Effect of blue and violet light on polymerization shrinkage vectors of a CQ/TPO-containing composite.

PubMed

Sampaio, Camila S; Atria, Pablo J; Rueggeberg, Frederick A; Yamaguchi, Satoshi; Giannini, Marcelo; Coelho, Paulo G; Hirata, Ronaldo; Puppin-Rontani, Regina M

2017-07-01

To evaluate the effect of light-curing wavelengths on composite filler particle displacement, and thus to visualize localized polymerization shrinkage in a resin-based composite (RBC) containing camphorquinone (CQ) and Lucirin TPO (TPO). Three light-curing units (LCUs) were used to light-cure a RBC containing CQ and TPO: a violet-only, a blue-only, and a dual-wavelength, conventional (Polywave ® , emitting violet and blue wavelengths simultaneously). Zirconia fillers were added to the RBC to act as filler particle displacement tracers. LCUs were characterized for total emitted power (mW) and spectral irradiant output (mW/cm 2 /nm). 2-mm high, 7-mm diameter silanized glass cylindrical specimens were filled in a single increment with the RBC, and micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) scans were obtained before and after light-curing, according to each LCU (n=6). Filler particle movement identified polymerization shrinkage vectors, traced using software, at five depths (from 0 up to 2mm): top, top-middle, middle, middle-bottom and bottom. Considering different RBC depths within the same LCU, use of violet-only and conventional LCUs showed filler particle movement decreased with increased depth. Blue-only LCU showed homogeneous filler particle movement along the depths. Considering the effect of different LCUs within the same depth, filler particle movement within LCUs was not statistically different until the middle of the samples (P>.05). However, at the middle-bottom and bottom depths (1.5 and 2mm, respectively), blue-only LCU compared to violet-only LCU showed higher magnitude of displacement vector values (P<.05). Use of the conventional LCU showed filler displacement magnitudes that were not significantly different than blue-only and violet-only LCUs at any depth (P>.05). With respect to the direction of particle movement vectors, use of violet-only LCU showed a greater displacement when close to the incident violet LED; blue-only LCU showed equally distributed particle displacement values within entire depth among the samples; and the conventional LCU showed greater filler displacement closer to the blue LED locations. Filler particle displacement in a RBC as a result of light-curing is related to localized application of light wavelength and total emitted power of the light emitted on the top surface of the RBC. When the violet LED is present (violet-only and conventional LCUs), filler particle displacement magnitude decreased with increased depth, while results using the blue-only LED show a more consistent pattern of displacement. Clinically, these results correlate to production of different characteristics of curing within a RBC restoration mass, depending on localized wavelengths applied to the irradiated surface. Copyright © 2017 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

21 CFR 74.2602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.1602(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 may be...

75 FR 27815 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From China and India; Determinations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-18

...) Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From China and India; Determinations On the basis of the record \\1\\ developed in... countervailing duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 from India would be likely to lead to continuation or... that revocation of the antidumping duty orders on carbazole violet pigment 23 from China and India...

21 CFR 74.2602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.1602(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 may be...

21 CFR 74.2602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.1602(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 may be...

21 CFR 74.2602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 74.2602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and specifications. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.1602(a)(1) and (b). (b) Uses and restrictions. The color additive D&C Violet No. 2 may be...

21 CFR 73.2775 - Manganese violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... manganese violet is a violet pigment obtained by reacting phosphoric acid, ammonium dihydrogen orthophosphate, and manganese dioxide at temperatures above 450 °F. The pigment is a manganese ammonium...

Design Considerations for a Water Treatment System Utilizing Ultra-Violet Light Emitting Diodes

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-27

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR A WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM UTILIZING ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT EMITTING DIODES...the United States. ii AFIT-ENV-14-M-58 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR A WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM UTILIZING ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT EMITTING DIODES...DISTRIBUTION UNLIMITED. iii AFIT-ENV-14-M-58 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR A WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM UTILIZING ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT EMITTING

Imaging of high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy and observations of GaN-based violet laser diodes.

PubMed

Shiojiri, M; Saijo, H

2006-09-01

The first part of this paper is devoted to physics, to explain high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) imaging and to interpret why HAADF-STEM imaging is incoherent, instructing a strict definition of interference and coherence of electron waves. Next, we present our recent investigations of InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells and AlGaN/GaN strained-layer superlattice claddings in GaN-based violet laser diodes, which have been performed by HAADF-STEM and high-resolution field-emission gun scanning electron microscopy.

To sort or not to sort: the impact of spike-sorting on neural decoding performance.

PubMed

Todorova, Sonia; Sadtler, Patrick; Batista, Aaron; Chase, Steven; Ventura, Valérie

2014-10-01

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are a promising technology for restoring motor ability to paralyzed patients. Spiking-based BCIs have successfully been used in clinical trials to control multi-degree-of-freedom robotic devices. Current implementations of these devices require a lengthy spike-sorting step, which is an obstacle to moving this technology from the lab to the clinic. A viable alternative is to avoid spike-sorting, treating all threshold crossings of the voltage waveform on an electrode as coming from one putative neuron. It is not known, however, how much decoding information might be lost by ignoring spike identity. We present a full analysis of the effects of spike-sorting schemes on decoding performance. Specifically, we compare how well two common decoders, the optimal linear estimator and the Kalman filter, reconstruct the arm movements of non-human primates performing reaching tasks, when receiving input from various sorting schemes. The schemes we tested included: using threshold crossings without spike-sorting; expert-sorting discarding the noise; expert-sorting, including the noise as if it were another neuron; and automatic spike-sorting using waveform features. We also decoded from a joint statistical model for the waveforms and tuning curves, which does not involve an explicit spike-sorting step. Discarding the threshold crossings that cannot be assigned to neurons degrades decoding: no spikes should be discarded. Decoding based on spike-sorted units outperforms decoding based on electrodes voltage crossings: spike-sorting is useful. The four waveform based spike-sorting methods tested here yield similar decoding efficiencies: a fast and simple method is competitive. Decoding using the joint waveform and tuning model shows promise but is not consistently superior. Our results indicate that simple automated spike-sorting performs as well as the more computationally or manually intensive methods used here. Even basic spike-sorting adds value to the low-threshold waveform-crossing methods often employed in BCI decoding.

