Comparison of spectroscopy technologies for improved monitoring of cell culture processes in miniature bioreactors

PubMed Central

van den Berg, Frans; Racher, Andrew J.; Martin, Elaine B.; Jaques, Colin

2017-01-01

Cell culture process development requires the screening of large numbers of cell lines and process conditions. The development of miniature bioreactor systems has increased the throughput of such studies; however, there are limitations with their use. One important constraint is the limited number of offline samples that can be taken compared to those taken for monitoring cultures in large‐scale bioreactors. The small volume of miniature bioreactor cultures (15 mL) is incompatible with the large sample volume (600 µL) required for bioanalysers routinely used. Spectroscopy technologies may be used to resolve this limitation. The purpose of this study was to compare the use of NIR, Raman, and 2D‐fluorescence to measure multiple analytes simultaneously in volumes suitable for daily monitoring of a miniature bioreactor system. A novel design‐of‐experiment approach is described that utilizes previously analyzed cell culture supernatant to assess metabolite concentrations under various conditions while providing optimal coverage of the desired design space. Multivariate data analysis techniques were used to develop predictive models. Model performance was compared to determine which technology is more suitable for this application. 2D‐fluorescence could more accurately measure ammonium concentration (RMSECV 0.031 g L−1) than Raman and NIR. Raman spectroscopy, however, was more robust at measuring lactate and glucose concentrations (RMSECV 1.11 and 0.92 g L−1, respectively) than the other two techniques. The findings suggest that Raman spectroscopy is more suited for this application than NIR and 2D‐fluorescence. The implementation of Raman spectroscopy increases at‐line measuring capabilities, enabling daily monitoring of key cell culture components within miniature bioreactor cultures. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:337–346, 2017 PMID:28271638

Intrinsic optical signal imaging of glucose-stimulated physiological responses in the insulin secreting INS-1 β-cell line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yi-Chao; Cui, Wan-Xing; Wang, Xu-Jing; Amthor, Franklin; Yao, Xin-Cheng

2011-03-01

Intrinsic optical signal (IOS) imaging has been established for noninvasive monitoring of stimulus-evoked physiological responses in the retina and other neural tissues. Recently, we extended the IOS imaging technology for functional evaluation of insulin secreting INS-1 cells. INS-1 cells provide a popular model for investigating β-cell dysfunction and diabetes. Our experiments indicate that IOS imaging allows simultaneous monitoring of glucose-stimulated physiological responses in multiple cells with high spatial (sub-cellular) and temporal (sub-second) resolution. Rapid image sequences reveal transient optical responses that have time courses comparable to glucose-evoked β-cell electrical activities.

Clinical utility of circulating tumour cell detection in non-small-cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Fusi, Alberto; Metcalf, Robert; Krebs, Matthew; Dive, Caroline; Blackhall, Fiona

2013-12-01

Recent years have witnessed increased interest in the detection of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment decision making in patients with cancer. Factors that have led to accelerated research in this field include advances in technologies for examination of intact CTCs, personalised medicine with treatment selection according to molecular characteristics, and continued lack of understanding of the biology of treatment resistance and metastasis. CTCs offer promise as a surrogate for tissue where there is insufficient tissue for molecular analysis and where there is a requirement to serially monitor molecular changes in cancer cells through treatment or on progression. In patients with either small cell or non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), there is evidence that CTC number is prognostic and that CTCs counted before and after treatment mirror treatment response. In patients with molecularly defined subtypes of NSCLC, CTCs demonstrate the same molecular changes as the cancer cells of the tumour. However, CTCs are not quite ready for "primetime" in the lung cancer clinic. There are still more questions than answers with respect to the optimal technologies for their detection and analysis, their biological significance, and their clinical utility. Despite this the current pace of progress in CTC technology development seems set to make "liquid biopsies" a clinical reality within the next decade. For the everyday clinician and clinical trialist, it will be important to maintain knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of the technologies and evolving evidence base for CTCs as a routinely used diagnostic tool.

Highly Multiplexed, Single Cell Transcriptomic Analysis of T-Cells by Microfluidic PCR.

PubMed

Dominguez, Maria; Roederer, Mario; Chattopadhyay, Pratip K

2017-01-01

Recently, technologies have been developed to measure expression of 96 (or more) mRNA transcripts at once from a single cell. Here we describe methods and important considerations for use of Fluidigm's BioMark platform for multiplexed single cell gene expression. We describe how to qualify primer/probes, select genes to examine in 96-parameter panels, perform the reverse transcription/cDNA synthesis step, and operate the instrument. In addition, we describe data analysis considerations. This technology has enormous value for characterizing the heterogeneity of T-cells, thereby providing a useful tool for immune monitoring.

Circulating Cell-Free Tumour DNA in the Management of Cancer

PubMed Central

Francis, Glenn; Stein, Sandra

2015-01-01

With the development of new sensitive molecular techniques, circulating cell-free tumour DNA containing mutations can be identified in the plasma of cancer patients. The applications of this technology may result in significant changes to the care and management of cancer patients. Whilst, currently, these “liquid biopsies” are used to supplement the histological diagnosis of cancer and metastatic disease, in the future these assays may replace the need for invasive procedures. Applications include the monitoring of tumour burden, the monitoring of minimal residual disease, monitoring of tumour heterogeneity, monitoring of molecular resistance and early diagnosis of tumours and metastatic disease. PMID:26101870

Optical Multi-Gas Monitor Technology Demonstration on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pilgrim, Jeffrey S.; Wood, William R.; Casias, Miguel E.; Vakhtin, Andrei B,; Johnson, Michael D.; Mudgett, Paul D.

2014-01-01

There are a variety of both portable and fixed gas monitors onboard the International Space Station (ISS). Devices range from rack-mounted mass spectrometers to hand-held electrochemical sensors. An optical Multi-Gas Monitor has been developed as an ISS Technology Demonstration to evaluate long-term continuous measurement of 4 gases. Based on tunable diode laser spectroscopy, this technology offers unprecedented selectivity, concentration range, precision, and calibration stability. The monitor utilizes the combination of high performance laser absorption spectroscopy with a rugged optical path length enhancement cell that is nearly impossible to misalign. The enhancement cell serves simultaneously as the measurement sampling cell for multiple laser channels operating within a common measurement volume. Four laser diode based detection channels allow quantitative determination of ISS cabin concentrations of water vapor (humidity), carbon dioxide, ammonia and oxygen. Each channel utilizes a separate vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) at a different wavelength. In addition to measuring major air constituents in their relevant ranges, the multiple gas monitor provides real time quantitative gaseous ammonia measurements between 5 and 20,000 parts-per-million (ppm). A small ventilation fan draws air with no pumps or valves into the enclosure in which analysis occurs. Power draw is only about 3 W from USB sources when installed in Nanoracks or when connected to 28V source from any EXPRESS rack interface. Internal battery power can run the sensor for over 20 hours during portable operation. The sensor is controlled digitally with an FPGA/microcontroller architecture that stores data internally while displaying running average measurements on an LCD screen and interfacing with the rack or laptop via USB. Design, construction and certification of the Multi-Gas Monitor were a joint effort between Vista Photonics, Nanoracks and NASA-Johnson Space Center (JSC). Vista Photonics developed the core technology and built the sensor. Nanoracks designed, constructed the enclosure, interfaces, and battery power management circuitry, integrated all subsystems into the enclosure, and then managed the certification tests, documentation and manifesting. The unit was calibrated in the JSC Toxicology Laboratory. The Multi-Gas Monitor is manifested to fly as a technology demonstration to the ISS in November 2013 and will operate for at least 6 months with data sent to the ground for evaluation. The primary goal is to demonstrate long term interference free operation in the real spacecraft environment.

The in-line measurement of plant cell biomass using radio frequency impedance spectroscopy as a component of process analytical technology.

PubMed

Holland, Tanja; Blessing, Daniel; Hellwig, Stephan; Sack, Markus

2013-10-01

Radio frequency impedance spectroscopy (RFIS) is a robust method for the determination of cell biomass during fermentation. RFIS allows non-invasive in-line monitoring of the passive electrical properties of cells in suspension and can distinguish between living and dead cells based on their distinct behavior in an applied radio frequency field. We used continuous in situ RFIS to monitor batch-cultivated plant suspension cell cultures in stirred-tank bioreactors and compared the in-line data to conventional off-line measurements. RFIS-based analysis was more rapid and more accurate than conventional biomass determination, and was sensitive to changes in cell viability. The higher resolution of the in-line measurement revealed subtle changes in cell growth which were not accessible using conventional methods. Thus, RFIS is well suited for correlating such changes with intracellular states and product accumulation, providing unique opportunities for employing systems biotechnology and process analytical technology approaches to increase product yield and quality. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Feasibility of the Diabetes and Technology for Increased Activity (DaTA) Study: a pilot intervention in high-risk rural adults.

PubMed

Read, Emily

2014-01-01

Rural Canadians are at increased risk of metabolic syndrome. Physical inactivity is a primary target for preventing and reversing metabolic syndrome. Adherence to lifestyle interventions may be enhanced using cell phones and self-monitoring technologies. This study investigated the feasibility of a physical activity and self-monitoring intervention targeting high-risk adults in rural Ontario. Rural adults (n = 25, mean = 57.0 ± 8.7 years) with ≥ 2 criteria for metabolic syndrome participated in an 8-week stage-matched physical activity and self-monitoring intervention. Participants monitored blood glucose, blood pressure, weight, and physical activity using self-monitoring devices and Blackberry Smart phones. VO2max, stage of change, waist circumference, weight, blood lipids, and HbA1c were measured at weeks 1, 4, and 8. Adherence to self-monitoring was > 94%. Participants' experiences and perceptions of the technology were positive. Mean stage of change increased 1 stage, physical activity increased 26%, and predicted VO2max increased 17% (P < .05). Significant changes in weight, waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol were found. This stage-matched technology intervention for increased physical activity was feasible and effective.

[A skin cell segregating control system based on PC].

PubMed

Liu, Wen-zhong; Zhou, Ming; Zhang, Hong-bing

2005-11-01

A skin cell segregating control system based on PC (personal computer) is presented in this paper. Its front controller is a single-chip microcomputer which enables the manipulation for 6 patients simultaneously, and thus provides a great convenience for clinical treatments for vitiligo. With the use of serial port communication technology, it's possible to monitor and control the front controller in a PC terminal. And the application of computer image acquisition technology realizes the synchronous acquisition of pathologic shin cell images pre/after the operation and a case history. Clinical tests prove its conformity with national standards and the pre-set technological requirements.

EC MoDeRn Project: In-situ Demonstration of Innovative Monitoring Technologies for Geological Disposal - 12053

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

Breen, B.J.; Garcia-Sineriz, J.L.; Maurer, H.

2012-07-01

Monitoring to provide information on the evolution of geological disposal presents several challenges. The 4-year, euros M 5, EC MoDeRn Project (http://www.modern-fp7.eu/), which commenced in 2009, addresses monitoring processes, state-of-the-art technology and innovative research and development of monitoring techniques. This paper discusses some of the key drivers for the development of innovative monitoring techniques and provides outlines of the demonstration programmes being conducted within MoDeRn. The aim is to develop these innovative monitoring techniques and to demonstrate them under realistic conditions present in underground laboratories. These demonstration projects, applying a range of different monitoring techniques, are being carried out atmore » underground research facilities in different geological environments at HADES URL in Belgium (plastic clay), Bure in France (indurated clay) and at Grimsel Test Site (granite) in Switzerland. These are either built upon existing infrastructure (EC ESDRED Low pH shotcrete and TEM experiments at Grimsel; and PRACLAY experiment and underground galleries in HADES) or will be attached to infrastructure that is being developed and financed by resources outside of this project (mock-up disposal cell in Bure). At Grimsel Test Site, cross-hole and hole-to-tunnel seismic methods are being employed as a means to monitor induced changes in an artificially saturated bentonite wall confined behind a shotcrete plug. Recognising the limitations for travel-time tomography for monitoring a disposal cell, full waveform inversion techniques are being employed to enhance the capacity to monitor remote from the excavation. At the same Grimsel location, an investigation will be conducted of the potential for using a high frequency wireless (HFW) sensor network embedded within the barrier system; this will include the possibility of providing energy remotely to isolated sensors. At the HADES URL, the monitoring programme will utilise the PRACLAY gallery equipped to simulate a disposal gallery for heat-generating high-level waste evaluating fibre-optic based sensing techniques, including distributed sensing for thermal distribution and long-term reliability in harsh conditions. It also includes the potential to improve the treatment of signals from micro-seismic monitoring to enable enhanced understanding of the evolution around the gallery following its excavation due to ventilation, saturation and heating, and to image a water-bearing concretion layer. HADES URL will also be used to test wireless techniques to transmit monitoring data from the underground to the surface. The main focus of this contribution is to evaluate magneto-inductive data transmission; and to optimise energy usage. At the Bure underground facility in France, monitoring systems have been developed and will be embedded into the steel liner for the mock-up high-level waste disposal tunnel. The aim of this programme is to establish the capacity to conduct integrated monitoring activities inside the disposal cell, on the cell liner and in the near-field and to assess the capability of the monitoring to withstand construction and liner emplacement procedures. These projects, which are supported by focused development and testing of the monitoring systems, will allow the testing of both the effectiveness of these techniques applied to disposal situations and to understand the limits of these monitoring technologies. This approach should also enhance the confidence of key stakeholders in the ability to understand/confirm the changes occurring within a disposal cell. In addition, remote or 'non-intrusive' monitoring technologies are evaluated to provide a means of enhancing understanding of what is occurring in an isolated disposal cell. The projects also test solutions for embedded monitoring systems in challenging (risk of damage) situations. The outputs from this work will lead to improved understanding of these state-of-the-art techniques and allow focused development of those techniques beneficial to future monitoring programmes. It is also planned, as part of the MoDeRn programme of stakeholder engagement to show some of these monitoring demonstrations to lay stakeholders in order to receive their feed-back on the approach taken and their views on the value of this work. This feedback will help improve our understanding of how this work and future work on monitoring can be more effectively communicated. (authors)« less

Multifunctional cell-culture platform for aligned cell sheet monitoring, transfer printing, and therapy.

PubMed

Kim, Seok Joo; Cho, Hye Rim; Cho, Kyoung Won; Qiao, Shutao; Rhim, Jung Soo; Soh, Min; Kim, Taeho; Choi, Moon Kee; Choi, Changsoon; Park, Inhyuk; Hwang, Nathaniel S; Hyeon, Taeghwan; Choi, Seung Hong; Lu, Nanshu; Kim, Dae-Hyeong

2015-03-24

While several functional platforms for cell culturing have been proposed for cell sheet engineering, a soft integrated system enabling in vitro physiological monitoring of aligned cells prior to their in vivo applications in tissue regeneration has not been reported. Here, we present a multifunctional, soft cell-culture platform equipped with ultrathin stretchable nanomembrane sensors and graphene-nanoribbon cell aligners, whose system modulus is matched with target tissues. This multifunctional platform is capable of aligning plated cells and in situ monitoring of cellular physiological characteristics during proliferation and differentiation. In addition, it is successfully applied as an in vitro muscle-on-a-chip testing platform. Finally, a simple but high-yield transfer printing mechanism is proposed to deliver cell sheets for scaffold-free, localized cell therapy in vivo. The muscle-mimicking stiffness of the platform allows the high-yield transfer printing of multiple cell sheets and results in successful therapies in diseased animal models. Expansion of current results to stem cells will provide unique opportunities for emerging classes of tissue engineering and cell therapy technologies.

Wearable Sensor System Powered by a Biofuel Cell for Detection of Lactate Levels in Sweat (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-04

attractive for development of sensing technology for the monitoring of human performance. Amperometric biosensors are known to be inexpensive, repro...biofuel cells for self-powered biosensors was first discussed in 2001 and has gained momentum in recent years.32–34 Information technology has...lactate biosensor ,35,36 a glucose oxidase BFC power source, an energy har- vester and a micropotentiostat. The following sections describe the development

Low temperature co-fired ceramic packaging of CMOS capacitive sensor chip towards cell viability monitoring.

PubMed

Halonen, Niina; Kilpijärvi, Joni; Sobocinski, Maciej; Datta-Chaudhuri, Timir; Hassinen, Antti; Prakash, Someshekar B; Möller, Peter; Abshire, Pamela; Kellokumpu, Sakari; Lloyd Spetz, Anita

2016-01-01

Cell viability monitoring is an important part of biosafety evaluation for the detection of toxic effects on cells caused by nanomaterials, preferably by label-free, noninvasive, fast, and cost effective methods. These requirements can be met by monitoring cell viability with a capacitance-sensing integrated circuit (IC) microchip. The capacitance provides a measurement of the surface attachment of adherent cells as an indication of their health status. However, the moist, warm, and corrosive biological environment requires reliable packaging of the sensor chip. In this work, a second generation of low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) technology was combined with flip-chip bonding to provide a durable package compatible with cell culture. The LTCC-packaged sensor chip was integrated with a printed circuit board, data acquisition device, and measurement-controlling software. The packaged sensor chip functioned well in the presence of cell medium and cells, with output voltages depending on the medium above the capacitors. Moreover, the manufacturing of microfluidic channels in the LTCC package was demonstrated.

Optical Multi-Gas Monitor Technology Demonstration on the International Space Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pilgrim, Jeffrey S.; Wood, William R.; Casias, Miguel E.; Vakhtin, Andrei B.; Johnson, Michael D.; Mudgett, Paul D.

2014-01-01

The International Space Station (ISS) employs a suite of portable and permanently located gas monitors to insure crew health and safety. These sensors are tasked with functions ranging from fixed mass spectrometer based major constituents analysis to portable electrochemical sensor based combustion product monitoring. An all optical multigas sensor is being developed that can provide the specificity of a mass spectrometer with the portability of an electrochemical cell. The technology, developed under the Small Business Innovation Research program, allows for an architecture that is rugged, compact and low power. A four gas version called the Multi-Gas Monitor was launched to ISS in November 2013 aboard Soyuz and activated in February 2014. The portable instrument is comprised of a major constituents analyzer (water vapor, carbon dioxide, oxygen) and high dynamic range real-time ammonia sensor. All species are sensed inside the same enhanced path length optical cell with a separate vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) targeted at each species. The prototype is controlled digitally with a field-programmable gate array/microcontroller architecture. The optical and electronic approaches are designed for scalability and future versions could add three important acid gases and carbon monoxide combustion product gases to the four species already sensed. Results obtained to date from the technology demonstration on ISS are presented and discussed.

Review of the clinical applications and technological advances of circulating tumor DNA in cancer monitoring.

PubMed

Chang, Yi; Tolani, Bhairavi; Nie, Xiuhong; Zhi, Xiuyi; Hu, Mu; He, Biao

2017-01-01

Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) released by tumor cells, termed ctDNA, closely reflects the heterogeneity of primary cancers and their metastases. As a noninvasive, real-time monitoring biomarker, ctDNA is a promising tool for detecting driver gene mutations, assessing tumor burden and acquired resistance, and early diagnosis. However, isolation and enrichment of cfDNA is a big challenge due to the high degree of DNA fragmentation and its relatively low abundance in the bloodstream. This review aims to provide insights into the recent technological advances in acquisition of optimal quality cfDNA, the use of preservatives, isolation methods, processing timelines, and detection techniques. It also describes clinical applications of ctDNA in cancer patient management.

Encapsulated Optically Responsive Cell Systems: Toward Smart Implants in Biomedicine.

PubMed

Boss, Christophe; Bouche, Nicolas; De Marchi, Umberto

2018-04-01

Managing increasingly prevalent chronic diseases will require close continuous monitoring of patients. Cell-based biosensors may be used for implantable diagnostic systems to monitor health status. Cells are indeed natural sensors in the body. Functional cellular systems can be maintained in the body for long-term implantation using cell encapsulation technology. By taking advantage of recent progress in miniaturized optoelectronic systems, the genetic engineering of optically responsive cells may be combined with cell encapsulation to generate smart implantable cell-based sensing systems. In biomedical research, cell-based biosensors may be used to study cell signaling, therapeutic effects, and dosing of bioactive molecules in preclinical models. Today, a wide variety of genetically encoded fluorescent sensors have been developed for real-time imaging of living cells. Here, recent developments in genetically encoded sensors, cell encapsulation, and ultrasmall optical systems are highlighted. The integration of these components in a new generation of biosensors is creating innovative smart in vivo cell-based systems, bringing novel perspectives for biomedical research and ultimately allowing unique health monitoring applications. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Impedance microflow cytometry for viability studies of microorganisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Berardino, Marco; Hebeisen, Monika; Hessler, Thomas; Ziswiler, Adrian; Largiadèr, Stephanie; Schade, Grit

2011-02-01

Impedance-based Coulter counters and its derivatives are widely used cell analysis tools in many laboratories and use normally DC or low frequency AC to perform these electrical analyses. The emergence of micro-fabrication technologies in the last decade, however, provides a new means of measuring electrical properties of cells. Microfluidic approaches combined with impedance spectroscopy measurements in the radio frequency (RF) range increase sensitivity and information content and thus push single cell analyses beyond simple cell counting and sizing applications towards multiparametric cell characterization. Promising results have been shown already in the fields of cell differentiation and blood analysis. Here we emphasize the potential of this technology by presenting new data obtained from viability studies on microorganisms. Impedance measurements of several yeast and bacteria strains performed at frequencies around 10 MHz enable an easy discrimination between dead and viable cells. Moreover, cytotoxic effects of antibiotics and other reagents, as well as cell starvation can also be monitored easily. Control analyses performed with conventional flow cytometers using various fluorescent dyes (propidium iodide, oxonol) indicate a good correlation and further highlight the capability of this device. The label-free approach makes on the one hand the use of usually expensive fluorochromes obsolete, on the other hand practically eliminates laborious sample preparation procedures. Until now, online cell monitoring was limited to the determination of viable biomass, which provides rather poor information of a cell culture. Impedance microflow cytometry, besides other aspects, proposes a simple solution to these limitations and might become an important tool for bioprocess monitoring applications in the biotech industry.

Blood-Based Analyses of Cancer: Circulating Tumor Cells and Circulating Tumor DNA

PubMed Central

Haber, Daniel A.; Velculescu, Victor E.

2015-01-01

The ability to study nonhematologic cancers through noninvasive sampling of blood is one of the most exciting and rapidly advancing fields in cancer diagnostics. This has been driven both by major technologic advances, including the isolation of intact cancer cells and the analysis of cancer cell–derived DNA from blood samples, and by the increasing application of molecularly driven therapeutics, which rely on such accurate and timely measurements of critical biomarkers. Moreover, the dramatic efficacy of these potent cancer therapies drives the selection for additional genetic changes as tumors acquire drug resistance, necessitating repeated sampling of cancer cells to adjust therapy in response to tumor evolution. Together, these advanced noninvasive diagnostic capabilities and their applications in guiding precision cancer therapies are poised to change the ways in which we select and monitor cancer treatments. Significance Recent advances in technologies to analyze circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA are setting the stage for real-time, noninvasive monitoring of cancer and providing novel insights into cancer evolution, invasion, and metastasis. PMID:24801577

Developments in label-free microfluidic methods for single-cell analysis and sorting.

PubMed

Carey, Thomas R; Cotner, Kristen L; Li, Brian; Sohn, Lydia L

2018-04-24

Advancements in microfluidic technologies have led to the development of many new tools for both the characterization and sorting of single cells without the need for exogenous labels. Label-free microfluidics reduce the preparation time, reagents needed, and cost of conventional methods based on fluorescent or magnetic labels. Furthermore, these devices enable analysis of cell properties such as mechanical phenotype and dielectric parameters that cannot be characterized with traditional labels. Some of the most promising technologies for current and future development toward label-free, single-cell analysis and sorting include electronic sensors such as Coulter counters and electrical impedance cytometry; deformation analysis using optical traps and deformation cytometry; hydrodynamic sorting such as deterministic lateral displacement, inertial focusing, and microvortex trapping; and acoustic sorting using traveling or standing surface acoustic waves. These label-free microfluidic methods have been used to screen, sort, and analyze cells for a wide range of biomedical and clinical applications, including cell cycle monitoring, rapid complete blood counts, cancer diagnosis, metastatic progression monitoring, HIV and parasite detection, circulating tumor cell isolation, and point-of-care diagnostics. Because of the versatility of label-free methods for characterization and sorting, the low-cost nature of microfluidics, and the rapid prototyping capabilities of modern microfabrication, we expect this class of technology to continue to be an area of high research interest going forward. New developments in this field will contribute to the ongoing paradigm shift in cell analysis and sorting technologies toward label-free microfluidic devices, enabling new capabilities in biomedical research tools as well as clinical diagnostics. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > Biosensing Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

iACT - An interactive mHealth monitoring system to enhance psychotherapy for adolescents with sickle cell disease

PubMed Central

Cheng, Chihwen; Brown, R. Clark; Cohen, Lindsey L.; Venugopalan, Janani; Stokes, Todd H.

2016-01-01

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common inherited disease, and SCD symptoms impact functioning and well-being. For example, adolescents with SCD have a higher tendency of psychological problems than the general population. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a cognitive-behavioral therapy, is an effective intervention to promote quality of life and functioning in adolescents with chronic illness. However, traditional visit-based therapy sessions are restrained by challenges, such as limited follow-up, insufficient data collection, low treatment adherence, and delayed intervention. In this paper, we present Instant Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (iACT), a system designed to enhance the quality of pediatric ACT. iACT utilizes text messaging technology, which is the most popular cell phone activity among adolescents, to conduct real-time psychotherapy interventions. The system is built on cloud computing technologies, which provides a convenient and cost-effective monitoring environment. To evaluate iACT, a trial with 60 adolescents with SCD is being conducted in conjunction with the Georgia Institute of Technology, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Georgia State University. PMID:24110179

iACT--an interactive mHealth monitoring system to enhance psychotherapy for adolescents with sickle cell disease.

PubMed

Cheng, Chihwen; Brown, R Clark; Cohen, Lindsey L; Venugopalan, Janani; Stokes, Todd H; Wang, May D

2013-01-01

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common inherited disease, and SCD symptoms impact functioning and well-being. For example, adolescents with SCD have a higher tendency of psychological problems than the general population. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a cognitive-behavioral therapy, is an effective intervention to promote quality of life and functioning in adolescents with chronic illness. However, traditional visit-based therapy sessions are restrained by challenges, such as limited follow-up, insufficient data collection, low treatment adherence, and delayed intervention. In this paper, we present Instant Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (iACT), a system designed to enhance the quality of pediatric ACT. iACT utilizes text messaging technology, which is the most popular cell phone activity among adolescents, to conduct real-time psychotherapy interventions. The system is built on cloud computing technologies, which provides a convenient and cost-effective monitoring environment. To evaluate iACT, a trial with 60 adolescents with SCD is being conducted in conjunction with the Georgia Institute of Technology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, and Georgia State University.

Comparison of spectroscopy technologies for improved monitoring of cell culture processes in miniature bioreactors.

PubMed

Rowland-Jones, Ruth C; van den Berg, Frans; Racher, Andrew J; Martin, Elaine B; Jaques, Colin

2017-03-01

Cell culture process development requires the screening of large numbers of cell lines and process conditions. The development of miniature bioreactor systems has increased the throughput of such studies; however, there are limitations with their use. One important constraint is the limited number of offline samples that can be taken compared to those taken for monitoring cultures in large-scale bioreactors. The small volume of miniature bioreactor cultures (15 mL) is incompatible with the large sample volume (600 µL) required for bioanalysers routinely used. Spectroscopy technologies may be used to resolve this limitation. The purpose of this study was to compare the use of NIR, Raman, and 2D-fluorescence to measure multiple analytes simultaneously in volumes suitable for daily monitoring of a miniature bioreactor system. A novel design-of-experiment approach is described that utilizes previously analyzed cell culture supernatant to assess metabolite concentrations under various conditions while providing optimal coverage of the desired design space. Multivariate data analysis techniques were used to develop predictive models. Model performance was compared to determine which technology is more suitable for this application. 2D-fluorescence could more accurately measure ammonium concentration (RMSE CV 0.031 g L -1 ) than Raman and NIR. Raman spectroscopy, however, was more robust at measuring lactate and glucose concentrations (RMSE CV 1.11 and 0.92 g L -1 , respectively) than the other two techniques. The findings suggest that Raman spectroscopy is more suited for this application than NIR and 2D-fluorescence. The implementation of Raman spectroscopy increases at-line measuring capabilities, enabling daily monitoring of key cell culture components within miniature bioreactor cultures. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:337-346, 2017. © 2017 The Authors Biotechnology Progress published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Laser activated nanothermolysis of leukemia cells monitored by photothermal microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lapotko, Dmitri; Lukianova, Ekaterina; Shnip, Alexander; Zheltov, George; Potapnev, Michail; Savitsky, Valeriy; Klimovich, Olga; Oraevsky, Alexander

2005-04-01

We are developing new diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for leukemia based on selective targeting of leukemia cells with gold nanoparticles and thermomechanical destruction of the tumor cells with laser-induced microbubbles. Clusters of spherical gold nanoparticles that have strong optical absorption of laser pulses at 532 nm served as nucleation sites of vapor microbubbles. The nanoparticles were targeted selectively to leukemia cells using leukemia-specific surface receptors and a set of two monoclonal antibodies. Application of a primary myeloid-specific antibody to tumor cells followed by targeting the cells with 30-nm nanoparticles conjugated with a secondary antibody (IgG) resulted in formation of nanoparticulate clusters due to aggregation of IgGs. Formation of clusters resulted in substantial decrease of the damage threshold for target cells. The results encourage development of Laser Activated Nanothermolysis as a Cell Elimination Therapy (LANCET) for leukemia. The proposed technology can be applied separately or in combination with chemotherapy for killing leukemia cells without damage to other blood cells. Potential applications include initial reduction of concentration of leukemia cells in blood prior to chemotherapy and treatment of residual tumor cells after the chemotherapy. Laser-induced bubbles in individual cells and cell damage were monitored by analyzing profile of photothermal response signals over the entire cell after irradiation with a single 10-ns long laser pulse. Photothermal microscopy was utilized for imaging formation of microbubbles around nanoparticulate clusters.

An Incubatable Direct Current Stimulation System for In Vitro Studies of Mammalian Cells

PubMed Central

Panitch, Alyssa; Caplan, Michael; Sweeney, James D.

2012-01-01

Abstract The purpose of this study was to provide a simplified alternative technology and format for direct current stimulation of mammalian cells. An incubatable reusable stimulator was developed that effectively delivers a regulated current and does not require constant monitoring. PMID:23514694

Biosensors for Cell Analysis.

PubMed

Zhou, Qing; Son, Kyungjin; Liu, Ying; Revzin, Alexander

2015-01-01

Biosensors first appeared several decades ago to address the need for monitoring physiological parameters such as oxygen or glucose in biological fluids such as blood. More recently, a new wave of biosensors has emerged in order to provide more nuanced and granular information about the composition and function of living cells. Such biosensors exist at the confluence of technology and medicine and often strive to connect cell phenotype or function to physiological or pathophysiological processes. Our review aims to describe some of the key technological aspects of biosensors being developed for cell analysis. The technological aspects covered in our review include biorecognition elements used for biosensor construction, methods for integrating cells with biosensors, approaches to single-cell analysis, and the use of nanostructured biosensors for cell analysis. Our hope is that the spectrum of possibilities for cell analysis described in this review may pique the interest of biomedical scientists and engineers and may spur new collaborations in the area of using biosensors for cell analysis.

Establishment of oct4:gfp transgenic zebrafish line for monitoring cellular multipotency by GFP fluorescence.

PubMed

Kato, Hiroyuki; Abe, Kota; Yokota, Shinpei; Matsuno, Rinta; Mikekado, Tsuyoshi; Yokoi, Hayato; Suzuki, Tohru

2015-01-01

The establishment of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology in fish could facilitate the establishment of novel cryopreservation techniques for storing selected aquaculture strains as frozen cells. In order to apply iPS cell technology to fish, we established a transgenic zebrafish line, Tg(Tru.oct4:EGFP), using green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression under the control of the oct4 gene promoter as a marker to evaluate multipotency in iPS cell preparations. We used the oct4 promoter from fugu (Takifugu rubripes) due to the compact nature of the fugu genome and to facilitate future applications of this technology in marine fishes. During embryogenesis, maternal GFP fluorescence was observed at the cleavage stage and zygotic GFP expression was observed from the start of the shield stage until approximately 24 h after fertilization. gfp messenger RNA (mRNA) was expressed by whole embryonic cells at the shield stage, and then restricted to the caudal neural tube in the latter stages of embryogenesis. These observations showed that GFP fluorescence and the regulation of gfp mRNA expression by the exogenous fugu oct4 promoter are well suited for monitoring endogenous oct4 mRNA expression in embryos. Bisulfite sequencing revealed that the rate of CpG methylation in the transgenic oct4 promoter was high in adult cells (98%) and low in embryonic cells (37%). These findings suggest that, as with the endogenous oct4 promoter, demethylation and methylation both take place normally in the transgenic oct4 promoter during embryogenesis. The embryonic cells harvested at the shield stage formed embryonic body-like cellular aggregates and maintained GFP fluorescence for 6 d when cultured on Transwell-COL Permeable Supports or a feeder layer of adult fin cells. Loss of GFP fluorescence by cultured cells was correlated with cellular differentiation. We consider that the Tg(Tru.oct4:EGFP) zebrafish line established here is well suited for monitoring multipotency in multipotent zebrafish cell cultures and for iPS cell preparation.

Airborne particle monitoring in clean room environments for stem cell cultures.

PubMed

Cobo, Fernando; Grela, David; Concha, Angel

2008-01-01

Modern high-technology industrial practices like pharmaceutical and stem cell line production demand high-quality environmental conditions to avoid particle contamination in the final product. Particles are important because their presence can affect both the output and the productivity and because they can have repercussion on human health. In this kind of production practice it is necessary to implement optimal methods for particle management and to introduce an environmental monitoring program. This should also address the regional regulatory requirements and will depend on local conditions in each processing center. Each center must evaluate its specific needs and establish appropriate monitoring procedures.

HoloMonitor M4: holographic imaging cytometer for real-time kinetic label-free live-cell analysis of adherent cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sebesta, Mikael; Egelberg, Peter J.; Langberg, Anders; Lindskov, Jens-Henrik; Alm, Kersti; Janicke, Birgit

2016-03-01

Live-cell imaging enables studying dynamic cellular processes that cannot be visualized in fixed-cell assays. An increasing number of scientists in academia and the pharmaceutical industry are choosing live-cell analysis over or in addition to traditional fixed-cell assays. We have developed a time-lapse label-free imaging cytometer HoloMonitorM4. HoloMonitor M4 assists researchers to overcome inherent disadvantages of fluorescent analysis, specifically effects of chemical labels or genetic modifications which can alter cellular behavior. Additionally, label-free analysis is simple and eliminates the costs associated with staining procedures. The underlying technology principle is based on digital off-axis holography. While multiple alternatives exist for this type of analysis, we prioritized our developments to achieve the following: a) All-inclusive system - hardware and sophisticated cytometric analysis software; b) Ease of use enabling utilization of instrumentation by expert- and entrylevel researchers alike; c) Validated quantitative assay end-points tracked over time such as optical path length shift, optical volume and multiple derived imaging parameters; d) Reliable digital autofocus; e) Robust long-term operation in the incubator environment; f) High throughput and walk-away capability; and finally g) Data management suitable for single- and multi-user networks. We provide examples of HoloMonitor applications of label-free cell viability measurements and monitoring of cell cycle phase distribution.

Microelectrode-based technology for the detection of low levels of bacteria

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, Tom D.; Hitchens, G. D.; Mishra, S. K.; Pierson, D. L.

1992-01-01

A microelectrode-based electrochemical detection method was used for quantitation of bacteria in water samples. The redox mediator, benzoquinone, was used to accept electrons from the bacterial metabolic pathway to create a flow of electrons by reducing the mediator. Electrochemical monitoring electrodes detected the reduced mediator as it diffused out of the cells and produced a small electrical current. By using a combination of microelectrodes and monitoring instrumentation, the cumulative current generated by a particular bacterial population could be monitored. Using commercially available components, an electrochemical detection system was assembled and tested to evaluate its potential as an emerging technology for rapid detection and quantitation of bacteria in water samples.

Capture, Release and Culture of Circulating Tumor Cells from Pancreatic Cancer Patients using an Enhanced Mixing Chip

PubMed Central

Sheng, Weian; Ogunwobi, Olorunseun O.; Chen, Tao; Zhang, Jinling; George, Thomas J.; Liu, Chen; Fan, Z. Hugh

2013-01-01

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from peripheral blood hold important information for cancer diagnosis and disease monitoring. Analysis of this “liquid biopsy” holds the promise to usher in a new era of personalized therapeutic treatments and real-time monitoring for cancer patients. But the extreme rarity of CTCs in blood makes their isolation and characterization technologically challenging. This paper reports the development of a geometrically enhanced mixing (GEM) chip for high-efficiency and high-purity tumor cell capture. We also successfully demonstrated the release and culture of the captured tumor cells, as well as the isolation of CTCs from cancer patients. The high-performance microchip is based on geometrically optimized micromixer structures, which enhance the transverse flow and flow folding, maximizing the interaction between CTCs and antibody-coated surfaces. With the optimized channel geometry and flow rate, the capture efficiency reached >90% with a purity of >84% when capturing spiked tumor cells in buffer. The system was further validated by isolating a wide range of spiked tumor cells (50–50,000) in 1 mL of lysed blood and whole blood. With the combination of trypsinization and high flow rate washing, captured tumor cells were efficiently released. The released cells were viable and able to proliferate, and showed no difference compared with intact cells that were not subjected to the capture and release process. Furthermore, we applied the device for detecting CTCs from metastatic pancreatic cancer patients’ blood; and CTCs were found from 17 out of 18 samples (>94%). We also tested the potential utility of the device in monitoring the response to anti-cancer drug treatment in pancreatic cancer patients, and the CTC numbers correlated with the clinical computed tomograms (CT scans) of tumors. The presented technology shows great promise for accurate CTC enumeration, biological studies of CTCs and cancer metastasis, as well as for cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring. PMID:24220648

Monitoring Brain Activity of Geriatric Learners with Low-Cost Neurophysiological Technology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Romero-Hall, Enilda; Scott, JoAnne

2017-01-01

Cultural stereotypes rooted in both antiquated data and misinterpretation of data have long perpetuated the belief that older adults are unable to learn new concepts because they are doomed to lose brain cells at an alarming rate during their geriatric years. However, advances in neurophysiological technologies that allow researchers to observe…

[Research Progress in Technology of Using Soil Micro-organisms to Generate Electricity and Its Potential Applications].

PubMed

Deng, Huan; Xue, Hong-jing; Jiang, Yun-bin; Zhong, Wen-hui

2015-10-01

Microbial fuel cells ( microbial fuel cells, MFCs) are devices in which micro-organisms convert chemical energy into electrical power. Soil has electrogenic bacteria and organic substrates, thus can generate electrical current in MFCs. Soil MFCs can be operated and applied to real-time and continuously monitor soil pollution, remove soil pollutants and to reduce methane emitted from flooded rice paddy, without energy consumption and the application of chemical reagents to the soil. Instead, the operation of soil MFCs generates small amount of electrical power. Therefore, soil MFCs are useful in the development of environment-friendly technology for monitoring and remediating soil pollution, which have potential value for applications in the domain of environmental science and engineering. However, much of advanced technology hasn't been applied into soil MFCs since the studies on soil MFCs was not started until recently. This paper summarized the research progress in related to soil MFCs combining with the frontier of MFCs technology, and brought forward the possible direction in studies on soil MFCs.

Exploring morally relevant issues facing families in their decisions to monitor the health-related behaviours of loved ones.

PubMed

Gammon, D; Christiansen, E K; Wynn, R

2009-07-01

Patient self-management of disease is increasingly supported by technologies that can monitor a wide range of behavioural and biomedical parameters. Incorporated into everyday devices such as cell phones and clothes, these technologies become integral to the psychosocial aspects of everyday life. Many technologies are likely to be marketed directly to families with ill members, and families may enlist the support of clinicians in shaping use. Current ethical frameworks are mainly conceptualised from the perspective of caregivers, researchers, developers and regulators in order to ensure the ethics of their own practices. This paper focuses on families as autonomous decision-makers outside the regulated context of healthcare. We discuss some morally relevant issues facing families in their decisions to monitor the health-related behaviours of loved ones. An example - remote parental monitoring of adolescent blood glucose - is presented and discussed through the lens of two contrasting accounts of ethics; one reflecting the predominant focus on health outcomes within the health technology assessment (HTA) framework and the other that attends to the broader sociocultural contexts shaping technologies and their implications. Issues discussed include the focus of assessments, informed consent and child assent, and family co-creation of system characteristics and implications. The parents' decisions to remotely monitor their child has relational implications that are likely to influence conflict levels and thus also health outcomes. Current efforts to better integrate outcome assessments with social and ethical assessments are particularly relevant for informed decision-making about health monitoring technologies in families.

A quartz nanopillar hemocytometer for high-yield separation and counting of CD4+ T lymphocytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Dong-Joo; Seol, Jin-Kyeong; Wu, Yu; Ji, Seungmuk; Kim, Gil-Sung; Hyung, Jung-Hwan; Lee, Seung-Yong; Lim, Hyuneui; Fan, Rong; Lee, Sang-Kwon

2012-03-01

We report the development of a novel quartz nanopillar (QNP) array cell separation system capable of selectively capturing and isolating a single cell population including primary CD4+ T lymphocytes from the whole pool of splenocytes. Integrated with a photolithographically patterned hemocytometer structure, the streptavidin (STR)-functionalized-QNP (STR-QNP) arrays allow for direct quantitation of captured cells using high content imaging. This technology exhibits an excellent separation yield (efficiency) of ~95.3 +/- 1.1% for the CD4+ T lymphocytes from the mouse splenocyte suspensions and good linear response for quantitating captured CD4+ T-lymphoblasts, which is comparable to flow cytometry and outperforms any non-nanostructured surface capture techniques, i.e. cell panning. This nanopillar hemocytometer represents a simple, yet efficient cell capture and counting technology and may find immediate applications for diagnosis and immune monitoring in the point-of-care setting.We report the development of a novel quartz nanopillar (QNP) array cell separation system capable of selectively capturing and isolating a single cell population including primary CD4+ T lymphocytes from the whole pool of splenocytes. Integrated with a photolithographically patterned hemocytometer structure, the streptavidin (STR)-functionalized-QNP (STR-QNP) arrays allow for direct quantitation of captured cells using high content imaging. This technology exhibits an excellent separation yield (efficiency) of ~95.3 +/- 1.1% for the CD4+ T lymphocytes from the mouse splenocyte suspensions and good linear response for quantitating captured CD4+ T-lymphoblasts, which is comparable to flow cytometry and outperforms any non-nanostructured surface capture techniques, i.e. cell panning. This nanopillar hemocytometer represents a simple, yet efficient cell capture and counting technology and may find immediate applications for diagnosis and immune monitoring in the point-of-care setting. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c2nr11338d

Bluetooth low energy: wireless connectivity for medical monitoring.

PubMed

Omre, Alf Helge

2010-03-01

Electronic wireless sensors could cut medical costs by enabling physicians to remotely monitor vital signs such as blood pressure, blood glucose, and blood oxygenation while patients remain at home. According to the IDC report "Worldwide Bluetooth Semiconductor 2008-2012 Forecast," published November 2008, a forthcoming radio frequency communication ("wireless connectivity") standard, Bluetooth low energy, will link wireless sensors via radio signals to the 70% of cell phones and computers likely to be fitted with the next generation of Bluetooth wireless technology, leveraging a ready-built infrastructure for data transmission. Analysis of trends indicated by this data can help physicians better manage diseases such as diabetes. The technology also addresses the concerns of cost, compatibility, and interoperability that have previously stalled widespread adoption of wireless technology in medical applications. (c) 2010 Diabetes Technology Society.

Soluble Protein Analysis using a Compact Bench-top Flow Cytometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pappas, Dimitri; Kao, Shib-Hsin; Cyr, Johnathan

2004-01-01

Future space exploration missions will require analytical technology capable of providing both autonomous medical care to the crew and investigative capabilities to researchers. While several promising candidate technologies exist for further development, flow cytometry is an attractive technology as it offers both crew health (blood cell count, leukocyte differential, etc.) and a wide array of biochemistry and immunology assays. research settings, the application of this technique to soluble protein analysis is also possible. Proteomic beads using fluorescent dyes for optical encoding were used to monitor six cytokines simultaneously in cell medium of cell cultures in stationary and rotating cell culture systems. The results of this work demonstrate that a compact flow cytometer, such as a system proposed for space flight, can detect a variety of soluble proteins for crew health and biotechnology experiments during long-term missions.

ISFET Based Microsensors for Environmental Monitoring

PubMed Central

Jimenez-Jorquera, Cecilia; Orozco, Jahir; Baldi, Antoni

2010-01-01

The use of microsensors for in-field monitoring of environmental parameters is gaining interest due to their advantages over conventional sensors. Among them microsensors based on semiconductor technology offer additional advantages such as small size, robustness, low output impedance and rapid response. Besides, the technology used allows integration of circuitry and multiple sensors in the same substrate and accordingly they can be implemented in compact probes for particular applications e.g., in situ monitoring and/or on-line measurements. In the field of microsensors for environmental applications, Ion Selective Field Effect Transistors (ISFETs) have a special interest. They are particularly helpful for measuring pH and other ions in small volumes and they can be integrated in compact flow cells for continuous measurements. In this paper the technologies used to fabricate ISFETs and a review of the role of ISFETs in the environmental field are presented. PMID:22315527

Bluetooth wireless monitoring, diagnosis and calibration interface for control system of fuel cell bus in Olympic demonstration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hua, Jianfeng; Lin, Xinfan; Xu, Liangfei; Li, Jianqiu; Ouyang, Minggao

With the worldwide deterioration of the natural environment and the fossil fuel crisis, the possible commercialization of fuel cell vehicles has become a hot topic. In July 2008, Beijing started a clean public transportation plan for the 29th Olympic games. Three fuel cell city buses and 497 other low-emission vehicles are now serving the Olympic core area and Beijing urban areas. The fuel cell buses will operate along a fixed bus line for 1 year as a public demonstration of green energy vehicles. Due to the specialized nature of fuel cell engines and electrified power-train systems, measurement, monitoring and calibration devices are indispensable. Based on the latest Bluetooth wireless technology, a novel Bluetooth universal data interface was developed for the control system of the fuel cell city bus. On this platform, a series of wireless portable control auxiliary systems have been implemented, including wireless calibration, a monitoring system and an in-system programming platform, all of which are ensuring normal operation of the fuel cell buses used in the demonstration.

Bio-analytical applications of microbial fuel cell-based biosensors for onsite water quality monitoring.

PubMed

ElMekawy, A; Hegab, H M; Pant, D; Saint, C P

2018-01-01

Globally, sustainable provision of high-quality safe water is a major challenge of the 21st century. Various chemical and biological monitoring analytics are presently utilized to guarantee the availability of high-quality water. However, these techniques still face some challenges including high costs, complex design and onsite and online limitations. The recent technology of using microbial fuel cell (MFC)-based biosensors holds outstanding potential for the rapid and real-time monitoring of water source quality. MFCs have the advantages of simplicity in design and efficiency for onsite sensing. Even though some sensing applications of MFCs were previously studied, e.g. biochemical oxygen demand sensor, recently numerous research groups around the world have presented new practical applications of this technique, which combine multidisciplinary scientific knowledge in materials science, microbiology and electrochemistry fields. This review presents the most updated research on the utilization of MFCs as potential biosensors for monitoring water quality and considers the range of potentially toxic analytes that have so far been detected using this methodology. The advantages of MFCs over established technology are also considered as well as future work required to establish their routine use. © 2017 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

High-throughput cell analysis and sorting technologies for clinical diagnostics and therapeutics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leary, James F.; Reece, Lisa M.; Szaniszlo, Peter; Prow, Tarl W.; Wang, Nan

2001-05-01

A number of theoretical and practical limits of high-speed flow cytometry/cell sorting are important for clinical diagnostics and therapeutics. Three applications include: (1) stem cell isolation with tumor purging for minimal residual disease monitoring and treatment, (2) identification and isolation of human fetal cells from maternal blood for prenatal diagnostics and in-vitro therapeutics, and (3) high-speed library screening for recombinant vaccine production against unknown pathogens.

Optical remote measurement of toxic gases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grant, W. B.; Kagann, R. H.; McClenny, W. A.

1992-01-01

Enactment of the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) of 1990 has resulted in increased ambient air monitoring needs for industry, some of which may be met efficiently using open-path optical remote sensing techniques. These techniques include Fourier transform spectroscopy, differential optical absorption spectroscopy, laser long-path absorption, differential absorption lidar, and gas cell correlation spectroscopy. With this regulatory impetus, it is an opportune time to consider applying these technologies to the remote and/or path-averaged measurement and monitoring of toxic gases covered by the CAAA. This article reviews the optical remote sensing technology and literature for that application.

Research and design of photovoltaic power monitoring system based on Zig Bee

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Lijuan; Yun, Zhonghua; Bianbawangdui; Bianbaciren

2018-01-01

In order to monitor and study the impact of environmental parameters on photovoltaic cells, a photovoltaic cell monitoring system based on ZigBee is designed. The system uses ZigBee wireless communication technology to achieve real-time acquisition of P-I-V curves and environmental parameters of terminal nodes, and transfer the data to the coordinator, the coordinator communicates with the STM32 through the serial port. In addition, STM32 uses the serial port to transfer data to the host computer written by LabVIEW, and the collected data is displayed in real time, as well as stored in the background database. The experimental results show that the system has a stable performance, accurate measurement, high sensitivity, high reliability, can better realize real-time collection of photovoltaic cell characteristics and environmental parameters.

Nanostructured Substrates for Capturing Circulating Tumor Cells in Whole Blood

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tseng, Hsian-Rong

2009-03-01

Over the past decade, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) has become an emerging ``biomarker'' for detecting early-stage cancer metastasis, predicting patient prognosis, as well as monitoring disease progression and therapeutic outcomes. However, isolation of CTCs has been technically challenging due to the extremely low abundance (a few to hundreds per ml) of CTCs among a high number of hematologic cells (109 per mL) in the blood. Our joint research team at UCLA has developed a new cell capture technology for quantification of CTCs in whole blood samples. Similar to most of the existing approaches, epithelial cell adhesion molecule antibody (anti-EpCAM) was grafted onto the surfaces to distinguish CTCs from the surrounding hematologic cells. The uniqueness of our technology is the use of nanostructured surfaces, which facilitates local topographical interactions between CTCs and substrates at the very first cell/substrate contacting time point. We demonstrated the ability of these nanostructured substrates to capture CTCs in whole blood samples with significantly improved efficiency and selectivity. The successful demonstration of this cell capture technology using brain, breast and prostate cancer cell lines encouraged us to test this approach in clinical setting. We have been able to bond our first validation study with a commercialized technology based on the use of immunomagnetic nanoparticles. A group of clinically well-characterized prostate cancer patients at UCLA hospital have been recruited and tested in parallel by these two technologies.

Spinoff 1999

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

A survey is presented of NASA-developed technologies and systems that were reaching commercial application in the course of 1999. Attention is given to the contributions of each major NASA Research Center. Representative 'spinoff' technologies include the predictive AI engine monitoring system EMPAS, the GPS-based Wide Area Augmentation System for aircraft navigation, a CMOS-Active Pixel Sensor camera-on-a-chip, a marine spectroradiometer, portable fuel cells, hyperspectral camera technology, and a rapid-prototyping process for ceramic components.

Fuel cell technology program contract summary report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

A fuel cell technology program which was established to advance the state-of-the-art of hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells using the P and WA PC8B technology as the base is reported. The major tasks of this program consisted of (1) fuel cell system studies of a space shuttle powerplant conceptual design (designated engineering model -1, EM-1) supported by liaison with the space shuttle prime contractors; (2) component and subsystem technology advancement and; (3) a demonstrator powerplant test. Fuel cell system studies, with the EM-1 as the focal point of design activities, included determination of voltage regulation, specific reactant consumption, weight, voltage level and performance characteristics. These studies provided the basis for coordination activities with the space shuttle vehicle prime contractor. Interface information, on-board checkout and in-flight monitoring requirements, and development cost data were also provided as part of this activity. Even though the two vehicles primes had different voltage requirements (115 volts in one case and 28 volts in the other), it was concluded that either option could be provided in the fuel cell power system by the electrical hook-up of the cells in the stack.

Microbial Monitoring of Common Opportunistic Pathogens by Comparing Multiple Real-Time PCR Platforms for Potential Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oubre, Cherie M.; Birmele, Michele N.; Castro, Victoria A.; Venkateswaran, Kasthuri J.; Vaishampayan, Parag A.; Jones, Kathy U.; Singhal, Adesh; Johnston, Angela S.; Roman, Monserrate C.; Ozbolt, Tamra A.;

A system for the measurement of gene targeting efficiency in human cell lines using an antibiotic resistance-GFP fusion gene.

PubMed

Konishi, Yuko; Karnan, Sivasundaram; Takahashi, Miyuki; Ota, Akinobu; Damdindorj, Lkhagvasuren; Hosokawa, Yoshitaka; Konishi, Hiroyuki

2012-09-01

Gene targeting in a broad range of human somatic cell lines has been hampered by inefficient homologous recombination. To improve this technology and facilitate its widespread application, it is critical to first have a robust and efficient research system for measuring gene targeting efficiency. Here, using a fusion gene consisting of hygromycin B phosphotransferase and 3'-truncated enhanced GFP (HygR-5' EGFP) as a reporter gene, we created a molecular system monitoring the ratio of homologous to random integration (H/R ratio) of targeting vectors into the genome. Cell clones transduced with a reporter vector containing HygR-5' EGFP were efficiently established from two human somatic cell lines. Established HygR-5' EGFP reporter clones retained their capacity to monitor gene targeting efficiency for a longer duration than a conventional reporter system using an unfused 5' EGFP gene. With the HygR-5' EGFP reporter system, we reproduced previous findings of gene targeting frequency being up-regulated by the use of an adeno-associated viral (AAV) backbone, a promoter-trap system, or a longer homology arm in a targeting vector, suggesting that this system accurately monitors H/R ratio. Thus, our HygR-5' EGFP reporter system will assist in the development of an efficient AAV-based gene targeting technology.

Breast Cancer Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2000-01-01

The BioScan System was developed by OmniCorder Technologies, Inc. at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The system is able to locate cancerous lesions by detecting the cancer's ability to recruit a new blood supply. A digital sensor detects infrared energy emitted from the body and identifies the minute differences accompanying the blood flow changes associated with cancerous cells. It also has potential use as a monitoring device during cancer treatment. This technology will reduce the time taken to detect cancerous cells and allow for earlier intervention, therefore increasing the overall survival rates of breast cancer patients.

A multiplexed system for quantitative comparisons of chromatin landscapes

PubMed Central

van Galen, Peter; Viny, Aaron D.; Ram, Oren; Ryan, Russell J.H.; Cotton, Matthew J.; Donohue, Laura; Sievers, Cem; Drier, Yotam; Liau, Brian B.; Gillespie, Shawn M.; Carroll, Kaitlin M.; Cross, Michael B.; Levine, Ross L.; Bernstein, Bradley E.

2015-01-01

Genome-wide profiling of histone modifications can provide systematic insight into the regulatory elements and programs engaged in a given cell type. However, conventional chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing (ChIP-seq) does not capture quantitative information on histone modification levels, requires large amounts of starting material, and involves tedious processing of each individual sample. Here we address these limitations with a technology that leverages DNA barcoding to profile chromatin quantitatively and in multiplexed format. We concurrently map relative levels of multiple histone modifications across multiple samples, each comprising as few as a thousand cells. We demonstrate the technology by monitoring dynamic changes following inhibition of P300, EZH2 or KDM5, by linking altered epigenetic landscapes to chromatin regulator mutations, and by mapping active and repressive marks in purified human hematopoietic stem cells. Hence, this technology enables quantitative studies of chromatin state dynamics across rare cell types, genotypes, environmental conditions and drug treatments. PMID:26687680

Machine Learning Approach to Automated Quality Identification of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Colony Images.

PubMed

Joutsijoki, Henry; Haponen, Markus; Rasku, Jyrki; Aalto-Setälä, Katriina; Juhola, Martti

2016-01-01

The focus of this research is on automated identification of the quality of human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) colony images. iPS cell technology is a contemporary method by which the patient's cells are reprogrammed back to stem cells and are differentiated to any cell type wanted. iPS cell technology will be used in future to patient specific drug screening, disease modeling, and tissue repairing, for instance. However, there are technical challenges before iPS cell technology can be used in practice and one of them is quality control of growing iPSC colonies which is currently done manually but is unfeasible solution in large-scale cultures. The monitoring problem returns to image analysis and classification problem. In this paper, we tackle this problem using machine learning methods such as multiclass Support Vector Machines and several baseline methods together with Scaled Invariant Feature Transformation based features. We perform over 80 test arrangements and do a thorough parameter value search. The best accuracy (62.4%) for classification was obtained by using a k-NN classifier showing improved accuracy compared to earlier studies.

FRET sensor-based quantification of intracellular trehalose in mammalian cells.

PubMed

Kikuta, Shingo; Hou, Bi-Huei; Sato, Ryoichi; Frommer, Wolf B; Kikawada, Takahiro

2016-01-01

Trehalose acts as a stress protectant and an autophagy inducer in mammalian cells. The molecular mechanisms of action remain obscure because intracellular trehalose at micromolar level is difficult to quantitate. Here, we show a novel trehalose monitoring technology based on FRET. FLIP-suc90μ∆1Venus sensor expressed in mammalian cells enables to quickly and non-destructively detect an infinitesimal amount of intracellular trehalose.

Impedance-based cellular assay technologies: recent advances, future promise.

PubMed

McGuinness, Ryan

2007-10-01

Cell-based assays are continuing to grow in importance in the drug discovery workflow. Their early introduction holds the promise of limiting attrition in the later, more costly phases of the process. This article reviews recent advances in the development of impedance technologies for label-free cell-based assays. These systems are capable of monitoring endogenous receptor activation, and thus generate more physiologically relevant measures of pharmacological endpoints. Primary cells can be investigated as well, thus producing disease relevant information. Label-free assays significantly decrease assay development efforts and avoid many complications inherent in recombinant readout systems. Impedance-based systems have great potential to advance the utility of cell-based assays as they are applied to drug discovery and pharmacology.

In situ monitoring of PTHLH secretion in neuroblastoma cells cultured onto nanoporous membranes.

PubMed

de la Escosura-Muñiz, Alfredo; Espinoza-Castañeda, Marisol; Chamorro-García, Alejandro; Rodríguez-Hernández, Carlos J; de Torres, Carmen; Merkoçi, Arben

2018-06-01

In this work, we propose for the first time the use of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) nanoporous membranes for in situ monitoring of parathyroid hormone-like hormone (PTHLH) secretion in cultured human cells. The biosensing system is based on the nanochannels blockage upon immunocomplex formation, which is electrically monitored through the voltammetric oxidation of Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs). Models evaluated include a neuroblastoma cell line (SK-N-AS) and immortalized keratinocytes (HaCaT) as a control of high PTHLH production. The effect of total number of seeded cells and incubation time on the secreted PTHLH levels is assessed, finding that secreted PTHLH levels range from approximately 60 to 400 ng/mL. Moreover, our methodology is also applied to analyse PTHLH production following PTHLH gene knockdown upon transient cell transfection with a specific silencing RNA (siRNA). Given that inhibition of PTHLH secretion reduces cell proliferation, survival and invasiveness in a number of tumors, our system provides a powerful tool for the preclinical evaluation of therapies that regulate PTHLH production. This nanoporous membrane - based sensing technology might be useful to monitor the active secretion of other proteins as well, thus contributing to characterize their regulation and function. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ultimate computing. Biomolecular consciousness and nano Technology

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

Hameroff, S.R.

1987-01-01

The book advances the premise that the cytoskeleton is the cell's nervous system, the biological controller/computer. If indeed cytoskeletal dynamics in the nanoscale (billionth meter, billionth second) are the texture of intracellular information processing, emerging ''NanoTechnologies'' (scanning tunneling microscopy, Feynman machines, von Neumann replicators, etc.) should enable direct monitoring, decoding and interfacing between biological and technological information devices. This in turn could result in important biomedical applications and perhaps a merger of mind and machine: Ultimate Computing.

Deployable Laboratory Applications of Nano- and Bio-Technology (Applications de nanotechnologie et biotechnologie destinees a un laboratoire deployable)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-10-01

applications of present nano-/ bio -technology include advanced health and fitness monitoring, high-resolution imaging, new environmental sensor platforms...others areas where nano-/ bio -technology development is needed: • Sensors : Diagnostic and detection kits (gene-chips, protein-chips, lab-on-chips, etc...studies on chemo- bio nano- sensors , ultra-sensitive biochips (“lab-on-a-chip” and “cells-on-chips” devices) have been prepared for routine medical

Non-invasive diagnostic platforms in management of non-small cell lung cancer: opportunities and challenges

PubMed Central

Pennell, Nathan A.

2017-01-01

Several non-invasive diagnostic platforms are already being incorporated in routine clinical practice in the work up and monitoring of patients with lung cancer. These approaches have great potential to improve patient selection and monitor patients while on therapy, however several challenges exist in clinical validation and standardization of such platforms. In this review, we summarize the current technologies available for non-invasive diagnostic evaluation from the blood of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and discuss the technical and logistical challenges associated incorporating such testing in clinical practice. PMID:29057238

On the sensitivity of 4 different CPV module technologies to relevant ambient and operation conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Domínguez, César; Besson, Pierre

2014-09-01

The sensitivity of four different CPV module technologies to most operating conditions relevant to CPV systems has been studied, namely DNI, spectrum, cell and lens temperature and clearness of the sky. In order to isolate the influence of a single operation parameter, the analysis of long-term outdoor monitoring data is required. The effect of lens temperature on cell current has been found to vary greatly between modules due to the different optical architectures studied. Maximum sensitivity is found for silicone-on-glass primary lenses. The VOC thermal coefficient was found to vary between module technologies, probably due to differences in maximum local effective concentration.

Circulating Tumor Cells Versus Circulating Tumor DNA in Colorectal Cancer: Pros and Cons

PubMed Central

Tan, Carlyn Rose C.; Zhou, Lanlan

2016-01-01

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) are emerging noninvasive multifunctional biomarkers in liquid biopsy allowing for early diagnosis, accurate prognosis, therapeutic target selection, spatiotemporal monitoring of metastasis, as well as monitoring response and resistance to treatment. CTCs and ctDNA are released from different tumor types at different stages and contribute complementary information for clinical decision. Although big strides have been taken in technology development for detection, isolation and characterization of CTCs and sensitive and specific detection of ctDNA, CTC-, and ctDNA-based liquid biopsies may not be widely adopted for routine cancer patient care until the suitability, accuracy, and reliability of these tests are validated and more standardized protocols are corroborated in large, independent, prospectively designed trials. This review covers CTC- and ctDNA-related technologies and their application in colorectal cancer. The promise of CTC-and ctDNA-based liquid biopsies is envisioned. PMID:27516729

Circulating Tumor Cells Versus Circulating Tumor DNA in Colorectal Cancer: Pros and Cons.

PubMed

Tan, Carlyn Rose C; Zhou, Lanlan; El-Deiry, Wafik S

2016-06-01

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) are emerging noninvasive multifunctional biomarkers in liquid biopsy allowing for early diagnosis, accurate prognosis, therapeutic target selection, spatiotemporal monitoring of metastasis, as well as monitoring response and resistance to treatment. CTCs and ctDNA are released from different tumor types at different stages and contribute complementary information for clinical decision. Although big strides have been taken in technology development for detection, isolation and characterization of CTCs and sensitive and specific detection of ctDNA, CTC-, and ctDNA-based liquid biopsies may not be widely adopted for routine cancer patient care until the suitability, accuracy, and reliability of these tests are validated and more standardized protocols are corroborated in large, independent, prospectively designed trials. This review covers CTC- and ctDNA-related technologies and their application in colorectal cancer. The promise of CTC-and ctDNA-based liquid biopsies is envisioned.

Molecular Neuroanatomy: A Generation of Progress

PubMed Central

Pollock, Jonathan D.; Wu, Da-Yu; Satterlee, John

2014-01-01

The neuroscience research landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade. An impressive array of neuroscience tools and technologies have been generated, including brain gene expression atlases, genetically encoded proteins to monitor and manipulate neuronal activity and function, cost effective genome sequencing, new technologies enabling genome manipulation, new imaging methods and new tools for mapping neuronal circuits. However, despite these technological advances, several significant scientific challenges must be overcome in the coming decade to enable a better understanding of brain function and to develop next generation cell type-targeted therapeutics to treat brain disorders. For example, we do not have an inventory of the different types of cells that exist in the brain, nor do we know how to molecularly phenotype them. We also lack robust technologies to map connections between cells. This review will provide an overview of some of the tools and technologies neuroscientists are currently using to move the field of molecular neuroanatomy forward and also discuss emerging technologies that may enable neuroscientists to address these critical scientific challenges over the coming decade. PMID:24388609

Immersion and dry lithography monitoring for flash memories (after develop inspection and photo cell monitor) using a darkfield imaging inspector with advanced binning technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parisi, P.; Mani, A.; Perry-Sullivan, C.; Kopp, J.; Simpson, G.; Renis, M.; Padovani, M.; Severgnini, C.; Piacentini, P.; Piazza, P.; Beccalli, A.

2009-12-01

After-develop inspection (ADI) and photo-cell monitoring (PM) are part of a comprehensive lithography process monitoring strategy. Capturing defects of interest (DOI) in the lithography cell rather than at later process steps shortens the cycle time and allows for wafer re-work, reducing overall cost and improving yield. Low contrast DOI and multiple noise sources make litho inspection challenging. Broadband brightfield inspectors provide the highest sensitivity to litho DOI and are traditionally used for ADI and PM. However, a darkfield imaging inspector has shown sufficient sensitivity to litho DOI, providing a high-throughput option for litho defect monitoring. On the darkfield imaging inspector, a very high sensitivity inspection is used in conjunction with advanced defect binning to detect pattern issues and other DOI and minimize nuisance defects. For ADI, this darkfield inspection methodology enables the separation and tracking of 'color variation' defects that correlate directly to CD variations allowing a high-sampling monitor for focus excursions, thereby reducing scanner re-qualification time. For PM, the darkfield imaging inspector provides sensitivity to critical immersion litho defects at a lower cost-of-ownership. This paper describes litho monitoring methodologies developed and implemented for flash devices for 65nm production and 45nm development using the darkfield imaging inspector.

Manipulating biological agents and cells in micro-scale volumes for applications in medicine

PubMed Central

Tasoglu, Savas; Gurkan, Umut Atakan; Wang, ShuQi

2013-01-01

Recent technological advances provide new tools to manipulate cells and biological agents in micro/nano-liter volumes. With precise control over small volumes, the cell microenvironment and other biological agents can be bioengineered; interactions between cells and external stimuli can be monitored; and the fundamental mechanisms such as cancer metastasis and stem cell differentiation can be elucidated. Technological advances based on the principles of electrical, magnetic, chemical, optical, acoustic, and mechanical forces lead to novel applications in point-of-care diagnostics, regenerative medicine, in vitro drug testing, cryopreservation, and cell isolation/purification. In this review, we first focus on the underlying mechanisms of emerging examples for cell manipulation in small volumes targeting applications such as tissue engineering. Then, we illustrate how these mechanisms impact the aforementioned biomedical applications, discuss the associated challenges, and provide perspectives for further development. PMID:23575660

Generation of an immortalized mesenchymal stem cell line producing a secreted biosensor protein for glucose monitoring

PubMed Central

Weisman, Itamar; Romano, Jacob; Ivics, Zoltán; Izsvák, Zsuzsanna; Barkai, Uriel

2017-01-01

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of blood glucose. Diabetic patients should normalize these levels in order to avoid short and long term clinical complications. Presently, blood glucose monitoring is dependent on frequent finger pricking and enzyme based systems that analyze the drawn blood. Continuous blood glucose monitors are already on market but suffer from technical problems, inaccuracy and short operation time. A novel approach for continuous glucose monitoring is the development of implantable cell-based biosensors that emit light signals corresponding to glucose concentrations. Such devices use genetically modified cells expressing chimeric genes with glucose binding properties. MSCs are good candidates as carrier cells, as they can be genetically engineered and expanded into large numbers. They also possess immunomodulatory properties that, by reducing local inflammation, may assist long operation time. Here, we generated a novel immortalized human MSC line co-expressing hTERT and a secreted glucose biosensor transgene using the Sleeping Beauty transposon technology. Genetically modified hMSCs retained their mesenchymal characteristics. Stable transgene expression was validated biochemically. Increased activity of hTERT was accompanied by elevated and constant level of stem cell pluripotency markers and subsequently, by MSC immortalization. Furthermore, these cells efficiently suppressed PBMC proliferation in MLR transwell assays, indicating that they possess immunomodulatory properties. Finally, biosensor protein produced by MSCs was used to quantify glucose in cell-free assays. Our results indicate that our immortalized MSCs are suitable for measuring glucose concentrations in a physiological range. Thus, they are appropriate for incorporation into a cell-based, immune-privileged, glucose-monitoring medical device. PMID:28949988

Generation of an immortalized mesenchymal stem cell line producing a secreted biosensor protein for glucose monitoring.

