pool, because it is rapid ( approximately 5 min) and is releasable from early (20 days of gestation) fetal PNEC containing few DCV. Both mechanical stretch and hypoxia upregulated expression of tryptophan hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme of 5-HT synthesis. We conclude that mechanical strain is an important physiological stimulus for the release of 5-HT from PNEC via mechanosensitive channels with potential effects on lung development and resorption of lung fluid at the time of birth.

Stretch-Induced Hypertrophy Activates NFkB-Mediated VEGF Secretion in Adult Cardiomyocytes

PubMed Central

Leychenko, Anna; Konorev, Eugene; Jijiwa, Mayumi; Matter, Michelle L.

2011-01-01

Hypertension and myocardial infarction are associated with the onset of hypertrophy. Hypertrophy is a compensatory response mechanism to increases in mechanical load due to pressure or volume overload. It is characterized by extracellular matrix remodeling and hypertrophic growth of adult cardiomyocytes. Production of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), which acts as an angiogenic factor and a modulator of cardiomyocyte function, is regulated by mechanical stretch. Mechanical stretch promotes VEGF secretion in neonatal cardiomyocytes. Whether this effect is retained in adult cells and the molecular mechanism mediating stretch-induced VEGF secretion has not been elucidated. Our objective was to investigate whether cyclic mechanical stretch induces VEGF secretion in adult cardiomyocytes and to identify the molecular mechanism mediating VEGF secretion in these cells. Isolated primary adult rat cardiomyocytes (ARCMs) were subjected to cyclic mechanical stretch at an extension level of 10% at 30 cycles/min that induces hypertrophic responses. Cyclic mechanical stretch induced a 3-fold increase in VEGF secretion in ARCMs compared to non-stretch controls. This increase in stretch-induced VEGF secretion correlated with NFkB activation. Cyclic mechanical stretch-mediated VEGF secretion was blocked by an NFkB peptide inhibitor and expression of a dominant negative mutant IkBα, but not by inhibitors of the MAPK/ERK1/2 or PI3K pathways. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated an interaction of NFkB with the VEGF promoter in stretched primary cardiomyocytes. Moreover, VEGF secretion is increased in the stretched myocardium during pressure overload-induced hypertrophy. These findings are the first to demonstrate that NFkB activation plays a role in mediating VEGF secretion upon cyclic mechanical stretch in adult cardiomyocytes. Signaling by NFkB initiated in response to cyclic mechanical stretch may therefore coordinate the hypertrophic response in adult cardiomyocytes. Elucidation of this novel mechanism may provide a target for developing future pharmacotherapy to treat hypertension and heart disease. PMID:22174951

Dynamic kirigami structures for integrated solar tracking.

PubMed

Lamoureux, Aaron; Lee, Kyusang; Shlian, Matthew; Forrest, Stephen R; Shtein, Max

2015-09-08

Optical tracking is often combined with conventional flat panel solar cells to maximize electrical power generation over the course of a day. However, conventional trackers are complex and often require costly and cumbersome structural components to support system weight. Here we use kirigami (the art of paper cutting) to realize novel solar cells where tracking is integral to the structure at the substrate level. Specifically, an elegant cut pattern is made in thin-film gallium arsenide solar cells, which are then stretched to produce an array of tilted surface elements which can be controlled to within ±1°. We analyze the combined optical and mechanical properties of the tracking system, and demonstrate a mechanically robust system with optical tracking efficiencies matching conventional trackers. This design suggests a pathway towards enabling new applications for solar tracking, as well as inspiring a broader range of optoelectronic and mechanical devices.

Dynamic kirigami structures for integrated solar tracking

PubMed Central

Lamoureux, Aaron; Lee, Kyusang; Shlian, Matthew; Forrest, Stephen R.; Shtein, Max

2015-01-01

Optical tracking is often combined with conventional flat panel solar cells to maximize electrical power generation over the course of a day. However, conventional trackers are complex and often require costly and cumbersome structural components to support system weight. Here we use kirigami (the art of paper cutting) to realize novel solar cells where tracking is integral to the structure at the substrate level. Specifically, an elegant cut pattern is made in thin-film gallium arsenide solar cells, which are then stretched to produce an array of tilted surface elements which can be controlled to within ±1°. We analyze the combined optical and mechanical properties of the tracking system, and demonstrate a mechanically robust system with optical tracking efficiencies matching conventional trackers. This design suggests a pathway towards enabling new applications for solar tracking, as well as inspiring a broader range of optoelectronic and mechanical devices. PMID:26348820

Synergistic Effects on the Elderly People's Motor Control by Wearable Skin-Stretch Device Combined with Haptic Joystick

PubMed Central

Yoon, Han U.; Anil Kumar, Namita; Hur, Pilwon

2017-01-01

Cutaneous sensory feedback can be used to provide additional sensory cues to a person performing a motor task where vision is a dominant feedback signal. A haptic joystick has been widely used to guide a user by providing force feedback. However, the benefit of providing force feedback is still debatable due to performance dependency on factors such as the user's skill-level, task difficulty. Meanwhile, recent studies have shown the feasibility of improving a motor task performance by providing skin-stretch feedback. Therefore, a combination of two aforementioned feedback types is deemed to be promising to promote synergistic effects to consistently improve the person's motor performance. In this study, we aimed at identifying the effect of the combined haptic and skin-stretch feedbacks on the aged person's driving motor performance. For the experiment, 15 healthy elderly subjects (age 72.8 ± 6.6 years) were recruited and were instructed to drive a virtual power-wheelchair through four different courses with obstacles. Four augmented sensory feedback conditions were tested: no feedback, force feedback, skin-stretch feedback, and a combination of both force and skin-stretch feedbacks. While the haptic force was provided to the hand by the joystick, the skin-stretch was provided to the steering forearm by a custom-designed wearable skin-stretch device. We tested two hypotheses: (i) an elderly individual's motor control would benefit from receiving information about a desired trajectory from multiple sensory feedback sources, and (ii) the benefit does not depend on task difficulty. Various metrics related to skills and safety were used to evaluate the control performance. Repeated measure ANOVA was performed for those metrics with two factors: task scenario and the type of the augmented sensory feedback. The results revealed that elderly subjects' control performance significantly improved when the combined feedback of both haptic force and skin-stretch feedback was applied. The proposed approach suggest the feasibility to improve people's task performance by the synergistic effects of multiple augmented sensory feedback modalities. PMID:28690514

Superstable transparent conductive Cu@Cu4Ni nanowire elastomer composites against oxidation, bending, stretching, and twisting for flexible and stretchable optoelectronics.

PubMed

Song, Jizhong; Li, Jianhai; Xu, Jiayue; Zeng, Haibo

2014-11-12

Low cost and high conductivity make copper (Cu) nanowire (NW) electrodes an attractive material to construct flexible and stretchable electronic skins, displays, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), solar cells, and electrochromic windows. However, the vulnerabilities that Cu NW electrodes have to oxidation, bending, and stretching still present great challenges. This work demonstrates a new Cu@Cu4Ni NW conductive elastomer composite with ultrahigh stability for the first time. Cu@Cu4Ni NWs, facilely synthesized through a one-pot method, have highly crystalline alloyed shells, clear and abrupt interfaces, lengths more than 50 μm, and smooth surfaces. These virtues provide the NW-elastomer composites with a low resistance of 62.4 ohm/sq at 80% transparency, which is even better than the commercial ITO/PET flexible electrodes. In addition, the fluctuation amplitude of resistance is within 2 ohm/sq within 30 days, meaning that at ΔR/R0 = 1, the actual lifetime is estimated to be more than 1200 days. Neither the conductivity nor the performances of OLED with elastomers as conductive circuits show evident degradation during 600 cycles of bending, stretching, and twisting tests. These high-performance and extremely stable NW elastomeric electrodes could endow great chances for transparent, flexible, stretchable, and wearable electronic and optoelectronic devices.

A wearable skin stretch haptic feedback device: Towards improving balance control in lower limb amputees.

PubMed

Husman, M A B; Maqbool, H F; Awad, M I; Abouhossein, A; Dehghani-Sanij, A A

2016-08-01

Haptic feedback to lower limb amputees is essential to maximize the functionality of a prosthetic device by providing information to the user about the interaction with the environment and the position of the prostheses in space. Severed sensory pathway and the absence of connection between the prosthesis and the Central Nervous System (CNS) after lower limb amputation reduces balance control, increases visual dependency and increases risk of falls among amputees. This work describes the design of a wearable haptic feedback device for lower limb amputees using lateral skin-stretch modality intended to serve as a feedback cue during ambulation. A feedback scheme was proposed based on gait event detection for possible real-time postural adjustment. Preliminary perceptual test with healthy subjects in static condition was carried out and the results indicated over 98% accuracy in determining stimuli location around the upper leg region, suggesting good perceptibility of the delivered stimuli.

Effects of mechanical stimulation on the reprogramming of somatic cells into human-induced pluripotent stem cells.

PubMed

Kim, Young Mi; Kang, Yun Gyeong; Park, So Hee; Han, Myung-Kwan; Kim, Jae Ho; Shin, Ji Won; Shin, Jung-Woog

2017-06-08

Mechanical stimuli play important roles in the proliferation and differentiation of adult stem cells. However, few studies on their effects on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have been published. Human dermal fibroblasts were seeded onto flexible membrane-bottom plates, and infected with retrovirus expressing the four reprogramming factors OCT4, SOX2, KLF, and c-MYC (OSKM). The cells were subjected to equiaxial stretching (3% or 8% for 2, 4, or 7 days) and seeded on feeder cells (STO). The reprogramming into iPSCs was evaluated by the expression of pluripotent markers, in vitro differentiation into three germ layers, and teratoma formation. Equiaxial stretching enhanced reprogramming efficiency without affecting the viral transduction rate. iPSCs induced by transduction of four reprogramming factors and application of equiaxial stretching had characteristics typical of iPSCs in terms of pluripotency and differentiation potentials. This is the first study to show that mechanical stimuli can increase reprogramming efficiency. However, it did not enhance the infection rate, indicating that mechanical stimuli, defined as stretching in this study, have positive effects on reprogramming rather than on infection. Additional studies should evaluate the mechanism underlying the modulation of reprogramming of somatic cells into iPSCs.

A flexible and rapid frequency selective scheme for SRS microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jingting; Yue, Yuankai; Shih, Wei-Chuan

2017-02-01

Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) is a label-free imaging technique suitable for studying biological systems. Due to stimulated nature by ultrafast laser pulses, SRS microscopy has the advantage of significantly higher sensitivity but often reduced spectroscopic information. In this paper, we present a newly constructed femtosecond SRS microscope with a high-speed dynamic micromirror device based pulse shaper to achieve flexible and rapid frequency selection within the C-H stretch region near 2800 to 3100 cm-1 with spectral width of 30 cm-1. This technique is applicable to lipid profiling such as cell activity mapping, lipid distribution mapping and distinction among subclasses.

Static Mechanical Loading Influences the Expression of Extracellular Matrix and Cell Adhesion Proteins in Vaginal Cells Derived From Premenopausal Women With Severe Pelvic Organ Prolapse.

PubMed

Kufaishi, Hala; Alarab, May; Drutz, Harold; Lye, Stephen; Shynlova, Oksana

2016-08-01

Primary human vaginal cells derived from women with severe pelvic organ prolapse (POP-HVCs) demonstrate altered cellular characteristics as compared to cells derived from asymptomatic women (control-HVCs). Using computer-controllable Flexcell stretch unit, we examined whether POP-HVCs react differently to mechanical loading as compared to control-HVCs by the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, cell-ECM adhesion proteins, and ECM degrading and maturating enzymes. Vaginal tissue biopsies from premenopausal patients with Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System stage ≥3 (n = 8) and asymptomatic controls (n = 7) were collected during vaginal hysterectomy or repair. Human vaginal cells were isolated by enzymatic digestion, seeded on collagen (COLI)-coated plates, and stretched (24 hours, 25% elongation). Total RNA was extracted, and 84 genes were screened using Human ECM and Adhesion Molecules polymerase chain reaction array; selected genes were verified by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Stretch-conditioned media (SCM) were collected and analyzed by protein array, immunoblotting, and zymography. In mechanically stretched control-HVCs, transcript levels of integrins (ITGA1, ITGA4, ITGAV, and ITGB1) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2, 8, and 13 were downregulated (P < .05); in POP-HVCs, MMP1, MMP3, and MMP10, ADAMTS8 and 13, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) 1 to 3, ITGA2, ITGA4, ITGA6, ITGB1, contactin (CNTN1), catenins (A1 and B1), and laminins (A3 and C1) were significantly upregulated, whereas COLs (1, 4, 5, 6, 11, and 12) and LOXL1 were downregulated. Human vaginal cells massively secrete MMPs and TIMPs proteins; MMP1, MMP8, MMP9 protein expression and MMP2 gelatinase activity were increased, whereas TIMP2 decreased in SCM from POP-HVCs compared to control-HVCs. Primary human vaginal cells derived from women with severe pelvic organ prolapse and control-HVCs react differentially to in vitro mechanical stretch. Risk factors that induce stretch may alter ECM composition and cell-ECM interaction in pelvic floor tissue leading to the abatement of pelvic organ support and subsequent POP development. © The Author(s) 2016.

21 CFR 884.3900 - Vaginal stent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Vaginal stent. 884.3900 Section 884.3900 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES... stent. (a) Identification. A vaginal stent is a device used to enlarge the vagina by stretching, or to...

Cyclic stretch induces upregulation of endothelin-1 with keratinocytes in vitro: Possible role in mechanical stress-induced hyperpigmentation

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

Kurita, Masakazu, E-mail: masakazukurita@gmail.com; Okazaki, Mutsumi; Fujino, Takashi

2011-05-27

Highlights: {yields} Influence of cyclic stretch on melanogenetic paracrine cytokines was investigated. {yields} Keratinocyte-derived endothelin-1 was upregulated with cyclic stretch. {yields} Degree of upregulation increases dose-dependently. {yields} This upregulation possibly plays a role in the pathogenesis of pigmented disorders. -- Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the possible pathological relation between mechanical stress and hyperpigmentation. We did this by investigating the influence of cyclic stretch on the expression of keratinocyte- and fibroblast-derived melanogenetic paracrine cytokines in vitro. Using primary human keratinocytes and fibroblasts, alterations of mRNA expression of melanogenetic paracrine cytokines due to cyclic stretch were investigatedmore » using a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The cytokines included basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), stem cell factor (SCF), granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-1{alpha}, and endothelin-1 (ET-1) for keratinocytes and bFGF, SCF, and hepatocyte growth factor for fibroblasts. The dose dependence of keratinocyte-derived ET-1 upregulation was further investigated using real-time PCR and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We also investigated the effects of cyclic stretch on the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocytes. Among the melanogenetic paracrine cytokines investigated, keratinocyte-derived ET-1 was consistently upregulated in all four cell lines. The degree of upregulation increased with the degree of the length and frequency of the stretch; in contrast, cell number and differentiation markers showed no obvious alterations with cyclic stretch. Keratinocyte-derived ET-1 upregulation possibly plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of pigmented disorders, such as friction melanosis, caused by mechanical stress.« less

Lack of phosphoinositide 3-kinase-gamma attenuates ventilator-induced lung injury.

PubMed

Lionetti, Vincenzo; Lisi, Alberto; Patrucco, Enrico; De Giuli, Paolo; Milazzo, Maria Giovanna; Ceci, Simone; Wymann, Matthias; Lena, Annalisa; Gremigni, Vittorio; Fanelli, Vito; Hirsch, Emilio; Ranieri, V Marco

2006-01-01

G protein-coupled receptors may up-regulate the inflammatory response elicited by ventilator-induced lung injury but also regulate cell survival via protein kinase B (Akt) and extracellular signal regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2). The G protein-sensitive phosphoinositide-3-kinase gamma (PI3Kgamma) regulates several cellular functions including inflammation and cell survival. We explored the role of PI3Kgamma on ventilator-induced lung injury. Prospective, randomized, experimental study. University animal research laboratory. Wild-type (PI3Kgamma), knock-out (PI3Kgamma ), and kinase-dead (PI3Kgamma) mice. Three ventilatory strategies (no stretch, low stretch, high stretch) were studied in an isolated, nonperfused model of acute lung injury (lung lavage) in PI3Kgamma, PI3Kgamma, and PI3Kgamma mice. Reduction in lung compliance, hyaline membrane formation, and epithelial detachment with high stretch were more pronounced in PI3Kgamma than in PI3Kgamma and PI3Kgamma (p < .01). Inflammatory cytokines and IkBalpha phosphorylation with high stretch did not differ among PI3Kgamma, PI3Kgamma, and PI3Kgamma. Apoptotic index (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotin-dUTP nick-end labeling) and caspase-3 (immunohistochemistry) with high stretch were larger (p < .01) in PI3Kgamma and PI3Kgamma than in PI3Kgamma. Electron microscopy showed that high stretch caused apoptotic changes in alveolar cells of PI3Kgamma mice whereas PI3Kgamma mice showed necrosis. Phosphorylation of Akt and ERK1/2 with high stretch was more pronounced in PI3Kgamma than in PI3Kgamma and PI3Kgamma (p < .01). Silencing PI3Kgamma seems to attenuate functional and morphological consequences of ventilator-induced lung injury independently of inhibitory effects on cytokines release but through the enhancement of pulmonary apoptosis.

Mechanical stretch augments insulin-induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation by insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor

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

Liu, Gang; Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang; Hitomi, Hirofumi, E-mail: hitomi@kms.ac.jp

Insulin resistance and hypertension have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease; however, little is known about the roles of insulin and mechanical force in vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) remodeling. We investigated the contribution of mechanical stretch to insulin-induced VSMC proliferation. Thymidine incorporation was stimulated by insulin in stretched VSMCs, but not in un-stretched VSMCs. Insulin increased 2-deoxy-glucose incorporation in both stretched and un-stretched VSMCs. Mechanical stretch augmented insulin-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt phosphorylation. Inhibitors of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor tyrosine kinase and Src attenuated insulin-induced ERK and Akt phosphorylation, as well as thymidine incorporation,more » whereas 2-deoxy-glucose incorporation was not affected by these inhibitors. Moreover, stretch augmented insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 receptor expression, although it did not alter the expression of insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate-1. Insulin-induced ERK and Akt activation, and thymidine incorporation were inhibited by siRNA for the IGF-1 receptor. Mechanical stretch augments insulin-induced VSMC proliferation via upregulation of IGF-1 receptor, and downstream Src/EGF receptor-mediated ERK and Akt activation. Similar to in vitro experiment, IGF-1 receptor expression was also augmented in hypertensive rats. These results provide a basis for clarifying the molecular mechanisms of vascular remodeling in hypertensive patients with hyperinsulinemia. -- Highlights: {yields} Mechanical stretch augments insulin-induced VSMC proliferation via IGF-1 receptor. {yields} Src/EGFR-mediated ERK and Akt phosphorylation are augmented in stretched VSMCs. {yields} Similar to in vitro experiment, IGF-1 receptor is increased in hypertensive rats. {yields} Results provide possible mechanisms of vascular remodeling in hypertension with DM.« less

Stretching Fibroblasts Remodels Fibronectin and Alters Cancer Cell Migration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ao, Mingfang; Brewer, Bryson M.; Yang, Lijie; Franco Coronel, Omar E.; Hayward, Simon W.; Webb, Donna J.; Li, Deyu

2015-02-01

Most investigations of cancer-stroma interactions have focused on biochemical signaling effects, with much less attention being paid to biophysical factors. In this study, we investigated the role of mechanical stimuli on human prostatic fibroblasts using a microfluidic platform that was adapted for our experiments and further developed for both repeatable performance among multiple assays and for compatibility with high-resolution confocal microscopy. Results show that mechanical stretching of normal tissue-associated fibroblasts (NAFs) alters the structure of secreted fibronectin. Specifically, unstretched NAFs deposit and assemble fibronectin in a random, mesh-like arrangement, while stretched NAFs produce matrix with a more organized, linearly aligned structure. Moreover, the stretched NAFs exhibited an enhanced capability for directing co-cultured cancer cell migration in a persistent manner. Furthermore, we show that stretching NAFs triggers complex biochemical signaling events through the observation of increased expression of platelet derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα). A comparison of these behaviors with those of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) indicates that the observed phenotypes of stretched NAFs are similar to those associated with CAFs, suggesting that mechanical stress is a critical factor in NAF activation and CAF genesis.

Post-injury stretch promotes recovery in a rat model of muscle damage induced by lengthening contractions.

PubMed

Mori, Tomohiro; Agata, Nobuhide; Itoh, Yuta; Inoue-Miyazu, Masumi; Mizumura, Kazue; Sokabe, Masahiro; Taguchi, Toru; Kawakami, Keisuke

2017-06-30

We investigated the cellular mechanisms and therapeutic effect of post-injury stretch on the recovery process from muscle injury induced by lengthening contractions (LC). One day after LC, a single 15-min bout of muscle stretch was applied at an intensity of 3 mNm. The maximal isometric torque was measured before and at 2-21 days after LC. The myofiber size was analyzed at 21 days after LC. Developmental myosin heavy chain-immunoreactive (dMHC-ir) cells, a marker of regenerating myofibers, were observed in the early recovery stage (2-5 days after LC). We observed that LC-induced injury markedly decreased isometric torque and myofiber size, which recovered faster in rats that underwent stretch than in rats that did not. Regenerating myofiber with dMHC-ir cells was observed earlier in rats that underwent stretch. These results indicate that post-injury stretch may facilitate the regeneration and early formation of new myofibers, thereby promoting structural and functional recovery from LC-induced muscle injury.

Effects of Cyclic Mechanical Stretch on the Proliferation of L6 Myoblasts and Its Mechanisms: PI3K/Akt and MAPK Signal Pathways Regulated by IGF-1 Receptor.

PubMed

Fu, Shaoting; Yin, Lijun; Lin, Xiaojing; Lu, Jianqiang; Wang, Xiaohui

2018-06-02

Myoblast proliferation is crucial to skeletal muscle hypertrophy and regeneration. Our previous study indicated that mechanical stretch altered the proliferation of C2C12 myoblasts, associated with insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1)-mediated phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt (also known as protein kinase B) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways through IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R). The purpose of this study was to explore the same stretches on the proliferation of L6 myoblasts and its association with IGF-1-regulated PI3K/Akt and MAPK activations. L6 myoblasts were divided into three groups: control, 15% stretch, and 20% stretch. Stretches were achieved using FlexCell Strain Unit. Cell proliferation and IGF-1 concentration were detected by CCK8 and ELISA, respectively. IGF-1R expression, and expressions and activities of PI3K, Akt, and MAPKs (including extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and p38) were determined by Western blot. We found that 15% stretch promoted, while 20% stretch inhibited L6 myoblast proliferation. A 15% stretch increased IGF-1R level, although had no effect on IGF-1 secretion of L6 myoblasts, and PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 (not p38) inhibitors attenuated 15% stretch-induced pro-proliferation. Exogenous IGF-1 reversed 20% stretch-induced anti-proliferation, accompanied with increases in IGF-1R level as well as PI3K/Akt and MAPK (ERK1/2 and p38) activations. In conclusion, stretch regulated L6 myoblasts proliferation, which may be mediated by the changes in PI3K/Akt and MAPK activations regulated by IGF-1R, despite no detectable IGF-1 from stretched L6 myoblasts.

Transparent and stretchable high-performance supercapacitors based on wrinkled graphene electrodes.

PubMed

Chen, Tao; Xue, Yuhua; Roy, Ajit K; Dai, Liming

2014-01-28

Transparent and/or stretchable energy storage devices have attracted intense attention due to their unique optical and/or mechanical properties as well as their intrinsic energy storage function. However, it remains a great challenge to integrate transparent and stretchable properties into an energy storage device because the currently developed electrodes are either transparent or stretchable, but not both. Herein, we report a simple method to fabricate wrinkled graphene with high stretchability and transparency. The resultant wrinkled graphene sheets were used as both current collector and electrode materials to develop transparent and stretchable supercapacitors, which showed a high transparency (57% at 550 nm) and can be stretched up to 40% strain without obvious performance change over hundreds of stretching cycles.

Fate of tenogenic differentiation potential of human bone marrow stromal cells by uniaxial stretching affected by stretch-activated calcium channel agonist gadolinium

PubMed Central

Balaji Raghavendran, Hanumantha Rao; Pingguan-Murphy, Belinda; Abbas, Azlina A.; Merican, Azhar M.; Kamarul, Tunku

2017-01-01

The role for mechanical stimulation in the control of cell fate has been previously proposed, suggesting that there may be a role of mechanical conditioning in directing mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) towards specific lineage for tissue engineering applications. Although previous studies have reported that calcium signalling is involved in regulating many cellular processes in many cell types, its role in managing cellular responses to tensile loading (mechanotransduction) of MSCs has not been fully elucidated. In order to establish this, we disrupted calcium signalling by blocking stretch-activated calcium channel (SACC) in human MSCs (hMSCs) in vitro. Passaged-2 hMSCs were exposed to cyclic tensile loading (1 Hz + 8% for 6, 24, 48, and 72 hours) in the presence of the SACC blocker, gadolinium. Analyses include image observations of immunochemistry and immunofluorescence staining from extracellular matrix (ECM) production, and measuring related tenogenic and apoptosis gene marker expression. Uniaxial tensile loading increased the expression of tenogenic markers and ECM production. However, exposure to strain in the presence of 20 μM gadolinium reduced the induction of almost all tenogenic markers and ECM staining, suggesting that SACC acts as a mechanosensor in strain-induced hMSC tenogenic differentiation process. Although cell death was observed in prolonged stretching, it did not appear to be apoptosis mediated. In conclusion, the knowledge gained in this study by elucidating the role of calcium in MSC mechanotransduction processes, and that in prolonged stretching results in non-apoptosis mediated cell death may be potential useful for regenerative medicine applications. PMID:28654695

Moderate Exercise Mitigates the Detrimental Effects of Aging on Tendon Stem Cells.

PubMed

Zhang, Jianying; Wang, James H-C

2015-01-01

Aging is known to cause tendon degeneration whereas moderate exercise imparts beneficial effects on tendons. Since stem cells play a vital role in maintaining tissue integrity, in this study we aimed to define the effects of aging and moderate exercise on tendon stem/progenitor cells (TSCs) using in vitro and in vivo models. TSCs derived from aging mice (9 and 24 months) proliferated significantly slower than TSCs obtained from young mice (2.5 and 5 months). In addition, expression of the stem cell markers Oct-4, nucleostemin (NS), Sca-1 and SSEA-1 in TSCs decreased in an age-dependent manner. Interestingly, moderate mechanical stretching (4%) of aging TSCs in vitro significantly increased the expression of the stem cell marker, NS, but 8% stretching decreased NS expression. Similarly, 4% mechanical stretching increased the expression of Nanog, another stem cell marker, and the tenocyte-related genes, collagen I and tenomodulin. However, 8% stretching increased expression of the non-tenocyte-related genes, LPL, Sox-9 and Runx-2, while 4% stretching had minimal effects on the expression of these genes. In the in vivo study, moderate treadmill running (MTR) of aging mice (9 months) resulted in the increased proliferation rate of aging TSCs in culture, decreased lipid deposition, proteoglycan accumulation and calcification, and increased the expression of NS in the patellar tendons. These findings indicate that while aging impairs the proliferative ability of TSCs and reduces their stemness, moderate exercise can mitigate the deleterious effects of aging on TSCs and therefore may be responsible for decreased aging-induced tendon degeneration.

The cell-stretcher: A novel device for the mechanical stimulation of cell populations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seriani, S.; Del Favero, G.; Mahaffey, J.; Marko, D.; Gallina, P.; Long, C. S.; Mestroni, L.; Sbaizero, O.

2016-08-01

Mechanical stimulation appears to be a critical modulator for many aspects of biology, both of living tissue and cells. The cell-stretcher, a novel device for the mechanical uniaxial stimulation of populations of cells, is described. The system is based on a variable stroke cam-lever-tappet mechanism which allows the delivery of cyclic stimuli with frequencies of up to 10 Hz and deformation between 1% and 20%. The kinematics is presented and a simulation of the dynamics of the system is shown, in order to compute the contact forces in the mechanism. The cells, following cultivation and preparation, are plated on an ad hoc polydimethylsiloxane membrane which is then loaded on the clamps of the cell-stretcher via force-adjustable magnetic couplings. In order to show the viability of the experimentation and biocompatibility of the cell-stretcher, a set of two in vitro tests were performed. Human epithelial carcinoma cell line A431 and Adult Mouse Ventricular Fibroblasts (AMVFs) from a dual reporter mouse were subject to 0.5 Hz, 24 h cyclic stretching at 15% strain, and to 48 h stimulation at 0.5 Hz and 15% strain, respectively. Visual analysis was performed on A431, showing definite morphological changes in the form of cellular extroflections in the direction of stimulation compared to an unstimulated control. A cytometric analysis was performed on the AMVF population. Results show a post-stimulation live-dead ratio deviance of less than 6% compared to control, which proves that the environment created by the cell-stretcher is suitable for in vitro experimentation.

Characterization of uniaxial high-speed stretch as an in vitro model of mild traumatic brain injury on the blood-brain barrier.

PubMed

Rosas-Hernandez, Hector; Cuevas, Elvis; Escudero-Lourdes, Claudia; Lantz, Susan M; Sturdivant, Nasya M; Imam, Syed Z; Sarkar, Sumit; Slikker, William; Paule, Merle G; Balachandran, Kartik; Ali, Syed F

2018-04-13

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when external mechanical forces induce brain damage as result of impact, penetration or rapid acceleration/deceleration that causes deformation of brain tissue. Depending on its severity, TBI can be classified as mild, moderate or severe and can lead to blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of uniaxial high-speed stretch (HSS) at 0, 5, 10 and 15% on a pure culture of primary rat brain endothelial cells as an in vitro model of TBI to the BBB. LDH release, viability and apoptosis analysis, expression of tight junction proteins and endothelial permeability were evaluated 24 h after a single stretch episode. HSS slightly increased cell death and apoptosis at 10 and 15%, while LDH release was increased only at 15% stretch. Occludin expression was increased at 10% stretch, while claudin-5 expression was increased at 5% stretch, which also decreased the endothelial permeability. In summary, 15% HSS induced low levels of cell death, consistent with mild TBI and very low percentages of HSS (5%) enhanced the BBB properties, promoting the formation of a stronger barrier. These data support the use of 15% HSS as valuable tool in the study of mild TBI to the BBB in vitro. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Cyclic stretch augments production of neutrophil chemokines and matrix metalloproteinase-1 in human uterine smooth muscle cells.

PubMed

Zhao, Yin; Koga, Kaori; Osuga, Yutaka; Izumi, Gentaro; Takamura, Masashi; Harada, Miyuki; Hirata, Tetsuya; Hirota, Yasushi; Yoshino, Osamu; Fujii, Tomoyuki; Kozuma, Shiro

2013-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of uterine contraction on the immune environment within the uterus during parturition. Uterine smooth muscle cells (USMC) were isolated from uterine myometrial tissues and cultured. The effects of cyclic stretch on mRNA and/or protein expression of IL-8, Groα, and pro-MMP-1 by USMC were measured using RT-PCR and ELISA. Neutrophil chemotactic activity in conditioned media was evaluated using migration assays. To evaluate the effect of progesterone (P(4) ), USMC were pretreated with P(4) for 24 hr. Cyclic stretch increased IL-8 and Groα mRNA and protein and pro-MMP-1 production significantly. Supernatants from stretched cells induced neutrophil chemotactic activity significantly; these effects were abrogated by anti-IL-8 or Groα neutralizing antibodies. Stretch effects were reduced by P(4) . These results suggest that uterine contraction may induce neutrophil infiltration and MMP-1 production, which may contribute to cervical ripening and rupture of membrane. The inhibitory effects of P(4) may explain the mechanism by which progestin prevents preterm labor. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Progress and Prospects in Stretchable Electroluminescent Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jiangxin; Lee, Pooi See

2017-03-01

Stretchable electroluminescent (EL) devices are a new form of mechanically deformable electronics that are gaining increasing interests and believed to be one of the essential technologies for next generation lighting and display applications. Apart from the simple bending capability in flexible EL devices, the stretchable EL devices are required to withstand larger mechanical deformations and accommodate stretching strain beyond 10%. The excellent mechanical conformability in these devices enables their applications in rigorous mechanical conditions such as flexing, twisting, stretching, and folding.The stretchable EL devices can be conformably wrapped onto arbitrary curvilinear surface and respond seamlessly to the external or internal forces, leading to unprecedented applications that cannot be addressed with conventional technologies. For example, they are in demand for wide applications in biomedical-related devices or sensors and soft interactive display systems, including activating devices for photosensitive drug, imaging apparatus for internal tissues, electronic skins, interactive input and output devices, robotics, and volumetric displays. With increasingly stringent demand on the mechanical requirements, the fabrication of stretchable EL device is encountering many challenges that are difficult to resolve. In this review, recent progresses in the stretchable EL devices are covered with a focus on the approaches that are adopted to tackle materials and process challenges in stretchable EL devices and delineate the strategies in stretchable electronics. We first introduce the emission mechanisms that have been successfully demonstrated on stretchable EL devices. Limitations and advantages of the different mechanisms for stretchable EL devices are also discussed. Representative reports are reviewed based on different structural and material strategies. Unprecedented applications that have been enabled by the stretchable EL devices are reviewed. Finally, we summarize with our perspectives on the approaches for the stretchable EL devices and our proposals on the future development in these devices.

Mechanical stretch increases CCN2/CTGF expression in anterior cruciate ligament-derived cells

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

Miyake, Yoshiaki; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama; Furumatsu, Takayuki, E-mail: matino@md.okayama-u.ac.jp

Highlights: {yields} CCN2/CTGF localizes to the ligament-to-bone interface, but is not to the midsubstance region of human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). {yields} Mechanical stretch induces higher increase of CCN2/CTGF gene expression and protein secretion in ACL interface cells compared with ACL midsubstance cells. {yields} CCN2/CTGF treatment stimulates the proliferation of ACL interface cells. -- Abstract: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-to-bone interface serves to minimize the stress concentrations that would arise between two different tissues. Mechanical stretch plays an important role in maintaining cell-specific features by inducing CCN family 2/connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF). We previously reported that cyclic tensile strain (CTS)more » stimulates {alpha}1(I) collagen (COL1A1) expression in human ACL-derived cells. However, the biological function and stress-related response of CCN2/CTGF were still unclear in ACL fibroblasts. In the present study, CCN2/CTGF was observed in ACL-to-bone interface, but was not in the midsubstance region by immunohistochemical analyses. CTS treatments induced higher increase of CCN2/CTGF expression and secretion in interface cells compared with midsubstance cells. COL1A1 expression was not influenced by CCN2/CTGF treatment in interface cells despite CCN2/CTGF stimulated COL1A1 expression in midsubstance cells. However, CCN2/CTGF stimulated the proliferation of interface cells. Our results suggest that distinct biological function of stretch-induced CCN2/CTGF might regulate region-specific phenotypes of ACL-derived cells.« less

Highly Deformable Liquid Embedded Soft-Matter Capacitors and Inductors for Stretchable Electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fassler, Andrew; Majidi, Carmel

2013-03-01

We have developed a family of soft-matter capacitors and inductors that can be stretched to several times their natural length. These circuit elements are composed of microchannels of a liquid-phase Gallium-Indium-Tin alloy (Galinstan) embedded in a soft silicone elastomer (Ecoflex® 00-30). As the elastomer stretches, the embedded liquid channels deform, causing the capacitance and inductance to change monotonically. The relative changes in capacitance and inductance are experimentally measured as a function of stretch in three directions. The relationships found show potential for these devices to be used as strain sensors and tunable electronic filters. Additionally, theoretical predictions derived using finite elasticity kinematics are consistent with these experimentally found relationships.

High-throughput label-free screening of euglena gracilis with optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Baoshan; Lei, Cheng; Ito, Takuro; Yaxiaer, Yalikun; Kobayashi, Hirofumi; Jiang, Yiyue; Tanaka, Yo; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2017-02-01

The development of reliable, sustainable, and economical sources of alternative fuels is an important, but challenging goal for the world. As an alternative to liquid fossil fuels, microalgal biofuel is expected to play a key role in reducing the detrimental effects of global warming since microalgae absorb atmospheric CO2 via photosynthesis. Unfortunately, conventional analytical methods only provide population-averaged lipid contents and fail to characterize a diverse population of microalgal cells with single-cell resolution in a noninvasive and interference-free manner. Here we demonstrate high-throughput label-free single-cell screening of lipid-producing microalgal cells with optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy. In particular, we use Euglena gracilis - an attractive microalgal species that produces wax esters (suitable for biodiesel and aviation fuel after refinement) within lipid droplets. Our optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscope is based on an integration of a hydrodynamic-focusing microfluidic chip, an optical time-stretch phase-contrast microscope, and a digital image processor equipped with machine learning. As a result, it provides both the opacity and phase contents of every single cell at a high throughput of 10,000 cells/s. We characterize heterogeneous populations of E. gracilis cells under two different culture conditions to evaluate their lipid production efficiency. Our method holds promise as an effective analytical tool for microalgaebased biofuel production.

Tissue engineering the mechanosensory circuit of the stretch reflex arc: sensory neuron innervation of intrafusal muscle fibers.

PubMed

Rumsey, John W; Das, Mainak; Bhalkikar, Abhijeet; Stancescu, Maria; Hickman, James J

2010-11-01

The sensory circuit of the stretch reflex arc, composed of specialized intrafusal muscle fibers and type Ia proprioceptive sensory neurons, converts mechanical information regarding muscle length and stretch to electrical action potentials and relays them to the central nervous system. Utilizing a non-biological substrate, surface patterning photolithography and a serum-free medium formulation a co-culture system was developed that facilitated functional interactions between intrafusal muscle fibers and sensory neurons. The presence of annulospiral wrappings (ASWs) and flower-spray endings (FSEs), both physiologically relevant morphologies in sensory neuron-intrafusal fiber interactions, were demonstrated and quantified using immunocytochemistry. Furthermore, two proposed components of the mammalian mechanosensory transduction system, BNaC1 and PICK1, were both identified at the ASWs and FSEs. To verify functionality of the mechanoreceptor elements the system was integrated with a MEMS cantilever device, and Ca(2+) currents were imaged along the length of an axon innervating an intrafusal fiber when stretched by cantilever deflection. This system provides a platform for examining the role of this mechanosensory complex in the pathology of myotonic and muscular dystrophies, peripheral neuropathy, and spasticity inducing diseases like Parkinson's. These studies will also assist in engineering fine motor control for prosthetic devices by improving our understanding of mechanosensitive feedback. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stretch-induced prostaglandins and protein turnover in cultured skeletal muscle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vandenburgh, Herman H.; Hatfaludy, Sophia; Sohar, Istvan; Shansky, Janet

1990-01-01

The purpose of the study is to determine whether mechanical stimulation of cultured muscle cells influences prostaglandin efflux rates and whether they are related to stretch-induced alterations in protein turnover rates. The materials and methods of the experiment, including cell cultures, mechanical stimulation, protein synthesis, and degradation assays are outlined, and emphasis is placed on the effect of short-term mechanical stimulation in basal medium prostaglandin efflux from cultured skeletal muscle and stretch-induced alterations in prostaglandins efflux in complete medium. The major finding of the study is that mechanical stimulation of tissue-cultured skeletal-muscle cells under conditions inducing skeletal-muscle hypertropy increases the efflux of PGE(2) and PGE(2-alpha) but not 6-keto-PGF(1-alpha), the prostacyclin product.

Simulated physiological stretch increases expression of extracellular matrix proteins in human bladder smooth muscle cells via integrin α4/αv-FAK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

PubMed

Chen, Shulian; Peng, Chuandu; Wei, Xin; Luo, Deyi; Lin, Yifei; Yang, Tongxin; Jin, Xi; Gong, Lina; Li, Hong; Wang, Kunjie

2017-08-01

To investigate the effect of simulated physiological stretch on the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and the role of integrin α4/αv, focal adhesion kinase (FAK), extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) in the stretch-induced ECM protein expression of human bladder smooth muscle cells (HBSMCs). HBSMCs were seeded onto silicone membrane and subjected to simulated physiological stretch at the range of 5, 10, and 15% elongation. Expression of primary ECM proteins in HBSMCs was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Specificity of the FAK and ERK1/2 was determined by Western blot with FAK inhibitor and ERK1/2 inhibitor (PD98059). Specificity of integrin α4 and integrin αv was determined with small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) transfection. The expression of collagen I (Col1), collagen III (Col3), and fibronectin (Fn) was increased significantly under the simulated physiological stretch of 10 and 15%. Integrin α4 and αv, FAK, ERK1/2 were activated by 10% simulated physiological stretch compared with the static condition. Pretreatment of ERK1/2 inhibitor, FAK inhibitor, integrin α4 siRNA, or integrin αv siRNA reduced the stretch-induced expression of ECM proteins. And FAK inhibitor decreased the stretch-induced ERK1/2 activity and ECM protein expression. Integrin α4 siRNA or integrin αv siRNA inhibited the stretch-induced activity of FAK. Simulated physiological stretch increases the expression of ECM proteins in HBSMCs, and integrin α4/αv-FAK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway partly modulates the mechano-transducing process.

Nerve growth factor released from a novel PLGA nerve conduit can improve axon growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Keng-Min; Shea, Jill; Gale, Bruce K.; Sant, Himanshu; Larrabee, Patti; Agarwal, Jay

2016-04-01

Nerve injury can occur due to penetrating wounds, compression, traumatic stretch, and cold exposure. Despite prompt repair, outcomes are dismal. In an attempt to help resolve this challenge, in this work, a poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nerve conduit with associated biodegradable drug reservoir was designed, fabricated, and tested. Unlike current nerve conduits, this device is capable of fitting various clinical scenarios by delivering different drugs without reengineering the whole system. To demonstrate the potential of this device for nerve repair, a series of experiments were performed using nerve growth factor (NGF). First, an NGF dosage curve was developed to determine the minimum NGF concentration for optimal axonal outgrowth on chick dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cells. Next, PLGA devices loaded with NGF were evaluated for sustained drug release and axon growth enhancement with the released drug. A 20 d in vitro release test was conducted and the nerve conduit showed the ability to meet and maintain the minimum NGF requirement determined previously. Bioactivity assays of the released NGF showed that drug released from the device between the 15th and 20th day could still promote axon growth (76.6-95.7 μm) in chick DRG cells, which is in the range of maximum growth. These novel drug delivery conduits show the ability to deliver NGF at a dosage that efficiently promotes ex vivo axon growth and have the potential for in vivo application to help bridge peripheral nerve gaps.

Evaluation of three different devices to reduce stasis edema in poorly mobile nursing home patients.

PubMed

Benigni, Jean-Patrick; Uhl, Jean-François; Balet, Florence; Filori, Pascal; Chahim, Maxime

2018-03-08

Prolonged immobility in the sitting position in the elderly is known to produce venous stasis with leg edema and possible skin changes. Compression stockings are often applied for this clinical problem. There are few experienced nursing staff available to supervise the difficult task of stocking application. The authors have researched other effective and simple devices that may be suitable alternatives. This article reports the results of three different devices to reduce leg edema, as measured by reduction in leg volume : an electro- stimulation device, an adjustable compression Velcro® wrap and a short stretch bandage, each tested over a two-hour period. In this randomized pilot study including 38 patients, the authors observed no difference in leg volume following electro-stimulation (Veinoplus®). They noted a significant reduction in leg volume following use of the other two devices, more with the adjustable Velcro® wrap compression (Circaid Juxtafit®) than with the short stretch bandage (Rosidal K®). Measurement of the interface pressures created by these two devices and also assessing the stiffness created by applying each device for two hours confirm that pressure is more important than stiffness in the reduction of edema in these particular patients. This pilot study is to be added to the results of previous published studies showing the efficacy in reducting leg edema of Velcro® adjustable compression wrap and its ease of use.

Measuring cell viscoelastic properties using a force-spectrometer: influence of protein-cytoplasm interactions

PubMed Central

Canetta, Elisabetta; Duperray, Alain; Leyrat, Anne; Verdier, Claude

2005-01-01

Cell adhesive and rheological properties play a very important role in cell transmigration through the endothelial barrier, in particular in the case of inflammation (leukocytes) or cancer metastasis (cancer cells). In order to characterize cell viscoelastic properties, we have designed a force spectrometer (AFM) which can stretch cells thereby allowing measurement of their rheological properties. This custom-made force spectrometer allows two different visualizations, one lateral and one from below. It allows investigation of the effects of rheology involved during cell stretching. To test the ability of our system to characterize such viscoelastic properties, ICAM-1 transfected CHO cells were analyzed. Two forms of ICAM-1 were tested; wild type ICAM-1, which can interact with the cytoskeleton, and a mutant form which lacks the cytoplasmic domain, and is unable to associate with the cytoskeleton. Stretching experiments carried out on these cells show the formation of long filaments. Using a previous model of filament elongation, we could determine the viscoelastic properties of a single cell. As expected, different viscoelastic components were found between the wild type and the mutant, which reveal that the presence of interactions between ICAM-1 and the cytoskeleton increases the stiffness of the cell. PMID:16308464

Measuring cell viscoelastic properties using a force-spectrometer: influence of protein-cytoplasm interactions.

PubMed

Canetta, Elisabetta; Duperray, Alain; Leyrat, Anne; Verdier, Claude

2005-01-01

Cell adhesive and rheological properties play a very important role in cell transmigration through the endothelial barrier, in particular in the case of inflammation (leukocytes) or cancer metastasis (cancer cells). In order to characterize cell viscoelastic properties, we have designed a force spectrometer (AFM) which can stretch cells thereby allowing measurement of their rheological properties. This custom-made force spectrometer allows two different visualizations, one lateral and one from below. It allows investigation of the effects of rheology involved during cell stretching. To test the ability of our system to characterize such viscoelastic properties, ICAM-1 transfected CHO cells were analyzed. Two forms of ICAM-1 were tested; wild type ICAM-1, which can interact with the cytoskeleton, and a mutant form which lacks the cytoplasmic domain, and is unable to associate with the cytoskeleton. Stretching experiments carried out on these cells show the formation of long filaments. Using a previous model of filament elongation, we could determine the viscoelastic properties of a single cell. As expected, different viscoelastic components were found between the wild type and the mutant, which reveal that the presence of interactions between ICAM-1 and the cytoskeleton increases the stiffness of the cell.

Stretchable and foldable electronic devices

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A; Huang, Yonggang; Ko, Heung Cho; Stoykovich, Mark; Choi, Won Mook; Song, Jizhou; Ahn, Jong Hyun; Kim, Dae Hyeong

2013-10-08

Disclosed herein are stretchable, foldable and optionally printable, processes for making devices and devices such as semiconductors, electronic circuits and components thereof that are capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Strain isolation layers provide good strain isolation to functional device layers. Multilayer devices are constructed to position a neutral mechanical surface coincident or proximate to a functional layer having a material that is susceptible to strain-induced failure. Neutral mechanical surfaces are positioned by one or more layers having a property that is spatially inhomogeneous, such as by patterning any of the layers of the multilayer device.

Stretchable and foldable electronic devices

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A; Huang, Yonggang; Ko, Heung Cho; Stoykovich, Mark; Choi, Won Mook; Song, Jizhou; Ahn, Jong Hyun; Kim, Dae Hyeong

2014-12-09

Disclosed herein are stretchable, foldable and optionally printable, processes for making devices and devices such as semiconductors, electronic circuits and components thereof that are capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Strain isolation layers provide good strain isolation to functional device layers. Multilayer devices are constructed to position a neutral mechanical surface coincident or proximate to a functional layer having a material that is susceptible to strain-induced failure. Neutral mechanical surfaces are positioned by one or more layers having a property that is spatially inhomogeneous, such as by patterning any of the layers of the multilayer device.

Stretched size of atrial septal defect predicted by intracardiac echocardiography.

PubMed

Lin, Ming-Chih; Fu, Yun-Ching; Jan, Sheng-Ling; Ho, Chi-Lin; Hwang, Betau

2010-01-01

The stretched size of an atrial septal defect (ASD) is important for device selection during transcatheter closure. However, balloon sizing carries potential risks such as hypotension, bradycardia, or laceration of the atrial septum. The aim of the present study was to investigate the accuracy of the predicted stretched size of ASD by intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). From December 2004 to November 2007, 136 consecutive patients with single secundum type ASD undergoing transcatheter closure of their defect using the Amplatzer septal occluder under ICE guidance were enrolled for analysis. There were 43 males and 93 females. The age ranged from 2.2 to 79.1 years with a median age of 13.4 years. The body weight ranged from 12.1 to 93.2 kg with a median body weight of 45.8 kg. The stretched size of ASD measured by a sizing plate was considered as the standard. ASD sizes measured by ICE in bicaval and short-axis views predicted the stretched size by formulae derived from linear regressions. The predicted stretched sizes obtained using 2 formulae, 1.34 x radicalbicaval xshort axis (formula 1) and 1.22 x larger diameter (formula 2), exhibited good agreement with the standard stretched size with Kappa values of 0.91 and 0.90, respectively. The accuracy rate of predicted stretched sizes within 2 mm, 3 mm, and 4 mm range of the standard size were 32.8%, 45.4%, and 57.7% (formula 1) and 33.1%, 50%, and 63.2% (formula 2). The stretched size of ASD predicted by ICE exhibited good agreement with the standard stretched size. This prediction provides helpful information, especially if balloon sizing cannot be adequately performed.

Cyclic mechanical stretch promotes energy metabolism in osteoblast-like cells through an mTOR signaling-associated mechanism.

PubMed

Zeng, Zhaobin; Jing, Da; Zhang, Xiaodong; Duan, Yinzhong; Xue, Feng

2015-10-01

Energy metabolism is essential for maintaining function and substance metabolism in osteoblasts. However, the role of cyclic stretch in regulating osteoblastic energy metabolism and the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we found that cyclic stretch (10% elongation at 0.1 Hz) significantly enhanced glucose consumption, lactate levels (determined using a glucose/lactate assay kit), intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels (quantified using rLuciferase/Luciferin reagent) and the mRNA expression of energy metabolism-related enzymes [mitochondrial ATP synthase, L-lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and enolase 1; measured by RT-qPCR], and increased the phosphorylation levels of Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and p70s6k (measured by western blot analysis) in human osteoblast‑like MG‑63 cells. Furthermore, the inhibition of Akt or mTOR with an antagonist (wortmannin or rapamycin) suppressed the stretch-induced increase in glucose consumption, lactate levels, intracellular ATP levels and the expression of mitochondrial ATP synthase and LDHA, indicating the significance of the Akt/mTOR/p70s6k pathway in regulating osteoblastic energy metabolism in response to mechanical stretch. Thus, we concluded that cyclic stretch regulates energy metabolism in MG‑63 cells partially through the Akt/mTOR/p70s6k signaling pathway. The present findings provide novel insight into osteoblastic mechanobiology from the perspective of energy metabolism.

Manipulation under anaesthesia versus low stretch device in poor range of motion after TKA.

PubMed

Witvrouw, E; Bellemans, J; Victor, J

2013-12-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two frequently used non-operative treatment techniques for a stiff knee after total knee arthroplasty. Sixty-four patients with a stiff knee after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were randomized into a manipulation under anaesthesia group, or a low load stretch (stretch) group. The patients were followed up for 6 weeks and were evaluated for maximum flexion and extension, range of motion (ROM), pain, stiffness and function. Both groups showed a significant increase in knee flexion in this study. Only the stretch group showed a significant increase in extension ROM. In both groups, a significant increase in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities was observed. No significant difference was observed between both groups for the flexion or extension ROM, or for any of the pain, function or stiffness scores during this study. The results of this study showed that the stretch technique had equal or superior results concerning ROM and function compared to manipulation under anaesthesia. The stretch technique achieved this without requiring the patient to undergo in-hospital treatment or anaesthesia, limiting the costs and the risks for complications. The results of this study showed that stretching is a valuable tool for treating joint contractures of the knee. Therefore, the use of this stretching technique may be an excellent first choice of treatment modality in patients with slow progress of knee flexion or persistent knee stiffness following TKA, prior to manipulation under anaesthesia or lysis of adhesions.

Actively tunable transverse waves in soft membrane-type acoustic metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Weijian; Wu, Bin; Muhammad, Du, Qiujiao; Huang, Guoliang; Lü, Chaofeng; Chen, Weiqiu

2018-04-01

Membrane-type metamaterials have shown a fantastic capacity for manipulating acoustic waves in the low frequency range. They have the advantages of simple geometry, light weight, and active tunability. In general, these membrane-type metamaterials contain a rigid frame support, leading to a fixed configuration. However, in some instances, flexible and reconfigurable devices may be desirable. A soft membrane-type acoustic metamaterial that is highly flexible and controllable is designed here. Different from the previously designed membrane-type metamaterials, the stiff supporting frame is removed and the stiff mass at the center of each unit cell is replaced by the soft mass, realized by bonding fine metallic particles in the central region. In contrast to the previous studies, the propagation of elastic transverse waves in such a soft metamaterial is investigated by employing the plane wave expansion method. Both the Bragg scattering bandgaps and locally resonant bandgaps are found to coexist in the soft metamaterial. The influences of structural parameters and finite biaxial pre-stretch on the dynamic behavior of this soft metamaterial are carefully examined. It is shown that whether or not the wave propagation characteristics are sensitive to the finite deformation does not depend on the property and pre-stretch of the membrane. In addition, a broadband complete bandgap and a pseudo-gap formed by the combination of two extremely adjacent directional bandgaps are observed in the low-frequency range, and both can be controlled by the finite pre-stretch.

Modelling the effects of vascular stress in mesangial cells.