To sort or not to sort: the impact of spike-sorting on neural decoding performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Todorova, Sonia; Sadtler, Patrick; Batista, Aaron; Chase, Steven; Ventura, Valérie

2014-10-01

Objective. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are a promising technology for restoring motor ability to paralyzed patients. Spiking-based BCIs have successfully been used in clinical trials to control multi-degree-of-freedom robotic devices. Current implementations of these devices require a lengthy spike-sorting step, which is an obstacle to moving this technology from the lab to the clinic. A viable alternative is to avoid spike-sorting, treating all threshold crossings of the voltage waveform on an electrode as coming from one putative neuron. It is not known, however, how much decoding information might be lost by ignoring spike identity. Approach. We present a full analysis of the effects of spike-sorting schemes on decoding performance. Specifically, we compare how well two common decoders, the optimal linear estimator and the Kalman filter, reconstruct the arm movements of non-human primates performing reaching tasks, when receiving input from various sorting schemes. The schemes we tested included: using threshold crossings without spike-sorting; expert-sorting discarding the noise; expert-sorting, including the noise as if it were another neuron; and automatic spike-sorting using waveform features. We also decoded from a joint statistical model for the waveforms and tuning curves, which does not involve an explicit spike-sorting step. Main results. Discarding the threshold crossings that cannot be assigned to neurons degrades decoding: no spikes should be discarded. Decoding based on spike-sorted units outperforms decoding based on electrodes voltage crossings: spike-sorting is useful. The four waveform based spike-sorting methods tested here yield similar decoding efficiencies: a fast and simple method is competitive. Decoding using the joint waveform and tuning model shows promise but is not consistently superior. Significance. Our results indicate that simple automated spike-sorting performs as well as the more computationally or manually intensive methods used here. Even basic spike-sorting adds value to the low-threshold waveform-crossing methods often employed in BCI decoding.

On vegetation mapping in Alaska using LANDSAT imagery with primary concerns for method and purpose in satellite image-based vegetation and land-use mapping and the visual interpretation of imagery in photographic format

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, J. H. (Principal Investigator)

1976-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. A simulated color infrared LANDSAT image covering the western Seward Peninsula was used for identifying and mapping vegetation by direct visual examination. The 1:1,083,400 scale print used was prepared by a color additive process using positive transparencies from MSS bands 4, 5, and 7. Seven color classes were recognized. A vegetation map of 3200 sq km area just west of Fairbanks, Alaska was made. Five colors were recognized on the image and identified to vegetation types roughly equivalent to formations in the UNESCO classification: orange - broadleaf deciduous forest; gray - needleleaf evergreen forest; light violet - subarctic alpine tundra vegetation; violet - broadleaf deciduous shrub thicket; and dull violet - bog vegetation.

Albanian violets of the section Melanium, their morphological variability, genetic similarity and their adaptations to serpentine or chalk soils.

PubMed

Słomka, Aneta; Godzik, Barbara; Szarek-Łukaszewska, Grażyna; Shuka, Lulëzim; Hoef-Emden, Kerstin; Bothe, Hermann

2015-02-01

Violets of the section Melanium from Albanian serpentine and chalk soils were examined for their taxonomic affiliations, their ability to accumulate heavy metals and their colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The sequence analysis of the ITS1-5.8S rDNA-ITS2 region showed that all the sampled six Albanian violets grouped between Viola lutea and Viola arvensis, but not with Viola tricolor. The fine resolution of the ITS sequences was not sufficient for a further delimitation of the Albanian violets within the V. lutea-V. arvensis clade. Therefore, the Albanian violets were classified by a set of morphological characters. Viola albanica, Viola dukadjinica and Viola raunsiensis from serpentine soils as well as Viola aetolica from a chalk meadow were unambiguously identified, whereas the samples of Viola macedonica showed high morphological variability. All the violets, in both roots and shoots contained less than or similar levels of heavy metals as their harboring soils, indicating that they were heavy metal excluders. All the violets were strongly colonized by AMF with the remarkable exception of V. albanica. This violet lived as a scree creeper in shallow serpentine soil where the concentration of heavy metals was high but those of P, K and N were scarce. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Crystal Violet Lactone Salicylaldehyde Hydrazone Zn(II) Complex: a Reversible Photochromic Material both in Solution and in Solid Matrix

PubMed Central

Li, Kai; Li, Yuanyuan; Tao, Jing; Liu, Lu; Wang, Lili; Hou, Hongwei; Tong, Aijun

2015-01-01

Crystal violet lactone (CVL) is a classic halochromic dye which has been widely used as chromogenic reagent in thermochromic and piezochromic systems. In this work, a very first example of CVL-based reversible photochromic compound was developed, which showed distinct color change upon UV-visible light irradiation both in solution and in solid matrix. Moreover, metal complex of CVL salicylaldehyde hydrozone was facilely synthesized, exhibiting reversible photochromic properties with good fatigue resistance. It was served as promising solid material for photo-patterning. PMID:26412101

BIODEGRADATION OF CRYSTAL VIOLET BY THE WHITE ROT FUNGUS PHANEROCHAETE CHRYSOPORIUM

EPA Science Inventory

Biodegradation of crystal violet (N,N,N',N',N",N"-hexamethylpararosaniline) in ligninolytic (nitrogen-limited) cultures of the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium was demonstrated by the disappearance of crystal violet and by the identification of three metabolites (N,N,...

Photo Inactivation of Streptococcus mutans Biofilm by Violet-Blue light.

