Hydroxyapatite nanorods: soft-template synthesis, characterization and preliminary in vitro tests.

PubMed

Nguyen, Nga Kim; Leoni, Matteo; Maniglio, Devid; Migliaresi, Claudio

2013-07-01

Synthetic hydroxyapatite nanorods are excellent candidates for bone tissue engineering applications. In this study, hydroxyapatite nanorods resembling bone minerals were produced by using soft-template method with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. Composite hydroxyapatite/poly(D, L)lactic acid films were prepared to evaluate the prepared hydroxyapatite nanorods in terms of cell affinity. Preliminary in vitro experiments showed that aspect ratio and film surface roughness play a vital role in controlling adhesion and proliferation of human osteoblast cell line MG 63. The hydroxyapatite nanorods with aspect ratios in the range of 5.94-7 were found to possess distinctive properties, with the corresponding hydroxyapatite/poly(D, L)lactic acid films promoting cellular confluence and a fast formation of collagen fibers as early as after 7 days of culture.

Storm hazards '79: F-106B operations summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fisher, B. D.; Keyser, G. L., Jr.; Deal, P. L.; Thomas, M. E.; Pitts, F. L.

1980-01-01

Preliminary flight tests with a F-106B aircraft were made on the periphery of isolated thunder cells using weather radar support. In addition to storm hazards correlation research, a direct-strike lightning measurement experiment and an atmospheric chemistry experiment were conducted. Two flights were made to close proximity to lightning generating cumulonimbus clouds; however, no direct lightning strikes were experienced. Although no discernible lightning transients were recorded, many operational techniques were identified and established.

Towards monitoring real-time cellular response using an integrated microfluidics-MALDI/nESI-ion mobility-mass spectrometry platform

PubMed Central

Enders, Jeffrey R.; Marasco, Christina C.; Kole, Ayeeshik; Nguyen, Bao; Sundarapandian, Sevugarajan; Seale, Kevin T.; Wikswo, John P.; McLean, John A.

2014-01-01

The combination of microfluidic cell trapping devices with ion mobility-mass spectrometry offers the potential for elucidating in real time the dynamic responses of small populations of cells to paracrine signals, changes in metabolite levels, and delivery of drugs and toxins. Preliminary experiments examining peptides in methanol and recording the interactions of yeast and Jurkat cells with their superfusate have identified instrumental setup and control parameters and on-line desalting procedures. Numerous initial experiments demonstrate and validate this new instrumental platform. Future outlooks and potential applications are addressed, specifically how this instrumentation may be used for fully automated systems biology studies of the significantly interdependent, dynamic internal workings of cellular metabolic and signaling pathways. PMID:21073240

Purification and cultivation of human pituitary growth hormone secreting cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hymer, W. C.

1979-01-01

Efforts were directed towards maintenance of actively secreting human pituitary growth hormone cells (somatotrophs) in vitro. The production of human growth hormone (hGH) by this means would be of benefit for the treatment of certain human hypopituitary diseases such as dwarfism. One of the primary approaches was the testing of agents which may logically be expected to increase hGH release. The progress towards this goal is summarized. Results from preliminary experiments dealing with electrophoresis of pituitary cell for the purpose of somatotroph separation are described.

Gravitational Effects on Signal Transduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sytkowski, Arthur J.

1999-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate in ground-based experiments, the effect of microgravity on in vitro erythroid differentiation triggered by the hematopoietic growth factor erythropoietin (Epo) and to begin to determine whether this is associated with the anemia of space flight. We chose to use a model cell culture system with which we have had a long and successful experience. These cells, designated Rauscher murine erythroleukemia, grow independently in suspension culture. We first compared the growth rate of Rauscher cells under conditions of simulated microgravity with that of cells grown at 1XG in standard tissue culture flasks. Therefore, since there were fewer cells in the RWV at each specified time, glucose consumption per cell was increased in simulated microgravity. We next began to study the effect of simulated microgravity on erythropoietin induced differentiation of these cells. In another experiment, we allow the cells to grown in flasks or in the RWV for 24 hours prior to the addition of Epo. We initiated studies of c-myb, a proto-oncogene the down-regulation of which is necessary for erythroid differentiation. These preliminary results suggest that simulated microgravity interferes with the signal to c-myb. This may be part of the mechanism that blocks differentiation. A flight experiment is planned within the next 18- 24 months.

Investigating the effect of peptide agonists on the chondrogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells using design of experiments.

PubMed

Renner, Julie N; Liu, Julie C

2013-01-01

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are attractive for use in cartilage tissue engineering. Cells are often seeded in a structural scaffold containing growth factors. Peptide mimics of full-length growth factors are a promising alternative because they are less expensive and easier to manufacture. We investigated four short peptides for their effect on the chondrogenesis of human MSCs. The peptides were originally designed to mimic bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), and insulin, all of which have been shown to affect MSC chondrogenesis. Previous studies demonstrated that the peptides elicited bioactivity in other cell types, but the peptides have not been investigated for their effect on chondrogenesis in human MSCs. In a preliminary investigation, peptides were added to a pellet culture of human MSCs and assayed for their effect on glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production. These experiments determined peptide concentrations used in a full-factorial experiment to investigate any interactions. The experiment revealed the BMP peptide as a robust stimulant for GAG production. . © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

Preliminary experience on the use of the Adnatest® system for detection of circulating tumor cells in prostate cancer patients.

PubMed

Todenhöfer, Tilman; Hennenlotter, Jörg; Feyerabend, Susan; Aufderklamm, Stefan; Mischinger, Johannes; Kühs, Ursula; Gerber, Valentina; Fetisch, Jasmin; Schilling, David; Hauch, Siegfried; Stenzl, Arnulf; Schwentner, Christian

2012-08-01

The Adnatest® system combines immunomagnetic enrichment of epithelial cells with polymerase chain reaction for prostate cancer (PC)-specific transcripts for the detection circulating tumor cells (CTCs). We evaluated the Adnatest® in patients with castration-resistant PC receiving docetaxel chemotherapy. CTCs were assessed in 16 patients with castration-resistant PC before cycles one and three of chemotherapy. Furthermore, markers of stem cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition were assessed. Treatment response was assessed by imaging and prostate-specific antigen measurements. Before chemotherapy, 11 patients were Adnatest®-positive whereas five patients were Adnatest®-positive before cycle three. A positive Adnatest® correlated with radiological progression (p=0.02). Rates of disease progression in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-positive and -negative patients were 100% and 7.7% (p=0.03). In this preliminary study, the Adnatest® detected CTCs in a considerable proportion of patients with castration-resistant PC. First data on certain markers (EGFR and aldehyd dehydrogenase 1) encourage future studies investigating transcripts predicting treatment response.

Possible role of natural killer cells in pemphigus vulgaris − preliminary observations

PubMed Central

Stern, J N H; Keskin, D B; Barteneva, N; Zuniga, J; Yunis, E J; Ahmed, A R

2008-01-01

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune blistering disease that affects the skin and multiple mucous membranes, and is caused by antibodies to desmoglein (Dsg) 1 and 3. Natural killer (NK) cells have a role in autoimmunity, but their role in PV is not known. NK cells in the peripheral blood leucocytes (PBL) of 15 untreated Caucasian patients with active PV were studied and compared with healthy controls for the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II and co-stimulatory molecules. CD56+ CD16- CD3- NK or CD56+ CD16+ CD3- NK cells from the PBL of PV patients co-express MHC class II and co-stimulatory molecule B7-H3 without exogenous stimulation. CD4+ T cells from the PBL and perilesional skin of PV patients were co-cultured with CD56+ CD3- NK cells from the PBL of the same patients; in the presence of Dsg3 peptides underwent statistically significant proliferation, indicating that NK cells functioned as antigen-presenting cells. Supernatants from these co-cultures and serum of the same patients with active PV had statistically significantly elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and interferon-γ, compared with controls indicating that the NK cells stimulated CD4+ T cells to produce proinflammatory cytokines. In these experiments, we present preliminary evidence that NK cells may play a role in the pathobiology of PV. PMID:18373702

First haemorheological experiment on NASA space shuttle 'Discovery' STS 51-C: aggregation of red cells.

PubMed

Dintenfass, L; Osman, P D; Jedrzejczyk, H

1985-01-01

The 'secret' D.O.D. Mission on flight STS 51-C also carried nearly 100 kg of automated instrumentation of the Australian experiment on aggregation of red cells ("ARC"). The automated Slit-Capillary Photo Viscometer contained blood samples from subjects with history of coronary heart disease, cancer of the colon, insulin-dependent diabetes, etc., as well as normals. The experiment ran for nine hours, according to the program of its microcomputers. When shuttle landed and instrumentation recovered and opened in the presence of NASA quality control officers, it was obvious that experiment was a success. Tentative and preliminary results can be summarized as follows: red cells did not change shape under zero gravity; red cells do aggregate under zero gravity, although the size of aggregates is smaller than on the ground; the morphology of aggregates of red cells appears to be of rouleaux type under zero gravity, notwithstanding the fact that pathological blood was used. These results will have to be confirmed in the future flights. The background and history of development of the project are described, and put into context of our general haemorheological studies.

The Windy Island Soliton Experiment (WISE): Shallow Water and Basin Experiment Configuration and Preliminary Observations

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-19

Virginia 22203-1995 The Windy Island Soliton Experiment (WISE): Shallow Water and Basin Experiment Configuration and Preliminary Observations...case letters) The Windy Island Soliton Experiment (WISE): Shallow water and Basin Experiment Configuration and Preliminary Observations 5. FUNDING...release; distribution is unlimited 12b. DISTRIBUTION CODE 13. ABSTRACT (maximum 200 words) The Windy Islands Soliton Experiment (WISE) was

A preliminary analysis of the data from experiment 77-13 and final report on glass fining experiments in zero gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilcox, W. R.; Subramanian, R. S.; Meyyappan, M.; Smith, H. D.; Mattox, D. M.; Partlow, D. P.

1981-01-01

Thermal fining, thermal migration of bubbles under reduced gravity conditions, and data to verify current theoretical models of bubble location and temperatures as a function of time are discussed. A sample, sodium borate glass, was tested during 5 to 6 minutes of zero gravity during rocket flight. The test cell contained a heater strip; thermocouples were in the sample. At present quantitative data are insufficient to confirm results of theoretical calculations.

Kinetics and pathogenesis of intracellular magnetic nanoparticle cytotoxicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giustini, Andrew J.; Gottesman, Rachel E.; Petryk, A. A.; Rauwerdink, A. M.; Hoopes, P. Jack

2011-03-01

Magnetic nanoparticles excited by alternating magnetic fields (AMF) have demonstrated effective tumor-specific hyperthermia. This treatment is effective as a monotherapy as well as a therapeutic adjuvant to chemotherapy and radiation. Iron oxide nanoparticles have been shown, so far, to be non-toxic, as are the exciting AMF fields when used at moderate levels. Although higher levels of AMF can be more effective, depending on the type of iron oxide nanoparticles use, these higher field strengths and/or frequencies can induce normal tissue heating and toxicity. Thus, the use of nanoparticles exhibiting significant heating at low AMF strengths and frequencies is desirable. Our preliminary experiments have shown that the aggregation of magnetic nanoparticles within tumor cells improves their heating effect and cytotoxicity per nanoparticle. We have used transmission electron microscopy to track the endocytosis of nanoparticles into tumor cells (both breast adenocarcinoma (MTG-B) and acute monocytic leukemia (THP-1) cells). Our preliminary results suggest that nanoparticles internalized into tumor cells demonstrate greater cytotoxicity when excited with AMF than an equivalent heat dose from excited external nanoparticles or cells exposed to a hot water bath. We have also demonstrated that this increase in SAR caused by aggregation improves the cytotoxicity of nanoparticle hyperthermia therapy in vitro.

Daily Life Experience and Somatic Symptoms: A Preliminary Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-01

AAO7 9 859 STATE UNIV OF NEW YORK AT STONY BROOK FG 5/10 DAILY LIFE EXPERIENCE AND SOMATIC SYMPTOMS: A PRELIMINARY REPOR--ETC(U) MAR 8I A A STONE. J...Experience and Somatic Symptoms: A Preliminary Report Arthur A. Stone Long Island Research Institute and Department of Psychiatry arnd Behavioral...TITLE (and S..,til.) s. ALF - , rlA9OQ COVERED Daily Life Experience and Somatic Symptoms: A Technical p " Preliminary Report, EL..... S. PERFORMING

Long-term radiation effects on GaAs solar cell characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heinbockel, J. H.; Doviak, M. J.

1978-01-01

This report investigates preliminary design considerations which should be considered for a space experiment involving Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) solar cells. The electron radiation effects on GaAs solar cells were conducted in a laboratory environment, and a statistical analysis of the data is presented. In order to augment the limited laboratory data, a theoretical investigation of the effect of radiation on GaAs solar cells is also developed. The results of this study are empirical prediction equations which can be used to estimate the actual damage of electrical characteristics in a space environment. The experimental and theoretical studies also indicate how GaAs solar cell parameters should be designed in order to withstand the effects of electron radiation damage.

Preliminary design of two Space Shuttle fluid physics experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gat, N.; Kropp, J. L.

1984-01-01

The mid-deck lockers of the STS and the requirements for operating an experiment in this region are described. The design of the surface tension induced convection and the free surface phenomenon experiments use a two locker volume with an experiment unique structure as a housing. A manual mode is developed for the Surface Tension Induced Convection experiment. The fluid is maintained in an accumulator pre-flight. To begin the experiment, a pressurized gas drives the fluid into the experiment container. The fluid is an inert silicone oil and the container material is selected to be comparable. A wound wire heater, located axisymmetrically above the fluid can deliver three wattages to a spot on the fluid surface. These wattages vary from 1-15 watts. Fluid flow is observed through the motion of particles in the fluid. A 5 mw He/Ne laser illuminates the container. Scattered light is recorded by a 35mm camera. The free surface phenomena experiment consists of a trapezoidal cell which is filled from the bottom. The fluid is photographed at high speed using a 35mm camera which incorporated the entire cell length in the field of view. The assembly can incorporate four cells in one flight. For each experiment, an electronics block diagram is provided. A control panel concept is given for the surface induced convection. Both experiments are within the mid-deck locker weight and c-g limits.

Burst annealing of high temperature GaAs solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brothers, P. R.; Horne, W. E.

1991-01-01

One of the major limitations of solar cells in space power systems is their vulnerability to radiation damage. One solution to this problem is to periodically heat the cells to anneal the radiation damage. Annealing was demonstrated with silicon cells. The obstacle to annealing of GaAs cells was their susceptibility to thermal damage at the temperatures required to completely anneal the radiation damage. GaAs cells with high temperature contacts and encapsulation were developed. The cells tested are designed for concentrator use at 30 suns AMO. The circular active area is 2.5 mm in diameter for an area of 0.05 sq cm. Typical one sun AMO efficiency of these cells is over 18 percent. The cells were demonstrated to be resistant to damage after thermal excursions in excess of 600 C. This high temperature tolerance should allow these cells to survive the annealing of radiation damage. A limited set of experiments were devised to investigate the feasibility of annealing these high temperature cells. The effect of repeated cycles of electron and proton irradiation was tested. The damage mechanisms were analyzed. Limitations in annealing recovery suggested improvements in cell design for more complete recovery. These preliminary experiments also indicate the need for further study to isolate damage mechanisms. The primary objective of the experiments was to demonstrate and quantify the annealing behavior of high temperature GaAs cells. Secondary objectives were to measure the radiation degradation and to determine the effect of repeated irradiation and anneal cycles.

Complementation studies in Niemann-Pick disease type C indicate the existence of a second group.

PubMed Central

Steinberg, S J; Ward, C P; Fensom, A H

1994-01-01

Niemann-Pick disease type C is a clinically heterogeneous storage disorder with an unknown primary metabolic defect. We have undertaken somatic cell hybridisation experiments using skin fibroblast strains from 12 patients representing a wide clinical spectrum. Preliminary experiments using filipin staining of free cholesterol as a marker for complementation indicated the existence of one major group (group alpha) and one minor group (group beta) represented by one mutant strain. Subsequent experiments in which sphingomyelinase activity was measured as a marker for complementation using five mutant strains showing activity consistently < 40% control levels confirmed the existence of the second group. Images PMID:8071958

Preliminary experience in laparoscopic resection of hepatic hydatidectocyst with the Da Vinci Surgical System (DVSS): a case report.

PubMed

Zou, Haibo; Luo, Lanyun; Xue, Hua; Wang, Guan; Wang, Xiankui; Luo, Le; Yao, Yutong; Xiang, Guangming; Huang, Xiaolun

2017-09-11

At present, Da Vinci robotic assisted hepatectomy has been routinely carried out in conditional units. But there is no report concerning the use of Da Vinci robots for hepatic hydatid cystectomy and experience on this aspect is seldom mentioned before. This study was to summarize the preliminary experience in laparoscopic resection of hepatic hydatidectocyst with the Da Vinci Surgical System (DVSS). A 29-year-old female diagnosed as hepatic hydatid in the right anterior lobe of liver was treated with laparoscopic resection by the DVSS under general anesthesia. Appropriate disposal of tumor cell in vascular system and disinfection of surgical field with hypertonic saline were conducted. The hepatic hydatidectocyst was resected completely with an operation time of 130 min, an intraoperative blood loss of 200 ml and a length of hospital stay for five days. The vital signs of patient were stable and no cyst fluid allergy occurred after operation. Our result showed that laparoscopic resection of hepatic hydatidectocyst by using the DVSS is safe and feasible on the basis of hospitals have rich experience in treatment of cystic echinococcosisliver, resection with DVSS and laparoscopic excision.

Survival of glucose phosphate isomerase null somatic cells and germ cells in adult mouse chimaeras

PubMed Central

Keighren, Margaret A.; Flockhart, Jean H.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT The mouse Gpi1 gene encodes the glycolytic enzyme glucose phosphate isomerase. Homozygous Gpi1−/− null mouse embryos die but a previous study showed that some homozygous Gpi1−/− null cells survived when combined with wild-type cells in fetal chimaeras. One adult female Gpi1−/−↔Gpi1c/c chimaera with functional Gpi1−/− null oocytes was also identified in a preliminary study. The aims were to characterise the survival of Gpi1−/− null cells in adult Gpi1−/−↔Gpi1c/c chimaeras and determine if Gpi1−/− null germ cells are functional. Analysis of adult Gpi1−/−↔Gpi1c/c chimaeras with pigment and a reiterated transgenic lineage marker showed that low numbers of homozygous Gpi1−/− null cells could survive in many tissues of adult chimaeras, including oocytes. Breeding experiments confirmed that Gpi1−/− null oocytes in one female Gpi1−/−↔Gpi1c/c chimaera were functional and provided preliminary evidence that one male putative Gpi1−/−↔Gpi1c/c chimaera produced functional spermatozoa from homozygous Gpi1−/− null germ cells. Although the male chimaera was almost certainly Gpi1−/−↔Gpi1c/c, this part of the study is considered preliminary because only blood was typed for GPI. Gpi1−/− null germ cells should survive in a chimaeric testis if they are supported by wild-type Sertoli cells. It is also feasible that spermatozoa could bypass a block at GPI, but not blocks at some later steps in glycolysis, by using fructose, rather than glucose, as the substrate for glycolysis. Although chimaera analysis proved inefficient for studying the fate of Gpi1−/− null germ cells, it successfully identified functional Gpi1−/− null oocytes and revealed that some Gpi1−/− null cells could survive in many adult tissues. PMID:27103217

Response of mouse epidermal cells to single doses of heavy-particles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leith, J. T.; Schilling, W. A.; Welch, G. P.

1972-01-01

The survival of mouse epidermal cells to heavy-particles has been studied In Vivo by the Withers clone technique. Experiments with accelerated helium, lithium and carbon ions were performed. The survival curve for the helium ion irradiations used a modified Bragg curve method with a maximum tissue penetration of 465 microns, and indicated that the dose needed to reduce the original cell number to 1 surviving cell/square centimeters was 1525 rads with a D sub o of 95 rads. The LET at the basal cell layer was 28.6 keV per micron. Preliminary experiments with lithium and carbon used treatment doses of 1250 rads with LET's at the surface of the skin of 56 and 193 keV per micron respectively. Penetration depths in skin were 350 and 530 microns for the carbon and lithium ions whose Bragg curves were unmodified. Results indicate a maximum RBE for skin of about 2 using the skin cloning technique. An attempt has been made to relate the epidermal cell survival curve to mortality of the whole animal for helium ions.

Successful transplant of mesenchymal stem cells in induced osteonecrosis of the ovine femoral head: preliminary results.

PubMed

Feitosa, Matheus Levi Tajra; Fadel, Leandro; Beltrão-Braga, Patrícia Cristina Baleeiro; Wenceslau, Cristiane Valverde; Kerkis, Irina; Kerkis, Alexandre; Birgel Júnior, Eduardo Harry; Martins, João Flávio Panattoni; Martins, Daniele dos Santos; Miglino, Maria Angélica; Ambrósio, Carlos Eduardo

2010-10-01

Evaluate the bone tissue recovery following transplantation of ovine mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from bone marrow and human immature dental-pulp stem cells (hIDPSC) in ovine model of induced osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH). Eight sheep were divided in three experimental groups. First group was composed by four animals with ONFH induced by ethanol through central decompression (CD), for control group without any treatment. The second and third group were compose by two animals, six weeks after ONFH induction received transplantation of heterologous ovine MSC (CD + oMSC), and hIDPSC (CD + hIDPSC), respectively. In both experiments the cells were transplanted without application of any type of immunosupression protocol. Our data indicate that both cell types used in experiments were able to proliferate within injured site providing bone tissue recovery. The histological results obtained from CD+hIDPSC suggested that the bone regeneration in such animals was better than that observed in CD animals. Mesenchymal stem cell transplant in induced ovine osteonecrosis of femoral head by central decompression technique is safe, and apparently favors bone regeneration of damaged tissues.

A microfluidic perfusion platform for cultivation and screening study of motile microalgal cells

PubMed Central

Eu, Young-Jae; Park, Hye-Sun; Kim, Dong-Pyo; Wook Hong, Jong

2014-01-01

Systematic screening of algal cells is getting huge interest due to their capability of producing lipid-based biodiesel. Here, we introduce a new microfluidic platform composed of an array of perfusion chambers designed for long-term cultivation and preliminary screening of motile microalgal cells through loading and releasing of cells to and from the chambers. The chemical environment in each perfusion chamber was independently controlled for 5 days. The effect of nitrogen-depletion on the lipid production, phototaxis behavior in the absence of Ca2+, and cytotoxic effect of herbicide on microalgal cells was successfully monitored and compared with simultaneous control experiments on the platform. The present methodology could be extended to effective screening of algal cells and various cell lines for the production of biodiesel and other useful chemicals. PMID:24803962

77 FR 37877 - Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Cells, Whether or Not Assembled Into Modules, From the People's...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-25

... Photovoltaic Cells, Whether or Not Assembled Into Modules, From the People's Republic of China: Preliminary... crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells, whether or not assembled into modules (``solar cells''), from the... names of these companies in the table in the ``Preliminary Determination'' section in the solar cells...

MSFC integrated experiments preliminary report. [for the Skylab program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

Skylab experiments are described and their preliminary results are reported. The types of experiments described include medical, earth resources, space physics, space manufacturing, and spacecraft design.

The boundary vector cell model of place cell firing and spatial memory

PubMed Central

Barry, Caswell; Lever, Colin; Hayman, Robin; Hartley, Tom; Burton, Stephen; O'Keefe, John; Jeffery, Kate; Burgess, Neil

2009-01-01

We review evidence for the boundary vector cell model of the environmental determinants of the firing of hippocampal place cells. Preliminary experimental results are presented concerning the effects of addition or removal of environmental boundaries on place cell firing and evidence that boundary vector cells may exist in the subiculum. We review and update computational simulations predicting the location of human search within a virtual environment of variable geometry, assuming that boundary vector cells provide one of the input representations of location used in mammalian spatial memory. Finally, we extend the model to include experience-dependent modification of connection strengths through a BCM-like learning rule, and compare the effects to experimental data on the firing of place cells under geometrical manipulations to their environment. The relationship between neurophysiological results in rats and spatial behaviour in humans is discussed. PMID:16703944

Production of single cell protein from cellulose wastes

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

Humphrey, A.E.; Moreira, A.; Armiger, W.

1977-01-01

Experiments made with a thermophilic Actinomyces that utilizes cellulose for growth are summarized. The organism, identified as a Thermoactinomyces sp., is a highly filamentous fungi. Although initial work was done with feedlot wastes, the variability of the data made it necessary to work on a uniform cellulose substrate Avicel. A probable mechanism of cellulose degradation by this fungi is suggested. Preliminary results are encouraging, but high growth rate must be maintained if a high cell yield is to be achieved. Both glucose and oxygen-limited growth were encountered; it is not known if these were coincidental or not. (JSR)

Predictive role of computer simulation in assessing signaling pathways of crizotinib-treated A549 lung cancer cells.

PubMed

Xia, Pu; Mou, Fei-Fei; Wang, Li-Wei

2012-01-01

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Crizotinib has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients with advanced NSCLC. However, understanding of mechanisms of action is still limited. In our studies, we confirmed crizotinib-induced apoptosis in A549 lung cancer cells. In order to assess mechanisms, small molecular docking technology was used as a preliminary simulation of signaling pathways. Interesting, our results of experiments were consistent with the results of computer simulation. This indicates that small molecular docking technology should find wide use for its reliability and convenience.

Synthesis, bioactivity and preliminary biocompatibility studies of glasses in the system CaO-MgO-SiO2-Na2O-P2O5-CaF2.

PubMed

Tulyaganov, D U; Agathopoulos, S; Valerio, P; Balamurugan, A; Saranti, A; Karakassides, M A; Ferreira, J M F

2011-02-01

New compositions of bioactive glasses are proposed in the CaO-MgO-SiO(2)-Na(2)O-P(2)O(5)-CaF(2) system. Mineralization tests with immersion of the investigated glasses in simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37°C showed that the glasses favour the surface formation of hydroxyapatite (HA) from the early stages of the experiments. In the case of daily renewable SBF, monetite (CaHPO(4)) formation competed with the formation of HA. The influence of structural features of the glasses on their mineralization (bioactivity) performance is discussed. Preliminary in vitro experiments with osteoblasts' cell-cultures showed that the glasses are biocompatible and there is no evidence of toxicity. Sintering and devitrification studies of glass powder compacts were also performed. Glass-ceramics with attractive properties were obtained after heat treatment of the glasses at relatively low temperatures (up to 850°C).

Using acoustic cavitation to enhance chemotherapy of DOX liposomes: experiment in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Zhao, Ying-Zheng; Dai, Dan-Dan; Lu, Cui-Tao; Lv, Hai-Feng; Zhang, Yan; Li, Xing; Li, Wen-Feng; Wu, Yan; Jiang, Lei; Li, Xiao-Kun; Huang, Pin-Tong; Chen, Li-Juan; Lin, Min

2012-09-01

Experiments in vitro and in vivo were designed to investigate tumor growth inhibition of chemotherapeutics-loaded liposomes enhanced by acoustic cavitation. Doxorubicin-loaded liposomes (DOX liposomes) were used in experiments to investigate acoustic cavitation mediated effects on cell viability and chemotherapeutic function. The influence of lingering sensitive period after acoustic cavitation on tumor inhibition was also investigated. Animal experiment was carried out to verify the practicability of this technique in vivo. From experiment results, blank phospholipid-based microbubbles (PBM) combined with ultrasound (US) at intensity below 0.3 W/cm² could produce acoustic cavitation which maintained cell viability at high level. Compared with DOX solution, DOX liposomes combined with acoustic cavitation exerted effective tumor inhibition in vitro and in vivo. The lingering sensitive period after acoustic cavitation could also enhance the susceptibility of tumor to chemotherapeutic drugs. DOX liposomes could also exert certain tumor inhibition under preliminary acoustic cavitation. Acoustic cavitation could enhance the absorption efficiency of DOX liposomes, which could be used to reduce DOX adverse effect on normal organs in clinical chemotherapy.

Progressive increase in brain glucose metabolism after intrathecal administration of autologous mesenchymal stromal cells in patients with diffuse axonal injury.

PubMed

Vaquero, Jesús; Zurita, Mercedes; Bonilla, Celia; Fernández, Cecilia; Rubio, Juan J; Mucientes, Jorge; Rodriguez, Begoña; Blanco, Edelio; Donis, Luis

2017-01-01

Cell therapy in neurological disability after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is in its initial clinical stage. We describe our preliminary clinical experience with three patients with diffuse axonal injury (DAI) who were treated with intrathecal administration of autologous mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Three patients with established neurological sequelae due to DAI received intrathecally autologous MSCs. The total number of MSCs administered was 60 × 10 6 (one patient), 100 × 10 6 (one patient) and 300 × 10 6 (one patient). All three patients showed improvement after cell therapy, and subsequent studies with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) showed a diffuse and progressive increase in brain glucose metabolism. Our present results suggest benefit of intrathecal administration of MSCs in patients with DAI, as well as a relationship between this type of treatment and increase in brain glucose metabolism. These preliminary findings raise the question of convenience of assessing the potential benefit of intrathecal administration of MSCs for brain diseases in which a decrease in glucose metabolism represents a crucial pathophysiological finding, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementias. Copyright © 2017 International Society for Cellular Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unique cell culture systems for ground based research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Marian L.

1990-01-01

The horizontally rotating fluid-filled, membrane oxygenated bioreactors developed at NASA Johnson for spacecraft applications provide a powerful tool for ground-based research. Three-dimensional aggregates formed by cells cultured on microcarrier beads are useful for study of cell-cell interactions and tissue development. By comparing electron micrographs of plant seedlings germinated during Shuttle flight 61-C and in an earth-based rotating bioreactor it is shown that some effects of microgravity are mimicked. Bioreactors used in the UAH Bioreactor Laboratory will make it possible to determine some of the effects of altered gravity at the cellular level. Bioreactors can be valuable for performing critical, preliminary-to-spaceflight experiments as well as medical investigations such as in vitro tumor cell growth and chemotherapeutic drug response; the enrichment of stem cells from bone marrow; and the effect of altered gravity on bone and muscle cell growth and function and immune response depression.

The radiosensitivity of a murine fibrosarcoma as measured by three cell survival assays.

PubMed Central

Rice, L.; Urano, M.; Suit, H. D.

1980-01-01

The radiation sensitivity of a weakly immunogenic spontaneous fibrosarcoma of the C3Hf/Sed mouse (designated FSa-II) was assessed by three in vivo cell survival methods: end-point dilution (TD50) assay, lung colony (LC) assay, and agar diffusion chamber (ADC) assay. The hypoxic fraction of this tumour was also determined by the ADC method. Although there was a good agreement of the cell survival data between the ADC and LC methods, the TD50 method yielded a considerably less steep cell survival curve. Beneficial aspects and limitations of each assay are discussed. In addition, the use of the ADC method for the growth of xenogeneic cell lines and a preliminary experiment with human tumour cells in non-immunosuppressed hosts suggest that this method may be a valuable adjunct for studying the growth and therapeutic responses of human tumour cells. PMID:6932931

Preliminary results of the scientific experiments on the Kosmos-936 biosatellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

The scientific equipment and experiments on the Kosmos-936 biosatellite are described, including various ground controls and the lab unit for studies at the descent vehicle landing site. Preliminary results are presented of the physiological experiment with rats, biological experiments with drosophila and higher and lower plants, and radiation physics and radiobiology studies for the planning of biological protection on future space flights. The most significant conclusion from the preliminary data is that rats tolerate space flight better with an artificial force of gravity.

WE-H-BRA-06: Experimental Investigation of RBE for Lung Cancer Cell Lines as a Function of Dose and LET in Proton, Helium and Carbon Beams

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

Patel, D; Titt, U; Bronk, L

2016-06-15

Purpose: Investigate and quantify the effect of dose and LET on the RBE of protons, helium and carbon ions. Methods: High throughput, high accuracy experimental setups were custom designed to investigate the Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) dependence on the dose and Linear Energy Transfer (LET) values for proton, helium and carbon ion beams. The experiment was conducted at the HIT facility in collaboration with the DKFZ in Heidelberg/Germany. Clonogenic assays of two human lung cancer cell lines, H460 and H1437, were investigated in this study. γH2AX foci staining on the H460 cell line was also undertaken to facilitate the studymore » of differential DNA double-strand break induction and repair between low-design available at the HIT facility. Specific points along the Bragg curve corresponding to well-defined doses and LET values were chosen by appropriate selection of the pre-absorber thicknesses. With a setup design for horizontal beam lines we were able to minimize ion scattering in the cell plate, resulting in narrower energy spectra and hence LET distributions in the Bragg peak and in the distal falloff regions, compared to the earlier experiments. Results: Approximately 16,000 samples of cancer cells were irradiated during 23 hours of beam time. The preliminary results of the survival curves for both cell lines show a distinct dependence on LET for a given dose with decreased survival fractions at increasing LET values, encountered at the Bragg peak and in the distal falloff. Conclusion: Our preliminary findings are indicative of the importance of novel variable-RBE models for proton therapy and provide insight into the RBE of heavy ions for possible future heavy ion therapy facilities in the US. Funding support: SINF 2015/16.« less

Performance of BEBE-prototype: A BEam-BEam counter prototype for the MPD-NICA experiment at JINR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernández, Cristian Heber Zepeda

2018-01-01

In this work we show the arrival time resolution for the Beam Monitoring Detector (BMD). We made the study for Au+Au collision at √s = 8 Gev and a smearing of σ = 300 cm. The arrival time resolution we found is Δσ = 57.982 ± 0.509 ps. We show preliminary results of the time resolution for a cell of the BMD.

A20 Functional Domains Regulate Subcellular Localization and NF-Kappa B Activation

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-08-15

that the first function to be described for A20 was that of an anti -apoptotic protein (55). They based their choice of experiments and preliminary...mediated apoptosis (55). After positive selection of the resulting clones with neomycin and verification of A20 expression, they compared the...Karposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) mediated cell transformation (72). K13 can directly activate NF-κB by interacting with the IKK complex and is

[Immunology in the medical practice.XXXII. Transplantation of autologous hematopoietic stem cells for treatment of refractory auto-immune diseases; preliminary favorable results with 35 patients].

PubMed

Vlieger, A M; van den Hoogen, F H; Brinkman, D M; van Laar, J M; Schipperus, M; Kruize, A A; Wulffraat, N M

2000-08-12

The objective of this study was to document the experiences in the first Dutch pilot studies of the effect of transplantation of autologous haematopoietic stem cells in patients with therapy-resistant autoimmune disease. The first results in 21 adults and 14 children are promising: remission of the disease was achieved in 13 patients, while in the others a significant reduction of disease activity was seen with a corresponding improvement of the quality of life. Infectious complications were frequently observed. Two children with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis developed a fatal infection-associated macrophage activation syndrome. Multicentre randomised studies are necessary to study the effects of autologous stem cell transplantation and modifications such as T-cell depletion.

Screening and Identification of Cryopreservative Agents for Human Cellular Biotechnology Experiments in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Love,J.; Elliott, T.; Das, G. C.; Hammond, D. K.; Schwarzkopf, R. J.; Jones, L. B.; Baker, T. L.

2006-01-01

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) has been used as a standard cryopreservative agent for mammalian cell culture; however, prolonged exposure of thawed cells to DMSO can alter cell growth. While DMSO is easily eliminated in ground-based experiments, removal of DMSO in flight-based experiments is more difficult due to various on-orbit constraints. Failure of cryopreservation is due to a number of factors, including intracellular ice formation, solute effect, and apoptotic cell death following thawing. One objective of this study is to identify and characterize an alternative cryopreservative that could be used on the International Space Station (ISS). We systematically screened for potential permeating and non-permeating agents using a human colorectal carcinoma cell line, MIP-101. Cells were suspended in cryopreservation solution and frozen either following a two-step procedure involving initial cooling at -1 C/min overnight followed by storage in liquid nitrogen (LN2) vapor, or by freezing cells directly in the LN2 vapor phase at -10 C/min. Ability to preserve cellular function after one cycle of freeze-thawing was assessed by the recovery of viable cells in short and long-term cell culture experiments. Results showed that permeating preservatives glycerol (G) and ethylene glycol (EG) had an efficacy (80-110%) comparable to, if not better than, 7.5% DMSO; but, propylene glycol (PG) had a somewhat lesser efficacy. Among the non-permeating preservatives, trehalose, raffinose, and dextran exhibited significant protective effect (50-80%) relative to that offered by 7.5% DMSO, but at -10 C and not at -1 C/min cooling rate. Preliminary data thus suggest that a combination of permeating and non-permeating agents may have improved efficacy as a cryoprotectant and serve as an alternate to DMSO for experimentation on ISS.

Foamy Virus Vector-mediated Gene Correction of a Mouse Model of Wiskott–Aldrich Syndrome

PubMed Central

Uchiyama, Toru; Adriani, Marsilio; Jagadeesh, G Jayashree; Paine, Adam; Candotti, Fabio

2012-01-01

The Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is an X-linked disorder characterized by eczema, thrombocytopenia and immunodeficiency. Hematopoietic cell transplantation can cure the disease and gene therapy is being tested as an alternative treatment option. In this study, we assessed the use of foamy virus (FV) vectors as a gene transfer system for WAS, using a Was knockout (KO) mouse model. Preliminary experiments using FV vectors expressing the green fluorescent protein under the transcriptional control of the endogenous WAS promoter or a ubiquitously acting chromatin opening element allowed us to define transduction conditions resulting in high (>40%) and long-term in-vivo marking of blood cells after transplantation. In following experiments, Was KO mice were treated with FV vectors containing the human WAS complementary DNA (cDNA). Transplanted animals expressed the WAS protein (WASp) in T and B lymphocytes, as well as platelets and showed restoration of both T-cell receptor-mediated responses and B-cell migration. We also observed recovery of platelet adhesion and podosome formation in dendritic cells (DCs) of treated mice. These data demonstrate that FV vectors can be effective for hematopoietic stem cell (HSC)-directed gene correction of WAS. PMID:22215016

Digoxigenylated wheat germ agglutinin visualized with alkaline phosphatase-labeled anti-digoxigenin antibodies--a new, sensitive technique with the potential for single and double tracing of neuronal connections.

PubMed

Veh, R W

1991-01-02

For double tracing experiments, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) molecules labeled with two different haptens are desirable. In the present report the suitability of digoxigenylated WGA (DIG-WGA) for retrograde tracing was investigated. For this purpose the new tracer was pressure injected into rat brains and the transported DIG-WGA visualized via its digoxigenyl group with an alkaline phosphatase linked anti DIG antibody in permanently stained sections of high quality. With fixatives containing 2.5% glutaraldehyde only few positive cells were found. However, at milder fixation conditions (4% paraformaldehyde, 0.05% glutaraldehyde 0.2% picric acid, 30 min) retrogradely labeled cells were detected with a sensitivity comparable to tetramethylbenzidine protocols for conventional WGA-HRP (horseradish peroxidase) tracing. Preliminary experiments suggest excellent suitability for double labeling.

Cell emulation and preliminary results.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-07-01

This report details preliminary results of the testing plan implemented by the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute to evaluate Electric Vehicle (EV) battery durability and reliability under electric utility grid operations. Commercial EV battery cells ar...

Studies on the antimutagenic activities of garlic extract

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

Knasmueller, S.; Szakmary, A.; Domjan, G.

1989-01-01

Experiments with Salmonella tester strains indicated that aqueous garlic extract possesses antimutagenic properties toward ionizing radiation, peroxides, adriamycin, and N-methyl-N{prime}-nitro-nitrosoguanidine. The assumption that radical scavenging garlic constituents, i.e., molecules with sulfur moieties, might be responsible for the inhibitory effect of aqueous extract toward mutagenesis induced by radiation and radiomimetic compounds was confirmed by the results of subsequent experiments; (1) garlic extract attenuated the lethal effects of {gamma}-rays on repair-deficient E. coli strains; (2) the garlic constituent allicin (thio-2-propene-1-sulfinic acid S-allyl ester) is partly responsible for the reduced radiation-induced mutagenesis in Salmonella typhimurium TA 102. No such inhibitory effects were detectedmore » with alliin (S-allyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide) or cysteine; (3) aqueous garlic extract inhibited hydrogen-peroxide-induced lipid peroxidation. Results obtained in preliminary experiments with Chinese hamster ovary cells suggest that the antimutagenic properties of garlic extract are not restricted to procaryotic cells.« less

Microgravity and bone cell mechanosensitivity: FLOW experiment during the DELTA mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bacabac, Rommel G.; Van Loon, Jack J. W. A.; de Blieck-Hogervorst, Jolanda M. A.; Semeins, Cor M.; Zandieh-Doulabi, Behrouz; Helder, Marco N.; Smit, Theo H.; Klein-Nulend, Jenneke

2007-09-01

The catabolic effects of microgravity on mineral metabolism in bone organ cultures might be explained as resulting from an exceptional form of disuse. It is possible that the mechanosensitivity of bone cells is altered under near weightlessness conditions, which likely contributes to disturbed bone metabolism observed in astronauts. In the experiment "FLOW", we tested whether the production of early signaling molecules that are involved in the mechanical load-induced osteogenic response by bone cells is changed under microgravity conditions. FLOW was one of the Biological experiment entries to the Dutch Soyuz Mission "DELTA" (Dutch Expedition for Life Science, Technology and Atmospheric Research). FLOW was flown by the Soyuz craft, launched on April 19, 2004, on its way to the International Space Station. Primary osteocytes, osteoblasts, and periosteal fibroblasts were incubated in plunger boxes, developed by Centre for Concepts in Mechatronics, using plunger activation events for single pulse fluid shear stress stimulations. Due to unforeseen hardware complications, results from in-flight cultures are considered lost. Ground control experiments showed an accumulative increase of NO in medium for osteocytes (as well as for osteoblasts and periosteal fibroblasts). Data from the online-NO sensor showed that the NO produced in medium by osteocytes increased sharply after pulse shear stress stimulations. COX-2 mRNA expression revealed high levels in osteoblasts compared to the other cell types tested. In conclusion, preparations for the FLOW experiment and preliminary ground results indicate that the FLOW setup is viable for a future flight opportunity.

Preliminary Engineering Study of Long-Lead Time Equipment Required for Large Lightweight Mirror Manufacture

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

numnber) Annealing Fusion Sealed Mirrors ULED Mirrors Boule Large Lightweight Mirror Core Low Expansion Glass Coremaker Mirror Blanks Forming Furnace...Experiments 34 4 10.6 Grinder Procurement 35 J 1 I GLOSSARY Alpha - Coef. of thermal expansion. Boule - The disc of glass formed in the furnace. Cell...turning over of large plates, cores or mirrors. Flowout - Method used to produce large diameter plates from small diameter boules. Glass - Used in the

Prospects for atomic frequency standards

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Audoin, C.

1984-01-01

The potentialities of different atomic frequency standards which are not yet into field operation, for most of them, but for which preliminary data, obtained in laboratory experiments, give confidence that they may improve greatly the present state of the art are described. The review will mainly cover the following devices: (1) cesium beam frequency standards with optical pumping and detection; (2) optically pumped rubidium cells; (3) magnesium beam; (4) cold hydrogen masers; and (5) traps with stored and cooled ions.

An Environmentally Friendly Method for Testing Photocatalytic Inactivation of Cyanobacterial Propagation on a Hybrid Ag-TiO2 Photocatalyst under Solar Illumination

PubMed Central

Chang, Shu-Yu; Huang, Winn-Jung; Lu, Ben-Ren; Fang, Guor-Cheng; Chen, Yeah; Chen, Hsiu-Lin; Chang, Ming-Chin; Hsu, Cheng-Feng

2015-01-01

Cyanobacteria were inactivated under sunlight using mixed phase silver (Ag) and deposited titanium dioxide (TiO2) coated on the surface of diatomite (DM) as a hybrid photocatalyst (Ag-TiO2/DM). The endpoints of dose-response experiments were chlorophyll a, photosynthetic efficiency, and flow cytometry measurements. In vitro experiments revealed that axenic cultures of planktonic cyanobacteria lost their photosynthetic activity following photocatalyzed exposure to sunlight for more than 24 h. Nearly 92% of Microcystis aeruginosa cells lost their photosynthetic activity, and their cell morphology was severely damaged within 24 h of the reaction. Preliminary carbon-14 (14CO3−2) results suggest that the complete inactivation of cyanobacteria arises from damage to cell wall components (peroxidation). A small concomitant increase in cell wall disorder and a consequent decrease in cell wall functional groups increase the cell wall fluidity prior to cell lysis. A high dosage of Ag-TiO2/DM during photocatalysis increased the concentration of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) in the Microcystis aeruginosa suspension by up to approximately 260%. However, photocatalytic treatment had a small effect on the disinfection by-product (DBP) precursor, as revealed by only a slight increase in the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). PMID:26690465

Effect of low level laser therapy and high intensity laser therapy on endothelial cell proliferation in vitro: preliminary communication

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukowicz, Malgorzata; Szymanska, Justyna; Goralczyk, Krzysztof; Zajac, Andrzej; Rość, Danuta

2013-01-01

Background: The main purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of power intensity and wavelength of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and HILT (High Intensity Laser Therapy) on endothelial cell proliferation. Material and methods: The tests were done on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Cultures were exposed to laser irradiation of 660 nm and 670 nm at different dosages, power output was 10 - 40 mW as well as 820 nm with power 100 mW and 808 nm with power 1500 mW. Energy density was from 0.28 to 11,43 J/cm2. Cell proliferation of a control and tested culture was evaluated with a colorimetric device to detect live cells. The tests were repeated 8 times. Results: We observed good effects of LLLT on live isolated ECs and no effects in experiments on previous deep-frozen cultures. Also HILT stimulated the proliferation of HUVEC. Conclusion: Endothelial cells play a key role in vascular homeostasis in humans. We observed the stimulatory effect of LLLT and HILT on proliferation of HUVEC. Many factors influence the proliferation of EC, so is it necessary to continue the experiment with different doses, intensity and cell concentration.

Melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells are resistant to cell injury, but not always.

PubMed

Georg, Birgitte; Ghelli, Anna; Giordano, Carla; Ross-Cisneros, Fred N; Sadun, Alfredo A; Carelli, Valerio; Hannibal, Jens; La Morgia, Chiara

2017-09-01

Melanopsin retinal ganglion cells (mRGCs) are intrinsically photosensitive RGCs deputed to non-image forming functions of the eye such as synchronization of circadian rhythms to light-dark cycle. These cells are characterized by unique electrophysiological, anatomical and biochemical properties and are usually more resistant than conventional RGCs to different insults, such as axotomy and different paradigms of stress. We also demonstrated that these cells are relatively spared compared to conventional RGCs in mitochondrial optic neuropathies (Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy and Dominant Optic Atrophy). However, these cells are affected in other neurodegenerative conditions, such as glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. We here review the current evidences that may underlie this dichotomy. We also present our unpublished data on cell experiments demonstrating that melanopsin itself does not explain the robustness of these cells and some preliminary data on immunohistochemical assessment of mitochondria in mRGCs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. and Mitochondria Research Society. All rights reserved.

GaAs CLEFT solar cells for space applications. [CVD thin film growth technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fan, J. C. C.; Mcclelland, R. W.; King, B. D.

1984-01-01

Although GaAs solar cells are radiation-resistant and have high conversion efficiencies, there are two major obstacles that such cells must overcome before they can be widely adopted for space applications: GaAs wafers are too expensive and cells made from these wafers are too heavy. The CLEFT process permits the growth of thin single-crystal films on reusable substrates, resulting in a drastic reduction in both cell cost and cell weight. Recent advances in CLEFT technology have made it possible to achieve efficiencies of about 14 percent AM0 for 0.51-sq cm GaAs solar cells 5 microns thick with a 41-mil-thick coverglass. In preliminary experiments efficiencies close to 19 percent AM1 have been obtained for 10-micron-thick cells. It is suggested that the CLEFT technology should yield inexpensive, highly efficient modules with a beginning-of-life specific power close to 1 kW/kg (for a coverglass thickness of 4 mils).

Hyaluronic acid as a potential boron carrier for BNCT: Preliminary evaluation.

PubMed

Zaboronok, A; Yamamoto, T; Nakai, K; Yoshida, F; Uspenskii, S; Selyanin, M; Zelenetskii, A; Matsumura, Akira

2015-12-01

Hyaluronic acid (HA), a nonimmunogenic, biocompatible polymer found in different biological tissues, has the potential to attach to CD44 receptors on the surface of certain cancer cells, where the receptor is overexpressed compared with normal cells. Boron-hyaluronic acid (BHA) was tested for its feasibility as a potential agent for BNCT. BHA with low-viscosity 30 kDa HA could be administered by intravenous injection. The compound showed a certain degree of cytotoxicity and accumulation in C6 rat glioma cells in vitro. Instability of the chelate bonds between boron and HA and/or insufficient specificity of CD44 receptors on C6 cells to BHA could account for the insufficient in vitro accumulation. To ensure the future eligibility of BHA for BNCT experiments, using alternative tumor cell lines and chemically securing the chelate bonds or synthesizing BHA with boron covalently attached to HA might be required. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

STEP Experiment Requirements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brumfield, M. L. (Compiler)

1984-01-01

A plan to develop a space technology experiments platform (STEP) was examined. NASA Langley Research Center held a STEP Experiment Requirements Workshop on June 29 and 30 and July 1, 1983, at which experiment proposers were invited to present more detailed information on their experiment concept and requirements. A feasibility and preliminary definition study was conducted and the preliminary definition of STEP capabilities and experiment concepts and expected requirements for support services are presented. The preliminary definition of STEP capabilities based on detailed review of potential experiment requirements is investigated. Topics discussed include: Shuttle on-orbit dynamics; effects of the space environment on damping materials; erectable beam experiment; technology for development of very large solar array deployers; thermal energy management process experiment; photovoltaic concentrater pointing dynamics and plasma interactions; vibration isolation technology; flight tests of a synthetic aperture radar antenna with use of STEP.

A smartphone-based platform to test the performance of wireless mobile networks and preliminary findings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geng, Xinli; Xu, Hao; Qin, Xiaowei

2016-10-01

During the last several years, the amount of wireless network traffic data increased fast and relative technologies evolved rapidly. In order to improve the performance and Quality of Experience (QoE) of wireless network services, the analysis of field network data and existing delivery mechanisms comes to be a promising research topic. In order to achieve this goal, a smartphone based platform named Monitor and Diagnosis of Mobile Applications (MDMA) was developed to collect field data. Based on this tool, the web browsing service of High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) network was tested. The top 200 popular websites in China were selected and loaded on smartphone for thousands times automatically. Communication packets between the smartphone and the cell station were captured for various scenarios (e.g. residential area, urban roads, bus station etc.) in the selected city. A cross-layer database was constructed to support the off-line analysis. Based on the results of client-side experiments and analysis, the usability of proposed portable tool was verified. The preliminary findings and results for existing web browsing service were also presented.

SUMS preliminary design and data analysis development. [shuttle upper atmosphere mass spectrometer experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hinson, E. W.

1981-01-01

The preliminary analysis and data analysis system development for the shuttle upper atmosphere mass spectrometer (SUMS) experiment are discussed. The SUMS experiment is designed to provide free stream atmospheric density, pressure, temperature, and mean molecular weight for the high altitude, high Mach number region.

Biotechnology

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-07-31

This diagram shows the normal pathways of calcium movement in the body and indicates changes (green arrows) seen during preliminary space flight experiments. Calcium plays a central role because 1) it gives strength and structure to bone and 2) all types of cells require it to function normally. To better understand how and why weightlessness induces bone loss, astronauts have participated in a study of calcium kinetics -- that is, the movement of calcium through the body, including absorption from food, and its role in the formation and breakdown of bone.

Career Exploration Program Exit Presentation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wotring, Virginia; Hood, Andrew

2013-01-01

Mouse liver cells on short-term shuttle flights (STS- 135) have been shown to exhibit changes. By replicating aspects of spaceflight in the laboratory, we can conduct experiments without impacting mission resources. Astronauts are on a high-iron diet during spaceflight. Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCRs) and Solar Particle Events (SPEs) are ionizing radiation sources that can alter physiological functions. Preliminary medication usage data from the International Space Station (ISS) crew shows that the most common reasons for using medications in space are the same for healthy people on earth.

LDEF - 69 Months in Space: First Post-Retrieval Symposium, Part 1,

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-01

Whitaker and Leighton E. Young EXPERIMENT M0003-4 ADVANCED SOLAR CELL AND COVERGLASS ANALYSIS AN OVERVIEW ’ 19,<- TerryM.Trumble PRELIMINARY ANALYSES...this effort. Much of the surveying work was performed by Jack Warren, Miria Finckenor, Frank Cardenas, Eric Christiansen , Samantha Lapin, Lt. Mike...Cour-Palais (ref. 14) and as amended by E. Christiansen (personal communications, 1991) for all aluminum surfaces: P=5.24Dp 19/18H-°-25(dp/d,)0-5

Influence of He-Ne laser radiation on biogenic amines content and cytochemical parameters of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in short-term stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brill, Gregory E.; Dobrovolsky, Gennady A.; Romanova, Tatyana P.; Porozova, Svetlana G.; Brill, Alexander G.

1997-06-01

In experiments on white male rats short-term immobilization- sound stress was modelled. Decrease of glycogen content and myeloperoxidase activity, increase of lysosomal cationic proteins level and NBT-test parameters as well as fall of adrenaline, dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine amount in polymorphonuclear leukocytes were observed. Preliminary transcutaneous He-Ne laser irradiation modified metabolic reaction of leukocytes to stress and prevented stress- induced decrease of biogenic amines content in cells.

Effect of Microgravity on Mammalian Lymphocytes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banerjee, H.; Blackshear, M.; Mahaffey, K.; Khan, A. A.; Delucas, L.

2004-01-01

The effect of microgravity on mammalian system is an important and interesting topic for scientific investigation, since NASA s objective is to send manned flights to planets like Mars and eventual human colonization. The Astronauts will be exposed to microgravity environment for a long duration of time during these flights. Our objective of research is to conduct in vitro studies for the effect of microgravity on mammalian immune system and nervous system. We did our preliminary investigations by exposing mammalian lymphocytes and astrocyte cells to a microgravity simulator cell bioreactor designed by NASA and manufactured at Synthecon, Inc. (USA).Our initial results showed no significant change in cytokine expression in these cells up to a time period of 120 hours exposure. Our future experiments will involve exposure for a longer period of time.

[Sickle-cell disease: short communication on how children express through games what it means for them to have the disease].

PubMed

de Souza, Ana Augusta Maciel; Ribeiro, Circéa Amália; de Borba, Regina Issuzu Hiroka

2011-03-01

Brief notice of a study aimed at understanding the significance of sickle cell anemia in children between 3 and 12 years old. This qualitative research is grounded in Symbolic Interactionism as a theoretical perspective, and in Grounded Theory as a research method. The data have been collected through interviews with children, with the use of therapeutic play sessions. Preliminary data analysis has allowed us to understand that sickle cell anemia is a sad experience for children, because that more than experiencing pain, children realize they are powerless in relation to the suffering; they recognize its symptoms, understand the need for treatment, and consider it only as palliative. Children also consider their family as an important support, and have the hospital as reference.

Low-cost motility tracking system (LOCOMOTIS) for time-lapse microscopy applications and cell visualisation.

PubMed

Lynch, Adam E; Triajianto, Junian; Routledge, Edwin

2014-01-01

Direct visualisation of cells for the purpose of studying their motility has typically required expensive microscopy equipment. However, recent advances in digital sensors mean that it is now possible to image cells for a fraction of the price of a standard microscope. Along with low-cost imaging there has also been a large increase in the availability of high quality, open-source analysis programs. In this study we describe the development and performance of an expandable cell motility system employing inexpensive, commercially available digital USB microscopes to image various cell types using time-lapse and perform tracking assays in proof-of-concept experiments. With this system we were able to measure and record three separate assays simultaneously on one personal computer using identical microscopes, and obtained tracking results comparable in quality to those from other studies that used standard, more expensive, equipment. The microscopes used in our system were capable of a maximum magnification of 413.6×. Although resolution was lower than that of a standard inverted microscope we found this difference to be indistinguishable at the magnification chosen for cell tracking experiments (206.8×). In preliminary cell culture experiments using our system, velocities (mean µm/min ± SE) of 0.81 ± 0.01 (Biomphalaria glabrata hemocytes on uncoated plates), 1.17 ± 0.004 (MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells), 1.24 ± 0.006 (SC5 mouse Sertoli cells) and 2.21 ± 0.01 (B. glabrata hemocytes on Poly-L-Lysine coated plates), were measured and are consistent with previous reports. We believe that this system, coupled with open-source analysis software, demonstrates that higher throughput time-lapse imaging of cells for the purpose of studying motility can be an affordable option for all researchers.

Low-Cost Motility Tracking System (LOCOMOTIS) for Time-Lapse Microscopy Applications and Cell Visualisation

PubMed Central

Lynch, Adam E.; Triajianto, Junian; Routledge, Edwin

2014-01-01

Direct visualisation of cells for the purpose of studying their motility has typically required expensive microscopy equipment. However, recent advances in digital sensors mean that it is now possible to image cells for a fraction of the price of a standard microscope. Along with low-cost imaging there has also been a large increase in the availability of high quality, open-source analysis programs. In this study we describe the development and performance of an expandable cell motility system employing inexpensive, commercially available digital USB microscopes to image various cell types using time-lapse and perform tracking assays in proof-of-concept experiments. With this system we were able to measure and record three separate assays simultaneously on one personal computer using identical microscopes, and obtained tracking results comparable in quality to those from other studies that used standard, more expensive, equipment. The microscopes used in our system were capable of a maximum magnification of 413.6×. Although resolution was lower than that of a standard inverted microscope we found this difference to be indistinguishable at the magnification chosen for cell tracking experiments (206.8×). In preliminary cell culture experiments using our system, velocities (mean µm/min ± SE) of 0.81±0.01 (Biomphalaria glabrata hemocytes on uncoated plates), 1.17±0.004 (MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells), 1.24±0.006 (SC5 mouse Sertoli cells) and 2.21±0.01 (B. glabrata hemocytes on Poly-L-Lysine coated plates), were measured and are consistent with previous reports. We believe that this system, coupled with open-source analysis software, demonstrates that higher throughput time-lapse imaging of cells for the purpose of studying motility can be an affordable option for all researchers. PMID:25121722

T cells targeting a neuronal paraneoplastic antigen mediate tumor rejection and trigger CNS autoimmunity with humoral activation.

PubMed

Blachère, Nathalie E; Orange, Dana E; Santomasso, Bianca D; Doerner, Jessica; Foo, Patricia K; Herre, Margaret; Fak, John; Monette, Sébastien; Gantman, Emily C; Frank, Mayu O; Darnell, Robert B

2014-11-01

Paraneoplastic neurologic diseases (PND) involving immune responses directed toward intracellular antigens are poorly understood. Here, we examine immunity to the PND antigen Nova2, which is expressed exclusively in central nervous system (CNS) neurons. We hypothesized that ectopic expression of neuronal antigen in the periphery could incite PND. In our C57BL/6 mouse model, CNS antigen expression limits antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell expansion. Chimera experiments demonstrate that this tolerance is mediated by antigen expression in nonhematopoietic cells. CNS antigen expression does not limit tumor rejection by adoptively transferred transgenic T cells but does limit the generation of a memory population that can be expanded upon secondary challenge in vivo. Despite mediating cancer rejection, adoptively transferred transgenic T cells do not lead to paraneoplastic neuronal targeting. Preliminary experiments suggest an additional requirement for humoral activation to induce CNS autoimmunity. This work provides evidence that the requirements for cancer immunity and neuronal autoimmunity are uncoupled. Since humoral immunity was not required for tumor rejection, B-cell targeting therapy, such as rituximab, may be a rational treatment option for PND that does not hamper tumor immunity. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Analytical and experimental investigation of liquid double drop dynamics: Preliminary design for space shuttle experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

The preliminary grant assessed the use of laboratory experiments for simulating low g liquid drop experiments in the space shuttle environment. Investigations were begun of appropriate immiscible liquid systems, design of experimental apparatus and analyses. The current grant continued these topics, completed construction and preliminary testing of the experimental apparatus, and performed experiments on single and compound liquid drops. A continuing assessment of laboratory capabilities, and the interests of project personnel and available collaborators, led to, after consultations with NASA personnel, a research emphasis specializing on compound drops consisting of hollow plastic or elastic spheroids filled with liquids.