PubMed

Siska, Evangelia K; Weisman, Itamar; Romano, Jacob; Ivics, Zoltán; Izsvák, Zsuzsanna; Barkai, Uriel; Petrakis, Spyros; Koliakos, George

2017-01-01

Diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high levels of blood glucose. Diabetic patients should normalize these levels in order to avoid short and long term clinical complications. Presently, blood glucose monitoring is dependent on frequent finger pricking and enzyme based systems that analyze the drawn blood. Continuous blood glucose monitors are already on market but suffer from technical problems, inaccuracy and short operation time. A novel approach for continuous glucose monitoring is the development of implantable cell-based biosensors that emit light signals corresponding to glucose concentrations. Such devices use genetically modified cells expressing chimeric genes with glucose binding properties. MSCs are good candidates as carrier cells, as they can be genetically engineered and expanded into large numbers. They also possess immunomodulatory properties that, by reducing local inflammation, may assist long operation time. Here, we generated a novel immortalized human MSC line co-expressing hTERT and a secreted glucose biosensor transgene using the Sleeping Beauty transposon technology. Genetically modified hMSCs retained their mesenchymal characteristics. Stable transgene expression was validated biochemically. Increased activity of hTERT was accompanied by elevated and constant level of stem cell pluripotency markers and subsequently, by MSC immortalization. Furthermore, these cells efficiently suppressed PBMC proliferation in MLR transwell assays, indicating that they possess immunomodulatory properties. Finally, biosensor protein produced by MSCs was used to quantify glucose in cell-free assays. Our results indicate that our immortalized MSCs are suitable for measuring glucose concentrations in a physiological range. Thus, they are appropriate for incorporation into a cell-based, immune-privileged, glucose-monitoring medical device.

Development of glucose-responsive 'smart' insulin systems.

PubMed

Rege, Nischay K; Phillips, Nelson F B; Weiss, Michael A

2017-08-01

The complexity of modern insulin-based therapy for type I and type II diabetes mellitus and the risks associated with excursions in blood-glucose concentration (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia) have motivated the development of 'smart insulin' technologies (glucose-responsive insulin, GRI). Such analogs or delivery systems are entities that provide insulin activity proportional to the glycemic state of the patient without external monitoring by the patient or healthcare provider. The present review describes the relevant historical background to modern GRI technologies and highlights three distinct approaches: coupling of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to deliver devices (algorithm-based 'closed-loop' systems), glucose-responsive polymer encapsulation of insulin, and molecular modification of insulin itself. Recent advances in GRI research utilizing each of the three approaches are illustrated; these include newly developed algorithms for CGM-based insulin delivery systems, glucose-sensitive modifications of existing clinical analogs, newly developed hypoxia-sensitive polymer matrices, and polymer-encapsulated, stem-cell-derived pancreatic β cells. Although GRI technologies have yet to be perfected, the recent advances across several scientific disciplines that are described in this review have provided a path towards their clinical implementation.

US Naval Research Laboratory's Current Space Photovoltaic Experiemtns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jenkins, Phillip; Walters, Robert; Messenger, Scott; Krasowski, Michael

2008-09-01

The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has a rich history conducting space photovoltaic (PV) experiments starting with Vanguard I, the first solar powered satellite in 1958. Today, NRL in collaboration with the NASA Glenn Research Center, is engaged in three flight experiments demonstrating a wide range of PV technologies in both LEO and HEO orbits. The Forward Technology Solar Cell Experiment (FTSCE)[1], part of the 5th Materials on the International Space Station Experiment (MISSE-5), flew for 13 months on the International Space Station in 2005-2006. The FTSCE provided in-situ I-V monitoring of advanced III-V multi-junction cells and laboratory prototypes of thin film and other next generation technologies. Two experiments under development will provide more opportunities to demonstrate advanced solar cells and characterization electronics that are easily integrated on a wide variety of spacecraft bus architectures.

Micro- and Nano-scale Technologies for Delivery into Adherent Cells

PubMed Central

Kang, Wonmo; McNaughton, Rebecca L.; Espinosa, Horacio D.

2016-01-01

Several recent micro- and nano-technologies have provided novel methods for biological studies of adherent cells because the small features of these new biotools provide unique capabilities for accessing cells without the need for suspension or lysis. These novel approaches have enabled gentle, yet effective delivery of molecules into specific adhered target cells, with unprecedented spatial resolution. Here we review recent progress in the development of these technologies with an emphasis on in vitro delivery into adherent cells utilizing mechanical penetration or electroporation. We discuss major advantages and limitations of these approaches and propose possible strategies for improvements. Finally, we discuss the impact of these technologies on biological research concerning cell-specific temporal studies, e.g., non-destructive sampling and analysis of intracellular molecules. Need For Techniques To Study Adherent Cells A mechanistic understanding of cell biology is often limited by both the complexity of the processes and limitations of commonly available research tools that lack temporal or spatial resolution. The lack of tools capable of providing cell-specific, non-destructive biomolecular delivery and analysis is a particular barrier for advancing fundamental discoveries of cell heterogeneity, single-cell behavior within a complex environment, and the mechanisms that govern disease states, responses to drugs or other stimuli, and differentiation of stem cells. To gain new mechanistic understanding, advances in methods for precise intracellular delivery and non-destructive biochemical analyses of non-secretory molecules (e.g., mRNA and proteins) are greatly needed so that individual cells can be experimentally controlled and repeatedly analyzed over time and/or within a particular location of the cell. For example, developing neurons must undergo a series of sequential changes in gene expression to achieve a mature phenotype; hence, understanding the process will require the ability to accurately monitor the sequence of intracellular events, within individual cells, in a non-destructive manner. In addition, neuronal maturation is influenced by interactions with surrounding cells and with extracellular matrix, so it is necessary to be able to simultaneously monitor events occurring in multiple cells that are interacting with each other and with the matrix. While the requirements are challenging, these experimental capabilities would provide unprecedented insight into the determinants of both the timing of cellular processes and their phenotype, the principles of cell heterogeneity, and the role of cell-cell communication in homogeneous cell populations and co-cultures. Because most cells adhere to a substrate or to other cells during their growth or differentiation [1], it is advantageous for new technologies to be capable of accessing adhered cells to avoid the need to disrupt cell processes by suspension and replating. Several technologies for studying adhered cells are currently being developed, and due to the need for individual cell access and non-destructive probing, micro- and nano-technologies are a natural choice because they interact with cells at the appropriate length scale, reduce the working volume of expensive reagents, require less time and space for replicates, allow for automation and integration of sequential analyses, enable portability, and reduce waste [2, 3]. Here we present an overview of recently developed micro- and nano-tools, with a focus on trends in intracellular delivery for in vitro studies of adhered cells, and highlight major advantages/disadvantages of these technologies with respect to features such as individual cell selectivity, spatial resolution, non-destructive cell analysis, and potential for high throughput or automation. Finally, we discuss the exciting promise for these technologies to cause a paradigm shift in biological research by providing methods to study cells over time at the individual cell level. PMID:27287927

Truly Nonionic Polymer Shells for the Encapsulation of Living Cells

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-04

exponential growth mode, where the cell division accelerates and a unicellular organism duplicates, i.e., one cell produces two in a given period of time...AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) Georgia Institute of...Technology,School of Materials Science and Engineering,Atlanta,GA,30332 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S

Hydrogen-bonded LbL Shells for Living Cell Surface Engineering

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-21

unicellular organism duplicates, i.e., one cell produces two in a given period of time (see divided cells as indicated by arrows in Fig. 10c). During...PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) Georgia Institute of Technology,School of Materials Science and Engineering,Atlanta,GA,30332 8...PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S) 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S REPORT

Directed Evolution to Engineer Monobody for FRET Biosensor Assembly and Imaging at Live-Cell Surface.

PubMed

Limsakul, Praopim; Peng, Qin; Wu, Yiqian; Allen, Molly E; Liang, Jing; Remacle, Albert G; Lopez, Tyler; Ge, Xin; Kay, Brian K; Zhao, Huimin; Strongin, Alex Y; Yang, Xiang-Lei; Lu, Shaoying; Wang, Yingxiao

2018-04-19

Monitoring enzymatic activities at the cell surface is challenging due to the poor efficiency of transport and membrane integration of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based biosensors. Therefore, we developed a hybrid biosensor with separate donor and acceptor that assemble in situ. The directed evolution and sequence-function analysis technologies were integrated to engineer a monobody variant (PEbody) that binds to R-phycoerythrin (R-PE) dye. PEbody was used for visualizing the dynamic formation/separation of intercellular junctions. We further fused PEbody with the enhanced CFP and an enzyme-specific peptide at the extracellular surface to create a hybrid FRET biosensor upon R-PE capture for monitoring membrane-type-1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) activities. This biosensor revealed asymmetric distribution of MT1-MMP activities, which were high and low at loose and stable cell-cell contacts, respectively. Therefore, directed evolution and rational design are promising tools to engineer molecular binders and hybrid FRET biosensors for monitoring molecular regulations at the surface of living cells. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bluetooth Low Energy: Wireless Connectivity for Medical Monitoring

PubMed Central

Omre, Alf Helge

2010-01-01

Electronic wireless sensors could cut medical costs by enabling physicians to remotely monitor vital signs such as blood pressure, blood glucose, and blood oxygenation while patients remain at home. According to the IDC report “Worldwide Bluetooth Semiconductor 2008-2012 Forecast,” published November 2008, a forthcoming radio frequency communication (“wireless connectivity”) standard, Bluetooth low energy, will link wireless sensors via radio signals to the 70% of cell phones and computers likely to be fitted with the next generation of Bluetooth wireless technology, leveraging a ready-built infrastructure for data transmission. Analysis of trends indicated by this data can help physicians better manage diseases such as diabetes. The technology also addresses the concerns of cost, compatibility, and interoperability that have previously stalled widespread adoption of wireless technology in medical applications. PMID:20307407

Advancing the sensitivity of selected reaction monitoring-based targeted quantitative proteomics

PubMed Central

Shi, Tujin; Su, Dian; Liu, Tao; Tang, Keqi; Camp, David G.; Qian, Wei-Jun; Smith, Richard D.

2012-01-01

Selected reaction monitoring (SRM)—also known as multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)—has emerged as a promising high-throughput targeted protein quantification technology for candidate biomarker verification and systems biology applications. A major bottleneck for current SRM technology, however, is insufficient sensitivity for e.g., detecting low-abundance biomarkers likely present at the low ng/mL to pg/mL range in human blood plasma or serum, or extremely low-abundance signaling proteins in cells or tissues. Herein we review recent advances in methods and technologies, including front-end immunoaffinity depletion, fractionation, selective enrichment of target proteins/peptides including posttranslational modifications (PTMs), as well as advances in MS instrumentation which have significantly enhanced the overall sensitivity of SRM assays and enabled the detection of low-abundance proteins at low to sub- ng/mL level in human blood plasma or serum. General perspectives on the potential of achieving sufficient sensitivity for detection of pg/mL level proteins in plasma are also discussed. PMID:22577010

Advancing the sensitivity of selected reaction monitoring-based targeted quantitative proteomics

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

Shi, Tujin; Su, Dian; Liu, Tao

2012-04-01

Selected reaction monitoring (SRM)—also known as multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)—has emerged as a promising high-throughput targeted protein quantification technology for candidate biomarker verification and systems biology applications. A major bottleneck for current SRM technology, however, is insufficient sensitivity for e.g., detecting low-abundance biomarkers likely present at the pg/mL to low ng/mL range in human blood plasma or serum, or extremely low-abundance signaling proteins in the cells or tissues. Herein we review recent advances in methods and technologies, including front-end immunoaffinity depletion, fractionation, selective enrichment of target proteins/peptides or their posttranslational modifications (PTMs), as well as advances in MS instrumentation, whichmore » have significantly enhanced the overall sensitivity of SRM assays and enabled the detection of low-abundance proteins at low to sub- ng/mL level in human blood plasma or serum. General perspectives on the potential of achieving sufficient sensitivity for detection of pg/mL level proteins in plasma are also discussed.« less

High density ozone monitoring using gas sensitive semi-conductor sensors in the Lower Fraser Valley, British Columbia.

PubMed

Bart, Mark; Williams, David E; Ainslie, Bruce; McKendry, Ian; Salmond, Jennifer; Grange, Stuart K; Alavi-Shoshtari, Maryam; Steyn, Douw; Henshaw, Geoff S

2014-04-01

A cost-efficient technology for accurate surface ozone monitoring using gas-sensitive semiconducting oxide (GSS) technology, solar power, and automated cell-phone communications was deployed and validated in a 50 sensor test-bed in the Lower Fraser Valley of British Columbia, over 3 months from May-September 2012. Before field deployment, the entire set of instruments was colocated with reference instruments for at least 48 h, comparing hourly averaged data. The standard error of estimate over a typical range 0-50 ppb for the set was 3 ± 2 ppb. Long-term accuracy was assessed over several months by colocation of a subset of ten instruments each at a different reference site. The differences (GSS-reference) of hourly average ozone concentration were normally distributed with mean -1 ppb and standard deviation 6 ppb (6000 measurement pairs). Instrument failures in the field were detected using network correlations and consistency checks on the raw sensor resistance data. Comparisons with modeled spatial O3 fields demonstrate the enhanced monitoring capability of a network that was a hybrid of low-cost and reference instruments, in which GSS sensors are used both to increase station density within a network as well as to extend monitoring into remote areas. This ambitious deployment exposed a number of challenges and lessons, including the logistical effort required to deploy and maintain sites over a summer period, and deficiencies in cell phone communications and battery life. Instrument failures at remote sites suggested that redundancy should be built into the network (especially at critical sites) as well as the possible addition of a "sleep-mode" for GSS monitors. At the network design phase, a more objective approach to optimize interstation distances, and the "information" content of the network is recommended. This study has demonstrated the utility and affordability of the GSS technology for a variety of applications, and the effectiveness of this technology as a means substantially and economically to extend the coverage of an air quality monitoring network. Low-cost, neighborhood-scale networks that produce reliable data can be envisaged.

Development of exosome surface display technology in living human cells

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

Stickney, Zachary, E-mail: zstickney@scu.edu; Losacco, Joseph, E-mail: jlosacco@scu.edu; McDevitt, Sophie, E-mail: smmcdevitt@scu.edu

Surface display technology is an emerging key player in presenting functional proteins for targeted drug delivery and therapy. Although a number of technologies exist, a desirable mammalian surface display system is lacking. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that facilitate cell–cell communication and can be engineered as nano-shuttles for cell-specific delivery. In this study, we report the development of a novel exosome surface display technology by exploiting mammalian cell secreted nano-vesicles and their trans-membrane protein tetraspanins. By constructing a set of fluorescent reporters for both the inner and outer surface display on exosomes at two selected sites of tetraspanins, we demonstrated themore » successful exosomal display via gene transfection and monitoring fluorescence in vivo. We subsequently validated our system by demonstrating the expected intracellular partitioning of reporter protein into sub-cellular compartments and secretion of exosomes from human HEK293 cells. Lastly, we established the stable engineered cells to harness the ability of this robust system for continuous production, secretion, and uptake of displayed exosomes with minimal impact on human cell biology. In sum, our work paved the way for potential applications of exosome, including exosome tracking and imaging, targeted drug delivery, as well as exosome-mediated vaccine and therapy.« less

Lab-on-a-chip technologies for proteomic analysis from isolated cells.

PubMed

Sedgwick, H; Caron, F; Monaghan, P B; Kolch, W; Cooper, J M

2008-10-06

Lab-on-a-chip systems offer a versatile environment in which low numbers of cells and molecules can be manipulated, captured, detected and analysed. We describe here a microfluidic device that allows the isolation, electroporation and lysis of single cells. A431 human epithelial carcinoma cells, expressing a green fluorescent protein-labelled actin, were trapped by dielectrophoresis within an integrated lab-on-a-chip device containing saw-tooth microelectrodes. Using these same trapping electrodes, on-chip electroporation was performed, resulting in cell lysis. Protein release was monitored by confocal fluorescence microscopy.

Quantitative imaging with Fucci and mathematics to uncover temporal dynamics of cell cycle progression.

PubMed

Saitou, Takashi; Imamura, Takeshi

2016-01-01

Cell cycle progression is strictly coordinated to ensure proper tissue growth, development, and regeneration of multicellular organisms. Spatiotemporal visualization of cell cycle phases directly helps us to obtain a deeper understanding of controlled, multicellular, cell cycle progression. The fluorescent ubiquitination-based cell cycle indicator (Fucci) system allows us to monitor, in living cells, the G1 and the S/G2/M phases of the cell cycle in red and green fluorescent colors, respectively. Since the discovery of Fucci technology, it has found numerous applications in the characterization of the timing of cell cycle phase transitions under diverse conditions and various biological processes. However, due to the complexity of cell cycle dynamics, understanding of specific patterns of cell cycle progression is still far from complete. In order to tackle this issue, quantitative approaches combined with mathematical modeling seem to be essential. Here, we review several studies that attempted to integrate Fucci technology and mathematical models to obtain quantitative information regarding cell cycle regulatory patterns. Focusing on the technological development of utilizing mathematics to retrieve meaningful information from the Fucci producing data, we discuss how the combined methods advance a quantitative understanding of cell cycle regulation. © 2015 Japanese Society of Developmental Biologists.

Optical and electrical interfacing technologies for living cell bio-chips.

PubMed

Shacham-Diamand, Y; Belkin, S; Rishpon, J; Elad, T; Melamed, S; Biran, A; Yagur-Kroll, S; Almog, R; Daniel, R; Ben-Yoav, H; Rabner, A; Vernick, S; Elman, N; Popovtzer, R

2010-06-01

Whole-cell bio-chips for functional sensing integrate living cells on miniaturized platforms made by micro-system-technologies (MST). The cells are integrated, deposited or immersed in a media which is in contact with the chip. The cells behavior is monitored via electrical, electrochemical or optical methods. In this paper we describe such whole-cell biochips where the signal is generated due to the genetic response of the cells. The solid-state platform hosts the biological component, i.e. the living cells, and integrates all the required micro-system technologies, i.e. the micro-electronics, micro-electro optics, micro-electro or magneto mechanics and micro-fluidics. The genetic response of the cells expresses proteins that generate: a. light by photo-luminescence or bioluminescence, b. electrochemical signal by interaction with a substrate, or c. change in the cell impedance. The cell response is detected by a front end unit that converts it to current or voltage amplifies and filters it. The resultant signal is analyzed and stored for further processing. In this paper we describe three examples of whole-cell bio chips, photo-luminescent, bioluminescent and electrochemical, which are based on the genetic response of genetically modified E. coli microbes integrated on a micro-fluidics MEMS platform. We describe the chip outline as well as the basic modeling scheme of such sensors. We discuss the highlights and problems of such system, from the point of view of micro-system-technology.

A Portable Cell Maintenance System for Rapid Toxicity Monitoring Final Report CRADA No. TC-02081-04

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

Kane, S.; Zhou, P.

The Phase I STTR research project was targeted at meeting the objectives and requirements stated in STTR solicitation A04-T028 for a Portable Cell Maintenance System for Rapid Toxicity Monitoring. In accordance with the requirements for STTR programs, collaboration was formed between a small business, Kionix, Inc., and The Regents of the University of California, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). The collaboration included CytoDiscovery, Inc. (CDI) which, in collaboration with Kionix, provided access to membrane chip technology and provided program support and coordination. The objective of the overall program (excerpted from the original solicitation) was: “To develop a small, portable cellmore » maintenance system for the transport, storage, and monitoring of viable vertebrate cells and tissues.” The goal of the Phase I project was to demonstrate the feasibility of achieving the program objectives utilizing a system comprised of a small-size, microfluidic chip-based cell maintenance cartridge (CMC) and a portable cell maintenance system (CMS) capable of housing a minimum of four CMCs. The system was designed to be capable of optimally maintaining multiple vertebrate cell types while supporting a wide variety of cellular assays.« less

Application of Smart Solid State Sensor Technology in Aerospace Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, Gary W.; Xu, Jennifer C.; Dungan, L.K.; Makel, D.; Ward, B.; Androjna, D.

2008-01-01

Aerospace applications require a range of chemical sensing technologies to monitor conditions in both space vehicles and aircraft operations. One example is the monitoring of oxygen. For example, monitoring of ambient oxygen (O2) levels is critical to ensuring the health, safety, and performance of humans living and working in space. Oxygen sensors can also be incorporated in detection systems to determine if hazardous leaks are occurring in space propulsion systems and storage facilities. In aeronautic applications, O2 detection has been investigated for fuel tank monitoring. However, as noted elsewhere, O2 is not the only species of interest in aerospace applications with a wide range of species of interest being relevant to understand an environmental or vehicle condition. These include combustion products such as CO, HF, HCN, and HCl, which are related to both the presence of a fire and monitoring of post-fire clean-up operations. This paper discusses the development of an electrochemical cell platform based on a polymer electrolyte, NAFION, and a three-electrode configuration. The approach has been to mature this basic platform for a range of applications and to test this system, combined with "Lick and Stick" electronics, for its viability to monitor an environment related to astronaut crew health and safety applications with an understanding that a broad range of applications can be addressed with a core technology.

A Mock UF6 Feed and Withdrawal System for Testing Safeguards Monitoring Systems and Strategies Intended for Nuclear Fuel Enrichment and Processing Plants

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

Krichinsky, Alan M; Bates, Bruce E; Chesser, Joel B

2009-12-01

This report describes an engineering-scale, mock UF6 feed and withdrawal (F&W) system, its operation, and its intended uses. This system has been assembled to provide a test bed for evaluating and demonstrating new methodologies that can be used in remote, unattended, continuous monitoring of nuclear material process operations. These measures are being investigated to provide independent inspectors improved assurance that operations are being conducted within declared parameters, and to increase the overall effectiveness of safeguarding nuclear material. Testing applicable technologies on a mock F&W system, which uses water as a surrogate for UF6, enables thorough and cost-effective investigation of hardware,more » software, and operational strategies before their direct installation in an industrial nuclear material processing environment. Electronic scales used for continuous load-cell monitoring also are described as part of the basic mock F&W system description. Continuous monitoring components on the mock F&W system are linked to a data aggregation computer by a local network, which also is depicted. Data collection and storage systems are described only briefly in this report. The mock UF{sub 6} F&W system is economical to operate. It uses a simple process involving only a surge tank between feed tanks and product and withdrawal (or waste) tanks. The system uses water as the transfer fluid, thereby avoiding the use of hazardous UF{sub 6}. The system is not tethered to an operating industrial process involving nuclear materials, thereby allowing scenarios (e.g., material diversion) that cannot be conducted otherwise. These features facilitate conducting experiments that yield meaningful results with a minimum of expenditure and quick turnaround time. Technologies demonstrated on the engineering-scale system lead to field trials (described briefly in this report) for determining implementation issues and performance of the monitoring technologies under plant operating conditions. The ultimate use of technologies tested on the engineering-scale test bed is to work with safeguards agencies to install them in operating plants (e.g., enrichment and fuel processing plants), thereby promoting new safeguards measures with minimal impact to operating plants. In addition, this system is useful in identifying features for new plants that can be incorporated as part of 'safeguards by design,' in which load cells and other monitoring technologies are specified to provide outputs for automated monitoring and inspector evaluation.« less

Materials and microfluidics: enabling the efficient isolation and analysis of circulating tumour cells.

PubMed

Jackson, Joshua M; Witek, Małgorzata A; Kamande, Joyce W; Soper, Steven A

2017-07-17

We present a critical review of microfluidic technologies and material effects on the analyses of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) selected from the peripheral blood of cancer patients. CTCs are a minimally invasive source of clinical information that can be used to prognose patient outcome, monitor minimal residual disease, assess tumour resistance to therapeutic agents, and potentially screen individuals for the early diagnosis of cancer. The performance of CTC isolation technologies depends on microfluidic architectures, the underlying principles of isolation, and the choice of materials. We present a critical review of the fundamental principles used in these technologies and discuss their performance. We also give context to how CTC isolation technologies enable downstream analysis of selected CTCs in terms of detecting genetic mutations and gene expression that could be used to gain information that may affect patient outcome.

Hawaii Energy and Environmental Technologies (HEET) Initiative

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-01

segmented cell system for investigation of PEMFC performance distribution using both cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV). In...mitigation strategies. Under prior work it was shown that SO2 contamination in the cathode of a PEMFC resulted in a two-stage degradation of cell...emission rate in a PEMFC is an important parameter for monitoring the Nafion degradation. Generally, the Nafion electrolyte degradation is

A Concept of Operations for the Use of Emergent Open Internet Technologies as the Basis for a Network-Centric Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

automated agents , such as chatbots to acts as a relay between chatrooms and blogs or other systems. In particular, chatbots could be used to monitor...bandwidth connections and legacy systems. Chatbot Integration The use of connected autonomous agents that monitor chatrooms to allow users access...of Cell Phone GPS Tracking. .............84 Figure 35. Example of a Chatbot Creating a Blog Entry

High-efficient and high-content cytotoxic recording via dynamic and continuous cell-based impedance biosensor technology.

PubMed

Hu, Ning; Fang, Jiaru; Zou, Ling; Wan, Hao; Pan, Yuxiang; Su, Kaiqi; Zhang, Xi; Wang, Ping

2016-10-01

Cell-based bioassays were effective method to assess the compound toxicity by cell viability, and the traditional label-based methods missed much information of cell growth due to endpoint detection, while the higher throughputs were demanded to obtain dynamic information. Cell-based biosensor methods can dynamically and continuously monitor with cell viability, however, the dynamic information was often ignored or seldom utilized in the toxin and drug assessment. Here, we reported a high-efficient and high-content cytotoxic recording method via dynamic and continuous cell-based impedance biosensor technology. The dynamic cell viability, inhibition ratio and growth rate were derived from the dynamic response curves from the cell-based impedance biosensor. The results showed that the biosensors has the dose-dependent manners to diarrhetic shellfish toxin, okadiac acid based on the analysis of the dynamic cell viability and cell growth status. Moreover, the throughputs of dynamic cytotoxicity were compared between cell-based biosensor methods and label-based endpoint methods. This cell-based impedance biosensor can provide a flexible, cost and label-efficient platform of cell viability assessment in the shellfish toxin screening fields.

A single-cell correlative nanoelectromechanosensing approach to detect cancerous transformation: monitoring the function of F-actin microfilaments in the modulation of the ion channel activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

AbdolahadThe Authors With Same Contributions., Mohammad; Saeidi, Ali; Janmaleki, Mohsen; Mashinchian, Omid; Taghinejad, Mohammad; Taghinejad, Hossein; Azimi, Soheil; Mahmoudi, Morteza; Mohajerzadeh, Shams

2015-01-01

Cancerous transformation may be dependent on correlation between electrical disruptions in the cell membrane and mechanical disruptions of cytoskeleton structures. Silicon nanotube (SiNT)-based electrical probes, as ultra-accurate signal recorders with subcellular resolution, may create many opportunities for fundamental biological research and biomedical applications. Here, we used this technology to electrically monitor cellular mechanosensing. The SiNT probe was combined with an electrically activated glass micropipette aspiration system to achieve a new cancer diagnostic technique that is based on real-time correlation between mechanical and electrical behaviour of single cells. Our studies demonstrated marked changes in the electrical response following increases in the mechanical aspiration force in healthy cells. In contrast, such responses were extremely weak for malignant cells. Confocal microscopy results showed the impact of actin microfilament remodelling on the reduction of the electrical response for aspirated cancer cells due to the significant role of actin in modulating the ion channel activity in the cell membrane.Cancerous transformation may be dependent on correlation between electrical disruptions in the cell membrane and mechanical disruptions of cytoskeleton structures. Silicon nanotube (SiNT)-based electrical probes, as ultra-accurate signal recorders with subcellular resolution, may create many opportunities for fundamental biological research and biomedical applications. Here, we used this technology to electrically monitor cellular mechanosensing. The SiNT probe was combined with an electrically activated glass micropipette aspiration system to achieve a new cancer diagnostic technique that is based on real-time correlation between mechanical and electrical behaviour of single cells. Our studies demonstrated marked changes in the electrical response following increases in the mechanical aspiration force in healthy cells. In contrast, such responses were extremely weak for malignant cells. Confocal microscopy results showed the impact of actin microfilament remodelling on the reduction of the electrical response for aspirated cancer cells due to the significant role of actin in modulating the ion channel activity in the cell membrane. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06102k

A Novel Approach for Using Dielectric Spectroscopy to Predict Viable Cell Volume (VCV) in Early Process Development

PubMed Central

Downey, Brandon J; Graham, Lisa J; Breit, Jeffrey F; Glutting, Nathaniel K

2014-01-01

Online monitoring of viable cell volume (VCV) is essential to the development, monitoring, and control of bioprocesses. The commercial availability of steam-sterilizable dielectric-spectroscopy probes has enabled successful adoption of this technology as a key noninvasive method to measure VCV for cell-culture processes. Technological challenges still exist, however. For some cell lines, the technique's accuracy in predicting the VCV from probe-permittivity measurements declines as the viability of the cell culture decreases. To investigate the cause of this decrease in accuracy, divergences in predicted vs. actual VCV measurements were directly related to the shape of dielectric frequency scans collected during a cell culture. The changes in the shape of the beta dispersion, which are associated with changes in cell state, are quantified by applying a novel “area ratio” (AR) metric to frequency-scanning data from the dielectric-spectroscopy probes. The AR metric is then used to relate the shape of the beta dispersion to single-frequency permittivity measurements to accurately predict the offline VCV throughout an entire fed-batch run, regardless of cell state. This work demonstrates the possible feasibility of quantifying the shape of the beta dispersion, determined from frequency-scanning data, for enhanced measurement of VCV in mammalian cell cultures by applying a novel shape-characterization technique. In addition, this work demonstrates the utility of using changes in the shape of the beta dispersion to quantify cell health. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 30:479–487, 2014 PMID:24851255

A Review of the Literature on Remote Monitoring Technology in Incentive-Based Interventions for Health-Related Behavior Change.

PubMed

Kurti, Allison N; Davis, Danielle R; Redner, Ryan; Jarvis, Brantley P; Zvorsky, Ivori; Keith, Diana R; Bolivar, Hypatia A; White, Thomas J; Rippberger, Peter; Markesich, Catherine; Atwood, Gary; Higgins, Stephen T

2016-06-01

Use of technology (e.g., Internet, cell phones) to allow remote implementation of incentives interventions for health-related behavior change is growing. To our knowledge, there has yet to be a systematic review of this literature reported. The present report provides a systematic review of the controlled studies where technology was used to remotely implement financial incentive interventions targeting substance use and other health behaviors published between 2004 and 2015. For inclusion in the review, studies had to use technology to remotely accomplish one of the following two aims alone or in combination: (a) monitor the target behavior, or (b) deliver incentives for achieving the target goal. Studies also had to examine financial incentives (e.g., cash, vouchers) for health-related behavior change, be published in peer-reviewed journals, and include a research design that allowed evaluation of the efficacy of the incentive intervention relative to another condition (e.g., non-contingent incentives, treatment as usual). Of the 39 reports that met inclusion criteria, 18 targeted substance use, 10 targeted medication adherence or home-based health monitoring, and 11 targeted diet, exercise, or weight loss. All 39 (100%) studies used technology to facilitate remote monitoring of the target behavior, and 26 (66.7%) studies also incorporated technology in the remote delivery of incentives. Statistically significant intervention effects were reported in 71% of studies reviewed. Overall, the results offer substantial support for the efficacy of remotely implemented incentive interventions for health-related behavior change, which have the potential to increase the cost-effectiveness and reach of this treatment approach.

Microbial Monitoring of Pathogens by Comparing Multiple Real-Time PCR Platforms for Potential Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birmele, Michele

2012-01-01

The International Space Station (ISS) is a closed environment wih rotations of crew and equipment each introducing their own microbial flora making it necessary to monitor the air, surfaces, and water for microbial contamination. Current microbial monitoring includes labor and time intensive methods to enumerate total bacterial and fungal cells with limited characterization during in-flight testing. Although this culture-based method has been sufficient for monitoring the ISS, future long duration missions will need to perform more comprehensive characterization in-flight, since sample return and ground characterization may not be available. A workshop was held in 2011 at the Johnson Space Center to discuss alternative methodologies and technologies suitable for microbial monitoring for these longterm exploration missions where molecular-based methodologies, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), were recommended. In response, a multi-center (Marshall Space Flight Center, Johnson Space Center, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Kennedy Space Center) collaborative research effort was initiated to explore novel commercial-off-the-shelf hardware options for spaceflight environmental monitoring. The goal was to evaluate quantitative/semi-quantitative PCR approaches to space applications for low cost in-flight rapid identification of microorganisms affecting crew safety. The initial phase of this project identified commercially available platforms that could be minimally modified to perform nominally in microgravity followed by proof-of-concept testing on the highest qualifying candidates with a universally available test organism, Salmonella enterica. The platforms evaluated during proof-of-concept testing included the iCubate 2.0(TradeMark) (iCubate, Huntsville, AL), RAZOR EX (BioFire Diagnostics; Salt Lake City, Utah) and SmartCycler(TradeMark) (Cepheid; Sunnyvale, CA). The analysis identified two potential technologies (iCubate 2.0 and RAZOR EX) that were able to perform sample-to-answer testing with cell sample concentrations between SO to 400 cells. In addition, the commercial systems were evaluated for initial flight safety and readiness, sample concentration needs were reviewed, and a competitive procurement of commercially available platforms was initiated.

Thermocouple-based Temperature Sensing System for Chemical Cell Inside Micro UAV Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Yanhui; Feng, Yue; Lou, Haozhe; Zhang, Xinzhao

2018-03-01

Environmental temperature of UAV system is crucial for chemical cell component inside. Once the temperature of this chemical cell is over 259 °C and keeps more than 20 min, the high thermal accumulation would result in an explosion, which seriously damage the whole UAV system. Therefore, we develop a micro temperature sensing system for monitoring the temperature of chemical cell thermally influenced by UAV device deployed in a 300 °C temperature environment, which is quite useful for insensitive munitions and UAV safety enhancement technologies.

Simple Monitoring of Gene Targeting Efficiency in Human Somatic Cell Lines Using the PIGA Gene

PubMed Central

Karnan, Sivasundaram; Konishi, Yuko; Ota, Akinobu; Takahashi, Miyuki; Damdindorj, Lkhagvasuren; Hosokawa, Yoshitaka; Konishi, Hiroyuki

2012-01-01

Gene targeting in most of human somatic cell lines has been labor-intensive because of low homologous recombination efficiency. The development of an experimental system that permits a facile evaluation of gene targeting efficiency in human somatic cell lines is the first step towards the improvement of this technology and its application to a broad range of cell lines. In this study, we utilized phosphatidylinositol glycan anchor biosynthesis class A (PIGA), a gene essential for the synthesis of glycosylphosphatidyl inositol (GPI) anchors, as a reporter of gene targeting events in human somatic cell lines. Targeted disruption of PIGA was quantitatively detected with FLAER, a reagent that specifically binds to GPI anchors. Using this PIGA-based reporter system, we successfully detected adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene targeting events both with and without promoter-trap enrichment of gene-targeted cell population. The PIGA-based reporter system was also capable of reproducing previous findings that an AAV-mediated gene targeting achieves a remarkably higher ratio of homologous versus random integration (H/R ratio) of targeting vectors than a plasmid-mediated gene targeting. The PIGA-based system also detected an approximately 2-fold increase in the H/R ratio achieved by a small negative selection cassette introduced at the end of the AAV-based targeting vector with a promoter-trap system. Thus, our PIGA-based system is useful for monitoring AAV-mediated gene targeting and will assist in improving gene targeting technology in human somatic cell lines. PMID:23056640

LTCC based bioreactors for cell cultivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartsch, H.; Welker, T.; Welker, K.; Witte, H.; Müller, J.

2016-01-01

LTCC multilayers offer a wide range of structural options and flexibility of connections not available in standard thin film technology. Therefore they are considered as material base for cell culture reactors. The integration of microfluidic handling systems and features for optical and electrical capturing of indicators for cell culture growth offers the platform for an open system concept. The present paper assesses different approaches for the creation of microfluidic channels in LTCC multilayers. Basic functions required for the fluid management in bioreactors include temperature and flow control. Both features can be realized with integrated heaters and temperature sensors in LTCC multilayers. Technological conditions for the integration of such elements into bioreactors are analysed. The temperature regulation for the system makes use of NTC thermistor sensors which serve as real value input for the control of the heater. It allows the adjustment of the fluid temperature with an accuracy of 0.2 K. The tempered fluid flows through the cell culture chamber. Inside of this chamber a thick film electrode array monitors the impedance as an indicator for the growth process of 3-dimensional cell cultures. At the system output a flow sensor is arranged to monitor the continual flow. For this purpose a calorimetric sensor is implemented, and its crucial design parameters are discussed. Thus, the work presented gives an overview on the current status of LTCC based fluid management for cell culture reactors, which provides a promising base for the automation of cell culture processes.

Adaptive intervention design in mobile health: Intervention design and development in the Cell Phone Intervention for You trial.

PubMed

Lin, Pao-Hwa; Intille, Stephen; Bennett, Gary; Bosworth, Hayden B; Corsino, Leonor; Voils, Corrine; Grambow, Steven; Lazenka, Tony; Batch, Bryan C; Tyson, Crystal; Svetkey, Laura P

2015-12-01

The obesity epidemic has spread to young adults, and obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The prominence and increasing functionality of mobile phones may provide an opportunity to deliver longitudinal and scalable weight management interventions in young adults. The aim of this article is to describe the design and development of the intervention tested in the Cell Phone Intervention for You study and to highlight the importance of adaptive intervention design that made it possible. The Cell Phone Intervention for You study was a National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute-sponsored, controlled, 24-month randomized clinical trial comparing two active interventions to a usual-care control group. Participants were 365 overweight or obese (body mass index≥25 kg/m2) young adults. Both active interventions were designed based on social cognitive theory and incorporated techniques for behavioral self-management and motivational enhancement. Initial intervention development occurred during a 1-year formative phase utilizing focus groups and iterative, participatory design. During the intervention testing, adaptive intervention design, where an intervention is updated or extended throughout a trial while assuring the delivery of exactly the same intervention to each cohort, was employed. The adaptive intervention design strategy distributed technical work and allowed introduction of novel components in phases intended to help promote and sustain participant engagement. Adaptive intervention design was made possible by exploiting the mobile phone's remote data capabilities so that adoption of particular application components could be continuously monitored and components subsequently added or updated remotely. The cell phone intervention was delivered almost entirely via cell phone and was always-present, proactive, and interactive-providing passive and active reminders, frequent opportunities for knowledge dissemination, and multiple tools for self-tracking and receiving tailored feedback. The intervention changed over 2 years to promote and sustain engagement. The personal coaching intervention, alternatively, was primarily personal coaching with trained coaches based on a proven intervention, enhanced with a mobile application, but where all interactions with the technology were participant-initiated. The complexity and length of the technology-based randomized clinical trial created challenges in engagement and technology adaptation, which were generally discovered using novel remote monitoring technology and addressed using the adaptive intervention design. Investigators should plan to develop tools and procedures that explicitly support continuous remote monitoring of interventions to support adaptive intervention design in long-term, technology-based studies, as well as developing the interventions themselves. © The Author(s) 2015.

3D Cell Printed Tissue Analogues: A New Platform for Theranostics

PubMed Central

Choi, Yeong-Jin; Yi, Hee-Gyeong; Kim, Seok-Won; Cho, Dong-Woo

2017-01-01

Stem cell theranostics has received much attention for noninvasively monitoring and tracing transplanted therapeutic stem cells through imaging agents and imaging modalities. Despite the excellent regenerative capability of stem cells, their efficacy has been limited due to low cellular retention, low survival rate, and low engraftment after implantation. Three-dimensional (3D) cell printing provides stem cells with the similar architecture and microenvironment of the native tissue and facilitates the generation of a 3D tissue-like construct that exhibits remarkable regenerative capacity and functionality as well as enhanced cell viability. Thus, 3D cell printing can overcome the current concerns of stem cell therapy by delivering the 3D construct to the damaged site. Despite the advantages of 3D cell printing, the in vivo and in vitro tracking and monitoring of the performance of 3D cell printed tissue in a noninvasive and real-time manner have not been thoroughly studied. In this review, we explore the recent progress in 3D cell technology and its applications. Finally, we investigate their potential limitations and suggest future perspectives on 3D cell printing and stem cell theranostics. PMID:28839468

Lab-on-a-chip technologies for proteomic analysis from isolated cells

PubMed Central

Sedgwick, H.; Caron, F.; Monaghan, P.B.; Kolch, W.; Cooper, J.M.

2008-01-01

Lab-on-a-chip systems offer a versatile environment in which low numbers of cells and molecules can be manipulated, captured, detected and analysed. We describe here a microfluidic device that allows the isolation, electroporation and lysis of single cells. A431 human epithelial carcinoma cells, expressing a green fluorescent protein-labelled actin, were trapped by dielectrophoresis within an integrated lab-on-a-chip device containing saw-tooth microelectrodes. Using these same trapping electrodes, on-chip electroporation was performed, resulting in cell lysis. Protein release was monitored by confocal fluorescence microscopy. PMID:18534931

Noninvasive Assessment of Cell Fate and Biology in Transplanted Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

PubMed

Franchi, Federico; Rodriguez-Porcel, Martin

2017-01-01

Recently, molecular imaging has become a conditio sine qua non for cell-based regenerative medicine. Developments in molecular imaging techniques, such as reporter gene technology, have increasingly enabled the noninvasive assessment of the fate and biology of cells after cardiovascular applications. In this context, bioluminescence imaging is the most commonly used imaging modality in small animal models of preclinical studies. Here, we present a detailed protocol of a reporter gene imaging approach for monitoring the viability and biology of Mesenchymal Stem Cells transplanted in a mouse model of myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury.

Flow Cytometric Methods for Circulating Tumor Cell Isolation and Molecular Analysis.

PubMed

Bhagwat, Neha; Carpenter, Erica L

2017-01-01

Circulating tumor cells provide a non-invasive source of tumor material that can be valuable at all stages of disease management, including screening and early diagnosis, monitoring response to therapy, identifying therapeutic targets, and assessing development of drug resistance. Cells isolated from the blood of cancer patients can be used for phenotypic analysis, tumor genotyping, transcriptional profiling, as well as for ex vivo culture of isolated cells. There are a variety of novel technologies currently being developed for the detection and analysis of rare cells in circulation of cancer patients. Flow cytometry is a powerful cell analysis platform that is increasingly being used in this field of study due to its relatively high throughput and versatility with respect to the large number of commercially available antibodies and fluorescent probes available to translational and clinical researchers. More importantly, it offers the ability to easily recover viable cells with high purity that are suitable for downstream molecular analysis, thus making it an attractive technology for cancer research and as a diagnostic tool.

Monitoring of hormonal drug effect in a single breast cancer cell using an estrogen responsive GFP reporter vector delivered by a nanoneedle.

PubMed

Han, Sung-Woong; Nakamura, Chikashi; Imai, Yosuke; Nakamura, Noriyuki; Miyake, Jun

2009-01-01

In this study, we have evaluated a sensor system for a hormonal drug effect in a single cell level using a novel low invasive single cell DNA delivery technology using a nanoneedle. An estrogen responsive GFP reporter vector (pEREGFP9) was constructed and its estrogenic response activity was confirmed in breast cancer cells (MCF-7) using lipofection as the means of transferring the vector to the cells. The pEREGFP9 vector was delivered to a single MCF-7 using a nanoneedle and the effect of ICI 182,780, which is an antagonist of estrogen, was observed using the GFP expression level. By ICI 182,780 treatment, the fluorescence intensity of the GFP was decreased by 30-50% within 24h. This technology is the very first trial of single cell diagnosis and we are looking forward to applying it to precious single cell diagnosis in medical fields.

Exploring dynamics in living cells by tracking single particles.

PubMed

Levi, Valeria; Gratton, Enrico

2007-01-01

In the last years, significant advances in microscopy techniques and the introduction of a novel technology to label living cells with genetically encoded fluorescent proteins revolutionized the field of Cell Biology. Our understanding on cell dynamics built from snapshots on fixed specimens has evolved thanks to our actual capability to monitor in real time the evolution of processes in living cells. Among these new tools, single particle tracking techniques were developed to observe and follow individual particles. Hence, we are starting to unravel the mechanisms driving the motion of a wide variety of cellular components ranging from organelles to protein molecules by following their way through the cell. In this review, we introduce the single particle tracking technology to new users. We briefly describe the instrumentation and explain some of the algorithms commonly used to locate and track particles. Also, we present some common tools used to analyze trajectories and illustrate with some examples the applications of single particle tracking to study dynamics in living cells.

Trend of telomerase activity change during human iPSC self-renewal and differentiation revealed by a quartz crystal microbalance based assay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Yitian; Zhou, Ping; Xin, Yinqiang; Wang, Jie; Zhu, Zhiqiang; Hu, Ji; Wei, Shicheng; Ma, Hongwei

2014-11-01

Telomerase plays an important role in governing the life span of cells for its capacity to extend telomeres. As high activity of telomerase has been found in stem cells and cancer cells specifically, various methods have been developed for the evaluation of telomerase activity. To overcome the time-consuming procedures and complicated manipulations of existing methods, we developed a novel method named Telomeric Repeat Elongation Assay based on Quartz crystal microbalance (TREAQ) to monitor telomerase activity during the self-renewal and differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). TREAQ results indicated hiPSCs possess invariable telomerase activity for 11 passages on Matrigel and a steady decline of telomerase activity when differentiated for different periods, which is confirmed with existing golden standard method. The pluripotency of hiPSCs during differentiation could be estimated through monitoring telomerase activity and compared with the expression levels of markers of pluripotency gene via quantitative real time PCR. Regular assessment for factors associated with pluripotency or stemness was expensive and requires excessive sample consuming, thus TREAQ could be a promising alternative technology for routine monitoring of telomerase activity and estimate the pluripotency of stem cells.

Automated, Miniaturized and Integrated Quality Control-on-Chip (QC-on-a-Chip) for Advanced Cell Therapy Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wartmann, David; Rothbauer, Mario; Kuten, Olga; Barresi, Caterina; Visus, Carmen; Felzmann, Thomas; Ertl, Peter

2015-09-01

The combination of microfabrication-based technologies with cell biology has laid the foundation for the development of advanced in vitro diagnostic systems capable of evaluating cell cultures under defined, reproducible and standardizable measurement conditions. In the present review we describe recent lab-on-a-chip developments for cell analysis and how these methodologies could improve standard quality control in the field of manufacturing cell-based vaccines for clinical purposes. We highlight in particular the regulatory requirements for advanced cell therapy applications using as an example dendritic cell-based cancer vaccines to describe the tangible advantages of microfluidic devices that overcome most of the challenges associated with automation, miniaturization and integration of cell-based assays. As its main advantage lab-on-a-chip technology allows for precise regulation of culturing conditions, while simultaneously monitoring cell relevant parameters using embedded sensory systems. State-of-the-art lab-on-a-chip platforms for in vitro assessment of cell cultures and their potential future applications for cell therapies and cancer immunotherapy are discussed in the present review.

Remote monitoring of pain and symptoms using wireless technology in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease.

PubMed

Jacob, Eufemia; Duran, Joana; Stinson, Jennifer; Lewis, Mary Ann; Zeltzer, Lonnie

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine (a) symptoms, (b) pain characteristics (intensity, location, quality), (c) pain medications and nonpharmacological strategies used for pain, (d) thoughts and feelings, and (e) healthcare visits. We also examined the relationship between pain and sleep. Pain and symptoms were entered on an electronic e-Diary using a smartphone and were remotely monitored by an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Sixty-seven children and adolescents (10-17 years) reported mild to severe pain at home that did not require healthcare visits. Symptoms reported were (a) general symptoms such as tiredness/fatigue (34.7%), headache (20.8%), yellowing of the eyes (28.4%); (b) respiratory symptoms such as sniffling (32.9%), coughing (19.1%), changes in breathing (10.0%); and (c) musculoskeletal symptoms such as stiffness in joints (15.8%). A significant negative correlation was found between pain and sleep (r = -.387, p = .024). Factors that predict pain included previous history of sickle cell disease (SCD) related events, symptoms, and negative thoughts. Pain and multiple symptoms entered on a web-based e-Diary were remotely monitored by an APRN and prompted communications, further evaluation, and recommendations. Remote monitoring using wireless technology may facilitate timely management of pain and symptoms and minimize negative consequences in SCD. ©2012 The Author(s) Journal compilation ©2012 American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Theoretical analysis and simulation study of low-power CMOS electrochemical impedance spectroscopy biosensor in 55 nm deeply depleted channel technology for cell-state monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Itakura, Keisuke; Kayano, Keisuke; Nakazato, Kazuo; Niitsu, Kiichi

2018-01-01

We present an impedance-detection complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) biosensor circuit for cell-state observation. The proposed biosensor can measure the expected impedance values encountered by a cell-state observation measurement system within a 0.1-200 MHz frequency range. The proposed device is capable of monitoring the intracellular conditions necessary for real-time cell-state observation, and can be fabricated using a 55 nm deeply depleted channel CMOS process. Operation of the biosensor circuit with 0.9 and 1.7 V supply voltages is verified via a simulated program with integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) simulation. The power consumption is 300 µW. Further, the standby power consumption is 290 µW, indicating that this biosensor is a low-power instrument suitable for use in Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Fabrication and Evaluation of a Micro(Bio)Sensor Array Chip for Multiple Parallel Measurements of Important Cell Biomarkers

PubMed Central

Pemberton, Roy M.; Cox, Timothy; Tuffin, Rachel; Drago, Guido A.; Griffiths, John; Pittson, Robin; Johnson, Graham; Xu, Jinsheng; Sage, Ian C.; Davies, Rhodri; Jackson, Simon K.; Kenna, Gerry; Luxton, Richard; Hart, John P.

2014-01-01

This report describes the design and development of an integrated electrochemical cell culture monitoring system, based on enzyme-biosensors and chemical sensors, for monitoring indicators of mammalian cell metabolic status. MEMS technology was used to fabricate a microwell-format silicon platform including a thermometer, onto which chemical sensors (pH, O2) and screen-printed biosensors (glucose, lactate), were grafted/deposited. Microwells were formed over the fabricated sensors to give 5-well sensor strips which were interfaced with a multipotentiostat via a bespoke connector box interface. The operation of each sensor/biosensor type was examined individually, and examples of operating devices in five microwells in parallel, in either potentiometric (pH sensing) or amperometric (glucose biosensing) mode are shown. The performance characteristics of the sensors/biosensors indicate that the system could readily be applied to cell culture/toxicity studies. PMID:25360580

Application of laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy techniques to the monitoring of single cell response to stimuli

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chan, James W.; Liu, Rui; Matthews, Dennis L.

2012-06-01

Laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy (LTRS) combines optical trapping with micro-Raman spectroscopy to enable label-free biochemical analysis of individual cells and small biological particles in suspension. The integration of the two technologies greatly simplifies the sample preparation and handling of suspension cells for spectroscopic analysis in physiologically meaningful conditions. In our group, LTRS has been used to study the effects of external perturbations, both chemical and mechanical, on the biochemistry of the cell. Single cell dynamics can be studied by performing longitudinal studies to continuously monitor the response of the cell as it interacts with its environment. The ability to carry out these measurements in-vitro makes LTRS an attractive tool for many biomedical applications. Here, we discuss the use of LTRS to study the response of cancer cells to chemotherapeutics and bacteria cells to antibiotics and show that the life cycle and apoptosis of the cells can be detected. These results show the promise of LTRS for drug discovery/screening, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and chemotherapy response monitoring applications. In separate experiments, we study the response of red blood cells to the mechanical forces imposed on the cell by the optical tweezers. A laser power dependent deoxygenation of the red blood cell in the single beam trap is reported. Normal, sickle cell, and fetal red blood cells have a different behavior that enables the discrimination of the cell types based on this mechanochemical response. These results show the potential utility of LTRS for diagnosing and studying red blood cell diseases.

Handheld Diagnostic Device Delivers Quick Medical Readings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2014-01-01

To monitor astronauts' health remotely, Glenn Research Center awarded SBIR funding to Cambridge, Massachusetts-based DNA Medical Institute, which developed a device capable of analyzing blood cell counts and a variety of medical biomarkers. The technology will prove especially useful in rural areas without easy access to labs.

Staying alive! Sensors used for monitoring cell health in bioreactors.

PubMed

O'Mara, P; Farrell, A; Bones, J; Twomey, K

2018-01-01

Current and next generation sensors such as pH, dissolved oxygen (dO) and temperature sensors that will help drive the use of single-use bioreactors in industry are reviewed. The current trend in bioreactor use is shifting from the traditional fixed bioreactors to the use of single-use bioreactors (SUBs). However as the shift in paradigm occurs there is now a greater need for sensor technology to play 'catch up' with the innovation of bioreactor technology. Many of the sensors still in use today rely on technology created in the 1960's such as the Clark-type dissolved oxygen sensor or glass pH electrodes. This is due to the strict requirements of sensors to monitor bioprocesses resulting in the use of traditional well understood methods, making it difficult to incorporate new sensor technology into industry. A number of advances in sensor technology have been achieved in recent years, a few of these advances and future research will also be discussed in this review. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cytotoxicity and mitogenicity assays with real-time and label-free monitoring of human granulosa cells with an impedance-based signal processing technology intergrating micro-electronics and cell biology.

PubMed

Oktem, Ozgur; Bildik, Gamze; Senbabaoglu, Filiz; Lack, Nathan A; Akin, Nazli; Yakar, Feridun; Urman, Defne; Guzel, Yilmaz; Balaban, Basak; Iwase, Akira; Urman, Bulent

2016-04-01

A recently developed technology (xCelligence) integrating micro-electronics and cell biology allows real-time, uninterrupted and quantitative analysis of cell proliferation, viability and cytotoxicity by measuring the electrical impedance of the cell population in the wells without using any labeling agent. In this study we investigated if this system is a suitable model to analyze the effects of mitogenic (FSH) and cytotoxic (chemotherapy) agents with different toxicity profiles on human granulosa cells in comparison to conventional methods of assessing cell viability, DNA damage, apoptosis and steroidogenesis. The system generated the real-time growth curves of the cells, and determined their doubling times, mean cell indices and generated dose-response curves after exposure to cytotoxic and mitogenic stimuli. It accurately predicted the gonadotoxicity of the drugs and distinguished less toxic agents (5-FU and paclitaxel) from more toxic ones (cisplatin and cyclophosphamide). This platform can be a useful tool for specific end-point assays in reproductive toxicology. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Nanowire array chips for molecular typing of rare trafficking leukocytes with application to neurodegenerative pathology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwak, Minsuk; Kim, Dong-Joo; Lee, Mi-Ri; Wu, Yu; Han, Lin; Lee, Sang-Kwon; Fan, Rong

2014-05-01

Despite the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) that restricts the entry of immune cells and mediators into the central nervous system (CNS), a small number of peripheral leukocytes can traverse the BBB and infiltrate into the CNS. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is one of the major routes through which trafficking leukocytes migrate into the CNS. Therefore, the number of leukocytes and their phenotypic compositions in the CSF may represent important sources to investigate immune-to-brain interactions or diagnose and monitor neurodegenerative diseases. Due to the paucity of trafficking leucocytes in the CSF, a technology capable of efficient isolation, enumeration, and molecular typing of these cells in the clinical settings has not been achieved. In this study, we report on a biofunctionalized silicon nanowire array chip for highly efficient capture and multiplexed phenotyping of rare trafficking leukocytes in small quantities (50 microliters) of clinical CSF specimens collected from neurodegenerative disease patients. The antibody coated 3D nanostructured materials exhibited vastly improved rare cell capture efficiency due to high-affinity binding and enhanced cell-substrate interactions. Moreover, our platform creates multiple cell capture interfaces, each of which can selectively isolate specific leukocyte phenotypes. A comparison with the traditional immunophenotyping using flow cytometry demonstrated that our novel silicon nanowire-based rare cell analysis platform can perform rapid detection and simultaneous molecular characterization of heterogeneous immune cells. Multiplexed molecular typing of rare leukocytes in CSF samples collected from Alzheimer's disease patients revealed the elevation of white blood cell counts and significant alterations in the distribution of major leukocyte phenotypes. Our technology represents a practical tool for potentially diagnosing and monitoring the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases by allowing an effective hematological analysis of the CSF from patients.Despite the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) that restricts the entry of immune cells and mediators into the central nervous system (CNS), a small number of peripheral leukocytes can traverse the BBB and infiltrate into the CNS. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is one of the major routes through which trafficking leukocytes migrate into the CNS. Therefore, the number of leukocytes and their phenotypic compositions in the CSF may represent important sources to investigate immune-to-brain interactions or diagnose and monitor neurodegenerative diseases. Due to the paucity of trafficking leucocytes in the CSF, a technology capable of efficient isolation, enumeration, and molecular typing of these cells in the clinical settings has not been achieved. In this study, we report on a biofunctionalized silicon nanowire array chip for highly efficient capture and multiplexed phenotyping of rare trafficking leukocytes in small quantities (50 microliters) of clinical CSF specimens collected from neurodegenerative disease patients. The antibody coated 3D nanostructured materials exhibited vastly improved rare cell capture efficiency due to high-affinity binding and enhanced cell-substrate interactions. Moreover, our platform creates multiple cell capture interfaces, each of which can selectively isolate specific leukocyte phenotypes. A comparison with the traditional immunophenotyping using flow cytometry demonstrated that our novel silicon nanowire-based rare cell analysis platform can perform rapid detection and simultaneous molecular characterization of heterogeneous immune cells. Multiplexed molecular typing of rare leukocytes in CSF samples collected from Alzheimer's disease patients revealed the elevation of white blood cell counts and significant alterations in the distribution of major leukocyte phenotypes. Our technology represents a practical tool for potentially diagnosing and monitoring the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases by allowing an effective hematological analysis of the CSF from patients. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Additional data are available in the supplementary tables and supplementary figures. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr06465d

Broadband integrated mid infrared light sources as enabling technology for point of care mid-infrared spectroscopy

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-20

liquid crystal cell was successfully employed as an active q-switching element in the same type of chip lasers. The short laser pulses that were...switched mode-locked (QML) operation of those chip lasers. Further, a novel nematic liquid crystal cell was successfully employed as an active q... gas spectroscopy and environmental monitoring, areas that hold immense significance and importance. However, laser source development at these

Guided self-assembly of magnetic beads for biomedical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gusenbauer, Markus; Nguyen, Ha; Reichel, Franz; Exl, Lukas; Bance, Simon; Fischbacher, Johann; Özelt, Harald; Kovacs, Alexander; Brandl, Martin; Schrefl, Thomas

2014-02-01

Micromagnetic beads are widely used in biomedical applications for cell separation, drug delivery, and hyperthermia cancer treatment. Here we propose to use self-organized magnetic bead structures which accumulate on fixed magnetic seeding points to isolate circulating tumor cells. The analysis of circulating tumor cells is an emerging tool for cancer biology research and clinical cancer management including the detection, diagnosis and monitoring of cancer. Microfluidic chips for isolating circulating tumor cells use either affinity, size or density capturing methods. We combine multiphysics simulation techniques to understand the microscopic behavior of magnetic beads interacting with soft magnetic accumulation points used in lab-on-chip technologies. Our proposed chip technology offers the possibility to combine affinity and size capturing with special antibody-coated bead arrangements using a magnetic gradient field created by Neodymium Iron Boron permanent magnets. The multiscale simulation environment combines magnetic field computation, fluid dynamics and discrete particle dynamics.

The Aggregate Exposure Pathway (AEP): A conceptual framework for advancing exposure science research and transforming risk assessment

EPA Science Inventory

Recent advances in analytical methods, biomarker discovery, cell-based assay development, computational tools, sensor/monitor, and omics technology have enabled new streams of exposure and toxicity data to be generated at higher volumes and speed. These new data offer the opport...

Tracking stem cell migration and survival in brain injury: current approaches and future prospects.

PubMed

Darkazalli, Ali; Levenson, Cathy W

2012-10-01

In recent years, stem cell-mediated therapies have gained considerable ground as potential treatments for a wide variety of brain pathologies including traumatic brain injury, stroke and neurodegenerative diseases. Despite extensive preclinical studies, many of these therapies have not been fully translated into viable clinical approaches. This is partly due to our inability to reliably track and monitor transplanted stem cells longitudinally over long periods of time in vivo. In this review, we discuss the predominant histological cell tracing methodologies, such as immunohistochemistry, and fluorescent cellular dyes and proteins, and compare them to emerging cellular imaging technologies. We show that advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have resulted in opportunities to use this technology to further our understanding of stem cell characteristics and behaviors in vivo. While MRI may not completely replace conventional cell tracking methods in pre-clinical, mechanistic work, it is clear that it has the potential to function as a powerful diagnostic tool for tracking stem cell migration and survival as well as for evaluating the efficacy of stem cell-mediated therapies.

Can Wireless Technology Enable New Diabetes Management Tools?

PubMed Central

Hedtke, Paul A.

2008-01-01

Mobile computing and communications technology embodied in the modern cell phone device can be employed to improve the lives of diabetes patients by giving them better tools for self-management. Several companies are working on the development of diabetes management tools that leverage the ubiquitous cell phone to bring self-management tools to the hand of the diabetes patient. Integration of blood glucose monitoring (BGM) technology with the cell phone platform adds a level of convenience for the person with diabetes, but, more importantly, allows BGM data to be automatically captured, logged, and processed in near real time in order to provide the diabetes patient with assistance in managing their blood glucose levels. Other automatic measurements can estimate physical activity, and information regarding medication events and food intake can be captured and analyzed in order to provide the diabetes patient with continual assistance in managing their therapy and behaviors in order to improve glycemic control. The path to realization of such solutions is not, however, without obstacles. PMID:19885187

Can wireless technology enable new diabetes management tools?

PubMed

Hedtke, Paul A

2008-01-01

Mobile computing and communications technology embodied in the modern cell phone device can be employed to improve the lives of diabetes patients by giving them better tools for self-management. Several companies are working on the development of diabetes management tools that leverage the ubiquitous cell phone to bring self-management tools to the hand of the diabetes patient. Integration of blood glucose monitoring (BGM) technology with the cell phone platform adds a level of convenience for the person with diabetes, but, more importantly, allows BGM data to be automatically captured, logged, and processed in near real time in order to provide the diabetes patient with assistance in managing their blood glucose levels. Other automatic measurements can estimate physical activity, and information regarding medication events and food intake can be captured and analyzed in order to provide the diabetes patient with continual assistance in managing their therapy and behaviors in order to improve glycemic control. The path to realization of such solutions is not, however, without obstacles.

Application of advanced cytometric and molecular technologies to minimal residual disease monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leary, James F.; He, Feng; Reece, Lisa M.

2000-04-01

Minimal residual disease monitoring presents a number of theoretical and practical challenges. Recently it has been possible to meet some of these challenges by combining a number of new advanced biotechnologies. To monitor the number of residual tumor cells requires complex cocktails of molecular probes that collectively provide sensitivities of detection on the order of one residual tumor cell per million total cells. Ultra-high-speed, multi parameter flow cytometry is capable of analyzing cells at rates in excess of 100,000 cells/sec. Residual tumor selection marker cocktails can be optimized by use of receiver operating characteristic analysis. New data minimizing techniques when combined with multi variate statistical or neural network classifications of tumor cells can more accurately predict residual tumor cell frequencies. The combination of these techniques can, under at least some circumstances, detect frequencies of tumor cells as low as one cell in a million with an accuracy of over 98 percent correct classification. Detection of mutations in tumor suppressor genes requires insolation of these rare tumor cells and single-cell DNA sequencing. Rare residual tumor cells can be isolated at single cell level by high-resolution single-cell cell sorting. Molecular characterization of tumor suppressor gene mutations can be accomplished using a combination of single- cell polymerase chain reaction amplification of specific gene sequences followed by TA cloning techniques and DNA sequencing. Mutations as small as a single base pair in a tumor suppressor gene of a single sorted tumor cell have been detected using these methods. Using new amplification procedures and DNA micro arrays it should be possible to extend the capabilities shown in this paper to screening of multiple DNA mutations in tumor suppressor and other genes on small numbers of sorted metastatic tumor cells.

Electrolysis Performance Improvement Concept Study (EPICS) flight experiment phase C/D

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schubert, F. H.; Lee, M. G.

1995-01-01

The overall purpose of the Electrolysis Performance Improvement Concept Study flight experiment is to demonstrate and validate in a microgravity environment the Static Feed Electrolyzer concept as well as investigate the effect of microgravity on water electrolysis performance. The scope of the experiment includes variations in microstructural characteristics of electrodes and current densities in a static feed electrolysis cell configuration. The results of the flight experiment will be used to improve efficiency of the static feed electrolysis process and other electrochemical regenerative life support processes by reducing power and expanding the operational range. Specific technologies that will benefit include water electrolysis for propulsion, energy storage, life support, extravehicular activity, in-space manufacturing and in-space science in addition to other electrochemical regenerative life support technologies such as electrochemical carbon dioxide and oxygen separation, electrochemical oxygen compression and water vapor electrolysis. The Electrolysis Performance Improvement Concept Study flight experiment design incorporates two primary hardware assemblies: the Mechanical/Electrochemical Assembly and the Control/Monitor Instrumentation. The Mechanical/Electrochemical Assembly contains three separate integrated electrolysis cells along with supporting pressure and temperature control components. The Control/Monitor Instrumentation controls the operation of the experiment via the Mechanical/Electrochemical Assembly components and provides for monitoring and control of critical parameters and storage of experimental data.

Identification of inhibitors using a cell-based assay for monitoring Golgi-resident protease activity.

PubMed

Coppola, Julia M; Hamilton, Christin A; Bhojani, Mahaveer S; Larsen, Martha J; Ross, Brian D; Rehemtulla, Alnawaz

2007-05-01

Noninvasive real-time quantification of cellular protease activity allows monitoring of enzymatic activity and identification of activity modulators within the protease's natural milieu. We developed a protease activity assay based on differential localization of a recombinant reporter consisting of a Golgi retention signal and a protease cleavage sequence fused to alkaline phosphatase (AP). When expressed in mammalian cells, this protein localizes to Golgi bodies and, on protease-mediated cleavage, AP translocates to the extracellular medium where its activity is measured. We used this system to monitor the Golgi-associated protease furin, a pluripotent enzyme with a key role in tumorigenesis, viral propagation of avian influenza, ebola, and HIV as well as in activation of anthrax, pseudomonas, and diphtheria toxins. This technology was adapted for high-throughput screening of 39,000-compound small molecule libraries, leading to identification of furin inhibitors. Furthermore, this strategy was used to identify inhibitors of another Golgi protease, the beta-site amyloid precursor protein (APP)-cleaving enzyme (BACE). BACE cleavage of the APP leads to formation of the Abeta peptide, a key event that leads to Alzheimer's disease. In conclusion, we describe a customizable noninvasive technology for real-time assessment of Golgi protease activity used to identify inhibitors of furin and BACE.