PubMed

Gomez, Grace F; Huang, Ruijie; MacPherson, Meoghan; Ferreira Zandona, Andrea G; Gregory, Richard L

2016-09-01

Among various preventive approaches, non-invasive phototherapy/photodynamic therapy is one of the methods used to control oral biofilm. Studies indicate that light at specific wavelengths has a potent antibacterial effect. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of violet-blue light at 380-440 nm to inhibit biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans or kill S. mutans. S. mutans UA159 biofilm cells were grown for 12-16 h in 96-well flat-bottom microtiter plates using tryptic soy broth (TSB) or TSB with 1 % sucrose (TSBS). Biofilm was irradiated with violet-blue light for 5 min. After exposure, plates were re-incubated at 37 °C for either 2 or 6 h to allow the bacteria to recover. A crystal violet biofilm assay was used to determine relative densities of the biofilm cells grown in TSB, but not in TSBS, exposed to violet-blue light. The results indicated a statistically significant (P < 0.05) decrease compared to the non-treated groups after the 2 or 6 h recovery period. Growth rates of planktonic and biofilm cells indicated a significant reduction in the growth rate of the violet-blue light-treated groups grown in TSB and TSBS. Biofilm viability assays confirmed a statistically significant difference between violet-blue light-treated and non-treated groups in TSB and TSBS. Visible violet-blue light of the electromagnetic spectrum has the ability to inhibit S. mutans growth and reduce the formation of S. mutans biofilm. This in vitro study demonstrated that violet-blue light has the capacity to inhibit S. mutans biofilm formation. Potential clinical applications of light therapy in the future remain bright in preventing the development and progression of dental caries.

Chip-based droplet sorting

DOEpatents

Beer, Neil Reginald; Lee, Abraham; Hatch, Andrew

2014-07-01

A non-contact system for sorting monodisperse water-in-oil emulsion droplets in a microfluidic device based on the droplet's contents and their interaction with an applied electromagnetic field or by identification and sorting.

Sensitive detection of malachite green and crystal violet by nonlinear laser wave mixing and capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Maxwell, Eric J; Tong, William G

2016-05-01

An ultrasensitive label-free antibody-free detection method for malachite green and crystal violet is presented using nonlinear laser wave-mixing spectroscopy and capillary zone electrophoresis. Wave-mixing spectroscopy provides a sensitive absorption-based detection method for trace analytes. This is accomplished by forming dynamic gratings within a sample cell, which diffracts light to create a coherent laser-like signal beam with high optical efficiency and high signal-to-noise ratio. A cubic dependence on laser power and square dependence on analyte concentration make wave mixing sensitive enough to detect molecules in their native form without the use of fluorescent labels for signal enhancement. A 532 nm laser and a 635 nm laser were used for malachite green and crystal violet sample excitation. The use of two lasers of different wavelengths allows the method to simultaneously detect both analytes. Selectivity is obtained through the capillary zone electrophoresis separation, which results in characteristic migration times. Measurement in capillary zone electrophoresis resulted in a limit of detection of 6.9 × 10(-10)M (2.5 × 10(-19) mol) for crystal violet and 8.3 × 10(-11)M (3.0 × 10(-20) mol) for malachite green at S/N of 2. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Reducing 4D CT artifacts using optimized sorting based on anatomic similarity.

PubMed

Johnston, Eric; Diehn, Maximilian; Murphy, James D; Loo, Billy W; Maxim, Peter G

2011-05-01

Four-dimensional (4D) computed tomography (CT) has been widely used as a tool to characterize respiratory motion in radiotherapy. The two most commonly used 4D CT algorithms sort images by the associated respiratory phase or displacement into a predefined number of bins, and are prone to image artifacts at transitions between bed positions. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate a method of reducing motion artifacts in 4D CT by incorporating anatomic similarity into phase or displacement based sorting protocols. Ten patient datasets were retrospectively sorted using both the displacement and phase based sorting algorithms. Conventional sorting methods allow selection of only the nearest-neighbor image in time or displacement within each bin. In our method, for each bed position either the displacement or the phase defines the center of a bin range about which several candidate images are selected. The two dimensional correlation coefficients between slices bordering the interface between adjacent couch positions are then calculated for all candidate pairings. Two slices have a high correlation if they are anatomically similar. Candidates from each bin are then selected to maximize the slice correlation over the entire data set using the Dijkstra's shortest path algorithm. To assess the reduction of artifacts, two thoracic radiation oncologists independently compared the resorted 4D datasets pairwise with conventionally sorted datasets, blinded to the sorting method, to choose which had the least motion artifacts. Agreement between reviewers was evaluated using the weighted kappa score. Anatomically based image selection resulted in 4D CT datasets with significantly reduced motion artifacts with both displacement (P = 0.0063) and phase sorting (P = 0.00022). There was good agreement between the two reviewers, with complete agreement 34 times and complete disagreement 6 times. Optimized sorting using anatomic similarity significantly reduces 4D CT motion artifacts compared to conventional phase or displacement based sorting. This improved sorting algorithm is a straightforward extension of the two most common 4D CT sorting algorithms.

Development of a novel cell sorting method that samples population diversity in flow cytometry.

PubMed

Osborne, Geoffrey W; Andersen, Stacey B; Battye, Francis L

2015-11-01

Flow cytometry based electrostatic cell sorting is an important tool in the separation of cell populations. Existing instruments can sort single cells into multi-well collection plates, and keep track of cell of origin and sorted well location. However currently single sorted cell results reflect the population distribution and fail to capture the population diversity. Software was designed that implements a novel sorting approach, "Slice and Dice Sorting," that links a graphical representation of a multi-well plate to logic that ensures that single cells are sampled and sorted from all areas defined by the sort region/s. Therefore the diversity of the total population is captured, and the more frequently occurring or rarer cell types are all sampled. The sorting approach was tested computationally, and using functional cell based assays. Computationally we demonstrate that conventional single cell sorting can sample as little as 50% of the population diversity dependant on the population distribution, and that Slice and Dice sorting samples much more of the variety present within a cell population. We then show by sorting single cells into wells using the Slice and Dice sorting method that there are cells sorted using this method that would be either rarely sorted, or not sorted at all using conventional single cell sorting approaches. The present study demonstrates a novel single cell sorting method that samples much more of the population diversity than current methods. It has implications in clonal selection, stem cell sorting, single cell sequencing and any areas where population heterogeneity is of importance. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.

Automated spike sorting algorithm based on Laplacian eigenmaps and k-means clustering.