SIMS analysis of extended impact features on LDEF experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amari, S.; Foote, J.; Jessberger, E. K.; Simon, C.; Stadermann, F. J.; Swan, P.; Walker, R.; Zinner, E.

1991-01-01

Discussed here are the first Secondary Ion Mass Spectroscopy (SIMS) analysis of projectile material deposited in extended impact features on Ge wafers from the trailing edge. Although most capture cells lost their plastic film covers, they contain extended impact features that apparently were produced by high velocity impacts when the plastic foils were still intact. Detailed optical scanning of all bare capture cells from the trailing edge revealed more than 100 impacts. Fifty-eight were selected by scanning electron microscope (SEM) inspection as prime candidates for SIMS analysis. Preliminary SIMS measurements were made on 15 impacts. More than half showed substantial enhancements of Mg, Al, Si, Ca, and Fe in the impact region, indicating micrometeorites as the projectiles.

Electron Radiation Damage of (alga) As-gaas Solar Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loo, R.; Kamath, G. S.; Knechtli, R.

1979-01-01

Solar cells (2 cm by 2 cm (AlGa) As-GaAs cells) were fabricated and then subjected to irradiation at normal incidence by electrons. The influence of junction depth and n-type buffer layer doping level on the cell's resistance to radiation damage was investigated. The study shows that (1) a 0.3 micrometer deep junction results in lower damage to the cells than does a 0.5 micrometer junction, and (2) lowering the n buffer layer doping density does not improve the radiation resistance of the cell. Rather, lowering the doping density decreases the solar cell's open circuit voltage. Some preliminary thermal annealing experiments in vacuum were performed on the (AlGa)As-GaAs solar cells damaged by 1-MeV electron irradiation. The results show that cell performance can be expected to partially recover at 200 C with more rapid and complete recovery occurring at higher temperature. For a 0.5hr anneal at 400 C, 90% of the initial power is recovered. The characteristics of the (AlGa)As-GaAs cells both before and after irradiation are described.

High-Temperature Controlled Redox Crystallization Studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, R. J.

1985-01-01

The crystallization of silicates containing redox sensitive ions (e.g., Fe, Ti, Ce) must be performed under controlled and known redox conditions in order to obtain the maximum scientific benefit from experimental study. Furthermore, many compositions crystallize dense phases which settle during ground-based experiments. This settling influences the texture and chemical evolution of the crystallizing system. The purpose of this investigation is to develop a test system in which controlled redox experiments can be performed in the microgravity environment. The system will use solid ceramic oxygen electrolyte cells for control, measurements, and production of the required redox conditions. A preliminary design for a prototype is developed, the electrolyte and furnace tested, and a tentative protocol for experiment developed. The control parameter is to be established and a laboratory prototype built.

Increasing the efficacy of antitumor glioma vaccines by photodynamic therapy and local injection of allogeneic glioma cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christie, Catherine E.; Peng, Qian; Madsen, Steen J.; Uzal, Francisco A.; Hirschberg, Henry

2016-03-01

Immunotherapy of brain tumors involves the stimulation of an antitumor immune response. This type of therapy can be targeted specifically to tumor cells thus sparing surrounding normal brain. Due to the presence of the blood-brain barrier, the brain is relatively isolated from the systemic circulation and, as such, the initiation of significant immune responses is more limited than other types of cancers. The purpose of this study was to show that the efficacy of tumor primed antigen presenting macrophage vaccines could be increased by: (1) PDT of the priming tumor cells, and (2) injection of allogeneic glioma cells directly into brain tumors. Experiments were conducted in an in vivo brain tumor model using Fisher rats and BT4C (allogeneic) and F98 (syngeneic) glioma cells. Preliminary results showed that vaccination alone had significantly less inhibitory effect on F98 tumor growth compared to the combination of vaccination and allogeneic cell (BT4C) injection.

Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority and San Mateo County Transit District Fuel Cell Transit Buses : Preliminary Evaluation Results

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-03-23

This report provides preliminary results from an evaluation of prototype fuel cell transit buses operating at Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) in San Jose, California. San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) in San Carlos, Calif...

[Study on transient absorption spectrum of tungsten nanoparticle with HepG2 tumor cell].

PubMed

Cao, Lin; Shu, Xiao-Ning; Liang, Dong; Wang, Cong

2014-07-01

Significance of this study lies in tungsten nano materials can be used as a preliminary innovative medicines applied basic research. This paper investigated the inhibition of tungsten nanoparticles which effected on human hepatoma HepG2 cells by MTT. The authors use transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS) technology absorption and emission spectra characterization of charge transfer between nanoparticles and tumor cell. The authors discussed the role of the tungsten nanoparticles in the tumor early detection of the disease and its anti-tumor properties. In the HepG2 experiments system, 100-150 microg x mL(-1) is the best drug concentration of anti-tumor activity which recact violently within 6 hours and basically completed in 24 hours. The results showed that transient absorption spectroscopy can be used as tumor detection methods and characterization of charge transfer between nano-biosensors and tumor cells. Tungsten nanoparticles have potential applications as anticancer drugs.

Tissue Engineering Under Microgravity Conditions-Use of Stem Cells and Specialized Cells.

PubMed

Grimm, Daniela; Egli, Marcel; Krüger, Marcus; Riwaldt, Stefan; Corydon, Thomas J; Kopp, Sascha; Wehland, Markus; Wise, Petra; Infanger, Manfred; Mann, Vivek; Sundaresan, Alamelu

2018-03-29

Experimental cell research studying three-dimensional (3D) tissues in space and on Earth using new techniques to simulate microgravity is currently a hot topic in Gravitational Biology and Biomedicine. This review will focus on the current knowledge of the use of stem cells and specialized cells for tissue engineering under simulated microgravity conditions. We will report on recent advancements in the ability to construct 3D aggregates from various cell types using devices originally created to prepare for spaceflights such as the random positioning machine (RPM), the clinostat, or the NASA-developed rotating wall vessel (RWV) bioreactor, to engineer various tissues such as preliminary vessels, eye tissue, bone, cartilage, multicellular cancer spheroids, and others from different cells. In addition, stem cells had been investigated under microgravity for the purpose to engineer adipose tissue, cartilage, or bone. Recent publications have discussed different changes of stem cells when exposed to microgravity and the relevant pathways involved in these biological processes. Tissue engineering in microgravity is a new technique to produce organoids, spheroids, or tissues with and without scaffolds. These 3D aggregates can be used for drug testing studies or for coculture models. Multicellular tumor spheroids may be interesting for radiation experiments in the future and to reduce the need for in vivo experiments. Current achievements using cells from patients engineered on the RWV or on the RPM represent an important step in the advancement of techniques that may be applied in translational Regenerative Medicine.

Detection of early changes in lung cell cytology by flow-systems analysis techniques, July 1--December 31, 1975

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

Steinkamp, J.A.; Ingram, M.; Hansen, K.M.

1976-03-01

This report summarizes results of preliminary experiments to demonstrate the feasibility of using automated flow-systems analysis in detecting early changes of respiratory epithelium exposed to physical and chemical agents associated with the by-products of nonnuclear energy production. The Syrian hamster was selected as the experimental test animal to begin investigation of the effects of toxic agents to cells of the respiratory tract. Since initiation of the program approximately six months ago, the goals have been acquisition of adequate numbers of exfoliated cells from the lung; adaptation of cytological techniques developed on human exfoliated gynecological samples to hamster lung epithelium formore » obtaining single-cell suspensions; utilization of existing cell staining methods to measure DNA content in lung cells; and analysis of DNA content and cell size. As the flow-system cell analysis technology is adapted to the measurement of exfoliated lung cells, rapid and quantitative determination of early changes in the physical and biochemical cellular properties will be attempted as a function of exposure to the toxic agents. (auth)« less

Laser Ablation Increases PEM/Catalyst Interfacial Area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitacre, Jay; Yalisove, Steve

2009-01-01

An investigational method of improving the performance of a fuel cell that contains a polymer-electrolyte membrane (PEM) is based on the concept of roughening the surface of the PEM, prior to deposition of a thin layer of catalyst, in order to increase the PEM/catalyst interfacial area and thereby increase the degree of utilization of the catalyst. The roughening is done by means of laser ablation under carefully controlled conditions. Next, the roughened membrane surface is coated with the thin layer of catalyst (which is typically platinum), then sandwiched between two electrode/catalyst structures to form a membrane/ele c t - rode assembly. The feasibility of the roughening technique was demonstrated in experiments in which proton-conducting membranes made of a perfluorosulfonic acid-based hydrophilic, protonconducting polymer were ablated by use of femtosecond laser pulses. It was found that when proper combinations of the pulse intensity, pulse-repetition rate, and number of repetitions was chosen, the initially flat, smooth membrane surfaces became roughened to such an extent as to be converted to networks of nodules interconnected by filaments (see Figure 1). In further experiments, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was performed on a pristine (smooth) membrane and on two laser-roughened membranes after the membranes were coated with platinum on both sides. Some preliminary EIS data were interpreted as showing that notwithstanding the potential for laser-induced damage, the bulk conductivities of the membranes were not diminished in the roughening process. Other preliminary EIS data (see Figure 2) were interpreted as signifying that the surface areas of the laser-roughened membranes were significantly greater than those of the smooth membrane. Moreover, elemental analyses showed that the sulfur-containing molecular groups necessary for proton conduction remained intact, even near the laser-roughened surfaces. These preliminary results can be taken as indications that laser-roughened PEMs should function well in fuel cells and, in particular, should exhibit current and power densities greater than those attainable by use of smooth membranes.

House Dust Mite Der p 1 Effects on Sinonasal Epithelial Tight Junctions

PubMed Central

Henriquez, Oswaldo A.; Beste, Kyle Den; Hoddeson, Elizabeth K.; Parkos, Charles A.; Nusrat, Asma; Wise, Sarah K.

2013-01-01

Background Epithelial permeability is highly dependent upon the integrity of tight junctions, cell-cell adhesion complexes located at the apical aspect of the lateral membrane of polarized epithelial cells. We hypothesize that sinonasal epithelial exposure to Der p 1 house dust mite antigen decreases expression of tight junction proteins (TJPs), representing a potential mechanism for increased permeability and presentation of antigens across the sinonasal epithelial layer. Methods Confluent cultured primary human sinonasal epithelial cells were exposed to recombinant Der p 1 antigen versus control, and transepithelial resistance measurements were performed over 24 hours. Antibody staining for a panel of tight junction proteins was examined with immunofluorescence/confocal microscopy and Western blotting. Tissue for these experiments was obtained from 4 patients total. Results Der p 1 exposed sinonasal cells showed a marked decrease in transepithelial resistance when compared to control cells. In addition, results of Western immunoblot and immunofluorescent labeling demonstrated decreased expression of TJPs claudin-1 and junction adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A) in Der p 1 exposed cultured sinonasal cells versus controls. Conclusion Der p 1 antigen exposure decreases sinonasal epithelium TJP expression, most notably seen in JAM-A and claudin-1 in these preliminary experiments. This decreased TJP expression likely contributes to increased epithelial permeability and represents a potential mechanism for transepithelial antigen exposure in allergic rhinitis. PMID:23592402

House dust mite allergen Der p 1 effects on sinonasal epithelial tight junctions.

PubMed

Henriquez, Oswaldo A; Den Beste, Kyle; Hoddeson, Elizabeth K; Parkos, Charles A; Nusrat, Asma; Wise, Sarah K

2013-08-01

Epithelial permeability is highly dependent upon the integrity of tight junctions, which are cell-cell adhesion complexes located at the apical aspect of the lateral membrane of polarized epithelial cells. We hypothesize that sinonasal epithelial exposure to Der p 1 house dust mite antigen decreases expression of tight junction proteins (TJPs), representing a potential mechanism for increased permeability and presentation of antigens across the sinonasal epithelial layer. Confluent cultured primary human sinonasal epithelial cells were exposed to recombinant Der p 1 antigen vs control, and transepithelial resistance measurements were performed over 24 hours. Antibody staining for a panel of TJPs was examined with immunofluorescence/confocal microscopy and Western blotting. Tissue for these experiments was obtained from 4 patients total. Der p 1 exposed sinonasal cells showed a marked decrease in transepithelial resistance when compared to control cells. In addition, results of Western immunoblot and immunofluorescent labeling demonstrated decreased expression of TJPs claudin-1 and junction adhesion molecule-A (JAM-A) in Der p 1-exposed cultured sinonasal cells vs controls. Der p 1 antigen exposure decreases sinonasal epithelium TJP expression, most notably seen in JAM-A and claudin-1 in these preliminary experiments. This decreased TJP expression likely contributes to increased epithelial permeability and represents a potential mechanism for transepithelial antigen exposure in allergic rhinitis. © 2013 ARS-AAOA, LLC.

Work Experiences of People with Mental Illness in Malaysia: A Preliminary Qualitative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boo, Su-Lyn; Loong, Jaymee; Ng, Wai-Sheng

2011-01-01

This is a preliminary qualitative study, using a basic interpretive approach, to investigate the work experiences of people with mental illness in Malaysia. Six females and four males (aged 30-70) from a residential home for the mentally ill participated in semi-structured interviews. Three inter-relating themes emerged, namely the experience of…

Gd uptake experiments for preliminary set of functionalized adsorbents

DOE Data Explorer

Clinton Noack

2015-03-16

These data summarize adsorption experiments conducted with Gd in 0.5 M NaCl. Results represent preliminary, proof-of-concept data utilizing fine-powder silica gel as the adsorbent support. Future testing will focus on larger, application-appropriate beads.

Preliminary Advanced Colloids Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-09-29

ISS029-E-011867 (29 Sept. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, Expedition 29 commander, works with the Light Microscopy Module (LMM) control box in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station in preparation for another session with the Preliminary Advanced Colloids Experiment (PACE) hardware.

Preliminary Experience with ''In-Site'' Baking of Niobium Cavities

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

P. Kneisel

In a series of experiments several single cell and multi-cell niobium cavities made from reactor grade and high RRR niobium (frequencies were 700 MHz, 1300 MHz and 1497 MHz) have been baked--after initial testing--in-situ around 145 C for up to 90 hours prior to being recooled. Surprisingly, all cavities showed significant improvements in Q-values between 4.2 and 1.6K. The BCS surface resistance was lowered by nearly a factor of two. This cannot be explained by solely a reduction of dielectric losses caused by adsorbates at the surface or by a decrease of the mean free path due to possibly diffusionmore » of oxygen into the surface layer. In several experiments also the high field behavior of the cavity improved after the in-situ baking procedure. The observed effect opens the possibility for the CEBAF upgrade cavities, which in turn will permit to run the cavities at higher gradients if field emission loading can be prevented. Utilizing this effect can possibly translate into sizeable cost savings since fewer modules are needed for the upgrade program.« less

Study of Flow of Superfluid He-II Very Near Tau(sub lambda)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mukharsky, Yury; Sukhatme, Kalyani; Pearson, David; Chui, Talso

1999-01-01

We report here, preliminary data from an experiment studying flow of superfluid helium through a slit orifice (of sub-micron width) very close to T(sub lambda). Critical supercurrent (I(sub c)) data is obtained from a step function drive to the diaphragm in a Helmholtz resonator cell. The superfluid density (rho(sub s)) data can be obtained from the resonant frequency of the Helmholtz oscillator, as determined by transfer function of the resonator or from the free ringing after the step function excitation. Preliminary data shows that I(sub c) is proportional to (rho(sub s))(exp 1.27) and rho(sub s)) is proportional to tau(exp 0.73), where tau is the reduced temperature. However, the magnitude of I(sub c) is much larger than expected, indicating a possible parallel flow path. Further investigations are in progress. Keywords: superfluid; hydrodynamics; critical exponent

Gd uptake experiments for preliminary set of functionalized adsorbents (with content model)

DOE Data Explorer

Clinton Noack

2015-03-16

These data summarize adsorption experiments conducted with Gd in 0.5 M NaCl. Results represent preliminary, proof-of-concept data utilizing fine-powder silica gel as the adsorbent support. Future testing will focus on larger, application-appropriate beads.

[Epithelial intestine cells transdifferentiate into bladder urothelium in experiments in vivo].

PubMed

Popov, B K; Zaĭchik, A M; Bud'ko, M B; Zlobina, O V; Tolkunova, E N; Zhidkova, O V; Petrov, N S

2011-01-01

The autoplastic surgery by intestine tissue has been used for reconstructive therapy of the urinary tract since the middle of the last century; however, cell mechanisms of the urothelium engraftment are still obscure. Intestine stem cells possess plasticity and presumably enable after the autoplastic surgery to transdifferentiate into mature cells of urinary tract. Using the preliminary developed in vivo model for evaluation of somatic cells transdifferentiation into urothelium, we have found that the epithelial intestine cells producing Gfp transdifferentiate into the cryoinjured bladder urothelium of the syngenetic C57BL mice. Gfp was detected in the bladder tissue of mice-recipients using reverted polymerase chain reaction, primary fluorescence and immunofluorescence, while colocalization of the Gfp and Her-4 revealing similar to urothelium staining pattern was demonstrated in a few urothelium cells by double immunohistochemical staining of the bladder tissue with specific antibodies. The results obtained suggest that epithelial intestine cells enable to transdifferentiate into bladder urothelium, however the transdifferentiation level is low and presumably can not provide full functional urothelium engraftment in the case of autoplastic bladder surgery by intestine tissue.

The Effect of Deoxynivalenol on Selected Populations of Immunocompetent Cells in Porcine Blood-A Preliminary Study.

PubMed

Dąbrowski, Michał; Jakimiuk, Ewa; Baranowski, Mirosław; Gajęcka, Magdalena; Zielonka, Łukasz; Gajęcki, Maciej Tadeusz

2017-04-26

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most prevalent mycotoxins in Europe. Pigs are an animal species that is most susceptible to this mycotoxin. Deoxynivalenol causes significant losses in pig production by lowering feed intake, decreasing daily weight gains, disrupting immune responses, and increasing susceptibility to diseases. The aim of this experiment was to determine the influence of feed contaminated with DON at concentrations insignificantly higher than recommended by the European Commission (900 µg/kg). The experimental feed contained 1008 μg DON/kg. The experiment was performed on eight weaners from the same litter. The animals were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group (M, n = 4) fed contaminated feed and a control group (C, n = 4) administered feed free of mycotoxins. The experiment lasted for six weeks, and peripheral blood samples were collected from the animals for analyses of selected morphological parameters and changes in the percentages of CD4⁺8 - , CD4 - 8⁺, and CD4⁺8⁺ lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells (APC) with CD14⁺172⁺ (monocytes), CD172a high 4 - 14 - (conventional dendritic cells, cDC), and CD172a dim 4⁺14 - (plasmacytoid dendritic cells, pDC) phenotypes. The morphological parameters of porcine blood samples were determined by flow cytometry with non-fluorescent particle-size calibration standards, and no differences were observed between groups M and C. An immunophenotyping analysis of lymphocytes and dendritic cells (DC) revealed an increase in the percentage of CD4⁺8 - , CD172a high 4 - 14 - , and CD172a dim 4⁺14 - cells, and a decrease in the number of CD4 - 8⁺ cells in group M. The results of this experiment suggest that prolonged exposure to low doses of DON can change the proportions of immunocompetent cells (a shift towards humoral immunity), without affecting their overall counts.

Zero-gravity cloud physics laboratory: Experiment program definition and preliminary laboratory concept studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eaton, L. R.; Greco, E. V.

1973-01-01

The experiment program definition and preliminary laboratory concept studies on the zero G cloud physics laboratory are reported. This program involves the definition and development of an atmospheric cloud physics laboratory and the selection and delineations of a set of candidate experiments that must utilize the unique environment of zero gravity or near zero gravity.

Vestibular Function Research (VFR) experiment. Phase B: Design definition study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

The Vestibular Functions Research (VFR) Experiment was established to investigate the neurosensory and related physiological processes believed to be associated with the space flight nausea syndrome and to develop logical means for its prediction, prevention and treatment. The VFR Project consists of ground and spaceflight experimentation using frogs as specimens. The phase B Preliminary Design Study provided for the preliminary design of the experiment hardware, preparation of performance and hardware specification and a Phase C/D development plan, establishment of STS (Space Transportation System) interfaces and mission operations, and the study of a variety of hardware, experiment and mission options. The study consist of three major tasks: (1) mission mode trade-off; (2) conceptual design; and (3) preliminary design.

Modeling cell-cycle synchronization during embryogenesis in Xenopus laevis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McIsaac, R. Scott; Huang, K. C.; Sengupta, Anirvan; Wingreen, Ned

2010-03-01

A widely conserved aspect of embryogenesis is the ability to synchronize nuclear divisions post-fertilization. How is synchronization achieved? Given a typical protein diffusion constant of 10 μm^2sec, and an embryo length of 1mm, it would take diffusion many hours to propagate a signal across the embryo. Therefore, synchrony cannot be attained by diffusion alone. We hypothesize that known autocatalytic reactions of cell-cycle components make the embryo an ``active medium'' in which waves propagate much faster than diffusion, enforcing synchrony. We report on robust spatial synchronization of components of the core cell cycle circuit based on a mathematical model previously determined by in vitro experiments. In vivo, synchronized divisions are preceded by a rapid calcium wave that sweeps across the embryo. Experimental evidence supports the hypothesis that increases in transient calcium levels lead to derepression of a negative feedback loop, allowing cell divisions to start. Preliminary results indicate a novel relationship between the speed of the initial calcium wave and the ability to achieve synchronous cell divisions.

Photothermal monitoring of interaction of carcinoma cells with cytostatic drugs in vitro

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lapotko, Dmitri; Hanna, Ehab; Cannon, Martin

2003-06-01

Background/problem. Monitoring of tumor response to cancer chemotherapy and dose optimization for specific patients are the key factors for successful application of anti-tumor drugs. Using patient's tumor cells for preliminary in vitro drug screening may allow optimal selection of drug type and dose. Method. Single cell state was studied with photothermal microscope. Carcinoma cells were irradiated at 427 nm with 8 ns laser pulse with energy 30 - 40 μJ. Cell photothermal (PT) response amplitude and shape from each cell were analyzed and amount of cells that produced specific PT response was used as PT parameter. Parallel experiment included cell viability control. Results were obtained for two cytotoxic chemotherapy agents -- Platinol-aq and Adrucil. Incubation of cell suspensions for 90 min at 20 and 37°C caused changes in cell PT parameters. Reaction of carcinoma cells to the drug was very similar to reaction of hepatocytes to respiratory chain inhibition and reaction of RBC to osmotic pressure decrease. PT effect was found to be dose-dependent. PT method allows detecting drug-induced changes before cell death or morphological changes and therefore can be fast and sensitive modality for control of chemotherapy.

Diagram of Calcium Movement in the Human Body

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2002-01-01

This diagram shows the normal pathways of calcium movement in the body and indicates changes (green arrows) seen during preliminary space flight experiments. Calcium plays a central role because 1) it gives strength and structure to bone and 2) all types of cells require it to function normally. To better understand how and why weightlessness induces bone loss, astronauts have participated in a study of calcium kinetics -- that is, the movement of calcium through the body, including absorption from food, and its role in the formation and breakdown of bone.

A comparative study of spray keratinocytes and autologous meshed split-thickness skin graft in the treatment of acute burn injuries.

PubMed

Sood, Rajiv; Roggy, David Edward; Zieger, Madeline Jane; Nazim, Muhammad; Hartman, Brett Colby; Gibbs, Jeff Thomas

2015-02-01

ReCell (Avita Medical, Northridge, CA) is an autologous cell harvesting (ACH) device that enables a thin split-thickness skin biopsy to be processed to produce a cell population that includes a mixed population of keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and papillary dermal fibroblasts for immediate delivery via a spray applicator onto a prepared skin surface. In this Institutional Review Board-approved US Food and Drug Administration phase 2 study, the authors prospectively evaluated the treatment of partial-thickness burns in patients with two 320 cm2 areas, 1 area treated with the ACH device and the other with a meshed split-thickness skin graft (MSTSG) as a control. The authors compared the treatment areas for graft take, pigmentation, and color match to surrounding healthy tissue, scarring, and pain. In this preliminary study, 10 patients were treated with this protocol. Eight patients had 100% take to both treatment areas and 2 patients had significant non-take and graft loss attributable to underexcised wound beds and difficulty with the spray applicator. Pigmentation and color match ratings were identical at week 52 and the Modified Vancouver Scar Scale scores were comparable. One subject rated the autologous cell harvesting site as having a better appearance, while the remaining subjects rated their ACH and MSTSG sites' appearances as being comparable. In early follow-up visits, pain ratings were slightly elevated in the ACH group due to graft healing; however, in visits following week 2, pain ratings at the ACH and MSTSG sites were rated similarly by all patients. This preliminary report describes an early experience with the ACH device and the treatment of partial-thickness burn injuries. In this 10-patient series, patients benefitted from having a decreased donor site size and comparable outcomes with MSTSG treatment. While this preliminary underpowered study has provided positive results, there is a learning curve with choosing the proper wound for treatment with the ACH device, as well as with using the device.

Coatings could protect composites from hostile space environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whitaker, Ann F.

1991-01-01

An experiment has been conducted on about 100 different material/process combinations, most of which were candidates for use in solar arrays having high power-to-weight ratios. These substances were exposed to the LEO environment during Long-Duration Exposure Facility Experiment A0171 in order to evaluate the synergistic effects of the LEO environment on the materials' mechanical, electrical, and optical properties. Materials evaluated include solar cells, cover slips having antireflectance coatings, adhesives, encapsulants, reflective materials, mast and harness materials, structural composites, and thermal control thin films. About one-sixth of the experiment tray was devoted to composite-material tensile specimens, which were specifically to be studied for changes in their mechanical properties. Preliminary results of the surface-damage evaluation are presented. These surface effects are dominated by atomic-oxygen erosion and micrometeoroid/space debris impacts.

Development of a near-infrared spectroscopic system for monitoring urine glucose level for the use of long-term home healthcare

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Shinobu; Hayakawa, Yuuto; Ogawa, Mitsuhiro; Yamakoshi, Ken-ichi

2010-08-01

We have been developing a new technique for measuring urine glucose concentration using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in conjunction with the Partial Least Square (PLS) method. In the previous study, we reported some results of preliminary experiments for assessing feasibility of this method using a FT-IR spectrometer. In this study, considering practicability of the system, a flow-through cell with the optical path length of 10 mm was newly introduced. Accuracy of the system was verified by the preliminary experiments using urine samples. From the results obtained, it was clearly demonstrated that the present method had a capability of predicting individual urine glucose level with reasonable accuracy (the minimum value of standard error of prediction: SEP = 22.3 mg/dl) and appeared to be a useful means for long-term home health care. However, mean value of SEP obtained by the urine samples from ten subjects was not satisfactorily low (53.7 mg/dl). For improving the accuracy, (1) mechanical stability of the optical system should be improved, (2) the method for normalizing the spectrum should be reconsidered, and (3) the number of subject should be increased.

Cell module and fuel conditioner

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoover, D. Q., Jr.

1980-01-01

Stack tests indicate that the discrepancies between calculated and measured temperature profiles are due to reactant cross-over and a lower than expected thermal conductivity of cells. Preliminary results indicate that acceptable contact resistance between cooling plane halves can be achieved without the use of paper. The preliminary design of the enclosure, definition of required labor and equipment for manufacturing repeating components, and the assembly procedures for the benchwork design were developed. Fabrication of components for a second 5-cell stack of the MK-2 design and a second 23-cell stack of the MK-1 design was started. The definition of water and fuel for the reforming subsystem was developed along with a preliminary definition of the control system for the subsystem. The construction and shakedown of the differential catalytic reactor was completed and testing of the first catalyst initiated.

Preliminary design polymeric materials experiment. [for space shuttles and Spacelab missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mattingly, S. G.; Rude, E. T.; Marshner, R. L.

1975-01-01

A typical Advanced Technology Laboratory mission flight plan was developed and used as a guideline for the identification of a number of experiment considerations. The experiment logistics beginning with sample preparation and ending with sample analysis are then overlaid on the mission in order to have a complete picture of the design requirements. The results of this preliminary design study fall into two categories. First specific preliminary designs of experiment hardware which is adaptable to a variety of mission requirements. Second, identification of those mission considerations which affect hardware design and will require further definition prior to final design. Finally, a program plan is presented which will provide the necessary experiment hardware in a realistic time period to match the planned shuttle flights. A bibliography of all material reviewed and consulted but not specifically referenced is provided.

Effect of Microgravity on Mammalian Lymphocytes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banerjee, H.; Blackshear, M.; Mahaffey, K.; Knight, C.; Khan, A. A.; Delucas, L.

2004-01-01

The effect of microgravity on mammalian system is an important and interesting topic for scientific investigation, since NASA s objective is to send manned flights to planets like Mars and eventual human colonization.The Astronauts will be exposed to microgravity environment for a long duration of time during these flights.Our objective of research is to conduct in vitro studies for the effect of microgravity on mammalian immune system.We did our preliminary investigations by exposing mammalian lymphocytes to a microgravity simulator cell bioreactor designed by NASA and manufactured at Synthecon Inc (USA).Our initial results showed no significant change in cytokine expression in these cells for a time period of forty eight hours exposure.Our future experiments will involve exposure for a longer period of time.

Core-shell poly-methylmethacrylate nanoparticles as effective carriers of electrostatically loaded anionic porphyrin.

PubMed

Varchi, Greta; Benfenati, Valentina; Pistone, Assunta; Ballestri, Marco; Sotgiu, Giovanna; Guerrini, Andrea; Dambruoso, Paolo; Liscio, Andrea; Ventura, Barbara

2013-05-01

Among the medical applications of nanoparticles, their usage as photosensitizer (PS) carriers for photodynamic therapy (PDT) has attracted increasing attention. In the present study we explored the morphological and photophysical properties of core-shell PMMA nanoparticles (PMMA-NPs) electrostatically post-loaded with the synthetic, water soluble 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-sulphonatophenyl)-porphyrin (TPPS4). pH response and singlet oxygen analyses of differently loaded samples proved the high capability of the PMMA-NPs to shield the PS from the environment, while retaining the PS singlet oxygen production capability. Preliminary in vitro imaging and phototoxicity experiments on HepG2 cells demonstrated the efficacy of the system to trigger photoinduced cell death in the culture.

Importance of basophils in eosinophilic asthma: the murine counterpart.

PubMed

Poddighe, D; Mathias, C B; Brambilla, I; Marseglia, G L; Oettgen, H C

2018-01-01

Several experimental studies in mice showed that basophils participate in the initiation of Th2 adaptive immune response, in addition to the effector phase. However, the role of basophils in allergic airway inflammation is less clear. The aim of this experiment was to assess the importance of basophils in recruiting inflammatory cells and, in particular, eosinophils in a murine model of asthma induced by Aspergillus fumigatus allergens. Additionally, bronchial reactivity was evaluated. Basophil depletion resulted in a reduction of inflammatory cells in the airways and eosinophil recruitment was significantly impaired. Also bronchial reactivity seemed to be impaired in basophil-depleted mice, but the result was not statistically significant. According to these preliminary data, basophils seem to influence the local eosinophilic response of allergic asthma.

High-throughput monitoring of major cell functions by means of lensfree video microscopy

PubMed Central

Kesavan, S. Vinjimore; Momey, F.; Cioni, O.; David-Watine, B.; Dubrulle, N.; Shorte, S.; Sulpice, E.; Freida, D.; Chalmond, B.; Dinten, J. M.; Gidrol, X.; Allier, C.

2014-01-01

Quantification of basic cell functions is a preliminary step to understand complex cellular mechanisms, for e.g., to test compatibility of biomaterials, to assess the effectiveness of drugs and siRNAs, and to control cell behavior. However, commonly used quantification methods are label-dependent, and end-point assays. As an alternative, using our lensfree video microscopy platform to perform high-throughput real-time monitoring of cell culture, we introduce specifically devised metrics that are capable of non-invasive quantification of cell functions such as cell-substrate adhesion, cell spreading, cell division, cell division orientation and cell death. Unlike existing methods, our platform and associated metrics embrace entire population of thousands of cells whilst monitoring the fate of every single cell within the population. This results in a high content description of cell functions that typically contains 25,000 – 900,000 measurements per experiment depending on cell density and period of observation. As proof of concept, we monitored cell-substrate adhesion and spreading kinetics of human Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hMSCs) and primary human fibroblasts, we determined the cell division orientation of hMSCs, and we observed the effect of transfection of siCellDeath (siRNA known to induce cell death) on hMSCs and human Osteo Sarcoma (U2OS) Cells. PMID:25096726

Study of HeLa cells clone survival after X-ray irradiation in the presence of cisplatin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baulin, A. A.; Sukhikh, E. S.; Vasilyev, S. A.; Sukhikh, L. G.; Sheino, I. N.

2017-09-01

Radiation therapy in the presence of heavy elements nuclei (Z > 53) is widely developed these days. The presence of such nuclei in cancer cells results in the local increase of energy release from primary photon beam thus increasing relative biological efficiency. In this paper we present the preliminary results of the cell survival study while irradiating cells by X-Ray photon beam in the presence of cisplatin (Pt, Z = 78). The preliminary results show the decrease of the cell survival in the presence of both radiation and cisplatin.

Contractile recovery of microtissues after giant shear events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morley, Cameron; Bhattacharjee, Tapomoy; Ellison, Sarah; Sawyer, W.; Angelini, Thomas

Cells are often dispersed in extracellular matrix (ECM) gels like collagen and Matrigel as minimal tissue models. Generally, large-scale contraction of these constructs is observed, in which the degree of contraction of the entire system correlates with cell density and ECM concentration. The freedom to perform diverse mechanical experiments on these contracting constructs is limited by the challenges of handling and supporting these delicate samples. Here, we present a method to create simple cell-ECM constructs that can be manipulated with significantly reduced experimental limitations. We 3D print mixtures of MCF10A cells and ECM (collagen-I and Matrigel) into a 3D growth medium made from jammed microgels. With this approach, we are able to apply shear stresses to the cell constructs times after printing and observe the collective response. Preliminary results reveal that, following shear deformations that exceed 300% and dramatically smear cells and matrix in space, the cells actively re-contract the construct toward the un-sheared construct. These results suggest that new principles of collective recovery can be employed for tissue engineering applications using jammed microgels as a re-configurable support medium.

Effect of methylmercury on the rat mast cell degranulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graevskaya, E. E.; Yasutake, A.; Aramai, R.; Rubin, A. B.

2003-05-01

Methylmercury is the well-known neurotoxicant as weil as a modulator of the immune system. We investigated the effects of MeHg on the rat mast cell degranulation induced by nonimmunological stimuli (the selective liberator of histamine, compound 48/80, and calcium ionophore A23187) both in vivo and in vitro. In 8, 12 and 15 days afterthe final administration of MeHg we observed the suppression of calcium ionophore A23187-and 48/80-induced histamine release, which enhanced with time. In experiments in vitro incubation of peritoneal mast cells with MeHg alone in the dose range 10^{-8} to 10^{-6} did not induce mast cell degranulation, however modified the activation of mast cells by compound 48/80, and calcium ionophore A23187. We observed activation of stimulated secretion by preliminary incubation with low dose of MeHg 10^{-8} M and inhibition by dose of MeHg 10^{-6} M. These results show that MeHg treatment can modify mast cell function in vivo and in vitro and provide insight into the understanding what role this cell has in the pathogenesis of Minamata disease-comlected disorders.

Plasma Onco-Immunotherapy: Novel Approach to Cancer Treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fridman, Alexander

2015-09-01

Presentation is reviewing the newest results obtained by researchers of A.J. Drexel Plasma Institute on direct application of non-thermal plasma for direct treatment of different types of cancer by means of specific stimulation of immune system in the frameworks of the so-called onco-immunotherapy. Especial attention is paid to analysis of depth of penetration of different plasma-medical effects, from ROS, RNS, and ions to special biological signaling and immune system related processes. General aspects of the plasma-stimulation of immune system are discussed, pointing out specific medical applications. Most of experiments have been carried out using nanosecond pulsed DBD at low power and relatively low level of treatment doses, guaranteeing non-damage no-toxicity treatment regime. The nanosecond pulsed DBD physics is discussed mostly regarding its space uniformity and control of plasma parameters relevant to plasma medical treatment, and especially relevant to depth of penetration of different plasma medical effects. Detailed mechanism of the plasma-induced onco-immunotherapy has been suggested based upon preliminary in-vitro experiments with DBD treatment of different cancer cells. Sub-elements of this mechanism related to activation of macrophages and dendritic cells, specific stressing of cancer cells and the immunogenic cell death (ICD) are to be discussed based on results of corresponding in-vitro experiments. In-vivo experiments focused on the plasma-induced onco-immunotherapy were carried out in collaboration with medical doctors from Jefferson University hospital of Philadelphia. Todays achievements and nearest future prospective of clinical test focused on plasma-controlled cancer treatment are discussed in conclusion.

Course 8: Biological Physics in Silico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Austin, R. H.

1 Why micro/nanofabrication? Lecture 1a: Hydrodynamic Transport 1 Introduction: The need to control flows in 2 1/2 D 2 Somewhat simple hydrodynamics in 2 1/2 D 3 The N-port injector idea 4 Conclusion Lecture 1b: Dielectrophoresis and Microfabrication 1 Introduction 2 Methods 3 Results 4 Data and analysis 5 Origin of the low frequency dielectrophoretic force in DNA 6 Conclusion Lecture 2a: Hex Arrays 1 Introduction 2 Experimental approach 3 Conclusions Lecture 2b: The DNA Prism 1 Introduction 2 Design 3 Results 4 Conclusions Lecture 2c: Bigger is Better in Rachets 1 The problems with insulators in rachets 2 An experimental test 3 Conclusions Lecture 3: Going After Epigenetics 1 Introduction 2 The nearfield scanner 3 The chip 4 Experiments with molecules 5 Conclusions Lecture 4: Fractionating Cells 1 Introduction 2 Blood specifics 3 Magnetic separation 4 Microfabrication 5 Magnetic field gradients 6 Device interface 7 A preliminary blood cell run 8 Conclusions Lecture 5: Protein Folding on a Chip 1 Introduction 2 Technology 3 Experiments 4 Conclusions

DEMONSTRATION OF FUEL CELLS TO RECOVER ENERGY FROM ANAEROBIC DIGESTER GAS - PHASE I. CONCEPTUAL DESIGN, PRELIMINARY COST, AND EVALUATION STUDY

EPA Science Inventory

The report discusses Phase I (a conceptual design, preliminary cost, and evaluation study) of a program to demonstrate the recovery of energy from waste methane produced by anaerobic digestion of waste water treatment sludge. The fuel cell is being used for this application becau...

Feasibility and systems definition study for microwave multi-application payload (MMAP)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Horton, J. B.; Allen, C. C.; Massaro, M. J.; Zemany, J. L.; Murrell, J. W.; Stanhouse, R. W.; Condon, G. P.; Stone, R. F.

1977-01-01

There were three Shuttle/Spacelab experiments: adaptive multibeam phased array antenna (AMPA) experiment, electromagnetic environment experiment (EEE), and millimeter wave communications experiment (MWCE). Work on the AMPA experiment was completed. Results included are definition of operating modes, sequence of operation, radii of operation about several ground stations, signal format, foot prints of typical orbits and preliminary definition of ground and user terminals. Definition of the MOD I EEE included conceptual hardware designs, spacelab interfaces, preliminary data handling methods, experiment tests and verification, and EMC studies. The MWCE was defined conceptually for a steerable high gain antenna.

Survey of CELSS Concepts and Preliminary Research in Japan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ohya, H.; Oshima, T.; Nitta, K.

1985-01-01

Agricultural and other experiments relating to the development of a controlled ecological life support system (CELSS) were proposed. The engineering feasibility of each proposal was investigated by a CELSS experiment concept met study group. The CELSS experiment concept to clarify the goals of CELSS and to determine three phases to achieve the goals. The resulting phases, or missions, and preliminary proposals and studies needed to develop a CELSS are described.

Integrated support structure for GASCAN 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

The focus of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) Advanced Space Design Program was the preliminary design of the Integrated Support Structure for GASCAN II, a Get Away Special canister donated by the MITRE Corporation. Two teams of three students each worked on the support structure. There was a structural design team and a thermal design team. The structure will carry three experiments also undergoing preliminary design this year, the mu-gravity Ignition Experiment, the Rotational Flow in Low Gravity Experiment, and the Ionospheric Properties and Propagation Experiment. The structural design team was responsible for the layout of the GASCAN and the preliminary design of the structure itself. They produced the physical interface specifications defining the baseline weights and volumes for the equipment and produced layout drawings of the system. The team produced static and modal finite element analysis of the structure using ANSYS. The thermal design team was responsible for the power and timing requirements of the payload and for the identification and preliminary analysis of potential thermal problems. The team produced the power, timing, and energy interface specifications and assisted in the development of the specification of the battery pack. The thermal parameters of each experiment were cataloged and the experiments were subjected to worst case heat transfer scenarios.

Respect, trust, and the management of sickle cell disease pain in hospital: comparative analysis of concern-raising behaviors, preliminary model, and agenda for international collaborative research to inform practice

PubMed Central

Elander, James; Beach, Mary Catherine; Haywood, Carlton

2011-01-01

Background/objectives Qualitative interview studies suggest that adult patients’ experiences of hospital treatment for sickle cell disease (SCD) pain reflect an absence of respect by providers for patients, and an absence or breakdown of trust. Systematic comparisons between treatment settings could help identify contextual influences on respect and trust. Design Quantitative comparison of concern-raising behaviors (pain treatment outcomes indicating breakdowns of trust) among adult SCD patients in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, and London, UK, followed by analysis of potential explanations for differences, including socio-cultural and behavioral factors, with a preliminary model of the processes leading to concern-raising behaviors. Results Rates of concern-raising behaviors were significantly higher in Baltimore than London. The model identifies respect and trust as key factors which could be targeted in efforts to improve the quality of SCD pain management in hospital. Conclusion An agenda for international, interdisciplinary research to improve the treatment of SCD pain in hospital should include: comparative analyses between countries and treatment settings of factors that could influence respect and trust; research to test hypotheses derived from models about the roles of respect and trust in the treatment of pain; studies of the impact of healthcare structures and policy on patients’ experiences of care; research focusing on developmental and interpersonal processes related to respect and trust; applications of attribution and other social psychology theories; and development and evaluation of interventions to improve the hospital treatment of SCD pain by increasing respect and trust. PMID:21797726

Cytotoxic prenylated flavones from the stem and root bark of Daphne giraldii.

PubMed

Sun, Qian; Wang, Di; Li, Fei-Fei; Yao, Guo-Dong; Li, Xue; Li, Ling-Zhi; Huang, Xiao-Xiao; Song, Shao-Jiang

2016-08-15

Three new prenylated flavones (1-3), along with three known analogues (4-6), were isolated from the stem and root bark of Daphne giraldii. Their structures were determined by comprehensive NMR and HRESIMS spectroscopic data analyses. The absolute configurations of compounds 2 and 3 were assigned by optical rotation comparison, CD and [Rh2(OCOCF3)4]-induced CD spectral methods. The in vitro cytotoxicity experiments carried out involving five cancer cell lines (U251, A549, HepG2, MCF-7 and Bcap37) showed that 2 markedly inhibited the proliferation of all tested cells with IC50 values ranging from 4.26 to 20.82μM. The preliminary structure-activity relationships of these flavones are discussed. In addition, compound 2 was found to effectively induce apoptosis in HepG2 cells according to a flow cytometry analysis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Genitourinary mast cells and survival

PubMed Central

Stewart, Julia M.

2015-01-01

Mast cells (MCs) are ubiquitous in the body, but they have historically been associated with allergies, and most recently with regulation of immunity and inflammation. However, it remains a puzzle why so many MCs are located in the diencephalon, which regulates emotions and in the genitourinary tract, including the bladder, prostate, penis, vagina and uterus that hardly ever get allergic reactions. A number of papers have reported that MCs have estrogen, gonadotropin and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptors. Moreover, animal experiments have shown that diencephalic MCs increase in number during courting in doves. We had reported that allergic stimulation of nasal MCs leads to hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) activation. Interestingly, anecdotal information indicates that female patients with mastocytosis or mast cell activation syndrome may have increased libido. Preliminary evidence also suggests that MCs may have olfactory receptors. MCs may, therefore, have been retained phylogenetically not only to “smell danger”, but to promote survival and procreation. PMID:26813805

Genitourinary mast cells and survival.

PubMed

Theoharides, Theoharis C; Stewart, Julia M

2015-10-01

Mast cells (MCs) are ubiquitous in the body, but they have historically been associated with allergies, and most recently with regulation of immunity and inflammation. However, it remains a puzzle why so many MCs are located in the diencephalon, which regulates emotions and in the genitourinary tract, including the bladder, prostate, penis, vagina and uterus that hardly ever get allergic reactions. A number of papers have reported that MCs have estrogen, gonadotropin and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptors. Moreover, animal experiments have shown that diencephalic MCs increase in number during courting in doves. We had reported that allergic stimulation of nasal MCs leads to hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal (HPA) activation. Interestingly, anecdotal information indicates that female patients with mastocytosis or mast cell activation syndrome may have increased libido. Preliminary evidence also suggests that MCs may have olfactory receptors. MCs may, therefore, have been retained phylogenetically not only to "smell danger", but to promote survival and procreation.

Development of plasma sources for ICRF heating experiment in KMAX mirror device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Xuan; Liu, Ming; Yi, Hongshen; Lin, Munan; Shi, Peiyun

2016-10-01

KMAX, Keda Mirror with AXisymmeticity, is a tandem mirror machine with a length of 10 meters and diameters of 1.2 meters in the central cell and 0.3 meters in the mirror throat. In the past experiments, the plasma was generated by helicon wave launched from the west end. We obtained the blue core mode in argon discharge, however, it cannot provide sufficient plasma for hydrogen discharge, which is at least 1012 cm-3 required for effective ICRF heating. Several attempts have thus been tried or under design to increase the central cell's plasma density: (1) a washer gun with aperture of 1cm has been successfully tested, and a plasma density of 1013 cm-3 was achieved in the west cell near the gun, however, the plasma is only 1011 cm-3 in the central cell possible due to the mirror trapping and/or neutral quenching effect (2) a larger washer gun with aperture of 2.5 cm and a higher power capacitor bank are being assembled in order to generate more plasmas. In addition, how to mitigate the neutrals is under consideration (3) A hot cathode is been designed and will be tested in combination with plasma gun or alone. Preliminary results from those plasma sources will be presented and discussed.

Development of an alkaline fuel cell subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1987-01-01

A two task program was initiated to develop advanced fuel cell components which could be assembled into an alkaline power section for the Space Station Prototype (SSP) fuel cell subsystem. The first task was to establish a preliminary SSP power section design to be representative of the 200 cell Space Station power section. The second task was to conduct tooling and fabrication trials and fabrication of selected cell stack components. A lightweight, reliable cell stack design suitable for the SSP regenerative fuel cell power plant was completed. The design meets NASA's preliminary requirements for future multikilowatt Space Station missions. Cell stack component fabrication and tooling trials demonstrated cell components of the SSP stack design of the 1.0 sq ft area can be manufactured using techniques and methods previously evaluated and developed.

THE MORPHOLOGICAL BASIS FOR OLFACTORY PERCEPTION OF STEROIDS DUING AGONISTIC BEHAVIOR IN LOBSTER: PRELIMINARY EXPERIMENTS

EPA Science Inventory

The morphological basis for olfactory perception of steroids during agonistic behavior in lobsters: preliminary experiments. Borsay Horowitz, DJ1, Kass-Simon, G2, Coglianese, D2, Martin, L2, Boseman, M2, Cromarty, S3, Randall, K3, Fini, A.3 1US EPA, NHEERL, ORD, Atlantic Ecology...

Global Experience: The Development and Preliminary Evaluation of a Programme Designed to Enhance Students' Global Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Feast, Vicki; Collyer-Braham, Sarah; Bretag, Tracey

2011-01-01

This paper reports on the development and preliminary evaluation of "Global Experience", an innovative programme at the University of South Australia designed to broaden students' intercultural engagement through a range of international experiential activities. The paper provides the rationale for the establishment of the programme…

Three Dimensional Primary Hepatocyte Culture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yoffe, Boris

1998-01-01

Our results demonstrated for the first time the feasibility of culturing PHH in microgravity bioreactors that exceeded the longest period obtained using other methods. Within the first week of culture, isolated hepatocytes started to form aggregates, which continuously increased in size (up to 1 cm) and macroscopically appeared as a multidimensional tissue-like assembly. To improve oxygenation and nutrition within the spheroids we performed experiments with the biodegradable nonwoven fiber-based polymers made from PolyGlycolic Acid (PGA). It has been shown that PGA scaffolds stimulate isolated cells to regenerate tissue with defined sizes and shapes and are currently being studied for various tissue-engineering applications. Our data demonstrated that culturing hepatocytes in the presence of PGA scaffolds resulted in more efficient cell assembly and formations of larger cell spheroids (up to 3 cm in length, see figure). The histology of cell aggregates cultured with PGA showed polymer fibers with attached hepatocytes. We initiated experiments to co-culture primary human hepatocytes with human microvascular endothelial cells in the bioreactor. The presence of endothelial cells in co-cultures were established by immunohistochemistry using anti-CD34 monoclonal Ab. Our preliminary data demonstrated that cultures of purified hepatocytes with human microvascular endothelial cells exhibited better growth and expressed higher levels of albumin MRNA for a longer period of time than cultures of ppfified, primary human hepatocytes cultured alone. We also evaluated microsomal deethylation activity of hepatocytes cultured in the presence of endothelial cells.In summary, we have established liver cell culture, which mimicked the structure and function of the parent tissue.

Preliminary design and hazards report. Boiling Reactor Experiment V (BORAX V)

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

Rice, R. E.

1960-02-01

The preliminary objectives of the proposed BORAX V program are to test nuclear superheating concepts and to advance the technology of boiling-water-reactor design by performing experiments which will improve the understanding of factors limiting the stability of boiling reactors at high power densities. The reactor vessel is a cylinder with ellipsoidal heads, made of carbon steel clad internally with stainless steel. Each of the three cores is 24 in. high and has an effective diameter of 39 in. This is a preliminary report. (W.D.M.)

Autonomous support for microorganism research in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Luttges, M. W.; Klaus, D. M.; Fleet, M. L.; Miller, M. S.; Shipley, D. E.; Smith, J. D.

1992-01-01

A preliminary design for performing on-orbit, autonomous research on microorganisms and cultured cells/tissues is presented. An understanding of gravity and its effects on cells is crucial for space exploration as well as for terrestrial applications. The payload is designed to be compatible with the COMmercial Experiment Transported (COMET) launch vehicle, an orbiter middeck locker interface, and with Space Station Freedom. Uplink/downlink capabilities and sample return through controlled reentry are available for all carriers. Autonomous testing activities are preprogrammed with inflight reprogrammability. Sensors for monitoring temperature, pH, light, gravity levels, vibration, and radiation are provided for environmental regulation and experimental data collection. Additional experiment data acquisition includes optical density measurement, microscopy, video, and file photography. Onboard full data storage capabilities are provided. A fluid transfer mechanism is utilized for inoculation, sampling, and nutrient replenishment of experiment cultures. In addition to payload design, representative experiments were developed to ensure scientific objectives remained compatible with hardware capabilities. The project is defined to provide biological data pertinent to extended duration crewed space flight including crew health issues and development of a Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS). In addition, opportunities are opened for investigations leading to commercial applications of space, such as pharmaceutical development, modeling of terrestrial diseases, and material processing.

Excimer laser annealing to fabricate low cost solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

The objective is to show whether or not pulsed excimer laser annealing (PELA) of ion-implanted junctions is a cost effective replacement for diffused junctions in fabricating crystalline silicon solar cells. The preliminary economic analysis completed shows that the use of PELA to fabricate both the front junction and back surface field (BSF) would cost approximately 35 cents per peak watt (Wp), compared to a cost of 15 cents/Wp for diffusion, aluminum BSF and an extra cleaning step in the baseline process. The cost advantage of the PELA process depends on improving the average cell efficiency from 14% to 16%, which would lower the overall cost of the module by about 15 cents/Wp. An optimized PELA process compatible with commercial production is to be developed, and increased cell efficiency with sufficient product for adequate statistical analysis demonstrated. An excimer laser annealing station was set-up and made operational. The first experiment used 248 nm radiation to anneal phosphorus implants in polished and texture-etched silicon.

Hierarchical patch-based co-registration of differently stained histopathology slides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yigitsoy, Mehmet; Schmidt, Günter

2017-03-01

Over the past decades, digital pathology has emerged as an alternative way of looking at the tissue at subcellular level. It enables multiplexed analysis of different cell types at micron level. Information about cell types can be extracted by staining sections of a tissue block using different markers. However, robust fusion of structural and functional information from different stains is necessary for reproducible multiplexed analysis. Such a fusion can be obtained via image co-registration by establishing spatial correspondences between tissue sections. Spatial correspondences can then be used to transfer various statistics about cell types between sections. However, the multi-modal nature of images and sparse distribution of interesting cell types pose several challenges for the registration of differently stained tissue sections. In this work, we propose a co-registration framework that efficiently addresses such challenges. We present a hierarchical patch-based registration of intensity normalized tissue sections. Preliminary experiments demonstrate the potential of the proposed technique for the fusion of multi-modal information from differently stained digital histopathology sections.

Three new cytotoxic aryltetralin lignans from Sinopodophyllum emodi.

PubMed

Sun, Yan-Jun; Li, Zhan-Lin; Chen, Hong; Liu, Xiao-Qiu; Zhou, Wei; Hua, Hui-Ming

2011-06-15

Three new aryltetralin lignans, 4-acetyl-4-demethyl-podophyllotoxin (1) and sinolignans A, B (2-3), and two new natural products (4-5), were isolated from the roots and rhizomes of Sinopodophyllum emodi together with twelve known lignans (6-17). Their structures and stereochemistry were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic evidence, and circular dichroism (CD) method. The cytotoxic activities of all isolated compounds were evaluated against HeLa and KB cell lines. Compared with etoposide, compounds 1, 6-9, and 13 showed more potent cytotoxicities against two tumor cell lines. On the basis of IC(50) values, deoxypodophyllotoxin (7) was about 579 and 1123 times more toxic than etoposide in HeLa and KB cell lines, respectively. The preliminary SAR study indicated that an oxygenated group at C-7' might decrease cytotoxicity against two cell lines, which was different from most previous studies. However, this needs to be systematically verified by extensive pharmacological experiments. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Clusters of circulating tumor cells traverse capillary-sized vessels

PubMed Central

Au, Sam H.; Storey, Brian D.; Moore, John C.; Tang, Qin; Chen, Yeng-Long; Javaid, Sarah; Sarioglu, A. Fatih; Sullivan, Ryan; Madden, Marissa W.; O’Keefe, Ryan; Haber, Daniel A.; Maheswaran, Shyamala; Langenau, David M.; Stott, Shannon L.; Toner, Mehmet

2016-01-01

Multicellular aggregates of circulating tumor cells (CTC clusters) are potent initiators of distant organ metastasis. However, it is currently assumed that CTC clusters are too large to pass through narrow vessels to reach these organs. Here, we present evidence that challenges this assumption through the use of microfluidic devices designed to mimic human capillary constrictions and CTC clusters obtained from patient and cancer cell origins. Over 90% of clusters containing up to 20 cells successfully traversed 5- to 10-μm constrictions even in whole blood. Clusters rapidly and reversibly reorganized into single-file chain-like geometries that substantially reduced their hydrodynamic resistances. Xenotransplantation of human CTC clusters into zebrafish showed similar reorganization and transit through capillary-sized vessels in vivo. Preliminary experiments demonstrated that clusters could be disrupted during transit using drugs that affected cellular interaction energies. These findings suggest that CTC clusters may contribute a greater role to tumor dissemination than previously believed and may point to strategies for combating CTC cluster-initiated metastasis. PMID:27091969

Experimental research on Ku-band magnetically insulated transmission line oscillator

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

Jiang, Tao; Zhang, Jiande; He, Juntao

2015-10-15

An improved Ku-band magnetically insulated transmission line oscillator is proposed and investigated experimentally. In the particle-in-cell simulation, the Ku-band MILO generates the microwave with a power of 1.62 GW and a frequency of 13 GHz at the input voltage of 474 kV. The device is fabricated based on the simulation results, and an experiment system is designed. In the preliminary experiments, output microwave with frequency of 13.02 GHz, power of 150 MW, and pulse width of 17 ns is generated, under the diode voltage of 450 kV. Analysis on the experiment results shows that plasma produced due to the large current hitting to the outside of themore » collection tank is the essential cause for the low amplitude of the microwave power and short pulse width.« less

ITEL Experiment Module and its Flight on MASER9

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Löth, K.; Schneider, H.; Larsson, B.; Jansson, O.; Houltz, Y.

2002-01-01

The ITEL (Interfacial Turbulence in Evaporating Liquid) module is built under contract from the European Space Agency (ESA) and is scheduled to fly onboard a Sounding Rocket (MASER 9) in March 2002. The project is conducted by Swedish Space Corporation (SSC) with Lambda-X as a subcontractor responsible for the optical system. The Principle Investigator is Pierre Colinet from Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB). The experiment in ITEL on Maser 9 is part of a research program, which will make use of the International Space Station. The purpose of the flight on Maser 9 is to observe the cellular convection (Marangoni-Bénard instability) which arise when the surface tension varies with temperature yielding thermocapillary instabilities. During the 6 minutes of microgravity of the ITEL experiment, a highly volatile liquid layer (ethyl alcohol) will be evaporated, and the convection phenomena generated by the evaporation process will be visualized. Due to the cooling by latent heat consumption at the level of the evaporating free surface, a temperature gradient is induced perpendicularly to it. The flight experiment module contains one experiment cell, including a gas system for regulation of nitrogen flow over the evaporating surface and an injection unit that is used for injection of liquid into the cell both initially and during surface regulation. The experiment cell is equipped with pressure and flow sensors as well as thermocouples both inside the liquid and at different positions in the cell. Two optical diagnostic systems have been developed around the experiment cell. An interferometric optical tomograph measures the 3-dimensional distribution of temperature in the evaporating liquid and a Schlieren system visualizes the temperature gradients inside the liquid together with the liquid surface deformation. A PC/104 based electronic system is used for management and control of the experiment. The electronic system handles measurements, housekeeping, image capture system, surface and pressure regulation as well as storage of data. The images are stored onboard on three DV tape recorders. At flight, video images as well as data is sent to ground and the experiment can be controlled via telecommands. In this presentation we will focus on the technical parts of the experiment, the overall module and the preliminary technical results obtained from the flight, including reconstructions of 3-dimensional temperature distributions.

Frequency domain fluorescence diffuse tomography of small animals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orlova, Anna G.; Turchin, Ilya V.; Kamensky, Vladislav A.; Plehanov, Vladimir I.; Balalaeva, Irina V.; Sergeeva, Ekaterina A.; Shirmanova, Marina V.; Kleshnin, Michail S.