PubMed

Riser, B L; Cortes, P; Yee, J

2000-01-01

It has recently been shown that mesangial cells are subjected to multiple forms of mechanical strain (fluid shear, hydrostatic pressure, and triaxial stretch) as a result of forces exerted by the vasculature. Nevertheless, the exact nature and the relative response to these stimuli have not been clarified. Although it is now well established that cyclic stretching of mesangial cells in culture results in the overproduction of extracellular matrix, indicating how intraglomerular hypertension may lead to glomerular scar formation, the contribution of different intracellular signalling mechanisms and extracellular mediators of the response are only now being identified. Recent studies point to a role for high glucose concentrations, transforming growth factor beta and its receptors, vascular endothelial growth factor, and connective tissue growth factor as important mediators, or modifiers of the response to mechanical strain. Although evidence exists for a role for protein kinase C, recent studies also implicate the mitogen-activated protein kinases along with enhanced DNA-binding activity of AP-1 as part of the signalling cascade altering matrix synthesis and cell proliferation in response to stretch. Finally, recent studies examining the effects of oscillating hyperbaric pressure demonstrate similarities, as well as differences, in comparison to those of cyclic stretch.

Gene expression profiles in chondrosarcoma cells subjected to cyclic stretching and hydrostatic pressure. A cDNA array study.

PubMed

Karjalainen, Hannu M; Sironen, Reijo K; Elo, Mika A; Kaarniranta, Kai; Takigawa, Masaharu; Helminen, Heikki J; Lammi, Mikko J

2003-01-01

Mechanical forces have a profound effect on cartilage tissue and chondrocyte metabolism. Strenuous loading inhibits the cellular metabolism, while optimal level of loading at correct frequency raises an anabolic response in chondrocytes. In this study, we used Atlas Human Cancer cDNA array to investigate mRNA expression profiles in human chondrosarcoma cells stretched 8% for 6 hours at a frequency of 0.5 Hz. In addition, cultures were exposed to continuous and cyclic (0.5 Hz) 5 MPa hydrostatic pressure. Cyclic stretch had a more profound effect on the gene expression profiles than 5 MPa hydrostatic pressure. Several genes involved with the regulation of cell cycle were increased in stretched cells, as well as mRNAs for PDGF-B, glucose-1-phosphate uridylyltransferase, Tiam1, cdc37 homolog, Gem, integrin alpha6, and matrix metalloproteinase-3. Among down-regulated genes were plakoglobin, TGF-alpha, retinoic acid receptor-alpha and Wnt8b. A smaller number of changes was detected after pressure treatments. Plakoglobin was increased under cyclic and continuous 5 MPa hydrostatic pressure, while mitogen-activated protein kinase-9, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, Rad6, CD9 antigen, integrins alphaE and beta8, and vimentin were decreased. Cyclic and continuous pressurization induces a number of specific changes. In conclusion, a different set of genes were affected by three different types of mechanical stimuli applied on chondrosarcoma cells.

Method and apparatus for deregistering multi-filament tow and product thereof

DOEpatents

Lukhard, Craig R.; Potter, Jerry F.; Todd, Maurice C.

1995-01-01

A method and apparatus for deregistering drawn crimped nylon multifilament tow includes the steps of stretching the tow under constant controlled tension at a temperature below the glass transition temperature of the nylon. The apparatus includes means for sensing the tension of the tow between the feed and draw sections of a stretching device and producing a signal representative of the tension sensed and a controller for changing the speed of the draw section actuated by said signal.

Smooth muscle contraction: mechanochemical formulation for homogeneous finite strains.

PubMed

Stålhand, J; Klarbring, A; Holzapfel, G A

2008-01-01

Chemical kinetics of smooth muscle contraction affect mechanical properties of organs that function under finite strains. In an effort to gain further insight into organ physiology, we formulate a mechanochemical finite strain model by considering the interaction between mechanical and biochemical components of cell function during activation. We propose a new constitutive framework and use a mechanochemical device that consists of two parallel elements: (i) spring for the cell stiffness; (ii) contractile element for the sarcomere. We use a multiplicative decomposition of cell elongation into filament contraction and cross-bridge deformation, and suggest that the free energy be a function of stretches, four variables (free unphosphorylated myosin, phosphorylated cross-bridges, phosphorylated and dephosphorylated cross-bridges attached to actin), chemical state variable driven by Ca2+-concentration, and temperature. The derived constitutive laws are thermodynamically consistent. Assuming isothermal conditions, we specialize the mechanical phase such that we recover the linear model of Yang et al. [2003a. The myogenic response in isolated rat cerebrovascular arteries: smooth muscle cell. Med. Eng. Phys. 25, 691-709]. The chemical phase is also specialized so that the linearized chemical evolution law leads to the four-state model of Hai and Murphy [1988. Cross-bridge phosphorylation and regulation of latch state in smooth muscle. Am. J. Physiol. 254, C99-C106]. One numerical example shows typical mechanochemical effects and the efficiency of the proposed approach. We discuss related parameter identification, and illustrate the dependence of muscle contraction (Ca2+-concentration) on active stress and related stretch. Mechanochemical models of this kind serve the mathematical basis for analyzing coupled processes such as the dependency of tissue properties on the chemical kinetics of smooth muscle.

[Effect of ectopic expression of NtEXPA5 gene on cell size and growth of organs of transgenic tobacco plants].

PubMed

Kuluev, B R; Safiullina, M G; Kniazev, A V; Chemeris, A V

2013-01-01

We obtained transgenic tobacco plants demonstrating overexpression of NtEXPA5 gene that encodes alpha-expansin of Nicotiana tabacum. The transgenic plants were characterized by increased size of leaves and stems. However, size of flowers remained almost unchanged. The increase of organ sizes was induced by cell stretching only. Moreover, the number of cell divisions was even decreased. The obtained data suggest tight interaction between cell stretching regulation and cell division, which together provide the basic mechanism aimed at the controlling of plant organ sizes.

A biomimetic microfluidic model to study signalling between endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells under hemodynamic conditions.

PubMed

van Engeland, Nicole C A; Pollet, Andreas M A O; den Toonder, Jaap M J; Bouten, Carlijn V C; Stassen, Oscar M J A; Sahlgren, Cecilia M

2018-05-29

Cell signalling and mechanics influence vascular pathophysiology and there is an increasing demand for in vitro model systems that enable examination of signalling between vascular cells under hemodynamic conditions. Current 3D vessel wall constructs do not recapitulate the mechanical conditions of the native tissue nor do they allow examination of cell-cell interactions under relevant hemodynamic conditions. Here, we describe a 3D microfluidic chip model of arterial endothelial and smooth muscle cells where cellular organization, composition and interactions, as well as the mechanical environment of the arterial wall are mimicked. The hemodynamic EC-VSMC-signalling-on-a-chip consists of two parallel polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) cell culture channels, separated by a flexible, porous PDMS membrane, mimicking the porosity of the internal elastic lamina. The hemodynamic EC-VSMC-signalling-on-a-chip allows co-culturing of human aortic endothelial cells (ECs) and human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), separated by a porous membrane, which enables EC-VSMC interaction and signalling, crucial for the development and homeostasis of the vessel wall. The device allows real time cell imaging and control of hemodynamic conditions. The culture channels are surrounded on either side by vacuum channels to induce cyclic strain by applying cyclic suction, resulting in mechanical stretching and relaxation of the membrane in the cell culture channels. The blood flow is mimicked by creating a flow of medium at the EC side. Vascular cells remain viable during prolonged culturing, exhibit physiological morphology and organization and make cell-cell contact. During dynamic culturing of the device with a shear stress of 1-1.5 Pa and strain of 5-8%, VSMCs align perpendicular to the given strain in the direction of the flow and EC adopt a cobblestone morphology. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the development of a microfluidic device, which enables a co-culture of interacting ECs and VSMCs under hemodynamic conditions and presents a novel approach to systematically study the biological and mechanical components of the intimal-medial vascular unit.

Beta1 integrin inhibits apoptosis induced by cyclic stretch in annulus fibrosus cells via ERK1/2 MAPK pathway.

PubMed

Zhang, Kai; Ding, Wei; Sun, Wei; Sun, Xiao-jiang; Xie, You-zhuan; Zhao, Chang-qing; Zhao, Jie

2016-01-01

Low back pain is associated with intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) due to cellular loss through apoptosis. Mechanical factors play an important role in maintaining the survival of the annulus fibrosus (AF) cells and the deposition of extracellular matrix. However, the mechanisms that excessive mechanical forces lead to AF cell apoptosis are not clear. The present study was to look for how AF cells sense mechanical changes. In vivo experiments, the involvement of mechanoreceptors in apoptosis was examined by RT-PCR and/or immunoblotting in the lumbar spine of rats subjected to unbalanced dynamic and static forces. In vitro experiments, we investigated apoptotic signaling pathways in untransfected and transfected AF cells with the lentivirus vector for rat β1 integrin overexpression after cyclic stretch. Apoptosis in AF cells was assessed using flow cytometry, Hoechst 33258 nuclear staining. Western blotting was used to analyze expression of β1 integrin and caspase-3 and ERK1/2 MAPK signaling molecules. In the rat IVDD model, unbalanced dynamic and static forces induced apoptosis of disc cells, which corresponded to decreased expression of β1 integrin. Cyclic stretch-induced apoptosis in rat AF cells correlated with the activation of caspase-3 and with decreased levels of β1 integrin and the phosphorylation levels of ERK1/2 activation level. However, the overexpression of β1 integrin in AF cells ameliorated cyclic stretch-induced apoptosis and decreased caspase-3 activation. Furthermore, ERK1/2-specific inhibitor promotes apoptosis in vector β1-infected AF cells. These results suggest that the disruption of β1 integrin signaling may underlie disc cell apoptosis induced by mechanical stress. Further work is necessary to fully elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie IVDD caused by unbalanced dynamic and static forces.

Porous poly(L-lactic acid) sheet prepared by stretching with starch particles as filler for tissue engineering.

PubMed

Ju, Dandan; Han, Lijing; Li, Zonglin; Chen, Yunjing; Wang, Qingjiang; Bian, Junjia; Dong, Lisong

2016-05-20

Porous poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) sheets were prepared by uniaxial stretching PLLA sheets containing starch filler. Here, the starch filler content, stretching ratio, stretching rate and stretching temperature are important factors to influence the structure of the porous PLLA sheets, therefore, they have been investigated in detail. The pore size distribution and tortuosity were characterized by Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry. The results revealed that the porosity and pore size enlarged with the increase of the starch filler content and stretching ratio, while shrank with the rise of stretching temperature. On the other hand, the pore structure almost had no changes with the stretching rate ranging between 5 and 40 mm/min. In order to test and verify that the porous PLLA sheet was suitable for the tissue engineering, the starch particles were removed by selective enzymatic degradation and its in vitro biocompatibility to osteoblast-like MC3T3-E1 cells was investigated. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pericentromere tension is self-regulated by spindle structure in metaphase

PubMed Central

Chacón, Jeremy M.; Mukherjee, Soumya; Schuster, Breanna M.; Clarke, Duncan J.

2014-01-01

During cell division, a mitotic spindle is built by the cell and acts to align and stretch duplicated sister chromosomes before their ultimate segregation into daughter cells. Stretching of the pericentromeric chromatin during metaphase is thought to generate a tension-based signal that promotes proper chromosome segregation. However, it is not known whether the mitotic spindle actively maintains a set point tension magnitude for properly attached sister chromosomes to facilitate robust mechanochemical checkpoint signaling. By imaging and tracking the thermal movements of pericentromeric fluorescent markers in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we measured pericentromere stiffness and then used the stiffness measurements to quantitatively evaluate the tension generated by pericentromere stretch during metaphase in wild-type cells and in mutants with disrupted chromosome structure. We found that pericentromere tension in yeast is substantial (4–6 pN) and is tightly self-regulated by the mitotic spindle: through adjustments in spindle structure, the cell maintains wild-type tension magnitudes even when pericentromere stiffness is disrupted. PMID:24821839

Pericentromere tension is self-regulated by spindle structure in metaphase.

PubMed

Chacón, Jeremy M; Mukherjee, Soumya; Schuster, Breanna M; Clarke, Duncan J; Gardner, Melissa K

2014-05-12

During cell division, a mitotic spindle is built by the cell and acts to align and stretch duplicated sister chromosomes before their ultimate segregation into daughter cells. Stretching of the pericentromeric chromatin during metaphase is thought to generate a tension-based signal that promotes proper chromosome segregation. However, it is not known whether the mitotic spindle actively maintains a set point tension magnitude for properly attached sister chromosomes to facilitate robust mechanochemical checkpoint signaling. By imaging and tracking the thermal movements of pericentromeric fluorescent markers in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we measured pericentromere stiffness and then used the stiffness measurements to quantitatively evaluate the tension generated by pericentromere stretch during metaphase in wild-type cells and in mutants with disrupted chromosome structure. We found that pericentromere tension in yeast is substantial (4-6 pN) and is tightly self-regulated by the mitotic spindle: through adjustments in spindle structure, the cell maintains wild-type tension magnitudes even when pericentromere stiffness is disrupted.

Mechanical stretch increases CCN2/CTGF expression in anterior cruciate ligament-derived cells.

PubMed

Miyake, Yoshiaki; Furumatsu, Takayuki; Kubota, Satoshi; Kawata, Kazumi; Ozaki, Toshifumi; Takigawa, Masaharu

2011-06-03

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-to-bone interface serves to minimize the stress concentrations that would arise between two different tissues. Mechanical stretch plays an important role in maintaining cell-specific features by inducing CCN family 2/connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF). We previously reported that cyclic tensile strain (CTS) stimulates α1(I) collagen (COL1A1) expression in human ACL-derived cells. However, the biological function and stress-related response of CCN2/CTGF were still unclear in ACL fibroblasts. In the present study, CCN2/CTGF was observed in ACL-to-bone interface, but was not in the midsubstance region by immunohistochemical analyses. CTS treatments induced higher increase of CCN2/CTGF expression and secretion in interface cells compared with midsubstance cells. COL1A1 expression was not influenced by CCN2/CTGF treatment in interface cells despite CCN2/CTGF stimulated COL1A1 expression in midsubstance cells. However, CCN2/CTGF stimulated the proliferation of interface cells. Our results suggest that distinct biological function of stretch-induced CCN2/CTGF might regulate region-specific phenotypes of ACL-derived cells. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The purinergic component of human bladder smooth muscle cells’ proliferation and contraction under physiological stretch

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

Wazir, Romel; Luo, De-Yi; Tian, Ye

Highlights: •Stretch induces proliferation and contraction. •Optimum applied stretch in vitro is 5% and 10% equibiaxial stretching respectively. •Expression of P2X1 and P2X2 is upregulated after application of stretch. •P2X2 is possibly more susceptible to stretch related changes. •Purinoceptors functioning may explain conditions with atropine resistance. -- Abstract: Objective: To investigate whether cyclic stretch induces proliferation and contraction of human smooth muscle cells (HBSMCs), mediated by P2X purinoceptor 1 and 2 and the signal transduction mechanisms of this process. Methods: HBSMCs were seeded on silicone membrane and stretched under varying parameters; (equibiaxial elongation: 2.5%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%), (Frequency:more » 0.05 Hz, 0.1 Hz, 0.2 Hz, 0.5 Hz, 1 Hz). 5-Bromo-2-deoxyuridine assay was employed for proliferative studies. Contractility of the cells was determined using collagen gel contraction assay. After optimal physiological stretch was established; P2X1 and P2X2 were analyzed by real time polymerase chain reaction and Western Blot. Specificity of purinoceptors was maintained by employing specific inhibitors; (NF023 for P2X1, and A317491for P2X2), in some experiments. Results: Optimum proliferation and contractility were observed at 5% and 10% equibiaxial stretching respectively, applied at a frequency of 0.1 Hz; At 5% stretch, proliferation increased from 0.837 ± 0.026 (control) to 1.462 ± 0.023%, p < 0.05. Mean contraction at 10% stretching increased from 31.7 ± 2.3%, (control) to 78.28 ±1.45%, p < 0.05. Expression of P2X1 and P2X2 was upregulated after application of stretch. Inhibition had effects on proliferation (1.232 ± 0.051, p < 0.05 NF023) and (1.302 ± 0.021, p < 0.05 A314791) while contractility was markedly reduced (68.24 ± 2.31, p < 0.05 NF023) and (73.2 ± 2.87, p < 0.05 A314791). These findings shows that mechanical stretch can promote magnitude-dependent proliferative and contractile modulation of HBSMCs in vitro, and P2X1 and 2 are at least partially responsible in this process.« less

Optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy.

PubMed

Guo, Baoshan; Lei, Cheng; Wu, Yi; Kobayashi, Hirofumi; Ito, Takuro; Yalikun, Yaxiaer; Lee, Sangwook; Isozaki, Akihiro; Li, Ming; Jiang, Yiyue; Yasumoto, Atsushi; Di Carlo, Dino; Tanaka, Yo; Yatomi, Yutaka; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2018-03-01

Innovations in optical microscopy have opened new windows onto scientific research, industrial quality control, and medical practice over the last few decades. One of such innovations is optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy - an emerging method for high-throughput quantitative phase imaging that builds on the interference between temporally stretched signal and reference pulses by using dispersive properties of light in both spatial and temporal domains in an interferometric configuration on a microfluidic platform. It achieves the continuous acquisition of both intensity and phase images with a high throughput of more than 10,000 particles or cells per second by overcoming speed limitations that exist in conventional quantitative phase imaging methods. Applications enabled by such capabilities are versatile and include characterization of cancer cells and microalgal cultures. In this paper, we review the principles and applications of optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy and discuss its future perspective. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Developing a Wearable Ankle Rehabilitation Robotic Device for in-Bed Acute Stroke Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Ren, Yupeng; Wu, Yi-Ning; Yang, Chung-Yong; Xu, Tao; Harvey, Richard L; Zhang, Li-Qun

2017-06-01

Ankle movement training is important in motor recovery post stroke and early intervention is critical to stroke rehabilitation. However, acute stroke survivors receive motor rehabilitation in only a small fraction of time, partly due to the lack of effective devices and protocols suitable for early in-bed rehabilitation. Considering the first few months post stroke is critical in stroke recovery, there is a strong need to start motor rehabilitation early, mobilize the ankle, and conduct movement therapy. This study seeks to address the need and deliver intensive passive and active movement training in acute stroke using a wearable ankle robotic device. Isometric torque generation mode under real-time feedback is used to guide patients in motor relearning. In the passive stretching mode, the wearable robotic device stretches the ankle throughout its range of motion to the extreme dorsiflexion forcefully and safely. In the active movement training mode, a patient is guided and motivated to actively participate in movement training through game playing. Clinical testing of the wearable robotic device on 10 acute stroke survivors over 12 sessions of feedback-facilitated isometric torque generation, and passive and active movement training indicated that the early in-bed rehabilitation could have facilitated neuroplasticity and helped improve motor control ability.

One-channel Cell-attached Patch-clamp Recording

PubMed Central

Maki, Bruce A.; Cummings, Kirstie A.; Paganelli, Meaghan A.; Murthy, Swetha E.; Popescu, Gabriela K.

2014-01-01

Ion channel proteins are universal devices for fast communication across biological membranes. The temporal signature of the ionic flux they generate depends on properties intrinsic to each channel protein as well as the mechanism by which it is generated and controlled and represents an important area of current research. Information about the operational dynamics of ion channel proteins can be obtained by observing long stretches of current produced by a single molecule. Described here is a protocol for obtaining one-channel cell-attached patch-clamp current recordings for a ligand gated ion channel, the NMDA receptor, expressed heterologously in HEK293 cells or natively in cortical neurons. Also provided are instructions on how to adapt the method to other ion channels of interest by presenting the example of the mechano-sensitive channel PIEZO1. This method can provide data regarding the channel’s conductance properties and the temporal sequence of open-closed conformations that make up the channel’s activation mechanism, thus helping to understand their functions in health and disease. PMID:24961614

High-throughput, label-free, single-cell, microalgal lipid screening by machine-learning-equipped optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy.

PubMed

Guo, Baoshan; Lei, Cheng; Kobayashi, Hirofumi; Ito, Takuro; Yalikun, Yaxiaer; Jiang, Yiyue; Tanaka, Yo; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2017-05-01

The development of reliable, sustainable, and economical sources of alternative fuels to petroleum is required to tackle the global energy crisis. One such alternative is microalgal biofuel, which is expected to play a key role in reducing the detrimental effects of global warming as microalgae absorb atmospheric CO 2 via photosynthesis. Unfortunately, conventional analytical methods only provide population-averaged lipid amounts and fail to characterize a diverse population of microalgal cells with single-cell resolution in a non-invasive and interference-free manner. Here high-throughput label-free single-cell screening of lipid-producing microalgal cells with optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscopy was demonstrated. In particular, Euglena gracilis, an attractive microalgal species that produces wax esters (suitable for biodiesel and aviation fuel after refinement), within lipid droplets was investigated. The optofluidic time-stretch quantitative phase microscope is based on an integration of a hydrodynamic-focusing microfluidic chip, an optical time-stretch quantitative phase microscope, and a digital image processor equipped with machine learning. As a result, it provides both the opacity and phase maps of every single cell at a high throughput of 10,000 cells/s, enabling accurate cell classification without the need for fluorescent staining. Specifically, the dataset was used to characterize heterogeneous populations of E. gracilis cells under two different culture conditions (nitrogen-sufficient and nitrogen-deficient) and achieve the cell classification with an error rate of only 2.15%. The method holds promise as an effective analytical tool for microalgae-based biofuel production. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.

The optical stretcher: a novel laser tool to micromanipulate cells.

PubMed Central

Guck, J; Ananthakrishnan, R; Mahmood, H; Moon, T J; Cunningham, C C; Käs, J

2001-01-01

When a dielectric object is placed between two opposed, nonfocused laser beams, the total force acting on the object is zero but the surface forces are additive, thus leading to a stretching of the object along the axis of the beams. Using this principle, we have constructed a device, called an optical stretcher, that can be used to measure the viscoelastic properties of dielectric materials, including biologic materials such as cells, with the sensitivity necessary to distinguish even between different individual cytoskeletal phenotypes. We have successfully used the optical stretcher to deform human erythrocytes and mouse fibroblasts. In the optical stretcher, no focusing is required, thus radiation damage is minimized and the surface forces are not limited by the light power. The magnitude of the deforming forces in the optical stretcher thus bridges the gap between optical tweezers and atomic force microscopy for the study of biologic materials. PMID:11463624

Antisense oligodeoxynucleotide inhibition of a swelling-activated cation channel in osteoblast-like osteosarcoma cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duncan, R. L.; Kizer, N.; Barry, E. L.; Friedman, P. A.; Hruska, K. A.

1996-01-01

By patch-clamp analysis, we have shown that chronic, intermittent mechanical strain (CMS) increases the activity of stretch-activated cation channels of osteoblast-like UMR-106.01 cells. CMS also produces a swelling-activated whole-cell conductance (Gm) regulated by varying strain levels. We questioned whether the swelling-activated conductance was produced by stretch-activated cation channel activity. We have identified a gene involved in the increase in conductance by using antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) derived from the alpha 1-subunit genes of calcium channels found in UMR-106.01 cells (alpha1S, alpha1C, and alpha1D). We demonstrate that alpha 1C antisense ODNs abolish the increase in Gm in response to hypotonic swelling following CMS. Antisense ODNs to alpha1S and alpha1D, sense ODNs to alpha1C, and sham permeabilization had no effect on the conductance increase. In addition, during cell-attached patch-clamp studies, antisense ODNs to alpha1c completely blocked the swelling-activated and stretch-activated nonselective cation channel response to strain. Antisense ODNs to alpha1S treatment produced no effect on either swelling-activated or stretch-activated cation channel activity. There were differences in the stretch-activated and swelling-activated cation channel activity, but whether they represent different channels could not be determined from our data. Our data indicate that the alpha1C gene product is involved in the Gm and the activation of the swelling-activated cation channels induced by CMS. The possibility that swelling-activated cation channel genes are members of the calcium channel superfamily exists, but if alpha1c is not the swelling-activated cation channel itself, then its expression is required for induction of swelling-activated cation channel activity by CMS.

Kinetics of Mechanical Stretch-Induced Nitric Oxide Production in Rat Ventricular Cardiac Myocytes.

PubMed

Shim, A L; Mitrokhin, V M; Gorbacheva, L R; Savinkova, I G; Pustovit, K B; Mladenov, M I; Kamkin, A G

2017-09-01

Discrete mechanical stretch of isolated spontaneously contracting cardiac myocytes was employed to examine the kinetics of NO production in these cells. NO oscillations were detected with fluorescent dye 4-amino-5-methylamino-2',7'-difluorofluorescein diacetate. The mechanisms underlying stretch-induced changes in NO concentration remain unclear and further studies are needed to evaluate the role of NO oscillation in the regulation of cardiomyocyte function.

Arrays of EAP micro-actuators for single-cell stretching applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbari, S.; Niklaus, M.; Shea, H.

2010-04-01

Mechanical stimuli are critical for the development and maintenance of most tissues such as muscles, cartilage, bones and blood vessels. The commercially available cell culture systems replicating the in vivo environment are typically based on simple membrane cell-stretching equipment, which can only measure the average response of large colonies of cells over areas of greater than one cm2. We present here the conceptual design and the complete fabrication process of an array of 128 Electro-Active Polymer (EAP) micro-actuators which are uni-axially stretched and hence used to impose unidirectional strain on single cells, make it feasible to do experiments on the cytomechanics of individual cells. The Finite Element Method is employed to study the effect of different design parameters on achievable strain, leading to the optimized design. Compliant gold electrodes are deposited by low-energy ion implantation on both sides of a PDMS membrane, as this technique allows making electrodes that support large strain with minimal stiffening of the elastomer. The membrane is bonded to a rigid support, leading to an array of 100×100 μm2 EAP actuators.

Multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microspectroscopy for monitoring molecular structural change in biological samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohta, Takayuki; Hashizume, Hiroshi; Takeda, Keigo; Ishikawa, Kenji; Ito, Masafumi; Hori, Masaru

2014-10-01

Biological applications employing non-equilibrium plasma processing has been attracted much attention. It is essential to monitor the changes in an intracellular structure of the cell during the plasma exposure. In this study, we have analyzed the molecular structure of biological samples using multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microspectroscopy. Two picosecond pulse lasers with fundamental (1064 nm) or the supercontinuum (460-2200 nm) were employed as a pump and Stokes beams of multiplex CARS microspectroscopy, respectively. The pump and the Stokes laser beams were collinearly overlapped and tightly focused into a sample using an objective lens of high numerical aperture. The CARS signal was collected by another microscope objective lens which is placed facing the first one. After passing through a short pass filter, the signal was dispersed by a polychromator, and was detected by a charge-coupled device camera. The sample was sandwiched by a coverslip and a glass bottom dish for the measurements and was placed on a piezo stage. The CARS signals of the quinhydrone crystal at 1655, 1584, 1237 and 1161 cm-1 were assigned to the C-C, C =O stretching, O-H and C-O stretching vibrational modes, respectively.

21 CFR 884.3900 - Vaginal stent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... stent. (a) Identification. A vaginal stent is a device used to enlarge the vagina by stretching, or to support the vagina and to hold a skin graft after reconstructive surgery. (b) Classification. Class II...

21 CFR 884.3900 - Vaginal stent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... stent. (a) Identification. A vaginal stent is a device used to enlarge the vagina by stretching, or to support the vagina and to hold a skin graft after reconstructive surgery. (b) Classification. Class II...

21 CFR 884.3900 - Vaginal stent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... stent. (a) Identification. A vaginal stent is a device used to enlarge the vagina by stretching, or to support the vagina and to hold a skin graft after reconstructive surgery. (b) Classification. Class II...

21 CFR 884.3900 - Vaginal stent.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... stent. (a) Identification. A vaginal stent is a device used to enlarge the vagina by stretching, or to support the vagina and to hold a skin graft after reconstructive surgery. (b) Classification. Class II...

A Device for Human Ultrasonic Echolocation.

PubMed

Sohl-Dickstein, Jascha; Teng, Santani; Gaub, Benjamin M; Rodgers, Chris C; Li, Crystal; DeWeese, Michael R; Harper, Nicol S

2015-06-01

We present a device that combines principles of ultrasonic echolocation and spatial hearing to provide human users with environmental cues that are 1) not otherwise available to the human auditory system, and 2) richer in object and spatial information than the more heavily processed sonar cues of other assistive devices. The device consists of a wearable headset with an ultrasonic emitter and stereo microphones with affixed artificial pinnae. The goal of this study is to describe the device and evaluate the utility of the echoic information it provides. The echoes of ultrasonic pulses were recorded and time stretched to lower their frequencies into the human auditory range, then played back to the user. We tested performance among naive and experienced sighted volunteers using a set of localization experiments, in which the locations of echo-reflective surfaces were judged using these time-stretched echoes. Naive subjects were able to make laterality and distance judgments, suggesting that the echoes provide innately useful information without prior training. Naive subjects were generally unable to make elevation judgments from recorded echoes. However, trained subjects demonstrated an ability to judge elevation as well. This suggests that the device can be used effectively to examine the environment and that the human auditory system can rapidly adapt to these artificial echolocation cues. Interpreting and interacting with the external world constitutes a major challenge for persons who are blind or visually impaired. This device has the potential to aid blind people in interacting with their environment.

A device for human ultrasonic echolocation

PubMed Central

Gaub, Benjamin M.; Rodgers, Chris C.; Li, Crystal; DeWeese, Michael R.; Harper, Nicol S.

2015-01-01

Objective We present a device that combines principles of ultrasonic echolocation and spatial hearing to provide human users with environmental cues that are 1) not otherwise available to the human auditory system and 2) richer in object, and spatial information than the more heavily processed sonar cues of other assistive devices. The device consists of a wearable headset with an ultrasonic emitter and stereo microphones with affixed artificial pinnae. The goal of this study is to describe the device and evaluate the utility of the echoic information it provides. Methods The echoes of ultrasonic pulses were recorded and time-stretched to lower their frequencies into the human auditory range, then played back to the user. We tested performance among naive and experienced sighted volunteers using a set of localization experiments in which the locations of echo-reflective surfaces were judged using these time stretched echoes. Results Naive subjects were able to make laterality and distance judgments, suggesting that the echoes provide innately useful information without prior training. Naive subjects were generally unable to make elevation judgments from recorded echoes. However trained subjects demonstrated an ability to judge elevation as well. Conclusion This suggests that the device can be used effectively to examine the environment and that the human auditory system can rapidly adapt to these artificial echolocation cues. Significance Interpreting and interacting with the external world constitutes a major challenge for persons who are blind or visually impaired. This device has the potential to aid blind people in interacting with their environment. PMID:25608301

Protective role of Nrf2 against mechanical-stretch-induced apoptosis in mouse fibroblasts: a potential therapeutic target of mechanical-trauma-induced stress urinary incontinence.

PubMed

Li, Qiannan; Li, Bingshu; Liu, Cheng; Wang, Linlin; Tang, Jianming; Hong, Li

2018-01-10

We investigated the protective effect and underlying molecular mechanism of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) against mechanical-stretch-induced apoptosis in mouse fibroblasts. Normal cells, Nrf2 silencing cells, and Nrf2 overexpressing cells were respectively divided into two groups-nonintervention and cyclic mechanical strain (CMS)-subjected to CMS of 5333 μ (1.0 Hz for 4 h), six groups in total (control, CMS, shNfe212, shNfe212 + CMS, LV-shNfe212, and LV-shNfe212 + CMS). After treatment, cell apoptosis; cell-cycle distribution; expressions of Nrf2, Bax, Bcl-2, Cyt-C, caspase-3, caspase-9, cleaved-caspase-3, and cleaved-caspase-9; mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm); reactive oxygen species (ROS); and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Thirty virgin female C57BL/6 mice were divided into two groups: control (without intervention) and vaginal distension (VD) groups, which underwent VD for 1 h with an 8-mm dilator (0.3 ml saline). Leak-point pressure (LPP) was tested on day 7 after VD; Nrf2 expression, apoptosis, and MDA levels were then measured in urethra and anterior vaginal wall. Mechanical stretch decreased Nrf2 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expressions. Overexpression of Nrf2 alleviated mechanical-stretch-induced cell apoptosis; S-phase arrest of cell cycle; up-regulation of Bax, cytochrome C (Cyt-C), ROS, MDA, ratio of cleaved-caspase-3/caspase-3 and cleaved-caspase-9/caspase-9; and exacerbated the decrease of Bcl2 and ΔΨm in L929 cells. On the contrary, silencing of Nrf2 showed opposite effects. Besides, VD reduced LPP levels and Nrf2 expression and increased cell apoptosis and MDA generation in the urethra and anterior vaginal wall. Nrf2 exhibits a protective role against mechanical-stretch -induced apoptosis on mouse fibroblasts, which might indicate a potential therapeutic target of mechanical-trauma-induced stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Adhesion and the Lamination/Failure of Stretchable Organic and Composite Organic/Inorganic Electronic Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Deying

Stretchable organic electronics have emerged as interesting technologies for several applications where stretchability is considered important. The easy and low-cost deposition procedures for the fabrication of stretchable organic solar cells and organic light emitting devices reduce the overall cost for the fabrication of these devices. However, the interfacial cracks and defects at the interfaces of the devices, during fabrication, are detrimental to the performance of stretchable organic electronic devices. Also, as the devices are deformed under service conditions, it is possible for cracks to grow. Furthermore, the multilayered structures of the devices can fail due to the delamination and buckling of the layered structures. There is, therefore, a need to study the failure mechanism in the layered structures that are relevant to stretchable organic electronic devices. Hence, in this study, a combined experimental, analytical and computational approach is used to study the effects of adhesion and deformation on the failure mechanisms in structures that are relevant to stretchable electronic devices. First, the failure mechanisms are studied in stretchable inorganic electronic structures. The wrinkles and buckles are formed by the unloading of pre-stretched PDMS/Au structure, after the evaporation of nano-scale Au layers. They are then characterized using atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Analytical models are used to determine the critical stresses for wrinkling and buckling. The interfacial cracking and film buckling that can occur are also studied using finite element simulations. The implications of the results are then discussed for the potential applications of micro-wrinkles and micro-buckles in the stretchable electronic structures and biomedical devices. Subsequently, the adhesion between bi-material pairs that are relevant to organic light emitting devices, composite organic/inorganic light emitting devices, organic bulk heterojunction solar cells, and composite organic/inorganic solar cells on flexible substrates, is measured using force microscopy (AFM) techniques. The AFM measurements are incorporated into the Derjaguin-Muller-Toporov model to calculate the adhesion energies. The implications of the results are then discussed for the design of robust organic and composite organic/inorganic electronic devices. Finally, the lamination of organic solar cells and organic light emitting devices is studied using a combination of experimental, computational, and analytical approaches. First, the effects of applied lamination force (on contact between the laminated layers) are studied using experiments and models. The crack driving forces associated with the interfacial cracks that form at the interfaces between layers (at the bi-material interfaces) are estimated along with the critical interfacial crack driving forces associated with the separation of thin films, after layer transfer. The conditions for successful lamination are predicted using a combination of experiments and models. Guidelines are developed for the lamination of low-cost organic electronic structures.

Dynamics of flexible molecules in thinning fluid filaments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arratia, Paulo E.; Juarez, Gabriel

2011-11-01

Newtonian liquids that contain small amounts (~ppm) of flexible polymers can exhibit viscoelastic behavior in extensional flows. In this talk, we report the results of experiments on the thinning and breakup of polymeric fluids in a simple microfluidic device. We aim to understand the stretching dynamics of flexible polymers by direct visualization of fluorescent DNA molecules, a model polymer. A Boger fluid, composed of 100 ppm polyacrylamide and 85% w/w glycerol, is seeded with stained lambdaâDNA molecules (<10% v/v) imaged by high speed epifluorescence microscopy. We observe that the strong flow in the thinning fluid threads provide sufficient forces to stretch the DNA molecules away from their equilibrium coiled state. The distribution of stretch lengths, however, is very heterogeneous due to molecular individualism and initial conditions. Once the molecules are stretched to their full length and aligned with the flow, they translate along the fluid thread as rigid rods until the point of pinch off. After pinch off, both the fluid and molecules return to a relaxed state.

Design of high-efficiency diffractive optical elements towards ultrafast mid-infrared time-stretched imaging and spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Hongbo; Ren, Delun; Wang, Chao; Mao, Chensheng; Yang, Lei

2018-02-01

Ultrafast time stretch imaging offers unprecedented imaging speed and enables new discoveries in scientific research and engineering. One challenge in exploiting time stretch imaging in mid-infrared is the lack of high-quality diffractive optical elements (DOEs), which encode the image information into mid-infrared optical spectrum. This work reports the design and optimization of mid-infrared DOE with high diffraction-efficiency, broad bandwidth and large field of view. Using various typical materials with their refractive indices ranging from 1.32 to 4.06 in ? mid-infrared band, diffraction efficiencies of single-layer and double-layer DOEs have been studied in different wavelength bands with different field of views. More importantly, by replacing the air gap of double-layer DOE with carefully selected optical materials, one optimized ? triple-layer DOE, with efficiency higher than 95% in the whole ? mid-infrared window and field of view greater than ?, is designed and analyzed. This new DOE device holds great potential in ultrafast mid-infrared time stretch imaging and spectroscopy.

Analysis and Modeling of Chromosome Congression During Mitosis in the Chemotherapy Drug Cisplatin.

PubMed

Chacón, Jeremy M; Gardner, Melissa K

2013-12-01

The chemotherapy drug Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II)) induces crosslinks within and between DNA strands, and between DNA and nearby proteins. Therefore, Cisplatin-treated cells which progress into cell division may do so with altered chromosome mechanical properties. This could have important consequences for the successful completion of mitosis. Using Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy of live Cisplatin-treated Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells, we found that metaphase mitotic spindles have disorganized kinetochores relative to untreated cells, and also that there is increased variability in the chromosome stretching distance between sister centromeres. This suggests that chromosome stiffness may become more variable after Cisplatin treatment. We explored the effect of variable chromosome stiffness during mitosis using a stochastic model in which kinetochore microtubule dynamics were regulated by tension imparted by stretched sister chromosomes. Consistent with experimental results, increased variability of chromosome stiffness in the model led to disorganization of kinetochores in simulated metaphase mitotic spindles. Furthermore, the variability in simulated chromosome stretching tension was increased as chromosome stiffness became more variable. Because proper chromosome stretching tension may serve as a signal that is required for proper progression through mitosis, tension variability could act to impair this signal and thus prevent proper mitotic progression. Our results suggest a possible mitotic mode of action for the anti-cancer drug Cisplatin.

Automated Cell-Cutting for Cell Cloning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ichikawa, Akihiko; Tanikawa, Tamio; Matsukawa, Kazutsugu; Takahashi, Seiya; Ohba, Kohtaro

We develop an automated cell-cutting technique for cell cloning. Animal cells softened by the cytochalasin treatment are injected into a microfluidic chip. The microfluidic chip contains two orthogonal channels: one microchannel is wide, used to transport cells, and generates the cutting flow; the other is thin and used for aspiration, fixing, and stretching of the cell. The injected cell is aspirated and stretched in the thin microchannel. Simultaneously, the volumes of the cell before and after aspiration are calculated; the volumes are used to calculate the fluid flow required to aspirate half the volume of the cell into the thin microchannel. Finally, we apply a high-speed flow in the orthogonal microchannel to bisect the cell. This paper reports the cutting process, the cutting system, and the results of the experiment.

Cytoskeletal remodeling of connective tissue fibroblasts in response to static stretch is dependent on matrix material properties

PubMed Central

Abbott, Rosalyn D; Koptiuch, Cathryn; Iatridis, James C; Howe, Alan K; Badger, Gary J; Langevin, Helene M

2012-01-01

In areolar “loose” connective tissue, fibroblasts remodel their cytoskeleton within minutes in response to static stretch resulting in increased cell body cross-sectional area that relaxes the tissue to a lower state of resting tension. It remains unknown whether the loosely arranged collagen matrix, characteristic of areolar connective tissue, is required for this cytoskeletal response to occur. The purpose of this study was to evaluate cytoskeletal remodeling of fibroblasts in and dissociated from areolar and dense connective tissue in response to 2 hours of static stretch in both native tissue and collagen gels of varying crosslinking. Rheometric testing indicated that the areolar connective tissue had a lower dynamic modulus and was more viscous than the dense connective tissue. In response to stretch, cells within the more compliant areolar connective tissue adopted a large “sheet-like” morphology that was in contrast to the smaller dendritic morphology in the dense connective tissue. By adjusting the in vitro collagen crosslinking, and the resulting dynamic modulus, it was demonstrated that cells dissociated from dense connective tissue are capable of responding when seeded into a compliant matrix, while cells dissociated from areolar connective tissue can lose their ability to respond when their matrix becomes stiffer. This set of experiments indicated stretch-induced fibroblast expansion was dependent on the distinct matrix material properties of areolar connective tissues as opposed to the cells’ tissue of origin. These results also suggest that disease and pathological processes with increased crosslinks, such as diabetes and fibrosis, could impair fibroblast responsiveness in connective tissues. PMID:22552950

Permeability of C2C12 myotube membranes is influenced by stretch velocity.

PubMed

Burkholder, Thomas J

2003-05-30

Mechanical signals are critical to the growth and maintenance of skeletal muscle, but the mechanism by which these signals are transduced by the cell remains unknown. This work examined the hypothesis that stretch conditions influence membrane permeability consistent with a role for membrane permeability in mechanotransduction. C2C12 myotubes were grown in conditions that encourage uniform alignment and subjected to uniform mechanical deformation in the presence of fluorescein labeled dextran to evaluate membrane permeability as a function of stretch amplitude and velocity. Within a physiologically relevant range of conditions, a complex interaction between the two aspects of stretch was observed, with velocity contributing most strongly at large stretch amplitudes. This suggests that membrane viscosity could contribute to mechanotransduction.

Multimodal optical phenotyping of cancer cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Budde, Björn; Isbach, Michael; Rommel, Christina; Kemper, Björn; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2015-03-01

There is a growing interest in label-free, optical techniques like digital holographic microscopy (DHM) and optical cell stretching, since the interaction with samples is minimized. Because optical manipulation strongly depends on the optical and physiological properties of the investigated material, we combined the usage of these methods for the characterization of pancreatic tumor cells. Our results demonstrate that cells of distinct differentiation levels, or different expression in only one protein, show differences in their deformability. Additionally, the DHM results showed only few variations in the refractive index, indicating that it does not significantly influence the results of the optical cell stretching. Thus, the combined usage of the two technologies represents a promising new approach for tumor cell characterization.

KSC00pp0435

NASA Image and Video Library

2000-03-30

This broad aerial view shows the runway at KSC (top), the parking facility with the mate/demate device (center), and the remote launch vehicle (RLV) hangar, at right, still under construction at the south end of the Shuttle Landing Facility. Next to the multi-purpose RLV hangar are facilities for related ground support equipment and administrative/technical support. The tow-way stretches from the runway past the hangar to lower right in the photo. Stretching toward the horizon are the grounds of the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with KSC

KSC-00pp0435

NASA Image and Video Library

2000-03-30

This broad aerial view shows the runway at KSC (top), the parking facility with the mate/demate device (center), and the remote launch vehicle (RLV) hangar, at right, still under construction at the south end of the Shuttle Landing Facility. Next to the multi-purpose RLV hangar are facilities for related ground support equipment and administrative/technical support. The tow-way stretches from the runway past the hangar to lower right in the photo. Stretching toward the horizon are the grounds of the Merritt island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with KSC

Pulsatile equibiaxial stretch inhibits thrombin-induced RhoA and NF-{kappa}B activation

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

Haga, Jason H.; Kaunas, Roland; Radeff-Huang, Julie

2008-07-18

This study investigated interactions between the effects of mechanical stretch and thrombin on RhoA activation in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMC). Equibiaxial, pulsatile stretch, or thrombin produced a significant increase in RhoA activation. Surprisingly, in combination, 30 min of stretch inhibited the ability of thrombin to activate RhoA. NO donors and 8-bromo-cGMP significantly inhibited thrombin-induced RhoA activation. Interestingly, the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor L-NAME increased basal RhoA activity, suggesting that NOS activity exerts a tonic inhibition on RhoA. Stretching RASMC increases nitrite production, consistent with the idea that NO contributes to the inhibitory effects of stretch. Thrombin stimulatesmore » MAP kinase and NF-{kappa}B pathways through Rho and these responses were blocked by 8-bromo-cGMP or stretch and restored by L-NAME. These data suggest that stretch, acting through NO and cGMP, can prevent the ability of thrombin to stimulate Rho signaling pathways that contribute to pathophysiological proliferative and inflammatory responses.« less

Fasteners and fastening techniques: A compilation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

Technology on fasteners and fastening devices is presented, as part of NASA's TU program to provide technical information on devices, methods, and techniques resulting from aerospace research. The material is divided into two sections which include: (1) data concerning a selected group of fasteners and concept for fasteners such as locking devices, couplings, and connect and release mechanisms; and (2) discussions on a number of fastening techniques such as those for mounting panel lamps, clamping flange bolts, stretching fasteners, and transferring fuel from a tanker to another vehicle.

Wrinkled, wavelength-tunable graphene-based surface topographies for directing cell alignment and morphology

PubMed Central

Wang, Zhongying; Tonderys, Daniel; Leggett, Susan E.; Williams, Evelyn Kendall; Kiani, Mehrdad T.; Steinberg, Ruben Spitz; Qiu, Yang; Wong, Ian Y.; Hurt, Robert H.

2015-01-01

Textured surfaces with periodic topographical features and long-range order are highly attractive for directing cell-material interactions. They mimic physiological environments more accurately than planar surfaces and can fundamentally alter cell alignment, shape, gene expression, and cellular assembly into superstructures or microtissues. Here we demonstrate for the first time that wrinkled graphene-based surfaces are suitable as textured cell attachment substrates, and that engineered wrinkling can dramatically alter cell alignment and morphology. The wrinkled surfaces are fabricated by graphene oxide wet deposition onto pre-stretched elastomers followed by relaxation and mild thermal treatment to stabilize the films in cell culture medium. Multilayer graphene oxide films form periodic, delaminated buckle textures whose wavelengths and amplitudes can be systematically tuned by variation in the wet deposition process. Human and murine fibroblasts attach to these textured films and remain viable, while developing pronounced alignment and elongation relative to those on planar graphene controls. Compared to lithographic patterning of nanogratings, this method has advantages in the simplicity and scalability of fabrication, as well as the opportunity to couple the use of topographic cues with the unique conductive, adsorptive, or barrier properties of graphene materials for functional biomedical devices. PMID:25848137

The Stretched Lens Array (SLA): An Ultra-Light Photovoltaic Concentrator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

ONeill, Mark J.; Pisczor, Michael F.; Eskenazi, Michael I.; McDanal, A. J.; George, Patrick J.; Botke, Matthew M.; Brandhorst, Henry W.; Edwards, David L.; Jaster, Paul A.

2002-01-01

A high-performance, ultralight, photovoltaic concentrator array is being developed for space power. The stretched lens array (SLA) uses stretched-membrane, silicone Fresnel lenses to concentrate sunlight onto triple-junction photovoltaic cells. The cells are mounted to a composite radiator structure. The entire solar array wing, including lenses, photovoltaic cell flex circuits, composite panels, hinges, yoke, wiring harness, and deployment mechanisms, has a mass density of 1.6 kg/sq.m. NASA Glenn has measured 27.4% net SLA panel efficiency, or 375 W/sq.m. power density, at room temperature. At GEO operating cell temperature (80 C), this power density will be 300 W/sq.m., resulting in more than 180 W/kg specific power at the full wing level. SLA is a direct ultralight descendent of the successful SCARLET array on NASA's Deep Space 1 spacecraft. This paper describes the evolution from SCARLET to SLA, summarizes the SLA's key features, and provides performance and mass data for this new concentrator array.

Mechanosensitive activation of K+ channel via phospholipase C-induced depletion of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate in B lymphocytes.

PubMed

Nam, Joo Hyun; Lee, Hoo-Se; Nguyen, Yen Hoang; Kang, Tong Mook; Lee, Sung Won; Kim, Hye-Young; Kim, Sang Jeong; Earm, Yung E; Kim, Sung Joon

2007-08-01

In various types of cells mechanical stimulation of the plasma membrane activates phospholipase C (PLC). However, the regulation of ion channels via mechanosensitive degradation of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)) is not known yet. The mouse B cells express large conductance background K(+) channels (LK(bg)) that are inhibited by PIP(2). In inside-out patch clamp studies, the application of MgATP (1 mm) also inhibited LK(bg) due to the generation of PIP(2) by phosphoinositide (PI)-kinases. In the presence of MgATP, membrane stretch induced by negative pipette pressure activated LK(bg), which was antagonized by PIP(2) (> 1 microm) or higher concentration of MgATP (5 mm). The inhibition by PIP(2) was partially reversible. However, the application of methyl-beta-cyclodextrin, a cholesterol scavenger disrupting lipid rafts, induced the full recovery of LK(bg) activity and facilitated the activation by stretch. In cell-attached patches, LK(bg) were activated by hypotonic swelling of B cells as well as by negative pressure. The mechano-activation of LK(bg) was blocked by U73122, a PLC inhibitor. Neither actin depolymerization nor the inhibition of lipid phosphatase blocked the mechanical effects. Direct stimulation of PLC by m-3M3FBS or by cross-linking IgM-type B cell receptors activated LK(bg). Western blot analysis and confocal microscopy showed that the hypotonic swelling of WEHI-231 induces tyrosine phosphorylation of PLCgamma2 and PIP(2) hydrolysis of plasma membrane. The time dependence of PIP(2) hydrolysis and LK(bg) activation were similar. The presence of LK(bg) and their stretch sensitivity were also proven in fresh isolated mice splenic B cells. From the above results, we propose a novel mechanism of stretch-dependent ion channel activation, namely, that the degradation of PIP(2) caused by stretch-activated PLC releases LK(bg) from the tonic inhibition by PIP(2).

Enhanced piezoelectricity and stretchability in energy harvesting devices fabricated from buckled PZT ribbons.

PubMed

Qi, Yi; Kim, Jihoon; Nguyen, Thanh D; Lisko, Bozhena; Purohit, Prashant K; McAlpine, Michael C

2011-03-09

The development of a method for integrating highly efficient energy conversion materials onto soft, biocompatible substrates could yield breakthroughs in implantable or wearable energy harvesting systems. Of particular interest are devices which can conform to irregular, curved surfaces, and operate in vital environments that may involve both flexing and stretching modes. Previous studies have shown significant advances in the integration of highly efficient piezoelectric nanocrystals on flexible and bendable substrates. Yet, such inorganic nanomaterials are mechanically incompatible with the extreme elasticity of elastomeric substrates. Here, we present a novel strategy for overcoming these limitations, by generating wavy piezoelectric ribbons on silicone rubber. Our results show that the amplitudes in the waves accommodate order-of-magnitude increases in maximum tensile strain without fracture. Further, local probing of the buckled ribbons reveals an enhancement in the piezoelectric effect of up to 70%, thus representing the highest reported piezoelectric response on a stretchable medium. These results allow for the integration of energy conversion devices which operate in stretching mode via reversible deformations in the wavy/buckled ribbons.

Fabrication and modeling of stretchable conductors for traumatic brain injury research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Wenzhe

Stretchable electronics are an emergent class of electronics that can retain their electric functionality under large mechanical deformation, such as stretching, bending and compression. Like traditional electric circuits, stretchable electronics rely on electrical conductors, but in this specific instance the conductors must also be stretchable. This thesis research had three goals: (1) fabricate elastically stretchable conductors that retain their electrical conductance when stretched by tens of percent of strain; (2) understand the underlying stretching mechanism of gold conductors on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates; (3) produce a special device---a stretchable microelectrode array, which contains a matrix of stretchable conductors that enables a new approach to studying traumatic brain injury. We first developed and optimized the micro-fabrication process to make elastically stretchable thin gold film conductors on PDMS substrates. The conductors can retain electrical conduction while being stretched reversibly to 140% uniaxially and 16% radially. We further developed a fabrication process to encapsulate the conductors with either a commercially available photopatternable silicone (PPS) or with PDMS. 100 microm by 100 microm vias were patterned in the encapsulation layer to expose electrical contacts. PPS encapsulated conductors can be stretched uniaxially to 80%, and the PDMS encapsulated conductor can be stretched to ˜15%, without losing electrical conduction. We also introduced acrylate-based shape memory polymers (SMPs) as a new type of substrate for stretchable conductors. Their stiffness can be tuned by varying the monomer composition or by changing the ambient temperature. Thin gold film conductors deposited on pre-strained SMPs remain conductive when first stretched and then relaxed to their pre-strain value. Moreover, an SMP can also serve as a stretchable carrier to make pre-strained conductors on an overlying PDMS membrane. The resistance of gold conductors made on pre-strained PDMS changes less during stretching than that made on non-pre-strained PDMS substrate. We built a model of the electrical resistance in function of strain. The model is based on the topography of the thin gold film on PDMS. This model is a first attempt at predicting electrical resistance of stretchable thin gold film conductors. Lastly, we fabricated stretchable microelectrode arrays (SMEAs). They were utilized at Columbia University to study traumatic brain injury (TBI). Tissues cultured on SMEA remained viable for 19 days, and the electrodes were able to both stimulate and record neural tissue activity before, during and after stretching. Therefore SMEAs are able to bring together mechanical injury, electrophysiological recording and pharmacological studies. The SMEAs could serve as in vitro platforms for high throughput therapeutic screening and discovery for traumatic injury. The ability to reproducibly fabricate stretchable conductors using micro-fabrication technology will facilitate adoption by industry. The ability to understand the stretching mechanism will enable us to design more robust material systems. The SMEA prototypes demonstrate that stretchable conductors are practical, and their mechanical compatibility with biological systems also makes them candidates for use in biomedical devices.

Intravital imaging of mouse urothelium reveals activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase by stretch-induced intravesical release of ATP.