PubMed

Chah, E; Hok, V; Della-Chiesa, A; Miller, J J H; O'Mara, S M; Reilly, R B

2011-02-01

This study presents a new automatic spike sorting method based on feature extraction by Laplacian eigenmaps combined with k-means clustering. The performance of the proposed method was compared against previously reported algorithms such as principal component analysis (PCA) and amplitude-based feature extraction. Two types of classifier (namely k-means and classification expectation-maximization) were incorporated within the spike sorting algorithms, in order to find a suitable classifier for the feature sets. Simulated data sets and in-vivo tetrode multichannel recordings were employed to assess the performance of the spike sorting algorithms. The results show that the proposed algorithm yields significantly improved performance with mean sorting accuracy of 73% and sorting error of 10% compared to PCA which combined with k-means had a sorting accuracy of 58% and sorting error of 10%.A correction was made to this article on 22 February 2011. The spacing of the title was amended on the abstract page. No changes were made to the article PDF and the print version was unaffected.

21 CFR 73.2775 - Manganese violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 73.2775 Manganese violet. (a) Identity. The color additive... less than 93 percent. (c) Uses and restrictions. Manganese violet is safe for use in coloring cosmetics generally, including cosmetics applied to the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing...

21 CFR 73.2775 - Manganese violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 73.2775 Manganese violet. (a) Identity. The color additive... less than 93 percent. (c) Uses and restrictions. Manganese violet is safe for use in coloring cosmetics generally, including cosmetics applied to the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing...

21 CFR 73.2775 - Manganese violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 73.2775 Manganese violet. (a) Identity. The color additive... less than 93 percent. (c) Uses and restrictions. Manganese violet is safe for use in coloring cosmetics generally, including cosmetics applied to the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing...

21 CFR 73.2775 - Manganese violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Manganese violet. 73.2775 Section 73.2775 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Cosmetics § 73.2775 Manganese violet. (a) Identity. The color additive...

21 CFR 73.3107 - Carbazole violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Carbazole violet. 73.3107 Section 73.3107 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 73.3107 Carbazole violet. (a) Identity. The color...

21 CFR 73.3107 - Carbazole violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Carbazole violet. 73.3107 Section 73.3107 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 73.3107 Carbazole violet. (a) Identity. The color...

21 CFR 73.3107 - Carbazole violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Carbazole violet. 73.3107 Section 73.3107 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 73.3107 Carbazole violet. (a) Identity. The color...

21 CFR 73.3107 - Carbazole violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Carbazole violet. 73.3107 Section 73.3107 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 73.3107 Carbazole violet. (a) Identity. The color...

21 CFR 73.3107 - Carbazole violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Carbazole violet. 73.3107 Section 73.3107 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES EXEMPT FROM CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 73.3107 Carbazole violet. (a) Identity. The color...

75 FR 25209 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Rescission of Administrative Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-07

... from India: Rescission of Administrative Review AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade... administrative review of the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 (CVP 23) from India for the...-circumstances review. See Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Initiation of Antidumping Duty Changed...

75 FR 52930 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Preliminary Results of Antidumping Duty Changed...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-08-30

... From India: Preliminary Results of Antidumping Duty Changed-Circumstances Review AGENCY: Import... order on carbazole violet pigment 23 from India to determine whether Meghmani Pigments (Meghmani) is the... initiation of an antidumping duty changed- circumstances review. See Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India...

75 FR 62765 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Final Results of Antidumping Duty Changed-Circumstances...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-13

... From India: Final Results of Antidumping Duty Changed-Circumstances Review AGENCY: Import...-in-interest to Alpanil Industries. See Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Preliminary Results of... Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Final Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Review, 75 FR 38076...

21 CFR 589.1000 - Gentian violet.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 6 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Gentian violet. 589.1000 Section 589.1000 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) ANIMAL DRUGS... Substances Prohibited From Use in Animal Food or Feed § 589.1000 Gentian violet. The Food and Drug...

Effects of anthocyanin and carotenoid combinations on foliage and immature fruit color of Capsicum annuum L.

PubMed

Lightbourn, Gordon J; Griesbach, Robert J; Novotny, Janet A; Clevidence, Beverly A; Rao, David D; Stommel, John R

2008-01-01

Shades ranging from violet to black pigmentation in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) are attributed to anthocyanin accumulation. High-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis of violet and black fruit tissue identified a single anthocyanin that was determined to be delphinidin-3-p-coumaroyl-rutinoside-5-glucoside. Leaf tissue of a black-pigmented foliage genotype contained the same anthocyanin found in fruit but at a considerably higher concentration in comparison to violet and black fruit tissue. Fruit chlorophyll concentration was approximately 14-fold higher in black fruit in comparison to violet fruit that contained relatively little chlorophyll. Beta-carotene, lutein, violaxanthin, and neoxanthin carotenoid concentrations in black fruit were also significantly greater in comparison to violet fruit. High concentrations of delphinidin in combination with chlorophyll and accessory carotenoid pigments produced the characteristic black pigmentation observed in fruits and leaves of selected genotypes. Anthocyanins were accumulated in the outer mesocarp of violet and black fruit and in the palisade and mesophyll cells of black leaves. Consistent with chlorophyll content of respective genotypes, chloroplast density was greater in cells of black fruits. Utilizing Capsicum pigment variants, we determine the biochemical factors responsible for violet versus black-pigmented pepper tissue in the context of described pepper color genes.

A probability-based multi-cycle sorting method for 4D-MRI: A simulation study.