Identification of inhibitors using a cell based assay for monitoring golgi-resident protease activity

PubMed Central

Coppola, Julia M.; Hamilton, Christin A.; Bhojani, Mahaveer S.; Larsen, Martha J.; Ross, Brian D.; Rehemtulla, Alnawaz

2007-01-01

Non-invasive real time quantification of cellular protease activity allows monitoring of enzymatic activity and identification of activity modulators within the protease’s natural milieu. We developed a protease-activity assay based on differential localization of a recombinant reporter consisting of a Golgi retention signal and a protease cleavage sequence fused to alkaline phosphatase (AP). When expressed in mammalian cells, this protein localizes to Golgi bodies and, upon protease mediated cleavage, AP translocates to the extracellular medium where its activity is measured. We used this system to monitor the Golgi-associated protease furin, a pluripotent enzyme with a key role in tumorigenesis, viral propagation of avian influenza, ebola, and HIV, and in activation of anthrax, pseudomonas, and diphtheria toxins. This technology was adapted for high throughput screening of 30,000 compound small molecule libraries, leading to identification of furin inhibitors. Further, this strategy was utilized to identify inhibitors of another Golgi protease, the β-site APP-cleaving enzyme (BACE). BACE cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein leads to formation of the Aβ peptide, a key event that leads to Alzheimer’s disease. In conclusion, we describe a customizable, non-invasive technology for real time assessment of Golgi protease activity used to identify inhibitors of furin and BACE. PMID:17316541

Artificial MicroRNAs as Novel Secreted Reporters for Cell Monitoring in Living Subjects.

PubMed

Ronald, John A; D'Souza, Aloma L; Chuang, Hui-Yen; Gambhir, Sanjiv Sam

2016-01-01

Reporter genes are powerful technologies that can be used to directly inform on the fate of transplanted cells in living subjects. Imaging reporter genes are often employed to quantify cell number, location(s), and viability with various imaging modalities. To complement this, reporters that are secreted from cells can provide a low-cost, in vitro diagnostic test to monitor overall cell viability at relatively high frequency without knowing the locations of all cells. Whereas protein-based secretable reporters have been developed, an RNA-based reporter detectable with amplification inherent PCR-based assays has not been previously described. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs (18-22 nt) that regulate mRNA translation and are being explored as relatively stable blood-based disease biomarkers. We developed an artificial miRNA-based secreted reporter, called Sec-miR, utilizing a coding sequence that is not expressed endogenously and does not have any known vertebrate target. Sec-miR was detectable in both the cells and culture media of transiently transfected cells. Cells stably expressing Sec-miR also reliably secreted it into the culture media. Mice implanted with parental HeLa cells or HeLa cells expressing both Sec-miR and the bioluminescence imaging (BLI) reporter gene Firefly luciferase (FLuc) were monitored over time for tumor volume, FLuc signal via BLI, and blood levels of Sec-miR. Significantly (p<0.05) higher Sec-miR was found in the blood of mice bearing Sec-miR-expressing tumors compared to parental cell tumors at 21 and 28 days after implantation. Importantly, blood Sec-miR reporter levels after day 21 showed a trend towards correlation with tumor volume (R2 = 0.6090; p = 0.0671) and significantly correlated with FLuc signal (R2 = 0.7067; p<0.05). Finally, we could significantly (p<0.01) amplify Sec-miR secretion into the cell media by chaining together multiple Sec-miR copies (4 instead of 1 or 2) within an expression cassette. Overall, we show that a novel complement of BLI together with a unique Sec-miR reporter adds an in vitro RNA-based diagnostic to enhance the monitoring of transplanted cells. While Sec-miR was not as sensitive as BLI for monitoring cell number, it may be more sensitive than clinically-relevant positron emission tomography (PET) reporter assays. Future work will focus on improving cell detectability via improved secretion of Sec-miR reporters from cells and more sensitive detection platforms, as well as, exploring other miRNA sequences to allow multiplexed monitoring of more than one cell population at a time. Continued development may lead to more refined and precise monitoring of cell-based therapies.

Detection of biogenic CO production above vascular cell cultures using a near-room-temperature QC-DFB laser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kosterev, A. A.; Tittel, F. K.; Durante, W.; Allen, M.; Kohler, R.; Gmachl, C.; Capasso, F.; Sivco, D. L.; Cho, A. Y.

2002-01-01

We report the first application of pulsed, near-room-temperature quantum cascade laser technology to the continuous detection of biogenic CO production rates above viable cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells. A computer-controlled sequence of measurements over a 9-h period was obtained, resulting in a minimum detectable CO production of 20 ppb in a 1-m optical path above a standard cell-culture flask. Data-processing procedures for real-time monitoring of both biogenic and ambient atmospheric CO concentrations are described.

Integrating cell phone imaging with magnetic levitation (i-LEV) for label-free blood analysis at the point-of-living

PubMed Central

Durmus, Naside Gozde; Davis, Ronald W.; Steinmetz, Lars M.; Demirci, Utkan

2016-01-01

There is an emerging need for portable, robust, inexpensive and easy-to-use disease diagnosis and prognosis monitoring platforms to share health information at the point-of-living, including clinical and home settings. Recent advances in digital health technologies have improved early diagnosis, drug treatment, and personalized medicine. Smartphones with high-resolution cameras and high data processing power enable intriguing biomedical applications when integrated with diagnostic devices. Further, these devices have immense potential to contribute to public health in resource-limited settings where there is a particular need for portable, rapid, label-free, easy-to-use and affordable biomedical devices to diagnose and continuously monitor patients for precision medicine, especially those suffering from rare diseases, such as sickle cell anemia, thalassemia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Here, we present a magnetic levitation-based diagnosis system in which different cell types (i.e., white and red blood cells) are levitated in a magnetic gradient and separated due to their unique densities. Moreover, we introduce an easy-to-use, smartphone incorporated levitation system for cell analysis. Using our portable imaging magnetic levitation (i-LEV) system, we show that white and red blood cells can be identified and cell numbers can be quantified without using any labels. In addition, cells levitated in i-LEV can be distinguished at single cell resolution, potentially enabling diagnosis and monitoring, as well as clinical and research applications. PMID:26523938

Integrating Cell Phone Imaging with Magnetic Levitation (i-LEV) for Label-Free Blood Analysis at the Point-of-Living.

PubMed

Baday, Murat; Calamak, Semih; Durmus, Naside Gozde; Davis, Ronald W; Steinmetz, Lars M; Demirci, Utkan

2016-03-02

There is an emerging need for portable, robust, inexpensive, and easy-to-use disease diagnosis and prognosis monitoring platforms to share health information at the point-of-living, including clinical and home settings. Recent advances in digital health technologies have improved early diagnosis, drug treatment, and personalized medicine. Smartphones with high-resolution cameras and high data processing power enable intriguing biomedical applications when integrated with diagnostic devices. Further, these devices have immense potential to contribute to public health in resource-limited settings where there is a particular need for portable, rapid, label-free, easy-to-use, and affordable biomedical devices to diagnose and continuously monitor patients for precision medicine, especially those suffering from rare diseases, such as sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Here, a magnetic levitation-based diagnosis system is presented in which different cell types (i.e., white and red blood cells) are levitated in a magnetic gradient and separated due to their unique densities. Moreover, an easy-to-use, smartphone incorporated levitation system for cell analysis is introduced. Using our portable imaging magnetic levitation (i-LEV) system, it is shown that white and red blood cells can be identified and cell numbers can be quantified without using any labels. In addition, cells levitated in i-LEV can be distinguished at single-cell resolution, potentially enabling diagnosis and monitoring, as well as clinical and research applications. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Nanoparticles and clinically applicable cell tracking

PubMed Central

Guenoun, Jamal; van Tiel, Sandra T; Krestin, Gabriel P

2015-01-01

In vivo cell tracking has emerged as a much sought after tool for design and monitoring of cell-based treatment strategies. Various techniques are available for pre-clinical animal studies, from which much has been learned and still can be learned. However, there is also a need for clinically translatable techniques. Central to in vivo cell imaging is labelling of cells with agents that can give rise to signals in vivo, that can be detected and measured non-invasively. The current imaging technology of choice for clinical translation is MRI in combination with labelling of cells with magnetic agents. The main challenge encountered during the cell labelling procedure is to efficiently incorporate the label into the cell, such that the labelled cells can be imaged at high sensitivity for prolonged periods of time, without the labelling process affecting the functionality of the cells. In this respect, nanoparticles offer attractive features since their structure and chemical properties can be modified to facilitate cellular incorporation and because they can carry a high payload of the relevant label into cells. While these technologies have already been applied in clinical trials and have increased the understanding of cell-based therapy mechanism, many challenges are still faced. PMID:26248872

Spatiotemporal switching signals for cancer stem cell activation in pediatric origins of adulthood cancer: Towards a watch-and-wait lifetime strategy for cancer treatment.

PubMed

Li, Shengwen Calvin; Kabeer, Mustafa H

2018-02-26

Pediatric origin of cancer stem cell hypothesis holds great promise and potential in adult cancer treatment, however; the road to innovation is full of obstacles as there are plenty of questions left unanswered. First, the key question is to characterize the nature of such stem cells (concept). Second, the quantitative imaging of pediatric stem cells should be implemented (technology). Conceptually, pediatric stem cell origins of adult cancer are based on the notion that plasticity in early life developmental programming evolves local environments to cancer. Technologically, such imaging in children is lacking as all imaging is designed for adult patients. We postulate that the need for quantitative imaging to measure space-time changes of plasticity in early life developmental programming in children may trigger research and development of the imaging technology. Such quantitative imaging of pediatric origin of adulthood cancer will help develop a spatiotemporal monitoring system to determine cancer initiation and progression. Clinical validation of such speculative hypothesis-that cancer originates in a pediatric environment-will help implement a wait-and-watch strategy for cancer treatment.

Future technologies for monitoring HIV drug resistance and cure.

PubMed

Parikh, Urvi M; McCormick, Kevin; van Zyl, Gert; Mellors, John W

2017-03-01

Sensitive, scalable and affordable assays are critically needed for monitoring the success of interventions for preventing, treating and attempting to cure HIV infection. This review evaluates current and emerging technologies that are applicable for both surveillance of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) and characterization of HIV reservoirs that persist despite antiretroviral therapy and are obstacles to curing HIV infection. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has the potential to be adapted into high-throughput, cost-efficient approaches for HIVDR surveillance and monitoring during continued scale-up of antiretroviral therapy and rollout of preexposure prophylaxis. Similarly, improvements in PCR and NGS are resulting in higher throughput single genome sequencing to detect intact proviruses and to characterize HIV integration sites and clonal expansions of infected cells. Current population genotyping methods for resistance monitoring are high cost and low throughput. NGS, combined with simpler sample collection and storage matrices (e.g. dried blood spots), has considerable potential to broaden global surveillance and patient monitoring for HIVDR. Recent adaptions of NGS to identify integration sites of HIV in the human genome and to characterize the integrated HIV proviruses are likely to facilitate investigations of the impact of experimental 'curative' interventions on HIV reservoirs.

Emerging electrochemical energy conversion and storage technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badwal, Sukhvinder; Giddey, Sarbjit; Munnings, Christopher; Bhatt, Anand; Hollenkamp, Tony

2014-09-01

Electrochemical cells and systems play a key role in a wide range of industry sectors. These devices are critical enabling technologies for renewable energy; energy management, conservation and storage; pollution control / monitoring; and greenhouse gas reduction. A large number of electrochemical energy technologies have been developed in the past. These systems continue to be optimized in terms of cost, life time and performance, leading to their continued expansion into existing and emerging market sectors. The more established technologies such as deep-cycle batteries and sensors are being joined by emerging technologies such as fuel cells, large format lithium-ion batteries, electrochemical reactors; ion transport membranes and supercapacitors. This growing demand (multi billion dollars) for electrochemical energy systems along with the increasing maturity of a number of technologies is having a significant effect on the global research and development effort which is increasing in both in size and depth. A number of new technologies, which will have substantial impact on the environment and the way we produce and utilize energy, are under development. This paper presents an overview of several emerging electrochemical energy technologies along with a discussion some of the key technical challenges.

Emerging electrochemical energy conversion and storage technologies

PubMed Central

Badwal, Sukhvinder P. S.; Giddey, Sarbjit S.; Munnings, Christopher; Bhatt, Anand I.; Hollenkamp, Anthony F.

2014-01-01

Electrochemical cells and systems play a key role in a wide range of industry sectors. These devices are critical enabling technologies for renewable energy; energy management, conservation, and storage; pollution control/monitoring; and greenhouse gas reduction. A large number of electrochemical energy technologies have been developed in the past. These systems continue to be optimized in terms of cost, life time, and performance, leading to their continued expansion into existing and emerging market sectors. The more established technologies such as deep-cycle batteries and sensors are being joined by emerging technologies such as fuel cells, large format lithium-ion batteries, electrochemical reactors; ion transport membranes and supercapacitors. This growing demand (multi billion dollars) for electrochemical energy systems along with the increasing maturity of a number of technologies is having a significant effect on the global research and development effort which is increasing in both in size and depth. A number of new technologies, which will have substantial impact on the environment and the way we produce and utilize energy, are under development. This paper presents an overview of several emerging electrochemical energy technologies along with a discussion some of the key technical challenges. PMID:25309898

Near-infrared emitting fluorescent nanocrystals-labeled natural killer cells as a platform technology for the optical imaging of immunotherapeutic cells-based cancer therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taik Lim, Yong; Cho, Mi Young; Noh, Young-Woock; Chung, Jin Woong; Chung, Bong Hyun

2009-11-01

This study describes the development of near-infrared optical imaging technology for the monitoring of immunotherapeutic cell-based cancer therapy using natural killer (NK) cells labeled with fluorescent nanocrystals. Although NK cell-based immunotherapeutic strategies have drawn interest as potent preclinical or clinical methods of cancer therapy, there are few reports documenting the molecular imaging of NK cell-based cancer therapy, primarily due to the difficulty of labeling of NK cells with imaging probes. Human natural killer cells (NK92MI) were labeled with anti-human CD56 antibody-coated quantum dots (QD705) for fluorescence imaging. FACS analysis showed that the NK92MI cells labeled with anti-human CD56 antibody-coated QD705 have no effect on the cell viability. The effect of anti-human CD56 antibody-coated QD705 labeling on the NK92MI cell function was investigated by measuring interferon gamma (IFN- γ) production and cytolytic activity. Finally, the NK92MI cells labeled with anti-human CD56 antibody-coated QD705 showed a therapeutic effect similar to that of unlabeled NK92MI cells. Images of intratumorally injected NK92MI cells labeled with anti-human CD56 antibody-coated could be acquired using near-infrared optical imaging both in vivo and in vitro. This result demonstrates that the immunotherapeutic cells labeled with fluorescent nanocrystals can be a versatile platform for the effective tracking of injected therapeutic cells using optical imaging technology, which is very important in cell-based cancer therapies.

Application of Raman Spectroscopy and Univariate Modelling As a Process Analytical Technology for Cell Therapy Bioprocessing

PubMed Central

Baradez, Marc-Olivier; Biziato, Daniela; Hassan, Enas; Marshall, Damian

2018-01-01

Cell therapies offer unquestionable promises for the treatment, and in some cases even the cure, of complex diseases. As we start to see more of these therapies gaining market authorization, attention is turning to the bioprocesses used for their manufacture, in particular the challenge of gaining higher levels of process control to help regulate cell behavior, manage process variability, and deliver product of a consistent quality. Many processes already incorporate the measurement of key markers such as nutrient consumption, metabolite production, and cell concentration, but these are often performed off-line and only at set time points in the process. Having the ability to monitor these markers in real-time using in-line sensors would offer significant advantages, allowing faster decision-making and a finer level of process control. In this study, we use Raman spectroscopy as an in-line optical sensor for bioprocess monitoring of an autologous T-cell immunotherapy model produced in a stirred tank bioreactor system. Using reference datasets generated on a standard bioanalyzer, we develop chemometric models from the Raman spectra for glucose, glutamine, lactate, and ammonia. These chemometric models can accurately monitor donor-specific increases in nutrient consumption and metabolite production as the primary T-cell transition from a recovery phase and begin proliferating. Using a univariate modeling approach, we then show how changes in peak intensity within the Raman spectra can be correlated with cell concentration and viability. These models, which act as surrogate markers, can be used to monitor cell behavior including cell proliferation rates, proliferative capacity, and transition of the cells to a quiescent phenotype. Finally, using the univariate models, we also demonstrate how Raman spectroscopy can be applied for real-time monitoring. The ability to measure these key parameters using an in-line Raman optical sensor makes it possible to have immediate feedback on process performance. This could help significantly improve cell therapy bioprocessing by allowing proactive decision-making based on real-time process data. Going forward, these types of in-line sensors also open up opportunities to improve bioprocesses further through concepts such as adaptive manufacturing. PMID:29556497

Application of Raman Spectroscopy and Univariate Modelling As a Process Analytical Technology for Cell Therapy Bioprocessing.

PubMed

Baradez, Marc-Olivier; Biziato, Daniela; Hassan, Enas; Marshall, Damian

2018-01-01

Cell therapies offer unquestionable promises for the treatment, and in some cases even the cure, of complex diseases. As we start to see more of these therapies gaining market authorization, attention is turning to the bioprocesses used for their manufacture, in particular the challenge of gaining higher levels of process control to help regulate cell behavior, manage process variability, and deliver product of a consistent quality. Many processes already incorporate the measurement of key markers such as nutrient consumption, metabolite production, and cell concentration, but these are often performed off-line and only at set time points in the process. Having the ability to monitor these markers in real-time using in-line sensors would offer significant advantages, allowing faster decision-making and a finer level of process control. In this study, we use Raman spectroscopy as an in-line optical sensor for bioprocess monitoring of an autologous T-cell immunotherapy model produced in a stirred tank bioreactor system. Using reference datasets generated on a standard bioanalyzer, we develop chemometric models from the Raman spectra for glucose, glutamine, lactate, and ammonia. These chemometric models can accurately monitor donor-specific increases in nutrient consumption and metabolite production as the primary T-cell transition from a recovery phase and begin proliferating. Using a univariate modeling approach, we then show how changes in peak intensity within the Raman spectra can be correlated with cell concentration and viability. These models, which act as surrogate markers, can be used to monitor cell behavior including cell proliferation rates, proliferative capacity, and transition of the cells to a quiescent phenotype. Finally, using the univariate models, we also demonstrate how Raman spectroscopy can be applied for real-time monitoring. The ability to measure these key parameters using an in-line Raman optical sensor makes it possible to have immediate feedback on process performance. This could help significantly improve cell therapy bioprocessing by allowing proactive decision-making based on real-time process data. Going forward, these types of in-line sensors also open up opportunities to improve bioprocesses further through concepts such as adaptive manufacturing.

Stem cell-mediated accelerated bone healing observed with in vivo molecular and small animal imaging technologies in a model of skeletal injury.

PubMed

Lee, Sheen-Woo; Padmanabhan, Parasuraman; Ray, Pritha; Gambhir, Sanjiv Sam; Doyle, Timothy; Contag, Christopher; Goodman, Stuart B; Biswal, Sandip

2009-03-01

Adult stem cells are promising therapeutic reagents for skeletal regeneration. We hope to validate by molecular imaging technologies the in vivo life cycle of adipose-derived multipotent cells (ADMCs) in an animal model of skeletal injury. Primary ADMCs were lentivirally transfected with a fusion reporter gene and injected intravenously into mice with bone injury or sham operation. Bioluminescence imaging (BLI), [(18)F]FHBG (9-(fluoro-hydroxy-methyl-butyl-guanine)-micro-PET, [(18)F]Fluoride ion micro-PET and micro-CT were performed to monitor stem cells and their effect. Bioluminescence microscopy and immunohistochemistry were done for histological confirmation. BLI showed ADMC's traffic from the lungs then to the injury site. BLI microscopy and immunohistochemistry confirmed the ADMCs in the bone defect. Micro-CT measurements showed increased bone healing in the cell-injected group compared to the noninjected group at postoperative day 7 (p < 0.05). Systemically administered ADMC's traffic to the site of skeletal injury and facilitate bone healing, as demonstrated by molecular and small animal imaging. Molecular imaging technologies can validate the usage of adult adipose tissue-derived multipotent cells to promote fracture healing. Imaging can in the future help establish therapeutic strategies including dosage and administration route. (c) 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society.

Novel Nuclear Powered Photocatalytic Energy Conversion

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

White,John R.; Kinsmen,Douglas; Regan,Thomas M.

2005-08-29

The University of Massachusetts Lowell Radiation Laboratory (UMLRL) is involved in a comprehensive project to investigate a unique radiation sensing and energy conversion technology with applications for in-situ monitoring of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) during cask transport and storage. The technology makes use of the gamma photons emitted from the SNF as an inherent power source for driving a GPS-class transceiver that has the ability to verify the position and contents of the SNF cask. The power conversion process, which converts the gamma photon energy into electrical power, is based on a variation of the successful dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC)more » design developed by Konarka Technologies, Inc. (KTI). In particular, the focus of the current research is to make direct use of the high-energy gamma photons emitted from SNF, coupled with a scintillator material to convert some of the incident gamma photons into photons having wavelengths within the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The high-energy gammas from the SNF will generate some power directly via Compton scattering and the photoelectric effect, and the generated visible photons output from the scintillator material can also be converted to electrical power in a manner similar to that of a standard solar cell. Upon successful implementation of an energy conversion device based on this new gammavoltaic principle, this inherent power source could then be utilized within SNF storage casks to drive a tamper-proof, low-power, electronic detection/security monitoring system for the spent fuel. The current project has addressed several aspects associated with this new energy conversion concept, including the development of a base conceptual design for an inherent gamma-induced power conversion unit for SNF monitoring, the characterization of the radiation environment that can be expected within a typical SNF storage system, the initial evaluation of Konarka's base solar cell design, the design and fabrication of a range of new cell materials and geometries at Konarka's manufacturing facilities, and the irradiation testing and evaluation of these new cell designs within the UML Radiation Laboratory. The primary focus of all this work was to establish the proof of concept of the basic gammavoltaic principle using a new class of dye-sensitized photon converter (DSPC) materials based on KTI's original DSSC design. In achieving this goal, this report clearly establishes the viability of the basic gammavoltaic energy conversion concept, yet it also identifies a set of challenges that must be met for practical implementation of this new technology.« less

A potential role for imaging technology in anticancer efficacy evaluations.

PubMed

Hollingshead, M G; Bonomi, C A; Borgel, S D; Carter, J P; Shoemaker, R; Melillo, G; Sausville, E A

2004-04-01

The introduction of imaging methods suitable for rodents offers opportunities for new anticancer efficacy models. Traditional models do not provide the level of sensitivity afforded by these precise and quantitative techniques. Bioluminescent endpoints, now feasible because of sensitive charge-coupled device cameras, can be non-invasively detected in live animals. Currently, the most common luminescence endpoint is firefly luciferase, which, in the presence of O(2) and ATP, catalyses the cleavage of the substrate luciferin and results in the emission of a photon of light. In vivo implantation of tumour cells transfected with the luciferase gene allows sequential monitoring of tumour growth within the viscera by measuring these photon signals. Furthermore, tumour cell lines containing the luciferase gene transcribed from an inducible promoter offer opportunities to study molecular-target modulation without the need for ex vivo evaluations of serial tumour samples. In conjunction with this, transgenic mice bearing a luciferase reporter mechanism can be used to monitor the tumour microenvironment as well as to signal when transforming events occur. This technology has the potential to reshape the efficacy evaluations and drug-testing algorithms of the future.

Zooming In on Plant Hormone Analysis: Tissue- and Cell-Specific Approaches.

PubMed

Novák, Ondřej; Napier, Richard; Ljung, Karin

2017-04-28

Plant hormones are a group of naturally occurring, low-abundance organic compounds that influence physiological processes in plants. Our knowledge of the distribution profiles of phytohormones in plant organs, tissues, and cells is still incomplete, but advances in mass spectrometry have enabled significant progress in tissue- and cell-type-specific analyses of phytohormones over the last decade. Mass spectrometry is able to simultaneously identify and quantify hormones and their related substances. Biosensors, on the other hand, offer continuous monitoring; can visualize local distributions and real-time quantification; and, in the case of genetically encoded biosensors, are noninvasive. Thus, biosensors offer additional, complementary technologies for determining temporal and spatial changes in phytohormone concentrations. In this review, we focus on recent advances in mass spectrometry-based quantification, describe monitoring systems based on biosensors, and discuss validations of the various methods before looking ahead at future developments for both approaches.

Is Technology-Mediated Parental Monitoring Related to Adolescent Substance Use?

PubMed

Rudi, Jessie; Dworkin, Jodi

2018-01-03

Prevention researchers have identified parental monitoring leading to parental knowledge to be a protective factor against adolescent substance use. In today's digital society, parental monitoring can occur using technology-mediated communication methods, such as text messaging, email, and social networking sites. The current study aimed to identify patterns, or clusters, of in-person and technology-mediated monitoring behaviors, and examine differences between the patterns (clusters) in adolescent substance use. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from 289 parents of adolescents using Facebook and Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk). Cluster analyses were computed to identify patterns of in-person and technology-mediated monitoring behaviors, and chi-square analyses were computed to examine differences in substance use between the identified clusters. Three monitoring clusters were identified: a moderate in-person and moderate technology-mediated monitoring cluster (moderate-moderate), a high in-person and high technology-mediated monitoring cluster (high-high), and a high in-person and low technology-mediated monitoring cluster (high-low). Higher frequency of technology-mediated parental monitoring was not associated with lower levels of substance use. Results show that higher levels of technology-mediated parental monitoring may not be associated with adolescent substance use.

Quantitative imaging of single mRNA splice variants in living cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Kyuwan; Cui, Yi; Lee, Luke P.; Irudayaraj, Joseph

2014-06-01

Alternative messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing is a fundamental process of gene regulation, and errors in RNA splicing are known to be associated with a variety of different diseases. However, there is currently a lack of quantitative technologies for monitoring mRNA splice variants in cells. Here, we show that a combination of plasmonic dimer probes and hyperspectral imaging can be used to detect and quantify mRNA splice variants in living cells. The probes are made from gold nanoparticles functionalized with oligonucleotides and can hybridize to specific mRNA sequences, forming nanoparticle dimers that exhibit distinct spectral shifts due to plasmonic coupling. With this approach, we show that the spatial and temporal distribution of three selected splice variants of the breast cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA1, can be monitored at single-copy resolution by measuring the hybridization dynamics of the nanoplasmonic dimers. Our study provides insights into RNA and its transport in living cells, which could improve our understanding of cellular protein complexes, pharmacogenomics, genetic diagnosis and gene therapies.

Adaptive Intervention Design in Mobile Health: Intervention Design and Development in the Cell Phone Intervention for You (CITY) Trial

PubMed Central

Lin, Pao-Hwa; Intille, Stephen; Bennett, Gary; Bosworth, Hayden B; Corsino, Leonor; Voils, Corrine; Grambow, Steven; Lazenka, Tony; Batch, Bryan C; Tyson, Crystal; Svetkey, Laura P

2015-01-01

Background/Aims The obesity epidemic has spread to young adults, and obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The prominence and increasing functionality of mobile phones may provide an opportunity to deliver longitudinal and scalable weight management interventions in young adults. The aim of this manuscript is to describe the design and development of the intervention tested in the Cell Phone Intervention for You (CITY) study and to highlight the importance of adaptive intervention design (AID) that made it possible. The CITY study was an NHLBI-sponsored, controlled 24-month randomized clinical trial (RCT) comparing two active interventions to a usual-care control group. Participants were 365 overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) young adults. Methods Both active interventions were designed based on social cognitive theory and incorporated techniques for behavioral self-management and motivational enhancement. Initial intervention development occurred during a 1-year formative phase utilizing focus groups and iterative, participatory design. During the intervention testing, AID, where an intervention is updated or extended throughout a trial while assuring the delivery of exactly the same intervention to each cohort, was employed. The AID strategy distributed technical work and allowed introduction of novel components in phases intended to help promote and sustain participant engagement. AID was made possible by exploiting the mobile phone's remote data capabilities so that adoption of particular application components could be continuously monitored and components subsequently added or updated remotely. Results The cellphone intervention was delivered almost entirely via cell phone and was always-present, proactive, and interactive – providing passive and active reminders, frequent opportunities for knowledge dissemination, and multiple tools for self-tracking and receiving tailored feedback. The intervention changed over two years to promote and sustain engagement. The personal coaching intervention, alternatively, was primarily personal coaching with trained coaches based on a proven intervention, enhanced with a mobile application, but where all interaction with the technology was participant-initiated. Conclusions The complexity and length of the technology-based RCT created challenges in engagement and technology adaptation, which were generally discovered using novel remote monitoring technology and addressed using the AID. Investigators should plan to develop tools and procedures that explicitly support continuous remote monitoring of interventions to support AID in long-term, technology-based studies, as well as developing the interventions themselves. PMID:26229119

The future of human embryonic stem cell research: addressing ethical conflict with responsible scientific research.

PubMed

Gilbert, David M

2004-05-01

Embryonic stem (ES) cells have almost unlimited regenerative capacity and can potentially generate any body tissue. Hence they hold great promise for the cure of degenerative human diseases. But their derivation and the potential for misuse have raised a number of ethical issues. These ethical issues threaten to paralyze pubic funding for ES cell research, leaving experimentation in the hands of the private sector and precluding the public's ability to monitor practices, research alternatives, and effectively address the very ethical issues that are cause for concern in the first place. With new technology being inevitable, and the potential for abuse high, government must stay involved if the public is to play a role in shaping the direction of research. In this essay, I will define levels of ethical conflict that can be delineated by the anticipated advances in technology. From the urgent need to derive new ES cell lines with existing technology, to the most far-reaching goal of deriving genetically identical tissues from an adult patients cells, technology-specific ethical dilemmas can be defined and addressed. This staged approach provides a solid ethical framework for moving forward with ES cell research. Moreover, by anticipating the moral conflicts to come, one can predict the types of scientific advances that could overcome these conflicts, and appropriately direct federal funding toward these goals to offset potentially less responsible research directives that will inevitably go forward via private or foreign funding.

HeartSaver: a mobile cardiac monitoring system for auto-detection of atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and atrio-ventricular block.

PubMed

Sankari, Ziad; Adeli, Hojjat

2011-04-01

A mobile medical device, dubbed HeartSaver, is developed for real-time monitoring of a patient's electrocardiogram (ECG) and automatic detection of several cardiac pathologies, including atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction and atrio-ventricular block. HeartSaver is based on adroit integration of four different modern technologies: electronics, wireless communication, computer, and information technologies in the service of medicine. The physical device consists of four modules: sensor and ECG processing unit, a microcontroller, a link between the microcontroller and the cell phone, and mobile software associated with the system. HeartSaver includes automated cardiac pathology detection algorithms. These algorithms are simple enough to be implemented on a low-cost, limited-power microcontroller but powerful enough to detect the relevant cardiac pathologies. When an abnormality is detected, the microcontroller sends a signal to a cell phone. This operation triggers an application software on the cell phone that sends a text message transmitting information about patient's physiological condition and location promptly to a physician or a guardian. HeartSaver can be used by millions of cardiac patients with the potential to transform the cardiac diagnosis, care, and treatment and save thousands of lives. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Advances in wearable technology for rehabilitation.

PubMed

Bonato, Paolo

2009-01-01

Assessing the impact of rehabilitation interventions on the real life of individuals is a key element of the decision-making process required to choose a rehabilitation strategy. In the past, therapists and physicians inferred the effectiveness of a given rehabilitation approach from observations performed in a clinical setting and self-reports by patients. Recent developments in wearable technology have provided tools to complement the information gathered by rehabilitation personnel via patient's direct observation and via interviews and questionnaires. A new generation of wearable sensors and systems has emerged that allows clinicians to gather measures in the home and community settings that capture patients' activity level and exercise compliance, the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions, and the ability of patients to perform efficiently specific motor tasks. Available unobtrusive sensors allow clinical personnel to monitor patients' movement and physiological data such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Cell phone technology and the widespread access to the Internet provide means to implement systems designed to remotely monitor patients' status and optimize interventions based on individual responses to different rehabilitation approaches. This chapter summarizes recent advances in the field of wearable technology and presents examples of application of this technology in rehabilitation.

Monitoring in Real Time the Formation and Removal of Biofilms from Clinical Related Pathogens Using an Impedance-Based Technology

PubMed Central

Gutiérrez, Diana; Hidalgo-Cantabrana, Claudio; Rodríguez, Ana; García, Pilar

2016-01-01

Bacteria found in diverse ecosystems grow in a community of aggregated cells that favors their survival and colonization. Different extracellular polymeric substances are used to entrap this multispecies community forming a biofilm, which can be associated to biotic and abiotic surfaces. This widespread and successful way of bacterial life, however, can lead to negative effects for human activity since many pathogen and spoiling bacteria form biofilms which are not easy to eradicate. Therefore, the search for novel anti-biofilm bio-active molecules is a very active research area for which simple, reliable, and fast screening methods are demanded. In this work we have successfully validated an impedance-based method, initially developed for the study of adherent eukaryotic cells, to monitor the formation of single-species biofilms of three model bacteria in real time. The xCelligence real time cell analyzer (RTCA) equipment uses specific microtiter E-plates coated with gold-microelectrodes that detect the attachment of adherent cells, thus modifying the impedance signal. In the current study, this technology allowed the distinction between biofilm-producers and non-producers of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, as well as the formation of Streptococcus mutans biofilms only when sucrose was present in the culture medium. Besides, different impedance values permitted discrimination among the biofilm-producing strains tested regardless of the nature of the polymeric biofilm matrix. Finally, we have continuously monitored the inhibition of staphylococcal biofilm formation by the bacteriophage phi-IPLA7 and the bacteriophage-encoded endolysin LysH5, as well as the removal of a preformed biofilm by this last antimicrobial treatment. Results observed with the impedance-based method showed high correlation with those obtained with standard approaches, such as crystal violet staining and bacteria enumeration, as well as with those obtained upon other abiotic surfaces (polystyrene and stainless steel). Therefore, this RTCA technology opens new opportunities in the biofilm research arena and its application could be further explored for other bacterial genera as well as for different bio-active molecules. PMID:27695058

Monitoring in Real Time the Formation and Removal of Biofilms from Clinical Related Pathogens Using an Impedance-Based Technology.

PubMed

Gutiérrez, Diana; Hidalgo-Cantabrana, Claudio; Rodríguez, Ana; García, Pilar; Ruas-Madiedo, Patricia

2016-01-01

Bacteria found in diverse ecosystems grow in a community of aggregated cells that favors their survival and colonization. Different extracellular polymeric substances are used to entrap this multispecies community forming a biofilm, which can be associated to biotic and abiotic surfaces. This widespread and successful way of bacterial life, however, can lead to negative effects for human activity since many pathogen and spoiling bacteria form biofilms which are not easy to eradicate. Therefore, the search for novel anti-biofilm bio-active molecules is a very active research area for which simple, reliable, and fast screening methods are demanded. In this work we have successfully validated an impedance-based method, initially developed for the study of adherent eukaryotic cells, to monitor the formation of single-species biofilms of three model bacteria in real time. The xCelligence real time cell analyzer (RTCA) equipment uses specific microtiter E-plates coated with gold-microelectrodes that detect the attachment of adherent cells, thus modifying the impedance signal. In the current study, this technology allowed the distinction between biofilm-producers and non-producers of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, as well as the formation of Streptococcus mutans biofilms only when sucrose was present in the culture medium. Besides, different impedance values permitted discrimination among the biofilm-producing strains tested regardless of the nature of the polymeric biofilm matrix. Finally, we have continuously monitored the inhibition of staphylococcal biofilm formation by the bacteriophage phi-IPLA7 and the bacteriophage-encoded endolysin LysH5, as well as the removal of a preformed biofilm by this last antimicrobial treatment. Results observed with the impedance-based method showed high correlation with those obtained with standard approaches, such as crystal violet staining and bacteria enumeration, as well as with those obtained upon other abiotic surfaces (polystyrene and stainless steel). Therefore, this RTCA technology opens new opportunities in the biofilm research arena and its application could be further explored for other bacterial genera as well as for different bio-active molecules.

Invincible, but not invisible: imaging approaches toward in vivo detection of cancer stem cells.

PubMed

Hart, Lori S; El-Deiry, Wafik S

2008-06-10

With evidence emerging in support of a cancer stem-cell model of carcinogenesis, it is of paramount importance to identify and image these elusive cells in their natural environment. The cancer stem-cell hypothesis has the potential to explain unresolved questions of tumorigenesis, tumor heterogeneity, chemotherapeutic and radiation resistance, and even the metastatic phenotype. Intravital imaging of cancer stem cells could be of great value for determining prognosis, as well as monitoring therapeutic efficacy and influencing therapeutic protocols. Cancer stem cells represent a rare population of cells, as low as 0.1% of cells within a human tumor, and the phenotype of isolated cancer stem cells is easily altered when placed under in vitro conditions. This represents a challenge in studying cancer stem cells without manipulation or extraction from their natural environment. Advanced imaging techniques allow for the in vivo observation of physiological events at cellular resolution. Cancer stem-cell studies must take advantage of such technology to promote a better understanding of the cancer stem-cell model in relation to tumor growth and metastasis, as well as to potentially improve on the principles by which cancers are treated. This review examines the opportunities for in vivo imaging of putative cancer stem cells with regard to currently accepted cancer stem-cell characteristics and advanced imaging technologies.

Optimization of EGFR high positive cell isolation procedure by design of experiments methodology.

PubMed

Levi, Ofer; Tal, Baruch; Hileli, Sagi; Shapira, Assaf; Benhar, Itai; Grabov, Pavel; Eliaz, Noam

2015-01-01

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood circulation may play a role in monitoring and even in early detection of metastasis patients. Due to the limited presence of CTCs in blood circulation, viable CTCs isolation technology must supply a very high recovery rate. Here, we implement design of experiments (DOE) methodology in order to optimize the Bio-Ferrography (BF) immunomagnetic isolation (IMI) procedure for the EGFR high positive CTCs application. All consequent DOE phases such as screening design, optimization experiments and validation experiments were used. A significant recovery rate of more than 95% was achieved while isolating 100 EGFR high positive CTCs from 1 mL human whole blood. The recovery achievement in this research positions BF technology as one of the most efficient IMI technologies, which is ready to be challenged with patients' blood samples. © 2015 International Clinical Cytometry Society.

Towards microfluidic-based depletion of stiff and fragile human red cells that accumulate during blood storage.

PubMed

Huang, Sha; Hou, Han Wei; Kanias, Tamir; Sertorio, Jonas Tadeu; Chen, Huichao; Sinchar, Derek; Gladwin, Mark T; Han, Jongyoon

2015-01-21

In this study, the effects of prolonged storage on several biophysical properties of red blood cells (RBCs) were investigated. Single cell deformability was used as an important criterion in determining subgroups of RBCs evolved during storage lesion. A deformability-based microfluidic cell sorting technology was applied, which demonstrates the ability to enrich and separate the less deformable subpopulations of stored blood. These less deformable RBC subpopulations were then associated with other important markers such as osmotic fragility indicating cell integrity as well as microparticle content. This work demonstrates a systematic methodology to both monitor and improve banked blood quality, thereby reducing risks related to blood transfusion.

Overview of a HLA-Ig based "Lego-like system" for T cell monitoring, modulation and expansion.

PubMed

Oelke, Mathias; Schneck, Jonathan P

2010-07-01

Recent advances in molecular medicine have shown that soluble MHC-multimers can be valuable tools for both analysis and modulation of antigen-specific immune responses in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we describe the use of dimeric human and mouse major histocompatibility complexes, MHC-Ig, as part of an artificial Antigen-Presenting Cell (aAPC). MHC-Ig-based aAPC and its derivatives represent an exciting new platform technology for measuring and manipulating immune responses in vitro as well as in vivo. This new technology has the potential to help overcome many of the obstacles associated with limitations in current antigen-specific approaches of immunotherapy for the treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and autoimmunity.

Designing the method for optical in vitro monitoring of the cell-mediated scaffold technology for bone regeneration based on laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Larionov, P. M.; Maslov, N. A.; Papaeva, E. O.; Tereshchenko, V. P.; Khlestkin, V. K.; Bogachev, S. S.; Proskurina, A. S.; Titov, A. T.; Filipenko, M. L.; Pavlov, V. V.; Kudrov, G. A.; Orishich, A. M.

2016-08-01

One of the main unsolved problems in traumatology and orthopedics is reconstruction of critical-sized segmental bone defects. We believe that implementation of noninvasive monitoring of the bioengineering stages for cell-mediated bone scaffold by laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) can become a positive aspect in mastering this technique. An electrospun scaffold model (parameters: 10 wt. % polycaprolactone; 5% wt type A gelatin; mean fiber diameter 877.1 ± 169.1, and contact angle 45.3°) seeded with BHK IR cell culture (182 ± 38 cells/mm2) was used to show the principal possibility of differentiating between the scaffold seeded and unseeded with cells. First of all, the fluorescence spectra of the cell-seeded scaffold contain a peak at 305 nm for the excitation range of 230-290 nm, which can be used to differentiate between the samples. An increase in fluorescence intensity of the cell-seeded scaffold in the range of 400- 580 nm upon excitation at 230-340 nm is also noticeable. The wavelength of 250 nm is characterized by high signal intensity and is most suitable for differentiation between the samples.

Electric impedance sensing in cell-substrates for rapid and selective multipotential differentiation capacity monitoring of human mesenchymal stem cells.

PubMed

Reitinger, Stephan; Wissenwasser, Jürgen; Kapferer, Werner; Heer, Rudolf; Lepperdinger, Günter

2012-04-15

Biosensor systems which enable impedance measurements on adherent cell layers under label-free conditions are considered powerful tools for monitoring specific biological characteristics. A radio frequency identification-based sensor platform was adopted to characterize cultivation and differentiation of human bone marrow-derived multipotent stem cells (bmMSC) over periods of up to several days and weeks. Electric cell-substrate impedance sensing was achieved through fabrication of sensitive elements onto glass substrates which comprised two comb-shaped interdigitated gold electrodes covering an area of 1.8 mm×2 mm. The sensing systems were placed into the wells of a 6-well tissue culture plate, stacked onto a reader unit and could thus be handled and operated under sterile conditions. Continuous measurements were carried out with a sinusoidal voltage of 35 mV at a frequency of 10 kHz. After seeding of human bmMSC, this sensor was able to trace significant impedance changes contingent upon cell spreading and adhesion. The re-usable system was further proven suitable for live examination of cell-substrate attachment or continuous cell monitoring up to several weeks. Induction of either osteogenic or adipogenic differentiation could be validated in bmMSC cultures within a few days, in contrast to state-of-the-art protocols, which require several weeks of cultivation time. In the context of medical cell production in a GMP-compliant process, the here presented interdigitated electric microsensor technology allows the documentation of MSC quality in a fast, efficient and reliable fashion. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

PrediCTC, liquid biopsy in precision oncology: a technology transfer experience in the Spanish health system.

PubMed

Alonso-Alconada, L; Barbazan, J; Candamio, S; Falco, J L; Anton, C; Martin-Saborido, C; Fuster, G; Sampedro, M; Grande, C; Lado, R; Sampietro-Colom, L; Crego, E; Figueiras, S; Leon-Mateos, L; Lopez-Lopez, R; Abal, M

2018-05-01

Management of metastatic disease in oncology includes monitoring of therapy response principally by imaging techniques like CT scan. In addition to some limitations, the irruption of liquid biopsy and its application in personalized medicine has encouraged the development of more efficient technologies for prognosis and follow-up of patients in advanced disease. PrediCTC constitutes a panel of genes for the assessment of circulating tumor cells (CTC) in metastatic colorectal cancer patients, with demonstrated improved efficiency compared to CT scan for the evaluation of early therapy response in a multicenter prospective study. In this work, we designed and developed a technology transfer strategy to define the market opportunity for an eventual implementation of PrediCTC in the clinical practice. This included the definition of the regulatory framework, the analysis of the regulatory roadmap needed for CE mark, a benchmarking study, the design of a product development strategy, a revision of intellectual property, a cost-effectiveness study and an expert panel consultation. The definition and analysis of an appropriate technology transfer strategy and the correct balance among regulatory, financial and technical determinants are critical for the transformation of a promising technology into a viable technology, and for the decision of implementing liquid biopsy in the monitoring of therapy response in advanced disease.

Electrolyser and fuel cells, key elements for energy and life support

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bockstahler, Klaus; Funke, Helmut; Lucas, Joachim

Both, Electrolyser and Fuel Cells are key elements for regenerative energy and life support systems. Electrolyser technology is originally intended for oxygen production in manned space habitats and in submarines, through splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen. Fuel cells serve for energy production through the reaction, triggered in the presence of an electrolyte, between a fuel and an oxidant. Now combining both technologies i.e. electrolyser and fuel cell makes it a Regenerative Fuel Cell System (RFCS). In charge mode, i.e. with energy supplied e.g. by solar cells, the electrolyser splits water into hydrogen and oxygen being stored in tanks. In discharge mode, when power is needed but no energy is available, the stored gases are converted in the fuel cell to generate electricity under the formation of water that is stored in tanks. Rerouting the water to the electrolyser makes it a closed-loop i.e. regenerative process. Different electrolyser and fuel cell technologies are being evolved. At Astrium emphasis is put on the development of an RFCS comprised of Fixed Alkaline Electrolyser (FAE) and Fuel Cell (AFC) as such technology offers a high electrical efficiency and thus reduced system weight, which is important in space applications. With increasing power demand and increasing discharge time an RFCS proves to be superior to batteries. Since the early technology development multiple design refinements were done at Astrium, funded by the European Space Agency ESA and the German National Agency DLR as well as based on company internal R and T funding. Today a complete RFCS energy system breadboard is established and the operational behavior of the system is being tested. In parallel the electrolyser itself is subject to design refinement and testing in terms of oxygen production in manned space habitats. In addition essential features and components for process monitoring and control are being developed. The present results and achievements and the dedicated experience gained from testing will be presented, complemented by an outlook on next development steps preparatory to the application of electrolyser and fuel cell technology in human and robotic exploration building blocks.

Liquid biopsy for brain tumors

PubMed Central

Shankar, Ganesh M.; Balaj, Leonora; Stott, Shannon L.; Nahed, Brian; Carter, Bob S.

2018-01-01

Introduction Minimally invasive methods will augment the clinical approach for establishing the diagnosis or monitoring treatment response of central nervous system tumors. Liquid biopsy by blood or cerebrospinal fluid sampling holds promise in this regard. Areas covered In this literature review, the authors highlight recent studies describing the analysis of circulating tumor cells, cell free nucleic acids, and extracellular vesicles as strategies to accomplish liquid biopsy in glioblastoma and metastatic tumors. The authors then discuss the continued efforts to improve signal detection, standardize the liquid biopsy handling and preparation, develop platforms for clinical application, and establish a role for liquid biopsies in personalized medicine. Expert commentary As the technologies used to analyze these biomarkers continue to evolve, we propose that there is a future potential to precisely diagnose and monitor treatment response with liquid biopsies. PMID:28875730

Fluorescence lifetime imaging and its applications in cellular microenvironment measurement and auxiliary diagnosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Teng; Levchenko, Svitlana M.; Pliss, Artem; Peng, Xiao; Yan, Wei; Prasad, Paras N.; Liu, Liwei; Qu, Junle

2018-02-01

We present our recent work on the applications of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy(FLIM), including the monitoring of macromolecule dynamic changes in the nucleolar compartments and the auxiliary diagnosis of H and E-stained sections. We demonstrated the capability of FLIM to measure protein concentration in the specific cellular compartments in live cells. We proposed to use FLIM to monitor changes in intracellular protein concentration caused by various factors e.g. cell cycle progression, drug treatment etc. In the future, FLIM technology is expected to be combined with super-resolution optical imaging. FLIM with molecular resolution will have the potential to serve as a powerful tool for discovering new phenomena and revealing new mechanisms in biomedical research, which will effectively promote the development of life science.

Liquid biopsy for brain tumors.

PubMed

Shankar, Ganesh M; Balaj, Leonora; Stott, Shannon L; Nahed, Brian; Carter, Bob S

2017-10-01

Minimally invasive methods will augment the clinical approach for establishing the diagnosis or monitoring treatment response of central nervous system tumors. Liquid biopsy by blood or cerebrospinal fluid sampling holds promise in this regard. Areas covered: In this literature review, the authors highlight recent studies describing the analysis of circulating tumor cells, cell free nucleic acids, and extracellular vesicles as strategies to accomplish liquid biopsy in glioblastoma and metastatic tumors. The authors then discuss the continued efforts to improve signal detection, standardize the liquid biopsy handling and preparation, develop platforms for clinical application, and establish a role for liquid biopsies in personalized medicine. Expert commentary: As the technologies used to analyze these biomarkers continue to evolve, we propose that there is a future potential to precisely diagnose and monitor treatment response with liquid biopsies.

Implementation of a new blood cooler insert and tracking technology with educational initiatives and its effect on reducing red blood cell wastage.

PubMed

Fadeyi, Emmanuel A; Emery, Wanda; Simmons, Julie H; Jones, Mary Rose; Pomper, Gregory J

2017-10-01

The objective was to report a successful implementation of a blood cooler insert and tracking technology with educational initiatives and its effect on reducing red blood cell (RBC) wastage. The blood bank database was used to quantify and categorize total RBC units issued in blood coolers from January 2010 to December 2015 with and without the new inserts throughout the hospital. Radiofrequency identification tags were used with special software to monitor blood cooler tracking. An educational policy on how to handle the coolers was initiated. Data were gathered from the software that provided a real-time location monitoring of the blood coolers with inserts throughout the institution. The implementation of the blood cooler with inserts and tracking device reduced mean yearly RBC wastage by fourfold from 0.64% to 0.17% between 2010 and 2015. The conserved RBCs corresponded to a total cost savings of $167,844 during the 3-year postimplementation period. The implementation of new blood cooler inserts, tracking system, and educational initiatives substantially reduced the mean annual total RBC wastage. The cost to implement this initiative may be small if there is an existing institutional infrastructure to monitor and track hospital equipment into which the blood bank intervention can be adapted when compared to the cost of blood wastage. © 2017 AABB.

[Research advances in water quality monitoring technology based on UV-Vis spectrum analysis].

PubMed

Wei, Kang-Lin; Wen, Zhi-yu; Wu, Xin; Zhang, Zhong-Wei; Zeng, Tian-Ling

2011-04-01

The application of spectral analysis to water quality monitoring is an important developing trend in the field of modern environment monitoring technology. The principle and characteristic of water quality monitoring technology based on UV-Vis spectrum analysis are briefly reviewed. And the research status and advances are introduced from two aspects, on-line monitoring and in-situ monitoring. Moreover, the existent key technical problems are put forward. Finally, the technology trends of multi-parameter water quality monitoring microsystem and microsystem networks based on microspectrometer are prospected, which has certain reference value for the research and development of environmental monitoring technology and modern scientific instrument in the authors' country.

Whole-cell bioluminescent bioreporter sensing of foodborne toxicants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ripp, Steve A.; Applegate, Bruce M.; Simpson, Michael L.; Sayler, Gary S.

2001-03-01

The presence of biologically derived toxins in foods is of utmost significance to food safety and human health concerns. Biologically active amines, referred to as biogenic amines, serve as a noteworthy example, having been implicated as the causative agent in numerous food poisoning episodes. Of the various biogenic amines encountered, histamine, putrescine, cadaverine, tyramine, tryptamine, beta-phenylethylamine, spermine, and spermidine are considered to be the most significant, and can be used as hygienic-quality indicators of food. Biogenic amines can be monitored using whole-cell bioluminescent bioreporters, which represent a family of genetically engineered microorganisms that generate visible light in response to specific chemical or physical agents in their environment. The light response occurs due to transcriptional activation of a genetically incorporated lux cassette, and can be measured using standard photomultiplier devices. We have successfully engineered a lux-based bioreporter capable of detecting and monitoring the biogenic amine beta-phenylethylamine. This research represents a biologically-based sensor technology that can be readily integrated into Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point programs to provide a rugged monitoring regime that can be uniformly applied for field-based and in-house laboratory quality control analyses. Since the bioreporter and biosensing elements are completely self-contained within the sensor design, this system provides ease of use, with operational capabilities realized by simply combining the food sample with the bioreporter and allowing the sensor to process the ensuing bioluminescent signal and communicate the results. The application of this technology to the critically important issue of food safety and hygienic quality represents a novel method for detecting, monitoring, and preventing biologically active toxins in food commodities.

Magnetic responsive cell based strategies for diagnostic and therapeutics.

PubMed

Gonçalves, Ana I; Miranda, Margarida S; Rodrigues, Márcia T; Reis, Rui Luis; Gomes, Manuela

2018-05-24

The potential of magnetically assisted strategies within the remit of cell-based therapies is increasing and creates new opportunities in biomedical platforms and in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine (TERM). Among the magnetic elements approached to build magnetically responsive strategies, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) represent tunable and precise tools whose properties can be modelled for detection, diagnosis, targeting and therapy purposes. The most investigated clinical role of SPIONs is as contrast imaging agents for tracking and monitoring cells and tissues. Nevertheless, magnetic detection also includes biomarker mapping, cell labelling and cell/drug targeting to monitor cell events and anticipate the disruption of homeostatic conditions and progression of disease. Additionally, isolation and screening techniques of cell subsets in heterogeneous populations or of proteins of interest have been explored in a magnetic sorting context. More recently, SPIONs-based technologies have been applied to stimulate cell differentiation and mechanotransduction processes and to transport genetic or drug cargo to study biological mechanisms and contribute for improved therapies. Magnetically based strategies significantly contribute for magnetic tissue engineering (magTE), in which magnetically responsive actuators built from magnetic labelled cells or magnetic functionalized systems can be remotely controlled and spatially manipulated upon the actuation of an external magnetic field for delivery or target of TE solutions. SPIONs functionalities combined with the magnetic responsiveness in multifactorial magnetically assisted platforms can revolutionize diagnosis and therapeutics providing new diagnosis and theranostic tools, encouraging regenerative medicine approaches and holding potential for more effective therapies. This review will address the contribution of SPIONs based technologies as multifunctional tools in boosting magnetically assisted cell based strategies to explore diagnostics and tracking solutions on the detection and analysis of pathologies and to generate improved treatments and therapies, envisioning precise and customized answers for the management of numerous diseases. . © 2018 IOP Publishing Ltd.

The Application of Whole Cell-Based Biosensors for Use in Environmental Analysis and in Medical Diagnostics

PubMed Central

Gui, Qingyuan; Lawson, Tom; Shan, Suyan; Yan, Lu; Liu, Yong

2017-01-01

Various whole cell-based biosensors have been reported in the literature for the last 20 years and these reports have shown great potential for their use in the areas of pollution detection in environmental and in biomedical diagnostics. Unlike other reviews of this growing field, this mini-review argues that: (1) the selection of reporter genes and their regulatory proteins are directly linked to the performance of celllular biosensors; (2) broad enhancements in microelectronics and information technologies have also led to improvements in the performance of these sensors; (3) their future potential is most apparent in their use in the areas of medical diagnostics and in environmental monitoring; and (4) currently the most promising work is focused on the better integration of cellular sensors with nano and micro scaled integrated chips. With better integration it may become practical to see these cells used as (5) real-time portable devices for diagnostics at the bedside and for remote environmental toxin detection and this in situ application will make the technology commonplace and thus as unremarkable as other ubiquitous technologies. PMID:28703749

Molecular neuroanatomy: a generation of progress.

PubMed

Pollock, Jonathan D; Wu, Da-Yu; Satterlee, John S

2014-02-01

The neuroscience research landscape has changed dramatically over the past decade. Specifically, an impressive array of new tools and technologies have been generated, including but not limited to: brain gene expression atlases, genetically encoded proteins to monitor and manipulate neuronal activity, and new methods for imaging and mapping circuits. However, despite these technological advances, several significant challenges must be overcome to enable a better understanding of brain function and to develop cell type-targeted therapeutics to treat brain disorders. This review provides an overview of some of the tools and technologies currently being used to advance the field of molecular neuroanatomy, and also discusses emerging technologies that may enable neuroscientists to address these crucial scientific challenges over the coming decade. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Literature review on monitoring technologies and their outcomes in independently living elderly people.

PubMed

Peetoom, Kirsten K B; Lexis, Monique A S; Joore, Manuela; Dirksen, Carmen D; De Witte, Luc P

2015-07-01

To obtain insight into what kind of monitoring technologies exist to monitor activity in-home, what the characteristics and aims of applying these technologies are, what kind of research has been conducted on their effects and what kind of outcomes are reported. A systematic document search was conducted within the scientific databases Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane, PsycINFO and Cinahl, complemented by Google Scholar. Documents were included in this review if they reported on monitoring technologies that detect activities of daily living (ADL) or significant events, e.g. falls, of elderly people in-home, with the aim of prolonging independent living. Five main types of monitoring technologies were identified: PIR motion sensors, body-worn sensors, pressure sensors, video monitoring and sound recognition. In addition, multicomponent technologies and smart home technologies were identified. Research into the use of monitoring technologies is widespread, but in its infancy, consisting mainly of small-scale studies and including few longitudinal studies. Monitoring technology is a promising field, with applications to the long-term care of elderly persons. However, monitoring technologies have to be brought to the next level, with longitudinal studies that evaluate their (cost-) effectiveness to demonstrate the potential to prolong independent living of elderly persons. [Box: see text].

Cold plasma treatment in wound care: efficacy and risk assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stoffels, Eva

2007-10-01

Cold atmospheric plasma is an ideal medium for non-destructive modification of vulnerable surfaces. One of the most promising medical applications of cold plasma treatment is wound healing. Potential advantages in wound healing have been demonstrated in vitro: the plasma does not necrotize the cells and does not affect the extracellular matrix [1], has clear bactericidal or bacteriostatic effects [2], and stimulates fibroblast cells towards faster attachment and proliferation [3]. However, safety issues, such as the potential cytotoxicity of the plasma must be clarified prior to clinical implementation. This work comprises the recent facts on sub-lethal plasma effects on mammalian cells, as well as studies on apoptosis induction and quantitative assessment of DNA damage. Fibroblast, smooth muscle and endothelial cells were treated using the standard cold plasma needle [1,2]; intra- and extracellular oxidant levels as well as the influence of the plasma on intracellular antioxidant balance were monitored using appropriate fluorescent markers [1]. We have studied long-term cellular damage was monitored using flow cytometry to determine the DNA profiles in treated cells. Dose-response curves were obtained: increased proliferation as well as apoptosis were visualized under different treatment conditions. The results from the in vitro studies are satisfying. [1] I.E. Kieft, ``Plasma needle: exploring biomedical applications of non-thermal plasmas'', PhD Thesis, Eindhoven University of Technology (2005). [2] R.E.J. Sladek, ``Plasma needle: non-thermal atmospheric plasmas in dentistry'' PhD Thesis, Eindhoven University of Technology (2006). [3] I.E. Kieft, D. Darios, A.J.M. Roks, E. Stoffels, IEEE Trans. Plasma Sci. 34(4), 2006, pp. 1331-1336.

Gas monitoring onboard ISS using FTIR spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gisi, Michael; Stettner, Armin; Seurig, Roland; Honne, Atle; Witt, Johannes; Rebeyre, Pierre

2017-06-01

In the confined, enclosed environment of a spacecraft, the air quality must be monitored continuously in order to safeguard the crew's health. For this reason, OHB builds the ANITA2 (Analysing Interferometer for Ambient Air) technology demonstrator for trace gas monitoring onboard the International Space Station (ISS). The measurement principle of ANITA2 is based on the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) technology with dedicated gas analysis software from the Norwegian partner SINTEF. This combination proved to provide high sensitivity, accuracy and precision for parallel measurements of 33 trace gases simultaneously onboard ISS by the precursor instrument ANITA1. The paper gives a technical overview about the opto-mechanical components of ANITA2, such as the interferometer, the reference Laser, the infrared source and the gas cell design and a quick overview about the gas analysis. ANITA2 is very well suited for measuring gas concentrations specifically but not limited to usage onboard spacecraft, as no consumables are required and measurements are performed autonomously. ANITA2 is a programme under the contract of the European Space Agency, and the air quality monitoring system is a stepping stone into the future, as a precursor system for manned exploration missions.

Commercial Smartphone-Based Devices and Smart Applications for Personalized Healthcare Monitoring and Management

PubMed Central

Vashist, Sandeep Kumar; Schneider, E. Marion; Luong, John H.T.

2014-01-01

Smartphone-based devices and applications (SBDAs) with cost effectiveness and remote sensing are the most promising and effective means of delivering mobile healthcare (mHealthcare). Several SBDAs have been commercialized for the personalized monitoring and/or management of basic physiological parameters, such as blood pressure, weight, body analysis, pulse rate, electrocardiograph, blood glucose, blood glucose saturation, sleeping and physical activity. With advances in Bluetooth technology, software, cloud computing and remote sensing, SBDAs provide real-time on-site analysis and telemedicine opportunities in remote areas. This scenario is of utmost importance for developing countries, where the number of smartphone users is about 70% of 6.8 billion cell phone subscribers worldwide with limited access to basic healthcare service. The technology platform facilitates patient-doctor communication and the patients to effectively manage and keep track of their medical conditions. Besides tremendous healthcare cost savings, SBDAs are very critical for the monitoring and effective management of emerging epidemics and food contamination outbreaks. The next decade will witness pioneering advances and increasing applications of SBDAs in this exponentially growing field of mHealthcare. This article provides a critical review of commercial SBDAs that are being widely used for personalized healthcare monitoring and management. PMID:26852680

Commercial Smartphone-Based Devices and Smart Applications for Personalized Healthcare Monitoring and Management.

PubMed

Vashist, Sandeep Kumar; Schneider, E Marion; Luong, John H T

2014-08-18

Smartphone-based devices and applications (SBDAs) with cost effectiveness and remote sensing are the most promising and effective means of delivering mobile healthcare (mHealthcare). Several SBDAs have been commercialized for the personalized monitoring and/or management of basic physiological parameters, such as blood pressure, weight, body analysis, pulse rate, electrocardiograph, blood glucose, blood glucose saturation, sleeping and physical activity. With advances in Bluetooth technology, software, cloud computing and remote sensing, SBDAs provide real-time on-site analysis and telemedicine opportunities in remote areas. This scenario is of utmost importance for developing countries, where the number of smartphone users is about 70% of 6.8 billion cell phone subscribers worldwide with limited access to basic healthcare service. The technology platform facilitates patient-doctor communication and the patients to effectively manage and keep track of their medical conditions. Besides tremendous healthcare cost savings, SBDAs are very critical for the monitoring and effective management of emerging epidemics and food contamination outbreaks. The next decade will witness pioneering advances and increasing applications of SBDAs in this exponentially growing field of mHealthcare. This article provides a critical review of commercial SBDAs that are being widely used for personalized healthcare monitoring and management.

Fluorescence resonance energy transfer sensors for quantitative monitoring of pentose and disaccharide accumulation in bacteria

PubMed Central

Kaper, Thijs; Lager, Ida; Looger, Loren L; Chermak, Diane; Frommer, Wolf B

2008-01-01

Background Engineering microorganisms to improve metabolite flux requires detailed knowledge of the concentrations and flux rates of metabolites and metabolic intermediates in vivo. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer sensors represent a promising technology for measuring metabolite levels and corresponding rate changes in live cells. These sensors have been applied successfully in mammalian and plant cells but potentially could also be used to monitor steady-state levels of metabolites in microorganisms using fluorimetric assays. Sensors for hexose and pentose carbohydrates could help in the development of fermentative microorganisms, for example, for biofuels applications. Arabinose is one of the carbohydrates to be monitored during biofuels production from lignocellulose, while maltose is an important degradation product of starch that is relevant for starch-derived biofuels production. Results An Escherichia coli expression vector compatible with phage λ recombination technology was constructed to facilitate sensor construction and was used to generate a novel fluorescence resonance energy transfer sensor for arabinose. In parallel, a strategy for improving the sensor signal was applied to construct an improved maltose sensor. Both sensors were expressed in the cytosol of E. coli and sugar accumulation was monitored using a simple fluorimetric assay of E. coli cultures in microtiter plates. In the case of both nanosensors, the addition of the respective ligand led to concentration-dependent fluorescence resonance energy transfer responses allowing quantitative analysis of the intracellular sugar levels at given extracellular supply levels as well as accumulation rates. Conclusion The nanosensor destination vector combined with the optimization strategy for sensor responses should help to accelerate the development of metabolite sensors. The new carbohydrate fluorescence resonance energy transfer sensors can be used for in vivo monitoring of sugar levels in prokaryotes, demonstrating the potential of such sensors as reporter tools in the development of metabolically engineered microbial strains or for real-time monitoring of intracellular metabolite during fermentation. PMID:18522753

Ubiquinone modified printed carbon electrodes for cell culture pH monitoring.

PubMed

McBeth, Craig; Dughaishi, Rajaa Al; Paterson, Andrew; Sharp, Duncan

2018-08-15

The measurement of pH is important throughout many biological systems, but there are limited available technologies to enable its periodical monitoring in the complex, small volume, media often used in cell culture experiments across a range of disciplines. Herein, pad printed electrodes are developed and characterised through modification with: a commercially available fullerene multiwall carbon nanotube composite applied in Nafion, casting of hydrophobic ubiquinone as a pH probe to provide the electrochemical signal, and coated in Polyethylene glycol to reduce fouling and potentially enhance biocompatibility, which together are proven to enable the determination of pH in cell culture media containing serum. The ubiquinone oxidation peak position (E pa ) provided an indirect marker of pH across the applicable range of pH 6-9 (R 2 = 0.9985, n = 15) in complete DMEM. The electrochemical behaviour of these sensors was also proven to be robust; retaining their ability to measure pH in cell culture media supplemented with serum up to 20% (v/v) [encompassing the range commonly employed in cell culture], cycled > 100 times in 10% serum containing media and maintain > 60% functionality after 5 day incubation in a 10% serum containing medium. Overall, this proof of concept research highlights the potential applicability of this, or similar, electrochemical approaches to enable to detection or monitoring of pH in complex cell culture media. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Live Cell in Vitro and in Vivo Imaging Applications: Accelerating Drug Discovery

PubMed Central

Isherwood, Beverley; Timpson, Paul; McGhee, Ewan J; Anderson, Kurt I; Canel, Marta; Serrels, Alan; Brunton, Valerie G; Carragher, Neil O

2011-01-01

Dynamic regulation of specific molecular processes and cellular phenotypes in live cell systems reveal unique insights into cell fate and drug pharmacology that are not gained from traditional fixed endpoint assays. Recent advances in microscopic imaging platform technology combined with the development of novel optical biosensors and sophisticated image analysis solutions have increased the scope of live cell imaging applications in drug discovery. We highlight recent literature examples where live cell imaging has uncovered novel insight into biological mechanism or drug mode-of-action. We survey distinct types of optical biosensors and associated analytical methods for monitoring molecular dynamics, in vitro and in vivo. We describe the recent expansion of live cell imaging into automated target validation and drug screening activities through the development of dedicated brightfield and fluorescence kinetic imaging platforms. We provide specific examples of how temporal profiling of phenotypic response signatures using such kinetic imaging platforms can increase the value of in vitro high-content screening. Finally, we offer a prospective view of how further application and development of live cell imaging technology and reagents can accelerate preclinical lead optimization cycles and enhance the in vitro to in vivo translation of drug candidates. PMID:24310493

Ultrasound Imaging of DNA-Damage Effects in Live Cultured Cells and in Brain Tissue.

PubMed

Tadayyon, Hadi; Gangeh, Mehrdad J; Vlad, Roxana; Kolios, Michael C; Czarnota, Gregory J

2017-01-01

High-frequency ultrasound (>20 MHz) spectroscopy can be used to detect noninvasively DNA damage in cell samples in vitro, and in live tissue both ex vivo and in vivo. This chapter focuses on the former two aspects. Experimental evidence suggests that morphological changes that occur in cells undergoing apoptosis result in changes in frequency-dependent ultrasound backscatter. With advances in research, ultrasound spectroscopy is advancing the boundaries of fast, label-free, noninvasive DNA damage detection technology with potential use in personalized medicine and early therapy response monitoring. Depending on the desired resolution, parametric ultrasound images can be computed and displayed within minutes to hours after ultrasound examination for cell death.

Monitoring of human populations for early markers of cadmium toxicity: A review

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

Fowler, Bruce A.