2007-05-01

Fluorescent compounds for selective cancer cell marking are used for development of novel medical diagnostic methods, investigation of the influence of external factors on tumor growth, regress and metastasis. Only special tools for turbid media imaging, such as optical diffusion tomography permit noninvasive monitoring of fluorescent-labeled tumor alterations deep in animal tissue. In this work, the results of preliminary experiments utilizing frequency-domain fluorescent diffusion tomography (FD FDT) experimental setup in small animal are presented. Low-frequency modulated light (1 kHz) from Nd:YAG laser with second harmonic generation at the wavelength of 532 nm was used in the setup. The transilluminative planar configuration was used in the setup. A series of model experiments has been conducted and show good agreement between theoretical and experimental fluorescence intensity. Models of deep tumors were created by two methods: (1) glass capsules containing fluorophore solution were inserted into esophagus of small animals to simulate marked tumors; (2) a suspension of transfected HEΚ293-Turbo-RFP cells was subcutaneously injected to small animal. The conducted experiments have shown that FD FDT allows one to detect the presence of labeled tumor cells in small animals, to determine the volume of an experimental tumor, to perform 3D tumor reconstruction, as well as to conduct monitoring investigations. The obtained results demonstrate the potential capability of the FD FDT method for noninvasive whole-body imaging in cancer studies, diagnostics and therapy.

Inhibition of cell proliferation by mitomycin C incorporated into P(HEMA) hydrogels.

PubMed

Blake, Diane A; Sahiner, Nurettin; John, Vijay T; Clinton, Antoine D; Galler, Korianne E; Walsh, Molly; Arosemena, Analisa; Johnson, Pamela Y; Ayyala, Ramesh S

2006-08-01

The technique of mitomycin C (MMC) drug delivery and its application in glaucoma surgery are not standardized with resultant inconsistencies in the results. Also, one time application of MMC does not seem to have the same efficacy after glaucoma drainage device surgeries compared with trabeculectomies. This preliminary study examined the efficacy of a slow release form of MMC for its ability to inhibit cell proliferation in vitro. MMC was incorporated into 1% P(HEMA) hydrogels using a redox polymerization method. For some experiments, unreacted low molecular weight components were removed from the hydrogels before the MMC was incorporated. Sterile disks (8 mm) of each polymer sample were affixed to 60 mm tissue culture dishes, and the dishes were inoculated with COS-1 cells or early passage human conjunctival fibroblasts. After 7 days in culture, the number of cells in each dish was determined. Cell morphology was assessed in replicate cultures after fixation and staining. Hydrogels with unreacted low molecular weight components slowed cell proliferation and induced morphologic changes. Early passage human conjunctival fibroblasts were more sensitive than COS-1 cells both to intrinsic contaminants in the hydrogels and to incorporated MMC. Once contaminants had been removed, MMC-loaded hydrogels inhibited conjunctival fibroblast proliferation in a dose-dependent fashion, with an IC50 of approximately 0.15 mg/g polymer. This study demonstrates that a slow release form of MMC can inhibit cell proliferation in vitro. Future experiments will focus upon the efficacy of this polymer-bound form during in vivo wound healing.

Deciphering complex, functional structures with synchrotron-based absorption and phase contrast tomographic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stampanoni, M.; Reichold, J.; Weber, B.; Haberthür, D.; Schittny, J.; Eller, J.; Büchi, F. N.; Marone, F.

2010-09-01

Nowadays, thanks to the high brilliance available at modern, third generation synchrotron facilities and recent developments in detector technology, it is possible to record volumetric information at the micrometer scale within few minutes. High signal-to-noise ratio, quantitative information on very complex structures like the brain micro vessel architecture, lung airways or fuel cells can be obtained thanks to the combination of dedicated sample preparation protocols, in-situ acquisition schemes and cutting-edge imaging analysis instruments. In this work we report on recent experiments carried out at the TOMCAT beamline of the Swiss Light Source [1] where synchrotron-based tomographic microscopy has been successfully used to obtain fundamental information on preliminary models for cerebral fluid flow [2], to provide an accurate mesh for 3D finite-element simulation of the alveolar structure of the pulmonary acinus [3] and to investigate the complex functional mechanism of fuel cells [4]. Further, we introduce preliminary results on the combination of absorption and phase contrast microscopy for the visualization of high-Z nanoparticles in soft tissues, a fundamental information when designing modern drug delivery systems [5]. As an outlook we briefly discuss the new possibilities offered by high sensitivity, high resolution grating interferomtery as well as Zernike Phase contrast nanotomography [6].

Preliminary Flight Results of the Microelectronics and Photonics Test Bed: NASA DR1773 Fiber Optic Data Bus Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jackson, George L.; LaBel, Kenneth A.; Marshall, Cheryl; Barth, Janet; Seidleck, Christina; Marshall, Paul

1998-01-01

NASA Goddard Spare Flight Center's (GSFC) Dual Rate 1773 (DR1773) Experiment on the Microelectronic and Photonic Test Bed (MPTB) has provided valuable information on the performance of the AS 1773 fiber optic data bus in the space radiation environment. Correlation of preliminary experiment data to ground based radiation test results show the AS 1773 bus is employable in future spacecraft applications requiring radiation tolerant communication links.

Behavior of HepG2 liver cancer cells using microfluidic-microscopy: a preliminary study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karamahmutoglu, Hande; ćetin, Metin; Yaǧcı, Tamer; Elitaş, Meltem

2018-02-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common types of liver cancer causing death all over the world. Although early-stage liver cancer can sometimes be treated with partial hepatectomy, liver transplantation, ablation, and embolization, sorafenib treatment is the only approved systemic therapy for advanced HCC. The aim of this research is to develop tools and methods to understand the individuality of hepatocellular carcinoma. Microfluidic cell-culture platform has been developed to observe behavior of single-cells; fluorescence microscopy has been implemented to investigate phenotypic changes of cells. Our preliminary data proved high-level heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma while verifying limited growth of liver cancer cell lines on the silicon wafer.

Bio-Aerosol Detection Using Mass Spectrometry: Public Health Applications

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

Ludvigson, Laura D.

2004-01-01

I recently spent a summer as an intern at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. I worked on a project involving the real-time, reagentless, single cell detection of aerosolized pathogens using a novel mass spectrometry approach called Bio-Aerosol Mass Spectrometry (BAMS). Based upon preliminary results showing the differentiation capabilities of BAMS, I would like to explore the development and use of this novel detection system in the context of both environmental and clinical sample pathogen detection. I would also like to explore the broader public health applications that a system such as BAMS might have in terms of infectious disease preventionmore » and control. In order to appreciate the potential of this instrument, I will demonstrate the need for better pathogen detection methods, and outline the instrumentation, data analysis and preliminary results that lead me toward a desire to explore this technology further. I will also discuss potential experiments for the future along with possible problems that may be encountered along the way.« less

Preliminary approach to elucidate the role of pigment as a binding site for drugs and chemicals in anagen hair: differential uptake of 3H-haloperidol by pigment-producing compared to non-pigment-producing cell lines.

PubMed

Pötsch, L; Emmerich, P; Skopp, G

2002-02-01

A striking difference was observed for cellular-bound drug in HaCaT and Sk-Mel-1 cells for a fixed drug exposure time of 72 h and varying 3H-haloperidol concentrations in the culture media. Drug uptake was dependent on drug concentration and linearly correlated for both the non-pigment- and the pigment-producing cells which however was different in magnitude. In an additional investigation the time course of drug uptake during 3H-haloperidol exposure (400 pmol/ml; 28 days) revealed increasing drug concentrations in the Sk-Mel-1 population, whereas drug concentrations in the keratinocytes reached a plateau within a short time period. In contrast to the HaCaT cells no tendency to saturation was observed for the pigment-producing cell line. At the end of the experiments 3H-haloperidol concentrations in Sk-Mel-1 were found to be approximately tenfold higher than in HaCaT.

Cycles till failure of silver-zinc cells with competing failure modes - Preliminary data analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sidik, S. M.; Leibecki, H. F.; Bozek, J. M.

1980-01-01

The data analysis of cycles to failure of silver-zinc electrochemical cells with competing failure modes is presented. The test ran 129 cells through charge-discharge cycles until failure; preliminary data analysis consisted of response surface estimate of life. Batteries fail through low voltage condition and an internal shorting condition; a competing failure modes analysis was made using maximum likelihood estimation for the extreme value life distribution. Extensive residual plotting and probability plotting were used to verify data quality and selection of model.

Ovarian folliculogenesis: detrimental effect of prenatal exposure to cyclophosphamide: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Ray, B; Potu, B K

2010-01-01

To investigate whether cyclophosphamide interferes with ovarian folliculogenesis. In this experiment, pregnant rats (n=12) were randomly assigned into two groups, control group (n=6) and cyclophosphamide treatment group (n=6). In the cyclophosphamide treatment group cyclophosphamide was injected intraperitoneally from day 10 of gestation till 20th day, at 2 mg/kg of body weight. The pregnant rats were sacrificed on gestation day 20 and the fetus was collected. The collected fetuses were processed for sectioning and stained with haematoxyline and eosin for microscopic observation of the ovaries. A meshwork-like appearance of mesenchyme with decreased number of somatic cells and absence of the majority of the germ cells in the ovarian follicles were found in treated fetus. Non-availability of primordial germ cells stopped the interaction between primordial germ cells and somatic supporting cells leading to nonproliferation and degeneration of somatic cells and fluid-filled vacant spaces in the meshwork -like arrangement of mesenchymal cells. We conclude that cyclophosphamide exposure prevents folliculogenesis by causing anovulation and results in infertility. The same detrimental effect might be seen in human fertility with environmental pollutants which are also metabolites of the drug (Fig. 2, Ref. 25).

Biological characterization of metanephric mesenchymal stem cells from the Beijing duck.

PubMed

Chen, Jia; Pu, Yabin; Sun, Yujiao; Zhang, Ping; Li, Qian; Wang, Kunfu; Wang, Wenjie; Ma, Yuehui; Guan, Weijun

2016-02-01

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess self-proliferation and multi-directional differentiation abilities. Previous studies on MSCs have mostly focused on the bone marrow, lungs, pancreas and umbilical cord blood, with few studies on metanephric tissues in ducks. For the present study, the Beijing duck was selected as an experimental animal. Duck embryo metanephric mesenchymal stem cells (MMSCs) were studied. MMSC isolation culture, analysis of biological characteristics, induced differentiation and identification were performed in preliminary experiments. In the current study, surface antigens and gene expression patterns were detected using immunofluorescence, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry. The induced cells, adipocytes, hepatocytes, epithelial cells and islet cells were identified by oil red O staining, periodic acid-Schiff staining, immunofluorescence and dithizone staining, respectively. RT-PCR was performed for detection of specific marker genes. The results suggested that the biological characteristics of MMSCs were similar to those of the MSCs previously analyzed. Primary MMSCs were sub-cultured to passage 21. The induced cells exhibit typical staining and immunofluorescence indicating the expression of specific genes. This demonstrates that MMSCs may be a novel alternative source of MSCs for experimental and clinical applications.

Investigating the use of in situ liquid cell scanning transmission electron microscopy to explore DNA-mediated gold nanoparticle growth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguy, Amanda

Engineering nanoparticles with desired shape-dependent properties is the key to many applications in nanotechnology. Although many synthetic procedures exist to produce anisotropic gold nanoparticles, the dynamics of growth are typically unknown or hypothetical. In the case of seed-mediated growth in the presence of DNA into anisotropic nanoparticles, it is not known exactly how DNA directs growth into specific morphologies. A series of preliminary experiments were carried out to contribute to the investigation of the possible mechanism of DNA-mediated growth of gold nanoprisms into gold nanostars using liquid cell scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Imaging in the liquid phase was achieved through the use of a liquid cell platform and liquid cell holder that allow the sample to be contained within a “chip sandwich” between two electron transparent windows. Ex situ growth experiments were performed using Au-T30 NPrisms (30-base thymine oligonucleotide-coated gold nanoprisms) that are expected to grow into gold nanostars. Growth to form these nanostars were imaged using TEM (transmission electron microscopy) and liquid cell STEM (scanning transmission electron microscopy). An attempt to perform in situ growth experiments with the same Au-T30 nanoprisms revealed challenges in obtaining desired morphology results due to the environmental differences within the liquid cell compared to the ex situ environment. Different parameters in the experimental method were explored including fluid line set up, simultaneous and alternating reagent addition, and the effect of different liquid cell volumes to ensure adequate flow of reagents into the liquid cell. Lastly, the binding affinities were compared for T30 and A30 DNA incubated with gold nanoparticles using zeta potential measurements, absorption spectroscopy, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). It was previously reported thymine bases have a lower binding affinity to gold surfaces than adenine bases. However, the results reported here contradict the previously reported data. Future prospectives on this work are outlined.

Investigating the use of in situ liquid cell scanning transmission electron microscopy

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

Nguy, Amanda

2016-02-19

Engineering nanoparticles with desired shape-dependent properties is the key to many applications in nanotechnology. Although many synthetic procedures exist to produce anisotropic gold nanoparticles, the dynamics of growth are typically unknown or hypothetical. In the case of seed-mediated growth in the presence of DNA into anisotropic nanoparticles, it is not known exactly how DNA directs growth into specific morphologies. A series of preliminary experiments were carried out to contribute to the investigation of the possible mechanism of DNA-mediated growth of gold nanoprisms into gold nanostars using liquid cell scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Imaging in the liquid phase was achievedmore » through the use of a liquid cell platform and liquid cell holder that allow the sample to be contained within a “chip sandwich” between two electron transparent windows. Ex situ growth experiments were performed using Au-T30 NPrisms (30-base thymine oligonucleotide-coated gold nanoprisms) that are expected to grow into gold nanostars. Growth to form these nanostars were imaged using TEM (transmission electron microscopy) and liquid cell STEM (scanning transmission electron microscopy). An attempt to perform in situ growth experiments with the same Au-T30 nanoprisms revealed challenges in obtaining desired morphology results due to the environmental differences within the liquid cell compared to the ex situ environment. Different parameters in the experimental method were explored including fluid line set up, simultaneous and alternating reagent addition, and the effect of different liquid cell volumes to ensure adequate flow of reagents into the liquid cell. Lastly, the binding affinities were compared for T30 and A30 DNA incubated with gold nanoparticles using zeta potential measurements, absorption spectroscopy, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). It was previously reported thymine bases have a lower binding affinity to gold surfaces than adenine bases. However, the results reported here contradict the previously reported data. Future prospectives on this work are outlined.« less

Some experiences in aircraft aeroelastic design using Preliminary Aeroelastic Design of Structures (PAD)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Radovcich, N. A.

1984-01-01

The design experience associated with a benchmark aeroelastic design of an out of production transport aircraft is discussed. Current work being performed on a high aspect ratio wing design is reported. The Preliminary Aeroelastic Design of Structures (PADS) system is briefly summarized and some operational aspects of generating the design in an automated aeroelastic design environment are discussed.

Teaching Note--Description and Preliminary Evaluation of a Modified College Experience for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Remis, Kimberly; Moore, Crystal Dea; Pichardo, Julia; Rosario, Zuliany; Moore, Jeffrey Palmer

2017-01-01

This article describes the implementation and preliminary evaluation of a modified college experience for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) at a small liberal arts college. To increase social work students' interest in working with this population and access of people with IDD to higher education, Bridges to Skidmore…

Techniques for studying the effects of microgravity on model particle/cell systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Young, Ronald B.

1988-01-01

To study the direct effects of a low gravity environment on skeletal and cardiac muscle cells, experiments were initiated to determine whether skeletal and/or cardiac muscule cells would grow within the lumen of XM-80 hollow fibers (i.d. = 0.5 mm). Cells were prepared from skeletal or cardiac muscle tissue of 12 day embryos and were cultured for up to 7 days in the hollow fiber environment. Light microscopy revealed that cells proliferated to confluency over this period of time and fusion was apparent in the skeletal muscle cells. Once it was verified that cells would grow to confluency, additional XM-80 fibers containing cells were placed in a Clinostat in the horizontal position at 100 rpm. Fibers were stretched by a built-in spring mechanism to hold the fiber tightly at the center of rotation. Under these conditions, the gravity vector approaches zero and the cells are in an environment that simulates microgravity. Examination of skeletal muscle cells by electron microscopy revealed that myoblast fusion and myofibril accumulation were extensive. Although data obtained thus far are preliminary, they suggest that myofibril organization in chicken skeletal muscle cultures is somewhat more poorly defined in Clinostat rotated cultures than in controls that were not subjected to Clinostat conditions.

Preliminary design of flight hardware for two-phase fluid research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hustvedt, D. C.; Oonk, R. L.

1982-01-01

This study defined the preliminary designs of flight software for the Space Shuttle Orbiter for three two-phase fluid research experiments: (1) liquid reorientation - to study the motion of liquid in tanks subjected to small accelerations; (2) pool boiling - to study low-gravity boiling from horizontal cylinders; and (3) flow boiling - to study low-gravity forced flow boiling heat transfer and flow phenomena in a heated horizontal tube. The study consisted of eight major tasks: reassessment of the existing experiment designs, assessment of the Spacelab facility approach, assessment of the individual carry-on approach, selection of the preferred approach, preliminary design of flight hardware, safety analysis, preparation of a development plan, estimates of detailed design, fabrication and ground testing costs. The most cost effective design approach for the experiments is individual carry-ons in the Orbiter middeck. The experiments were designed to fit into one or two middeck lockers. Development schedules for the detailed design, fabrication and ground testing ranged from 15 1/2 to 18 months. Minimum costs (in 1981 dollars) ranged from $463K for the liquid reorientation experiment to $998K for the pool boiling experiment.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of Enterococcus faecium aminoglycoside-2′′-phosphotransferase-Ib [APH(2′′)-Ib

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

Walanj, Rupa; Young, Paul; Baker, Heather M.

2005-04-01

APH(2′′)-Ib is an enzyme responsible for high-level gentamicin resistance in E. faecium isolates. Native crystals of this enzyme have been prepared and preliminary X-ray diffraction experiments have been undertaken. Bacterial resistance to the aminoglycoside antibiotics is primarily the result of deactivation of the drugs. Three families of enzymes are responsible for this activity, with one such family being the aminoglycoside phosphotransferases (APHs). The gene encoding one of these enzymes, APH(2′′)-Ib, has been cloned and the protein (comprising 299 amino-acid residues) expressed in Escherichia coli, purified and crystallized in the presence of 16%(w/v) PEG 3350 and gentamicin. The crystals belong tomore » the monoclinic space group P2{sub 1}, with approximate unit-cell parameters a = 79.7, b = 58.8, c = 81.4 Å, β = 98.4°, and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis is consistent with the presence of two molecules in the asymmetric unit. Synchrotron diffraction data to approximately 2.65 Å resolution were collected from a native APH(2′′)-Ib crystal at beamline BL9-2 at SSRL (Stanford, CA, USA). Selenium-substituted crystals have also been produced and structure determination is proceeding.« less

Preliminary ex vivo feasibility study on targeted cell surgery by high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).

PubMed

Wang, Zhi Biao; Wu, Junru; Fang, Liao Qiong; Wang, Hua; Li, Fa Qi; Tian, Yun Bo; Gong, Xiao Bo; Zhang, Hong; Zhang, Lian; Feng, Ruo

2011-04-01

High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has become a new noninvasive surgical modality in medicine. A portion of tissue seated inside a patient's body may experience coagulative necrosis after a few seconds of insonification by high intensity focused ultrasound (US) generated by an extracorporeal focusing US transducer. The region of tissue affected by coagulative necrosis (CN) usually has an ellipsoidal shape when the thermal effect due to US absorption plays the dominant role. Its long and short axes are parallel and perpendicular to the US propagation direction respectively. It was shown by numerical computations using a nonlinear Gaussian beams model to describe the sound field in a focal zone and ex vivo experiments that the dimension of the short and long axes of the tissue which experiences CN can be as small as 50μm and 250μm respectively after one second exposure of US pulse (the spatial and pulse average acoustic power is on the order of tens of Watts and the local acoustic spatial and temporal pulse averaged intensity is on the order of 3×10(4)W/cm(2)) generated by a 1.6MHz HIFU transducer of 12cm diameter and 11cm geometric focal length (f-number=0.92). The concept of thermal dose of cumulative equivalent minutes was used to describe the possible tissue coagulative necrosis generated by HIFU. The numbers of cells which suffered CN were estimated to be on the order of 40. This result suggests that HIFU is able to interact with tens of cells at/near its focal zone while keeping the neighboring cells minimally affected, and thus the targeted cell surgery may be achievable. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inflammation in adult women with a history of child maltreatment: The involvement of mitochondrial alterations and oxidative stress.

PubMed

Boeck, Christina; Koenig, Alexandra Maria; Schury, Katharina; Geiger, Martha Leonie; Karabatsiakis, Alexander; Wilker, Sarah; Waller, Christiane; Gündel, Harald; Fegert, Jörg Michael; Calzia, Enrico; Kolassa, Iris-Tatjana

2016-09-01

The experience of maltreatment during childhood is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation in adulthood. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this pro-inflammatory phenotype remain unclear. Mitochondria were recently found to principally coordinate inflammatory processes via both inflammasome activation and inflammasome-independent pathways. To this end, we hypothesized that alterations in immune cell mitochondrial functioning and oxidative stress might be at the interface between the association of maltreatment experiences during childhood and inflammation. We analyzed pro-inflammatory biomarkers (levels of C-reactive protein, cytokine secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in vitro, PBMC composition, lysophosphatidylcholine levels), serum oxidative stress levels (arginine:citrulline ratio, l-carnitine and acetylcarnitine levels) and mitochondrial functioning (respiratory activity and density of mitochondria in PBMC) in peripheral blood samples collected from 30 women (aged 22-44years) with varying degrees of maltreatment experiences in form of abuse and neglect during childhood. Exposure to maltreatment during childhood was associated with an increased ROS production, higher levels of oxidative stress and an increased mitochondrial activity in a dose-response relationship. Moreover, the increase in mitochondrial activity and ROS production were positively associated with the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines by PBMC. Decreased serum levels of lysophosphatidylcholines suggested higher inflammasome activation with increasing severity of child maltreatment experiences. Together these findings offer preliminary evidence for the association of alterations in immune cell mitochondrial functioning, oxidative stress and the pro-inflammatory phenotype observed in individuals with a history of maltreatment during childhood. The results emphasize that the early prevention of child abuse and neglect warrants more attention, as the experience of maltreatment during childhood might have life-long consequences for physical health. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. and Mitochondria Research Society. All rights reserved.

Parental perspectives of an adolescent/young adult stem cell transplant and a music video intervention.

PubMed

Burns, Debra S; Robb, Sheri L; Phillips-Salimi, Celeste; Haase, Joan E

2010-01-01

Parents experience high levels of distress during their child's stem cell transplant that can decrease the ability to support their child and effectively communicate with healthcare providers. Because parents are a primary source of support, their perspectives are very important when evaluating supportive care interventions for their adolescents/young adults. This study examined parents' perspective of their adolescents or young adults' (AYAs') experience with stem cell transplantation (SCT) and involvement in a therapeutic music video (TMV) intervention. This was a phenomenological study using parents' interviews. The sample included 7 parents of 6 adolescents/young adults ranging in age from 13 to 21 years hospitalized for SCT for an oncology-related condition. Parents' interviews were conducted 100 days after transplantation. Sessions were audio taped, transcribed, and analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis. We analyzed more than 350 significant statements from 7 parents. Seven theme categories emerged: (1) humbling, humiliating, horrible: parents' perspectives on the cancer experiences and SCT; (2) gratitude for the benefits of TMV intervention; (3) enhanced communication; (4) connectedness; (5) watching my AYA change and grow; (6) process of parent gaining insight; and (7) and an ironic recognition of both the sad and beautiful: parents' response to the TMV intervention. Parents' narratives suggest that the TMV intervention is a way to buffer the challenges related to SCT, and a larger study is warranted. These preliminary data offer clinicians insight into parent perceptions about the cancer experience, specifically SCT for their AYA child, and can be used to inform and shape clinical care. Findings reinforce the importance of offering AYAs opportunities to experience independence and mastery and engage in meaningful communication during transplant.

Space processing applications payload equipment study. Volume 2B: Payload interface analysis (power/thermal/electromagnetic compatibility)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hammel, R. L. (Editor); Smith, A. G. (Editor)

1974-01-01

As a part of the task of performing preliminary engineering analysis of modular payload subelement/host vehicle interfaces, a subsystem interface analysis was performed to establish the integrity of the modular approach to the equipment design and integration. Salient areas that were selected for analysis were power and power conditioning, heat rejection and electromagnetic capability (EMC). The equipment and load profiles for twelve representative experiments were identified. Two of the twelve experiments were chosen as being representative of the group and have been described in greater detail to illustrate the evaluations used in the analysis. The shuttle orbiter will provide electrical power from its three fuel cells in support of the orbiter and the Spacelab operations. One of the three shuttle orbiter fuel cells will be dedicated to the Spacelab electrical power requirements during normal shuttle operation. This power supplies the Spacelab subsystems and the excess will be available to the payload. The current Spacelab sybsystem requirements result in a payload allocation of 4.0 to 4.8 kW average (24 hour/day) and 9.0 kW peak for 15 minutes.

Experiments on planetary ices at UCL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grindrod, P. M.; Fortes, A. D.; Wood, I. G.; Dobson, D.; Sammonds, P. R.; Stone-Drake, L.; Vocadlo, L.

2007-08-01

Using a suite of techniques and equipment, we conduct several different types of experiments on planetary ices at UCL. Samples are prepared in the Ice Physics Laboratory, which consists of a 5 chamber complex of inter-connected cold rooms, controllable from +30 to -30 deg C. Within this laboratory we have a functioning triaxial deformation cell operating at low temperature (down to -90 deg C) and high pressures (300 MPa), an Automatic Ice Fabric Analyser (AIFA) and a low-temperature microscope with CCD output. Polycrystalline samples, 40mm diameter by 100mm long, are compressed in the triaxial rig with a confining pressure; single crystal specimens are compressed in a separate uniaxial creep rig which operates at zero confining pressure for surface studies. A cold stage is also available for study of ice microstructural studies on our new Jeol JSM-6480LV SEM, which also allows tensile, compression and/or bending tests, with load ranges from less than 2N to 5000N. Finally, we also use a cold stage on a new PANalytical, X'pert PRO MPD, high resolution powder diffractometer to study the structure and phase behaviour of icy materials. Recent highlights of our work include: (1) derivation of a manufacturing process for methane clathrate at low temperatures, analysed in the X-Ray Diffraction Laboratory, for future rheological experiments, (2) analysed the growth behaviour of MS11, (3) refurbished and commenced calibration tests on the triaxial deformation cell using ice Ih, and (4) performed creep tests on gypsum and epsomite using the single crystal deformation cell. Further experiments will build on these preliminary results.

History of child maltreatment and telomere length in immune cell subsets: Associations with stress- and attachment-related hormones.

PubMed

Boeck, Christina; Krause, Sabrina; Karabatsiakis, Alexander; Schury, Katharina; Gündel, Harald; Waller, Christiane; Kolassa, Iris-Tatjana

2018-05-01

Experiencing maltreatment during childhood can have long-lasting consequences for both mental and physical health. Immune cell telomere length (TL) shortening might be one link between child maltreatment (CM) experiences and adverse health outcomes later in life. While the stress hormone cortisol has been associated with TL attrition, the attachment-related hormone oxytocin may promote resilience. In 15 mothers with and 15 age- and body mass index-matched mothers without CM, we assessed TL in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and selected immune cell subsets (monocytes, naive, and memory cytotoxic T cells) by quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization, as well as peripheral cortisol and oxytocin levels. Memory cytotoxic T cells showed significantly shorter TL in association with CM, whereas TL in monocytes and naive cytotoxic T cells did not significantly differ between the two groups. Across both groups, cortisol was negatively associated with TL, while oxytocin was positively associated with TL in memory cytotoxic T cells. These results indicate that long-lived memory cytotoxic T cells are most affected by the increased biological stress state associated with CM. Keeping in mind the correlational and preliminary nature of the results, the data suggest that cortisol may have a damaging and oxytocin a protective function on TL.

Preliminary design study for an atomospheric science facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutchison, R.

1972-01-01

The activities and results of the Atmospheric Science Facility preliminary design study are reported. The objectives of the study were to define the scientific goals, to determine the range of experiment types, and to develop the preliminary instrument design requirements for a reusable, general purpose, optical research facility for investigating the earth's atmosphere from a space shuttle orbital vehicle.

In vitro dissolution of uranium oxide by baboon alveolar macrophages.

PubMed Central

Poncy, J L; Metivier, H; Dhilly, M; Verry, M; Masse, R

1992-01-01

In vitro cellular dissolution tests for insoluble forms of uranium oxide are technically difficult with conventional methodology using adherent alveolar macrophages. The limited number of cells per flask and the slow dissolution rate in a large volume of nutritive medium are obvious restricting factors. Macrophages in suspension cannot be substituted because they represent different and poorly reproducible functional subtypes with regard to activation and enzyme secretion. Preliminary results on the dissolution of uranium oxide using immobilized alveolar macrophages are promising because large numbers of highly functional macrophages can be cultured in a limited volume. Cells were obtained by bronchoalveolar lavages performed on baboons (Papio papio) and then immobilized after the phagocytosis of uranium octoxide (U3O8) particles in alginate beads linked with Ca2+. The dissolution rate expressed as percentage of initial uranium content in cells was 0.039 +/- 0.016%/day for particles with a count median geometric diameter of 3.84 microns(sigma g = 1.84). A 2-fold increase in the dissolution rate was observed when the same number of particles was immobilized without macrophages. These results, obtained in vitro, suggest that the U3O8 preparation investigated should be assigned to inhalation class Y as recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. Future experiments are intended to clarify this preliminary work and to examine the dissolution characteristics of other particles such as uranium dioxide. It is recommended that the dissolution rate should be measured over an interval of 3 weeks, which is compatible with the survival time of immobilized cells in culture and may reveal transformation states occurring with aging of the particles. PMID:1396447

["Soiuz-Apollo" experimental flight. Preliminary results of medicobiological studies, carried out during the flight of "Soiuz-19" spaceship].

PubMed

Vorob'ev, E I; Gazenko, O G; Gurovskiĭ, N N; Nefedov, Iu G; Egorov, B B

1976-01-01

The paper presents brief information on the Apollo-Soyuz test mission, its program biomedical investigations to be carried out in flight and specific medical aspects. It discusses the main tasks of the joint US-USSR experiments and Soviet experiments. It gives and analyzes preliminary results of medical monitoring and postflight examinations of the crew members.

A research experiment on facilitation and formation of joint research and development programs between government, industry, and universities: Overview, preliminary findings, and observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shariq, Syed Z.

1992-01-01

Presented is an overview of an experiment to explore the free-market approach to public-private collaboration through the development and implementation of a joint venture mechanism to enable formation of R&D projects between government, industry and academia. Some preliminary results related to time-to-commercialization and economic competitiveness are discussed.

Laboratory Measurements of the Sound Generated by Breaking Waves

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-01

these techniques have not yet proven effective for studying the dynamics of breaking. The primary motivation for the research 3 presented in this...experiments described in this thesis were motivated by the fact that these preliminary experiments described above demonstrated that the simple I...1991. The research was motivated by the fact that preliminary measurements by Melville, Loewen, Felizardo, Jessup and Buckingham (1988) demonstrated

The discovery of long-term potentiation.

PubMed

Lømo, Terje

2003-04-29

This paper describes circumstances around the discovery of long-term potentiation (LTP). In 1966, I had just begun independent work for the degree of Dr medicinae (PhD) in Per Andersen's laboratory in Oslo after an eighteen-month apprenticeship with him. Studying the effects of activating the perforant path to dentate granule cells in the hippocampus of anaesthetized rabbits, I observed that brief trains of stimuli resulted in increased efficiency of transmission at the perforant path-granule cell synapses that could last for hours. In 1968, Tim Bliss came to Per Andersen's laboratory to learn about the hippocampus and field potential recording for studies of possible memory mechanisms. The two of us then followed up my preliminary results from 1966 and did the experiments that resulted in a paper that is now properly considered to be the basic reference for the discovery of LTP.

How Much Can We Learn from a Single Chromatographic Experiment? A Bayesian Perspective.

PubMed

Wiczling, Paweł; Kaliszan, Roman

2016-01-05

In this work, we proposed and investigated a Bayesian inference procedure to find the desired chromatographic conditions based on known analyte properties (lipophilicity, pKa, and polar surface area) using one preliminary experiment. A previously developed nonlinear mixed effect model was used to specify the prior information about a new analyte with known physicochemical properties. Further, the prior (no preliminary data) and posterior predictive distribution (prior + one experiment) were determined sequentially to search towards the desired separation. The following isocratic high-performance reversed-phase liquid chromatographic conditions were sought: (1) retention time of a single analyte within the range of 4-6 min and (2) baseline separation of two analytes with retention times within the range of 4-10 min. The empirical posterior Bayesian distribution of parameters was estimated using the "slice sampling" Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm implemented in Matlab. The simulations with artificial analytes and experimental data of ketoprofen and papaverine were used to test the proposed methodology. The simulation experiment showed that for a single and two randomly selected analytes, there is 97% and 74% probability of obtaining a successful chromatogram using none or one preliminary experiment. The desired separation for ketoprofen and papaverine was established based on a single experiment. It was confirmed that the search for a desired separation rarely requires a large number of chromatographic analyses at least for a simple optimization problem. The proposed Bayesian-based optimization scheme is a powerful method of finding a desired chromatographic separation based on a small number of preliminary experiments.

A novel rotating experimental platform in a superconducting magnet.

PubMed

Chen, Da; Cao, Hui-Ling; Ye, Ya-Jing; Dong, Chen; Liu, Yong-Ming; Shang, Peng; Yin, Da-Chuan

2016-08-01

This paper introduces a novel platform designed to be used in a strong static magnetic field (in a superconducting magnet). The platform is a sample holder that rotates in the strong magnetic field. Any samples placed in the platform will rotate due to the rotation of the sample holder. With this platform, a number of experiments such as material processing, culture of biological systems, chemical reactions, or other processes can be carried out. In this report, we present some preliminary experiments (protein crystallization, cell culture, and seed germination) conducted using this platform. The experimental results showed that the platform can affect the processes, indicating that it provides a novel environment that has not been investigated before and that the effects of such an environment on many different physical, chemical, or biological processes can be potentially useful for applications in many fields.

Producing ‘superponderomotive’ electrons in ashort cavitated channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, J.; Yang, Y.; Zhao, Z. Q.; Wu, Y. C.; Dong, K. G.; Zhang, T. K.; Gu, Y. Q.

2017-11-01

Particle-in-cell simulations suggest that a short cavitated channel in relativistic near-critical density plasma can be readily created by relativistic self-transparency and hole-boring effect. The strong self-generated magnetic fields confine the electrons in the plasma channel. Assisted by the magnetic fields, the electrons resonance with the laser fields at betatron resonance frequency {ω }β . Consequently, highly energetic electrons with small divergence can be created by the betatron resonance regime. However, preliminary experiment results show higher temperature and larger divergence, compared to our simulation results. We argue that this difference would come from imperfect homogenization of foam target. Thus, the classical betatron resonance heating regime in a large scale of pre-plasma, which is proposed by Pukhov et al (1996 Phys. Rev. Lett. 76, 3975-8), would explain the experiment results instead.

Cell and Particle Interactions and Aggregation During Electrophoretic Motion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Robert H.

2000-01-01

The objectives of this research were (i) to perform experiments for observing and quantifying electrophoretic aggregation, (ii) to develop a theoretical description to appropriately analyze and compare with the experimental results, (iii) to study the combined effects of electrophoretic and gravitational aggregation of large particles, and the combined effects of electrophoretic and Brownian aggregation of small particles, and (iv) to perform a preliminary design of a potential future flight experiment involving electrophoretic aggregation. Electrophoresis refers to the motion of charged particles, droplets or molecules in response to an applied electric field. Electrophoresis is commonly used for analysis and separation of biological particles or molecules. When particles have different surface charge densities or potentials, they will migrate at different velocities in an electric field. This differential migration leads to the possibility that they will collide and aggregate, thereby preventing separation.

Novel image processing approach to detect malaria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mas, David; Ferrer, Belen; Cojoc, Dan; Finaurini, Sara; Mico, Vicente; Garcia, Javier; Zalevsky, Zeev

2015-09-01

In this paper we present a novel image processing algorithm providing good preliminary capabilities for in vitro detection of malaria. The proposed concept is based upon analysis of the temporal variation of each pixel. Changes in dark pixels mean that inter cellular activity happened, indicating the presence of the malaria parasite inside the cell. Preliminary experimental results involving analysis of red blood cells being either healthy or infected with malaria parasites, validated the potential benefit of the proposed numerical approach.

Preliminary study of application of Moringa oleifera resin as polymer electrolyte in DSSC solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saehana, Sahrul; Darsikin, Muslimin

2016-04-01

This study reports the preliminary study of application of Moringa oleifera resin as polymer electrolyte in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). We found that polymer electrolyte membrane was formed by using solution casting methods. It is observed that polymer electrolyte was in elastic form and it is very potential to application as DSSC component. Performance of DSSC which employing Moringa oleifera resin was also observed and photovoltaic effect was found.

Preliminary Design Program: Vapor Compression Distillation Flight Experiment Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schubert, F. H.; Boyda, R. B.

1995-01-01

This document provides a description of the results of a program to prepare a preliminary design of a flight experiment to demonstrate the function of a Vapor Compression Distillation (VCD) Wastewater Processor (WWP) in microgravity. This report describes the test sequence to be performed and the hardware, control/monitor instrumentation and software designs prepared to perform the defined tests. the purpose of the flight experiment is to significantly reduce the technical and programmatic risks associated with implementing a VCD-based WWP on board the International Space Station Alpha.

Circular RNA GLI2 promotes osteosarcoma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting miR-125b-5p.

PubMed

Li, Ji-Feng; Song, Yu-Ze

2017-07-01

Circular RNAs are novel identified type of endogenous non-coding RNAs, which exert vital functions in human and animals. However, the in-depth role of circular RNAs in the progression of tumorigenesis, especially osteosarcoma, is still undefined. Our preliminary study had found that cir-GLI2 was significantly upregulated in osteosarcoma tissues compared to adjacent non-tumor tissue. Moreover, cir-GLI2 silencing could effectively suppress the proliferation, migration, and invasion capacity of osteosarcoma cells, indicating the tumor-promoting role. Besides, bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay predicted the direct binding to miR-125b-5p, which has been reported to function as a tumor suppressor in osteosarcoma. Furthermore, functional experiments validated that cir-GLI2 exerted the tumor-promoting effects on osteosarcoma cells via negatively targeting miR-125b-5p. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that cir-GLI2 acts as an oncogenic circular RNA in osteosarcoma genesis, providing a novel diagnostic and therapeutic target for osteosarcoma.

Optimization of Uranium Molecular Deposition for Alpha-Counting Sources

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

Monzo, Ellen; Parsons-Moss, Tashi; Genetti, Victoria

2016-12-12

Method development for molecular deposition of uranium onto aluminum 1100 plates was conducted with custom plating cells at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The method development focused primarily on variation of electrode type, which was expected to directly influence plated sample homogeneity. Solid disc platinum and mesh platinum anodes were compared and data revealed that solid disc platinum anodes produced more homogenous uranium oxide films. However, the activity distribution also depended on the orientation of the platinum electrode relative to the aluminum cathode, starting current, and material composition of the plating cell. Experiments demonstrated these variables were difficult to control undermore » the conditions available. Variation of plating parameters among a series of ten deposited plates yielded variations up to 30% in deposition efficiency. Teflon particles were observed on samples plated in Teflon cells, which poses a problem for alpha activity measurements of the plates. Preliminary electropolishing and chemical polishing studies were also conducted on the aluminum 1100 cathode plates.« less

Inhibitory effects of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae constituents on human UDP-glucose dehydrogenase activity.

PubMed

Scoglio, Stefano; Lo Curcio, Valeria; Catalani, Simona; Palma, Francesco; Battistelli, Serafina; Benedetti, Serena

2016-12-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the in vitro inhibitory effects of the edible microalga Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) on human UDP-α-d-glucose 6-dehydrogenase (UGDH) activity, a cytosolic enzyme involved both in tumor progression and in phytochemical bioavailability. Both the hydrophilic and ethanolic AFA extracts as well as the constitutive active principles phycocyanin (PC), phycocyanobilin (PCB) and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) were tested. Among AFA components, PCB presented the strongest inhibitory effect on UGDH activity, acting as a competitive inhibitor with respect to UDP-glucose and a non-competitive inhibitor with respect to NAD(+). In preliminary experiments, AFA PCB was also effective in reducing the colony formation capacity of PC-3 prostate cancer cells and FTC-133 thyroid cancer cells. Overall, these findings confirmed that AFA and its active principles are natural compounds with high biological activity. Further studies evaluating the effects of AFA PCB in reducing tumor cell growth and phytochemical glucuronidation are encouraged.

Sanford Underground Research Facility - The United State's Deep Underground Research Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vardiman, D.

2012-12-01

The 2.5 km deep Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) is managed by the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) at the former Homestake Mine site in Lead, South Dakota. The US Department of Energy currently supports the development of the facility using a phased approach for underground deployment of experiments as they obtain an advanced design stage. The geology of the Sanford Laboratory site has been studied during the 125 years of operations at the Homestake Mine and more recently as part of the preliminary geotechnical site investigations for the NSF's Deep Underground Science and Engineering Laboratory project. The overall geology at DUSEL is a well-defined stratigraphic sequence of schist and phyllites. The three major Proterozoic units encountered in the underground consist of interbedded schist, metasediments, and amphibolite schist which are crosscut by Tertiary rhyolite dikes. Preliminary geotechnical site investigations included drift mapping, borehole drilling, borehole televiewing, in-situ stress analysis, laboratory analysis of core, mapping and laser scanning of new excavations, modeling and analysis of all geotechnical information. The investigation was focused upon the determination if the proposed site rock mass could support the world's largest (66 meter diameter) deep underground excavation. While the DUSEL project has subsequently been significantly modified, these data are still available to provide a baseline of the ground conditions which may be judiciously extrapolated throughout the entire Proterozoic rock assemblage for future excavations. Recommendations for facility instrumentation and monitoring were included in the preliminary design of the DUSEL project design and include; single and multiple point extensometers, tape extensometers and convergence measurements (pins), load cells and pressure cells, smart cables, inclinometers/Tiltmeters, Piezometers, thermistors, seismographs and accelerometers, scanners (laser/LIDAR), surveying instruments, and surveying benchmarks and optical survey points. Currently an array of single and multipoint extensometers monitors the Davis Campus. A facility-wide micro seismic monitoring system is anticipated to be deployed during the latter half of 2012. This system is designed to monitor minor events initiated within the historical mined out portions of the facility. The major science programs for the coming five years consist of the MAJORANA DEMONSTRATOR (MJD) neutrinoless double beta decay experiment; the Large Underground Xenon (LUX) dark matter search, the Center for Ultralow Background Experiments at DUSEL (CUBED), numerous geoscience installations, Long-Baseline Neutrino Experiment (LBNE), a nuclear astrophysics program involving a low energy underground particle accelerator, second and third generation dark matter experiments, and additional low background counting facilities. The Sanford Lab facility is an active, U.S. based, deep underground research facility dedicated to science, affording the science community the opportunity to conduct unprecedented scientific research in a broad range of physics, biology and geoscience fields at depth. SURF is actively interested in hosting additional research collaborations and provides resources for full facility design, cost estimation, excavation, construction and support management services.

Morphological study on permeating efficiency and localization of FCLA and HpD through membrane of lung cancer cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Yunxia; Xing, Da; Tang, Yonghong

2004-07-01

It is reported that apoptosis of cancer cells in photodynamic therapy (PDT) is caused by 1O2 generated in photosensitization. In order to study the mechanism of this kind of 1O2-induced apoptosis, it is necessary to establish a special technique to dynamically detect intracellular production and localization of 1O2. FCLA, as a chemiluminescence probe to detect singlet oxygen (1O2) and superoxide (O2-.), has been used successfully in photodynamic and sonodynamic diagnosis in tissue level, recently. This paper reported a preliminary result of morphological study on permeating efficiency and localization of FCLA and hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) through cellular membrane. Human lung cancer cell line (ASTC-a-1) was used in the experiment. The result of this research showed that both HpD and FCLA could permeate through cellular membrane and localize to prinuclear area, when HpD or FCLA was incubated with cells. Although the molecular weight of HpD is close to FCLA's, the permeating efficiency of HpD through membrane was different from that of FCLA. Intracellular FCLA concentration reached a peak after incubation for only 30 - 45 minutes, but amount of HpD in cells approached the equilibrium after incubation for near 22 h. In the experiment, we did not observe the evidence of FCLA or HpD penetrating into nucleolus. This study suggests that it is possibly to use a specific chemiluminescence probe to dynamcially detect the production and localization of 1O2 or 02-. in cell.

Preliminary pioneer 10 encounter results from the ames research center plasma analyzer experiment.

PubMed

Wolfe, J H; Collard, H R; Mihalov, J D; Intriligator, D S

1974-01-25

Preliminary results from the Ames Research Center plasma analyzer experiment for the Pioneer 10 Jupiter encounter indicate that Jupiter has a detached bow shock and magnetopause similar to the case at Earth but much larger in spatial extent. In contrast to Earth, Jupiter's outer magnetosphere appears to be highly inflated by thermal plasma and therefore highly responsive in size to changes in solar wind dynamic pressure.

W(h)ither the Sense of Wonder of Pre-Service Primary Teachers' when Teaching Science?: A Preliminary Study of Their Personal Experiences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stolberg, Tonie L.

2008-01-01

This preliminary study seeks to explore whether wonder-based reflections are sources of inspiration for our future teachers of science. What experiences have brought them personally a sense of wonder and when, if at all, do they employ scientific explanations of those events? In all 140 pre-service primary teachers, when questioned, described 240…

Analysis of off-axis incoherent digital holographic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quan, Xiangyu; Matoba, Osamu; Awatsuji, Yasuhiro

2017-05-01

Off-axis incoherent digital holography that enables single-shot three-dimensional (3D) distribution is introduced in the paper. Conventional fluorescence microscopy images 3D fields by sectioning, this prevents instant imaging of fast reactions of living cells. In order to realize digital holography from incoherent light, we adapted common path configuration to achieve the best temporal coherence. And by introducing gratings, we shifted the direction of each light to achieve off-axis interference. Simulations and preliminary experiments using LED light have confirmed the results. We expect to use this method to realize 3D phase imaging and fluorescent imaging at the same time from the same biological sample.

Autonomous support for microorganism research in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleet, Mary L.; Miller, Mark S.; Shipley, Derek, E.; Smith, Jeff D.

1992-01-01

A preliminary design for performing on orbit, autonomous research on microorganisms and cultured cells/tissues is presented. An understanding of gravity and its effects on cells is crucial for space exploration as well as for terrestrial applications. The payload is designed to be compatible with the Commercial Experiment Transporter (COMET) launch vehicle, an orbiter middeck locker interface, and with Space Station Freedom. Uplink/downlink capabilities and sample return through controlled reentry are available for all carriers. Autonomous testing activities are preprogrammed with in-flight reprogrammability. Sensors for monitoring temperature, pH, light, gravity levels, vibrations, and radiation are provided for environmental regulation and experimental data collection. Additional experimental data acquisition includes optical density measurement, microscopy, video, and film photography. On-board full data storage capabilities are provided. A fluid transfer mechanism is utilized for inoculation, sampling, and nutrient replenishment of experiment cultures. In addition to payload design, representative experiments were developed to ensure scientific objectives remained compatible with hardware capabilities. The project is defined to provide biological data pertinent to extended duration crewed space flight including crew health issues and development of a Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS). In addition, opportunities are opened for investigations leading to commercial applications of space, such as pharmaceutical development, modeling of terrestrial diseases, and material processing.

Cytotoxic diterpenes from roots of Crossopetalum gaumeri, a Celastraceae species from Yucatan Peninsula.

PubMed

Miron-Lopez, Gumersindo; Bazzocchi, Isabel L; Jimenez-Diaz, Ignacio A; Moujir, Laila M; Quijano-Quiñones, Ramiro; Quijano, Leovigildo; Mena-Rejon, Gonzalo J

2014-05-01

Four new diterpenes, crossogumerins A-D (1-4) along with six known ones (5-10) were isolated from the root bark of Crossopetalum gaumeri, an endemic medicinal plant from the Yucatan Peninsula. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR techniques, including HMQC, HMBC, and ROESY experiments. Compounds 1-5, 8-10 were evaluated for cytotoxicity against HeLa (carcinoma of the cervix) and Hep-2 (lung carcinoma) human tumor cells lines and against normal Vero cells (African green monkey kidney) in lag and log phase of growth. Podocarpane diterpenes, crossogumerin B (2) and nimbiol (10), exhibited the highest activity against HeLa cells (IC50 values of 3.1 and 8.1 μM, respectively), but also selectivity on Vero cells (SI 22.6 and 7.5, respectively). The preliminary SAR studies suggest that an epoxy moiety in ring B and a hydrogen bond-donor group strategically positioned in the diterpene core are important requirements for cytotoxicity and selectivity. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Ab-Initio Calculation of Electronic Structure of Lead Halide Perovskites with Formamidinium Cation as an Active Material for Perovskite Solar Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indari, E. D.; Wungu, T. D. K.; Hidayat, R.

2017-07-01

Organic lead halide perovskite material based solar cells show impressive power conversion efficiencies, which can reach above 19 percent for perovskite solar cell with methyl-ammonium cations. These efficiencies are originated from efficient photoexcitation and charge carrier transport and not observed in conventional perovskite crystals. In this preliminary research work, we therefore performed Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation of formamidinium lead iodide (FAPI), an alternative to methyl-ammonium lead iodide (MAPI), to predict their electronic structure and density of state (DOS). The calculation result at the most stable lattice parameters show a good agreement with the experiment results. The obtained band gap energy is 1.307 eV. The valence band is dominantly formed by the 5p orbitals of I- anions, while the conduction band is dominantly formed by the 6p orbitals of Pb2+ cations. The DOS of valence band of this perovskite seems smaller compared to the case of methyl-ammonium lead iodide perovskite, which then may explain the observation of smaller power conversion efficiencies in perovskite solar cells with this formamidinium cations.

Field experiment of 800× off-axis XR-Köhler concentrator module on a carousel tracker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamada, Noboru; Okamoto, Kazuya; Ijiro, Toshikazu; Suzuki, Takao; Maemura, Toshihiko; Kawaguchi, Takashi; Takahashi, Hiroshi; Sato, Takashi; Hernandez, Maikel; Benitez, Pablo; Chaves, Julio; Cvetkovic, Aleksandra; Vilaplana, Juan; Mohedano, Ruben; Mendes-Lopes, Joao; Miñano, Juan Carlos

2013-09-01

This paper presents the design and preliminary experimental results of a concentrator-type photovoltaic module based on a free-form off-axis 800×XR-Köhler concentrator. The off-axis XR-Köhler concentrator is one of the advanced concentrators that perform high concentration with a large acceptance angle and excellent irradiance uniformity on a solar cell. As a result of on-sun characterization of the unglazed single-cell unit test rig, the temperature-corrected DC module efficiency was 32.2% at 25 °C without an anti-reflective (AR) coating on the secondary optics, and the acceptance angle was more than ±1.0°. In addition, the non-corrected DC efficiency of an individual cell in a glazed 8-cell unit module mounted on a carousel tracking system was measured. The individual efficiency deviated in the range of 24.3-27.4%, owing to the mirror shape and alignment errors. The resultant series-connected efficiency was approximately 25% at direct normal irradiation (DNI) of 770 W/m2.

Detectability index of differential phase contrast CT compared with conventional CT: a preliminary channelized Hotelling observer study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Xiangyang; Yang, Yi; Tang, Shaojie

2013-03-01

Under the framework of model observer with signal and background exactly known (SKE/BKE), we investigate the detectability of differential phase contrast CT compared with that of the conventional attenuation-based CT. Using the channelized Hotelling observer and the radially symmetric difference-of-Gaussians channel template , we investigate the detectability index and its variation over the dimension of object and detector cells. The preliminary data show that the differential phase contrast CT outperforms the conventional attenuation-based CT significantly in the detectability index while both the object to be detected and the cell of detector used for data acquisition are relatively small. However, the differential phase contrast CT's dominance in the detectability index diminishes with increasing dimension of either object or detector cell, and virtually disappears while the dimension of object or detector cell approaches a threshold, respectively. It is hoped that the preliminary data reported in this paper may provide insightful understanding of the differential phase contrast CT's characteristic in the detectability index and its comparison with that of the conventional attenuation-based CT.

Apparatus analysis and preliminary design of low gravity porous solids experiment for STS Orbiter mid-deck

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleeter, R. D.; Kropp, J. L.

1983-01-01

The apparatus analysis laboratory equipment design and fabrication and the preliminary design of the Combustion of Porous Solids Experiment for operation in the mid-deck area of the Shuttle are described. The apparatus analysis indicated that the mid-deck region of the STS was a feasible region of the Shuttle for operation. A sixteen tube concept was developed with tubes of 75 cm length and up to 5.6 cm accommodated. The experiment is viewed by IR sensors and a 16 mm camera. Laboratory equipment was designed and fabricated to test the parible injection, mixing and venting concepts. This equipment was delivered to NASA/LeRC. A preliminary design was made for the experiment based upon the apparatus analysis. The design incorporated results from the Phase ""O'' Safety Review. This design utilizes a closed tube concept in which the particles are stored, injected and burned with no coupling to the Shuttle environment. Drawings of the major components and an assembly are given. The electronics are described for the experiment. An equipment list is presented and an experiment weight estimate is determined. The mission operation requirements are outlined.

Detection of early changes in lung cell cytology by flow-systems analysis techniques

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

Steinkamp, J.A.; Hansen, K.M.; Wilson, J.S.

1976-12-01

This report summarizes results of continuing experiments to develop cytological and biochemical indicators for estimating damage to respiratory cells in test animals exposed by inhalation to toxic agents associated with nonnuclear energy production, the specific goal being the application of advanced multiparameter flow-systems technologies to the detection of early atypical cellular changes in lung epithelium. Normal Syrian hamster lung cell samples composed of macrophages, leukocytes, ciliated columnar cells, and epithelial cells were stained with fluorescent dyes specific for different biochemical parameters and were analyzed in liquid suspension as they flowed through a chamber intersecting a laser beam of exciting light.more » Multiple sensors measured the total or two-color fluorescence and light scatter on a cell-by-cell basis. Cellular parameters proportional to optical measurements (i.e., cell size, DNA content, total protein, nonspecific esterase activity, nuclear and cytoplasmic diameters) were displayed as frequency distribution histograms. Lung cell samples were also separated according to various cytological parameters and identified microscopically. The basic operating features of the methodology are discussed briefly, along with specific examples of preliminary results illustrating the initial characterization of exfoliated pulmonary cells from normal hamsters. As the flow technology is adapted further to the analysis of respiratory cells, measurements of changes in physical and biochemical properties as a function of exposure to toxic agents will be performed.« less

A new apparatus to induce lysis of planktonic microbial cells by shock compression, cavitation and spray

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schiffer, A.; Gardner, M. N.; Lynn, R. H.; Tagarielli, V. L.

2017-03-01

Experiments were conducted on an aqueous growth medium containing cultures of Escherichia coli (E. coli) XL1-Blue, to investigate, in a single experiment, the effect of two types of dynamic mechanical loading on cellular integrity. A bespoke shock tube was used to subject separate portions of a planktonic bacterial culture to two different loading sequences: (i) shock compression followed by cavitation, and (ii) shock compression followed by spray. The apparatus allows the generation of an adjustable loading shock wave of magnitude up to 300 MPa in a sterile laboratory environment. Cultures of E. coli were tested with this apparatus and the spread-plate technique was used to measure the survivability after mechanical loading. The loading sequence (ii) gave higher mortality than (i), suggesting that the bacteria are more vulnerable to shear deformation and cavitation than to hydrostatic compression. We present the results of preliminary experiments and suggestions for further experimental work; we discuss the potential applications of this technique to sterilize large volumes of fluid samples.

SU-E-T-751: Three-Component Kinetic Model of Tumor Growth and Radiation Response for Stereotactic Radiosurgery

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

Watanabe, Y; Dahlman, E; Leder, K

Purpose: To develop and study a kinetic model of tumor growth and its response to stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) by assuming that the cells in irradiated tumor volume were made of three types. Methods: A set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) were derived for three types of cells and a tumor growth rate. It is assumed that the cells were composed of actively proliferating cells, lethally damaged-dividing cells, and non-dividing cells. We modeled the tumor volume growth with a time-dependent growth rate to simulate the saturation of growth. After SRS, the proliferating cells were permanently damaged and converted to the lethallymore » damaged cells. The amount of damaged cells were estimated by the LQ-model. The damaged cells gradually stopped dividing/proliferating and died with a constant rate. The dead cells were cleared from their original location with a constant rate. The total tumor volume was the sum of the three components. The ODEs were numerically solved with appropriate initial conditions for a given dosage. The proposed model was used to model an animal experiment, for which the temporal change of a rhabdomyosarcoma tumor volume grown in a rat was measured with time resolution sufficient to test the model. Results: To fit the model to the experimental data, the following characteristics were needed with the model parameters. The α-value in the LQ-model was smaller than the commonly used value; furthermore, it decreased with increasing dose. At the same time, the tumor growth rate after SRS had to increase. Conclusions: The new 3-component model of tumor could simulate the experimental data very well. The current study suggested that the radiation sensitivity and the growth rate of the proliferating tumor cells may change after irradiation and it depended on the dosage used for SRS. These preliminary observations must be confirmed by future animal experiments.« less

On-chip Magnetic Separation and Cell Encapsulation in Droplets†

PubMed Central

Chen, Aaron; Byvank, Tom; Chang, Woo-Jin; Bharde, Atul; Vieira, Greg; Miller, Brandon; Chalmers, Jeffrey J.; Bashir, Rashid; Sooryakumar, Ratnasingham

2014-01-01

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 would prevent cross-contamination, provide high recovery yield, and enable study of biological traits at a single cell level. These advantages of on-chip biological experiments is a significant improvement for myriad of cell analyses over conventional methods, which require bulk samples providing only averaged information on cell metabolism. We report on a device that integrates mobile magnetic trap array with microfluidic technology to provide, combined functionality of separation of immunomagnetically labeled cells or magnetic beads and their encapsulation with reagents into pico-liter droplets. This scheme of simultaneous reagent delivery and compartmentalization of the cells immediately after sorting, all performed seamlessly within the same chip, offers unique advantages such as the ability to capture cell traits as originated from its native environment, reduced chance of contamination, minimal use and freshness of the reagent solution that reacts only with separated objects, and tunable encapsulation characteristics independent of the input flow. In addition to the demonstrated preliminary cell viability assay, the device can potentially be integrated with other up- or downstream on-chip modules to become a powerful single-cell analysis tool. PMID:23370785

Method of making gas diffusion layers for electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Frisk, Joseph William; Boand, Wayne Meredith; Larson, James Michael

2002-01-01

A method is provided for making a gas diffusion layer for an electrochemical cell comprising the steps of: a) combining carbon particles and one or more surfactants in a typically aqueous vehicle to make a preliminary composition, typically by high shear mixing; b) adding one or more highly fluorinated polymers to said preliminary composition by low shear mixing to make a coating composition; and c) applying the coating composition to an electrically conductive porous substrate, typically by a low shear coating method.

Bacterial Identification Using Light Scattering Measurements: a Preliminary Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkins, J. R.

1971-01-01

The light scattering properties of single bacterial cells were examined as a possible means of identification. Three species were studied with streptococcus faecalis exhibiting a unique pattern; the light-scattering traces for staphylococcus aureus and escherichia coli were quite similar although differences existed. Based on preliminary investigations, the light scattering approach appeared promising with additional research needed to include a wide variety of bacterial species, computer capability to handle and analyze data, and expansion of light scattering theory to include bacterial cells.