PubMed

Sano, Takeshi; Kobayashi, Takashi; Negoro, Hiromitsu; Sengiku, Atsushi; Hiratsuka, Takuya; Kamioka, Yuji; Liou, Louis S; Ogawa, Osamu; Matsuda, Michiyuki

2016-11-01

To better understand the roles played by signaling molecules in the bladder, we established a protocol of intravital imaging of the bladder of mice expressing a Förster/fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor for extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), which plays critical roles not only in cell growth but also stress responses. With an upright two-photon excitation microscope and a vacuum-stabilized imaging window, cellular ERK activity was visualized in the whole bladder wall, from adventitia to urothelium. We found that bladder distention caused by elevated intravesical pressure (IVP) activated ERK in the urothelium, but not in the detrusor smooth muscle. When bladder distension was prevented, high IVP failed to activate ERK, suggesting that mechanical stretch, but not the high IVP, caused ERK activation. To delineate its molecular mechanism, the stretch-induced ERK activation was reproduced in an hTERT-immortalized human urothelial cell line (TRT-HU1) in vitro. We found that uniaxial stretch raised the ATP concentration in the culture medium and that inhibition of ATP signaling by apyrase or suramin suppressed the stretch-induced ERK activation in TRT-HU1 cells. In agreement with this in vitro observation, pretreatment with apyrase or suramin suppressed the high IVP-induced urothelial ERK activation in vivo. Thus, we propose that mechanical stretch induces intravesical secretion of ATP and thereby activates ERK in the urothelium. Our method of intravital imaging of the bladder of FRET biosensor-expressing mice should open a pathway for the future association of physiological stimuli with the activities of intracellular signaling networks. © 2016 The Authors. Physiological Reports published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Physiological Society and the American Physiological Society.

[Effects of different mechanical stretch conditions on differentiation of rat tendon stem cells].

PubMed

Li, Pao; Gao, Shang; Zhou, Mei; Tang, Hong; Mu, Miduo; Zhang, Jiqiang; Tang, Kanglai

2017-04-01

To investigate the effects of different mechanical stretch conditions on the differentiation of rat tendon stem cells (TSCs), to find the best uniaxial cyclic stretching for TSCs tenogenic differentiation, osteogenic differentiation, and adipogenic differentiation. TSCs were isolated from the Achilles tendons of 8-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats by enzymatic digestion method and cultured. The TSCs at passage 3 were randomly divided into 5 groups: group A (stretch strength of 4% and frequency of 1 Hz), group B (stretch strength of 4% and frequency of 2 Hz), group C (stretch strength of 8% and frequency of 1 Hz), group D (stretch strength of 8% and frequency of 2 Hz), and group E (static culture). At 12, 24, and 48 hours after mechanical stretch, the mRNA expressions of the tenogenic differentiation related genes [Scleraxis (SCX) and Tenascin C (TNC)], the osteogenic differentiation related genes [runt related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) and distal-less homeobox 5 (DLX5)], and the adipogenic differentiation related genes [CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein-α (CEBPα) and lipoprteinlipase (LPL)] were detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and the protein expressions of TNC, CEBPα, and RUNX2 were detected by Western blot. The mRNA expressions of SCX and TNC in group B were significantly higher than those in groups A, C, D, and E at 24 hours after mechanical stretch ( P <0.05). The mRNA expressions of CEBPα and LPL in group D were significantly higher than those in groups A, B, C, and E at 48 hours after mechanical stretch ( P <0.05). The mRNA expressions of RUNX2 and DLX5 in group C were significantly higher than those in groups A, B, D, and E at 24 hours after mechanical stretch ( P <0.05). Western blot detection showed that higher protein expression of TNC in group B than group E at each time point after mechanical stretch ( P <0.05), and the protein expression of CEBPα was significantly inhibited when compared with group E at 24 hours after mechanical stretch ( P <0.05). At 24 hours after mechanical stretch, the protein expression of RUNX2 in group C was significantly higher than that in group E ( P <0.05); and the protein expression of TNC was significantly lower than that in group E at 24 and 48 hours after mechanical stretch ( P <0.05). At 48 hours after mechanical stretch, the protein expression of CEBPα was significantly increased and the protein expression of TNC was significantly decreased in group D when compared with group E ( P <0.05), but no significant difference was found in the protein expression of RUNX2 between groups D and E ( P >0.05). The mechanical strain could promote differentiation of TSCs, and different parameter of stretch will lead to different differentiation. The best stretch condition for tenogenic differentiation is 4% strength and 2 Hz frequency for 24 hours; the best stretch condition for osteogenic differentiation is 8% strength and 1 Hz frequency for 24 hours; and the best stretch condition for adipogenic differentiation is 8% strength and 2 Hz frequency for 48 hours.

Genomic Mapping of Human DNA provides Evidence of Difference in Stretch between AT and GC rich regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reifenberger, Jeffrey; Dorfman, Kevin; Cao, Han

Human DNA is a not a polymer consisting of a uniform distribution of all 4 nucleic acids, but rather contains regions of high AT and high GC content. When confined, these regions could have different stretch due to the extra hydrogen bond present in the GC basepair. To measure this potential difference, human genomic DNA was nicked with NtBspQI, labeled with a cy3 like fluorophore at the nick site, stained with YOYO, loaded into a device containing an array of nanochannels, and imaged. Over 473,000 individual molecules of DNA, corresponding to roughly 30x coverage of a human genome, were collected and aligned to the human reference. Based on the known AT/GC content between aligned pairs of labels, the stretch was measured for regions of similar size but different AT/GC content. We found that regions of high GC content were consistently more stretched than regions of high AT content between pairs of labels varying in size between 2.5 kbp and 500 kbp. We measured that for every 1% increase in GC content there was roughly a 0.06% increase in stretch. While this effect is small, it is important to take into account differences in stretch between AT and GC rich regions to improve the sensitivity of detection of structural variations from genomic variations. NIH Grant: R01-HG006851.

Large-Scale Stretchable Semiembedded Copper Nanowire Transparent Conductive Films by an Electrospinning Template.

PubMed

Yang, Xia; Hu, Xiaotian; Wang, Qingxia; Xiong, Jian; Yang, Hanjun; Meng, Xiangchuan; Tan, Licheng; Chen, Lie; Chen, Yiwang

2017-08-09

With recent emergence of wearable electronic devices, flexible and stretchable transparent electrodes are the core components to realize innovative devices. The copper nanowire (CuNW) network is commonly chosen because of its high conductivity and transparency. However, the junction resistances and low aspect ratios still limit its further stretchable performance. Herein, a large-scale stretchable semiembedded CuNW transparent conductive film (TCF) was fabricated by electrolessly depositing Cu on the electrospun poly(4-vinylpyridine) polymer template semiembedded in polydimethylsiloxane. Compared with traditional CuNWs, which are as-coated on the flexible substrate, the semiembedded CuNW TCFs showed low sheet resistance (15.6 Ω·sq -1 at ∼82% transmittance) as well as outstanding stretchability and mechanical stability. The light-emitting diode connected the stretchable semiembedded CuNW TCFs in the electric circuit still lighted up even after stretching with 25% strain. Moreover, this semiembedded CuNW TCF was successfully applied in polymer solar cells as a stretchable conductive electrode, which yielded a power conversion efficiency of 4.6% with 0.1 cm 2 effective area. The large-scale stretchable CuNW TCFs show potential for the development of wearable electronic devices.

Elastomeric member for energy storage device

DOEpatents

Hoppie, Lyle O.; Chute, Richard

1985-01-01

An energy storage device (10) is disclosed consisting of a stretched elongated elastomeric member (16), disposed within a tubular housing (14), which elastomeric member (16) is adapted to be torsionally stressed to store energy. The elastomeric member (16) is configured in the relaxed state with a uniform diameter body section, transition end sections, and is attached to rigid end piece assemblies (22, 24) of a lesser diameter. The profile and deflection characteristic of the transition sections (76, 78) are such that upon stretching of the member, a substantially uniform diameter assembly results to minimize the required volume of the surrounding housing (14). During manufacture, woven wire mesh sleeves (26, 28) are forced against a forming surface and bonded to the associated transition section (76, 78) to provide the correct profile and helix angle. Each sleeve (26, 28) contracts with the contraction of the associated transition section to maintain the bond therebetween.

Stretchable spiral thin-film battery capable of out-of-plane deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kammoun, Mejdi; Berg, Sean; Ardebili, Haleh

2016-11-01

There is a compelling need for innovative design concepts in energy storage devices such as flexible and stretchable batteries that can simultaneously provide electrochemical and mechanical functions to accommodate nonconventional applications including wearable and implantable devices. In this study, we report on the design and fabrication of a stretchable spiral thin-film lithium ion battery that is capable of large out-of-plane deformation of 1300% while exhibiting simultaneous electrochemical functionality. The spiral battery is fabricated using a flexible solid polymer nanocomposite electrolyte film that offers enhanced safety and stability compared to the conventional organic liquid-based electrolyte. The spiral lithium ion battery exhibits robust mechanical stretchability over 9000 stretching cycles and an energy density of 4.862 mWh/cm3 at ∼650% out-of-plane deformation. Finite element analysis of the spiral battery offers insights about the nature of stresses and strains during battery stretching.

Flexible photonic crystal membranes with nanoparticle high refractive index layers.

PubMed

Karrock, Torben; Paulsen, Moritz; Gerken, Martina

2017-01-01

Flexible photonic crystal slabs with an area of 2 cm 2 are fabricated by nanoimprint replication of a 400 nm period linear grating nanostructure into a ≈60 µm thick polydimethylsiloxane membrane and subsequent spin coating of a high refractive index titanium dioxide nanoparticle layer. Samples are prepared with different nanoparticle concentrations. Guided-mode resonances with a quality factor of Q ≈ 40 are observed. The highly flexible nature of the membranes allows for stretching of up to 20% elongation. Resonance peak positions for unstretched samples vary from 555 to 630 nm depending on the particle concentration. Stretching results in a resonance shift for these peaks of up to ≈80 nm, i.e., 3.9 nm per % strain. The color impression of the samples observed with crossed-polarization filters changes from the green to the red regime. The high tunability renders these membranes promising for both tunable optical devices as well as visualization devices.

Single cell and single molecule techniques for the analysis of the epigenome

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wallin, Christopher Benjamin

Epigenetic regulation is a critical biological process for the health and development of a cell. Epigenetic regulation is facilitated by covalent modifications to the underlying DNA and chromatin proteins. A fundamental understanding of these epigenetic modifications and their associated interactions at the molecular scale is necessary to explain phenomena including cellular identity, stem cell plasticity, and neoplastic transformation. It is widely known that abnormal epigenetic profiles have been linked to many diseases, most notably cancer. While the field of epigenetics has progressed rapidly with conventional techniques, significant advances remain to be made with respect to combinatoric analysis of epigenetic marks and single cell epigenetics. Therefore, in this dissertation, I will discuss our development of devices and methodologies to address these pertinent issues. First, we designed a preparatory polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microdevice for the extraction, purification, and stretching of human chromosomal DNA and chromatin from small cell populations down to a single cell. The valveless device captures cells by size exclusion within the micropillars, entraps the DNA or chromatin in the micropillars after cell lysis, purifies away the cellular debris, and fluorescently labels the DNA and/or chromatin all within a single reaction chamber. With the device, we achieve nearly 100% extraction efficiency of the DNA. The device is also used for in-channel immunostaining of chromatin followed by downstream single molecule chromatin analysis in nanochannels (SCAN). Second, using multi-color, time-correlated single molecule measurements in nanochannels, simultaneous coincidence detection of 2 epigenetic marks is demonstrated. Coincidence detection of 3 epigenetic marks is also established using a pulsed interleaved excitation scheme. With these two promising results, genome-wide quantification of epigenetic marks was pursued. Unfortunately, quantitative SCAN never materialized. Reasons for this, including poor signal to background, are explained in detail. Third, development of mobility-SCAN, an analytical technique for measuring and analyzing single molecules based on their fluorescent signature and their electrophoretic mobility in nanochannels is described. We use the technique to differentiate biomolecules from complex mixtures and derive parameters such as diffusion coefficients and effective charges. Finally, the device is used to detect binding interactions of various complexes similar to affinity capillary electrophoresis, but on a single molecule level. Fourth, we conclude by briefly discussing SCAN-sort, a technique to sort individual chromatin molecules based on their fluorescent emissions for further downstream analysis such as DNA sequencing. We demonstrate a 2-fold enrichment of chromatin from sorting and discuss possible system modifications for better performance in the future.

Device for lengthening of a musculotendinous unit by direct continuous traction in the sheep

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Retraction, atrophy and fatty infiltration are signs subsequent to chronic rotator cuff tendon tears. They are associated with an increased pennation angle and a shortening of the muscle fibers in series. These deleterious changes of the muscular architecture are not reversible with current repair techniques and are the main factors for failed rotator cuff tendon repair. Whereas fast stretching of the retracted musculotendinous unit results in proliferation of non-contractile fibrous tissue, slow stretching may lead to muscle regeneration in terms of sarcomerogenesis. To slowly stretch the retracted musculotendinous unit in a sheep model, two here described tensioning devices have been developed and mounted on the scapular spine of the sheep using an expandable threaded rod, which has been interposed between the retracted tendon end and the original insertion site at the humeral head. Traction is transmitted in line with the musculotendinous unit by sutures knotted on the expandable threaded rod. The threaded rod of the tensioner is driven within the body through a rotating axis, which enters the body on the opposite side. The tendon end, which was previously released (16 weeks prior) from its insertion site with a bone chip, was elongated with a velocity of 1 mm/day. Results After several steps of technical improvements, the tensioner proved to be capable of actively stretching the retracted and degenerated muscle back to the original length and to withstand the external forces acting on it. Conclusion This technical report describes the experimental technique for continuous elongation of the musculotendinous unit and reversion of the length of chronically shortened muscle. PMID:22551079

An integrated optics microfluidic device for detecting single DNA molecules.

PubMed

Krogmeier, Jeffrey R; Schaefer, Ian; Seward, George; Yantz, Gregory R; Larson, Jonathan W

2007-12-01

A fluorescence-based integrated optics microfluidic device is presented, capable of detecting single DNA molecules in a high throughput and reproducible manner. The device integrates microfluidics for DNA stretching with two optical elements for single molecule detection (SMD): a plano-aspheric refractive lens for fluorescence excitation (illuminator) and a solid parabolic reflective mirror for fluorescence collection (collector). Although miniaturized in size, both optical components were produced and assembled onto the microfluidic device by readily manufacturable fabrication techniques. The optical resolution of the device is determined by the small and relatively low numerical aperture (NA) illuminator lens (0.10 effective NA, 4.0 mm diameter) that delivers excitation light to a diffraction limited 2.0 microm diameter spot at full width half maximum within the microfluidic channel. The collector (0.82 annular NA, 15 mm diameter) reflects the fluorescence over a large collection angle, representing 71% of a hemisphere, toward a single photon counting module in an infinity-corrected scheme. As a proof-of-principle experiment for this simple integrated device, individual intercalated lambda-phage DNA molecules (48.5 kb) were stretched in a mixed elongational-shear microflow, detected, and sized with a fluorescence signal to noise ratio of 9.9 +/-1.0. We have demonstrated that SMD does not require traditional high numerical aperture objective lenses and sub-micron positioning systems conventionally used in many applications. Rather, standard manufacturing processes can be combined in a novel way that promises greater accessibility and affordability for microfluidic-based single molecule applications.

Cell orientation gradients on an inverse opal substrate.

PubMed

Lu, Jie; Zou, Xin; Zhao, Ze; Mu, Zhongde; Zhao, Yuanjin; Gu, Zhongze

2015-05-20

The generation of cell gradients is critical for understanding many biological systems and realizing the unique functionality of many implanted biomaterials. However, most previous work can only control the gradient of cell density and this has no effect on the gradient of cell orientation, which has an important role in regulating the functions of many connecting tissues. Here, we report on a simple stretched inverse opal substrate for establishing desired cell orientation gradients. It was demonstrated that tendon fibroblasts on the stretched inverse opal gradient showed a corresponding alignment along with the elongation gradient of the substrate. This "random-to-aligned" cell gradient reproduces the insertion part of many connecting tissues, and thus, will have important applications in tissue engineering.

Mechanical stimulation of skeletal muscle cells mitigates glucocorticoid-induced decreases in prostaglandin production and prostaglandin synthase activity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chromiak, J. A.; Vandenburgh, H. H.

1994-01-01

The glucocorticoid dexamethasone (Dex) induces a decline in protein synthesis and protein content in tissue cultured, avian skeletal muscle cells, and this atrophy is attenuated by repetitive mechanical stretch. Since the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor indomethacin mitigated this stretch attenuation of muscle atrophy, the effects of Dex and mechanical stretch on prostaglandin production and prostaglandin H synthase (PGHS) activity were examined. In static cultures, 10(-8) M Dex reduced PGF2 alpha production 55-65% and PGE2 production 84-90% after 24-72 h of incubation. Repetitive 10% stretch-relaxations of non-Dex-treated cultures increased PGF2 alpha efflux 41% at 24 h and 276% at 72 h, and increased PGE2 production 51% at 24 h and 236% at 72 h. Mechanical stimulation of Dex-treated cultures increased PGF2 alpha production 162% after 24 h, returning PGF2 alpha efflux to the level of non-Dex-treated cultures. At 72 h, stretch increased PGF2 alpha efflux 65% in Dex-treated cultures. Mechanical stimulation of Dex-treated cultures also increased PGE2 production at 24 h, but not at 72 h. Dex reduced PGHS activity in the muscle cultures by 70% after 8-24 h of incubation, and mechanical stimulation of the Dex-treated cultures increased PGHS activity by 98% after 24 h. Repetitive mechanical stimulation attenuates the catabolic effects of Dex on cultured skeletal muscle cells in part by mitigating the Dex-induced declines in PGHS activity and prostaglandin production.

Optimizing an Intermittent Stretch Paradigm Using ERK1/2 Phosphorylation Results in Increased Collagen Synthesis in Engineered Ligaments

PubMed Central

Paxton, Jennifer Z.; Hagerty, Paul; Andrick, Jonathan J.

2012-01-01

Dynamic mechanical input is believed to play a critical role in the development of functional musculoskeletal tissues. To study this phenomenon, cyclic uniaxial mechanical stretch was applied to engineered ligaments using a custom-built bioreactor and the effects of different stretch frequency, amplitude, and duration were determined. Stretch acutely increased the phosphorylation of p38 (3.5±0.74-fold), S6K1 (3.9±0.19-fold), and ERK1/2 (2.45±0.32-fold). The phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was dependent on time, rather than on frequency or amplitude, within these constructs. ERK1/2 phosphorylation was similar following stretch at frequencies from 0.1 to 1 Hz and amplitudes from 2.5% to 15%, whereas phosphorylation reached maximal levels at 10 min of stretch and returned toward basal within 60 min of stretch. Following a single 10-min bout of cyclic stretch, the cells remained refractory to a second stretch for up to 6 h. Using the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 as a guide, the optimum stretch paradigm was hypothesized to be 10 min of stretch at 2.5% of resting length repeated every 6 h. Consistent with this hypothesis, 7 days of stretch using this optimized intermittent stretch program increased the collagen content of the grafts more than a continuous stretch program (CTL=3.1%±0.44%; CONT=4.8%±0.30%; and INT=5.9%±0.56%). These results suggest that short infrequent bouts of loading are optimal for improving engineered tendon and ligament physiology. PMID:21902469

Label-free cell-cycle analysis by high-throughput quantitative phase time-stretch imaging flow cytometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mok, Aaron T. Y.; Lee, Kelvin C. M.; Wong, Kenneth K. Y.; Tsia, Kevin K.

2018-02-01

Biophysical properties of cells could complement and correlate biochemical markers to characterize a multitude of cellular states. Changes in cell size, dry mass and subcellular morphology, for instance, are relevant to cell-cycle progression which is prevalently evaluated by DNA-targeted fluorescence measurements. Quantitative-phase microscopy (QPM) is among the effective biophysical phenotyping tools that can quantify cell sizes and sub-cellular dry mass density distribution of single cells at high spatial resolution. However, limited camera frame rate and thus imaging throughput makes QPM incompatible with high-throughput flow cytometry - a gold standard in multiparametric cell-based assay. Here we present a high-throughput approach for label-free analysis of cell cycle based on quantitative-phase time-stretch imaging flow cytometry at a throughput of > 10,000 cells/s. Our time-stretch QPM system enables sub-cellular resolution even at high speed, allowing us to extract a multitude (at least 24) of single-cell biophysical phenotypes (from both amplitude and phase images). Those phenotypes can be combined to track cell-cycle progression based on a t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) algorithm. Using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) discriminant analysis, cell-cycle phases can also be predicted label-free with high accuracy at >90% in G1 and G2 phase, and >80% in S phase. We anticipate that high throughput label-free cell cycle characterization could open new approaches for large-scale single-cell analysis, bringing new mechanistic insights into complex biological processes including diseases pathogenesis.

Optimization of differentiation time of mesenchymal-stem-cell to tenocyte under a cyclic stretching with a microgrooved culture membrane and selected measurement cells.

PubMed

Morita, Yasuyuki; Yamashita, Takahiro; Toku, Toku; Ju, Yang

2018-01-01

There is a need for efficient stem cell-to-tenocyte differentiation techniques for tendon tissue engineering. More than 1 week is required for tenogenic differentiation with chemical stimuli, including co-culturing. Research has begun to examine the utility of mechanical stimuli, which reduces the differentiation time to several days. However, the precise length of time required to differentiate human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) into tenocytes has not been clarified. Understanding the precise time required is important for future tissue engineering projects. Therefore, in this study, a method was developed to more precisely determine the length of time required to differentiate hBMSCs into tenocytes with cyclic stretching stimulus. First, it had to be determined how stretching stimulation affected the cells. Microgrooved culture membranes were used to suppress cell orientation behavior. Then, only cells oriented parallel to the microgrooves were selected and evaluated for protein synthesis levels for differentiation. The results revealed that growing cells on the microgrooved membrane and selecting optimally-oriented cells for measurement improved the accuracy of the differentiation evaluation, and that hBMSCs differentiated into tenocytes in approximately 10 h. The differentiation time corresponded to the time required for cellular cytoskeleton reorganization and cellular morphology alterations. This suggests that cells, when subjected to mechanical stimulus, secrete mRNAs and proteins for both cytoskeleton reorganization and differentiation.

Acute effects of static stretching on passive stiffness and postural balance in healthy, elderly men.

PubMed

Palmer, Ty B; Agu-Udemba, Chinonye C; Palmer, Bailey M

2018-02-01

This study aimed to examine the acute effects of straight-leg raise (SLR) static stretching on passive stiffness and postural balance in healthy, elderly men. An additional aim of this study was to examine the relationships between stiffness and balance at baseline (prior to stretching) and the relationships between the stretch-induced changes in these variables. Eleven elderly men (age = 69 ± 6 years; height = 177 ± 7 cm; mass = 83 ± 13 kg) underwent postural balance and passive stiffness assessments before and after: 1) a stretching treatment consisting of four, 15-s SLR static stretches performed by the primary investigator and 2) a control treatment consisting of no static stretching. Passive stiffness was calculated from the slopes of the initial (phase 1) and final (phase 2) portions of the angle-torque curve. Unilateral postural balance was assessed on the right leg using a commercially designed balance testing device, which provides a measurement of static stability based on the overall stability index (OSI). The slope coefficients and OSI values decreased from pre- to post-treatment for the stretching intervention (P = 0.015 and 0.018, respectively); however, there were no changes for the control (P = 0.654 and 0.920). For the stretching intervention, a significant positive relationship was observed between OSI and the slope coefficient of phase 1 at baseline (r = 0.619; P = 0.042). A significant positive relationship was also observed between the stretched-induced changes in OSI and the slope coefficient of phase 1 (r = 0.731; P = 0.011). No relationship was observed between OSI and the slope coefficient of phase 2 at baseline (r = 0.262; P = 0.437) nor was there a relationship between the changes in these variables (r = 0.419; P = 0.200). A short, practical bout of SLR static stretching may be an effective intervention for reducing passive stiffness and improving postural balance in healthy, elderly men.

Local calcium signalling is mediated by mechanosensitive ion channels in mesenchymal stem cells

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

Chubinskiy-Nadezhdin, Vladislav I., E-mail: vchubinskiy@gmail.com; Vasileva, Valeria Y.; Pugovkina, Natalia A.

Mechanical forces are implicated in key physiological processes in stem cells, including proliferation, differentiation and lineage switching. To date, there is an evident lack of understanding of how external mechanical cues are coupled with calcium signalling in stem cells. Mechanical reactions are of particular interest in adult mesenchymal stem cells because of their promising potential for use in tissue remodelling and clinical therapy. Here, single channel patch-clamp technique was employed to search for cation channels involved in mechanosensitivity in mesenchymal endometrial-derived stem cells (hMESCs). Functional expression of native mechanosensitive stretch-activated channels (SACs) and calcium-sensitive potassium channels of different conductances inmore » hMESCs was shown. Single current analysis of stretch-induced channel activity revealed functional coupling of SACs and BK channels in plasma membrane. The combination of cell-attached and inside-out experiments have indicated that highly localized Ca{sup 2+} entry via SACs triggers BK channel activity. At the same time, SK channels are not coupled with SACs despite of high calcium sensitivity as compared to BK. Our data demonstrate novel mechanism controlling BK channel activity in native cells. We conclude that SACs and BK channels are clusterized in functional mechanosensitive domains in the plasma membrane of hMESCs. Co-clustering of ion channels may significantly contribute to mechano-dependent calcium signalling in stem cells. - Highlights: • Stretch-induced channel activity in human mesenchymal stem cells was analyzed. • Functional expression of SACs and Ca{sup 2+}-sensitive BK and SK channels was shown. • Local Ca{sup 2+} influx via stretch-activated channels triggers BK channel activity. • SK channels are not coupled with SACs despite higher sensitivity to [Ca{sup 2+}]{sub i}. • Functional clustering of SACs and BK channels in stem cell membrane is proposed.« less

Device-less patent foramen ovale closure by radiofrequency thermal energy.

PubMed

Walpoth, Nazan B; Habermacher, Kathrin; Moarof, Igal; Watson, Sandy; Wahl, Andreas; Windecker, Stephan; Schönenberger, Christa; Meier, Bernhard

2008-02-23

The goal of this study was to assess the feasibility, safety and success of a system which uses radiofrequency energy (RFE) rather than a device for percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO). Sixteen patients (10 men, 6 women, mean age 50 years) were included in the study. All of them had a proven PFO with documented right-to-left shunt (RLS) after Valsalva manoeuvre (VM) during transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The patients had an average PFO diameter of 6 +/- 2 mm at TEE and an average of 23 +/- 4 microembolic signals (MES) in power M-mode transcranial Doppler sonography (pm-TCD), measured over the middle cerebral artery. An atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) was present in 7 patients (44%). Balloon measurement, performed in all patients, revealed a stretched PFO diameter of 8 +/- 3 mm. In 2 patients (stretched diameter 11 and 14 mm respectively, both with ASA >10 mm), radiofrequency was not applied (PFO too large) and the PFO was closed with an Amplatzer PFO occluder instead. A 6-month follow-up TEE was performed in all patients. There were no serious adverse events during the procedure or at follow-up (12 months average). TEE 6 months after the first RFE procedure showed complete closure of the PFO in 50% of the patients (7/14). Closure appeared to be influenced by PFO diameter, complete closure being achieved in 89% (7/8) with a balloon-stretched diameter < or =7 mm but in none of the patients >7 mm. Only one of the complete closure patients had an ASA. Of the remainder, 4 (29%) had an ASA. Although the PFO was not completely closed in this group, some reduction in the diameter of the PFO and in MES was documented by TEE and pm-TCD with VM. Five of the 7 residual shunt patients received an Amplatzer PFO occluder. Except for one patient with a minimal residual shunt, all showed complete closure of PFO at 6-month follow-up TEE and pm-TCD with VM. The other two refused a closure device. The results confirm that radiofrequency closure of the PFO is safe albeit less efficacious and more complex than device closure. The technique in its current state should not be attempted in patients with a balloon-stretched PFO diameter >7 mm and an ASA.

A microfabricated platform with hydrogel arrays for 3D mechanical stimulation of cells.

PubMed

Liu, Haijiao; Usprech, Jenna; Sun, Yu; Simmons, Craig A

2016-04-01

Cellular microenvironments present cells with multiple stimuli, including not only soluble biochemical and insoluble matrix cues but also mechanical factors. Biomaterial array platforms have been used to combinatorially and efficiently probe and define two-dimensional (2D) and 3D microenvironmental cues to guide cell functions for tissue engineering applications. However, there are few examples of array platforms that include dynamic mechanical forces, particularly to enable stretching of 3D cell-seeded biomaterials, which is relevant to engineering connective and cardiovascular tissues. Here we present a deformable membrane platform that enables 3D dynamic mechanical stretch of arrayed biomaterial constructs. Cell-seeded polyethylene glycol norbornene (PEG-NB) hydrogels were bound to miniaturized deformable membranes via a thiol-ene reaction with off-stoichiometry thiol-ene based polydimethylsiloxane (OSTE-PDMS) as the membrane material. Bonding to OSTE-PDMS enabled the 3D hydrogel microconstructs to be cyclically deformed and stretched by the membrane. As a first demonstration, human mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) embedded in PEG-NB were stretched for several days. They were found to be viable, spread in the 3D hydrogels, and exhibited a contractile myofibroblast phenotype when exposed to dynamic 3D mechanical deformation. This platform, which is readily scalable to larger arrays, enables systematic interrogation of the relationships between combinations of 3D mechanobiological cues and cellular responses, and thus has the potential to identify strategies to predictably control the construction of functional engineered tissues. Current high-throughput biomaterial screening approaches fail to consider the effects of dynamic mechanical stimulation, despite its importance in a wide variety of regenerative medicine applications. To meet this need, we developed a deformable membrane platform that enables 3D dynamic stretch of arrayed biomaterial constructs. Our approach combines microtechnologies fabricated with off-stoichiometry thiol-ene based polydimethylsiloxane membranes that can covalently bond cell-seeded polyethylene glycol norbornene 3D hydrogels, a model biomaterial with tunable adhesive, elastic and degradation characteristics. As a first demonstration, we show that human mesenchymal stromal cells embedded in hydrogels and subjected to dynamic mechanical stimulation undergo myofibroblast differentiation. This system is readily scaled up to larger arrays, and will enable systematic and efficient screening of combinations of 3D mechanobiological and biomaterial cues on cell fate and function. Copyright © 2015 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tensioning device for a stretched membrane collector

DOEpatents

Murphy, Lawrence M.

1984-01-01

Disclosed is a solar concentrating collector comprising an elastic membrane member for concentrating sunlight, a frame for holding the membrane member in plane and in tension, and a tensioning means for varying the tension of the membrane member. The tensioning means is disposed at the frame and is adapted to releasably attach the membrane member thereto. The tensioning means is also adapted to uniformly and symmetrically subject the membrane member to stretching forces such that membrane stresses produced thereby are distributed uniformly over a thickness of the membrane member and reciprocal twisting moments are substantially prevented from acting about said frame.

Tensioning device for a stretched membrane collector

DOEpatents

Murphy, L.M.

1984-01-01

Disclosed is a solar concentrating collector comprising an elestic membrane member for concentrating sunlight, a frame for holding the membrane member in plane and in tension, and a tensioning means for varying the tension of the membrane member. The tensioning means is disposed at the frame and is adapted to releasably attach the membrane member thereto. The tensioning means is also adapted to uniformly and symmetrically subject the membrane member to stretching forces such that membrane stresses produced thereby are distributed uniformly over a thickness of the membrane member and reciprocal twisting moments are substantially prevented from acting about said frame.

Photoinduced orientation in natural rubber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Souza, Nara C.; Cavalheri, Adriana S.; Brito, Jackeline B.; Job, Aldo E.; Oliveira, Osvaldo N.; Giacometti, José A.; Silva, Josmary R.

2012-04-01

Azobenzene molecules and their derivatives have been widely investigated for their potential applications in optical and electrooptical devices. We have prepared a new guest-host system from natural rubber (NR) impregnated with azobenzene derivative Sudan Red B (SRB). The effects of stretching and immersion time on photoinduced orientation were investigated by birefringence signal measurements. We have found that the molecular orientation increase when the samples are stretched and decrease with the increase of immersion time. The first behavior was explained by using the random coil model and the latter was attributed to increase of the aggregation of SRB into NR matrix.

Mechanochromic response of the barbules in peacock tail feather

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Yonggang; Wang, Rui; Feng, Lin; Zhang, Deyuan

2018-01-01

Peacock tail feathers exhibit diverse striking brilliancy, as the cortex in different colored barbules of the feathers contains a 2-D photonic-crystal structure. The mechanochromic response of the 2-D photonic structure in peacock feather barbules is measured for the first time, by combining an in-situ stretching device and a reflectivity measurement system. The reflectance spectra of the barbule specimen blueshifts own to stretching along its longitudinal direction. A high strain sensitivity of 5.3 nm/% is obtained for green barbules. It could be of great help in bionic design of strain sensors using 2D photonic crystal structures.

Stretchable carbon nanotube/ion-gel supercapacitors with high durability realized through interfacial microroughness.

PubMed

Lee, Jiho; Kim, Wonbin; Kim, Woong

2014-08-27

A critical problem with stretchable supercapacitors developed to date has been evaporation of a volatile component of their electrolyte, causing failure. In this work, we demonstrated successful use of an ionic-liquid-based nonvolatile gel (ion-gel) electrolyte in carbon nanotube (CNT)-based stretchable supercapacitors. The CNT/ion-gel supercapacitors showed high capacitance retention (96.6%) over 3000 stretch cycles at 20% strain. The high durability against stretch cycles was achieved by introducing microroughness at the interfaces between different materials. The microroughness was produced by the simple process of imprinting the surface microstructure of office paper onto a poly(dimethylsiloxane) substrate; the surface texture is reproduced in successive current collector and CNT layers. Adhesion between the different layers was strengthened by this roughness and prevented delamination over repeated stretch cycles. The addition of a CNT layer decreased the sensitivity of electrical characteristics to stretching. Moreover, the ion-gel increases the operating voltage window (3 V) and hence the energy density. We believe our demonstration will greatly contribute to the development of flexible and/or stretchable energy-storage devices with high durability.

Developmental axon stretch stimulates neuron growth while maintaining normal electrical activity, intracellular calcium flux, and somatic morphology

PubMed Central

Loverde, Joseph R.; Pfister, Bryan J.

2015-01-01

Elongation of nerve fibers intuitively occurs throughout mammalian development, and is synchronized with expansion of the growing body. While most tissue systems enlarge through mitosis and differentiation, elongation of nerve fibers is remarkably unique. The emerging paradigm suggests that axons undergo stretch as contiguous tissues enlarge between the proximal and distal segments of spanning nerve fibers. While stretch is distinct from growth, tension is a known stimulus which regulates the growth of axons. Here, we hypothesized that the axon stretch-growth process may be a natural form of injury, whereby regenerative processes fortify elongating axons in order to prevent disconnection. Harnessing the live imaging capability of our axon stretch-growth bioreactors, we assessed neurons both during and following stretch for biomarkers associated with injury. Utilizing whole-cell patch clamp recording, we found no evidence of changes in spontaneous action potential activity or degradation of elicited action potentials during real-time axon stretch at strains of up to 18% applied over 5 min. Unlike traumatic axonal injury, functional calcium imaging of the soma revealed no shifts in free intracellular calcium during axon stretch. Finally, the cross-sectional areas of nuclei and cytoplasms were normal, with no evidence of chromatolysis following week-long stretch-growth limited to the lower of 25% strain or 3 mm total daily stretch. The neuronal growth cascade coupled to stretch was concluded to be independent of the changes in membrane potential, action potential generation, or calcium flux associated with traumatic injury. While axon stretch-growth is likely to share overlap with regenerative processes, we conclude that developmental stretch is a distinct stimulus from traumatic axon injury. PMID:26379492

Epimorphin regulates bile duct formation via effects on mitosis orientation in rat liver epithelial stem-like cells.

PubMed

Zhou, Junnian; Zhao, Lei; Qin, Lipeng; Wang, Jing; Jia, Yali; Yao, Hailei; Sang, Chen; Hu, Qinghua; Shi, Shuangshuang; Nan, Xue; Yue, Wen; Zhuang, Fengyuan; Yang, Chun; Wang, Yunfang; Pei, Xuetao

2010-03-17

Understanding how hepatic precursor cells can generate differentiated bile ducts is crucial for studies on epithelial morphogenesis and for development of cell therapies for hepatobiliary diseases. Epimorphin (EPM) is a key morphogen for duct morphogenesis in various epithelial organs. The role of EPM in bile duct formation (DF) from hepatic precursor cells, however, is not known. To address this issue, we used WB-F344 rat epithelial stem-like cells as model for bile duct formation. A micropattern and a uniaxial static stretch device was used to investigate the effects of EPM and stress fiber bundles on the mitosis orientation (MO) of WB cells. Immunohistochemistry of liver tissue sections demonstrated high EPM expression around bile ducts in vivo. In vitro, recombinant EPM selectively induced DF through upregulation of CK19 expression and suppression of HNF3alpha and HNF6, with no effects on other hepatocytic genes investigated. Our data provide evidence that EPM guides MO of WB-F344 cells via effects on stress fiber bundles and focal adhesion assembly, as supported by blockade EPM, beta1 integrin, and F-actin assembly. These blockers can also inhibit EPM-induced DF. These results demonstrate a new biophysical action of EPM in bile duct formation, during which determination of MO plays a crucial role.

Cytoplasmic motion induced by cytoskeleton stretching and its effect on cell mechanics.

PubMed

Zhang, T

2011-09-01

Cytoplasmic motion assumed as a steady state laminar flow induced by cytoskeleton stretching in a cell is determined and its effect on the mechanical behavior of the cell under externally applied forces is demonstrated. Non-Newtonian fluid is assumed for the multiphase cytoplasmic fluid and the analytical velocity field around the macromolecular chain is obtained by solving the reduced nonlinear momentum equation using homotopy technique. The entropy generation by the fluid internal friction is calculated and incorporated into the entropic elasticity based 8-chain constitutive relations. Numerical examples showed strengthening behavior of cells in response to externally applied mechanical stimuli. The spatial distribution of the stresses within a cell under externally applied fluid flow forces were also studied.

Fast and Forceful Refolding of Stretched α-Helical Solenoid Proteins

PubMed Central

Kim, Minkyu; Abdi, Khadar; Lee, Gwangrog; Rabbi, Mahir; Lee, Whasil; Yang, Ming; Schofield, Christopher J.; Bennett, Vann; Marszalek, Piotr E.

2010-01-01

Abstract Anfinsen's thermodynamic hypothesis implies that proteins can encode for stretching through reversible loss of structure. However, large in vitro extensions of proteins that occur through a progressive unfolding of their domains typically dissipate a significant amount of energy, and therefore are not thermodynamically reversible. Some coiled-coil proteins have been found to stretch nearly reversibly, although their extension is typically limited to 2.5 times their folded length. Here, we report investigations on the mechanical properties of individual molecules of ankyrin-R, β-catenin, and clathrin, which are representative examples of over 800 predicted human proteins composed of tightly packed α-helical repeats (termed ANK, ARM, or HEAT repeats, respectively) that form spiral-shaped protein domains. Using atomic force spectroscopy, we find that these polypeptides possess unprecedented stretch ratios on the order of 10–15, exceeding that of other proteins studied so far, and their extension and relaxation occurs with minimal energy dissipation. Their sequence-encoded elasticity is governed by stepwise unfolding of small repeats, which upon relaxation of the stretching force rapidly and forcefully refold, minimizing the hysteresis between the stretching and relaxing parts of the cycle. Thus, we identify a new class of proteins that behave as highly reversible nanosprings that have the potential to function as mechanosensors in cells and as building blocks in springy nanostructures. Our physical view of the protein component of cells as being comprised of predominantly inextensible structural elements under tension may need revision to incorporate springs. PMID:20550922

29 CFR 1926.1412 - Inspections.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... conditions, and proper operation. (vii) Chains and chain drive sprockets for excessive wear of sprockets and excessive chain stretch. (viii) Travel steering, brakes, and locking devices, for proper operation. (ix... decals originally supplied with the equipment by the manufacturer or otherwise required under this...

29 CFR 1926.1412 - Inspections.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... conditions, and proper operation. (vii) Chains and chain drive sprockets for excessive wear of sprockets and excessive chain stretch. (viii) Travel steering, brakes, and locking devices, for proper operation. (ix... decals originally supplied with the equipment by the manufacturer or otherwise required under this...

29 CFR 1926.1412 - Inspections.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... conditions, and proper operation. (vii) Chains and chain drive sprockets for excessive wear of sprockets and excessive chain stretch. (viii) Travel steering, brakes, and locking devices, for proper operation. (ix... decals originally supplied with the equipment by the manufacturer or otherwise required under this...

Shades of Summer.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Greenman, Geri

2001-01-01

Describes an art project in which noodles, the tubular colorful foam floating devices used in swimming pools, were the subject matter. Explains that the students drew their compositions, stretched the paper, and then used watercolor to paint their compositions. Discusses the process in detail. (CMK)

Overview of Spinal Cord Disorders

MedlinePlus

... from side to side. Urinary problems: If a person is immobile and cannot use a toilet, a urinary catheter may be needed. ... therapy involves exercises for muscle strengthening and stretching. People may learn how to use assistive devices such as braces, a walker, or ...

29 CFR 1926.1412 - Inspections.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conditions, and proper operation. (vii) Chains and chain drive sprockets for excessive wear of sprockets and excessive chain stretch. (viii) Travel steering, brakes, and locking devices, for proper operation. (ix... decals originally supplied with the equipment by the manufacturer or otherwise required under this...

An ultra-lightweight design for imperceptible plastic electronics.

PubMed

Kaltenbrunner, Martin; Sekitani, Tsuyoshi; Reeder, Jonathan; Yokota, Tomoyuki; Kuribara, Kazunori; Tokuhara, Takeyoshi; Drack, Michael; Schwödiauer, Reinhard; Graz, Ingrid; Bauer-Gogonea, Simona; Bauer, Siegfried; Someya, Takao

2013-07-25

Electronic devices have advanced from their heavy, bulky origins to become smart, mobile appliances. Nevertheless, they remain rigid, which precludes their intimate integration into everyday life. Flexible, textile and stretchable electronics are emerging research areas and may yield mainstream technologies. Rollable and unbreakable backplanes with amorphous silicon field-effect transistors on steel substrates only 3 μm thick have been demonstrated. On polymer substrates, bending radii of 0.1 mm have been achieved in flexible electronic devices. Concurrently, the need for compliant electronics that can not only be flexed but also conform to three-dimensional shapes has emerged. Approaches include the transfer of ultrathin polyimide layers encapsulating silicon CMOS circuits onto pre-stretched elastomers, the use of conductive elastomers integrated with organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) on polyimide islands, and fabrication of OFETs and gold interconnects on elastic substrates to realize pressure, temperature and optical sensors. Here we present a platform that makes electronics both virtually unbreakable and imperceptible. Fabricated directly on ultrathin (1 μm) polymer foils, our electronic circuits are light (3 g m(-2)) and ultraflexible and conform to their ambient, dynamic environment. Organic transistors with an ultra-dense oxide gate dielectric a few nanometres thick formed at room temperature enable sophisticated large-area electronic foils with unprecedented mechanical and environmental stability: they withstand repeated bending to radii of 5 μm and less, can be crumpled like paper, accommodate stretching up to 230% on prestrained elastomers, and can be operated at high temperatures and in aqueous environments. Because manufacturing costs of organic electronics are potentially low, imperceptible electronic foils may be as common in the future as plastic wrap is today. Applications include matrix-addressed tactile sensor foils for health care and monitoring, thin-film heaters, temperature and infrared sensors, displays, and organic solar cells.

Axial stretch-dependent cation entry in dystrophic cardiomyopathy: Involvement of several TRPs channels

PubMed Central

Krzesiak, A.; Lipskaia, L.; Adnot, S.; Hajjar, R.J.; Cognard, C.

2016-01-01

In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), deficiency of the cytoskeletal protein dystrophin leads to well-described defects in skeletal muscle but also to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). In cardiac cells, the subsarcolemmal localization of dystrophin is thought to protect the membrane from mechanical stress. The dystrophin deficiency leads to membrane instability and a high stress-induced Ca2+ influx due to dysregulation of sarcolemmal channels such as stretch-activated channels (SACs). In this work divalent cation entry has been explored in isolated ventricular Wild Type (WT) and mdx cardiomyocytes in two different conditions: at rest and during the application of an axial stretch. At rest, our results suggest that activation of TRPV2 channels participates to a constitutive basal cation entry in mdx cardiomyocytes.Using microcarbon fibres technique, an axial stretchwas applied to mimic effects of physiological conditions of ventricular filling and study on cation influx bythe Mn2+-quenching techniquedemonstrated a high stretch-dependentcationic influx in dystrophic cells, partially due to SACs. Involvement of TRPs channels in this excessive Ca2+ influx has been investigated using specific modulators and demonstratedboth sarcolemmal localization and an abnormal activity of TRPV2 channels. In conclusion, TRPV2 channels are demonstrated here to play a key role in cation influx and dysregulation in dystrophin deficient cardiomyocytes, enhanced in stretching conditions. PMID:26803937

Acute Effect of Static Stretching on Lower Limb Movement Performance by Using STABL Virtual Reality System.

PubMed

Ameer, Mariam A; Muaidi, Qassim I

2017-07-17

The effect of acute static stretch (ASS) on the lower limb RT has been recently questioned to decrease the risk of falling and injuries in situations requiring a rapid reaction, as in the cases of balance disturbance. The main purpose of this study was to detect the effect of ASS on the lower limb RT by using virtual reality device. Two Group Control Group design. Research laboratory. The control and experimental groups were formed randomly from sixty female university students. Each participant in the experimental group was tested before and after ASS for the quadriceps, hamstrings and planter flexor muscles, and compared with the control group with warming-up exercise only. The stretching program involved warming-up in the form of circular running inside the lab for 5 minutes followed by stretching of each muscle group thrice, to the limit of discomfort of 45 s, with resting period of 15s between stretches. The measurements included the RT of the dominant lower extremity by using the dynamic stability program, STABL Virtual Reality System (Model No. DIZ 2709, Motek Medical and Force Link Merged Co., Amsterdam). There was statistically significant reduction (F = 162, P= .00) in post-test RT between the two groups, and significant decrease in RT after stretching, in the experimental group (7.5%) (P= .00). ASS of the lower limb muscles tends to decrease the lower limb RT and improve movement performance.

A Single-Molecule Barcoding System using Nanoslits for DNA Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jo, Kyubong; Schramm, Timothy M.; Schwartz, David C.

Single DNA molecule approaches are playing an increasingly central role in the analytical genomic sciences because single molecule techniques intrinsically provide individualized measurements of selected molecules, free from the constraints of bulk techniques, which blindly average noise and mask the presence of minor analyte components. Accordingly, a principal challenge that must be addressed by all single molecule approaches aimed at genome analysis is how to immobilize and manipulate DNA molecules for measurements that foster construction of large, biologically relevant data sets. For meeting this challenge, this chapter discusses an integrated approach for microfabricated and nanofabricated devices for the manipulation of elongated DNA molecules within nanoscale geometries. Ideally, large DNA coils stretch via nanoconfinement when channel dimensions are within tens of nanometers. Importantly, stretched, often immobilized, DNA molecules spanning hundreds of kilobase pairs are required by all analytical platforms working with large genomic substrates because imaging techniques acquire sequence information from molecules that normally exist in free solution as unrevealing random coils resembling floppy balls of yarn. However, nanoscale devices fabricated with sufficiently small dimensions fostering molecular stretching make these devices impractical because of the requirement of exotic fabrication technologies, costly materials, and poor operational efficiencies. In this chapter, such problems are addressed by discussion of a new approach to DNA presentation and analysis that establishes scaleable nanoconfinement conditions through reduction of ionic strength; stiffening DNA molecules thus enabling their arraying for analysis using easily fabricated devices that can also be mass produced. This new approach to DNA nanoconfinement is complemented by the development of a novel labeling scheme for reliable marking of individual molecules with fluorochrome labels, creating molecular barcodes, which are efficiently read using fluorescence resonance energy transfer techniques for minimizing noise from unincorporated labels. As such, our integrative approach for the realization of genomic analysis through nanoconfinement, named nanocoding, was demonstrated through the barcoding and mapping of bacterial artificial chromosomal molecules, thereby providing the basis for a high-throughput platform competent for whole genome investigations.

Anomalous Stretchable Conductivity Using an Engineered Tricot Weave.

PubMed

Lee, Yong-Hee; Kim, Yoonseob; Lee, Tae-Ik; Lee, Inhwa; Shin, Jaeho; Lee, Hyun Soo; Kim, Taek-Soo; Choi, Jang Wook

2015-12-22

Robust electric conduction under stretching motions is a key element in upcoming wearable electronic devices but is fundamentally very difficult to achieve because percolation pathways in conductive media are subject to collapse upon stretching. Here, we report that this fundamental challenge can be overcome by using a parameter uniquely available in textiles, namely a weaving structure. A textile structure alternately interwoven with inelastic and elastic yarns, achieved via a tricot weave, possesses excellent elasticity (strain up to 200%) in diagonal directions. When this textile is coated with conductive nanomaterials, proper textile engineering allows the textile to obtain an unprecedented 7-fold conductivity increase, with conductivity reaching 33,000 S cm(-1), even at 130% strain, due to enhanced interyarn contacts. The observed stretching conductivity can be described well using a modified 3D percolation theory that reflects the weaving effect and is also utilized for stretchable electronic interconnects and supercapacitors with high performance.

Regulation of inward rectifier potassium current ionic channel remodeling by AT1 -Calcineurin-NFAT signaling pathway in stretch-induced hypertrophic atrial myocytes.

PubMed

He, Jionghong; Xu, Yanan; Yang, Long; Xia, Guiling; Deng, Na; Yang, Yongyao; Tian, Ye; Fu, Zenan; Huang, Yongqi

2018-05-02

Previous studies have shown that the activation of angiotensin II receptor type I (AT 1 ) is attributed to cardiac remodeling stimulated by increased heart load, and that it is followed by the activation of the calcineurin-nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) signaling pathway. Additionally, AT 1 has been found to be a regulator of cardiocyte ionic channel remodeling, and calcineurin-NFAT signals participate in the regulation of cardiocyte ionic channel expression. A hypothesis therefore follows that stretch stimulation may regulate cardiocyte ionic channel remodeling by activating the AT 1 -calcineurin-NFAT pathway. Here, we investigated the role of the AT 1 -calcineurin-NFAT pathway in the remodeling of inward rectifier potassium (I k1 ) channel, in addition to its role in changing action potential, in stretch-induced hypertrophic atrial myocytes of neonatal rats. Our results showed that increased stretch significantly led to atrial myocytes hypertrophy; it also increased the activity of calcineurin enzymatic activity, which was subsequently attenuated by telmisartan or cyclosporine-A. The level of NFAT 3 protein in nuclear extracts, the mRNA and protein expression of Kir2.1 in whole cell extracts, and the density of I k1 were noticeably increased in stretched samples. Stretch stimulation significantly shortened the action potential duration (APD) of repolarization at the 50% and 90% level. Telmisartan, cyclosporine-A, and 11R-VIVIT attenuated stretch-induced alterations in the levels of NFAT 3 , mRNA and protein expression of Kir2.1, the density of I k1 , and the APD. Our findings suggest that the AT 1 -calcineurin-NFAT signaling pathway played an important role in regulating I k1 channel remodeling and APD change in stretch-induced hypertrophic atrial myocytes of neonatal rats. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Super-stretchable metallic interconnects on polymer with a linear strain of up to 100%

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

Arafat, Yeasir; Dutta, Indranath; Panat, Rahul, E-mail: Rahul.panat@wsu.edu

Metal interconnects in flexible and wearable devices are heterogeneous metal-polymer systems that are expected to sustain large deformation without failure. The principal strategy to make strain tolerant interconnect lines on flexible substrates has comprised of creating serpentine structures of metal films with either in-plane or out-of-plane waves, using porous substrates, or using highly ductile materials such as gold. The wavy and helical serpentine patterns preclude high-density packing of interconnect lines on devices, while ductile materials such as Au are cost prohibitive for real world applications. Ductile copper films can be stretched if bonded to the substrate, but show high levelmore » of cracking beyond few tens of % strain. In this paper, we demonstrate a material system consisting of Indium metal film over an elastomer (PDMS) with a discontinuous Cr layer such that the metal interconnect can be stretched to extremely high linear strain (up to 100%) without any visible cracks. Such linear strain in metal interconnects exceeds that reported in literature and is obtained without the use of any geometrical manipulations or porous substrates. Systematic experimentation is carried out to explain the mechanisms that allow the Indium film to sustain the high strain level without failure. The islands forming the discontinuous Cr layer are shown to move apart from each other during stretching without delamination, providing strong adhesion to the Indium film while accommodating the large strain in the system. The Indium film is shown to form surface wrinkles upon release from the large strain, confirming its strong adhesion to PDMS. A model is proposed based upon the observations that can explain the high level of stretch-ability of the Indium metal film over the PDMS substrate.« less

Application of bias voltage to tune the resonant frequency of membrane-based electroactive polymer energy harvesters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Lin; Grissom, Michael; Fisher, Frank T.

2016-05-01

Vibration-based energy harvesting has been widely investigated to as a means to generate low levels of electrical energy for applications such as wireless sensor networks. However, for optimal performance it is necessary to ensure that resonant frequencies of the device match the ambient vibration frequencies for maximum energy harvested. Here a novel resonant frequency tuning approach is proposed by applying a bias voltage to a pre-stretched electroactive polymer (EAP) membrane, such that the resulting changes in membrane tension can tune the device to match the environmental vibration source. First, a material model which accounts for the change in properties due to the pre-stretch of a VHB 4910 EAP membrane is presented. The effect of the bias voltage on the EAP membrane, which induces an electrostatic pressure and corresponding reduction in membrane thickness, are then determined. The FEM results from ANSYS agree well with an analytical hyperelastic model of the activation response of the EAP membrane. Lastly, through a mass-loaded circular membrane vibration model, the effective resonant frequency of the energy harvester can be determined as a function of changes in membrane tension due to the applied bias voltage. In the case of an EAP membrane, pre-stretch contributes to the pre-stretch stiffness of the system while the applied bias voltage contributes to a change in bias voltage stiffness of the membrane. Preliminary experiments verified the resonant frequencies corresponding to the bias voltages predicted from the appropriate models. The proposed bias voltage tuning approach for the EAP membrane may provide a novel tuning strategy to enable energy harvesting from various ambient vibration sources in various application environments.