PubMed

Liang, Xiao; Yin, Fang-Fang; Liu, Yilin; Cai, Jing

2016-12-01

To develop a novel probability-based sorting method capable of generating multiple breathing cycles of 4D-MRI images and to evaluate performance of this new method by comparing with conventional phase-based methods in terms of image quality and tumor motion measurement. Based on previous findings that breathing motion probability density function (PDF) of a single breathing cycle is dramatically different from true stabilized PDF that resulted from many breathing cycles, it is expected that a probability-based sorting method capable of generating multiple breathing cycles of 4D images may capture breathing variation information missing from conventional single-cycle sorting methods. The overall idea is to identify a few main breathing cycles (and their corresponding weightings) that can best represent the main breathing patterns of the patient and then reconstruct a set of 4D images for each of the identified main breathing cycles. This method is implemented in three steps: (1) The breathing signal is decomposed into individual breathing cycles, characterized by amplitude, and period; (2) individual breathing cycles are grouped based on amplitude and period to determine the main breathing cycles. If a group contains more than 10% of all breathing cycles in a breathing signal, it is determined as a main breathing pattern group and is represented by the average of individual breathing cycles in the group; (3) for each main breathing cycle, a set of 4D images is reconstructed using a result-driven sorting method adapted from our previous study. The probability-based sorting method was first tested on 26 patients' breathing signals to evaluate its feasibility of improving target motion PDF. The new method was subsequently tested for a sequential image acquisition scheme on the 4D digital extended cardiac torso (XCAT) phantom. Performance of the probability-based and conventional sorting methods was evaluated in terms of target volume precision and accuracy as measured by the 4D images, and also the accuracy of average intensity projection (AIP) of 4D images. Probability-based sorting showed improved similarity of breathing motion PDF from 4D images to reference PDF compared to single cycle sorting, indicated by the significant increase in Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) (probability-based sorting, DSC = 0.89 ± 0.03, and single cycle sorting, DSC = 0.83 ± 0.05, p-value <0.001). Based on the simulation study on XCAT, the probability-based method outperforms the conventional phase-based methods in qualitative evaluation on motion artifacts and quantitative evaluation on tumor volume precision and accuracy and accuracy of AIP of the 4D images. In this paper the authors demonstrated the feasibility of a novel probability-based multicycle 4D image sorting method. The authors' preliminary results showed that the new method can improve the accuracy of tumor motion PDF and the AIP of 4D images, presenting potential advantages over the conventional phase-based sorting method for radiation therapy motion management.

Application of Micro-cloud point extraction for spectrophotometric determination of Malachite green, Crystal violet and Rhodamine B in aqueous samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghasemi, Elham; Kaykhaii, Massoud

2016-07-01

A novel, green, simple and fast method was developed for spectrophotometric determination of Malachite green, Crystal violet, and Rhodamine B in water samples based on Micro-cloud Point extraction (MCPE) at room temperature. This is the first report on the application of MCPE on dyes. In this method, to reach the cloud point at room temperature, the MCPE procedure was carried out in brine using Triton X-114 as a non-ionic surfactant. The factors influencing the extraction efficiency were investigated and optimized. Under the optimized condition, calibration curves were found to be linear in the concentration range of 0.06-0.60 mg/L, 0.10-0.80 mg/L, and 0.03-0.30 mg/L with the enrichment factors of 29.26, 85.47 and 28.36, respectively for Malachite green, Crystal violet, and Rhodamine B. Limit of detections were between 2.2 and 5.1 μg/L.

Application of Micro-cloud point extraction for spectrophotometric determination of Malachite green, Crystal violet and Rhodamine B in aqueous samples.

PubMed

Ghasemi, Elham; Kaykhaii, Massoud

2016-07-05

A novel, green, simple and fast method was developed for spectrophotometric determination of Malachite green, Crystal violet, and Rhodamine B in water samples based on Micro-cloud Point extraction (MCPE) at room temperature. This is the first report on the application of MCPE on dyes. In this method, to reach the cloud point at room temperature, the MCPE procedure was carried out in brine using Triton X-114 as a non-ionic surfactant. The factors influencing the extraction efficiency were investigated and optimized. Under the optimized condition, calibration curves were found to be linear in the concentration range of 0.06-0.60mg/L, 0.10-0.80mg/L, and 0.03-0.30mg/L with the enrichment factors of 29.26, 85.47 and 28.36, respectively for Malachite green, Crystal violet, and Rhodamine B. Limit of detections were between 2.2 and 5.1μg/L. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Biomedical engineering meets acupuncture - development of a miniaturized 48-channel skin impedance measurement system for needle and laser acupuncture

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Background Due to controversially discussed results in scientific literature concerning changes of electrical skin impedance before and during acupuncture a new measurement system has been developed. Methods The prototype measures and analyzes the electrical skin impedance computer-based and simultaneously in 48 channels within a 2.5×3.5 cm matrix. Preliminary measurements in one person were performed using metal needle and violet laser (405 nm) acupuncture at the acupoint Kongzui (LU6). The new system is an improvement on devices previously developed by other researchers for this purpose. Results Skin impedance in the immediate surroundings of the acupoint was lowered reproducibly following needle stimulation and also violet laser stimulation. Conclusions A new instrumentation for skin impedance measurements is presented. The following hypotheses suggested by our results will have to be tested in further studies: Needle acupuncture causes significant, specific local changes of electrical skin impedance parameters. Optical stimulation (violet laser) at an acupoint causes direct electrical biosignal changes. PMID:21092296

7 CFR 93.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... fluoresce when viewed under UV light as follows: aflatoxin B1 and derivatives with a blue fluorescence, aflatoxin B2 with a blue-violet fluorescence, aflatoxin G1 with a green fluorescence, aflatoxin G2 with a green-blue fluorescence, aflatoxin M1 with a blue-violet fluorescence, and aflatoxin M2 with a violet...

7 CFR 93.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... fluoresce when viewed under UV light as follows: aflatoxin B1 and derivatives with a blue fluorescence, aflatoxin B2 with a blue-violet fluorescence, aflatoxin G1 with a green fluorescence, aflatoxin G2 with a green-blue fluorescence, aflatoxin M1 with a blue-violet fluorescence, and aflatoxin M2 with a violet...

7 CFR 93.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... fluoresce when viewed under UV light as follows: aflatoxin B1 and derivatives with a blue fluorescence, aflatoxin B2 with a blue-violet fluorescence, aflatoxin G1 with a green fluorescence, aflatoxin G2 with a green-blue fluorescence, aflatoxin M1 with a blue-violet fluorescence, and aflatoxin M2 with a violet...