Solar thermal storage applications program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peila, W. C.

1982-12-01

The efforts of the Storage Applications Program are reviewed. The program concentrated on the investigation of storage media and evaluation of storage methods. Extensive effort was given to experimental and analytical investigations of nitrate salts. Two tasks are the preliminary design of a 1200 MW/sub th/ system and the design, construction, operation, and evaluation of a subsystem research experiment, which utilized the same design. Some preliminary conclusions drawn from the subsystem research experiment are given.

Shallow Water Acoustic Experiments and Preliminary Planning for FY06 Fieldwork

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-21

To) 5/1/2005-12/31/2010 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Shallow Water Acoustic Experiments and Preliminary Planning for FY06 Fieldwork 5a. CONTRACT NUMBERS...numerical computations show horizontal interference patterns within the duct. Richly de - tailed sound radiation fields are predicted at locations far...4) for the vertical modal amplitude Tm at x^L is now de - scribed in detail. First, the assumption of total transmission at the open-ended

Manufacture of Solar Cells on the Moon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freundich, Alex; Ignatiev, Alex; Horton, Charles; Duke, Mike; Curren, Peter; Sibille, Laurent

2005-01-01

In support of the space exploration initiative a new architecture for the production of solar cells on the lunar surface is devised. The paper discusses experimental data on the fabrication and properties of lunar glass substrates, evaporated lunar regolith thin film (antireflect coatings and insulators), and preliminary attempts in the fabrication of thin film (silicon/II-VI) photovoltaic materials on lunar regolith substrates. A conceptual design for a solar powered robotic rover capable of fabricating solar cells directly on the lunar surface is provided. Technical challenges in the development of such a facility and strategies to alleviate perceived difficulties are discussed. Finally, preliminary cost benefit ratio analysis for different in situ solar cell production scenarios (using exclusively in-situ planetary resources or hybrid) are discussed.

Preliminary Findings from the SHERE ISS Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Nancy R.; McKinley, Gareth H.; Erni, Philipp; Soulages, Johannes; Magee, Kevin S.

2009-01-01

The Shear History Extensional Rheology Experiment (SHERE) is an International Space Station (ISS) glovebox experiment designed to study the effect of preshear on the transient evolution of the microstructure and viscoelastic tensile stresses for monodisperse dilute polymer solutions. The SHERE experiment hardware was launched on Shuttle Mission STS-120 (ISS Flight 10A) on October 22, 2007, and 20 fluid samples were launched on Shuttle Mission STS-123 (ISS Flight 10/A) on March 11, 2008. Astronaut Gregory Chamitoff performed experiments during Increment 17 on the ISS between June and September 2008. A summary of the ten year history of the hardware development, the experiment's science objectives, and Increment 17's flight operations are discussed in the paper. A brief summary of the preliminary science results is also discussed.

Evidence for S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM-e) for the treatment of major depressive disorder.

PubMed

Papakostas, George I

2009-01-01

Despite the increasingly large array of antidepressants available to treat major depressive disorder, patients continue to experience relatively modest response and remission rates. In addition, patients may experience adverse side effects from pharmacotherapy that not only hinder treatment compliance and adherence but, in some cases, may also contribute to increased disability, patient suffering, morbidity, and mortality. In order to enhance treatment efficacy and tolerability, patients and clinicians have become increasingly interested in nonpharmaceutical supplements for treating depression. One of the best-studied of these supplements is S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM-e), a naturally occurring molecule present in all living cells and a major methyl group donor in the human body. Controlled trials have found SAM-e to be more efficacious than placebo and equal in efficacy to the tricyclic antidepressants for treating major depressive disorder (MDD) when administered parenterally (either intravenously or intramuscularly). Less evidence supports the use of oral SAM-e, although some trials have demonstrated its efficacy as well. In addition, there is a paucity of evidence examining whether oral forms of SAM-e can be safe, well tolerated, and efficacious when used as adjunctive treatment for antidepressant nonresponders with MDD. Although preliminary data suggest SAM-e may be useful as an adjunctive therapy to antidepressants, controlled studies are needed to confirm or refute these preliminary findings. (c) Copyright 2009 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.

Towards toxicity detection using a lab-on-chip based on the integration of MOEMS and whole-cell sensors.

PubMed

Elman, Noel M; Ben-Yoav, Hadar; Sternheim, Marek; Rosen, Rachel; Krylov, Slava; Shacham-Diamand, Yosi

2008-06-15

A lab-on-chip consisting of a unique integration of whole-cell sensors, a MOEMS (Micro-Opto-Electro-Mechanical-System) modulator, and solid-state photo-detectors was implemented for the first time. Whole-cell sensors were genetically engineered to express a bioluminescent reporter (lux) as a function of the lac promoter. The MOEMS modulator was designed to overcome the inherent low frequency noise of solid-state photo-detectors by means of a previously reported modulation technique, named IHOS (Integrated Heterodyne Optical System). The bio-reporter signals were modulated prior to photo-detection, increasing the SNR of solid-state photo-detectors at least by three orders of magnitude. Experiments were performed using isopropyl-beta-d-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) as a preliminary step towards testing environmental toxicity. The inducer was used to trigger the expression response of the whole-cell sensors testing the sensitivity of the lab-on-chip. Low intensity bio-reporter optical signals were measured after the whole-cell sensors were exposed to IPTG concentrations of 0.1, 0.05, and 0.02mM. The experimental results reveal the potential of this technology for future implementation as an inexpensive massive method for rapid environmental toxicity detection.

Characterizing parameters of Jatropha curcas cell cultures for microgravity studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vendrame, Wagner A.; Pinares, Ania

2013-06-01

Jatropha (Jatropha curcas) is a tropical perennial species identified as a potential biofuel crop. The oil is of excellent quality and it has been successfully tested as biodiesel and in jet fuel mixes. However, studies on breeding and genetic improvement of jatropha are limited. Space offers a unique environment for experiments aiming at the assessment of mutations and differential gene expression of crops and in vitro cultures of plants are convenient for studies of genetic variation as affected by microgravity. However, before microgravity studies can be successfully performed, pre-flight experiments are necessary to characterize plant material and validate flight hardware environmental conditions. Such preliminary studies set the ground for subsequent spaceflight experiments. The objectives of this study were to compare the in vitro growth of cultures from three explant sources (cotyledon, leaf, and stem sections) of three jatropha accessions (Brazil, India, and Tanzania) outside and inside the petriGAP, a modified group activation pack (GAP) flight hardware to fit petri dishes. In vitro jatropha cell cultures were established in petri dishes containing a modified MS medium and maintained in a plant growth chamber at 25 ± 2 °C in the dark. Parameters evaluated were surface area of the explant tissue (A), fresh weight (FW), and dry weight (DW) for a period of 12 weeks. Growth was observed for cultures from all accessions at week 12, including subsequent plantlet regeneration. For all accessions differences in A, FW and DW were observed for inside vs. outside the PetriGAPs. Growth parameters were affected by accession (genotype), explant type, and environment. The type of explant influenced the type of cell growth and subsequent plantlet regeneration capacity. However, overall cell growth showed no abnormalities. The present study demonstrated that jatropha in vitro cell cultures are suitable for growth inside PetriGAPs for a period of 12 weeks. The parameters evaluated in this study provide the basic ground work and pre-flight assessment needed to justify a model for microgravity studies with jatropha in vitro cell cultures. Future studies should focus on results of experiments performed with jatropha in vitro cultures in microgravity.

Cell module and fuel conditioner development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoover, D. Q., Jr.

1980-01-01

Components for the first 5 cell stack (no cooling plates) of the MK-2 design were fabricated. Preliminary specfications and designs for the components of a 23 cell MK-1 stack with four DIGAS cooling plates were developed. The MK-2 was selected as a bench mark design and a preliminary design of the facilities required for high rate manufacture of fuel cell modules was developed. Two stands for testing 5 cell stacks were built and design work for modifying existing stands and building new stands for 23 and 80 cell stacks was initiated. Design and procurement of components and materials for the catalyst test stand were completed and construction initiated. Work on the specifications of pipeline gas, tap water and recovered water and definition of equipment required for treatment was initiated. An innovative geometry for the reformer was conceived and modifications of the computer program to be used in its design were stated.

Preliminary design for a maglev development facility

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

Coffey, H.T.; He, J.L.; Chang, S.L.

1992-04-01

A preliminary design was made of a national user facility for evaluating magnetic-levitation (maglev) technologies in sizes intermediate between laboratory experiments and full-scale systems. A technical advisory committee was established and a conference was held to obtain advice on the potential requirements of operational systems and how the facility might best be configured to test these requirements. The effort included studies of multiple concepts for levitating, guiding, and propelling maglev vehicles, as well as the controls, communications, and data-acquisition and -reduction equipment that would be required in operating the facility. Preliminary designs for versatile, dual 2-MVA power supplies capable ofmore » powering attractive or repulsive systems were developed. Facility site requirements were identified. Test vehicles would be about 7.4 m (25 ft) long, would weigh form 3 to 7 metric tons, and would operate at speeds up to 67 m/s (150 mph) on a 3.3-km (2.05-mi) elevated guideway. The facility would utilize modular vehicles and guideways, permitting the substitution of levitation, propulsion, and guideway components of different designs and materials for evaluation. The vehicle would provide a test cell in which individual suspension or propulsion components or subsystems could be tested under realistic conditions. The system would allow economical evaluation of integrated systems under varying weather conditions and in realistic geometries.« less

Mini-DIAL system measurements coupled with multivariate data analysis to identify TIC and TIM simulants: preliminary absorption database analysis.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaudio, P.; Malizia, A.; Gelfusa, M.; Martinelli, E.; Di Natale, C.; Poggi, L. A.; Bellecci, C.

2017-01-01

Nowadays Toxic Industrial Components (TICs) and Toxic Industrial Materials (TIMs) are one of the most dangerous and diffuse vehicle of contamination in urban and industrial areas. The academic world together with the industrial and military one are working on innovative solutions to monitor the diffusion in atmosphere of such pollutants. In this phase the most common commercial sensors are based on “point detection” technology but it is clear that such instruments cannot satisfy the needs of the smart cities. The new challenge is developing stand-off systems to continuously monitor the atmosphere. Quantum Electronics and Plasma Physics (QEP) research group has a long experience in laser system development and has built two demonstrators based on DIAL (Differential Absorption of Light) technology could be able to identify chemical agents in atmosphere. In this work the authors will present one of those DIAL system, the miniaturized one, together with the preliminary results of an experimental campaign conducted on TICs and TIMs simulants in cell with aim of use the absorption database for the further atmospheric an analysis using the same DIAL system. The experimental results are analysed with standard multivariate data analysis technique as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to develop a classification model aimed at identifying organic chemical compound in atmosphere. The preliminary results of absorption coefficients of some chemical compound are shown together pre PCA analysis.

The discovery of long-term potentiation.

PubMed Central

Lømo, Terje

2003-01-01

This paper describes circumstances around the discovery of long-term potentiation (LTP). In 1966, I had just begun independent work for the degree of Dr medicinae (PhD) in Per Andersen's laboratory in Oslo after an eighteen-month apprenticeship with him. Studying the effects of activating the perforant path to dentate granule cells in the hippocampus of anaesthetized rabbits, I observed that brief trains of stimuli resulted in increased efficiency of transmission at the perforant path-granule cell synapses that could last for hours. In 1968, Tim Bliss came to Per Andersen's laboratory to learn about the hippocampus and field potential recording for studies of possible memory mechanisms. The two of us then followed up my preliminary results from 1966 and did the experiments that resulted in a paper that is now properly considered to be the basic reference for the discovery of LTP. PMID:12740104

THE HIGH BACKGROUND RADIATION AREA IN RAMSAR IRAN: GEOLOGY, NORM, BIOLOGY, LNT, AND POSSIBLE REGULATORY FUN

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

Karam, P. A.

2002-02-25

The city of Ramsar Iran hosts some of the highest natural radiation levels on earth, and over 2000 people are exposed to radiation doses ranging from 1 to 26 rem per year. Curiously, inhabitants of this region seem to have no greater incidence of cancer than those in neighboring areas of normal background radiation levels, and preliminary studies suggest their blood cells experience fewer induced chromosomal abnormalities when exposed to 150 rem ''challenge'' doses of radiation than do the blood cells of their neighbors. This paper will briefly describe the unique geology that gives Ramsar its extraordinarily high background radiationmore » levels. It will then summarize the studies performed to date and will conclude by suggesting ways to incorporate these findings (if they are borne out by further testing) into future radiation protection standards.« less

Colors Identification for Blind People using Cell Phone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dominguez, A. L.; Graffigna, J. P.

2011-12-01

Assistive Technology (AT) is an interdisciplinary research area that allows finding solutions to the individual with disability [1] by easing or improving the functions or the skills for accomplishing daily activities. A technology can be considered "assistive" if it is fit for the needs, skills and capabilities of the person, taking into account mainly the intended activity and the limitations of the context and environs where the person performs such activity. The current work intends to solve the problems of vision impaired persons to recognize colors. To this aim, a Java application for cell phones has been made which lets complement the mobiles' technology with that of image processing. The means to obtain the colors from a view are based on analysing the different color models join to a mechanism to reduce the collected data. This paper describes preliminary experiences, methodology and results considering the user perception.

Extracellular overproduction and preliminary crystallographic analysis of a family I.3 lipase

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

Angkawidjaja, Clement; You, Dong-Ju; Matsumura, Hiroyoshi

2007-03-01

A family I.3 lipase from Pseudomonas sp. MIS38 was secreted from Escherichia coli cells to the external medium, purified and crystallized and preliminary crystallographic studies were performed. A family I.3 lipase from Pseudomonas sp. MIS38 was secreted from Escherichia coli cells to the external medium, purified and crystallized and preliminary crystallographic studies were performed. The crystal was grown at 277 K by the hanging-drop vapour-diffusion method. Native X-ray diffraction data were collected to 1.7 Å resolution using synchrotron radiation at station BL38B1, SPring-8. The crystal belongs to space group P2{sub 1}, with unit-cell parameters a = 48.79, b = 84.06,more » c = 87.04 Å. Assuming the presence of one molecule per asymmetric unit, the Matthews coefficient V{sub M} was calculated to be 2.73 Å{sup 3} Da{sup −1} and the solvent content was 55%.« less

Preliminary Study on Testicular Germ Cell Transplantation of Endemic Species Oryzias celebensis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andriani, I.; Agustiani, F.; Hassan, M.; Parenrengi, A.; Inoue, K.

2018-03-01

The research has been conducted to study some technical steps for male germ-plasm from endemic fish species such as some species of Oryzias fish in Indonesia to preserve and propagate through germ cell transplantation technology. For preliminary research, the study was started with germ cell characterization of testes, cryopreservation of TGC and the transplantation of Oryzias celebensis as candidates for surrogate broodstock of Oryzias fish male germ plasm. The data analized included the potential number of TGC as donor, the viability of cryopreserved TGC in two types of cryoprotectans and the survival rate of O.celebensis larvae as recipient after transplantation. The result showed that the average amount of TGC yielded after dissociation was 131000 ± 31349 with 74.2 % viability of TGC each. Cryoprotectan10% DMSO +glucose yielded higher viable of TGC. More than 80 % of O.celebensis larvae survived after transplantation. In conclusion, these preliminary data of O.celebensis as surrogate broodstock candidate will support the application of TGC transplantation technology in Oryzias endemic species.

Process material management in the Space Station environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perry, J. L.; Humphries, W. R.

1988-01-01

The Space Station will provide a unique facility for conducting material-processing and life-science experiments under microgravity conditions. These conditions place special requirements on the U.S. Laboratory for storing and transporting chemicals and process fluids, reclaiming water from selected experiments, treating and storing experiment wastes, and providing vacuum utilities. To meet these needs and provide a safe laboratory environment, the Process Material Management System (PMMS) is being developed. Preliminary design requirements and concepts related to the PMMS are addressed, and the MSFC PMMS breadboard test facility and a preliminary plan for validating the overall system design are discussed.

Fiscal year 1981 US corn and soybeans pilot preliminary experiment plan, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Livingston, G. P.; Nedelman, K. S.; Norwood, D. F.; Smith, J. H. (Principal Investigator)

1981-01-01

A draft of the preliminary experiment plan for the foreign commodity production forecasting project fiscal year 1981 is presented. This draft plan includes: definition of the phase 1 and 2 U.S. pilot objectives; the proposed experiment design to evaluate crop calendar, area estimation, and area aggregation components for corn and soybean technologies using 1978/1979 crop-year data; a description of individual sensitivity evaluations of the baseline corn and soybean segment classification procedure; and technology and data assessment in support of the corn and soybean estimation technology for use in the U.S. central corn belt.

Preliminary technical results review of FY81 experiments. Volume 1: Fiscal year 1981/82 spring small grains pilot experiment. [Canada and the United States

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

Technical progress made in the foreign commodity production forecasting for the advancement of spring small grains (SSG) area estimation is reported with emphasis on results achieved since the last AgRISTARS level semiannual review. Major objectives and accomplishments are reviewed and the experiment is described. The technical approach data assessment, and data systems used are considered. Results of the group approach comparison study are presented along with preliminary aggregation results for SSG processing procedures. The outlook for the future is assessed.

Preliminary results from multiparameter airborne rain radar measurement in the western Pacific

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kumagai, Hiroshi; Meneghini, Robert; Kozu, Toshiaki

1993-01-01

Preliminary results are presented from multiparameter airborne radar measurements of tropical storms. The experiment was conducted in the western Pacific in September 1990 with the NASA DC-8 aircraft that was equipped with a dual-wavelength radar at X and Ka bands and several microwave radiometers. The modification to dual-polarization at X-band radar enabled measurements of the linear depolarization ratio (LDR). Vertical profiles of dual-polarization and dual-frequency observables for an example of stratiform rain and three examples of convective rain cells are examined. It is shown that at nadir incidence the LDR measurement often can be used to distinguish the phase states of the hydrometeors and to identify the melting layer. In addition to the information concerning particle shape and orientation from LDR, the ratio of the radar reflectivity factors in two frequency bands (X and Ka bands) provides insight into particle size. The capabilities of dual-wavelength and dual-polarization radar in the identification of particle size and phase will be important considerations in the design of future spaceborne weather radars.

NASDA life science experiment facilities for ISS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanigaki, F.; Masuda, D.; Yano, S.; Fujimoto, N.; Kamigaichi, S.

National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) has been developing various experiment facilities to conduct space biology researches in KIBO (JEM). The Cell Biology Experiment Facility (CBEF) and the Clean Bench (CB) are installed into JEM Life Science Rack. The Biological Experiment Units (BEU) are operated in the CBEF and the CB for many kinds of experiments on cells, tissues, plants, microorganisms, or small animals. It is possible for all researchers to use these facilities under the system of the International Announcement of Opportunity. The CBEF is a CO2 incubator to provide a controlled environment (temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration), in which a rotating table is equipped to make variable gravity (0-2g) for reference experiments. The containers called "Canisters" can be used to install the BEU in the CBEF. The CBEF supplies power, command, sensor, and video interfaces for the BEU through the utility connectors of Canisters. The BEU is a multiuser system consisting of chambers and control segments. It is operated by pre-set programs and by commands from the ground. NASDA is currently developing three types of the BEU: the Plant Experiment Unit (PEU) for plant life cycle observations and the Cell Experiment Unit (CEU1&2) for cell culture experiments. The PEU has an automated watering system with a water sensor, an LED matrix as a light source, and a CCD camera to observe the plant growth. The CEUs have culture chambers and an automated cultural medium exchange system. Engineering models of the PEU and CEU1 have been accomplished. The preliminary design of CEU2 is in progress. The design of the BEU will be modified to meet science requirements of each experiment. The CB provides a closed aseptic work-space (Operation Chamber) with gloves for experiment operations. Samples and the BEU can be manually handled in the CB. The CB has an air lock (Disinfection Chamber) to prevent contamination, and HEPA filters to make class-100-equivalent clean air inside the Operation Chamber. Alcohol swabs and built-in ultraviolet lamps are used to sterilize instruments and insides of the CB. The phase contrast / fluorescent microscope is equipped in the Operation Chamber to support experiments. The observed image is monitored either on the CB LCD display or on the ground through a video downlink channel. Researchers on the ground can also operate the microscope with its remote control function. Flight models of the CBEF and the CB are scheduled for completion in 2002.

Promising Nanocarriers for PEDF Gene Targeting Delivery to Cervical Cancer Cells Mediated by the Over-expressing FRα.

PubMed

Yang, Yuhan; He, Lili; Liu, Yongmei; Xia, Shan; Fang, Aiping; Xie, Yafei; Gan, Li; He, Zhiyao; Tan, Xiaoyue; Jiang, Chunling; Tong, Aiping; Song, Xiangrong

2016-08-31

Cervical cancer presents extremely low PEDF expression which is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. In this study, folate receptor α (FRα)-targeted nano-liposomes (FLP) were designed to enhance the anti-tumor effect by targeting delivery of exogenous PEDF gene to cervical cancer cells. The targeting molecule F-PEG-Chol was firstly synthesized by a novel simpler method. FLP encapsulating PEDF gene (FLP/PEDF) with a typical lipid-membrane structure were prepared by a film dispersion method. The transfection experiment found FLP could effectively transfect human cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells). FLP/PEDF significantly inhibited the growth of HeLa cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC cells) and suppressed adhension, invasion and migration of HeLa cells in vitro. In the abdominal metastatic tumor model of cervical cancer, FLP/PEDF administered by intraperitoneal injection exhibited a superior anti-tumor effect probably due to the up-regulated PEDF. FLP/PEDF could not only sharply reduce the microvessel density but also dramatically inhibit proliferation and markedly induce apoptosis of tumor cells in vivo. Moreover, the preliminary safety investigation revealed that FLP/PEDF had no obvious toxicity. These results clearly showed that FLP were desired carriers for PEDF gene and FLP/PEDF might represent a potential novel strategy for gene therapy of cervical cancer.

Microfluidics microFACS for Life Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Platt, Donald W.; Hoover, Richard B.

2010-01-01

A prototype micro-scale Fluorescent Activated Cell Sorter (microFACS) for life detection has been built and is undergoing testing. A functional miniature microfluidics instrument with the ability to remotely distinguish live or dead bacterial cells from abiotic particulates in ice or permafrost of icy bodies of the solar system would be of fundamental value to NASA. The use of molecular probes to obtain the bio-signature of living or dead cells could answer the most fundamental question of Astrobiology: Does life exist beyond Earth? The live-dead fluorescent stains to be used in the microFACS instrument function only with biological cell walls. The detection of the cell membranes of living or dead bacteria (unlike PAH's and many other Biomarkers) would provide convincing evidence of present or past life. This miniature device rapidly examine large numbers of particulates from a polar ice or permafrost sample and distinguish living from dead bacteria cells and biological cells from mineral grains and abiotic particulates and sort the cells and particulates based on a staining system. Any sample found to exhibit fluorescence consistent with living cells could then be used in conjunction with a chiral labeled release experiment or video microscopy system to seek addition evidence for cellular metabolism or motility. Results of preliminary testing and calibration of the microFACS prototype instrument system with pure cultures and enrichment assemblages of microbial extremophiles will be reported.

Promising Nanocarriers for PEDF Gene Targeting Delivery to Cervical Cancer Cells Mediated by the Over-expressing FRα

PubMed Central

Yang, Yuhan; He, Lili; Liu, Yongmei; Xia, Shan; Fang, Aiping; Xie, Yafei; Gan, Li; He, Zhiyao; Tan, Xiaoyue; Jiang, Chunling; Tong, Aiping; Song, Xiangrong

2016-01-01

Cervical cancer presents extremely low PEDF expression which is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. In this study, folate receptor α (FRα)-targeted nano-liposomes (FLP) were designed to enhance the anti-tumor effect by targeting delivery of exogenous PEDF gene to cervical cancer cells. The targeting molecule F-PEG-Chol was firstly synthesized by a novel simpler method. FLP encapsulating PEDF gene (FLP/PEDF) with a typical lipid-membrane structure were prepared by a film dispersion method. The transfection experiment found FLP could effectively transfect human cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells). FLP/PEDF significantly inhibited the growth of HeLa cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC cells) and suppressed adhension, invasion and migration of HeLa cells in vitro. In the abdominal metastatic tumor model of cervical cancer, FLP/PEDF administered by intraperitoneal injection exhibited a superior anti-tumor effect probably due to the up-regulated PEDF. FLP/PEDF could not only sharply reduce the microvessel density but also dramatically inhibit proliferation and markedly induce apoptosis of tumor cells in vivo. Moreover, the preliminary safety investigation revealed that FLP/PEDF had no obvious toxicity. These results clearly showed that FLP were desired carriers for PEDF gene and FLP/PEDF might represent a potential novel strategy for gene therapy of cervical cancer. PMID:27576898

Heat flow control and segregation in directional solidification: Development of an experimental and theoretical basis for Bridgman-type growth experiments in a microgravity environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Witt, A. F.

1986-01-01

Within the framework of the proposed research, emphasis was placed on application of magnetic fields to semiconductor growth systems. It was found that magnetic fields up to 3 kGauss do not affect the growth behavior nor the macro-segregation behavior in the system Ge(Ga). Applied fields are found to significantlty alter the radial dopant distribution, which is attributed to alterations in the spatial orientation of convective cells. Increasing the magnetic field to 30 kGauss is found to have a fundamental effect on dopant segregation. Emphasis is also placed on the potential of KC-135 flights for preliminary studies on the effects of reduced gravity environments on the wetting behavior of semiconductor systems in growth configuration. The limited number of experiments conducted does not allow any conclusions on the merits of KC-135 flights for semiconductor processing research.

A preliminary investigation into the effect of pressure on flotation performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Courtney A.

2007-10-01

In a previous study, various pyrite depressants were examined to improve the flotation performance of a copper-sulfide ore containing tetrahedrite (Cu12Sb4S13). Optimal results from this study were used to examine the effect of elevation on recovery and grade. Tests were conducted at elevations of 3,350 meters, 1,735 meters, 610 meters, and-760 meters, consisting of five repetitive experiments for statistical analysis. The experiments were performed both with and without airflow control. Tests were also performed in a glove box at Montana Tech of The University of Montana to mimic the pressure conditions. Results indicate that both recovery and grade are dependent on pressure via bubble size and airflow, suggesting that pressurized fl otation cells should be considered for operations, particularly those at high elevation. Economics are extremely favorable for implementation because ensuing capital expenses are inconsequential with minimal time for return-on-investment.

[Initial clinical experience of proton therapy at Shizuoka Cancer Center].

PubMed

Murayama, Shigeyuki; Fuji, Hiroshi; Yamashita, Haruo; Futami, Yasuyuki; Numano, Masumi; Harada, Hideyuki; Kamata, Minoru; Nishimura, Tetsuo

2005-10-01

To present the initial experience and preliminary clinical results of patients treated mainly with proton irradiation at the newly developed proton therapy facility at Shizuoka Cancer Center. We reviewed 125 patients who underwent proton therapy between July 2003 and December 2004. Of these 125 patients, 11 had head and neck malignancies, 15 non-small cell lung cancers, 22 hepatocellular carcinomas, 62 prostate cancers, and 15 other malignant tumors. Most patients experienced Grade 0-1 acute morbidities (NCI-CTC) in skin or mucosa, while a temporary Grade 2-3 reaction was observed in a high dose area. Response rates were 73% for H & N malignancies, 100% for NSCLC, and 77% for HCC. PSA evaluation for patients with prostate cancer revealed a high rate of complete response. The efficacy and safety of proton therapy at Shizuoka Cancer Center was demonstrated for patients with early-stage cancer or locally advanced disease.

Confinement effect on the dynamics of non-equilibrium concentration fluctuations far from the onset of convection.

PubMed

Giraudet, Cédric; Bataller, Henri; Sun, Yifei; Donev, Aleksandar; Ortiz de Zárate, José M; Croccolo, Fabrizio

2016-12-01

In a recent letter (C. Giraudet et al., EPL 111, 60013 (2015)) we reported preliminary data showing evidence of a slowing-down of non-equilibrium fluctuations of the concentration in thermodiffusion experiments on a binary mixture of miscible fluids. The reason for this slowing-down was attributed to the effect of confinement. Such tentative explanation is here experimentally corroborated by new measurements and theoretically substantiated by studying analytically and numerically the relevant fluctuating hydrodynamics equations. In the new experiments presented here, the magnitude of the temperature gradient is changed, confirming that the system is controlled solely by the solutal Rayleigh number, and that the slowing-down is dominated by a combined effect of the driving force of buoyancy, the dissipating force of diffusion and the confinement provided by the vertical extension of the sample cell. Moreover, a compact phenomenological interpolating formula is proposed for easy analysis of experimental results.

Preliminary results of the Artemia salina experiments in biostack on LDEF

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Graul, E. H.; Ruether, W.; Hiendl, C. O.

1992-01-01

The mosaic egg of the brine shrimp, Artemia salina, resting in blastula or gastrula state represents a system that during further development, proceeds without any further development to the larval stage, the free swimming nauplius. Therefore, injury to a single cell of the egg will be manifest in the larvae. In several experiments, it was shown that the passage of a single heavy ion through the shrimp egg damaged a cellular area large enough to disturb either embryogenesis or further development of the larvae, or the integrity of the adult individual. Emergence from the egg shell was heavily disturbed by the heavy ions as was hatching. Additional late effects, due to a hit by a heavy ion, are delayed of growth and of sexual maturity, and reduced fertility. Anomalies in the body and the extremities could be observed more frequently for the nauplii which had developed from eggs hit by heavy ions.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction experiment of nattokinase from Bacillus subtilis natto.

PubMed

Yanagisawa, Yasuhide; Chatake, Toshiyuki; Chiba-Kamoshida, Kaori; Naito, Sawa; Ohsugi, Tadanori; Sumi, Hiroyuki; Yasuda, Ichiro; Morimoto, Yukio

2010-12-01

Nattokinase is a single polypeptide chain composed of 275 amino acids (molecular weight 27,724) which displays strong fibrinolytic activity. Moreover, it can activate other fibrinolytic enzymes such as pro-urokinase and tissue plasminogen activator. In the present study, native nattokinase from Bacillus subtilis natto was purified using gel-filtration chromatography and crystallized to give needle-like crystals which could be used for X-ray diffraction experiments. The crystals belonged to space group C2, with unit-cell parameters a=74.3, b=49.9, c=56.3 Å, β=95.2°. Diffraction images were processed to a resolution of 1.74 Å with an Rmerge of 5.2% (15.3% in the highest resolution shell) and a completeness of 69.8% (30.0% in the highest resolution shell). This study reports the first X-ray diffraction analysis of nattokinase.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction experiment of nattokinase from Bacillus subtilis natto

PubMed Central

Yanagisawa, Yasuhide; Chatake, Toshiyuki; Chiba-Kamoshida, Kaori; Naito, Sawa; Ohsugi, Tadanori; Sumi, Hiroyuki; Yasuda, Ichiro; Morimoto, Yukio

2010-01-01

Nattokinase is a single polypeptide chain composed of 275 amino acids (molecular weight 27 724) which displays strong fibrinolytic activity. Moreover, it can activate other fibrinolytic enzymes such as pro-urokinase and tissue plasminogen activator. In the present study, native nattokinase from Bacillus subtilis natto was purified using gel-filtration chromatography and crystallized to give needle-like crystals which could be used for X-ray diffraction experiments. The crystals belonged to space group C2, with unit-cell parameters a = 74.3, b = 49.9, c = 56.3 Å, β = 95.2°. Diffraction images were processed to a resolution of 1.74 Å with an R merge of 5.2% (15.3% in the highest resolution shell) and a completeness of 69.8% (30.0% in the highest resolution shell). This study reports the first X-ray diffraction analysis of nattokinase. PMID:21139221

Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) Fuel Cell Transit Buses: Preliminary Evaluation Results

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

Chandler, K.; Eudy, L.

2007-03-01

This report provides an evaluation of three prototype fuel cell-powered transit buses operating at AC Transit in Oakland, California, and six baseline diesel buses similar in design to the fuel cell buses.

Preliminary results and power analysis of the UAH SEDS G503 GAS can

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jalbert, Lyle B.; Mustaikis, Steven, II; Nerren, Philip

1995-01-01

The G-503 Get Away Special (GAS) Canister contained four experiments. A stainless steel corrosion experiment, and experiment to mix and cure concrete, a plant root growth chamber, and a group of 8 chambers to characterize diatom growth cycles in microgravity. As would be expected for this selection of experiments a significant amount of power was required to carry out these investigations over several days in a GAS environment. This was accomplished through the use of low power experiment control circuitry, heaters, and an estimate 3.6 kWh battery pack. The battery was designed around 120 standard Duracell Alkaline F cells. This pack weighed 29.5 kg (65 lbs) including a DC/DC converter and the power distribution bus for all of the experiments. Although not rechargeable, this configurations was a fraction of the cost of rechargeable systems and did not require venting to the outside of the can. Combining this with the long term storage performance, 85% of initial capacity after four years at 20 C (70 F), this guarantees sufficient power even with unexpected launch delays. This paper describes the experiments, there operation and initial results. Also, the performance of the power system during the STS-68 SRL2 mission will be addressed.

Preliminary concepts for a solar electric orbit raising experiment

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

Cohen, R.B.; Penn, J.P.; Janson, S.W.

1989-01-01

Some preliminary concepts for a solar electric orbit raising demonstration that will show technological readiness for the development of operational Electric Orbital Transfer Vehicles (EOTVs) are outlined. These ideas could serve as a template for the proposed Electric Insertion Transfer Experiment (ELITE). At this moment, ELITE is not a funded program. Concepts are presented for a solar electric orbit raising demonstration, for ELITE, and for the path from the proposed ELITE to a future operational EOTV. A brief discussion of the benefits to be derived from the use of EOTVs, the conceptual organization of the ELITE team, the key technologiesmore » for EOTV and ELITE, and some preliminary options for the orbit raising vehicle and representative missions are provided.« less

Characterization and separation of Cryptosporidium and Giardia cells using on-chip dielectrophoresis.

PubMed

Narayanan Unni, Harikrishnan; Hartono, Deny; Yue Lanry Yung, Lin; Mah-Lee Ng, Mary; Pueh Lee, Heow; Cheong Khoo, Boo; Lim, Kian-Meng

2012-03-01

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) has been shown to have significant potential for the characterization of cells and could become an efficient tool for rapid identification and assessment of microorganisms. The present work is focused on the trapping, characterization, and separation of two species of Cryptosporidium (C. parvum and C. muris) and Giardia lambia (G. lambia) using a microfluidic experimental setup. Cryptosporidium oocysts, which are 2-4 μm in size and nearly spherical in shape, are used for the preliminary stage of prototype development and testing. G. lambia cysts are 8-12 μm in size. In order to facilitate effective trapping, simulations were performed to study the effects of buffer conductivity and applied voltage on the flow and cell transport inside the DEP chip. Microscopic experiments were performed using the fabricated device and the real part of Clausius-Mossotti factor of the cells was estimated from critical voltages for particle trapping at the electrodes under steady fluid flow. The dielectric properties of the cell compartments (cytoplasm and membrane) were calculated based on a single shell model of the cells. The separation of C. muris and G. lambia is achieved successfully at a frequency of 10 MHz and a voltage of 3 Vpp (peak to peak voltage).

Connecticut Transit (CTTRANSIT) Fuel Cell Transit Bus Preliminary Evaluation Results

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-10-16

This report describes operations at Connecticut Transit (CTTRANSIT) in Hartford for one prototype fuel cell bus and three new diesel buses operating from the same location. The report discusses the planned fuel cell bus demonstration and equipment us...

Preliminary results of accelerated exposure testing of solar cell system components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anagnostou, E.; Forestieri, A. F.

1977-01-01

Plastic samples and solar cell sub modules were exposed to an accelerated outdoor environment in Arizona and an accelerated simulated environment in a cyclic ultraviolet exposure tester which included humidity exposure. These tests were for preliminary screening of materials suitable for use in the manufacture of solar cell modules which are to have a 20-year lifetime. The samples were exposed for various times up to six months, equivalent to a real time exposure of four years. Suitable materials were found to be FEP-A, FEP-C, PFA, acrylic, silicone compounds and adhesives and possibly parylene. The method of packaging the sub modules was also found to be important to their performance.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of West Nile virus

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

Kaufmann, Barbel; Plevka, Pavel; Kuhn, Richard J.

2010-05-25

West Nile virus, a human pathogen, is closely related to other medically important flaviviruses of global impact such as dengue virus. The infectious virus was purified from cell culture using polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation and density-gradient centrifugation. Thin amorphously shaped crystals of the lipid-enveloped virus were grown in quartz capillaries equilibrated by vapor diffusion. Crystal diffraction extended at best to a resolution of about 25 {angstrom} using synchrotron radiation. A preliminary analysis of the diffraction images indicated that the crystals had unit-cell parameters a {approx_equal} b {approx_equal} 480 {angstrom}, {gamma} = 120{sup o}, suggesting a tight hexagonal packing of onemore » virus particle per unit cell.« less

77 FR 4764 - Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Cells, Whether or Not Assembled Into Modules, From the People's...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-31

... Photovoltaic Cells, Whether or Not Assembled Into Modules, From the People's Republic of China: Second... preliminary determination of the countervailing duty investigation of crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells... February 13, 2012.\\1\\ \\1\\ See Crystalline Silicon Photovoltaic Cells, Whether or Not Assembled Into Modules...

PubMed Central

MAZZOLA, R.F.; CANTARELLA, G.; TORRETTA, S.; SBARBATI, A.; LAZZARI, L.; PIGNATARO, L.

2011-01-01

SUMMARY Minimally-invasive autologous fat injection of the head and neck region can be considered a valid alternative to major invasive surgical procedures both for aesthetic and functional purposes. The favourable outcomes of autologous fat injection in otolaryngological practice are due to the filling of soft tissue and, mainly, to the potential regenerative effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Herewith, some important biological preliminary remarks are described underlying the potential of autologous fat injection in regenerative medicine, and personal experience in using it for both consolidated clinical applications, such as fat grafting to the face and vocal fold augmentation in the treatment of glottic incompetence, and more recent applications including the treatment of post-parotidectomy Frey syndrome and velopharyngeal insufficiency. PMID:22058586

LDEF Experiment P0006 Linear Energy Transfer Spectrum Measurement (LETSME) quick look report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

A preliminary analysis of the various passive radiation detector materials included in the P0006 LETSME experiment flown on LDEF (Long Duration Exposure Facility) is presented. It consists of four tasks: (1) readout and analysis of thermoluminescent detectors (TLD); (2) readout and analysis of fission foil/mica detectors; (3) readout and analysis of (6)LiF/CR-39 detectors; and (4) preliminary processing and readout of CR-39 and polycarbonate plastic nuclear track detectors (PNTD).

Microwave remote sensing of snow experiment description and preliminary results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ulaby, F. T. (Principal Investigator); Stiles, W. H.; Hanson, B. C.

1977-01-01

The active and passive microwave responses to snow were investigated at a site near Steamboat Springs, Colorado during the February and March winter months. The microwave equipment was mounted atop truck-mounted booms. Data were acquired at numerous frequencies, polarizations, and angles of incidence for a variety of snow conditions. The experiment description, the characteristics of the microwave and ground truth instruments, and the results of a preliminary analysis of a small portion of the total data volume acquired in Colorado are documented.

Preliminary study of the role of gastrointestinal endocrine cells in the maintenance of villous structure following X-irradiation

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

Wyatt, M.G.; Hume, S.P.; Carr, K.E.

The mechanism of gastrointestinal villous damage following ionizing irradiation is complex. Various compartments within the gastrointestinal tract have in turn been considered important for the maintenance of normal villous structure. To date, however, evidence for a single overriding regulator of epithelial well-being is lacking. In this study, the role of the gastro-intestinal (enteroendocrine) cells is explored and comparison made between endocrine cell number and villous structure. Experiments were organized using both control and irradiated groups of mice. Two time points (1 and 3 days) and three radiation doses (6, 10 and 18Gy) were employed. A simple method for endocrine cellmore » identification and subsequent quantification is described. Endocrine cell number was then compared with villous surface detail, as seen with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results indicated a decrease in the endocrine cell number at all three radiation doses. Whereas at low doses endocrine cell recovery occurred between 1 and 3 days, at medium and high doses further decline was noticed. A similar pattern was seen when considering villous surface structure. It is suggested that both scanning electron microscopy and endocrine cell number provide a more sensitive indicator of gastrointestinal radiation damage than do current crypt counting techniques. In addition, a link between endocrine cell number and villous structure is proposed.« less

Small Molecule Sequential Dual-Targeting Theragnostic Strategy (SMSDTTS): from Preclinical Experiments towards Possible Clinical Anticancer Applications

PubMed Central

Li, Junjie; Oyen, Raymond; Verbruggen, Alfons; Ni, Yicheng

2013-01-01

Hitting the evasive tumor cells proves challenging in targeted cancer therapies. A general and unconventional anticancer approach namely small molecule sequential dual-targeting theragnostic strategy (SMSDTTS) has recently been introduced with the aims to target and debulk the tumor mass, wipe out the residual tumor cells, and meanwhile enable cancer detectability. This dual targeting approach works in two steps for systemic delivery of two naturally derived drugs. First, an anti-tubulin vascular disrupting agent, e.g., combretastatin A4 phosphate (CA4P), is injected to selectively cut off tumor blood supply and to cause massive necrosis, which nevertheless always leaves peripheral tumor residues. Secondly, a necrosis-avid radiopharmaceutical, namely 131I-hypericin (131I-Hyp), is administered the next day, which accumulates in intratumoral necrosis and irradiates the residual cancer cells with beta particles. Theoretically, this complementary targeted approach may biologically and radioactively ablate solid tumors and reduce the risk of local recurrence, remote metastases, and thus cancer mortality. Meanwhile, the emitted gamma rays facilitate radio-scintigraphy to detect tumors and follow up the therapy, hence a simultaneous theragnostic approach. SMSDTTS has now shown promise from multicenter animal experiments and may demonstrate unique anticancer efficacy in upcoming preliminary clinical trials. In this short review article, information about the two involved agents, the rationale of SMSDTTS, its preclinical antitumor efficacy, multifocal targetability, simultaneous theragnostic property, and toxicities of the dose regimens are summarized. Meanwhile, possible drawbacks, practical challenges and future improvement with SMSDTTS are discussed, which hopefully may help to push forward this strategy from preclinical experiments towards possible clinical applications. PMID:23412554

Small Molecule Sequential Dual-Targeting Theragnostic Strategy (SMSDTTS): from Preclinical Experiments towards Possible Clinical Anticancer Applications.

PubMed

Li, Junjie; Oyen, Raymond; Verbruggen, Alfons; Ni, Yicheng

2013-01-01

Hitting the evasive tumor cells proves challenging in targeted cancer therapies. A general and unconventional anticancer approach namely small molecule sequential dual-targeting theragnostic strategy (SMSDTTS) has recently been introduced with the aims to target and debulk the tumor mass, wipe out the residual tumor cells, and meanwhile enable cancer detectability. This dual targeting approach works in two steps for systemic delivery of two naturally derived drugs. First, an anti-tubulin vascular disrupting agent, e.g., combretastatin A4 phosphate (CA4P), is injected to selectively cut off tumor blood supply and to cause massive necrosis, which nevertheless always leaves peripheral tumor residues. Secondly, a necrosis-avid radiopharmaceutical, namely (131)I-hypericin ((131)I-Hyp), is administered the next day, which accumulates in intratumoral necrosis and irradiates the residual cancer cells with beta particles. Theoretically, this complementary targeted approach may biologically and radioactively ablate solid tumors and reduce the risk of local recurrence, remote metastases, and thus cancer mortality. Meanwhile, the emitted gamma rays facilitate radio-scintigraphy to detect tumors and follow up the therapy, hence a simultaneous theragnostic approach. SMSDTTS has now shown promise from multicenter animal experiments and may demonstrate unique anticancer efficacy in upcoming preliminary clinical trials. In this short review article, information about the two involved agents, the rationale of SMSDTTS, its preclinical antitumor efficacy, multifocal targetability, simultaneous theragnostic property, and toxicities of the dose regimens are summarized. Meanwhile, possible drawbacks, practical challenges and future improvement with SMSDTTS are discussed, which hopefully may help to push forward this strategy from preclinical experiments towards possible clinical applications.

A preliminary experiment definition for video landmark acquisition and tracking

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schappell, R. T.; Tietz, J. C.; Hulstrom, R. L.; Cunningham, R. A.; Reel, G. M.

1976-01-01

Six scientific objectives/experiments were derived which consisted of agriculture/forestry/range resources, land use, geology/mineral resources, water resources, marine resources and environmental surveys. Computer calculations were then made of the spectral radiance signature of each of 25 candidate targets as seen by a satellite sensor system. An imaging system capable of recognizing, acquiring and tracking specific generic type surface features was defined. A preliminary experiment definition and design of a video Landmark Acquisition and Tracking system is given. This device will search a 10-mile swath while orbiting the earth, looking for land/water interfaces such as coastlines and rivers.

Effects of Trichothecenes on Cardiac Cell Electrical Function

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-12-16

toxic effects . These studies demonstrated unequivocal reversible effects of certain mycotoxins on heart cell electrical activity. Preliminary studies...muscle cells shown in Figure 8 illustrate the typical effects of trichothecene mycotoxins in canine ventricular cells. T-2 tetraol, for 3xample...false tendon cells and V ventricular muscle cells (shown in Figure 8) illustrate the typical effects of trichothecene mycotoxins in canine cardiac

Fetoscopic single-layer repair of open spina bifida using a cellulose patch: preliminary clinical experience.

PubMed

Pedreira, Denise A L; Zanon, Nelci; de Sá, Renato A M; Acacio, Gregório L; Ogeda, Edilson; Belem, Teresa M L O U; Chmait, Ramen H; Kontopoulos, Eftichia; Quintero, Ruben A

2014-11-01

To report our preliminary clinical experience in the antenatal correction of open spina bifida (OSB) using a fetoscopic approach and a simplified closure technique. Four fetuses with lumbar-sacral defects were operated in utero from 25 to 27 weeks. Surgeries were performed percutaneously under general anesthesia using three trocars and partial carbon dioxide insufflation. After dissection of the neural placode, the surrounding skin was closed over a cellulose patch using a single continuous stitch. Surgical closure was successful in three of the four cases. All successful cases showed improvement of the hindbrain herniation and no neonatal neurosurgical repair was required in two cases. Delivery occurred between 31 and 33 weeks, and no fetal or neonatal deaths occurred. Ventriculoperitoneal shunting was not needed in two out of the 3 successful cases. Our preliminary experience suggests that definitive fetoscopic repair of OSB is feasible using our innovative surgical technique. A phase I trial for the fetoscopic correction of OSB with this technique is currently being conducted.

Evaluation and Preliminary Results of the New USNO PPS Timing Receiver

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-11-01

timing receiver, one may currently obtain raw pseudorange and carrier-phase data by periodically downloading such data from a flashcard . Several...preliminary experiments have been performed using data collected from the prototype TTR- 12 receivers’ flashcards and geodetic GPS carrier-phase techniques

The Clinical/Practicum Experience in Professional Preparation: Preliminary Findings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ralph, Edwin George; Walker, Keith; Wimmer, Randy

2008-01-01

The authors synthesize preliminary findings from an interdisciplinary study of the practicum/clinical phase of undergraduate pre-service education in the professions. Early data analysis identified similarities and differences across disciplines in terms of: (a) the terminology describing each practicum program, (b) the programs' key…

Research by retrieving experiments.

PubMed

Blagosklonny, Mikhail V

2007-06-01

Newton did not discover that apples fall: the information was available prior to his gravitational hypothesis. Hypotheses can be tested not only by performing experiments but also by retrieving experiments from the literature (via PubMed, for example). Here I show how disconnected facts from known data, if properly connected, can generate novel predictions testable in turn by other published data. With examples from cell cycle, aging, cancer and other fields of biology and medicine, I discuss how new knowledge was and will be derived from old information. Millions of experiments have been already performed to test unrelated hypotheses and the results of those experiments are available to 'test' your hypotheses too. But most data (99% by some estimates) remain unpublished, because they were negative, seemed of low priority, or did not fit the story. Yet for other investigators those data may be valuable. The well-known story of Franklin and Watson is a case in point. By making preliminary data widely available, 'data-owners' will benefit most, receiving the credit for otherwise unused results. If posted (pre-published) on searchable databases, these data may fuel thousands of projects without the need for repetitive experiments. Enormous 'pre-published' databases coupled with Google-like search engines can change the structure of scientific research, and shrinking funding will make this inevitable.

Expression, purification and preliminary X-ray diffraction studies of the transcriptional factor PyrR from Bacillus halodurans

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

Arreola, Rodrigo; Vega-Miranda, Anita; Gómez-Puyou, Armando

The gene-regulation factor PyrR from B. halodurans has been crystallized in two crystal forms. Preliminary crystallographic analysis showed that the protein forms tetramers in both space groups. The PyrR transcriptional regulator is widely distributed in bacteria. This RNA-binding protein is involved in the control of genes involved in pyrimidine biosynthesis, in which uridyl and guanyl nucleotides function as effectors. Here, the crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of two crystal forms of Bacillus halodurans PyrR are reported. One of the forms belongs to the monoclinic space group P2{sub 1} with unit-cell parameters a = 59.7, b = 87.4, c =more » 72.1 Å, β = 104.4°, while the other form belongs to the orthorhombic space group P22{sub 1}2{sub 1} with unit-cell parameters a = 72.7, b = 95.9, c = 177.1 Å. Preliminary X-ray diffraction data analysis and molecular-replacement solution revealed the presence of four and six monomers per asymmetric unit; a crystallographic tetramer is formed in both forms.« less

Diamond Nanoparticles Modify Curcumin Activity: In Vitro Studies on Cancer and Normal Cells and In Ovo Studies on Chicken Embryo Model

PubMed Central

Strojny, Barbara; Grodzik, Marta; Sawosz, Ewa; Winnicka, Anna; Kurantowicz, Natalia; Jaworski, Sławomir; Kutwin, Marta; Urbańska, Kaja; Hotowy, Anna; Wierzbicki, Mateusz; Chwalibog, André

2016-01-01

Curcumin has been studied broadly for its wide range of biological activities, including anticancer properties. The major problem with curcumin is its poor bioavailability, which can be improved by the addition of carriers, such as diamond nanoparticles (DN). They are carbon allotropes, and are therefore biocompatible and easily taken up by cells. DN are non-toxic and have antiangiogenic properties with potential applications in cancer therapy. Their large surface makes them promising compounds in a drug delivery system for bioactive agents, as DN create bio-complexes in a fast and simple process of self-organisation. We investigated the cytotoxicity of such bio-complexes against liver cancer cells and normal fibroblasts, revealing that conjugation of curcumin with DN significantly improves its activity. The experiment performed in a chicken embryo model demonstrated that neither curcumin nor DN nor bio-complexes affect embryo development, even though DN can form deposits in tissues. Preliminary results confirmed the applicability of DN as an efficient carrier of curcumin, which improves its performance against cancer cells in vitro, yet is not toxic to an organism, which makes the bio-complex a promising anticancer agent. PMID:27736939

Diamond Nanoparticles Modify Curcumin Activity: In Vitro Studies on Cancer and Normal Cells and In Ovo Studies on Chicken Embryo Model.

PubMed

Strojny, Barbara; Grodzik, Marta; Sawosz, Ewa; Winnicka, Anna; Kurantowicz, Natalia; Jaworski, Sławomir; Kutwin, Marta; Urbańska, Kaja; Hotowy, Anna; Wierzbicki, Mateusz; Chwalibog, André

2016-01-01

Curcumin has been studied broadly for its wide range of biological activities, including anticancer properties. The major problem with curcumin is its poor bioavailability, which can be improved by the addition of carriers, such as diamond nanoparticles (DN). They are carbon allotropes, and are therefore biocompatible and easily taken up by cells. DN are non-toxic and have antiangiogenic properties with potential applications in cancer therapy. Their large surface makes them promising compounds in a drug delivery system for bioactive agents, as DN create bio-complexes in a fast and simple process of self-organisation. We investigated the cytotoxicity of such bio-complexes against liver cancer cells and normal fibroblasts, revealing that conjugation of curcumin with DN significantly improves its activity. The experiment performed in a chicken embryo model demonstrated that neither curcumin nor DN nor bio-complexes affect embryo development, even though DN can form deposits in tissues. Preliminary results confirmed the applicability of DN as an efficient carrier of curcumin, which improves its performance against cancer cells in vitro, yet is not toxic to an organism, which makes the bio-complex a promising anticancer agent.

Investigation of diseases through red blood cells' shape using photoacoustic response technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biswas, Deblina; Gorey, Abhijeet; Chen, Goerge C. K.; Sharma, Norman; Vasudevan, Srivathsan

2015-03-01

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is a non-invasive real-time technique, widely applied to many biomedical imaging studies in the recent years. While most of these studies have been focussed on obtaining an image after reconstruction, various features of time domain signal (e.g. amplitude, width, rise and relaxation time) would provide very high sensitivity in detecting morphological changes in cells during a biological study. Different haematological disorders (e.g., sickle cell anaemia, thalassemia) exhibit significant morphological cellular changes. In this context, this study explores the possibility of utilizing the developed photoacoustic response technique to apply onto blood samples. Results of our preliminary study demonstrate that there is a significant change in signal amplitude due to change in concentration of the blood. Thus it shows the sensitivity of the developed photoacoustic technique towards red blood cell count (related to haematological disease like anaemia). Subsequently, morphological changes in RBC (i.e. swollen and shrunk compared to normal RBC) induced by hypotonic and hypertonic solutions respectively were also experimented. The result shows a distinct change in PA signal amplitude. This would serve as a diagnostic signature for many future studies on cellular morphological disorders.

Dose intensification of TRAIL-inducing ONC201 inhibits metastasis and promotes intratumoral NK cell recruitment.

PubMed

Wagner, Jessica; Kline, C Leah; Zhou, Lanlan; Campbell, Kerry S; MacFarlane, Alexander W; Olszanski, Anthony J; Cai, Kathy Q; Hensley, Harvey H; Ross, Eric A; Ralff, Marie D; Zloza, Andrew; Chesson, Charles B; Newman, Jenna H; Kaufman, Howard; Bertino, Joseph; Stein, Mark; El-Deiry, Wafik S

2018-06-01

ONC201 is a first-in-class, orally active antitumor agent that upregulates cytotoxic TRAIL pathway signaling in cancer cells. ONC201 has demonstrated safety and preliminary efficacy in a first-in-human trial in which patients were dosed every 3 weeks. We hypothesized that dose intensification of ONC201 may impact antitumor efficacy. We discovered that ONC201 exerts dose- and schedule-dependent effects on tumor progression and cell death signaling in vivo. With dose intensification, we note a potent anti-metastasis effect and inhibition of cancer cell migration and invasion. Our preclinical results prompted a change in ONC201 dosing in all open clinical trials. We observed accumulation of activated NK+ and CD3+ cells within ONC201-treated tumors and that NK cell depletion inhibits ONC201 efficacy in vivo, including against TRAIL/ONC201-resistant Bax-/- tumors. Immunocompetent NCR1-GFP mice, in which NK cells express GFP, demonstrated GFP+ NK cell infiltration of syngeneic MC38 colorectal tumors. Activation of primary human NK cells and increased degranulation occurred in response to ONC201. Coculture experiments identified a role for TRAIL in human NK-mediated antitumor cytotoxicity. Preclinical results indicate the potential utility for ONC201 plus anti-PD-1 therapy. We observed an increase in activated TRAIL-secreting NK cells in the peripheral blood of patients after ONC201 treatment. The results offer what we believe to be a unique pathway of immune stimulation for cancer therapy.

Production of Poly-γ-Glutamate (PGA) Biopolymer by Batch and Semicontinuous Cultures of Immobilized Bacilluslicheniformis strain-R

PubMed Central

Berekaa, Mahmoud M.; El Aassar, Samy A.; El-Sayed, Samia M.; EL Borai, Aliaa M.

2009-01-01

Production of Polyglutamate (PGA) biopolymer by immobilized Bacillus licheniformis strain-R was intensively investigated. Preliminary experiments were carried out to address the most suitable immobilization methodology. Entrapment of Bacillus cells in alginate–agar led optimal PGA production (36.75 g/l), with 1.32-and 2.18-fold increase in comparison with alginate-or K-carrageenan-immobilized cells, respectively. During semicontinuous cultivation of agar-alginate gel-cell mixture, production of PGA by 10 ml mixture was increased from 2nd to 3rd run whereas, increased till the 4th run using 15ml mixture. Adsorption was the most suitable immobilization technique for production of PGA and the sponge cubes was the preferred matrix recording 43.2 g/l of PGA with the highest cell adsorption. Furthermore, no PGA was detected when B. licheniformis cells were adsorbed on wood and pumice. Although luffa pulp-adsorbed cells recorded the highest PGA production (50.4 g/l), cell adsorption was the lowest. Semicontinuous cultivation of B. licheniformis cells adsorbed on sponge led to increase of PGA production till the 3rd run and reached 55.5 g/l then slightly decreased in the 4th run. The successful use of fixed-bed bioreactor for semicontinuous cultivation of B. licheniformis cells held on sponge cubes (3 runs, 96 hours/run) provides insight for the potential biotechnological production of PGA by immobilized cells. PMID:24031418

Nanocomposites of high-density polyethylene with amorphous calcium phosphate: in vitro biomineralization and cytocompatibility of human mesenchymal stem cells.

PubMed

Hild, Nora; Fuhrer, Roland; Mohn, Dirk; Bubenhofer, Stephanie B; Grass, Robert N; Luechinger, Norman A; Feldman, Kirill; Dora, Claudio; Stark, Wendelin J

2012-10-01

Polyethylene is widely used as a component of implants in medicine. Composites made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containing different amounts of amorphous calcium phosphate nanoparticles were investigated concerning their in vitro biomedical performance. The nanoparticles were produced by flame spray synthesis and extruded with HDPE, the latter complying with Food and Drug Administration regulations. Mechanical properties such as Young's modulus and contact angle as well as in vitro biomineralization of the nanocomposites hot-pressed into thin films were evaluated. The deposition of a hydroxyapatite layer occurred upon immersion in simulated body fluid. Additionally, a cell culture study with human mesenchymal stem cells for six weeks allowed a primary assessment of the cytocompatibility. Viability assays (alamarBlue and lactate dehydrogenase detection) proved the absence of cytotoxic effects of the scaffolds. Microscopic images after hematoxylin and eosin staining confirmed typical growth and morphology. A preliminary experiment analyzed the alkaline phosphatase activity after two weeks. These findings motivate further investigations on bioactive HDPE in bone tissue engineering.

Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Multiple Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Cohen, Jeffrey A.

2013-01-01

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a pluripotent non-hematopoietic precursor cells that can be isolated from bone marrow and numerous other tissues, culture-expanded to purity, and induced to differentiate in vitro and in vivo into mesodermal derivatives. MSCs exhibit many phenotypic and functional similarities to pericytes. The immunomodulatory, tissue protective, and repair-promoting properties of MSCs demonstrated both in vitro and in animal models make them an attractive potential therapy for MS and other conditions characterized by inflammation and/or tissue injury. Other potential advantages of MSCs as a therapeutic include the relative ease of culture expansion, relative immunoprivilege allowing allogeneic transplantation, and their ability to traffic from blood to areas of tissue allowing intravascular administration. The overall published experience with MSC transplantation in MS is modest, but several small case series and preliminary studies yielded promising results. Several groups, including us, recently initiated formal studies of autologous, culture-expanded, bone-marrow-derived MSC transplantation in MS. Although there are several potential safety concerns, to date, the procedure has been well tolerated. Future studies that more definitively assess efficacy also will need to address several technical issues. PMID:23294498

The NASA Juncture Flow Experiment: Goals, Progress, and Preliminary Testing (Invited)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rumsey, Christopher L.; Neuhart, Danny H.; Kegerise, Michael A.