Mechanisms of mechanical strain memory in airway smooth muscle.

PubMed

Kim, Hak Rim; Hai, Chi-Ming

2005-10-01

We evaluated the hypothesis that mechanical deformation of airway smooth muscle induces structural remodeling of airway smooth muscle cells, thereby modulating mechanical performance in subsequent contractions. This hypothesis implied that past experience of mechanical deformation was retained (or "memorized") as structural changes in airway smooth muscle cells, which modulated the cell's subsequent contractile responses. We termed this phenomenon mechanical strain memory. Preshortening has been found to induce attenuation of both force and isotonic shortening velocity in cholinergic receptor-activated airway smooth muscle. Rapid stretching of cholinergic receptor-activated airway smooth muscle from an initial length to a final length resulted in post-stretch force and myosin light chain phosphorylation that correlated significantly with initial length. Thus post-stretch muscle strips appeared to retain memory of the initial length prior to rapid stretch (mechanical strain memory). Cytoskeletal recruitment of actin- and integrin-binding proteins and Erk 1/2 MAPK appeared to be important mechanisms of mechanical strain memory. Sinusoidal length oscillation led to force attenuation during oscillation and in subsequent contractions in intact airway smooth muscle, and p38 MAPK appeared to be an important mechanism. In contrast, application of local mechanical strain to cultured airway smooth muscle cells induced local actin polymerization and cytoskeletal stiffening. It is conceivable that deep inspiration-induced bronchoprotection may be a manifestation of mechanical strain memory such that mechanical deformation from past breathing cycles modulated the mechanical performance of airway smooth muscle in subsequent cycles in a continuous and dynamic manner.

Robust Stacking-Independent Ultrafast Charge Transfer in MoS2/WS2 Bilayers.

PubMed

Ji, Ziheng; Hong, Hao; Zhang, Jin; Zhang, Qi; Huang, Wei; Cao, Ting; Qiao, Ruixi; Liu, Can; Liang, Jing; Jin, Chuanhong; Jiao, Liying; Shi, Kebin; Meng, Sheng; Liu, Kaihui

2017-12-26

Van der Waals-coupled two-dimensional (2D) heterostructures have attracted great attention recently due to their high potential in the next-generation photodetectors and solar cells. The understanding of charge-transfer process between adjacent atomic layers is the key to design optimal devices as it directly determines the fundamental response speed and photon-electron conversion efficiency. However, general belief and theoretical studies have shown that the charge transfer behavior depends sensitively on interlayer configurations, which is difficult to control accurately, bringing great uncertainties in device designing. Here we investigate the ultrafast dynamics of interlayer charge transfer in a prototype heterostructure, the MoS 2 /WS 2 bilayer with various stacking configurations, by optical two-color ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopy. Surprisingly, we found that the charge transfer is robust against varying interlayer twist angles and interlayer coupling strength, in time scale of ∼90 fs. Our observation, together with atomic-resolved transmission electron characterization and time-dependent density functional theory simulations, reveals that the robust ultrafast charge transfer is attributed to the heterogeneous interlayer stretching/sliding, which provides additional channels for efficient charge transfer previously unknown. Our results elucidate the origin of transfer rate robustness against interlayer stacking configurations in optical devices based on 2D heterostructures, facilitating their applications in ultrafast and high-efficient optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices in the near future.

Crystalline lens MTF measurement during simulated accommodation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borja, David; Takeuchi, Gaku; Ziebarth, Noel; Acosta, Ana C.; Manns, Fabrice; Parel, Jean-Marie

2005-04-01

Purpose: To design and test an optical system to measure the optical quality of post mortem lenses during simulated accommodation. Methods: An optical bench top system was designed to measure the point spread function and calculate the modulation transfer function (MTF) of monkey and human ex-vivo crystalline lenses. The system consists of a super luminescent diode emitting at 850nm, collimated into a 3mm beam which is focused by the ex-vivo lens under test. The intensity distribution at the focus (point spread function) is re-imaged and magnified onto a beam profiler CCD camera. The optical quality in terms of spatial frequency response (modulation transfer function) is calculated by Fourier transform of the point spread function. The system was used on ex-vivo lenses with attached zonules, ciliary body and sclera. The sclera was glued to 8 separate PMMA segments and stretched radial by 5mm on an accommodation simulating lens stretching device. The point spread function was measured for each lens in the relaxed and stretched state for 5 human (ages 38-86 years) and 5 cynomolgus monkey (ages 53 - 67 months) fresh post mortem crystalline lenses. Results: Stretching induced measurable changes in the MTF. The cutoff frequency increased from 54.4+/-13.6 lp/mm unstretched to 59.5+/-21.4 lp/mm stretched in the post-presbyopic human and from 51.9+/-24.7 lp/mm unstretched to 57.7+/-18.5 lp/mm stretched cynomolgus monkey lenses. Conclusion: The results demonstrate the feasibility of measuring the optical quality of ex-vivo human and cynomolgus monkey lenses during simulated accommodation. Additional experiments are underway to quantify changes in optical quality induced by stretching.

Daily muscle stretching enhances blood flow, endothelial function, capillarity, vascular volume and connectivity in aged skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Hotta, Kazuki; Behnke, Bradley J; Arjmandi, Bahram; Ghosh, Payal; Chen, Bei; Brooks, Rachael; Maraj, Joshua J; Elam, Marcus L; Maher, Patrick; Kurien, Daniel; Churchill, Alexandra; Sepulveda, Jaime L; Kabolowsky, Max B; Christou, Demetra D; Muller-Delp, Judy M

2018-05-15

In aged rats, daily muscle stretching increases blood flow to skeletal muscle during exercise. Daily muscle stretching enhanced endothelium-dependent vasodilatation of skeletal muscle resistance arterioles of aged rats. Angiogenic markers and capillarity increased in response to daily stretching in muscles of aged rats. Muscle stretching performed with a splint could provide a feasible means of improving muscle blood flow and function in elderly patients who cannot perform regular aerobic exercise. Mechanical stretch stimuli alter the morphology and function of cultured endothelial cells; however, little is known about the effects of daily muscle stretching on adaptations of endothelial function and muscle blood flow. The present study aimed to determine the effects of daily muscle stretching on endothelium-dependent vasodilatation and muscle blood flow in aged rats. The lower hindlimb muscles of aged Fischer rats were passively stretched by placing an ankle dorsiflexion splint for 30 min day -1 , 5 days week -1 , for 4 weeks. Blood flow to the stretched limb and the non-stretched contralateral limb was determined at rest and during treadmill exercise. Endothelium-dependent/independent vasodilatation was evaluated in soleus muscle arterioles. Levels of hypoxia-induced factor-1α, vascular endothelial growth factor A and neuronal nitric oxide synthase were determined in soleus muscle fibres. Levels of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and superoxide dismutase were determined in soleus muscle arterioles, and microvascular volume and capillarity were evaluated by microcomputed tomography and lectin staining, respectively. During exercise, blood flow to plantar flexor muscles was significantly higher in the stretched limb. Endothelium-dependent vasodilatation was enhanced in arterioles from the soleus muscle from the stretched limb. Microvascular volume, number of capillaries per muscle fibre, and levels of hypoxia-induced factor-1α, vascular endothelial growth factor and endothelial nitric oxide synthase were significantly higher in the stretched limb. These results indicate that daily passive stretching of muscle enhances endothelium-dependent vasodilatation and induces angiogenesis. These microvascular adaptations may contribute to increased muscle blood flow during exercise in muscles that have undergone daily passive stretch. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Physiology © 2018 The Physiological Society.

Spontaneous delayed migration/shortening of the pipeline embolization device: report of 5 cases.

PubMed

Chalouhi, N; Tjoumakaris, S I; Gonzalez, L F; Hasan, D; Pema, P J; Gould, G; Rosenwasser, R H; Jabbour, P M

2013-12-01

Five patients were found to have spontaneous delayed migration/shortening of their Pipeline Embolization Devices on follow-up angiography. The device migrated proximally in 4 patients and distally in 1 patient. One patient had a subarachnoid hemorrhage and died as a result of migration of the Pipeline Embolization Device, and another patient presented with complete MCA occlusion and was left severely disabled. Mismatch in arterial diameter between inflow and outflow vessels was a constant finding. Migration of the Pipeline Embolization Device was managed conservatively, with additional placement of the device, or with parent vessel occlusion. Obtaining complete expansion of the embolization device by using a longer device, increasing vessel coverage, using adjunctive aneurysm coiling, and avoiding dragging and stretching of the device are important preventive measures. Neurointerventionalists should be aware of this potentially fatal complication and take all necessary preventive measures.

Intrinsically stretchable supercapacitors composed of polypyrrole electrodes and highly stretchable gel electrolyte.

PubMed

Zhao, Chen; Wang, Caiyun; Yue, Zhilian; Shu, Kewei; Wallace, Gordon G

2013-09-25

There has been an emerging interest in stretchable power sources compatible with flexible/wearable electronics. Such power sources must be able to withstand large mechanical strains and still maintain function. Here we report a highly stretchable H3PO4-poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymer electrolyte obtained by optimizing the polymer molecular weight and its weight ratio to H3PO4 in terms of conductivity and mechanical properties. The electrolyte demonstrates a high conductivity of 3.4 × 10(-3) S cm(-1), and a high fracture strain at 410% elongation. It is mechanically robust with a tensile strength of 2 MPa and a Young's modulus of 1 MPa, and displays a small plastic deformation (5%) after 1000 stretching cycles at 100% strain. A stretchable supercapacitor device has been developed based on buckled polypyrrole electrodes and the polymer electrolyte. The device shows only a small capacitance loss of 5.6% at 30% strain, and can retain 81% of the initial capacitance after 1000 cycles of such stretching.

Plastic Deformation as a Means to Achieve Stretchable Polymer Semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Connor, Brendan

Developing intrinsically stretchable semiconductors will seamlessly transition traditional devices into a stretchable platform. Polymer semiconductors are inherently soft materials due to the weak van der Waal intermolecular bonding allowing for flexible devices. However, these materials are not typically stretchable and when large strains are applied they either crack or plastically deform. Here, we study the use of repeated plastic deformation as a means of achieving stretchable films. In this talk, critical aspects of polymer semiconductor material selection, morphology and interface properties will be discussed that enable this approach of achieving stretchable films. We show that one can employ high performance donor-acceptor polymer semiconductors that are typically brittle through proper polymer blending to significantly increase ductility to achieve stretchable films. We demonstrate a polymer blend film that can be repeatedly deformed over 65%, while maintaining charge mobility consistently above 0.15 cm2/Vs. During the stretching process we show that the films follow a well-controlled repeated deformation pattern for over 100 stretching cycles.

Intrinsically stretchable and transparent thin-film transistors based on printable silver nanowires, carbon nanotubes and an elastomeric dielectric

PubMed Central

Liang, Jiajie; Li, Lu; Chen, Dustin; Hajagos, Tibor; Ren, Zhi; Chou, Shu-Yu; Hu, Wei; Pei, Qibing

2015-01-01

Thin-film field-effect transistor is a fundamental component behind various mordern electronics. The development of stretchable electronics poses fundamental challenges in developing new electronic materials for stretchable thin-film transistors that are mechanically compliant and solution processable. Here we report the fabrication of transparent thin-film transistors that behave like an elastomer film. The entire fabrication is carried out by solution-based techniques, and the resulting devices exhibit a mobility of ∼30 cm2 V−1 s−1, on/off ratio of 103–104, switching current >100 μA, transconductance >50 μS and relative low operating voltages. The devices can be stretched by up to 50% strain and subjected to 500 cycles of repeated stretching to 20% strain without significant loss in electrical property. The thin-film transistors are also used to drive organic light-emitting diodes. The approach and results represent an important progress toward the development of stretchable active-matrix displays. PMID:26173436

Cyclic Stretching of Mesangial Cells Up-Regulates Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 and Leukocyte Adherence

PubMed Central

Riser, Bruce L.; Varani, James; Cortes, Pedro; Yee, Jerry; Dame, Michael; Sharba, Abdul K.

2001-01-01

Intraglomerular hypertension is a primary causal factor in the progressive glomerulosclerosis that characterizes diabetic nephropathy or severe renal ablation. However, inflammation of the glomerular mesangium also participates in at least the early phase of these diseases. In glomerulonephritis, where inflammation is thought to be the predominant causal factor, intraglomerular hypertension is also often present. Mesangial cells (MCs) are critical in orchestrating key functions of the glomerulus including extracellular matrix metabolism, cytokine production, and interaction with leukocytes. Because MCs are subject to increased stretching when intraglomerular hypertension is present, and in glomerulonephritis MC/leukocyte interactions seem to be mediated primarily via the up-regulation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), we examine the possibility that cyclic stretching is a stimulus for increased MC ICAM-1 activity. We demonstrate that the normal low levels of MC ICAM-1 mRNA and protein are dramatically up-regulated by even short intervals of cyclic stretch. This effect is dose- and time-dependent, and requires little amplitude and a brief period of elongation for significant induction. Stretch-induced MC ICAM-1 also leads to a marked elevation in phagocytic leukocyte adherence. This stimulated adherence is equal or greater than that induced by the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α, whereas an additive effect occurs when both are applied in combination. Our results indicate that stretch-induced ICAM-1 may provide a direct link between hypertension and inflammation in the progression of injury and glomerulosclerosis in diabetes, renal ablation, and other forms of glomerulonephritis. PMID:11141473

Cyclic stretching of mesangial cells up-regulates intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and leukocyte adherence: a possible new mechanism for glomerulosclerosis.

PubMed

Riser, B L; Varani, J; Cortes, P; Yee, J; Dame, M; Sharba, A K

2001-01-01

Intraglomerular hypertension is a primary causal factor in the progressive glomerulosclerosis that characterizes diabetic nephropathy or severe renal ablation. However, inflammation of the glomerular mesangium also participates in at least the early phase of these diseases. In glomerulonephritis, where inflammation is thought to be the predominant causal factor, intraglomerular hypertension is also often present. Mesangial cells (MCs) are critical in orchestrating key functions of the glomerulus including extracellular matrix metabolism, cytokine production, and interaction with leukocytes. Because MCs are subject to increased stretching when intraglomerular hypertension is present, and in glomerulonephritis MC/leukocyte interactions seem to be mediated primarily via the up-regulation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), we examine the possibility that cyclic stretching is a stimulus for increased MC ICAM-1 activity. We demonstrate that the normal low levels of MC ICAM-1 mRNA and protein are dramatically up-regulated by even short intervals of cyclic stretch. This effect is dose- and time-dependent, and requires little amplitude and a brief period of elongation for significant induction. Stretch-induced MC ICAM-1 also leads to a marked elevation in phagocytic leukocyte adherence. This stimulated adherence is equal or greater than that induced by the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha, whereas an additive effect occurs when both are applied in combination. Our results indicate that stretch-induced ICAM-1 may provide a direct link between hypertension and inflammation in the progression of injury and glomerulosclerosis in diabetes, renal ablation, and other forms of glomerulonephritis.

Editable Supercapacitors with Customizable Stretchability Based on Mechanically Strengthened Ultralong MnO2 Nanowire Composite.

PubMed

Lv, Zhisheng; Luo, Yifei; Tang, Yuxin; Wei, Jiaqi; Zhu, Zhiqiang; Zhou, Xinran; Li, Wenlong; Zeng, Yi; Zhang, Wei; Zhang, Yanyan; Qi, Dianpeng; Pan, Shaowu; Loh, Xian Jun; Chen, Xiaodong

2018-01-01

Although some progress has been made on stretchable supercapacitors, traditional stretchable supercapacitors fabricated by predesigning structured electrodes for device assembling still lack the device-level editability and programmability. To adapt to wearable electronics with arbitrary configurations, it is highly desirable to develop editable supercapacitors that can be directly transferred into desirable shapes and stretchability. In this work, editable supercapacitors for customizable shapes and stretchability using electrodes based on mechanically strengthened ultralong MnO 2 nanowire composites are developed. A supercapacitor edited with honeycomb-like structure shows a specific capacitance of 227.2 mF cm -2 and can be stretched up to 500% without degradation of electrochemical performance, which is superior to most of the state-of-the-art stretchable supercapacitors. In addition, it maintains nearly 98% of the initial capacitance after 10 000 stretch-and-release cycles under 400% tensile strain. As a representative of concept for system integration, the editable supercapacitors are integrated with a strain sensor, and the system exhibits a stable sensing performance even under arm swing. Being highly stretchable, easily programmable, as well as connectable in series and parallel, an editable supercapacitor with customizable stretchability is promising to produce stylish energy storage devices to power various portable, stretchable, and wearable devices. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

An automated tool-joint inspection device for the drillstring

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

Moyer, M.C.; Dale, B.A.; Kusenberger, F.N.

1984-06-01

This paper discusses the development of an automated tool joint inspection device-i.e., the fatigue crack detector (FCD), which can detect defects in the threaded region of drillpipe and drill collars. Inspection tests conducted at a research test facility and at drilling rig sites indicate that this device can detect both simulated defects (saw slots and drilled holes) and service-induced defects, such as fatigue cracks, pin stretch (plastic deformation), mashed threads, and corrosion pitting. The system operates on an electromagnetic-flux leakage principle and has several advantages over the conventional method of magnetic particle inspection.

Endogenous GFAP-Positive Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells in the Postnatal Mouse Cortex Are Activated following Traumatic Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Aminul I.; Shtaya, Anan B.; Zaben, Malik J.; Owens, Emma V.; Kiecker, Clemens

2012-01-01

Abstract Interest in promoting regeneration of the injured nervous system has recently turned toward the use of endogenous stem cells. Elucidating cues involved in driving these precursor cells out of quiescence following injury, and the signals that drive them toward neuronal and glial lineages, will help to harness these cells for repair. Using a biomechanically validated in vitro organotypic stretch injury model, cortico-hippocampal slices from postnatal mice were cultured and a stretch injury equivalent to a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) applied. In uninjured cortex, proliferative potential under in vitro conditions is virtually absent in older slices (equivalent postnatal day 15 compared to 8). However, following a severe stretch injury, this potential is restored in injured outer cortex. Using slices from mice expressing a fluorescent reporter on the human glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter, we show that GFAP+ cells account for the majority of proliferating neurospheres formed, and that these cells are likely to arise from the cortical parenchyma and not from the subventricular zone. Moreover, we provide evidence for a correlation between upregulation of sonic hedgehog signaling, a pathway known to regulate stem cell proliferation, and this restoration of regenerative potential following TBI. Our results indicate that a source of quiescent endogenous stem cells residing in the cortex and subcortical tissue proliferate in vitro following TBI. Moreover, these proliferating cells are multipotent and are derived mostly from GFAP-expressing cells. This raises the possibility of using this endogenous source of stem cells for repair following TBI. PMID:21895532

Three days of intermittent stretching after muscle disuse alters the proteins involved in force transmission in muscle fibers in weanling rats

PubMed Central

Gianelo, M.C.S.; Polizzelo, J.C.; Chesca, D.; Mattiello-Sverzut, A.C.

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of intermittent passive manual stretching on various proteins involved in force transmission in skeletal muscle. Female Wistar weanling rats were randomly assigned to 5 groups: 2 control groups containing 21- and 30-day-old rats that received neither immobilization nor stretching, and 3 test groups that received 1) passive stretching over 3 days, 2) immobilization for 7 days and then passive stretching over 3 days, or 3) immobilization for 7 days. Maximal plantar flexion in the right hind limb was imposed, and the stretching protocol of 10 repetitions of 30 s stretches was applied. The soleus muscles were harvested and processed for HE and picrosirius staining; immunohistochemical analysis of collagen types I, III, IV, desmin, and vimentin; and immunofluorescence labeling of dystrophin and CD68. The numbers of desmin- and vimentin-positive cells were significantly decreased compared with those in the control following immobilization, regardless of whether stretching was applied (P<0.05). In addition, the semi-quantitative analysis showed that collagen type I was increased and type IV was decreased in the immobilized animals, regardless of whether the stretching protocol was applied. In conclusion, the largest changes in response to stretching were observed in muscles that had been previously immobilized, and the stretching protocol applied here did not mitigate the immobilization-induced muscle changes. Muscle disuse adversely affected several proteins involved in the transmission of forces between the intracellular and extracellular compartments. Thus, the 3-day rehabilitation period tested here did not provide sufficient time for the muscles to recover from the disuse maladaptations in animals undergoing postnatal development. PMID:26648091

Three days of intermittent stretching after muscle disuse alters the proteins involved in force transmission in muscle fibers in weanling rats.

PubMed

Gianelo, M C S; Polizzelo, J C; Chesca, D; Mattiello-Sverzut, A C

2016-02-01

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of intermittent passive manual stretching on various proteins involved in force transmission in skeletal muscle. Female Wistar weanling rats were randomly assigned to 5 groups: 2 control groups containing 21- and 30-day-old rats that received neither immobilization nor stretching, and 3 test groups that received 1) passive stretching over 3 days, 2) immobilization for 7 days and then passive stretching over 3 days, or 3) immobilization for 7 days. Maximal plantar flexion in the right hind limb was imposed, and the stretching protocol of 10 repetitions of 30 s stretches was applied. The soleus muscles were harvested and processed for HE and picrosirius staining; immunohistochemical analysis of collagen types I, III, IV, desmin, and vimentin; and immunofluorescence labeling of dystrophin and CD68. The numbers of desmin- and vimentin-positive cells were significantly decreased compared with those in the control following immobilization, regardless of whether stretching was applied (P<0.05). In addition, the semi-quantitative analysis showed that collagen type I was increased and type IV was decreased in the immobilized animals, regardless of whether the stretching protocol was applied. In conclusion, the largest changes in response to stretching were observed in muscles that had been previously immobilized, and the stretching protocol applied here did not mitigate the immobilization-induced muscle changes. Muscle disuse adversely affected several proteins involved in the transmission of forces between the intracellular and extracellular compartments. Thus, the 3-day rehabilitation period tested here did not provide sufficient time for the muscles to recover from the disuse maladaptations in animals undergoing postnatal development.

All-nanotube stretchable supercapacitor with low equivalent series resistance.

PubMed

Gilshteyn, Evgenia P; Amanbayev, Daler; Anisimov, Anton S; Kallio, Tanja; Nasibulin, Albert G

2017-12-12

We report high-performance, stable, low equivalent series resistance all-nanotube stretchable supercapacitor based on single-walled carbon nanotube film electrodes and a boron nitride nanotube separator. A layer of boron nitride nanotubes, fabricated by airbrushing from isopropanol dispersion, allows avoiding problem of high internal resistance and short-circuiting of supercapacitors. The device, fabricated in a two-electrode test cell configuration, demonstrates electrochemical double layer capacitance mechanism and retains 96% of its initial capacitance after 20 000 electrochemical charging/discharging cycles with the specific capacitance value of 82 F g -1 and low equivalent series resistance of 4.6 Ω. The stretchable supercapacitor prototype withstands at least 1000 cycles of 50% strain with a slight increase in the volumetric capacitance from 0.4 to 0.5 mF cm -3 and volumetric power density from 32 mW cm -3 to 40 mW cm -3 after stretching, which is higher than reported before. Moreover, a low resistance of 250 Ω for the as-fabricated stretchable prototype was obtained, which slightly decreased with the strain applied up to 200 Ω. Simple fabrication process of such devices can be easily extended making the all-nanotube stretchable supercapacitors, presented here, promising elements in future wearable devices.

Critical role of TRPP2 and TRPC1 channels in stretch-induced injury of blood-brain barrier endothelial cells.

PubMed

Berrout, Jonathan; Jin, Min; O'Neil, Roger G

2012-02-03

The microvessels of the brain are very sensitive to mechanical stresses such as observed in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Such stresses can quickly lead to dysfunction of the microvessel endothelial cells, including disruption of blood-brain barrier (BBB). It is now evident that elevation of cytosolic calcium levels ([Ca2+]i) can compromise the BBB integrity, however the mechanism by which mechanical injury can produce a [Ca2+]i increase in brain endothelial cells is unclear. To assess the effects of mechanical/stretch injury on [Ca2+]i signaling, mouse brain microvessel endothelial cells (bEnd3) were grown to confluency on elasticized membranes and [Ca2+]i monitored using fura 2 fluorescence imaging. Application of an injury, using a pressure/stretch pulse of 50 ms, induced a rapid transient increase in [Ca2+]i. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, the injury-induced [Ca2+]i transient was greatly reduced, but not fully eliminated, while unloading of Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin treatment in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ abolished the injury transient. Application of LOE-908 and amiloride, TRPC and TRPP2 channel blockers, respectively, both reduced the transient [Ca2+]i increase. Further, siRNA knockdown assays directed at TRPC1 and TRPP2 expression also resulted in a reduction of the injury-induced [Ca2+]i response. In addition, stretch injury induced increases of NO production and actin stress fiber formation, both of which were markedly reduced upon treatment with LOE908 and/or amiloride. We conclude that mechanical injury of brain endothelial cells induces a rapid influx of calcium, mediated by TRPC1 and TRPP2 channels, which leads to NO synthesis and actin cytoskeletal rearrangement. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Traumatically injured astrocytes release a proteomic signature modulated by STAT3 dependent cell survival

PubMed Central

Levine, Jaclynn; Kwon, Eunice; Paez, Pablo; Yan, Weihong; Czerwieniec, Gregg; Loo, Joseph A.; Sofroniew, Michael V.; Wanner, Ina-Beate

2015-01-01

Molecular markers associated with CNS injury are of diagnostic interest. Mechanical trauma generates cellular deformation associated with membrane permeability with unknown molecular consequences. We used an in vitro model of stretch-injury and proteomic analyses to determine protein changes in murine astrocytes and their surrounding fluids. Abrupt pressure-pulse stretching resulted in the rapid release of 59 astrocytic proteins with profiles reflecting cell injury and cell death, i.e. mechanoporation and cell lysis. This acute trauma-release proteome was overrepresented with metabolic proteins compared to the uninjured cellular proteome, bearing relevance for post-traumatic metabolic depression. Astrocyte-specific deletion of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3-CKO) resulted in reduced stretch-injury tolerance, elevated necrosis and increased protein release. Consistent with more lysed cells, more protein complexes, nuclear and transport proteins were released from STAT3-CKO versus non-transgenic astrocytes. STAT3-CKO astrocytes had reduced basal expression of GFAP, lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB), aldolase C (ALDOC) and astrocytic phosphoprotein 15 (PEA15), and elevated levels of tropomyosin (TPM4) and α actinin 4 (ACTN4). Stretching caused STAT3 dependent cellular depletion of PEA15 and GFAP, and its filament disassembly in subpopulations of injured astrocytes. PEA15 and ALDOC signals were low in injured astrocytes acutely after mouse spinal cord crush injury and robustly expressed in reactive astrocytes one day post-injury. In contrast, α crystallin (CRYAB) was present in acutely injured astrocytes, and absent from uninjured and reactive astrocytes, demonstrating novel marker differences among post-injury astrocytes. These findings reveal a proteomic signature of traumatically-injured astrocytes reflecting STAT3-dependent cellular survival with potential diagnostic value. PMID:26683444

Stretching morphogenesis of the roof plate and formation of the central canal.

PubMed

Kondrychyn, Igor; Teh, Cathleen; Sin, Melvin; Korzh, Vladimir

2013-01-01

Neurulation is driven by apical constriction of actomyosin cytoskeleton resulting in conversion of the primitive lumen into the central canal in a mechanism driven by F-actin constriction, cell overcrowding and buildup of axonal tracts. The roof plate of the neural tube acts as the dorsal morphogenetic center and boundary preventing midline crossing by neural cells and axons. The roof plate zebrafish transgenics expressing cytosolic GFP were used to study and describe development of this structure in vivo for a first time ever. The conversion of the primitive lumen into the central canal causes significant morphogenetic changes of neuroepithelial cells in the dorsal neural tube. We demonstrated that the roof plate cells stretch along the D-V axis in parallel with conversion of the primitive lumen into central canal and its ventral displacement. Importantly, the stretching of the roof plate is well-coordinated along the whole spinal cord and the roof plate cells extend 3× in length to cover 2/3 of the neural tube diameter. This process involves the visco-elastic extension of the roof place cytoskeleton and depends on activity of Zic6 and the Rho-associated kinase (Rock). In contrast, stretching of the floor plate is much less extensive. The extension of the roof plate requires its attachment to the apical complex of proteins at the surface of the central canal, which depends on activity of Zic6 and Rock. The D-V extension of the roof plate may change a range and distribution of morphogens it produces. The resistance of the roof plate cytoskeleton attenuates ventral displacement of the central canal in illustration of the novel mechanical role of the roof plate during development of the body axis.

Stretching Morphogenesis of the Roof Plate and Formation of the Central Canal

PubMed Central

Kondrychyn, Igor; Teh, Cathleen; Sin, Melvin; Korzh, Vladimir

2013-01-01

Background Neurulation is driven by apical constriction of actomyosin cytoskeleton resulting in conversion of the primitive lumen into the central canal in a mechanism driven by F-actin constriction, cell overcrowding and buildup of axonal tracts. The roof plate of the neural tube acts as the dorsal morphogenetic center and boundary preventing midline crossing by neural cells and axons. Methodology/Principal Findings The roof plate zebrafish transgenics expressing cytosolic GFP were used to study and describe development of this structure in vivo for a first time ever. The conversion of the primitive lumen into the central canal causes significant morphogenetic changes of neuroepithelial cells in the dorsal neural tube. We demonstrated that the roof plate cells stretch along the D–V axis in parallel with conversion of the primitive lumen into central canal and its ventral displacement. Importantly, the stretching of the roof plate is well-coordinated along the whole spinal cord and the roof plate cells extend 3× in length to cover 2/3 of the neural tube diameter. This process involves the visco-elastic extension of the roof place cytoskeleton and depends on activity of Zic6 and the Rho-associated kinase (Rock). In contrast, stretching of the floor plate is much less extensive. Conclusions/Significance The extension of the roof plate requires its attachment to the apical complex of proteins at the surface of the central canal, which depends on activity of Zic6 and Rock. The D–V extension of the roof plate may change a range and distribution of morphogens it produces. The resistance of the roof plate cytoskeleton attenuates ventral displacement of the central canal in illustration of the novel mechanical role of the roof plate during development of the body axis. PMID:23409159

Integrated Stress Response Mediates Epithelial Injury in Mechanical Ventilation.

PubMed

Dolinay, Tamas; Himes, Blanca E; Shumyatcher, Maya; Lawrence, Gladys Gray; Margulies, Susan S

2017-08-01

Ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is a severe complication of mechanical ventilation that can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome. VILI is characterized by damage to the epithelial barrier with subsequent pulmonary edema and profound hypoxia. Available lung-protective ventilator strategies offer only a modest benefit in preventing VILI because they cannot impede alveolar overdistension and concomitant epithelial barrier dysfunction in the inflamed lung regions. There are currently no effective biochemical therapies to mitigate injury to the alveolar epithelium. We hypothesize that alveolar stretch activates the integrated stress response (ISR) pathway and that the chemical inhibition of this pathway mitigates alveolar barrier disruption during stretch and mechanical ventilation. Using our established rat primary type I-like alveolar epithelial cell monolayer stretch model and in vivo rat mechanical ventilation that mimics the alveolar overdistension seen in acute respiratory distress syndrome, we studied epithelial responses to mechanical stress. Our studies revealed that the ISR signaling pathway is a key modulator of epithelial permeability. We show that prolonged epithelial stretch and injurious mechanical ventilation activate the ISR, leading to increased alveolar permeability, cell death, and proinflammatory signaling. Chemical inhibition of protein kinase RNA-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase, an upstream regulator of the pathway, resulted in decreased injury signaling and improved barrier function after prolonged cyclic stretch and injurious mechanical ventilation. Our results provide new evidence that therapeutic targeting of the ISR can mitigate VILI.

Angiotensin II Causes Neuronal Damage in Stretch-Injured Neurons: Protective Effects of Losartan, an Angiotensin T1 Receptor Blocker.

PubMed

Abdul-Muneer, P M; Bhowmick, Saurav; Briski, Nicholas

2017-11-08

Angiotensin II (Ang II) is a mediator of oxidative stress via activation/induction of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species-generating enzymes, NADPH oxidase (NOX) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). We investigated the hypothesis that overproduction of Ang II during traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces the activation of the oxidative stress, which triggers neuroinflammation and cell apoptosis in a cell culture model of neuronal stretch injury. We first established that stretch injury causes a rapid increase in the level of Ang II, which causes the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β and TNF-α, via the induction of oxidative stress. Since angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) mediates the production of Ang II via the conversion of Ang I into Ang II, we analyzed the expression of ACE by western blotting. Further, we analyzed caspase-3-mediated apoptosis by TUNEL staining and annexin V western blotting. Angiotensin type I (AT 1 ) receptor antagonist losartan attenuated Ang II-induced oxidative stress and associated neuroinflammation and cell death in cultured neurons. Remarkably, we noticed that the expression of Ang II type 1 receptor (AngT 1 R) upregulated in neuronal stretch injury; losartan mitigates this upregulation. Findings from this study significantly extend our understanding of the pathophysiology of TBI and may have significant implications for developing therapeutic strategies for TBI-associated brain dysfunctions.

Myeloid leukemia factor-1 is a novel modulator of neonatal rat cardiomyocyte proliferation.

PubMed

Rangrez, Ashraf Yusuf; Pott, Jost; Kluge, Annika; Frauen, Robert; Stiebeling, Katharina; Hoppe, Phillip; Sossalla, Samuel; Frey, Norbert; Frank, Derk

2017-04-01

The present study focuses on the identification of the gene expression profile of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRVCMs) after dynamic mechanical stretch through microarrays of RNA isolated from cells stretched for 2, 6 or 24h. In this analysis, myeloid leukemia factor-1 (MLF1) was found to be significantly downregulated during the course of stretch. We found that MLF1 is highly expressed in the heart, however, its cardiac function is unknown yet. In line with microarray data, MLF1 was profoundly downregulated in in vivo mouse models of cardiomyopathy, and also significantly reduced in the hearts of human patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. Our data indicates that the overexpression of MLF1 in NRVCMs inhibited cell proliferation while augmenting apoptosis. Conversely, knockdown of MLF1 protected NRVCMs from apoptosis and promoted cell proliferation. Moreover, we found that knockdown of MLF1 protected NRVCMs from hypoxia-induced cell death. The observed accelerated apoptosis is attributed to the activation of caspase-3/-7/PARP-dependent apoptotic signaling and upregulation of p53. Most interestingly, MLF1 knockdown significantly upregulated the expression of D cyclins suggesting its possible role in cyclin-dependent cell proliferation. Taken together, we, for the first time, identified an important role for MLF1 in NRVCM proliferation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Molecular dynamics simulations of heterogeneous cell membranes in response to uniaxial membrane stretches at high loading rates.

PubMed

Zhang, Lili; Zhang, Zesheng; Jasa, John; Li, Dongli; Cleveland, Robin O; Negahban, Mehrdad; Jérusalem, Antoine

2017-08-16

The chemobiomechanical signatures of diseased cells are often distinctively different from that of healthy cells. This mainly arises from cellular structural/compositional alterations induced by disease development or therapeutic molecules. Therapeutic shock waves have the potential to mechanically destroy diseased cells and/or increase cell membrane permeability for drug delivery. However, the biomolecular mechanisms by which shock waves interact with diseased and healthy cellular components remain largely unknown. By integrating atomistic simulations with a novel multiscale numerical framework, this work provides new biomolecular mechanistic perspectives through which many mechanosensitive cellular processes could be quantitatively characterised. Here we examine the biomechanical responses of the chosen representative membrane complexes under rapid mechanical loadings pertinent to therapeutic shock wave conditions. We find that their rupture characteristics do not exhibit significant sensitivity to the applied strain rates. Furthermore, we show that the embedded rigid inclusions markedly facilitate stretch-induced membrane disruptions while mechanically stiffening the associated complexes under the applied membrane stretches. Our results suggest that the presence of rigid molecules in cellular membranes could serve as "mechanical catalysts" to promote the mechanical destructions of the associated complexes, which, in concert with other biochemical/medical considerations, should provide beneficial information for future biomechanical-mediated therapeutics.

Magnetic fields applied to collagen-coated ferric oxide beads induce stretch-activated Ca2+ flux in fibroblasts.

PubMed

Glogauer, M; Ferrier, J; McCulloch, C A

1995-11-01

The ability to apply controlled forces to the cell membrane may enable elucidation of the mechanisms and pathways involved in signal transduction in response to applied physical stimuli. We have developed a magnetic particle-electromagnet model that allows the application of controlled forces to the plasma membrane of substrate-attached fibroblasts. The system allows applied forces to be controlled by the magnitude of the magnetic field and by the surface area of cell membrane covered with collagen-coated ferric beads. Analysis by single-cell ratio fluorimetry of fura 2-loaded cells demonstrated large calcium transients (50-300 nM) in response to the magnetic force applications. Experiments using either the stretch-activated channel blocker gadolinium chloride or ethylene glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid to eliminate external calcium ions, or addition of extracellular manganese ions, indicated that there was a calcium influx through putative stretch-activated channels. The probability of a calcium influx in single cells was increased by higher surface bead loading and the degree of cell spreading. Depolymerization of actin filaments by cytochalasin D increased the amplitude of calcium response twofold. The regulation of calcium flux by filamentous actin content and by cell spreading indicates a possible modulatory role for the cytoskeleton in channel sensitivity. Magnetic force application to beads on single cells provides a controlled model to study mechanisms and heterogeneity in physical force stimulation of cation-permeable channels.

Realization of Intrinsically Stretchable Organic Solar Cells Enabled by Charge-Extraction Layer and Photoactive Material Engineering.

PubMed

Hsieh, Yun-Ting; Chen, Jung-Yao; Fukuta, Seijiro; Lin, Po-Chen; Higashihara, Tomoya; Chueh, Chu-Chen; Chen, Wen-Chang

2018-06-12

The rapid development of wearable electronic devices has prompted a strong demand to develop stretchable organic solar cells (OSCs) to serve as the advanced powering systems. However, to realize an intrinsically stretchable OSC is challenging because it requires all the constituent layers to possess certain elastic properties. It thus necessitates a combined engineering of charge-transporting layers and photoactive materials. Herein, we first describe a stretchable electron-extraction layer using a blend of poly[(9,9-bis(3'-( N, N-dimethylamino)propyl)-2,7-fluorene)- alt-2,7-(9,9-dioctylfluorene)] (PFN) and nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR, Nipol 1072). This hybrid PFN/NBR layer exhibits a much lower Derjaguin-Muller-Toporov modulus (0.45 GPa) than the value (1.25 GPa) of the pristine PFN and could withstand a high strain (60% strain) without showing any cracks. Moreover, besides enriching the stretchability of PFN, the terminal carboxyl groups of NBR can ionize PFN to promote its solution-processability in polar solvents and to ensure the interfacial dipole formation at the corresponding interface in the device, as evidenced by the Fourier transform infrared and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. By further coupling the replacement of [6,6]-phenyl-C 61 -butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) with nonfullerene acceptors owing to better mechanical stretchability in the photoactive layer, OSCs with improved intrinsically stretchability and performance were demonstrated. An all-polymer OSC can exhibit a power conversion efficiency of 2.82% after 10% stretching, surpassing the PCBM-based device that can only withstand 5% strain.

High-throughput linear optical stretcher for mechanical characterization of blood cells.

PubMed

Roth, Kevin B; Neeves, Keith B; Squier, Jeff; Marr, David W M

2016-04-01

This study describes a linear optical stretcher as a high-throughput mechanical property cytometer. Custom, inexpensive, and scalable optics image a linear diode bar source into a microfluidic channel, where cells are hydrodynamically focused into the optical stretcher. Upon entering the stretching region, antipodal optical forces generated by the refraction of tightly focused laser light at the cell membrane deform each cell in flow. Each cell relaxes as it flows out of the trap and is compared to the stretched state to determine deformation. The deformation response of untreated red blood cells and neutrophils were compared to chemically treated cells. Statistically significant differences were observed between normal, diamide-treated, and glutaraldehyde-treated red blood cells, as well as between normal and cytochalasin D-treated neutrophils. Based on the behavior of the pure, untreated populations of red cells and neutrophils, a mixed population of these cells was tested and the discrete populations were identified by deformability. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.

Voltage-controlled radial wrinkles of a trumpet-like dielectric elastomer structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Guoyong; Wu, Lei; Fu, Yimou; Liu, Junjie; Qu, Shaoxing

2018-03-01

Wrinkle is usually considered as one failure mode of membrane structure. However, it can also be harnessed in developing smart devices such as dry adhesion tape, diffraction grating, smart window, etc. In this paper, we present a method to generate voltage-controlled radial wrinkles, which are fast response and reversible, in a stretched circular dielectric elastomer (DE) membrane with boundary fixed. In the experiment, we bond a circular plate on the center of the circular membrane and then pull the DE membrane perpendicular to itself via the plate. The stretched DE membrane is a trumpet-like structure. When the stretched DE membrane is subjected to a certain voltage, wrinkles nucleate from the center of the DE membrane and propagate to the boundary as the voltage increases. We adopt a theoretical framework to analyze the nucleation of the wrinkles. A simple wavelength expression is achieved, which is only related to the geometry and the stretch of the DE membrane. Results show that the theory agrees well with the experiment. This work may help the future design of DE actuators in avoiding mechanical instability and provide a new method to generate controllable radial DE wrinkles.

Universal Linear Motor Driven Leg Press Dynamometer and Concept of Serial Stretch Loading.

PubMed

Hamar, Dušan

2015-08-24

Paper deals with backgrounds and principles of universal linear motor driven leg press dynamometer and concept of serial stretch loading. The device is based on two computer controlled linear motors mounted to the horizontal rails. As the motors can keep either constant resistance force in selected position or velocity in both directions, the system allows simulation of any mode of muscle contraction. In addition, it also can generate defined serial stretch stimuli in a form of repeated force peaks. This is achieved by short segments of reversed velocity (in concentric phase) or acceleration (in eccentric phase). Such stimuli, generated at the rate of 10 Hz, have proven to be a more efficient means for the improvement of rate of the force development. This capability not only affects performance in many sports, but also plays a substantial role in prevention of falls and their consequences. Universal linear motor driven and computer controlled dynamometer with its unique feature to generate serial stretch stimuli seems to be an efficient and useful tool for enhancing strength training effects on neuromuscular function not only in athletes, but as well as in senior population and rehabilitation patients.

Simple Skin-Stretching Device in Assisted Tension-Free Wound Closure.

PubMed

Cheng, Li-Fu; Lee, Jiunn-Tat; Hsu, Honda; Wu, Meng-Si

2017-03-01

Numerous conventional wound reconstruction methods, such as wound undermining with direct suture, skin graft, and flap surgery, can be used to treat large wounds. The adequate undermining of the skin flaps of a wound is a commonly used technique for achieving the closure of large tension wounds; however, the use of tension to approximate and suture the skin flaps can cause ischemic marginal necrosis. The purpose of this study is to use elastic rubber bands to relieve the tension of direct wound closure for simultaneously minimizing the risks of wound dehiscence and wound edge ischemia that lead to necrosis. This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate our clinical experiences with 22 large wounds, which involved performing primary closures under a considerable amount of tension by using elastic rubber bands in a skin-stretching technique after a wide undermining procedure. Assessment of the results entailed complete wound healing and related complications. All 22 wounds in our study showed fair to good results except for one. The mean success rate was approximately 95.45%. The simple skin-stretching design enabled tension-free skin closure, which pulled the bilateral undermining skin flaps as bilateral fasciocutaneous advancement flaps. The skin-stretching technique was generally successful.

Gene expression of stretch-activated channels and mechanoelectric feedback in the heart.

PubMed

Kelly, D; Mackenzie, L; Hunter, P; Smaill, B; Saint, D A

2006-07-01

1. Mechanoelectric feedback (MEF) in the heart is the process by which mechanical forces on the myocardium can change its electrical properties. Mechanoelectric feedback has been demonstrated in many animal models, ranging from isolated cells, through isolated hearts to whole animals. In humans, MEF has been demonstrated directly in both the atria and the ventricles. It seems likely that MEF provides either the trigger or the substrate for some types of clinically important arrhythmias. 2. Mechanoelectric feedback may arise because of the presence of stretch-sensitive (or mechano-sensitive) ion channels in the cell membrane of the cardiac myocytes. Two types have been demonstrated: (i) a non-specific cation channel (stretch-activated channel (SAC); conductance of approximately 25 pS); and (ii) a potassium channel with a conductance of approximately 100 pS. The gene coding for the SAC has not yet been identified. The gene for the potassium channel is likely to be TREK, a member of the tandem pore potassium channel gene family. We have recorded stretch-sensitive potassium channels in rat isolated myocytes that have the properties of TREK channels expressed in heterologous systems. 3. It has been shown that TREK mRNA is expressed heterogeneously in the rat ventricular wall, with 17-fold more expression in endocardial compared with epicardial cells. This difference is reflected in the TREK currents recorded from endocardial and epicardial cells using whole-cell patch-clamp techniques, although the difference in current density was less pronounced (approximately threefold). Consistent with this, we show here that when the ventricle is stretched by inflation of an intraventricular balloon in a Langendorff perfused rat isolated heart, action potential shortening was more pronounced in the endocardium (30% shortening at 40 mmHg) compared with that in the epicardium (10% shortening at the same pressure). 4. Computer models of the mechanics of the (pig) heart show pronounced spatial variations in strain in the myocardium with large transmural differences (in the left ventricle in particular) and also large differences between the base and apex of the ventricle. 5. The importance of MEF and the non-homogeneous gene expression and strain distribution for arrhythmias is discussed.

Samplers for evaluation and quantification of ultra-low volume space sprays

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A field study was conducted to investigate the suitability of sampling devices for quantification of spray deposition from ULV space sprays. Five different samplers were included in an experiment conducted in an open grassy field. Samplers included horizontally stretched stationary cotton ribbon at ...

An Analysis of Pathological Activities of CCN Proteins in Joint Disorders: Mechanical Stretch-Mediated CCN2 Expression in Cultured Meniscus Cells.

PubMed

Furumatsu, Takayuki; Ozaki, Toshifumi

2017-01-01

The multifunctional growth factor CYR61/CTGF/NOV (CCN) 2, also known as connective tissue growth factor, regulates cellular proliferation, differentiation, and tissue regeneration. Recent literatures have described important roles of CCN2 in the meniscus metabolism. However, the mechanical stress-mediated transcriptional regulation of CCN2 in the meniscus remains unclear. The meniscus is a fibrocartilaginous tissue that controls complex biomechanics of the knee joint. Therefore, the injured unstable meniscus has a poor healing potential especially in the avascular inner region. In addition, dysfunction of the meniscus correlates with the progression of degenerative knee joint disorders and joint space narrowing. Here, we describe an experimental approach that investigates the distinct cellular behavior of inner and outer meniscus cells in response to mechanical stretch. Our experimental model can analyze the relationships between stretch-induced CCN2 expression and its functional role in the meniscus homeostasis.

Guided cracking of electrodes by stretching prism-patterned membrane electrode assemblies for high-performance fuel cells.

PubMed

Ahn, Chi-Yeong; Jang, Segeun; Cho, Yong-Hun; Choi, Jiwoo; Kim, Sungjun; Kim, Sang Moon; Sung, Yung-Eun; Choi, Mansoo

2018-01-19

Guided cracks were successfully generated in an electrode using the concentrated surface stress of a prism-patterned Nafion membrane. An electrode with guided cracks was formed by stretching the catalyst-coated Nafion membrane. The morphological features of the stretched membrane electrode assembly (MEA) were investigated with respect to variation in the prism pattern dimension (prism pitches of 20 μm and 50 μm) and applied strain (S ≈ 0.5 and 1.0). The behaviour of water on the surface of the cracked electrode was examined using environmental scanning electron microscopy. Guided cracks in the electrode layer were shown to be efficient water reservoirs and liquid water passages. The MEAs with and without guided cracks were incorporated into fuel cells, and electrochemical measurements were conducted. As expected, all MEAs with guided cracks exhibited better performance than conventional MEAs, mainly because of the improved water transport.

High Ca2+ Influx During Traumatic Brain Injury Leads to Caspase-1-Dependent Neuroinflammation and Cell Death.

PubMed

Abdul-Muneer, P M; Long, Mathew; Conte, Adriano Andrea; Santhakumar, Vijayalakshmi; Pfister, Bryan J

2017-08-01

We investigated the hypothesis that high Ca 2+ influx during traumatic brain injury induces the activation of the caspase-1 enzyme, which triggers neuroinflammation and cell apoptosis in a cell culture model of neuronal stretch injury and an in vivo model of fluid percussion injury (FPI). We first established that stretch injury causes a rapid increase in the intracellular Ca 2+ level, which activates interleukin-converting enzyme caspase-1. The increase in the intracellular Ca 2+ level and subsequent caspase-1 activation culminates into neuroinflammation via the maturation of IL-1β. Further, we analyzed caspase-1-mediated apoptosis by TUNEL staining and PARP western blotting. The voltage-gated sodium channel blocker, tetrodotoxin, mitigated the stretch injury-induced neuroinflammation and subsequent apoptosis by blocking Ca 2+ influx during the injury. The effect of tetrodotoxin was similar to the caspase-1 inhibitor, zYVAD-fmk, in neuronal culture. To validate the in vitro results, we demonstrated an increase in caspase-1 activity, neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in fluid percussion-injured animals. Our data suggest that neuronal injury/traumatic brain injury (TBI) can induce a high influx of Ca 2+ to the cells that cause neuroinflammation and cell death by activating caspase-1, IL-1β, and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. We conclude that excess IL-1β production and cell death may contribute to neuronal dysfunction and cognitive impairment associated with TBI.

Highly stretchable carbon aerogels.

PubMed

Guo, Fan; Jiang, Yanqiu; Xu, Zhen; Xiao, Youhua; Fang, Bo; Liu, Yingjun; Gao, Weiwei; Zhao, Pei; Wang, Hongtao; Gao, Chao

2018-02-28

Carbon aerogels demonstrate wide applications for their ultralow density, rich porosity, and multifunctionalities. Their compressive elasticity has been achieved by different carbons. However, reversibly high stretchability of neat carbon aerogels is still a great challenge owing to their extremely dilute brittle interconnections and poorly ductile cells. Here we report highly stretchable neat carbon aerogels with a retractable 200% elongation through hierarchical synergistic assembly. The hierarchical buckled structures and synergistic reinforcement between graphene and carbon nanotubes enable a temperature-invariable, recoverable stretching elasticity with small energy dissipation (~0.1, 100% strain) and high fatigue resistance more than 10 6 cycles. The ultralight carbon aerogels with both stretchability and compressibility were designed as strain sensors for logic identification of sophisticated shape conversions. Our methodology paves the way to highly stretchable carbon and neat inorganic materials with extensive applications in aerospace, smart robots, and wearable devices.

High-speed real-time image compression based on all-optical discrete cosine transformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Qiang; Chen, Hongwei; Wang, Yuxi; Chen, Minghua; Yang, Sigang; Xie, Shizhong

2017-02-01

In this paper, we present a high-speed single-pixel imaging (SPI) system based on all-optical discrete cosine transform (DCT) and demonstrate its capability to enable noninvasive imaging of flowing cells in a microfluidic channel. Through spectral shaping based on photonic time stretch (PTS) and wavelength-to-space conversion, structured illumination patterns are generated at a rate (tens of MHz) which is three orders of magnitude higher than the switching rate of a digital micromirror device (DMD) used in a conventional single-pixel camera. Using this pattern projector, high-speed image compression based on DCT can be achieved in the optical domain. In our proposed system, a high compression ratio (approximately 10:1) and a fast image reconstruction procedure are both achieved, which implicates broad applications in industrial quality control and biomedical imaging.

Stretching of red blood cells using an electro-optics trap.

PubMed

Haque, Md Mozzammel; Moisescu, Mihaela G; Valkai, Sándor; Dér, András; Savopol, Tudor

2015-01-01

The stretching stiffness of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) was investigated using a combination of an AC dielectrophoretic apparatus and a single-beam optical tweezer. The experiments were performed at 10 MHz, a frequency high enough to avoid conductivity losses, but below the second turnover point between positive and negative dielectrophoresis. By measuring the geometrical parameters of single healthy human RBCs as a function of the applied voltage, the elastic modulus of RBCs was determined (µ = 1.80 ± 0.5 µN/m) and compared with similar values of the literature got by other techniques. The method is expected to be an easy-to-use, alternative tool to determine the mechano-elastic properties of living cells, and, on this basis, to distinguish healthy and diseased cells.

36 CFR 7.97 - Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... THE INTERIOR SPECIAL REGULATIONS, AREAS OF THE NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM § 7.97 Golden Gate National... Alcatraz Island. (b) Powerless flight. The use of devices designed to carry persons through the air in..., sidewalks and grass lawn of the former Coast Guard Station complex) that stretches east from the Torpedo...

The role of NO synthase isoforms in PDT-induced injury of neurons and glial cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kovaleva, V. D.; Berezhnaya, E. V.; Uzdensky, A. B.

2015-03-01

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important second messenger, involved in the implementation of various cell functions. It regulates various physiological and pathological processes such as neurotransmission, cell responses to stress, and neurodegeneration. NO synthase is a family of enzymes that synthesize NO from L-arginine. The activity of different NOS isoforms depends both on endogenous and exogenous factors. In particular, it is modulated by oxidative stress, induced by photodynamic therapy (PDT). We have studied the possible role of NOS in the regulation of survival and death of neurons and surrounding glial cells under photo-oxidative stress induced by photodynamic treatment (PDT). The crayfish stretch receptor consisting of a single identified sensory neuron enveloped by glial cells is a simple but informative model object. It was photosensitized with alumophthalocyanine photosens (10 nM) and irradiated with a laser diode (670 nm, 0.4 W/cm2). Antinecrotic and proapoptotic effects of NO on the glial cells were found using inhibitory analysis. We have shown the role of inducible NO synthase in photoinduced apoptosis and involvement of neuronal NO synthase in photoinduced necrosis of glial cells in the isolated crayfish stretch receptor. The activation of NO synthase was evaluated using NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry, a marker of neurons expressing the enzyme. The activation of NO synthase in the isolated crayfish stretch receptor was evaluated as a function of time after PDT. Photodynamic treatment induced transient increase in NO synthase activity and then slowly inhibited this enzyme.