2009-08-01

Exposure of human populations to cadmium (Cd) from air, food and water may produce effects in organs such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, cardiovascular, immune and reproductive systems. Since Cd has been identified as a human carcinogen, biomarkers for early detection of susceptibility to cancer are of an importance to public health. The ability to document Cd exposure and uptake of this element through biological monitoring is a first step towards understanding its health effects. Interpretation and application of biological monitoring data for predicting human health outcomes require correlation with biological measures of organ system responses to the documented exposure.more » Essential to this understanding is the detection and linkage of early biological responses toxic effects in target cell populations. Fortunately, advances in cell biology have resulted in the development of pre-clinical biological markers (biomarkers) that demonstrate measurable and characteristic molecular changes in organ systems following chemical exposures that occur prior to the onset of overt clinical disease or development of cancer. Technical advances have rendered a number of these biomarkers practical for monitoring Cd-exposed human populations. Biomarkers will be increasingly important in relation to monitoring effects from the exposure to new Cd-based high technology materials. For example, cadmium-selenium (CdSe), nano-materials made from combinations of these elements have greatly altered cellular uptake characteristics due to particle size. These differences may greatly alter effects at the target cell level and hence risks for organ toxicities from such exposures. The value of validated biomarkers for early detection of systemic Cd-induced effects in humans cannot be underestimated due to the rapid expansion of nano-material technologies. This review will attempt to briefly summarize the applications, to date, of biomarker endpoints for assessing target organ system effects in humans and experimental systems from Cd exposure. Further, it will attempt to provide a prospective look at the possible future of biomarkers. The emphasis will be on the detection of early toxic effects from exposure to Cd in new products such as nano-materials and identification of populations at special risk for Cd toxicity.« less

Monitoring of human populations for early markers of cadmium toxicity: a review.

PubMed

Fowler, Bruce A

2009-08-01

Exposure of human populations to cadmium (Cd) from air, food and water may produce effects in organs such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, cardiovascular, immune and reproductive systems. Since Cd has been identified as a human carcinogen, biomarkers for early detection of susceptibility to cancer are of an importance to public health. The ability to document Cd exposure and uptake of this element through biological monitoring is a first step towards understanding its health effects. Interpretation and application of biological monitoring data for predicting human health outcomes require correlation with biological measures of organ system responses to the documented exposure. Essential to this understanding is the detection and linkage of early biological responses toxic effects in target cell populations. Fortunately, advances in cell biology have resulted in the development of pre-clinical biological markers (biomarkers) that demonstrate measurable and characteristic molecular changes in organ systems following chemical exposures that occur prior to the onset of overt clinical disease or development of cancer. Technical advances have rendered a number of these biomarkers practical for monitoring Cd-exposed human populations. Biomarkers will be increasingly important in relation to monitoring effects from the exposure to new Cd-based high technology materials. For example, cadmium-selenium (CdSe), nano-materials made from combinations of these elements have greatly altered cellular uptake characteristics due to particle size. These differences may greatly alter effects at the target cell level and hence risks for organ toxicities from such exposures. The value of validated biomarkers for early detection of systemic Cd-induced effects in humans cannot be underestimated due to the rapid expansion of nano-material technologies. This review will attempt to briefly summarize the applications, to date, of biomarker endpoints for assessing target organ system effects in humans and experimental systems from Cd exposure. Further, it will attempt to provide a prospective look at the possible future of biomarkers. The emphasis will be on the detection of early toxic effects from exposure to Cd in new products such as nano-materials and identification of populations at special risk for Cd toxicity.

Applications of Raman micro-spectroscopy to stem cell technology: label-free molecular discrimination and monitoring cell differentiation.

PubMed

Ghita, Adrian; Pascut, Flavius C; Sottile, Virginie; Denning, Chris; Notingher, Ioan

Stem cell therapy is widely acknowledged as a key medical technology of the 21st century which may provide treatments for many currently incurable diseases. These cells have an enormous potential for cell replacement therapies to cure diseases such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders, as well as in tissue engineering as a reliable cell source for providing grafts to replace and repair diseased tissues. Nevertheless, the progress in this field has been difficult in part because of lack of techniques that can measure non-invasively the molecular properties of cells. Such repeated measurements can be used to evaluate the culture conditions during differentiation, cell quality and phenotype heterogeneity of stem cell progeny. Raman spectroscopy is an optical technique based on inelastic scattering of laser photons by molecular vibrations of cellular molecules and can be used to provide chemical fingerprints of cells or organelles without fixation, lysis or use of labels and other contrast enhancing chemicals. Because differentiated cells are specialized to perform specific functions, these cells produce specific biochemicals that can be detected by Raman micro-spectroscopy. This mini-review paper describes applications of Raman micro-scpectroscopy to measure moleculare properties of stem cells during differentiation in-vitro. The paper focuses on time- and spatially-resolved Raman spectral measurements that allow repeated investigation of live stem cells in-vitro.

Beyond DNA Sequencing in Space: Current and Future Omics Capabilities of the Biomolecule Sequencer Payload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallace, Sarah

2017-01-01

Why do we need a DNA sequencer to support the human exploration of space? (A) Operational environmental monitoring; (1) Identification of contaminating microbes, (2) Infectious disease diagnosis, (3) Reduce down mass (sample return for environmental monitoring, crew health, etc.). (B) Research; (1) Human, (2) Animal, (3) Microbes/Cell lines, (4) Plant. (C) Med Ops; (1) Response to countermeasures, (2) Radiation, (3) Real-time analysis can influence medical intervention. (C) Support astrobiology science investigations; (1) Technology superiorly suited to in situ nucleic acid-based life detection, (2) Functional testing for integration into robotics for extraplanetary exploration mission.

Advanced Fiber-optic Monitoring System for Space-flight Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hull, M. S.; VanTassell, R. L.; Pennington, C. D.; Roman, M.

2005-01-01

Researchers at Luna Innovations Inc. and the National Aeronautic and Space Administration s Marshall Space Flight Center (NASA MSFC) have developed an integrated fiber-optic sensor system for real-time monitoring of chemical contaminants and whole-cell bacterial pathogens in water. The system integrates interferometric and evanescent-wave optical fiber-based sensing methodologies with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and long-period grating (LPG) technology to provide versatile measurement capability for both micro- and nano-scale analytes. Sensors can be multiplexed in an array format and embedded in a totally self-contained laboratory card for use with an automated microfluidics platform.

On-orbit figure sensing and figure correction control for 0.5 arc-second adjustable X-ray optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reid, Paul

This investigation seeks to develop the technology to directly monitor on-orbit changes to imaging performance of adjustable X-ray optics so as to be able to efficiently correct adverse changes at a level consistent with 0.5 arc-second X-ray telescope imaging. Adjustable X-ray optics employ thin film piezoelectric material deposited on the back of a thin glass Wolter mirror segment to introduce localized stresses in the mirror. These stresses are used in a deterministic way to improve mirror figure from 10 arc-sec, half power diameter (HPD), to 0.5 arc-sec, HPD, without the need for a heavy reaction structure. This is a realizable technology for potential future X-ray telescope missions with 0.5 arc-second resolution and several square meters effective area, such as SMART-X. We are pursuing such mirror development under an existing APRA grant. Here we propose a new investigation to accomplish the monitoring and control of the mirrors by monitoring the health of the piezoelectric actuators of the adjustable optics to a level consistent with 0.5 arcsec imaging. Such measurements are beyond the capability of conventional, thin metal film strain gauges using DC measurements. Instead, we propose to develop the technology to deposit different types of strain gauges (metal film, semiconductor) directly on the piezoelectric cells; to investigate the use of additional thin layers of piezoelectric materials such as lead zirconate titanate or zinc oxide as strain and temperature gauges; and to use AC measurement of strain gauges for precise measurement of piezoelectric adjuster performance. The intent is to use this information to correct changes in mirror shape by adjusting the voltages on the piezoelectric adjustors. Adjustable X-ray optics are designed to meet the challenge of large collecting area and high angular resolution. The mirrors are called adjustable rather than active as mirror figure error is corrected (adjusted) once or infrequently, as opposed to being changed constantly at several cycles/sec (active). In our approach, the mirror figure is corrected based on ground measurements, accounting for figure errors due to mirror manufacturing, mounting induced deformations, modeled gravity release, and modeled on-orbit thermal effects. The piezoelectric strain monitoring we seek to develop in this program extends adjustable mirror technology development, as it enables efficient adjustment and correction of mirror figure on-orbit, as required. This unprecedented level of system robustness will make telescopes less expensive to build because requirements for the non-optical systems can be looser, and it will also make the system more resistant to degradation, promoting mission success. The largest drivers for changes from ground calibration to on-orbit performance are piezoelectric material aging and an unexpected thermal environment (i.e., larger gradients than modeled or other thermal control system problem). Developing the capability to accurately monitor the health of each piezoelectric cell and the local mirror surface temperature will enable the real time sensing of any of these potential issues, help determine the cause, and enable corrections via updating models of on-orbit conditions and re-optimizing the required piezoelectric cell voltages for mirror figure correction. Our 3 year research program includes the development of the strain monitoring technology, its deposition on the adjustable optics, modeling and performance simulation, accelerated lifetime testing, and optical and electrical metrology of sample adjustable optics that incorporate monitoring sensors. Development of the capability to remotely monitor piezo performance and temperature to necessary precision will vastly improve reliability of the SMART-X mission concept, or the sub-arc-second X-ray Surveyor mission described in the 2013 NASA Astrophysics Roadmap, Enduring Quests Daring Visions.

A heating-superfusion platform technology for the investigation of protein function in single cells.

PubMed

Xu, Shijun; Ainla, Alar; Jardemark, Kent; Jesorka, Aldo; Jeffries, Gavin D M

2015-01-06

Here, we report on a novel approach for the study of single-cell intracellular enzyme activity at various temperatures, utilizing a localized laser heating probe in combination with a freely positionable microfluidic perfusion device. Through directed exposure of individual cells to the pore-forming agent α-hemolysin, we have controlled the membrane permeability, enabling targeted delivery of the substrate. Mildly permeabilized cells were exposed to fluorogenic substrates to monitor the activity of intracellular enzymes, while adjusting the local temperature surrounding the target cells, using an infrared laser heating system. We generated quantitative estimates for the intracellular alkaline phosphatase activity at five different temperatures in different cell lines, constructing temperature-response curves of enzymatic activity at the single-cell level. Enzymatic activity was determined rapidly after cell permeation, generating five-point temperature-response curves within just 200 s.

Demonstration of the SeptiStrand benthic microbial fuel cell powering a magnetometer for ship detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arias-Thode, Y. Meriah; Hsu, Lewis; Anderson, Greg; Babauta, Jerome; Fransham, Roy; Obraztsova, Anna; Tukeman, Gabriel; Chadwick, D. Bart

2017-07-01

The Navy has a need for monitoring conditions and gathering information in marine environments. Sensors can monitor and report environmental parameters and potential activities such as animal movements, ships, or personnel. However, there has to be a means to power these sensors. One promising enabling technology that has been shown to provide long-term power production in underwater environments is the benthic microbial fuel cells (BMFC). BMFCs are devices that generate energy by coupling bioanodes and biocathodes through an external energy harvester. Recent studies have demonstrated success for usage of BMFCs in powering small instruments and other devices on the seafloor over limited periods of time. In this effort, a seven-stranded BMFC linear array of 30 m was designed to power a seafloor magnetometer to detect passing ship movements through Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The BMFC system was connected to a flyback energy harvesting circuit that charged the battery powering the magnetometer. The deployment was demonstrated the BMFC supplied power to the battery for approximately 38 days. This is the first large-scale demonstration system for usage of the SeptiStrand BMFC technology to power a relevant sensor.

Field Test Report: NETL Portable Raman Gas Composition Monitor - Initial Industrial tests at NETL and General Electric (GE)

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

Michael, Buric; Jessica, Mullen; Steven, Woodruff

2012-02-24

NETL has developed new technology which enables the use of Raman spectroscopy in the real-time measurement of gas mixtures. This technology uses a hollow reflective metal-lined capillary waveguide as a gas sampling cell which contains the sample gas, and efficiently collects optical Raman scattering from the gas sample, for measurement with a miniature spectrometer. The result is an optical Raman “fingerprint” for each gas which is tens or hundreds of times larger than that which can be collected with conventional free-space optics. In this manner, the new technology exhibits a combination of measurement speed and accuracy which is unprecedented formore » spontaneous Raman measurements of gases. This makes the system especially well-suited to gas turbine engine control based on a-priori measurement of incoming fuel composition. The system has been developed to produce a measurement of all of the common components of natural gas, including the lesser nitrogen, oxygen, carbon-dioxide, and carbon monoxide diluents to better than 1% concentration accuracy each second. The objective of this task under CRADA 10-N100 was to evaluate the capability of a laser Raman capillary gas sensor for combustion fuels. A portable version of the Raman gas sensor, constructed at NETL, was used for field-trials conducted in a cooperative research effort at a GE facility. Testing under the CRADA was performed in 5 parts. Parts 1-4 were successful in testing of the Raman Gas Composition Monitor with bottled calibration gases, and in continuous monitoring of several gas streams at low pressure, in comparison with an online mass spectrometer. In part 5, the Raman Gas Composition Monitor was moved outdoors for testing with high pressure gas supplies. Some difficulties were encountered during industrial testing including the condensation of heavy hydrocarbons inside the sample cell (in part 5), communication with the GE data collection system, as well as some drift in the optical noise background. The difficulties with liquid contaminants will be overcome through the use of prodigious sample-cell heating and additional line filtration including liquid ingress-protection. The communication problem was resolved through site-specific troubleshooting of the MODBUS data tags.« less

ATP monitoring technology for microbial growth control in potable water systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whalen, Patrick A.; Whalen, Philip J.; Cairns, James E.

2006-05-01

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is the primary energy transfer molecule present in all living biological cells on Earth. ATP cannot be produced or maintained by anything but a living organism, and as such, its measurement is a direct indication of biological activity. The main advantage of ATP as a biological indicator is the speed of the analysis - from collecting the sample to obtaining the result, only minutes are required. The technology to measure ATP is already widely utilized to verify disinfection efficacy in the food industry and is also commonly applied in industrial water processes such as cooling water systems to monitor microbial growth and biocide applications. Research has indicated that ATP measurement technology can also play a key role in such important industries as potable water distribution and biological wastewater treatment. As will be detailed in this paper, LuminUltra Technologies has developed and applied ATP measurement technologies designed for any water type, and as such can provide a method to rapidly and accurately determine the level of biological activity in drinking water supplies. Because of its speed and specificity to biological activity, ATP measurement can play a key role in defending against failing drinking water quality, including those encountered during routine operation and also bioterrorism.

Automated Long-Term Monitoring of Parallel Microfluidic Operations Applying a Machine Vision-Assisted Positioning Method

PubMed Central

Yip, Hon Ming; Li, John C. S.; Cui, Xin; Gao, Qiannan; Leung, Chi Chiu

2014-01-01

As microfluidics has been applied extensively in many cell and biochemical applications, monitoring the related processes is an important requirement. In this work, we design and fabricate a high-throughput microfluidic device which contains 32 microchambers to perform automated parallel microfluidic operations and monitoring on an automated stage of a microscope. Images are captured at multiple spots on the device during the operations for monitoring samples in microchambers in parallel; yet the device positions may vary at different time points throughout operations as the device moves back and forth on a motorized microscopic stage. Here, we report an image-based positioning strategy to realign the chamber position before every recording of microscopic image. We fabricate alignment marks at defined locations next to the chambers in the microfluidic device as reference positions. We also develop image processing algorithms to recognize the chamber positions in real-time, followed by realigning the chambers to their preset positions in the captured images. We perform experiments to validate and characterize the device functionality and the automated realignment operation. Together, this microfluidic realignment strategy can be a platform technology to achieve precise positioning of multiple chambers for general microfluidic applications requiring long-term parallel monitoring of cell and biochemical activities. PMID:25133248

Analysis of circulating CD14+/CD16+ monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) in the peripheral blood of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Grimm, Martin; Feyen, Oliver; Coy, Johannes F; Hofmann, Heiko; Teriete, Peter; Reinert, Siegmar

2016-03-01

Monocytes/macrophages are regarded as the first line of defense in tumors. Therefore, analyzing monocyte subtypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) may be of value in disease monitoring and to explore immunotherapeutic strategies for cancer patients. Circulating peripheral blood CD14+/CD16+ monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) were evaluated in OSCC patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (n = 44) compared with controls (n = 85). Moreover, epitope detection in monocytes (EDIM) technology was used to detect biomarkers Apo10 and transketolase-like-1 in CD14+/CD16+ MDMs. Compared with controls, no significant (P = .3646) difference (control group 9.8%, OSCC group 8.8%) in CD14+/CD16+ MDM were noted in OSCC. However, EDIM-Apo10 and EDIM-TKTL1 scores detected in the CD14+/CD16+ MDMs were increased in OSCC compared with controls (P < .0001). Analyzing CD14+/CD16+ MDMs represents a stable cell population for detecting biomarkers in cancer disease monitoring. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Illuminating Cell Biology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

NASA's Ames Research Center awarded Ciencia, Inc., a Small Business Innovation Research contract to develop the Cell Fluorescence Analysis System (CFAS) to address the size, mass, and power constraints of using fluorescence spectroscopy in the International Space Station's Life Science Research Facility. The system will play an important role in studying biological specimen's long-term adaptation to microgravity. Commercial applications for the technology include diverse markets such as food safety, in situ environmental monitoring, online process analysis, genomics and DNA chips, and non-invasive diagnostics. Ciencia has already sold the system to the private sector for biosensor applications.

Improvement and scale-up of the NASA Redox storage system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, M. A.; Thaller, L. H.

1980-01-01

A preprototype full-function 1.0 kW Redox system (2 kW peak) with 11 kW storage capacity has been built and integrated with the NASA/DOE photovoltaic test facility. The system includes four substacks of 39 cells each (1/3 sq ft active area) which are connected hydraulically in parallel and electrically in series. An open circuit voltage cell and a set of rebalance cells are used to continuously monitor the system state of charge and automatically maintain the anode and cathode reactants electrochemically in balance. Technological advances in membrane and electrodes and results of multicell stack tests are reviewed.

Fluorescent sensors reporting the activity of ammonium transceptors in live cells

DOE PAGES

De Michele, Roberto; Ast, Cindy; Loqué, Dominique; ...

2013-07-02

Ammonium serves as key nitrogen source and metabolic intermediate, yet excess causes toxicity. Ammonium uptake is mediated by ammonium transporters, whose regulation is poorly understood. While transport can easily be characterized in heterologous systems, measuring transporter activity in vivo remains challenging. Here we developed a simple assay for monitoring activity in vivo by inserting circularly-permutated GFP into conformation-sensitive positions of two plant and one yeast ammonium transceptors (‘AmTrac’ and ‘MepTrac’). Addition of ammonium to yeast cells expressing the sensors triggered concentration-dependent fluorescence intensity (FI) changes that strictly correlated with the activity of the transporter. Fluorescence-based activity sensors present a novelmore » technology for monitoring the interaction of the transporters with their substrates, the activity of transporters and their regulation in vivo, which is particularly valuable in the context of analytes for which no radiotracers exist, as well as for cell-specific and subcellular transport processes that are otherwise difficult to track.« less

Liquid crystalline fiber optic colorimeter for hydrostatic pressure measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolinski, Tomasz R.; Bajdecki, Waldemar K.; Domanski, Andrzej W.; Karpierz, Miroslaw A.; Konopka, Witold; Nasilowski, T.; Sierakowski, Marek W.; Swillo, Marcin; Dabrowski, Roman S.; Nowinowski-Kruszelnicki, Edward; Wasowski, Janusz

2001-08-01

This paper presents results of tests performed on a fiber optic system of liquid crystalline transducer for hydrostatic pressure monitoring based on properties of colorimetry. The system employs pressure-induced deformations occurring in liquid crystalline (LC) cells configured in a homogeneous Frederiks geometry. The sensor is compared of a round LC cell placed inside a specially designed pressure chamber. As a light source we used a typical diode operating at red wavelength and modulated using standard techniques. The pressure transducer was connected to a computer with a specially designed interface built on the bas of advanced ADAM modules. Results indicate that the system offers high response to pressure with reduced temperature sensitivity and, depending on the LC cell used, can be adjusted for monitoring of low hydrostatic pressures up to 6 MPa. These studies have demonstrated the feasibility of fiber optic liquid crystal colorimeter for hydrostatic pressure sensing specially dedicated to pipe- lines, mining instrumentation, and process-control technologies.

Upcoming Methods and Specifications of Continuous Intraocular Pressure Monitoring Systems for Glaucoma

PubMed Central

Molaei, Amir; Karamzadeh, Vahid; Safi, Sare; Esfandiari, Hamed; Dargahi, Javad; Khosravi, Mohammad Azam

2018-01-01

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and vision loss in the world. Although intraocular pressure (IOP) is no longer considered the only risk factor for glaucoma, it is still the most important one. In most cases, high IOP is secondary to trabecular meshwork dysfunction. High IOP leads to compaction of the lamina cribrosa and subsequent damage to retinal ganglion cell axons. Damage to the optic nerve head is evident on funduscopy as posterior bowing of the lamina cribrosa and increased cupping. Currently, the only documented method to slow or halt the progression of this disease is to decrease the IOP; hence, accurate IOP measurement is crucial not only for diagnosis, but also for the management. Due to the dynamic nature and fluctuation of the IOP, a single clinical measurement is not a reliable indicator of diurnal IOP; it requires 24-hour monitoring methods. Technological advances in microelectromechanical systems and microfluidics provide a promising solution for the effective measurement of IOP. This paper provides a broad overview of the upcoming technologies to be used for continuous IOP monitoring. PMID:29403593

Mammalian cell culture monitoring using in situ spectroscopy: Is your method really optimised?

PubMed

André, Silvère; Lagresle, Sylvain; Hannas, Zahia; Calvosa, Éric; Duponchel, Ludovic

2017-03-01

In recent years, as a result of the process analytical technology initiative of the US Food and Drug Administration, many different works have been carried out on direct and in situ monitoring of critical parameters for mammalian cell cultures by Raman spectroscopy and multivariate regression techniques. However, despite interesting results, it cannot be said that the proposed monitoring strategies, which will reduce errors of the regression models and thus confidence limits of the predictions, are really optimized. Hence, the aim of this article is to optimize some critical steps of spectroscopic acquisition and data treatment in order to reach a higher level of accuracy and robustness of bioprocess monitoring. In this way, we propose first an original strategy to assess the most suited Raman acquisition time for the processes involved. In a second part, we demonstrate the importance of the interbatch variability on the accuracy of the predictive models with a particular focus on the optical probes adjustment. Finally, we propose a methodology for the optimization of the spectral variables selection in order to decrease prediction errors of multivariate regressions. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 33:308-316, 2017. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Charge Carrier Conduction Mechanism in PbS Quantum Dot Solar Cells: Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Study.

PubMed

Wang, Haowei; Wang, Yishan; He, Bo; Li, Weile; Sulaman, Muhammad; Xu, Junfeng; Yang, Shengyi; Tang, Yi; Zou, Bingsuo

2016-07-20

With its properties of bandgap tunability, low cost, and substrate compatibility, colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) are becoming promising materials for optoelectronic applications. Additionally, solution-processed organic, inorganic, and hybrid ligand-exchange technologies have been widely used in PbS CQDs solar cells, and currently the maximum certified power conversion efficiency of 9.9% has been reported by passivation treatment of molecular iodine. Presently, there are still some challenges, and the basic physical mechanism of charge carriers in CQDs-based solar cells is not clear. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is a monitoring technology for current by changing the frequency of applied alternating current voltage, and it provides an insight into its electrical properties that cannot be measured by direct current testing facilities. In this work, we used EIS to analyze the recombination resistance, carrier lifetime, capacitance, and conductivity of two typical PbS CQD solar cells Au/PbS-TBAl/ZnO/ITO and Au/PbS-EDT/PbS-TBAl/ZnO/ITO, in this way, to better understand the charge carriers conduction mechanism behind in PbS CQD solar cells, and it provides a guide to design high-performance quantum-dots solar cells.

Smart homes and home health monitoring technologies for older adults: A systematic review.

PubMed

Liu, Lili; Stroulia, Eleni; Nikolaidis, Ioanis; Miguel-Cruz, Antonio; Rios Rincon, Adriana

2016-07-01

Around the world, populations are aging and there is a growing concern about ways that older adults can maintain their health and well-being while living in their homes. The aim of this paper was to conduct a systematic literature review to determine: (1) the levels of technology readiness among older adults and, (2) evidence for smart homes and home-based health-monitoring technologies that support aging in place for older adults who have complex needs. We identified and analyzed 48 of 1863 relevant papers. Our analyses found that: (1) technology-readiness level for smart homes and home health monitoring technologies is low; (2) the highest level of evidence is 1b (i.e., one randomized controlled trial with a PEDro score ≥6); smart homes and home health monitoring technologies are used to monitor activities of daily living, cognitive decline and mental health, and heart conditions in older adults with complex needs; (3) there is no evidence that smart homes and home health monitoring technologies help address disability prediction and health-related quality of life, or fall prevention; and (4) there is conflicting evidence that smart homes and home health monitoring technologies help address chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The level of technology readiness for smart homes and home health monitoring technologies is still low. The highest level of evidence found was in a study that supported home health technologies for use in monitoring activities of daily living, cognitive decline, mental health, and heart conditions in older adults with complex needs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Monitoring dynamic interactions of tumor cells with tissue and immune cells in a lab-on-a-chip.

PubMed

Charwat, Verena; Rothbauer, Mario; Tedde, Sandro F; Hayden, Oliver; Bosch, Jacobus J; Muellner, Paul; Hainberger, Rainer; Ertl, Peter

2013-12-03

A complementary cell analysis method has been developed to assess the dynamic interactions of tumor cells with resident tissue and immune cells using optical light scattering and impedance sensing to shed light on tumor cell behavior. The combination of electroanalytical and optical biosensing technologies integrated in a lab-on-a-chip allows for continuous, label-free, and noninvasive probing of dynamic cell-to-cell interactions between adherent and nonadherent cocultures, thus providing real-time insights into tumor cell responses under physiologically relevant conditions. While the study of adherent cocultures is important for the understanding and suppression of metastatic invasion, the analysis of tumor cell interactions with nonadherent immune cells plays a vital role in cancer immunotherapy research. For the first time, the direct cell-to-cell interactions of tumor cells with bead-activated primary T cells were continuously assessed using an effector cell to target a cell ratio of 10:1.

Mid-IR spectroscopic instrumentation for point-of-care diagnosis using a hollow silica waveguide gas cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Francis, Daniel; Hodgkinson, Jane; Walton, Christopher; Sizer, Jeremy; Black, Paul; Livingstone, Beth; Fowler, Dawn P.; Patel, Mitesh K.; Tatam, Ralph P.

2017-02-01

Laser spectroscopy provides the basis of instrumentation developed for the diagnosis of infectious disease, via quantification of organic biomarkers that are produced by associated bacteria. The technology is centred on a multichannel pulsed quantum cascade laser system that allows multiple lasers with different wavelengths to be used simultaneously, each selected to monitor a different diagnostic biomarker. The instrument also utilizes a hollow silica waveguide (HSW) gas cell which has a very high ratio of interaction pathlength to internal volume. This allows sensitive detection of low volume gas species from small volume biological samples. The spectroscopic performance of a range of HSW gas cells with different lengths and bore diameters has been assessed using methane as a test gas and a best-case limit of detection of 0.26 ppm was determined. The response time of this cell was measured as a 1,000 sccm flow of methane passed through it and was found to be 0.75 s. These results are compared with those obtained using a multi-pass Herriot cell. A prototype instrument has been built and approved for clinical trials for detection of lung infection in acute-care patients via analysis of ventilator breath. Demonstration of the instrument for headspace gas analysis is made by monitoring the methane emission from bovine faeces. The manufacture of a hospital-ready device for monitoring biomarkers of infection in the exhaled breath of intensive care ventilator patients is also presented.

Technology. Part 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

In this session, Session WP3, the discussion focuses on the following topics: Monitoring Physiological Variables With Membrane Probes; Real Time Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy, Potential Applications in Space Medicine and Cell Biology; Optimum Versus Universal Planetary and Interplanetary Habitats; Application of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System Technologies to the Prevention of Diarrheal Diseases in Nigeria; A Small G Loading Human Centrifuge for Space Station ERA; Use of the Bicycle Ergometer on the International Space Station and Its Influence On The Microgravity Environment; Munich Space Chair (MSC) - A Next Generation Body Restraint System for Astronauts; and Thermoelectric Human-Body Cooling Units Used By NASA Space Shuttle Astronauts.

From Understanding Cellular Function to Novel Drug Discovery: The Role of Planar Patch-Clamp Array Chip Technology

PubMed Central

Py, Christophe; Martina, Marzia; Diaz-Quijada, Gerardo A.; Luk, Collin C.; Martinez, Dolores; Denhoff, Mike W.; Charrier, Anne; Comas, Tanya; Monette, Robert; Krantis, Anthony; Syed, Naweed I.; Mealing, Geoffrey A. R.

2011-01-01

All excitable cell functions rely upon ion channels that are embedded in their plasma membrane. Perturbations of ion channel structure or function result in pathologies ranging from cardiac dysfunction to neurodegenerative disorders. Consequently, to understand the functions of excitable cells and to remedy their pathophysiology, it is important to understand the ion channel functions under various experimental conditions – including exposure to novel drug targets. Glass pipette patch-clamp is the state of the art technique to monitor the intrinsic and synaptic properties of neurons. However, this technique is labor intensive and has low data throughput. Planar patch-clamp chips, integrated into automated systems, offer high throughputs but are limited to isolated cells from suspensions, thus limiting their use in modeling physiological function. These chips are therefore not most suitable for studies involving neuronal communication. Multielectrode arrays (MEAs), in contrast, have the ability to monitor network activity by measuring local field potentials from multiple extracellular sites, but specific ion channel activity is challenging to extract from these multiplexed signals. Here we describe a novel planar patch-clamp chip technology that enables the simultaneous high-resolution electrophysiological interrogation of individual neurons at multiple sites in synaptically connected neuronal networks, thereby combining the advantages of MEA and patch-clamp techniques. Each neuron can be probed through an aperture that connects to a dedicated subterranean microfluidic channel. Neurons growing in networks are aligned to the apertures by physisorbed or chemisorbed chemical cues. In this review, we describe the design and fabrication process of these chips, approaches to chemical patterning for cell placement, and present physiological data from cultured neuronal cells. PMID:22007170

From understanding cellular function to novel drug discovery: the role of planar patch-clamp array chip technology.

PubMed

Py, Christophe; Martina, Marzia; Diaz-Quijada, Gerardo A; Luk, Collin C; Martinez, Dolores; Denhoff, Mike W; Charrier, Anne; Comas, Tanya; Monette, Robert; Krantis, Anthony; Syed, Naweed I; Mealing, Geoffrey A R

2011-01-01

All excitable cell functions rely upon ion channels that are embedded in their plasma membrane. Perturbations of ion channel structure or function result in pathologies ranging from cardiac dysfunction to neurodegenerative disorders. Consequently, to understand the functions of excitable cells and to remedy their pathophysiology, it is important to understand the ion channel functions under various experimental conditions - including exposure to novel drug targets. Glass pipette patch-clamp is the state of the art technique to monitor the intrinsic and synaptic properties of neurons. However, this technique is labor intensive and has low data throughput. Planar patch-clamp chips, integrated into automated systems, offer high throughputs but are limited to isolated cells from suspensions, thus limiting their use in modeling physiological function. These chips are therefore not most suitable for studies involving neuronal communication. Multielectrode arrays (MEAs), in contrast, have the ability to monitor network activity by measuring local field potentials from multiple extracellular sites, but specific ion channel activity is challenging to extract from these multiplexed signals. Here we describe a novel planar patch-clamp chip technology that enables the simultaneous high-resolution electrophysiological interrogation of individual neurons at multiple sites in synaptically connected neuronal networks, thereby combining the advantages of MEA and patch-clamp techniques. Each neuron can be probed through an aperture that connects to a dedicated subterranean microfluidic channel. Neurons growing in networks are aligned to the apertures by physisorbed or chemisorbed chemical cues. In this review, we describe the design and fabrication process of these chips, approaches to chemical patterning for cell placement, and present physiological data from cultured neuronal cells.

A Terrestrial Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cell-based Biosensor for Biochemical Oxygen Demand of Synthetic Rice Washed Wastewater

PubMed Central

Logroño, Washington; Guambo, Alex; Pérez, Mario; Kadier, Abudukeremu; Recalde, Celso

2016-01-01

Microbial fuel cells represent an innovative technology which allow simultaneous waste treatment, electricity production, and environmental monitoring. This study provides a preliminary investigation of the use of terrestrial Single chamber Microbial Fuel Cells (SMFCs) as biosensors. Three cells were created using Andean soil, each one for monitoring a BOD concentration of synthetic washed rice wastewater (SRWW) of 10, 100, and 200 mg/L for SMFC1, SMFC2 and SMFC3, respectively. The results showed transient, exponential, and steady stages in the SMFCs. The maximum open circuit voltage (OCV) peaks were reached during the elapsed time of the transient stages, according to the tested BOD concentrations. A good linearity between OCV and time was observed in the increasing stage. The average OCV in this stage increased independently of the tested concentrations. SMFC1 required less time than SMFC2 to reach the steady stage, suggesting the BOD concentration is an influencing factor in SMFCs, and SMFC3 did not reach it. The OCV ratios were between 40.6–58.8 mV and 18.2–32.9 mV for SMFC1 and SMFC2. The reproducibility of the SMFCs was observed in four and three cycles for SMFC1 and SMFC2, respectively. The presented SMFCs had a good response and reproducibility as biosensor devices, and could be an alternative for environmental monitoring. PMID:26784197

A Terrestrial Single Chamber Microbial Fuel Cell-based Biosensor for Biochemical Oxygen Demand of Synthetic Rice Washed Wastewater.

PubMed

Logroño, Washington; Guambo, Alex; Pérez, Mario; Kadier, Abudukeremu; Recalde, Celso

2016-01-15

Microbial fuel cells represent an innovative technology which allow simultaneous waste treatment, electricity production, and environmental monitoring. This study provides a preliminary investigation of the use of terrestrial Single chamber Microbial Fuel Cells (SMFCs) as biosensors. Three cells were created using Andean soil, each one for monitoring a BOD concentration of synthetic washed rice wastewater (SRWW) of 10, 100, and 200 mg/L for SMFC1, SMFC2 and SMFC3, respectively. The results showed transient, exponential, and steady stages in the SMFCs. The maximum open circuit voltage (OCV) peaks were reached during the elapsed time of the transient stages, according to the tested BOD concentrations. A good linearity between OCV and time was observed in the increasing stage. The average OCV in this stage increased independently of the tested concentrations. SMFC1 required less time than SMFC2 to reach the steady stage, suggesting the BOD concentration is an influencing factor in SMFCs, and SMFC3 did not reach it. The OCV ratios were between 40.6-58.8 mV and 18.2-32.9 mV for SMFC1 and SMFC2. The reproducibility of the SMFCs was observed in four and three cycles for SMFC1 and SMFC2, respectively. The presented SMFCs had a good response and reproducibility as biosensor devices, and could be an alternative for environmental monitoring.

Classification of large circulating tumor cells isolated with ultra-high throughput microfluidic Vortex technology.

PubMed

Che, James; Yu, Victor; Dhar, Manjima; Renier, Corinne; Matsumoto, Melissa; Heirich, Kyra; Garon, Edward B; Goldman, Jonathan; Rao, Jianyu; Sledge, George W; Pegram, Mark D; Sheth, Shruti; Jeffrey, Stefanie S; Kulkarni, Rajan P; Sollier, Elodie; Di Carlo, Dino

2016-03-15

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are emerging as rare but clinically significant non-invasive cellular biomarkers for cancer patient prognosis, treatment selection, and treatment monitoring. Current CTC isolation approaches, such as immunoaffinity, filtration, or size-based techniques, are often limited by throughput, purity, large output volumes, or inability to obtain viable cells for downstream analysis. For all technologies, traditional immunofluorescent staining alone has been employed to distinguish and confirm the presence of isolated CTCs among contaminating blood cells, although cells isolated by size may express vastly different phenotypes. Consequently, CTC definitions have been non-trivial, researcher-dependent, and evolving. Here we describe a complete set of objective criteria, leveraging well-established cytomorphological features of malignancy, by which we identify large CTCs. We apply the criteria to CTCs enriched from stage IV lung and breast cancer patient blood samples using the High Throughput Vortex Chip (Vortex HT), an improved microfluidic technology for the label-free, size-based enrichment and concentration of rare cells. We achieve improved capture efficiency (up to 83%), high speed of processing (8 mL/min of 10x diluted blood, or 800 μL/min of whole blood), and high purity (avg. background of 28.8±23.6 white blood cells per mL of whole blood). We show markedly improved performance of CTC capture (84% positive test rate) in comparison to previous Vortex designs and the current FDA-approved gold standard CellSearch assay. The results demonstrate the ability to quickly collect viable and pure populations of abnormal large circulating cells unbiased by molecular characteristics, which helps uncover further heterogeneity in these cells.

Classification of large circulating tumor cells isolated with ultra-high throughput microfluidic Vortex technology

PubMed Central

Che, James; Yu, Victor; Dhar, Manjima; Renier, Corinne; Matsumoto, Melissa; Heirich, Kyra; Garon, Edward B.; Goldman, Jonathan; Rao, Jianyu; Sledge, George W.; Pegram, Mark D.; Sheth, Shruti; Jeffrey, Stefanie S.; Kulkarni, Rajan P.; Sollier, Elodie; Di Carlo, Dino

2016-01-01

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are emerging as rare but clinically significant non-invasive cellular biomarkers for cancer patient prognosis, treatment selection, and treatment monitoring. Current CTC isolation approaches, such as immunoaffinity, filtration, or size-based techniques, are often limited by throughput, purity, large output volumes, or inability to obtain viable cells for downstream analysis. For all technologies, traditional immunofluorescent staining alone has been employed to distinguish and confirm the presence of isolated CTCs among contaminating blood cells, although cells isolated by size may express vastly different phenotypes. Consequently, CTC definitions have been non-trivial, researcher-dependent, and evolving. Here we describe a complete set of objective criteria, leveraging well-established cytomorphological features of malignancy, by which we identify large CTCs. We apply the criteria to CTCs enriched from stage IV lung and breast cancer patient blood samples using the High Throughput Vortex Chip (Vortex HT), an improved microfluidic technology for the label-free, size-based enrichment and concentration of rare cells. We achieve improved capture efficiency (up to 83%), high speed of processing (8 mL/min of 10x diluted blood, or 800 μL/min of whole blood), and high purity (avg. background of 28.8±23.6 white blood cells per mL of whole blood). We show markedly improved performance of CTC capture (84% positive test rate) in comparison to previous Vortex designs and the current FDA-approved gold standard CellSearch assay. The results demonstrate the ability to quickly collect viable and pure populations of abnormal large circulating cells unbiased by molecular characteristics, which helps uncover further heterogeneity in these cells. PMID:26863573

A brief review on microfluidic platforms for hormones detection.

PubMed

Ozhikandathil, Jayan; Badilescu, Simona; Packirisamy, Muthukumaran

2017-01-01

Lab-on-chip technology is attracting great interest due to its potential as miniaturized devices that can automate and integrate many sample-handling steps, minimize consumption of reagent and samples, have short processing time and enable multiplexed analysis. Microfluidic devices have demonstrated their potential for a broad range of applications in life sciences, including point-of-care diagnostics and personalized medicine, based on the routine diagnosis of levels of hormones, cancer markers, and various metabolic products in blood, serum, etc. Microfluidics offers an adaptable platform that can facilitate cell culture as well as monitor their activity and control the cellular environment. Signaling molecules released from cells such as neurotransmitters and hormones are important in assessing the health of cells and the effect of drugs on their functions. In this review, we provide an insight into the state-of-art applications of microfluidics for monitoring of hormones released by cells. In our works, we have demonstrated efficient detection methods for bovine growth hormones using nano and microphotonics integrated microfluidics devices. The bovine growth hormone can be used as a growth promoter in dairy farming to enhance the milk and meat production. In the recent years, a few attempts have been reported on developing very sensitive, fast and low-cost methods of detection of bovine growth hormone using micro devices. This paper reviews the current state-of-art of detection and analysis of hormone using integrated optical micro and nanofluidics systems. In addition, the paper also focuses on various lab-on-a-chip technologies reported recently, and their benefits for screening growth hormones in milk.

Applications of aerospace technology in biomedicine. A technology transfer profile: Patient monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, D. M.

1971-01-01

NASA contributions to cardiovascular monitoring are described along with innovations in intracardiac blood pressure monitoring. A brief overview of the process of NASA technology transfer in patient monitoring is presented and a list of bioinstrumentation tech briefs and the number of requests for technical support is included.

Live-cell imaging of mammalian RNAs with Spinach2.

PubMed

Strack, Rita L; Jaffrey, Samie R

2015-01-01

The ability to monitor RNAs of interest in living cells is crucial to understanding the function, dynamics, and regulation of this important class of molecules. In recent years, numerous strategies have been developed with the goal of imaging individual RNAs of interest in living cells, each with their own advantages and limitations. This chapter provides an overview of current methods of live-cell RNA imaging, including a detailed discussion of genetically encoded strategies for labeling RNAs in mammalian cells. This chapter then focuses on the development and use of "RNA mimics of GFP" or Spinach technology for tagging mammalian RNAs and includes a detailed protocol for imaging 5S and CGG60 RNA with the recently described Spinach2 tag. © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

On-Chip Hardware for Cell Monitoring: Contact Imaging and Notch Filtering

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-07-07

a polymer carrier. Spectrophotometer chosen and purchased for testing optical filters and materials. Characterization and comparison of fabricated...reproducibility of behavior. Multi-level SU8 process developed. Optimization of actuator for closing vial lids and development of lid sealing technology is...bending angles characterized as a function of temperature in NaDBS solution. " Photopatternable polymers are a viable interim packaging solution; through

Utilizing Matrigel Transwell Invasion Assay to Detect and Enumerate Circulating Tumor Cells.

PubMed

Liu, Xingtong; Wu, Xiangwei

2017-01-01

Metastasis is the cause of 90% of human cancer deaths. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the peripheral blood and/or lymphatic vessels are cells shed from primary tumors and considered to be precursors of metastasis. Study of CTCs allows the serial monitoring of tumor progression and may provide predictive and prognostic biomarkers in clinic. Current CTC isolation and detection technologies encounter several challenges, including: heterogeneity of CTCs, low cell viability and/or high rate of contamination post-isolation, and the inability to distinguish viable/invasive from nonviable/nonfunctional CTCs, all of which can limit in vitro and in vivo characterization of CTCs. Here, we describe a new method to detect and enumerate of CTCs based on their invasive property.

Genomics and epigenomics of clear cell renal cell carcinoma: recent developments and potential applications.

PubMed

Rydzanicz, Małgorzata; Wrzesiński, Tomasz; Bluyssen, Hans A R; Wesoły, Joanna

2013-12-01

Majority of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (ccRCCs) are diagnosed in the advanced metastatic stage resulting in dramatic decrease of patient survival. Thereby, early detection and monitoring of the disease may improve prognosis and treatment results. Recent technological advances enable the identification of genetic events associated with ccRCC and reveal significant molecular heterogeneity of ccRCC tumors. This review summarizes recent findings in ccRCC genomics and epigenomics derived from chromosomal aberrations, DNA sequencing and methylation, mRNA, miRNA expression profiling experiments. We provide a molecular insight into ccRCC pathology and recapitulate possible clinical applications of genomic alterations as predictive and prognostic biomarkers. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microfluidics for Single-Cell Genetic Analysis

PubMed Central

Thompson, A. M.; Paguirigan, A. L.; Kreutz, J. E.; Radich, J. P.; Chiu, D. T.

2014-01-01

The ability to correlate single-cell genetic information to cellular phenotypes will provide the kind of detailed insight into human physiology and disease pathways that is not possible to infer from bulk cell analysis. Microfluidic technologies are attractive for single-cell manipulation due to precise handling and low risk of contamination. Additionally, microfluidic single-cell techniques can allow for high-throughput and detailed genetic analyses that increase accuracy and decreases reagent cost compared to bulk techniques. Incorporating these microfluidic platforms into research and clinical laboratory workflows can fill an unmet need in biology, delivering the highly accurate, highly informative data necessary to develop new therapies and monitor patient outcomes. In this perspective, we describe the current and potential future uses of microfluidics at all stages of single-cell genetic analysis, including cell enrichment and capture, single-cell compartmentalization and manipulation, and detection and analyses. PMID:24789374

Modular extracellular sensor architecture for engineering mammalian cell-based devices.

PubMed

Daringer, Nichole M; Dudek, Rachel M; Schwarz, Kelly A; Leonard, Joshua N

2014-12-19

Engineering mammalian cell-based devices that monitor and therapeutically modulate human physiology is a promising and emerging frontier in clinical synthetic biology. However, realizing this vision will require new technologies enabling engineered circuitry to sense and respond to physiologically relevant cues. No existing technology enables an engineered cell to sense exclusively extracellular ligands, including proteins and pathogens, without relying upon native cellular receptors or signal transduction pathways that may be subject to crosstalk with native cellular components. To address this need, we here report a technology we term a Modular Extracellular Sensor Architecture (MESA). This self-contained receptor and signal transduction platform is maximally orthogonal to native cellular processes and comprises independent, tunable protein modules that enable performance optimization and straightforward engineering of novel MESA that recognize novel ligands. We demonstrate ligand-inducible activation of MESA signaling, optimization of receptor performance using design-based approaches, and generation of MESA biosensors that produce outputs in the form of either transcriptional regulation or transcription-independent reconstitution of enzymatic activity. This systematic, quantitative platform characterization provides a framework for engineering MESA to recognize novel ligands and for integrating these sensors into diverse mammalian synthetic biology applications.

Molecular analysis of tumor margins by MALDI mass spectrometry in renal carcinoma.

PubMed

Oppenheimer, Stacey R; Mi, Deming; Sanders, Melinda E; Caprioli, Richard M

2010-05-07

The rate of tumor recurrence post resection suggests that there are underlying molecular changes in nearby histologically normal tissue that go undetected by conventional diagnostic methods that utilize contrast agents and immunohistochemistry. MALDI MS is a molecular technology that has the specificity and sensitivity to monitor and identify molecular species indicative of these changes. The current study utilizes this technology to assess molecular distributions within a tumor and adjacent normal tissue in clear cell renal cell carcinoma biopsies. Results indicate that the histologically normal tissue adjacent to the tumor expresses many of the molecular characteristics of the tumor. Proteins of the mitochondrial electron transport system are examples of such distributions. This work demonstrates the utility of MALDI MS for the analysis of tumor tissue in the elucidation of aberrant molecular changes in the tumor microenvironment.

A Label-Free Electrochemical Impedance Cytosensor Based on Specific Peptide-Fused Phage Selected from Landscape Phage Library

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Lei; Liu, Pei; Petrenko, Valery A.; Liu, Aihua

2016-02-01

One of the major challenges in the design of biosensors for cancer diagnosis is to introduce a low-cost and selective probe that can recognize cancer cells. In this paper, we combined the phage display technology and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to develop a label-free cytosensor for the detection of cancer cells, without complicated purification of recognition elements. Fabrication steps of the cytosensing interface were monitored by EIS. Due to the high specificity of the displayed octapeptides and avidity effect of their multicopy display on the phage scaffold, good biocompatibility of recombinant phage, the fibrous nanostructure of phage, and the inherent merits of EIS technology, the proposed cytosensor demonstrated a wide linear range (2.0 × 102 - 2.0 × 108 cells mL-1), a low limit of detection (79 cells mL-1, S/N = 3), high specificity, good inter-and intra-assay reproducibility and satisfactory storage stability. This novel cytosensor designing strategy will open a new prospect for rapid and label-free electrochemical platform for tumor diagnosis.

Continuously manufactured magnetic polymersomes - a versatile tool (not only) for targeted cancer therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bleul, Regina; Thiermann, Raphael; Marten, Gernot U.; House, Michael J.; Pierre, Timothy G. St.; Häfeli, Urs O.; Maskos, Michael

2013-11-01

Micromixer technology was used to prepare polymeric vesicles (Pluronic® L-121) dual loaded with the anti-cancer drug camptothecin and magnetic nanoparticles. Successful incorporation of the magnetic nanoparticles was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Dynamic light scattering measurements showed a relatively narrow size distribution of the hybrid polymersomes. Camptothecin polymersomes reduced the cell viability of prostate cancer cells (PC-3) measured after 72 h significantly, while drug-free polymersomes showed no cytotoxic effects. Covalent attachment of a cancer targeting peptide (bombesin) as well as a fluorescent label (Alexa Fluor® 647) to the hybrid polymersomes was performed and specific cell binding and internalization were shown by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Relaxometry measurements clearly demonstrated the capacity of magnetic polymersomes to generate significant T2-weighted MRI contrast and potentially allow for direct monitoring of the biodistribution of the polymersomes. Micromixer technology as an easy, fast and efficient way to manufacture hybrid polymersomes as theranostic drug delivery devices is a further step from basic research to personalized medicine.

Size-based separation methods of circulating tumor cells.

PubMed

Hao, Si-Jie; Wan, Yuan; Xia, Yi-Qiu; Zou, Xin; Zheng, Si-Yang

2018-02-01

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) originate from the primary tumor mass and enter into the peripheral bloodstream. Compared to other "liquid biopsy" portfolios such as exosome, circulating tumor DNA/RNA (ctDNA/RNA), CTCs have incomparable advantages in analyses of transcriptomics, proteomics, and signal colocalization. Hence, CTCs hold the key to understanding the biology of metastasis and play a vital role in cancer diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and prognosis. Size-based enrichment features are prominent in CTC isolation. It is a label-free, simple and fast method. Enriched CTCs remain unmodified and viable for a wide range of subsequent analyses. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the differences of size and deformability between CTCs and blood cells, which would facilitate the development of technologies of size-based CTC isolation. Then we review representative size-/deformability-based technologies available for CTC isolation and highlight the recent achievements in molecular analysis of isolated CTCs. To wrap up, we discuss the substantial challenges facing the field, and elaborate on prospects. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lineage Tracking for Probing Heritable Phenotypes at Single-Cell Resolution

PubMed Central

Cottinet, Denis; Condamine, Florence; Bremond, Nicolas; Griffiths, Andrew D.; Rainey, Paul B.; de Visser, J. Arjan G. M.; Baudry, Jean; Bibette, Jérôme

2016-01-01

Determining the phenotype and genotype of single cells is central to understand microbial evolution. DNA sequencing technologies allow the detection of mutants at high resolution, but similar approaches for phenotypic analyses are still lacking. We show that a drop-based millifluidic system enables the detection of heritable phenotypic changes in evolving bacterial populations. At time intervals, cells were sampled and individually compartmentalized in 100 nL drops. Growth through 15 generations was monitored using a fluorescent protein reporter. Amplification of heritable changes–via growth–over multiple generations yields phenotypically distinct clusters reflecting variation relevant for evolution. To demonstrate the utility of this approach, we follow the evolution of Escherichia coli populations during 30 days of starvation. Phenotypic diversity was observed to rapidly increase upon starvation with the emergence of heritable phenotypes. Mutations corresponding to each phenotypic class were identified by DNA sequencing. This scalable lineage-tracking technology opens the door to large-scale phenotyping methods with special utility for microbiology and microbial population biology. PMID:27077662

Lineage Tracking for Probing Heritable Phenotypes at Single-Cell Resolution.

PubMed

Cottinet, Denis; Condamine, Florence; Bremond, Nicolas; Griffiths, Andrew D; Rainey, Paul B; de Visser, J Arjan G M; Baudry, Jean; Bibette, Jérôme

2016-01-01

Determining the phenotype and genotype of single cells is central to understand microbial evolution. DNA sequencing technologies allow the detection of mutants at high resolution, but similar approaches for phenotypic analyses are still lacking. We show that a drop-based millifluidic system enables the detection of heritable phenotypic changes in evolving bacterial populations. At time intervals, cells were sampled and individually compartmentalized in 100 nL drops. Growth through 15 generations was monitored using a fluorescent protein reporter. Amplification of heritable changes-via growth-over multiple generations yields phenotypically distinct clusters reflecting variation relevant for evolution. To demonstrate the utility of this approach, we follow the evolution of Escherichia coli populations during 30 days of starvation. Phenotypic diversity was observed to rapidly increase upon starvation with the emergence of heritable phenotypes. Mutations corresponding to each phenotypic class were identified by DNA sequencing. This scalable lineage-tracking technology opens the door to large-scale phenotyping methods with special utility for microbiology and microbial population biology.

Impedance-based cellular assays for regenerative medicine.

PubMed

Gamal, W; Wu, H; Underwood, I; Jia, J; Smith, S; Bagnaninchi, P O

2018-07-05

Therapies based on regenerative techniques have the potential to radically improve healthcare in the coming years. As a result, there is an emerging need for non-destructive and label-free technologies to assess the quality of engineered tissues and cell-based products prior to their use in the clinic. In parallel, the emerging regenerative medicine industry that aims to produce stem cells and their progeny on a large scale will benefit from moving away from existing destructive biochemical assays towards data-driven automation and control at the industrial scale. Impedance-based cellular assays (IBCA) have emerged as an alternative approach to study stem-cell properties and cumulative studies, reviewed here, have shown their potential to monitor stem-cell renewal, differentiation and maturation. They offer a novel method to non-destructively assess and quality-control stem-cell cultures. In addition, when combined with in vitro disease models they provide complementary insights as label-free phenotypic assays. IBCA provide quantitative and very sensitive results that can easily be automated and up-scaled in multi-well format. When facing the emerging challenge of real-time monitoring of three-dimensional cell culture dielectric spectroscopy and electrical impedance tomography represent viable alternatives to two-dimensional impedance sensing.This article is part of the theme issue 'Designer human tissue: coming to a lab near you'. © 2018 The Author(s).

Noninvasive in vivo tracking of mesenchymal stem cells and evaluation of cell therapeutic effects in a murine model using a clinical 3.0 T MRI.

PubMed

Drey, Florian; Choi, Yeong-Hoon; Neef, Klaus; Ewert, Birgit; Tenbrock, Arne; Treskes, Philipp; Bovenschulte, Henning; Liakopoulos, Oliver J; Brenkmann, Meike; Stamm, Christof; Wittwer, Thorsten; Wahlers, Thorsten

2013-01-01

Cardiac cell therapy with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represents a promising treatment approach for end-stage heart failure. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms and the fate of the transplanted cells. The objective of the presented work is to determine the feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and in vivo monitoring after transplantation into infarcted mouse hearts using a clinical 3.0 T MRI device. The labeling procedure of bone marrow-derived MSCs with micron-sized paramagnetic iron oxide particles (MPIOs) did not affect the viability of the cells and their cell type-defining properties when compared to unlabeled cells. Using a clinical 3.0 T MRI scanner equipped with a dedicated small animal solenoid coil, 10(5) labeled MSCs could be detected and localized in the mouse hearts for up to 4 weeks after intramyocardial transplantation. Weekly ECG-gated scans using T1-weighted sequences were performed, and left ventricular function was assessed. Histological analysis of hearts confirmed the survival of labeled MSCs in the target area up to 4 weeks after transplantation. In conclusion, in vivo tracking of labeled MSCs using a clinical 3.0 T MRI scanner is feasible. In combination with assessment of heart function, this technology allows the monitoring of the therapeutic efficacy of regenerative therapies in a small animal model.

Microfluidics for food, agriculture and biosystems industries.

PubMed

Neethirajan, Suresh; Kobayashi, Isao; Nakajima, Mitsutoshi; Wu, Dan; Nandagopal, Saravanan; Lin, Francis

2011-05-07

Microfluidics, a rapidly emerging enabling technology has the potential to revolutionize food, agriculture and biosystems industries. Examples of potential applications of microfluidics in food industry include nano-particle encapsulation of fish oil, monitoring pathogens and toxins in food and water supplies, micro-nano-filtration for improving food quality, detection of antibiotics in dairy food products, and generation of novel food structures. In addition, microfluidics enables applications in agriculture and animal sciences such as nutrients monitoring and plant cells sorting for improving crop quality and production, effective delivery of biopesticides, simplified in vitro fertilization for animal breeding, animal health monitoring, vaccination and therapeutics. Lastly, microfluidics provides new approaches for bioenergy research. This paper synthesizes information of selected microfluidics-based applications for food, agriculture and biosystems industries. © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2011

Emerging technology: applications of Raman spectroscopy for prostate cancer.

PubMed

Kast, Rachel E; Tucker, Stephanie C; Killian, Kevin; Trexler, Micaela; Honn, Kenneth V; Auner, Gregory W

2014-09-01

There is a need in prostate cancer diagnostics and research for a label-free imaging methodology that is nondestructive, rapid, objective, and uninfluenced by water. Raman spectroscopy provides a molecular signature, which can be scaled from micron-level regions of interest in cells to macroscopic areas of tissue. It can be used for applications ranging from in vivo or in vitro diagnostics to basic science laboratory testing. This work describes the fundamentals of Raman spectroscopy and complementary techniques including surface enhanced Raman scattering, resonance Raman spectroscopy, coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy, confocal Raman spectroscopy, stimulated Raman scattering, and spatially offset Raman spectroscopy. Clinical applications of Raman spectroscopy to prostate cancer will be discussed, including screening, biopsy, margin assessment, and monitoring of treatment efficacy. Laboratory applications including cell identification, culture monitoring, therapeutics development, and live imaging of cellular processes are discussed. Potential future avenues of research are described, with emphasis on multiplexing Raman spectroscopy with other modalities.

Designing and Testing Energy Harvesters Suitable for Renewable Power Sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Synkiewicz, B.; Guzdek, P.; Piekarski, J.; Zaraska, K.

2016-01-01

Energy harvesters convert waste power (heat, light and vibration) directly to electric power . Fast progress in their technology, design and areas of application (e.g. “Internet of Things”) has been observed recently. Their effectiveness is steadily growing which makes their application to powering sensor networks with wireless data transfer reasonable. The main advantage is the independence from wired power sources, which is especially important for monitoring state of environmental parameters. In this paper we describe the design and realization of a gas sensor monitoring CO level (powered by TEG) and two, designed an constructed in ITE, autonomous power supply modules powered by modern photovoltaic cells.

Health Monitoring System Technology Assessments: Cost Benefits Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kent, Renee M.; Murphy, Dennis A.

2000-01-01

The subject of sensor-based structural health monitoring is very diverse and encompasses a wide range of activities including initiatives and innovations involving the development of advanced sensor, signal processing, data analysis, and actuation and control technologies. In addition, it embraces the consideration of the availability of low-cost, high-quality contributing technologies, computational utilities, and hardware and software resources that enable the operational realization of robust health monitoring technologies. This report presents a detailed analysis of the cost benefit and other logistics and operational considerations associated with the implementation and utilization of sensor-based technologies for use in aerospace structure health monitoring. The scope of this volume is to assess the economic impact, from an end-user perspective, implementation health monitoring technologies on three structures. It specifically focuses on evaluating the impact on maintaining and supporting these structures with and without health monitoring capability.

False Operation of Static Random Access Memory Cells under Alternating Current Power Supply Voltage Variation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sawada, Takuya; Takata, Hidehiro; Nii, Koji; Nagata, Makoto

2013-04-01

Static random access memory (SRAM) cores exhibit susceptibility against power supply voltage variation. False operation is investigated among SRAM cells under sinusoidal voltage variation on power lines introduced by direct RF power injection. A standard SRAM core of 16 kbyte in a 90 nm 1.5 V technology is diagnosed with built-in self test and on-die noise monitor techniques. The sensitivity of bit error rate is shown to be high against the frequency of injected voltage variation, while it is not greatly influenced by the difference in frequency and phase against SRAM clocking. It is also observed that the distribution of false bits is substantially random in a cell array.

Cellular immunotherapy for patients with reactivation of JC and BK polyomaviruses after transplantation.

PubMed

Mani, Jiju; Jin, Nan; Schmitt, Michael

2014-10-01

Immunosuppression of patients after hematopoietic stem cell or kidney transplantation potentially leads to reactivation of JC and BK polyomaviruses. In hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the reactivation rate of BKV can be up to 60%, resulting in severe complications of the urogenital tract, particularly hemorrhagic cystitis and renal dysfunction. After kidney transplantation, BKV reactivation can cause a loss of the graft. JCV can cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, a lethal disease. Adoptive transfer of donor-derived polyomavirus-specific T cells is an attractive and promising treatment that restores virus-specific cellular immunity. Pioneering work in the early 1990s on the reconstitution of cellular immunity against cytomegalovirus and recent development in the field of monitoring and isolation of antigen-specific T cells paved the way toward a personalized T-cell therapy. Multimer technology and magnetic beads are available to produce untouched T cells in a single-step, good manufacturing practice-compliant procedure. Another exciting aspect of T-cell therapy against polyomaviruses is the fact that both JCV and BKV can be targeted simultaneously because of their high sequence homology. Finally, "designer T cells" can be redirected to recognize polyomavirus antigens with high-affinity T-cell receptors. This review summarizes the state-of-the art technologies and gives an outlook of future developments in the field. Copyright © 2014 International Society for Cellular Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A review of electrostatic monitoring technology: The state of the art and future research directions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Zhenhua; Hou, Junxing; Atkin, Jason

2017-10-01

Electrostatic monitoring technology is a useful tool for monitoring and detecting component faults and degradation, which is necessary for system health management. It encompasses three key research areas: sensor technology; signal detection, processing and feature extraction; and verification experimentation. It has received considerable recent attention for condition monitoring due to its ability to provide warning information and non-obstructive measurements on-line. A number of papers in recent years have covered specific aspects of the technology, including sensor design optimization, sensor characteristic analysis, signal de-noising and practical applications of the technology. This paper provides a review of the recent research and of the development of electrostatic monitoring technology, with a primary emphasis on its application for the aero-engine gas path. The paper also presents a summary of some of the current applications of electrostatic monitoring technology in other industries, before concluding with a brief discussion of the current research situation and possible future challenges and research gaps in this field. The aim of this paper is to promote further research into this promising technology by increasing awareness of both the potential benefits of the technology and the current research gaps.

Actualities and Development of Heavy-Duty CNC Machine Tool Thermal Error Monitoring Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Zu-De; Gui, Lin; Tan, Yue-Gang; Liu, Ming-Yao; Liu, Yi; Li, Rui-Ya

2017-09-01

Thermal error monitoring technology is the key technological support to solve the thermal error problem of heavy-duty CNC (computer numerical control) machine tools. Currently, there are many review literatures introducing the thermal error research of CNC machine tools, but those mainly focus on the thermal issues in small and medium-sized CNC machine tools and seldom introduce thermal error monitoring technologies. This paper gives an overview of the research on the thermal error of CNC machine tools and emphasizes the study of thermal error of the heavy-duty CNC machine tool in three areas. These areas are the causes of thermal error of heavy-duty CNC machine tool and the issues with the temperature monitoring technology and thermal deformation monitoring technology. A new optical measurement technology called the "fiber Bragg grating (FBG) distributed sensing technology" for heavy-duty CNC machine tools is introduced in detail. This technology forms an intelligent sensing and monitoring system for heavy-duty CNC machine tools. This paper fills in the blank of this kind of review articles to guide the development of this industry field and opens up new areas of research on the heavy-duty CNC machine tool thermal error.

[Meta-analyses on measurement precision of non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring technologies in adults].

PubMed

Pestel, G; Fukui, K; Higashi, M; Schmidtmann, I; Werner, C

2018-06-01

An ideal non-invasive monitoring system should provide accurate and reproducible measurements of clinically relevant variables that enables clinicians to guide therapy accordingly. The monitor should be rapid, easy to use, readily available at the bedside, operator-independent, cost-effective and should have a minimal risk and side effect profile for patients. An example is the introduction of pulse oximetry, which has become established for non-invasive monitoring of oxygenation worldwide. A corresponding non-invasive monitoring of hemodynamics and perfusion could optimize the anesthesiological treatment to the needs in individual cases. In recent years several non-invasive technologies to monitor hemodynamics in the perioperative setting have been introduced: suprasternal Doppler ultrasound, modified windkessel function, pulse wave transit time, radial artery tonometry, thoracic bioimpedance, endotracheal bioimpedance, bioreactance, and partial CO 2 rebreathing have been tested for monitoring cardiac output or stroke volume. The photoelectric finger blood volume clamp technique and respiratory variation of the plethysmography curve have been assessed for monitoring fluid responsiveness. In this manuscript meta-analyses of non-invasive monitoring technologies were performed when non-invasive monitoring technology and reference technology were comparable. The primary evaluation criterion for all studies screened was a Bland-Altman analysis. Experimental and pediatric studies were excluded, as were all studies without a non-invasive monitoring technique or studies without evaluation of cardiac output/stroke volume or fluid responsiveness. Most studies found an acceptable bias with wide limits of agreement. Thus, most non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring technologies cannot be considered to be equivalent to the respective reference method. Studies testing the impact of non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring technologies as a trend evaluation on outcome, as well as studies evaluating alternatives to the finger for capturing the raw signals for hemodynamic assessment, and, finally, studies evaluating technologies based on a flow time measurement are current topics of clinical research.

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION REPORT ANR PIPELINE COMPANY PARAMETRIC EMISSIONS MONITORING SYSTEM (PEMS)

EPA Science Inventory

The Environmental Technology Verification report discusses the technology and performance of a gaseous-emissions monitoring system for large, natural-gas-fired internal combustion engines. The device tested is the Parametric Emissions Monitoring System (PEMS) manufactured by ANR ...

Design principles for noninvasive, longitudinal and quantitative cell tracking with nanoparticle-based CT imaging.

PubMed

Meir, Rinat; Betzer, Oshra; Motiei, Menachem; Kronfeld, Noam; Brodie, Chaya; Popovtzer, Rachela

2017-02-01

Contradictory results in clinical trials are preventing the advancement and implementation of cell-based therapy. To explain such results, there is a need to uncover the mystery regarding the fate of the transplanted cells. To answer this need, we developed a technique for noninvasive in vivo cell tracking, which uses gold nanoparticles as contrast agents for CT imaging. Herein, we investigate the design principles of this technique for intramuscular transplantation of therapeutic cells. Longitudinal studies were performed, displaying the ability to track cells over long periods of time. As few as 500 cells could be detected and a way to quantify the number of cells visualized by CT was demonstrated. Moreover, monitoring of cell functionality was demonstrated on a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This cell-tracking technology has the potential to become an essential tool in pre-clinical as well as clinical trials and to advance the future of cell therapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Study on an agricultural environment monitoring server system using Wireless Sensor Networks.

PubMed

Hwang, Jeonghwan; Shin, Changsun; Yoe, Hyun

2010-01-01

This paper proposes an agricultural environment monitoring server system for monitoring information concerning an outdoors agricultural production environment utilizing Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) technology. The proposed agricultural environment monitoring server system collects environmental and soil information on the outdoors through WSN-based environmental and soil sensors, collects image information through CCTVs, and collects location information using GPS modules. This collected information is converted into a database through the agricultural environment monitoring server consisting of a sensor manager, which manages information collected from the WSN sensors, an image information manager, which manages image information collected from CCTVs, and a GPS manager, which processes location information of the agricultural environment monitoring server system, and provides it to producers. In addition, a solar cell-based power supply is implemented for the server system so that it could be used in agricultural environments with insufficient power infrastructure. This agricultural environment monitoring server system could even monitor the environmental information on the outdoors remotely, and it could be expected that the use of such a system could contribute to increasing crop yields and improving quality in the agricultural field by supporting the decision making of crop producers through analysis of the collected information.

In vivo imaging of neural activity

PubMed Central

Yang, Weijian; Yuste, Rafael

2017-01-01

Since the introduction of calcium imaging to monitor neuronal activity with single-cell resolution, optical imaging methods have revolutionized neuroscience by enabling systematic recordings of neuronal circuits in living animals. The plethora of methods for functional neural imaging can be daunting to the nonexpert to navigate. Here we review advanced microscopy techniques for in vivo functional imaging and offer guidelines for which technologies are best suited for particular applications. PMID:28362436

An artemisinin-mediated ROS evolving and dual protease light-up nanocapsule for real-time imaging of lysosomal tumor cell death.