2016-01-01

NASA has been working toward designing and conducting a juncture flow experiment on a wing-body aircraft configuration. The experiment is planned to provide validation-quality data for CFD that focuses on the onset and progression of a separation bubble near the wing-body juncture trailing edge region. This paper describes the goals and purpose of the experiment. Although currently considered unreliable, preliminary CFD analyses of several different configurations are shown. These configurations have been subsequently tested in a series of "risk-reduction" wind tunnel tests, in order to help down-select to a final configuration that will attain the desired flow behavior. The risk-reduction testing at the higher Reynolds number has not yet been completed (at the time of this writing), but some results from one of the low-Reynolds-number experiments are shown.

Preliminary experiments on dynamic biology of micro-organisms to avoid any specific full-blown syndrome on humans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meer, Sneer

2002-06-01

The aim of this paper is to apply an efficient system to detect, identify and quicken suppression of any dangerous micro-organism which threatens the health of the human body in any form. It is well known that some specimens of this kind of possess a specific energy related to their speed of division, toxin emissions and high-powered interaction with human and animal cells which have the capacity to provide certain deadly full-blown syndromes. Many problems relating to the above-mentioned properties have not been clarified to date, and it is vital to find a rapid and valid reply as soon as possible. Inter-disciplinary sciences directed us to start some experiments to solve such problems, considering that the human body is dotted with a multiple interactive system of energy release, a fact which can explain the source of the micro-organism's energy also, for their necessity to manifest their deadly pathology. From practical preliminary experiments with some micro-mechanical systems using light-microscopy, connected to video TV Recorder System, one obtains optical enlarged TV images of certain processes which indicated the right way towards our crucial target; ie: the preparation of safe vaccines and safe medicines. This will constitute a basic system to a void deadly manifestations of dangerous micro-organisms and/or even regular infections on earth and in space, a system which will probably be applied at the ISS Space Station and other future actions in space in long and very long flights. We look forward to applying this system of dynamic biology towards preparation of a real and valid vaccine(s) against HIV virus on AIDS diseases.

System Management in UK Libraries: Some Preliminary Findings of a Survey.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Muirhead, Graeme A.

1992-01-01

A cross-section of libraries in the United Kingdom was surveyed to investigate the prevalence of systems librarians and their education, work experience, duties, and professional activities. Preliminary findings of one section of the questionnaire indicate that systems librarians are generally associated with larger institutions that have large…

Specific Cleavage of the Nucleoprotein of Fish Rhabdovirus.

PubMed

Zhou, G-Z; Yi, Y-J; Chen, Z-Y; Zhang, Q-Y

2015-11-01

Siniperca chuatsi rhabdovirus (SCRV) is one of myriad rhabdoviruses recorded in fish. Preliminary data show that inhibition of the SCRV nucleoprotein (N) could significantly reduce the progeny virus titers in infected Epithelioma papulosum cyprinid (EPC) cells. Here, the authors propose that cleavage of the viral 47-kDa N protein is caspase-mediated based on caspase inhibition experiments, transient expression in EPC transfection, and analysis of cleavage sites. Cleavage of the SCRV N protein in culture was prevented by a pan-caspase inhibitor, z-VAD-FMK (z-Val-Ala-DL-Asp-fluoromethyl ketone). Subsequently, N was transiently expressed in EPC cells, the results of which indicated that the specific cleavage of N also occurred in the cells transfected with N-GFP plasmid. Several truncated fragments of the N gene were constructed and transiently transfected into EPC cells. Immunoblotting results indicated that D324 and D374 are the cleavage sites of N by caspases. The authors also found that z-VAD-FMK could inhibit the cytopathic effect in SCRV-infected EPC cells but not affect the production of infectious progeny, suggesting that the caspase-mediated cleavage of N protein is not required for in vitro SCRV replication. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report on the cleavage of rhabdovirus proteins. © The Author(s) 2015.

Beyond the Definitions of the Phenotypic Complications of Sickle Cell Disease: An Update on Management

PubMed Central

Ballas, Samir K.; Kesen, Muge R.; Goldberg, Morton F.; Lutty, Gerard A.; Dampier, Carlton; Osunkwo, Ifeyinwa; Wang, Winfred C.; Hoppe, Carolyn; Hagar, Ward; Darbari, Deepika S.; Malik, Punam

2012-01-01

The sickle hemoglobin is an abnormal hemoglobin due to point mutation (GAG → GTG) in exon 1 of the β globin gene resulting in the substitution of glutamic acid by valine at position 6 of the β globin polypeptide chain. Although the molecular lesion is a single-point mutation, the sickle gene is pleiotropic in nature causing multiple phenotypic expressions that constitute the various complications of sickle cell disease in general and sickle cell anemia in particular. The disease itself is chronic in nature but many of its complications are acute such as the recurrent acute painful crises (its hallmark), acute chest syndrome, and priapism. These complications vary considerably among patients, in the same patient with time, among countries and with age and sex. To date, there is no well-established consensus among providers on the management of the complications of sickle cell disease due in part to lack of evidence and in part to differences in the experience of providers. It is the aim of this paper to review available current approaches to manage the major complications of sickle cell disease. We hope that this will establish another preliminary forum among providers that may eventually lead the way to better outcomes. PMID:22924029

Beyond the definitions of the phenotypic complications of sickle cell disease: an update on management.

PubMed

Ballas, Samir K; Kesen, Muge R; Goldberg, Morton F; Lutty, Gerard A; Dampier, Carlton; Osunkwo, Ifeyinwa; Wang, Winfred C; Hoppe, Carolyn; Hagar, Ward; Darbari, Deepika S; Malik, Punam

2012-01-01

The sickle hemoglobin is an abnormal hemoglobin due to point mutation (GAG → GTG) in exon 1 of the β globin gene resulting in the substitution of glutamic acid by valine at position 6 of the β globin polypeptide chain. Although the molecular lesion is a single-point mutation, the sickle gene is pleiotropic in nature causing multiple phenotypic expressions that constitute the various complications of sickle cell disease in general and sickle cell anemia in particular. The disease itself is chronic in nature but many of its complications are acute such as the recurrent acute painful crises (its hallmark), acute chest syndrome, and priapism. These complications vary considerably among patients, in the same patient with time, among countries and with age and sex. To date, there is no well-established consensus among providers on the management of the complications of sickle cell disease due in part to lack of evidence and in part to differences in the experience of providers. It is the aim of this paper to review available current approaches to manage the major complications of sickle cell disease. We hope that this will establish another preliminary forum among providers that may eventually lead the way to better outcomes.

Adrenaline stimulates the proliferation and migration of mesenchymal stem cells towards the LPS-induced lung injury

PubMed Central

Wu, Xiaodan; Wang, Zhiming; Qian, Mengjia; Wang, Lingyan; Bai, Chunxue; Wang, Xiangdong

2014-01-01

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) could modulate inflammation in experimental lung injury. On the other hand, adrenergic receptor agonists could increase DNA synthesis of stem cells. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic role of adrenaline-stimulated BMSCs on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury. BMSCs were cultured with adrenergic receptor agonists or antagonists. Suspensions of lung cells or sliced lung tissue from animals with or without LPS-induced injury were co-cultured with BMSCs. LPS-stimulated alveolar macrophages were co-cultured with BMSCs (with adrenaline stimulation or not) in Transwell for 6 hrs. A preliminary animal experiment was conducted to validate the findings in ex vivo study. We found that adrenaline at 10 μM enhanced proliferation of BMSCs through both α- and β-adrenergic receptors. Adrenaline promoted the migration of BMSCs towards LPS-injured lung cells or lung tissue. Adrenaline-stimulated BMSCs decreased the inflammation of LPS-stimulated macrophages, probably through the expression and secretion of several paracrine factors. Adrenaline reduced the extent of injury in LPS-injured rats. Our data indicate that adrenaline-stimulated BMSCs might contribute to the prevention from acute lung injury through the activation of adrenergic receptors, promotion of proliferation and migration towards injured lung, and modulation of inflammation. PMID:24684532

Production Assistance for Cellular Therapies (PACT): four-year experience from the United States National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) contract research program in cell and tissue therapies.

PubMed

Reed, William; Noga, Stephen J; Gee, Adrian P; Rooney, Cliona M; Wagner, John E; McCullough, Jeffrey; McKenna, David H; Whiteside, Theresa L; Donnenberg, Albert D; Baker, Acacia K; Lindblad, Robert W; Wagner, Elizabeth L; Mondoro, Traci Heath

2009-04-01

In 2002, the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) conducted a workshop to determine needs of the cell therapy community. A consensus emerged that improved access to cGMP facilities, regulatory assistance, and training would foster the advancement of cellular therapy. A 2003 NHLBI request for proposals resulted in four contracts being awarded to three cell-manufacturing facilities (Baylor College of Medicine, University of Minnesota, and University of Pittsburgh) and one administrative center (The EMMES Corporation). As a result, Production Assistance for Cellular Therapies (PACT) was formed. As of October 1, 2008, PACT has received 65 preliminary applications of which 45 have been approved for product manufacture. A variety of cell therapies are represented including T-regulatory cells, natural killer cells, adipose-derived stem cells, cardiac progenitor cells for cardiac disease, hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for central nervous system applications, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and dendritic cells. A total of 169 products have been administered under 12 applications and 2 reagents were manufactured and delivered. Fourteen peer-reviewed publications and 15 abstracts have resulted from the PACT project to date. A cell therapy textbook is nearly complete. PACT technical projects have addressed assay development, rapid endotoxin testing, shipping of cell products, and CD34+ HPC isolation from low-volume marrow. Educational Web seminars and on-site training through workshops have been conducted. PACT is an active and successful cell therapy manufacturing resource in the United States, addressing research and training while forging relationships among academia, industry, and participating institutions.

High efficiency solar photovoltaic power module concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bekey, I.

1978-01-01

The investigation of a preliminary concept for high efficiency solar power generation in space is presented. The concept was a synergistic combination of spectral splitting, tailored bandgap cells, high concentration ratios, and cool cell areas.

A new apparatus to induce lysis of planktonic microbial cells by shock compression, cavitation and spray

PubMed Central

Schiffer, A.; Gardner, M. N.; Lynn, R. H.

2017-01-01

Experiments were conducted on an aqueous growth medium containing cultures of Escherichia coli (E. coli) XL1-Blue, to investigate, in a single experiment, the effect of two types of dynamic mechanical loading on cellular integrity. A bespoke shock tube was used to subject separate portions of a planktonic bacterial culture to two different loading sequences: (i) shock compression followed by cavitation, and (ii) shock compression followed by spray. The apparatus allows the generation of an adjustable loading shock wave of magnitude up to 300 MPa in a sterile laboratory environment. Cultures of E. coli were tested with this apparatus and the spread-plate technique was used to measure the survivability after mechanical loading. The loading sequence (ii) gave higher mortality than (i), suggesting that the bacteria are more vulnerable to shear deformation and cavitation than to hydrostatic compression. We present the results of preliminary experiments and suggestions for further experimental work; we discuss the potential applications of this technique to sterilize large volumes of fluid samples. PMID:28405383

A new apparatus to induce lysis of planktonic microbial cells by shock compression, cavitation and spray.

PubMed

Schiffer, A; Gardner, M N; Lynn, R H; Tagarielli, V L

2017-03-01

Experiments were conducted on an aqueous growth medium containing cultures of Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) XL1-Blue, to investigate, in a single experiment, the effect of two types of dynamic mechanical loading on cellular integrity. A bespoke shock tube was used to subject separate portions of a planktonic bacterial culture to two different loading sequences: (i) shock compression followed by cavitation, and (ii) shock compression followed by spray. The apparatus allows the generation of an adjustable loading shock wave of magnitude up to 300 MPa in a sterile laboratory environment. Cultures of E. coli were tested with this apparatus and the spread-plate technique was used to measure the survivability after mechanical loading. The loading sequence (ii) gave higher mortality than (i), suggesting that the bacteria are more vulnerable to shear deformation and cavitation than to hydrostatic compression. We present the results of preliminary experiments and suggestions for further experimental work; we discuss the potential applications of this technique to sterilize large volumes of fluid samples.

Label free cell tracking in 3D tissue engineering constructs with high resolution imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, W. A.; Lam, K.-P.; Dempsey, K. P.; Mazzocchi-Jones, D.; Richardson, J. B.; Yang, Y.

2014-02-01

Within the field of tissue engineering there is an emphasis on studying 3-D live tissue structures. Consequently, to investigate and identify cellular activities and phenotypes in a 3-D environment for all in vitro experiments, including shape, migration/proliferation and axon projection, it is necessary to adopt an optical imaging system that enables monitoring 3-D cellular activities and morphology through the thickness of the construct for an extended culture period without cell labeling. This paper describes a new 3-D tracking algorithm developed for Cell-IQ®, an automated cell imaging platform, which has been equipped with an environmental chamber optimized to enable capturing time-lapse sequences of live cell images over a long-term period without cell labeling. As an integral part of the algorithm, a novel auto-focusing procedure was developed for phase contrast microscopy equipped with 20x and 40x objectives, to provide a more accurate estimation of cell growth/trajectories by allowing 3-D voxels to be computed at high spatiotemporal resolution and cell density. A pilot study was carried out in a phantom system consisting of horizontally aligned nanofiber layers (with precise spacing between them), to mimic features well exemplified in cellular activities of neuronal growth in a 3-D environment. This was followed by detailed investigations concerning axonal projections and dendritic circuitry formation in a 3-D tissue engineering construct. Preliminary work on primary animal neuronal cells in response to chemoattractant and topographic cue within the scaffolds has produced encouraging results.

Surface multiheme c-type cytochromes from Thermincola potens: Implications for dissimilatory metal reduction by Gram-positive bacteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carlson, H. K.; Iavarone, A. T.; Gorur, A.; Yeo, B. S.; Tran, R.; Melnyk, R. A.; Mathies, R. A.; Auer, M.; Coates, J. D.

2011-12-01

Almost nothing is known about the mechanisms of dissimilatory metal reduction by Gram-positive bacteria, although they have been shown to be the dominant species in some environments. Thermincola potens strain JR was isolated from the anode of a microbial fuel cell inoculated with anaerobic digester sludge and operated at 55 °C. Preliminary characterization revealed that T. potens coupled acetate oxidation to the reduction of hydrous ferric oxides (HFO) or the humic substances analog, anthraquinone-2,6-disulfonate (AQDS). The genome of T. potens was recently sequenced, and the abundance of multiheme c-type cytochromes (MHCs) is unusual for a Gram-positive bacterium. We present evidence from trypsin shaving LC-MS/MS experiments and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) that indicates the expression of a number of MHCs during T. potens growth on either HFO or AQDS and that several MHCs are localized to the cell wall or cell surface of T. potens. Furthermore, one of the MHCs can be extracted from cells with low pH or denaturants suggesting a loose association with the cell wall or cell surface. Electron microscopy does not reveal an S-layer, and the precipitation of silver metal on the cell surface is inhibited by cyanide, supporting the involvement of surface-localized redox-active heme proteins in dissimilatory metal reduction. These results are the first direct evidence for cell-wall associated cytochromes and MHC involvement in conducting electrons across the cell envelope of a Gram-positive bacterium.

ECR plasma thruster research - Preliminary theory and experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sercel, Joel C.; Fitzgerald, Dennis J.

1989-01-01

A preliminary theory of the operation of the electron-cyclotron-resonance (ECR) plasma thruster is described along with an outline of recent experiments. This work is presented to communicate the status of an ongoing research effort directed at developing a unified theory to quantitatively describe the operation of the ECR plasma thruster. The theory is presented as a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations and boundary conditions which describe the plasma density, velocity, and electron temperature. Diagnostic tools developed to measure plasma conditions in the existing research device are described.

Sounding-Diagnosed Convective Environments and Preliminary Energy Budgets Diagnosed during the TRMM Field Campaigns

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Halverson, Jeffrey B.; Roy, Biswadev; O'CStarr, David (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

An overview of mean convective thermodynamic and wind profiles for the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Large Scale Biosphere-Atmosphere Experiment (LBA) and Kwajalein Experiment (KWAJEX) field campaigns will be presented, highlighting the diverse continental and marine tropical environments in which rain clouds and mesoscale convective systems evolved. An assessment of ongoing sounding quality control procedures will be shown. Additionally, we will present preliminary budgets of sensible heat source (Q1) and apparent moisture sink (Q2), which have been diagnosed from the various sounding networks.

New advances in the partial-reflection-drifts experiment using microprocessors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruggerio, R. L.; Bowhill, S. A.

1982-01-01

Improvements to the partial reflection drifts experiment are completed. The results of the improvements include real time processing and simultaneous measurements of the D region with coherent scatter. Preliminary results indicate a positive correlation between drift velocities calculated by both methods during a two day interval. The possibility now exists for extended observations between partial reflection and coherent scatter. In addition, preliminary measurements could be performed between partial reflection and meteor radar to complete a comparison of methods used to determine velocities in the D region.

Robotic Single-Site Surgery for Female-to-Male Transsexuals: Preliminary Experience

PubMed Central

Bogliolo, Stefano; Cassani, Chiara; Babilonti, Luciana; Gardella, Barbara; Zanellini, Francesca; Santamaria, Valentina; Nappi, Rossella Elena; Spinillo, Arsenio

2014-01-01

Hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is a part of gender reassignment surgery for the treatment of female-to-male transsexualism. Over the last years many efforts were made in order to reduce invasiveness of laparoscopic and robotic surgery such as the introduction of single-site approach. We report our preliminary experience on single-site robotic hysterectomy for cross-sex reassignment surgery. Our data suggest that single-site robotic hysterectomy is feasible and safe in female-to-male transsexualism with some benefits in terms of postoperative pain and aesthetic results. PMID:24982976

Accessing defect dynamics using intense, nanosecond pulsed ion beams

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

Persaud, A.; Barnard, J. J.; Guo, H.

2015-06-18

Gaining in-situ access to relaxation dynamics of radiation induced defects will lead to a better understanding of materials and is important for the verification of theoretical models and simulations. We show preliminary results from experiments at the new Neutralized Drift Compression Experiment (NDCX-II) at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory that will enable in-situ access to defect dynamics through pump-probe experiments. Here, the unique capabilities of the NDCX-II accelerator to generate intense, nanosecond pulsed ion beams are utilized. Preliminary data of channeling experiments using lithium and potassium ions and silicon membranes are shown. We compare these data to simulation results using Crystalmore » Trim. Furthermore, we discuss the improvements to the accelerator to higher performance levels and the new diagnostics tools that are being incorporated.« less

Spacelab payload accommodation handbook. Preliminary issue

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

The main characteristics of the Spacelab system are described. Sufficient information on Spacelab capabilities is provided to enable individual experimenters or payload planning groups to determine how their payload equipment can be accomodated by Spacelab topics discussed include major spacelab/experiment interfaces; Spacelab payload support systems and requirements the experiments must comply with to allow experiment design; and development and integration up to a level where a group of individual experiments are integrated into a complete Spacelab payload using Spacelab racks/floors and pallet segments. Integration of a complete Spacelab payload with Spacelab subsystems, primary module structure etc., integration of Spacelab with the Orbiter and basic operational aspects are also covered in this preliminary edition of the handbook which reflects the current Spacelab baseline design and is for information only.

Preliminary Measurements of Thin Film Solar Cells

NASA Image and Video Library

1967-06-21

George Mazaris, works with an assistant to obtain the preliminary measurements of cadmium sulfide thin-film solar cells being tested in the Space Environmental Chamber at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. Lewis’ Photovoltaic Fundamentals Section was investigating thin-film alternatives to the standard rigid and fragile solar cells. The cadmium sulfide semiconductors were placed in a light, metallized substrate that could be rolled or furled during launch. The main advantage of the thin-film solar cells was their reduced weight. Lewis researchers, however, were still working on improving the performance of the semiconductor. The new thin-film solar cells were tested in a space simulation chamber in the CW-6 test cell in the Engine Research Building. The chamber created a simulated altitude of 200 miles. Sunlight was simulated by a 5000-watt xenon light. Some two dozen cells were exposed to 15 minutes of light followed by 15 minutes of darkness to test their durability in the constantly changing illumination of Earth orbit. This photograph was taken for use in a NASA recruiting publication.

Introduction of Cooperative Vehicle-to-Infrastructure Systems to Improve Speed Harmonization

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-03-01

This project executed a preliminary experiment of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I)-based speed harmonization in which speed guidance was communicated directly to vehicles. This experiment involved a set of micro-simulation experiments and a limited nu...

DOE Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Overview

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-13

Overview of Combined Heat+Power PowerElectricity Natural Gas Heat + Cooling Natural Gas or Biogas ...Fuel Cell Technologies Program eere.energy.gov Source: US DOE 10/2010 Biogas Benefits: Preliminary Analysis Stationary fuel...with the national grid. Source: US DOE 1/2011 6 | Fuel Cell Technologies Program eere.energy.gov Biogas Resource Example

Parametric analyses of planned flowing uranium hexafluoride critical experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rodgers, R. J.; Latham, T. S.

1976-01-01

Analytical investigations were conducted to determine preliminary design and operating characteristics of flowing uranium hexafluoride (UF6) gaseous nuclear reactor experiments in which a hybrid core configuration comprised of UF6 gas and a region of solid fuel will be employed. The investigations are part of a planned program to perform a series of experiments of increasing performance, culminating in an approximately 5 MW fissioning uranium plasma experiment. A preliminary design is described for an argon buffer gas confined, UF6 flow loop system for future use in flowing critical experiments. Initial calculations to estimate the operating characteristics of the gaseous fissioning UF6 in a confined flow test at a pressure of 4 atm, indicate temperature increases of approximately 100 and 1000 K in the UF6 may be obtained for total test power levels of 100 kW and 1 MW for test times of 320 and 32 sec, respectively.

A preliminary study of a cryogenic equivalence principle experiment on Shuttle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Everitt, C. W. F.; Worden, P. W., Jr.

1985-01-01

The Weak Equivalence Principle is the hypothesis that all test bodies fall with the same acceleration in the same gravitational field. The current limit on violations of the Weak Equivalence Principle, measured by the ratio of the difference in acceleration of two test masses to their average acceleration, is about 3 parts in one-hundred billion. It is anticipated that this can be improved in a shuttle experiment to a part in one quadrillion. Topics covered include: (1) studies of the shuttle environment, including interference with the experiment, interfacing to the experiment, and possible alternatives; (2) numerical simulations of the proposed experiment, including analytic solutions for special cases of the mass motion and preliminary estimates of sensitivity and time required; (3) error analysis of several noise sources such as thermal distortion, gas and radiation pressure effects, and mechanical distortion; and (4) development and performance tests of a laboratory version of the instrument.

Possession experiences in dissociative identity disorder: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Ross, Colin A

2011-01-01

Dissociative trance disorder, which includes possession experiences, was introduced as a provisional diagnosis requiring further study in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.). Consideration is now being given to including possession experiences within dissociative identity disorder (DID) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.), which is due to be published in 2013. In order to provide empirical data relevant to the relationship between DID and possession states, I analyzed data on the prevalence of trance, possession states, sleepwalking, and paranormal experiences in 3 large samples: patients with DID from North America; psychiatric outpatients from Shanghai, China; and a general population sample from Winnipeg, Canada. Trance, sleepwalking, paranormal, and possession experiences were much more common in the DID patients than in the 2 comparison samples. The study is preliminary and exploratory in nature because the samples were not matched in any way.

Preliminary studies of particle-mediated gene delivery to the joints of dogs.

PubMed

Campbell, S E; Nasir, L; Gault, E A; Argyle, D J; Bennett, D

2007-04-07

This paper describes a preliminary evaluation of particle-mediated bombardment via the Helios gene gun for the delivery of therapeutic genes to synovial cells in culture. A reporter gene, enhanced green fluorescent protein, was delivered to rabbit synovial fibroblasts (HIG-82) using gold particle (1.0 microm) bombardment to evaluate transfection efficiency at helium pressures of 100 and 150 psi. Transfection of cells occurred at these pressures despite some cell death. The in vitro delivery of gold particles to samples of synovial membrane and articular cartilage from a freshly euthanased dog was also studied to examine depth of penetration of gold particles (1.0 microm) at helium pressures of 250 and 500 psi. Light microscopical examination of histological sections of the synovial membrane showed that particles of gold had penetrated the lining cells of the synovium. However, no gold particles had penetrated the articular cartilage even at 500 psi.

Silicon materials task of the Low Cost Solar Array Project: Effect of impurities and processing on silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hopkins, R. H.; Davis, J. R.; Rohatgi, A.; Hanes, M. H.; Rai-Choudhury, P.; Mollenkopf, H. C.

1982-01-01

The effects of impurities and processing on the characteristics of silicon and terrestrial silicon solar cells were defined in order to develop cost benefit relationships for the use of cheaper, less pure solar grades of silicon. The amount of concentrations of commonly encountered impurities that can be tolerated in typical p or n base solar cells was established, then a preliminary analytical model from which the cell performance could be projected depending on the kinds and amounts of contaminants in the silicon base material was developed. The impurity data base was expanded to include construction materials, and the impurity performace model was refined to account for additional effects such as base resistivity, grain boundary interactions, thermal processing, synergic behavior, and nonuniform impurity distributions. A preliminary assessment of long term (aging) behavior of impurities was also undertaken.

Preliminary Design of an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Using Multi-Objective Optimization

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-01

fuel cell PC propulsive coefficient PEMFC proton exchange membrane fuel cell PHP propulsive horsepower PO Pareto optimal PSO particle swarm...membrane fuel cell ( PEMFC ), molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC), solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and direct and indirect methanol fuel cell (DMFC). Figure...of fuel cells in depth, I will note that PEMFCs are smaller and have a lower operating temperature compared to the other types. Those are the main

A Preliminary Investigation of a Fluid-Filled ECG-Triggered Anti-G Suit.

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-02-01

the abdomen, anterior thighs, and calves. In Australia, Dr. F.S. Cotton of Sydney developed a pneumatic anti-G suit using the Royal Australian Air...Acceleration Stress: Model Studies and Preliminary Experiments. IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, Feb 1985, Vol BME -32(2):158-165. 10 13. Lambert

A Preliminary Assessment of Phase Separator Ground-Based and Reduced-Gravity Testing for ALS Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Nancy Rabel

2006-01-01

A viewgraph presentation of phase separator ground-based and reduced-gravity testing for Advanced Life Support (ALS) systems is shown. The topics include: 1) Multiphase Flow Technology Program; 2) Types of Separators; 3) MOBI Phase Separators; 4) Experiment set-up; and 5) Preliminary comparison/results.

ICT and UD: Preliminary Study for Recommendations to Design Accessible University Courses.

PubMed

Pagliara, Silvio Marcello; Sánchez Utgé, Marta; De Anna, Lucia

2017-01-01

Starting from the Universal Design in the educational context principles, the experiences gained during the FIRB project "Net@ccessibility" and the high-education courses for teachers' specialization on special education, this research will focus on preliminary studies in order to define the recommendations for designing accessible university courses.

Factors affecting weight gain and dietary intake in Latino males residing in Mississippi: A preliminary study

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Research indicates that as Latinos become more acculturated to the United States, their diet changes and they experience weight gain. There is also a high incidence of depression in this population. The purpose of this preliminary study was to examine the correlations between sociodemographic factor...

Linguistic and content validation of a German-language PRO-CTCAE-based patient-reported outcomes instrument to evaluate the late effect symptom experience after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Kirsch, Monika; Mitchell, Sandra A; Dobbels, Fabienne; Stussi, Georg; Basch, Ethan; Halter, Jorg P; De Geest, Sabina

2015-02-01

The aim of this sequential mixed methods study was to develop a PRO-CTCAE (Patient-Reported Outcomes version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events)-based measure of the symptom experience of late effects in German speaking long-term survivors of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT), and to examine its content validity. The US National Cancer Institute's PRO-CTAE item library was translated into German and linguistically validated. PRO-CTCAE symptoms prevalent in ≥50% of survivors (n = 15) and recognized in its importance by SCT experts (n = 9) were identified. Additional concepts relevant to the symptom experience and its consequences were elicited. Content validity of the PROVIVO (Patient-Reported Outcomes of long-term survivors after allogeneic SCT) instrument was assessed through an additional round of cognitive debriefing in 15 patients, and item and scale content validity indices by 9 experts. PROVIVO is comprised of a total of 49 items capturing the experience of physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms. To improve the instrument's utility for clinical decision-making, questions soliciting limitations in activities of daily living, frequent infections, and overall well-being were added. Cognitive debriefings demonstrated that items were well understood and relevant to the SCT survivor experience. Scale Content Validity Index (CVI) (0.94) and item CVI (median = 1; range 0.75-1) were very high. Qualitative and quantitative data provide preliminary evidence supporting the content validity of PROVIVO and identify a PRO-CTCAE item bundle for use in SCT survivors. A study to evaluate the measurement properties of PROVIVO and to examine its capacity to improve survivorship care planning is underway. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Acceptance tests and manufacturer relationships for 20 amphere-hour sealed nickel-cadmium cells using discharge parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leibecki, H. F.

1980-01-01

One hundred and forty-six 20 ampere-hour sealed nickel cadmium cells from five manufacturers were detected using preliminary tests which do not require life testing and do not reduce the expected life of the cells. Differences between individual cells were also detected, using these tests, allowing a comparison of variability of cell construction by and between manufacturers.

Technology Status: Fuel Cells and Electrolysis Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcbryar, H.

1978-01-01

The status of the baselined shuttle fuel cell as well as the acid membrane fuel cell and space-oriented water electrolysis technologies are presented. The more recent advances in the alkaline fuel cell technology area are the subject of a companion paper. A preliminary plan for the focusing of these technologies towards regenerative energy storage applications in the multi-hundred kilowatt range is also discussed.

Three-dimensional dynamics of temperature fields in phantoms and biotissue under IR laser photothermal therapy using gold nanoparticles and ICG dye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akchurin, Georgy G.; Garif, Akchurin G.; Maksimova, Irina L.; Skaptsov, Alexander A.; Terentyuk, Georgy S.; Khlebtsov, Boris N.; Khlebtsov, Nikolai G.; Tuchin, Valery V.

2010-02-01

We describe applications of silica (core)/gold (shell) nanoparticles and ICG dye to photothermal treatment of phantoms, biotissue and spontaneous tumor of cats and dogs. The laser irradiation parameters were optimized by preliminary experiments with laboratory rats. Three dimensional dynamics of temperature fields in tissue and solution samples was measured with a thermal imaging system. It is shown that the temperature in the volume region of nanoparticles localization can substantially exceed the surface temperature recorded by the thermal imaging system. We have demonstrated effective optical destruction of cancer cells by local injection of plasmon-resonant gold nanoshells and ICG dye followed by continuous wave (CW) diode laser irradiation at wavelength 808 nm.

Experimental Investigations of Space Shuttle BX-265 Foam

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lerch, Bradley A.; Sullivan, Roy M.

2009-01-01

This report presents a variety of experimental studies on the polyurethane foam, BX-265. This foam is used as a close-out foam insulation on the space shuttle external tank. The purpose of this work is to provide a better understanding of the foam s behavior and to support advanced modeling efforts. The following experiments were performed: Thermal expansion was measured for various heating rates. The in situ expansion of foam cells was documented by heating the foam in a scanning electron microscope. Expansion mechanisms are described. Thermogravimetric analysis was performed at various heating rates and for various environments. The glass transition temperature was also measured. The effects of moisture on the foam were studied. Time-dependent effects were measured to give preliminary data on viscoelastoplastic properties.

Microbial response to space environment, part B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, G. R.; Chassay, C. E.; Ellis, W. L.; Foster, B. G.; Volz, P. A.; Spizizen, J.; Buecker, H.; Wrenn, R. T.; Simmonds, R. C.; Long, R. A.

1972-01-01

The performance of the microbial response to space environment experiment is considered excellent by all investigators. For most microbial systems, only preliminary survival data are available at this time. None of the available data indicate space flight-mediated changes in cell viability or recovery. One quite important observation has been made at this early date, however. The eggs produced after mice had been infected with N. dubius larvae demonstrated a significant decrease in hatchability when compared to identical ground controls. Except for the fact that the Apollo 16 flight larvae had been on board the command module, treatment of the flown larvae and ground control larvae was the same; neither had been exposed to UV irradiation. The significance and implications of this finding are currently being studied.

Guanine-based amphiphiles: synthesis, ion transport properties and biological activity.

PubMed

Musumeci, Domenica; Irace, Carlo; Santamaria, Rita; Milano, Domenico; Tecilla, Paolo; Montesarchio, Daniela

2015-03-01

Novel amphiphilic guanine derivatives, here named Gua1 and Gua2, have been prepared through few, simple and efficient synthetic steps. In ion transport experiments through phospholipid bilayers, carried out to evaluate their ability to mediate H(+) transport, Gua2 showed high activity. When this compound was investigated for ion-selective transport activities, no major differences were observed in the behaviour with cations while, in the case of anions, selective activity was observed in the series I(-)>Br(-)>Cl(-)>F(-). The bioactivity of these guanine analogues has been evaluated on a panel of human tumour and non-tumour cell lines in preliminary in vitro cytotoxicity assays, showing a relevant antiproliferative profile for Gua2. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modular 3D printed lab-on-a-chip bio-reactor for the biochemical energy cascade of microorganisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podwin, Agnieszka; Dziuban, Jan A.

2017-10-01

The paper presents the sandwiched polymer 3D printed lab-on-a-chip bio-reactor for the biochemical energy cascade of microorganisms. Euglenas and yeast were separately and simultaneously cultured for 10 d in the chip. As a result of the experiments, euglenas, light-initialized and nourished by CO2—a product of ethanol fermentation handled by yeast—generated oxygen, based on the photosynthesis process. The presence of oxygen in the bio-reactor was confirmed by the colorimetric method—a bicarbonate (pH) indicator. Preliminary studies towards the obtainment of an effective source of oxygen are promising and further research should be done to enable the utility of the bio-reactor in, for instance, microbial fuel cells.

Comparison-Bot: an Automated Preliminary-Final Report Comparison System.

PubMed

Kalaria, Amit D; Filice, Ross W

2016-06-01

Regular comparison of preliminary to final reports is a critical part of radiology resident and fellow education as prior research has documented substantial preliminary to final discrepancies. Unfortunately, there are many barriers to this comparison: high study volume; overnight rotations without an attending; the ability to finalize reports remotely; the subtle nature of many changes; and lack of easy access to the preliminary report after finalization. We developed a system that automatically compiles and emails a weekly summary of report differences for all residents and fellows. Trainees can also create a custom report using a date range of their choice and can view this data on a resident dashboard. Differences between preliminary and final reports are clearly highlighted with links to the associated study in Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) for efficient review and learning. Reports with more changes, particularly changes made in the impression, are highlighted to focus attention on those exams with substantive edits. Our system provides an easy way for trainees to review changes to preliminary reports with immediate access to the associated images, thereby improving their educational experience. Departmental surveys showed that our report difference summary is easy to understand and improves the educational experience of our trainees. Additionally, interesting descriptive statistics help us understand how reports are changed by trainee level, by attending, and by exam type. Finally, this system can be easily ported to other departments who have access to their Health Level 7 (HL7) data.

Modular space station phase B extension preliminary system design. Volume 3: Experiment analyses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wengrow, G. L.; Lillenas, A. N.

1972-01-01

Experiment analysis tasks performed during program definition study are described. Experiment accommodation and scheduling, and defining and implementing the laboratory evolution are discussed. The general purpose laboratory requirements and concepts are defined, and supplemental studies are reported.

Identification of specific gravity sensitive signal transduction pathways in human A431 carcinoma cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rijken, P. J.; de Groot, R. P.; Kruijer, W.; de Laat, S. W.; Verkleij, A. J.; Boonstra, J.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) activates a well characterized signal transduction cascade in human A431 epidermoid carcinoma cells. The influence of gravity on EGF-induced EGF-receptor clustering and early gene expression as well as on actin polymerization and actin organization have been investigated. Different signalling pathways induced by the agents TPA, forskolin and A23187 that activate gene expression were tested for sensitivity to gravity. EGF-induced c-fos and c-jun expression were decreased in microgravity. However, constitutive β-2 microglobulin expression remained unaltered. Under simulated weightlessness conditions EGF- and TPA-induced c-fos expression was decreased, while forskolin- and A23187-induced c-fos expression was independent of the gravity conditions. These results suggest that gravity affects specific signalling pathways. Preliminary results indicate that EGF-induced EGF-receptor clustering remained unaltered irrespective of the gravity conditions. Furthermore, the relative filamentous actin content of steady state A431 cells was enhanced under microgravity conditions and actin filament organization was altered. Under simulated weightlessness actin filament organization in steady state cells as well as in EGF-treated cells was altered as compared to the 1 G reference experiment. Interestingly the microtubule and keratin organization in untreated cells showed no difference with the normal gravity samples. This indicates that gravity may affect specific components of the signal transduction circuitry.

X-ray microbeam stand-alone facility for cultured cells irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bożek, Sebastian; Bielecki, Jakub; Wiecheć, Anna; Lekki, Janusz; Stachura, Zbigniew; Pogoda, Katarzyna; Lipiec, Ewelina; Tkocz, Konrad; Kwiatek, Wojciech M.

2017-03-01

The article describes an X-ray microbeam standalone facility dedicated for irradiation of living cultured cells. The article can serve as an advice for such facilities construction, as it begins from engineering details, through mathematical modeling and experimental procedures, ending up with preliminary experimental results and conclusions. The presented system consists of an open type X-ray tube with microfocusing down to about 2 μm, an X-ray focusing system with optical elements arranged in the nested Kirckpatrick-Baez (or Montel) geometry, a sample stand and an optical microscope with a scientific digital CCD camera. For the beam visualisation an X-ray sensitive CCD camera and a spectral detector are used, as well as a scintillator screen combined with the microscope. A method of precise one by one irradiation of previously chosen cells is presented, as well as a fast method of uniform irradiation of a chosen sample area. Mathematical models of beam and cell with calculations of kerma and dose are presented. The experiments on dose-effect relationship, kinetics of DNA double strand breaks repair, as well as micronuclei observation were performed on PC-3 (Prostate Cancer) cultured cells. The cells were seeded and irradiated on Mylar foil, which covered a hole drilled in the Petri dish. DNA lesions were visualised with γ-H2AX marker combined with Alexa Fluor 488 fluorescent dye.

A preliminary study of a miniature planar 6-cell PEMFC stack combined with a small hydrogen storage canister

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xigui; Zheng, Dan; Wang, Tao; Chen, Cong; Cao, Jianyu; Yan, Jian; Wang, Wenming; Liu, Juanying; Liu, Haohan; Tian, Juan; Li, Xinxin; Yang, Hui; Xia, Baojia

The fabrication and performance evaluation of a miniature 6-cell PEMFC stack based on Micro-Electronic-Mechanical-System (MEMS) technology is presented in this paper. The stack with a planar configuration consists of 6-cells in serial interconnection by spot welding one cell anode with another cell cathode. Each cell was made by sandwiching a membrane-electrode-assembly (MEA) between two flow field plates fabricated by a classical MEMS wet etching method using silicon wafer as the original material. The plates were made electrically conductive by sputtering a Ti/Pt/Au composite metal layer on their surfaces. The 6-cells lie in the same plane with a fuel buffer/distributor as their support, which was fabricated by the MEMS silicon-glass bonding technology. A small hydrogen storage canister was used as fuel source. Operating on dry H 2 at a 40 ml min -1 flow rate and air-breathing conditions at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, the linear polarization experiment gave a measured peak power of 0.9 W at 250 mA cm -2 for the stack and average power density of 104 mW cm -2 for each cell. The results suggested that the stack has reasonable performance benefiting from an even fuel supply. But its performance tended to deteriorate with power increase, which became obvious at 600 mW. This suggests that the stack may need some power assistance, from say supercapacitors to maintain its stability when operated at higher power.

Reduction of Cr(VI) and survival in Cr-contaminated sites by Caulobacter crescentus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, P.; Chakraborty, R.; Brodie, E. L.; Andersen, G. L.; Hazen, T. C.

2008-12-01

The Caulobacter spp. is known to be able to live in low-nutrient environments, a characteristic of most heavy metal-contaminated sites. Recent studies have shown that Caulobacter crescentus can grow in chemically defined medium containing up to 1 mM uranium. Whole-genome transcriptional analysis and electron microscopic imaging of heavy metal stresses in Caulobacter crescentus also provided insight and evidence that the bacterium used an array of defensive mechanisms to deal with heavy metal stresses. In addition to up-regulated enzymes protecting against oxidative stress, DNA repair and down-regulated potential chromium transport, one of the major gene groups respond to chromium stress is "electron transport process and cytochrome oxidases", including cytochrome c oxidases, raising the possibility that the cells can employ the cytochromes to reduce chromium. Analysis of the microbial community at the chromium contaminated DOE site at Hanford, WA revealed the presence of Caulobacter spp. As an oligotroph, Caulobacter can play a significant role in chromium reduction in the environment where the nutrients are limited. This result was confirmed by both 16S rDNA based microarray (Phylochip) as well as by MDA-based clone library data. Based on these results we further investigated the capability of this organism to reduce Cr(VI) using the well known model strain Caulobacter crescentus CB15N. Preliminary cell suspension experiments were set up with glucose as the electron donor and Cr(VI) as the electron acceptor in phosphate based M2 salts buffer. After 22 hours almost 27% of Cr(VI) was reduced in the incubations containing active cells relative to the controls containing heat killed cells. Also, in another set of controls with no electron acceptor added, cells showed no increase in cell density during that time demonstrating that the reduction of Cr(VI) by cells of Caulobacter was due to biological activity. Future experiments will investigate the components responsible and the mechanism of Cr(VI) reduction by Caulobacetr crescentus.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of the IgV domain of human nectin-4.

PubMed

Xu, Xiang; Zhang, Xiaoai; Lu, Guangwen; Cai, Yongping

2012-08-01

Nectin-4 belongs to a family of immunoglobulin-like cell adhesion molecules and is highly expressed in cancer cells. Recently, nectin-4 was found to be a receptor of measles virus and the IgV domain sustains strong binding to measles virus H protein. In this study, the successful expression and purification of human nectin-4 V domain (nectin-4v) is reported. The purified protein was crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The crystals diffracted to 1.8 Å resolution and belonged to space group P2(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 33.1, b = 51.7, c = 56.9 Å, β = 94.7°. Preliminary analysis of the diffraction data was also performed.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of the IgV domain of human nectin-4

PubMed Central

Xu, Xiang; Zhang, Xiaoai; Lu, Guangwen; Cai, Yongping

2012-01-01

Nectin-4 belongs to a family of immunoglobulin-like cell adhesion molecules and is highly expressed in cancer cells. Recently, nectin-4 was found to be a receptor of measles virus and the IgV domain sustains strong binding to measles virus H protein. In this study, the successful expression and purification of human nectin-4 V domain (nectin-4v) is reported. The purified protein was crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The crystals diffracted to 1.8 Å resolution and belonged to space group P21, with unit-cell parameters a = 33.1, b = 51.7, c = 56.9 Å, β = 94.7°. Preliminary analysis of the diffraction data was also performed. PMID:22869128

Design, Fabrication and Testing of a Crushable Energy Absorber for a Passive Earth Entry Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kellas, Sotiris; Corliss, James M. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

A conceptual study was performed to investigate the impact response of a crushable energy absorber for a passive Earth entry vehicle. The spherical energy-absorbing concept consisted of a foam-filled composite cellular structure capable of omni-directional impact-load attenuation as well as penetration resistance. Five composite cellular samples of hemispherical geometry were fabricated and tested dynamically with impact speeds varying from 30 to 42 meters per second. Theoretical crush load predictions were obtained with the aid of a generalized theory which accounts for the energy dissipated during the folding deformation of the cell-walls. Excellent correlation was obtained between theoretical predictions and experimental tests on characteristic cell-web intersections. Good correlation of theory with experiment was also found to exist for the more complex spherical cellular structures. All preliminary design requirements were met by the cellular structure concept, which exhibited a near-ideal sustained crush-load and approximately 90% crush stroke.

Analysis of mutational spectra by denaturant capillary electrophoresis

PubMed Central

Ekstrøm, Per O.; Khrapko, Konstantin; Li-Sucholeiki, Xiao-Cheng; Hunter, Ian W.; Thilly, William G.

2009-01-01

Numbers and kinds of point mutant within DNA from cells, tissues and human population may be discovered for nearly any 75–250bp DNA sequence. High fidelity DNA amplification incorporating a thermally stable DNA “clamp” is followed by separation by denaturing capillary electrophoresis (DCE). DCE allows for peak collection and verification sequencing. DCE in a mode of cycling temperature, e.g.+/− 5°C, CyDCE, permits high resolution of mutant sequences using computer defined analytes without preliminary optimization experiments. DNA sequencers have been modified to permit higher throughput CyDCE and a massively parallel,~25,000 capillary system, has been designed for pangenomic scans in large human populations. DCE has been used to define quantitative point mutational spectra for study a wide variety of genetic phenomena: errors of DNA polymerases, mutations induced in human cells by chemicals and irradiation, testing of human gene-common disease associations and the discovery of origins of point mutations in human development and carcinogenesis. PMID:18600220

Use of the antiozonant ethylenediurea (EDU) in Italy: verification of the effects of ambient ozone on crop plants and trees and investigation of EDU's mode of action.

PubMed

Paoletti, Elena; Contran, Nicla; Manning, William J; Ferrara, Anna M

2009-05-01

Twenty-four experiments where EDU was used to protect plants from ozone (O(3)) in Italy are reviewed. Doses of 150 and 450 ppm EDU at 2-3 week intervals were successfully applied to alleviate O(3)-caused visible injury and growth reductions in crop and forest species respectively. EDU was mainly applied as soil drench to crops and by stem injection or infusion into trees. Visible injury was delayed and reduced but not completely. In investigations on mode of action, EDU was quickly (<2h) uptaken and translocated to the leaf apoplast where it persisted long (>8 days), as it cannot move via phloem. EDU did not enter cells, suggesting it does not directly affect cell metabolism. EDU delayed senescence, did not affect photosynthesis and foliar nitrogen content, and stimulated antioxidant responses to O(3) exposure. Preliminary results suggest developing an effective soil application method for forest trees is warranted.

Preliminary feasibility analysis of a pressure modulator radiometer for remote sensing of tropospheric constituents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Orr, H. D., III; Rarig, P. L.

1981-01-01

A pressure modulator radiometer operated in a nadir viewing mode from the top of a midlatitude summer model of the atmosphere was theoretically studied for monitoring the mean volumetric mixing ratio of carbon monoxide in the troposphere. The mechanical characteristics of the instrument on the Nimbus 7 stratospheric and mesospheric sounder experiment are assumed and CO is assumed to be the only infrared active constituent. A line by line radiative transfer computer program is used to simulate the upwelling radiation reaching the top of the atmosphere. The performance of the instrument is examined as a function of the mean pressure in and the length of the instrument gas correlation cell. Instrument sensitivity is described in terms of signal to noise ratio for a 10 percent change in CO mixing ratio. Sensitivity to mixing ratio changes is also studied. It is concluded that tropospheric monitoring requires a pressure modulator drive having a larger swept volume and producing higher compression ratios at higher mean cell pressures than the Nimbus 7 design.

Preparation and evaluation of advanced catalysts for phosphoric acid fuel cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stonehart, P.; Baris, J.; Hockmuth, J.; Pagliaro, P.

1984-01-01

The platinum electrocatalysts were characterized for their crystallite sizes and the degree of dispersion on the carbon supports. One application of these electrocatalysts was for anodic oxidation of hydrogen in hot phosphoric acid fuel cells, coupled with the influence of low concentrations of carbon monoxide in the fuel gas stream. In a similar way, these platinum on carbon electrocatalysts were evaluated for oxygen reduction in hot phosphoric acid. Binary noble metal alloys were prepared for anodic oxidation of hydrogen and noble metal-refractory metal mixtures were prepared for oxygen reduction. An exemplar alloy of platinum and palladium (50/50 atom %) was discovered for anodic oxidation of hydrogen in the presence of carbon monoxide, and patent disclosures were submitted. For the cathode, platinum-vanadium alloys were prepared showing improved performance over pure platinum. Preliminary experiments on electrocatalyst utilization in electrode structures showed low utilization of the noble metal when the electrocatalyst loading exceeded one weight percent on the carbon.

UNISAT-3 Power System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santoni, Fabio; Piergentili, Fabrizio; Bulgarelli, Fabio; Graziani, Filippo

2005-05-01

An overview of the UNISAT-3 microsatellite power subsystem is given. This is an educational, low weight and low cost microsatellite designed, built, launched and operated in space by students and professors of Scuola di Ingegneria Aerospaziale, at University of Rome "La Sapienza". The satellite power system is based on terrestrial technology solar arrays and NiCd batteries. The microsatellite hosts other solar arrays, including multi-junction solar cells and mono- crystalline silicon high efficiency solar cells, in order to compare their behaviour in orbit. Moreover a MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking ) system has been designed and tested, and it is a technological payload of UNISAT-3. The MPPT design follows the studies performed in the field of solar powered racing cars, with modifications to make the system suitable for use in space. The system design, numerical simulation and hardware ground testing are described in the paper. The experiment and the performance evaluation criterion are described, together with the preliminary results of the first eight months of operation in orbit.

Evolving Strategies for the Incorporation of Bioinformatics Within the Undergraduate Cell Biology Curriculum

PubMed Central

Honts, Jerry E.

2003-01-01

Recent advances in genomics and structural biology have resulted in an unprecedented increase in biological data available from Internet-accessible databases. In order to help students effectively use this vast repository of information, undergraduate biology students at Drake University were introduced to bioinformatics software and databases in three courses, beginning with an introductory course in cell biology. The exercises and projects that were used to help students develop literacy in bioinformatics are described. In a recently offered course in bioinformatics, students developed their own simple sequence analysis tool using the Perl programming language. These experiences are described from the point of view of the instructor as well as the students. A preliminary assessment has been made of the degree to which students had developed a working knowledge of bioinformatics concepts and methods. Finally, some conclusions have been drawn from these courses that may be helpful to instructors wishing to introduce bioinformatics within the undergraduate biology curriculum. PMID:14673489

Metabolic response of granulocytes and platelets to synthetic vascular grafts: preliminary results with an in vitro technique.

PubMed

Pärsson, H; Nässberger, L; Thörne, J; Norgren, L

1995-04-01

The metabolism of granulocytes as well as platelets evoked by incubation with different synthetic vascular grafts was monitored during 6-h batch experiments using microcalorimetry. Standard knitted Dacron grafts, ePTFE-grafts, knitted Dacron grafts with collagen impregnation, and knitted Dacron grafts with external collagen-coating were used. The heat production per cell was calculated. A rapid increase of metabolic activity followed by a gradual decrease was demonstrated with both granulocyte suspension and platelet concentrate. Significant differences were obtained between the materials with a maximum response of Dacron grafts with collagen impregnation for both granulocyte and platelet response. The materials had different surface morphologies regarding cell adhesion after incubation as demonstrated with scanning electron microscopy with more pronounced adhesion on the collagen-impregnated grafts. The results suggest that microcalorimetry may be useful for the evaluation of cellular reactions on different biomaterials. However, further studies have to reveal the specificity of the reactions.

Toxicity and biocompatibility profile of 3D bone scaffold developed by Universitas Indonesia: A preliminary study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahyussalim A., J.; Kurniawati, T.; Aprilya, D.; Anggraini, R.; Ramahdita, Ghiska; Whulanza, Yudan

2017-02-01

Scaffold as a biomaterial must fulfill some requirements to be safely implanted to the human body. Toxicity and biocompatibility test are needed to evaluate scaffold material in mediating cell proliferation and differentiation, secreting extracelullar matrix and carrying biomolecular signals for cell communication. An in vitro study with mesenchymal stem cells consisted of direct contact test and indirect contact test using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) tetrazolium reduction assay was conducted on 4 scaffolds made of poly-L-lactic acid (PLA), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and hydroxyapatite-poly (vinyl alcohol) composite. There were cells-substrate adhesion impairment, morphological changes, cell death and reduction in cell proliferation seen at 2nd and 6th day in most tested scaffold. Cell count result at day-6 showed proliferation inhibition of more than 50% cell death (inhibition value >50) in all tested scaffold. In MTT assay, two scaffolds were proven non-toxic. In conclusion, various scaffold materials showed different toxicity effect. The toxicity and biocompatibility profile in this study is a preliminary data for further research aiming to use those local-made scaffolds to fill human bone defect in various needs.

Thermal Conductivity Measurements of Helium 4 Near the Lambda-Transition Using a Magnetostrictive Low Gravity Simulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larson, Melora; Israelsson, Ulf E.

1995-01-01

There has been a recent increase in interest both experimentally and theoretically in the study of liquid helium very near the lambda-transition in the presence of a heat current. In traditional ground based experiments there are gravitationally induced pressure variations in any macroscopic helium sample that limit how closely the transition can be approached. We have taken advantage of the finite magnetic susceptibility of He 4 to build a magnetostrictive low gravity simulator. The simulator consists of a superconducting magnet with field profile shaped to counteract the force of gravity in a helium sample. When the magnet is operated with B x dB/dz = 21T(exp 2)/cm at the location of the cell, the gravitationally induced pressure variations will be canceled to within 1% over a volume of 0.5 cm in height and 0.5 cm in diameter. This technique for canceling the pressure variations in a long sample cell allows the lambda-transition to be studied much closer in reduced temperature and under a wider range of applied heat currents than is possible using other ground based techniques. Preliminary results using this low gravity simulator and the limitations of the magnetostrictive technique in comparison to doing space based experiments will be presented.

Using Electronic Noses to Detect Tumors During Neurosurgery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Homer, Margie L.; Ryan, Margaret A.; Lara, Liana M.; Kateb, Babak; Chen, Mike

2008-01-01

It has been proposed to develop special-purpose electronic noses and algorithms for processing the digitized outputs of the electronic noses for determining whether tissue exposed during neurosurgery is cancerous. At present, visual inspection by a surgeon is the only available intraoperative technique for detecting cancerous tissue. Implementation of the proposal would help to satisfy a desire, expressed by some neurosurgeons, for an intraoperative technique for determining whether all of a brain tumor has been removed. The electronic-nose technique could complement multimodal imaging techniques, which have also been proposed as means of detecting cancerous tissue. There are also other potential applications of the electronic-nose technique in general diagnosis of abnormal tissue. In preliminary experiments performed to assess the viability of the proposal, the problem of distinguishing between different types of cultured cells was substituted for the problem of distinguishing between normal and abnormal specimens of the same type of tissue. The figure presents data from one experiment, illustrating differences between patterns that could be used to distinguish between two types of cultured cancer cells. Further development can be expected to include studies directed toward answering questions concerning not only the possibility of distinguishing among various types of normal and abnormal tissue but also distinguishing between tissues of interest and other odorous substances that may be present in medical settings.

Role of the rat in the transmission of porcine parvovirus.

PubMed

Cutler, R; Molitor, T W; Sauber, T E; Leman, A D

1982-03-01

Rats experimentally inoculated with porcine parvovirus (PPV) shed virus in excreta from 3 to 21 days. Rats inoculated subcutaneously with PPV responded serologically with hemagglutination-inhibition titers (512-1,024). The PPV antigen was readily detected in lung and spleen 2 and 3 days after rats were inoculated and in liver and intestine, 4 days. The rats remained clinically healthy. Rats given PPV orally or in drinking water either with PPV-infected cell culture fluid or swine fetal homogenate failed to respond serologically to PPV, the exception being 2 of 4 rats exposed to swine fetal homogenate over a 5-day span. Pigs exposed to PPV-contaminated rat excreta, either by direct oral dosing or by contaminating the feed, failed to seroconvert. Pigs given (IM) PPV which had been isolated on cell culture from rat excreta did seroconvert. Results of these experiments indicated that rats became infected with PPV, but did so after systemic challenge exposure or prolonged oral exposure to highly infective swine fetal homogenate. Insufficient virus was shed by rats to cause susceptible pigs to seroconvert upon oral feeding--thus indicating that a minimal dose is necessary to ensure oral challenge. In a preliminary experiment, seronegative pigs given different doses of PPV orally showed a gradient level of serologic response and different rates of shedding.

The Viking biological investigation - Preliminary results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klein, H. P.; Oyama, V. I.; Berdahl, B. J.; Horowitz, N. H.; Hobby, G. L.; Levin, G. V.; Straat, P. A.; Lederberg, J.; Rich, A.; Hubbard, J. S.

1976-01-01

A preliminary progress report is presented for the Viking biological investigation through its first month. The carbon assimilation, gas exchange, and labeled release experiments are described in detail, and the chronology of the experiments is outlined. For the first experiment, it is found that a small amount of gas was converted into organic material in one sample and that heat treatment of a duplicate sample prevented such conversion. In the second experiment, a substantial amount of O2 was detected along with significant increases in CO2 and small changes in N2. In the third experiment, a significant amount of radioactive gas was evolved from one sample, but not from a duplicate heat-treated sample. Possible biological and nonbiological interpretations are considered for these results. It is concluded that while the experiments provide clear evidence for the occurrence of chemical reactions and while the results do not violate any prima facie criteria for biological processes, a definitive answer cannot yet be given to the question of whether life exists on Mars.

A preliminary discussion of gravitational physics experiments for the Spacelab era

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Decher, R.; Winkler, C. G.

1976-01-01

An overview of past, present, and proposed future experiments in gravitational physics is given. These experiments are concerned with the measurement of relativistic gravity effects to test theories of gravitation. Certain experiments which could be performed on shuttle and Spacelab missions and the potential of Spacelab for gravitation physics research are discussed.

Expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of a resuscitation-promoting factor from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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

Ruggiero, Alessia; Tizzano, Barbara; Geerlof, Arie

2007-10-01

The first crystallization of a resuscitation-promoting factor has been performed. Multiwavelength anomalous dispersion experiments have been carried out to obtain experimental phases using data at 2.9 Å resolution from a selenomethionine derivative. The resuscitation-promoting factor RpfB, the most complex of the five resuscitation-promoting factors produced by M. tuberculosis, is devoted to bacterial reactivation from the dormant state. RpfB consists of 362 residues predicted to form five domains. An RpfB fragment containing the protein catalytic domain and a G5 domain has been successfully crystallized using vapour-diffusion methods. This is the first crystallographic study of a resuscitation-promoting factor. Crystals of this proteinmore » belong to space group I422, with unit-cell parameters a = 97.63, b = 97.63, c = 114.87 Å. Diffraction data have also been collected from a selenomethionine derivative at 2.9 Å resolution. Model building using the phases derived from the multiwavelength anomalous dispersion experiment is in progress.« less

Antifungal activity of synthetic naphthoquinones against dermatophytes and opportunistic fungi: preliminary mechanism-of-action tests.

PubMed

Ferreira, Maria do Perpetuo Socorro Borges Carriço; Cardoso, Mariana Filomena do Carmo; da Silva, Fernando de Carvalho; Ferreira, Vitor Francisco; Lima, Emerson Silva; Souza, João Vicente Braga

2014-07-06

This study evaluated the antifungal activities of synthetic naphthoquinones against opportunistic and dermatophytic fungi and their preliminary mechanisms of action. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of four synthetic naphthoquinones for 89 microorganisms, including opportunistic yeast agents, dermatophytes and opportunistic filamentous fungi, were determined. The compound that exhibited the best activity was assessed for its action against the cell wall (sorbitol test), for interference associated with ergosterol interaction, for osmotic balance (K+ efflux) and for membrane leakage of substances that absorb at the wavelength of 260 nm. All tested naphthoquinones exhibited antifungal activity, and compound IVS320 (3a,10b-dihydro-1H-cyclopenta [b] naphtho [2,3-d] furan-5,10-dione)-dione) demonstrated the lowest MICs across the tested species. The MIC of IVS320 was particularly low for dermatophytes (values ranging from 5-28 μg/mL) and Cryptococcus spp. (3-5 μg/mL). In preliminary mechanism-of-action tests, IVS320 did not alter the fungal cell wall but did cause problems in terms of cell membrane permeability (efflux of K+ and leakage of substances that absorb at 260 nm). This last effect was unrelated to ergosterol interactions with the membrane.