Mechanical stress as a regulator of cell motility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Putelat, T.; Recho, P.; Truskinovsky, L.

2018-01-01

The motility of a cell can be triggered or inhibited not only by an applied force but also by a mechanically neutral force couple. This type of loading, represented by an applied stress and commonly interpreted as either squeezing or stretching, can originate from extrinsic interaction of a cell with its neighbors. To quantify the effect of applied stresses on cell motility we use an analytically transparent one-dimensional model accounting for active myosin contraction and induced actin turnover. We show that stretching can polarize static cells and initiate cell motility while squeezing can symmetrize and arrest moving cells. We show further that sufficiently strong squeezing can lead to the loss of cell integrity. The overall behavior of the system depends on the two dimensionless parameters characterizing internal driving (chemical activity) and external loading (applied stress). We construct a phase diagram in this parameter space distinguishing between static, motile, and collapsed states. The obtained results are relevant for the mechanical understanding of contact inhibition and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.

Stretchable and high-performance supercapacitors with crumpled graphene papers.

PubMed

Zang, Jianfeng; Cao, Changyong; Feng, Yaying; Liu, Jie; Zhao, Xuanhe

2014-10-01

Fabrication of unconventional energy storage devices with high stretchability and performance is challenging, but critical to practical operations of fully power-independent stretchable electronics. While supercapacitors represent a promising candidate for unconventional energy-storage devices, existing stretchable supercapacitors are limited by their low stretchability, complicated fabrication process, and high cost. Here, we report a simple and low-cost method to fabricate extremely stretchable and high-performance electrodes for supercapacitors based on new crumpled-graphene papers. Electrolyte-mediated-graphene paper bonded on a compliant substrate can be crumpled into self-organized patterns by harnessing mechanical instabilities in the graphene paper. As the substrate is stretched, the crumpled patterns unfold, maintaining high reliability of the graphene paper under multiple cycles of large deformation. Supercapacitor electrodes based on the crumpled graphene papers exhibit a unique combination of high stretchability (e.g., linear strain ~300%, areal strain ~800%), high electrochemical performance (e.g., specific capacitance ~196 F g(-1)), and high reliability (e.g., over 1000 stretch/relax cycles). An all-solid-state supercapacitor capable of large deformation is further fabricated to demonstrate practical applications of the crumpled-graphene-paper electrodes. Our method and design open a wide range of opportunities for manufacturing future energy-storage devices with desired deformability together with high performance.

Stretchable and High-Performance Supercapacitors with Crumpled Graphene Papers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zang, Jianfeng; Cao, Changyong; Feng, Yaying; Liu, Jie; Zhao, Xuanhe

2014-10-01

Fabrication of unconventional energy storage devices with high stretchability and performance is challenging, but critical to practical operations of fully power-independent stretchable electronics. While supercapacitors represent a promising candidate for unconventional energy-storage devices, existing stretchable supercapacitors are limited by their low stretchability, complicated fabrication process, and high cost. Here, we report a simple and low-cost method to fabricate extremely stretchable and high-performance electrodes for supercapacitors based on new crumpled-graphene papers. Electrolyte-mediated-graphene paper bonded on a compliant substrate can be crumpled into self-organized patterns by harnessing mechanical instabilities in the graphene paper. As the substrate is stretched, the crumpled patterns unfold, maintaining high reliability of the graphene paper under multiple cycles of large deformation. Supercapacitor electrodes based on the crumpled graphene papers exhibit a unique combination of high stretchability (e.g., linear strain ~300%, areal strain ~800%), high electrochemical performance (e.g., specific capacitance ~196 F g-1), and high reliability (e.g., over 1000 stretch/relax cycles). An all-solid-state supercapacitor capable of large deformation is further fabricated to demonstrate practical applications of the crumpled-graphene-paper electrodes. Our method and design open a wide range of opportunities for manufacturing future energy-storage devices with desired deformability together with high performance.

Stretchable and High-Performance Supercapacitors with Crumpled Graphene Papers

PubMed Central

Zang, Jianfeng; Cao, Changyong; Feng, Yaying; Liu, Jie; Zhao, Xuanhe

2014-01-01

Fabrication of unconventional energy storage devices with high stretchability and performance is challenging, but critical to practical operations of fully power-independent stretchable electronics. While supercapacitors represent a promising candidate for unconventional energy-storage devices, existing stretchable supercapacitors are limited by their low stretchability, complicated fabrication process, and high cost. Here, we report a simple and low-cost method to fabricate extremely stretchable and high-performance electrodes for supercapacitors based on new crumpled-graphene papers. Electrolyte-mediated-graphene paper bonded on a compliant substrate can be crumpled into self-organized patterns by harnessing mechanical instabilities in the graphene paper. As the substrate is stretched, the crumpled patterns unfold, maintaining high reliability of the graphene paper under multiple cycles of large deformation. Supercapacitor electrodes based on the crumpled graphene papers exhibit a unique combination of high stretchability (e.g., linear strain ~300%, areal strain ~800%), high electrochemical performance (e.g., specific capacitance ~196 F g−1), and high reliability (e.g., over 1000 stretch/relax cycles). An all-solid-state supercapacitor capable of large deformation is further fabricated to demonstrate practical applications of the crumpled-graphene-paper electrodes. Our method and design open a wide range of opportunities for manufacturing future energy-storage devices with desired deformability together with high performance. PMID:25270673

An automated tool joint inspection device for the drill string

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

Moyer, M.C.; Dale, B.A.; Kusenberger, F.N.

1983-02-01

This paper discusses the development of an automated tool joint inspection device (i.e., the Fatigue Crack Detector), which is capable of detecting defects in the threaded region of drill pipe and drill collars. On the basis of inspection tests conducted at a research test facility and at drilling rig sites, this device is capable of detecting both simulated defects (saw slots and drilled holes) and service-induced defects, such as fatigue cracks, pin stretch (plastic deformation), mashed threads, and corrosion pitting. The system employs an electromagnetic flux-leakage principle and has several advantages over the conventional method of magnetic particle inspection.

Type-inversion as a working mechanism of high voltage MAPbBr3(Cl)-based halide perovskite solar cells.

PubMed

Kedem, Nir; Kulbak, Michael; Brenner, Thomas M; Hodes, Gary; Cahen, David

2017-02-22

Using several metals with different work functions as solar cell back contact we identify majority carrier type inversion in methylammonium lead bromide (MAPbBr3, without intentional doping) as the basis for the formation of a p-n junction. MAPbBr 3 films deposited on TiO 2 are slightly n-type, whereas in a full device they are strongly p-type. The charge transfer between the metal electrode and the halide perovskite (HaP) film is shown to determine the dominant charge carrier type of the HaP and, thus, also of the final cells. Usage of Pt, Au and Pb as metal electrodes shows the effects of metal work function on minority carrier diffusion length and majority carrier concentration in the HaP, as well as on built-in voltage, band bending, and open circuit voltage (V OC ) within a solar cell. V OC > 1.5 V is demonstrated. The higher the metal WF, the higher the carrier concentration induced in the HaP, as indicated by a narrower space charge region and a smaller minority carrier diffusion length. From the analysis of bias-dependent electron beam-induced currents, the HaP carrier concentrations are estimated to be ∼ 1 × 10 17 cm -3 with Au and 2-3 × 10 18 cm -3 with Pt. A model in which type-inversion stretches across the entire film width implies formation of the p-n junction away from the interface, near the back-contact metal electrode. This work highlights the importance of the contact metal on device performance in that contact engineering can also serve to control the carrier concentration in HaP.

Kirigami-based PVDF thin-film as stretchable strain sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Nan; Chen, Dajing; Hao, Nanjing; Huang, Shicheng; Yu, Xiaojiao; Zhang, John X. J.; Chen, Zi

Kirigami, as the sister of the origami, involves cutting of 2D sheets to form complex 3D geometries with out-of-plane patterns. Motivated by the development of the high-stretchable biomedical devices, we explore the stretchability of the kirigami-based PVDF thin film under tension. Our structural prototypes include a set of 2D geometry with kirigami-based pattern cutting on PVDF thin films. We first used paper models to generate a wide range of cutting patterns to study the deformation under compression tests, the results of which are compared with finite element simulations. We then proceeded to test different kirigami-based designs to identify geometric parameters that can tune the post-buckling response and strain distribution. Next, we fabricated and tested the PVDF thin film with kirigami pattern. Experiments showed that the PVDF film in the absence of cutting can be stretched to a limited extent and will break upon further stretching. In contrast, the kirigami-based films can be stretched up to 100% without failure. Our designs demonstrate the ability to significantly improve the strain range of the structure and sensing ability of a sensor. We envision a promising future to use this class of structural elements to develop highly stretchable materials, structures, and devices. Z.C. acknowledges the Society in Science-Branco Weiss fellowship, administered by ETH Zürich. J.X.J.Z. acknowledges the NIH Director's Transformative Research Award (1R01 OD022910-01).

Bend, stretch, and touch: Locating a finger on an actively deformed transparent sensor array

PubMed Central

Sarwar, Mirza Saquib; Dobashi, Yuta; Preston, Claire; Wyss, Justin K. M.; Mirabbasi, Shahriar; Madden, John David Wyndham

2017-01-01

The development of bendable, stretchable, and transparent touch sensors is an emerging technological goal in a variety of fields, including electronic skin, wearables, and flexible handheld devices. Although transparent tactile sensors based on metal mesh, carbon nanotubes, and silver nanowires demonstrate operation in bent configurations, we present a technology that extends the operation modes to the sensing of finger proximity including light touch during active bending and even stretching. This is accomplished using stretchable and ionically conductive hydrogel electrodes, which project electric field above the sensor to couple with and sense a finger. The polyacrylamide electrodes are embedded in silicone. These two widely available, low-cost, transparent materials are combined in a three-step manufacturing technique that is amenable to large-area fabrication. The approach is demonstrated using a proof-of-concept 4 × 4 cross-grid sensor array with a 5-mm pitch. The approach of a finger hovering a few centimeters above the array is readily detectable. Light touch produces a localized decrease in capacitance of 15%. The movement of a finger can be followed across the array, and the location of multiple fingers can be detected. Touch is detectable during bending and stretch, an important feature of any wearable device. The capacitive sensor design can be made more or less sensitive to bending by shifting it relative to the neutral axis. Ultimately, the approach is adaptable to the detection of proximity, touch, pressure, and even the conformation of the sensor surface. PMID:28345045

Bend, stretch, and touch: Locating a finger on an actively deformed transparent sensor array.

PubMed

Sarwar, Mirza Saquib; Dobashi, Yuta; Preston, Claire; Wyss, Justin K M; Mirabbasi, Shahriar; Madden, John David Wyndham

2017-03-01

The development of bendable, stretchable, and transparent touch sensors is an emerging technological goal in a variety of fields, including electronic skin, wearables, and flexible handheld devices. Although transparent tactile sensors based on metal mesh, carbon nanotubes, and silver nanowires demonstrate operation in bent configurations, we present a technology that extends the operation modes to the sensing of finger proximity including light touch during active bending and even stretching. This is accomplished using stretchable and ionically conductive hydrogel electrodes, which project electric field above the sensor to couple with and sense a finger. The polyacrylamide electrodes are embedded in silicone. These two widely available, low-cost, transparent materials are combined in a three-step manufacturing technique that is amenable to large-area fabrication. The approach is demonstrated using a proof-of-concept 4 × 4 cross-grid sensor array with a 5-mm pitch. The approach of a finger hovering a few centimeters above the array is readily detectable. Light touch produces a localized decrease in capacitance of 15%. The movement of a finger can be followed across the array, and the location of multiple fingers can be detected. Touch is detectable during bending and stretch, an important feature of any wearable device. The capacitive sensor design can be made more or less sensitive to bending by shifting it relative to the neutral axis. Ultimately, the approach is adaptable to the detection of proximity, touch, pressure, and even the conformation of the sensor surface.

Confocal Raman microscopy to monitor extracellular matrix during dental pulp stem cells differentiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salehi, Hamideh; Collart-Dutilleul, Pierre-Yves; Gergely, Csilla; Cuisinier, Frédéric J. G.

2015-07-01

Regenerative medicine brings promising applications for mesenchymal stem cells, such as dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Confocal Raman microscopy, a noninvasive technique, is used to study osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs. Integrated Raman intensities in the 2800 to 3000 cm-1 region (C-H stretching) and the 960 cm-1 peak (ν1 PO43-) were collected (to image cells and phosphate, respectively), and the ratio of two peaks 1660 over 1690 cm-1 (amide I bands) to measure the collagen cross-linking has been calculated. Raman spectra of DPSCs after 21 days differentiation reveal several phosphate peaks: ν1 (first stretching mode) at 960 cm-1, ν2 at 430 cm-1, and ν4 at 585 cm-1 and collagen cross-linking can also be calculated. Confocal Raman microscopy enables monitoring osteogenic differentiation in vitro and can be a credible tool for clinical stem cell based research.

Combined effects of interleukin-1β and cyclic stretching on metalloproteinase expression in corneal fibroblasts in vitro.

PubMed

Feng, Pengfei; Li, Xiaona; Chen, Weiyi; Liu, Chengxing; Rong, Shuo; Wang, Xiaojun; Du, Genlai

2016-06-10

Corneal tensile strain increases if the cornea becomes thin or if intraocular pressure increases. However, the effects of mechanical stress on extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling in the corneal repair process and the corneal anomalies are unknown. In this study, the combined effects of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) on matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in corneal fibroblasts under cyclic stretching were investigated in vitro. Cultured rabbit corneal fibroblasts were subjected to 5, 10 or 15 % cyclic equibiaxial stretching at 0.1 Hz for 36 h in the presence of IL-1β. Conditioned medium was harvested for the analysis of MMP2 and MMP9 protein production using the gelatin zymography and western blot techniques. Cyclic equibiaxial stretching changed the cell morphology by increasing the contractility of F-actin fibres. IL-1β alone induced the expression of MMP9 and increased the production of MMP2, and 5 % stretching alone decreased the production of MMP2, which indicates that a low stretching magnitude can reduce ECM degradation. In the presence of IL-1β, 5 and 10 % stretching increased the production of MMP2, whereas 15 % stretching increased the production of MMP9. These results indicate that MMP expression is enhanced by cyclic mechanical stimulation in the presence of IL-1β, which is expected to contribute to corneal ECM degradation, leading to the development of post-refractive surgery keratectasia.

Interpreting CARS images of tissue within the C-H-stretching region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dietzek, Benjamin; Meyer, Tobias; Medyukhina, Anna; Bergner, Norbert; Krafft, Christoph; Romeike, Bernd F. M.; Reichart, Rupert; Kalff, Rolf; Schmitt, Michael; Popp, Jürgen

2014-03-01

Single band coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy within the CH-stretching region is applied to detect individual cells and nuclei of human brain tissue and brain tumors - an information which allows for histopathologic grading of the tissue. The CARS image contrast within the C-H-stretching region correlated to the tissue composition. Based on the specific application example of identifying nuclei within (coherent) Raman images of neurotissue sections, we shall derive general design parameters for lasers optimally suited to serve in a clinical environment and discuss the potential of recently developed methods to analyze spectrally resolved CARS images and image segmentation algorithms.

The energetics of heterogeneous deformation in open-cell elastic foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gioia, Gustavo; Cuitino, Alberto

2002-03-01

We study the energetics of a model of elastic foams to show that the stretch heterogeneity observed in experiments stems from the lack of convexity of the governing energy functional. The predicted stretch distributions correspond to stratified mixtures of two configurational phases of the foam. Stretching occurs in the form of a phase transition, by growth of one of the phases at the expense of the other. We also compare the predicted mechanical response with experimental data for foams of different densities. Lastly, we perform displacement field measurements using the digital image correlation technique, and find the results to be in agreement with our predictions.

Spasticity Measurement Based on Tonic Stretch Reflex Threshold in Children with Cerebral Palsy Using the PediAnklebot.

PubMed

Germanotta, Marco; Taborri, Juri; Rossi, Stefano; Frascarelli, Flaminia; Palermo, Eduardo; Cappa, Paolo; Castelli, Enrico; Petrarca, Maurizio

2017-01-01

Nowadays, objective measures are becoming prominent in spasticity assessment, to overcome limitations of clinical scales. Among others, Tonic Stretch Reflex Threshold (TSRT) showed promising results. Previous studies demonstrated the validity and reliability of TSRT in spasticity assessment at elbow and ankle joints in adults. Purposes of the present study were to assess: (i) the feasibility of measuring TSRT to evaluate spasticity at the ankle joint in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP), and (ii) the correlation between objective measures and clinical scores. A mechatronic device, the pediAnklebot, was used to impose 50 passive stretches to the ankle of 10 children with CP and 3 healthy children, to elicit muscles response at 5 different velocities. Surface electromyography, angles, and angular velocities were recorded to compute dynamic stretch reflex threshold; TSRT was computed with a linear regression through angles and angular velocities. TSRTs for the most affected side of children with CP resulted into the biomechanical range (95.7 ± 12.9° and 86.7 ± 17.4° for Medial and Lateral Gastrocnemius, and 75.9 ± 12.5° for Tibialis Anterior). In three patients, the stretch reflex was not elicited in the less affected side. TSRTs were outside the biomechanical range in healthy children. However, no correlation was found between clinical scores and TSRT values. Here, we demonstrated the capability of TSRT to discriminate between spastic and non-spastic muscles, while no significant outcomes were found for the dorsiflexor muscle.

Cell Membrane Deformation Induced by a Fibronectin-Coated Polystyrene Microbead in a 200-MHz Acoustic Trap

PubMed Central

Hwang, Jae Youn; Lee, Changyang; Lam, Kwok Ho; Kim, Hyung Ham; Lee, Jungwoo; Shung, K. Kirk

2014-01-01

The measurement of cell mechanics is crucial for a better understanding of cellular responses during the progression of certain diseases and for the identification of the cell’s nature. Many techniques using optical tweezers, atomic force microscopy, and micro-pipettes have been developed to probe and manipulate cells in the spatial domain. In particular, we recently proposed a two-dimensional acoustic trapping method as an alternative technique for small particle manipulation. Although the proposed method may have advantages over optical tweezers, its applications to cellular mechanics have not yet been vigorously investigated. This study represents an initial attempt to use acoustic tweezers as a tool in the field of cellular mechanics in which cancer cell membrane deformability is studied. A press-focused 193-MHz single-element lithium niobate (LiNbO3) transducer was designed and fabricated to trap a 5-µm polystyrene microbead near the ultrasound beam focus. The microbeads were coated with fibronectin, and trapped before being attached to the surface of a human breast cancer cell (MCF-7). The cell membrane was then stretched by remotely pulling a cell-attached microbead with the acoustic trap. The maximum cell membrane stretched lengths were measured to be 0.15, 0.54, and 1.41 µm at input voltages to the transducer of 6.3, 9.5, and 12.6 Vpp, respectively. The stretched length was found to increase nonlinearly as a function of the voltage input. No significant cytotoxicity was observed to result from the bead or the trapping force on the cell during or after the deformation procedure. Hence, the results convincingly demonstrated the possible application of the acoustic trapping technique as a tool for cell manipulation. PMID:24569245

Benchtop fabrication of three-dimensional reconfigurable microfluidic devices from paper-polymer composite.

PubMed

Han, Yu Long; Wang, Wenqi; Hu, Jie; Huang, Guoyou; Wang, Shuqi; Lee, Won Gu; Lu, Tian Jian; Xu, Feng

2013-12-21

We presented a benchtop technique that can fabricate reconfigurable, three-dimensional (3D) microfluidic devices made from a soft paper-polymer composite. This fabrication approach can produce microchannels at a minimal width of 100 μm and can be used to prototype 3D microfluidic devices by simple bending and stretching. The entire fabrication process can be finished in 2 hours on a laboratory bench without the need for special equipment involved in lithography. Various functional microfluidic devices (e.g., droplet generator and reconfigurable electronic circuit) were prepared using this paper-polymer hybrid microfluidic system. The developed method can be applied in a wide range of standard applications and emerging technologies such as liquid-phase electronics.

Magnetic force driven magnetoelectric effect in Mn-Zn-ferrite/PZT composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ru; Jin, Lei; Wu, Gaojian; Zhang, Ning

2017-03-01

Several magnetoelectric devices with different structures were prepared using Mn-Zn-ferrite/PZT composite. Its magnetoelectric effect, which arose from piezoelectric effects driven by magnetic force between ferromagnets, has been studied. Experiments showed that the magnetoelectric effects in these devices are much stronger than that observed from the samples relied on magnetostrictive effect. Additionally, the magnetoelectric effect obtained from the devices based on bending piezoelectric effect at resonant point is about one order of magnitude larger than that resulted from ones that rely on stretch mode. Furthermore, magnetoelectric voltage coefficient as high as 7 V cm-1 Oe-1 with zero bias magnetic field was observed in the device with cantilever structure, which was also based on bending piezoelectric effect.

Emergent behavior of cells on microfabricated soft polymeric substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anand, Sandeep Venkit

In recent years, cell based bio-actuators like cardiomyocytes and skeletal muscle cells have emerged as popular choices for powering biological machines consisting of soft polymeric scaffolds at the micro and macro scales. This is owing to their unique ability to generate spontaneous, synchronous contractions either autonomously or under externally applied fields. Most of the biological machine designs reported in literature use single cells or cell clusters conjugated with biocompatible soft polymers like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and hydrogels to produce some form of locomotion by converting chemical energy of the cells to mechanical energy. The mode of locomotion may vary, but the fundamental mechanism that these biological machines exploit to achieve locomotion stems from cell substrate interactions leading to large deformations of the substrates (relative to the cell size). However, the effect of such large scale, dynamic deformation of the substrates on the cellular and cluster level organization of the cells remains elusive. This dissertation tries to explore the emergent behavior of cells on different types of micro-scale deformable, soft polymeric substrates. In the first part of the dissertation, contractile dynamics of primary cardiomyocyte clusters is studied by culturing them on deformable thin polymeric films. The cell clusters beat and generate sufficient forces to deform the substrates out of plane. Over time, the clusters reorient their force dipoles along the direction of maximum compliance. This suggests that the cells are capable of sensing substrate deformations through a mechanosensitive feedback mechanism and dynamically reorganizing themselves. Results are further validated through finite element analysis. The development, characterization and quantification of a novel 1D/2D like polymeric platform for cell culture is presented in the second part. The platform consists of a 2D surface anchoring a long (few millimeters) narrow filament (1D) with a single cell scale (micro scale) cross section. We plate C2C12 cells on the platform and characterize their migration, proliferation, and differentiation patterns in contrast to 2D culture. We find that the cells land on the 2D surface, and then migrate to the filament only when the 2D surface has become nearly confluent. Individual and isolated cells randomly approaching the filament always retract away towards the 2D surface. Once on the filament, their differentiation to myotubes is expedited compared to that on 2D substrate. The myotubes generate periodic twitching forces that deform the filament producing more than 17 um displacement at the tip. Such flagellar motion can be used to develop autonomous micro scale bio-bots. Finally, the design and fabrication of a polymeric micro-pillar based force sensor capable of measuring cellular focal-adhesion forces under externally applied stretch is discussed. The force sensor consists of arrays of uniformly spaced PDMS micro-pillars of 1-2 um diameter and 2-3 um spacing on a macroscale PDMS substrate. The tips of the micro-pillars are selectively patterned with fluorescently labeled ECM proteins using micro-contact printing to promote cell adhesion while simultaneously acting as markers for strain measurements. Cells adhere and spread on top of the pillars causing them to deform. When stretched, the cells reorganize their internal structure and modulate their traction forces in response to the applied stretch. The dynamically varying cellular forces in response to the stretch are computed by measuring the cell induced displacements estimated by isolating the displacements caused by the applied stretch from the net displacements of the tips.

Protein phosphatase 2A in stretch-induced endothelial cell proliferation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murata, K.; Mills, I.; Sumpio, B. E.

1996-01-01

We previously proposed that activation of protein kinase C is a key mechanism for control of cell growth enhanced by cyclic strain [Rosales and Sumpio (1992): Surgery 112:459-466]. Here we examined protein phosphatase 1 and 2A activity in bovine aortic endothelial cells exposed to cyclic stain. Protein phosphatase 2A activity in the cytosol was decreased by 36.1% in response to cyclic strain for 60 min, whereas the activity in the membrane did not change. Treatment with low concentration (0.1 nM) of okadaic acid enhanced proliferation of both static and stretched endothelial cells in 10% fetal bovine serum. These data suggest that protein phosphatase 2A acts as a growth suppressor and cyclic strain may enhance cellular proliferation by inhibiting protein phosphatase 2A as well as stimulating protein kinase C.

Hypervelocity Impact Studies on Solar Cell Modules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brandhorst, Henry W., Jr.; Best, Stevie R.

2001-01-01

Space environmental effects have caused severe problems as satellites move toward increased power and operating voltage levels. The greatest unknown, however, is the effect of high velocity micrometeoroid impacts on high voltage arrays (>200V). Understanding such impact phenomena is necessary for the design of future reliable, high voltage solar arrays, especially for Space Solar Power applications. Therefore, the objective of this work was to study the effect of hypervelocity impacts on high voltage solar arrays. Initially, state of the art, 18% efficient GaAs solar cell strings were targeted. The maximum bias voltage on a two-cell string was -200 V while the adjacent string was held at -140 V relative to the plasma potential. A hollow cathode device provided the plasma. Soda lime glass particles 40-120 micrometers in diameter were accelerated in the Hypervelocity Impact Facility to velocities as high as 11.6 km/sec. Coordinates and velocity were obtained for each of the approximately 40 particle impact sites on each shot. Arcing did occur, and both discharging and recharging of arcs between the two strings was observed. The recharging phenomena appeared to stop at approximately 66V string differential. No arcing was observed at 400 V on concentrator cell modules for the Stretched Lens Array.

Twisting integrin receptors increases endothelin-1 gene expression in endothelial cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, J.; Fabry, B.; Schiffrin, E. L.; Wang, N.; Ingber, D. E. (Principal Investigator)

2001-01-01

A magnetic twisting stimulator was developed based on the previously published technique of magnetic twisting cytometry. Using ligand-coated ferromagnetic microbeads, this device can apply mechanical stresses with varying amplitudes, duration, frequencies, and waveforms to specific cell surface receptors. Biochemical and biological responses of the cells to the mechanical stimulation can be assayed. Twisting integrin receptors with RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp)-containing peptide-coated beads increased endothelin-1 (ET-1) gene expression by >100%. In contrast, twisting scavenger receptors with acetylated low-density lipoprotein-coated beads or twisting HLA antigen with anti-HLA antibody-coated beads did not lead to alterations in ET-1 gene expression. In situ hybridization showed that the increase in ET-1 mRNA was localized in the cells that were stressed with the RGD-coated beads. Blocking stretch-activated ion channels with gadolinium, chelating Ca2+ with EGTA, or inhibiting tyrosine phosphorylation with genistein abolished twist-induced ET-1 mRNA elevation. Abolishing cytoskeletal tension with an inhibitor of the myosin ATPase, with an inhibitor of myosin light chain kinase, or with an actin microfilament disrupter blocked twisted-induced increases in ET-1 expression. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that the molecular structural linkage of integrin-cytoskeleton is an important pathway for stress-induced ET-1 gene expression.

Beyond a Terabyte File System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Powers, Alan K.

1994-01-01

The Numerical Aerodynamics Simulation Facility's (NAS) CRAY C916/1024 accesses a "virtual" on-line file system, which is expanding beyond a terabyte of information. This paper will present some options to fine tuning Data Migration Facility (DMF) to stretch the online disk capacity and explore the transitions to newer devices (STK 4490, ER90, RAID).

Simple skin-stretching device in assisted tension-free wound closure

PubMed Central

Cheng, Li-Fu; Lee, Jiunn-Tat; Hsu, Honda; Wu, Meng-Si

2017-01-01

Background Numerous conventional wound reconstruction methods such as wound undermining with direct suture, skin graft, and flap surgery can be used to treat large wounds. The adequate undermining of the skin flaps of a wound is a commonly used technique for achieving the closure of large tension wounds; however, the use of tension to approximate and suture the skin flaps can cause ischemic marginal necrosis. The purpose of this study is to use elastic rubber bands to relieve the tension of direct wound closure for simultaneously minimizing the risks of wound dehiscence and wound edge ischemia that lead to necrosis. Materials and Methods This retrospective study was conducted to evaluate our clinical experiences with 22 large wounds, which involved performing primary closures under a considerable amount of tension by using elastic rubber bands in a skin-stretching technique following a wide undermining procedure. Assessment of the results entailed complete wound healing and related complications. Results All 22 wounds in our study showed fair to good results except for one. The mean success rate was approximately 95.45%. Conclusion The simple skin-stretching design enabled tension-free skin closure, which pulled the bilateral undermining skin flaps as bilateral fasciocutaneous advancement flaps. The skin-stretching technique was generally successful. PMID:28195891

Flexible and transparent strain sensors based on super-aligned carbon nanotube films.

PubMed

Yu, Yang; Luo, Yufeng; Guo, Alexander; Yan, Lingjia; Wu, Yang; Jiang, Kaili; Li, Qunqing; Fan, Shoushan; Wang, Jiaping

2017-05-25

Highly flexible and transparent strain sensors are fabricated by directly coating super-aligned carbon nanotube (SACNT) films on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates. The fabrication process is simple, low cost, and favorable for industrial scalability. The SACNT/PDMS strain sensors present a high sensing range of 400%, a fast response of less than 98 ms, and a low creep of 4% at 400% strain. The SACNT/PDMS strain sensors can withstand 5000 stretching-releasing cycles at 400% strain. Moreover, the SACNT/PDMS strain sensors are transparent with 80% transmittance at 550 nm. In situ microscopic observation clarifies that the surface morphology of the SACNT film exhibits a reversible change during the stretching and releasing processes and thus its electrical conductance is able to fully recover to the original value after the loading-unloading cycles. The SACNT/PDMS strain sensors have the advantages of a wide sensing range, fast response, low creep, transparency, and excellent durability, and thus show great potential in wearable devices to monitor fast and large-scale movements without affecting the appearance of the devices.

High-performance, stretchable, wire-shaped supercapacitors.

PubMed

Chen, Tao; Hao, Rui; Peng, Huisheng; Dai, Liming

2015-01-07

A general approach toward extremely stretchable and highly conductive electrodes was developed. The method involves wrapping a continuous carbon nanotube (CNT) thin film around pre-stretched elastic wires, from which high-performance, stretchable wire-shaped supercapacitors were fabricated. The supercapacitors were made by twisting two such CNT-wrapped elastic wires, pre-coated with poly(vinyl alcohol)/H3PO4 hydrogel, as the electrolyte and separator. The resultant wire-shaped supercapacitors exhibited an extremely high elasticity of up to 350% strain with a high device capacitance up to 30.7 F g(-1), which is two times that of the state-of-the-art stretchable supercapacitor under only 100% strain. The wire-shaped structure facilitated the integration of multiple supercapacitors into a single wire device to meet specific energy and power needs for various potential applications. These supercapacitors can be repeatedly stretched from 0 to 200% strain for hundreds of cycles with no change in performance, thus outperforming all the reported state-of-the-art stretchable electronics. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Control of non-apoptotic nurse cell death by engulfment genes in Drosophila.

PubMed

Timmons, Allison K; Mondragon, Albert A; Meehan, Tracy L; McCall, Kimberly

2017-04-03

Programmed cell death occurs as a normal part of oocyte development in Drosophila. For each egg that is formed, 15 germline-derived nurse cells transfer their cytoplasmic contents into the oocyte and die. Disruption of apoptosis or autophagy only partially inhibits the death of the nurse cells, indicating that other mechanisms significantly contribute to nurse cell death. Recently, we demonstrated that the surrounding stretch follicle cells non-autonomously promote nurse cell death during late oogenesis and that phagocytosis genes including draper, ced-12, and the JNK pathway are crucial for this process. When phagocytosis genes are inhibited in the follicle cells, events specifically associated with death of the nurse cells are impaired. Death of the nurse cells is not completely blocked in draper mutants, suggesting that other engulfment receptors are involved. Indeed, we found that the integrin subunit, αPS3, is enriched on stretch follicle cells during late oogenesis and is required for elimination of the nurse cells. Moreover, double mutant analysis revealed that integrins act in parallel to draper. Death of nurse cells in the Drosophila ovary is a unique example of programmed cell death that is both non-apoptotic and non-cell autonomously controlled.

Robust and Soft Elastomeric Electronics Tolerant to Our Daily Lives.

PubMed

Sekiguchi, Atsuko; Tanaka, Fumiaki; Saito, Takeshi; Kuwahara, Yuki; Sakurai, Shunsuke; Futaba, Don N; Yamada, Takeo; Hata, Kenji

2015-09-09

Clothes represent a unique textile, as they simultaneously provide robustness against our daily activities and comfort (i.e., softness). For electronic devices to be fully integrated into clothes, the devices themselves must be as robust and soft as the clothes themselves. However, to date, no electronic device has ever possessed these properties, because all contain components fabricated from brittle materials, such as metals. Here, we demonstrate robust and soft elastomeric devices where every component possesses elastomeric characteristics with two types of single-walled carbon nanotubes added to provide the necessary electronic properties. Our elastomeric field effect transistors could tolerate every punishment our clothes experience, such as being stretched (elasticity: ∼ 110%), bent, compressed (>4.0 MPa, by a car and heels), impacted (>6.26 kg m/s, by a hammer), and laundered. Our electronic device provides a novel design principle for electronics and wide range applications even in research fields where devices cannot be used.

Methods of measuring water levels in deep wells

USGS Publications Warehouse

Garber, M.S.; Koopman, F. C.

1968-01-01

Accurate measurement of water levels deeper than 1,000 feet in wells requires specialized equipment. Corrections for stretch and thermal expansion of measuring tapes must be considered, and other measuring devices must be calibrated periodically. Bore-hole deviation corrections also must be made. Devices for recording fluctuation of fluid level usually require mechanical modification for use at these depths. A multichannel recording device utilizing pressure transducers has been constructed. This device was originally designed to record aquifer response to nearby underground nuclear explosions but can also be used for recording data from multi-well pumping tests. Bottom-hole recording devices designed for oil-field use have been utilized in a limited manner. These devices were generally found to lack the precision required, in ground-water investigations at the Nevada Test Site but may be applicable in other areas. A newly developed bottom-hole recording pressure gauge of improved accuracy has been used with satisfactory results.

Stretch and interleukin 1 beta: pro-labour factors with similar mitogen-activated protein kinase effects but differential patterns of transcription factor activation and gene expression.

PubMed

Sooranna, S R; Engineer, N; Liang, Z; Bennett, P R; Johnson, M R

2007-07-01

IL-1beta and stretch increase uterine smooth muscle cell (USMC) prostaglandin H synthase 2 (PGHS-2) and interleukin (IL)-8 mRNA expression in a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) dependent mechanism. We have tested our hypothesis that stretch and IL-1beta activate different components of the MAPK cascade in USMC and investigated the effects of specific MAPK inhibitors on these components. Further, we have used a Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 activator, anisomycin, to compare the effect of differential MAPK activation on the expression of PGHS-2, IL-8 and oxytocin receptor (OTR) mRNA with that seen in response to stretch and IL-1beta. Stretch, IL-1beta and anisomycin activated similar components of the MAPK cascade and specific inhibitors of MAPK altered phosphorylation of MAPK and downstream cascade components as expected. Expression of OTR mRNA was increased by stretch and anisomycin in a MAPK-independent manner. All three stimuli increased PGHS-2 and IL-8 mRNA expression in a MAPK-dependent manner, but while the MAPK inhibitors reduced the IL-1beta-induced activation of activating transcription factor (ATF)-2, liver activating protein (LAP) and c-jun, the stretch-induced increase in LAP was unaffected by MAPK-inhibition and only JNK inhibition appeared to reduce c-jun activation. These observations show that stretch, IL-1beta and anisomycin activate the same components of the MAPK cascade, but differentially activate LAP and liver inhibitory protein (LIP) perhaps accounting for the increase in OTR by stretch and anisomycin but not IL-1beta observed in this study.

The long non-coding HOTAIR is modulated by cyclic stretch and WNT/β-CATENIN in human aortic valve cells and is a novel repressor of calcification genes.

PubMed

Carrion, Katrina; Dyo, Jeffrey; Patel, Vishal; Sasik, Roman; Mohamed, Salah A; Hardiman, Gary; Nigam, Vishal

2014-01-01

Aortic valve calcification is a significant and serious clinical problem for which there are no effective medical treatments. Individuals born with bicuspid aortic valves, 1-2% of the population, are at the highest risk of developing aortic valve calcification. Aortic valve calcification involves increased expression of calcification and inflammatory genes. Bicuspid aortic valve leaflets experience increased biomechanical strain as compared to normal tricuspid aortic valves. The molecular pathogenesis involved in the calcification of BAVs are not well understood, especially the molecular response to mechanical stretch. HOTAIR is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) that has been implicated with cancer but has not been studied in cardiac disease. We have found that HOTAIR levels are decreased in BAVs and in human aortic interstitial cells (AVICs) exposed to cyclic stretch. Reducing HOTAIR levels via siRNA in AVICs results in increased expression of calcification genes. Our data suggest that β-catenin is a stretch responsive signaling pathway that represses HOTAIR. This is the first report demonstrating that HOTAIR is mechanoresponsive and repressed by WNT β-catenin signaling. These findings provide novel evidence that HOTAIR is involved in aortic valve calcification.

Stretchable form of single crystal silicon for high performance electronics on rubber substrates

DOEpatents

University of Illinois

2009-04-21

The present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention may be adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Stretchable form of single crystal silicon for high performance electronics on rubber substrates

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A [Champaign, IL; Khang, Dahl-Young [Seoul, KR; Sun, Yugang [Naperville, IL; Menard, Etienne [Durham, NC

2012-06-12

The present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention may be adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Stretchable form of single crystal silicon for high performance electronics on rubber substrates

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A.; Khang, Dahl-Young; Sun, Yugang; Menard, Etienne

2014-06-17

The present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention may be adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Stretchable form of single crystal silicon for high performance electronics on rubber substrates

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A.; Khang, Dahl-Young; Sun, Yugang; Menard, Etienne

2016-12-06

The present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention may be adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Stretchable form of single crystal silicon for high performance electronics on rubber substrates

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A.; Khang, Dahl -Young; Sun, Yugang; Menard, Etienne

2015-08-11

The present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention may be adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Matrix viscoplasticity and its shielding by active mechanics in microtissue models: experiments and mathematical modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Alan S.; Wang, Hailong; Copeland, Craig R.; Chen, Christopher S.; Shenoy, Vivek B.; Reich, Daniel H.

2016-09-01

The biomechanical behavior of tissues under mechanical stimulation is critically important to physiological function. We report a combined experimental and modeling study of bioengineered 3D smooth muscle microtissues that reveals a previously unappreciated interaction between active cell mechanics and the viscoplastic properties of the extracellular matrix. The microtissues’ response to stretch/unstretch actuations, as probed by microcantilever force sensors, was dominated by cellular actomyosin dynamics. However, cell lysis revealed a viscoplastic response of the underlying model collagen/fibrin matrix. A model coupling Hill-type actomyosin dynamics with a plastic perfectly viscoplastic description of the matrix quantitatively accounts for the microtissue dynamics, including notably the cells’ shielding of the matrix plasticity. Stretch measurements of single cells confirmed the active cell dynamics, and were well described by a single-cell version of our model. These results reveal the need for new focus on matrix plasticity and its interactions with active cell mechanics in describing tissue dynamics.

Matrix viscoplasticity and its shielding by active mechanics in microtissue models: experiments and mathematical modeling

PubMed Central

Liu, Alan S.; Wang, Hailong; Copeland, Craig R.; Chen, Christopher S.; Shenoy, Vivek B.; Reich, Daniel H.

2016-01-01

The biomechanical behavior of tissues under mechanical stimulation is critically important to physiological function. We report a combined experimental and modeling study of bioengineered 3D smooth muscle microtissues that reveals a previously unappreciated interaction between active cell mechanics and the viscoplastic properties of the extracellular matrix. The microtissues’ response to stretch/unstretch actuations, as probed by microcantilever force sensors, was dominated by cellular actomyosin dynamics. However, cell lysis revealed a viscoplastic response of the underlying model collagen/fibrin matrix. A model coupling Hill-type actomyosin dynamics with a plastic perfectly viscoplastic description of the matrix quantitatively accounts for the microtissue dynamics, including notably the cells’ shielding of the matrix plasticity. Stretch measurements of single cells confirmed the active cell dynamics, and were well described by a single-cell version of our model. These results reveal the need for new focus on matrix plasticity and its interactions with active cell mechanics in describing tissue dynamics. PMID:27671239

[Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects in 40 pediatric patients].

PubMed

Deng, Dong-an; Zhu, Xian-yang; Hou, Chuan-ju; Han, Xiu-min; Wang, Qi-guang; Jin, Yan; Quan, Wei; Liu, Yang; Wang, Shu-fan

2003-07-01

To evaluate the clinical efficiency of transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) with AGA-Amplatzer occlusion device in pediatric patients. Forty patients with ASD, 16 males, 24 females, at a mean age of 10.2 years (ranged from 3 to 15 years of age) and with a mean weight of 35.8 kg (ranged from 11 to 87 kg) were studied. Six cases were complicated with pulmonary stenosis (PS), 1 was complicated with ventricular tachycardia (VT). Right heart catheterizations were done in 40 patients for measuring the pressures of right ventricle and pulmonary artery. The balloon diameter of ASD was measured using balloon catheter with guiding wire. The diameter of ASD was measured by TTE and/or TEE, ascertaining the location and size of ASD. Amplatzer occlusion device was sized to be equal to or 1 - 2 mm more than the diameter of balloon stretched. All patients had successful implantation of the Amplatzer device. The success rate was 100%. The diameter measured by TTE was 7 - 30 mm (mean 17.12 mm). The diameter measured by TEE was 7 - 32 mm (mean 18.44 mm). The diameter of balloon stretched of ASD was 8 - 34 mm. Of the 40 cases, 6 were complicated with PS and accepted percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty (PBPV). One case was complicated with VT and accepted radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). Neither complication nor residual shunt was found in any of the patients. The patients were recovered and followed up for 3 or 4 days after deployment of the Amplatzer device. Clinical symptom, cardiac murmur, and findings in ECG, echocardiography and X-ray were improved markedly. AGA-Amplatzer occlusion device is safe and efficient in pediatric patients with ASD.

Mechanical properties of organic semiconductors for mechanically stable and intrinsically stretchable solar cells (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipomi, Darren J.

2016-09-01

This presentation describes my group's efforts to understand the molecular and microstructural basis for the mechanical properties of organic semiconductors for organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices. Our work is motivated by two goals. The first goal is to mitigate mechanical forms of degradation of printed modules during roll-to-roll fabrication, installation, and environmental forces—i.e., wind, rain, snow, and thermal expansion and contraction. Mechanical stability is a prerequisite for inexpensive processing on flexible substrates: to encapsulate devices in glass is to surrender this advantage. The second goal is to enable the next generation of ultra-flexible and stretchable solar cells for collapsible, portable, and wearable applications, and as low-cost sources of energy—"solar tarps"—for disaster relief and for the developing world. It may seem that organic semiconductors, due to their carbon framework, are already sufficiently compliant for these applications. We have found, however, that the mechanical properties (stiffness and brittleness) occupy a wide range of values, and can be difficult to predict from molecular structure alone. We are developing an experimental and theoretical framework for how one can combine favorable charge-transport properties and mechanical compliance in organic semiconductor films. In particular, we have explored the roles of the backbone, alkyl side chain, microstructural order, the glass transition, molecular packing with fullerenes, plasticizing effects of additives, extent of separation of [60]PCBM and [70]PCBM, structural randomness in low-bandgap polymers, and reinforcement by encapsulation, on the mechanical compliance. We are exploring the applicability of semi-empirical "back-of-the-envelope" models, along with multi-scale molecular dynamics simulations, with the ultimate goal of designing electroactive organic materials whose mechanical properties can be dialed-in. We have used the insights we have developed to demonstrate several new applications for OPV that demand extreme compliance, including biaxial stretching and conformal bonding of whole devices to hemispheres, and devices with ultrathin encapsulation mounted on human skin that survive significant cyclic mechanical deformation in the outdoor environment.

Method and apparatus for making an optical element having a dielectric film

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Augason, Gordon C. (Inventor)

1987-01-01

A film-application device (FAD) comprising a pair of exterior, tapered, O-ring bearing plate members and a central plate member for simplifying the process of thermally bonding a thin dielectric film to a substrate comprising an optical element are discussed. In use, the film is sandwiched between the O rings and stretched across the optical element by squeezing the exterior plates together before bonding to the element. The film may be used for protecting the optical element or to reduce surface reflection of radiation. The FAD may also be used without the center plate to stretch a dielectric film prior to its attachment to or insertion in a holder to make pellicles or beam-splitters.

Highly stretchable and conductive silver nanowire thin films formed by soldering nanomesh junctions.

PubMed

Chen, Shih-Pin; Liao, Ying-Chih

2014-10-07

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) have been widely used for stretchable and foldable conductors due to their percolating network nanostructure. To enhance the mechanical strength of AgNW thin films under extreme stretching conditions, in this study, we utilize a simple chemical reaction to join AgNW network connections. Upon applying a reactive ink over AgNW thin films, silver nanoparticles are preferentially generated over the nanowire junctions and solder the nanomesh structures. The soldered nanostructure reinforces the conducting network and exhibits no obvious change in electrical conductivity in the stretching or rolling process with elongation strains up to 120%. Several examples are also demonstrated to show potential applications of this material in stretchable electronic devices.

Induction of Sirt1 by Mechanical Stretch of Skeletal Muscle through the Early Response Factor EGR1 Triggers an Antioxidative Response*

PubMed Central

Pardo, Patricia S.; Mohamed, Junaith S.; Lopez, Michael A.; Boriek, Aladin M.

2011-01-01

Mechanical loading of muscles by intrinsic muscle activity or passive stretch leads to an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (1, 2). The NAD-dependent protein deacetylase SIRT1 is involved in the protection against oxidative stress by enhancing FOXO-driven Sod2 transcription (3–5). In this report, we unravel a mechanism triggered by mechanical stretch of skeletal muscle cells that leads to an EGR1-dependent transcriptional activation of the Sirt1 gene. The resulting transient increase in SIRT1 expression generates an antioxidative response that contributes to reactive oxygen species scavenging. PMID:20971845

Full-Field Spectroscopy at Megahertz-frame-rates: Application of Coherent Time-Stretch Transform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DeVore, Peter Thomas Setsuda

Outliers or rogue events are found extensively in our world and have incredible effects. Also called rare events, they arise in the distribution of wealth (e.g., Pareto index), finance, network traffic, ocean waves, and e-commerce (selling less of more). Interest in rare optical events exploded after the sighting of optical rogue waves in laboratory experiments at UCLA. Detecting such tail events in fast streams of information necessitates real-time measurements. The Coherent Time-Stretch Transform chirps a pulsed source of radiation so that its temporal envelope matches its spectral profile (analogous to the far field regime of spatial diffraction), and the mapped spectral electric field is slow enough to be captured by a real-time digitizer. Combining this technique with spectral encoding, the time stretch technique has enabled a new class of ultra-high performance spectrometers and cameras (30+ MHz), and analog-to-digital converters that have led to the discovery of optical rogue waves and detection of cancer cells in blood with one in a million sensitivity. Conventionally, the Coherent Time-Stretch Transform maps the spectrum into the temporal electric field, but the time-dilation process along with inherent fiber losses results in reduction of peak power and loss of sensitivity, a problem exacerbated by extremely narrow molecular linewidths. The loss issue notwithstanding, in many cases the requisite dispersive optical device is not available. By extending the Coherent Time-Stretch Transform to the temporal near field, I have demonstrated, for the first time, phase-sensitive absorption spectroscopy of a gaseous sample at millions of frames per second. As the Coherent Time-Stretch Transform may capture both near and far field optical waves, it is a complete spectro-temporal optical characterization tool. This is manifested as an amplitude-dependent chirp, which implies the ability to measure the complex refractive index dispersion at megahertz frame rates. This technique is not only four orders of magnitude faster than even the fastest (kHz) spectrometers, but will also enable capture of real-time complex dielectric function dynamics of plasmas and chemical reactions (e.g. combustion). It also has applications in high-energy physics, biology, and monitoring fast high-throughput industrial processes. Adding an electro-optic modulator to the Time-Stretch Transform yields time-to-time mapping of electrical waveforms. Known as TiSER, it is an analog slow-motion processor that uses light to reduce the bandwidth of broadband RF signals for capture by high-sensitivity analog-to-digital converters (ADC). However, the electro-optic modulator limits the electrical bandwidth of TiSER. To solve this, I introduced Optical Sideband-only Amplification, wherein electro-optically generated modulation (containing the RF information) is amplified at the expense of the carrier, addressing the two most important problems plaguing electro-optic modulators: (1) low RF bandwidth and (2) high required RF drive voltages. I demonstrated drive voltage reductions of 5x at 10 GHz and 10x at 50 GHz, while simultaneously increasing the RF bandwidth.

Stretched Lens Array Photovoltaic Concentrator Technology Developed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Piszczor, Michael F., Jr.; O'Neill, Mark J.

2004-01-01

Solar arrays have been and continue to be the mainstay in providing power to nearly all commercial and government spacecraft. Light from the Sun is directly converted into electrical energy using solar cells. One way to reduce the cost of future space power systems is by minimizing the size and number of expensive solar cells by focusing the sunlight onto smaller cells using concentrator optics. The stretched lens array (SLA) is a unique concept that uses arched Fresnel lens concentrators to focus sunlight onto a line of high-efficiency solar cells located directly beneath. The SLA concept is based on the Solar Concentrator Array with Refractive Linear Element Technology (SCARLET) design that was used on NASA's New Millennium Deep Space 1 mission. The highly successful asteroid/comet rendezvous mission (1998 to 2001) demonstrated the performance and long-term durability of the SCARLET/SLA solar array design and set the foundation for further improvements to optimize its performance.

Mechanical tension as a driver of connective tissue growth in vitro.

PubMed

Wilson, Cameron J; Pearcy, Mark J; Epari, Devakara R

2014-07-01

We propose the progressive mechanical expansion of cell-derived tissue analogues as a novel, growth-based approach to in vitro tissue engineering. The prevailing approach to producing tissue in vitro is to culture cells in an exogenous "scaffold" that provides a basic structure and mechanical support. This necessarily pre-defines the final size of the implantable material, and specific signals must be provided to stimulate appropriate cell growth, differentiation and matrix formation. In contrast, surgical skin expansion, driven by increments of stretch, produces increasing quantities of tissue without trauma or inflammation. This suggests that connective tissue cells have the innate ability to produce growth in response to elevated tension. We posit that this capacity is maintained in vitro, and that order-of-magnitude growth may be similarly attained in self-assembling cultures of cells and their own extracellular matrix. The hypothesis that growth of connective tissue analogues can be induced by mechanical expansion in vitro may be divided into three components: (1) tension stimulates cell proliferation and extracellular matrix synthesis; (2) the corresponding volume increase will relax the tension imparted by a fixed displacement; (3) the repeated application of static stretch will produce sustained growth and a tissue structure adapted to the tensile loading. Connective tissues exist in a state of residual tension, which is actively maintained by resident cells such as fibroblasts. Studies in vitro and in vivo have demonstrated that cellular survival, reproduction, and matrix synthesis and degradation are regulated by the mechanical environment. Order-of-magnitude increases in both bone and skin volume have been achieved clinically through staged expansion protocols, demonstrating that tension-driven growth can be sustained over prolonged periods. Furthermore, cell-derived tissue analogues have demonstrated mechanically advantageous structural adaptation in response to applied loading. Together, these data suggest that a program of incremental stretch constitutes an appealing way to replicate tissue growth in cell culture, by harnessing the constituent cells' innate mechanical responsiveness. In addition to offering a platform to study the growth and structural adaptation of connective tissues, tension-driven growth presents a novel approach to in vitro tissue engineering. Because the supporting structure is secreted and organised by the cells themselves, growth is not restricted by a "scaffold" of fixed size. This also minimises potential adverse reactions to exogenous materials upon implantation. Most importantly, we posit that the growth induced by progressive stretch will allow substantial volumes of connective tissue to be produced from relatively small initial cell numbers. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

FURTHER STUDY OF SOMA, DENDRITE, AND AXON EXCITATION IN SINGLE NEURONS

PubMed Central

Eyzaguirre, Carlos; Kuffler, Stephen W.