PubMed

Huang, Liwei; Luo, Yingping; Sun, Xian; Ju, Huangxian; Tian, Jiangwei; Yu, Bo-Yang

2017-06-15

Lysosomes are critical organelles for cellular homeostasis and can be used as potential targets to kill tumor cells from inside. Many photo-therapeutic methods have been developed to overproduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) to trigger lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP)-associated cell death pathway. However, these technologies rely on extra irradiation to activate the photosensitizers, which limits the applications in treating deep seated tumors and widespread metastatic lesions. This work reports a multifunctional nanocapsule to achieve targeted lysosomal tumor cell death without irradiation and real-time monitoring of drug effect through encapsulating artemisinin and dual protease light-up nanoprobe in a folate-functionalized liposome. The nanocapsule can be specifically uptaken by tumor cells via folate receptor-mediated endocytosis to enter lysosomes, in which artemisinin reacts with ferrous to generate ROS for LMP-associated cell death. By virtue of confocal fluorescence imaging, the artemisinin location in lysosome, ROS-triggered LMP and ultimate cell apoptosis can be visualized with the cathepsin B and caspase-3 activatable nanoprobe. Notably, the artemisinin-mediated ROS evolving for tumor therapy and real-time therapeutic monitoring were successfully implemented by living imaging in tumor-bearing mice, which broaden the nanocapsule for in vivo theranostics and may offer new opportunities for precise medicine. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Percutaneous fiber-optic sensor for the detection of chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in vivo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Kelly, James; Liao, Kuo-Chih; Clifton, William; Lu, Daning; Koeffler, Phillip; Loeb, Gerald

2010-02-01

Early imaging of tumor response to chemotherapy has the potential for significant clinical benefits. We are developing a family of fiber-optic sensors called SencilsTM (sensory cilia), which are disposable, minimally invasive, and can provide in vivo monitoring of various analytes for several weeks. The objective of this study was to develop and test our sensor to image the labeling of phosphatidylserine by apoptotic cells in response to chemotherapeutic drugs. FM1-43 was a better fluorescent marker for detecting phosphatidylserine expression than Annexin V-FITC; both the proportion of labeled cells (Annexin V, 15%; FM1-43, 58%) and the relative fluorescent increase (Annexin V-FITC, 1.5-fold; FM1-43, 4.5-fold) was greater when FM1-43 was used to detect apoptosis. Initial testing of the optical sensing technology using Taxol-treated MCF-7 cells demonstrated that injection of FM1-43 resulted in a rapid, transient increase in fluorescence that was greater in apoptotic cells compared to control cells (apoptotic cells, 4-fold increase; control cells, 2-fold increase). Using an established animal model, mice were injected with cyclophosphamide and hepatic apoptosis was assessed by imaging of PS expression. Both the amplitude of fluorescence increase and the time taken for the amplitude to decay to half of its peak were increased in livers from animals treated with cyclophosphamide. Our optical sensing technology can be used to detect the early apoptotic response of cells to chemotherapeutic drugs both in vitro and in vivo. This novel technology represents a unique option for the imaging of tumor responses in vivo, and provides an inexpensive, specific system for the detection of early-stage apoptosis.

A new era of semiconductor genetics using ion-sensitive field-effect transistors: the gene-sensitive integrated cell.

PubMed

Toumazou, Christofer; Thay, Tan Sri Lim Kok; Georgiou, Pantelis

2014-03-28

Semiconductor genetics is now disrupting the field of healthcare owing to the rapid parallelization and scaling of DNA sensing using ion-sensitive field-effect transistors (ISFETs) fabricated using commercial complementary metal -oxide semiconductor technology. The enabling concept of DNA reaction monitoring introduced by Toumazou has made this a reality and we are now seeing relentless scaling with Moore's law ultimately achieving the $100 genome. In this paper, we present the next evolution of this technology through the creation of the gene-sensitive integrated cell (GSIC) for label-free real-time analysis based on ISFETs. This device is derived from the traditional metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) and has electrical performance identical to that of a MOSFET in a standard semiconductor process, yet is capable of incorporating DNA reaction chemistries for applications in single nucleotide polymorphism microarrays and DNA sequencing. Just as application-specific integrated circuits, which are developed in much the same way, have shaped our consumer electronics industry and modern communications and memory technology, so, too, do GSICs based on a single underlying technology principle have the capacity to transform the life science and healthcare industries.

Unraveling the genetic driving forces enabling antibiotic resistance at the single cell level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bos, Julia

Bacteria are champions at finding ways to quickly respond and adapt to environments like the human gut, known as the epicentre of antibiotic resistance. How do they do it? Combining molecular biology tools to microfluidic and fluorescence microscopy technologies, we monitor the behavior of bacteria at the single cell level in the presence of non-toxic doses of antibiotics. By tracking the chromosome dynamics of Escherichia coli cells upon antibiotic treatment, we examine the changes in the number, localization and content of the chromosome copies within one cell compartment or between adjacent cells. I will discuss how our work pictures the bacterial genomic plasticity as a driving force in evolution and how it provides access to the mechanisms controlling the subtle balance between genetic diversity and stability in the development of antibiotic resistance.

Tracing Acetylene Dissolved in Transformer Oil by Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectrum.

PubMed

Ma, Guo-Ming; Zhao, Shu-Jing; Jiang, Jun; Song, Hong-Tu; Li, Cheng-Rong; Luo, Ying-Ting; Wu, Hao

2017-11-02

Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) is widely used in monitoring and diagnosing of power transformer, since the insulation material in the power transformer decomposes gases under abnormal operation condition. Among the gases, acetylene, as a symbol of low energy spark discharge and high energy electrical faults (arc discharge) of power transformer, is an important monitoring parameter. The current gas detection method used by the online DGA equipment suffers from problems such as cross sensitivity, electromagnetic compatibility and reliability. In this paper, an optical gas detection system based on TDLAS technology is proposed to detect acetylene dissolved in transformer oil. We selected a 1530.370 nm laser in the near infrared wavelength range to correspond to the absorption peak of acetylene, while using the wavelength modulation strategy and Herriott cell to improve the detection precision. Results show that the limit of detection reaches 0.49 ppm. The detection system responds quickly to changes of gas concentration and is easily to maintenance while has no electromagnetic interference, cross-sensitivity, or carrier gas. In addition, a complete detection process of the system takes only 8 minutes, implying a practical prospect of online monitoring technology.

Label-free optical biosensor for real-time monitoring the cytotoxicity of xenobiotics: A proof of principle study on glyphosate.

PubMed

Farkas, Eniko; Szekacs, Andras; Kovacs, Boglarka; Olah, Marianna; Horvath, Robert; Szekacs, Inna

2018-06-05

Rapid and inexpensive biosensor technologies allowing real-time analysis of biomolecular and cellular events have become the basis of next-generation cell-based screening techniques. Our work opens up novel opportunities in the application of the high-throughput label-free Epic BenchTop optical biosensor in cell toxicity studies. The Epic technology records integrated cellular responses about changes in cell morphology and dynamic mass redistribution of cellular contents at the 100-150 nm layer above the sensor surface. The aim of the present study was to apply this novel technology to identify the effect of the herbicide Roundup Classic, its co-formulant polyethoxylated tallow amine (POEA), and its active ingredient glyphosate, on MC3T3-E1 cells adhered on the biosensor surface. The half maximal inhibitory concentrations of Roundup Classic, POEA and glyphosate upon 1 h of exposure were found to be 0.024%, 0.021% and 0.163% in serum-containing medium and 0.028%, 0.019% and 0.538% in serum-free conditions, respectively (at concentrations equivalent to the diluted Roundup solution). These results showed a good correlation with parallel end-point assays, demonstrating the outstanding utility of the Epic technique in cytotoxicity screening, allowing not only high-throughput, real-time detection, but also reduced assay run time and cytotoxicity assessment at end-points far before cell death would occur. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) Program: Site Characterization and Monitoring Technologies Center

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The ETV Site Characterization and Monitoring Technology Pilot is composed of EPA, DoD, DOE, other Federal agencies, state regulators, technology evaluation and verification entities, and potential end users of these technologies to facilitate independent..

Emerging Sealing Technologies Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

Under this Cooperative Agreement, the objective was to investigate several emerging sealing technologies of interest to the Mechanical Components Branch of National Aeronautics and Space Administration Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field (NASA GRC). The majority of the work conducted was to support the development of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells for application to aeronautic auxiliary power units, though technical investigations of interest to other groups and projects were also conducted. In general, accomplishments and results were periodically reported to the NASA Technical Monitor, the NASA GRC Seal Team staff, and NASA GRC project management. Several technical reports, journal articles, and presentations were given internally to NASA GRC and to the external public.

Self-assemble nanoparticles based on polypeptides containing C-terminal luminescent Pt-cysteine complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlakh, E. G.; Grachova, E. V.; Zhukovsky, D. D.; Hubina, A. V.; Mikhailova, A. S.; Shakirova, J. R.; Sharoyko, V. V.; Tunik, S. P.; Tennikova, T. B.

2017-02-01

The growing attention to the luminescent nanocarriers is strongly stimulated by their potential application as drug delivery systems and by the necessity to monitor their distribution in cells and tissues. In this communication we report on the synthesis of amphiphilic polypeptides bearing C-terminal phosphorescent label together with preparation of nanoparticles using the polypeptides obtained. The approach suggested is based on a unique and highly technological process where the new phosphorescent Pt-cysteine complex serves as initiator of the ring-opening polymerization of α-amino acid N-carboxyanhydrides to obtain the polypeptides bearing intact the platinum chromophore covalently bound to the polymer chain. It was established that the luminescent label retains unchanged its emission characteristics not only in the polypeptides but also in more complicated nanoaggregates such as the polymer derived amphiphilic block-copolymers and self-assembled nanoparticles. The phosphorescent nanoparticles display no cytotoxicity and hemolytic activity in the tested range of concentrations and easily internalize into living cells that makes possible in vivo cell visualization, including prospective application in time resolved imaging and drug delivery monitoring.

Liquid biopsy based biomarkers in non-small cell lung cancer for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

PubMed

Pérez-Callejo, David; Romero, Atocha; Provencio, Mariano; Torrente, María

2016-10-01

Advances in the knowledge of the biology of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have revealed molecular information used for systemic cancer therapy targeting metastatic disease, with an important impact on patients overall survival (OS) and quality of life. However, a biopsy of overt metastases is an invasive procedure limited to certain locations and not easily acceptable in the clinic. Moreover, a single biopsy cannot reflect the clonal heterogeneity of the tumor. The analysis of peripheral blood samples of cancer patients represents a new source of cancer-derived material, known as liquid biopsy, and its components can be obtained from almost all body fluids. These components have shown to reflect characteristics of the status of both the primary and metastatic diseases, helping the clinicians to move towards a personalized medicine. The present review focuses on the liquid biopsy components: circulating tumor cells (CTCS), circulating free DNA (cfDNA), exosomes and tumor-educated platelets (TEP); the isolation technologies used and their potential use for non-invasive screening, early diagnosis, prognosis, response to treatment and real time monitoring of the disease, in NSCLC patients.

Liquid biopsy based biomarkers in non-small cell lung cancer for diagnosis and treatment monitoring

PubMed Central

Pérez-Callejo, David; Provencio, Mariano

2016-01-01

Advances in the knowledge of the biology of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have revealed molecular information used for systemic cancer therapy targeting metastatic disease, with an important impact on patients overall survival (OS) and quality of life. However, a biopsy of overt metastases is an invasive procedure limited to certain locations and not easily acceptable in the clinic. Moreover, a single biopsy cannot reflect the clonal heterogeneity of the tumor. The analysis of peripheral blood samples of cancer patients represents a new source of cancer-derived material, known as liquid biopsy, and its components can be obtained from almost all body fluids. These components have shown to reflect characteristics of the status of both the primary and metastatic diseases, helping the clinicians to move towards a personalized medicine. The present review focuses on the liquid biopsy components: circulating tumor cells (CTCS), circulating free DNA (cfDNA), exosomes and tumor-educated platelets (TEP); the isolation technologies used and their potential use for non-invasive screening, early diagnosis, prognosis, response to treatment and real time monitoring of the disease, in NSCLC patients. PMID:27826527

Blood-based analyses of cancer: Circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells - is a new era coming?

PubMed

Okla, Karolina; Wertel, Iwona; Wawruszak, Anna; Bobiński, Marcin; Kotarski, Jan

2018-06-21

Progress in cancer treatment made by the beginning of the 21st century has shifted the paradigm from one-size-fits-all to tailor-made treatment. The popular vision, to study solid tumors through the relatively noninvasive sampling of blood, is one of the most thrilling and rapidly advancing fields in global cancer diagnostics. From this perspective, immune-cell analysis in cancer could play a pivotal role in oncology practice. This approach is driven both by rapid technological developments, including the analysis of circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells (cMDSCs), and by the increasing application of (immune) therapies, the success or failure of which may depend on effective and timely measurements of relevant biomarkers. Although the implementation of these powerful noninvasive diagnostic capabilities in guiding precision cancer treatment is poised to change the ways in which we select and monitor cancer therapy, challenges remain. Here, we discuss the challenges associated with the analysis and clinical aspects of cMDSCs and assess whether the problems in implementing tumor-evolution monitoring as a global tool in personalized oncology can be overcome.

Overview of Microbial Monitoring Technologies Considered for Use Inside Long Duration Spaceflights and Planetary Habitats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roman, M. C.; Ott, C. M.

2015-03-01

NASA has been looking at microbial monitoring technologies that could be used in long duration missions. This presentation will provide an overview of the microbial monitoring technologies that are been considered for use inside spacecrafts and planetary habitats.

Online oxygen monitoring using integrated inkjet-printed sensors in a liver-on-a-chip system.

PubMed

Moya, A; Ortega-Ribera, M; Guimerà, X; Sowade, E; Zea, M; Illa, X; Ramon, E; Villa, R; Gracia-Sancho, J; Gabriel, G

2018-06-12

The demand for real-time monitoring of cell functions and cell conditions has dramatically increased with the emergence of organ-on-a-chip (OOC) systems. However, the incorporation of co-cultures and microfluidic channels in OOC systems increases their biological complexity and therefore makes the analysis and monitoring of analytical parameters inside the device more difficult. In this work, we present an approach to integrate multiple sensors in an extremely thin, porous and delicate membrane inside a liver-on-a-chip device. Specifically, three electrochemical dissolved oxygen (DO) sensors were inkjet-printed along the microfluidic channel allowing local online monitoring of oxygen concentrations. This approach demonstrates the existence of an oxygen gradient up to 17.5% for rat hepatocytes and 32.5% for human hepatocytes along the bottom channel. Such gradients are considered crucial for the appearance of zonation of the liver. Inkjet printing (IJP) was the selected technology as it allows drop on demand material deposition compatible with delicate substrates, as used in this study, which cannot withstand temperatures higher than 130 °C. For the deposition of uniform gold and silver conductive inks on the porous membrane, a primer layer using SU-8 dielectric material was used to seal the porosity of the membrane at defined areas, with the aim of building a uniform sensor device. As a proof-of-concept, experiments with cell cultures of primary human and rat hepatocytes were performed, and oxygen consumption rate was stimulated with carbonyl-cyanide-4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenylhydrazone (FCCP), accelerating the basal respiration of 0.23 ± 0.07 nmol s-1/106 cells up to 5.95 ± 0.67 nmol s-1/106 cells s for rat cells and the basal respiration of 0.17 ± 0.10 nmol s-1/106 cells by up to 10.62 ± 1.15 nmol s-1/106 cells for human cells, with higher oxygen consumption of the cells seeded at the outflow zone. These results demonstrate that the approach of printing sensors inside an OOC has tremendous potential because IJP is a feasible technique for the integration of different sensors for evaluating metabolic activity of cells, and overcomes one of the major challenges still remaining on how to tap the full potential of OOC systems.

Magnetic domain wall conduits for single cell applications.

PubMed

Donolato, M; Torti, A; Kostesha, N; Deryabina, M; Sogne, E; Vavassori, P; Hansen, M F; Bertacco, R

2011-09-07

The ability to trap, manipulate and release single cells on a surface is important both for fundamental studies of cellular processes and for the development of novel lab-on-chip miniaturized tools for biological and medical applications. In this paper we demonstrate how magnetic domain walls generated in micro- and nano-structures fabricated on a chip surface can be used to handle single yeast cells labeled with magnetic beads. In detail, first we show that the proposed approach maintains the microorganism viable, as proven by monitoring the division of labeled yeast cells trapped by domain walls over 16 hours. Moreover, we demonstrate the controlled transport and release of individual yeast cells via displacement and annihilation of individual domain walls in micro- and nano-sized magnetic structures. These results pave the way to the implementation of magnetic devices based on domain walls technology in lab-on-chip systems devoted to accurate individual cell trapping and manipulation.

A portable cell-based impedance sensor for toxicity testing of drinking water.

PubMed

Curtis, Theresa M; Widder, Mark W; Brennan, Linda M; Schwager, Steven J; van der Schalie, William H; Fey, Julien; Salazar, Noe

2009-08-07

A major limitation to using mammalian cell-based biosensors for field testing of drinking water samples is the difficulty of maintaining cell viability and sterility without an on-site cell culture facility. This paper describes a portable automated bench-top mammalian cell-based toxicity sensor that incorporates enclosed fluidic biochips containing endothelial cells monitored by Electric Cell-substrate Impedance Sensing (ECIS) technology. Long-term maintenance of cells on the biochips is made possible by using a compact, self-contained disposable media delivery system. The toxicity sensor monitors changes in impedance of cell monolayers on the biochips after the introduction of water samples. The fluidic biochip includes an ECIS electronic layer and a polycarbonate channel layer, which together reduce initial impedance disturbances seen in commercially available open well ECIS chips caused by the mechanics of pipetting while maintaining the ability of the cells to respond to toxicants. A curve discrimination program was developed that compares impedance values over time between the control and treatment channels on the fluidic biochip and determines if they are significantly different. Toxicant responses of bovine pulmonary artery endothelial cells grown on fluidic biochips are similar to cells on commercially-available open well chips, and these cells can be maintained in the toxicity sensor device for at least nine days using an automated media delivery system. Longer-term cell storage is possible; bovine lung microvessel endothelial cells survive for up to four months on the fluidic biochips and remain responsive to a model toxicant. This is the first demonstration of a portable bench top system capable of both supporting cell health over extended periods of time and obtaining impedance measurements from endothelial cell monolayers after toxicant exposure.

Remote monitoring technologies for the prevention of metabolic syndrome: the Diabetes and Technology for Increased Activity (DaTA) study.

PubMed

Stuckey, Melanie; Fulkerson, Robyn; Read, Emily; Russell-Minda, Elizabeth; Munoz, Claudio; Kleinstiver, Peter; Petrella, Robert

2011-07-01

Remote monitoring technologies are ideally suited for rural communities with limited access to health care. In an 8-week pilot study, we examined the feasibility of implementing and conducting a technology-intensive intervention in an underserviced rural setting. Our goal was to test the utility of self-monitoring technologies, physical activity, and education as tools to manage health indicators for the development of the cardiovascular complications (CVCs) of type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes and Technology for Increased Activity study was an open single-center study conducted in a community-based research setting. All 24 participants were provided with a Blackberry™ Smartphone, blood pressure monitor, glucometer, and pedometer. Smartphones transmitted measurements and survey results to the database, interfaced participants with the clinical team, and allowed for self-monitoring. Outcomes were improved body composition, improved markers of CVC risk factors, increased daily exercise, and interest in or awareness of lifestyle changes that impact health outcomes. Participants had excellent compliance for measurements, as self-monitoring provided a sense of security that improved from week 4 to week 8. Our team gained substantial insight into the operational requirements of technology-facilitated health care, including redefined hours of service; data reporting, management, and access protocols; and the utility of real-time clinical measures by remote monitoring. We developed an understanding of knowledge translation strategies as well as successful motivational and educational tools. Importantly, remote monitoring technology was found to be feasible and accepted in a rural setting. © 2011 Diabetes Technology Society.

Smart storage technologies applied to fresh foods: A review.

PubMed

Wang, Jingyu; Zhang, Min; Gao, Zhongxue; Adhikari, Benu

2017-06-30

Fresh foods are perishable, seasonal and regional in nature and their storage, transportation, and preservation of freshness are quite challenging. Smart storage technologies can online detection and monitor the changes of quality parameters and storage environment of fresh foods during storage, so that operators can make timely adjustments to reduce the loss. This article reviews the smart storage technologies from two aspects: online detection technologies and smartly monitoring technologies for fresh foods. Online detection technologies include electronic nose, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), hyperspectral imaging and computer vision. Smartly monitoring technologies mainly include some intelligent indicators for monitoring the change of storage environment. Smart storage technologies applied to fresh foods need to be highly efficient and nondestructive and need to be competitively priced. In this work, we have critically reviewed the principles, applications, and development trends of smart storage technologies.

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

Simpson, M.L.; Sayler, G.S.

The goal of this project was the development of a family of wireless, single-chip, luminescence-sensing devices to solve a number of difficult distributed measurement problems in areas ranging from environmental monitoring and assessment to high-throughput screening of combinatorial chemistry libraries. These wireless luminescence integrated sensors (WLIS) consist of a microluminometer, wireless data transmitter, and RF power input circuit all realized in a standard integrated circuit (IC) process with genetically engineered, whole-cell, bioluminescent bioreporters encapsulated and deposited on the IC. The end product is a family of compact, low-power, rugged, low-cost sensors. As part of this program they developed an integratedmore » photodiode/signal-processing scheme with an rms noise level of 175 electrons/second for a 13-minute integration time, and a quantum efficiency of 66% at the 490-nm bioluminescent wavelength. this performance provided a detection limit of < 1000 photons/second. Although sol-gel has previously been used to encapsulate yeast cells, the reaction conditions necessary for polymerization (primarily low pH) have beforehand proven too harsh for bacterial cell immobilizations. Utilizing sonication methods, they have were able to initiate polymerization under pH conditions conductive to cell survival. both a toluene bioreporter (Pseudomonas putida TVA8) and a naphthalene bioreporter (Pseudomonas fluorescens HK44) were successfully encapsulated in sol-gel and shown to produce a fairly significant bioluminescent response. In addition to the previously developed naphthalene- and toluene-sensitive bioreporters, they developed a yeast-based xenoestrogen reporter. This technology has been licensed by Micro Systems Technologies, a startup company in Dayton, Ohio for applications in environmental containments monitoring, and for detecting weapons of mass destruction (i.e. homeland security).« less

Impact of newer self-monitoring technology and brief phone-based intervention on weight loss: A randomized pilot study.

PubMed

Ross, Kathryn M; Wing, Rena R

2016-08-01

Despite the proliferation of newer self-monitoring technology (e.g., activity monitors and smartphone apps), their impact on weight loss outside of structured in-person behavioral intervention is unknown. A randomized, controlled pilot study was conducted to examine efficacy of self-monitoring technology, with and without phone-based intervention, on 6-month weight loss in adults with overweight and obesity. Eighty participants were randomized to receive standard self-monitoring tools (ST, n = 26), technology-based self-monitoring tools (TECH, n = 27), or technology-based tools combined with phone-based intervention (TECH + PHONE, n = 27). All participants attended one introductory weight loss session and completed assessments at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Weight loss from baseline to 6 months differed significantly between groups P = 0.042; there was a trend for TECH + PHONE (-6.4 ± 1.2 kg) to lose more weight than ST (-1.3 ± 1.2 kg); weight loss in TECH (-4.1 ± 1.4 kg) was between ST and TECH + PHONE. Fewer ST (15%) achieved ≥5% weight losses compared with TECH and TECH + PHONE (44%), P = 0.039. Adherence to self-monitoring caloric intake was higher in TECH + PHONE than TECH or ST, Ps < 0.05. These results suggest use of newer self-monitoring technology plus brief phone-based intervention improves adherence and weight loss compared with traditional self-monitoring tools. Further research should determine cost-effectiveness of adding phone-based intervention when providing self-monitoring technology. © 2016 The Obesity Society.

Impact of newer self-monitoring technology and brief phone-based intervention on weight loss: a randomized pilot study

PubMed Central

Ross, Kathryn M.; Wing, Rena R.

2016-01-01

Objective Despite the proliferation of newer self-monitoring technology (e.g., activity monitors and smartphone apps), their impact on weight loss outside of structured in-person behavioral intervention is unknown. Methods A randomized, controlled pilot study was conducted to examine efficacy of self-monitoring technology, with and without phone-based intervention, on 6-month weight loss in adults with overweight and obesity. Eighty participants were randomized to receive standard self-monitoring tools (ST, n=26), technology-based self-monitoring tools (TECH, n=27), or technology-based tools combined with phone-based intervention (TECH+PHONE, n=27). All participants attended one introductory weight loss session and completed assessments at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Results Weight loss from baseline to 6 months differed significantly between groups p=.042; there was a trend for TECH+PHONE (−6.4±1.2kg) to lose more weight than ST (−1.3±1.2kg); weight loss in TECH (−4.1±1.4kg) was between ST and TECH+PHONE. Fewer ST (15%) achieved ≥5% weight losses compared to TECH and TECH+PHONE (44%), p=.039. Adherence to self-monitoring caloric intake was higher in TECH+PHONE than TECH or ST, ps<.05. Conclusion These results suggest use of newer self-monitoring technology plus brief phone-based intervention improves adherence and weight loss compared to traditional self-monitoring tools. Further research should determine cost-effectiveness of adding phone-based intervention when providing self-monitoring technology. PMID:27367614

Analysis of Land Subsidence Monitoring in Mining Area with Time-Series Insar Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, N.; Wang, Y. J.

2018-04-01

Time-series InSAR technology has become a popular land subsidence monitoring method in recent years, because of its advantages such as high accuracy, wide area, low expenditure, intensive monitoring points and free from accessibility restrictions. In this paper, we applied two kinds of satellite data, ALOS PALSAR and RADARSAT-2, to get the subsidence monitoring results of the study area in two time periods by time-series InSAR technology. By analyzing the deformation range, rate and amount, the time-series analysis of land subsidence in mining area was realized. The results show that InSAR technology could be used to monitor land subsidence in large area and meet the demand of subsidence monitoring in mining area.

Brainwave Monitoring Software Improves Distracted Minds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2014-01-01

Neurofeedback technology developed at Langley Research Center to monitor pilot awareness inspired Peter Freer to develop software for improving student performance. His company, Fletcher, North Carolina-based Unique Logic and Technology Inc., has gone on to develop technology for improving workplace and sports performance, monitoring drowsiness, and encouraging relaxation.

Sensor Technologies on Flexible Substrates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koehne, Jessica

2016-01-01

NASA Ames has developed sensor technologies on flexible substrates integrated into textiles for personalized environment monitoring and human performance evaluation. Current technologies include chemical sensing for gas leak and event monitoring and biological sensors for human health and performance monitoring. Targeted integration include next generation EVA suits and flexible habitats.

Characterization monitoring & sensor technology crosscutting program

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

NONE

1996-08-01

The purpose of the Characterization, Monitoring, and Sensor Technology Crosscutting Program (CMST-CP) is to deliver appropriate characterization, monitoring, and sensor technology (CMST) to the OFfice of Waste Management (EM-30), the Office of Environmental Restoration (EM-40), and the Office of Facility Transition and Management (EM-60).

Characterizing Esophageal Cancerous Cells at Different Stages Using the Dielectrophoretic Impedance Measurement Method in a Microchip.

PubMed

Wang, Hsiang-Chen; Nguyen, Ngoc-Viet; Lin, Rui-Yi; Jen, Chun-Ping

2017-05-06

Analysis of cancerous cells allows us to provide useful information for the early diagnosis of cancer and to monitor treatment progress. An approach based on electrical principles has recently become an attractive technique. This study presents a microdevice that utilizes a dielectrophoretic impedance measurement method for the identification of cancerous cells. The proposed biochip consists of circle-on-line microelectrodes that are patterned using a standard microfabrication processes. A sample of various cell concentrations was introduced in an open-top microchamber. The target cells were collectively concentrated between the microelectrodes using dielectrophoresis manipulation, and their electrical impedance properties were also measured. Different stages of human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma lines could be distinguished. This result is consistent with findings using hyperspectral imaging technology. Moreover, it was observed that the distinguishing characteristics change in response to the progression of cancer cell invasiveness by Raman spectroscopy. The device enables highly efficient cell collection and provides rapid, sensitive, and label-free electrical measurements of cancerous cells.

Real-Time Monitoring of Critical Care Analytes in the Bloodstream with Chemical Sensors: Progress and Challenges.

PubMed

Frost, Megan C; Meyerhoff, Mark E

2015-01-01

We review approaches and challenges in developing chemical sensor-based methods to accurately and continuously monitor levels of key analytes in blood related directly to the status of critically ill hospitalized patients. Electrochemical and optical sensor-based technologies have been pursued to measure important critical care species in blood [i.e., oxygen, carbon dioxide, pH, electrolytes (K(+), Na(+), Cl(-), etc.), glucose, and lactate] in real-time or near real-time. The two main configurations examined to date for achieving this goal have been intravascular catheter sensors and patient attached ex vivo sensors with intermittent blood sampling via an attached indwelling catheter. We discuss the status of these configurations and the main issues affecting the accuracy of the measurements, including cell adhesion and thrombus formation on the surface of the sensors, sensor drift, sensor selectivity, etc. Recent approaches to mitigate these nagging performance issues that have prevented these technologies from clinical use are also discussed.

U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION (ETV) PROGRAM: ARSENIC MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) program evaluates the performance of innovative air, water, pollution prevention and monitoring technologies that have the potential to improve human health and the environment. This technology ...

Microfluidic analysis of oocyte and embryo biomechanical properties to improve outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies.

PubMed

Yanez, Livia Z; Camarillo, David B

2017-04-01

Measurement of oocyte and embryo biomechanical properties has recently emerged as an exciting new approach to obtain a quantitative, objective estimate of developmental potential. However, many traditional methods for probing cell mechanical properties are time consuming, labor intensive and require expensive equipment. Microfluidic technology is currently making its way into many aspects of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and is particularly well suited to measure embryo biomechanics due to the potential for robust, automated single-cell analysis at a low cost. This review will highlight microfluidic approaches to measure oocyte and embryo mechanics along with their ability to predict developmental potential and find practical application in the clinic. Although these new devices must be extensively validated before they can be integrated into the existing clinical workflow, they could eventually be used to constantly monitor oocyte and embryo developmental progress and enable more optimal decision making in ART. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION REPORT, KMC CONTROLS, INC. SLE-1001 SIGHT GLASS MONITOR

EPA Science Inventory

The Environmental Technology Verification report discusses the technology and performance of the KMC SLE-1001 Sight Glass Monitor manufactured by KMC Controls, Inc. The sight glass monitor (SGM) fits over the sight glass that may be installed in a refrigeration system for the pur...

Education technology with continuous real time monitoring of the current functional and emotional students' states

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alyushin, M. V.; Kolobashkina, L. V.

2017-01-01

The education technology with continuous monitoring of the current functional and emotional students' states is suggested. The application of this technology allows one to increase the effectiveness of practice through informed planning of the training load. For monitoring the current functional and emotional students' states non-contact remote technologies of person bioparameters registration are encouraged to use. These technologies are based on recording and processing in real time the main person bioparameters in a purely passive mode. Experimental testing of this technology has confirmed its effectiveness.

Measurement of Walking Ground Reactions in Real-Life Environments: A Systematic Review of Techniques and Technologies.

PubMed

Shahabpoor, Erfan; Pavic, Aleksandar

2017-09-12

Monitoring natural human gait in real-life environments is essential in many applications, including quantification of disease progression, monitoring the effects of treatment, and monitoring alteration of performance biomarkers in professional sports. Nevertheless, developing reliable and practical techniques and technologies necessary for continuous real-life monitoring of gait is still an open challenge. A systematic review of English-language articles from scientific databases including Scopus, ScienceDirect, Pubmed, IEEE Xplore, EBSCO and MEDLINE were carried out to analyse the 'accuracy' and 'practicality' of the current techniques and technologies for quantitative measurement of the tri-axial walking ground reactions outside the laboratory environment, and to highlight their strengths and shortcomings. In total, 679 relevant abstracts were identified, 54 full-text papers were included in the paper and the quantitative results of 17 papers were used for meta-analysis and comparison. Three classes of methods were reviewed: (1) methods based on measured kinematic data; (2) methods based on measured plantar pressure; and (3) methods based on direct measurement of ground reactions. It was found that all three classes of methods have competitive accuracy levels with methods based on direct measurement of the ground reactions showing highest accuracy while being least practical for long-term real-life measurement. On the other hand, methods that estimate ground reactions using measured body kinematics show highest practicality of the three classes of methods reviewed. Among the most prominent technical and technological challenges are: (1) reducing the size and price of tri-axial load-cells; (2) improving the accuracy of orientation measurement using IMUs; (3) minimizing the number and optimizing the location of required IMUs for kinematic measurement; (4) increasing the durability of pressure insole sensors, and (5) enhancing the robustness and versatility of the ground reactions estimation methods to include pathological gaits and natural variability of gait in real-life physical environment.

Measurement of Walking Ground Reactions in Real-Life Environments: A Systematic Review of Techniques and Technologies

PubMed Central

Shahabpoor, Erfan; Pavic, Aleksandar

2017-01-01

Monitoring natural human gait in real-life environments is essential in many applications, including quantification of disease progression, monitoring the effects of treatment, and monitoring alteration of performance biomarkers in professional sports. Nevertheless, developing reliable and practical techniques and technologies necessary for continuous real-life monitoring of gait is still an open challenge. A systematic review of English-language articles from scientific databases including Scopus, ScienceDirect, Pubmed, IEEE Xplore, EBSCO and MEDLINE were carried out to analyse the ‘accuracy’ and ‘practicality’ of the current techniques and technologies for quantitative measurement of the tri-axial walking ground reactions outside the laboratory environment, and to highlight their strengths and shortcomings. In total, 679 relevant abstracts were identified, 54 full-text papers were included in the paper and the quantitative results of 17 papers were used for meta-analysis and comparison. Three classes of methods were reviewed: (1) methods based on measured kinematic data; (2) methods based on measured plantar pressure; and (3) methods based on direct measurement of ground reactions. It was found that all three classes of methods have competitive accuracy levels with methods based on direct measurement of the ground reactions showing highest accuracy while being least practical for long-term real-life measurement. On the other hand, methods that estimate ground reactions using measured body kinematics show highest practicality of the three classes of methods reviewed. Among the most prominent technical and technological challenges are: (1) reducing the size and price of tri-axial load-cells; (2) improving the accuracy of orientation measurement using IMUs; (3) minimizing the number and optimizing the location of required IMUs for kinematic measurement; (4) increasing the durability of pressure insole sensors, and (5) enhancing the robustness and versatility of the ground reactions estimation methods to include pathological gaits and natural variability of gait in real-life physical environment. PMID:28895909

Remote Monitoring of Pain & Symptoms using Wireless Technology in Children & Adolescents with Sickle Cell Disease

PubMed Central

Jacob, Eufemia; Duran, Joana; Stinson, Jennifer; Lewis, Mary Ann; Zeltzer, Lonnie

2012-01-01

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine 1) symptoms; 2) pain characteristics (intensity, location, quality); 3) pain medications and nonpharmacological strategies used for pain; 4) thoughts and feelings; and 5) health care visits. We also examined the relationship between pain and sleep. Data Sources Pain and symptoms were entered on an electronic e-Diary using a smartphone and were remotely monitored by an advanced practice registered nurse. Sixty-seven children and adolescents (10 to 17 years) reported mild to severe pain at home that did not require health care visits. Symptoms reported were: 1) general symptoms such as tiredness/fatigue (34.7%), headache (20.8%), yellowing of the eyes (28.4%); 2) respiratory symptoms such as sniffling (32.9%), coughing (19.1%), changes in breathing (10.0%); and 3) musculoskeletal symptoms such as stiffness in joints (15.8%). A significant negative correlation was found between pain and sleep (r = −0.387, p=0.024). Factors that predict pain included previous history of SCD related events, symptoms, and negative thoughts. Conclusion Pain and multiple symptoms entered on a web-based e-Diary were remotely monitored by an APRN and prompted communications, further evaluation, and recommendations. Implications for Practice Remote monitoring using wireless technology may facilitate timely management of pain and symptoms and minimize negative consequences in SCD. PMID:23279278

Identification of nasopharyngeal carcinoma from photoluminescence spectra of 3C-SiC nanocrystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Li-Fen; Guo, Jun-Hong; Huang, Zhi-Chun; Gu, Jian-Sen; Feng, Li-Ren; Liu, Li-Zhe

2017-09-01

The identification of intracellular pH (pHi) during carcinogenesis progression plays a crucial role in the studies of biochemistry, cytology, and clinical medicine. In this work, 3C-SiC nanocrystals (NCs), which can effectively monitor the pH environment by using the linear relation between photoluminescence intensity and surface OH- and H+ concentration, are adapted as fluorescent probes for monitoring carcinogenesis progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Our results demonstrated that 3C-SiC NCs are compatible with living cells and have low cytotoxicity. The pHi measurements in different carcinogenesis environments indicate the validity and sensitivity of this technology in identifying nasopharyngeal carcinoma in application.

Comparison of radon doses based on different radon monitoring approaches.

PubMed

Vaupotič, Janja; Smrekar, Nataša; Žunić, Zora S

2017-04-01

In 43 places (23 schools, 3 kindergartens, 16 offices and one dwelling), indoor radon has been monitored as an intercomparison experiment, using α-scintillation cells (SC - Jožef Stefan Institute, Slovenia), various kinds of solid state nuclear track detectors (KfK - Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany; UFO - National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba, Japan; RET - University College Dublin, Ireland) and active electronic devices (EQF, Sarad, Germany). At the same place, the radon levels and, consequently, the effective doses obtained with different radon devices differed substantially (by a factor of 2 or more), and no regularity was observed as regards which detector would show a higher or lower dose. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biomedical Monitoring By A Novel Noncontact Radio Frequency Technology Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oliva-Buisson, Yvette J. (Compiler)

2014-01-01

The area of Space Health and Medicine is one of the NASA's Space Technology Grand Challenges. Space is an extreme environment which is not conducive to human life. The extraterrestrial environment can result in the deconditioning of various human physiological systems and thus require easy to use physiological monitoring technologies in order to better monitor space crews for appropriate health management and successful space missions and space operations. Furthermore, the Space Technology Roadmap's Technology Area Breakdown Structure calls for improvements in research to support human health and performance (Technology Area 06). To address these needs, this project investigated a potential noncontact and noninvasive radio frequency-based technique of monitoring central hemodynamic function in human research subjects in response to orthostatic stress.

Detection and Characterization of Circulating Tumor Associated Cells in Metastatic Breast Cancer.

PubMed

Mu, Zhaomei; Benali-Furet, Naoual; Uzan, Georges; Znaty, Anaëlle; Ye, Zhong; Paolillo, Carmela; Wang, Chun; Austin, Laura; Rossi, Giovanna; Fortina, Paolo; Yang, Hushan; Cristofanilli, Massimo

2016-09-30

The availability of blood-based diagnostic testing using a non-invasive technique holds promise for real-time monitoring of disease progression and treatment selection. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been used as a prognostic biomarker for the metastatic breast cancer (MBC). The molecular characterization of CTCs is fundamental to the phenotypic identification of malignant cells and description of the relevant genetic alterations that may change according to disease progression and therapy resistance. However, the molecular characterization of CTCs remains a challenge because of the rarity and heterogeneity of CTCs and technological difficulties in the enrichment, isolation and molecular characterization of CTCs. In this pilot study, we evaluated circulating tumor associated cells in one blood draw by size exclusion technology and cytological analysis. Among 30 prospectively enrolled MBC patients, CTCs, circulating tumor cell clusters (CTC clusters), CTCs of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer associated macrophage-like cells (CAMLs) were detected and analyzed. For molecular characterization of CTCs, size-exclusion method for CTC enrichment was tested in combination with DEPArray™ technology, which allows the recovery of single CTCs or pools of CTCs as a pure CTC sample for mutation analysis. Genomic mutations of TP53 and ESR1 were analyzed by targeted sequencing on isolated 7 CTCs from a patient with MBC. The results of genomic analysis showed heterozygous TP53 R248W mutation from one single CTC and pools of three CTCs, and homozygous TP53 R248W mutation from one single CTC and pools of two CTCs. Wild-type ESR1 was detected in the same isolated CTCs. The results of this study reveal that size-exclusion method can be used to enrich and identify circulating tumor associated cells, and enriched CTCs were characterized for genetic alterations in MBC patients, respectively.

Photovoltaic Cells Mppt Algorithm and Design of Controller Monitoring System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meng, X. Z.; Feng, H. B.

2017-10-01

This paper combined the advantages of each maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm, put forward a kind of algorithm with higher speed and higher precision, based on this algorithm designed a maximum power point tracking controller with ARM. The controller, communication technology and PC software formed a control system. Results of the simulation and experiment showed that the process of maximum power tracking was effective, and the system was stable.

Noncontacting measurement technologies for space propulsion condition monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Randall, M. R.; Barkhoudarian, S.; Collins, J. J.; Schwartzbart, A.

1987-01-01

This paper describes four noncontacting measurement technologies that can be used in a turbopump condition monitoring system. The isotope wear analyzer, fiberoptic deflectometer, brushless torque-meter, and fiberoptic pyrometer can be used to monitor component wear, bearing degradation, instantaneous shaft torque, and turbine blade cracking, respectively. A complete turbopump condition monitoring system including these four technologies could predict remaining component life, thus reducing engine operating costs and increasing reliability.

Smartphones for cell and biomolecular detection.

PubMed

Liu, Xiyuan; Lin, Tung-Yi; Lillehoj, Peter B

2014-11-01

Recent advances in biomedical science and technology have played a significant role in the development of new sensors and assays for cell and biomolecular detection. Generally, these efforts are aimed at reducing the complexity and costs associated with diagnostic testing so that it can be performed outside of a laboratory or hospital setting, requiring minimal equipment and user involvement. In particular, point-of-care (POC) testing offers immense potential for many important applications including medical diagnosis, environmental monitoring, food safety, and biosecurity. When coupled with smartphones, POC systems can offer portability, ease of use and enhanced functionality while maintaining performance. This review article focuses on recent advancements and developments in smartphone-based POC systems within the last 6 years with an emphasis on cell and biomolecular detection. These devices typically comprise multiple components, such as detectors, sample processors, disposable chips, batteries, and software, which are integrated with a commercial smartphone. One of the most important aspects of developing these systems is the integration of these components onto a compact and lightweight platform that requires minimal power. Researchers have demonstrated several promising approaches employing various detection schemes and device configurations, and it is expected that further developments in biosensors, battery technology and miniaturized electronics will enable smartphone-based POC technologies to become more mainstream tools in the scientific and biomedical communities.

Demonstration of innovative monitoring technologies at the Savannah River Integrated Demonstration Site

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

Rossabi, J.; Jenkins, R.A.; Wise, M.B.

1993-12-31

The Department of Energy`s Office of Technology Development initiated an Integrated Demonstration Program at the Savannah River Site in 1989. The objective of this program is to develop, demonstrate, and evaluate innovative technologies that can improve present-day environmental restoration methods. The Integrated Demonstration Program at SRS is entitled ``Cleanup of Organics in Soils and Groundwater at Non-Arid Sites.`` New technologies in the areas of drilling, characterization, monitoring, and remediation are being demonstrated and evaluated for their technical performance and cost effectiveness in comparison with baseline technologies. Present site characterization and monitoring methods are costly, time-consuming, overly invasive, and often imprecise.more » Better technologies are required to accurately describe the subsurface geophysical and geochemical features of a site and the nature and extent of contamination. More efficient, nonintrusive characterization and monitoring techniques are necessary for understanding and predicting subsurface transport. More reliable procedures are also needed for interpreting monitoring and characterization data. Site characterization and monitoring are key elements in preventing, identifying, and restoring contaminated sites. The remediation of a site cannot be determined without characterization data, and monitoring may be required for 30 years after site closure.« less

Our Fat Future: Translating Adipose Stem Cell Therapy.

PubMed

Nordberg, Rachel C; Loboa, Elizabeth G

2015-09-01

Human adipose stem cells (hASCs) have the potential to treat patients with a variety of clinical conditions. Recent advancements in translational research, regulatory policy, and industry have positioned hASCs on the threshold of clinical translation. We discuss the progress and challenges of bringing adipose stem cell therapy into mainstream clinical use. This article details the advances made in recent years that have helped move human adipose stem cell therapy toward mainstream clinical use from a translational research, regulatory policy, and industrial standpoint. Four recurrent themes in translational technology as they pertain to human adipose stem cells are discussed: automated closed-system operations, biosensors and real-time monitoring, biomimetics, and rapid manufacturing. In light of recent FDA guidance documents, regulatory concerns about adipose stem cell therapy are discussed. Finally, an update is provided on the current state of clinical trials and the emerging industry that uses human adipose stem cells. This article is expected to stimulate future studies in translational adipose stem cell research. ©AlphaMed Press.

Space Biosensor Systems: Implications for Technology Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hines, J. W.; Somps, C. J.; Madou, M.; Imprescia, Clifford C. (Technical Monitor)

1997-01-01

To meet the need for continuous, automated monitoring of animal subjects, including; humans, during space flight, NASA is developing advanced physiologic sensor and biotelemetry system technologies. The ability to continuously track basic physiological parameters, such as heart rate, blood pH, and body temperature, in untethered subjects in space is a challenging task. At NASA's Ames Research Center, where a key focus is gravitational biology research, engineers have teamed with life scientists to develop wireless sensor systems for automated physiologic monitoring of animal models as small as the rat. This technology is also being adapted, in collaboration with medical professionals, to meet human clinical monitoring needs both in space and on the ground. Thus, these advanced monitoring technologies have important dual-use functions; they meet space flight data collection requirements and constraints, while concurrently addressing a number of monitoring and data acquisition challenges on the ground in areas of clinical monitoring and biomedical research. Additional applications for these and related technologies are being sought and additional partnerships established that enhance development efforts, reduce costs and facilitate technology infusion between the public and private sectors. This paper describes technology transfer and co-development projects that have evolved out of NASA's miniaturized, implantable chemical sensor development efforts.

Remote Monitoring Technologies for the Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome: The Diabetes and Technology for Increased Activity (DaTA) Study

PubMed Central

Stuckey, Melanie; Fulkerson, Robyn; Read, Emily; Russell-Minda, Elizabeth; Munoz, Claudio; Kleinstiver, Peter; Petrella, Robert

2011-01-01

Objectives Remote monitoring technologies are ideally suited for rural communities with limited access to health care. In an 8-week pilot study, we examined the feasibility of implementing and conducting a technology-intensive intervention in an underserviced rural setting. Our goal was to test the utility of self-monitoring technologies, physical activity, and education as tools to manage health indicators for the development of the cardiovascular complications (CVCs) of type 2 diabetes. Research Design and Methods The Diabetes and Technology for Increased Activity study was an open single-center study conducted in a community-based research setting. All 24 participants were provided with a Blackberry™ Smartphone, blood pressure monitor, glucometer, and pedometer. Smartphones transmitted measurements and survey results to the database, interfaced participants with the clinical team, and allowed for self-monitoring. Results Outcomes were improved body composition, improved markers of CVC risk factors, increased daily exercise, and interest in or awareness of lifestyle changes that impact health outcomes. Participants had excellent compliance for measurements, as self-monitoring provided a sense of security that improved from week 4 to week 8. Conclusions Our team gained substantial insight into the operational requirements of technology-facilitated health care, including redefined hours of service; data reporting, management, and access protocols; and the utility of real-time clinical measures by remote monitoring. We developed an understanding of knowledge translation strategies as well as successful motivational and educational tools. Importantly, remote monitoring technology was found to be feasible and accepted in a rural setting. PMID:21880237

Neural Cell Chip Based Electrochemical Detection of Nanotoxicity

PubMed Central

Kafi, Md. Abdul; Cho, Hyeon-Yeol; Choi, Jeong Woo

2015-01-01

Development of a rapid, sensitive and cost-effective method for toxicity assessment of commonly used nanoparticles is urgently needed for the sustainable development of nanotechnology. A neural cell with high sensitivity and conductivity has become a potential candidate for a cell chip to investigate toxicity of environmental influences. A neural cell immobilized on a conductive surface has become a potential tool for the assessment of nanotoxicity based on electrochemical methods. The effective electrochemical monitoring largely depends on the adequate attachment of a neural cell on the chip surfaces. Recently, establishment of integrin receptor specific ligand molecules arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) or its several modifications RGD-Multi Armed Peptide terminated with cysteine (RGD-MAP-C), C(RGD)4 ensure farm attachment of neural cell on the electrode surfaces either in their two dimensional (dot) or three dimensional (rod or pillar) like nano-scale arrangement. A three dimensional RGD modified electrode surface has been proven to be more suitable for cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation as well as electrochemical measurement. This review discusses fabrication as well as electrochemical measurements of neural cell chip with particular emphasis on their use for nanotoxicity assessments sequentially since inception to date. Successful monitoring of quantum dot (QD), graphene oxide (GO) and cosmetic compound toxicity using the newly developed neural cell chip were discussed here as a case study. This review recommended that a neural cell chip established on a nanostructured ligand modified conductive surface can be a potential tool for the toxicity assessments of newly developed nanomaterials prior to their use on biology or biomedical technologies. PMID:28347059

Application of near field communication for health monitoring in daily life.

PubMed

Strömmer, Esko; Kaartinen, Jouni; Pärkkä, Juha; Ylisaukko-Oja, Arto; Korhonen, Ilkka

2006-01-01

We study the possibility of applying an emerging RFID-based communication technology, NFC (Near Field Communication), to health monitoring. We suggest that NFC is, compared to other competing technologies, a high-potential technology for short-range connectivity between health monitoring devices and mobile terminals. We propose practices to apply NFC to some health monitoring applications and study the benefits that are attainable with NFC. We compare NFC to other short-range communication technologies such as Bluetooth and IrDA, and study the possibility of improving the usability of health monitoring devices with NFC. We also introduce a research platform for technical evaluation, applicability study and application demonstrations of NFC.

Luciferase reporter assay in Drosophila and mammalian tissue culture cells

PubMed Central

Yun, Chi

2014-01-01

Luciferase reporter gene assays are one of the most common methods for monitoring gene activity. Because of their sensitivity, dynamic range, and lack of endogenous activity, luciferase assays have been particularly useful for functional genomics in cell-based assays, such as RNAi screening. This unit describes delivery of two luciferase reporters with other nucleic acids (siRNA /dsRNA), measurement of the dual luciferase activities, and analysis of data generated. The systematic query of gene function (RNAi) combined with the advances in luminescent technology have made it possible to design powerful whole genome screens to address diverse and significant biological questions. PMID:24652620

Electrodialytic 2-compartment cells for emerging organic contaminants removal from effluent.

PubMed

Ferreira, Ana Rita; Couto, Nazaré; Guedes, Paula; Pinto, Joana; Mateus, Eduardo P; Ribeiro, Alexandra B

2018-04-27

The present work discusses the efficiency of the electrodialytic (ED) process to remove emerging organic contaminants (EOCs) from effluent. The ED process was carried out in a cell of two-compartments (2 C-cell) with effluent in either the anode or cathode compartment, separated from the electrolyte compartment through an anion or a cation exchange membrane (AEM and CEM, respectively). As effluent destination might be soil irrigation, and having in mind the nutrient recycling, phosphorus was also monitored in the process. The ED removals showed to be dependent of EOCs characteristics and cell design. Removals were higher when using an AEM (60-72%) than a CEM (8-63%), except for caffeine when the effluent was placed in the cathode, that did not show any removal. When using an AEM with the effluent placed in the anode compartment, all the EOCs (including caffeine) were removed between 57-72%, mainly through electrodegradation phenomena. Regarding phosphorus, a polarity switch may be done to a 2 C-cell with a AEM, depending on the effluent final use. This technology is still in its first steps and, in both cases, further optimization of ED parameters is needed. Still, this technological innovation and cross-cutting research envisages the promotion of economic, social and environmental benefits. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

History of technology in the intensive care unit.

PubMed

Puri, Nitin; Puri, Vinod; Dellinger, R P

2009-01-01

Critical care medicine is a young specialty and since its inception has been heavily reliant upon technology. Invasive monitoring has its humble beginnings in the continuous monitoring of heart rate and rhythm. From the development of right heart catheterization to the adaption of the echocardiogram for use in shock, intensivists have used technology to monitor hemodynamics. The care of the critically ill has been buoyed by investigators who sought to offer renal replacement therapy to unstable patients and worked to improve the monitoring of oxygen saturation. The evolution of mechanical ventilation for the critically ill embodies innumerable technological advances. More recently, critical care has insisted upon rigorous testing and cost-benefit analysis of technological advances.

Technology platforms for remote monitoring of vital signs in the new era of telemedicine.

PubMed

Zhao, Fang; Li, Meng; Tsien, Joe Z

2015-07-01

Driven by healthcare cost and home healthcare need, the development of remote monitoring technologies is poised to improve and revolutionize healthcare delivery and accessibility. This paper reviews the recent progress in the field of remote monitoring technologies that may have the potential to become the basic platforms for telemedicine. In particular, key techniques and devices for monitoring cardiorespiratory activity, blood pressure and blood glucose concentration are summarized and discussed. In addition, the US FDA approved remote vital signs monitoring devices currently available on the market are presented.

Growing Arabidopsis in vitro: cell suspensions, in vitro culture, and regeneration.

PubMed

Barkla, Bronwyn J; Vera-Estrella, Rosario; Pantoja, Omar

2014-01-01

An understanding of basic methods in Arabidopsis tissue culture is beneficial for any laboratory working on this model plant. Tissue culture refers to the aseptic growth of cells, organs, or plants in a controlled environment, in which physical, nutrient, and hormonal conditions can all be easily manipulated and monitored. The methodology facilitates the production of a large number of plants that are genetically identical over a relatively short growth period. Techniques, including callus production, cell suspension cultures, and plant regeneration, are all indispensable tools for the study of cellular biochemical and molecular processes. Plant regeneration is a key technology for successful stable plant transformation, while cell suspension cultures can be exploited for metabolite profiling and mining. In this chapter we report methods for the successful and highly efficient in vitro regeneration of plants and production of stable cell suspension lines from leaf explants of both Arabidopsis thaliana and Arabidopsis halleri.

On-chip enzymatic microbiofuel cell-powered integrated circuits.

PubMed

Mark, Andrew G; Suraniti, Emmanuel; Roche, Jérôme; Richter, Harald; Kuhn, Alexander; Mano, Nicolas; Fischer, Peer

2017-05-16

A variety of diagnostic and therapeutic medical technologies rely on long term implantation of an electronic device to monitor or regulate a patient's condition. One proposed approach to powering these devices is to use a biofuel cell to convert the chemical energy from blood nutrients into electrical current to supply the electronics. We present here an enzymatic microbiofuel cell whose electrodes are directly integrated into a digital electronic circuit. Glucose oxidizing and oxygen reducing enzymes are immobilized on microelectrodes of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) using redox hydrogels to produce an enzymatic biofuel cell, capable of harvesting electrical power from just a single droplet of 5 mM glucose solution. Optimisation of the fuel cell voltage and power to match the requirements of the electronics allow self-powered operation of the on-board digital circuitry. This study represents a step towards implantable self-powered electronic devices that gather their energy from physiological fluids.

NASA's contributions to patient monitoring, appendix

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, D. M.; Siemens, W. D.

1971-01-01

Health care problems, and markets for patient monitoring equipment are discussed along with contributions to all phases of patient monitoring, and technology transfer to nonaerospace problems. Health care medical requirements, and NASA achievements in patient monitoring are described, and a summary of the technology transfer is included.

Sensors for High Frequency monitoring of cyanoHABs and cyanotoxin production

EPA Science Inventory

The use of sensors in environmental monitoring is an area of constant evolution. As monitoring needs present themselves, technology development follows. Here, the use of high frequency data to monitor and predict HABs is presented illustrating the successful use of technology a...

Integrated structural health monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farrar, Charles R.; Sohn, Hoon; Fugate, Michael L.; Czarnecki, Jerry J.

2001-07-01

Structural health monitoring is the implementation of a damage detection strategy for aerospace, civil and mechanical engineering infrastructure. Typical damage experienced by this infrastructure might be the development of fatigue cracks, degradation of structural connections, or bearing wear in rotating machinery. The goal of the research effort reported herein is to develop a robust and cost-effective structural health monitoring solution by integrating and extending technologies from various engineering and information technology disciplines. It is the author's opinion that all structural health monitoring systems must be application specific. Therefore, a specific application, monitoring welded moment resisting steel frame connections in structures subjected to seismic excitation, is described along with the motivation for choosing this application. The structural health monitoring solution for this application will integrate structural dynamics, wireless data acquisition, local actuation, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology, and statistical pattern recognition algorithms. The proposed system is based on an assessment of the deficiencies associated with many current structural health monitoring technologies including past efforts by the authors. This paper provides an example of the integrated approach to structural health monitoring being undertaken at Los Alamos National Laboratory and summarizes progress to date on various aspects of the technology development.

Problems, pitfalls and probes: Welcome to the jungle of electrochemical noise technology

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

Edgemon, G.L.

1998-02-19

The rise in electrochemical noise (EN) as a corrosion monitoring technique has resulted in unique problems associated with the field application of this method. Many issues relate to the design of the EN probe electrodes. The ability of an electrochemical noise monitoring system to identify and discriminate between localized corrosion mechanisms is related primarily to the capability of the probe to separate the corrosion cell anode from the corresponding cathode. Effectiveness of this separation is largely determined by the details of and the proper design of the probe that is in the environment of interest. No single probe design ormore » geometry can be effectively use in every situation to monitor all types of corrosion. In this paper the authors focus on a case study and probe development history related to monitoring corrosion in an extremely hostile environment using EN. While the ultimate application of EN was and continues to be successful, the case study shows that patience and persistence was necessary to meet and properly implement the monitoring program. Other possible source of problems and frustration with implementing EN are also discussed.« less

Whole organism high content screening identifies stimulators of pancreatic beta-cell proliferation.

PubMed

Tsuji, Naoki; Ninov, Nikolay; Delawary, Mina; Osman, Sahar; Roh, Alex S; Gut, Philipp; Stainier, Didier Y R

2014-01-01

Inducing beta-cell mass expansion in diabetic patients with the aim to restore glucose homeostasis is a promising therapeutic strategy. Although several in vitro studies have been carried out to identify modulators of beta-cell mass expansion, restoring endogenous beta-cell mass in vivo has yet to be achieved. To identify potential stimulators of beta-cell replication in vivo, we established transgenic zebrafish lines that monitor and allow the quantification of cell proliferation by using the fluorescent ubiquitylation-based cell cycle indicator (FUCCI) technology. Using these new reagents, we performed an unbiased chemical screen, and identified 20 small molecules that markedly increased beta-cell proliferation in vivo. Importantly, these structurally distinct molecules, which include clinically-approved drugs, modulate three specific signaling pathways: serotonin, retinoic acid and glucocorticoids, showing the high sensitivity and robustness of our screen. Notably, two drug classes, retinoic acid and glucocorticoids, also promoted beta-cell regeneration after beta-cell ablation. Thus, this study establishes a proof of principle for a high-throughput small molecule-screen for beta-cell proliferation in vivo, and identified compounds that stimulate beta-cell proliferation and regeneration.

On-chip Magnetic Separation and Cell Encapsulation in Droplets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, A.; Byvank, T.; Bharde, A.; Miller, B. L.; Chalmers, J. J.; Sooryakumar, R.; Chang, W.-J.; Bashir, R.

2012-02-01

The demand for high-throughput single cell assays is gaining importance because of the heterogeneity of many cell suspensions, even after significant initial sorting. These suspensions may display cell-to-cell variability at the gene expression level that could impact single cell functional genomics, cancer, stem-cell research and drug screening. The on-chip monitoring of individual cells in an isolated environment could prevent cross-contamination, provide high recovery yield and ability to study biological traits at a single cell level These advantages of on-chip biological experiments contrast to conventional methods, which require bulk samples that provide only averaged information on cell metabolism. We report on a device that integrates microfluidic technology with a magnetic tweezers array to combine the functionality of separation and encapsulation of objects such as immunomagnetically labeled cells or magnetic beads into pico-liter droplets on the same chip. The ability to control the separation throughput that is independent of the hydrodynamic droplet generation rate allows the encapsulation efficiency to be optimized. The device can potentially be integrated with on-chip labeling and/or bio-detection to become a powerful single-cell analysis device.

Tracing the fate of limbal epithelial progenitor cells in the murine cornea.

PubMed

Di Girolamo, N; Bobba, S; Raviraj, V; Delic, N C; Slapetova, I; Nicovich, P R; Halliday, G M; Wakefield, D; Whan, R; Lyons, J G

2015-01-01

Stem cell (SC) division, deployment, and differentiation are processes that contribute to corneal epithelial renewal. Until now studying the destiny of these cells in a living mammal has not been possible. However, the advent of inducible multicolor genetic tagging and powerful imaging technologies has rendered this achievable in the translucent and readily accessible murine cornea. K14CreER(T2)-Confetti mice that harbor two copies of the Brainbow 2.1 cassette, yielding up to 10 colors from the stochastic recombination of fluorescent proteins, were used to monitor K-14(+) progenitor cell dynamics within the corneal epithelium in live animals. Multicolored columns of cells emerged from the basal limbal epithelium as they expanded and migrated linearly at a rate of 10.8 µm/day toward the central cornea. Moreover, the permanent expression of fluorophores, passed on from progenitor to progeny, assisted in discriminating individual clones as spectrally distinct streaks containing more than 1,000 cells within the illuminated area. The centripetal clonal expansion is suggestive that a single progenitor cell is responsible for maintaining a narrow corridor of corneal epithelial cells. Our data are in agreement with the limbus as the repository for SC as opposed to SC being distributed throughout the central cornea. This is the first report describing stem/progenitor cell fate determination in the murine cornea using multicolor genetic tracing. This model represents a powerful new resource to monitor SC kinetics and fate choice under homeostatic conditions, and may assist in assessing clonal evolution during corneal development, aging, wound-healing, disease, and following transplantation. © 2014 AlphaMed Press.

New Continuous Monitoring Technologies for Vapor Intrusion, Remediation and Site Assessment: Benefits of Time Series Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-31

00-00-2011 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE New Continuous Monitoring Technologies for Vapor Intrusion, Remediation and Site Assessment . Benefits of Time...Std Z39-18 Dr Peter Morris, Geoff Hewitt New Continuous Monitoring Technologies for Vapor Intrusion, Remediation and Site Assessment . Benefits of...but which poses a greater risk ? V O C p p m Acetone Industrial facility with VOC Leak Site characterisation and Real time monitoring of Remediation

Preclinical studies for induced pluripotent stem cell-based therapeutics.

PubMed

Harding, John; Mirochnitchenko, Oleg

2014-02-21

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and their differentiated derivatives can potentially be applied to cell-based therapy for human diseases. The properties of iPSCs are being studied intensively both to understand the basic biology of pluripotency and cellular differentiation and to solve problems associated with therapeutic applications. Examples of specific preclinical applications summarized briefly in this minireview include the use of iPSCs to treat diseases of the liver, nervous system, eye, and heart and metabolic conditions such as diabetes. Early stage studies illustrate the potential of iPSC-derived cells and have identified several challenges that must be addressed before moving to clinical trials. These include rigorous quality control and efficient production of required cell populations, improvement of cell survival and engraftment, and development of technologies to monitor transplanted cell behavior for extended periods of time. Problems related to immune rejection, genetic instability, and tumorigenicity must be solved. Testing the efficacy of iPSC-based therapies requires further improvement of animal models precisely recapitulating human disease conditions.

Independent and high-level dual-gene expression in adult stem-progenitor cells from a single lentiviral vector.

PubMed

Tian, J; Andreadis, S T

2009-07-01

Expression of multiple genes from the same target cell is required in several technological and therapeutic applications such as quantitative measurements of promoter activity or in vivo tracking of stem cells. In spite of such need, reaching independent and high-level dual-gene expression cannot be reliably accomplished by current gene transfer vehicles. To address this issue, we designed a lentiviral vector carrying two transcriptional units separated by polyadenylation, terminator and insulator sequences. With this design, the expression level of both genes was as high as that yielded from lentiviral vectors containing only a single transcriptional unit. Similar results were observed with several promoters and cell types including epidermal keratinocytes, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and hair follicle stem cells. Notably, we demonstrated quantitative dynamic monitoring of gene expression in primary cells with no need for selection protocols suggesting that this optimized lentivirus may be useful in high-throughput gene expression profiling studies.

A Wireless Physiological Signal Monitoring System with Integrated Bluetooth and WiFi Technologies.

PubMed

Yu, Sung-Nien; Cheng, Jen-Chieh

2005-01-01

This paper proposes a wireless patient monitoring system which integrates Bluetooth and WiFi wireless technologies. A wireless portable multi-parameter device was designated to acquire physiological signals and transmit them to a local server via Bluetooth wireless technology. Four kinds of monitor units were designed to communicate via the WiFi wireless technology, including a local monitor unit, a control center, mobile devices (personal digital assistant; PDA), and a web page. The use of various monitor units is intending to meet different medical requirements for different medical personnel. This system was demonstrated to promote the mobility and flexibility for both the patients and the medical personnel, which further improves the quality of health care.

Micro and nano-biomimetic structures for cell migration study fabricated by hybrid subtractive and additive 3D femtosecond laser processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sima, Felix; Serien, Daniela; Wu, Dong; Xu, Jian; Kawano, Hiroyuki; Midorikawa, Katsumi; Sugioka, Koji

2017-02-01

Lab-on-a-chip devices have been intensively developed during the last decade when emerging technologies offered possibilities to manufacture reliable devices with increased spatial resolution. These biochips allowed testing chemical reactions in nanoliter volumes with enhanced sensitivity and lower consumption of reagents. There is space to further consolidate biochip assembling processing since the new technologies attempt direct fabrication in view of reducing costs and time by increasing efficiency and functionalities. Rapid prototyping by ultrafast lasers which induces local modifications inside transparent materials of both glass and polymers with high precision at micro- and nanoscale is a promising tool for fabrication of such biochips. We have developed a new technology by combining subtractive ultrafast laser assisted chemical etching of glasses and additive two-photon polymerization to integrate 3D glass microfluidics and polymer microcomponents in a single biochip. The innovative hybrid "ship-in-a-bottle" approach is not only an instrument that can tailor 3D environments but also a tool to fabricate biomimetic in vivo structures inside a glass microfluidic chip. It was possible to create appropriate environment for cell culturing and to offer robustness and transparency for optical interrogation. Cancer cells were cultivated inside biochips and monitored over short and long periods. With the view of understanding cancer cells specific behavior such as migration or invasiveness inside human body, introduction of different geometrical configurations and chemical conditions were proposed. The cells were found responsive to a gradient of nutrient concentration through the microchannels of a 3D polymeric scaffold integrated inside glass biochip.

EPA-developed, patented technologies related to water monitoring and remediation that are available for licensing

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Under the Federal Technology Transfer Act (FTTA), Federal Agencies can patent inventions developed during the course of research. These technologies can then be licensed to businesses or individuals for further development and sale in the marketplace. These technologies relate to water monitoring and treatment technologies.

Applied breath analysis: an overview of the challenges and opportunities in developing and testing sensor technology for human health monitoring in aerospace and clinical applications

PubMed Central

Hunter, Gary W; Dweik, Raed A

2010-01-01

The aerospace industry requires the development of a range of chemical sensor technologies for such applications as leak detection, emission monitoring, fuel leak detection, environmental monitoring, and fire detection. A family of chemical sensors are being developed based on micromachining and microfabrication technology to fabricate microsensors with minimal size, weight, and power consumption, and the use of nanomaterials and structures to develop sensors with improved stability combined with higher sensitivity. However, individual sensors are limited in the amount of information that they can provide in environments that contain multiple chemical species. Thus, sensor arrays are being developed to address detection needs in such multi-species environments. These technologies and technical approaches have direct relevance to breath monitoring for clinical applications. This paper gives an overview of developing cutting-edge sensor technology and possible barriers to new technology implementation. This includes lessons learned from previous microsensor development, recent work in development of a breath monitoring system, and future directions in the implementation of cutting edge sensor technology. Clinical applications and the potential impact to the biomedical field of miniaturized smart gas sensor technology are discussed. PMID:20622933

Probing Androgen Receptor Signaling in Circulating Tumor Cells in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-07-01

androgen driven) and PSMA (androgen suppressed). Application of this CTC-based assay in a small cohort of men with prostate cancer revealed that the AR...activity in CTCs as measured by PSA and PSMA expression levels could be used to monitor the treatment of patients undergoing AR targeting therapies...transitioned the laboratory to the 3rd generation CTC iChip technology (4), and have adapted the PSA/ PSMA assay for use with this new CTC isolation

Environmental Technology Verification Report for Applikon MARGA Semi-Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring System

EPA Science Inventory

The verification test was conducted oer a period of 30 days (October 1 to October 31, 2008) and involved the continuous operation of duplicate semi-continuous monitoring technologies at the Burdens Creek Air Monitoring Site, an existing ambient-air monitoring station located near...