Preliminary design of 1 kW bipolar Ni-MH battery for LEO-satellite application

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

Cole, J.H.; Reisner, D.E.; Klein, M.G.

1996-12-31

Electro Energy, Inc. (EEI) is developing a bipolar nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery based upon the use of stackable wafer cells. The key to viable bipolar operation has been this unique modular (unitized) approach. The patented unit wafer-cell construct exploits the chemical and thermal properties of a proprietary electrically conductive plastic film. Characteristic of bipolar batteries, current flows across the cell interfaces-perpendicular to the electrode plane. EEI has recently contracted with NASA Lewis Research Center (LeRC) to develop an optimized design 1 kW flightweight battery, for low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite applications, over a 4-year period with a deliverable flightweight design package. Themore » contract includes an option for EEI to deliver up to three flight quality batteries in an 18-month follow-on program. NASA LeRC has promulgated that the program steps include the design, fabrication, and evaluation of four evolutionary stages of the final battery design which have been designated Preliminary, Improved, Optimized, and Flightweight Design. Initial results from the Preliminary Stage are presented including a 1 kW battery design, thermal design, parameter study, and component development in subscale bipolar batteries.« less

Preliminary experiments to quantify liquid movement under mimetic vocal fold vibrational forces.

PubMed

Titze, Ingo R; Klemuk, Sarah; Lu, Xiaoying

2014-07-01

Hydration of vocal fold tissues is essential for self-sustained oscillation. Normal regulatory processes of liquid transport to and from the vocal folds would be expected through the autonomic systems, but the possibility exists that liquid movement may occur locally due to vibrational pressures. Such movement may cause regions of lower or higher concentrations of liquid viscosity and therewith changes in phonation threshold pressure. Hyaluronic acid, a glycosaminoglycan that attracts large quantities of free water, may be a key molecule for transporting or localizing liquids. Some preliminary experiments are reported in which attempts were made to move low-concentration HA liquids with vibration. None of the experiments was conclusive, but collectively they lay some groundwork for future explorations.

A universal piezo-driven ultrasonic cell microinjection system.

PubMed

Huang, Haibo; Mills, James K; Lu, Cong; Sun, Dong

2011-08-01

Over the past decade, the rapid development of biotechnologies such as gene injection, in-vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and drug development have led to great demand for highly automated, high precision equipment for microinjection. Recently a new cell injection technology using piezo-driven pipettes with a very small mercury column was proposed and successfully applied in ICSI to a variety of mammal species. Although this technique significantly improves the survival rates of the ICSI process, shortcomings due to the toxicity of mercury and damage to the cell membrane due to large lateral tip oscillations of the injector pipette may limit its application. In this paper, a new cell injection system for automatic batch injection of suspended cells is developed. A new design of the piezo-driven cell injector is proposed for automated suspended cell injection. This new piezo-driven cell injector design relocates the piezo oscillation actuator to the injector pipette which eliminates the vibration effect on other parts of the micromanipulator. A small piezo stack is sufficient to perform the cell injection process. Harmful lateral tip oscillations of the injector pipette are reduced substantially without the use of a mercury column. Furthermore, ultrasonic vibration micro-dissection (UVM) theory is utilized to analyze the piezo-driven cell injection process, and the source of the lateral oscillations of the injector pipette is investigated. From preliminary experiments of cell injection of a large number of zebrafish embryos (n = 200), the injector pipette can easily pierce through the cell membrane at a low injection speed and almost no deformation of the cell wall, and with a high success rate(96%) and survival rate(80.7%) This new injection approach shows good potential for precision injection with less damage to the injected cells.

Preliminary Report of NRC Twin Otter Operations in the 1997 Southern Great Plains Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

MacPherson, J. Ian

1997-01-01

From June 18 to July 17, 1997, the NRC Twin Otter atmospheric research aircraft was operated from Oklahoma City, U.S.A., in the Southern Great Plains 1997 (SGP97) Hydrology Experiment. The primary role of the aircraft was to measure the vertical fluxes of sensible and latent heat, CO2, ozone and momentum in the atmospheric boundary layer, along with supporting meteorological and radiometric data. Approximately 400 flux runs and 100 soundings were flown in 27 project flights over rural areas near Oklahoma City. This preliminary report documents the flight program, lists the instrumentation aboard the aircraft, and presents a summary of run-averaged data from each flux run. These data are from the in-field analysis and must be considered preliminary. A re-analysis incorporating updated calibrations is planned for the fall of 1997 followed by a more comprehensive technical report.

Chemical Analysis of the Moon at the Surveyor VII Landing Site: Preliminary Results.

PubMed

Turkevich, A L; Franzgrote, E J; Patterson, J H

1968-10-04

The alpha-scattering experiment aboard Surveyor VII has provided a chemical analysis of the moon in the area of the crater Tycho. The preliminary results indicate a chemical composition similar to that already found at two mare sites, but with a lower concentration of elements of the iron group (titanium through copper).

Preliminary Analysis of Fluctuations in the Received Uplink-Beacon-Power Data Obtained From the GOLD Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeganathan, M.; Wilson, K. E.; Lesh, J. R.

1996-01-01

Uplink data from recent free-space optical communication experiments carried out between the Table Mountain Facility and the Japanese Engineering Test Satellite are used to study fluctuations caused by beam propagation through the atmosphere. The influence of atmospheric scintillation, beam wander and jitter, and multiple uplink beams on the statistics of power received by the satellite is analyzed and compared to experimental data. Preliminary analysis indicates the received signal obeys an approximate lognormal distribution, as predicted by the weak-turbulence model, but further characterization of other sources of fluctuations is necessary for accurate link predictions.

Preliminary analysis of fluctuations in the received uplink-beacon-power data obtained from the GOLD experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeganathan, M.; Wilson, K. E.; Lesh, J. R.

1996-01-01

Uplink data from recent free-space optical communication experiments carried out between the Table Mountain Facility and the Japanese Engineering Test Satellite are used to study fluctuations caused by beam propagation through the atmosphere. The influence of atmospheric scintillation, beam wander and jitter, and multiple uplink beams on the statistics of power received by the satellite is analyzed and compared to experimental data. Preliminary analysis indicates the received signal obeys an approximate lognormal distribution, as predicted by the weak-turbulence model, but further characterization of other sources of fluctuations is necessary for accurate link predictions.

Design, analysis and test verification of advanced encapsulation systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garcia, A., III

1983-01-01

A preliminary reduced variable master was constructed for pressure loading. A study of cell thickness versus cell stress was completed. Work is continuing on encapsulation of qualification modules. A 4 ft x 4 ft 'credit card' construction laminate was made.

Design, analysis and test verification of advanced encapsulation systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia, A., III

1983-02-01

A preliminary reduced variable master was constructed for pressure loading. A study of cell thickness versus cell stress was completed. Work is continuing on encapsulation of qualification modules. A 4 ft x 4 ft 'credit card' construction laminate was made.

Motivation for proposed experimentation in the realm of accelerated E. M. systems: A preliminary design for an experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Post, E. J.

1970-01-01

An experiment, designed to determine the difference between fields-magnetic and electric-surrounding a uniformly moving charge as contrasted with the fields surrounding an accelerated charge, is presented. A thought experiment is presented to illustrate the process.

Capability of microalgae for local saline sewage treatment towards biodiesel production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, K.-C.; Yau, Y.-H.; Ho, K.-C.

2017-08-01

Seawater flushing was introduced in Hong Kong since 1950’s. High salinity has an inhibitory effect on nitrification and biological phosphorus uptake of microorganisms. Therefore, saline sewage has impact on traditional biological wastewater treatment. Saline conditions of domestic wastewater then pose opportunity to use algal technology in wastewater treatment. During the treatment (phycoremediation), biodiesel can be produced. This study aims to give an in-depth investigation and development on application of local microalgal strains on biodiesel production. Dunaliella tertiolecta was selected the appropriate algal species with high potential for phycoremediation then biodiesel production. D.tertiolecta was further investigated by optimizing its growth in different process condition in preliminary effluent as based medium. The optimized process condition were acclimated culture with medium initial cell number (5.0 ×105 cells mL-1), under 5% CO2 aerations in preliminary effluent adjust to 15 psu (denoting practical salinity unit). Results showed that lipid content increased from 30.2% to 42%, and biomass productivity reached 463.3 mg L-1day-1 by Fatty acid Methyl Ester (FAME) profile was found for biodiesel production in optimized stage. The treatment period of preliminary effluent was shortened from 15d in original design (unacclimated culture, low initial cell number (5.0 ×105 cells mL-1), without CO2 aeration) to 4d.

Experimental advances and preliminary mathematical modeling of the Swiss-roll mixed-reactant direct borohydride fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aziznia, Amin; Oloman, Colin W.; Gyenge, Előd L.

2014-11-01

The Swiss-roll single-cell mixed reactant (SR-MRFC) borohydride - oxygen fuel cell equipped with Pt/carbon cloth 3D anode and either MnO2 or Ag gas-diffusion cathodes is investigated by a combination of experimental studies and preliminary mathematical modeling of the polarization curve. We investigate the effects of four variables: cathode side metallic mesh fluid distributor, separator type (Nafion 112® vs. Viledon®), cathode catalyst (MnO2 vs. Ag), and the hydrophilic pore volume fraction of the gas-diffusion cathode. Using a two-phase feed of alkaline borohydride solution (1 M NaBH4 - 2 M NaOH) and O2 gas in an SR-MRFC equipped with Pt/C 3D anode, MnO2 gas diffusion cathode, Viledon® porous diaphragm, expanded mesh cathode-side fluid distributor, the maximum superficial power density is 2230 W m-2 at 323 K and 105 kPa(abs). The latter superficial power density is almost 3.5 times higher than our previously reported superficial power density for the same catalyst combinations. Furthermore, with a Pt anode and Ag cathode catalyst combination, a superficial power density of 2500 W m-2 is achieved with superior performance durability compared to the MnO2 cathode. The fuel cell results are substantiated by impedance spectroscopy analysis and preliminary mathematical model predictions based on mixed potential theory.

General characteristics of preliminary data processing in the Copernicus experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ziolkovski, K.; Kossatski, K.

1975-01-01

Data from the 'Copernicus' experiment is processed in four stages: setting up of basic arrays, data calibration, graphical display of results, and assignment of results to navigation parameters. Each stage is briefly discussed.

Production Assistance for Cellular Therapies (PACT): five-year experience from the United States National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) contract research program in cell and tissue therapies

PubMed Central

Reed, William; Noga, Stephen J.; Gee, Adrian P.; Rooney, Cliona M.; Wagner, John E.; McCullough, Jeffrey; McKenna, David H.; Whiteside, Theresa L.; Donnenberg, Albert D.; Baker, Acacia K.; Lindblad, Robert W.; Wagner, Elizabeth L.; Mondoro, Traci Heath

2014-01-01

BACKGROUND In 2002, the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) conducted a workshop to determine needs of the cell therapy community. A consensus emerged that improved access to cGMP facilities, regulatory assistance, and training would foster the advancement of cellular therapy. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A 2003 NHLBI request for proposals resulted in four contracts being awarded to three cell-manufacturing facilities (Baylor College of Medicine, University of Minnesota, and University of Pittsburgh) and one administrative center (The EMMES Corporation). As a result, Production Assistance for Cellular Therapies (PACT) was formed. RESULTS As of October 1, 2008, PACT has received 65 preliminary applications of which 45 have been approved for product manufacture. A variety of cell therapies are represented including T-regulatory cells, natural killer cells, adipose-derived stem cells, cardiac progenitor cells for cardiac disease, hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) for central nervous system applications, cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and dendritic cells. A total of 169 products have been administered under 12 applications and 2 reagents were manufactured and delivered. Fourteen peer-reviewed publications and 15 abstracts have resulted from the PACT project to date. A cell therapy textbook is nearly complete. PACT technical projects have addressed assay development, rapid endotoxin testing, shipping of cell products, and CD34+ HPC isolation from low-volume marrow. Educational Web seminars and onsite training through workshops have been conducted. CONCLUSIONS PACT is an active and successful cell therapy manufacturing resource in the United States, addressing research and training while forging relationships among academia, industry, and participating institutions. PMID:19170985

Geometry and mechanics of growing bacterial colonies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

You, Zhihong; Pearce, Daniel; Sengupta, Anupam; Giomi, Luca

Bacterial colonies are abundant on living and non-living surfaces, and are known to mediate a broad range of processes in ecology, medicine and industry. Although extensively researched - from single cells up to the population levels - a comprehensive biophysical picture, highlighting the cell-to-colony dynamics, is still lacking. Here, using numerical and analytical models, we study the mechanics of self-organization leading to the colony morphology of cells growing on a substrate with free boundary. We consider hard rods to mimic the growth of rod-shaped non-motile cells, and show that the colony, as a whole, does not form an ordered nematic phase, nor does it result in a purely disordered (isotropic) phase. Instead, different sizes of domains, in which cells are highly aligned at specific orientations, are found. The distribution of the domain sizes follows an exponential relation - indicating the existence of a characteristic length scale that determines the domain size relative to that of the colony. A continuum theory, based on the hydrodynamics of liquid crystals, is built to account for these phenomena, and is applied to describe the buckling transition from a planar to three-dimensional (3D) colony. The theory supports preliminary experiments conducted with different strains of rod shaped bacterial cells, and reveals that the buckling transition can be regulated by varying the cell stiffness and aspect ratio. This work proposes that, in addition to biochemical pathways, the spatio-temporal organization in microbial colonies is significantly tuned by the biomechanical and geometric properties of the microbes in consideration.

The Effects of a Single Electronic Music Improvisation Session on the Pain of Adults with Sickle Cell Disease: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study.

PubMed

Rodgers-Melnick, Samuel N; Matthie, Nadine; Jenerette, Coretta; Griest Pell, Tara J; Lane, Deforia; Fu, Pingfu; Margevicius, Seunghee; Little, Jane A

2018-06-07

Adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) experience acute pain that is multidimensional. Despite recent improvements in treatment, pain management remains a significant challenge for these individuals. Music therapy interventions have the potential to address several dimensions of SCD pain, but they require systematic investigation. This study investigated feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a single-session electronic music improvisation with a music therapist to diminish pain intensity and improve pain relief and mood in adults with SCD. Using a three-group mixed methods intervention design, we randomized 60 adults with SCD to standard care plus one of three 20-minute study conditions: 1) electronic music improvisation with a music therapist (MT); 2) recorded music listening (ML); or 3) no intervention (control). Measures of pain intensity (VASPI), pain relief (VASPR), and mood (VASMOOD) were assessed before and after the study conditions, with a subset of MT and ML participants interviewed after measure completion. Compared to control, MT produced significant improvements in VASPI (odds ratio (OR) = 5.12, P = 0.035) and VASMOOD (OR = 11.60, P = 0.005). ML produced significant improvements in VASMOOD compared to control (OR = 5.76, P = 0.040). Qualitatively, there were two prominent themes directly related to music: 1) ML and MT offered many positive and few negative effects; and 2) music therapists provided comfort beyond the music. Preliminary findings were promising and support the need for additional studies evaluating improvisational music therapy interventions for acute pain management in adults with SCD.

Collagen as potential cell scaffolds for tissue engineering.

PubMed

Annuar, N; Spier, R E

2004-05-01

Selections of collagen available commercially were tested for their biocompatibility as scaffold to promote cell growth in vitro via simple collagen fast test and cultivation of mammalian cells on the selected type of collagen. It was found that collagen type C9791 promotes the highest degree of aggregation as well as cells growth. This preliminary study also indicated potential use of collagen as scaffold in engineered tissue.

Expedited quantification of mutant ribosomal RNA by binary deoxyribozyme (BiDz) sensors.

PubMed

Gerasimova, Yulia V; Yakovchuk, Petro; Dedkova, Larisa M; Hecht, Sidney M; Kolpashchikov, Dmitry M

2015-10-01

Mutations in ribosomal RNA (rRNA) have traditionally been detected by the primer extension assay, which is a tedious and multistage procedure. Here, we describe a simple and straightforward fluorescence assay based on binary deoxyribozyme (BiDz) sensors. The assay uses two short DNA oligonucleotides that hybridize specifically to adjacent fragments of rRNA, one of which contains a mutation site. This hybridization results in the formation of a deoxyribozyme catalytic core that produces the fluorescent signal and amplifies it due to multiple rounds of catalytic action. This assay enables us to expedite semi-quantification of mutant rRNA content in cell cultures starting from whole cells, which provides information useful for optimization of culture preparation prior to ribosome isolation. The method requires less than a microliter of a standard Escherichia coli cell culture and decreases analysis time from several days (for primer extension assay) to 1.5 h with hands-on time of ∼10 min. It is sensitive to single-nucleotide mutations. The new assay simplifies the preliminary analysis of RNA samples and cells in molecular biology and cloning experiments and is promising in other applications where fast detection/quantification of specific RNA is required. © 2015 Gerasimova et al.; Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press for the RNA Society.

Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Inhibits Ultraviolet B Induced Photoageing of the Skin in Human Dermal Fibroblast Culture.

PubMed

Anitua, Eduardo; Pino, Ander; Orive, Gorka

Ultraviolet irradiation is able to deeply penetrate into the dermis and alter fibroblast structure and function, leading to a degradation of the dermal extracellular matrix. The regenerative effect of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) on skin ageing was investigated using UVB photo-stressed human dermal fibroblasts as an in vitro culture model. PRGF was assessed over the main indicative features of ultraviolet B irradiation, including ROS formation, cell viability and death detection, apoptosis/ necrosis analysis and biosynthetic activity measurement. Four different UV irradiation protocols were tested in order to analyze the beneficial effects of PRGF. Ultraviolet irradiation exhibited a dose dependent cytotoxicity and dose of 400mJ/cm2 was selected for subsequent experiments. PRGF increased the cell viability and decreased the cell death comparing to the non-treated group. The apoptosis and necrosis were significantly lower in PRGF treated fibroblasts. ROS production after UV irradiation was significantly reduced in the presence of PRGF. Procollagen type I, hyaluronic acid and TIMP-1 levels were higher in the when treated with PRGF. This preliminary in vitro study suggests that PRGF is able to prevent UVB derived photooxidative stress and to diminish the cell damage caused by ultraviolet irradiation.

Binocular Stereoscopy in Visual Areas V-2, V-3, and V-3A of the Macaque Monkey

PubMed Central

Hubel, David H.; Wiesel, Torsten N.; Yeagle, Erin M.; Lafer-Sousa, Rosa; Conway, Bevil R.

2015-01-01

Over 40 years ago, Hubel and Wiesel gave a preliminary report of the first account of cells in monkey cerebral cortex selective for binocular disparity. The cells were located outside of V-1 within a region referred to then as “area 18.” A full-length manuscript never followed, because the demarcation of the visual areas within this region had not been fully worked out. Here, we provide a full description of the physiological experiments and identify the locations of the recorded neurons using a contemporary atlas generated by functional magnetic resonance imaging; we also perform an independent analysis of the location of the neurons relative to an anatomical landmark (the base of the lunate sulcus) that is often coincident with the border between V-2 and V-3. Disparity-tuned cells resided not only in V-2, the area now synonymous with area 18, but also in V-3 and probably within V-3A. The recordings showed that the disparity-tuned cells were biased for near disparities, tended to prefer vertical orientations, clustered by disparity preference, and often required stimulation of both eyes to elicit responses, features strongly suggesting a role in stereoscopic depth perception. PMID:24122139

i-anvils : in situ measurements of pressure, temperature and conductivity in diamond anvil cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munsch, P.; Bureau, H.; Kubsky, S.; Meijer, J.; Datchi, F.; Ninet, S.; Estève, I.

2011-12-01

The precise determination of the pressure and temperature conditions during diamond anvils cells (DAC) experiments is of primary importance. Such determinations are critical more especially for the fields corresponding to "low pressures" (<4 GPa) and moderate temperature (600-1500°C). Determining the electrical properties of mantle minerals is also a condition to understand the physics of the Deep Earth. This has to be done in situ at pressures and temperatures relevant for the interior of the Earth. i-anvils allow in situ pressure (P) and temperature (T) measurements in experiments using a DAC. Boron and carbon micro-structures are implanted in the diamond anvil lattice a few micrometers below the surface, the sensors are located a few μm below the center of the diamond culet (sample chamber position). When conductive electrodes are implanted at the position of the sample chamber on the culet of the anvil, instead of P,T sensors, they allow in situ measurements of electrical properties of the loaded sample at high P,T conditions in a DAC. The principle consists of applying an electrical potential across the structures through external contacts placed on the slopes of the anvil. The resistivity of these structures is sensitive to pressure and temperature applied in the sample chamber. The electrical transport properties of the sample can be measured the same way when electrodes have been implanted on the culet. Here we will present our last progresses, more especially using the focus ion beam (FIB) technology to perform contacts and electrodes. Progresses about the i-anvils connexions with the electronic devices will also be shown. We will present the last P and T sensors calibrations. Furnaces are also introduced through Boron implantation into the anvils, allowing the possibility to reach intermediate temperatures between externally heated DAC (up to 1100°C) and laser heated DAC (from 1500°C to a few thousands). Preliminary tests and the interest of such devices will be discussed at the meeting. A new diamond anvil cell has been especially designed for this purpose. This DAC allows in situ spectroscopies and X-Ray characterisation of geological fluids in their equilibrium conditions in the crust and in the upper mantle. Preliminary results will be presented.

The nature of immunity to Snyder-Theilen fibrosarcoma virus induced tumors in cats.

PubMed

Johnson, L; Pedersen, N C; Theilen, G H

1985-07-01

Snyder-Theilen fibrosarcoma virus (ST-FeSV) induced tumors evoked a vigorous immune response in adolescent cats. The response was characterized histologically by a lymphoid and histiocytic cell infiltrate beginning around the 9th day post inoculation. Hyperemia edema, hemorrhage, and necrosis of the tumors occurred shortly thereafter. Gross regression of the tumors commenced around the 15th day. Viable fibrosarcoma cells could be recovered as almost pure cultures from tumors biopsied on the 9th day. Biopsies taken between days 9 and 15 contained progressively fewer tumor cells and increasing numbers of lymphoid cells, histiocytes, giant cells, and normal fibroblasts. Tumor cells in such mixed cultures did not replicate as fast as normal and died out within 7 to 14 days. Viable tumor cells were not recovered from biopsies taken after day 15. Fibrosarcoma regression was associated with the appearance of tumor cell specific cytotoxic lymphocytes and antibodies in the blood. Cell mediated immunity, as determined by a chromium release assay, consisted of both antibody dependent and independent mechanisms. Fluorescent and complement dependent cytolytic antibodies were detected in the blood at the same time as cytotoxic lymphocytes, but persisted after regression. In a preliminary experiment, serum from tumor regressor cats was injected into susceptible kittens, and the kittens were then challenged with ST-FeSV transformed fibroblasts or whole FeSV. Immune serum did not prevent the appearance of initial growth of tumors, but did slow their subsequent growth and increased the rate of regression. Immune serum had a much more dramatic inhibitory effect on the accompanying retrovirus infection.

Surface multiheme c-type cytochromes from Thermincola potens and implications for respiratory metal reduction by Gram-positive bacteria

PubMed Central

Carlson, Hans K.; Iavarone, Anthony T.; Gorur, Amita; Yeo, Boon Siang; Tran, Rosalie; Melnyk, Ryan A.; Mathies, Richard A.; Auer, Manfred; Coates, John D.

2012-01-01

Almost nothing is known about the mechanisms of dissimilatory metal reduction by Gram-positive bacteria, although they may be the dominant species in some environments. Thermincola potens strain JR was isolated from the anode of a microbial fuel cell inoculated with anaerobic digester sludge and operated at 55 °C. Preliminary characterization revealed that T. potens coupled acetate oxidation to the reduction of hydrous ferric oxides (HFO) or anthraquinone-2,6-disulfonate (AQDS), an analog of the redox active components of humic substances. The genome of T. potens was recently sequenced, and the abundance of multiheme c-type cytochromes (MHCs) is unusual for a Gram-positive bacterium. We present evidence from trypsin-shaving LC-MS/MS experiments and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) that indicates the expression of a number of MHCs during T. potens growth on either HFO or AQDS, and that several MHCs are localized to the cell wall or cell surface. Furthermore, one of the MHCs can be extracted from cells with low pH or denaturants, suggesting a loose association with the cell wall or cell surface. Electron microscopy does not reveal an S-layer, and the precipitation of silver metal on the cell surface is inhibited by cyanide, supporting the involvement of surface-localized redox-active heme proteins in dissimilatory metal reduction. These results provide unique direct evidence for cell wall-associated cytochromes and support MHC involvement in conducting electrons across the cell envelope of a Gram-positive bacterium. PMID:22307634

Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) Fuel Cell Transit Buses : Evaluation Results Update

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-10-01

In early 2007, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) published a preliminary evaluation results report1 (April through November 2006) on hydrogen fuel cell and diesel buses operating at Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) in ...

Production, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of adeno-associated virus serotype 8

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

Lane, Michael Douglas; Nam, Hyun-Joo; Padron, Eric

2005-06-01

The production, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of adeno-associated virus serotype 8 is reported. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are actively being developed for clinical gene-therapy applications and the efficiencies of the vectors could be significantly improved by a detailed understanding of their viral capsid structures and the structural determinants of their tissue-transduction interactions. AAV8 is ∼80% identical to the more widely studied AAV2, but its liver-transduction efficiency is significantly greater than that of AAV2 and other serotypes. The production, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of AAV8 viral capsids are reported. The crystals diffract X-rays to 3.0 Åmore » resolution using synchrotron radiation and belong to the hexagonal space group P6{sub 3}22, with unit-cell parameters a = 257.5, c = 443.5 Å. The unit cell contains two viral particles, with ten capsid viral protein monomers per crystallographic asymmetric unit.« less

Near-Death Experiences and the "Fantasy-Prone" Personality: Preliminary Findings.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Council, James R.; Greyson, Bruce

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are subjective experiences at the threshold of death which can include strong positive affect, dissociation from the physical body, and paranormal/transcendental phenomena. Empirical investigation of NDEs has typically relied upon retrospective reports and personality studies of individuals who have come close to…

Outcomes of transoral robotic surgery: a preliminary clinical experience.

PubMed

Hurtuk, Agnes; Agrawal, Amit; Old, Matthew; Teknos, Theodoros N; Ozer, Enver

2011-08-01

To report a single institution's experience with transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and its clinical outcomes. Preliminary clinical data from a prospective TORS study. University tertiary care facility. Patients who underwent TORS at The Ohio State University Medical Center. Demographic, intraoperative, clinicopathological, and follow-up functional data were collected. Sixty-four patients underwent TORS with a median age of 56.9 years. A total of 113 TORS procedures were performed. Fifty-four patients with squamous cell cancer (SCCA) were included in the final analysis. Mean follow-up time was 11.8 months (range, 2-29). There was a trend toward longer TORS setup time, operative time, estimated blood loss, and hospital length of stay with advanced (T(3)) compared with early-stage tumors (T(1-2)). There were no major intraoperative complications, and none of the procedures were aborted because of inability to remove the tumor. Negative resection margins were achieved in 93% of cases of SCCA. No patients experienced immediate postoperative complications, and all of the patients tolerated an oral diet without any airway compromise on the day of surgery. Forty-nine patients (91%) underwent adjuvant radiation therapy (RT), with 11 patients requiring gastrostomy tube placement during RT. Addition of TORS to overall management of head and neck SCCA spared adjuvant RT or combined chemotherapy and RT (CRT) in 50% of stage I/II tumors and spared chemotherapy in 34% of stage III/IV tumors. TORS is a safe procedure with minimal complications and favorable clinical and functional outcomes. It is a promising future alternative surgical treatment for laryngopharyngeal tumors.

Purification, Crystallization, and Preliminary X-ray Analysis of Native Canavalin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pusey, Marc; Dowell, Jennifer; Ng, Joseph; Gavira, Jose A.

2003-01-01

The protein canavalin is a 7S vicilin, from the Jack Bean, Canavalis ensfomis. Canavalin is described as a seed storage protein, an energy source for a developing seed, as no other known activity or function has been found. The protein was first isolated and crystallized by Sumner and Howell (J. Biol. Chem. 113, 607-610, 1936). Canavalin spontaneously crystallizes after proteolytic cleavage at neutral pH, which removes residues 1-46, 224-245, and 325-330 and produces peptides of approximately 25, 13, and 12 kDa. Preliminary gel filtration experiments indicated the presence of nucleic acid with the uncleaved protein. We developed a dual column procedure, ion exchange followed by hydroxy apatite chromatography, that effectively removes the nucleic acid and yields an essentially pure uncut canavalin preparation with an OD 280/260 ratio of approximately 1.9-2.0. Standard crystallization screens using this material gave a number of positive results having a common requirement for alcohols and Mg(2+) ion, with crystals typically appearing within a day or less. Optimization experiments to date have shown that we can obtain crystals from pH 6.5 to pH 8.2, using MPD from 5 to 20% and 0.05 to 0.2M Mg(2+) (sulfate or acetate). The crystals are of space group P2(sub 1)2(sub 1)2(sub 1), unit cell dimensions, and a complete data set to 1.5 Angstroms, resolution has now been collected at a synchrotron source. Most importantly, the crystals are not twinned, a persistent problem with the most commonly obtained rhombohedral form of proteolytically cleaved canavalin.

Discharge characteristics of 300 ampere-hour Ni-Zn traction cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewashinka, J. G.

1979-01-01

Preliminary tests were performed on 300 amphere-hour nickel-zinc cells containing the Lewis improved inorganic-organic (I/O) separator. These cells also have other design features included to optimize performance and cycle life. The tests carried out were formation tests and characteristic discharge tests. Information obtained include case temperature and maximum power delivered.

GaAs homojunction solar cell development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Flood, D. J.; Swartz, C. K.; Hart, R. E., Jr.

1980-01-01

The Lincoln Laboratory n(+)/p/p(+) GaAs shallow homojunction cell structure was successfully demonstrated on 2 by 2 cm GaAs substrates. Air mass zero efficiencies of the seven cells produced to date range from 13.6 to 15.6 percent. Current voltage (I-V) characteristics, spectral response, and measurements were made on all seven cells. Preliminary analysis of 1 MeV electron radiation damage data indicate excellent radiation resistance for these cells.

Experimental design to evaluate directed adaptive mutation in Mammalian cells.

PubMed

Bordonaro, Michael; Chiaro, Christopher R; May, Tobias

2014-12-09

We describe the experimental design for a methodological approach to determine whether directed adaptive mutation occurs in mammalian cells. Identification of directed adaptive mutation would have profound practical significance for a wide variety of biomedical problems, including disease development and resistance to treatment. In adaptive mutation, the genetic or epigenetic change is not random; instead, the presence and type of selection influences the frequency and character of the mutation event. Adaptive mutation can contribute to the evolution of microbial pathogenesis, cancer, and drug resistance, and may become a focus of novel therapeutic interventions. Our experimental approach was designed to distinguish between 3 types of mutation: (1) random mutations that are independent of selective pressure, (2) undirected adaptive mutations that arise when selective pressure induces a general increase in the mutation rate, and (3) directed adaptive mutations that arise when selective pressure induces targeted mutations that specifically influence the adaptive response. The purpose of this report is to introduce an experimental design and describe limited pilot experiment data (not to describe a complete set of experiments); hence, it is an early report. An experimental design based on immortalization of mouse embryonic fibroblast cells is presented that links clonal cell growth to reversal of an inactivating polyadenylation site mutation. Thus, cells exhibit growth only in the presence of both the countermutation and an inducing agent (doxycycline). The type and frequency of mutation in the presence or absence of doxycycline will be evaluated. Additional experimental approaches would determine whether the cells exhibit a generalized increase in mutation rate and/or whether the cells show altered expression of error-prone DNA polymerases or of mismatch repair proteins. We performed the initial stages of characterizing our system and have limited preliminary data from several pilot experiments. Cell growth and DNA sequence data indicate that we have identified a cell clone that exhibits several suitable characteristics, although further study is required to identify a more optimal cell clone. The experimental approach is based on a quantum biological model of basis-dependent selection describing a novel mechanism of adaptive mutation. This project is currently inactive due to lack of funding. However, consistent with the objective of early reports, we describe a proposed study that has not produced publishable results, but is worthy of report because of the hypothesis, experimental design, and protocols. We outline the project's rationale and experimental design, with its strengths and weaknesses, to stimulate discussion and analysis, and lay the foundation for future studies in this field.

Experiment module concepts study. Volume 5 book 1, appendix A: Shuttle only task

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1970-01-01

Results of a preliminary investigation of the effect on the candidate experiment program implementation of experiment module operations in the absence of an orbiting space station and with the availability of the space shuttle orbiter vehicle only are presented. The fundamental hardware elements for shuttle-only operation of the program are: (1) integrated common experiment modules CM-1, CM-3, and CM-4, together with the propulsion slice; (2) support modules capable of supplying on-orbit crew life support, power, data management, and other services normally provided by a space station; (3) dormancy kits to enable normally attached modules to remain in orbit while shuttle returns to earth; and (4) shuttle orbiter. Preliminary cost estimates for 30 day on-orbit and 5 day on-orbit capabilities for a four year implementation period are $4.2 billion and $2.1 billion, respectively.

Preliminary experiments on the reduction of the uranyl ion to uraninite by carbonaceous substances

USGS Publications Warehouse

Breger, Irving A.; Moore, Richard T.

1955-01-01

An aqueous solution of uranyl sulfate containing a suspension of subbituminous coal has been heated at 210 C for three days. Examination of the coal at the end of the experiment showed it to contain 31.8 percent uranium recognizable as uraninite by a sharp, strong X-ray diffraction pattern. A similar experiment with degraded spruce wood also led to the formation of uraninite but in lesser quantity and with broader lines in the X-ray diffraction pattern. The ability of coal or wood to reduce the uranyl ion is a critical factor in the correlation of studies of uraniferous coals containing the uranyl ion with studies of uraninite-bearing coalified wood from the Colorado Plateau. Although these results are based an preliminary experiments, they are extremely important geochemically and warrant the development of the series of controlled studies that are proposed.

Broncho-Vaxom and spontaneous allergic autocytotoxicity (spACT) in bronchial asthma associated with food hypersensitivity.

PubMed

Podleski, W K

1986-01-01

Spontaneous allergic autocytotoxicity (spACT) of white blood cells (WBC) was assessed in six bronchial asthma patients and eighteen normal control individuals. The observed alterations of non-primed WBC membrane were revealed as an increased uptake of trypan blue exclusion dye, an indicator of death cells. The phenomenon of spACT might be associated with a lack of T suppressor cell intervention, increased refractoriness of WBC membrane leading to its increased permeability and enhanced releasability of chemical mediators of anaphylaxis, which probably bypasses IgE events. In six bronchial asthma patients, three were sensitive toward wheat, two had cow milk sensitivity, and one had corn sensitivity. When WBC of these patients were studied in the direct ACT assay, an additional augmentation of spACT effect by specific food antigens was observed. Surprisingly, Broncho-Vaxom (BX) did not inhibit or enhance spACT. However, BX has antagonistic activity toward direct ACT response in the dose-dependent concentration as previously reported. Our preliminary clinical experience leads us to believe that the spACT assay can serve as a useful clinical discriminator of potential responders versus non-responders to therapy with new agents, when WBC disintegration by autoinduction is involved.

Current status and applications of somatic cell nuclear transfer in dogs.

PubMed

Jang, Goo; Kim, Min Kyu; Lee, Byeong Chun

2010-11-01

Although somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technology and applications are well developed in most domesticated and laboratory animals, their use in dogs has advanced only slowly. Many technical difficulties had to be overcome before preliminary experiments could be conducted. First, due to the very low efficiency of dog oocyte maturation in vitro, in vivo matured oocytes were generally used. The nucleus of an in vivo matured oocyte was removed and a donor cell (from fetal or adult fibroblasts) was injected into the oocyte. Secondly, fusion of the reconstructed oocytes was problematic, and it was found that a higher electrical voltage was necessary, in comparison to other mammalian species. By transferring the resulting fused oocytes into surrogate females, several cloned offspring were born. SCNT was also used for producing cloned wolves, validating reproductive technologies for aiding conservation of endangered or extinct breeds. Although examples of transgenesis in canine species are very sparse, SCNT studies are increasing, and together with the new field of gene targeting technology, they have been applied in many fields of veterinary or bio-medical science. This review summarizes the current status of SCNT in dogs and evaluates its potential future applications. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preliminary research on a novel bioactive silicon doped calcium phosphate coating on AZ31 magnesium alloy via electrodeposition.

PubMed

Qiu, Xun; Wan, Peng; Tan, Lili; Fan, Xinmin; Yang, Ke

2014-03-01

A silicon doped calcium phosphate coating was obtained successfully on AZ31 alloy substrate via pulse electrodeposition. A novel dual-layer structure was observed with a porous lamellar-like and outer block-like apatite layer. In vitro immersion tests were adopted in simulated body fluid within 28 days of immersion. Slow degradation rate obtained from weight loss was observed for the Si-doped Ca-P coating, which was also consistent with the results of electrochemical experiments showing an enhanced corrosion resistance for the coating. Further formation of an apatite-like layer on the surface after immersion proved better integrity and biomineralization performance of the coating. Biological characterization was carried out for viability, proliferation and differentiation of MG63 osteoblast-like cells. The coating showed a good cell growth and an enhanced cell proliferation. Moreover, an increased activity of osteogenic marker ALP was found. All the results demonstrated that the Si-doped calcium phosphate was perspective to be used as a coating for magnesium alloy implants to control the degradation rate and enhance the bioactivity, which would facilitate the rapidity of bone tissue repair. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of GaInP Solar Cells Grown by Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy

DOE PAGES

Schulte, Kevin L.; Simon, John; Mangum, John; ...

2017-04-30

We demonstrate the growth of homojunction GaInP solar cells by dynamic hydride vapor phase epitaxy for the first time. Simple unpassivated n-on-p structures grown in an inverted configuration with gold back reflectors were analyzed. Short wavelength performance varied strongly with emitter thickness, since collection in the emitter was limited by the lack of surface passivation. Collection in the base increased strongly with decreasing doping density, in the range 1 x 10 16 - 5 x 10 17 cm -3. Optical modeling indicated that, in our best device, doped ~1 x 10 16 cm -3, almost 94% of photons that passedmore » through the emitter were collected. Modeling also indicated that the majority of collection occurs in the depletion region with this design, suggesting that nonradiative recombination there might limit device performance. In agreement with this observation, the experimental dark J-V curve exhibited an ideality factor near n = 2. Thus, limitation of deep level carrier traps in the material is a path to improved performance. Preliminary experiments indicate that a reduced V/III ratio, which potentially affects the density of these presumed traps, improves cell performance. With reduced V/III ratio, we demonstrate a ~13% efficient GaInP cell measured under the 1-sun AM1.5G spectrum. In conclusion, this cell had an antireflective coating, but no front surface passivation.« less

Adrenaline stimulates the proliferation and migration of mesenchymal stem cells towards the LPS-induced lung injury.

PubMed

Wu, Xiaodan; Wang, Zhiming; Qian, Mengjia; Wang, Lingyan; Bai, Chunxue; Wang, Xiangdong

2014-08-01

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) could modulate inflammation in experimental lung injury. On the other hand, adrenergic receptor agonists could increase DNA synthesis of stem cells. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic role of adrenaline-stimulated BMSCs on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury. BMSCs were cultured with adrenergic receptor agonists or antagonists. Suspensions of lung cells or sliced lung tissue from animals with or without LPS-induced injury were co-cultured with BMSCs. LPS-stimulated alveolar macrophages were co-cultured with BMSCs (with adrenaline stimulation or not) in Transwell for 6 hrs. A preliminary animal experiment was conducted to validate the findings in ex vivo study. We found that adrenaline at 10 μM enhanced proliferation of BMSCs through both α- and β-adrenergic receptors. Adrenaline promoted the migration of BMSCs towards LPS-injured lung cells or lung tissue. Adrenaline-stimulated BMSCs decreased the inflammation of LPS-stimulated macrophages, probably through the expression and secretion of several paracrine factors. Adrenaline reduced the extent of injury in LPS-injured rats. Our data indicate that adrenaline-stimulated BMSCs might contribute to the prevention from acute lung injury through the activation of adrenergic receptors, promotion of proliferation and migration towards injured lung, and modulation of inflammation. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

Sphingoid esters from the molecular distillation of squid oil: A preliminary bioactivity determination.

PubMed

Saliu, Francesco; Longhin, Eleonora; Salanti, Anika; Degano, Ilaria; Della Pergola, Roberto

2016-06-15

A mixture of sphingoid esters was isolated (1.4% w/w) from the molecular distillation of crude squid visceral oil. A preliminary investigation on the bioactivity profile and toxic potential of this residue was carried out by in vitro experiments. No cytotoxicity and a moderate lipase inhibition activity were highlighted. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Safety Performance of Airborne Separation: Preliminary Baseline Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Consiglio, Maria C.; Hoadley, Sherwood T.; Wing, David J.; Baxley, Brian T.

2007-01-01

The Safety Performance of Airborne Separation (SPAS) study is a suite of Monte Carlo simulation experiments designed to analyze and quantify safety behavior of airborne separation. This paper presents results of preliminary baseline testing. The preliminary baseline scenario is designed to be very challenging, consisting of randomized routes in generic high-density airspace in which all aircraft are constrained to the same flight level. Sustained traffic density is varied from approximately 3 to 15 aircraft per 10,000 square miles, approximating up to about 5 times today s traffic density in a typical sector. Research at high traffic densities and at multiple flight levels are planned within the next two years. Basic safety metrics for aircraft separation are collected and analyzed. During the progression of experiments, various errors, uncertainties, delays, and other variables potentially impacting system safety will be incrementally introduced to analyze the effect on safety of the individual factors as well as their interaction and collective effect. In this paper we report the results of the first experiment that addresses the preliminary baseline condition tested over a range of traffic densities. Early results at five times the typical traffic density in today s NAS indicate that, under the assumptions of this study, airborne separation can be safely performed. In addition, we report on initial observations from an exploration of four additional factors tested at a single traffic density: broadcast surveillance signal interference, extent of intent sharing, pilot delay, and wind prediction error.

Recent Advances in Screening of Anti-Campylobacter Activity in Probiotics for Use in Poultry

PubMed Central

Saint-Cyr, Manuel J.; Guyard-Nicodème, Muriel; Messaoudi, Soumaya; Chemaly, Marianne; Cappelier, Jean-Michel; Dousset, Xavier; Haddad, Nabila

2016-01-01

Campylobacteriosis is the most common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. Campylobacter species involved in this infection usually include the thermotolerant species Campylobacter jejuni. The major reservoir for C. jejuni leading to human infections is commercial broiler chickens. Poultry flocks are frequently colonized by C. jejuni without any apparent symptoms. Risk assessment analyses have identified the handling and consumption of poultry meat as one of the most important sources of human campylobacteriosis, so elimination of Campylobacter in the poultry reservoir is a crucial step in the control of this foodborne infection. To date, the use of probiotics has demonstrated promising results to reduce Campylobacter colonization. This review provides recent insights into methods used for probiotic screening to reduce the prevalence and colonization of Campylobacter at the farm level. Different eukaryotic epithelial cell lines are employed to screen probiotics with an anti-Campylobacter activity and yield useful information about the inhibition mechanism involved. These in vitro virulence models involve only human intestinal or cervical cell lines whereas the use of avian cell lines could be a preliminary step to investigate mechanisms of C. jejuni colonization in poultry in the presence of probiotics. In addition, in vivo trials to evaluate the effect of probiotics on Campylobacter colonization are conducted, taking into account the complexity introduced by the host, the feed, and the microbiota. However, the heterogeneity of the protocols used and the short time duration of the experiments lead to results that are difficult to compare and draw conclusions at the slaughter-age of broilers. Nevertheless, the combined approach using complementary in vitro and in vivo tools (cell cultures and animal experiments) leads to a better characterization of probiotic strains and could be employed to assess reduced Campylobacter spp. colonization in chickens if some parameters are optimized. PMID:27303366

Examining porous bio-active glass as a potential osteo-odonto-keratoprosthetic skirt material.

PubMed

Huhtinen, Reeta; Sandeman, Susan; Rose, Susanna; Fok, Elsie; Howell, Carol; Fröberg, Linda; Moritz, Niko; Hupa, Leena; Lloyd, Andrew

2013-05-01

Bio-active glass has been developed for use as a bone substitute with strong osteo-inductive capacity and the ability to form strong bonds with soft and hard tissue. The ability of this material to enhance tissue in-growth suggests its potential use as a substitute for the dental laminate of an osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis. A preliminary in vitro investigation of porous bio-active glass as an OOKP skirt material was carried out. Porous glass structures were manufactured from bio-active glasses 1-98 and 28-04 containing varying oxide formulation (1-98, 28-04) and particle size range (250-315 μm for 1-98 and 28-04a, 315-500 μm for 28-04b). Dissolution of the porous glass structure and its effect on pH was measured. Structural 2D and 3D analysis of porous structures were performed. Cell culture experiments were carried out to study keratocyte adhesion and the inflammatory response induced by the porous glass materials. The dissolution results suggested that the porous structure made out of 1-98 dissolves faster than the structures made from glass 28-04. pH experiments showed that the dissolution of the porous glass increased the pH of the surrounding solution. The cell culture results showed that keratocytes adhered onto the surface of each of the porous glass structures, but cell adhesion and spreading was greatest for the 98a bio-glass. Cytokine production by all porous glass samples was similar to that of the negative control indicating that the glasses do not induce a cytokine driven inflammatory response. Cell culture results support the potential use of synthetic porous bio-glass as an OOKP skirt material in terms of limited inflammatory potential and capacity to induce and support tissue ingrowth.

Monitoring the Microgravity Environment Quality On-board the International Space Station Using Soft Computing Techniques. Part 2; Preliminary System Performance Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jules, Kenol; Lin, Paul P.; Weiss, Daniel S.

2002-01-01

This paper presents the preliminary performance results of the artificial intelligence monitoring system in full operational mode using near real time acceleration data downlinked from the International Space Station. Preliminary microgravity environment characterization analysis result for the International Space Station (Increment-2), using the monitoring system is presented. Also, comparison between the system predicted performance based on ground test data for the US laboratory "Destiny" module and actual on-orbit performance, using measured acceleration data from the U.S. laboratory module of the International Space Station is presented. Finally, preliminary on-orbit disturbance magnitude levels are presented for the Experiment of Physics of Colloids in Space, which are compared with on ground test data. The ground test data for the Experiment of Physics of Colloids in Space were acquired from the Microgravity Emission Laboratory, located at the NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio. The artificial intelligence was developed by the NASA Glenn Principal Investigator Microgravity Services Project to help the principal investigator teams identify the primary vibratory disturbance sources that are active, at any moment of time, on-board the International Space Station, which might impact the microgravity environment their experiments are exposed to. From the Principal Investigator Microgravity Services' web site, the principal investigator teams can monitor via a dynamic graphical display, implemented in Java, in near real time, which event(s) is/are on, such as crew activities, pumps, fans, centrifuges, compressor, crew exercise, structural modes, etc., and decide whether or not to run their experiments, whenever that is an option, based on the acceleration magnitude and frequency sensitivity associated with that experiment. This monitoring system detects primarily the vibratory disturbance sources. The system has built-in capability to detect both known and unknown vibratory disturbance sources. Several soft computing techniques such as Kohonen's Self-Organizing Feature Map, Learning Vector Quantization, Back-Propagation Neural Networks, and Fuzzy Logic were used to design the system.

[CONDITIONS OF SYNOVIAL MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DIFFERENTIATING INTO FIBROCARTILAGE CELLS].

PubMed

Fu, Peiliang; Cong, Ruijun; Chen, Song; Zhang, Lei; Ding, Zheru; Zhou, Qi; Li, Lintao; Xu, Zhenyu; Wu, Yuli; Wu, Haishan

2015-01-01

To explore the conditions of synovial derived mesenchymal stem cells (SMSCs) differentiating into the fibrocartilage cells by using the orthogonal experiment. The synovium was harvested from 5 adult New Zealand white rabbits, and SMSCs were separated by adherence method. The flow cytometry and multi-directional differentiation method were used to identify the SMSCs. The conditions were found from the preliminary experiment and literature review. The missing test was carried out to screen the conditions and then 12 conditions were used for the orthogonal experiment, including transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP-2), dexamethasone (DEX), proline, ascorbic acid (ASA), pyruvic acid, insulin + transferrin + selenious acid pre-mixed solution (ITS), bovin serum albumin (BSA), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), intermittent hydraulic pressure (IHP), bone morphogenic protein 7 (BMP-7), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF). The L60 (212) orthogonal experiment was designed using the SPSS 18.0 with 2 level conditions and the cells were induced to differentiate on the small intestinal submucosa (SIS)-3D scaffold. The CD151+/CD44+ cells were detected with the flow cytometry and then the differentiation rate was recorded. The immumohistochemical staining, cellular morphology, toluidine blue staining, and semi-quantitative RT-PCR examination for the gene expressions of sex determining region Y (SRY)-box 9 gene (Sox9), aggrecan gene (AGN), collagen type I gene (Col I), collagen type II gene (Col II), collagen type IX gene (Col IX) were used for result confirmation. The differentiation rate was calculated as the product of CD151/CD44+ cells and cells with Col I high expression. The grow curve was detected with the DNA abundance using the PicoGreen Assay. The visual observation and the variances analysis among the variable were used to evaluate the result of the orthogonal experiment, 1 level interaction was considered. The q-test and the least significant difference (LDS) were used for the variance analysis with a type III calibration model. The test criteria (a) was 0.05. The cells were certified as SMSCs, the double-time of the cells was 28 hours. During the differentiation into the fibrocartilage, the volume of the SIS-3D scaffold enlarged double every 5 days. The scaffolds were positively stained by toluidine blue at 14 days. The visual observation showed that high levels of TGF-β1 and BMP-7 were optimum for the differentiation, and BMP-7 showed the interaction with BMP-2. The conditions of DEX, ASA, ITS, transferrin, bFGF showed decreasing promotional function by degrees, and the model showed the perfect relevance. P value was 0.000 according to the variance analysis. The intercept analysis showed different independent variables brought about variant contribution; the TGF-β1, ASA, bFGF, IGF, and BMP-7 were more remarkable, which were similar to the visual observation. In the process of the SMSCs differentiation into the fibrocartilage, the concentrations of TGF-β1, ASA, bFGF, and IGF reasonably can improve the conversion rate of the fibrocartilage cells. The accurate conditions of the reaulatory factor should be explored further.

A Centralized Display for Mission Monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trujillo, Anna C.

2004-01-01

Humans traditionally experience a vigilance decrement over extended periods of time on reliable systems. One possible solution to aiding operators in monitoring is to use polar-star displays that will show deviations from normal in a more salient manner. The primary objectives of this experiment were to determine if polar-star displays aid in monitoring and preliminary diagnosis of the aircraft state. This experiment indicated that the polar-star display does indeed aid operators in detecting and diagnosing system events. Subjects were able to notice system events earlier and they subjectively reported the polar-star display helped them in monitoring, noticing an event, and diagnosing an event. Therefore, these results indicate that the polar-star display used for monitoring and preliminary diagnosis improves performance in these areas for system related events.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SINGLE-CELL FIELD DIAGNOSTIC FOR NITROGEN LIMITATION IN HARMFUL ALGAE

EPA Science Inventory

This project proposes the development of an assay to identify cell-specific acetylglucosaminidase activity using the substrate ELF-NAG (ELF 97 N'-acetylglucosaminide). Preliminary data indicates this enzyme is nitrogen-regulated in Alexandrium and that this ass...

Sodium sulfur battery flight experiment definition study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Rebecca R.; Minck, Robert

1989-01-01

Sodium-sulfur batteries were identified as the most likely successor to nickel-hydrogen batteries for space applications. One advantage of the Na/S battery system is that the usable specific energy is two to three times that of nickel-hydrogen batteries. This represents a significant launch cost savings or increased payload mass capabilities. Sodium-sulfur batteries support NASA OAST's proposed Civil Space Technology Initiative goal of a factor of two improvement in spacecraft power system performance, as well as the proposed Spacecraft 2000 initiative. The sodium-sulfur battery operates at between 300 and 400 C, using liquid sodium and sulfur/polysulfide electrodes and solid ceramic electrolyte. The transport of the electrode materials to the surface of the electrolyte is through wicking/capillary forces. These critical transport functions must be demonstrated under actual microgravity conditions before sodium-sulfur batteries can be confidently utilized in space. Ford Aerospace Corporation, under contract to NASA Lewis Research Center, is currently working on the sodium-sulfur battery space flight experiment definition study. The objective is to design the experiment that will demonstrate operation of the sodium-sulfur battery/cell in the space environment with particular emphasis on evaluation of microgravity effects. Experimental payload definitions were completed and preliminary designs of the experiment were defined.

Cell Phone Ring Suppression and HUD Caller ID: Effectiveness in Reducing Momentary Driver Distraction under Varying Workload Levels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nowakowski, C.; Friedman, D.; Green, P.

2001-10-01

The purpose of the current experiment is to provide a preliminary driving simulator assessment of several hands-free design solutions with regard to the task of answering the phone while driving. Specifically, the following questions were examined: (1) Does the location of a caller ID display and the phone buttons (two HUD (Head Up Display) locations vs. phone cradle) affect either the time to answer the phone or driving performance; (2) Does the presence or absence of a ring affect either the time to answer the phone or driving performance; (3) Does increased driving workload (visual demand) affect either the time to answer the phone or driving performance; (4) What were the initial driver reactions to a HUD-based call timer.

Preliminary evaluation of the role of K2S in MHD hot stream seed recovery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, J. E.; Kohl, F. J.

1979-01-01

Results are presented for recent analytical and experimental studies of the role of K2S in MHD hot stream seed recovery. The existing thermodynamic data base was found to contain large uncertainties and to be nonexistent for vapor phase K2S. Knudsen cell mass spectrometric experiments were undertaken to determine the vapor species in equilibrium with K2S(c). K atoms and S2 molecules ere found to be the major vapor phase species in vacuum, accounting for greater than 99 percent of the vapor phase. Combustion gas deposition studies using No. 2 Diesel fuel were also undertaken and revealed that condensed phase K2SO3 may potentially be an important compound in the MHD stream at near-stoichiometric combustion.

Measurement of secondary particle production induced by particle therapy ion beams impinging on a PMMA target

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toppi, M.; Battistoni, G.; Bellini, F.; Collamati, F.; De Lucia, E.; Durante, M.; Faccini, R.; Frallicciardi, P. M.; Marafini, M.; Mattei, I.; Morganti, S.; Muraro, S.; Paramatti, R.; Patera, V.; Pinci, D.; Piersanti, L.; Rucinski, A.; Russomando, A.; Sarti, A.; Sciubba, A.; Senzacqua, M.; Solfaroli Camillocci, E.; Traini, G.; Voena, C.

2016-05-01

Particle therapy is a technique that uses accelerated charged ions for cancer treatment and combines a high irradiation precision with a high biological effectiveness in killing tumor cells [1]. Informations about the secondary particles emitted in the interaction of an ion beam with the patient during a treatment can be of great interest in order to monitor the dose deposition. For this purpose an experiment at the HIT (Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center) beam facility has been performed in order to measure fluxes and emission profiles of secondary particles produced in the interaction of therapeutic beams with a PMMA target. In this contribution some preliminary results about the emission profiles and the energy spectra of the detected secondaries will be presented.

Overexpression, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

PubMed

Zhang, Liang; Chen, Ruyi; Dong, Zhe; Li, Xin

2013-01-01

Organophosphates (OPs) are extremely toxic compounds that are used as insecticides or even as chemical warfare agents. Phosphotriesterases (PHPs) are responsible for the detoxification of OPs by catalysing their degradation. Almost 100 PHP structures have been solved to date, yet the crystal structure of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (mPHP) remains unavailable. This study reports the first crystallization of mPHP. The crystal belonged to space group C222(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 68.03, b = 149.60, c = 74.23 Å, α = β = γ = 90°. An analytical ultracentrifugation experiment suggested that mPHP exists as a dimer in solution, even though one molecule is calculated to be present in the asymmetric unit according to the structural data.

Overexpression, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis

PubMed Central

Zhang, Liang; Chen, Ruyi; Dong, Zhe; Li, Xin

2013-01-01

Organophosphates (OPs) are extremely toxic compounds that are used as insecticides or even as chemical warfare agents. Phosphotriesterases (PHPs) are responsible for the detoxification of OPs by catalysing their degradation. Almost 100 PHP structures have been solved to date, yet the crystal structure of the phosphotriesterase from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (mPHP) remains unavailable. This study reports the first crystallization of mPHP. The crystal belonged to space group C2221, with unit-cell parameters a = 68.03, b = 149.60, c = 74.23 Å, α = β = γ = 90°. An analytical ultracentrifugation experiment suggested that mPHP exists as a dimer in solution, even though one molecule is calculated to be present in the asymmetric unit according to the structural data. PMID:23295488

Preliminary experiments to estimate the PE.MA.M (PElagic MArine Mesocosm) offshore behaviour

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albani, Marta; Piermattei, Viviana; Stefanì, Chiara; Marcelli, Marco

2016-04-01

The phytoplankton community is controlled not only by local environmental conditions but also by physical processes occurring on different temporal and spatial scales. Hydrodynamic local conditions play an important role in marine ecosystems. Several studies have shown that hydrodynamic conditions can influence the phytoplankton settling velocity, vertical and horizontal distribution and formation of cyanobacterial blooms. Mesocosms are useful structures to simulate marine environment at mesoscale resolution; allowing to closely approximate biotic or abiotic parameters of interest directly in nature. In this work an innovative structure named PE.MA.M (PElagic MArine Mesocosm) is presented and tested. Laboratory experiments have been conducted in order to observe seasonal variations of biomass behaviour in two different hydrodynamic conditions: outside as well as whithin the PE.MA.M. We have evaluated whether it is possible to isolate a natural system from external water mass hydrodynamic exchanges and to assume that phytoplankton cells' transition is limited at the net and sea interface. Preliminary experiments test the isolating capacity of the net, to determine the currents' attenuation rate and to estimate the possible PE.MA.M. offshore behaviour. In the first investigation, we monitored the diffusion of phytoplankton cells. The PE.MA.M. exterior and interior were simulated using a plexiglass tank divided into two half-tanks (Aout-Bin) by a septum consisting of a net like a PE.MA.M. The tank was filled up with 10 L of water and only the half-tank Aout was filled up with 10 ml of phytoplankton culture (Clorella sp.). We monitored the chlorophyll concentrations for 24 hours. The two tanks had similar concentrations after 4 hours (2.70322 mg/m³ Aout and 2.37245 mg/m3 Bin) and this constant relationship was maintened until the end of the test. In the second investigation we used clod cards to measure water motions.We conducted two experiments within tank, the first was conducted by inserting the net PE.MA.M. between the water flow and the clod cards; the second was performed without the net. We calculated the dry weight of the clod cards in two steps: before placing them in water (Wi) and after 6 hours under the flow (Wf). We used the formula (Doty, 1971 Thompson & Gleen, 1994), to calculate the flow attenuation capacity of the PE.MA.M net. The experiments showed that the PE.MA.M. is in equilibrium with the external environment after 4 hours; it isolates constant concentration of chlorophyll a and attenuates the flow of currents of about 30% .The PE.MA.M. is a potential tool in the phytoplankton community, in the absence of natural hydrodynamics,that can provide useful informations for the understanding of physical phenomena and how their changes affect biological processes.