1955-01-01

The present investigation continues a previous study in which the soma-dendrite system of sensory neurons was excited by stretch deformation of the peripheral dendrite portions. Recording was done with intracellular leads which were inserted into the cell soma while the neuron was activated orthodromically or antidromically. The analysis was also extended to axon conduction. Crayfish, Procambarus alleni (Faxon) and Orconectes virilis (Hagen), were used. 1. The size and time course of action potentials recorded from the soma-dendrite complex vary greatly with the level of the cell's membrane potential. The latter can be changed over a wide range by stretch deformation which sets up a "generator potential" in the distal portions of the dendrites. If a cell is at its resting unstretched equilibrium potential, antidromic stimulation through the axon causes an impulse which normally overshoots the resting potential and decays into an afternegativity of 15 to 20 msec. duration. The postspike negativity is not followed by an appreciable hyperpolarization (positive) phase. If the membrane potential is reduced to a new steady level a postspike positivity appears and increases linearly over a depolarization range of 12 to 20 mv. in various cells. At those levels the firing threshold of the cell for orthodromic discharges is generally reached. 2. The safety factor for conduction between axon and cell soma is reduced under three unrelated conditions, (a) During the recovery period (2 to 3 msec.) immediately following an impulse which has conducted fully over the cell soma, a second impulse may be delayed, may invade the soma partially, or may be blocked completely. (b) If progressive depolarization is produced by stretch, it leads to a reduction of impulse height and eventually to complete block of antidromic soma invasion, resembling cathodal block, (c) In some cells, when the normal membrane potential is within several millivolts of the relaxed resting state, an antidromic impulse may be blocked and may set up within the soma a local potential only. The local potential can sum with a second one or it may sum with potential changes set up in the dendrites, leading to complete invasion of the soma. Such antidromic invasion block can always be relieved by appropriate stretch which shifts the membrane potential out of the "blocking range" nearer to the soma firing level. During the afterpositivity of an impulse in a stretched cell the membrane potential may fall below or near the blocking range. During that period another impulse may be delayed or blocked. 3. Information regarding activity and conduction in dendrites has been obtained indirectly, mainly by analyzing the generator action under various conditions of stretch. The following conclusions have been reached: The large dendrite branches have similar properties to the cell body from which they arise and carry the same kind of impulses. In the finer distal filaments of even lightly depolarized dendrites, however, no axon type all-or-none conduction occurs since the generator potential persists to a varying degree during antidromic invasion of the cell. With the membrane potential at its resting level the dendrite terminals contribute to the prolonged impulse afternegativity of the soma. 4. Action potentials in impaled axons and in cell bodies have been compared. It is thought that normally the over-all duration of axon impulses is shorter. Local activity during reduction of the safety margin for conduction was studied. 5. An analysis was made of high frequency grouped discharges which occasionally arise in cells. They differ in many essential aspects from the regular discharges set up by the generator action. It is proposed that grouped discharges occur only when invasion of dendrites is not synchronous, due to a delay in excitation spread between soma and dendrites. Each impulse in a group is assumed to be caused by an impulse in at least one of the large dendrite branches. Depolarization of dendrites abolishes the grouped activity by facilitating invasion of the large dendrite branches. PMID:13252238

Local Membrane Deformations Activate Ca2+-Dependent K+ and Anionic Currents in Intact Human Red Blood Cells

PubMed Central

Dyrda, Agnieszka; Cytlak, Urszula; Ciuraszkiewicz, Anna; Lipinska, Agnieszka; Cueff, Anne; Bouyer, Guillaume; Egée, Stéphane; Bennekou, Poul; Lew, Virgilio L.; Thomas, Serge L. Y.

2010-01-01

Background The mechanical, rheological and shape properties of red blood cells are determined by their cortical cytoskeleton, evolutionarily optimized to provide the dynamic deformability required for flow through capillaries much narrower than the cell's diameter. The shear stress induced by such flow, as well as the local membrane deformations generated in certain pathological conditions, such as sickle cell anemia, have been shown to increase membrane permeability, based largely on experimentation with red cell suspensions. We attempted here the first measurements of membrane currents activated by a local and controlled membrane deformation in single red blood cells under on-cell patch clamp to define the nature of the stretch-activated currents. Methodology/Principal Findings The cell-attached configuration of the patch-clamp technique was used to allow recordings of single channel activity in intact red blood cells. Gigaohm seal formation was obtained with and without membrane deformation. Deformation was induced by the application of a negative pressure pulse of 10 mmHg for less than 5 s. Currents were only detected when the membrane was seen domed under negative pressure within the patch-pipette. K+ and Cl− currents were strictly dependent on the presence of Ca2+. The Ca2+-dependent currents were transient, with typical decay half-times of about 5–10 min, suggesting the spontaneous inactivation of a stretch-activated Ca2+ permeability (PCa). These results indicate that local membrane deformations can transiently activate a Ca2+ permeability pathway leading to increased [Ca2+]i, secondary activation of Ca2+-sensitive K+ channels (Gardos channel, IK1, KCa3.1), and hyperpolarization-induced anion currents. Conclusions/Significance The stretch-activated transient PCa observed here under local membrane deformation is a likely contributor to the Ca2+-mediated effects observed during the normal aging process of red blood cells, and to the increased Ca2+ content of red cells in certain hereditary anemias such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. PMID:20195477

Local membrane deformations activate Ca2+-dependent K+ and anionic currents in intact human red blood cells.

PubMed

Dyrda, Agnieszka; Cytlak, Urszula; Ciuraszkiewicz, Anna; Lipinska, Agnieszka; Cueff, Anne; Bouyer, Guillaume; Egée, Stéphane; Bennekou, Poul; Lew, Virgilio L; Thomas, Serge L Y

2010-02-26

The mechanical, rheological and shape properties of red blood cells are determined by their cortical cytoskeleton, evolutionarily optimized to provide the dynamic deformability required for flow through capillaries much narrower than the cell's diameter. The shear stress induced by such flow, as well as the local membrane deformations generated in certain pathological conditions, such as sickle cell anemia, have been shown to increase membrane permeability, based largely on experimentation with red cell suspensions. We attempted here the first measurements of membrane currents activated by a local and controlled membrane deformation in single red blood cells under on-cell patch clamp to define the nature of the stretch-activated currents. The cell-attached configuration of the patch-clamp technique was used to allow recordings of single channel activity in intact red blood cells. Gigaohm seal formation was obtained with and without membrane deformation. Deformation was induced by the application of a negative pressure pulse of 10 mmHg for less than 5 s. Currents were only detected when the membrane was seen domed under negative pressure within the patch-pipette. K(+) and Cl(-) currents were strictly dependent on the presence of Ca(2+). The Ca(2+)-dependent currents were transient, with typical decay half-times of about 5-10 min, suggesting the spontaneous inactivation of a stretch-activated Ca(2+) permeability (PCa). These results indicate that local membrane deformations can transiently activate a Ca(2+) permeability pathway leading to increased [Ca(2+)](i), secondary activation of Ca(2+)-sensitive K(+) channels (Gardos channel, IK1, KCa3.1), and hyperpolarization-induced anion currents. The stretch-activated transient PCa observed here under local membrane deformation is a likely contributor to the Ca(2+)-mediated effects observed during the normal aging process of red blood cells, and to the increased Ca(2+) content of red cells in certain hereditary anemias such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia.

Enhanced tolerance to stretch-induced performance degradation of stretchable MnO2-based supercapacitors.

PubMed

Huang, Yan; Huang, Yang; Meng, Wenjun; Zhu, Minshen; Xue, Hongtao; Lee, Chun-Sing; Zhi, Chunyi

2015-02-04

The performance of many stretchable electronics, such as energy storage devices and strain sensors, is highly limited by the structural breakdown arising from the stretch imposed. In this article, we focus on a detailed study on materials matching between functional materials and their conductive substrate, as well as enhancement of the tolerance to stretch-induced performance degradation of stretchable supercapacitors, which are essential for the design of a stretchable device. It is revealed that, being widely utilized as the electrode material of the stretchable supercapacitor, metal oxides such as MnO2 nanosheets have serious strain-induced performance degradation due to their rigid structure. In comparison, with conducting polymers like a polypyrrole (PPy) film as the electrochemically active material, the performance of stretchable supercapacitors can be well preserved under strain. Therefore, a smart design is to combine PPy with MnO2 nanosheets to achieve enhanced tolerance to strain-induced performance degradation of MnO2-based supercapacitors, which is realized by fabricating an electrode of PPy-penetrated MnO2 nanosheets. The composite electrodes exhibit a remarkable enhanced tolerance to strain-induced performance degradation with well-preserved performance over 93% under strain. The detailed morphology and electrochemical impedance variations are investigated for the mechanism analyses. Our work presents a systematic investigation on the selection and matching of electrode materials for stretchable supercapacitors to achieve high performance and great tolerance to strain, which may guide the selection of functional materials and their substrate materials for the next-generation of stretchable electronics.

50 CFR 635.21 - Gear operation and deployment restrictions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... from re-engaging during the removal process. One long-handled device to remove ingested hooks is... shielded without re-engaging during the removal process. It must be no larger than 15/16 inch (3.33 cm... (stretched when wet) and must have at least 24-count thread throughout the net. (B) Inspection of purse seine...

50 CFR 635.21 - Gear operation and deployment restrictions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... from re-engaging during the removal process. One long-handled device to remove ingested hooks is... shielded without re-engaging during the removal process. It must be no larger than 15/16 inch (3.33 cm... (stretched when wet) and must have at least 24-count thread throughout the net. (B) Inspection of purse seine...

50 CFR 635.21 - Gear operation and deployment restrictions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... it from re-engaging during the removal process. One long-handled device to remove ingested hooks is... shielded without re-engaging during the removal process. It must be no larger than 1 5/16 inch (3.33 cm... (stretched when wet) and must have at least 24-count thread throughout the net. (B) Inspection of purse seine...

The relationships between deformation mechanisms and mechanical properties of additively manufactured porous biomaterials.

PubMed

Kadkhodapour, J; Montazerian, H; Darabi, A Ch; Zargarian, A; Schmauder, S

2017-06-01

Modulating deformation mechanism through manipulating morphological parameters of scaffold internal pore architecture provides potential to tailor the overall mechanical properties under physiological loadings. Whereas cells sense local strains, cell differentiation is also impressed by the elastic deformations. In this paper, structure-property relations were developed for Ti6-Al-4V scaffolds designed based on triply periodic minimal surfaces. 10mm cubic scaffolds composed of 5×5×5 unit cells formed of F-RD (bending dominated) and I-WP (stretching dominated) architectures were additively manufactured at different volume fractions and subjected to compressive tests. The first stages of deformation for stretching dominated structure, was accompanied by bilateral layer-by-layer failure of unit cells owing to the buckling of micro-struts, while for bending dominated structure, namely F-RD, global shearing bands appeared since the shearing failure of struts in the internal architecture. Promoted mechanical properties were found for stretching dominated structure since the global orientation of struts were parallel to loading direction while inclination of struts diminished specific properties for bending dominated structure. Moreover, elastic-plastic deformation was computationally studied by applying Johnson-Cook damage model to the voxel-based models in FE analysis. Scaling analysis was performed for mechanical properties with respect to the relative density thereby failure mechanism was correlated to the constants of power law describing mechanical properties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cells and Hypotonic Solutions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bery, Julia

1985-01-01

Describes a demonstration designed to help students better understand the response of plant and animal cells to hypotonic solutions. The demonstration uses a balloon inside a flexible, thin-walled cardboard box. Air going in corresponds to water entering by osmosis, and, like real cells, if stretched enough, the balloon will burst. (DH)

DNA combing on low-pressure oxygen plasma modified polysilsesquioxane substrates for single-molecule studies

PubMed Central

Sriram, K. K.; Chang, Chun-Ling; Rajesh Kumar, U.; Chou, Chia-Fu

2014-01-01

Molecular combing and flow-induced stretching are the most commonly used methods to immobilize and stretch DNA molecules. While both approaches require functionalization steps for the substrate surface and the molecules, conventionally the former does not take advantage of, as the latter, the versatility of microfluidics regarding robustness, buffer exchange capability, and molecule manipulation using external forces for single molecule studies. Here, we demonstrate a simple one-step combing process involving only low-pressure oxygen (O2) plasma modified polysilsesquioxane (PSQ) polymer layer to facilitate both room temperature microfluidic device bonding and immobilization of stretched single DNA molecules without molecular functionalization step. Atomic force microscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy experiments revealed a significant increase in surface roughness and surface potential on low-pressure O2 plasma treated PSQ, in contrast to that with high-pressure O2 plasma treatment, which are proposed to be responsible for enabling effective DNA immobilization. We further demonstrate the use of our platform to observe DNA-RNA polymerase complexes and cancer drug cisplatin induced DNA condensation using wide-field fluorescence imaging. PMID:25332730

Mechanical characterization of disordered and anisotropic cellular monolayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nestor-Bergmann, Alexander; Johns, Emma; Woolner, Sarah; Jensen, Oliver E.

2018-05-01

We consider a cellular monolayer, described using a vertex-based model, for which cells form a spatially disordered array of convex polygons that tile the plane. Equilibrium cell configurations are assumed to minimize a global energy defined in terms of cell areas and perimeters; energy is dissipated via dynamic area and length changes, as well as cell neighbor exchanges. The model captures our observations of an epithelium from a Xenopus embryo showing that uniaxial stretching induces spatial ordering, with cells under net tension (compression) tending to align with (against) the direction of stretch, but with the stress remaining heterogeneous at the single-cell level. We use the vertex model to derive the linearized relation between tissue-level stress, strain, and strain rate about a deformed base state, which can be used to characterize the tissue's anisotropic mechanical properties; expressions for viscoelastic tissue moduli are given as direct sums over cells. When the base state is isotropic, the model predicts that tissue properties can be tuned to a regime with high elastic shear resistance but low resistance to area changes, or vice versa.

Stretching and movement of fibroblasts and osteoblasts cultured in microchannel and micropit arrays

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kikuchi, Hiroko E.; Kikuchi, Yuji; Kuboki, Yoshinori

1999-06-01

Tissue cells bind to extracellular matrix (ECM), and this attachment to ECM plays an essential role in their growth, function, and even survival. Furthermore, the geometry of ECM is known to play an additional role in regulation for these cells to proliferate and differentiate so that tissues with normal morphologies can be formed or maintained. We attempted to culture fibroblast, osteoblast, and bone marrow derived cells in previously described microchannel arrays and newly created micropit arrays, both coated with ECM protein collagen, to examine usefulness of microfabricated structures for elucidating 'what is geometry?' for cells. Cells were inseminated in the well in front of a microchannel array and their movement and stretching behavior against the microchannel array including the entrance and exit terraces were observed using a microscope-TV camera-time lapse video recorder system for 24 hours. Cells entered into the entrance terrace and showed active motions including extending pseudopodia into the channels and whole cell passage through the channels, and fully stretched in the entrance terrace in 8 hours or so. Those cells, however, voluntarily detached themselves from the area in another 8 hours or so probably because of worsening condition of nutrient supply there. Micropit arrays used in the present study consist of a regular arrangement of circular or square pits of diameter or side length of 25, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 600 micrometer and depth of 10 micrometer with one size per array or chip. The total area of the pits was designed to be equal to the rest surface area. After four days of incubation of bone marrow derived cells, the total number of cells and the number of cells in the pits were counted. The former and the ratio of the latter to the former appeared to become maximal when the pits of diameter or side length of 100 and 50 micrometer were used, respectively.

Biophysical isolation and identification of circulating tumor cells.

PubMed

Che, James; Yu, Victor; Garon, Edward B; Goldman, Jonathan W; Di Carlo, Dino

2017-04-11

Isolation and enumeration of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood is important for determining patient prognosis and monitoring treatment. Methods based on affinity to cell surface markers have been applied to both purify (via immunoseparation) and identify (via immunofluorescence) CTCs. However, variability of cell biomarker expression associated with tumor heterogeneity and evolution and cross-reactivity of antibody probes have long complicated CTC enrichment and immunostaining. Here, we report a truly label-free high-throughput microfluidic approach to isolate, enumerate, and characterize the biophysical properties of CTCs using an integrated microfluidic device. Vortex-mediated deformability cytometry (VDC) consists of an initial vortex region which enriches large CTCs, followed by release into a downstream hydrodynamic stretching region which deforms the cells. Visualization and quantification of cell deformation with a high-speed camera revealed populations of large (>15 μm diameter) and deformable (aspect ratio >1.2) CTCs from 16 stage IV lung cancer samples, that are clearly distinguished by increased deformability compared to contaminating blood cells and rare large cells isolated from healthy patients. The VDC technology demonstrated a comparable positive detection rate of putative CTCs above healthy baseline (93.8%) with respect to standard immunofluorescence (71.4%). Automation allows full enumeration of CTCs from a 10 mL vial of blood within <1 h after sample acquisition, compared with 4+ hours with standard approaches. Moreover, cells are released into any collection vessel for further downstream analysis. VDC shows potential for accurate CTC enumeration without labels and confirms the unique highly deformable biophysical properties of large CTCs circulating in blood.

Electroactive polymers for healthcare and biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bauer, Siegfried

2017-04-01

Electroactivity was noticed early in biological substances, including proteins, polynucleotides and enzymes, even piezoand pyroelectricity were found in wool, hair, wood, bone and tendon. Recently, ferroelectricity has been identified in a surprisingly large number of biologically relevant materials, including hydroxyapatite, aortic walls and elastin. Inspired by the variety of natural electroactive materials, a wealth of new elastomers and polymers were designed recently, including an all organic elastomer electret and self-healing dielectric elastomers. Let's further draw inspiration from nature and widen the utilization of electroactive polymers towards (mobile) healthcare and biomedical applications. Ferroelectrets, internally charged polymer foams with a strong piezoelectric thickness coefficient are employed in biomedical sensing, for example as blood pressure and pulse sensor, as vital signs monitor or for the detection of tonicclonic seizures. Piezo- and pyroelectric polymers are booming in printed electronics research. They provide electronic skin the ability to "feel" pressure and temperature changes, or to generate electrical energy from vibrations and motions, even from contractile and relaxation motions of the heart and lung. Dielectric elastomers are pioneered by StretchSense as wearable motion capture sensors, monitoring pressure, stretch, bend and shear, quantifying comfort in sports and healthcare. On the cellular level, electroactive polymer arrays are used to study mechanotransduction of individual cells. Ionic electroactive polymers show potential to be used in implantable electroactive biomedical devices. Already with the currently available science and technology, we are at the verge of witnessing the demonstration of truly complex bionic systems.

3 V omni-directionally stretchable one-body supercapacitors based on a single ion-gel matrix and carbon nanotubes.

PubMed

Kim, Wonbin; Kim, Woong

2016-06-03

Stretchable supercapacitors often have laminated structures consisting of electrode, electrolyte, and supporting layers. Since the layers are likely to be composed of different materials, delamination is a major cause of failure upon stretching. In this study, we demonstrate delamination-free stretchable supercapacitors where all the component layers are prepared with a single matrix, which is composed of a polymer, poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene) and an ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. Since the ionic liquid in the composite plays a role as both an electrolyte and a plasticizer, this composite can be used as an electrolyte and a supporting layer in the stretchable supercapacitor. The electrode layer can be fabricated by incorporating carbon nanotubes in the common matrix. Then, all the layers can be seamlessly fused into one body by dissolving the surface of the composite with acetone, which evaporates after the integration, leaving no borders between the layers. This one-body stretchable supercapacitor not only has high durability against repetitive stretches but also is stretchable in all directions. This feature clearly distinguishes them from conventional stretchable supercapacitors fabricated using buckled structures, which are stretchable only in one or two directions. Moreover, this supercapacitor has high cell voltage (∼3 V) owing to the ionic liquid-based gel electrolytes. Our demonstration of isotropically stretchable high-durability supercapacitors may have a great implication in the development of stretchable energy storage devices for real applications.

The mechanism of muscle injury in the crush syndrome: ischemic versus pressure-stretch myopathy.

PubMed

Better, O S; Abassi, Z; Rubinstein, I; Marom, S; Winaver, Y; Silberman, M

1990-01-01

Crush injuries are ubiquitous, common sequelae in victims of seismic, industrial and military catastrophes, and were considered to be mainly due to ischemia of the affected limbs. Our clinical experience suggests that early in the crush syndrome, interference with the circulation may occur but is rare. The predominant earliest lesion in the crush syndrome is postulated to be pressure-stretch myopathy, rather than ischemic myopathy. It is proposed that at the membrane level, stretch increases sarcoplasmic influx of Na, Cl, H2O and Ca down their electrochemical gradient. Energy-requiring cationic extrusion pumps work at maximal capacity, but are unable to cope with the increased load. This results in cell swelling and increase in cytosolic and mitochondrial calcium with activation of autolytic destructive processes and interference with cellular respiration. Extensive muscle swelling may cause late muscle tamponade and myoneural ischemic damage (compartmental syndrome). Thus, whereas prevalent theory suggests that the sarcolemmal cationic pump activity is attenuated in the crush syndrome due to early ischemia, we propose that the cationic extrusion pump is maximally activated as in the amphotericin B model. Because the cationic pump is maximally activated in the stretched muscle and in cells exposed to amphotericin, these models rapidly deplete their scarce ATP stores and are susceptible to hypoxia in the face of initially normal circulation.

Characterizing the mechanics of cultured cell monolayers

PubMed Central

Peter, Loic; Bellis, Julien; Baum, Buzz; Kabla, Alexandre J.; Charras, Guillaume T.

2012-01-01

One-cell-thick monolayers are the simplest tissues in multicellular organisms, yet they fulfill critical roles in development and normal physiology. In early development, embryonic morphogenesis results largely from monolayer rearrangement and deformation due to internally generated forces. Later, monolayers act as physical barriers separating the internal environment from the exterior and must withstand externally applied forces. Though resisting and generating mechanical forces is an essential part of monolayer function, simple experimental methods to characterize monolayer mechanical properties are lacking. Here, we describe a system for tensile testing of freely suspended cultured monolayers that enables the examination of their mechanical behavior at multi-, uni-, and subcellular scales. Using this system, we provide measurements of monolayer elasticity and show that this is two orders of magnitude larger than the elasticity of their isolated cellular components. Monolayers could withstand more than a doubling in length before failing through rupture of intercellular junctions. Measurement of stress at fracture enabled a first estimation of the average force needed to separate cells within truly mature monolayers, approximately ninefold larger than measured in pairs of isolated cells. As in single cells, monolayer mechanical properties were strongly dependent on the integrity of the actin cytoskeleton, myosin, and intercellular adhesions interfacing adjacent cells. High magnification imaging revealed that keratin filaments became progressively stretched during extension, suggesting they participate in monolayer mechanics. This multiscale study of monolayer response to deformation enabled by our device provides the first quantitative investigation of the link between monolayer biology and mechanics. PMID:22991459

Ultrafast Microfluidic Cellular Imaging by Optical Time-Stretch.

PubMed

Lau, Andy K S; Wong, Terence T W; Shum, Ho Cheung; Wong, Kenneth K Y; Tsia, Kevin K

2016-01-01

There is an unmet need in biomedicine for measuring a multitude of parameters of individual cells (i.e., high content) in a large population efficiently (i.e., high throughput). This is particularly driven by the emerging interest in bringing Big-Data analysis into this arena, encompassing pathology, drug discovery, rare cancer cell detection, emulsion microdroplet assays, to name a few. This momentum is particularly evident in recent advancements in flow cytometry. They include scaling of the number of measurable colors from the labeled cells and incorporation of imaging capability to access the morphological information of the cells. However, an unspoken predicament appears in the current technologies: higher content comes at the expense of lower throughput, and vice versa. For example, accessing additional spatial information of individual cells, imaging flow cytometers only achieve an imaging throughput ~1000 cells/s, orders of magnitude slower than the non-imaging flow cytometers. In this chapter, we introduce an entirely new imaging platform, namely optical time-stretch microscopy, for ultrahigh speed and high contrast label-free single-cell (in a ultrafast microfluidic flow up to 10 m/s) imaging and analysis with an ultra-fast imaging line-scan rate as high as tens of MHz. Based on this technique, not only morphological information of the individual cells can be obtained in an ultrafast manner, quantitative evaluation of cellular information (e.g., cell volume, mass, refractive index, stiffness, membrane tension) at nanometer scale based on the optical phase is also possible. The technology can also be integrated with conventional fluorescence measurements widely adopted in the non-imaging flow cytometers. Therefore, these two combinatorial and complementary measurement capabilities in long run is an attractive platform for addressing the pressing need for expanding the "parameter space" in high-throughput single-cell analysis. This chapter provides the general guidelines of constructing the optical system for time stretch imaging, fabrication and design of the microfluidic chip for ultrafast fluidic flow, as well as the image acquisition and processing.

The Expression of Fn14 via Mechanical Stress-activated JNK Contributes to Apoptosis Induction in Osteoblasts*

PubMed Central

Matsui, Hiroyuki; Fukuno, Naoto; Kanda, Yoshiaki; Kantoh, Yusuke; Chida, Toko; Nagaura, Yuko; Suzuki, Osamu; Nishitoh, Hideki; Takeda, Kohsuke; Ichijo, Hidenori; Sawada, Yasuhiro; Sasaki, Keiichi; Kobayashi, Takayasu; Tamura, Shinri

2014-01-01

Bone mass is maintained by the balance between the activities of bone-forming osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts. It is well known that adequate mechanical stress is essential for the maintenance of bone mass, whereas excess mechanical stress induces bone resorption. However, it has not been clarified how osteoblasts respond to different magnitudes of mechanical stress. Here we report that large-magnitude (12%) cyclic stretch induced Ca2+ influx, which activated reactive oxygen species generation in MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Reactive oxygen species then activated the ASK1-JNK/p38 pathways. The activated JNK led to transiently enhanced expression of FGF-inducible 14 (Fn14, a member of the TNF receptor superfamily) gene. Cells with enhanced expression of Fn14 subsequently acquired sensitivity to the ligand of Fn14, TNF-related weak inducer of apoptosis, and underwent apoptosis. On the other hand, the ASK1-p38 pathway induced expression of the monocyte chemoattractant protein 3 (MCP-3) gene, which promoted chemotaxis of preosteoclasts. In contrast, the ERK pathway was activated by small-magnitude stretching (1%) and induced expression of two osteogenic genes, collagen Ia (Col1a) and osteopontin (OPN). Moreover, activated JNK suppressed Col1a and OPN induction in large-magnitude mechanical stretch-loaded cells. The enhanced expression of Fn14 and MCP-3 by 12% stretch and the enhanced expression of Col1a and OPN by 1% stretch were also observed in mouse primary osteoblasts. These results suggest that differences in the response of osteoblasts to varying magnitudes of mechanical stress play a key role in switching the mode of bone metabolism between formation and resorption. PMID:24446436

Modified global and modified linear contrast stretching algorithms: new colour contrast enhancement techniques for microscopic analysis of malaria slide images.

PubMed

Abdul-Nasir, Aimi Salihah; Mashor, Mohd Yusoff; Mohamed, Zeehaida

2012-01-01

Malaria is one of the serious global health problem, causing widespread sufferings and deaths in various parts of the world. With the large number of cases diagnosed over the year, early detection and accurate diagnosis which facilitates prompt treatment is an essential requirement to control malaria. For centuries now, manual microscopic examination of blood slide remains the gold standard for malaria diagnosis. However, low contrast of the malaria and variable smears quality are some factors that may influence the accuracy of interpretation by microbiologists. In order to reduce this problem, this paper aims to investigate the performance of the proposed contrast enhancement techniques namely, modified global and modified linear contrast stretching as well as the conventional global and linear contrast stretching that have been applied on malaria images of P. vivax species. The results show that the proposed modified global and modified linear contrast stretching techniques have successfully increased the contrast of the parasites and the infected red blood cells compared to the conventional global and linear contrast stretching. Hence, the resultant images would become useful to microbiologists for identification of various stages and species of malaria.

Age-dependence of the optomechanical responses of ex vivo human lenses from India and the USA, and the force required to produce these in a lens stretcher: the similarity to in vivo disaccommodation

PubMed Central

Augusteyn, Robert C; Mohamed, Ashik; Nankivil, Derek; Veerendranath, Pesala; Arrieta, Esdras; Taneja, Mukesh; Manns, Fabrice; Ho, Arthur; Parel, Jean-Marie

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to study the age-dependence of the optomechanical properties of human lenses during simulated disaccommodation in a mechanical lens stretcher, designed to determine accommodative forces as a function of stretch distance, to compare the results with in vivo disaccommodation and to examine whether differences exist between eyes harvested in the USA and India. Post-mortem human eyes obtained in the USA (n=46, age = 6 to 83 years) and India (n=91, age = 1 day to 85 years) were mounted in an optomechanical lens stretching system and dissected to expose the lens complete with its accommodating framework, including zonules, ciliary body, anterior vitreous and a segmented rim of sclera. Disaccommodation was simulated through radial stretching of the sectioned globe by 2 mm in increments of 0.25 mm. The load, inner ciliary ring diameter, lens equatorial diameter, central thickness and power were measured at each step. Changes in these parameters were examined as a function of age, as were the dimension/load and power/load responses. Unstretched lens diameter and thickness increased over the whole age range examined and were indistinguishable from those of in vivo lenses as well as those of in vitro lenses freed from zonular attachments. Stretching increased the diameter and decreased the thickness in all lenses examined but the amount of change decreased with age. Unstretched lens power decreased with age and the accommodative amplitude decreased to zero by age 45-50. The load required to produce maximum stretch was independent of age (median 80 mN) whereas the change in lens diameter and power per unit load decreased significantly with age. The age related changes in the properties of human lenses, as observed in the lens stretching device, are similar to those observed in vivo and are consistent with the classical Helmholtz theory of accommodation. The response of lens diameter and power to disaccommodative (stretching) forces decreases with age, consistent with lens nuclear stiffening. PMID:21658404

Emerging magnetic order in platinum atomic contacts and chains

PubMed Central

Strigl, Florian; Espy, Christopher; Bückle, Maximilian; Scheer, Elke; Pietsch, Torsten

2015-01-01

The development of atomic-scale structures revealing novel transport phenomena is a major goal of nanotechnology. Examples include chains of atoms that form while stretching a transition metal contact or the predicted formation of magnetic order in these chains, the existence of which is still debated. Here we report an experimental study of the magneto-conductance (MC) and anisotropic MC with atomic-size contacts and mono-atomic chains of the nonmagnetic metal platinum. We find a pronounced and diverse MC behaviour, the amplitude and functional dependence change when stretching the contact by subatomic distances. These findings can be interpreted as a signature of local magnetic order in the chain, which may be of particular importance for the application of atomic-sized contacts in spintronic devices of the smallest possible size. PMID:25649440

Emerging magnetic order in platinum atomic contacts and chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strigl, Florian; Espy, Christopher; Bückle, Maximilian; Scheer, Elke; Pietsch, Torsten

2015-02-01

The development of atomic-scale structures revealing novel transport phenomena is a major goal of nanotechnology. Examples include chains of atoms that form while stretching a transition metal contact or the predicted formation of magnetic order in these chains, the existence of which is still debated. Here we report an experimental study of the magneto-conductance (MC) and anisotropic MC with atomic-size contacts and mono-atomic chains of the nonmagnetic metal platinum. We find a pronounced and diverse MC behaviour, the amplitude and functional dependence change when stretching the contact by subatomic distances. These findings can be interpreted as a signature of local magnetic order in the chain, which may be of particular importance for the application of atomic-sized contacts in spintronic devices of the smallest possible size.

Emerging magnetic order in platinum atomic contacts and chains.

PubMed

Strigl, Florian; Espy, Christopher; Bückle, Maximilian; Scheer, Elke; Pietsch, Torsten

2015-02-04

The development of atomic-scale structures revealing novel transport phenomena is a major goal of nanotechnology. Examples include chains of atoms that form while stretching a transition metal contact or the predicted formation of magnetic order in these chains, the existence of which is still debated. Here we report an experimental study of the magneto-conductance (MC) and anisotropic MC with atomic-size contacts and mono-atomic chains of the nonmagnetic metal platinum. We find a pronounced and diverse MC behaviour, the amplitude and functional dependence change when stretching the contact by subatomic distances. These findings can be interpreted as a signature of local magnetic order in the chain, which may be of particular importance for the application of atomic-sized contacts in spintronic devices of the smallest possible size.

High-speed photonically assisted analog-to-digital conversion using a continuous wave multiwavelength source and phase modulation.

PubMed

Bortnik, Bartosz J; Fetterman, Harold R

2008-10-01

A more simple photonically assisted analog-to-digital conversion system utilizing a cw multiwavelength source and phase modulation instead of a mode-locked laser is presented. The output of the cw multiwavelength source is launched into a dispersive device (such as a single-mode fiber). This fiber creates a pulse train, where the central wavelength of each pulse corresponds to a spectral line of the optical source. The pulses can then be either dispersed again to perform discrete wavelength time stretching or demultiplexed for continuous time analog-to-digital conversion. We experimentally demonstrate the operation of both time stretched and interleaved systems at 38 GHz. The potential of integrating this type of system on a monolithic chip is discussed.

Controlled buckling structures in semiconductor interconnects and nanomembranes for stretchable electronics

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A; Meitl, Matthew; Sun, Yugang; Ko, Heung Cho; Carlson, Andrew; Choi, Won Mook; Stoykovich, Mark; Jiang, Hanqing; Huang, Yonggang; Nuzzo, Ralph G; Zhu, Zhengtao; Menard, Etienne; Khang, Dahl-Young

2014-05-20

In an aspect, the present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, components such as semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed, and related methods of making or tuning such stretchable components. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention are adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Controlled buckling structures in semiconductor interconnects and nanomembranes for stretchable electronics

DOEpatents

Rogers, John A [Champaign, IL; Meitl, Matthew [Raleigh, NC; Sun, Yugang [Naperville, IL; Ko, Heung Cho [Urbana, IL; Carlson, Andrew [Urbana, IL; Choi, Won Mook [Champaign, IL; Stoykovich, Mark [Dover, NH; Jiang, Hanqing [Urbana, IL; Huang, Yonggang [Glencoe, IL; Nuzzo, Ralph G [Champaign, IL; Lee, Keon Jae [Tokyo, JP; Zhu, Zhengtao [Rapid City, SD; Menard, Etienne [Durham, NC; Khang, Dahl-Young [Seoul, KR; Kan, Seong Jun [Daejeon, KR; Ahn, Jong Hyun [Suwon, KR; Kim, Hoon-sik [Champaign, IL

2012-07-10

In an aspect, the present invention provides stretchable, and optionally printable, components such as semiconductors and electronic circuits capable of providing good performance when stretched, compressed, flexed or otherwise deformed, and related methods of making or tuning such stretchable components. Stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits preferred for some applications are flexible, in addition to being stretchable, and thus are capable of significant elongation, flexing, bending or other deformation along one or more axes. Further, stretchable semiconductors and electronic circuits of the present invention are adapted to a wide range of device configurations to provide fully flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices.

Stretch-activation of angiotensin II type 1a receptors contributes to the myogenic response of mouse mesenteric and renal arteries.

PubMed

Schleifenbaum, Johanna; Kassmann, Mario; Szijártó, István András; Hercule, Hantz C; Tano, Jean-Yves; Weinert, Stefanie; Heidenreich, Matthias; Pathan, Asif R; Anistan, Yoland-Marie; Alenina, Natalia; Rusch, Nancy J; Bader, Michael; Jentsch, Thomas J; Gollasch, Maik

2014-07-07

Vascular wall stretch is the major stimulus for the myogenic response of small arteries to pressure. The molecular mechanisms are elusive, but recent findings suggest that G protein-coupled receptors can elicit a stretch response. To determine whether angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1R) in vascular smooth muscle cells exert mechanosensitivity and identify the downstream ion channel mediators of myogenic vasoconstriction. We used mice deficient in AT1R signaling molecules and putative ion channel targets, namely AT1R, angiotensinogen, transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPC6) channels, or several subtypes of the voltage-gated K+ (Kv7) gene family (KCNQ3, 4, or 5). We identified a mechanosensing mechanism in isolated mesenteric arteries and in the renal circulation that relies on coupling of the AT1R subtype a to a Gq/11 protein as a critical event to accomplish the myogenic response. Arterial mechanoactivation occurs after pharmacological block of AT1R and in the absence of angiotensinogen or TRPC6 channels. Activation of AT1R subtype a by osmotically induced membrane stretch suppresses an XE991-sensitive Kv channel current in patch-clamped vascular smooth muscle cells, and similar concentrations of XE991 enhance mesenteric and renal myogenic tone. Although XE991-sensitive KCNQ3, 4, and 5 channels are expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells, XE991-sensitive K+ current and myogenic contractions persist in arteries deficient in these channels. Our results provide definitive evidence that myogenic responses of mouse mesenteric and renal arteries rely on ligand-independent, mechanoactivation of AT1R subtype a. The AT1R subtype a signal relies on an ion channel distinct from TRPC6 or KCNQ3, 4, or 5 to enact vascular smooth muscle cell activation and elevated vascular resistance. © 2014 American Heart Association, Inc.

Novel mouth-exercising device for oral submucous fibrosis.

PubMed

Patil, Pravinkumar G; Patil, Smita P

2012-10-01

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic inflammatory disease resulting in progressive juxtaepithelial fibrosis of the oral soft tissues and can cause increasing difficulty in mastication, swallowing, speaking, and mouth opening. The treatment of severe trismus requires a combination of surgical release and physiotherapy. Often physiotherapy alone can modify tissue remodeling in OSMF to increase oral opening. This article describes the fabrication and use of a new mouth-exercising device that helps the patient to squeeze/stretch the cheek mucosa to increase elasticity. The device can be used as a sole treatment modality or can be used in association with pharmacological and surgical treatment modalities for OSMF. Improvement in mouth opening was observed in four OSMF patients treated with a mouth-exercising device for 6 months as a sole treatment modality. © 2012 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Apparatus for rapid adjustment of the degree of alignment of NMR samples in aqueous media: verification with residual quadrupolar splittings in (23)Na and (133)Cs spectra.

PubMed

Kuchel, Philip W; Chapman, Bogdan E; Müller, Norbert; Bubb, William A; Philp, David J; Torres, Allan M

2006-06-01

NMR spectra of (23)Na(+) and (133)Cs(+) in gelatine in a silicone rubber tube that was stretched to various extents showed remarkably reproducible resonance multiplicity. The relative intensities of the components of the split peaks had ratios, 3:4:3, and 7:12:15:16:15:12:7, respectively, that conformed with those predicted using a Mathematica program. The silicone-rubber tube was sealed at its lower end by a small rubber stopper and placed inside a thick-walled glass tube. Gelatine was injected in solution into the silicone tube and 'set' by cooling below 30 degrees C. A plastic thumb-screw held the silicone tube at various degrees of extension, up to approximately 2-fold. After constituting the gel in buffers containing NaCl and CsCl, both (23)Na and (133)Cs NMR spectroscopy revealed that after stretching the initial single Lorentzian line was split into a well-resolved triplet and a heptet, respectively. This was interpreted as being due to coupling between the electric quadrupoles of the nuclei and the average electric field gradient tensor of the collagen molecules of gelatine; these molecules became progressively more aligned in the direction of the main magnetic field, B(0), of the vertical bore magnet, as the gel was stretched. This apparatus provides a simple way of demonstrating fundamental physical characteristics of quadrupolar cations, some characteristics of gelatine under stretching, and a way to invoke static distortion of red blood cells. It should be useful with these and other cell types, for studies of metabolic and membrane transport characteristics that may change when the cells are distorted, and possibly for structural studies of macromolecules.

Apparatus for rapid adjustment of the degree of alignment of NMR samples in aqueous media: Verification with residual quadrupolar splittings in 23Na and 133Cs spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuchel, Philip W.; Chapman, Bogdan E.; Müller, Norbert; Bubb, William A.; Philp, David J.; Torres, Allan M.

2006-06-01

NMR spectra of 23Na + and 133Cs + in gelatine in a silicone rubber tube that was stretched to various extents showed remarkably reproducible resonance multiplicity. The relative intensities of the components of the split peaks had ratios, 3:4:3, and 7:12:15:16:15:12:7, respectively, that conformed with those predicted using a Mathematica program. The silicone-rubber tube was sealed at its lower end by a small rubber stopper and placed inside a thick-walled glass tube. Gelatine was injected in solution into the silicone tube and 'set' by cooling below 30 °C. A plastic thumb-screw held the silicone tube at various degrees of extension, up to ˜2-fold. After constituting the gel in buffers containing NaCl and CsCl, both 23Na and 133Cs NMR spectroscopy revealed that after stretching the initial single Lorentzian line was split into a well-resolved triplet and a heptet, respectively. This was interpreted as being due to coupling between the electric quadrupoles of the nuclei and the average electric field gradient tensor of the collagen molecules of gelatine; these molecules became progressively more aligned in the direction of the main magnetic field, B0, of the vertical bore magnet, as the gel was stretched. This apparatus provides a simple way of demonstrating fundamental physical characteristics of quadrupolar cations, some characteristics of gelatine under stretching, and a way to invoke static distortion of red blood cells. It should be useful with these and other cell types, for studies of metabolic and membrane transport characteristics that may change when the cells are distorted, and possibly for structural studies of macromolecules.

Dendritic cells control fibroblastic reticular network tension and lymph node expansion.

PubMed

Acton, Sophie E; Farrugia, Aaron J; Astarita, Jillian L; Mourão-Sá, Diego; Jenkins, Robert P; Nye, Emma; Hooper, Steven; van Blijswijk, Janneke; Rogers, Neil C; Snelgrove, Kathryn J; Rosewell, Ian; Moita, Luis F; Stamp, Gordon; Turley, Shannon J; Sahai, Erik; Reis e Sousa, Caetano

2014-10-23

After immunogenic challenge, infiltrating and dividing lymphocytes markedly increase lymph node cellularity, leading to organ expansion. Here we report that the physical elasticity of lymph nodes is maintained in part by podoplanin (PDPN) signalling in stromal fibroblastic reticular cells (FRCs) and its modulation by CLEC-2 expressed on dendritic cells. We show in mouse cells that PDPN induces actomyosin contractility in FRCs via activation of RhoA/C and downstream Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK). Engagement by CLEC-2 causes PDPN clustering and rapidly uncouples PDPN from RhoA/C activation, relaxing the actomyosin cytoskeleton and permitting FRC stretching. Notably, administration of CLEC-2 protein to immunized mice augments lymph node expansion. In contrast, lymph node expansion is significantly constrained in mice selectively lacking CLEC-2 expression in dendritic cells. Thus, the same dendritic cells that initiate immunity by presenting antigens to T lymphocytes also initiate remodelling of lymph nodes by delivering CLEC-2 to FRCs. CLEC-2 modulation of PDPN signalling permits FRC network stretching and allows for the rapid lymph node expansion--driven by lymphocyte influx and proliferation--that is the critical hallmark of adaptive immunity.

Automatic cell detection and segmentation from H and E stained pathology slides using colorspace decorrelation stretching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peikari, Mohammad; Martel, Anne L.

2016-03-01

Purpose: Automatic cell segmentation plays an important role in reliable diagnosis and prognosis of patients. Most of the state-of-the-art cell detection and segmentation techniques focus on complicated methods to subtract foreground cells from the background. In this study, we introduce a preprocessing method which leads to a better detection and segmentation results compared to a well-known state-of-the-art work. Method: We transform the original red-green-blue (RGB) space into a new space defined by the top eigenvectors of the RGB space. Stretching is done by manipulating the contrast of each pixel value to equalize the color variances. New pixel values are then inverse transformed to the original RGB space. This altered RGB image is then used to segment cells. Result: The validation of our method with a well-known state-of-the-art technique revealed a statistically significant improvement on an identical validation set. We achieved a mean F1-score of 0.901. Conclusion: Preprocessing steps to decorrelate colorspaces may improve cell segmentation performances.

Effect of penile-extender device in increasing penile size in men with shortened penis: preliminary results.

PubMed

Nikoobakht, Mohammadreza; Shahnazari, Alireza; Rezaeidanesh, Maedeh; Mehrsai, Abdolrasoul; Pourmand, Gholamreza

2011-11-01

It has been suggested that the application of penile-extender devices increases penile length and circumference. However, there are a few scientific studies in this field. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a penile-extender (Golden Erect(®) , Ronas Tajhiz Teb, Tehran, Iran) in increasing penile size. This prospective study was performed on subjects complaining about "short penis" who were presented to our clinic between September 15, 2008 and December 15, 2008. After measuring the penile length in flaccid and stretched forms and penile circumference, patients were instructed to wear Golden Erect(®) , 4-6 hours per day during the first 2 weeks and then 9 hours per day until the end of the third month. The subjects were also trained how to increase the force of the device during determined intervals. The patients were visited at the end of the first and third months, and penile length and circumference were measured and compared with baseline. The primary end point of the study was changes in flaccid and stretched penile lengths compared with the baseline size during the 3 months follow-up. Twenty-three cases with a mean age of 26.5 ± 8.1 years entered the study. The mean flaccid penile length increased from 8.8 ± 1.2 cm to 10.1 ± 1.2 cm and 10.5 ± 1.2 cm, respectively, in the first and third months of follow-up, which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Mean stretched penile length also significantly increased from 11.5 ± 1.0 cm to, respectively, 12.4 ± 1.3 cm and 13.2 ± 1.4 cm during the first and second follow-up (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found regarding proximal penile girth. However, it was not the same regarding the circumference of the glans penis (9.3 ± 0.86 cm vs. 8.8 ± 0.66 cm, P < 0.05). Our findings supported the efficacy of the device in increasing penile length. Our result also suggested the possibility of glans penis girth enhancement using penile extender. Performing more studies is recommended. © 2010 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Stretchable, weavable coiled carbon nanotube/MnO2/polymer fiber solid-state supercapacitors.

PubMed

Choi, Changsoon; Kim, Shi Hyeong; Sim, Hyeon Jun; Lee, Jae Ah; Choi, A Young; Kim, Youn Tae; Lepró, Xavier; Spinks, Geoffrey M; Baughman, Ray H; Kim, Seon Jeong

2015-03-23

Fiber and yarn supercapacitors that are elastomerically deformable without performance loss are sought for such applications as power sources for wearable electronics, micro-devices, and implantable medical devices. Previously reported yarn and fiber supercapacitors are expensive to fabricate, difficult to upscale, or non-stretchable, which limits possible use. The elastomeric electrodes of the present solid-state supercapacitors are made by using giant inserted twist to coil a nylon sewing thread that is helically wrapped with a carbon nanotube sheet, and then electrochemically depositing pseudocapacitive MnO2 nanofibers. These solid-state supercapacitors decrease capacitance by less than 15% when reversibly stretched by 150% in the fiber direction, and largely retain capacitance while being cyclically stretched during charge and discharge. The maximum linear and areal capacitances (based on active materials) and areal energy storage and power densities (based on overall supercapacitor dimensions) are high (5.4 mF/cm, 40.9 mF/cm(2), 2.6 μWh/cm(2) and 66.9 μW/cm(2), respectively), despite the engineered superelasticity of the fiber supercapacitor. Retention of supercapacitor performance during large strain (50%) elastic deformation is demonstrated for supercapacitors incorporated into the wristband of a glove.

Mechanisms of pulmonary cyst pathogenesis in Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome: The stretch hypothesis.

PubMed

Kennedy, John C; Khabibullin, Damir; Henske, Elizabeth P

2016-04-01

Loss-of-function mutations in the folliculin gene (FLCN) on chromosome 17p cause Birt-Hogg-Dube syndrome (BHD), which is associated with cystic lung disease. The risk of lung collapse (pneumothorax) in BHD patients is 50-fold higher than in the general population. The cystic lung disease in BHD is distinctive because the cysts tend to be basilar, subpleural and lentiform, differentiating BHD from most other cystic lung diseases. Recently, major advances in elucidating the primary functions of the folliculin protein have been made, including roles in mTOR and AMPK signaling via the interaction of FLCN with FNIP1/2, and cell-cell adhesion via the physical interaction of FLCN with plakophilin 4 (PKP4), an armadillo-repeat containing protein that interacts with E-cadherin and is a component of the adherens junctions. In addition, in just the last three years, the pulmonary impact of FLCN deficiency has been examined for the first time. In mouse models, evidence has emerged that AMPK signaling and cell-cell adhesion are involved in alveolar enlargement. In addition, the pathologic features of human BHD cysts have been recently comprehensively characterized. The "stretch hypothesis" proposes that cysts in BHD arise because of fundamental defects in cell-cell adhesion, leading to repeated respiration-induced physical stretch-induced stress and, over time, expansion of alveolar spaces particularly in regions of the lung with larger changes in alveolar volume and at weaker "anchor points" to the pleura. This hypothesis ties together many of the new data from cellular and mouse models of BHD and from the human pathologic studies. Critical questions remain. These include whether the consequences of stretch-induced cyst formation arise through a destructive/inflammatory program or a proliferative program (or both), whether cyst initiation involves a "second hit" genetic event inactivating the remaining wild-type copy of FLCN (as is known to occur in BHD-associated renal cell carcinomas), and whether cyst initiation involves exclusively the epithelial compartment versus an interaction between the epithelium and mesenchyme. Ultimately, understanding the mechanisms of cystic lung disease in BHD may help to elucidate the pathogenesis of primary spontaneous pneumothorax, with more than 20,000 cases reported annually in the United States alone. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stretchable polymer-based electronic device

DOEpatents

Maghribi, Mariam N [Livermore, CA; Krulevitch, Peter A [Pleasanton, CA; Davidson, James Courtney [Livermore, CA; Wilson, Thomas S [Castro Valley, CA; Hamilton, Julie K [Tracy, CA; Benett, William J [Livermore, CA; Tovar, Armando R [San Antonio, TX

2008-02-26

A stretchable electronic circuit or electronic device and a polymer-based process to produce a circuit or electronic device containing a stretchable conducting circuit. The stretchable electronic apparatus has a central longitudinal axis and the apparatus is stretchable in a longitudinal direction generally aligned with the central longitudinal axis. The apparatus comprises a stretchable polymer body and at least one circuit line operatively connected to the stretchable polymer body. The circuit line extends in the longitudinal direction and has a longitudinal component that extends in the longitudinal direction and has an offset component that is at an angle to the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal component and the offset component allow the apparatus to stretch in the longitudinal direction while maintaining the integrity of the circuit line.

High-throughput optofluidic profiling of Euglena gracilis with morphological and chemical specificity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Baoshan; Lei, Cheng; Ito, Takuro; Jiang, Yiyue; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Goda, Keisuke

2016-11-01

The world is faced with environmental problems and the energy crisis due to the combustion and depletion of fossil fuels. The development of reliable, sustainable, and economical sources of alternative fuels is an important, but challenging goal for the world. As an alternative to liquid fossil fuels, algal biofuel is expected to play a key role in alleviating global warming since algae absorb atmospheric CO2 via photosynthesis. Among various algae for fuel production, Euglena gracilis is an attractive microalgal species as it is known to produce wax ester (good for biodiesel and aviation fuel) within lipid droplets. To date, while there exist many techniques for inducing microalgal cells to produce and accumulate lipid with high efficiency, few analytical methods are available for characterizing a population of such lipid-accumulated microalgae including E. gracilis with high throughout, high accuracy, and single-cell resolution simultaneously. Here we demonstrate a high-throughput optofluidic Euglena gracilis profiler which consists of an optical time-stretch microscope and a fluorescence analyzer on top of an inertial-focusing microfluidic device that can detect fluorescence from lipid droplets in their cell body and provide images of E. gracilis cells simultaneously at a high throughput of 10,000 cells/s. With the multi-dimensional information acquired by the system, we classify nitrogen-sufficient (ordinary) and nitrogen-deficient (lipid-accumulated) E. gracilis cells with a low false positive rate of 1.0%. This method provides a promise for evaluating the efficiency of lipid-inducing techniques for biofuel production, which is also applicable for identifying biomedical samples such as blood cells and cancer cells.

Group II muscle afferents probably contribute to the medium latency soleus stretch reflex during walking in humans

PubMed Central

Grey, Michael J; Ladouceur, Michel; Andersen, Jacob B; Nielsen, Jens Bo; Sinkjær, Thomas

2001-01-01

The objective of this study was to determine which afferents contribute to the medium latency response of the soleus stretch reflex resulting from an unexpected perturbation during human walking. Fourteen healthy subjects walked on a treadmill at approximately 3.5 km h−1 with the left ankle attached to a portable stretching device. The soleus stretch reflex was elicited by applying small amplitude (∼8 deg) dorsiflexion perturbations 200 ms after heel contact. Short and medium latency responses were observed with latencies of 55 ± 5 and 78 ± 6 ms, respectively. The short latency response was velocity sensitive (P < 0.001), while the medium latency response was not (P = 0.725). Nerve cooling increased the delay of the medium latency component to a greater extent than that of the short latency component (P < 0.005). Ischaemia strongly decreased the short latency component (P = 0.004), whereas the medium latency component was unchanged (P = 0.437). Two hours after the ingestion of tizanidine, an α2-adrenergic receptor agonist known to selectively depress the transmission in the group II afferent pathway, the medium latency reflex was strongly depressed (P = 0.007), whereas the short latency component was unchanged (P = 0.653). An ankle block with lidocaine hydrochloride was performed to suppress the cutaneous afferents of the foot and ankle. Neither the short (P = 0.453) nor medium (P = 0.310) latency reflexes were changed. Our results support the hypothesis that, during walking the medium latency component of the stretch reflex resulting from an unexpected perturbation is contributed to by group II muscle afferents. PMID:11483721

A microstructural approach to cytoskeletal mechanics based on tensegrity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stamenovic, D.; Fredberg, J. J.; Wang, N.; Butler, J. P.; Ingber, D. E.

1996-01-01

Mechanical properties of living cells are commonly described in terms of the laws of continuum mechanics. The purpose of this report is to consider the implications of an alternative approach that emphasizes the discrete nature of stress bearing elements in the cell and is based on the known structural properties of the cytoskeleton. We have noted previously that tensegrity architecture seems to capture essential qualitative features of cytoskeletal shape distortion in adherent cells (Ingber, 1993a; Wang et al., 1993). Here we extend those qualitative notions into a formal microstructural analysis. On the basis of that analysis we attempt to identify unifying principles that might underlie the shape stability of the cytoskeleton. For simplicity, we focus on a tensegrity structure containing six rigid struts interconnected by 24 linearly elastic cables. Cables carry initial tension ("prestress") counterbalanced by compression of struts. Two cases of interconnectedness between cables and struts are considered: one where they are connected by pin-joints, and the other where the cables run through frictionless loops at the junctions. At the molecular level, the pinned structure may represent the case in which different cytoskeletal filaments are cross-linked whereas the looped structure represents the case where they are free to slip past one another. The system is then subjected to uniaxial stretching. Using the principal of virtual work, stretching force vs. extension and structural stiffness vs. stretching force relationships are calculated for different prestresses. The stiffness is found to increase with increasing prestress and, at a given prestress, to increase approximately linearly with increasing stretching force. This behavior is consistent with observations in living endothelial cells exposed to shear stresses (Wang & Ingber, 1994). At a given prestress, the pinned structure is found to be stiffer than the looped one, a result consistent with data on mechanical behavior of isolated, cross-linked and uncross-linked actin networks (Wachsstock et al., 1993). On the basis of our analysis we concluded that architecture and the prestress of the cytoskeleton might be key features that underlie a cell's ability to regulate its shape.