Electrochemical monitoring-on-chip (E-MoC) of HIV-infection in presence of cocaine and therapeutics.

PubMed

Kaushik, Ajeet; Vabbina, Phani Kiran; Atluri, Venkata; Shah, Pratikkumar; Vashist, Arti; Jayant, Rahul Dev; Yandart, Adriana; Nair, Madhavan

2016-12-15

Electrochemical monitoring-on-chip (E-MoC)-based approach for rapid assessment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infection in the presence of cocaine (Coc) and specific drugs namely i.e., tenofovir (Tef), rimcazole (RA) is demonstrated here, for the first time, using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). An in-vitro primary human astrocytes (HA) model was developed using a cultureware chip (CC, used for E-MoC) for HIV-infection, Coc exposure and treatment with anti-HIV drug i.e., Tef, and Coc antagonist i.e., RA. The charge transfer resistance (Rct) value of each CC well varies with respect to infection and treatment demonstrated highly responsive sensitivity of developed chip. The results of E-MoC, a proof-of-the concept, suggested that HIV-infection progression due to Coc ingestion and therapeutic effects of highly specific drugs are measurable on the basis of cell electrophysiology. Though, this work needs various molecular biology-based optimizations to promote this technology as an analytical tool for the rapid assessment of HIV-infection in a patient to manage HIV diseases for timely diagnosis. The presented study is based on using CNS cells and efforts are being made to perform this method using peripheral cells such as monocytes derived dendritic cells. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Integrated hybrid polystyrene-polydimethylsiloxane device for monitoring cellular release with microchip electrophoresis and electrochemical detection

PubMed Central

Johnson, Alicia S.; Mehl, Benjamin T.; Martin, R. Scott

2015-01-01

In this work, a polystyrene (PS)-polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) hybrid device was developed to enable the integration of cell culture with analysis by microchip electrophoresis and electrochemical detection. It is shown that this approach combines the fundamental advantages of PDMS devices (the ability to integrate pumps and valves) and PS devices (the ability to permanently embed fluidic tubing and electrodes). The embedded fused-silica capillary enables high temporal resolution measurements from off-chip cell culture dishes and the embedded electrodes provide close to real-time analysis of small molecule neurotransmitters. A novel surface treatment for improved (reversible) adhesion between PS and PDMS is described using a chlorotrimethylsilane stamping method. It is demonstrated that a Pd decoupler is efficient at handling the high current (and cathodic hydrogen production) resulting from use of high ionic strength buffers needed for cellular analysis; thus allowing an electrophoretic separation and in-channel detection. The separation of norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA) in highly conductive biological buffers was optimized using a mixed surfactant system. This PS-PDMS hybrid device integrates multiple processes including continuous sampling from a cell culture dish, on-chip pump and valving technologies, microchip electrophoresis, and electrochemical detection to monitor neurotransmitter release from PC 12 cells. PMID:25663849

Examining Korean and Korean American older adults' perceived acceptability of home-based monitoring technologies in the context of culture.

PubMed

Chung, Jane; Thompson, Hilaire J; Joe, Jonathan; Hall, Amanda; Demiris, George

2017-01-01

Despite the increasing use of home-based monitoring technologies by older adults, few studies have examined older adults' acceptance of these technologies, especially among people from diverse cultural groups. The purpose of this study was to explore Korean and Korean American older adults' attitudes toward and perceptions of home-based monitoring technologies in a cultural context. A qualitative analysis of focus groups and individual interviews using inductive coding methods and a constant comparative approach for emerging themes was conducted. Several cultural factors that determine the acceptability of home-based monitoring technologies were identified. Most notably, the necessity of living alone due to loosened filial tradition and immigration was a main motivator for adopting these technologies for both Korean and Korean Americans. The level of satisfaction with the health care system or therapeutic interaction affected participants' perceived need for technologies. Compared with the Korean American group, Korean older adults regarded the government's role as more important in increasing adoption and use of new technologies. Contextual factors need to be considered when explaining perceptions of home-based monitoring technologies among older adults from various ethnic groups and developing diffusion strategies according to end users' attitudes, experiences, and cultural backgrounds.

Effective technologies for noninvasive remote monitoring in heart failure.

PubMed

Conway, Aaron; Inglis, Sally C; Clark, Robyn A

2014-06-01

Trials of new technologies to remotely monitor for signs and symptoms of worsening heart failure are continually emerging. The extent to which technological differences impact the effectiveness of noninvasive remote monitoring for heart failure management is unknown. This study examined the effect of specific technology used for noninvasive remote monitoring of people with heart failure on all-cause mortality and heart failure-related hospitalizations. A subanalysis of a large systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. Studies were stratified according to the specific type of technology used, and separate meta-analyses were performed. Four different types of noninvasive remote monitoring technologies were identified, including structured telephone calls, videophone, interactive voice response devices, and telemonitoring. Only structured telephone calls and telemonitoring were effective in reducing the risk of all-cause mortality (relative risk [RR]=0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75-1.01; p=0.06; and RR=0.62; 95% CI, 0.50-0.77; p<0.0001, respectively) and heart failure-related hospitalizations (RR=0.77; 95% CI, 0.68-0.87; p<0.001; and RR=0.75; 95% CI, 0.63-0.91; p=0.003, respectively). More research data are required for videophone and interactive voice response technologies. This subanalysis identified that only two of the four specific technologies used for noninvasive remote monitoring in heart failure improved outcomes. When results of studies that involved these disparate technologies were combined in previous meta-analyses, significant improvements in outcomes were identified. As such, this study has highlighted implications for future meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials focused on evaluating the effectiveness of remote monitoring in heart failure.

Visualizing double-stranded RNA distribution and dynamics in living cells by dsRNA binding-dependent fluorescence complementation

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

Cheng, Xiaofei; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310036; Deng, Ping

Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is an important type of RNA that plays essential roles in diverse cellular processes in eukaryotic organisms and a hallmark in infections by positive-sense RNA viruses. Currently, no in vivo technology has been developed for visualizing dsRNA in living cells. Here, we report a dsRNA binding-dependent fluorescence complementation (dRBFC) assay that can be used to efficiently monitor dsRNA distribution and dynamics in vivo. The system consists of two dsRNA-binding proteins, which are fused to the N- and C-terminal halves of the yellow fluorescent protein (YFP). Binding of the two fusion proteins to a common dsRNA brings themore » split YFP halves in close proximity, leading to the reconstitution of the fluorescence-competent structure and restoration of fluorescence. Using this technique, we were able to visualize the distribution and trafficking of the replicative RNA intermediates of positive-sense RNA viruses in living cells. - Highlights: • A live-cell imaging system was developed for visualizing dsRNA in vivo. • It uses dsRNA binding proteins fused with two halves of a fluorescent protein. • Binding to a common dsRNA enables the reporter to become fluorescent. • The system can efficiently monitor viral RNA replication in living cells.« less

A novel approach for monitoring genetically engineered microorganisms by using artificial, stable RNAs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pitulle, C.; Hedenstierna, K. O.; Fox, G. E.

1995-01-01

Further improvements in technology for efficient monitoring of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) in the environment are needed. Technology for monitoring rRNA is well established but has not generally been applicable to GEMs because of the lack of unique rRNA target sequences. In the work described herein, it is demonstrated that a deletion mutant of a plasmid-borne Vibrio proteolyticus 5S rRNA gene continues to accumulate to high levels in Escherichia coli although it is no longer incorporated into 70S ribosomes. This deletion construct was subsequently modified by mutagenesis to create a unique recognition site for the restriction endonuclease BstEII, into which new sequences could be readily inserted. Finally, a novel 17-nucleotide identifier sequence from Pennisetum purpureum was embedded into the construct to create an RNA identification cassette. The artificial identifier RNA, expressed from this cassette in vivo, accumulated in E. coli to levels comparable to those of wild-type 5S rRNA without being seriously detrimental to cell survival in laboratory experiments and without entering the ribosomes. These results demonstrate that artificial, stable RNAs containing sequence segments remarkably different from those present in any known rRNA can be designed and that neither the deleted sequence segment nor ribosome incorporation is essential for accumulation of an RNA product.

EXHIBIT OF EMPACT ESTUARY MONITORING HANDBOOKS

EPA Science Inventory

Related EMPACT documents were displayed at the National Estuary Day Celebration held in Washington, DC, September 30-Octuber 4, 2002. The estuary monitoring technology transfer handbooks displayed were prepared based on information and monitoring technologies developed from selec...

An overview of ecological monitoring based on geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) technology in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jing; Zhang, Jia; Du, Xiangyang; Kang, Hou; Qiao, Minjuan

2017-11-01

Due to the rapid development of human economy and society, the resulting ecological problems are becoming more and more prominent, and the dynamic monitoring of the various elements in the ecosystem has become the focus of the current research. For the complex structure and function of the ecological environment monitoring, advanced technical means should be adopted. With the development of spatial information technology, the ecological monitoring technology based on GIS and RS is becoming more and more perfect, and spatial analysis will play an important role in the field of environmental protection. Based on the GIS and RS technology, this paper analyzes the general centralized ecological monitoring model, and makes an objective analysis of the current ecological monitoring trend of China. These are important for the protection and management of ecological environment in China.

GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) MITIGATION AND MONITORING TECHNOLOGY PERFORMANCE: ACTIVITIES OF THE GHG TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION CENTER

EPA Science Inventory

The paper discusses greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation and monitoring technology performance activities of the GHG Technology Verification Center. The Center is a public/private partnership between Southern Research Institute and the U.S. EPA's Office of Research and Development. It...

Implementing monitoring technologies in care homes for people with dementia: A qualitative exploration using Normalization Process Theory.

PubMed

Hall, Alex; Wilson, Christine Brown; Stanmore, Emma; Todd, Chris

2017-07-01

Ageing societies and a rising prevalence of dementia are associated with increasing demand for care home places. Monitoring technologies (e.g. bed-monitoring systems; wearable location-tracking devices) are appealing to care homes as they may enhance safety, increase resident freedom, and reduce staff burden. However, there are ethical concerns about the use of such technologies, and it is unclear how they might be implemented to deliver their full range of potential benefits. This study explored facilitators and barriers to the implementation of monitoring technologies in care homes. Embedded multiple-case study with qualitative methods. Three dementia-specialist care homes in North-West England. Purposive sample of 24 staff (including registered nurses, clinical specialists, senior managers and care workers), 9 relatives and 9 residents. 36 semi-structured interviews with staff, relatives and residents; 175h of observation; resident care record review. Data collection informed by Normalization Process Theory, which seeks to account for how novel interventions become routine practice. Data analysed using Framework Analysis. Findings are presented under three main themes: 1. Reasons for using technologies: The primary reason for using monitoring technologies was to enhance safety. This often seemed to override consideration of other potential benefits (e.g. increased resident freedom) or ethical concerns (e.g. resident privacy); 2. Ways in which technologies were implemented: Some staff, relatives and residents were not involved in discussions and decision-making, which seemed to limit understandings of the potential benefits and challenges from the technologies. Involvement of residents appeared particularly challenging. Staff highlighted the importance of training, but staff training appeared mainly informal which did not seem sufficient to ensure that staff fully understood the technologies; 3. Use of technologies in practice: Technologies generated frequent alarms that placed a burden upon staff, but staff were able to use their contextual knowledge to help to counter some of this burden. Some technologies offered a range of data-gathering capabilities, but were not always perceived as useful complements to practice. Implementation of monitoring technologies may be facilitated by the extent to which the technologies are perceived to enhance safety. Implementation may be further facilitated through greater involvement of all stakeholders in discussions and decision-making in order to deepen understandings about the range of potential benefits and challenges from the use of monitoring technologies. Staff training might need to move beyond functional instruction to include deeper exploration of anticipated benefits and the underlying rationale for using monitoring technologies. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Cutting Edge Technologies Presentation: An Overview of Developing Sensor Technology Directions and Possible Barriers to New Technology Implementation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, Gary W.

2007-01-01

The aerospace industry requires the development of a range of chemical sensor technologies for such applications as leak detection, emission monitoring, fuel leak detection, environmental monitoring, and fire detection. A range of chemical sensors are being developed based on micromachining and microfabrication technology to fabricate microsensors with minimal size, weight, and power consumption; and the use of nanomaterials and structures to develop sensors with improved stability combined with higher sensitivity, However, individual sensors are limited in the amount of information that they can provide in environments that contain multiple chemical species. Thus, sensor arrays are being developed to address detection needs in such multi-species environments. These technologies and technical approaches have direct relevance to breath monitoring for clinical applications. This presentation gives an overview of developing cutting-edge sensor technology and possible barriers to new technology implementation. This includes lessons learned from previous microsensor development, recent work in development of a breath monitoring system, and future directions in the implementation of cutting edge sensor technology.

In-depth Characterization of a TCR-specific Tracer for Sensitive Detection of Tumor-directed Transgenic T Cells by Immuno-PET.

PubMed

Yusufi, Nahid; Mall, Sabine; Bianchi, Henrique de Oliveira; Steiger, Katja; Reder, Sybille; Klar, Richard; Audehm, Stefan; Mustafa, Mona; Nekolla, Stephan; Peschel, Christian; Schwaiger, Markus; Krackhardt, Angela M; D'Alessandria, Calogero

2017-01-01

A number of different technologies have been developed to monitor in vivo the distribution of gene-modified T cells used in immunotherapy. Nevertheless, in-depth characterization of novel approaches with respect to sensitivity and clinical applicability are so far missing. We have previously described a novel method to track engineered human T cells in tumors using 89 Zr-Df-aTCRmu-F(ab') 2 targeting the murinized part of the TCR beta domain (TCRmu) of a transgenic TCR. Here, we performed an in-depth in vitro characterization of the tracer in terms of antigen affinity, immunoreactivity, influence on T-cell functionality and stability in vitro and in vivo . Of particular interest, we have developed diverse experimental settings to quantify TCR-transgenic T cells in vivo . Local application of 89 Zr-Df-aTCRmu-F(ab') 2 -labeled T cells in a spot-assay revealed signal detection down to approximately 1.8x10 4 cells. In a more clinically relevant model, NSG mice were intravenously injected with different numbers of transgenic T cells, followed by injection of the 89 Zr-Df-aTCRmu-F(ab') 2 tracer, PET/CT imaging and subsequent ex vivo T-cell quantification in the tumor. Using this setting, we defined a comparable detection limit of 1.0x10 4 T cells. PET signals correlated well to total numbers of transgenic T cells detected ex vivo independently of the engraftment rates observed in different individual experiments. Thus, these findings confirm the high sensitivity of our novel PET/CT T-cell tracking method and provide critical information about the quantity of transgenic T cells in the tumor environment suggesting our technology being highly suitable for further clinical translation.

A new and reliable method for live imaging and quantification of reactive oxygen species in Botrytis cinerea: technological advancement.

PubMed

Marschall, Robert; Tudzynski, Paul

2014-10-01

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced in conserved cellular processes either as by-products of the cellular respiration in mitochondria, or purposefully for defense mechanisms, signaling cascades or cell homeostasis. ROS have two diametrically opposed attributes due to their highly damaging potential for DNA, lipids and other molecules and due to their indispensability for signaling and developmental processes. In filamentous fungi, the role of ROS in growth and development has been studied in detail, but these analyses were often hampered by the lack of reliable and specific techniques to monitor different activities of ROS in living cells. Here, we present a new method for live cell imaging of ROS in filamentous fungi. We demonstrate that by use of a mixture of two fluorescent dyes it is possible to monitor H2O2 and superoxide specifically and simultaneously in distinct cellular structures during various hyphal differentiation processes. In addition, the method allows for reliable fluorometric quantification of ROS. We demonstrate that this can be used to characterize different mutants with respect to their ROS production/scavenging potential. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cost-Effectiveness of Different Strategies to Monitor Adults on Antiretroviral Treatment: A Combined Analysis of Three Mathematical Models

PubMed Central

Keebler, Daniel; Revill, Paul; Braithwaite, Scott; Phillips, Andrew; Blaser, Nello; Borquez, Annick; Cambiano, Valentina; Ciaranello, Andrea; Estill, Janne; Gray, Richard; Hill, Andrew; Keiser, Olivia; Kessler, Jason; Menzies, Nicolas A; Nucifora, Kimberly A; Vizcaya, Luisa Salazar; Walker, Simon; Welte, Alex; Easterbrook, Philippa; Doherty, Meg; Hirnschall, Gottfried; Hallett, Timothy B

2015-01-01

Background The WHO’s 2013 revisions to its Consolidated Guidelines on ARVs will recommend routine viral load monitoring (VLM), rather than clinical or immunological monitoring, as the preferred monitoring approach on the basis of clinical evidence. However, HIV programmes in resource-limited settings require guidance on the most cost-effective use of resources given other competing priorities, including expansion of ART coverage. Here we assess the cost-effectiveness of alternative patient monitoring strategies. Methods A range of monitoring strategies was evaluated, including clinical, CD4 and viral load monitoring alone and together at different frequencies and with different criteria for switching to second-line therapies. Three independently-constructed and validated models were analysed simultaneously. Costs were estimated based on resource use projected in the models and associated unit costs; impact was quantified as disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted. Alternatives were compared using incremental cost-effectiveness analysis. Results All models show that clinical monitoring delivers significant benefit compared to a hypothetical baseline scenario with no monitoring or switching. Regular CD4 cell count monitoring confers a benefit over clinical monitoring alone, at an incremental cost that makes it affordable in more settings than VLM, which is currently more expensive. VLM without CD4 every six to 12 months provides the greatest reductions in morbidity and mortality, but incurs a high cost per DALY averted, resulting in lost opportunities to generate health gains if implemented instead of increasing ART coverage or expanding ART eligibility. Interpretation The priority for HIV programmes should be to expand ART coverage, firstly at CD4 <350 cells and then at CD4 <500, using lower-cost clinical or CD4 monitoring. At current costs, VLM should be considered only after high ART coverage has been achieved. Point-of-care technologies and other factors reducing costs may make VLM more affordable in future. Funding The HIV Modelling Consortium is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Funding for this work was also provided by the World Health Organization. PMID:25104633

Noninvasive Real-Time Assessment of Cell Viability in a Three-Dimensional Tissue.

PubMed

Mahfouzi, Seyed Hossein; Amoabediny, Ghassem; Doryab, Ali; Safiabadi-Tali, Seyed Hamid; Ghanei, Mostafa

2018-04-01

Maintaining cell viability within 3D tissue engineering scaffolds is an essential step toward a functional tissue or organ. Assessment of cell viability in 3D scaffolds is necessary to control and optimize tissue culture process. Monitoring systems based on respiration activity of cells (e.g., oxygen consumption) have been used in various cell cultures. In this research, an online monitoring system based on respiration activity was developed to monitor cell viability within acellular lung scaffolds. First, acellular lung scaffolds were recellularized with human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells, and then, cell viability was monitored during a 5-day period. The real-time monitoring system generated a cell growth profile representing invaluable information on cell viability and proliferative states during the culture period. The cell growth profile obtained by the monitoring system was consistent with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide analysis and glucose consumption measurement. This system provided a means for noninvasive, real-time, and repetitive investigation of cell viability. Also, we showed the applicability of this monitoring system by introducing shaking as an operating parameter in a long-term culture.

RAVAN CubeSat Results: Technologies and Science Demonstrated On Orbit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Swartz, W. H.; Lorentz, S. R.; Huang, P. M.; Smith, A. W.; Yu, Y.; Briscoe, J. S.; Reilly, N.; Reilly, S.; Reynolds, E.; Carvo, J.; Wu, D.

2017-12-01

Elucidating Earth's energy budget is vital to understanding and predicting climate, particularly the small imbalance between the incident solar irradiance and Earth-leaving fluxes of total and solar-reflected energy. Accurately quantifying the spatial and temporal variation of Earth's outgoing energy from space is a challenge—one potentially rendered more tractable with the advent of multipoint measurements from small satellite or hosted payload constellations. The Radiometer Assessment using Vertically Aligned Nanotubes (RAVAN) 3U CubeSat, launched November 11, 2016, is a pathfinder for a constellation to measure the Earth's energy imbalance. The objective of RAVAN is to establish that compact, broadband radiometers absolutely calibrated to high accuracy can be built and operated in space for low cost. RAVAN demonstrates two key technologies: (1) vertically aligned carbon nanotubes as spectrally flat radiometer absorbers and (2) gallium phase-change cells for on-board calibration and degradation monitoring of RAVAN's radiometer sensors. We show on-orbit results, including calibrated irradiance measurements at both shortwave, solar-reflected wavelengths and in the thermal infrared. These results are compared with both modeled upwelling fluxes and those measured by independent Earth energy instruments in low-Earth orbit. Further, we show the performance of two gallium phase-change cells that are used to monitor the degradation of RAVAN's radiometer sensors. In addition to Earth energy budget technology and science, RAVAN also demonstrates partnering with a commercial vendor for the CubeSat bus, payload integration and test, and mission operations. We conclude with a discussion of how a RAVAN-type constellation could enable a breakthrough in the measurement of Earth's energy budget and lead to superior predictions of future climate.

Biomarker Discovery by Modeling Behçet's Disease with Patient-Specific Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells.

PubMed

Son, Mi-Young; Kim, Young-Dae; Seol, Binna; Lee, Mi-Ok; Na, Hee-Jun; Yoo, Bin; Chang, Jae-Suk; Cho, Yee Sook

2017-01-15

Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory and multisystemic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology. Due to the lack of a specific test for BD, its diagnosis is very difficult and therapeutic options are limited. Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology, which provides inaccessible disease-relevant cell types, opens a new era for disease treatment. In this study, we generated BD iPSCs from patient somatic cells and differentiated them into hematopoietic precursor cells (BD iPSC-HPCs) as BD model cells. Based on comparative transcriptome analysis using our BD model cells, we identified eight novel BD-specific genes, AGTR2, CA9, CD44, CXCL1, HTN3, IL-2, PTGER4, and TSLP, which were differentially expressed in BD patients compared with healthy controls or patients with other immune diseases. The use of CXCL1 as a BD biomarker was further validated at the protein level using both a BD iPSC-HPC-based assay system and BD patient serum samples. Furthermore, we show that our BD iPSC-HPC-based drug screening system is highly effective for testing CXCL1 BD biomarkers, as determined by monitoring the efficacy of existing anti-inflammatory drugs. Our results shed new light on the usefulness of patient-specific iPSC technology in the development of a benchmarking platform for disease-specific biomarkers, phenotype- or target-driven drug discovery, and patient-tailored therapies.

Fuel Cell/Electrochemical Cell Voltage Monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vasquez, Arturo

2012-01-01

A concept has been developed for a new fuel cell individual-cell-voltage monitor that can be directly connected to a multi-cell fuel cell stack for direct substack power provisioning. It can also provide voltage isolation for applications in high-voltage fuel cell stacks. The technology consists of basic modules, each with an 8- to 16-cell input electrical measurement connection port. For each basic module, a power input connection would be provided for direct connection to a sub-stack of fuel cells in series within the larger stack. This power connection would allow for module power to be available in the range of 9-15 volts DC. The relatively low voltage differences that the module would encounter from the input electrical measurement connection port, coupled with the fact that the module's operating power is supplied by the same substack voltage input (and so will be at similar voltage), provides for elimination of high-commonmode voltage issues within each module. Within each module, there would be options for analog-to-digital conversion and data transfer schemes. Each module would also include a data-output/communication port. Each of these ports would be required to be either non-electrical (e.g., optically isolated) or electrically isolated. This is necessary to account for the fact that the plurality of modules attached to the stack will normally be at a range of voltages approaching the full range of the fuel cell stack operating voltages. A communications/ data bus could interface with the several basic modules. Options have been identified for command inputs from the spacecraft vehicle controller, and for output-status/data feeds to the vehicle.

A review on the applications of microbial electrolysis cells in anaerobic digestion.

PubMed

Yu, Zhengsheng; Leng, Xiaoyun; Zhao, Shuai; Ji, Jing; Zhou, Tuoyu; Khan, Aman; Kakde, Apurva; Liu, Pu; Li, Xiangkai

2018-05-01

Anaerobic digestion (AD) has been widely used for biogas or biofuel generation from waste treatment. Because a low production rate and instability of AD occur frequently, various technologies have been applied to improvement of AD. Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), an emerging technology, can convert organic matter into hydrogen, methane, and other value-added products. Recent studies showed that application of MEC to AD (MEC-AD) can accelerate degradation of a substrate (including recalcitrant compounds) and alter AD microbial community by enriching exoelectrogens and methanogens thus increasing biogas production. With stable microbial communities established, improvement of MEC-AD for methane production was achieved. MEC-AD process can be monitored in real-time by detecting electric signals, which linearly correlate with substrate concentrations. This review attempts to evaluate interactions among the decomposition of substrates, MEC-AD system, and the microbial community. This analysis should provide useful insights into the improvement of methane production and the performance of MEC-AD. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Operational challenges in delivering CD4 diagnostics in sub-Saharan Africa.

PubMed

Thairu, L; Katzenstein, D; Israelski, D

2011-07-01

Access to reliable and low cost CD4 T-cell enumeration to stage illness and monitor anti-retroviral therapy remains elusive in resource-limited settings. We report challenges in delivering CD4 testing using the microcapillary Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorter (FACS) methodology (Guava EasyCD4 instrument Guava Technologies, Hayward) in Burkina Faso and Zimbabwe. Resources, instruments, reagents, and training were provided to local laboratories within the existing infrastructure and data on CD4 were collected from routine laboratory testing. Challenges encountered included frequent instrument breakdown; poor manufacturer maintenance; difficulties in managing reagent stocks; high technician turnover; reliance on antiquated data management systems; redundant service provision; and lack of repeat testing in male HIV+ patients and in patients with higher CD4 counts after initial staging. While adopting newer, less expensive technologies such as fluorescent platforms and point of care tests can facilitate access to lower cost CD4 testing, our experience suggests that supply chain, corporate commitment to implementation, and community factors also require consideration.

[A wireless mobile monitoring system based on bluetooth technology].

PubMed

Sun, Shou-jun; Wu, Kai; Wu, Xiao-Ming

2006-09-01

This paper presents a wireless mobile monitoring system based on Bluetooth technology. This system realizes the remote mobile monitoring of multiple physiological parameters, and has the characters of easy use, low cost, good reliability and strong capability of anti-jamming.

Retaining the 3D framework of zinc sponge anodes upon deep discharge in Zn-air cells.

PubMed

Parker, Joseph F; Nelson, Eric S; Wattendorf, Matthew D; Chervin, Christopher N; Long, Jeffrey W; Rolison, Debra R

2014-11-26

We fabricate three-dimensional zinc electrodes from emulsion-cast sponges of Zn powder that are thermally treated to produce rugged monoliths. This highly conductive, 3D-wired aperiodic scaffold achieves 740 mA h gZn(-1) when discharged in primary Zn-air cells (>90% of theoretical Zn capacity). We use scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction to monitor the microstructural evolution of a series of Zn sponges when oxidized in Zn-air cells to specific depths-of-discharge (20, 40, 60, 80% DOD) at a technologically relevant rate (C/40; 4-6 mA cm(-2)). The Zn sponges maintain their 3D-monolithic form factor at all DOD. The cell resistance remains low under all test conditions, indicating that an inner core of metallic Zn persists that 3D-electrically wires the electrode, even to deep DOD.

Successful demonstration of a comprehensive lithography defect monitoring strategy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peterson, Ingrid B.; Breaux, Louis H.; Cross, Andrew; von den Hoff, Michael

2003-07-01

This paper describes the validation of the methodology, the model and the impact of an optimized Lithography Defect Monitoring Strategy at two different semiconductor manufacturing factories. The lithography defect inspection optimization was implemented for the Gate Module at both factories running 0.13-0.15μm technologies on 200mm wafers, one running microprocessor and the other memory devices. As minimum dimensions and process windows decrease in the lithography area, new technologies and technological advances with resists and resist systems are being implemented to meet the demands. Along with these new technological advances in the lithography area comes potentially unforeseen defect issues. The latest lithography processes involve new resists in extremely thin, uniform films, exposing the films under conditions of highly optimized focus and illumination, and finally removing the resist completely and cleanly. The lithography cell is defined as the cluster of process equipment that accomplishes the coating process (surface prep, resist spin, edge-bead removal and soft bake), the alignment and exposure, and the developing process (post-exposure bake, develop, rinse) of the resist. Often the resist spinning process involves multiple materials such as BARC (bottom ARC) and / or TARC (top ARC) materials in addition to the resist itself. The introduction of these new materials with the multiple materials interfaces and the tightness of the process windows leads to an increased variety of defect mechanisms in the lithography area. Defect management in the lithography area has become critical to successful product introduction and yield ramp. The semiconductor process itself contributes the largest number and variety of defects, and a significant portion of the total defects originate within the lithography cell. From a defect management perspective, the lithography cell has some unique characteristics. First, defects in the lithography process module have the widest range of sizes, from full-wafer to suboptical, and with the largest variety of characteristics. Some of these defects fall into the categories of coating problems, focus and exposure defects, developer defects, edge-bead removal problems, contamination and scratches usually defined as lithography macro defects as shown in Figure 1. Others fall into the category of lithography micro defects, Figure 2. They are characterized as having low topography such as stains, developer spots, satellites, are very small such as micro-bridging, partial micro-bridging, micro-bubbles, CD variation and single isolated missing or deformed contacts or vias. Lithography is the only area of the fab besides CMP in which defect excursions can be corrected by reworking the wafers. The opportunity to fix defect problems without scrapping wafers is best served by a defect inspection strategy that captures the full range of all relevant defect types with a proper balance between the costs of monitoring and inspection and the potential cost of yield loss. In the previous paper [1] it was shown that a combination of macro inspection and high numerical aperture (NA) brightfield imaging inspection technology is best suited for the application in the case of the idealized fab modeled. In this paper we will report on the successful efforts in implementing and validating the lithography defect monitoring strategy at two existing 200 mm factories running 0.15 μm and 0.13 μm design rules.

Blue sensors : technology and cooperative monitoring in UN peacekeeping.

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

Dorn, A. Walter Dr.

2004-04-01

For over a half-century, the soldiers and civilians deployed to conflict areas in UN peacekeeping operations have monitored ceasefires and peace agreements of many types with varying degrees of effectiveness. Though there has been a significant evolution of peacekeeping, especially in the 1990s, with many new monitoring functions, the UN has yet to incorporate monitoring technologies into its operations in a systematic fashion. Rather, the level of technology depends largely on the contributing nations and the individual field commanders. In most missions, sensor technology has not been used at all. So the UN has not been able to fully benefitmore » from the sensor technology revolution that has seen effectiveness greatly amplified and costs plummet. This paper argues that monitoring technologies need not replace the human factor, which is essential for confidence building in conflict areas, but they can make peacekeepers more effective, more knowledgeable and safer. Airborne, ground and underground sensors can allow peacekeepers to do better monitoring over larger areas, in rugged terrain, at night (when most infractions occur) and in adverse weather conditions. Technology also allows new ways to share gathered information with the parties to create confidence and, hence, better pre-conditions for peace. In the future sensors should become 'tools of the trade' to help the UN keep the peace in war-torn areas.« less

Next Generation LOCAD-PTS Cartridge Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morris, H.; Nutter, D.; Weite, E.; Wells, M.; Maule, J.; Damon, M.; Monaco, L.; Steele, A.; Wainwright, N.

2008-01-01

Future astrobiology exploration missions will require rapid, point-of-use techniques for surface science experiments and contamination monitoring. The Lab-On-a-Chip Application Development (LOCAD) team is developing operational instruments that advance spaceflight technologies to molecular-based methods. Currently, LOCAD-Portable Test System (PTS) is quantifying levels of the bacterial molecule endotoxin onboard the Internatioal Space Station. Future research and development will focus on more sensitive molecular techniques that expand the number of compounds detected to include beta-glucan from fungal cell walls.

Automated QA/QC Check for Beta-Gamma Coincidence Detector

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

of the ARSA, 222Rn gas can be introduced into the gas cell, along with the radioactive xenon isotopes. While this radon decays via alpha decay and...Explosion Monitoring Technologies 741 Figure 2. γ-singles spectrum from a 222Rn spike. The peaks are primarily from the radon daughter 214Pb with...National Laboratory (PNNL), can collect and detect several radioxenon isotopes. The ARSA is very sensitive to 133Xe, 131mXe, 133mXe, and 135Xe due to the

Clinical and histopathological results following TriPollar radiofrequency skin treatments.

PubMed

Kaplan, Haim; Gat, Andrea

2009-06-01

Skin laxity, wrinkles and cellulite are common aesthetic problems associated with the aging process. These symptoms are due to the weakening and thinning of dermal connective tissue and the enlargement of hypodermal fat cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the TriPollar RF technology in reducing fat and collagen regeneration. Twelve healthy patients underwent weekly treatments on different body sites using the TriPollar technology. Treatment areas were photographed and measured and patient satisfaction was monitored. One abdominal patient consented to a series of TriPollar treatments prior to her scheduled abdominoplasty. A controlled histopathology analysis was performed on skin samples taken during the abdominoplasty procedure. Histopathological examination revealed marked differences between treated and non-treated abdominal skin areas. An increase of 49% in dermal thickness, focal thickening of collagen fibers and focal shrinkage of fat cells was shown following TriPollar treatments. Average patient satisfaction indicated clear satisfaction with the clinical results achieved. The TriPollar is a safe and effective non-invasive technology leading to skin tightening and body shaping. Histology results indicate changes at the dermal and fat layers following TriPollar treatments resulting in increased collagen regeneration and stimulated fat metabolism.

A novel mast cell co-culture microfluidic chip for the electrochemical evaluation of food allergen.

PubMed

Jiang, Hui; Jiang, Donglei; Zhu, Pei; Pi, Fuwei; Ji, Jian; Sun, Chao; Sun, Jiadi; Sun, Xiulan

2016-09-15

In this study a novel cell-to-cell electrochemical microfluidic chip was developed for qualitative and quantitative analysis of food allergen. Microfluidic cell culture, food allergen-induced cell morphological changes, and cell metabolism measurements were performed simultaneously using the aforementioned device. RBL-2H3 mast cells and ANA-1 macrophages have been used within a cell co-culture model to observe their allergic response when they are introduced to the antigen stimulus. Two cell cultivation microfluidic channels are located in the microfluidic chip, which is fabricated with four groups of gold electrodes, with an additional "capillary". In order to detect the allergic response, the cells were stimulated with dinitrophenylated bovine serum albumin (DNP-BSA) without anti-DNP IgE incubation. When exocytosis occurs, the cell-secreted inflammatory cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA) and cell impedance changes were detected using cell-based electrochemical assay. Results indicate that the real-time cell allergic response are accurately monitored by this electrochemical microfluidic chip, which provides a general example of rapidly prototyped low-cost biosensor technology for applications in both food allergen detection and investigation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Advances in in-situ product recovery (ISPR) in whole cell biotechnology during the last decade.

PubMed

Van Hecke, Wouter; Kaur, Guneet; De Wever, Heleen

2014-11-15

The review presents the state-of-the-art in the applications of in-situ product recovery (ISPR) in whole-cell biotechnology over the last 10years. It summarizes various ISPR-integrated fermentation processes for the production of a wide spectrum of bio-based products. A critical assessment of the performance of various ISPR concepts with respect to the degree of product enrichment, improved productivity, reduced process flows and increased yields is provided. Requirements to allow a successful industrial implementation of ISPR are also discussed. Finally, supporting technologies such as online monitoring, mathematical modeling and use of recombinant microorganisms with ISPR are presented. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Remote patient monitoring in chronic heart failure.

PubMed

Palaniswamy, Chandrasekar; Mishkin, Aaron; Aronow, Wilbert S; Kalra, Ankur; Frishman, William H

2013-01-01

Heart failure (HF) poses a significant economic burden on our health-care resources with very high readmission rates. Remote monitoring has a substantial potential to improve the management and outcome of patients with HF. Readmission for decompensated HF is often preceded by a stage of subclinical hemodynamic decompensation, where therapeutic interventions would prevent subsequent clinical decompensation and hospitalization. Various methods of remote patient monitoring include structured telephone support, advanced telemonitoring technologies, remote monitoring of patients with implanted cardiac devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators, and implantable hemodynamic monitors. Current data examining the efficacy of remote monitoring technologies in improving outcomes have shown inconsistent results. Various medicolegal and financial issues need to be addressed before widespread implementation of this exciting technology can take place.

Technological advances in perioperative monitoring: Current concepts and clinical perspectives

PubMed Central

Chilkoti, Geetanjali; Wadhwa, Rachna; Saxena, Ashok Kumar

2015-01-01

Minimal mandatory monitoring in the perioperative period recommended by Association of Anesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland and American Society of Anesthesiologists are universally acknowledged and has become an integral part of the anesthesia practice. The technologies in perioperative monitoring have advanced, and the availability and clinical applications have multiplied exponentially. Newer monitoring techniques include depth of anesthesia monitoring, goal-directed fluid therapy, transesophageal echocardiography, advanced neurological monitoring, improved alarm system and technological advancement in objective pain assessment. Various factors that need to be considered with the use of improved monitoring techniques are their validation data, patient outcome, safety profile, cost-effectiveness, awareness of the possible adverse events, knowledge of technical principle and ability of the convenient routine handling. In this review, we will discuss the new monitoring techniques in anesthesia, their advantages, deficiencies, limitations, their comparison to the conventional methods and their effect on patient outcome, if any. PMID:25788767

Technological advances in perioperative monitoring: Current concepts and clinical perspectives.

PubMed

Chilkoti, Geetanjali; Wadhwa, Rachna; Saxena, Ashok Kumar

2015-01-01

Minimal mandatory monitoring in the perioperative period recommended by Association of Anesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland and American Society of Anesthesiologists are universally acknowledged and has become an integral part of the anesthesia practice. The technologies in perioperative monitoring have advanced, and the availability and clinical applications have multiplied exponentially. Newer monitoring techniques include depth of anesthesia monitoring, goal-directed fluid therapy, transesophageal echocardiography, advanced neurological monitoring, improved alarm system and technological advancement in objective pain assessment. Various factors that need to be considered with the use of improved monitoring techniques are their validation data, patient outcome, safety profile, cost-effectiveness, awareness of the possible adverse events, knowledge of technical principle and ability of the convenient routine handling. In this review, we will discuss the new monitoring techniques in anesthesia, their advantages, deficiencies, limitations, their comparison to the conventional methods and their effect on patient outcome, if any.

Continuous intra-arterial blood-gas monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Divers, George A.; Riccitelli, Samuel D.; Blais, Maurice; Hui, Henry K.

1993-05-01

Fiber optic technology and optical fluorescence have made the continuous monitoring of arterial blood gases a reality. Practical products that continuously monitor blood gases by use of an invasive sensor are now available. Anesthesiologists and intensive care physicians are beginning to explore the practical implications of this technology. With the advent of intra- arterial blood gas monitors it is possible to assess arterial blood gas values without the labor intensive steps of drawing blood and transporting a blood sample to the lab followed by the actual analysis. These intra-arterial blood gas monitors use new optical sensor technologies that can be reduced in size to the point that the sensor can be inserted into the arterial blood flow through a 20-gauge arterial cannula. In the best of these technologies the sensors accuracy and precision are similar to those in vitro analyzers. This presentation focuses on background technology and in vivo performance of a device developed, manufactured, and marketed by Puritan-Bennett Corporation.

Metabolomics: available results, current research projects in breast cancer, and future applications.

PubMed

Claudino, Wederson Marcos; Quattrone, Alessandro; Biganzoli, Laura; Pestrin, Marta; Bertini, Ivano; Di Leo, Angelo

2007-07-01

Metabolomics is the newest "omics" science. It is a dynamic portrait of the metabolic status of living systems. Metabolomics has brought new insights on metabolic fluxes and a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of a cell's environment. This burgeoning field promises to be a potential tool to fill the gap between genotype and phenotype. As its preceding "omics" sciences (ie, genomics and proteomics), metabolomics' aim is to dredge information hidden in a sea of data. This technology permits simultaneous monitoring of many hundreds, or thousands, of macro- and small molecules, as well as functional monitoring of multiple pivotal cellular pathways. In addition, elucidation of cellular responses to molecular damage, including evolutionarily conserved inducible molecular defense systems, could be achieved with metabolomics and could lead to the discovery of new biomarkers of molecular responses to functional perturbations. If metabolomic information could be translated into diagnostic tests, it might have the potential to impact on clinical practice, and it might lead to the supplementation of traditional biomarkers of cellular integrity, cell and tissue homeostasis, and morphological alterations that result from cell damage or death. In this review the concept and characteristics of metabolomics are introduced. Main current applications of metabolomics in cancer research are reviewed, including its potential in the drug discovery field, and, last but not least, its potential impact in the field of monitoring response and toxicity to anticancer agents. In the last section, research projects ongoing at our institution and future challenges for metabolomics will be presented and briefly discussed.

Current Technologies and Recent Developments for Screening of HPV-Associated Cervical and Oropharyngeal Cancers

PubMed Central

Shah, Sunny S.; Senapati, Satyajyoti; Klacsmann, Flora; Miller, Daniel L.; Johnson, Jeff J.; Chang, Hsueh-Chia; Stack, M. Sharon

2016-01-01

Mucosal infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for a growing number of malignancies, predominantly represented by cervical cancer and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Because of the prevalence of the virus, persistence of infection, and long latency period, novel and low-cost methods are needed for effective population level screening and monitoring. We review established methods for screening of cervical and oral cancer as well as commercially-available techniques for detection of HPV DNA. We then describe the ongoing development of microfluidic nucleic acid-based biosensors to evaluate circulating host microRNAs that are produced in response to an oncogenic HPV infection. The goal is to develop an ideal screening platform that is low-cost, portable, and easy to use, with appropriate signal stability, sensitivity and specificity. Advances in technologies for sample lysis, pre-treatment and concentration, and multiplexed nucleic acid detection are provided. Continued development of these devices provides opportunities for cancer screening in low resource settings, for point-of-care diagnostics and self-screening, and for monitoring response to vaccination or surgical treatment. PMID:27618102

Electrokinetically Emplaced Amendments for Enhanced Bioremediation of Chlorinated Solvents in Clay: a Pilot Field Test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Carroll, D. M.; Inglis, A.; Head, N.; Chowdhury, A. I.; Garcia, A. N.; Reynolds, D. A.; Hogberg, D.; Edwards, E.; Lomheim, L.; Austrins, L. M.; Hayman, J.; Auger, M.; Sidebottom, A.; Eimers, J.; Gerhard, J.

2017-12-01

Bioremediation is an increasingly popular treatment technology for contaminated sites due to the proven success of biostimulation and bioaugmentation. However, bioremediation, along with other in-situ remediation technologies, faces limitations due to challenges with amendment delivery in low permeability media. Studies have suggested that electrokinetics (EK) can enhance the delivery of amendments in low permeability soils, such as clay. A pilot field trial was conducted to evaluate the potential for electrokinetics to support anaerobic dechlorination in clay by improving the transport of lactate and microorganisms. The study was performed on a former chlorinated solvent production facility in Ontario, Canada. Five transect cells were set up within the contaminated clay test area. Different amendments were injected in three of these cells to test various remediation strategies under the influence of EK. The other two cells were used as controls, one with EK applied and the other with no EK. This study focuses on the cell that applied electrokinetics for lactate emplacement followed by bioremediation (EK-Bio). This cell had an initial single injection of KB-1 bioaugmentation culture (SiREM, Canada) followed by injection of sodium lactate as a biostimulant while direct current was applied for 45 days between two electrodes 3 m apart. EK can enhance lactate migration by electromigration, while microorganisms have the potential to be influenced by electroosmosis of the bulk fluid or by electrophoresis of the charged bacteria themselves. All monitoring well locations in the EK-Bio cell exhibited evidence of successful lactate delivery corresponding to an increase in dissolved organic carbon. Reduction in chlorinated volatile organic compound (cVOC) concentrations, in particular 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCA), were evident in monitoring locations coinciding with significant lactate breakthrough. Further investigation into the influence of EK-Bio on the abundance and distribution of microbial communities is being explored using soil and groundwater samples collected throughout the duration of the field trial. This study provides original insights into the application of electrokinetically-enhanced bioremediation as a treatment strategy for contaminated, low permeability porous media.

Molecular Quantification of the Florida Red Tide Dinoflagellate and the Development of Low Cost, Volunteer-attended Handheld Sensor Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nieuwkerk, D.; Ulrich, R. M.; Paul, J. H.; Hubbard, K.; Kirkpatrick, B. A.; Fanara, T. A.; Bruzek, S.; Hoeglund, A.

2016-02-01

Harmful algal blooms of the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis can cause massive fish-kills and marine mammal mortalities, as well as impact human health via the consumption of brevetoxin-contaminated shellfish and the inhalation of aerosolized toxins. There is a strong effort to predict human health impacts by monitoring the bloom stages of K. brevis, and to prevent health impacts by closing shellfish beds when K. brevis cell concentrations reach toxic levels. The current standard method for quantifying K. brevis is by microscopic enumeration, which requires taxonomic expertise to discern K. brevis cells from other Karenia species as well as a long turnover time to generate data, which limits the number of water samples that can be processed. This EPA-funded study compared a variety of technologies against the current standard (microscopic counts) to quantify the number of K. brevis cells per liter in the water column. Results of this study showed a strong correlation between Real Time Nucleic Acid Sequence-Based Amplification (RT-NASBA) and enumeration by microscopy performed by members of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, who are responsible for such monitoring. We are adapting the bench-top RT-NASBA assay to the AmpliFire platform (a handheld sensor that can be used in the field), for point of need K. brevis detection. These handheld sensors will be used by a trained volunteer network and government agencies (FWC, NOAA, and Mote Marine Lab.) to quantify K. brevis cells in the water column of core Gulf of Mexico sites; the results from these sensors will be reported back to the GCOOS observation systems to provide real-time monitoring of K. brevis counts. The real-time information will allow agencies to better monitor fishery closures and predict human health impacts of harmful algal blooms, because a larger number of samples can be processed each week, as the NASBA process removes the rate-limiting step of microscope time.

Devices for Self-Monitoring Sedentary Time or Physical Activity: A Scoping Review.

PubMed

Sanders, James P; Loveday, Adam; Pearson, Natalie; Edwardson, Charlotte; Yates, Thomas; Biddle, Stuart J H; Esliger, Dale W

2016-05-04

It is well documented that meeting the guideline levels (150 minutes per week) of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA) is protective against chronic disease. Conversely, emerging evidence indicates the deleterious effects of prolonged sitting. Therefore, there is a need to change both behaviors. Self-monitoring of behavior is one of the most robust behavior-change techniques available. The growing number of technologies in the consumer electronics sector provides a unique opportunity for individuals to self-monitor their behavior. The aim of this study is to review the characteristics and measurement properties of currently available self-monitoring devices for sedentary time and/or PA. To identify technologies, four scientific databases were systematically searched using key terms related to behavior, measurement, and population. Articles published through October 2015 were identified. To identify technologies from the consumer electronic sector, systematic searches of three Internet search engines were also performed through to October 1, 2015. The initial database searches identified 46 devices and the Internet search engines identified 100 devices yielding a total of 146 technologies. Of these, 64 were further removed because they were currently unavailable for purchase or there was no evidence that they were designed for, had been used in, or could readily be modified for self-monitoring purposes. The remaining 82 technologies were included in this review (73 devices self-monitored PA, 9 devices self-monitored sedentary time). Of the 82 devices included, this review identified no published articles in which these devices were used for the purpose of self-monitoring PA and/or sedentary behavior; however, a number of technologies were found via Internet searches that matched the criteria for self-monitoring and provided immediate feedback on PA (ActiGraph Link, Microsoft Band, and Garmin Vivofit) and sedentary time (activPAL VT, the Lumo Back, and Darma). There are a large number of devices that self-monitor PA; however, there is a greater need for the development of tools to self-monitor sedentary time. The novelty of these devices means they have yet to be used in behavior change interventions, although the growing field of wearable technology may facilitate this to change.

Devices for Self-Monitoring Sedentary Time or Physical Activity: A Scoping Review

PubMed Central

Loveday, Adam; Pearson, Natalie; Edwardson, Charlotte; Yates, Thomas; Biddle, Stuart JH; Esliger, Dale W

2016-01-01

Background It is well documented that meeting the guideline levels (150 minutes per week) of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (PA) is protective against chronic disease. Conversely, emerging evidence indicates the deleterious effects of prolonged sitting. Therefore, there is a need to change both behaviors. Self-monitoring of behavior is one of the most robust behavior-change techniques available. The growing number of technologies in the consumer electronics sector provides a unique opportunity for individuals to self-monitor their behavior. Objective The aim of this study is to review the characteristics and measurement properties of currently available self-monitoring devices for sedentary time and/or PA. Methods To identify technologies, four scientific databases were systematically searched using key terms related to behavior, measurement, and population. Articles published through October 2015 were identified. To identify technologies from the consumer electronic sector, systematic searches of three Internet search engines were also performed through to October 1, 2015. Results The initial database searches identified 46 devices and the Internet search engines identified 100 devices yielding a total of 146 technologies. Of these, 64 were further removed because they were currently unavailable for purchase or there was no evidence that they were designed for, had been used in, or could readily be modified for self-monitoring purposes. The remaining 82 technologies were included in this review (73 devices self-monitored PA, 9 devices self-monitored sedentary time). Of the 82 devices included, this review identified no published articles in which these devices were used for the purpose of self-monitoring PA and/or sedentary behavior; however, a number of technologies were found via Internet searches that matched the criteria for self-monitoring and provided immediate feedback on PA (ActiGraph Link, Microsoft Band, and Garmin Vivofit) and sedentary time (activPAL VT, the Lumo Back, and Darma). Conclusions There are a large number of devices that self-monitor PA; however, there is a greater need for the development of tools to self-monitor sedentary time. The novelty of these devices means they have yet to be used in behavior change interventions, although the growing field of wearable technology may facilitate this to change. PMID:27145905

Advances in chemical sensing technologies for VOCs in breath for security/threat assessment, illicit drug detection, and human trafficking activity.

PubMed

Giannoukos, S; Agapiou, A; Taylor, S

2018-01-17

On-site chemical sensing of compounds associated with security and terrorist attacks is of worldwide interest. Other related bio-monitoring topics include identification of individuals posing a threat from illicit drugs, explosive manufacturing, as well as searching for victims of human trafficking and collapsed buildings. The current status of field analytical technologies is directed towards the detection and identification of vapours and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some VOCs are associated with exhaled breath, where research is moving from individual breath testing (volatilome) to cell breath (microbiome) and most recently to crowd breath metabolites (exposome). In this paper, an overview of field-deployable chemical screening technologies (both stand-alone and those with portable characteristics) is given with application to early detection and monitoring of human exposome in security operations. On-site systems employed in exhaled breath analysis, i.e. mass spectrometry (MS), optical spectroscopy and chemical sensors are reviewed. Categories of VOCs of interest include (a) VOCs in human breath associated with exposure to threat compounds, and (b) VOCs characteristic of, and associated with, human body odour (e.g. breath, sweat). The latter are relevant to human trafficking scenarios. New technological approaches in miniaturised detection and screening systems are also presented (e.g. non-scanning digital light processing linear ion trap MS (DLP-LIT-MS), nanoparticles, mid-infrared photo-acoustic spectroscopy and hyphenated technologies). Finally, the outlook for rapid and precise, real-time field detection of threat traces in exhaled breath is revealed and discussed.

U-tube based near-surface environmental monitoring in the Shenhua carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) project.

PubMed

Li, Qi; Song, Ranran; Shi, Hui; Ma, Jianli; Liu, Xuehao; Li, Xiaochun

2018-04-01

The CO 2 injected into deep formations during implementation of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) capture and storage (CCS) technology may leak and migrate into shallow aquifers or ground surfaces through a variety of pathways over a long period. The leaked CO 2 can threaten shallow environments as well as human health. Therefore, almost all monitoring programs for CCS projects around the world contain near-surface monitoring. This paper presents a U-tube based near-surface monitoring technology focusing on its first application in the Shenhua CCS demonstration project, located in the Ordos Basin, Inner Mongolia, China. First, background information on the site monitoring program of the Shenhua CCS demonstration project was provided. Then, the principle of fluid sampling and the monitoring methods were summarized for the U-tube sampler system, and the monitoring data were analyzed in detail. The U-tube based monitoring results showed that the U-tube sampler system is accurate, flexible, and representative of the subsurface fluid sampling process. The monitoring indicators for the subsurface water and soil gas at the Shenhua CCS site indicate good stratification characteristics. The concentration level of each monitoring indicator decreases with increasing depth. Finally, the significance of this near-surface environmental monitoring technology for CO 2 leakage assessments was preliminarily confirmed at the Shenhua CCS site. The application potential of the U-tube based monitoring technology was also demonstrated during the subsurface environmental monitoring of other CCS projects.

Single-Cell Sequencing for Precise Cancer Research: Progress and Prospects.

PubMed

Zhang, Xiaoyan; Marjani, Sadie L; Hu, Zhaoyang; Weissman, Sherman M; Pan, Xinghua; Wu, Shixiu

2016-03-15

Advances in genomic technology have enabled the faithful detection and measurement of mutations and the gene expression profile of cancer cells at the single-cell level. Recently, several single-cell sequencing methods have been developed that permit the comprehensive and precise analysis of the cancer-cell genome, transcriptome, and epigenome. The use of these methods to analyze cancer cells has led to a series of unanticipated discoveries, such as the high heterogeneity and stochastic changes in cancer-cell populations, the new driver mutations and the complicated clonal evolution mechanisms, and the novel identification of biomarkers of variant tumors. These methods and the knowledge gained from their utilization could potentially improve the early detection and monitoring of rare cancer cells, such as circulating tumor cells and disseminated tumor cells, and promote the development of personalized and highly precise cancer therapy. Here, we discuss the current methods for single cancer-cell sequencing, with a strong focus on those practically used or potentially valuable in cancer research, including single-cell isolation, whole genome and transcriptome amplification, epigenome profiling, multi-dimensional sequencing, and next-generation sequencing and analysis. We also examine the current applications, challenges, and prospects of single cancer-cell sequencing. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Non-invasive hemoglobin monitoring.

PubMed

Joseph, Bellal; Haider, Ansab; Rhee, Peter

2016-09-01

Technology has transformed the practice of medicine and surgery in particular over the last several decades. This change in practice has allowed diagnostic and therapeutic tests to be performed less invasively. Hemoglobin monitoring remains one of the most commonly performed diagnostic tests in the United States. Recently, non-invasive hemoglobin monitoring technology has gained popularity. The aim of this article is to review the principles of how this technology works, pros and cons, and the implications of non-invasive hemoglobin technology particularly in trauma surgery. Copyright © 2015 IJS Publishing Group Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Current and Developing Technologies for Monitoring Agents of Bioterrorism and Biowarfare

PubMed Central

Lim, Daniel V.; Simpson, Joyce M.; Kearns, Elizabeth A.; Kramer, Marianne F.

2005-01-01

Recent events have made public health officials acutely aware of the importance of rapidly and accurately detecting acts of bioterrorism. Because bioterrorism is difficult to predict or prevent, reliable platforms to rapidly detect and identify biothreat agents are important to minimize the spread of these agents and to protect the public health. These platforms must not only be sensitive and specific, but must also be able to accurately detect a variety of pathogens, including modified or previously uncharacterized agents, directly from complex sample matrices. Various commercial tests utilizing biochemical, immunological, nucleic acid, and bioluminescence procedures are currently available to identify biological threat agents. Newer tests have also been developed to identify such agents using aptamers, biochips, evanescent wave biosensors, cantilevers, living cells, and other innovative technologies. This review describes these current and developing technologies and considers challenges to rapid, accurate detection of biothreat agents. Although there is no ideal platform, many of these technologies have proved invaluable for the detection and identification of biothreat agents. PMID:16223949

A microfluidic in-line ELISA for measuring secreted protein under perfusion.

PubMed

Luan, Qiyue; Cahoon, Stacey; Wu, Agnes; Bale, Shyam Sundhar; Yarmush, Martin; Bhushan, Abhinav

2017-11-11

Recent progress in the development of microfluidic microphysiological systems such as 'organs-on-chips' and microfabricated cell culture is geared to simulate organ-level physiology. These tissue models leverage microengineering technologies that provide capabilities of presenting cultured cells with input signals in a more physiologically relevant context such as perfused flow. Proteins that are secreted from cells have important information about the health of the cells. Techniques to quantify cellular proteins include mass spectrometry to ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Although our capability to perturb the cells in the microphysiological systems with varying inputs is well established, we lack the tools to monitor in-line the cellular responses. User intervention for sample collection and off-site is cumbersome, causes delays in obtaining results, and is especially expensive because of collection, storage, and offline processing of the samples, and in many case, technically impractical to carry out because of limitated sample volumes. To address these shortcomings, we report the development of an ELISA that is carried out in-line under perfusion within a microfluidic device. Using this assay, we measured the albumin secreted from perfused hepatocytes without and under stimulation by IL-6. Since the method is based on a sandwich ELISA, we envision broad application of this technology to not just organs-on-chips but also to characterizing the temporal release and measurement of soluble factors and response to drugs.

Advances in Automated Plankton Imaging: Enhanced Throughput, Automated Staining, and Extended Deployment Modes for Imaging FlowCytobot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosik, H. M.; Olson, R. J.; Brownlee, E.; Brosnahan, M.; Crockford, E. T.; Peacock, E.; Shalapyonok, A.

2016-12-01

Imaging FlowCytobot (IFCB) was developed to fill a need for automated identification and monitoring of nano- and microplankton, especially phytoplankton in the size range 10 200 micrometer, which are important in coastal blooms (including harmful algal blooms). IFCB uses a combination of flow cytometric and video technology to capture high resolution (1 micrometer) images of suspended particles. This proven, now commercially available, submersible instrument technology has been deployed in fixed time series locations for extended periods (months to years) and in shipboard laboratories where underway water is automatically analyzed during surveys. Building from these successes, we have now constructed and evaluated three new prototype IFCB designs that extend measurement and deployment capabilities. To improve cell counting statistics without degrading image quality, a high throughput version (IFCB-HT) incorporates in-flow acoustic focusing to non-disruptively pre-concentrate cells before the measurement area of the flow cell. To extend imaging to all heterotrophic cells (even those that do not exhibit chlorophyll fluorescence), Staining IFCB (IFCB-S) incorporates automated addition of a live-cell fluorescent stain (fluorescein diacetate) to samples before analysis. A horizontally-oriented IFCB-AV design addresses the need for spatial surveying from surface autonomous vehicles, including design features that reliably eliminate air bubbles and mitigate wave motion impacts. Laboratory evaluation and test deployments in waters near Woods Hole show the efficacy of each of these enhanced IFCB designs.

Privacy versus autonomy: a tradeoff model for smart home monitoring technologies.

PubMed

Townsend, Daphne; Knoefel, Frank; Goubran, Rafik

2011-01-01

Smart homes are proposed as a new location for the delivery of healthcare services. They provide healthcare monitoring and communication services, by using integrated sensor network technologies. We validate a hypothesis regarding older adults' adoption of home monitoring technologies by conducting a literature review of articles studying older adults' attitudes and perceptions of sensor technologies. Using current literature to support the hypothesis, this paper applies the tradeoff model to decisions about sensor acceptance. Older adults are willing to trade privacy (by accepting a monitoring technology), for autonomy. As the information captured by the sensor becomes more intrusive and the infringement on privacy increases, sensors are accepted if the loss in privacy is traded for autonomy. Even video cameras, the most intrusive sensor type were accepted in exchange for the height of autonomy which is to remain in the home.

Controlled viable release of selectively captured label-free cells in microchannels.

PubMed

Gurkan, Umut Atakan; Anand, Tarini; Tas, Huseyin; Elkan, David; Akay, Altug; Keles, Hasan Onur; Demirci, Utkan

2011-12-07

Selective capture of cells from bodily fluids in microchannels has broadly transformed medicine enabling circulating tumor cell isolation, rapid CD4(+) cell counting for HIV monitoring, and diagnosis of infectious diseases. Although cell capture methods have been demonstrated in microfluidic systems, the release of captured cells remains a significant challenge. Viable retrieval of captured label-free cells in microchannels will enable a new era in biological sciences by allowing cultivation and post-processing. The significant challenge in release comes from the fact that the cells adhere strongly to the microchannel surface, especially when immuno-based immobilization methods are used. Even though fluid shear and enzymes have been used to detach captured cells in microchannels, these methods are known to harm cells and affect cellular characteristics. This paper describes a new technology to release the selectively captured label-free cells in microchannels without the use of fluid shear or enzymes. We have successfully released the captured CD4(+) cells (3.6% of the mononuclear blood cells) from blood in microfluidic channels with high specificity (89% ± 8%), viability (94% ± 4%), and release efficiency (59% ± 4%). We have further validated our system by specifically capturing and controllably releasing the CD34(+) stem cells from whole blood, which were quantified to be 19 cells per million blood cells in the blood samples used in this study. Our results also indicated that both CD4(+) and CD34(+) cells released from the microchannels were healthy and amenable for in vitro culture. Manual flow based microfluidic method utilizes inexpensive, easy to fabricate microchannels allowing selective label-free cell capture and release in less than 10 minutes, which can also be used at the point-of-care. The presented technology can be used to isolate and purify a broad spectrum of cells from mixed populations offering widespread applications in applied biological sciences, such as tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, rare cell and stem cell isolation, proteomic/genomic research, and clonal/population analyses.

REAL-TIME ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING: APPLICATIONS FOR HOMELAND SECURITY

EPA Science Inventory

Real-time monitoring technology developed as part of the EMPACT program has a variety of potential applications. These tools can measure a variety of potential contaminants in the air, water, in buildings, or in the soil. Real-time monitoring technology allows these detection sys...

Materials and Techniques for Implantable Nutrient Sensing Using Flexible Sensors Integrated with Metal-Organic Frameworks.

PubMed

Ling, Wei; Liew, Guoguang; Li, Ya; Hao, Yafeng; Pan, Huizhuo; Wang, Hanjie; Ning, Baoan; Xu, Hang; Huang, Xian

2018-06-01

The combination of novel materials with flexible electronic technology may yield new concepts of flexible electronic devices that effectively detect various biological chemicals to facilitate understanding of biological processes and conduct health monitoring. This paper demonstrates single- or multichannel implantable flexible sensors that are surface modified with conductive metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) such as copper-MOF and cobalt-MOF with large surface area, high porosity, and tunable catalysis capability. The sensors can monitor important nutriments such as ascorbicacid, glycine, l-tryptophan (l-Trp), and glucose with detection resolutions of 14.97, 0.71, 4.14, and 54.60 × 10 -6 m, respectively. In addition, they offer sensing capability even under extreme deformation and complex surrounding environment with continuous monitoring capability for 20 d due to minimized use of biological active chemicals. Experiments using live cells and animals indicate that the MOF-modified sensors are biologically safe to cells, and can detect l-Trp in blood and interstitial fluid. This work represents the first effort in integrating MOFs with flexible sensors to achieve highly specific and sensitive implantable electrochemical detection and may inspire appearance of more flexible electronic devices with enhanced capability in sensing, energy storage, and catalysis using various properties of MOFs. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Overview of Emerging Air Quality Monitoring Technologies and Their Data

EPA Science Inventory

This is a webinar presentation as part of a series on Air Quality Planning for Wildland Smoke. The purpose of the talk is to provide a basic overview of monitoring technologies and specifically focus on emerging technologies for PM2.5.

SUPERFUND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES EVALUATION (SITE) PROGRAM FOR MONITORING AND CHARACTERIZATION TECHNOLOGIES

EPA Science Inventory

This task seeks to identify high priority needs of the Regions and Program Offices for innovative field sampling, characterization, monitoring, and measurement technologies. When an appropriate solution to a specific problem is identified, a field demonstration is conducted to d...

Advanced Environmental Monitoring Technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jan, Darrell

2004-01-01

Viewgraphs on Advanced Environmental Monitoring Technologies are presented. The topics include: 1) Monitoring & Controlling the Environment; 2) Illustrative Example: Canary 3) Ground-based Commercial Technology; 4) High Capability & Low Mass/Power + Autonomy = Key to Future SpaceFlight; 5) Current Practice: in Flight; 6) Current Practice: Post Flight; 7) Miniature Mass Spectrometer for Planetary Exploration and Long Duration Human Flight; 8) Hardware and Data Acquisition System; 9) 16S rDNA Phylogenetic Tree; and 10) Preview of Porter.

Emerging role of digital technology and remote monitoring in the care of cardiac patients.

PubMed

Banchs, Javier E; Scher, David Lee

2015-07-01

Current available mobile health technologies make possible earlier diagnosis and long-term monitoring of patients with cardiovascular diseases. Remote monitoring of patients with implantable devices and chronic diseases has resulted in better outcomes reducing health care costs and hospital admissions. New care models, which shift point of care to the outpatient setting and the patient's home, necessitate innovations in technology. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Real-time monitoring of river water quality using in-line continuous acquisition of fluorescence excitation and emission matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carstea, E.; Baker, A.; Johnson, R.; Reynolds, D. M.

2009-12-01

In-line fluorescence EEM monitoring has been performed over an eleven-day period for Bournbrook River, Birmingham, UK. River water was diverted to a portable laboratory via a continuous flow pump and filter system. Fluorescence excitation-emission matrices data was recorded every 3 minutes using a flow cell (1cm pathlength) coupled to a fiber optic probe. This real-time fluorescence EEM data (Excitation, 225-400 nm at 5 nm steps, emission, 280-500 nm at 2 nm steps) was collected 'in-line'and directly compared with the spectrophotometric properties and physical and chemical parameters of river water samples collected off-line at known time intervals. Over the monitoring period, minor pollution pulses from cross connections were detected and identified hourly along with a random diesel pollution event. This work addresses the practicalities of measuring and detecting fluorescence EEM in the field and discusses the potential of this technological approach for further understanding important hydrological and biogeochemical processes. Problems associated with fouling and system failure are also reported. Example of the data generated from the continuous fluorescence EEM monitoring.

Lack of irrefutable validation does not negate clinical utility of near-infrared spectroscopy monitoring: learning to trust new technology.

PubMed

Kane, Jason M; Steinhorn, David M

2009-09-01

Reliance on new monitoring device technology is based upon an understanding of how the device operates and its reliability in a specific clinical setting. The introduction of new monitoring devices will therefore elicit either distrust of the new technology and the data presented or adoption of new devices. The use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology to monitor vital organs in postoperative pediatric cardiac surgery patients has been extensively described yet controversy remains as to the use of this monitoring device. The following retrospective case series demonstrates how learning from trends in data elicited from 2-site NIRS monitoring provided important bedside insights. These insights led to changes in clinician behavior and reliance on NIRS monitoring for early recognition of clinically silent deteriorations. Disregard for the NIRS data may have led to a fatal outcome in an unstable patient who might have received more timely intervention if the NIRS data had been acknowledged earlier. This case series demonstrates that 2-site NIRS monitoring accurately reflects situations in which poor clinical outcomes may occur when declining trends in somatic tissue oxygen saturations are not corrected. Physician management of the postoperative pediatric cardiac surgery patient can change based upon the insights gained through the application of NIRS monitoring.

Performance of Off-the-Shelf Technologies for Spacecraft Cabin Atmospheric Major Constituent Monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tatara, J. D.; Perry, J. L.

2004-01-01

Monitoring the atmospheric composition of a crewed spacecraft cabin is central to successfully expanding the breadth and depth of first-hand human knowledge and understanding of space. Highly reliable technologies must be identified and developed to monitor atmospheric composition. This will enable crewed space missions that last weeks, months, and eventually years. Atmospheric composition monitoring is a primary component of any environmental control and life support system. Instrumentation employed to monitor atmospheric composition must be inexpensive, simple, and lightweight and provide robust performance. Such a system will ensure an environment that promotes human safety and health, and that the environment can be maintained with a high degree of confidence. Key to this confidence is the capability for any technology to operate autonomously, with little intervention from the crew or mission control personnel. A study has been conducted using technologies that, with further development, may reach these goals.