Critical point wetting drop tower experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kaukler, W. F.; Tcherneshoff, L. M.; Straits, S. R.

1984-01-01

Preliminary results for the Critical Point Wetting CPW Drop Tower Experiment are produced with immiscible systems. Much of the observed phenomena conformed to the anticipated behavior. More drops will be needed to test the CPW theory with these immiscible systems.

Experimental design for research on shock-turbulence interaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Radcliffe, S. W.

1969-01-01

Report investigates the production of acoustic waves in the interaction of a supersonic shock and a turbulence environment. The five stages of the investigation are apparatus design, development of instrumentation, preliminary experiment, turbulence generator selection, and main experiments.

A numerical simulation of finite-length Taylor-Couette flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Streett, C. L.; Hussaini, M. Y.

1988-01-01

Results from numerical simulations of finite-length Taylor-Couette flow are presented. Included are time-accurate and steady-state studies of the change in the nature of the symmetric two-cell/asymmetric one-cell bifurcation with varying aspect ratio and of the Reynolds number/aspect ratio locus of the two-cell/four-cell bifurcation. Preliminary results from wavy-vortex simulations at low aspect ratios are also presented.

Comparison of pre-processing techniques for fluorescence microscopy images of cells labeled for actin.

PubMed

Muralidhar, Gautam S; Channappayya, Sumohana S; Slater, John H; Blinka, Ellen M; Bovik, Alan C; Frey, Wolfgang; Markey, Mia K

2008-11-06

Automated analysis of fluorescence microscopy images of endothelial cells labeled for actin is important for quantifying changes in the actin cytoskeleton. The current manual approach is laborious and inefficient. The goal of our work is to develop automated image analysis methods, thereby increasing cell analysis throughput. In this study, we present preliminary results on comparing different algorithms for cell segmentation and image denoising.

Panasonic Small Cell Testing for AHPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, C.; Blackmore, P.; Lain, M.; Walpole, A.; Darcy, Eric

2006-01-01

AEA selection and successful Interim Design Review for AHPS proves maturity of small cell approach for very large batteries. Cells show excellent opportunity for battery mass reduction for AHPS and other low cycle applications. Lack of cycle and extended calendar life make EOL battery performance difficult (AHPS 8 year mission). Preliminary design, AEA retained SONY 18650HC cell as baseline: a) Well characterized performance; b) Wealth of safety test data.

Rapid, efficient charging of lead-acid and nickel-zinc traction cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smithrick, J. J.

1978-01-01

Lead-acid and nickel-zinc traction cells were rapidly and efficiently charged using a high rate tapered direct current (HRTDC) charge method which could possibly be used for on-the-road service recharge of electric vehicles. The HRTDC method takes advantage of initial high cell charge acceptance and uses cell gassing rate and temperature as an indicator of charging efficiency. On the average, in these preliminary tests, 300 amp-hour nickel-zinc traction cells were given a HRTDC (initial current 500 amps, final current 100 amps) to 78 percent of rated amp-hour capacity within 53 minutes at an amp-hour efficiency of 92 percent and an energy efficiency of 52 percent. Three hundred amp-hour lead-acid traction cells were charged to 69 percent of rated amp-hour capacity within 46 minutes at an amp-hour efficiency of 91 percent with an energy efficiency of 64 percent. In order to find ways to further decrease the recharge times, the effect of periodically (0 to 400 Hz) pulse discharging cells during a constant current charging process (94% duty cycle) was investigated. Preliminary data indicate no significant effect of this type of pulse discharging during charge on charge acceptance of lead-acid or nickel-zinc cells.

MISSE-7 MESA Miniaturized Electrostatic Analyzer - Ion Spectra Analysis Preliminary Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Enloe, C. L.; Balthazor, R. L.; McHarg, M. G.; Clark, A. L.; Waite, D.; Wallerstein, A. J.; Wilson, K. A.

2011-12-01

The 7th Materials on the International Space Station Experiment (MISSE-7) was launched in November 2009 and retrieved on STS-134 in April 2011. One of the onboard experiments, the Miniaturized Electrostatic Analyzer (MESA), is a small low-cost low-size/weight/power ion and electron spectrometer that was pointed into ram during the majority of the time onboard. Over 800 Mb of data has been obtained by taking spectra every three minutes on-orbit. The data has been analyzed with a novel "parameterizing the parameters" method suitable for on-orbit data analysis using low-cost microcontrollers. Preliminary results are shown.

Onyx, a New Liquid Embolic Material for Peripheral Interventions: Preliminary Experience in Aneurysm, Pseudoaneurysm, and Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation Embolization

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

Vanninen, Ritva L., E-mail: ritva.vanninen@kuh.fi; Manninen, I.

Purpose. To describe our preliminary experience with a new liquid embolization agent, Onyx, in peripheral interventions. Methods and results. We successfully treated two peripheral aneurysms (one in an internal iliac artery, one in a thoracic collateral artery of an aortic coarctation), two peripheral pseudoaneurysms (one in a lumbar artery, one in a renal artery), and one pulmonary arteriovenous malformation. Conclusion. Onyx is a promising alternative embolic material for peripheral interventions. It can be combined with coils in selected cases, and balloon catheters can be effectively used during slow injection of embolic material to control flow and protect the aneurysm neck.

A new oral contraceptive regimen for endometriosis management: preliminary experience with 24/4-day drospirenone/ethinylestradiol 3 mg/20 mcg.

PubMed

Mabrouk, Mohamed; Solfrini, Serena; Frascà, Clarissa; Del Forno, Simona; Montanari, Giulia; Ferrini, Giulia; Paradisi, Roberto; Seracchioli, Renato

2012-06-01

We report our preliminary experience with the use of a low-dose oral contraceptive containing Drospirenone/Ethinylestradiol 3 mg/20 mcg, both in cyclic and continuous regimen for endometriosis management. A total of 93 women were retrospectively included: 52 were treated by medical therapy (exclusive combined oral contraceptives (COC)-users), while 41 were submitted to surgery followed by postoperative therapy (postoperative COC-users). A clinical examination was performed at baseline and at 6-months follow-up. Presence and intensity of endometriosis-related symptoms were assessed by a visual analogue scale. Presence and dimension of endometriotic lesions were evaluated by transvaginal ultrasonography. Adverse effects and tolerability were analysed. In exclusive COC-users, significant reductions in dysmenorrhoea and dyspareunia scores and in endometrioma mean diameter were observed at follow-up. In postoperative COC-users, anatomical and symptom recurrence rates at follow-up were 4.9% and 17%, respectively. The most frequent adverse effects were spotting and headache. No difference between cyclic and continuous regimen in terms of symptom relief, lesion progression and tolerability was observed. From our preliminary experience, Drospirenone/Ethinylestradiol 3 mg/20 mcg seems to be promising in endometriosis management.

Fabrication and characterization of UV-emitting nanoparticles as novel radiation sensitizers targeting hypoxic tumor cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Squillante, Michael R.; Jüstel, Thomas; Anderson, R. Rox; Brecher, Charles; Chartier, Daniel; Christian, James F.; Cicchetti, Nicholas; Espinoza, Sara; McAdams, Daniel R.; Müller, Matthias; Tornifoglio, Brooke; Wang, Yimin; Purschke, Martin

2018-06-01

Radiation therapy is one of the primary therapeutic techniques for treating cancer, administered to nearly two-thirds of all cancer patients. Although largely effective in killing cancer cells, radiation therapy, like other forms of cancer treatment, has difficulty dealing with hypoxic regions within solid tumors. The incomplete killing of cancer cells can lead to recurrence and relapse. The research presented here is investigating the enhancement of the efficacy of radiation therapy by using scintillating nanoparticles that emit UV photons. UV photons, with wavelengths between 230 nm and 280 nm, are able to inactivate cells due to their direct interaction with DNA, causing a variety of forms of damage. UV-emitting nanoparticles will enhance the treatment in two ways: first by generating UV photons in the immediate vicinity of cancer cells, leading to direct and oxygen-independent DNA damage, and second by down-converting the applied higher energy X-rays into softer X-rays and particles that are more efficiently absorbed in the targeted tumor region. The end result will be nanoparticles with a higher efficacy in the treatment of hypoxic cells in the tumor, filling an important, unmet clinical need. Our preliminary experiments show an increase in cell death using scintillating LuPO4:Pr nanoparticles over that achieved by the primary radiation alone. This work describes the fabrication of the nanoparticles, their physical characterization, and the spectroscopic characterization of the UV emission. The work also presents in vitro results that demonstrate an enhanced efficacy of cell killing with x-rays and a low unspecific toxicity of the nanoparticles.

Effect of reconstructive vascular surgery on red cell deformability--preliminary results.

PubMed Central

Irwin, S T; Rocks, M J; McGuigan, J A; Patterson, C C; Morris, T C; O'Reilly, M J

1983-01-01

Using a simple filtration method, red cell deformability was measured in healthy control subjects and in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Impaired red cell deformability was demonstrated in patients with rest pain or gangrene and in patients with intermittent claudication. An improvement in red cell deformability was demonstrated after successful reconstructive vascular surgery in both patient groups. An improvement in red cell deformability was demonstrated in patients undergoing major limb amputation. PMID:6619311

Chemical synthesis, characterisation, and biocompatibility of nanometre scale porous anodic aluminium oxide membranes for use as a cell culture substrate for the vero cell line: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Poinern, Gérrard Eddy Jai; Le, Xuan Thi; O'Dea, Mark; Becker, Thomas; Fawcett, Derek

2014-01-01

In this preliminary study we investigate for the first time the biomedical potential of using porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes as a cell substrate for culturing the Cercopithecus aethiops (African green monkey) Kidney (Vero) epithelial cell line. One advantage of using the inorganic AAO membrane is the presence of nanometre scale pore channels that allow the exchange of molecules and nutrients across the membrane. The size of the pore channels can be preselected by adjusting the controlling parameters of a temperature controlled two-step anodization process. The cellular interaction and response of the Vero cell line with an in-house synthesised AAO membrane, a commercially available membrane, and a glass control were assessed by investigating cell adhesion, morphology, and proliferation over a 72 h period. The number of viable cells proliferating over the respective membrane surfaces revealed that the locally produced in-house AAO membrane had cells numbers similar to the glass control. The study revealed evidence of focal adhesion sites over the surface of the nanoporous membranes and the penetration of cellular extensions into the pore structure as well. The outcome of the study has revealed that nanometre scale porous AAO membranes have the potential to become practical cell culture scaffold substrates with the capability to enhance adhesion and proliferation of Vero cells.

Chemical Synthesis, Characterisation, and Biocompatibility of Nanometre Scale Porous Anodic Aluminium Oxide Membranes for Use as a Cell Culture Substrate for the Vero Cell Line: A Preliminary Study

PubMed Central

Poinern, Gérrard Eddy Jai; Le, Xuan Thi; Becker, Thomas; Fawcett, Derek

2014-01-01

In this preliminary study we investigate for the first time the biomedical potential of using porous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes as a cell substrate for culturing the Cercopithecus aethiops (African green monkey) Kidney (Vero) epithelial cell line. One advantage of using the inorganic AAO membrane is the presence of nanometre scale pore channels that allow the exchange of molecules and nutrients across the membrane. The size of the pore channels can be preselected by adjusting the controlling parameters of a temperature controlled two-step anodization process. The cellular interaction and response of the Vero cell line with an in-house synthesised AAO membrane, a commercially available membrane, and a glass control were assessed by investigating cell adhesion, morphology, and proliferation over a 72 h period. The number of viable cells proliferating over the respective membrane surfaces revealed that the locally produced in-house AAO membrane had cells numbers similar to the glass control. The study revealed evidence of focal adhesion sites over the surface of the nanoporous membranes and the penetration of cellular extensions into the pore structure as well. The outcome of the study has revealed that nanometre scale porous AAO membranes have the potential to become practical cell culture scaffold substrates with the capability to enhance adhesion and proliferation of Vero cells. PMID:24579077

Chemical camouflage of antigenic determinants: stealth erythrocytes.

PubMed

Scott, M D; Murad, K L; Koumpouras, F; Talbot, M; Eaton, J W

1997-07-08

In a number of clinical circumstances it would be desirable to artificially conceal cellular antigenic determinants to permit survival of heterologous donor cells. A case in point is the problem encountered in transfusions of patients with rare blood types or chronically transfused patients who become allosensitized to minor blood group determinants. We have tested the possibility that chemical modification of the red blood cell (RBC) membrane might serve to occlude antigenic determinants, thereby minimizing transfusion reactions. To this end, we have covalently bound methoxy(polyethylene glycol) (mPEG) to the surface of mammalian RBC via cyanuric chloride coupling. Human RBC treated with this technique lose ABO blood group reactivity as assessed by solution-phase antisera agglutination. In accord with this, we also find a profound decrease in anti-blood group antibody binding. Furthermore, whereas human monocytes avidly phagocytose untreated sheep RBC, mPEG-derivatized sheep RBC are ineffectively phagocytosed. Surprisingly, human and mouse RBC appear unaffected by this covalent modification of the cell membrane. Thus, mPEG-treated RBC are morphologically normal, have normal osmotic fragility, and mPEG-derivatized murine RBC have normal in vivo survival, even following repeated infusions. Finally, in preliminary experiments, mPEG-modified sheep RBC intraperitoneally transfused into mice show significantly improved (up to 360-fold) survival when compared with untreated sheep RBC. We speculate that similar chemical camouflage of intact cells may have significant clinical applications in both transfusion (e.g., allosensitization and autoimmune hemolytic disease) and transplantation (e.g., endothelial cells and pancreatic beta cells) medicine.

Probing the tumor microenvironment: collection and induction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, James K.; Padgen, Michael R.; Wang, Yarong; Entenberg, David; Gertler, Frank; Condeelis, John S.; Castracane, James

2012-03-01

The Nano Intravital Device, or NANIVID, is under development as an optically transparent, implantable tool to study the tumor microenvironment. Two etched glass substrates are sealed using a thin polymer membrane to create a reservoir with a single outlet. This reservoir is loaded with a hydrogel blend that contains growth factors or other chemicals to be delivered to the tumor microenvironment. When the device is implanted in the tumor, the hydrogel will swell and release these entrapped molecules, forming a gradient. Validation of the device has been performed in vitro using epidermal growth factor (EGF) and MenaINV, a highly invasive, rat mammary adenocarcinoma cell line. In both 2-D and 3-D environments, cells migrated toward the gradient of EGF released from the device. The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of White Leghorn chicken eggs is being utilized to grow xenograft tumors that will be used for ex vivo cell collection. Device optimization is being performed for in vivo use as a tool to collect the invasive cell population. Preliminary cell collection experiments in vivo were performed using a mouse model of breast cancer. As a second application, the device is being explored as a delivery vehicle for chemicals that induce controlled changes in the tumor microenvironment. H2O2 was loaded in the device and generated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells near the device outlet. In the future, other induction targets will be explored, including hypoglycemia and the manipulation of extracellular matrix stiffness.

Bullying Experiences among Children and Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cappadocia, M. Catherine; Weiss, Jonathan A.; Pepler, Debra

2012-01-01

Few studies have investigated bullying experiences among children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, preliminary research suggests that children with ASD are at greater risk for being bullied than typically developing peers. The aim of the current study was to build an understanding of bullying experiences among children with…

The Impact of Study Abroad Experiences on Vocational Identity among College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kronholz, Julia F.; Osborn, Debra S.

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine preliminary findings regarding the effect of a study abroad experience on vocational identity and career decision-making as defined by Cognitive Information Processing (CIP) theory (Sampson et al., 2004). The results revealed that a study abroad experience significantly impacts college students'…

Toluene Dose-Response and Preliminary Study of Proteomics for Neuronal Cell Lines

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-01

related to oxidative stress such as energy reserve metabolism, cell -death signaling, reactive oxygen species (ROS) defense, cytoskeletal rearrangement...protein nodes related to oxidative stress as characterized by gene ontologies for energy reserve metabolism, cell -death signaling, reactive oxygen ...process Myosin I complex myofibril assembly Cytoskeletal matrix assembly DNA methyltransferase Activity Cellular ketone Metabolic process Mesenchymal stem

Role of polyamines in DNA synthesis of Catharanthus roseus cells grown in suspension culture

Treesearch

Rakesh Minocha; Subhash C. Minocha; Atsushi Komamine; Walter C. Shortle

1990-01-01

The requirement for polyamines in the proliferation of cells was first demonstrated in bacteria (3). While significant progress has been made in this field using animal cell cultures, only preliminary studies have been reported with plant tissues. Serafini-Fracassini et al. (9) showed a marked increase in polyamine synthesis early during the G 1 phase, concomitant with...

Accelerated stress testing of thin film solar cells: Development of test methods and preliminary results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lathrop, J. W.

1985-01-01

If thin film cells are to be considered a viable option for terrestrial power generation their reliability attributes will need to be explored and confidence in their stability obtained through accelerated testing. Development of a thin film accelerated test program will be more difficult than was the case for crystalline cells because of the monolithic construction nature of the cells. Specially constructed test samples will need to be fabricated, requiring committment to the concept of accelerated testing by the manufacturers. A new test schedule appropriate to thin film cells will need to be developed which will be different from that used in connection with crystalline cells. Preliminary work has been started to seek thin film schedule variations to two of the simplest tests: unbiased temperature and unbiased temperature humidity. Still to be examined are tests which involve the passage of current during temperature and/or humidity stress, either by biasing in the forward (or reverse) directions or by the application of light during stress. Investigation of these current (voltage) accelerated tests will involve development of methods of reliably contacting the thin conductive films during stress.

Preliminary test results for Li-SOCl2 high-rate D cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bragg, Bobby J.; Johnson, Paul

1992-01-01

The performance and abuse characteristics of 55 D-size lithium-thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) cells are evaluated at relatively high rates. Results from the following tests are presented: shock test, vibration test, capacity performance, uninsulated short circuit, high temperature exposure, and overdischarge.

Batteries and Fuel Cells -- Alternative Traction Power for Locomotives and Self-Powered Railcars

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1983-03-01

A preliminary study on the application of batteries and fuel cells as alternative motive power to diesel engines has been conducted. Three motive power consists are analyzed using the Boston to New York portion of the Northeast Corridor as a typical ...

Preliminary test results for Li-SOCl2 high-rate D cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bragg, Bobby J.; Johnson, Paul

1992-02-01

The performance and abuse characteristics of 55 D-size lithium-thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl2) cells are evaluated at relatively high rates. Results from the following tests are presented: shock test, vibration test, capacity performance, uninsulated short circuit, high temperature exposure, and overdischarge.

Experience from a multicentre stroke register: a preliminary report

PubMed Central

Hatano, S.

1976-01-01

In collaboration with 15 centres in 10 countries of Africa, Asia, and Europe, WHO started a pilot study of a community-based stroke register, with standardized methods. Preliminary data were obtained on 6395 new cases of stroke in defined study communities, from May 1971 to September 1974. Information on incidence rates, clinical profiles, diagnosis, management, and course and prognosis for these patients is given. PMID:1088404

Pathways to the Future: A Longitudinal Study of Young Americans. Preliminary Report: Youth and the Labor Market--1979.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Borus, Michael E.; And Others

This monograph presents preliminary cross-tabulation analyses of the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth Labor Market Experience of 12,693 youth of ages 14-21 who will be interviewed annually for at least five years. (Hispanic; non-Hispanic black; and non-Hispanic, non-black, poor youth were oversampled.) Each of the twenty-four topics…

A Preliminary Investigation of the Effects of Giving Testimony and Learning Yogic Breathing Techniques on Battered Women's Feelings of Depression

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Franzblau, Susan H.; Echevarria, Sonia; Smith, Michelle; Van Cantfort, Thomas E.

2008-01-01

Researchers have shown that mood and sense of control over one's life are significantly affected by testimony and other forms of disclosure and that learning to control breathing has positive effects on mood and anxiety. This preliminary experiment tests whether African American and European American abused women who give testimony about their…

Chemical Analysis of the Moon at the Surveyor VI Landing Site: Preliminary Results.

PubMed

Turkevich, A L; Patterson, J H; Franzgrote, E J

1968-06-07

The alpha-scattering experiment aboard soft-landing Surveyor VI has provided a chemical analysis of the surface of the moon in Sinus Medii. The preliminary results indicate that, within experimental errors, the composition is the same as that found by Surveyor V in Mare Tranquillitatis. This finding suggests that large portions of the lunar maria resemble basalt in composition.

Visual Knowledge in Tactical Planning: Preliminary Knowledge Acquisition Phase 1 Technical Report

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-04-05

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION , COMMUNICATIONS, AND COMPUTER SCIENCES Visual Knowledge in Tactical Planning: Preliminary Knowledge Acquisition Phase I Technical...perceived provides information in multiple modalities and, in fact, we may rely on a non-verbal mode for much of our understanding of the situation...some tasks, almost all the pertinent information is provided via diagrams, maps, znd other illustrations. Visual Knowledge Visual experience forms a

SARDA HITL Preliminary Human Factors Measures and Analyses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hyashi, Miwa; Dulchinos, Victoria

2012-01-01

Human factors data collected during the SARDA HITL Simulation Experiment include a variety of subjective measures, including the NASA TLX, questionnaire questions regarding situational awareness, advisory usefulness, UI usability, and controller trust. Preliminary analysis of the TLX data indicate that workload may not be adversely affected by use of the advisories, additionally, the controller's subjective ratings of the advisories may suggest acceptance of the tool.

Preliminary data for the 20 May 1974, simultaneous evaluation of remote sensors experiment. [water pollution monitoring

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, R. W.; Batten, C. E.; Bowker, D. E.; Bressette, W. E.; Grew, G. W.

1975-01-01

Several remote sensors were simultaneously used to collect data over the tidal James River from Hopewell to Norfolk, Virginia. Sensors evaluated included the Multichannel-Ocean Color Sensor, multispectral scanners, and multispectral photography. Ground truth measurements and remotely sensed data are given. Preliminary analysis indicates that suspended sediment and concentrated industrial effluent are observable from all sensors.

SU-F-T-677: Synergistic Effect(s) of Clotrimazole On Radiation Cell Survival of A549 Lung Cancer Cells in Glucose Vs. Galactose Media

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

Boss, G; Tambasco, M; Garakani, M

Purpose: In order to determine the synergistic effect of clotrimazole on radiosensitivity of A549 lung cancer cells, and the effect of oxidative pathways on modulating radiosensitivity, we studied how these cells survived under varying amounts of radiation and clotrimazole as well ass when glucose was switched for galactose media. Methods: The glucose media was used to determine the presence of any synergistic effect of clotrimazole on radiation using values of radiation and clotrimazole concentrations, varying from 0 – 8 Gy and 0 – 20 µM, respectively. As a galactose diet is known to activate oxidative pathways, which do not relymore » on hexokinase II (HK2), all trials were repeated using galactose media to determine the extent that HK2 unbinding from the mitochondrial membrane plays a role in modulating the observed radiosensitivity. An apoptosis vs. necrosis assay was implemented to find out the modality by which cell death occurred. An intracellular lactate assay was performed to exhibit the extent of anaerobic glycolysis. Results: After running the primary experiments, it was found that in glucose media, the cancer cells showed higher cell kill when clotrimazole was added to the media, followed by the cells being irradiated. Conclusion: Given the preliminary results it is validated that under higher concentrations of clotrimazole, in glucose media, A549 lung cancer cells exhibit a lower amount of survival. While all results have not yet been gathered. We anticipate that in galactose media the A549 cells will exhibit this effect to a much smaller degree, if at all.« less

Therapeutic Potential of Human Adipose-Derived Stem/Stromal Cell Microspheroids Prepared by Three-Dimensional Culture in Non-Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid Gel.

PubMed

Mineda, Kazuhide; Feng, Jingwei; Ishimine, Hisako; Takada, Hitomi; Doi, Kentaro; Kuno, Shinichiro; Kinoshita, Kahori; Kanayama, Koji; Kato, Harunosuke; Mashiko, Takanobu; Hashimoto, Ichiro; Nakanishi, Hideki; Kurisaki, Akira; Yoshimura, Kotaro

2015-12-01

Three-dimensional culture of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells for spheroid formation is known to enhance their therapeutic potential for regenerative medicine. Spheroids were prepared by culturing human adipose-derived stem/stromal cells (hASCs) in a non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel and compared with dissociated hASCs and hASC spheroids prepared using a nonadherent dish. Preliminary experiments indicated that a 4% HA gel was the most appropriate for forming hASC spheroids with a relatively consistent size (20-50 µm) within 48 hours. Prepared spheroids were positive for pluripotency markers (NANOG, OCT3/4, and SOX-2), and 40% of the cells were SSEA-3-positive, a marker of the multilineage differentiating stress enduring or Muse cell. In contrast with dissociated ASCs, increased secretion of cytokines such as hepatocyte growth factor was detected in ASC spheroids cultured under hypoxia. On microarray ASC spheroids showed upregulation of some pluripotency markers and downregulation of genes related to the mitotic cell cycle. After ischemia-reperfusion injury to the fat pad in SCID mice, local injection of hASC spheroids promoted tissue repair and reduced the final atrophy (1.6%) compared with that of dissociated hASCs (14.3%) or phosphate-buffered saline (20.3%). Part of the administered hASCs differentiated into vascular endothelial cells. ASC spheroids prepared in a HA gel contain undifferentiated cells with therapeutic potential to promote angiogenesis and tissue regeneration after damage. This study shows the therapeutic value of human adipose-derived stem cell spheroids prepared in hyarulonic acid gel. The spheroids have various benefits as an injectable cellular product and show therapeutic potential to the stem cell-depleted conditions such as diabetic chronic skin ulcer. ©AlphaMed Press.

The Impact of Biofilms on the Process of Back Diffusion From a Contaminated Rock Matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yungwirth, G. A.; Novakowski, K. S.; Ross, N.

2005-12-01

Groundwater remediation in fractured rock settings is complicated by the diffusion of contaminants into the rock matrix and the subsequent back diffusion into the fractures. The process of back diffusion, in particular, leads to extended periods of low-level contamination in the fracture network that persists long after the source area is hydraulically or otherwise removed. In such a case, we hypothesize that back diffusion could be limited by growing a biofilm which coats the rock fracture surface and potentially invades the rock micropores. This would effectively sequester the contamination potentially in perpetuity. To explore the viability of this concept, diffusion experiments were conducted in which the effect of biofilm growth on diffusion through thin (0.8 to 1.2 cm) slices of dolostone core obtained from the Lockport Formation, Southern Ontario, was investigated. The experiments were conducted using a double-cell method, in which the core slices were encapsulated inside Teflon coated hydraulic hose, fitted with ultra high molecular weight polyethylene endcaps having stainless steel sample ports. Diffusion was established across the core slice by spiking one reservoir with a conservative tracer and monitoring the tracer arrival in the reservoir located on the other side of the coupon. The experiments were conducted both in the presence and absence of a biofilm. Biofilm was grown on the rock coupons in a separate bath before the coupons were transferred to the apparatus for the diffusion experiments. Microbial populations indigenous to the groundwater used in the bath were stimulated to form the biofilm with the addition of a beef extract and peptone nutrient broth in 1g/L concentration. The extent of biofilm growth was monitored using a modified Dubois et al (1956) colorimetric method for sugar determination. Results were simulated using an analytical model that was developed for the geometry of the diffusion experiments. Governing equations for the model are based on a cylindrical coordinate system where one equation was developed for the rock and another for the biofilm. The solution was found using the Laplace Transform method. Preliminary results show substantial biofilm growth, confirming that the method of biofilm stimulation is viable. Preliminary analysis of data from the diffusion experiments shows the impact of biofilm presence on back diffusion to be profound.

The TETRA-II Experiment to Observe Terrestrial Gamma Flashes at Ground Level - Preliminary Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cherry, M. L.; Adams, C.; Al-Nussirat, S.; Bai, S.; Banadaki, Y.; Bitzer, P. M.; Hoffmann, J.; Khosravi, E.; Legault, M.; Orang, M.; Pleshinger, D. J.; Rodriguez, R.; Smith, D.; Trepanier, J. C.; Sunda-Meya, A.; Zimmer, N.

2017-12-01

An upgraded version of the TGF and Energetic Thunderstorm Rooftop Array (TETRA-II) consists of an array of BGO scintillators to detect bursts of gamma rays from thunderstorms at ground level in four separate locations: the campus of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; the campus of the University of Puerto Rico at Utuado, Puerto Rico; the Centro Nacional de Metrologia de Panama (CENAMEP) in Panama City, Panama; and the Severe Weather Institute and Radar & Lightning Laboratories in Huntsville, Alabama. The original TETRA-I array of NaI scintillators at Louisiana State University detected 37 millisecond-scale bursts of gamma rays at energies 50 keV-2 MeV associated with nearby (< 8 km) thunderstorms. TETRA-II began operation in May 2016 and now has approximately an order of magnitude greater sensitivity than TETRA-I. The ability to observe ground-level Terrestrial Gamma Flashes from close to the source allows a unique analysis of the storm cells producing these events. A brief description of the TETRA-I observations, a description of TETRA-II, and preliminary results of the first events observed by TETRA-II will be presented including frequency and time history of events, spectral information, and correlation with local radar and radio data.

The FRD and transmission of the 270-m GRACES optical fiber link and a high numerical aperture fiber for astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pazder, John; Fournier, Paul; Pawluczyk, Rafal; van Kooten, Maaike

2014-07-01

We report results of the extensive development work done on the 270-m optical fiber link for the GRACES project and a preliminary investigations into a high numerical aperture fiber for astronomy. The Gemini Remote Access CFHT ESPaDOnS Spectrograph (GRACES) is an instrumentation experiment to link ESPaDOnS, a bench-mounted highresolution optical spectrograph at CFHT, to the Gemini-North telescope with an optical fiber link. A 270-m fiber link with less than 14% Focal Ratio Degradation (FRD) has been developed jointly by HIA and FiberTech Optica for the experiment. A preliminary study has been conducted by HIA into a high numerical aperture fiber (0.26 numerical aperture) with the intended application of wide field optical spectrographs fiber fed from the telescope prime focus. The Laboratory test results of FRD, transmission, and stability for the GRACES fiber link and preliminary FRD measurements of the high numerical aperture fiber tests are reported.

Cell of Origin: Exploring an Alternative Contributor to Ovarian Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

of 60 mice). We previously reported that we conducted simple preliminary studies to assess the potential impact of the retroviral infections on...using primers designed to specifically detect exogenous TP53 gene expression. 12. Simple preliminary studies assessing the potential impact of exogenous...Award was ending and we were delinquent with respect to submission of the Closure report and no longer had access to the funds. Since there was such a

Sickle Cell Trait and Scholastic Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jackson, Yvonne; Ayrer, James

1974-01-01

In a preliminary study, no significant interaction effects were found between scholastic achievement and sickle cell trait in black children currently in eight and ninth grades, as measured by the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills over a consecutive period of four years, 1968 through 1971, grades four through seven. (EH)

Addicted to Pain: A Preliminary Model of Sexual Masochism as Addiction.

PubMed

Kurt, Holly; Ronel, Natti

2017-11-01

An exploratory, qualitative, phenomenological study focused on the experience of pain while participating in sexual masochistic acts. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine individuals (four female, five male) who regularly participate in sexually masochistic acts and point to pain as central to their experience. Qualitative analysis of the data revealed several key characteristics of the participant's experience: the first time, intoxication, craving and withdrawal, tolerance, pain as control, and the pain inducing partner. The findings indicate that the way pain is experienced while mitigated through masochistic behavior creates an addictive process that coincides with a chronic behavioral spin contextualization. This article presents a preliminary model of addiction to physical pain in light of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5) definition of substance-related and addictive disorders and the behavioral spin theory.

Breast Stem Cell Markers and Tumor Stem Cells in BRCA1, BRCA2 and Non-BRCA 1/2 Women

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-01

gene mutation often exhibit a basal phenotype that may reflect their origin in the breast stem cell . We therefore hypothesized that the breast stem ...expression of putative stem cell markers and investigated means to derive short-term in vitro cultures. Our preliminary findings indicate that it is... cell pool is aberrant in breast tissue of BRCA1 (or BRCA2)carriers versus noncarriers and that it becomes progressively and distinctively expanded in

Cotargeting of Androgen Synthesis and Androgen Receptor Expression as a Novel Treatment for Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-08-01

expression of both AR and AR-V7 in CRPC cells, and that knockdown or inhibition of PRMT5 suppresses growth of CRPC cells. These results support our...correlates with the expression of AR [9]. Preliminary data strongly suggest that PRMT5 regulates prostate cancer cell growth through epigenetic...findings as follow. 3B-1. Inhibition of PRMT5 suppresses cell growth and the expression of AR and AR-V7 in CRPC cells. We established inducible

Micropost microenvironments for studying luminal-basal lineage commitment of breast cancer cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kesavaraju, Anand; Qing, Bo; Jabart, Eric; Labarge, Mark; Sohn, Lydia

2013-03-01

MCF-7 breast cancer cells were plated onto polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microposts in order to examine the effects of the microenvironment on cell lineage. Different stiffnesses and sizes of the microposts are postulated to impact cell surface marker expression levels. We will provide preliminary results analyzing CD271 and focal adhesion markers such as vinculin. 3D shear flow will also be applied to the microposts to study how external mechanical stimuli affect cancer cells within their microenvironment.

Experimental study on transmission of an overdriven detonation wave from propane/oxygen to propane/air

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

Li, J.; Lai, W.H.; Chung, K.

2008-08-15

Two sets of experiments were performed to achieve a strong overdriven state in a weaker mixture by propagating an overdriven detonation wave via a deflagration-to-detonation transition (DDT) process. First, preliminary experiments with a propane/oxygen mixture were used to evaluate the attenuation of the overdriven detonation wave in the DDT process. Next, experiments were performed wherein a propane/oxygen mixture was separated from a propane/air mixture by a thin diaphragm to observe the transmission of an overdriven detonation wave. Based on the characteristic relations, a simple wave intersection model was used to calculate the state of the transmitted detonation wave. The resultsmore » showed that a rarefaction effect must be included to ensure that there is no overestimate of the post-transmission wave properties when the incident detonation wave is overdriven. The strength of the incident overdriven detonation wave plays an important role in the wave transmission process. The experimental results showed that a transmitted overdriven detonation wave occurs instantaneously with a strong incident overdriven detonation wave. The near-CJ state of the incident wave leads to a transmitted shock wave, and then the transition to the overdriven detonation wave occurs downstream. The attenuation process for the overdriven detonation wave decaying to a near-CJ state occurs in all tests. After the attenuation process, an unstable detonation wave was observed in most tests. This may be attributed to the increase in the cell width in the attenuation process that exceeds the detonability cell width limit. (author)« less

Special Education Paraprofessionals in District Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Howley, Craig; Howley, Aimee; Telfer, Deborah

2017-01-01

This survey research investigated the experience of Ohio districts using paraprofessionals assigned to special education students. This study provides a unique statewide description of district experience. Based on themes from the literature and preliminary conversations with educational practitioners in Ohio, the survey conceptualized district…

Thermal Gradient Fining of Glass

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilcox, W.

1983-01-01

Molten glass fined (cleared of bubbles) by heating with suitable temperature gradient, according to preliminary experiments. Temperature gradient produces force on gas bubbles trapped in molten glass pushing bubbles to higher temperature region where they are collected. Concept demonstrated in experiments on Earth and on rocket.

Experiences of four parents with physical therapy and early mobility of their children in a pediatric critical care unit: A case series.

PubMed

Parisien, Rachel B; Gillanders, Kirstie; Hennessy, Erin K; Herterich, Lisa; Saunders, Kendra; Lati, Jamil; Dos Santos, Stephanie; Hassall, Alison; O'Brien, Kelly K

2016-05-31

The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary investigation into parents' experiences of physical therapy and early mobility (EM) for their children in a pediatric critical care unit (PCCU). We conducted a series of four qualitative case studies using in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews. We recruited parents of children who had undergone surgery and received at least one EM physical therapy intervention while intubated. We conducted a thematic analysis of transcribed interviews to illuminate the factors that influenced EM experiences. Four parents participated in the study. We developed an overview of Parental Experiences with Physical Therapy and Early Mobility in a PCCU, which includes four themes that parents believed influenced their experiences: (1) environmental factors; (2) awareness of physical therapist and health care professional (HCP) roles; (3) communication among parents and HCPs; and (4) parental participation in their child's EM, within the overarching parental experiences in the PCCU. This study affords a preliminary understanding of parents' experiences with physical therapy and EM in a PCCU setting. Results provide an important foundation for future research on mobility in the context of pediatric critical care research and practice.

Low-cost 420nm blue laser diode for tissue cutting and hemostasis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Linden, Kurt J.

2016-03-01

This paper describes the use of a 420 nm blue laser diode for possible surgery and hemostasis. The optical absorption of blood-containing tissue is strongly determined by the absorption characteristics of blood. Blood is primarily comprised of plasma (yellowish extracellular fluid that is approximately 95% water by volume) and formed elements: red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelets. The RBCs (hemoglobin) are the most numerous, and due to the spectral absorption characteristics of hemoglobin, the optical absorption of blood has a strong relative maximum value in the 420 nm blue region of the optical spectrum. Small, low-cost laser diodes emitting at 420 nm with tens of watts of continuous wave (CW) optical power are becoming commercially available. Experiments on the use of such laser diodes for tissue cutting with simultaneous hemostasis were carried out and are here described. It was found that 1 mm deep x 1 mm wide cuts can be achieved in red meat at a focused laser power level of 3 W moving at a velocity of ~ 1 mm/s. The peripheral necrosis and thermal damage zone extended over a width of approximately 0.5 mm adjacent to the cuts. Preliminary hemostasis experiments were carried out with fresh equine blood in Tygon tubing, where it was demonstrated that cauterization can occur in regions of intentional partial tubing puncture.

Cellular bioenergetics is impaired in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

PubMed

Tomas, Cara; Brown, Audrey; Strassheim, Victoria; Elson, Joanna L; Newton, Julia; Manning, Philip

2017-01-01

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a highly debilitating disease of unknown aetiology. Abnormalities in bioenergetic function have been cited as one possible cause for CFS. Preliminary studies were performed to investigate cellular bioenergetic abnormalities in CFS patients. A series of assays were conducted using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from CFS patients and healthy controls. These experiments investigated cellular patterns in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and glycolysis. Results showed consistently lower measures of OXPHOS parameters in PBMCs taken from CFS patients compared with healthy controls. Seven key parameters of OXPHOS were calculated: basal respiration, ATP production, proton leak, maximal respiration, reserve capacity, non-mitochondrial respiration, and coupling efficiency. While many of the parameters differed between the CFS and control cohorts, maximal respiration was determined to be the key parameter in mitochondrial function to differ between CFS and control PBMCs due to the consistency of its impairment in CFS patients found throughout the study (p≤0.003). The lower maximal respiration in CFS PBMCs suggests that when the cells experience physiological stress they are less able to elevate their respiration rate to compensate for the increase in stress and are unable to fulfil cellular energy demands. The metabolic differences discovered highlight the inability of CFS patient PBMCs to fulfil cellular energetic demands both under basal conditions and when mitochondria are stressed during periods of high metabolic demand.

Remote liquid target loading system for LANL two-stage gas gun

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gibson, L. L.; Bartram, B.; Dattelbaum, D. M.; Sheffield, S. A.; Stahl, D. B.

2009-06-01

A Remote Liquid Loading System (RLLS) was designed to load high hazard liquid materials into targets for gas-gun driven impact experiments. These high hazard liquids tend to react with confining materials in a short period of time, degrading target assemblies and potentially building up pressure through the evolution of gas in the reactions. Therefore, the ability to load a gas gun target in place immediately prior to firing the gun, provides the most stable and reliable target fielding approach. We present the design and evaluation of a RLLS built for the LANL two-stage gas gun. Targets for the gun are made of PMMA and assembled to form a liquid containment cell with a volume of approximately 25 cc. The compatibility of materials was a major consideration in the design of the system, particularly for its use with highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide. Teflon and 304-stainless steel were the two most compatible materials with the materials to be tested. Teflon valves and tubing, as well as stainless steel tubing, were used to handle the liquid, along with a stainless steel reservoir. Preliminary testing was done to ensure proper flow rate and safety. The system has been used to successfully load 97.5 percent hydrogen peroxide into a target cell just prior to a successful multiple magnetic gauge experiment. TV cameras on the target verified the bubble-free filling operation.

No detection of Merkel cell polyomavirus in oral lichen planus: Results of a preliminary study in a French cohort of patients.

PubMed

Masson Regnault, Marie; Vigarios, Emmanuelle; Projetti, Fabrice; Herbault-Barres, Beatrice; Tournier, Emilie; Lamant, Laurence; Sibaud, Vincent

2017-11-01

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease considered as a CD8+ T lymphocyte-mediated autoimmune reaction, which may be triggered by undetermined virus. Recent reports have described the detection of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA in oral samples from healthy patients and in patients with different forms of oral cancers. We therefore investigated in a prospective way whether MCPyV was detectable in oral lesions of patients with active OLP. Our preliminary results do not support the hypothesis that OLP may be triggered by MCPyV infection. Further studies are needed to evaluate the involvement of other human polyomaviruses in OLP pathogenesis. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Electricity from sunlight. [low cost silicon for solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yaws, C. L.; Miller, J. W.; Lutwack, R.; Hsu, G.

1978-01-01

The paper discusses a number of new unconventional processes proposed for the low-cost production of silicon for solar cells. Consideration is given to: (1) the Battelle process (Zn/SiCl4), (2) the Battelle process (SiI4), (3) the Silane process, (4) the Motorola process (SiF4/SiF2), (5) the Westinghouse process (Na/SiCl4), (6) the Dow Corning process (C/SiO2), (7) the AeroChem process (SiCl4/H atom), and the Stanford process (Na/SiF4). Preliminary results indicate that the conventional process and the SiI4 processes cannot meet the project goal of $10/kg by 1986. Preliminary cost evaluation results for the Zn/SiCl4 process are favorable.

Cost projections for Redox Energy storage systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michaels, K.; Hall, G.

1980-01-01

A preliminary design and system cost analysis was performed for the redox energy storage system. A conceptual design and cost estimate was prepared for each of two energy applications: (1) electric utility 100-MWh requirement (10-MW for ten hours) for energy storage for utility load leveling application, and (2) a 500-kWh requirement (10-kW for 50 hours) for use with a variety of residential or commercial applications, including stand alone solar photovoltaic systems. The conceptual designs were based on cell performance levels, system design parameters, and special material costs. These data were combined with estimated thermodynamic and hydraulic analysis to provide preliminary system designs. Results indicate that the redox cell stack to be amenable to mass production techniques with a relatively low material cost.

Passive exposure of Earth radiation budget experiment components. LDEF experiment AO-147: Post-flight examinations and tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hickey, John R.

1992-01-01

The flight spare sensors of the Earth Radiation Budget (ERB) experiment of the Nimbus 6 and 7 missions were flown aboard the LDEF. The preliminary post retrieval examination and test results are presented here for the sensor windows and filters, the thermopile sensors and a cavity radiometer.

HEBS and Binary 1-sinc masks simulations, HCIT experiments and results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balasubramanian, Bala K.; Hoppe, Dan; Wilson, Dan; Echternach, Pierre; Trauger, John; Halverson, Peter; Niessner, Al; Shi, Fang; Lowman, Andrew

2005-01-01

Based on preliminary experiments and results with a binary 1-sinc mask in the HCIT early in August 2004, we planned for a detailed experiment to compare the performance of HEBS and Binary masks under nearly identical conditions in the HCIT. This report details the design and fabrication of the masks, simulated predictions, and experimental results.

Student Participation in Ecological Research: Preliminary Insights from Students' Experiences in the Smoky Mountains

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pacifici, Lara B.; Miller, Craig; Thomson, Norman

2009-01-01

Students participating in summer research internships at the Great Smoky Mountain National Park kept electronic journals to document their experiences. We used a combined content analysis to quantify the responses from the students in particular areas of interest and to understand the essence of experiences from the explanations provided in their…

Learner-Centered Blogging: A Preliminary Investigation of EFL Student Writers' Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lin, Ming Huei

2015-01-01

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of integrating a learner-centered blogging approach into the EFL writing classroom in Taiwan. For this purpose, a 16-week experiment was conducted, involving an intact class of 18 university-level Taiwanese EFL student writers. During the experiment, the participants first created their own blogs on…

A diagnostic microdosing approach to investigate platinum sensitivity in non-small cell lung cancer

DOE PAGES

Wang, Si-Si; Zimmermann, Maike; Zhang, Hongyong; ...

2017-04-24

The platinum-based drugs cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin are often used for chemotherapy, but drug resistance is common. The prediction of resistance to these drugs via genomics is a challenging problem since hundreds of genes are involved. A possible alternative is to use mass spectrometry to determine the propensity for cells to form drug-DNA adducts—the pharmacodynamic drug-target complex for this class of drugs. In this paper, the feasibility of predictive diagnostic microdosing was assessed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell culture and a pilot clinical trial. Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) was used to quantify [ 14C]carboplatin-DNA monoadduct levels in themore » cell lines induced by microdoses and therapeutic doses of carboplatin, followed by correlation with carboplatin IC 50 values for each cell line. The adduct levels in cell culture experiments were linearly proportional to dose (R 2 = 0.95, p < 0.0001) and correlated with IC 50 across all cell lines for microdose and therapeutically relevant carboplatin concentrations (p = 0.02 and p = 0.01, respectively). A pilot microdosing clinical trial was conducted to define protocols and gather preliminary data. Plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) and [ 14C]carboplatin-DNA adducts in white blood cells and tumor tissues from six NSCLC patients were quantified via AMS. The blood plasma half-life of [ 14C]carboplatin administered as a microdose was consistent with the known PK of therapeutic dosing. The optimal [ 14C]carboplatin formulation for the microdose was 10 7 dpm/kg of body weight and 1% of the therapeutic dose for the total mass of carboplatin. No microdose-associated toxicity was observed in the patients. Finally, additional accruals are required to significantly correlate adduct levels with response.« less

A diagnostic microdosing approach to investigate platinum sensitivity in non-small cell lung cancer

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

Wang, Si-Si; Zimmermann, Maike; Zhang, Hongyong

The platinum-based drugs cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin are often used for chemotherapy, but drug resistance is common. The prediction of resistance to these drugs via genomics is a challenging problem since hundreds of genes are involved. A possible alternative is to use mass spectrometry to determine the propensity for cells to form drug-DNA adducts—the pharmacodynamic drug-target complex for this class of drugs. In this paper, the feasibility of predictive diagnostic microdosing was assessed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell culture and a pilot clinical trial. Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) was used to quantify [ 14C]carboplatin-DNA monoadduct levels in themore » cell lines induced by microdoses and therapeutic doses of carboplatin, followed by correlation with carboplatin IC 50 values for each cell line. The adduct levels in cell culture experiments were linearly proportional to dose (R 2 = 0.95, p < 0.0001) and correlated with IC 50 across all cell lines for microdose and therapeutically relevant carboplatin concentrations (p = 0.02 and p = 0.01, respectively). A pilot microdosing clinical trial was conducted to define protocols and gather preliminary data. Plasma pharmacokinetics (PK) and [ 14C]carboplatin-DNA adducts in white blood cells and tumor tissues from six NSCLC patients were quantified via AMS. The blood plasma half-life of [ 14C]carboplatin administered as a microdose was consistent with the known PK of therapeutic dosing. The optimal [ 14C]carboplatin formulation for the microdose was 10 7 dpm/kg of body weight and 1% of the therapeutic dose for the total mass of carboplatin. No microdose-associated toxicity was observed in the patients. Finally, additional accruals are required to significantly correlate adduct levels with response.« less

Cancer-specific production of N-acetylaspartate via NAT8L overexpression in non-small cell lung cancer and its potential as a circulating biomarker

PubMed Central

Lou, Tzu-Fang; Sethuraman, Deepa; Dospoy, Patrick; Srivastva, Pallevi; Kim, Hyun Seok; Kim, Joongsoo; Ma, Xiaotu; Chen, Pei-Hsuan; Huffman, Kenneth E.; Frink, Robin E.; Larsen, Jill E.; Lewis, Cheryl; Um, Sang-Won; Kim, Duk-Hwan; Ahn, Jung-Mo; DeBerardinis, Ralph J.; White, Michael A.; Minna, John D.; Yoo, Hyuntae

2015-01-01

In order to identify new cancer-associated metabolites that may be useful for early detection of lung cancer, we performed a global metabolite profiling of a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) line and immortalized normal lung epithelial cells from the same patient. Among several metabolites with significant cancer/normal differences, we identified a unique metabolic compound, N-acetylaspartate (NAA) in cancer cells — undetectable in normal lung epithelium. NAA’s cancer-specific detection was validated in additional cancer and control lung cells as well as selected NSCLC patient tumors and control tissues. NAA’s cancer-specificity was further supported in our analysis of NAA synthetase (gene symbol: NAT8L) gene expression levels in The Cancer Genome Atlas: elevated NAT8L expression in approximately 40% of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma cases (N=577), with minimal expression in all non-malignant lung tissues (N=74). We then showed that NAT8L is functionally involved in NAA production of NSCLC cells through siRNA-mediated suppression of NAT8L, which caused selective reduction of intracellular and secreted NAA. Our cell culture experiments also indicated that NAA biosynthesis in NSCLC cells depends on glutamine availability. For preliminary evaluation of NAA’s clinical potential as a circulating biomarker, we developed a sensitive NAA blood assay and found that NAA blood levels were elevated in 46% of NSCLC patients (N=13) in comparison with age-matched healthy controls (N=21) among individuals aged 55 years or younger. Taken together, these results indicate that NAA is produced specifically in NSCLC tumors through NAT8L overexpression and its extracellular secretion can be detected in blood. PMID:26511490

A preliminary 6 DOF attitude and translation control system design for Starprobe

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mak, P.; Mettler, E.; Vijayarahgavan, A.

1981-01-01

The extreme thermal environment near perihelion and the high-accuracy gravitational science experiments impose unique design requirements on various subsystems of Starprobe. This paper examines some of these requirements and their impact on the preliminary design of a six-degree-of-freedom attitude and translational control system. Attention is given to design considerations, the baseline attitude/translational control system, system modeling, and simulation studies.

The TMI Regenerative Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cable, Thomas L.; Ruhl, Robert C.; Petrik, Michael

1996-01-01

Energy storage and production in space requires rugged, reliable hardware which minimizes weight, volume, and maintenance while maximizing power output and usable energy storage. Systems generally consist of photovoltaic solar arrays which operate (during sunlight cycles) to provide system power and regenerate fuel (hydrogen) via water electrolysis and (during dark cycles) fuel cells convert hydrogen into electricity. Common configurations use two separate systems (fuel cell and electrolyzer) in conjunction with photovoltaic cells. Reliability, power to weight and power to volume ratios could be greatly improved if both power production (fuel cells) and power storage (electrolysis) functions can be integrated into a single unit. The solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) based design integrates fuel cell and electrolyzer functions and potentially simplifies system requirements. The integrated fuel cell/electrolyzer design also utilizes innovative gas storage concepts and operates like a rechargeable 'hydrogen-oxygen battery'. Preliminary research has been completed on improved H2/H20 electrode (SOFC anode/electrolyzer cathode) materials for regenerative fuel cells. Tests have shown improved cell performance in both fuel and electrolysis modes in reversible fuel cell tests. Regenerative fuel cell efficiencies, ratio of power out (fuel cell mode) to power in (electrolyzer mode), improved from 50 percent using conventional electrode materials to over 80 percent. The new materials will allow a single SOFC system to operate as both the electolyzer and fuel cell. Preliminary system designs have also been developed to show the technical feasibility of using the design for space applications requiring high energy storage efficiencies and high specific energy. Small space systems also have potential for dual-use, terrestrial applications.

Laser photodynamic therapy of cancer: the chorioallantoic membrane model for measuring damage to blood vessels in-vivo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gottfried, Varda; Lindenbaum, Ella S.; Kimel, Sol; Hammer-Wilson, Marie J.; Berns, Michael W.

1991-04-01

The mechanism of photodynamic therapy (PDT) involves, as a primary step, damage either directly to the tumor cells or to the surrounding vasculature which, in turn, causes disruption of tumor blood flow and, ultimately, tissue necrosis by anoxia. We report here a novel in-vivo model for investigating vascular events during PDT. The chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model was chosen since it is an established model for studying biological processes such as implantation and angiogenesis . The photosensitizers meso-tetraphenylporphine tetrasulfonate (TPPSJ and chloro-aluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (CAPcS) were topically applied onto the CAM. In all cases where sensitizer plus radiation was administered, changes in the CAM microcirculation occurred, as viewed through a stereoscopic microscope. With increasing light/drug dose we observed capillary leakage, stasis, occlusion, hemorrhage, and engorgement. The course of damage formation was documented in real time by video photography. All controls (sensitizer alone or light alone) remained unchanged compared to treated CAM. This work also describes preliminary experiments on tumor cells transplanted onto the CAM.

Mapping local anisotropy axis for scattering media using backscattering Mueller matrix imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Honghui; Sun, Minghao; Zeng, Nan; Du, E.; Guo, Yihong; He, Yonghong; Ma, Hui

2014-03-01

Mueller matrix imaging techniques can be used to detect the micro-structure variations of superficial biological tissues, including the sizes and shapes of cells, the structures in cells, and the densities of the organelles. Many tissues contain anisotropic fibrous micro-structures, such as collagen fibers, elastin fibers, and muscle fibers. Changes of these fibrous structures are potentially good indicators for some pathological variations. In this paper, we propose a quantitative analysis technique based on Mueller matrix for mapping local anisotropy axis of scattering media. By conducting both experiments on silk sample and Monte Carlo simulation based on the sphere-cylinder scattering model (SCSM), we extract anisotropy axis parameters from different backscattering Mueller matrix elements. Moreover, we testify the possible applications of these parameters for biological tissues. The preliminary experimental results of human cancerous samples show that, these parameters are capable to map the local axis of fibers. Since many pathological changes including early stage cancers affect the well aligned structures for tissues, the experimental results indicate that these parameters can be used as potential tools in clinical applications for biomedical diagnosis purposes.

Synthesis and in vivo magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of biocompatible branched copolymer nanocontrast agents.

PubMed

Jackson, Alexander W; Chandrasekharan, Prashant; Shi, Jian; Rannard, Steven P; Liu, Quan; Yang, Chang-Tong; He, Tao

2015-01-01

Branched copolymer nanoparticles (D(h) =20-35 nm) possessing 1,4,7, 10-tetraazacyclododecane-N,N',N″,N‴-tetraacetic acid macrocycles within their cores have been synthesized and applied as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) nanosized contrast agents in vivo. These nanoparticles have been generated from novel functional monomers via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization. The process is very robust and synthetically straightforward. Chelation with gadolinium and preliminary in vivo experiments have demonstrated promising characteristics as MRI contrast agents with prolonged blood retention time, good biocompatibility, and an intravascular distribution. The ability of these nanoparticles to perfuse and passively target tumor cells through the enhanced permeability and retention effect is also demonstrated. These novel highly functional nanoparticle platforms have succinimidyl ester-activated benzoate functionalities within their corona, which make them suitable for future peptide conjugation and subsequent active cell-targeted MRI or the conjugation of fluorophores for bimodal imaging. We have also demonstrated that these branched copolymer nanoparticles are able to noncovalently encapsulate hydrophobic guest molecules, which could allow simultaneous bioimaging and drug delivery.

Cytoplasmic involvement in ADH-mediated osmosis across toad urinary bladder.

PubMed

DiBona, D R

1983-11-01

Several lines of investigation have suggested that antidiuretic hormone (ADH) may have direct effects on the cytoskeletal organization of granular epithelial cells in the toad urinary bladder. To some extent, these effects are in concert with the well-established action of ADH on the hydraulic permeability of the mucosal plasma membrane, but it appears that other conformational adjustments (largely cytoplasmic) may be of comparable importance. The thrust of this review is that the hormone brings about a general restructuring of the granular cells so that the epithelium as a whole may function efficiently as an osmotic pathway. Details of cytoskeletal changes are far from clear as yet, but interference with or modulation of these particular effects infer that cytoplasmic organization is the seat of feedback control of osmotic flow rate, the basis for viability in the presence of dramatic cytosolic dilution and a major factor in the observed disparity in osmotic and diffusional permeability coefficients. In the interest of stimulating new thoughts and experiments in this area, a number of preliminary findings have been freely cited.

BCR Signaling Inhibitors: an Overview of Toxicities Associated with Ibrutinib and Idelalisib in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

PubMed Central

Falchi, Lorenzo; Baron, Jessica M.; Orlikowski, Carrie Anne; Ferrajoli, Alessandra

2016-01-01

The B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling inhibitors ibrutinib and idelalisib are revolutionizing the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and other B-cell malignancies. These oral agents, both alone and in combination with other drugs, have shown remarkable clinical activity in relapsed or refractory CLL across all risk groups, and have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this indication. Preliminary data suggest that an even greater benefit can be expected in treatment-naïve CLL patients. Both ibrutinib and idelalisib are well tolerated by most patients, including older, frailer individuals. Toxicities are usually mild and self-resolving. Clinicians must, however, be aware of a number of peculiar adverse events, the effects of which can be severe enough to limit the clinical use of these agents. In this review, we survey the salient aspects of the pharmacology and clinical experience with the use of BCR signaling inhibitors for the treatment of patients with CLL. We next focus on both the most common and the most clinically significant toxicities associated with these drugs. PMID:26977270

Coalition readiness management system preliminary interoperability experiment (CReaMS PIE)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, Peter; Ryan, Peter; Zalcman, Lucien; Robbie, Andrew

2003-09-01

The United States Navy (USN) has initiated the Coalition Readiness Management System (CReaMS) Initiative to enhance coalition warfighting readiness through advancing development of a team interoperability training and combined mission rehearsal capability. It integrates evolving cognitive team learning principles and processes with advanced technology innovations to produce an effective and efficient team learning environment. The JOint Air Navy Networking Environment (JOANNE) forms the Australian component of CReaMS. The ultimate goal is to link Australian Defence simulation systems with the USN Battle Force Tactical Training (BFTT) system to demonstrate and achieve coalition level warfare training in a synthetic battlespace. This paper discusses the initial Preliminary Interoperability Experiment (PIE) involving USN and Australian Defence establishments.

Preliminary experiments on active control of fan noise from a turbofan engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomas, R. H.; Burdisso, R. A.; Fuller, C. R.; O'Brien, W. F.

1993-01-01

In the preliminary experiments reported here, active acoustic sources positioned around the circumference of a turbofan engine were used to control the fan noise radiated forward through the inlet. The main objective was to demonstrate the potential of active techniques to alleviate the noise pollution that will be produced by the next generation of larger engines. A reduction of up to 19 dB in the radiation directivity was demonstrated in a zone that encompasses a 30-deg angle, near the error sensor, while spillover effects were observed toward the lateral direction. The simultaneous control of two tones was also demonstrated using two identical controllers in a parallel control configuration.

The Thirty Gigahertz Instrument Receiver for the QUIJOTE Experiment: Preliminary Polarization Measurements and Systematic-Error Analysis.