The Effects of Mechanical Loading on Tendons - An In Vivo and In Vitro Model Study

PubMed Central

Zhang, Jianying; Wang, James H-C.

2013-01-01

Mechanical loading constantly acts on tendons, and a better understanding of its effects on the tendons is essential to gain more insights into tendon patho-physiology. This study aims to investigate tendon mechanobiological responses through the use of mouse treadmill running as an in vivo model and mechanical stretching of tendon cells as an in vitro model. In the in vivo study, mice underwent moderate treadmill running (MTR) and intensive treadmill running (ITR) regimens. Treadmill running elevated the expression of mechanical growth factors (MGF) and enhanced the proliferative potential of tendon stem cells (TSCs) in both patellar and Achilles tendons. In both tendons, MTR upregulated tenocyte-related genes: collagen type I (Coll. I ∼10 fold) and tenomodulin (∼3–4 fold), but did not affect non-tenocyte-related genes: LPL (adipocyte), Sox9 (chondrocyte), Runx2 and Osterix (both osteocyte). However, ITR upregulated both tenocyte (Coll. I ∼7–11 fold; tenomodulin ∼4–5 fold) and non-tenocyte-related genes (∼3–8 fold). In the in vitro study, TSCs and tenocytes were stretched to 4% and 8% using a custom made mechanical loading system. Low mechanical stretching (4%) of TSCs from both patellar and Achilles tendons increased the expression of only the tenocyte-related genes (Coll. I ∼5–6 fold; tenomodulin ∼6–13 fold), but high mechanical stretching (8%) increased the expression of both tenocyte (Coll. I ∼28–50 fold; tenomodulin ∼14–48 fold) and non-tenocyte-related genes (2–5-fold). However, in tenocytes, non-tenocyte related gene expression was not altered by the application of either low or high mechanical stretching. These findings indicate that appropriate mechanical loading could be beneficial to tendons because of their potential to induce anabolic changes in tendon cells. However, while excessive mechanical loading caused anabolic changes in tendons, it also induced differentiation of TSCs into non-tenocytes, which may lead to the development of degenerative tendinopathy frequently seen in clinical settings. PMID:23977130

Mechanical forces regulate the interactions of fibronectin and collagen I in extracellular matrix.

PubMed

Kubow, Kristopher E; Vukmirovic, Radmila; Zhe, Lin; Klotzsch, Enrico; Smith, Michael L; Gourdon, Delphine; Luna, Sheila; Vogel, Viola

2015-08-14

Despite the crucial role of extracellular matrix (ECM) in directing cell fate in healthy and diseased tissues--particularly in development, wound healing, tissue regeneration and cancer--the mechanisms that direct the assembly and regulate hierarchical architectures of ECM are poorly understood. Collagen I matrix assembly in vivo requires active fibronectin (Fn) fibrillogenesis by cells. Here we exploit Fn-FRET probes as mechanical strain sensors and demonstrate that collagen I fibres preferentially co-localize with more-relaxed Fn fibrils in the ECM of fibroblasts in cell culture. Fibre stretch-assay studies reveal that collagen I's Fn-binding domain is responsible for the mechano-regulated interaction. Furthermore, we show that Fn-collagen interactions are reciprocal: relaxed Fn fibrils act as multivalent templates for collagen assembly, but once assembled, collagen fibres shield Fn fibres from being stretched by cellular traction forces. Thus, in addition to the well-recognized, force-regulated, cell-matrix interactions, forces also tune the interactions between different structural ECM components.

Microfabrication and characterization of an array of dielectric elastomer actuators generating uniaxial strain to stretch individual cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbari, S.; Shea, H. R.

2012-04-01

Cells regulate their behavior in response to mechanical strains. Cell cultures to study mechanotransuction are typically cm2 in area, far too large to monitor single cell response. We have developed an array of dielectric elastomer microactuators as a tool to study mechanotransduction of individual cells. The array consists of 72 100 µm × 200 µm electroactive polymer actuators which expand uniaxially when a voltage is applied. Single cells will be attached on each actuator to study their response to periodic mechanical strains. The device is fabricated by patterning compliant microelectrodes on both sides of a 30 µm thick polydimethylsiloxane membrane, which is bonded to a Pyrex chip with 200 µm wide trenches. Low-energy metal ion implantation is used to make stretchable electrodes and we demonstrate here the successful miniaturization of such ion-implanted electrodes. The top electrode covers the full membrane area, while the bottom electrodes are 100 µm wide parallel lines, perpendicular to the trenches. Applying a voltage between the top and bottom electrodes leads to uniaxial expansion of the membrane at the intersection of the bottom electrodes and the trenches. To characterize the in-plane strain, an array of 4 µm diameter aluminum dots is deposited on each actuator. The position of each dot is tracked, allowing displacement and strain profiles to be measured as a function of voltage. The uniaxial strain reaches 4.7% at 2.9 kV with a 0.2 s response time, sufficient to stimulate most cells with relevant biological strains and frequencies.

Mechanical Actuation Systems for the Phenotype Commitment of Stem Cell-Based Tendon and Ligament Tissue Substitutes.

PubMed

Govoni, Marco; Muscari, Claudio; Lovecchio, Joseph; Guarnieri, Carlo; Giordano, Emanuele

2016-04-01

High tensile forces transmitted by tendons and ligaments make them susceptible to tearing or complete rupture. The present standard reparative technique is the surgical implantation of auto- or allografts, which often undergo failure.Currently, different cell types and biomaterials are used to design tissue engineered substitutes. Mechanical stimulation driven by dedicated devices can precondition these constructs to a remarkable degree, mimicking the local in vivo environment. A large number of dynamic culture instruments have been developed and many appealing results collected. Of the cells that have been used, tendon stem cells are the most promising for a reliable stretch-induced tenogenesis, but their reduced availability represents a serious limitation to upscaled production. Biomaterials used for scaffold fabrication include both biological molecules and synthetic polymers, the latter being improved by nanotechnologies which reproduce the architecture of native tendons. In addition to cell type and scaffold material, other variables which must be defined in mechanostimulation protocols are the amplitude, frequency, duration and direction of the applied strain. The ideal conditions seem to be those producing intermittent tension rather than continuous loading. In any case, all physical parameters must be adapted to the specific response of the cells used and the tensile properties of the scaffold. Tendon/ligament grafts in animals usually have the advantage of mechanical preconditioning, especially when uniaxial cyclic forces are applied to cells engineered into natural or decellularized scaffolds. However, due to the scarcity of in vivo research, standard protocols still need to be defined for clinical applications.

Constitutive properties of adult mammalian cardiac muscle cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zile, M. R.; Richardson, K.; Cowles, M. K.; Buckley, J. M.; Koide, M.; Cowles, B. A.; Gharpuray, V.; Cooper, G. 4th

1998-01-01

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine whether changes in the constitutive properties of the cardiac muscle cell play a causative role in the development of diastolic dysfunction. METHODS AND RESULTS: Cardiocytes from normal and pressure-hypertrophied cats were embedded in an agarose gel, placed on a stretching device, and subjected to a change in stress (sigma), and resultant changes in cell strain (epsilon) were measured. These measurements were used to examine the passive elastic spring, viscous damping, and myofilament activation. The passive elastic spring was assessed in protocol A by increasing the sigma on the agarose gel at a constant rate to define the cardiocyte sigma-versus-epsilon relationship. Viscous damping was assessed in protocol B from the loop area between the cardiocyte sigma-versus-epsilon relationship during an increase and then a decrease in sigma. In both protocols, myofilament activation was minimized by a reduction in [Ca2+]i. Myofilament activation effects were assessed in protocol C by defining cardiocyte sigma versus epsilon during an increase in sigma with physiological [Ca2+]i. In protocol A, the cardiocyte sigma-versus-epsilon relationship was similar in normal and hypertrophied cells. In protocol B, the loop area was greater in hypertrophied than normal cardiocytes. In protocol C, the sigma-versus-epsilon relation in hypertrophied cardiocytes was shifted to the left compared with normal cells. CONCLUSIONS: Changes in viscous damping and myofilament activation in combination may cause pressure-hypertrophied cardiocytes to resist changes in shape during diastole and contribute to diastolic dysfunction.

PaASK1, a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase that controls cell degeneration and cell differentiation in Podospora anserina.

PubMed Central

Kicka, Sébastien; Silar, Philippe

2004-01-01

MAPKKK are kinases involved in cell signaling. In fungi, these kinases are known to regulate development, pathogenicity, and the sensing of external conditions. We show here that Podospora anserina strains mutated in PaASK1, a MAPKKK of the MEK family, are impaired in the development of crippled growth, a cell degeneration process caused by C, a nonconventional infectious element. They also display defects in mycelium pigmentation, differentiation of aerial hyphae, and making of fruiting bodies, three hallmarks of cell differentiation during stationary phase in P. anserina. Overexpression of PaASK1 results in exacerbation of crippled growth. PaASK1 is a large protein of 1832 amino acids with several domains, including a region rich in proline and a 60-amino-acid-long polyglutamine stretch. Deletion analysis reveals that the polyglutamine stretch is dispensable for PaASK1 activity, whereas the region that contains the prolines is essential but insufficient to promote full activity. We discuss a model based on the hysteresis of a signal transduction cascade to account for the role of PaASK1 in both cell degeneration and stationary-phase cell differentiation. PMID:15082544

PaASK1, a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase that controls cell degeneration and cell differentiation in Podospora anserina.

PubMed

Kicka, Sébastien; Silar, Philippe

2004-03-01

MAPKKK are kinases involved in cell signaling. In fungi, these kinases are known to regulate development, pathogenicity, and the sensing of external conditions. We show here that Podospora anserina strains mutated in PaASK1, a MAPKKK of the MEK family, are impaired in the development of crippled growth, a cell degeneration process caused by C, a nonconventional infectious element. They also display defects in mycelium pigmentation, differentiation of aerial hyphae, and making of fruiting bodies, three hallmarks of cell differentiation during stationary phase in P. anserina. Overexpression of PaASK1 results in exacerbation of crippled growth. PaASK1 is a large protein of 1832 amino acids with several domains, including a region rich in proline and a 60-amino-acid-long polyglutamine stretch. Deletion analysis reveals that the polyglutamine stretch is dispensable for PaASK1 activity, whereas the region that contains the prolines is essential but insufficient to promote full activity. We discuss a model based on the hysteresis of a signal transduction cascade to account for the role of PaASK1 in both cell degeneration and stationary-phase cell differentiation.

A possible role of actin in the mechanical control of the cell cycle.

PubMed

Tripathi, S C

1989-01-01

Sail-sheet Cultures (SSC) are those in which the cells are i) grown within the meshes of inert grids ii) exposed to nutrients from most sides iii) attached to one another only at the edges like sail of a yacht (hence, the name 'sail-sheet') and iv) have the advantage of three-dimensional structure similar to an in vivo situation. We grew fibroblasts from chicken heart explants as SSC and studied the effect of mechanical stretching on the F-actin content of these cells. This study was designed to investigate the hypothesis that the effect of tension on the cell cycle may be channeled through the microfilaments. Data from this preliminary study suggested that short-term mechanical stretching of sail-sheets, using low frequency tension (1.0 Hz), diminishes F-actin. Thus, it may be possible to relate the decrease in the F-actin content of these cells to the slowing down of their locomotory activity, possible rounding up, and division. This study might contribute to the understanding of the mechanical control of the cell cycle and be of relevance in the phenomena such as healing of wounds and control of the cell division in tumors.

Microfluidic Imaging Flow Cytometry by Asymmetric-detection Time-stretch Optical Microscopy (ATOM).

PubMed

Tang, Anson H L; Lai, Queenie T K; Chung, Bob M F; Lee, Kelvin C M; Mok, Aaron T Y; Yip, G K; Shum, Anderson H C; Wong, Kenneth K Y; Tsia, Kevin K

2017-06-28

Scaling the number of measurable parameters, which allows for multidimensional data analysis and thus higher-confidence statistical results, has been the main trend in the advanced development of flow cytometry. Notably, adding high-resolution imaging capabilities allows for the complex morphological analysis of cellular/sub-cellular structures. This is not possible with standard flow cytometers. However, it is valuable for advancing our knowledge of cellular functions and can benefit life science research, clinical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring. Incorporating imaging capabilities into flow cytometry compromises the assay throughput, primarily due to the limitations on speed and sensitivity in the camera technologies. To overcome this speed or throughput challenge facing imaging flow cytometry while preserving the image quality, asymmetric-detection time-stretch optical microscopy (ATOM) has been demonstrated to enable high-contrast, single-cell imaging with sub-cellular resolution, at an imaging throughput as high as 100,000 cells/s. Based on the imaging concept of conventional time-stretch imaging, which relies on all-optical image encoding and retrieval through the use of ultrafast broadband laser pulses, ATOM further advances imaging performance by enhancing the image contrast of unlabeled/unstained cells. This is achieved by accessing the phase-gradient information of the cells, which is spectrally encoded into single-shot broadband pulses. Hence, ATOM is particularly advantageous in high-throughput measurements of single-cell morphology and texture - information indicative of cell types, states, and even functions. Ultimately, this could become a powerful imaging flow cytometry platform for the biophysical phenotyping of cells, complementing the current state-of-the-art biochemical-marker-based cellular assay. This work describes a protocol to establish the key modules of an ATOM system (from optical frontend to data processing and visualization backend), as well as the workflow of imaging flow cytometry based on ATOM, using human cells and micro-algae as the examples.

From Biological Cilia to Artificial Flow Sensors: Biomimetic Soft Polymer Nanosensors with High Sensing Performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asadnia, Mohsen; Kottapalli, Ajay Giri Prakash; Karavitaki, K. Domenica; Warkiani, Majid Ebrahimi; Miao, Jianmin; Corey, David P.; Triantafyllou, Michael

2016-09-01

We report the development of a new class of miniature all-polymer flow sensors that closely mimic the intricate morphology of the mechanosensory ciliary bundles in biological hair cells. An artificial ciliary bundle is achieved by fabricating bundled polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) micro-pillars with graded heights and electrospinning polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric nanofiber tip links. The piezoelectric nature of a single nanofiber tip link is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Rheology and nanoindentation experiments are used to ensure that the viscous properties of the hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel are close to the biological cupula. A dome-shaped HA hydrogel cupula that encapsulates the artificial hair cell bundle is formed through precision drop-casting and swelling processes. Fluid drag force actuates the hydrogel cupula and deflects the micro-pillar bundle, stretching the nanofibers and generating electric charges. Functioning with principles analogous to the hair bundles, the sensors achieve a sensitivity and threshold detection limit of 300 mV/(m/s) and 8 μm/s, respectively. These self-powered, sensitive, flexible, biocompatibale and miniaturized sensors can find extensive applications in navigation and maneuvering of underwater robots, artificial hearing systems, biomedical and microfluidic devices.

From Biological Cilia to Artificial Flow Sensors: Biomimetic Soft Polymer Nanosensors with High Sensing Performance.

PubMed

Asadnia, Mohsen; Kottapalli, Ajay Giri Prakash; Karavitaki, K Domenica; Warkiani, Majid Ebrahimi; Miao, Jianmin; Corey, David P; Triantafyllou, Michael

2016-09-13

We report the development of a new class of miniature all-polymer flow sensors that closely mimic the intricate morphology of the mechanosensory ciliary bundles in biological hair cells. An artificial ciliary bundle is achieved by fabricating bundled polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) micro-pillars with graded heights and electrospinning polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric nanofiber tip links. The piezoelectric nature of a single nanofiber tip link is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Rheology and nanoindentation experiments are used to ensure that the viscous properties of the hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel are close to the biological cupula. A dome-shaped HA hydrogel cupula that encapsulates the artificial hair cell bundle is formed through precision drop-casting and swelling processes. Fluid drag force actuates the hydrogel cupula and deflects the micro-pillar bundle, stretching the nanofibers and generating electric charges. Functioning with principles analogous to the hair bundles, the sensors achieve a sensitivity and threshold detection limit of 300 mV/(m/s) and 8 μm/s, respectively. These self-powered, sensitive, flexible, biocompatibale and miniaturized sensors can find extensive applications in navigation and maneuvering of underwater robots, artificial hearing systems, biomedical and microfluidic devices.

Hypercapnia attenuates ventilator-induced lung injury via a disintegrin and metalloprotease-17

PubMed Central

Otulakowski, Gail; Engelberts, Doreen; Gusarova, Galina A; Bhattacharya, Jahar; Post, Martin; Kavanagh, Brian P

2014-01-01

Hypercapnic acidosis, common in mechanically ventilated patients, has been reported to exert both beneficial and harmful effects in models of lung injury. Understanding its effects at the molecular level may provide insight into mechanisms of injury and protection. The aim of this study was to establish the effects of hypercapnic acidosis on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation, and determine the relevant signalling pathways. p44/42 MAPK activation in a murine model of ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) correlated with injury and was reduced in hypercapnia. When cultured rat alveolar epithelial cells were subjected to cyclic stretch, activation of p44/42 MAPK was dependent on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activity and on shedding of EGFR ligands; exposure to 12% CO2 without additional buffering blocked ligand shedding, as well as EGFR and p44/42 MAPK activation. The EGFR ligands are known substrates of the matrix metalloprotease ADAM17, suggesting stretch activates and hypercapnic acidosis blocks stretch-mediated activation of ADAM17. This was corroborated in the isolated perfused mouse lung, where elevated CO2 also inhibited stretch-activated shedding of the ADAM17 substrate TNFR1 from airway epithelial cells. Finally, in vivo confirmation was obtained in a two-hit murine model of VILI where pharmacological inhibition of ADAM17 reduced both injury and p44/42 MAPK activation. Thus, ADAM17 is an important proximal mediator of VILI; its inhibition is one mechanism of hypercapnic protection and may be a target for clinical therapy. PMID:25085885

Origins of the elastic behavior of nanoparticle chain aggregates: Measurements using nanostructure manipulation device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suh, Yong J.; Friedlander, Sheldon K.

2003-03-01

Nanoscale studies were conducted on the dynamic behavior of individual nanoparticle chain aggregates (NCAs) and their networks. For this purpose, device was fabricated to apply tension to NCA under controlled conditions. The device is composed of a specimen support and a cartridge. The specimen support is a deformable alloy disk with a narrow slit across which the NCAs are deposited; the cartridge is used to connect the specimen support to a specimen elongation support holder. The aggregates were stretched using the specimen holder to widen or narrow the slit gap at speeds from 0.5 to 300 nm/s and the motion was observed with a transmission electron microscope. Most of the studies were made with carbon NCA (primary particle size between 11 and 16 nm) generated by laser ablation of a graphite target. The aggregates were deposited on the specimen support (disk) to form bridges across the slit. When tension was applied, the NCA chains remained attached at the slit edges; the chains stretched as kinks on the scale of a few particle diameters were straightened by rotation and/or grain boundary sliding at particle-particle interfaces. After the chain became taut, increasing tension produced little additional extension. Eventually, the chain broke, the tension relaxed, and the elastically strained portions along the NCA recovered. This led to fast contraction of the two broken ends. In one of the cases studied in detail, a small primary particle in the chain doubled in length before the chain broke at this site. This probably occurred because of the high tensile stress in the small particle. In separate experiments, a network of carbon NCA was produced by increased deposition around the slit of a specimen support. Chains in the network broke successively as the network stretched. Some of the chains broke midway and not at the junctures with each other. They contracted fast showing behavior similar to that of the individual aggregates. Possible applications to the behavior of nanocomposite materials composed of blends of NCAs and molecular polymers (e.g., rubber) are described.

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

Zhuang, Jinda; Ju, Y. Sungtaek, E-mail: just@seas.ucla.edu

One major challenge in incorporating flexible electronics or optoelectronics on curved surfaces is the requirement of significant stretchability. We report a tunable platform for incorporating flexible and yet non-stretching device layers on a hemisphere. In this configuration, an array of planar petals contractively maps onto the surface of an inflatable hemisphere through elastocapillary interactions mediated by an interface liquid. A mechanical model is developed to elucidate the dependence of the conformality of the petal structures on their elastic modulus and thickness and the liquid surface tension. The modeling results are validated against experimental results obtained using petal structures of differentmore » thicknesses, restoring elastic spring elements of different spring constants, and liquids with different surface tension coefficients. Our platform will enable facile integration of non-stretching electronic and optoelectronic components prepared using established planar fabrication techniques on tunable hemispherical surfaces.« less

Fabrication of a stretchable solid-state micro-supercapacitor array.

PubMed

Kim, Daeil; Shin, Gunchul; Kang, Yu Jin; Kim, Woong; Ha, Jeong Sook

2013-09-24

We fabricated a stretchable micro-supercapacitor array with planar SWCNT electrodes and an ionic liquid-based triblock copolymer electrolyte. The mechanical stability of the entire supercapacitor array upon stretching was obtained by adopting strategic design concepts. First, the narrow and long serpentine metallic interconnections were encapsulated with polyimide thin film to ensure that they were within the mechanical neutral plane. Second, an array of two-dimensional planar micro-supercapacitor with SWCNT electrodes and an ion-gel-type electrolyte was made to achieve all-solid-state energy storage devices. The formed micro-supercapacitor array showed excellent performances which were stable over stretching up to 30% without any noticeable degradation. This work shows the strong potential of a stretchable micro-supercapacitor array in applications such as wearable computers, power dressing, electronic newspapers, paper-like mobile phones, and other easily collapsible gadgets.

Stretch sensors for human body motion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Brien, Ben; Gisby, Todd; Anderson, Iain A.

2014-03-01

Sensing motion of the human body is a difficult task. From an engineers' perspective people are soft highly mobile objects that move in and out of complex environments. As well as the technical challenge of sensing, concepts such as comfort, social intrusion, usability, and aesthetics are paramount in determining whether someone will adopt a sensing solution or not. At the same time the demands for human body motion sensing are growing fast. Athletes want feedback on posture and technique, consumers need new ways to interact with augmented reality devices, and healthcare providers wish to track recovery of a patient. Dielectric elastomer stretch sensors are ideal for bridging this gap. They are soft, flexible, and precise. They are low power, lightweight, and can be easily mounted on the body or embedded into clothing. From a commercialisation point of view stretch sensing is easier than actuation or generation - such sensors can be low voltage and integrated with conventional microelectronics. This paper takes a birds-eye view of the use of these sensors to measure human body motion. A holistic description of sensor operation and guidelines for sensor design will be presented to help technologists and developers in the space.

The shear flow processing of controlled DNA tethering and stretching for organic molecular electronics.

PubMed

Yu, Guihua; Kushwaha, Amit; Lee, Jungkyu K; Shaqfeh, Eric S G; Bao, Zhenan

2011-01-25

DNA has been recently explored as a powerful tool for developing molecular scaffolds for making reproducible and reliable metal contacts to single organic semiconducting molecules. A critical step in the process of exploiting DNA-organic molecule-DNA (DOD) array structures is the controlled tethering and stretching of DNA molecules. Here we report the development of reproducible surface chemistry for tethering DNA molecules at tunable density and demonstrate shear flow processing as a rationally controlled approach for stretching/aligning DNA molecules of various lengths. Through enzymatic cleavage of λ-phage DNA to yield a series of DNA chains of various lengths from 17.3 μm down to 4.2 μm, we have investigated the flow/extension behavior of these tethered DNA molecules under different flow strengths in the flow-gradient plane. We compared Brownian dynamic simulations for the flow dynamics of tethered λ-DNA in shear, and found our flow-gradient plane experimental results matched well with our bead-spring simulations. The shear flow processing demonstrated in our studies represents a controllable approach for tethering and stretching DNA molecules of various lengths. Together with further metallization of DNA chains within DOD structures, this bottom-up approach can potentially enable efficient and reliable fabrication of large-scale nanoelectronic devices based on single organic molecules, therefore opening opportunities in both fundamental understanding of charge transport at the single molecular level and many exciting applications for ever-shrinking molecular circuits.

A rhythmic motor pattern activated by circumferential stretch in guinea-pig distal colon.

PubMed

Spencer, Nick J; Hennig, Grant W; Smith, Terence K

2002-12-01

Simultaneous intracellular recordings were made from pairs of circular muscle (CM) cells, at the oral and anal ends of a segment of guinea-pig distal colon, to investigate the neuronal mechanisms underlying faecal pellet propulsion. When a minimum degree of circumferential stretch was applied to sheet preparations of colon, recordings from CM cells revealed either no ongoing junction potentials, or alternatively, small potentials usually < 5 mV in amplitude. Maintained circumferential stretch applied to these preparations evoked an ongoing discharge of excitatory junction potentials (EJPs) at the oral recording site (range: 1-25 mV), which lasted for up to 6 h. The onset of each large oral EJP was time-locked with the onset of an inhibitory junction potential (IJP) at an anal recording electrode, located 2 cm from the oral recording. Similar results were obtained in isolated intact tube preparations of colon, when recordings were made immediately oral and anal of an artificial faecal pellet. The amplitudes of many large (> 5 mV) oral EJPs were linearly related to the amplitudes of anal IJPs occurring 20 mm apart. In the absence of an L-type Ca(2+) channel blocker, action potentials occurred on each large oral EJP. Synchronized discharges of stretch-activated EJPs and IJPs were preserved following pretreatment with capsaicin (10 microM), were unaffected by nifedipine (1 microM) and did not require the mucosa or submucous plexus. EJPs and IJPs were abolished by hexamethonium (300 microM) or tetrodotoxin (1 microM), but persisted in the presence of pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2',4'-disulphonic acid (PPADS; 10 microM) or an NK(3) tachykinin receptor antagonist (Neurokinin A 4-10; 100 nM to 5 microM). In summary, maintained circumferential stretch of the distal colon activates a population of intrinsic mechanosensory neurons that generate repetitive firing of ascending excitatory and descending inhibitory pathways to CM. These mechanosensory neurons, which may be interneurons, are stretch sensitive, rather than muscle tension sensitive, since they are resistant to muscular paralysis. We suggest the synchrony in onset of oral EJPs and anal IJPs over large regions of colon is due to synchronous synaptic activation of ascending and descending interneurons.

AN ORGANOTYPIC UNIAXIAL STRAIN MODEL USING MICROFLUIDICS

PubMed Central

Dollé, Jean-Pierre; Morrison, Barclay; Schloss, Rene R.; Yarmush, Martin L.

2012-01-01

Traumatic brain injuries are the leading cause of disability each year in the US. The most common and devastating consequence is the stretching of axons caused by shear deformation that occurs during rotational acceleration of the brain during injury. The injury effects on axonal molecular and functional events are not fully characterized. We have developed a strain injury model that maintains the three dimensional cell architecture and neuronal networks found in vivo with the ability to visualize individual axons and their response to a mechanical injury. The advantage of this model is that it can apply uniaxial strains to axons that make functional connections between two organotypic slices and injury responses can be observed in real-time and over long term. This uniaxial strain model was designed to be capable of applying an array of mechanical strains at various rates of strain, thus replicating a range of modes of axonal injury. Long term culture, preservation of slice and cell orientation, and slice-slice connection on the device was demonstrated. The device has the ability to strain either individual axons or bundles of axons through the control of microchannel dimensions. The fidelity of the model was verified by observing characteristic responses to various strain injuries which included axonal beading, delayed elastic effects and breakdown in microtubules. Microtubule breakdown was shown to be dependent on the degree of the applied strain field, where maximal breakdown was observed at peak strain and minimal breakdown is observed at low strain. This strain injury model could be a powerful tool in assessing strain injury effects on functional axonal connections. PMID:23233120

Actuating materials. Voxelated liquid crystal elastomers.

PubMed

Ware, Taylor H; McConney, Michael E; Wie, Jeong Jae; Tondiglia, Vincent P; White, Timothy J

2015-02-27

Dynamic control of shape can bring multifunctionality to devices. Soft materials capable of programmable shape change require localized control of the magnitude and directionality of a mechanical response. We report the preparation of soft, ordered materials referred to as liquid crystal elastomers. The direction of molecular order, known as the director, is written within local volume elements (voxels) as small as 0.0005 cubic millimeters. Locally, the director controls the inherent mechanical response (55% strain) within the material. In monoliths with spatially patterned director, thermal or chemical stimuli transform flat sheets into three-dimensional objects through controlled bending and stretching. The programmable mechanical response of these materials could yield monolithic multifunctional devices or serve as reconfigurable substrates for flexible devices in aerospace, medicine, or consumer goods. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Mechanotransduction and the functional response of bone to mechanical strain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duncan, R. L.; Turner, C. H.

1995-01-01

Mechanotransduction plays a crucial role in the physiology of many tissues including bone. Mechanical loading can inhibit bone resorption and increase bone formation in vivo. In bone, the process of mechanotransduction can be divided into four distinct steps: (1) mechanocoupling, (2) biochemical coupling, (3) transmission of signal, and (4) effector cell response. In mechanocoupling, mechanical loads in vivo cause deformations in bone that stretch bone cells within and lining the bone matrix and create fluid movement within the canaliculae of bone. Dynamic loading, which is associated with extracellular fluid flow and the creation of streaming potentials within bone, is most effective for stimulating new bone formation in vivo. Bone cells in vitro are stimulated to produce second messengers when exposed to fluid flow or mechanical stretch. In biochemical coupling, the possible mechanisms for the coupling of cell-level mechanical signals into intracellular biochemical signals include force transduction through the integrin-cytoskeleton-nuclear matrix structure, stretch-activated cation channels within the cell membrane, G protein-dependent pathways, and linkage between the cytoskeleton and the phospholipase C or phospholipase A pathways. The tight interaction of each of these pathways would suggest that the entire cell is a mechanosensor and there are many different pathways available for the transduction of a mechanical signal. In the transmission of signal, osteoblasts, osteocytes, and bone lining cells may act as sensors of mechanical signals and may communicate the signal through cell processes connected by gap junctions. These cells also produce paracrine factors that may signal osteoprogenitors to differentiate into osteoblasts and attach to the bone surface. Insulin-like growth factors and prostaglandins are possible candidates for intermediaries in signal transduction. In the effector cell response, the effects of mechanical loading are dependent upon the magnitude, duration, and rate of the applied load. Longer duration, lower amplitude loading has the same effect on bone formation as loads with short duration and high amplitude. Loading must be cyclic to stimulate new bone formation. Aging greatly reduces the osteogenic effects of mechanical loading in vivo. Also, some hormones may interact with local mechanical signals to change the sensitivity of the sensor or effector cells to mechanical load.

Morphological differences in coronary arteries following rotational atherectomy versus balloon angioplasty: ultrasound and angioscopic observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bass, Theodore A.; Gilmore, Paul S.; White, Christopher J.; Chami, Youssef G.; Kircher, Barbara J.; Conetta, Donald A.

1993-09-01

Percutaneous transluminal coronary rotational atherectomy (PTCRA) is an exciting new device to recannulate obstructed coronary arteries. This device works as a high speed `drill,' selectively cutting hard atherosclerotic plaque while preferentially sparing the softer, less diseased vascular luminal surface. At speeds as high as 200,000 rpm the plaque is pulverized into small particles easily handled by the circulatory system with no untoward clinical sequela. Balloon angioplasty does not remove atherosclerotic plaque. It dilates the vessel by mechanically stretching, compressing and splitting the plaque and vessel lining. We compare morphological and surface luminal characteristics of vessels post PTCRA to vessels post PTCA.

In vitro study on bone formation and surface topography from the standpoint of biomechanics.

PubMed

Kawahara, H; Soeda, Y; Niwa, K; Takahashi, M; Kawahara, D; Araki, N

2004-12-01

Effect of surface topography upon cell-adhesion, -orientation and -differentiation was investigated by in vitro study on cellular responses to titanium substratum with different surface roughness. Cell-shape, -function and -differentiation depending upon the surface topography were clarified by use of bone formative group cells (BFGCs) derived from bone marrow of beagle's femur. BFGCs consisted of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) and osteogenetic stem cells (OSC). Cell differentiation of BFGCs was expressed and promoted by structural changes of cytoskeleton, and cell-organella, which was caused by mechanical stress with cytoplasmic stretching of cell adhesions to the substratum. Phagocytic monocytes of HSC differentiated to osteomediator cells (OMC) by cytoplasmic stretching with cell adhesion to the substratum. The OMC mediated and promoted cell differentiation from OSC to osteoblast through osteoblastic phenotype cell (OBC) by cell-aggregation of nodules with "pile up" phenomenon of OBC onto OMC. The osteogenesis might be performed by coupling work of both cells, OMC originated from monocyte of HSC and OBC originated from OSC, which were explained by SEM, TEM and fluorescent probe investigation on BFGCs on the test plate of cp titanium plates with different topographies. This osteogenetic process was proved by investigating cell proliferation, DNA contents, cell-adhesion, alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcine productivity for cells on the titanium plates with different topographies. The study showed increased osteogenic effects for cells cultured on Ti with increased surface roughness. Possible mechanisms were discussed from a biomechanical perspective.

Mechanical stimulation of skeletal muscle increases prostaglandin F2(alpha) synthesis and cyclooxygenase activity by a pertussis toxin sensitive mechanism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vandenburgh, Herman H.; Shansky, Janet; Solerssi, Rosa; Chromiak, Joseph

1992-01-01

Repetitive mechanical stimulation of differentiated skeletal muscle in tissue culture increases the production of prostaglandin F(sub 2(alpha)), an anabolic stimulator of myofiber growth. Within 4 h of initiating mechanical activity, the activity of cyclooxygenase, a regulatory enzyme in prostaglandin synthesis, was increased 82% (P is less than .005), and this increase was maintained for at least 24 h. Kinetic analysis of the stretch-activated cyclooxygenase indicated a two to three-fold decrease in the enzyme's K(sub m) with no change in V(sub max). The stretch-induced increase in enzymatic activity was not inhibited by cycloheximide, was independent of cellular electrical activity (tetrodotoxin-insensitive), but was prevented by the G protein inhibitor pertussis toxin. Pertussis toxin also inhibited the stretch-induced increases in PGF(sub 2(alpha)) production, and cell growth. It is concluded that stretch of skeletal muscle increases the synthesis of the anabolic modulator PGF(sub 2(alpha)) by a G protein-dependent process which involves activation of cyclooxygenase by a posttranslational mechanism.

Viscoelastic deformation of lipid bilayer vesicles.

PubMed

Wu, Shao-Hua; Sankhagowit, Shalene; Biswas, Roshni; Wu, Shuyang; Povinelli, Michelle L; Malmstadt, Noah

2015-10-07

Lipid bilayers form the boundaries of the cell and its organelles. Many physiological processes, such as cell movement and division, involve bending and folding of the bilayer at high curvatures. Currently, bending of the bilayer is treated as an elastic deformation, such that its stress-strain response is independent of the rate at which bending strain is applied. We present here the first direct measurement of viscoelastic response in a lipid bilayer vesicle. We used a dual-beam optical trap (DBOT) to stretch 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). Upon application of a step optical force, the vesicle membrane deforms in two regimes: a fast, instantaneous area increase, followed by a much slower stretching to an eventual plateau deformation. From measurements of dozens of GUVs, the average time constant of the slower stretching response was 0.225 ± 0.033 s (standard deviation, SD). Increasing the fluid viscosity did not affect the observed time constant. We performed a set of experiments to rule out heating by laser absorption as a cause of the transient behavior. Thus, we demonstrate here that the bending deformation of lipid bilayer membranes should be treated as viscoelastic.

Viscoelastic deformation of lipid bilayer vesicles†

PubMed Central

Wu, Shao-Hua; Sankhagowit, Shalene; Biswas, Roshni; Wu, Shuyang; Povinelli, Michelle L.

2015-01-01

Lipid bilayers form the boundaries of the cell and its organelles. Many physiological processes, such as cell movement and division, involve bending and folding of the bilayer at high curvatures. Currently, bending of the bilayer is treated as an elastic deformation, such that its stress-strain response is independent of the rate at which bending strain is applied. We present here the first direct measurement of viscoelastic response in a lipid bilayer vesicle. We used a dual-beam optical trap (DBOT) to stretch 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). Upon application of a step optical force, the vesicle membrane deforms in two regimes: a fast, instantaneous area increase, followed by a much slower stretching to an eventual plateau deformation. From measurements of dozens of GUVs, the average time constant of the slower stretching response was 0.225 ± 0.033 s (standard deviation, SD). Increasing the fluid viscosity did not affect the observed time constant. We performed a set of experiments to rule out heating by laser absorption as a cause of the transient behavior. Thus, we demonstrate here that the bending deformation of lipid bilayer membranes should be treated as viscoelastic. PMID:26268612

Ciliary metachronal wave propagation on the compliant surface of Paramecium cells.

PubMed

Narematsu, Naoki; Quek, Raymond; Chiam, Keng-Hwee; Iwadate, Yoshiaki

2015-12-01

Ciliary movements in protozoa exhibit metachronal wave-like coordination, in which a constant phase difference is maintained between adjacent cilia. It is at present generally thought that metachronal waves require hydrodynamic coupling between adjacent cilia and the extracellular fluid. To test this hypothesis, we aspirated a Paramecium cell using a micropipette which completely sealed the surface of the cell such that no fluid could pass through the micropipette. Thus, the anterior and the posterior regions of the cell were hydrodynamically decoupled. Nevertheless, we still observed that metachronal waves continued to propagate from the anterior to the posterior ends of the cell, suggesting that in addition to hydrodynamic coupling, there are other mechanisms that can also transmit the metachronal waves. Such transmission was also observed in computational modeling where the fluid was fully decoupled between two partitions of a beating ciliary array. We also imposed cyclic stretching on the surface of live Paramecium cells and found that metachronal waves persisted in the presence of cyclic stretching. This demonstrated that, in addition to hydrodynamic coupling, a compliant substrate can also play a critical role in mediating the propagation of metachronal waves. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Metabolic alterations induced in cultured skeletal muscle by stretch-relaxation activity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hatfaludy, Sophia; Shansky, Janet; Vandenburgh, Herman H.

1989-01-01

Muscle cells differentiated in vitro are repetitively stretched and relaxed in order to determine the presence of short- and long-term alterations occurring in glucose uptake and lactate efflux that are similar to the metabolic alterations occurring in stimulated organ-cultured muscle and in vivo skeletal muscle during the active state. It is observed that whereas mechanical stimulation increases these metabolic parameters within 4-6 h of starting activity, unstimulated basal rates in control cultures also increase during this period of time, and by 8 h, their rates have reached or exceeded the rates in continuously stimulated cells. Measurements of these parameters in media of different compositions show that activity-induced long-term alterations in the parameters occur independently of growth factors in serium and embryo extracts.

Magnetophoresis of flexible DNA-based dumbbell structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babić, B.; Ghai, R.; Dimitrov, K.

2008-02-01

Controlled movement and manipulation of magnetic micro- and nanostructures using magnetic forces can give rise to important applications in biomedecine, diagnostics, and immunology. We report controlled magnetophoresis and stretching, in aqueous solution, of a DNA-based dumbbell structure containing magnetic and diamagnetic microspheres. The velocity and stretching of the dumbbell were experimentally measured and correlated with a theoretical model based on the forces acting on individual magnetic beads or the entire dumbbell structures. The results show that precise and predictable manipulation of dumbbell structures is achievable and can potentially be applied to immunomagnetic cell separators.

Dielectric elastomer actuator for mechanical loading of 2D cell cultures.

PubMed

Poulin, Alexandre; Saygili Demir, Cansaran; Rosset, Samuel; Petrova, Tatiana V; Shea, Herbert

2016-09-21

We demonstrate the use of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) for mechanical stimulation of cells in vitro. The development of living tissues is regulated by their mechanical environment through the modification of fundamental cellular functions such as proliferation, differentiation and gene expression. Mechanical cues have been linked to numerous pathological conditions, and progress in cellular mechanobiology could lead to better diagnosis and treatments of diseases such as atherosclerosis and cancers. Research in this field heavily relies on in vitro models due to the high complexity of the in vivo environment. Current in vitro models however build on bulky and often complex sets of mechanical motors or pneumatic systems. In this work we present an alternative approach based on DEAs, a class of soft actuators capable of large deformation (>100%) and fast response time (<1 ms). The key advantage of DEAs is that they can be integrated within the culture substrate, therefore providing a very compact solution. Here we present a DEA-based deformable bioreactor which can generate up to 35% uniaxial tensile strain, and is compatible with standard cell culture protocols. Our transparent device also includes a static control area, and enables real-time optical monitoring of both the stimulated and control cell populations. As a proof of concept we cycled a population of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) between 0% and 10% strain at a 0.1 Hz frequency for 24 h. We observe stretch-induced alignment and elongation of LECs, providing the first demonstration that DEAs can be interfaced with living cells and used to control their mechanical environment.

High-throughput label-free detection of aggregate platelets with optofluidic time-stretch microscopy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Yiyue; Lei, Cheng; Yasumoto, Atsushi; Ito, Takuro; Guo, Baoshan; Kobayashi, Hirofumi; Ozeki, Yasuyuki; Yatomi, Yutaka; Goda, Keisuke

2017-02-01

According to WHO, approximately 10 million new cases of thrombotic disorders are diagnosed worldwide every year. In the U.S. and Europe, their related diseases kill more people than those from AIDS, prostate cancer, breast cancer and motor vehicle accidents combined. Although thrombotic disorders, especially arterial ones, mainly result from enhanced platelet aggregability in the vascular system, visual detection of platelet aggregates in vivo is not employed in clinical settings. Here we present a high-throughput label-free platelet aggregate detection method, aiming at the diagnosis and monitoring of thrombotic disorders in clinical settings. With optofluidic time-stretch microscopy with a spatial resolution of 780 nm and an ultrahigh linear scanning rate of 75 MHz, it is capable of detecting aggregated platelets in lysed blood which flows through a hydrodynamic-focusing microfluidic device at a high throughput of 10,000 particles/s. With digital image processing and statistical analysis, we are able to distinguish them from single platelets and other blood cells via morphological features. The detection results are compared with results of fluorescence-based detection (which is slow and inaccurate, but established). Our results indicate that the method holds promise for real-time, low-cost, label-free, and minimally invasive detection of platelet aggregates, which is potentially applicable to detection of platelet aggregates in vivo and to the diagnosis and monitoring of thrombotic disorders in clinical settings. This technique, if introduced clinically, may provide important clinical information in addition to that obtained by conventional techniques for thrombotic disorder diagnosis, including ex vivo platelet aggregation tests.

Capsulorhexis ovaling and capsular bag stretch after rigid and foldable intraocular lens implantation: experimental study in pediatric human eyes.

PubMed

Pandey, Suresh K; Werner, Liliana; Wilson, M Edward; Izak, Andrea M; Apple, David J

2004-10-01

To compare the amount of capsulorhexis ovaling and capsular bag stretch produced by various intraocular lenses (IOLs) implanted in pediatric human eyes obtained post-mortem. David J. Apple, MD Laboratories for Ophthalmic Devices Research, John A. Moran Eye Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. In this nonrandomized comparative study, 16 pediatric human eyes obtained postmortem were divided into 2 groups: Eight eyes were obtained from children younger than 2 years (Group A), and 8 eyes were obtained from children older than 2 years (Group B). All eyes were prepared according to the Miyake-Apple posterior video technique. Six types of rigid and foldable posterior chamber IOLs manufactured from poly(methyl methacrylate) (single-piece), silicone (plate and loop haptics), and hydrophobic acrylic (single-piece and 3-piece AcrySof, Alcon Laboratories) biomaterials were implanted. The capsulorhexis opening and capsular bag diameters were measured before IOL implantation and after in-the-bag IOL fixation with the haptics (or the main axis) at the 3 to 9 o'clock meridian. The percentage of ovaling of the capsulorhexis opening was calculated by noting the difference in the opening's horizontal diameter before and after IOL implantation. The percentage of capsular bag stretch was also calculated by noting the difference in the horizontal capsular bag diameter before and after IOL implantation. All IOLs produced ovaling of the capsulorhexis opening and stretching of the capsular bag parallel to the IOL haptics. There were significant differences in capsulorhexis ovaling and capsular bag stretch (P<.001, analysis of variance) between the 6 IOL types in each group of eyes. The postimplantation difference was significant only between the single-piece hydrophobic acrylic IOL (AcrySof) and the other IOLs. The single-piece hydrophobic acrylic IOL was associated with significantly less capsulorhexis ovaling and capsular bag stretch in both groups (mean 12.06% +/- 0.59% [SD] and 7.6% +/- 1.47%, respectively). Modern rigid and foldable IOLs designed for the adult population implanted in the capsular bag of infants and children produced variable degrees of capsulorhexis ovaling and capsular bag stretch. The Miyake-Apple posterior video technique confirmed the well-maintained configuration of the capsular bag (with minimal ovaling) after implantation of a single-piece hydrophobic acrylic IOL because of its flexible haptic design.

Investigation of Analog Photonic Link Technology for Timing and Metrological Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-18

same model bias tee in each case. Fig. 1.8: Measured residual single-sideband (SSB) phase noise for two amplifiers with various RF pads at...deflection at the AO output. The deflected signal is reflected onto a tilted diffraction grating and passed backed through the device to the output...Other TTD modulation mechanisms have been considered including fiber stretches (mechanical and piezoelectric ), electro-optic modulators (i.e

Stretchable, Weavable Coiled Carbon Nanotube/MnO2/Polymer Fiber Solid-State Supercapacitors

PubMed Central

Choi, Changsoon; Kim, Shi Hyeong; Sim, Hyeon Jun; Lee, Jae Ah; Choi, A Young; Kim, Youn Tae; Lepró, Xavier; Spinks, Geoffrey M.; Baughman, Ray H.; Kim, Seon Jeong

2015-01-01

Fiber and yarn supercapacitors that are elastomerically deformable without performance loss are sought for such applications as power sources for wearable electronics, micro-devices, and implantable medical devices. Previously reported yarn and fiber supercapacitors are expensive to fabricate, difficult to upscale, or non-stretchable, which limits possible use. The elastomeric electrodes of the present solid-state supercapacitors are made by using giant inserted twist to coil a nylon sewing thread that is helically wrapped with a carbon nanotube sheet, and then electrochemically depositing pseudocapacitive MnO2 nanofibers. These solid-state supercapacitors decrease capacitance by less than 15% when reversibly stretched by 150% in the fiber direction, and largely retain capacitance while being cyclically stretched during charge and discharge. The maximum linear and areal capacitances (based on active materials) and areal energy storage and power densities (based on overall supercapacitor dimensions) are high (5.4 mF/cm, 40.9 mF/cm2, 2.6 μWh/cm2 and 66.9 μW/cm2, respectively), despite the engineered superelasticity of the fiber supercapacitor. Retention of supercapacitor performance during large strain (50%) elastic deformation is demonstrated for supercapacitors incorporated into the wristband of a glove. PMID:25797351

Improved Resolution Optical Time Stretch Imaging Based on High Efficiency In-Fiber Diffraction.

PubMed

Wang, Guoqing; Yan, Zhijun; Yang, Lei; Zhang, Lin; Wang, Chao

2018-01-12

Most overlooked challenges in ultrafast optical time stretch imaging (OTSI) are sacrificed spatial resolution and higher optical loss. These challenges are originated from optical diffraction devices used in OTSI, which encode image into spectra of ultrashort optical pulses. Conventional free-space diffraction gratings, as widely used in existing OTSI systems, suffer from several inherent drawbacks: limited diffraction efficiency in a non-Littrow configuration due to inherent zeroth-order reflection, high coupling loss between free-space gratings and optical fibers, bulky footprint, and more importantly, sacrificed imaging resolution due to non-full-aperture illumination for individual wavelengths. Here we report resolution-improved and diffraction-efficient OTSI using in-fiber diffraction for the first time to our knowledge. The key to overcome the existing challenges is a 45° tilted fiber grating (TFG), which serves as a compact in-fiber diffraction device offering improved diffraction efficiency (up to 97%), inherent compatibility with optical fibers, and improved imaging resolution owning to almost full-aperture illumination for all illumination wavelengths. 50 million frames per second imaging of fast moving object at 46 m/s with improved imaging resolution has been demonstrated. This conceptually new in-fiber diffraction design opens the way towards cost-effective, compact and high-resolution OTSI systems for image-based high-throughput detection and measurement.

Stretch-Enhancers Delineate Disease-Associated Regulatory Nodes in T Cells

PubMed Central

Vahedi, Golnaz; Kanno, Yuka; Furumoto, Yasuko; Jiang, Kan; Parker, Stephen C.; Erdos, Michael; Davis, Sean R.; Roychoudhuri, Rahul; Restifo, Nicholas P.; Gadina, Massimo; Tang, Zhonghui; Ruan, Yijun; Collins, Francis S.; Sartorelli, Vittorio; O’Shea, John J.

2014-01-01

Enhancers regulate spatiotemporal gene expression and impart cell-specific transcriptional outputs that drive cell identity1. Stretch- or super-enhancers (SEs) are a subset of enhancers especially important for genes associated with cell identity and genetic risk of disease2,3,4,5,6. CD4+ T cells are critical for host defense and autoimmunity. Herein, we analyzed maps of T cell SEs as a non-biased means of identifying key regulatory nodes involved in cell specification. We found that cytokines and cytokine receptors were the dominant class of genes exhibiting SE architecture in T cells. This notwithstanding, the locus encoding Bach2, a key negative regulator of effector differentiation, emerged as the most prominent T cell SE, revealing a network wherein SE-associated genes critical for T cell biology are repressed by BACH2. Disease-associated SNPs for immune-mediated disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), were highly enriched for T cell-SEs versus typical enhancers (TEs) or SEs in other cell lineages7. Intriguingly, treatment of T cells with the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, tofacitinib, disproportionately altered the expression of RA risk genes with SE structures. Together, these results indicate that genes with SE architecture in T cells encompass a variety of cytokines and cytokine receptors but are controlled by a “guardian” transcription factor, itself endowed with an SE. Thus, enumeration of SEs allows unbiased determination of key regulatory nodes in T cells, which are preferentially modulated by pharmacological intervention. PMID:25686607

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect with amplatzer septal occluder in adults: immediate, short, and intermediate-term results.

PubMed

Behjati, Mostafa; Rafiei, Mansour; Soltani, Mohammad Hossein; Emami, Mahmoud; Dehghani, Majid

2011-01-01

The transcatheter closure of the atrial septal defect (ASD) has become an alternative technique to surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to assess the immediate, short, and intermediate-term results of the transcatheter closure of the secundum ASD with the Amplatzer Septal Occluder (ASO) in adult Iranian patients. Between December 2004 and July 2008, the transcatheter closure of the ASD using the ASO was attempted in 58 consecutive, adult patients. The mean age of the patients was 37.1 ± 12.7 years (range = 19 - 75 years). All the procedures were performed under local anesthesia with transthoracic or transesophageal echocardiography and fluoroscopic guidance. The stretched diameter of the ASD was determined with a balloon sizing catheter, and device selection was based on and matched to the stretched diameter of the septal defect. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed immediately after the release of the device and before discharge. Further follow-up at one month, six months, and yearly thereafter included physical examination, electrocardiography, and transthoracic echocardiography. The mean ASD diameter, as measured by esophageal echocardiography, was 24.8 ± 5.4 mm (range = 13 - 34 mm). The mean stretched diameter, as measured by the balloon catheter, was 27.1 ± 6.4 mm (range = 12.5 - 39 mm). Deployment of the ASO was successful in 52 (89.6%) patients and failed in 6 (10.4%). Four patients experienced severe complications, 1 had tamponade requiring drainage, 2 had device embolization to the left atrium and right ventricular outflow tract, and 1 had late wire fracture (surgical removal and repair of the ASD). The position of two large devices (34 mm and 36 mm) was considered unsuitable and unstable after implantation and resulted in the removal of these devices. Minor complications included transient complete atrioventricular block in 1 patient, paroxysmal supra tachycardia in 3 patients, atrial flutter in 1 patient, and angina pectoris with transient ST elevation in 2 patients. The mean follow-up period was 32.5 ± 18.5 months. Echocardiography at 24 hours, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months after the procedure showed residual shunts in 11 (21%), 3 (5.8%), 2 (3.8%), and 2 (3.8%) patients, respectively. At follow-up (12.8 months to 48.5 months, mean ± SD = 32.5 ± 18.5 months), complete closure was documented in 50 (96.2 %) of the 52 cases. At the end of the follow-up, 2 (3.8%) patients had residual shunts: The shunt was moderate in 1 (1.9%) patient and small in the other (1.9%). The overall success rate of the transcatheter closure of the ASD was 86% (50 of 58 cases). The transcatheter closure of the secundum ASD in our adult patient population using the ASO was associated with high degrees of success, minimal procedural complication rates, and excellent short and midterm results. The use of this device, however, requires thorough attention in that the procedure may be ineffective or the device may embolize. Further experience and long-term follow-up are required before a widespread clinical use can be recommended.