Application of structural health monitoring technologies to bio-systems: current status and path forward

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhalla, Suresh; Srivastava, Shashank; Suresh, Rupali; Moharana, Sumedha; Kaur, Naveet; Gupta, Ashok

2015-03-01

This paper presents a case for extension of structural health monitoring (SHM) technologies to offer solutions for biomedical problems. SHM research has made remarkable progress during the last two/ three decades. These technologies are now being extended for possible applications in the bio-medical field. Especially, smart materials, such as piezoelectric ceramic (PZT) patches and fibre-Bragg grating (FBG) sensors, offer a new set of possibilities to the bio-medical community to augment their conventional set of sensors, tools and equipment. The paper presents some of the recent extensions of SHM, such as condition monitoring of bones, monitoring of dental implant post surgery and foot pressure measurement. Latest developments, such as non-bonded configuration of PZT patches for monitoring bones and possible applications in osteoporosis detection, are also discussed. In essence, there is a whole new gamut of new possibilities for SHM technologies making their foray into the bi-medical sector.

DEVELOPING AND IMPLEMENTING AN ESTUARINE WATER QUALITY MONITORING, ASSESSMENT AND OUTREACH PROGRAM/THE MYSOUND PROJECT

EPA Science Inventory

EPA has developed a technology transfer handbook for the EMPACT MYSound Project. The handbook highlights information and monitoring technologies developed from the EMPACT Long Island Sound Marine Monitoring (MYSound) Project. As part of the MYSound effort, telemetering data-buoys...

Test/QA Plan (TQAP) for Verification of Semi-Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring Systems

EPA Science Inventory

The purpose of the semi-continuous ambient air monitoring technology (or MARGA) test and quality assurance plan is to specify procedures for a verification test applicable to commercial semi-continuous ambient air monitoring technologies. The purpose of the verification test is ...

Integration of Cell Phone Imaging with Microchip ELISA to Detect Ovarian Cancer HE4 Biomarker in Urine at the Point-of-Care

PubMed Central

Wang, ShuQi; Zhao, Xiaohu; Khimji, Imran; Akbas, Ragip; Qiu, Weiliang; Edwards, Dale; Cramer, Daniel W.; Ye, Bin; Demirci, Utkan

2013-01-01

Ovarian cancer is asymptomatic at early stages and most patients present with advanced levels of disease. Lack of cost-effective methods that can achieve frequent, simple and non-invasive testing hinders early detection and causes high mortality in ovarian cancer patients. Here, we report a simple and inexpensive microchip ELISA-based detection module that employs a portable detection system, i.e., a cell phone/charge-coupled device (CCD) to quantify an ovarian cancer biomarker, HE4, in urine. Integration of a mobile application with a cell phone enabled immediate processing of microchip ELISA results, which eliminated the need for a bulky, expensive spectrophotometer. The HE4 level detected by a cell phone or a lensless CCD system was significantly elevated in urine samples from cancer patients (n = 19) than normal healthy controls (n = 20) (p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses showed that the microchip ELISA coupled with a cell phone running an automated analysis application had a sensitivity of 89.5% at a specificity of 90%. Under the same specificity, the microchip ELISA coupled with a CCD had a sensitivity of 84.2%. In conclusion, integration of microchip ELISA with cell phone/CCD-based colorimetric measurement technology can be used to detect HE4 biomarker at the point-of-care (POC), paving the way to create bedside technologies for diagnostics and treatment monitoring. PMID:21881677

Cytotoxicity of low-shrink composites with new monomer technology on bovine dental pulp-derived cells.

PubMed

Yalcin, M; Ahmetoglu, F; Sisman, R; Bozkurt, Bs; Hakki, Ss

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of four low-shrink composites with new monomer technology on the bovine dental pulp-derived cells (bDPCs). Ten samples were prepared for each group composites, and the samples were immersed in 7 mL of culture medium for 72 h at 37°C to extract residual monomer or cytotoxic substances. The culture medium containing the material extracts was sterile filtered for use on the cell cultures. Materials were incubated in medium with serum for 72 h. bDPCs were maintained in a medium with serum. A real-time cell analyzer was used to evaluate cell survival. After seeding 200 mL of the cell suspensions into the wells (10,000 cells/well) of the E-plate 96, bDPCs were treated with bioactive components released by the composite materials (1:1 and 1:2 dilutions) and monitored every 15 min for 50 h. According to analysis of variance, there were significant differences between the cell indexes of the control and GC kalore (p < 0.05) and Bisco Reflexions (p < 0.001) groups for the 1:1 dilutions at 25 h. When evaluated at 50 h, 1:1 dilutions of GC Kalore (p < 0.01) and Bisco Reflexions (p < 0.001) reduced cell survival significantly. Although composites resins are being advanced, their cytotoxic effects have been proceeding till this time. However, two of the four materials tested significantly reduced cell viability when compared with control. Research should focus on the cytotoxicity of composites in addition to their mechanical properties. © The Author(s) 2014.

Dielectrophoretic lab-on-CMOS platform for trapping and manipulation of cells.

PubMed

Park, Kyoungchul; Kabiri, Shideh; Sonkusale, Sameer

2016-02-01

Trapping and manipulation of cells are essential operations in numerous studies in biology and life sciences. We discuss the realization of a Lab-on-a-Chip platform for dielectrophoretic trapping and repositioning of cells and microorganisms on a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology, which we define here as Lab-on-CMOS (LoC). The LoC platform is based on dielectrophoresis (DEP) which is the force experienced by any dielectric particle including biological entities in non-uniform AC electrical field. DEP force depends on the permittivity of the cells, its size and shape and also on the permittivity of the medium and therefore it enables selective targeting of cells based on their phenotype. In this paper, we address an important matter that of electrode design for DEP for which we propose a three-dimensional (3D) octapole geometry to create highly confined electric fields for trapping and manipulation of cells. Conventional DEP-based platforms are implemented stand-alone on glass, silicon or polymers connected to external infrastructure for electronics and optics, making it bulky and expensive. In this paper, the use of CMOS as a platform provides a pathway to truly miniaturized lab-on-CMOS or LoC platform, where DEP electrodes are designed using built-in multiple metal layers of the CMOS process for effective trapping of cells, with built-in electronics for in-situ impedance monitoring of the cell position. We present electromagnetic simulation results of DEP force for this unique 3D octapole geometry on CMOS. Experimental results with yeast cells validate the design. These preliminary results indicate the promise of using CMOS technology for truly compact miniaturized lab-on-chip platform for cell biotechnology applications.

High-Density Droplet Microarray of Individually Addressable Electrochemical Cells.

PubMed

Zhang, Huijie; Oellers, Tobias; Feng, Wenqian; Abdulazim, Tarik; Saw, En Ning; Ludwig, Alfred; Levkin, Pavel A; Plumeré, Nicolas

2017-06-06

Microarray technology has shown great potential for various types of high-throughput screening applications. The main read-out methods of most microarray platforms, however, are based on optical techniques, limiting the scope of potential applications of such powerful screening technology. Electrochemical methods possess numerous complementary advantages over optical detection methods, including its label-free nature, capability of quantitative monitoring of various reporter molecules, and the ability to not only detect but also address compositions of individual compartments. However, application of electrochemical methods for the purpose of high-throughput screening remains very limited. In this work, we develop a high-density individually addressable electrochemical droplet microarray (eDMA). The eDMA allows for the detection of redox-active reporter molecules irrespective of their electrochemical reversibility in individual nanoliter-sized droplets. Orthogonal band microelectrodes are arranged to form at their intersections an array of three-electrode systems for precise control of the applied potential, which enables direct read-out of the current related to analyte detection. The band microelectrode array is covered with a layer of permeable porous polymethacrylate functionalized with a highly hydrophobic-hydrophilic pattern, forming spatially separated nanoliter-sized droplets on top of each electrochemical cell. Electrochemical characterization of single droplets demonstrates that the underlying electrode system is accessible to redox-active molecules through the hydrophilic polymeric pattern and that the nonwettable hydrophobic boundaries can spatially separate neighboring cells effectively. The eDMA technology opens the possibility to combine the high-throughput biochemical or living cell screenings using the droplet microarray platform with the sequential electrochemical read-out of individual droplets.

Investigation of nuclear nano-morphology marker as a biomarker for cancer risk assessment using a mouse model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bista, Rajan K.; Uttam, Shikhar; Hartman, Douglas J.; Qiu, Wei; Yu, Jian; Zhang, Lin; Brand, Randall E.; Liu, Yang

2012-06-01

The development of accurate and clinically applicable tools to assess cancer risk is essential to define candidates to undergo screening for early-stage cancers at a curable stage or provide a novel method to monitor chemoprevention treatments. With the use of our recently developed optical technology--spatial-domain low-coherence quantitative phase microscopy (SL-QPM), we have derived a novel optical biomarker characterized by structure-derived optical path length (OPL) properties from the cell nucleus on the standard histology and cytology specimens, which quantifies the nano-structural alterations within the cell nucleus at the nanoscale sensitivity, referred to as nano-morphology marker. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of the nuclear nano-morphology marker from histologically normal cells, extracted directly from the standard histology specimens, to detect early-stage carcinogenesis, assess cancer risk, and monitor the effect of chemopreventive treatment. We used a well-established mouse model of spontaneous carcinogenesis--ApcMin mice, which develop multiple intestinal adenomas (Min) due to a germline mutation in the adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) gene. We found that the nuclear nano-morphology marker quantified by OPL detects the development of carcinogenesis from histologically normal intestinal epithelial cells, even at an early pre-adenomatous stage (six weeks). It also exhibits a good temporal correlation with the small intestine that parallels the development of carcinogenesis and cancer risk. To further assess its ability to monitor the efficacy of chemopreventive agents, we used an established chemopreventive agent, sulindac. The nuclear nano-morphology marker is reversed toward normal after a prolonged treatment. Therefore, our proof-of-concept study establishes the feasibility of the SL-QPM derived nuclear nano-morphology marker OPL as a promising, simple and clinically applicable biomarker for cancer risk assessment and evaluation of chemopreventive treatment.

Monitoring the regulation of gene expression in a growing organ using a fluid mechanics formalism

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Technological advances have enabled the accurate quantification of gene expression, even within single cell types. While transcriptome analyses are routinely performed, most experimental designs only provide snapshots of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms underlying cell fate or positional signalling have been revealed through these discontinuous datasets. However, in developing multicellular structures, temporal and spatial cues, known to directly influence transcriptional networks, get entangled as the cells are displaced and expand. Access to an unbiased view of the spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression occurring during development requires a specific framework that properly quantifies the rate of change of a property in a moving and expanding element, such as a cell or an organ segment. Results We show how the rate of change in gene expression can be quantified by combining kinematics and real-time polymerase chain reaction data in a mechanistic model which considers any organ as a continuum. This framework was applied in order to assess the developmental regulation of the two reference genes Actin11 and Elongation Factor 1-β in the apex of poplar root. The growth field was determined by time-lapse photography and transcript density was obtained at high spatial resolution. The net accumulation rates of the transcripts of the two genes were found to display highly contrasted developmental profiles. Actin11 showed pulses of up and down regulation in the accelerating and decelerating parts of the growth zone while the dynamic of EF1β were much slower. This framework provides key information about gene regulation in a developing organ, such as the location, the duration and the intensity of gene induction/repression. Conclusions We demonstrated that gene expression patterns can be monitored using the continuity equation without using mutants or reporter constructions. Given the rise of imaging technologies, this framework in our view opens a new way to dissect the molecular basis of growth regulation, even in non-model species or complex structures. PMID:20202192

TECHNOLOGY EVALUATION REPORT CEREX ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES UV HOUND POINT SAMPLE AIR MONITOR

EPA Science Inventory

The USEPA's National Homeland Security Research Center (NHSRC) Technology Testing and Evaluation Program (TTEP) is carrying out performance tests on homeland security technologies. Under TTEP, Battelle evaluated the performance of the Cerex UV Hound point sample air monitor in de...

U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION (ETV) PROGRAM: MERCURY CONTINUOUS EMISSION MONITORS

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) program evaluates the performance of innovative air, water, pollution prevention and monitoring technologies that have the potential to improve human health and the environment. This techn...

SITE CHARACTERIZATION AND MONITORING TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION: PROGRESS AND RESULTS

EPA Science Inventory

The Site Characterization and Monitoring Technology Pilot of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Technology Verification Program (ETV) has been engaged in verification activities since the fall of 1994 (U.S. EPA, 1997). The purpose of the ETV is to promote th...

Monitoring Technological Change.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brinkworth, B. J.; Eckersall, K. E.

A project was conducted to design and pilot a scheme for monitoring trade/industry/commerce technological changes and reporting them to Technical and Further Education (TAFE) teachers and authorities. A matrix of information categories was used to facilitate the collection and storage of information relative to technological advancements in the…

Nanotechnology and cancer: improving real-time monitoring and staging of bladder cancer with multimodal mesoporous silica nanoparticles.

PubMed

Sweeney, Sean K; Luo, Yi; O'Donnell, Michael A; Assouline, Jose

Despite being one of the most common cancers, bladder cancer is largely inefficiently and inaccurately staged and monitored. Current imaging methods detect cancer only when it has reached "visible" size and has significantly disrupted the structure of the organ. By that time, thousands of cells will have proliferated and perhaps metastasized. Repeated biopsies and scans are necessary to determine the effect of therapy on cancer growth. In this report, we describe a novel approach based on multimodal nanoparticle contrast agent technology and its application to a preclinical animal model of bladder cancer. The innovation relies on the engineering core of mesoporous silica with specific scanning contrast properties and surface modification that include fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast. The overall dimensions of the nano-device are preset at 80-180 nm, depending on composition with a pore size of 2 nm. To facilitate and expedite discoveries, we combined a well-known model of bladder cancer and our novel technology. We exposed nanoparticles to MB49 murine bladder cancer cells in vitro and found that 70 % of the cells were labeled by nanoparticles as measured by flow cytometry. The in vivo mouse model for bladder cancer is particularly well suited for T1- and T2-weighted MRI. Under our experimental conditions, we demonstrate that the nanoparticles considerably improve tumor definition in terms of volumetric, intensity and structural characteristics. Important bladder tumor parameters can be ascertained, non-invasively, repetitively, and with great accuracy. Furthermore, since the particles are not biodegradable, repetitive injection is not required. This feature allows follow-up diagnostic evaluations during cancer treatment. Changes in MRI signals show that in situ uptake of free particles has predilection to tumor cells relative to normal bladder epithelium. The particle distribution within the tumors was corroborated by fluorescent microscopy of sections of excised bladders. In addition, MRI imaging revealed fibrous finger-like projections into the tumors where particles insinuated themselves deeply. This morphological characteristic was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. These findings may present new options for therapeutic intervention. Ultimately, the combination of real-time and repeated MRI evaluation of the tumors enhanced by nanoparticle contrast may have the potential for translation into human clinical studies for tumor staging, therapeutic monitoring, and drug delivery.

Factors associated with herd bulk milk composition and technological traits in the Italian dairy industry.

PubMed

Benedet, A; Manuelian, C L; Penasa, M; Cassandro, M; Righi, F; Sternieri, M; Galimberti, P; Zambrini, A V; De Marchi, M

2018-02-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate sources of variation of milk composition and technological characteristics routinely collected in field conditions in the Italian dairy industry. A total of 40,896 bulk milk records from 620 herds and 10 regions across Italy were analyzed. Composition traits were fat, protein, and casein percentages, urea content, and somatic cell score; and technological characteristics were rennet coagulation time, curd firming time, curd firmness 30 min after rennet addition to milk, and titratable acidity. Data of herd bulk milks were analyzed using a model that included fixed effects of region, herd nested within region, and season of milk analysis. An average good milk quality was reported in the dairy industry (especially concerning fat, protein, and casein percentages), and moderate to high correlations between composition and technological traits were observed. All factors included in the statistical model were significant in explaining the variation of the studied traits except for region effect in the analysis of casein and somatic cell score. Northeast and central-southern Italian regions showed the best performance for composition and technological features, respectively. Traits varied greatly across regions, which could reflect differences in herd management and strategies. Overall, less suitable milk for dairy processing was observed in summer. Results of the present study suggested that a constant monitoring of technological traits in the dairy industry is necessary to improve production quality at herd level and it may be a way to segregate milk according to its processing characteristics. Copyright © 2018 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Visualization and tracking of tumour extracellular vesicle delivery and RNA translation using multiplexed reporters

PubMed Central

Lai, Charles P.; Kim, Edward Y.; Badr, Christian E.; Weissleder, Ralph; Mempel, Thorsten R.; Tannous, Bakhos A.; Breakefield, Xandra O.

2015-01-01

Accurate spatiotemporal assessment of extracellular vesicle (EV) delivery and cargo RNA translation requires specific and robust live-cell imaging technologies. Here we engineer optical reporters to label multiple EV populations for visualization and tracking of tumour EV release, uptake and exchange between cell populations both in culture and in vivo. Enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) and tandem dimer Tomato (tdTomato) were fused at NH2-termini with a palmitoylation signal (PalmGFP, PalmtdTomato) for EV membrane labelling. To monitor EV-RNA cargo, transcripts encoding PalmtdTomato were tagged with MS2 RNA binding sequences and detected by co-expression of bacteriophage MS2 coat protein fused with EGFP. By multiplexing fluorescent and bioluminescent EV membrane reporters, we reveal the rapid dynamics of both EV uptake and translation of EV-delivered cargo mRNAs in cancer cells that occurred within 1-hour post-horizontal transfer between cells. These studies confirm that EV-mediated communication is dynamic and multidirectional between cells with delivery of functional mRNA. PMID:25967391

Cell Separations in Microgravity and Development of a Space Bioreactor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, D. R.

1985-01-01

A bioreactor optimized for operations in space is now being developed. The current research is focused on determining the optimum cell-bead ratios, medium content and proper maintenance conditions required to keep living cell specimens alive and healthy for the entire flight. The bioreactor development project has recently added a microprocessor/computer to the JSC prototype for control and data analysis. Appropriate new technology is being combined with the current bioreactor designs and tested to determine what specific features must be included in the fabrication of a bioreactor designed to operate for STS demonstration tests. Considerations include: (1) circulation and resupply of culture media; (2) sensors required to monitor temperature, cell growth, mass transport, and oxygen consumption; and (3) inflight control of shear stress on cells, gas transfer in microgravity, diffusion, and intracellular transport. These data and results from the JSC prototype bioreactor test will be used for the design and construction of a small space bioreactor for the Orbiter middeck.

Shrink-induced biomimetic wrinkled substrates for functional cardiac cell alignment and culture.

PubMed

Mendoza, Nicole; Tu, Roger; Chen, Aaron; Lee, Eugene; Khine, Michelle

2014-01-01

The anisotropic alignment of cardiomyocytes in native myocardium tissue is a functional feature that is absent in traditional in vitro cardiac cell culture. Microenvironmental factors cue structural organization of the myocardium, which promotes the mechanical contractile properties and electrophysiological patterns seen in mature cardiomyocytes. Current nano- and microfabrication techniques, such as photolithography, generate simplified cell culture topographies that are not truly representative of the multifaceted and multi-scale fibrils of the cardiac extracellular matrix. In addition, such technologies are costly and require a clean room for fabrication. This chapter offers an easy, fast, robust, and inexpensive fabrication of biomimetic multi-scale wrinkled surfaces through the process of plasma treating and shrinking prestressed thermoplastic. Additionally, this chapter includes techniques for culturing stem cells and their cardiac derivatives on these substrates. Importantly, this wrinkled cell culture platform is compatible with both fluorescence and bright-field imaging; real-time physiological monitoring of CM action potential propagation and contraction properties can elucidate cardiotoxicity drug effects.

Study on embedding fiber Bragg grating sensor into the 3D printing structure for health monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ruiya; Tan, Yuegang; Zhou, Zude; Fang, Liang; Chen, Yiyang

2016-10-01

3D printing technology is a rapidly developing manufacturing technology, which is known as a core technology in the third industrial revolution. With the continuous improvement of the application of 3D printing products, the health monitoring of the 3D printing structure is particularly important. Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensing technology is a new type of optical sensing technology with unique advantages comparing to traditional sensing technology, and it has great application prospects in structural health monitoring. In this paper, the FBG sensors embedded in the internal structure of the 3D printing were used to monitor the static and dynamic strain variation of 3D printing structure during loading process. The theoretical result and experimental result has good consistency and the characteristic frequency detected by FBG sensor is consistent with the testing results of traditional accelerator in the dynamic experiment. The results of this paper preliminary validate that FBG embedded in the 3D printing structure can effectively detecting the static and dynamic stain change of the 3D printing structure, which provide some guidance for the health monitoring of 3D printing structure.

Monitoring human health behaviour in one's living environment: a technological review.

PubMed

Lowe, Shane A; Ólaighin, Gearóid

2014-02-01

The electronic monitoring of human health behaviour using computer techniques has been an active research area for the past few decades. A wide array of different approaches have been investigated using various technologies including inertial sensors, Global Positioning System, smart homes, Radio Frequency IDentification and others. It is only in recent years that research has turned towards a sensor fusion approach using several different technologies in single systems or devices. These systems allow for an increased volume of data to be collected and for activity data to be better used as measures of behaviour. This change may be due to decreasing hardware costs, smaller sensors, increased power efficiency or increases in portability. This paper is intended to act as a reference for the design of multi-sensor behaviour monitoring systems. The range of technologies that have been used in isolation for behaviour monitoring both in research and commercial devices are reviewed and discussed. Filtering, range, sensitivity, usability and other considerations of different technologies are discussed. A brief overview of commercially available activity monitors and their technology is also included. Copyright © 2013 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aptamer-Based Methods for Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells and Their Potential for Personalized Diagnostics.

PubMed

Zamay, Anna S; Zamay, Galina S; Kolovskaya, Olga S; Zamay, Tatiana N; Berezovski, Maxim V

2017-01-01

Cancer diagnostics and treatment monitoring rely on sensing and counting of rare cells such as cancer circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood. Many analytical techniques have been developed to reliably detect and quantify CTCs using unique physical shape and size of tumor cells and/or distinctive patterns of cell surface biomarkers. Main problems of CTC bioanalysis are in the small number of cells that are present in the circulation and heterogeneity of CTCs. In this chapter, we describe recent progress towards the selection and application of synthetic DNA or RNA aptamers to capture and detect CTCs in blood. Antibody-based approaches for cell isolation and purification are limited because of an antibody's negative effect on cell viability and purity. Aptamers transform cell isolation technology, because they bind and release cells on-demand. The unique feature of anti-CTC aptamers is that the aptamers are selected for cell surface biomarkers in their native state, and conformation without previous knowledge of their biomarkers. Once aptamers are produced, they can be used to identify CTC biomarkers using mass spectrometry. The biomarkers and corresponding aptamers can be exploited to improve cancer diagnostics and therapies .

Technology review: prototyping platforms for monitoring ambient conditions.

PubMed

Afolaranmi, Samuel Olaiya; Ramis Ferrer, Borja; Martinez Lastra, Jose Luis

2018-05-08

The monitoring of ambient conditions in indoor spaces is very essential owing to the amount of time spent indoors. Specifically, the monitoring of air quality is significant because contaminated air affects the health, comfort and productivity of occupants. This research work presents a technology review of prototyping platforms for monitoring ambient conditions in indoor spaces. It involves the research on sensors (for CO 2 , air quality and ambient conditions), IoT platforms, and novel and commercial prototyping platforms. The ultimate objective of this review is to enable the easy identification, selection and utilisation of the technologies best suited for monitoring ambient conditions in indoor spaces. Following the review, it is recommended to use metal oxide sensors, optical sensors and electrochemical sensors for IAQ monitoring (including NDIR sensors for CO 2 monitoring), Raspberry Pi for data processing, ZigBee and Wi-Fi for data communication, and ThingSpeak IoT platform for data storage, analysis and visualisation.

Modeling of human movement monitoring using Bluetooth Low Energy technology.

PubMed

Mokhtari, G; Zhang, Q; Karunanithi, M

2015-01-01

Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a wireless communication technology which can be used to monitor human movements. In this monitoring system, a BLE signal scanner scans signal strength of BLE tags carried by people, to thus infer human movement patterns within its monitoring zone. However to the extent of our knowledge one main aspect of this monitoring system which has not yet been thoroughly investigated in literature is how to build a sound theoretical model, based on tunable BLE communication parameters such as scanning time interval and advertising time interval, to enable the study and design of effective and efficient movement monitoring systems. In this paper, we proposed and developed a statistical model based on Monte-Carlo simulation, which can be utilized to assess impacts of BLE technology parameters in terms of latency and efficiency, on a movement monitoring system, and can thus benefit a more efficient system design.

Fabrication and evaluation of electrohydrodynamic jet 3D printed polycaprolactone/chitosan cell carriers using human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts.

PubMed

Wu, Yang; Sriram, Gopu; Fawzy, Amr S; Fuh, Jerry Yh; Rosa, Vinicius; Cao, Tong; Wong, Yoke San

2016-08-01

Biological function of adherent cells depends on the cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in three-dimensional space. To understand the behavior of cells in 3D environment and their interactions with neighboring cells and matrix requires 3D culture systems. Here, we present a novel 3D cell carrier scaffold that provides an environment for routine 3D cell growth in vitro We have developed thin, mechanically stable electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) 3D printed polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan macroporous scaffolds with precise fiber orientation for basic 3D cell culture application. We have evaluated the application of this technology by growing human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts within these 3D scaffolds. Assessment of cell viability and proliferation of cells seeded on polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan 3D-scaffolds show that the human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts could adhere and proliferate on the scaffolds over time. Further, using confocal microscopy we demonstrate the ability to use fluorescence-labelled cells that could be microscopically monitored in real-time. Hence, these 3D printed polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan scaffolds could be used as a cell carrier for in vitro 3D cell culture-, bioreactor- and tissue engineering-related applications in the future. © The Author(s) 2016.

The utility of an automated electronic system to monitor and audit transfusion practice.

PubMed

Grey, D E; Smith, V; Villanueva, G; Richards, B; Augustson, B; Erber, W N

2006-05-01

Transfusion laboratories with transfusion committees have a responsibility to monitor transfusion practice and generate improvements in clinical decision-making and red cell usage. However, this can be problematic and expensive because data cannot be readily extracted from most laboratory information systems. To overcome this problem, we developed and introduced a system to electronically extract and collate extensive amounts of data from two laboratory information systems and to link it with ICD10 clinical codes in a new database using standard information technology. Three data files were generated from two laboratory information systems, ULTRA (version 3.2) and TM, using standard information technology scripts. These were patient pre- and post-transfusion haemoglobin, blood group and antibody screen, and cross match and transfusion data. These data together with ICD10 codes for surgical cases were imported into an MS ACCESS database and linked by means of a unique laboratory number. Queries were then run to extract the relevant information and processed in Microsoft Excel for graphical presentation. We assessed the utility of this data extraction system to audit transfusion practice in a 600-bed adult tertiary hospital over an 18-month period. A total of 52 MB of data were extracted from the two laboratory information systems for the 18-month period and together with 2.0 MB theatre ICD10 data enabled case-specific transfusion information to be generated. The audit evaluated 15,992 blood group and antibody screens, 25,344 cross-matched red cell units and 15,455 transfused red cell units. Data evaluated included cross-matched to transfusion ratios and pre- and post-transfusion haemoglobin levels for a range of clinical diagnoses. Data showed significant differences between clinical units and by ICD10 code. This method to electronically extract large amounts of data and linkage with clinical databases has provided a powerful and sustainable tool for monitoring transfusion practice. It has been successfully used to identify areas requiring education, training and clinical guidance and allows for comparison with national haemoglobin-based transfusion guidelines.

Applications of low-cost sensing technologies for air quality monitoring and exposure assessment: How far have they gone?

PubMed

Morawska, Lidia; Thai, Phong K; Liu, Xiaoting; Asumadu-Sakyi, Akwasi; Ayoko, Godwin; Bartonova, Alena; Bedini, Andrea; Chai, Fahe; Christensen, Bryce; Dunbabin, Matthew; Gao, Jian; Hagler, Gayle S W; Jayaratne, Rohan; Kumar, Prashant; Lau, Alexis K H; Louie, Peter K K; Mazaheri, Mandana; Ning, Zhi; Motta, Nunzio; Mullins, Ben; Rahman, Md Mahmudur; Ristovski, Zoran; Shafiei, Mahnaz; Tjondronegoro, Dian; Westerdahl, Dane; Williams, Ron

2018-07-01

Over the past decade, a range of sensor technologies became available on the market, enabling a revolutionary shift in air pollution monitoring and assessment. With their cost of up to three orders of magnitude lower than standard/reference instruments, many avenues for applications have opened up. In particular, broader participation in air quality discussion and utilisation of information on air pollution by communities has become possible. However, many questions have been also asked about the actual benefits of these technologies. To address this issue, we conducted a comprehensive literature search including both the scientific and grey literature. We focused upon two questions: (1) Are these technologies fit for the various purposes envisaged? and (2) How far have these technologies and their applications progressed to provide answers and solutions? Regarding the former, we concluded that there is no clear answer to the question, due to a lack of: sensor/monitor manufacturers' quantitative specifications of performance, consensus regarding recommended end-use and associated minimal performance targets of these technologies, and the ability of the prospective users to formulate the requirements for their applications, or conditions of the intended use. Numerous studies have assessed and reported sensor/monitor performance under a range of specific conditions, and in many cases the performance was concluded to be satisfactory. The specific use cases for sensors/monitors included outdoor in a stationary mode, outdoor in a mobile mode, indoor environments and personal monitoring. Under certain conditions of application, project goals, and monitoring environments, some sensors/monitors were fit for a specific purpose. Based on analysis of 17 large projects, which reached applied outcome stage, and typically conducted by consortia of organizations, we observed that a sizable fraction of them (~ 30%) were commercial and/or crowd-funded. This fact by itself signals a paradigm change in air quality monitoring, which previously had been primarily implemented by government organizations. An additional paradigm-shift indicator is the growing use of machine learning or other advanced data processing approaches to improve sensor/monitor agreement with reference monitors. There is still some way to go in enhancing application of the technologies for source apportionment, which is of particular necessity and urgency in developing countries. Also, there has been somewhat less progress in wide-scale monitoring of personal exposures. However, it can be argued that with a significant future expansion of monitoring networks, including indoor environments, there may be less need for wearable or portable sensors/monitors to assess personal exposure. Traditional personal monitoring would still be valuable where spatial variability of pollutants of interest is at a finer resolution than the monitoring network can resolve. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Localized electrical stimulation of in vitro neurons using an array of sub-cellular sized electrodes.

PubMed

Braeken, Dries; Huys, Roeland; Loo, Josine; Bartic, Carmen; Borghs, Gustaaf; Callewaert, Geert; Eberle, Wolfgang

2010-12-15

The investigation of single-neuron parameters is of great interest because many aspects in the behavior and communication of neuronal networks still remain unidentified. However, the present available techniques for single-cell measurements are slow and do not allow for a high-throughput approach. We present here a CMOS compatible microelectrode array with 84 electrodes (with diameters ranging from 1.2 to 4.2 μm) that are smaller than the size of cell, thereby supporting single-cell addressability. We show controllable electroporation of a single cell by an underlying electrode while monitoring changes in the intracellular membrane potential. Further, by applying a localized electrical field between two electrodes close to a neuron while recording changes in the intracellular calcium concentration, we demonstrate activation of a single cell (∼270%, DF/F(0)), followed by a network response of the neighboring cells. The technology can be easily scaled up to larger electrode arrays (theoretically up to 137,000 electrodes/mm(2)) with active CMOS electronics integration able to perform high-throughput measurements on single cells. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Smartphone-based imaging of the corneal endothelium at sub-cellular resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toslak, Devrim; Thapa, Damber; Erol, Muhammet Kazim; Chen, Yanjun; Yao, Xincheng

2017-07-01

This aim of this study was to test the feasibility of smartphone-based specular microscopy of the corneal endothelium at a sub-cellular resolution. Quantitative examination of endothelial cells is essential for evaluating corneal disease such as determining a diagnosis, monitoring progression and assessing treatment. Smartphone-based technology promises a new opportunity to develop affordable devices to foster quantitative examination of endothelial cells in rural and underserved areas. In our study, we incorporated an iPhone 6 and a slit lamp to demonstrate the feasibility of smartphone-based microscopy of the corneal endothelium at a sub-cellular resolution. The sub-cellular resolution images allowed quantitative calculation of the endothelial cell density. Comparative measurements revealed a normal endothelial cell density of 2978 cells/mm2 in the healthy cornea, and a significantly reduced cell density of 1466 cells/mm2 in the diseased cornea with Fuchs' dystrophy. Our ultimate goal is to develop a smartphone-based telemedicine device for low-cost examination of the corneal endothelium, which can benefit patients in rural areas and underdeveloped countries to reduce health care disparities.

Enzyme-coated microelectrodes to monitor lactate production in a nanoliter microfluidic cell culture device

PubMed Central

Ges, Igor A.; Baudenbacher, Franz

2015-01-01

Monitoring the degree of anaerobic respiration of cells in high density microscale culture systems is an enabling key technology and essential for cell-based biosensors. We have fabricated and incorporated miniature amperometric lactate sensing electrodes with working areas from 3 to 5×10−2 mm2 into a microfluidic-based microscale cell culture system to measure the lactate production rate of fibroblasts in nanoliter volumes. Planar thin film platinum electrode arrays on glass substrates were spin coated with lactate oxidase and a protective Nafion layer. The lactate electrodes had a high enzymatic activity described by a Michaelis-Menten constant of 2.6±0.1 mM, a linear response in the range 0.01÷2.5mM and a sensitivity of 7.3×10−2mA/mM·cm2. A replica-molded polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic device with nanoliter sensing volumes was aligned and sealed to a glass substrate with the sensing electrodes. We trapped fibroblasts in the cell culture volume and measured the lactate production rate using a stop and flow protocol. The average lactate production rate was 0.011±0.0049mM/min. The lactate production was suppressed with the addition of 2-deoxy-D-glucose, which binds to hexokinase. The blocking of hexokinase prevents the generation of pyruvate, the intermittent substrate required for lactate production even in the presence of glucose. PMID:20566279

Nomenclature and guideline to express the amount of a membrane protein synthesized in animal cells in view of bioprocess optimization and production monitoring.

PubMed

Augusto, Elisabeth F P; Moraes, Angela M; Piccoli, Rosane A M; Barral, Manuel F; Suazo, Cláudio A T; Tonso, Aldo; Pereira, Carlos A

2010-01-01

Studies of a bioprocess optimization and monitoring for protein synthesis in animal cells face a challenge on how to express in quantitative terms the system performance. It is possible to have a panel of calculated variables that fits more or less appropriately the intended goal. Each mathematical expression approach translates different quantitative aspects. We can basically separate them into two categories: those used for the evaluation of cell physiology in terms of product synthesis, which can be for bioprocess improvement or optimization, and those used for production unit sizing and for bioprocess operation. With these perspectives and based on our own data of kinetic S2 cells growth and metabolism, as well as on their synthesis of the transmembrane recombinant rabies virus glycoprotein, here indicated as P, we show and discuss the main characteristics of calculated variables and their recommended use. Mainly applied to a bioprocess improvement/optimization and that mainly used for operation definition and to design the production unit, we expect these definitions/recommendations would improve the quality of data produced in this field and lead to more standardized procedures. In turn, it would allow a better and easier comprehension of scientific and technological communications for specialized readers. Copyright 2009 The International Association for Biologicals. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

HISTORY AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE US EPA'S SUPERFUND INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY EVALUATION (SITE) MONITORING AND MEASUREMENT (MMT) PROGRAM

EPA Science Inventory

This manuscript presents the history and evolution of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) Monitoring and Measurement Technology (MMT) Program. This includes a discussion of how the fundamental concepts of a performanc...

Monitoring the Thickness of Coal-Conversion Slag

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walsh, J. V.

1984-01-01

Technique adapts analogous ocean-floor-mapping technology. Existing ocean floor acoustic technology adapted for real-time monitoring of thickness and viscosity of flowing slag in coal-conversion processing.

40 CFR Table 8 to Subpart IIIii of... - Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 13 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring... Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants Pt. 63, Subpt. IIIII, Table 8 Table 8 to Subpart IIIII of Part 63—Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program As stated in § 63.8192(g)(1), your mercury monitoring system must...

40 CFR Table 8 to Subpart IIIii of... - Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 13 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring... Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants Pt. 63, Subpt. IIIII, Table 8 Table 8 to Subpart IIIII of Part 63—Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program As stated in § 63.8192(g)(1), your mercury monitoring system must...

40 CFR Table 8 to Subpart IIIii of... - Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 14 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring... Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants Pt. 63, Subpt. IIIII, Table 8 Table 8 to Subpart IIIII of Part 63—Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program As stated in § 63.8192(g)(1), your mercury monitoring system must...

40 CFR Table 8 to Subpart IIIii of... - Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 14 2012-07-01 2011-07-01 true Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring... Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants Pt. 63, Subpt. IIIII, Table 8 Table 8 to Subpart IIIII of Part 63—Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program As stated in § 63.8192(g)(1), your mercury monitoring system must...

40 CFR Table 8 to Subpart IIIii of... - Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 14 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring... Mercury Cell Chlor-Alkali Plants Pt. 63, Subpt. IIIII, Table 8 Table 8 to Subpart IIIII of Part 63—Requirements for Cell Room Monitoring Program As stated in § 63.8192(g)(1), your mercury monitoring system must...

Amperometric Gas Sensors as a Low Cost Emerging Technology Platform for Air Quality Monitoring Applications: A Review.

PubMed

Baron, Ronan; Saffell, John

2017-11-22

This review examines the use of amperometric electrochemical gas sensors for monitoring inorganic gases that affect urban air quality. First, we consider amperometric gas sensor technology including its development toward specifically designed air quality sensors. We then review recent academic and research organizations' studies where this technology has been trialed for air quality monitoring applications: early studies showed the potential of electrochemical gas sensors when colocated with reference Air Quality Monitoring (AQM) stations. Spatially dense networks with fast temporal resolution provide information not available from sparse AQMs with longer recording intervals. We review how this technology is being offered as commercial urban air quality networks and consider the remaining challenges. Sensors must be sensitive, selective, and stable; air quality monitors/nodes must be electronically and mechanically well designed. Data correction is required and models with differing levels of sophistication are being designed. Data analysis and validation is possibly the biggest remaining hurdle needed to deliver reliable concentration readings. Finally, this review also considers the roles of companies, urban infrastructure requirements, and public research in the development of this technology.

Perceptions of seniors with heart failure regarding autonomous zero-effort monitoring of physiological parameters in the smart-home environment.

PubMed

Grace, Sherry L; Taherzadeh, Golnoush; Jae Chang, Isaac Sung; Boger, Jennifer; Arcelus, Amaya; Mak, Susanna; Chessex, Caroline; Mihailidis, Alex

Technological advances are leading to the ability to autonomously monitor patient's health status in their own homes, to enable aging-in-place. To understand the perceptions of seniors with heart failure (HF) regarding smart-home systems to monitor their physiological parameters. In this qualitative study, HF outpatients were invited to a smart-home lab, where they completed a sequence of activities, during which the capacity of 5 autonomous sensing modalities was compared to gold standard measures. Afterwards, a semi-structured interview was undertaken. These were transcribed and analyzed using an interpretive-descriptive approach. Five themes emerged from the 26 interviews: (1) perceptions of technology, (2) perceived benefits of autonomous health monitoring, (3) disadvantages of autonomous monitoring, (4) lack of perceived need for continuous health monitoring, and (5) preferences for autonomous monitoring. Patient perception towards autonomous monitoring devices was positive, lending credence to zero-effort technology as a viable and promising approach. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An intervention fidelity framework for technology-based behavioral interventions.

PubMed

Devito Dabbs, Annette; Song, Mi-Kyung; Hawkins, Robert; Aubrecht, Jill; Kovach, Karen; Terhorst, Lauren; Connolly, Mary; McNulty, Mary; Callan, Judith

2011-01-01

Despite the proliferation of health technologies, descriptions of the unique considerations and practical guidance for evaluating the intervention fidelity of technology-based behavioral interventions are lacking. The aims of this study were to (a) discuss how technology-based behavioral interventions challenge conventions about how intervention fidelity is conceptualized and evaluated, (b) propose an intervention fidelity framework that may be more appropriate for technology-based behavioral interventions, and (c) present a plan for operationalizing each concept in the framework using the intervention fidelity monitoring plan for Pocket PATH (Personal Assistant for Tracking Health), a mobile health technology designed to promote self-care behaviors after lung transplantation, as an exemplar. The literature related to intervention fidelity and technology acceptance was used to identify the issues that are unique to the fidelity of technology-based behavioral interventions and thus important to include in a proposed intervention fidelity framework. An intervention fidelity monitoring plan for technology-based behavioral interventions was developed as an example. The intervention fidelity monitoring plan was deemed feasible and practical to implement and showed utility in operationalizing the concepts such as assessing interventionists' delivery and participants' acceptance of the technology-based behavioral intervention. The framework has the potential to guide the development of implementation fidelity monitoring tools for other technology-based behavioral interventions. Further application and testing of this framework will allow for a better understanding of the role that technology acceptance plays in the adoption and enactment of the behaviors that technology-based behavioral interventions are intended to promote.

Fluorescence particle detector for real-time quantification of viable organisms in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luoma, Greg; Cherrier, Pierre P.; Piccioni, Marc; Tanton, Carol; Herz, Steve; DeFreez, Richard K.; Potter, Michael; Girvin, Kenneth L.; Whitney, Ronald

2002-02-01

The ability to detect viable organisms in air in real time is important in a number of applications. Detecting high levels of airborne organisms in hospitals can prevent post-operative infections and the spread of diseases. Monitoring levels of airborne viable organisms in pharmaceutical facilities can ensure safe production of drugs or vaccines. Monitoring airborne bacterial levels in meat processing plants can help to prevent contamination of food products. Monitoring the level of airborne organisms in bio-containment facilities can ensure that proper procedures are being followed. Finally, detecting viable organisms in real time is a key to defending against biological agent attacks. This presentation describes the development and performance of a detector, based on fluorescence particle counting technology, where an ultraviolet laser is used to count particles by light scattering and elicit fluorescence from specific biomolecules found only in living organisms. The resulting detector can specifically detect airborne particles containing living organisms from among the large majority of other particles normally present in air. Efforts to develop the core sensor technology, focusing on integrating an UV laser with a specially designed particle-counting cell will be highlighted. The hardware/software used to capture the information from the sensor, provide an alarm in the presence of an unusual biological aerosol content will also be described. Finally, results from experiments to test the performance of the detector will be presented.

Applications in bridge structure health monitoring using distributed fiber sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Yafei; Zheng, Huan; Ge, Huiliang

2017-10-01

In this paper, Brillouin Optical Time Domain Analysis (BOTDA) is proposed to solve the problem that the traditional point sensor is difficult to realize the comprehensive safety monitoring of bridges and so on. This technology not only breaks through the bottleneck of traditional monitoring point sensor, realize the distributed measurement of temperature and strain on a transmission path; can also be used for bridge and other structures of the damage identification, fracture positioning, settlement monitoring. The effectiveness and frontier of the technology are proved by comparing the test of the indoor model beam and the external field bridge, and the significance of the distributed optical fiber sensing technology to the monitoring of the important structure of the bridge is fully explained.

Application of Insar Technology in Geographical Situation Monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y.; Tian, Q.

2018-04-01

In this paper, based on the geographical situation monitoring project of the earthquake zone of ludian county, zhaotong city, yunnan province,using the data of the radarsat-2 satellite (time frame is 20140304-20150416), InSAR technology is used to monitor the topography of the earthquake zone(about 420 square kilometers of monitoring area). Through the analysis of topographic deformation results, the scope of the terrain change is obtained, and the application and problems of InSAR technique in topographic geomorphological monitoring are discussed.

Inhibition of Aurora-A kinase induces cell cycle arrest in epithelial ovarian cancer stem cells by affecting NFκB pathway

PubMed Central

Alvero, Ayesha B; Visintin, Irene

2011-01-01

Recurrent ovarian cancer is resistant to conventional chemotherapy. A sub-population of ovarian cancer cells, the epithelial ovarian cancer stem cells (EOC stem cells) have stemness properties, constitutive NFκB activity, and represent the chemoresistant population. Currently, there is no effective treatment that targets these cells. Aurora-A kinase (Aurora-A) is associated with tumor initiation and progression and is overexpressed in numerous malignancies. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of Aurora-A inhibition in EOC stem cells. EOC stem cells were treated with the Aurora-A inhibitor, MK-5108. Cell growth was monitored by Incucyte real-time imaging system, cell viability was measured using the Celltiter 96 assay and cytokine levels were quantified using xMAP technology. The intracellular changes associated with MK-5108 treatment are: (1) polyploidy and cell cycle arrest; (2) inhibition of NFκB activity; (3) decreased cytokine production; and (4) nuclear accumulation of IκBα. Thus, inhibition of Aurora-A decreases cell proliferation in the EOC stem cells by inducing cell cycle arrest and affecting the NFκB pathway. As EOC stem cells represent a source of recurrence and chemoresistance, these results suggest that Aurora-A inhibition may effectively target the cancer stem cell population in ovarian cancer. PMID:21623171

Design and validation of wireless system for oil monitoring base on optical sensing unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Liqun; Wang, Weiming; Zhang, Shuaishuai; Li, Zhirui; Yu, Yan; Huang, Hui

2017-04-01

According to the situation of oil leakage and the development of oil detection technology, a wireless monitoring system, combining with the sensor technology, optical measurement technology, and wireless technology, is designed. In this paper, the architecture of a wireless system is designed. In the hardware, the collected data, acquired by photoelectric conversion and analog to digital conversion equipment, will be sent to the upper machine where they are saved and analyzed. The experimental results reveals that the wireless system has the characteristics of higher precision, more real-time and more convenient installation, it can reflect the condition of the measuring object truly and implement the dynamic monitoring for a long time on-site, stability—thus it has a good application prospect in the oil monitoring filed.

Rapid Identification and Quantification of Aureococcus anophagefferens by qPCR Method (Taqman) in the Qinhuangdao Coastal Area: A Region for Recurrent Brown Tide Breakout in China.

PubMed

Wang, Li-Ping; Lei, Kun

2016-12-01

Since 2009, Aureococcus anophagefferens has caused brown tide to occur recurrently in Qinhuangdao coastal area, China. Because the algal cells of A. anophagefferens are so tiny (~3 µm) that it is very hard to identify exactly under a microscope for natural water samples, it is very urgent to develop a method for efficient and continuous monitoring. Here specific primers and Taqman probe are designed to develop a real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) method for identification and quantification continually. The algal community and cell abundance of A. anophagefferens in the study area (E 119°20'-119°50' and N 39°30'-39°50') from April to October in 2013 are detected by pyrosequencing, and are used to validate the specification and precision of qPCR method for natural samples. Both pyrosequencing and qPCR shows that the targeted cells are present only in May, June and July, and the cell abundance are July > June > May. Although there are various algal species including dinoflagellata, diatom, Cryptomonadales, Chrysophyceae and Chlorophyta living in the natural seawater simultaneously, no disturbance happens to qPCR method. This qPCR method could detect as few as 10 targeted cells, indicating it is able to detect the algal cells at pre-bloom levels. Therefore, qPCR with Taqman probe provides a powerful and sensitive method to monitor the brown tide continually in Qinhuangdao coastal area, China. The results provide a necessary technology support for forecasting the brown tide initiation, in China.

Informed Decision Making for In-Home Use of Motion Sensor-Based Monitoring Technologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bruce, Courtenay R.

2012-01-01

Motion sensor-based monitoring technologies are designed to maintain independence and safety of older individuals living alone. These technologies use motion sensors that are placed throughout older individuals' homes in order to derive information about eating, sleeping, and leaving/returning home habits. Deviations from normal behavioral…

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS WHEN VERIFYING THE PERFORMANCE OF MONITORING TECHNOLOGIES FOR DIOXIN AND DIOXIN-LIKE COMPOUNDS IN SOILS AND SEDIMENTS

EPA Science Inventory

A performance verification demonstration of technologies capable of detecting dioxin and dioxin-like compounds in soil and sediment samples was conducted in April 2004 under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) Monitoring an...

Studies of protein oxidation as a product quality attribute on a scale-down model for cell culture process development.

PubMed

Lee, Nacole D; Kondragunta, Bhargavi; Uplekar, Shaunak; Vallejos, Jose; Moreira, Antonio; Rao, Govind

2015-01-01

Of importance to the biological properties of proteins produced in cell culture systems are the complex post-translational modifications that are affected by variations in process conditions. Protein oxidation, oxidative modification to intracellular proteins that involves cleavage of the polypeptide chain, and modifications of the amino acid side chains can be affected by such process variations. Dissolved oxygen is a parameter of increasing interest since studies have shown that despite the necessity of oxygen for respiration, there may also be some detrimental effects of oxygen to the cell. Production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species can cause damage to proteins as a result of oxidation of the cell and cellular components. Variation, or changes to cell culture products, can affect function, clearance rate, immunogenicity, and specific activity, which translates into clinical implications. The effect of increasing dissolved oxygen on protein oxidation in immunoglobulin G3-producing mouse hybridoma cells was studied using 50 mL high-throughput mini-bioreactors that employ non-invasive optical sensor technology for monitoring and closed feedback control of pH and dissolved oxygen. Relative protein carbonyl concentration of proteins produced under varying levels of dissolved oxygen was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and used as an indicator of oxidative damage. A trend of increasing protein carbonyl content in response to increasing dissolved oxygen levels under controlled conditions was observed. Protein oxidation, oxidative modification to intracellular proteins that involves cleavage of the polypeptide chain, and modifications of the amino acid side chains can be affected by variations in dissolved oxygen levels in cell culture systems. Studies have shown that despite the necessity of oxygen for respiration, there may be detrimental effects of oxygen to the cell. Production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species can cause damage to proteins as a result of oxidation of the cell and cellular components, affecting function, clearance rate, immunogenicity, and specific activity, which translates into clinical implications. The effect of increasing dissolved oxygen on protein oxidation in immunoglobulin G3-producing mouse hybridoma cells was studied using 50 mL high-throughput mini-bioreactors that employ non-invasive optical sensor technology for monitoring and closed feedback control of pH and dissolved oxygen. Protein carbonyl concentration of proteins produced under varying levels of dissolved oxygen was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and used as an indicator of oxidative damage. A trend of increasing protein carbonyl content in response to increasing dissolved oxygen levels under controlled conditions was observed. © PDA, Inc. 2015.

Nano-Engineered Biomimetic Optical Sensors for Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes.

PubMed

Rauf, Sajid; Hayat Nawaz, Muhammad Azhar; Badea, Mihaela; Marty, Jean Louis; Hayat, Akhtar

2016-11-17

Diabetes is a rapidly growing disease that can be monitored at an individual level by controlling the blood glucose level, hence minimizing the negative impact of the disease. Significant research efforts have been focused on the design of novel and improved technologies to overcome the limitations of existing glucose analysis methods. In this context, nanotechnology has enabled the diagnosis at the single cell and molecular level with the possibility of incorporation in advanced molecular diagnostic biochips. Recent years have witnessed the exploration and synthesis of various types of nanomaterials with enzyme-like properties, with their subsequent integration into the design of biomimetic optical sensors for glucose monitoring. This review paper will provide insights on the type, nature and synthesis of different biomimetic nanomaterials. Moreover, recent developments in the integration of these nanomaterials for optical glucose biosensing will be highlighted, with a final discussion on the challenges that must be addressed for successful implementation of these nano-devices in the clinical applications is presented.

Nano-Engineered Biomimetic Optical Sensors for Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes

PubMed Central

Rauf, Sajid; Hayat Nawaz, Muhammad Azhar; Badea, Mihaela; Marty, Jean Louis; Hayat, Akhtar

2016-01-01

Diabetes is a rapidly growing disease that can be monitored at an individual level by controlling the blood glucose level, hence minimizing the negative impact of the disease. Significant research efforts have been focused on the design of novel and improved technologies to overcome the limitations of existing glucose analysis methods. In this context, nanotechnology has enabled the diagnosis at the single cell and molecular level with the possibility of incorporation in advanced molecular diagnostic biochips. Recent years have witnessed the exploration and synthesis of various types of nanomaterials with enzyme-like properties, with their subsequent integration into the design of biomimetic optical sensors for glucose monitoring. This review paper will provide insights on the type, nature and synthesis of different biomimetic nanomaterials. Moreover, recent developments in the integration of these nanomaterials for optical glucose biosensing will be highlighted, with a final discussion on the challenges that must be addressed for successful implementation of these nano-devices in the clinical applications is presented. PMID:27869658

Bluetooth technology for prevention of dental caries.

PubMed

Kolahi, Jafar; Fazilati, Mohamad

2009-12-01

Caries is caused when the pH at the tooth surface drops below 5.5. A miniaturized and autonomous pH monitoring nodes can be attached to the tooth surface, like a tooth jewel. This intelligent sensor includes three components: (a) digital micro pH meter, (b) power supply, (c) wireless communicating device. The micro pH meter facilitates long term tooth surface pH monitoring and providing real time feedback to the patients and dental experts. Power supply of this system will be microfabricated biocatalytic fuel cell (enzymatic micro-battery) using organic compounds (e.g. formate or glucose) as the fuel to generate electricity. When micro pH meter detects the pH lower than 5.5, wireless Bluetooth device sends a caution (e.g. "you are at risk of dental caries") to external monitoring equipment such as mobile phone or a hands-free heads. After reception of the caution, subjects should use routine brushing and flossing procedure or use a medicated chewing gum (e.g. chlorhexidine containing chewing gum) or rinse with a mouthwash.

Near infrared spectroscopy for fibre based gas detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stewart, George; Johnstone, Walter; Thursby, Graham; Culshaw, Brian

2010-04-01

Gas sensing systems based on fibre optic linked near infra red absorption cells are potentially a flexible and effective tool for monitoring accumulations of hazardous and noxious gases in enclosed areas such as tunnels and mines. Additionally the same baseline technology is readily modified to measure concentrations of hydrocarbon fuels - notably but not exclusively methane, and monitoring emissions of greenhouse gases. Furthermore the system can be readily implemented to provide intrinsically safe monitoring over extensive areas at up to ~250 points from a single interrogation unit. In this paper we review our work on fibre coupled gas sensing systems. We outline the basic principles through which repeatable and accurate self calibrating gas measurements may be realised, including the recover of detailed line shapes for non contact temperature and / or pressure measurements in addition to concentration assessments in harsh environments. We also outline our experience in using these systems in extensive networks operating under inhospitable conditions over extended periods extending to several years.

What’s New in Traumatic Brain Injury: Update on Tracking, Monitoring and Treatment

PubMed Central

Reis, Cesar; Wang, Yuechun; Akyol, Onat; Ho, Wing Mann; Applegate II, Richard; Stier, Gary; Martin, Robert; Zhang, John H.

2015-01-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI), defined as an alteration in brain functions caused by an external force, is responsible for high morbidity and mortality around the world. It is important to identify and treat TBI victims as early as possible. Tracking and monitoring TBI with neuroimaging technologies, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), positron emission tomography (PET), and high definition fiber tracking (HDFT) show increasing sensitivity and specificity. Classical electrophysiological monitoring, together with newly established brain-on-chip, cerebral microdialysis techniques, both benefit TBI. First generation molecular biomarkers, based on genomic and proteomic changes following TBI, have proven effective and economical. It is conceivable that TBI-specific biomarkers will be developed with the combination of systems biology and bioinformation strategies. Advances in treatment of TBI include stem cell-based and nanotechnology-based therapy, physical and pharmaceutical interventions and also new use in TBI for approved drugs which all present favorable promise in preventing and reversing TBI. PMID:26016501

A New Miniaturized Inkjet Printed Solid State Electrolyte Sensor for Applications in Life Support Systems - First Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hill, Christine; Stefanos Fasoulas, -; Eberhart, Martin; Berndt, Felix

New generations of integrated closed loop systems will combine life support systems (incl. biological components) and energy systems such as fuel cell and electrolysis systems. Those systems and their test beds also contain complex safety sensor monitoring systems. Especially in fuel cells and electrolysis systems, the hydrogen and oxygen flows and exchange into other areas due to diffusion processes or leaks need to be monitored. Knowledge of predominant gas concentrations at all times is essential to avoid explosive gas mixtures. Solid state electrolyte sensors are promising for use as safety sensors. They have already been developed and produced at various institutes, but the power consumption for heating an existing solid state electrolyte sensor element still lies between 1 to 1.5 W and the operational readiness still takes about 20 to 30 s. This is partially due to the current manufacturing process for the solid state electrolyte sensor elements that is based on screen printing technology. However this technology has strong limitations in flexibility of the layout and re-designs. It is therefore suitable for mass production, but not for a flexible development and the production of specific individual sensors, e.g. for space applications. Moreover a disadvantage is the relatively high material consumption, especially in combination with the sensors need of expensive noble metal and ceramic pastes, which leads to a high sensor unit price. The Inkjet technology however opens up completely new possibilities in terms of dimensions, geometries, structures, morphologies and materials of sensors. This new approach is capable of printing finer high-resolution layers without the necessity of meshes or masks for patterning. Using the Inkjet technology a design change is possible at any time on the CAD screen. Moreover the ink is only deposited where it is needed. Custom made sensors, as they are currently demanded in space sensor applications, are thus realized simply, economically and ecologically. Based on the knowledge of the screen printing sensor production a complete solid state electrolyte oxygen sensor could be produced using Inkjet technology. First measurements in oxygen environment already show promising results. A defined oxygen concentration could be seen during exposition of the Inkjet sensors in an oxygen environment. The obtained results demonstrate the potential to use the technology development in other applications such as in situ respiratory gas analysis systems for human spaceflight. Further approaches at the Institute of Space Systems include the implementation of Inkjet printed solid state electrolyte sensors for the use as redundant safety sensors for the Institute's hybrid life support test beds including fuel cells and algal photo bioreactor elements.

Liquid Biopsy for Cancer: Circulating Tumor Cells, Circulating Free DNA or Exosomes?

PubMed

Zhang, Wei; Xia, Wenjie; Lv, Zhengye; Ni, Chao; Xin, Yin; Yang, Liu

2017-01-01

Precision medicine and personalized medicine are based on the development of biomarkers, and liquid biopsy has been reported to be able to detect biomarkers that carry information on tumor development and progression. Compared with traditional 'solid biopsy', which cannot always be performed to determine tumor dynamics, liquid biopsy has notable advantages in that it is a noninvasive modality that can provide diagnostic and prognostic information prior to treatment, during treatment and during progression. In this review, we describe the source, characteristics, technology for detection and current situation of circulating tumor cells, circulating free DNA and exosomes used for diagnosis, recurrence monitoring, prognosis assessment and medication planning. © 2017 The Author(s)Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Biomarkers for Allergen Immunotherapy: A "Panoromic" View.

PubMed

Moingeon, Philippe

2016-02-01

Biomarkers (BMKs) are biological parameters that can be measured to predict or monitor disease severity or treatment efficacy. The induction of regulatory dendritic cells (DCs) concomitantly with a downregulation of proallergic DC2s (ie, DCs supporting the differentiation of T-helper lymphocyte type 2 cells) in the blood of patients allergic to grass pollen has been correlated with the early onset of allergen immunotherapy efficacy. The combined use of omics technologies to compare biological samples from clinical responders and nonresponders is being implemented in the context of nonhypothesis-driven approaches. Such comprehensive "panoromic" strategies help identify completely novel candidate BMKs, to be subsequently validated as companion diagnostics in large-scale clinical trials. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Potential biomarker panels in overall breast cancer management: advancements by multilevel diagnostics.

PubMed

Girotra, Shantanu; Yeghiazaryan, Kristina; Golubnitschaja, Olga

2016-09-01

Breast cancer (BC) prevalence has reached an epidemic scale with half a million deaths annually. Current deficits in BC management include predictive and preventive approaches, optimized screening programs, individualized patient profiling, highly sensitive detection technologies for more precise diagnostics and therapy monitoring, individualized prediction and effective treatment of BC metastatic disease. To advance BC management, paradigm shift from delayed to predictive, preventive and personalized medical services is essential. Corresponding step forwards requires innovative multilevel diagnostics procuring specific panels of validated biomarkers. Here, we discuss current instrumental advancements including genomics, proteomics, epigenetics, miRNA, metabolomics, circulating tumor cells and cancer stem cells with a focus on biomarker discovery and multilevel diagnostic panels. A list of the recommended biomarker candidates is provided.

Tweets, Texts, and Tablets:The Emergence of Technology-Based Self-Monitoring

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bruhn, Allison Leigh; Waller, LaNeisha; Hasselbring, Ted S.

2016-01-01

Students with behavior problems often lack the self-regulation skills necessary for success. One strategy shown to improve these skills is self-monitoring. Traditionally, self-monitoring has been done using paper and pencil, with some sort of prompt to complete the procedures. Prompts have involved teacher cues as well as technology. Current…

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and communication technologies for solid waste bin and truck monitoring system.

PubMed

Hannan, M A; Arebey, Maher; Begum, R A; Basri, Hassan

2011-12-01

This paper deals with a system of integration of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and communication technologies for solid waste bin and truck monitoring system. RFID, GPS, GPRS and GIS along with camera technologies have been integrated and developed the bin and truck intelligent monitoring system. A new kind of integrated theoretical framework, hardware architecture and interface algorithm has been introduced between the technologies for the successful implementation of the proposed system. In this system, bin and truck database have been developed such a way that the information of bin and truck ID, date and time of waste collection, bin status, amount of waste and bin and truck GPS coordinates etc. are complied and stored for monitoring and management activities. The results showed that the real-time image processing, histogram analysis, waste estimation and other bin information have been displayed in the GUI of the monitoring system. The real-time test and experimental results showed that the performance of the developed system was stable and satisfied the monitoring system with high practicability and validity. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Monitoring based maintenance utilizing actual stress sensory technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumitro, Sunaryo; Kurokawa, Shoji; Shimano, Keiji; Wang, Ming L.

2005-06-01

In recent years, many infrastructures have been deteriorating. In order to maintain sustainability of those infrastructures which have significant influence on social lifelines, economical and rational maintenance management should be carried out to evaluate the life cycle cost (LCC). The development of structural health monitoring systems, such as deriving evaluation techniques for the field structural condition of existing structures and identification techniques for the significant engineering properties of new structures, can be considered as the first step in resolving the above problem. New innovative evaluation methods need to be devised to identify the deterioration of infrastructures, e.g. steel tendons, cables in cable-stayed bridges and strands embedded in pre- or post-tensioned concrete structures. One of the possible solutions that show 'AtoE' characteristics, i.e., (a)ccuracy, (b)enefit, (c)ompendiousness, (d)urability and (e)ase of operation, elasto-magnetic (EM) actual stress sensory technology utilizing the sensitivity of incremental magnetic permeability to stress change, has been developed. Numerous verification tests on various steel materials have been conducted. By comparing with load cell, strain gage and other sensory technology measurement results, the actual stresses of steel tendons in a pre-stressed concrete structure at the following stages have been thoroughly investigated: (i) pre-stress change due to set-loss (anchorage slippage) at the tendon fixation stage; (ii) pre-stress change due to the tendon relaxation stage; (iii) concrete creep and shrinkage at the long term pre-stressing stage; (iv) pre-stress change in the cyclic fatigue loading stage; and (v) pre-stress change due to the re-pre-stress setting stage. As the result of this testing, it is confirmed that EM sensory technology enables one to measure actual stress in steel wire, strands and steel bars precisely without destroying the polyethylene covering sheath and enables one to provide adequate accuracy and reliability for monitoring actual stresses of those steel tendons during the life cycle of infrastructures. An example of a field application at a cable-stayed bridge is described.

Development of ship structure health monitoring system based on IOT technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Sujun; Shi, Lei; Chen, Demin; Dong, Yuqing; Hu, Zhenyi

2017-06-01

It is very important to monitor the ship structure, because ships are affected by all kinds of wind wave and current environment factor. At the same time, internet of things (IOT) technology plays more and more important role of in the development of industrial process. In the paper, real-time online monitoring of the ship can be realized by means of IOT technology. Ship stress, vibration and dynamic parameters are measured. Meanwhile, data is transmitted to remote monitoring system through intelligent data gateway. Timely remote support can be realized for dangerous stage of ship. Safe navigation of ships is guaranteed through application of the system.

Rule Based Expert System for Monitoring Real Time Drug Supply in Hospital Using Radio Frequency Identification Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Driandanu, Galih; Surarso, Bayu; Suryono

2018-02-01

A radio frequency identification (RFID) has obtained increasing attention with the emergence of various applications. This study aims to examine the implementation of rule based expert system supported by RFID technology into a monitoring information system of drug supply in a hospital. This research facilitates in monitoring the real time drug supply by using data sample from the hospital pharmacy. This system able to identify and count the number of drug and provide warning and report in real time. the conclusion is the rule based expert system and RFID technology can facilitate the performance in monitoring the drug supply quickly and precisely.

WLCG Transfers Dashboard: a Unified Monitoring Tool for Heterogeneous Data Transfers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreeva, J.; Beche, A.; Belov, S.; Kadochnikov, I.; Saiz, P.; Tuckett, D.

2014-06-01

The Worldwide LHC Computing Grid provides resources for the four main virtual organizations. Along with data processing, data distribution is the key computing activity on the WLCG infrastructure. The scale of this activity is very large, the ATLAS virtual organization (VO) alone generates and distributes more than 40 PB of data in 100 million files per year. Another challenge is the heterogeneity of data transfer technologies. Currently there are two main alternatives for data transfers on the WLCG: File Transfer Service and XRootD protocol. Each LHC VO has its own monitoring system which is limited to the scope of that particular VO. There is a need for a global system which would provide a complete cross-VO and cross-technology picture of all WLCG data transfers. We present a unified monitoring tool - WLCG Transfers Dashboard - where all the VOs and technologies coexist and are monitored together. The scale of the activity and the heterogeneity of the system raise a number of technical challenges. Each technology comes with its own monitoring specificities and some of the VOs use several of these technologies. This paper describes the implementation of the system with particular focus on the design principles applied to ensure the necessary scalability and performance, and to easily integrate any new technology providing additional functionality which might be specific to that technology.

Impedance Changes Indicate Proximal Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Obstruction In Vitro.

PubMed

Basati, Sukhraaj; Tangen, Kevin; Hsu, Ying; Lin, Hanna; Frim, David; Linninger, Andreas

2015-12-01

Extracranial cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt obstruction is one of the most important problems in hydrocephalus patient management. Despite ongoing research into better shunt design, robust and reliable detection of shunt malfunction remains elusive. The authors present a novel method of correlating degree of tissue ingrowth into ventricular CSF drainage catheters with internal electrical impedance. The impedance based sensor is able to continuously monitor shunt patency using intraluminal electrodes. Prototype obstruction sensors were fabricated for in-vitro analysis of cellular ingrowth into a shunt under static and dynamic flow conditions. Primary astrocyte cell lines and C6 glioma cells were allowed to proliferate up to 7 days within a shunt catheter and the impedance waveform was observed. During cell ingrowth a significant change in the peak-to-peak voltage signal as well as the root-mean-square voltage level was observed, allowing the impedance sensor to potentially anticipate shunt malfunction long before it affects fluid drainage. Finite element modeling was employed to demonstrate that the electrical signal used to monitor tissue ingrowth is contained inside the catheter lumen and does not endanger tissue surrounding the shunt. These results may herald the development of "next generation" shunt technology that allows prediction of malfunction before it affects patient outcome.

Visualization of Imbalances in Sulfur Assimilation and Synthesis of Sulfur-Containing Amino Acids at the Single-Cell Level

PubMed Central

Hoffmann, Kristina; Grünberger, Alexander; Lausberg, Frank; Bott, Michael

2013-01-01

We describe genetically encoded sensors which transmit elevated cytosolic concentrations of O-acetyl serine (OAS) and O-acetyl homoserine (OAH)—intermediates of l-cysteine and l-methionine synthesis—into an optical output. The sensor pSenOAS3 elicits 7.5-fold-increased fluorescence in cultures of a Corynebacterium glutamicum strain that excrete l-cysteine. Determination of the cytosolic OAS concentration revealed an increase to 0.13 mM, whereas the concentration in the reference strain was below the detection limit, indicating that incorporation of assimilatory sulfur is limited in the strain studied. In another strain, overexpression of metX encoding homoserine acetyltransferase resulted in an 8-fold increase in culture fluorescence at a cytosolic OAH concentration of 0.76 mM. We also assayed for consequences of extracellular sulfur supply and observed a graded fluorescence increase at decreasing sulfur concentrations below 400 μM. Overall, this demonstrates the usefulness of the sensors for monitoring intracellular sulfur availability. The sensors also enable monitoring at the single-cell level, and since related and close homologs of the transcription factor used in the constructed sensors are widespread among bacteria, this technology offers a new possibility of assaying in vivo for sulfur limitation and of doing this at the single-cell level. PMID:23995919

Visualization of imbalances in sulfur assimilation and synthesis of sulfur-containing amino acids at the single-cell level.