PubMed

Casas, Francisco J; Ortiz, David; Villa, Enrique; Cano, Juan L; Cagigas, Jaime; Pérez, Ana R; Aja, Beatriz; Terán, J Vicente; de la Fuente, Luisa; Artal, Eduardo; Hoyland, Roger; Génova-Santos, Ricardo

2015-08-05

This paper presents preliminary polarization measurements and systematic-error characterization of the Thirty Gigahertz Instrument receiver developed for the QUIJOTE experiment. The instrument has been designed to measure the polarization of Cosmic Microwave Background radiation from the sky, obtaining the Q, U, and I Stokes parameters of the incoming signal simultaneously. Two kinds of linearly polarized input signals have been used as excitations in the polarimeter measurement tests in the laboratory; these show consistent results in terms of the Stokes parameters obtained. A measurement-based systematic-error characterization technique has been used in order to determine the possible sources of instrumental errors and to assist in the polarimeter calibration process.

Preliminary Investigation of Cyclic Behavior at SHADOZ Sites Between the Equator and 5 deg S Latitude

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmidlin, F. J.

2009-01-01

Investigation of cyclic behavior of temperature and ozone data from five SHADOZ sites between the Equator and 5degS Latitude (Nairobi, Ascension Island, Natal, San Crystobal, and Watukoset) reveal an amazing array of oscillations. In particular, eight years of measurements (1998-2007) reveal changes such as decreasing amounts of ozone at some pressure levels and/or sites, while other levels and/or sites experience increasing ozone. Temperature changes of 1-2 C occur that also experience irregular oscillations. This study is preliminary and only concentrates on the 250-, 200-, 100-, 70-, and 50-hPa pressure surfaces. Surfaces existing below and above the tropopause behave differently.

Preliminary Experiments for the Assessment of V/W-band Links for Space-Earth Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nessel, James A.; Acosta, Roberto J.; Miranda, Felix A.

2013-01-01

Since September 2012, NASA Glenn Research Center has deployed a microwave profiling radiometer at White Sands, NM, to estimate atmospheric propagation effects on communications links in the V and W bands (71-86GHz). Estimates of attenuation statistics in the millimeter wave due to gaseous and cloud components of the atmosphere show good agreement with current ITU-R models, but fail to predict link performance in the presence of moderate to heavy rain rates, due to the inherent limitations of passive radiometry. Herein, we discuss the preliminary results of these measurements and describe a design for a terrestrial link experiment to validate/refine existing rain attenuation models in the V/Wbands.

Preliminary Experiments for the Assessment of VW-Band Links for Space-Earth Communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nessel, James A.; Acosta, Roberto J.; Miranda, Felix A.

2013-01-01

Since September 2012, NASA Glenn Research Center has deployed a microwave profiling radiometer at White Sands, NM, to estimate atmospheric propagation effects on communications links in the V and W bands (71-86GHz). Estimates of attenuation statistics in the millimeter wave due to gaseous and cloud components of the atmosphere show good agreement with current ITU-R models, but fail to predict link performance in the presence of moderate to heavy rain rates, due to the inherent limitations of passive radiometry. Herein, we discuss the preliminary results of these measurements and describe a design for a terrestrial link experiment to validaterefine existing rain attenuation models in the VW-bands.

[A new psycho-dermatology clinic in Israel: our first year experience].

PubMed

Orion, Edith; Ben-Avi, Orit

2011-01-01

Psychodermatology involves the interrelationships between the skin and the mind, especially when considering the formation and evolution of certain common skin conditions. It appears that 30-40% of dermatology patients suffer from certain psychological problems as defined by the ICD-10, in a way that influences their disease severity and progression, as well as their quality of Life. Treatment of such cases requires a multi-disciplinary approach and should involve both a dermatologist and a mental health specialist working together In this article, the authors summarize the preliminary experience of the first year of the only psychodermatology clinic in Israel in several decades, work methods and patients' characteristics and preliminary conclusions.

Experiments in pilot decision-making during simulated low visibility approaches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curry, R. E.; Lauber, J. K.; Billings, C. E.

1975-01-01

A simulation task is reported which incorporates both kinds of variables, informational and psychological, to successfully study pilot decision making behavior in the laboratory. Preliminary experiments in the measurement of decisions and the inducement of stress in simulated low visibility approaches are described.

The Structured Trauma-Related Experiences and Symptoms Screener (STRESS): Development and Preliminary Psychometrics.

PubMed

Grasso, Damion J; Felton, Julia W; Reid-Quiñones, Kathryn

2015-08-01

The Structured Trauma-Related Experiences and Symptoms Screener (STRESS) is a self-report instrument for youth of age 7-18 that inventories 25 adverse childhood experiences and potentially traumatic events and assesses symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder using the revised criteria published in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5). The STRESS can be administered by computer such that questions are read aloud and automatic scoring and feedback are provided. Data were collected on a sample of 229 children and adolescents of age 7-17 undergoing a forensic child abuse and neglect evaluation. The purpose of the current study was to examine preliminary psychometric characteristics of the computer-administered STRESS as well as its underlying factor structure in relation to the four-factor DSM-5 model. Results provide initial support for the use of the STRESS in assessing adverse and potentially traumatic experiences and traumatic stress in children and adolescents. © The Author(s) 2015.

Rocket observations of solar radiation during the eclipse of 26 February 1979

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bliss, H. M.; Smith, L. G.

1980-01-01

Three Nike Tomahawk rockets were launched in Red Lake, Ontario, one previous to, and two during, the total eclipse of the Sun, for the purpose of studying the atmosphere and its interaction with solar radiation. The method and preliminary results of three experiments that were used to measure solar radiation in the X-ray, Lyman-alpha, and visible parts of the spectrum are described. The instrumentation designed for this investigation is discussed as well as post-flight data processing techniques. The retrieved data were processed to some extent to verify that a valid representation of the solar radiation was obtained. The Lyman-alpha experiment yielded very good results, and preliminary data are included. The visible radiation experiment served as support for the other experiments and also functioned well. Due to a high level of energetic particles during the eclipse, the X-ray data were contaminated and are not presented. However, satellite observations indicate no appreciable level of X-rays from the Sun during the time of the eclipse.

Subjective experience of inner speech in aphasia: Preliminary behavioral relationships and neural correlates.

PubMed

Fama, Mackenzie E; Hayward, William; Snider, Sarah F; Friedman, Rhonda B; Turkeltaub, Peter E

2017-01-01

Many individuals with aphasia describe anomia with comments like "I know it but I can't say it." The exact meaning of such phrases is unclear. We hypothesize that at least two discrete experiences exist: the sense of (1) knowing a concept, but failing to find the right word, and (2) saying the correct word internally but not aloud (successful inner speech, sIS). We propose that sIS reflects successful lexical access; subsequent overt anomia indicates post-lexical output deficits. In this pilot study, we probed the subjective experience of anomia in 37 persons with aphasia. Self-reported sIS related to aphasia severity and phonological output deficits. In multivariate lesion-symptom mapping, sIS was associated with dorsal stream lesions, particularly in ventral sensorimotor cortex. These preliminary results suggest that people with aphasia can often provide meaningful insights about their experience of anomia and that reports of sIS relate to specific lesion locations and language deficits. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Test and evaluation of Apollo 14 composite casting demonstration specimens and flight and control samples

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fabiniak, R. C.; Fabiniak, T. J.

1971-01-01

The results of experiments 1, 2, and 10 of the Apollo 14 composite casting demonstration are discussed. The purpose of the demonstration, with regard to samples 1 and 2, was to obtain preliminary data on the liquid phase sintering process in a weightless environment. With regard to sample 10, the purpose was to obtain preliminary information on how to achieve uniform dispersion of dense particles on a metal matrix by employing shaking modes or forces in the system when the metal matrix is molten. Results of the demonstrations were interpreted in a quantitative and qualitative manner. For experiment 1 it was found that the tungsten particles were redistributed more uniformly in the flight sample than in the control sample. Experiment 2 results indicate that complete melting may not have occured and thus a high degree of significance cannot be associated with the qualitative results relating to particle redistribution data. The particle-matrix system of experiment 10 was found to be nonwetting.

Preliminary navigation accuracy analysis for the TDRSS Onboard Navigation System (TONS) experiment on EP/EUVE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gramling, C. J.; Long, A. C.; Lee, T.; Ottenstein, N. A.; Samii, M. V.

1991-01-01

A Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) Onboard Navigation System (TONS) is currently being developed by NASA to provide a high accuracy autonomous navigation capability for users of TDRSS and its successor, the Advanced TDRSS (ATDRSS). The fully autonomous user onboard navigation system will support orbit determination, time determination, and frequency determination, based on observation of a continuously available, unscheduled navigation beacon signal. A TONS experiment will be performed in conjunction with the Explorer Platform (EP) Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) mission to flight quality TONS Block 1. An overview is presented of TONS and a preliminary analysis of the navigation accuracy anticipated for the TONS experiment. Descriptions of the TONS experiment and the associated navigation objectives, as well as a description of the onboard navigation algorithms, are provided. The accuracy of the selected algorithms is evaluated based on the processing of realistic simulated TDRSS one way forward link Doppler measurements. The analysis process is discussed and the associated navigation accuracy results are presented.

Preliminary grid data and maps for an aeromagnetic survey of the Taylor mountains quadrangle and a portion of the Bethel quadrangle, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Saltus, R.W.; Milicevic, B.

2004-01-01

A preliminary data grid and maps are presented for an aeromagnetic survey of the Taylor Mountains and a portion of the Bethel quadrangles, Alaska. The aeromagnetic survey was flown by McPhar Geosurveys Ltd. for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). A flight-line spacing of 1,600 meters (1 mile) and nominal flight height of 305 meters (1,000 feet) above topography (draped) was used for the survey. The preliminary data grid has a grid cell size of 350 meters (1150 feet). Final data processing and quality control have not been applied to these data. The purpose of this preliminary data release is to allow prompt public access to these data, which are of interest for active mineral exploration in the region. A more complete data release and description will be published later once the final data processing is complete.

Decision-Making in Flight with Different Convective Weather Information Sources: Preliminary Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Latorella, Kara A.; Chamberlain, James P.

2004-01-01

This paper reports preliminary and partial results of a flight experiment to address how General Aviation (GA) pilots use weather cues to make flight decisions. This research presents pilots with weather cue conditions typically available to GA pilots in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) today, as well as in IMC with a Graphical Weather Information System (GWIS). These preliminary data indicate that both VMC and GWIS-augmented IMC conditions result in better confidence, information sufficiency and perceived performance than the current IMC condition. For all these measures, the VMC and GWIS-augmented conditions seemed to provide similar pilot support. These preliminary results are interpreted for their implications on GWIS display design, training, and operational use guidelines. Final experimental results will compare these subjective data with objective data of situation awareness and decision quality.

Microarray analysis of genes differentially expressed in HepG2 cells cultured in simulated microgravity: preliminary report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khaoustov, V. I.; Risin, D.; Pellis, N. R.; Yoffe, B.; McIntire, L. V. (Principal Investigator)

2001-01-01

Developed at NASA, the rotary cell culture system (RCCS) allows the creation of unique microgravity environment of low shear force, high-mass transfer, and enables three-dimensional (3D) cell culture of dissimilar cell types. Recently we demonstrated that a simulated microgravity is conducive for maintaining long-term cultures of functional hepatocytes and promote 3D cell assembly. Using deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) microarray technology, it is now possible to measure the levels of thousands of different messenger ribonucleic acids (mRNAs) in a single hybridization step. This technique is particularly powerful for comparing gene expression in the same tissue under different environmental conditions. The aim of this research was to analyze gene expression of hepatoblastoma cell line (HepG2) during early stage of 3D-cell assembly in simulated microgravity. For this, mRNA from HepG2 cultured in the RCCS was analyzed by deoxyribonucleic acid microarray. Analyses of HepG2 mRNA by using 6K glass DNA microarray revealed changes in expression of 95 genes (overexpression of 85 genes and downregulation of 10 genes). Our preliminary results indicated that simulated microgravity modifies the expression of several genes and that microarray technology may provide new understanding of the fundamental biological questions of how gravity affects the development and function of individual cells.

Deficiencies in school readiness skills of children with sickle cell anemia: a preliminary report.

PubMed

Chua-Lim, C; Moore, R B; McCleary, G; Shah, A; Mankad, V N

1993-04-01

Patients with sickle cell anemia often express myriad clinical signs and symptoms that affect their life-style and academic performance. Certain psychoeducational and psychosocial factors have been shown to influence the academic achievement of older patients with sickle cell anemia. However, studies evaluating the school readiness skills of younger children have not been published. To determine whether sickle cell anemia delays preschool development in children aged 4 to 6 years, we studied 10 affected children and 10 normal subjects matched for age, sex, and race. School readiness was evaluated by the Pediatric Examination of Educational Readiness (PEER), which assess a child's performance in areas of developmental attainment such as visual input, verbal output, and short-term memory. The presence of associated movements (minor neurologic signs) and other areas of behavior such as selective attention, activity level, adaptive behavior, and processing efficiency are also observed. The children with sickle cell anemia scored significantly lower than their normal counterparts in several parameters of the PEER. The McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities, a standardized psychometric test, showed that these children with sickle cell anemia were within the normal range of intelligence. Magnetic resonance imaging done on three children with sickle cell anemia who scored lowest on the PEER revealed no cerebrovascular infarcts. These preliminary studies demonstrate significant differences in school readiness skills between children with sickle cell anemia and normal subjects.

Small-Interfering RNA–Eluting Surfaces as a Novel Concept for Intravascular Local Gene Silencing

PubMed Central

Nolte, Andrea; Walker, Tobias; Schneider, Martina; Kray, Oya; Avci-Adali, Meltem; Ziemer, Gerhard; Wendel, Hans Peter

2011-01-01

New drug-eluting stent (DES) methods have recently been demonstrated to improve outcomes of intravascular interventions. A novel technique is the design of gene-silencing stents that elute specific small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) for better vascular wall regeneration. Although siRNAs used to alter gene expression have surpassed expectations in in vitro experiments, the functional and local delivery of siRNAs is still the major obstacle for the in vivo application of RNA interference. In this preliminary in vitro study we investigated a surface-immobilized siRNA delivery technique that would be readily adaptable for local intravascular applications in vivo. The transfection potency of gelatin coatings consisting of a specific siRNA complexed with polyethylenimine (PEI) was examined in primary human endothelial cells by flow cytometry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Several media conditions, such as the presence or absence of serum during cultivation, were investigated. Furthermore, different siRNA and PEI amounts, as well as nitrogen/phosphate ratios, were tested for their transfection efficiency. Gelatin coatings consisting of PEI and siRNA against an exemplary endothelial adhesion molecule receptor achieved a significant knockdown of around 70%. The transfection efficiency of the coatings was not influenced by the presence of serum. The results of this preliminary study support the expectation that this novel coating may be favorable for local in vivo gene silencing (for example, when immobilized on stents or balloons for percutanous transluminal coronary angioplasty). However, further animal experiments are needed to confirm the translation into clinical practice. This intriguing technology leads the way to more sophisticated and individualized coatings for the post-DES era, toward silencing of genes involved in the pathway of intimal hyperplasia. PMID:21792480

Anti-proliferation activity of terpenoids isolated from Euphorbia kansui in human cancer cells and their structure-activity relationship.

PubMed

Hou, Jin-Jun; Shen, Yao; Yang, Zhou; Fang, Lin; Cai, Lu-Ying; Yao, Shuai; Long, Hua-Li; Wu, Wan-Ying; Guo, De-An

2017-10-01

Euphorbia kansui is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of edema, pleural effusion, and asthma, etc. According to the previous researches, terpenoids in E. kansui possess various biological activities, e.g., anti-virus, anti-allergy, antitumor effects. In this work, twenty five terpenoids were isolated from E. kansui, including thirteen ingenane- and eight jatrophane-type diterpenoids (with two new compounds, kansuinin P and Q) and four triterpenoids. Eighteen of them were analyzed by MTS assay for in vitro anticancer activity in five human cancer cell lines. Structure-activity relationship for 12 ingenane-type diterpenoids in colorectal cancer Colo205 cells were preliminary studied. Significant anti-proliferation activities were observed in human melanoma cells breast cancer MDA-MB-435 cells and Colo205 cells. More than half of the isolated ingenane-type diterpenoids showed inhibitory activities in MDA-MB-435 cells. Eight ingenane- and one jatrophane-type diterpenoids possessed much lower IC 50 values in MDA-MB-435 cells than positive control staurosporine. Preliminary structure-activity relationship analysis showed that substituent on position 20 was important for the activity of ingenane-type diterpenoids in Colo205 cells and substituent on position 3 contributed more significant biological activity of the compounds than that on position 5 in both MDA-MB-435 and Colo205 cells. Copyright © 2017 China Pharmaceutical University. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New fixed-point mini-cell to investigate thermocouple drift in a high-temperature environment under neutron irradiation

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

Laurie, M.; Vlahovic, L.; Rondinella, V.V.

Temperature measurements in the nuclear field require a high degree of reliability and accuracy. Despite their sheathed form, thermocouples subjected to nuclear radiations undergo changes due to radiation damage and transmutation that lead to significant EMF drift during long-term fuel irradiation experiment. For the purpose of a High Temperature Reactor fuel irradiation to take place in the High Flux Reactor Petten, a dedicated fixed-point cell was jointly developed by LNE-Cnam and JRC-IET. The developed cell to be housed in the irradiation rig was tailor made to quantify the thermocouple drift during the irradiation (about two year duration) and withstand highmore » temperature (in the range 950 deg. C - 1100 deg. C) in the presence of contaminated helium in a graphite environment. Considering the different levels of temperature achieved in the irradiation facility and the large palette of thermocouple types aimed at surveying the HTR fuel pebble during the qualification test both copper (1084.62 deg. C) and gold (1064.18 deg. C) fixed-point materials were considered. The aim of this paper is to first describe the fixed-point mini-cell designed to be embedded in the reactor rig and to discuss the preliminary results achieved during some out of pile tests as much as some robustness tests representative of the reactor scram scenarios. (authors)« less

Discovery, SAR, and Radiolabeling of Halogenated Benzimidazole Carboxamide Antagonists as Useful Tools for (alpha)4(beta)1 Integrin Expressed on T- and B-cell Lymphomas

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

Carpenter, R D; Natarajan, A; Lau, E Y

2010-02-08

The cell surface receptor {alpha}{sub 4}{beta}{sub 1} integrin is an attractive yet poorly understood target for selective diagnosis and treatment of T- and B-cell lymphomas. This report focuses on the rapid microwave preparation of medicinally pertinent benzimidazole heterocycles, structure-activity relationships (SAR) of novel halobenzimidazole carboxamide antagonists 3-6, and preliminary biological evaluation of radioiodinated agents 7, 8, and 18. The I-125 derivative 18 had good tumor uptake (12 {+-} 1% ID/g at 24 h; 4.5 {+-} 1% ID/g at 48 h) and tumor:kidney ratio ({approx}4:1 at 24 h; 2.5:1 at 48 h) in xenograft murine models of B-cell lymphoma. Molecular homologymore » models of {alpha}{sub 4}{beta}{sub 1} integrin have predicted that docked halobenzimidazole carboxamides have the halogen atom in a suitable orientation for halogen-hydrogen bonding. These high affinity ({approx} pM binding) halogenated ligands are attractive tools for medicinal and biological use; the fluoro and iodo derivatives are potential radiodiagnostic ({sup 18}F) or radiotherapeutic ({sup 131}I) agents, whereas the chloro and bromo analogues could provide structural insight into integrin-ligand interactions through photoaffinity cross-linking/mass spectroscopy experiments, as well as co-crystallization X-ray studies.« less

Equation of State of Ammonium Nitrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robbins, David L.; Sheffield, Stephen A.; Dattelbaum, Dana M.; Velisavljevic, Nenad; Stahl, David B.

2009-12-01

Ammonium nitrate (AN) is a widely used fertilizer and mining explosive. AN is commonly used in ammonium nitrate-fuel oil (ANFO), which is a mixture of explosive-grade AN prills and fuel oil in a 94:6 ratio by weight. ANFO is a non-ideal explosive with measured detonation velocities around 4 km/s. The equation of state properties and known initiation behavior of neat AN are limited. We present the results of a series of gas gun-driven plate impact experiments on pressed neat ammonium nitrate at 1.72 g/cm3. No evidence of initiation was observed under shock loading to 22 GPa. High pressure x-ray diffraction experiments in diamond anvil cells provided insight into the high pressure phase behavior over the same pressure range (to 25 GPa), as well as a static isotherm at ambient temperature. From the isotherm and thermodynamic properties at ambient conditions, a preliminary unreacted equation of state (EOS) has been developed based on the Murnaghan isotherm and Helmholtz formalism [1], which compares favorably with the available experimental Hugoniot data on several densities of AN.

Autonomous support for microorganism research in space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fleet, M. L.; Smith, J. D.; Klaus, D. M.; Luttges, M. W.

1993-02-01

A preliminary design for performing on orbit, autonomous research on microorganisms and cultured cells/tissues is presented. The payload is designed to be compatible with the COMercial Experiment Transporter (COMET), an orbiter middeck locker interface and with Space Station Freedom. Uplink/downlink capabilities and sample return through controlled reentry are available for all carriers. Autonomous testing activities are preprogrammed with in-flight reprogrammability. Sensors for monitoring temperature, pH, light, gravity levels, vibrations, and radiation are provided for environmental regulation and experimental data collection. Additional data acquisition includes optical density measurement, microscopy, video, and film photography. On-board data storage capabilities are provided. A fluid transfer mechanism is utilized for inoculation, sampling, and nutrient replenishment of experiment cultures. In addition to payload design, research opportunities are explored to illustrate hardware versatility and function. The project is defined to provide biological data pertinent to extended duration crewed space flight including crew health issues and development of a Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS). In addition, opportunities are opened for investigations leading to commercial applications of space, such as pharmaceutical development, modeling of terrestrial diseases, and material processing.

Screening of surfactants for harmful algal blooms mitigation.

PubMed

Sun, Xiao-Xia; Han, Kyung-Nam; Choi, Joong-Ki; Kim, Eun-Ki

2004-05-01

Screening experiments were conducted in order to find promising synthetic surfactants for harmful algal blooms (HABs) mitigation. The chemically synthesized surfactant cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) showed characteristics of relatively high inhibition efficiency, high biodegradability and low cost. The motility inhibition ratios of 10 mg/L CAPB on Cochlodinium polykrikoides and Alexandrium tamarense were about 60% after 5 min. The biodegradation test indicated that the half-life of CAPB in seawater was shorter than one day and 90% was biodegraded after five days under the initial concentration of 100 mg/L at 25 degrees C. Further cell lysis experiments revealed the selective lysis effect of CAPB on different HAB organisms. More than 90% of C. polykrikoides lysed at the concentration of 10 mg/L CAPB after 24 h and at 15 mg/L CAPB after 4 h, whereas the lysis effect of CAPB on A. tamarense was slight, no more than 10% after 2 h interaction with 50 mg/L CAPB. This research provided preliminary data for CAPB as a candidate in harmful algal blooms mitigation and pointed out unresolved problems for its practical application in the meantime.

Blood flow and microgravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bureau, Lionel; Coupier, Gwennou; Dubois, Frank; Duperray, Alain; Farutin, Alexander; Minetti, Christophe; Misbah, Chaouqi; Podgorski, Thomas; Tsvirkun, Daria; Vysokikh, Mikhail

2017-01-01

The absence of gravity during space flight can alter cardio-vascular functions partially due to reduced physical activity. This affects the overall hemodynamics, and in particular the level of shear stresses to which blood vessels are submitted. Long-term exposure to space environment is thus susceptible to induce vascular remodeling through a mechanotransduction cascade that couples vessel shape and function with the mechanical cues exerted by the circulating cells on the vessel walls. Central to such processes, the glycocalyx - i.e. the micron-thick layer of biomacromolecules that lines the lumen of blood vessels and is directly exposed to blood flow - is a major actor in the regulation of biochemical and mechanical interactions. We discuss in this article several experiments performed under microgravity, such as the determination of lift force and collective motion in blood flow, and some preliminary results obtained in artificial microfluidic circuits functionalized with endothelium that offer interesting perspectives for the study of the interactions between blood and endothelium in healthy condition as well as by mimicking the degradation of glycocalyx caused by long space missions. A direct comparison between experiments and simulations is discussed. xml:lang="fr"

Binding of isolated plant lectin by rhizobia during episodes of reduced gravity obtained by parabolic flight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henry, R. L.; Green, P. D.; Wong, P. P.; Guikema, J. A.; Spooner, B. S. (Principal Investigator)

1990-01-01

Development of a legume root nodule is a complex process culminating in a plant/bacterial symbiosis possessing the capacity for biological dinitrogen fixation. Formation of root nodules is initiated by the binding and stabilization of rhizobia to plant root hairs, mediated in part by a receptor/ligand recognition system composed of lectins on the plant root surface and lectin-binding sites on the rhizobial cell surface. The dinitrogen fixation activity of these root nodules may be an important feature of enclosed, space-based life support systems, and may provide an ecological method to recycle nitrogen for amino acid production. However, the effects on nodule development of varied gravitational fields, or of root nutrient delivery hardware, remain unknown. We have investigated the effects of microgravity on root nodule formation, with preliminary experiments focused upon the receptor/ligand component. Microgravity, obtained during parabolic flight aboard NASA 930, has no apparent effect on the binding of purified lectin to rhizobia, a result that will facilitate forthcoming experiments using intact root tissues.

Experimental bacteriophage treatment of honeybees (Apis mellifera) infected with Paenibacillus larvae, the causative agent of American Foulbrood Disease

PubMed Central

Yost, Diane G.; Tsourkas, Philippos; Amy, Penny S.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT American Foulbrood Disease (AFB) is an infection of honeybees caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. One potential remedy involves using biocontrol, such as bacteriophages (phages) to lyse P. larvae. Therefore, bacteriophages specific for P. larvae were isolated to determine their efficacy in lysing P. larvae cells. Samples from soil, beehive materials, cosmetics, and lysogenized P. larvae strains were screened; of 157 total samples, 28 were positive for at least one P. larvae bacteriophage, with a total of 30. Newly isolated bacteriophages were tested for the ability to lyse each of 11 P. larvae strains. Electron microscopy demonstrated that the phage isolates were from the family Siphoviridae. Seven phages with the broadest host ranges were combined into a cocktail for use in experimental treatments of infected bee larvae; both prophylactic and post-infection treatments were conducted. Results indicated that although both pre- and post-treatments were effective, prophylactic administration of the phages increased the survival of larvae more than post-treatment experiments. These preliminary experiments demonstrate the likelihood that phage therapy could be an effective method to control AFB. PMID:27144085

D-glucose derived novel gemini surfactants: synthesis and study of their surface properties, interaction with DNA, and cytotoxicity.

PubMed

Kumar, Vikash; Chatterjee, Amrita; Kumar, Nupur; Ganguly, Anasuya; Chakraborty, Indranil; Banerjee, Mainak

2014-10-09

Four new D-glucose derived m-s-m type gemini surfactants with variable spacer and tail length have been synthesized by a simple and efficient synthetic methodology utilizing the free C-3 hydroxy group of diisopropylidene glucose. The synthetic route to these gemini surfactants with a quaternary ammonium group as polar head group involves a sequence of simple reactions including alkylation, imine formation, quaternization of amine etc. The surface properties of the new geminis were evaluated by surface tension and conductivity measurements. These gemini surfactants showed low cytotoxicity by MTT assay on HeLa cell line. The DNA binding capabilities of these surfactants were determined by agarose gel electrophoresis, fluorescence titration, and DLS experiments. The preliminary studies by agarose gel electrophoresis indicated chain length dependent DNA binding abilities, further supported by ethidium bromide exclusion experiments. Two of the D-glucose derived gemini surfactants showed effective binding with pET-28a plasmid DNA (pDNA) at relatively low N/P ratio (i.e., cationic nitrogen/DNA phosphate molar ratio). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Transcriptome analysis of Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cells reveals putative apoptosis-related genes and a preliminary apoptosis mechanism induced by azadirachtin.

PubMed

Shu, Benshui; Zhang, Jingjing; Sethuraman, Veeran; Cui, Gaofeng; Yi, Xin; Zhong, Guohua

2017-10-16

As an important botanical pesticide, azadirachtin demonstrates broad insecticidal activity against many agricultural pests. The results of a previous study indicated the toxicity and apoptosis induction of azadirachtin in Spodoptera frugiperda Sf9 cells. However, the lack of genomic data has hindered a deeper investigation of apoptosis in Sf9 cells at a molecular level. In the present study, the complete transcriptome data for Sf9 cell line was accomplished using Illumina sequencing technology, and 97 putative apoptosis-related genes were identified through BLAST and KEGG orthologue annotations. Fragments of potential candidate apoptosis-related genes were cloned, and the mRNA expression patterns of ten identified genes regulated by azadirachtin were examined using qRT-PCR. Furthermore, Western blot analysis showed that six putative apoptosis-related proteins were upregulated after being treated with azadirachtin while the protein Bcl-2 were downregulated. These data suggested that both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic signal pathways comprising the identified potential apoptosis-related genes were potentially active in S. frugiperda. In addition, the preliminary results revealed that caspase-dependent or caspase-independent apoptotic pathways could function in azadirachtin-induced apoptosis in Sf9 cells.

Thermoelectrically controlled device for studies of temperature-induced corneal shrinkage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borja, David; Manns, Fabrice; Fernandez, Viviana; Lamar, Peggy; Soederberg, Per G.; Parel, Jean-Marie A.

2002-06-01

The purpose of this study was to design and calibrate a device to measure the dynamics of thermal shrinkage in corneal and scleral strips. The apparatus consists of a thermoelectric cell controlled by a temperature controller designed to generate temperatures up to 90 degree(s)C in rectangular corneal strips; a copper cuvette filled with Dextran solution that holds the corneal strip and a displacement sensor that measures the change in length of the tissue during heat-induced shrinkage. The device was tested on corneal tissue from Florida Eye-Bank eyes that were cut into 2x4mm rectangular strips. Preliminary results indicate that our system can reproducibly create and accurately measure thermally induced corneal shrinkage. Shrinkage experiments will be used to optimize laser parameters for corneal shrinkage during laser thermokeratoplasty and laser scleral buckling.

Spectral and spatial shaping of a laser-produced ion beam for radiation-biology experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pommarel, L.; Vauzour, B.; Mégnin-Chanet, F.; Bayart, E.; Delmas, O.; Goudjil, F.; Nauraye, C.; Letellier, V.; Pouzoulet, F.; Schillaci, F.; Romano, F.; Scuderi, V.; Cirrone, G. A. P.; Deutsch, E.; Flacco, A.; Malka, V.

2017-03-01

The study of radiation biology on laser-based accelerators is most interesting due to the unique irradiation conditions they can produce, in terms of peak current and duration of the irradiation. In this paper we present the implementation of a beam transport system to transport and shape the proton beam generated by laser-target interaction for in vitro irradiation of biological samples. A set of four permanent magnet quadrupoles is used to transport and focus the beam, efficiently shaping the spectrum and providing a large and relatively uniform irradiation surface. Real time, absolutely calibrated, dosimetry is installed on the beam line, to enable shot-to-shot control of dose deposition in the irradiated volume. Preliminary results of cell sample irradiation are presented to validate the robustness of the full system.

Circadian rhythm of anti-fungal prenylated chromene in leaves of Piper aduncum.

PubMed

Morandim, Andreia de A; Bergamo, Débora Cristina B; Kato, Massuo Jorge; Cavalheiro, Alberto José; Bolzani, Vanderlan da S; Furlan, Maysa

2005-01-01

Leaves of Piper aduncum accumulate the anti-fungal chromenes methyl 2,2-dimethyl-2H-1-chromene-6-carboxylate (1) and methyl 2,2-dimethyl-8-(3'-methyl-2'-butenyl)-2H-1-chromene-6-carboxylate (2). The enzymatic formation of 2 from dimethylallyl diphosphate and 1 was investigated using cell-free extracts of the title plant. An HPLC assay for the prenylation reaction was developed and the enzyme activity measured in the protein extracts. The prenyltransferase that catalyses the transfer of the dimethylallyl group to C-2' of 1 was soluble and required dimethylallyl diphosphate as the prenyl donor. In the leaves, the biosynthesis of the prenylated chromene 2 was time-regulated and prenyltransferase activity depended upon circadian variation. Preliminary characterisation and purification experiments on the prenyltransferase from P. aduncum have been performed.

Technology commercialization cost model and component case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1991-12-01

Fuel cells seem poised to emerge as a clean, efficient, and cost competitive source of fossil fuel based electric power and thermal energy. Sponsors of fuel cell technology development need to determine the validity and the attractiveness of a technology to the market in terms of meeting requirements and providing value which exceeds the total cost of ownership. Sponsors of fuel cell development have addressed this issue by requiring the developers to prepare projections of the future production cost of their fuel cells in commercial quantities. These projected costs, together with performance and life projections, provide a preliminary measure of the total value and cost of the product to the customer. Booz-Allen & Hamilton Inc. and Michael A. Cobb & Company have been retained in several assignments over the years to audit these cost projections. The audits have gone well beyond a simple review of the numbers. They have probed the underlying technical and financial assumptions, the sources of data on material and equipment costs, and explored issues such as the realistic manufacturing yields which can be expected in various processes. Based on the experience gained from these audits, DOE gave Booz-Allen and Michael A. Cobb & company the task to develop a criteria to be used in the execution of future fuel cell manufacturing cost studies. It was thought that such a criteria would make it easier to execute such studies in the future as well as to cause such studies to be more understandable and comparable.

An antibody based approach for multi-coloring osteogenic and chondrogenic proteins in tissue engineered constructs.

PubMed

Leferink, Anne M; Reis, Diogo Santos; van Blitterswijk, Clemens A; Moroni, Lorenzo

2018-04-11

When tissue engineering strategies rely on the combination of three-dimensional (3D) polymeric or ceramic scaffolds with cells to culture implantable tissue constructs in vitro, it is desirable to monitor tissue growth and cell fate to be able to more rationally predict the quality and success of the construct upon implantation. Such a 3D construct is often referred to as a 'black-box' since the properties of the scaffolds material limit the applicability of most imaging modalities to assess important construct parameters. These parameters include the number of cells, the amount and type of tissue formed and the distribution of cells and tissue throughout the construct. Immunolabeling enables the spatial and temporal identification of multiple tissue types within one scaffold without the need to sacrifice the construct. In this report, we concisely review the applicability of antibodies (Abs) and their conjugation chemistries in tissue engineered constructs. With some preliminary experiments, we show an efficient conjugation strategy to couple extracellular matrix Abs to fluorophores. The conjugated probes proved to be effective in determining the presence of collagen type I and type II on electrospun and additive manufactured 3D scaffolds seeded with adult human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells. The conjugation chemistry applied in our proof of concept study is expected to be applicable in the coupling of any other fluorophore or particle to the Abs. This could ultimately lead to a library of probes to permit high-contrast imaging by several imaging modalities.

Thermoelectrically cooled temperature-gradient apparatus for comparative cell and virus temperature studies.

PubMed

Clark, H F; Kaminski, F; Karzon, D T

1970-05-01

Establishment of a near-linear temperature gradient in an incubator has been accomplished by the application of heat to one terminus of a conducting body, normally a metal bar, and the removal of heat from the other terminus of the conducting body. Such incubators have been complex and unwieldy because of the need for mechanical refrigeration. We have described a simplified temperature gradient incubator which uses thermoelectric module cooling coupled with electric heating. Along the gradient, 20 stations in two parallel rows of 10, each accommodating a 30-ml plastic cell culture flask, were continually monitored by an electronic thermometer, and the temperatures were recorded. By manipulation of two simple potentiometer controls, any temperature gradient between 0 and 50 C could be obtained. Minor deviations which occurred between theoretically perfect and obtained temperature gradients were reproducible and readily measured. The gradient incubator was particularly applicable to (i) simultaneously studying a given biological activity over the entire temperature range supporting the growth of a given cell, virus, or microorganism, or (ii) precisely defining the upper or lower temperature limits of a biological system by 10-point determinations. Preliminary experiments have demonstrated the usefulness of the apparatus in characterizing the temperature limits for growth in vitro of cells of reptilian cell lines. The gradient incubator was also successfully utilized for the characterization of the effect of temperature on the efficiency of plating of amphibian viruses and possible temperature variants of those viruses.

Using Hypercard and Interactive Video in Education: An Application in Cell Biology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hall, Wendy; And Others

1989-01-01

Describes the design and implementation of an interactive video system using existing videodiscs and Apple's Hypercard for use in the teaching of cell biology to undergraduate biology students. Hypertext and hypermedia are discussed, the hardware configuration is described, and a preliminary evaluation of the completed system is reported. (five…

Gene enzyme relationships in somatic cells and their organismal derivatives in higher plants. Progress report

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

Jensen, R.A.

This renewal proposal describes preliminary results on the isolation and characterization of a new amino acid, spiro-arogenate. The preparation of /sup 14/C-L-arogenate and an improved assay for arogenate dehydratase are described. The remainder of the proposal deals with the cell biology of Nicotiana. (KRM)

Preliminary research on 1-(4-bromo-2-nitroimidazol-1-yl)-3-[(18)F]fluoropropan-2-ol as a novel brain hypoxia PET tracer in a rodent model of stroke.

PubMed

Nieto, Elena; Delgado, Mercedes; Sobrado, Mónica; de Ceballos, María L; Alajarín, Ramón; García-García, Luis; Kelly, James; Lizasoain, Ignacio; Pozo, Miguel A; Álvarez-Builla, Julio

2015-08-28

The synthesis of the new radiotracer precursor 4-Br-NITTP and the radiolabeling of the new tracer 1-(4-bromo-2-nitroimidazol-1-yl)-3-[(18)F]fluoropropan-2-ol (4-Br-[(18)F]FMISO) is reported. The cyclic voltammetry behaviour, neuronal cell toxicity, transport through the brain endothelial cell monolayer, in vivo PET imaging and preliminary calculations of the tracer uptake for a rodent model of stroke were studied for the new compound and the results were compared to those obtained with [(18)F]FMISO, the current gold standard PET hypoxia tracer. The new PET brain hypoxia tracer is more easily reduced, has higher CLogP than [(18)F]FMISO and it diffuses more rapidly through brain endothelial cells. The new compound is non-toxic to neuronal cells and it allows the in vivo mapping of stroke in mice with higher sensitivity. 4-Br-[(18)F]FMISO is a good candidate for further development in ischemic stroke. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Accelerated stress testing of amorphous silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stoddard, W. G.; Davis, C. W.; Lathrop, J. W.

1985-01-01

A technique for performing accelerated stress tests of large-area thin a-Si solar cells is presented. A computer-controlled short-interval test system employing low-cost ac-powered ELH illumination and a simulated a-Si reference cell (seven individually bandpass-filtered zero-biased crystalline PIN photodiodes) calibrated to the response of an a-Si control cell is described and illustrated with flow diagrams, drawings, and graphs. Preliminary results indicate that while most tests of a program developed for c-Si cells are applicable to a-Si cells, spurious degradation may appear in a-Si cells tested at temperatures above 130 C.

A preliminary look at AVE-SESAME 4 conducted on 9-10 May 1979

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

July, M.; Turner, R. E.

1980-01-01

This report contains information on data collected, symptotic conditions, and severe and unusual weather reported during the Atmospheric Variability Experiment Severe Environmental Storms and Mesoscale Experiment (AVE-SESAME) 4 period. The information provides researchers a look at conditions during the period.

Preliminary Results, Analysis, and Overview of Part-1 of the GOLD Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, K. E.; Jeganathan, M.

1996-01-01

The Ground/Orbiter Lasercomm Demonstration (GOLD) is an optical communications demonstraton between the Japanese Engineering Test Satellite (ETS-VI) and an optical ground transmitting and receiving station at the Table Mountain Facility. GOLD was an experiment that demonstrated real-time international collaboration.

Forest Herbicide Washoff From Foliar Applications

Treesearch

J.L. Michael; Kevin L. Talley; H.C. Fishburn

1992-01-01

Field and laboratory experiments were conducted to develop and test methods for determining washoff of foliar applied herbicides typically used in forestry in the South.Preliminary results show good agreement between results of laboratory methods used and observations from field experiments on actual precipitation events. Methods included application of...

Toward Machine Understanding of Information Quality.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tang, Rong; Ng, K. B.; Strzalkowski, Tomek; Kantor, Paul B.

2003-01-01

Reports preliminary results of a study to develop and automate new metrics for assessment of information quality in text documents, particularly in news. Through focus group studies, quality judgment experiments, and textual feature extraction and analysis, nine quality aspects were generated and applied in human assessments. Experiments were…

The Entrepreneurial Subjectivity of Successful Researchers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sinclair, Jennifer; Cuthbert, Denise; Barnacle, Robyn

2014-01-01

This article begins the work of examining what kind of doctoral experiences positively influence researcher development, and what other attributes may contribute to a successful research career. It reports preliminary findings from the analysis of survey responses by a sample of successful mid-career researchers. Positive doctoral experiences and…

Mass Transportation in Massachusetts : demonstration project progress report no. 6 - bus and parking experiments

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1964-04-10

This sixth progress report, as with all previous such reports, has been prepared by the MTC staff to disseminate the results of the individual experiments and tentative preliminary conclusions so that the full Commission might have the benefit of wid...

A preliminary experiment to collect gas from a submarine gas plume

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aoyama, C.; Fukuoka, H.

2016-12-01

Thousands of gas plumes have been found on the sea floors around Japan. Most of them are associated with methane hydrates on seafloor surface and/or shallow subsurface, and those bubbles are consisting largely of methane. Concerns are emerging about large scale plumes may provide the highly efficient greenhouse gas to the atmosphere. A novel methodology is proposed in this study, to collect those gas bubbles in the plumes using membrane-made dome to reduce global greenhouse effect and to develop new energy resources. Experiment field is northeast offshore of the Sado Island, Niigata prefecture of Japan, where more than 40 gas plumes had been found, gushing out from rather shallower sea floor of 150 - 400 m depth. Authors will present the achievement obtained in the preliminary gas collection experiment which was performed in a gas plume in this sea area in March 2016.

ATS-6 - Preliminary results from the 13/18-GHz COMSAT Propagation Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hyde, G.

1975-01-01

The 13/18-GHz COMSAT Propagation Experiment (CPE) is reviewed, the data acquisition and processing are discussed, and samples of preliminary results are presented. The need for measurements of both hydrometeor-induced attenuation statistics and diversity effectiveness is brought out. The facilitation of the experiment - CPE dual frequency and diversity site location, the CPE ground transmit terminals, the CPE transponder on Applications Technology Satellite-6 (ATS-6), and the CPE receive and data acquisition system - is briefly examined. The on-line preprocessing of the received signal is reviewed, followed by a discussion of the off-line processing of this database to remove signal fluctuations not due to hydrometeors. Finally, samples of the results of first-level analysis of the resultant data for the 18-GHz diversity site near Boston, Mass., and for the dual frequency 13/18-GHz site near Detroit, Mich., are presented and discussed.

SLS-1 flight experiments preliminary significant results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

Spacelab Life Sciences-1 (SLS-1) is the first of a series of dedicated life sciences Spacelab missions designed to investigate the mechanisms involved in the physiological adaptation to weightlessness and the subsequent readaptation to 1 gravity (1 G). Hypotheses generated from the physiological effects observed during earlier missions led to the formulation of several integrated experiments to determine the underlying mechanisms responsible for the observed phenomena. The 18 experiments selected for flight on SLS-1 investigated the cardiovascular, cardiopulmonary, regulatory physiology, musculoskeletal, and neuroscience disciplines in both human and rodent subjects. The SLS-1 preliminary results gave insight to the mechanisms involved in the adaptation to the microgravity environment and readaptation when returning to Earth. The experimental results will be used to promote health and safety for future long duration space flights and, as in the past, will be applied to many biomedical problems encountered here on Earth.

Conjugating binary systems for spacecraft thermal control. Appendix C: Aeroassist Flight Experiment Carrier Vehicle preliminary stress analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ingram, J. E.; Murray, T. O.

1989-01-01

An assessment of the static strength of the Aeroassist Flight Experiment (AFE) Carrier Vehicle is presented. The Carrier Vehicle is the structural component which provides the mounting platform for the experiments, on-board computers, batteries, and other black boxes. In addition, the Solid Rocket Motor (SRM), the Thrusters, and the Aerobrake are all attached directly to the Carrier Vehicle. The basic approach in this analysis was to develop a NASTRAN Finite Element Model as a parallel effort to the preliminary design, and to use the internal loads from this model to perform the stress analysis. The NASTRAN method of Inertial Relief was employed. This method involves either specifying a set of CG (center of gravity) accelerations or applying forces at the CG and representing the Carrier Vehicle and all its mounted devices with the proper stiffness and mass properties.

Protein crystal growth in microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosenblum, William M.; Delucas, Lawrence J.; Wilson, William W.

1989-01-01

Major advances have been made in several of the experimental aspects of protein crystallography, leaving protein crystallization as one of the few remaining bottlenecks. As a result, it has become important that the science of protein crystal growth is better understood and that improved methods for protein crystallization are developed. Preliminary experiments with both small molecules and proteins indicate that microgravity may beneficially affect crystal growth. For this reason, a series of protein crystal growth experiments using the Space Shuttle was initiated. The preliminary space experiments were used to evolve prototype hardware that will form the basis for a more advanced system that can be used to evaluate effects of gravity on protein crystal growth. Various optical techniques are being utilized to monitor the crystal growth process from the incipient or nucleation stage and throughout the growth phase. The eventual goal of these studies is to develop a system which utilizes optical monitoring for dynamic control of the crystallization process.

Comparison between immunohistochemical expression of Ki-67 and MCM-3 in major salivary gland epithelial tumors in children and adolescents. Preliminary study.

PubMed

Zieliński, Rafał; Kobos, Jozef; Zakrzewska, Anna

While Ki-67 expression is frequently used as an indicator of tumor cell proliferation, alternative markers have also been proposed. Possible alternative indicators of proliferation are the minichromosome maintenance (MCM) proteins, whose levels are inversely associated with tumor cell differentiation. The aim of this preliminary study was to compare the levels of Ki-67 and MCM-3 expression in major salivary gland epithelial tumors in all children and adolescents who underwent surgery in our department in the years 2009-2014. The histopathological diagnosis of the subjects was reviewed, as well as the expression of Ki-67 and MCM-3 in post-op specimens of the tumors. The normality of data was checked with the Shapiro-Wilk test. The t test for independent variables or the U test was used as appropriate to determine statistically significant differences in the expression of Ki-67 and MCM-3. Five cases of pleomorphic adenoma, one of myoepithelioma, one of basal cell adenoma and one of mucoepidermoid carcinoma were identified. Significantly greater MCM-3 than Ki-67 expression was observed in every case. The results of our preliminary study emphasize the need for future research on MCM-3 as a sensitive proliferation marker, providing an alternative to Ki-67, in cases of various major salivary gland epithelial tumors in children and adolescents.

Feasibility of localized immunosuppression: 3. Preliminary evaluation of organosilicone constructs designed for sustained drug release in a cell transplant environment using dexamethasone.

PubMed

Song, Y; Margolles-Clark, E; Fraker, C A; Weaver, J D; Ricordi, C; Pileggi, A; Stabler, C L; Buchwald, P

2012-05-01

As part of our ongoing effort to develop biohybrid devices for pancreatic islet transplantation, we are interested in establishing the feasibility of a localized immune-suppressive approach to avoid or minimize the undesirable side effects of existing systemic treatments. Since biohybrid devices can also incorporate biocompatible scaffold constructs to provide a support environment for the transplanted cells that enhances their engraftment and long-term function, we are particularly interested in an approach that would use the same three-dimensional construct, or part of the same construct, to also provide sustained release of therapeutic agents to modulate the inflammatory and immune responses locally. Within this framework, here, we report preliminary results obtained during the investigation of the suitability of organosilicone constructs for providing sustained localized drug release using small, matrix-type polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) disks and dexamethasone as a model hydrophobic drug. Following a short burst, long-term steady sustained release was observed under in vitro conditions at levels of 0.1-0.5 microg/day/disk with a profile in excellent agreement with that predicted by the Higuchi equation. To verify that therapeutic levels can be achieved, suppression of LPS-induced activation has been shown in THP-1 cells with disks that have been pre-soaked for up to 28 days. These preliminary results prove the feasibility of this approach where an integral part of the biomaterial construct used to enhance cell engraftment and long-term function also serves to provide sustained local drug release.

Preliminary Electrochemical Characterization of Anode Supported Solid Oxide Cell (AS-SOC) Produced in the Institute of Power Engineering Operated in Electrolysis Mode (SOEC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kupecki, Jakub; Motyliński, Konrad; Skrzypkiewicz, Marek; Wierzbicki, Michał; Naumovich, Yevgeniy

2017-12-01

The article discusses the operation of solid oxide electrochemical cells (SOC) developed in the Institute of Power Engineering as prospective key components of power-to-gas systems. The fundamentals of the solid oxide cells operated as fuel cells (SOFC - solid oxide fuel cells) and electrolysers (SOEC - solid oxide fuel cells) are given. The experimental technique used for electrochemical characterization of cells is presented. The results obtained for planar cell with anodic support are given and discussed. Based on the results, the applicability of the cells in power-to-gas systems (P2G) is evaluated.

A preliminary study on the potential of manuka honey and platelet-rich plasma in wound healing.

PubMed

Sell, Scott A; Wolfe, Patricia S; Spence, Andrew J; Rodriguez, Isaac A; McCool, Jennifer M; Petrella, Rebecca L; Garg, Koyal; Ericksen, Jeffery J; Bowlin, Gary L

2012-01-01

Aim. The purpose of this study was to determine the in vitro response of cells critical to the wound healing process in culture media supplemented with a lyophilized preparation rich in growth factors (PRGF) and Manuka honey. Materials and Methods. This study utilized cell culture media supplemented with PRGF, as well as whole Manuka honey and the medical-grade Medihoney (MH), a Manuka honey product. The response of human fibroblasts (hDF), macrophages, and endothelial cells (hPMEC) was evaluated, with respect to cell proliferation, chemotaxis, collagen matrix production, and angiogenic potential, when subjected to culture with media containing PRGF, MH, Manuka honey, and a combination of PRGF and MH. Results. All three cell types demonstrated increases in cellular activity in the presence of PRGF, with further increases in activity seen in the presence of PRGF+MH. hDFs proved to be the most positively responsive cells, as they experienced enhanced proliferation, collagen matrix production, and migration into an in vitro wound healing model with the PRGF+MH-supplemented media. Conclusion. This preliminary in vitro study is the first to evaluate the combination of PRGF and Manuka honey, two products with the potential to increase regeneration individually, as a combined product to enhance dermal regeneration.

A Preliminary Study on the Potential of Manuka Honey and Platelet-Rich Plasma in Wound Healing

PubMed Central

Sell, Scott A.; Wolfe, Patricia S.; Spence, Andrew J.; Rodriguez, Isaac A.; McCool, Jennifer M.; Petrella, Rebecca L.; Garg, Koyal; Ericksen, Jeffery J.; Bowlin, Gary L.

2012-01-01

Aim. The purpose of this study was to determine the in vitro response of cells critical to the wound healing process in culture media supplemented with a lyophilized preparation rich in growth factors (PRGF) and Manuka honey. Materials and Methods. This study utilized cell culture media supplemented with PRGF, as well as whole Manuka honey and the medical-grade Medihoney (MH), a Manuka honey product. The response of human fibroblasts (hDF), macrophages, and endothelial cells (hPMEC) was evaluated, with respect to cell proliferation, chemotaxis, collagen matrix production, and angiogenic potential, when subjected to culture with media containing PRGF, MH, Manuka honey, and a combination of PRGF and MH. Results. All three cell types demonstrated increases in cellular activity in the presence of PRGF, with further increases in activity seen in the presence of PRGF+MH. hDFs proved to be the most positively responsive cells, as they experienced enhanced proliferation, collagen matrix production, and migration into an in vitro wound healing model with the PRGF+MH-supplemented media. Conclusion. This preliminary in vitro study is the first to evaluate the combination of PRGF and Manuka honey, two products with the potential to increase regeneration individually, as a combined product to enhance dermal regeneration. PMID:23304152

Cell-free fetal DNA testing: A pilot study of obstetric healthcare provider attitudes towards clinical implementation

PubMed Central

Sayres, Lauren; Allyse, Megan; Norton, Mary; Cho, Mildred

2011-01-01

Objective To provide a preliminary assessment of obstetric healthcare provider opinions surrounding implementation of cell-free fetal DNA testing. Methods A 37-question pilot survey was used to address questions around the translation and use of non-invasive prenatal testing using cell-free fetal DNA. The survey was distributed and collected at a Continuing Medical Education course on obstetrics and gynecology. Results Of 62 survey respondents, 73% are female and 87% hold MD/DO degrees. Respondents generally agree that patients want prenatal diagnostic information to help make decisions about a pregnancy and that cell-free fetal DNA testing will encourage the testing of more patients for more conditions. However, there is an overall lack of knowledge or conviction about using this technology. Genetic counseling and professional society approval are deemed important to implementation whereas the possibility of direct-to-consumer testing and government regulation produce mixed responses. Respondents indicate that they are more likely to offer cell-free fetal DNA testing for chromosomal abnormalities and single-gene disorders, but are cautious with respect to determination of sex and behavioral or late-onset conditions. Conclusion Preliminary assessment indicates uncertainty among obstetric providers about the details of implementing cell-free fetal DNA testing and suggests expanded research on perspectives of this stakeholder group. PMID:21793012

Laser selective microablation of sensitized intracellular components within auditory receptor cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, David M.; Evans, Burt N.; Santos-Sacchi, Joseph

1995-05-01

A laser system can be coupled to a light microscope for laser microbeam ablation and trapping of single cells in vitro. We have extended this technology by sensitization of target structures with vital dyes to provide selective ablation of specific subcellular components. Isolated auditory receptor cells (outer hair cells, OHCs) are known to elongate and contract in response to electrical, chemical and mechanical stimulation. Various intracellular structures are candidate components mediating motility of OHCs, but the exact mechanism(s) is currently unknown. In ongoing studies of OHC motility, we have used the microbeam for selective ablation of lateral wall components and of an axial cytoskeletal core that extends from the nucleus to the cell apex. Both the area beneath the subsurface cistemae of the lateral wall and the core are rich in mitochondria. OHCs isolated from guinea pig cochlea are suspended in L- 15 medium containing 2.0 (mu) M Rhodamine 123, a porphyrin with an affinity for mitochondria. A spark-pumped nitrogen laser pumping a dye cell (Coumarin 500) was aligned on the optical axis of a Nikon Optiphot-2 to produce a 3 ns, 0.5 - 10 micrometers spot (diameter above ablation threshold w/50X water immersion, N.A. 0.8), and energy at the target approximately equals 10 (mu) J/pulse. At short incubation times in Rh123 irradiation caused local blebbing or bulging of cytoplastic membrane and thus loss of the OHC's cylindrical shape. At longer Rh123 incubation times when the central axis of the cell was targeted we observed cytoplasmic clearing, immediate cell elongation (approximately equals 5%) and clumping of core material at nuclear and apical attachments. Experiments are underway to examine the significance of these preliminary observations.

[Experience in the use of equipment for ECG system analysis in municipal polyclinics].

PubMed

Bondarenko, A A

2006-01-01

Two electrocardiographs, an analog-digital electrocardiograph with preliminary analog filtering of signal and a smart cardiograph implemented as a PC-compatible device without preliminary analog filtering, are considered. Advantages and disadvantages of ECG systems based on artificial intelligence are discussed. ECG interpretation modes provided by the two electrocardiographs are considered. The reliability of automatic ECG interpretation is assessed. Problems of rational use of automated ECG processing systems are discussed.

Preliminary results on the search for the neutrinoless double beta decay of 130Te with the cuoricino experiment

DOE PAGES

Nucciotti, A.

2003-11-18

The search for neutrinoless double beta decay (DBD-0ν) is a powerful tool to establish the correct neutrino mass hierarchy and whether the neutrino is a Majorana or Dirac particle. The Milano group has run several experiments using thermal detectors to search for the 130Te DBD-0ν. The Cuoricino experiment consists of an array of 62 TeO 2 thermal detectors for a total mass of about 40 kg, by far the largest cryogenic experiment in the world. The detector installation in the Gran Sasso Underground Laboratory has been recently completed. After a test phase the experiment is now taking data and wemore » report here the preliminary results. In conclusion, Cuoricino is the first step toward the CUORE experiment, which will consists of 1000 TeO 2 thermal detectors for a total mass of about 760 kg: in this paper we discuss also the physics potential of both stages for what concerns the DBD-0ν search. PACS: 11.30.Fs Lepton number – 14.60.Pq Neutrino mass and mixing – 23.40.Bw Weak interactions in beta decay« less

The Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (GeoMIP6): Simulation design and preliminary results

DOE PAGES

Kravitz, Benjamin S.; Robock, Alan; Tilmes, S.; ...

2015-10-27

We present a suite of new climate model experiment designs for the Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project (GeoMIP). This set of experiments, named GeoMIP6 (to be consistent with the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6), builds on the previous GeoMIP project simulations, and has been expanded to address several further important topics, including key uncertainties in extreme events, the use of geoengineering as part of a portfolio of responses to climate change, and the relatively new idea of cirrus cloud thinning to allow more long wave radiation to escape to space. We discuss experiment designs, as well as the rationale formore » those designs, showing preliminary results from individual models when available. We also introduce a new feature, called the GeoMIP Testbed, which provides a platform for simulations that will be performed with a few models and subsequently assessed to determine whether the proposed experiment designs will be adopted as core (Tier 1) GeoMIP experiments. In conclusion, this is meant to encourage various stakeholders to propose new targeted experiments that address their key open science questions, with the goal of making GeoMIP more relevant to a broader set of communities.« less

A preliminary investigation of the environmental Control and Life Support Subsystems (EC/LSS) for animal and plant experiment payloads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wells, H. B.

1972-01-01

A preliminary study of the environmental control and life support subsystems (EC/LSS) necessary for an earth orbital spacecraft to conduct biological experiments is presented. The primary spacecraft models available for conducting these biological experiments are the space shuttle and modular space station. The experiments would be housed in a separate module that would be contained in either the shuttle payload bay or attached to the modular space station. This module would be manned only for experiment-related tasks, and would contain a separate EC/LSS for the crew and animals. Metabolic data were tabulated on various animals that are considered useful for a typical experiment program. The minimum payload for the 30-day space shuttle module was found to require about the equivalent of a one-man EC/LSS; however, the selected two-man shuttle assemblies will give a growth and contingency factor of about 50 percent. The maximum payloads for the space station mission will require at least a seven-man EC/LSS for the laboratory colony and a nine-man EC/LSS for the centrifuge colony. There is practically no room for growth or contingencies in these areas.

Identification and in vitro cytotoxicity of ochratoxin A degradation products formed during coffee roasting.

PubMed

Cramer, Benedikt; Königs, Maika; Humpf, Hans-Ulrich

2008-07-23

The mycotoxin ochratoxin A is degraded by up to 90% during coffee roasting. In order to investigate this degradation, model heating experiments with ochratoxin A were carried out, and the reaction products were analyzed by HPLC-DAD and HPLC-MS/MS. Two ochratoxin A degradation products were identified, and their structure and absolute configuration were determined. As degradation reactions, the isomerization to 14-(R)-ochratoxin A and the decarboxylation to 14-decarboxy-ochratoxin A were identified. Subsequently, an analytical method for the determination of these compounds in roasted coffee was developed. Quantification was carried out by HPLC-MS/MS and the use of stable isotope dilution analysis. By using this method for the analysis of 15 coffee samples from the German market, it could be shown that, during coffee roasting, the ochratoxin A diastereomer 14-(R)-ochratoxin A was formed in amounts of up to 25.6% relative to ochratoxin A. The decarboxylation product was formed only in traces. For toxicity evaluations, first preliminary cell culture assays were performed with the two new substances. Both degradation products exhibited higher IC50 values and caused apoptotic effects with higher concentrations than ochratoxin A in cultured human kidney epithelial cells. Thus, these cell culture data suggest that the degradation products are less cytotoxic than ochratoxin A.