7 CFR 93.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... fluoresce when viewed under UV light as follows: aflatoxin B1 and derivatives with a blue fluorescence, aflatoxin B2 with a blue-violet fluorescence, aflatoxin G1 with a green fluorescence, aflatoxin G2 with a green-blue fluorescence, aflatoxin M1 with a blue-violet fluorescence, and aflatoxin M2 with a violet...

7 CFR 93.11 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... fluoresce when viewed under UV light as follows: aflatoxin B1 and derivatives with a blue fluorescence, aflatoxin B2 with a blue-violet fluorescence, aflatoxin G1 with a green fluorescence, aflatoxin G2 with a green-blue fluorescence, aflatoxin M1 with a blue-violet fluorescence, and aflatoxin M2 with a violet...

75 FR 13257 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Final Results of the Expedited Five-year (Sunset) Review...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-19

...) and finished pigment in the form of presscake and dry color. Pigment dispersions in any form (e.g... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [C-533-839] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23... countervailing duty (CVD) order on Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 (CVP-23) [[Page 13258

75 FR 10759 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Initiation of Antidumping Duty Changed-Circumstances Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-09

... dispersions in any form (e.g., pigment dispersed in oleoresins, flammable solvents, water) are not included... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-533-838] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23... changed-circumstances review of the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 from India with...

Demonstration of lipofuscin and Nissl bodies in crystal violet stained sections using a fluorescence technique or pyronin Y stain.

PubMed

Terr, L I

1986-09-01

This paper presents two simple, reliable methods for identification of lipofuscin and Nissl bodies in the same section. One method shows that lipofuscin stained with crystal violet retains its ability to fluoresce and can be observed under the fluorescence microscope after the stain has faded. Fading is accompanied by a gradual increase in the intensity of the fluorescence and is complete in about 5 min. Exciting illumination from this part of the spectrum also substantially fades staining of other autofluorescing tissue elements, such as lipids. Nonfluorescing structures, such as Nissl bodies, remain stained. By changing from transillumination with tungsten light to epifluorescent illumination and vice versa, both types of structures--Nissl bodies and lipofuscin--can be identified in the same section. The second technique uses pyronin Y for staining Nissl bodies in preparations previously stained with crystal violet. Nissl bodies are stained pink but lipofuscin remains violet. Lipofuscin in these sections also remains autofluorescent after the crystal violet stain has faded under violet or near-UV light.

Particle separation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arnott, W. Patrick (Inventor); Chakrabarty, Rajan K. (Inventor); Moosmuller, Hans (Inventor)

2011-01-01

Embodiments of a method for selecting particles, such as based on their morphology, is disclosed. In a particular example, the particles are charged and acquire different amounts of charge, or have different charge distributions, based on their morphology. The particles are then sorted based on their flow properties. In a specific example, the particles are sorted using a differential mobility analyzer, which sorts particles, at least in part, based on their electrical mobility. Given a population of particles with similar electrical mobilities, the disclosed process can be used to sort particles based on the net charge carried by the particle, and thus, given the relationship between charge and morphology, separate the particles based on their morphology.

Particle separation

DOEpatents

Moosmuller, Hans [Reno, NV; Chakrabarty, Rajan K [Reno, NV; Arnott, W Patrick [Reno, NV

2011-04-26

Embodiments of a method for selecting particles, such as based on their morphology, is disclosed. In a particular example, the particles are charged and acquire different amounts of charge, or have different charge distributions, based on their morphology. The particles are then sorted based on their flow properties. In a specific example, the particles are sorted using a differential mobility analyzer, which sorts particles, at least in part, based on their electrical mobility. Given a population of particles with similar electrical mobilities, the disclosed process can be used to sort particles based on the net charge carried by the particle, and thus, given the relationship between charge and morphology, separate the particles based on their morphology.

When Seeing Is Knowing: The Role of Visual Cues in the Dissociation between Children's Rule Knowledge and Rule Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Buss, Aaron T.; Spencer, John P.

2012-01-01

The Dimensional Change Card Sort (DCCS) task requires children to switch from sorting cards based on shape or color to sorting based on the other dimension. Typically, 3-year-olds perseverate, whereas 4-year-olds flexibly sort by different dimensions. Zelazo and colleagues (1996, Cognitive Development, 11, 37-63) asked children questions about the…

Evaluation of modified crystal violet chromoendoscopy procedure using new mucosal pit pattern classification for detection of Barrett's dysplastic lesions.

PubMed

Yuki, T; Amano, Y; Kushiyama, Y; Takahashi, Y; Ose, T; Moriyama, I; Fukuhara, H; Ishimura, N; Koshino, K; Furuta, K; Ishihara, S; Adachi, K; Kinoshita, Y

2006-05-01

Pit pattern diagnosis is important for endoscopic detection of dysplastic Barrett's lesions, though using magnification endoscopy can be difficult and laborious. We investigated the usefulness of a modified crystal violet chromoendoscopy procedure and utilised a new pit pattern classification for diagnosis of dysplastic Barrett's lesions. A total of 1,030 patients suspected of having a columnar lined oesophagus were examined, of whom 816 demonstrated a crystal violet-stained columnar lined oesophagus. The early group of patients underwent 0.05% crystal violet chromoendoscopy, while the later group was examined using 0.03% crystal violet with 3.0% acetate. A targeted biopsy of the columnar lined oesophagus was performed using crystal violet staining after making a diagnosis of closed or open type pit pattern with a newly proposed system of classification. The relationship between type of pit pattern and histologically identified dysplastic Barrett's lesions was evaluated. Dysplastic Barrett's lesions were identified in biopsy samples with an open type pit pattern with a sensitivity of 96.0%. Further, Barrett's mucosa with the intestinal predominant mucin phenotype was closely associated with the open type pit pattern (sensitivity 81.9%, specificity 95.6%). The new pit pattern classification for diagnosis of Barrett's mucosa was found to be useful for identification of cases with dysplastic lesions and possible malignant potential using a crystal violet chromoendoscopic procedure.

Identification and genetic analysis of cancer cells with PCR-activated cell sorting

PubMed Central

Eastburn, Dennis J.; Sciambi, Adam; Abate, Adam R.