PubMed

Hoffmann, Kristina; Grünberger, Alexander; Lausberg, Frank; Bott, Michael; Eggeling, Lothar

2013-11-01

We describe genetically encoded sensors which transmit elevated cytosolic concentrations of O-acetyl serine (OAS) and O-acetyl homoserine (OAH)-intermediates of l-cysteine and l-methionine synthesis-into an optical output. The sensor pSenOAS3 elicits 7.5-fold-increased fluorescence in cultures of a Corynebacterium glutamicum strain that excrete l-cysteine. Determination of the cytosolic OAS concentration revealed an increase to 0.13 mM, whereas the concentration in the reference strain was below the detection limit, indicating that incorporation of assimilatory sulfur is limited in the strain studied. In another strain, overexpression of metX encoding homoserine acetyltransferase resulted in an 8-fold increase in culture fluorescence at a cytosolic OAH concentration of 0.76 mM. We also assayed for consequences of extracellular sulfur supply and observed a graded fluorescence increase at decreasing sulfur concentrations below 400 μM. Overall, this demonstrates the usefulness of the sensors for monitoring intracellular sulfur availability. The sensors also enable monitoring at the single-cell level, and since related and close homologs of the transcription factor used in the constructed sensors are widespread among bacteria, this technology offers a new possibility of assaying in vivo for sulfur limitation and of doing this at the single-cell level.

From Cells to Virus Particles: Quantitative Methods to Monitor RNA Packaging

PubMed Central

Ferrer, Mireia; Henriet, Simon; Chamontin, Célia; Lainé, Sébastien; Mougel, Marylène

2016-01-01

In cells, positive strand RNA viruses, such as Retroviridae, must selectively recognize their full-length RNA genome among abundant cellular RNAs to assemble and release particles. How viruses coordinate the intracellular trafficking of both RNA and protein components to the assembly sites of infectious particles at the cell surface remains a long-standing question. The mechanisms ensuring packaging of genomic RNA are essential for viral infectivity. Since RNA packaging impacts on several essential functions of retroviral replication such as RNA dimerization, translation and recombination events, there are many studies that require the determination of RNA packaging efficiency and/or RNA packaging ability. Studies of RNA encapsidation rely upon techniques for the identification and quantification of RNA species packaged by the virus. This review focuses on the different approaches available to monitor RNA packaging: Northern blot analysis, ribonuclease protection assay and quantitative reverse transcriptase-coupled polymerase chain reaction as well as the most recent RNA imaging and sequencing technologies. Advantages, disadvantages and limitations of these approaches will be discussed in order to help the investigator to choose the most appropriate technique. Although the review was written with the prototypic simple murine leukemia virus (MLV) and complex human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in mind, the techniques were described in order to benefit to a larger community. PMID:27556480

Quantitative evaluation of alternatively spliced mRNA isoforms by label-free real-time plasmonic sensing.

PubMed

Huertas, César S; Carrascosa, L G; Bonnal, S; Valcárcel, J; Lechuga, L M

2016-04-15

Alternative splicing of mRNA precursors enables cells to generate different protein outputs from the same gene depending on their developmental or homeostatic status. Its deregulation is strongly linked to disease onset and progression. Current methodologies for monitoring alternative splicing demand elaborate procedures and often present difficulties in discerning between closely related isoforms, e.g. due to cross-hybridization during their detection. Herein, we report a general methodology using a Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) biosensor for label-free monitoring of alternative splicing events in real-time, without any cDNA synthesis or PCR amplification requirements. We applied this methodology to RNA isolated from HeLa cells for the quantification of alternatively spliced isoforms of the Fas gene, involved in cancer progression through regulation of programmed cell death. We demonstrate that our methodology is isoform-specific, with virtually no cross-hybridization, achieving limits of detection (LODs) in the picoMolar (pM) range. Similar results were obtained for the detection of the BCL-X gene mRNA isoforms. The results were independently validated by RT-qPCR, with excellent concordance in the determination of isoform ratios. The simplicity and robustness of this biosensor technology can greatly facilitate the exploration of alternative splicing biomarkers in disease diagnosis and therapy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization, monitoring, and sensor technology crosscutting program: Technology summary

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

NONE

1995-06-01

The purpose of the Characterization, Monitoring, and Sensor Technology Crosscutting Program (CMST-CP) is to deliver appropriate characterization, monitoring, and sensor technology (CMST) to the Office of Waste Management (EM-30), the Office of Environmental Restoration (EM-40), and the Office of Facility Transition and Management (EM-60). The technology development must also be cost effective and appropriate to EM-30/40/60 needs. Furthermore, the required technologies must be delivered and implemented when needed. Accordingly, and to ensure that available DOE and other national resources are focused an the most pressing needs, management of the technology development is concentrated on the following Focus Areas: Contaminant Plumemore » Containment and Remediation (PFA); Landfill Stabilization (LSFA); High-Level Waste Tank Remediation (TFA); Mixed Waste Characterization, Treatment, and Disposal (MWFA); and Facility Deactivation, Decommissioning, and Material Disposition (FDDMDFA). Brief descriptions of CMST-CP projects funded in FY95 are presented.« less

4onse: four times open & non-conventional technology for sensing the environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cannata, Massimiliano; Ratnayake, Rangageewa; Antonovic, Milan; Strigaro, Daniele; Cardoso, Mirko; Hoffmann, Marcus

2017-04-01

The availability of complete, quality and dense monitoring hydro-meteorological data is essential to address a number of practical issues including, but not limited to, flood-water and urban drainage management, climate change impact assessment, early warning and risk management, now-casting and weather predictions. Thanks to the recent technological advances such as Internet Of Things, Big Data and Ubiquitous Internet, non-conventional monitoring systems based on open technologies and low cost sensors may represent a great opportunity either as a complement of authoritative monitoring network or as a vital source of information wherever existing monitoring networks are in decline or completely missing. Nevertheless, scientific literature on such a kind of open and non-conventional monitoring systems is still limited and often relates to prototype engineering and testing in rather limited case studies. For this reason the 4onse project aims at integrating existing open technologies in the field of Free & Open Source Software, Open Hardware, Open Data, and Open Standards and evaluate this kind of system in a real case (about 30 stations) for a medium period of 2 years to better scientifically understand strengths, criticalities and applicabilities in terms of data quality; system durability; management costs; performances; sustainability. The ultimate objective is to contribute in non-conventional monitoring systems adoption based on four open technologies.

Dry anaerobic digestion of cow manure and agricultural products in a full-scale plant: Efficiency and comparison with wet fermentation.

PubMed

Chiumenti, Alessandro; da Borso, Francesco; Limina, Sonia

2018-01-01

For years, anaerobic digestion processes have been implemented for the management of organic wastes, agricultural residues, and animal manure. Wet anaerobic digestion still represents the most common technology, while dry fermentation, dedicated to the treatment of solid inputs (TS>20%) can be considered as an emerging technology, not in terms of technological maturity, but of diffusion. The first agricultural dry anaerobic digestion plant constructed in Italy was monitored from the start-up, for over a year. The plant was fed with manure and agricultural products, such as corn silage, triticale, ryegrass, alfalfa, and straw. Three Combined Heat and Power units, for a total installed power of 910kW e , converted biogas into thermal and electric energy. The monitoring included the determination of quality and quantity of input feedstocks, of digestate (including recirculation rate), of leachate, biogas quality (CH 4 , CO 2 , H 2 S), biogas yield, energy production, labor requirement for loading, and unloading operations. The results of the monitoring were compared to performance data obtained in several full scale wet digestion plants. The dry fermentation plant revealed a start-up phase that lasted several months, during which the average power resulted in 641kW e (70.4% of nominal power), and the last period the power resulted in 788kW e (86.6% of installed power). Improving the balance of the input, the dry fermentation process demonstrated biogas yields similar to wet anaerobic digestion, congruent to the energy potential of the biomasses used in the process. Furthermore, the operation of the plant required significant man labor, mainly related to loading and unloading of the anaerobic cells. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tumor Heterogeneity, Single-Cell Sequencing, and Drug Resistance.

PubMed

Schmidt, Felix; Efferth, Thomas

2016-06-16

Tumor heterogeneity has been compared with Darwinian evolution and survival of the fittest. The evolutionary ecosystem of tumors consisting of heterogeneous tumor cell populations represents a considerable challenge to tumor therapy, since all genetically and phenotypically different subpopulations have to be efficiently killed by therapy. Otherwise, even small surviving subpopulations may cause repopulation and refractory tumors. Single-cell sequencing allows for a better understanding of the genomic principles of tumor heterogeneity and represents the basis for more successful tumor treatments. The isolation and sequencing of single tumor cells still represents a considerable technical challenge and consists of three major steps: (1) single cell isolation (e.g., by laser-capture microdissection), fluorescence-activated cell sorting, micromanipulation, whole genome amplification (e.g., with the help of Phi29 DNA polymerase), and transcriptome-wide next generation sequencing technologies (e.g., 454 pyrosequencing, Illumina sequencing, and other systems). Data demonstrating the feasibility of single-cell sequencing for monitoring the emergence of drug-resistant cell clones in patient samples are discussed herein. It is envisioned that single-cell sequencing will be a valuable asset to assist the design of regimens for personalized tumor therapies based on tumor subpopulation-specific genetic alterations in individual patients.

Survey of Technologies for Monitoring Containment Liners and Covers

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The report provides information on innovative long-term monitoring technologies to detect contaminant releases beneath a liner containment system and identify potential problems with the integrity of final containment covers.

Non-invasive monitoring of below ground cassava storage root bulking by ground penetrating radar technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruiz Vera, U. M.; Larson, T. H.; Mwakanyamale, K. E.; Grennan, A. K.; Souza, A. P.; Ort, D. R.; Balikian, R. J.

2017-12-01

Agriculture needs a new technological revolution to be able to meet the food demands, to overcome weather and natural hazards events, and to monitor better crop productivity. Advanced technologies used in other fields have recently been applied in agriculture. Thus, imagine instrumentation has been applied to phenotype above-ground biomass and predict yield. However, the capability to monitor belowground biomass is still limited. There are some existing technologies available, for example the ground penetrating radar (GPR) which has been used widely in the area of geology and civil engineering to detect different kind of formations under the ground without the disruption of the soil. GPR technology has been used also to monitor tree roots but as yet not crop roots. Some limitation are that the GPR cannot discern roots smaller than 2 cm in diameter, but it make it feasible for application in tuber crops like Cassava since harvest diameter is greater than 4 cm. The objective of this research is to test the availability to use GPR technology to monitor the growth of cassava roots by testing this technique in the greenhouse and in the field. So far, results from the greenhouse suggest that GPR can detect mature roots of cassava and this data could be used to predict biomass.

Lens-free shadow image based high-throughput continuous cell monitoring technique.

PubMed

Jin, Geonsoo; Yoo, In-Hwa; Pack, Seung Pil; Yang, Ji-Woon; Ha, Un-Hwan; Paek, Se-Hwan; Seo, Sungkyu

2012-01-01

A high-throughput continuous cell monitoring technique which does not require any labeling reagents or destruction of the specimen is demonstrated. More than 6000 human alveolar epithelial A549 cells are monitored for up to 72 h simultaneously and continuously with a single digital image within a cost and space effective lens-free shadow imaging platform. In an experiment performed within a custom built incubator integrated with the lens-free shadow imaging platform, the cell nucleus division process could be successfully characterized by calculating the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and the shadow diameters (SDs) of the cell shadow patterns. The versatile nature of this platform also enabled a single cell viability test followed by live cell counting. This study firstly shows that the lens-free shadow imaging technique can provide a continuous cell monitoring without any staining/labeling reagent and destruction of the specimen. This high-throughput continuous cell monitoring technique based on lens-free shadow imaging may be widely utilized as a compact, low-cost, and high-throughput cell monitoring tool in the fields of drug and food screening or cell proliferation and viability testing. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Witkowski, Peter T.; Charite Universitaetsmedizin, CCM, Institut fuer Virologie, Helmut Ruska Haus, Chariteplatz 1, 10117 Berlin; Schuenadel, Livia, E-mail: SchuenadelL@rki.de

Research highlights: {yields} Real-time data acquisition by RT-CES requires low operative effort. {yields} Time to result is reduced by using RT-CES instead of conventional methods. {yields} RT-CES enables quantification of virus titers in unknown samples. {yields} RT-CES is a useful tool for high-throughput characterization of antiviral agents. {yields} An RT-CES-based virus neutralization test was established. -- Abstract: Impedance-based biosensing known as real-time cell electronic sensing (RT-CES) belongs to an emerging technology for analyzing the status of cells in vitro. In the present study protocols were developed for an RT-CES-based system (xCELLigence{sup TM}, Roche Applied Science, ACEA Biosciences Inc.) to supplementmore » conventional techniques in pox virology. First, proliferation of cells susceptible to orthopoxviruses was monitored. For virus titration cells were infected with vaccinia virus and cell status, represented by the dimensionless impedance-based cell index (CI), was monitored. A virus-dose dependent decrease in electrical impedance could be shown. Calculation of calibration curves at a suitable CI covering a dynamic range of 4 log enabled the quantification of virus titers in unknown samples. Similarly, antiviral effects could be determined as shown for anti-poxviral agents ST-246 and Cidofovir. Published values for the in vitro concentration that inhibited virus replication by 50% (IC{sub 50}) could be confirmed while cytotoxicity in effective concentrations was excluded in long-term incubation experiments. Finally, an RT-CES-based virus neutralization test was established. Various poxvirus-specific antibodies were examined for their neutralizing activity and a calculation mode for the neutralizing antibody titer was introduced. In summary, the presented RT-CES-based methods outmatch end-point assays by observing the cell population throughout the entire experiment while workload and time to result are reduced.« less

Performance of 7-cells Dye Sensitized Solar Module in Z-type Series Interconnection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nur Anggraini, Putri; Muliani, Lia; Maulani Nursam, Natalita; Hidayat, Jojo

2018-01-01

Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC) is becoming attractive research topic as third generation solar cells technology since it provides clean energy and low cost fabrication. In this study, DSSC was fabricated into module scale, which is important for practical applications. The module was prepared in sandwich structure consisting of TiO2 working electrode and Pt counter electrode on conductive substrate with an area of 100 mm x 100 mm, which was distributed into seven active cells. TiO2 paste was deposited on FTO glass as working electrode with a size of 10 mm x 98 mm per unit cell by screen printing method. Each cell was connected in Z-type series that able to produce high voltage. I - V measurement was applied in two methods consisting of laboratory testing using sun simulator under 500 W/m2 of illumination and outdoor testing using a digital multimeter under direct sunlight. The result shows that DSSC module has photoconversion efficiency of 1.08% and 1.17% for laboratory and outdoor testing, respectively. The module was also tested in three different times to monitor its stability performance.

Intracellular protein determination using droplet-based immunoassays.

PubMed

Martino, Chiara; Zagnoni, Michele; Sandison, Mairi E; Chanasakulniyom, Mayuree; Pitt, Andrew R; Cooper, Jonathan M

2011-07-01

This paper describes the implementation of a sensitive, on-chip immunoassay for the analysis of intracellular proteins, developed using microdroplet technology. The system offers a number of analytical functionalities, enabling the lysis of low cell numbers, as well as protein detection and quantification, integrated within a single process flow. Cells were introduced into the device in suspension and were electrically lysed in situ. The cell lysate was subsequently encapsulated together with antibody-functionalized beads into stable, water-in-oil droplets, which were stored on-chip. The binding of intracellular proteins to the beads was monitored fluorescently. By analyzing many individual droplets and quantifying the data obtained against standard additions, we measured the level of two intracellular proteins, namely, HRas-mCitrine, expressed within HEK-293 cells, and actin-EGFP, expressed within MCF-7 cells. We determined the concentrations of these proteins over 5 orders of magnitude, from ~50 pM to 1 μM. The results from this semiautomated method were compared to those for determinations made using Western blots, and were found not only to be faster, but required a smaller number of cells.

Mouse mutants from chemically mutagenized embryonic stem cells

PubMed Central

Munroe, Robert J.; Bergstrom, Rebecca A.; Zheng, Qing Yin; Libby, Brian; Smith, Richard; John, Simon W.M.; Schimenti, Kerry J.; Browning, Victoria L.; Schimenti, John C.

2010-01-01

The drive to characterize functions of human genes on a global scale has stimulated interest in large-scale generation of mouse mutants. Conventional germ-cell mutagenesis with N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) is compromised by an inability to monitor mutation efficiency, strain1 and interlocus2 variation in mutation induction, and extensive husbandry requirements. To overcome these obstacles and develop new methods for generating mouse mutants, we devised protocols to generate germline chi-maeric mice from embryonic stem (ES) cells heavily mutagenized with ethylmethanesulphonate (EMS). Germline chimaeras were derived from cultures that underwent a mutation rate of up to 1 in 1,200 at the Hprt locus (encoding hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyl transferase). The spectrum of mutations induced by EMS and the frameshift mutagen ICR191 was consistent with that observed in other mammalian cells. Chimaeras derived from ES cells treated with EMS transmitted mutations affecting several processes, including limb development, hair growth, hearing and gametogenesis. This technology affords several advantages over traditional mutagenesis, including the ability to conduct shortened breeding schemes and to screen for mutant phenotypes directly in ES cells or their differentiated derivatives. PMID:10700192

Small is fast: astrocytic glucose and lactate metabolism at cellular resolution

PubMed Central

Barros, L. F.; San Martín, A.; Sotelo-Hitschfeld, T.; Lerchundi, R.; Fernández-Moncada, I.; Ruminot, I.; Gutiérrez, R.; Valdebenito, R.; Ceballo, S.; Alegría, K.; Baeza-Lehnert, F.; Espinoza, D.

2013-01-01

Brain tissue is highly dynamic in terms of electrical activity and energy demand. Relevant energy metabolites have turnover times ranging from milliseconds to seconds and are rapidly exchanged between cells and within cells. Until recently these fast metabolic events were inaccessible, because standard isotopic techniques require use of populations of cells and/or involve integration times of tens of minutes. Thanks to fluorescent probes and recently available genetically-encoded optical nanosensors, this Technology Report shows how it is now possible to monitor the concentration of metabolites in real-time and in single cells. In combination with ad hoc inhibitor-stop protocols, these probes have revealed a key role for K+ in the acute stimulation of astrocytic glycolysis by synaptic activity. They have also permitted detection of the Warburg effect in single cancer cells. Genetically-encoded nanosensors currently exist for glucose, lactate, NADH and ATP, and it is envisaged that other metabolite nanosensors will soon be available. These optical tools together with improved expression systems and in vivo imaging, herald an exciting era of single-cell metabolic analysis. PMID:23526722

Abnormal Condition Monitoring of Workpieces Based on RFID for Wisdom Manufacturing Workshops.

PubMed

Zhang, Cunji; Yao, Xifan; Zhang, Jianming

2015-12-03

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has been widely used in many fields. However, previous studies have mainly focused on product life cycle tracking, and there are few studies on real-time status monitoring of workpieces in manufacturing workshops. In this paper, a wisdom manufacturing model is introduced, a sensing-aware environment for a wisdom manufacturing workshop is constructed, and RFID event models are defined. A synthetic data cleaning method is applied to clean the raw RFID data. The Complex Event Processing (CEP) technology is adopted to monitor abnormal conditions of workpieces in real time. The RFID data cleaning method and data mining technology are examined by simulation and physical experiments. The results show that the synthetic data cleaning method preprocesses data well. The CEP based on the Rifidi(®) Edge Server technology completed abnormal condition monitoring of workpieces in real time. This paper reveals the importance of RFID spatial and temporal data analysis in real-time status monitoring of workpieces in wisdom manufacturing workshops.

Abnormal Condition Monitoring of Workpieces Based on RFID for Wisdom Manufacturing Workshops

PubMed Central

Zhang, Cunji; Yao, Xifan; Zhang, Jianming

2015-01-01

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has been widely used in many fields. However, previous studies have mainly focused on product life cycle tracking, and there are few studies on real-time status monitoring of workpieces in manufacturing workshops. In this paper, a wisdom manufacturing model is introduced, a sensing-aware environment for a wisdom manufacturing workshop is constructed, and RFID event models are defined. A synthetic data cleaning method is applied to clean the raw RFID data. The Complex Event Processing (CEP) technology is adopted to monitor abnormal conditions of workpieces in real time. The RFID data cleaning method and data mining technology are examined by simulation and physical experiments. The results show that the synthetic data cleaning method preprocesses data well. The CEP based on the Rifidi® Edge Server technology completed abnormal condition monitoring of workpieces in real time. This paper reveals the importance of RFID spatial and temporal data analysis in real-time status monitoring of workpieces in wisdom manufacturing workshops. PMID:26633418

Gerontechnologies for Older Patients with Heart Failure: What is the Role of Smartphones, Tablets, and Remote Monitoring Devices in Improving Symptom Monitoring and Self-Care Management?

PubMed

Masterson Creber, Ruth M; Hickey, Kathleen T; Maurer, Mathew S

2016-10-01

Older adults with heart failure have multiple chronic conditions and a large number and range of symptoms. A fundamental component of heart failure self-care management is regular symptom monitoring. Symptom monitoring can be facilitated by cost-effective, easily accessible technologies that are integrated into patients' lives. Technologies that are tailored to older adults by incorporating gerontological design principles are called gerontechnologies. Gerontechnology is an interdisciplinary academic and professional field that combines gerontology and technology with the goals of improving prevention, care, and enhancing the quality of life for older adults. The purpose of this article is to discuss the role of gerontechnologies, specifically the use of mobile applications available on smartphones and tablets as well as remote monitoring systems, for outpatient disease management among older adults with heart failure. While largely unproven, these rapidly developing technologies have great potential to improve outcomes among older persons.

Technical literature review.

PubMed

Nußbeck, Gunnar; Gök, Murat

2013-01-01

This review gives a comprehensive overview on the technical perspective of personal health monitoring. It is designed to build a mutual basis for the project partners of the PHM-Ethics project. A literature search was conducted to screen pertinent literature databases for relevant publications. All review papers that were retrieved were analyzed. The increasing number of publications that are published per year shows that the field of personal health monitoring is of growing interest in the research community. Most publications deal with telemonitoring, thus forming the core technology of personal health monitoring. Measured parameters, fields of application, participants and stakeholders are described. Moreover an outlook on information and communication technology that foster the integration possibilities of personal health monitoring into decision making and remote monitoring of individual people's health is provided. The removal of the technological barriers opens new perspectives in health and health care delivery using home monitoring applications.

Real-time long term measurement using integrated framework for ubiquitous smart monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heo, Gwanghee; Lee, Giu; Lee, Woosang; Jeon, Joonryong; Kim, Pil-Joong

2007-04-01

Ubiquitous monitoring combining internet technologies and wireless communication is one of the most promising technologies of infrastructure health monitoring against the natural of man-made hazards. In this paper, an integrated framework of the ubiquitous monitoring is developed for real-time long term measurement in internet environment. This framework develops a wireless sensor system based on Bluetooth technology and sends measured acceleration data to the host computer through TCP/IP protocol. And it is also designed to respond to the request of web user on real time basis. In order to verify this system, real time monitoring tests are carried out on a prototype self-anchored suspension bridge. Also, wireless measurement system is analyzed to estimate its sensing capacity and evaluate its performance for monitoring purpose. Based on the evaluation, this paper proposes the effective strategies for integrated framework in order to detect structural deficiencies and to design an early warning system.

Lower cost air measurement technology – what is on the ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This presentation is to the MARAMA 2014 annual monitoring meeting and is an invited talk to provide an overview on lower cost air measurement technology. This presentation is to the MARAMA 2014 annual monitoring meeting and is an invited talk to provide an overview on lower cost air measurement technology.

Using Data to Individualize a Multicomponent, Technology-Based Self-Monitoring Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bruhn, Allison Leigh; Vogelgesang, Kari; Fernando, Josephine; Lugo, Wilbeth

2016-01-01

Technology in schools is abundant as is the call for evidence-based interventions for students who need additional support to be successful. One promising use of technology is for self-monitoring interventions aimed at improving classroom behavior. In this study, two middle school students with disabilities used a multicomponent, self-monitoring…

SMALL DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS HANDBOOK A GUIDE TO "PACKAGED" FILTRATION AND DISINFECTION TECHNOLOGIES WITH REMOTE MONITORING AND CONTROL TOOLS

EPA Science Inventory

The intent of this handbook is to highlight information appropriate to small systems with an emphasis on filtration and disinfection technologies and how they can be "packaged" with remote monitoring and control technologies to provide a healthy and affordable solution for small ...

Configurable technology development for reusable control and monitor ground systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Uhrlaub, David R.

1994-01-01

The control monitor unit (CMU) uses configurable software technology for real-time mission command and control, telemetry processing, simulation, data acquisition, data archiving, and ground operations automation. The base technology is currently planned for the following control and monitor systems: portable Space Station checkout systems; ecological life support systems; Space Station logistics carrier system; and the ground system of the Delta Clipper (SX-2) in the Single-Stage Rocket Technology program. The CMU makes extensive use of commercial technology to increase capability and reduce development and life-cycle costs. The concepts and technology are being developed by McDonnell Douglas Space and Defense Systems for the Real-Time Systems Laboratory at NASA's Kennedy Space Center under the Payload Ground Operations Contract. A second function of the Real-Time Systems Laboratory is development and utilization of advanced software development practices.

Identification of beta cell dysfunction at the pre-symptomatic stage of diabetes mellitus by novel analytical system: liquid biopsy measurements in femtograms.

PubMed

Krapfenbauer, Kurt

2017-12-01

Diabetes mellitus is produced and progresses as a consequence of complex and gradual processes, in which a variety of alterations of the endocrine pancreas, are involved and which mainly result in beta cell failure. Those molecular alterations can be found in the bloodstream, which suggests that we could quantify specific biomarkers in plasma or serum by very sensitive methods before the onset diabetes mellitus is diagnosed. However, classical methods of protein analysis such as electrophoresis, Western blot, ELISA, and liquid chromatography are generally time-consuming, lab-intensive, and not sensitive enough to detect such alteration in a pre-symptomatic state of the disease. A very sensitive and novel analytical detection conjugate system by using the combination of polyfluorophor technology with protein microchip method was developed. This innovative system facilitates the use of a very sensitive microchip assays that measure selected biomarkers in a small sample volume (10 μL) with a much higher sensitivity (92%) compare to common immune assay systems. Further advances of the application of this technology combine the power of miniaturization and faster quantification (around 10 min). The power of this technology offers great promise for point-of-care clinical testing and monitoring of specific biomarkers for diabetes in femtogram level in serum or plasma. In conclusion, the results indicate that the technical performance of this new technology is valid and that the assay is able to quantified PPY-specific antigens in plasma at femtogram levels which can be used for identification of beta cell dysfunction at the pre-symptomatic stage of diabetes mellitus.

Deciphering the therapeutic stem cell strategies of large and midsize pharmaceutical firms.

PubMed

Vertès, Alain A

2014-01-01

The slow adoption of cytotherapeutics remains a vexing hurdle given clinical progress achieved to date with a variety of stem cell lineages. Big and midsize pharmaceutical companies as an asset class still delay large-scale investments in this arena until technological and market risks will have been further reduced. Nonetheless, a handful of stem cell strategic alliance and licensing transactions have already been implemented, indicating that progress is actively monitored, although most of these involve midsize firms. The greatest difficulty is, perhaps, that the regenerative medicine industry is currently only approaching the point of inflexion of the technology development S-curve, as many more clinical trials read out. A path to accelerating technology adoption is to focus on innovation outliers among healthcare actors. These can be identified by analyzing systemic factors (e.g., national science policies and industry fragmentation) and intrinsic factors (corporate culture, e.g., nimble decision-making structures; corporate finance, e.g., opportunity costs and ownership structure; and operations, e.g., portfolio management strategies, threats on existing businesses and patent expirations). Another path is to accelerate the full clinical translation and commercialization of an allogeneic cytotherapeutic product in any indication to demonstrate the disease-modifying potential of the new products for treatment and prophylaxis, ideally for a large unmet medical need such as dry age-related macular degeneration, or for an orphan disease such as biologics-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease. In times of decreased industry average research productivities, regenerative medicine products provide important prospects for creating new franchises with a market potential that could very well mirror that achieved with the technology of monoclonal antibodies.

Florida Hydrogen Initiative

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

Block, David L

2013-06-30

The Florida Hydrogen Initiative (FHI) was a research, development and demonstration hydrogen and fuel cell program. The FHI program objectives were to develop Florida?s hydrogen and fuel cell infrastructure and to assist DOE in its hydrogen and fuel cell activities The FHI program funded 12 RD&D projects as follows: Hydrogen Refueling Infrastructure and Rental Car Strategies -- L. Lines, Rollins College This project analyzes strategies for Florida's early stage adaptation of hydrogen-powered public transportation. In particular, the report investigates urban and statewide network of refueling stations and the feasibility of establishing a hydrogen rental-car fleet based in Orlando. Methanol Fuelmore » Cell Vehicle Charging Station at Florida Atlantic University ? M. Fuchs, EnerFuel, Inc. The project objectives were to design, and demonstrate a 10 kWnet proton exchange membrane fuel cell stationary power plant operating on methanol, to achieve an electrical energy efficiency of 32% and to demonstrate transient response time of less than 3 milliseconds. Assessment of Public Understanding of the Hydrogen Economy Through Science Center Exhibits, J. Newman, Orlando Science Center The project objective was to design and build an interactive Science Center exhibit called: ?H2Now: the Great Hydrogen Xchange?. On-site Reformation of Diesel Fuel for Hydrogen Fueling Station Applications ? A. Raissi, Florida Solar Energy Center This project developed an on-demand forecourt hydrogen production technology by catalytically converting high-sulfur hydrocarbon fuels to an essentially sulfur-free gas. The removal of sulfur from reformate is critical since most catalysts used for the steam reformation have limited sulfur tolerance. Chemochromic Hydrogen Leak Detectors for Safety Monitoring ? N. Mohajeri and N. Muradov, Florida Solar Energy Center This project developed and demonstrated a cost-effective and highly selective chemochromic (visual) hydrogen leak detector for safety monitoring at any facility engaged in transport, handling and use of hydrogen. Development of High Efficiency Low Cost Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Production and PEM Fuel Cell Applications ? M. Rodgers, Florida Solar Energy Center The objective of this project was to decrease platinum usage in fuel cells by conducting experiments to improve catalyst activity while lowering platinum loading through pulse electrodeposition. Optimum values of several variables during electrodeposition were selected to achieve the highest electrode performance, which was related to catalyst morphology. Understanding Mechanical and Chemical Durability of Fuel Cell Membrane Electrode Assemblies ? D. Slattery, Florida Solar Energy Center The objective of this project was to increase the knowledge base of the degradation mechanisms for membranes used in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The results show the addition of ceria (cerium oxide) has given durability improvements by reducing fluoride emissions by an order of magnitude during an accelerated durability test. Production of Low-Cost Hydrogen from Biowaste (HyBrTec?) ? R. Parker, SRT Group, Inc., Miami, FL This project developed a hydrogen bromide (HyBrTec?) process which produces hydrogen bromide from wet-cellulosic waste and co-produces carbon dioxide. Eelectrolysis dissociates hydrogen bromide producing recyclable bromine and hydrogen. A demonstration reactor and electrolysis vessel was designed, built and operated. Development of a Low-Cost and High-Efficiency 500 W Portable PEMFC System ? J. Zheng, Florida State University, H. Chen, Bing Energy, Inc. The objectives of this project were to develop a new catalyst structures comprised of highly conductive buckypaper and Pt catalyst nanoparticles coated on its surface and to demonstrate fuel cell efficiency improvement and durability and cell cost reductions in the buckypaper based electrodes. Development of an Interdisciplinary Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Academic Program ? J. Politano, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, FL This project developed a hydrogen and fuel cell technology academic program at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Florida. Design and Development of an Advanced Hydrogen Storage System using Novel Materials ? E. Stefanakos, University of South Florida The goal of this project was to design and develop novel conducting polymeric nanomaterials for on-board hydrogen storage. The project approach was to examine synthesis of polyaniline solid state hydrogen storage materials. Advanced HiFoil ? Bipolar Plates ? J. Braun, M. Fuchs, EnerFuel, Inc. The goal of this project was to provide a durable, low cost bipolar plate for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The project results produced a durable, low cost bipolar plate with very high in-plane thermal conductivity.« less

Caregivers’ Willingness to Pay for Technologies to Support Caregiving

PubMed Central

Schulz, Richard; Beach, Scott R.; Matthews, Judith T.; Courtney, Karen; De Vito Dabbs, Annette; Mecca, Laurel Person

2016-01-01

Purpose of the Study: We report the results of a study designed to assess whether and how much informal caregivers are willing to pay for technologies designed to help monitor and support care recipients (CRs) in performing kitchen and personal care tasks. Design and Methods: We carried out a web survey of a national sample of adult caregivers (age 18–64) caring for an older adult (N = 512). Respondents completed a 25min online survey that included questions about their caregiving situation, current use of everyday technology, use of specific caregiving technologies, general attitudes toward technology, and questions about technologies designed to help them monitor and provide assistance for CRs’ kitchen and self-care activities. Results: About 20% of caregivers were not willing to pay anything for kitchen and self-care technologies. Among those willing to pay something, the mean amount was approximately $50 per month for monitoring technologies and $70 per month for technologies that both monitored and provided some assistance. Younger caregivers, those caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease, and caregivers with more positive attitudes toward and experience with technology were willing to pay more. Most caregivers feel that the government or private insurance should help pay for these technologies. Implications: Caregivers are receptive and willing to pay for technologies that help them care for their CR, although the amount they are willing to pay is capped at around $70 per month. The combination of private pay and government subsidy may facilitate development and dissemination of caregiver technologies. PMID:26035899

Integration of Wireless Sensor Networks into Cyberinfrastructure for Monitoring Hawaiian ``Mountain-to-Sea'' Environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kido, Michael H.; Mundt, Carsten W.; Montgomery, Kevin N.; Asquith, Adam; Goodale, David W.; Kaneshiro, Kenneth Y.

2008-10-01

Monitoring the complex environmental relationships and feedbacks of ecosystems on catchment (or mountain)-to-sea scales is essential for social systems to effectively deal with the escalating impacts of expanding human populations globally on watersheds. However, synthesis of emerging technologies into a robust observing platform for the monitoring of coupled human-natural environments on extended spatial scales has been slow to develop. For this purpose, the authors produced a new cyberinfrastructure for environmental monitoring which successfully merged the use of wireless sensor technologies, grid computing with three-dimensional (3D) geospatial data visualization/exploration, and a secured internet portal user interface, into a working prototype for monitoring mountain-to-sea environments in the high Hawaiian Islands. A use-case example is described in which native Hawaiian residents of Waipa Valley (Kauai) utilized the technology to monitor the effects of regional weather variation on surface water quality/quantity response, to better understand their local hydrologic cycle, monitor agricultural water use, and mitigate the effects of lowland flooding.

Integration of wireless sensor networks into cyberinfrastructure for monitoring Hawaiian "mountain-to-sea" environments.

PubMed

Kido, Michael H; Mundt, Carsten W; Montgomery, Kevin N; Asquith, Adam; Goodale, David W; Kaneshiro, Kenneth Y

2008-10-01

Monitoring the complex environmental relationships and feedbacks of ecosystems on catchment (or mountain)-to-sea scales is essential for social systems to effectively deal with the escalating impacts of expanding human populations globally on watersheds. However, synthesis of emerging technologies into a robust observing platform for the monitoring of coupled human-natural environments on extended spatial scales has been slow to develop. For this purpose, the authors produced a new cyberinfrastructure for environmental monitoring which successfully merged the use of wireless sensor technologies, grid computing with three-dimensional (3D) geospatial data visualization/exploration, and a secured internet portal user interface, into a working prototype for monitoring mountain-to-sea environments in the high Hawaiian Islands. A use-case example is described in which native Hawaiian residents of Waipa Valley (Kauai) utilized the technology to monitor the effects of regional weather variation on surface water quality/quantity response, to better understand their local hydrologic cycle, monitor agricultural water use, and mitigate the effects of lowland flooding.

FAST: Size-Selective, Clog-Free Isolation of Rare Cancer Cells from Whole Blood at a Liquid-Liquid Interface.

PubMed

Kim, Tae-Hyeong; Lim, Minji; Park, Juhee; Oh, Jung Min; Kim, Hyeongeun; Jeong, Hyunjin; Lee, Sun Ju; Park, Hee Chul; Jung, Sungmok; Kim, Byung Chul; Lee, Kyusang; Kim, Mi-Hyun; Park, Do Youn; Kim, Gwang Ha; Cho, Yoon-Kyoung

2017-01-17

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have great potential to provide minimally invasive ways for the early detection of cancer metastasis and for the response monitoring of various cancer treatments. Despite the clinical importance and progress of CTC-based cancer diagnostics, most of the current methods of enriching CTCs are difficult to implement in general hospital settings due to complex and time-consuming protocols. Among existing technologies, size-based isolation methods provide antibody-independent, relatively simple, and high throughput protocols. However, the clogging issues and lower than desired recovery rates and purity are the key challenges. In this work, inspired by antifouling membranes with liquid-filled pores in nature, clog-free, highly sensitive (95.9 ± 3.1% recovery rate), selective (>2.5 log depletion of white blood cells), rapid (>3 mL/min), and label-free isolation of viable CTCs from whole blood without prior sample treatment is achieved using a stand-alone lab-on-a-disc system equipped with fluid-assisted separation technology (FAST). Numerical simulation and experiments show that this method provides uniform, clog-free, ultrafast cell enrichment with pressure drops much less than in conventional size-based filtration, at 1 kPa. We demonstrate the clinical utility of the point-of-care detection of CTCs with samples taken from 142 patients suffering from breast, stomach, or lung cancer.

Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) in Microbiology: Illumination and Enhancement of the Microbial World.

PubMed

Chisanga, Malama; Muhamadali, Howbeer; Ellis, David I; Goodacre, Royston

2018-01-01

The microbial world forms a huge family of organisms that exhibit the greatest phylogenetic diversity on Earth and thus colonize virtually our entire planet. Due to this diversity and subsequent complex interactions, the vast majority of microorganisms are involved in innumerable natural bioprocesses and contribute an absolutely vital role toward the maintenance of life on Earth, whilst a small minority cause various infectious diseases. The ever-increasing demand for environmental monitoring, sustainable ecosystems, food security, and improved healthcare systems drives the continuous search for inexpensive but reproducible, automated and portable techniques for detection of microbial isolates and understanding their interactions for clinical, environmental, and industrial applications and benefits. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is attracting significant attention for the accurate identification, discrimination and characterization and functional assessment of microbial cells at the single cell level. In this review, we briefly discuss the technological advances in Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) instrumentation and their application for the analysis of clinically and industrially relevant microorganisms, biofilms, and biological warfare agents. In addition, we summarize the current trends and future prospects of integrating Raman/SERS-isotopic labeling and cell sorting technologies in parallel, to link genotype-to-phenotype in order to define community function of unculturable microbial cells in mixed microbial communities which possess admirable traits such as detoxification of pollutants and recycling of essential metals.

Students, Teachers, and Schools as Sources of Variability, Integrity, and Sustainability in Implementing Progress Monitoring

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bolt, Daniel M.; Ysseldyke, Jim; Patterson, Michael J.

2010-01-01

A three-level variance decomposition analysis was used to examine the sources of variability in implementation of a technology-enhanced progress monitoring system within each year of a 2-year study using a randomized-controlled design. We show that results of technology-enhanced progress monitoring are not necessarily a measure of student…

New and emerging technologies for the diagnosis and monitoring of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A horizon scanning review.

PubMed

Dixon, Louise C; Ward, Derek J; Smith, Joanna; Holmes, Steve; Mahadeva, Ravi

2016-03-11

There is a need for straightforward, novel diagnostic and monitoring technologies to enable the early diagnosis of COPD and its differentiation from other respiratory diseases, to establish the cause of acute exacerbations and to monitor disease progression. We sought to establish whether technologies already in development could potentially address these needs. A systematic horizon scanning review was undertaken to identify technologies in development from a wide range of commercial and non-commercial sources. Technologies were restricted to those likely to be available within 18 months, and then evaluated for degree of innovation, potential for impact, acceptability to users and likelihood of adoption by clinicians and patients with COPD. Eighty technologies were identified, of which 25 were considered particularly promising. Biomarker tests, particularly those using sputum or saliva samples and/or available at the point of care, were positively evaluated, with many offering novel approaches to early diagnosis and to determining the cause for acute exacerbations. Several wrist-worn devices and smartphone-based spirometers offering the facility for self-monitoring and early detection of exacerbations were also considered promising. The most promising identified technologies have the potential to improve COPD care and patient outcomes. Further research and evaluation activities should be focused on these technologies. © The Author(s) 2016.

Feasibility and usability of a home monitoring concept based on mobile phones and near field communication (NFC) technology.

PubMed

Morak, Jürgen; Kollmann, Alexander; Schreier, Günter

2007-01-01

Utilization of mobile information and communication technologies in home monitoring applications is becoming more and more common. The mobile phone, acting as a patient terminal for patients suffering from chronic diseases, provides an active link to the caregiver to transmit health status information and receive feedback. In such a concept the usability is still limited by the necessity of entering the values via the mobile phone's small keypad. The near field communication technology (NFC), a touch-based wireless interface that became available recently, may improve the usability level of such applications significantly. The focus of this paper is to describe the development of a prototype application based on this technology embedded in a home monitoring system. The feasibility and usability of this approach are evaluated and compared with concepts used in previous approaches. The high quantifier with respect to overall usability indicates that NFC may be the technology of choice for some tasks in home monitoring applications.

Chemical Gas Sensors for Aeronautic and Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hunter, Gary W.; Chen, Liang-Yu; Neudeck, Philip G.; Knight, Dak; Liu, Chung-Chiun; Wu, Quing-Hai; Zhou, Huan-Jun

1997-01-01

Aeronautic and space applications require the development of chemical sensors with capabilities beyond those of commercially available sensors. Two areas of particular interest are safety monitoring and emission monitoring. In safety monitoring, detection of low concentrations of hydrogen at potentially low temperatures is important while for emission monitoring the detection of nitrogen oxides, hydrogen, hydrocarbons and oxygen is of interest. This paper discusses the needs of aeronautic and space applications and the point-contact sensor technology being developed to address these needs. The development of these sensors is based on progress in two types of technology: (1) Micromachining and microfabrication technology to fabricate miniaturized sensors. (2) The development of high temperature semiconductors, especially silicon carbide. The detection of each type of gas involves its own challenges in the fields of materials science and fabrication technology. The number of dual-use commercial applications of this microfabricated gas sensor technology make this general area of sensor development a field of significant interest.

Application of World Wide Web (W3) Technologies in Payload Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sun, Charles; Windrem, May; Picinich, Lou

1996-01-01

World Wide Web (W3) technologies are considered in relation to their application to space missions. It is considered that such technologies, including the hypertext transfer protocol and the Java object-oriented language, offer a powerful and relatively inexpensive framework for distributed application software development. The suitability of these technologies for payload monitoring systems development is discussed, and the experience gained from the development of an insect habitat monitoring system based on W3 technologies is reported.

Bladder Monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1993-01-01

Diagnostic Ultrasound Corporation's Bladder Scan Monitor continuously records and monitors bladder fullness and alerts the wearer or caretaker when voiding is required. The sensor is held against the lower abdomen by a belt and connected to the monitor by a cable. The sensor obtains bladder volume data from sound waves reflecting off the bladder wall. The device was developed by Langley Research Center, the Ames Research Center and the NASA Technology Applications Team. It utilizes Langley's advanced ultrasound technology. It is licensed to the ARC for medical applications, and sublicensed to Diagnostics Ultrasound. Central monitoring systems are planned for the future.

[Development of wireless monitoring system based on Zigbee technology in blood and bacterin cold chain].

PubMed

Zhao, Peng; Sun, Jian-Jun; Wu, Tai-Hu

2008-11-01

Real-time monitoring for temperature is required in cold chain for the medical products that are sensible with temperature, such as blood and bacterin, to guarantee the quality and reduce their wastage. This wireless monitoring system in cold chain is developed with Zigbee technology. Functions such as real-time monitoring, analyzing, alarming are realized. The system boasts such characteristics as low power consumption, low cost, big capacity and high reliability, and could improve the capability of real-time monitoring and management in cold chain effectively.

Application of genetically engineered microbial whole-cell biosensors for combined chemosensing.

PubMed

He, Wei; Yuan, Sheng; Zhong, Wen-Hui; Siddikee, Md Ashaduzzaman; Dai, Chuan-Chao

2016-02-01

The progress of genetically engineered microbial whole-cell biosensors for chemosensing and monitoring has been developed in the last 20 years. Those biosensors respond to target chemicals and produce output signals, which offer a simple and alternative way of assessment approaches. As actual pollution caused by human activities usually contains a combination of different chemical substances, how to employ those biosensors to accurately detect real contaminant samples and evaluate biological effects of the combined chemicals has become a realistic object of environmental researches. In this review, we outlined different types of the recent method of genetically engineered microbial whole-cell biosensors for combined chemical evaluation, epitomized their detection performance, threshold, specificity, and application progress that have been achieved up to now. We also discussed the applicability and limitations of this biosensor technology and analyzed the optimum conditions for their environmental assessment in a combined way.

CRISPR in the Retina: Evaluation of Future Potential.

PubMed

Cho, Galaxy Y; Justus, Sally; Sengillo, Jesse D; Tsang, Stephen H

2017-01-01

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) has been gaining widespread attention for its ability for targeted genome surgery. In treating inherited retinal degenerations, gene therapies have had varied results; the ones effective in restoring eye sight are limited by transiency in its effect. Genome surgery, however, is a solution that could potentially provide the eye with permanent healthy cells. As retinal degenerations are irreversible and the retina has little regenerative potential, permanent healthy cells are vital for vision. Since the retina is anatomically accessible and capable of being monitored in vivo, the retina is a prime location for novel therapies. CRISPR technology can be used to make corrections directly in vivo as well as ex vivo of stem cells for transplantation. Current standard of care includes genetic testing for causative mutations in expectation of this potential. This chapter explores future potential and strategies for retinal degenerative disease correction via CRISPR and its limitations.

Characteristics and applications of small, portable gaseous air pollution monitors.

PubMed

McKercher, Grant R; Salmond, Jennifer A; Vanos, Jennifer K

2017-04-01

Traditional approaches for measuring air quality based on fixed measurements are inadequate for personal exposure monitoring. To combat this issue, the use of small, portable gas-sensing air pollution monitoring technologies is increasing, with researchers and individuals employing portable and mobile methods to obtain more spatially and temporally representative air pollution data. However, many commercially available options are built for various applications and based on different technologies, assumptions, and limitations. A review of the monitor characteristics of small, gaseous monitors is missing from current scientific literature. A state-of-the-art review of small, portable monitors that measure ambient gaseous outdoor pollutants was developed to address broad trends during the last 5-10 years, and to help future experimenters interested in studying gaseous air pollutants choose monitors appropriate for their application and sampling needs. Trends in small, portable gaseous air pollution monitor uses and technologies were first identified and discussed in a review of literature. Next, searches of online databases were performed for articles containing specific information related to performance, characteristics, and use of such monitors that measure one or more of three criteria gaseous air pollutants: ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. All data were summarized into reference tables for comparison between applications, physical features, sensing capabilities, and costs of the devices. Recent portable monitoring trends are strongly related to associated applications and audiences. Fundamental research requires monitors with the best individual performance, and thus the highest cost technology. Monitor networking favors real-time capabilities and moderate cost for greater reproduction. Citizen science and crowdsourcing applications allow for lower-cost components; however important strengths and limitations for each application must be addressed or acknowledged for the given use. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Overview of the NASA Aviation Safety Program Propulsion Health Monitoring Element

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simon, Donald L.

2000-01-01

The NASA Aviation Safety Program (AvSP) has been initiated with aggressive goals to reduce the civil aviation accident rate, To meet these goals, several technology investment areas have been identified including a sub-element in propulsion health monitoring (PHM). Specific AvSP PHM objectives are to develop and validate propulsion system health monitoring technologies designed to prevent engine malfunctions from occurring in flight, and to mitigate detrimental effects in the event an in-flight malfunction does occur. A review of available propulsion system safety information was conducted to help prioritize PHM areas to focus on under the AvSP. It is noted that when a propulsion malfunction is involved in an aviation accident or incident, it is often a contributing factor rather than the sole cause for the event. Challenging aspects of the development and implementation of PHM technology such as cost, weight, robustness, and reliability are discussed. Specific technology plans are overviewed including vibration diagnostics, model-based controls and diagnostics, advanced instrumentation, and general aviation propulsion system health monitoring technology. Propulsion system health monitoring, in addition to engine design, inspection, maintenance, and pilot training and awareness, is intrinsic to enhancing aviation propulsion system safety.

Progress in plant protoplast research.

PubMed

Eeckhaut, Tom; Lakshmanan, Prabhu Shankar; Deryckere, Dieter; Van Bockstaele, Erik; Van Huylenbroeck, Johan

2013-12-01

In this review we focus on recent progress in protoplast regeneration, symmetric and asymmetric hybridization and novel technology developments. Regeneration of new species and improved culture techniques opened new horizons for practical breeding in a number of crops. The importance of protoplast sources and embedding systems is discussed. The study of reactive oxygen species effects and DNA (de)condensation, along with thorough phytohormone monitoring, are in our opinion the most promising research topics in the further strive for rationalization of protoplast regeneration. Following, fusion and fragmentation progress is summarized. Genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic studies have led to better insights in fundamental processes such as cell wall formation, cell development and chromosome rearrangements in fusion products, whether or not obtained after irradiation. Advanced molecular screening methods of both genome and cytoplasmome facilitate efficient screening of both symmetric and asymmetric fusion products. We expect that emerging technologies as GISH, high resolution melting and next generation sequencing will pay major contributions to our insights of genome creation and stabilization, mainly after asymmetric hybridization. Finally, we demonstrate agricultural valorization of somatic hybridization through enumerating recent introgression of diverse traits in a number of commercial crops.

Temperature and Humidity Sensor Powered by an Individual Microbial Fuel Cell in a Power Management System.

PubMed

Zheng, Qi; Xiong, Lei; Mo, Bing; Lu, Weihong; Kim, Suki; Wang, Zhenyu

2015-09-11

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are of increasing interest as bioelectrochemical systems for decomposing organic materials and converting chemical energy into electricity. The main challenge for this technology is that the low power and voltage of the devices restricts the use of MFCs in practical applications. In this paper, a power management system (PMS) is developed to store the energy and export an increased voltage. The designed PMS successfully increases the low voltage generated by an individual MFC to a high potential of 5 V, capable of driving a wireless temperature and humidity sensor based on nRF24L01 data transmission modules. With the PMS, MFCs can intermittently power the sensor for data transmission to a remote receiver. It is concluded that even an individual MFC can supply the energy required to power the sensor and telemetry system with the designed PMS. The presented PMS can be widely used for unmanned environmental monitoring such as wild rivers, lakes, and adjacent water areas, and offers promise for further advances in MFC technology.

Temperature and Humidity Sensor Powered by an Individual Microbial Fuel Cell in a Power Management System

PubMed Central

Zheng, Qi; Xiong, Lei; Mo, Bing; Lu, Weihong; Kim, Suki; Wang, Zhenyu

2015-01-01

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are of increasing interest as bioelectrochemical systems for decomposing organic materials and converting chemical energy into electricity. The main challenge for this technology is that the low power and voltage of the devices restricts the use of MFCs in practical applications. In this paper, a power management system (PMS) is developed to store the energy and export an increased voltage. The designed PMS successfully increases the low voltage generated by an individual MFC to a high potential of 5 V, capable of driving a wireless temperature and humidity sensor based on nRF24L01 data transmission modules. With the PMS, MFCs can intermittently power the sensor for data transmission to a remote receiver. It is concluded that even an individual MFC can supply the energy required to power the sensor and telemetry system with the designed PMS. The presented PMS can be widely used for unmanned environmental monitoring such as wild rivers, lakes, and adjacent water areas, and offers promise for further advances in MFC technology. PMID:26378546

Cell Surface and Membrane Engineering: Emerging Technologies and Applications

PubMed Central

Saeui, Christopher T.; Mathew, Mohit P.; Liu, Lingshui; Urias, Esteban; Yarema, Kevin J.

2015-01-01

Membranes constitute the interface between the basic unit of life—a single cell—and the outside environment and thus in many ways comprise the ultimate “functional biomaterial”. To perform the many and often conflicting functions required in this role, for example to partition intracellular contents from the outside environment while maintaining rapid intake of nutrients and efflux of waste products, biological membranes have evolved tremendous complexity and versatility. This article describes how membranes, mainly in the context of living cells, are increasingly being manipulated for practical purposes with drug discovery, biofuels, and biosensors providing specific, illustrative examples. Attention is also given to biology-inspired, but completely synthetic, membrane-based technologies that are being enabled by emerging methods such as bio-3D printers. The diverse set of applications covered in this article are intended to illustrate how these versatile technologies—as they rapidly mature—hold tremendous promise to benefit human health in numerous ways ranging from the development of new medicines to sensitive and cost-effective environmental monitoring for pathogens and pollutants to replacing hydrocarbon-based fossil fuels. PMID:26096148

Fuel Cell Technology Status Analysis | Hydrogen and Fuel Cells | NREL

Science.gov Websites

Technology Status Analysis Fuel Cell Technology Status Analysis Get Involved Fuel cell developers interested in collaborating with NREL on fuel cell technology status analysis should send an email to NREL's Technology Validation Team at techval@nrel.gov. NREL's analysis of fuel cell technology provides objective

Use of immunomagnetic separation for the detection of Desulfovibrio vulgaris from environmental samples

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

Chakraborty, R.; Hazen, T.C.; Joyner, D.C.

2011-04-15

Immunomagnetic separation (IMS) has proved highly efficient for recovering microorganisms from heterogeneous samples. Current investigation targeted the separation of viable cells of the sulfate-reducing bacterium, Desulfovibrio vulgaris. Streptavidin-coupled paramagnetic beads and biotin labeled antibodies raised against surface antigens of this microorganism were used to capture D. vulgaris cells in both bioreactor grown laboratory samples and from extremely low-biomass environmental soil and subsurface drilling samples. Initial studies on detection, recovery efficiency and viability for IMS were performed with laboratory grown D. vulgaris cells using various cell densities. Efficiency of cell isolation and recovery (i.e., release of the microbial cells from themore » beads following separation) was followed by microscopic imaging and acridine orange direct counts (AODC). Excellent recovery efficiency encouraged the use of IMS to capture Desulfovibrio spp. cells from low-biomass environmental samples. The environmental samples were obtained from a radionuclide-contaminated site in Germany and the chromium (VI)-contaminated Hanford site, an ongoing bioremediation project of the U.S. Department of Energy. Field deployable IMS technology may greatly facilitate environmental sampling and bioremediation process monitoring and enable transcriptomics and proteomics/metabolomics-based studies directly on cells collected from the field.« less

A Survey of Flow Cytometry Data Analysis Methods

PubMed Central

Bashashati, Ali; Brinkman, Ryan R.

2009-01-01

Flow cytometry (FCM) is widely used in health research and in treatment for a variety of tasks, such as in the diagnosis and monitoring of leukemia and lymphoma patients, providing the counts of helper-T lymphocytes needed to monitor the course and treatment of HIV infection, the evaluation of peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell grafts, and many other diseases. In practice, FCM data analysis is performed manually, a process that requires an inordinate amount of time and is error-prone, nonreproducible, nonstandardized, and not open for re-evaluation, making it the most limiting aspect of this technology. This paper reviews state-of-the-art FCM data analysis approaches using a framework introduced to report each of the components in a data analysis pipeline. Current challenges and possible future directions in developing fully automated FCM data analysis tools are also outlined. PMID:20049163

National Fuel Cell Technology Evaluation Center | Hydrogen and Fuel Cells |

Science.gov Websites

NREL National Fuel Cell Technology Evaluation Center National Fuel Cell Technology Evaluation Center The National Fuel Cell Technology Evaluation Center (NFCTEC) at NREL's Energy Systems Integration Cell Technology Evaluation Center to process and analyze data for a variety of hydrogen and fuel cell

Ion Sensitive Transparent-Gate Transistor for Visible Cell Sensing.

PubMed

Sakata, Toshiya; Nishimura, Kotaro; Miyazawa, Yuuya; Saito, Akiko; Abe, Hiroyuki; Kajisa, Taira

2017-04-04

In this study, we developed an ion-sensitive transparent-gate transistor (IS-TGT) for visible cell sensing. The gate sensing surface of the IS-TGT is transparent in a solution because a transparent amorphous oxide semiconductor composed of amorphous In-Ga-Zn-oxide (a-IGZO) with a thin SiO 2 film gate that includes an indium tin oxide (ITO) film as the source and drain electrodes is utilized. The pH response of the IS-TGT was found to be about 56 mV/pH, indicating approximately Nernstian response. Moreover, the potential signals of the IS-TGT for sodium and potassium ions, which are usually included in biological environments, were evaluated. The optical and electrical properties of the IS-TGT enable cell functions to be monitored simultaneously with microscopic observation and electrical measurement. A platform based on the IS-TGT can be used as a simple and cost-effective plate-cell-sensing system based on thin-film fabrication technology in the research field of life science.

In Situ Target Engagement Studies in Adherent Cells.

PubMed

Axelsson, Hanna; Almqvist, Helena; Otrocka, Magdalena; Vallin, Michaela; Lundqvist, Sara; Hansson, Pia; Karlsson, Ulla; Lundbäck, Thomas; Seashore-Ludlow, Brinton

2018-04-20

A prerequisite for successful drugs is effective binding of the desired target protein in the complex environment of a living system. Drug-target engagement has typically been difficult to monitor in physiologically relevant models, and with current methods, especially, while maintaining spatial information. One recent technique for quantifying drug-target engagement is the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), in which ligand-induced protein stabilization is measured after a heat challenge. Here, we describe a CETSA protocol in live A431 cells for p38α (MAPK14), where remaining soluble protein is detected in situ, using high-content imaging in 384-well, microtiter plates. We validate this assay concept using a number of known p38α inhibitors and further demonstrate the potential of this technology for chemical probe and drug discovery purposes by performing a small pilot screen for novel p38α binders. Importantly, this protocol creates a workflow that is amenable to adherent cells in their native state and yields spatially resolved target engagement information measurable at the single-cell level.

Assay optimisation and technology transfer for multi-site immuno-monitoring in vaccine trials

PubMed Central

Harris, Stephanie A.; Satti, Iman; Bryan, Donna; Walker, K. Barry; Dockrell, Hazel M.; McShane, Helen; Ho, Mei Mei

2017-01-01

Cellular immunological assays are important tools for the monitoring of responses to T-cell-inducing vaccine candidates. As these bioassays are often technically complex and require considerable experience, careful technology transfer between laboratories is critical if high quality, reproducible data that allows comparison between sites, is to be generated. The aim of this study, funded by the European Union Framework Program 7-funded TRANSVAC project, was to optimise Standard Operating Procedures and the technology transfer process to maximise the reproducibility of three bioassays for interferon-gamma responses: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), ex-vivo enzyme-linked immunospot and intracellular cytokine staining. We found that the initial variability in results generated across three different laboratories reduced following a combination of Standard Operating Procedure harmonisation and the undertaking of side-by-side training sessions in which assay operators performed each assay in the presence of an assay ‘lead’ operator. Mean inter-site coefficients of variance reduced following this training session when compared with the pre-training values, most notably for the ELISA assay. There was a trend for increased inter-site variability at lower response magnitudes for the ELISA and intracellular cytokine staining assays. In conclusion, we recommend that on-site operator training is an essential component of the assay technology transfer process and combined with harmonised Standard Operating Procedures will improve the quality, reproducibility and comparability of data produced across different laboratories. These data may be helpful in ongoing discussions of the potential risk/benefit of centralised immunological assay strategies for large clinical trials versus decentralised units. PMID:29020010

Device for monitoring cell voltage

DOEpatents

Doepke, Matthias [Garbsen, DE; Eisermann, Henning [Edermissen, DE

2012-08-21

A device for monitoring a rechargeable battery having a number of electrically connected cells includes at least one current interruption switch for interrupting current flowing through at least one associated cell and a plurality of monitoring units for detecting cell voltage. Each monitoring unit is associated with a single cell and includes a reference voltage unit for producing a defined reference threshold voltage and a voltage comparison unit for comparing the reference threshold voltage with a partial cell voltage of the associated cell. The reference voltage unit is electrically supplied from the cell voltage of the associated cell. The voltage comparison unit is coupled to the at least one current interruption switch for interrupting the current of at least the current flowing through the associated cell, with a defined minimum difference between the reference threshold voltage and the partial cell voltage.

Assessment of microcirculation dynamics during cutaneous wound healing phases in vivo using optical microangiography

PubMed Central

Yousefi, Siavash; Qin, Jia; Dziennis, Suzan; Wang, Ruikang K.

2014-01-01

Abstract. Cutaneous wound healing consists of multiple overlapping phases starting with blood coagulation following incision of blood vessels. We utilized label-free optical coherence tomography and optical microangiography (OMAG) to noninvasively monitor healing process and dynamics of microcirculation system in a mouse ear pinna wound model. Mouse ear pinna is composed of two layers of skin separated by a layer of cartilage and because its total thickness is around 500 μm, it can be utilized as an ideal model for optical imaging techniques. These skin layers are identical to human skin structure except for sweat ducts and glands. Microcirculatory system responds to the wound injury by recruiting collateral vessels to supply blood flow to hypoxic region. During the inflammatory phase, lymphatic vessels play an important role in the immune response of the tissue and clearing waste from interstitial fluid. In the final phase of wound healing, tissue maturation, and remodeling, the wound area is fully closed while blood vessels mature to support the tissue cells. We show that using OMAG technology allows noninvasive and label-free monitoring and imaging each phase of wound healing that can be used to replace invasive tissue sample histology and immunochemistry technologies. PMID:25036212

Ambient Monitoring Technology Information Center (AMTIC)

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This site contains information on ambient air quality monitoring programs, monitoring methods, quality assurance and control procedures, and federal regulations related to ambient air quality monitoring.

Biomaterials and bioengineering tomorrow’s healthcare

PubMed Central

Bhat, Sumrita; Kumar, Ashok

2013-01-01

Biomaterials are being used for the healthcare applications from ancient times. But subsequent evolution has made them more versatile and has increased their utility. Biomaterials have revolutionized the areas like bioengineering and tissue engineering for the development of novel strategies to combat life threatening diseases. Together with biomaterials, stem cell technology is also being used to improve the existing healthcare facilities. These concepts and technologies are being used for the treatment of different diseases like cardiac failure, fractures, deep skin injuries, etc. Introduction of nanomaterials on the other hand is becoming a big hope for a better and an affordable healthcare. Technological advancements are underway for the development of continuous monitoring and regulating glucose levels by the implantation of sensor chips. Lab-on-a-chip technology is expected to modernize the diagnostics and make it more easy and regulated. Other area which can improve the tomorrow’s healthcare is drug delivery. Micro-needles have the potential to overcome the limitations of conventional needles and are being studied for the delivery of drugs at different location in human body. There is a huge advancement in the area of scaffold fabrication which has improved the potentiality of tissue engineering. Most emerging scaffolds for tissue engineering are hydrogels and cryogels. Dynamic hydrogels have huge application in tissue engineering and drug delivery. Furthermore, cryogels being supermacroporous allow the attachment and proliferation of most of the mammalian cell types and have shown application in tissue engineering and bioseparation. With further developments we expect these technologies to hit the market in near future which can immensely improve the healthcare facilities. PMID:23628868

Field application of smart SHM using field programmable gate array technology to monitor an RC bridge in New Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azarbayejani, M.; Jalalpour, M.; El-Osery, A. I.; Reda Taha, M. M.

2011-08-01

In this paper, an innovative field application of a structural health monitoring (SHM) system using field programmable gate array (FPGA) technology and wireless communication is presented. The new SHM system was installed to monitor a reinforced concrete (RC) bridge on Interstate 40 (I-40) in Tucumcari, New Mexico. This newly installed system allows continuous remote monitoring of this bridge using solar power. Details of the SHM component design and installation are discussed. The integration of FPGA and solar power technologies make it possible to remotely monitor infrastructure with limited access to power. Furthermore, the use of FPGA technology enables smart monitoring where data communication takes place on-need (when damage warning signs are met) and on-demand for periodic monitoring of the bridge. Such a system enables a significant cut in communication cost and power demands which are two challenges during SHM operation. Finally, a three-dimensional finite element (FE) model of the bridge was developed and calibrated using a static loading field test. This model is then used for simulating damage occurrence on the bridge. Using the proposed automation process for SHM will reduce human intervention significantly and can save millions of dollars currently spent on prescheduled inspection of critical infrastructure worldwide.

High frequency monitoring of the coastal marine environment using the MAREL buoy.

PubMed

Blain, S; Guillou, J; Tréguer, P; Woerther, P; Delauney, L; Follenfant, E; Gontier, O; Hamon, M; Leilde, B; Masson, A; Tartu, C; Vuillemin, R

2004-06-01

The MAREL Iroise data buoy provides physico-chemical measurements acquired in surface marine water in continuous and autonomous mode. The water is pumped 1.5 m from below the surface through a sampling pipe and flows through the measuring cell located in the floating structure. Technological innovations implemented inside the measuring cell atop the buoy allow a continuous cleaning of the sensor, while injection of chloride ions into the circuit prevents biological fouling. Specific sensors for temperature, salinity, oxygen and fluorescence investigated in this paper have been evaluated to guarantee measurement precision over a 3 month period. A bi-directional link under Internet TCP-IP protocols is used for data, alarms and remote-control transmissions with the land-based data centre. Herein, we present a 29 month record for 4 parameters measured using a MAREL buoy moored in a coastal environment (Iroise Sea, Brest, France). The accuracy of the data provided by the buoy is assessed by comparison with measurements of sea water weekly sampled at the same site as part of SOMLIT (Service d'Observation du Milieu LIToral), the French network for monitoring of the coastal environment. Some particular events (impact of intensive fresh water discharges, dynamics of a fast phytoplankton bloom) are also presented, demonstrating the worth of monitoring a highly variable environment with a high frequency continuous reliable system.

Health technology assessment to optimize health technology utilization: using implementation initiatives and monitoring processes.

PubMed

Frønsdal, Katrine B; Facey, Karen; Klemp, Marianne; Norderhaug, Inger Natvig; Mørland, Berit; Røttingen, John-Arne

2010-07-01

The way in which a health technology is used in any particular health system depends on the decisions and actions of a variety of stakeholders, the local culture, and context. In 2009, the HTAi Policy Forum considered how health technology assessment (HTA) could be improved to optimize the use of technologies (in terms of uptake, change in use, or disinvestment) in such complex systems. In scoping, it was agreed to focus on initiatives to implement evidence-based guidance and monitoring activities. A review identified systematic reviews of implementation initiatives and monitoring activities. A two-day deliberative workshop was held to discuss key papers, members' experiences, and collectively address key questions. This consensus paper was developed by email and finalized at a postworkshop meeting. Evidence suggests that the impact and use of HTA could be increased by ensuring timely delivery of relevant reports to clearly determined policy receptor (decision-making) points. To achieve this, the breadth of assessment, implementation initiatives such as incentives and targeted, intelligent dissemination of HTA result, needs to be considered. HTA stakeholders undertake a variety of monitoring activities, which could inform optimal use of a technology. However, the quality of these data varies and is often not submitted to an HTA. Monitoring data should be sufficiently robust so that they can be used in HTA to inform optimal use of technology. Evidence-based implementation initiatives should be developed for HTA, to better inform decision makers at all levels in a health system about the optimal use of technology.