Medial gastrocnemius muscle stiffness cannot explain the increased ankle joint range of motion following passive stretching in children with cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Kalkman, Barbara M; Bar-On, Lynn; Cenni, Francesco; Maganaris, Constantinos N; Bass, Alfie; Holmes, Gill; Desloovere, Kaat; Barton, Gabor J; O'Brien, Thomas D

2018-03-01

What is the central question of this study? Can the increased range of motion seen acutely after stretching in children with cerebral palsy be explained by changes in the stiffness of the medial gastrocnemius fascicles? What is the main finding and its importance? We show, for the first time, that passive muscle and tendon properties are not changed acutely after a single bout of stretching in children with cerebral palsy and, therefore, do not contribute to the increase in range of motion. This contradicts common belief and what happens in healthy adults. Stretching is often used to increase or maintain the joint range of motion (ROM) in children with cerebral palsy (CP), but the effectiveness of these interventions is limited. Therefore, our aim was to determine the acute changes in muscle-tendon lengthening properties that contribute to increased ROM after a bout of stretching in children with CP. Eleven children with spastic CP [age 12.1 (3 SD) years, 5/6 hemiplegia/diplegia, 7/4 gross motor function classification system level I/II] participated. Each child received three sets of five × 20 s passive, manual static dorsiflexion stretches separated by 30 s rest, with 60 s rest between sets. Before and immediately after stretching, ultrasound was used to measure medial gastrocnemius fascicle lengthening continuously over the full ROM and an individual common ROM pre- to post-stretching. Simultaneously, three-dimensional motion of two marker clusters on the shank and the foot was captured to calculate ankle angle, and ankle joint torque was calculated from manually applied torques and forces on a six degrees-of-freedom load cell. After stretching, the ROM was increased [by 9.9 (12.0) deg, P = 0.005]. Over a ROM common to both pre- and post-measurements, there were no changes in fascicle lengthening or torque. The maximal ankle joint torque tolerated by the participants increased [by 2.9 (2.4) N m, P = 0.003], and at this highest passive torque the maximal fascicle length was 2.8 (2.4) mm greater (P = 0.009) when compared with before stretching. These results indicate that the stiffness of the muscle fascicles in children with CP remains unaltered by an acute bout of stretching. © 2017 The Authors. Experimental Physiology © 2017 The Physiological Society.

Multi-scale and multi-physics model of the uterine smooth muscle with mechanotransduction.

PubMed

Yochum, Maxime; Laforêt, Jérémy; Marque, Catherine

2018-02-01

Preterm labor is an important public health problem. However, the efficiency of the uterine muscle during labor is complex and still poorly understood. This work is a first step towards a model of the uterine muscle, including its electrical and mechanical components, to reach a better understanding of the uterus synchronization. This model is proposed to investigate, by simulation, the possible role of mechanotransduction for the global synchronization of the uterus. The electrical diffusion indeed explains the local propagation of contractile activity, while the tissue stretching may play a role in the synchronization of distant parts of the uterine muscle. This work proposes a multi-physics (electrical, mechanical) and multi-scales (cell, tissue, whole uterus) model, which is applied to a realistic uterus 3D mesh. This model includes electrical components at different scales: generation of action potentials at the cell level, electrical diffusion at the tissue level. It then links these electrical events to the mechanical behavior, at the cellular level (via the intracellular calcium concentration), by simulating the force generated by each active cell. It thus computes an estimation of the intra uterine pressure (IUP) by integrating the forces generated by each active cell at the whole uterine level, as well as the stretching of the tissue (by using a viscoelastic law for the behavior of the tissue). It finally includes at the cellular level stretch activated channels (SACs) that permit to create a loop between the mechanical and the electrical behavior (mechanotransduction). The simulation of different activated regions of the uterus, which in this first "proof of concept" case are electrically isolated, permits the activation of inactive regions through the stretching (induced by the electrically active regions) computed at the whole organ scale. This permits us to evidence the role of the mechanotransduction in the global synchronization of the uterus. The results also permit us to evidence the effect on IUP of this enhanced synchronization induced by the presence of SACs. This proposed simplified model will be further improved in order to permit a better understanding of the global uterine synchronization occurring during efficient labor contractions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Stretching single fibrin fibers hampers their lysis.

PubMed

Li, Wei; Lucioni, Tomas; Li, Rongzhong; Bonin, Keith; Cho, Samuel S; Guthold, Martin

2017-09-15

Blood clots, whose main structural component is a mesh of microscopic fibrin fibers, experience mechanical strain from blood flow, clot retraction and interactions with platelets and other cells. We developed a transparent, striated and highly stretchable substrate made from fugitive glue (a styrenic block copolymer) to investigate how mechanical strain affects lysis of single, suspended fibrin fibers. In this suspended fiber assay, lysis manifested itself by fiber elongation, thickening (disassembly), fraying and collapse. Stretching single fibrin fibers significantly hampered their lysis. This effect was seen in uncrosslinked and crosslinked fibers. Crosslinking (without stretching) also hampered single fiber lysis. Our data suggest that strain is a novel mechanosensitive factor that regulates blood clot dissolution (fibrinolysis) at the single fiber level. At the molecular level of single fibrin molecules, strain may distort, or hinder access to, plasmin cleavage sites and thereby hamper lysis. Fibrin fibers are the major structural component of a blood clot. We developed a highly stretchable substrate made from fugitive glue and a suspended fibrin fiber lysis assay to investigate the effect of stretching on single fibrin fibers lysis. The key findings from our experiments are: 1) Fibers thicken and elongate upon lysis; 2) stretching strongly reduces lysis; 3) this effect is more pronounced for uncrosslinked fibers; and 4) stretching fibers has a similar effect on reducing lysis as crosslinking fibers. At the molecular level, strain may distort plasmin cleavage sites, or restrict access to those sites. Our results suggest that strain may be a novel mechanobiological factor that regulates fibrinolysis. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design considerations and challenges for mechanical stretch bioreactors in tissue engineering.

PubMed

Lei, Ying; Ferdous, Zannatul

2016-05-01

With the increase in average life expectancy and growing aging population, lack of functional grafts for replacement surgeries has become a severe problem. Engineered tissues are a promising alternative to this problem because they can mimic the physiological function of the native tissues and be cultured on demand. Cyclic stretch is important for developing many engineered tissues such as hearts, heart valves, muscles, and bones. Thus a variety of stretch bioreactors and corresponding scaffolds have been designed and tested to study the underlying mechanism of tissue formation and to optimize the mechanical conditions applied to the engineered tissues. In this review, we look at various designs of stretch bioreactors and common scaffolds and offer insights for future improvements in tissue engineering applications. First, we summarize the requirements and common configuration of stretch bioreactors. Next, we present the features of different actuating and motion transforming systems and their applications. Since most bioreactors must measure detailed distributions of loads and deformations on engineered tissues, techniques with high accuracy, precision, and frequency have been developed. We also cover the key points in designing culture chambers, nutrition exchanging systems, and regimens used for specific tissues. Since scaffolds are essential for providing biophysical microenvironments for residing cells, we discuss materials and technologies used in fabricating scaffolds to mimic anisotropic native tissues, including decellularized tissues, hydrogels, biocompatible polymers, electrospinning, and 3D bioprinting techniques. Finally, we present the potential future directions for improving stretch bioreactors and scaffolds. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 32:543-553, 2016. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Mechanical regulation of stem-cell differentiation by the stretch-activated Piezo channel.

PubMed

He, Li; Si, Guangwei; Huang, Jiuhong; Samuel, Aravinthan D T; Perrimon, Norbert

2018-03-01

Somatic stem cells constantly adjust their self-renewal and lineage commitment by integrating various environmental cues to maintain tissue homeostasis. Although numerous chemical and biological signals have been identified that regulate stem-cell behaviour, whether stem cells can directly sense mechanical signals in vivo remains unclear. Here we show that mechanical stress regulates stem-cell differentiation in the adult Drosophila midgut through the stretch-activated ion channel Piezo. We find that Piezo is specifically expressed in previously unidentified enteroendocrine precursor cells, which have reduced proliferation ability and are destined to become enteroendocrine cells. Loss of Piezo activity reduces the generation of enteroendocrine cells in the adult midgut. In addition, ectopic expression of Piezo in all stem cells triggers both cell proliferation and enteroendocrine cell differentiation. Both the Piezo mutant and overexpression phenotypes can be rescued by manipulation of cytosolic Ca 2+ levels, and increases in cytosolic Ca 2+ resemble the Piezo overexpression phenotype, suggesting that Piezo functions through Ca 2+ signalling. Further studies suggest that Ca 2+ signalling promotes stem-cell proliferation and differentiation through separate pathways. Finally, Piezo is required for both mechanical activation of stem cells in a gut expansion assay and the increase of cytosolic Ca 2+ in response to direct mechanical stimulus in a gut compression assay. Thus, our study demonstrates the existence of a specific group of stem cells in the fly midgut that can directly sense mechanical signals through Piezo.

Comparison of the Single Molecule Dynamics of Linear and Circular DNAs in Planar Extensional Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yanfei; Hsiao, Kai-Wen; Brockman, Christopher; Yates, Daniel; McKenna, Gregory; Schroeder, Charles; San Francisco, Michael; Kornfield, Julie; Anderson, Rae

2015-03-01

Chain topology has a profound impact on the flow behaviors of single macromolecules. The absence of free ends separates circular polymers from other chain architectures, i.e., linear, star, and branched. In the present work, we study the single chain dynamics of large circular and linear DNA molecules by comparing the relaxation dynamics, steady state coil-stretch transition, and transient molecular individualism behaviors for the two types of macromolecules. To this end, large circular DNA molecules were biologically synthesized and studied in a microfluidic device that has a cross-slot geometry to develop a stagnation point extensional flow. Although the relaxation time of rings scales in the same way as for the linear analog, the circular polymers show quantitatively different behaviors in the steady state extension and qualitatively different behaviors during a transient stretch. The existence of some commonality between these two topologies is proposed. Texas Tech University John R. Bradford Endowment.

A road to practical dielectric elastomer actuators based robotics and mechatronics: discrete actuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plante, Jean-Sébastien; Devita, Lauren M.; Dubowsky, Steven

2007-04-01

Fundamental studies of Dielectric Elastomer Actuators (DEAs) using viscoelastic materials such as VHB 4905/4910 from 3M showed significant advantages at high stretch rates. The film's viscous forces increase actuator life and the short power-on times minimize energy losses through current leakage. This paper presents a design paradigm that exploits these fundamental properties of DEAs called discrete actuation. Discrete actuation uses DEAs at high stretch rates to change the states of robotic or mechatronic systems in discrete steps. Each state of the system is stable and can be maintained without actuator power. Discrete actuation can be used in robotic and mechatronic applications such as manipulation and locomotion. The resolution of such systems increases with the number of discrete states, 10 to 100 being sufficient for many applications. An MRI-guided needle positioning device for cancer treatments and a space exploration robot using hopping for locomotion are presented as examples of this concept.

Stretchable electronics based on Ag-PDMS composites

PubMed Central

Larmagnac, Alexandre; Eggenberger, Samuel; Janossy, Hanna; Vörös, Janos

2014-01-01

Patterned structures of flexible, stretchable, electrically conductive materials on soft substrates could lead to novel electronic devices with unique mechanical properties allowing them to bend, fold, stretch or conform to their environment. For the last decade, research on improving the stretchability of circuits on elastomeric substrates has made significant progresses but designing printed circuit assemblies on elastomers remains challenging. Here we present a simple, cost-effective, cleanroom-free process to produce large scale soft electronic hardware where standard surface-mounted electrical components were directly bonded onto all-elastomeric printed circuit boards, or soft PCBs. Ag-PDMS tracks were stencil printed onto a PDMS substrate and soft PCBs were made by bonding the top and bottom layers together and filling punched holes with Ag-PDMS to create vias. Silver epoxy was used to bond commercial electrical components and no mechanical failure was observed after hundreds of stretching cycles. We also demonstrate the fabrication of a stretchable clock generator. PMID:25434843

A biomechanical model for fibril recruitment: Evaluation in tendons and arteries.

PubMed

Bevan, Tim; Merabet, Nadege; Hornsby, Jack; Watton, Paul N; Thompson, Mark S

2018-06-06

Simulations of soft tissue mechanobiological behaviour are increasingly important for clinical prediction of aneurysm, tendinopathy and other disorders. Mechanical behaviour at low stretches is governed by fibril straightening, transitioning into load-bearing at recruitment stretch, resulting in a tissue stiffening effect. Previous investigations have suggested theoretical relationships between stress-stretch measurements and recruitment probability density function (PDF) but not derived these rigorously nor evaluated these experimentally. Other work has proposed image-based methods for measurement of recruitment but made use of arbitrary fibril critical straightness parameters. The aim of this work was to provide a sound theoretical basis for estimating recruitment PDF from stress-stretch measurements and to evaluate this relationship using image-based methods, clearly motivating the choice of fibril critical straightness parameter in rat tail tendon and porcine artery. Rigorous derivation showed that the recruitment PDF may be estimated from the second stretch derivative of the first Piola-Kirchoff tissue stress. Image-based fibril recruitment identified the fibril straightness parameter that maximised Pearson correlation coefficients (PCC) with estimated PDFs. Using these critical straightness parameters the new method for estimating recruitment PDF showed a PCC with image-based measures of 0.915 and 0.933 for tendons and arteries respectively. This method may be used for accurate estimation of fibril recruitment PDF in mechanobiological simulation where fibril-level mechanical parameters are important for predicting cell behaviour. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Studying Mechanosensitivity of Two-Pore Domain K+ Channels in Cellular and Reconstituted Proteoliposome Membranes.

PubMed

Del Mármol, Josefina; Rietmeijer, Robert A; Brohawn, Stephen G

2018-01-01

Mechanical force sensation is fundamental to a wide breadth of biology from the classic senses of touch, pain, hearing, and balance to less conspicuous sensations of proprioception, blood pressure, and osmolarity and basic aspects of cell growth, differentiation, and development. These diverse and essential systems use force-gated (or mechanosensitive) ion channels that convert mechanical stimuli into cellular electrical signals. TRAAK, TREK1, and TREK2 are K + -selective ion channels of the two-pore domain K + (K2P) family that are mechanosensitive: they are gated open by increasing membrane tension. TRAAK and TREK channels are thought to play roles in somatosensory and other mechanosensory processes in neuronal and non-neuronal tissues. Here, we present protocols for three assays to study mechanical activation of these channels in cell membranes: (1) cell swelling, (2) cell poking, and (3) patched membrane stretching. Patched membrane stretching is also applicable to the study of mechanosensitive K2P channel activity in a cell-free system and a procedure for proteoliposome reconstitution and patching is also presented. These approaches are also readily applicable to the study of other mechanosensitive ion channels.

Mechanism of dynamic reorientation of cortical microtubules due to mechanical stress.

PubMed

Muratov, Alexander; Baulin, Vladimir A

2015-12-01

Directional growth caused by gravitropism and corresponding bending of plant cells has been explored since 19th century, however, many aspects of mechanisms underlying the perception of gravity at the molecular level are still not well known. Perception of gravity in root and shoot gravitropisms is usually attributed to gravisensitive cells, called statocytes, which exploit sedimentation of macroscopic and heavy organelles, amyloplasts, to sense the direction of gravity. Gravity stimulus is then transduced into distal elongation zone, which is several mm far from statocytes, where it causes stretching. It is suggested that gravity stimulus is conveyed by gradients in auxin flux. We propose a theoretical model that may explain how concentration gradients and/or stretching may indirectly affect the global orientation of cortical microtubules, attached to the cell membrane and induce their dynamic reorientation perpendicular to the gradients. In turn, oriented microtubule arrays direct the growth and orientation of cellulose microfibrils, forming part of the cell external skeleton and determine the shape of the cell. Reorientation of microtubules is also observed in reaction to light in phototropism and mechanical bending, thus suggesting universality of the proposed mechanism. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Constitutive description of human femoropopliteal artery aging.

PubMed

Kamenskiy, Alexey; Seas, Andreas; Deegan, Paul; Poulson, William; Anttila, Eric; Sim, Sylvie; Desyatova, Anastasia; MacTaggart, Jason

2017-04-01

Femoropopliteal artery (FPA) mechanics play a paramount role in pathophysiology and the artery's response to therapeutic interventions, but data on FPA mechanical properties are scarce. Our goal was to characterize human FPAs over a wide population to derive a constitutive description of FPA aging to be used for computational modeling. Fresh human FPA specimens ([Formula: see text]) were obtained from [Formula: see text] predominantly male (80 %) donors 54±15 years old (range 13-82 years). Morphometric characteristics including radius, wall thickness, opening angle, and longitudinal pre-stretch were recorded. Arteries were subjected to multi-ratio planar biaxial extension to determine constitutive parameters for an invariant-based model accounting for the passive contributions of ground substance, elastin, collagen, and smooth muscle. Nonparametric bootstrapping was used to determine unique sets of material parameters that were used to derive age-group-specific characteristics. Physiologic stress-stretch state was calculated to capture changes with aging. Morphometric and constitutive parameters were derived for seven age groups. Vessel radius, wall thickness, and circumferential opening angle increased with aging, while longitudinal pre-stretch decreased ([Formula: see text]). Age-group-specific constitutive parameters portrayed orthotropic FPA stiffening, especially in the longitudinal direction. Structural changes in artery wall elastin were associated with reduction of physiologic longitudinal and circumferential stretches and stresses with age. These data and the constitutive description of FPA aging shed new light on our understanding of peripheral arterial disease pathophysiology and arterial aging. Application of this knowledge might improve patient selection for specific treatment modalities in personalized, precision medicine algorithms and could assist in device development for treatment of peripheral artery disease.

Mechanical Fluidity of Fully Suspended Biological Cells

PubMed Central

Maloney, John M.; Lehnhardt, Eric; Long, Alexandra F.; Van Vliet, Krystyn J.

2013-01-01

Mechanical characteristics of single biological cells are used to identify and possibly leverage interesting differences among cells or cell populations. Fluidity—hysteresivity normalized to the extremes of an elastic solid or a viscous liquid—can be extracted from, and compared among, multiple rheological measurements of cells: creep compliance versus time, complex modulus versus frequency, and phase lag versus frequency. With multiple strategies available for acquisition of this nondimensional property, fluidity may serve as a useful and robust parameter for distinguishing cell populations, and for understanding the physical origins of deformability in soft matter. Here, for three disparate eukaryotic cell types deformed in the suspended state via optical stretching, we examine the dependence of fluidity on chemical and environmental influences at a timescale of ∼1 s. We find that fluidity estimates are consistent in the time and frequency domains under a structural damping (power-law or fractional-derivative) model, but not under an equivalent-complexity, lumped-component (spring-dashpot) model; the latter predicts spurious time constants. Although fluidity is suppressed by chemical cross-linking, we find that ATP depletion in the cell does not measurably alter the parameter, and we thus conclude that active ATP-driven events are not a crucial enabler of fluidity during linear viscoelastic deformation of a suspended cell. Finally, by using the capacity of optical stretching to produce near-instantaneous increases in cell temperature, we establish that fluidity increases with temperature—now measured in a fully suspended, sortable cell without the complicating factor of cell-substratum adhesion. PMID:24138852

Novel generation of liquid crystalline photo-actuators based on stretched porous polyethylene films.

PubMed

Ryabchun, Alexander; Bobrovsky, Alexey; Stumpe, Joachim; Shibaev, Valery

2012-06-14

The preparation of photo-actuators based on stretched porous polyethylene and an azobenzene-containing liquid crystalline polymer network is reported for the first time. It is revealed that this kind of photo-actuator possesses the following advantages: the lack of a need for using aligning coatings and cells preparation, high deformation of the actuator and its complete reversibility, good mechanical properties, and relatively low cost of fabrication. In addition some kinetic and thermodynamic features of the bending and unbending processes have been studied. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Effects of fiber manipulation methods on optical fiber properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reynolds, Robert O.; Bechter, Andrew; Crass, Jonathan

2016-07-01

Optical fibers are routinely used to couple high-resolution spectrographs to modern telescopes, enabling important advantages in areas such as the search for extrasolar planets using spectroscopic radial velocity measurements of candidate stars. Optical fibers partially scramble the input illumination, and this feature enables a fiber feed to provide more uniform illumination to the spectrograph optics, thereby reducing systematic errors in radial velocity measurements. However fibers suffer from focal ratio degradation (FRD), a spreading of the beam at the output of the fiber with respect to that at the fiber input, which results in losses in throughput and resolution. Modal noise, a measurement uncertainty caused by inherent fiber properties and evident as a varying spatial intensity at the fiber exit plane, reduces the signal to noise ratio in the data. Devices such as double scramblers are often used to improve scrambling, and better fiber end preparation can mitigate FRD. Many instruments agitate the fiber during an observation to reduce modal noise, and stretching the fiber during use has been shown to offer a greater reduction in that noise. But effects of agitation and stretching on fiber parameters such as total transmission and focal ratio degradation have not been adequately studied. In this paper we present measurements of transmission loss and focal ratio degradation for both agitated and stretched fibers.

Dystrophic cardiomyopathy: role of TRPV2 channels in stretch-induced cell damage.

PubMed

Lorin, Charlotte; Vögeli, Isabelle; Niggli, Ernst

2015-04-01

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a degenerative pathology of skeletal muscle, also induces cardiac failure and arrhythmias due to a mutation leading to the lack of the protein dystrophin. In cardiac cells, the subsarcolemmal localization of dystrophin is thought to protect the membrane from mechanical stress. The absence of dystrophin results in an elevated stress-induced Ca2+ influx due to the inadequate functioning of several proteins, such as stretch-activated channels (SACs). Our aim was to investigate whether transient receptor potential vanilloid channels type 2 (TRPV2) form subunits of the dysregulated SACs in cardiac dystrophy. We defined the role of TRPV2 channels in the abnormal Ca2+ influx of cardiomyocytes isolated from dystrophic mdx mice, an established animal model for DMD. In dystrophic cells, western blotting showed that TRPV2 was two-fold overexpressed. While normally localized intracellularly, in myocytes from mdx mice TRPV2 channels were translocated to the sarcolemma and were prominent along the T-tubules, as indicated by immunocytochemistry. Membrane localization was confirmed by biotinylation assays. Furthermore, in mdx myocytes pharmacological modulators suggested an abnormal activity of TRPV2, which has a unique pharmacological profile among TRP channels. Confocal imaging showed that these compounds protected the cells from stress-induced abnormal Ca2+ signals. The involvement of TRPV2 in these signals was confirmed by specific pore-blocking antibodies and by small-interfering RNA ablation of TRPV2. Together, these results establish the involvement of TRPV2 in a stretch-activated calcium influx pathway in dystrophic cardiomyopathy, contributing to the defective cellular Ca2+ handling in this disease. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Satellite cells say NO to radiation.

PubMed

Cho-Lim, Jennie J; Caiozzo, Vincent J; Tseng, Bertrand P; Giedzinski, Erich; Baker, Mike J; Limoli, Charles L

2011-05-01

Skeletal muscles are commonly exposed to radiation for diagnostic procedures and the treatment of cancers and heterotopic bone formation. Few studies have considered the impact of clinical doses of radiation on the ability of satellite cells (myogenic stem cells) to proliferate, differentiate and contribute to recovering/maintaining muscle mass. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether the proliferation of irradiated satellite cells could be rescued by manipulating NO levels via pharmacological approaches and mechanical stretch (which is known to increase NO levels). We used both SNP (NO donor) and PTIO (NO scavenger) to manipulate NO levels in satellite cells. We observed that SNP was highly effective in rescuing the proliferation of irradiated satellite cells, especially at doses less than 5 Gy. The potential importance of NO was further illustrated by the effects of PTIO, which completely inhibited the rescue effect of SNP. Mechanical cyclic stretch was found to produce significant increases in NO levels of irradiated satellite cells, and this was associated with a robust increase in satellite cell proliferation. The effects of both radiation and NO on two key myogenic regulatory factors (MyoD and myogenin) were also explored. Irradiation of satellite cells produced a significant increase in both MyoD and myogenin, effects that were mitigated by manipulating NO levels via SNP. Given the central role of myogenic regulatory factors in the proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells, the findings of the current study underscore the need to more fully understand the relationship between radiation, NO and the functionality of satellite cells.

AI-augmented time stretch microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahjoubfar, Ata; Chen, Claire L.; Lin, Jiahao; Jalali, Bahram

2017-02-01

Cell reagents used in biomedical analysis often change behavior of the cells that they are attached to, inhibiting their native signaling. On the other hand, label-free cell analysis techniques have long been viewed as challenging either due to insufficient accuracy by limited features, or because of low throughput as a sacrifice of improved precision. We present a recently developed artificial-intelligence augmented microscope, which builds upon high-throughput time stretch quantitative phase imaging (TS-QPI) and deep learning to perform label-free cell classification with record high-accuracy. Our system captures quantitative optical phase and intensity images simultaneously by frequency multiplexing, extracts multiple biophysical features of the individual cells from these images fused, and feeds these features into a supervised machine learning model for classification. The enhanced performance of our system compared to other label-free assays is demonstrated by classification of white blood T-cells versus colon cancer cells and lipid accumulating algal strains for biofuel production, which is as much as five-fold reduction in inaccuracy. This system obtains the accuracy required in practical applications such as personalized drug development, while the cells remain intact and the throughput is not sacrificed. Here, we introduce a data acquisition scheme based on quadrature phase demodulation that enables interruptionless storage of TS-QPI cell images. Our proof of principle demonstration is capable of saving 40 TB of cell images in about four hours, i.e. pictures of every single cell in 10 mL of a sample.

A rhythmic motor pattern activated by circumferential stretch in guinea-pig distal colon

PubMed Central

Spencer, Nick J; Hennig, Grant W; Smith, Terence K

2002-01-01

Simultaneous intracellular recordings were made from pairs of circular muscle (CM) cells, at the oral and anal ends of a segment of guinea-pig distal colon, to investigate the neuronal mechanisms underlying faecal pellet propulsion. When a minimum degree of circumferential stretch was applied to sheet preparations of colon, recordings from CM cells revealed either no ongoing junction potentials, or alternatively, small potentials usually < 5 mV in amplitude. Maintained circumferential stretch applied to these preparations evoked an ongoing discharge of excitatory junction potentials (EJPs) at the oral recording site (range: 1-25 mV), which lasted for up to 6 h. The onset of each large oral EJP was time-locked with the onset of an inhibitory junction potential (IJP) at an anal recording electrode, located 2 cm from the oral recording. Similar results were obtained in isolated intact tube preparations of colon, when recordings were made immediately oral and anal of an artificial faecal pellet. The amplitudes of many large (> 5 mV) oral EJPs were linearly related to the amplitudes of anal IJPs occurring 20 mm apart. In the absence of an L-type Ca2+ channel blocker, action potentials occurred on each large oral EJP. Synchronized discharges of stretch-activated EJPs and IJPs were preserved following pretreatment with capsaicin (10 μm), were unaffected by nifedipine (1 μm) and did not require the mucosa or submucous plexus. EJPs and IJPs were abolished by hexamethonium (300 μm) or tetrodotoxin (1 μm), but persisted in the presence of pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2′,4′-disulphonic acid (PPADS; 10 μm) or an NK3 tachykinin receptor antagonist (Neurokinin A 4-10; 100 nm to 5 μm). In summary, maintained circumferential stretch of the distal colon activates a population of intrinsic mechanosensory neurons that generate repetitive firing of ascending excitatory and descending inhibitory pathways to CM. These mechanosensory neurons, which may be interneurons, are stretch sensitive, rather than muscle tension sensitive, since they are resistant to muscular paralysis. We suggest the synchrony in onset of oral EJPs and anal IJPs over large regions of colon is due to synchronous synaptic activation of ascending and descending interneurons. PMID:12456839

Morphology and contractile gene expression of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in response to short-term cyclic uniaxial strain and TGF-β1.

PubMed

Rashidi, Neda; Tafazzoli-Shadpour, Mohammad; Haghighipour, Nooshin; Khani, Mohammad-Mehdi

2018-06-27

Previous studies have shown smooth muscle induction in adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) caused by long-term cyclic stretch. Here we examined the capability of the short-term straining with time steps of 4, 8, 16 and 24 h alone or combined with TGF-β1 on smooth muscle induction of rabbit ASCs. Alterations in cell morphology were quantified through the cell shape index and orientation angle, and expression levels of α-SMA, SM22-α, h-caldesmon and calponin3 markers were examined using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Moreover, F-actin cytoskeleton organization was observed by fluorescence staining. Mechanical strain either alone or combined with growth factor treatment caused significant up-regulation of both early and intermediate smooth muscle cells (SMCs) specific markers during the initial hours of stimulation peaking in 8 to 16 h. Furthermore, gradual alignment of cells perpendicular to the strain direction during loading time, and cell elongation resembling contractile SMC phenotype, together with alignment and reorganization of F-actin fibers were observed. Considering previously reported protein up-regulation in following days of straining, the effects of short-term cyclic stretch on smooth muscle induction of ASCs were revealed which can be helpful in achieving functional contractile SMCs through synergistic mechano-chemical regulation of ASCs as an appealing cell source for vascular tissue engineering.

BrainPhys® increases neurofilament levels in CNS cultures, and facilitates investigation of axonal damage after a mechanical stretch-injury in vitro.

PubMed

Jackson, Travis C; Kotermanski, Shawn E; Jackson, Edwin K; Kochanek, Patrick M

2018-02-01

Neurobasal®/B27 is a gold standard culture media used to study primary neurons in vitro. An alternative media (BrainPhys®/SM1) was recently developed which robustly enhances neuronal activity vs. Neurobasal® or DMEM. To the best of our knowledge BrainPhys® has not been explored in the setting of neuronal injury. Here we characterized the utility of BrainPhys® in a model of in vitro mechanical-stretch injury. Primary rat cortical neurons were maintained in classic Neurobasal®, or sequentially maintained in Neurocult® followed by BrainPhys® (hereafter simply referred to as "BrainPhys® maintained neurons"). The levels of axonal markers and proteins involved in neurotransmission were compared on day in vitro 10 (DIV10). BrainPhys® maintained neurons had higher levels of GluN2B, GluR1, Neurofilament light/heavy chain (NF-L & NF-H), and protein phosphatase 2 A (PP2A) vs. neurons in Neurobasal®. Mechanical stretch-injury (50ms/54% biaxial stretch) to BrainPhys® maintained neurons modestly (albeit significantly) increased 24h lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels but markedly decreased axonal NF-L levels post-injury vs. uninjured controls or neurons given a milder 38% stretch-injury. Furthermore, two 54% stretch-injuries (in tandem) exacerbated 24h LDH release, increased α-spectrin breakdown products (SBDPs), and decreased Tau levels. Also, BrainPhys® maintained cultures had decreased markers of cell damage 24h after a single 54% stretch-injury vs. neurons in Neurobasal®. Finally, we tested the hypothesis that lentivirus mediated overexpression of the pro-death protein RBM5 exacerbates neuronal and/or axonal injury in primary CNS cultures. RBM5 overexpression vs. empty-vector controls increased 24h LDH release, and SBDP levels, after a single 54% stretch-injury but did not affect NF-L levels or Tau. BrainPhys® is a promising new reagent which facilities the investigation of molecular targets involved in axonal and/or neuronal injury in vitro. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Concussion Awareness: Getting School Psychologists into the Game

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davies, Susan C.

2011-01-01

A concussion is a serious injury--a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI)--that induces physiological disruption of brain function. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body. The sudden movement causes stretching and tearing of brain cells; cells become damaged and chemical changes occur within the brain. Concussions can lead…

Waterproof and stretchable triboelectric nanogenerator for biomechanical energy harvesting and self-powered sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xuexian; Miao, Liming; Guo, Hang; Chen, Haotian; Song, Yu; Su, Zongming; Zhang, Haixia

2018-05-01

We introduce a waterproof and stretchable triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) that can be attached on the human body, such as fingers and the wrist, to harvest mechanical energy from body movement. The whole device is composed of stretchable material, making it able to endure diverse mechanical deformations and scavenge energy from them. Under gentle mechanical motions of pressing, stretching and bending, the device with an effective area of 1 × 2 cm2 can generate the peak-to-peak output current of 257.5 nA, 50.2 nA, and 33.5 nA, respectively. Besides, the TENG is tightly encapsulated, enabling it to avoid the influence of the external environment like humidity changes and harvest energy under water. Particularly, owing to the thin and soft properties of the encapsulation film, the device can respond to weak vibrations like the wrist pulse and act as a self-powered pulse sensor, which broadens its application prospects in the field of wearable energy harvesting devices and self-powered sensing systems.

Pursuing two-dimensional nanomaterials for flexible lithium-ion batteries

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

Liu, Bin; Zhang, Ji-Guang; Shen, Guozhen

2016-02-01

Stretchable/flexible electronics provide a foundation for various emerging applications that beyond the scope of conventional wafer/circuit board technologies due to their unique features that can satisfy a broad range of applications such as wearable devices. Stretchable electronic and optoelectronics devices require the bendable/wearable rechargeable Li-ion batteries, thus these devices can operate without limitation of external powers. Various two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials are of great interest in flexible energy storage devices, especially Li-ion batteries. This is because 2D materials exhibit much more exposed surface area supplying abundant Li-insertion channels and shortened paths for fast lithium ion diffusion. Here, we will review themore » recent developments on the flexible Li-ion batteries based on two dimensional nanomaterials. These researches demonstrated advancements in flexible electronics by incorporating various 2D nanomaterials into bendable batteries to achieve high electrochemical performance, excellent mechanical flexibility as well as electrical stability under stretching/bending conditions.« less

Increasing operational command and control security by the implementation of device independent quantum key distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bovino, Fabio Antonio; Messina, Angelo

2016-10-01

In a very simplistic way, the Command and Control functions can be summarized as the need to provide the decision makers with an exhaustive, real-time, situation picture and the capability to convey their decisions down to the operational forces. This two-ways data and information flow is vital to the execution of current operations and goes far beyond the border of military operations stretching to Police and disaster recovery as well. The availability of off-the shelf technology has enabled hostile elements to endanger the security of the communication networks by violating the traditional security protocols and devices and hacking sensitive databases. In this paper an innovative approach based to implementing Device Independent Quantum Key Distribution system is presented. The use of this technology would prevent security breaches due to a stolen crypto device placed in an end-to-end communication chain. The system, operating with attenuated laser, is practical and provides the increasing of the distance between the legitimate users.

Flexible piezoelectric energy harvesting from jaw movements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delnavaz, Aidin; Voix, Jérémie

2014-10-01

Piezoelectric fiber composites (PFC) represent an interesting subset of smart materials that can function as sensor, actuator and energy converter. Despite their excellent potential for energy harvesting, very few PFC mechanisms have been developed to capture the human body power and convert it into an electric current to power wearable electronic devices. This paper provides a proof of concept for a head-mounted device with a PFC chin strap capable of harvesting energy from jaw movements. An electromechanical model based on the bond graph method is developed to predict the power output of the energy harvesting system. The optimum resistance value of the load and the best stretch ratio in the strap are also determined. A prototype was developed and tested and its performances were compared to the analytical model predictions. The proposed piezoelectric strap mechanism can be added to all types of head-mounted devices to power small-scale electronic devices such as hearing aids, electronic hearing protectors and communication earpieces.

Hele-Shaw Experiments on Plume Stretching and Folding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foster, M.; Mays, D. C.; Neupauer, R. M.

2013-12-01

Fluid mixing in laminar flow is important in a number of practical applications, including remediation of contaminated groundwater. Recent modeling studies have shown that mixing can be accelerated and amplified by imposing a flow that generates stretching and folding of an injected plume of treatment solution. Stretching and folding, in turn, results from engineered injection and extraction of clean water through an array of wells surrounding the treatment solution. This poster describes a series of experiments whose goal is to demonstrate plume stretching and folding in a Hele-Shaw apparatus. An initial plume of treatment solution is injected into the center of the Hele-Shaw apparatus, which is assumed to represent a zone of contaminated groundwater, with four wells spaced evenly around the treatment solution. In order to spread the treatment solution into the groundwater, the four wells perform a series of infusions and withdrawals that push and pull apart the plume of treatment solution. With the proper steps, it will be shown that the plume can be stretched and folded to greatly increase the reactive interface area between the treatment solution and the contaminated groundwater. Consideration is given to two qualitative differences with respect to previous modeling studies. First, constant volume is required by the no-flow boundary used at the edge of the Hele-Shaw cell; any pump that is withdrawing water must have a complementary pump adding water at the same rate. Second, in these experiments, mixing results from a physical process, namely Taylor dispersion, eliminating the uncertainty resulting from the need to assume dispersion mechanisms in numerical models. Therefore, these experiments further elucidate the benefits and challenges of imposing plume stretching and folding in systems (like aquifers) where dispersion is unavoidable, providing new insight into the required logistics of using this approach in groundwater treatment.

Infrared absorption of CH3OSO detected with time-resolved Fourier-transform spectroscopy.

PubMed

Chen, Jin-Dah; Lee, Yuan-Pern

2011-03-07

A step-scan Fourier-transform spectrometer coupled with a multipass absorption cell was employed to detect temporally resolved infrared absorption spectra of CH(3)OSO produced upon irradiation of a flowing gaseous mixture of CH(3)OS(O)Cl in N(2) or CO(2) at 248 nm. Two intense transient features with origins near 1152 and 994 cm(-1) are assigned to syn-CH(3)OSO; the former is attributed to overlapping bands at 1154 ± 3 and 1151 ± 3 cm(-1), assigned to the S=O stretching mixed with CH(3) rocking (ν(8)) and the S=O stretching mixed with CH(3) wagging (ν(9)) modes, respectively, and the latter to the C-O stretching (ν(10)) mode at 994 ± 6 cm(-1). Two weak bands at 2991 ± 6 and 2956 ± 3 cm(-1) are assigned as the CH(3) antisymmetric stretching (ν(2)) and symmetric stretching (ν(3)) modes, respectively. Observed vibrational transition wavenumbers agree satisfactorily with those predicted with quantum-chemical calculations at level B3P86∕aug-cc-pVTZ. Based on rotational parameters predicted at that level, the simulated rotational contours of these bands agree satisfactorily with experimental results. The simulation indicates that the S=O stretching mode of anti-CH(3)OSO near 1164 cm(-1) likely makes a small contribution to the observed band near 1152 cm(-1). A simple kinetic model of self-reaction is employed to account for the decay of CH(3)OSO and yields a second-order rate coefficient k=(4 ± 2)×10(-10) cm(3)molecule(-1)s(-1). © 2011 American Institute of Physics.

Hypercapnic acidosis attenuates ventilation-induced lung injury by a nuclear factor-κB-dependent mechanism.

PubMed

Contreras, Maya; Ansari, Bilal; Curley, Gerard; Higgins, Brendan D; Hassett, Patrick; O'Toole, Daniel; Laffey, John G

2012-09-01

Hypercapnic acidosis protects against ventilation-induced lung injury. We wished to determine whether the beneficial effects of hypercapnic acidosis in reducing stretch-induced injury were mediated via inhibition of nuclear factor-κB, a key transcriptional regulator in inflammation, injury, and repair. Prospective randomized animal study. University research laboratory. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. In separate experimental series, the potential for hypercapnic acidosis to attenuate moderate and severe ventilation-induced lung injury was determined. In each series, following induction of anesthesia and tracheostomy, Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to (normocapnia; FICO2 0.00) or (hypercapnic acidosis; FICO2 0.05), subjected to high stretch ventilation, and the severity of lung injury and indices of activation of the nuclear factor-κB pathway were assessed. Subsequent in vitro experiments examined the potential for hypercapnic acidosis to reduce pulmonary epithelial inflammation and injury induced by cyclic mechanical stretch. The role of the nuclear factor-κB pathway in hypercapnic acidosis-mediated protection from stretch injury was then determined. Hypercapnic acidosis attenuated moderate and severe ventilation-induced lung injury, as evidenced by improved oxygenation, compliance, and reduced histologic injury compared to normocapnic conditions. Hypercapnic acidosis reduced indices of inflammation such as interleukin-6 and bronchoalveolar lavage neutrophil infiltration. Hypercapnic acidosis reduced the decrement of the nuclear factor-κB inhibitor IκBα and reduced the generation of cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant-1. Hypercapnic acidosis reduced cyclic mechanical stretch-induced nuclear factor-κB activation, reduced interleukin-8 production, and decreased epithelial injury and cell death compared to normocapnia. Hypercapnic acidosis attenuated ventilation-induced lung injury independent of injury severity and decreased mechanical stretch-induced epithelial injury and death, via a nuclear factor-κB-dependent mechanism.

Strain Analysis of Stretched Tourmaline Crystals Using ImageJ, Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosbyshell, H.

2012-12-01

This poster describes an undergraduate structural geology lab exercise utilizing the Mohr's circle diagram for finite strain, constructed using measurements obtained from stretched tourmaline crystals. A small building housing HVAC equipment at the south end of West Chester University's Recitation Hall (itself made of serpentinite) is constructed of early-Cambrian Chickies Quartzite. Stretched tourmaline crystals, with segments joined by fibrous quartz, are visible on many surfaces (presumably originally bedding). While the original orientation of any stone is unknown, these rocks provide an opportunity for a short field exercise during a two-hour lab period and a great base for conducting strain analysis. It is always fun to ask how many in the class have ever noticed the tourmaline (few have). Students take photos using their cell phones or cameras. Since strain is a ratio the absolute size of the tourmaline crystals is immaterial. Nonetheless, this is a good opportunity to remind students of the importance of including a scale in their photographs. The photos are opened in ImageJ and the line tool is used to determine the original and final lengths of selected crystals. Students calculate strain parameters using Microsoft Excel. Then, we use Adobe Illustrator or the drafting capabilities of Microsoft PowerPoint 2010 to follow Ramsay and Huber's techniques using a Mohr's circle construction to determine the finite strain ellipse. If a stretching direction can be estimated, elongation of two crystals is all that is required to determine the strain ratio. If no stretching direction is apparent, three crystals are required for a more complicated analysis that allows for determination of the stretching direction, as well as the strain ratio.

From Biological Cilia to Artificial Flow Sensors: Biomimetic Soft Polymer Nanosensors with High Sensing Performance

PubMed Central

Asadnia, Mohsen; Kottapalli, Ajay Giri Prakash; Karavitaki, K. Domenica; Warkiani, Majid Ebrahimi; Miao, Jianmin; Corey, David P.; Triantafyllou, Michael

2016-01-01

We report the development of a new class of miniature all-polymer flow sensors that closely mimic the intricate morphology of the mechanosensory ciliary bundles in biological hair cells. An artificial ciliary bundle is achieved by fabricating bundled polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) micro-pillars with graded heights and electrospinning polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric nanofiber tip links. The piezoelectric nature of a single nanofiber tip link is confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Rheology and nanoindentation experiments are used to ensure that the viscous properties of the hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel are close to the biological cupula. A dome-shaped HA hydrogel cupula that encapsulates the artificial hair cell bundle is formed through precision drop-casting and swelling processes. Fluid drag force actuates the hydrogel cupula and deflects the micro-pillar bundle, stretching the nanofibers and generating electric charges. Functioning with principles analogous to the hair bundles, the sensors achieve a sensitivity and threshold detection limit of 300 mV/(m/s) and 8 μm/s, respectively. These self-powered, sensitive, flexible, biocompatibale and miniaturized sensors can find extensive applications in navigation and maneuvering of underwater robots, artificial hearing systems, biomedical and microfluidic devices. PMID:27622466

The role of purinergic signaling on deformation induced injury and repair responses of alveolar epithelial cells.

PubMed

Belete, Hewan A; Hubmayr, Rolf D; Wang, Shaohua; Singh, Raman-Deep

2011-01-01

Cell wounding is an important driver of the innate immune response of ventilator-injured lungs. We had previously shown that the majority of wounded alveolus resident cells repair and survive deformation induced insults. This is important insofar as wounded and repaired cells may contribute to injurious deformation responses commonly referred to as biotrauma. The central hypothesis of this communication states that extracellular adenosine-5' triphosphate (ATP) promotes the repair of wounded alveolus resident cells by a P2Y2-Receptor dependent mechanism. Using primary type 1 alveolar epithelial rat cell models subjected to micropuncture injury and/or deforming stress we show that 1) stretch causes a dose dependent increase in cell injury and ATP media concentrations; 2) enzymatic depletion of extracellular ATP reduces the probability of stretch induced wound repair; 3) enriching extracellular ATP concentrations facilitates wound repair; 4) purinergic effects on cell repair are mediated by ATP and not by one of its metabolites; and 5) ATP mediated cell salvage depends at least in part on P2Y2-R activation. While rescuing cells from wounding induced death may seem appealing, it is possible that survivors of membrane wounding become governors of a sustained pro-inflammatory state and thereby perpetuate and worsen organ function in the early stages of lung injury syndromes. Means to uncouple P2Y2-R mediated cytoprotection from P2Y2-R mediated inflammation and to test the preclinical efficacy of such an undertaking deserve to be explored.

The Extensional Rheology of Non-Newtonian Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spiegelberg, Stephen H.; McKinley, Gareth H.

1996-01-01

The evolution of the transient extensional stresses in dilute and semi-dilute viscoelastic polymer solutions are measured with a filament stretching rheometer of a design similar to that first introduced by Sridhar, et al. The solutions are polystyrene-based (PS) Boger fluids that are stretched at constant strain rates ranging from 0.6 less than or equal to epsilon(0) less than or equal to 4s(exp -1) and to Hencky strains of epsilon greater than 4. The test fluids all strain harden and Trouton ratios exceeding 1000 are obtained at high strains. The experimental data strain hardens at lower strain levels than predicted by bead-spring FENE models. In addition to measuring the transient tensile stress growth, we also monitor the decay of the tensile viscoelastic stress difference in the fluid column following cessation of uniaxial elongation as a function of the total imposed Hencky strain and the strain rate. The extensional stresses initially decay very rapidly upon cessation of uniaxial elongation followed by a slower viscoelastic relaxation, and deviate significantly from FENE relaxation predictions. The relaxation at long times t is greater than or equal to 5 s, is compromised by gravitational draining leading to non-uniform filament profiles. For the most elastic fluids, partial decohension of the fluid filament from the endplates of the rheometer is observed in tests conducted at high strain rates. This elastic instability is initiated near the rigid endplate fixtures of the device and it results in the progressive breakup of the fluid column into individual threads or 'fibrils' with a regular azimuthal spacing. These fibrils elongate and bifurcate as the fluid sample is elongated further. Flow visualization experiments using a modified stretching device show that the instability develops as a consequence of an axisymmetry-breaking meniscus instability in the nonhomogeneous region of highly deformed fluid near the rigid endplate.

Expanding the spectrum: 20 years of advances in MMW imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, Christopher A.; Lovberg, John A.; Kolinko, Valdimir G.

2017-05-01

Millimeter-wave imaging has expanded from the single-pixel swept imagers developed in the 1960s to large field-ofview real-time systems in use today. Trex Enterprises has been developing millimeter-wave imagers since 1991 for aviation and security applications, as well as millimeter-wave communications devices. As MMIC device development was stretching into the MMW band in the 1990s, Trex developed novel imaging architectures to create 2-D staring systems with large pixel counts and no moving parts while using a minimal number of devices. Trex also contributed to the device development in amplifiers, switches, and detectors to enable the next generation of passive MMW imaging systems. The architectures and devices developed continue to be employed in security imagers, radar, and radios produced by Trex. This paper reviews the development of the initial real-time MMW imagers and associated devices by Trex Enterprises from the 1990s through the 2000s. The devices include W-band MMIC amplifiers, switches, and detector didoes, and MMW circuit boards and optical processors. The imaging systems discussed include two different real-time passive MMW imagers flown on helicopters and a MMW radar system, as well as implementation of the devices and architectures in simpler stand-off and gateway security imagers.

Mechanical stimulation of skeletal muscle mitigates glucocorticoid induced decreases in prostaglandin synthesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chromiak, Joseph A.; Vandenburgh, Herman H.

1993-01-01

The glucocorticoid dexamethasone (Dex) induces a decline in protein synthesis and protein content of tissue cultured, avian skeletal muscle cells, and this atrophy is attenuated by repetitive mechanical stretch. Since the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor indomethacin mitigated this stretch attenuation of muscle atrophy, the role of prostaglandins as growth modulators in these processes was examined. Dex at 10(exp -8) M reduced PGF(sub 2(alpha)) production 55 percent - 65 percent and PGE(sub 2) production 84 - 90 percent after 24 - 72 h of incubation in static cultures. Repetitive 10 percent stretch-relaxations of the non-Dex treated cultures increased PGF(sub 2(alpha)) efflux 41 percent at 24 h and 276 percent at 72 h and increased PGE(sub 2) production 51 percent at 24 h and 236 percent at 72 h. Mechanical stimulation of Dex treated cultures increased PGF(sub 2(alpha)) production 162 percent after 24 h, thus returning PGF(sub 2(alpha)) efflux to the level of non-Dex treated cultures. At 72 h, stretch increased PGF(sub 2(alpha)) efflux 65 percent in Dex treated cultures, but PGF(sub 2(alpha)) production was 45-84 percent less than non-Dex treated cultures. Mechanical stimulation of Dex treated cultures increased PGE(sub 2) production at 24 h, but not at 72 h. Dex reduced prostaglandin H synthase (PGHS) activity in the muscle cultures by 70 percent after 8 - 24 h of incubation, and mechanical stimulation increased PGHS activity of the Dex treated cultures by 98 percent. It is concluded that repetitive mechanical stimulation attenuates the catabolic effects of Dex on cultured skeletal muscle cells in part by reversing the Dex-induced declines in PGHS activity and prostaglandin production.

The role of neutrophils in injury and repair following muscle stretch

PubMed Central

Toumi, Hechmi; F'guyer, Sleem; Best, Thomas M

2006-01-01

Stretch injury to the myotendinous junction is a common problem in competitive athletes and those involved in regular physical activity. The major risk factor for recurrent injury appears to be the primary injury itself. Physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers and athletes alike continue to search for optimal treatment and prevention strategies. Acute inflammation is regarded as the body's generalized protective response to tissue injury. An especially important and unexplored aspect of inflammation following injury is the role of inflammatory cells in extending injury and possibly directing muscle repair. It has been suggested that the inflammatory reaction, although it typically represents a reaction to damage and necrosis, may even bring about some local damage of its own and therefore increase the possibility for scarring and fibrosis. Limiting certain aspects of inflammation may theoretically reduce muscle damage as well as signals for muscle scarring. Here we focus on the role of neutrophils in injury and repair of stretch-injured skeletal muscle. A minimally invasive model that generates a reproducible injury to rabbit skeletal muscle is presented. We present a plausible theory that neutrophil-derived oxidants resulting from the initial stretch injury are responsible for extending the damage. An anti-CD11b antibody that blocks the neutrophil's respiratory burst is employed to reduce myofibre damage. An intriguing area that is currently being explored in our laboratory and others is the potential role for neutrophils to contribute to muscle growth and repair. It may be possible that neutrophils facilitate muscle repair through removal of tissue debris as well as by activation of satellite cells. Recent and ongoing investigations point to interleukin-6 as a possible key cytokine in muscle inflammation and repair. Studies to elucidate a clearer understanding of this possibility will be reviewed. PMID:16637872

Stretchable carbon nanotube charge-trap floating-gate memory and logic devices for wearable electronics.

PubMed

Son, Donghee; Koo, Ja Hoon; Song, Jun-Kyul; Kim, Jaemin; Lee, Mincheol; Shim, Hyung Joon; Park, Minjoon; Lee, Minbaek; Kim, Ji Hoon; Kim, Dae-Hyeong

2015-05-26

Electronics for wearable applications require soft, flexible, and stretchable materials and designs to overcome the mechanical mismatch between the human body and devices. A key requirement for such wearable electronics is reliable operation with high performance and robustness during various deformations induced by motions. Here, we present materials and device design strategies for the core elements of wearable electronics, such as transistors, charge-trap floating-gate memory units, and various logic gates, with stretchable form factors. The use of semiconducting carbon nanotube networks designed for integration with charge traps and ultrathin dielectric layers meets the performance requirements as well as reliability, proven by detailed material and electrical characterizations using statistics. Serpentine interconnections and neutral mechanical plane layouts further enhance the deformability required for skin-based systems. Repetitive stretching tests and studies in mechanics corroborate the validity of the current approaches.

Morphologic Characteristics and Relating Factors to the Need of Technical Modification in Transcatheter Closure of Large Atrial Septal Defect (≥25 mm)

PubMed Central

Park, Su-Jin; Kim, Nam Kyun; Kim, Jung Ok; Yoo, Byung Won; Sul, Jun Hee

2010-01-01

Background and Objectives The rigid coupling between the delivery wire and the right atrial disk has been occasionally encountered during transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect (ASD). Therefore the device frequently makes a perpendicular angle, and the leading edge of left atrial disk slips through the defect and prolapses into right atrium (RA) before it is properly placed in the septum. The purpose of this study is to investigate relating factors to the need of technical modification in transcatheter closure of large ASD and to evaluate relevant morphologic characteristics of atrial septal rim in this situation. Subjects and Methods From July, 2003 to May, 2007, 312 patients underwent transcatheter occlusion of ASD with Amplatzer Septal Occluder® (ASO, AGA medical corporation, Golden Valley, MN, USA) at Yonsei Cardiovascular Center and among them 109 patients had large ASD (≥25 mm) and these patients were enrolled in our study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the deploying methods of the device (Group I: standard method, Group II: modified methods). Assessments of the defects and its surrounding rims were made by echocardiography. Results There were no differences between 2 groups in age, body weight and height except for balloon-stretched diameter (stop-flow technique) and device size. Group II patients with modified methods showed larger balloon-stretched diameter and device size than group I patients with standard method. The mean length of anterosuperior (AS) rim in group II was significantly shorter than group I (p<0.05). As the size of the device used in procedure increased, there was a trend towards increase in the need of modified methods. Conclusion This study shows that AS rim deficiency and the size of ASD may be the relating factors to the need of technical modification in transcatheter closure of ASD. Therefore, when the initial try with standard method is not successful in large ASD with deficient AS rim, we suggest that changing strategy of implantation may save time and efforts and possibly reduce the risk of complications associated with prolonged procedure. PMID:20421960

Application of Yb:YAG short pulse laser system

DOEpatents

Erbert, Gaylen V.; Biswal, Subrat; Bartolick, Joseph M.; Stuart, Brent C.; Crane, John K.; Telford, Steve; Perry, Michael D.

2004-07-06

A diode pumped, high power (at least 20W), short pulse (up to 2 ps), chirped pulse amplified laser using Yb:YAG as the gain material is employed for material processing. Yb:YAG is used as the gain medium for both a regenerative amplifier and a high power 4-pass amplifier. A single common reflective grating optical device is used to both stretch pulses for amplification purposes and to recompress amplified pulses before being directed to a workpiece.