2014-01-01

Cell sorting is a central tool in life science research for analyzing cellular heterogeneity or enriching rare cells out of large populations. Although methods like FACS and FISH-FC can characterize and isolate cells from heterogeneous populations, they are limited by their reliance on antibodies, or the requirement to chemically fix cells. We introduce a new cell sorting technology that robustly sorts based on sequence-specific analysis of cellular nucleic acids. Our approach, PCR-activated cell sorting (PACS), uses TaqMan PCR to detect nucleic acids within single cells and trigger their sorting. With this method, we identified and sorted prostate cancer cells from a heterogeneous population by performing >132 000 simultaneous single-cell TaqMan RT-PCR reactions targeting vimentin mRNA. Following vimentin-positive droplet sorting and downstream analysis of recovered nucleic acids, we found that cancer-specific genomes and transcripts were significantly enriched. Additionally, we demonstrate that PACS can be used to sort and enrich cells via TaqMan PCR reactions targeting single-copy genomic DNA. PACS provides a general new technical capability that expands the application space of cell sorting by enabling sorting based on cellular information not amenable to existing approaches. PMID:25030902

77 FR 1463 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From the People's Republic of China: Final Rescission of Antidumping...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-10

... finished pigment in the form of presscake and dry color. Pigment dispersions in any form (e.g., pigments... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-892] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23... administrative review of the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 (CVP-23) from the People's...

76 FR 55003 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From the People's Republic of China: Preliminary Intent To Rescind...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-06

... finished pigment in the form of presscake and dry color. Pigment dispersions in any form (e.g., pigments... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-892] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23... antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 (CVP 23) from the People's Republic of China (PRC). This...

Ablation of dentin by irradiation of violet diode laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatayama, H.; Kato, J.; Akashi, G.; Hirai, Y.; Inoue, A.

2006-02-01

Several lasers have been used for clinical treatment in dentistry. Among them, diode lasers are attractive because of their compactness compared with other laser sources. Near-infrared diode lasers have been practically used for cutting soft tissues. Because they penetrate deep to soft tissues, they cause sufficiently thick coagulation layer. However, they aren't suitable for removal of carious dentin because absorption by components in dentin is low. Recently, a violet diode laser with a wavelength of 405nm has been developed. It will be effective for cavity preparation because dentin contains about 20% of collagen whose absorption coefficient at a violet wavelength is larger than that at a near-infrared wavelength. In this paper, we examined cutting performance of the violet diode laser for dentin. To our knowledge, there have been no previous reports on application of a violet laser to dentin ablation. Bovine teeth were irradiated by continuous wave violet diode laser with output powers in a range from 0.4W to 2.4W. The beam diameter on the sample was about 270μm and an irradiation time was one second. We obtained the crater ablated at more than an output power of 0.8W. The depth of crater ranged from 20μm at 0.8W to 90μm at 2.4W. Furthermore, the beam spot with an output power of 1.7W was scanned at a speed of 1mm/second corresponding to movement of a dentist's hand in clinical treatment. Grooves with the depth of more than 50μm were also obtained. From these findings, the violet diode laser has good potential for cavity preparation. Therefore, the violet diode laser may become an effective tool for cavity preparation.

Topical gentian violet compared with nystatin oral suspension for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis in HIV-1-infected participants.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Pranab K; Chen, Huichao; Patton, Lauren L; Evans, Scott; Lee, Anthony; Kumwenda, Johnstone; Hakim, James; Masheto, Gaerolwe; Sawe, Frederick; Pho, Mai T; Freedberg, Kenneth A; Shiboski, Caroline H; Ghannoum, Mahmoud A; Salata, Robert A

2017-01-02

Compare the safety and efficacy of topical gentian violet with that of nystatin oral suspension (NYS) for the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis in HIV-1-infected adults in resource-limited settings. Multicenter, open-label, evaluator-blinded, randomized clinical trial at eight international sites, within the AIDS Clinical Trials Group. Adult HIV-infected participants with oropharyngeal candidiasis, stratified by CD4 cell counts and antiretroviral therapy status at study entry, were randomized to receive either gentian violet (0.00165%, BID) or NYS (500 000 units, QID) for 14 days. Cure or improvement after 14 days of treatment. Signs and symptoms of oropharyngeal candidiasis were evaluated in an evaluator-blinded manner. The study was closed early per Data Safety Monitoring Board after enrolling 221 participants (target = 494). Among the 182 participants eligible for efficacy analysis, 63 (68.5%) in the gentian violet arm had cure or improvement of oropharyngeal candidiasis versus 61 (67.8%) in the NYS arm, resulting in a nonsizable difference of 0.007 (95% confidence interval: -0.129, 0.143). There was no sizable difference in cure rates between the two arms (-0.0007; 95% confidence interval: -0.146, 0.131). No gentian violet-related adverse events were noted. No sizable differences were identified in tolerance, adherence, quality of life, or acceptability of study drugs. In gentian violet arm, 61 and 39% of participants reported 'no' and 'mild-to-moderate' staining, respectively. Cost for medication procurement was significantly lower for gentian violet versus NYS (median $2.51 and 19.42, respectively, P = 0.01). Efficacy of gentian violet was not statistically different than NYS, was well tolerated, and its procurement cost was substantially less than NYS.

SU-F-T-676: Measurement of Hydroxyl Radicals in Radiolized Water Systems

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

Ouyang, Z; Ngwa, W; Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA

2016-06-15

Purpose: Hydroxyl radicals can be produced within tissue by radiation therapy, and they are largely responsible for DNA damage and cell killing. Coumarin-3-carboxylic acid (3-CCA) and crystal violet are reported to react with hydroxyl radicals and can be used for fluorescence and absorbance measurements, respectively. This study assesses the ability of hydroxyl measurement for both 3-CCA and crystal violet in radiolized water systems in order to provide dosimetric information in radiation chemistry and radiation biology experiments. Methods: 3-CCA and crystal violet were both dissolved in phosphate buffered saline (PBS, pH 7.4) with final concentrations 0.5 mg/mL and 0.05 mg/mL. 3-CCAmore » and control solutions (PBS only) were loaded in black bottom 96-well plates. Crystal violet and control solutions were loaded in clear bottom 96-well plates. The prepared solutions were irradiated at 2 Gy using a small animal radiation research platform. Fluorescence reading with 360 nm excitation wavelength and 485 nm emission wavelength was done for 3-CCA, and absorbance reading at wavelength 580 nm was done for crystal violet before and after radiation. Results: 3-CCA showed clear difference in fluorescence before and after radiation, which suggested hydroxyl production during radiation. However, crystal violet absorbance at 580 nm was not changed significantly by radiation. Conclusion: The overall conclusion is that 3-CCA can be used for hydroxyl measurement in radiolized water systems, while crystal violet cannot, although crystal violet is reported widely to react with hydroxyl radicals produced in Fenton reactions. Possible reasons could relate to reaction pH.« less

A probability-based multi-cycle sorting method for 4D-MRI: A simulation study

PubMed Central

Liang, Xiao; Yin, Fang-Fang; Liu, Yilin; Cai, Jing

2016-01-01

Purpose: To develop a novel probability-based sorting method capable of generating multiple breathing cycles of 4D-MRI images and to evaluate performance of this new method by comparing with conventional phase-based methods in terms of image quality and tumor motion measurement. Methods: Based on previous findings that breathing motion probability density function (PDF) of a single breathing cycle is dramatically different from true stabilized PDF that resulted from many breathing cycles, it is expected that a probability-based sorting method capable of generating multiple breathing cycles of 4D images may capture breathing variation information missing from conventional single-cycle sorting methods. The overall idea is to identify a few main breathing cycles (and their corresponding weightings) that can best represent the main breathing patterns of the patient and then reconstruct a set of 4D images for each of the identified main breathing cycles. This method is implemented in three steps: (1) The breathing signal is decomposed into individual breathing cycles, characterized by amplitude, and period; (2) individual breathing cycles are grouped based on amplitude and period to determine the main breathing cycles. If a group contains more than 10% of all breathing cycles in a breathing signal, it is determined as a main breathing pattern group and is represented by the average of individual breathing cycles in the group; (3) for each main breathing cycle, a set of 4D images is reconstructed using a result-driven sorting method adapted from our previous study. The probability-based sorting method was first tested on 26 patients’ breathing signals to evaluate its feasibility of improving target motion PDF. The new method was subsequently tested for a sequential image acquisition scheme on the 4D digital extended cardiac torso (XCAT) phantom. Performance of the probability-based and conventional sorting methods was evaluated in terms of target volume precision and accuracy as measured by the 4D images, and also the accuracy of average intensity projection (AIP) of 4D images. Results: Probability-based sorting showed improved similarity of breathing motion PDF from 4D images to reference PDF compared to single cycle sorting, indicated by the significant increase in Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) (probability-based sorting, DSC = 0.89 ± 0.03, and single cycle sorting, DSC = 0.83 ± 0.05, p-value <0.001). Based on the simulation study on XCAT, the probability-based method outperforms the conventional phase-based methods in qualitative evaluation on motion artifacts and quantitative evaluation on tumor volume precision and accuracy and accuracy of AIP of the 4D images. Conclusions: In this paper the authors demonstrated the feasibility of a novel probability-based multicycle 4D image sorting method. The authors’ preliminary results showed that the new method can improve the accuracy of tumor motion PDF and the AIP of 4D images, presenting potential advantages over the conventional phase-based sorting method for radiation therapy motion management. PMID:27908178

21 CFR 74.1602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.1602 Section 74.1602 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Drugs § 74.1602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity. (1) The color additive D...

21 CFR 74.3602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... coloring absorbable meniscal tacks made from poly (L-lactic acid) at a level not to exceed 0.15 percent by... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.3602 Section 74.3602 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 74.3602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and...

21 CFR 74.3602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... coloring absorbable meniscal tacks made from poly (L-lactic acid) at a level not to exceed 0.15 percent by... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.3602 Section 74.3602 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 74.3602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and...

21 CFR 74.3602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... coloring absorbable meniscal tacks made from poly (L-lactic acid) at a level not to exceed 0.15 percent by... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.3602 Section 74.3602 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 74.3602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and...

21 CFR 74.3602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... coloring absorbable meniscal tacks made from poly (L-lactic acid) at a level not to exceed 0.15 percent by... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.3602 Section 74.3602 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 74.3602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and...

21 CFR 74.3602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... coloring absorbable meniscal tacks made from poly (L-lactic acid) at a level not to exceed 0.15 percent by... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.3602 Section 74.3602 Food and... ADDITIVES SUBJECT TO CERTIFICATION Medical Devices § 74.3602 D&C Violet No. 2. (a) Identity and...

21 CFR 82.1602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 82.1602 Section 82.1602 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF CERTIFIED... additive D&C Violet No. 2 shall conform in identity and specifications to the requirements of § 74.1602(a...

Algorithm Sorts Groups Of Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, J. D.

1987-01-01

For efficient sorting, algorithm finds set containing minimum or maximum most significant data. Sets of data sorted as desired. Sorting process simplified by reduction of each multielement set of data to single representative number. First, each set of data expressed as polynomial with suitably chosen base, using elements of set as coefficients. Most significant element placed in term containing largest exponent. Base selected by examining range in value of data elements. Resulting series summed to yield single representative number. Numbers easily sorted, and each such number converted back to original set of data by successive division. Program written in BASIC.

Spectral analysis of scattered light from flowers' petals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ozawa, Atsumi; Uehara, Tomomi; Sekiguchi, Fumihiko; Imai, Hajime

2009-07-01

A new method was developed for studying absorption characteristics of opaque samples based on the light scattering spectroscopy. Measurements were made in white, red and violet petals of Petunia hybrida, and gave the absorption spectra in a non-destructive manner without damaging the cell structures of the petal. The red petal has absorption peak at 550 nm and the violet has three absorption peaks: at 450, 670, and 550 nm. The results were discussed in correlation with the microscopic cell structures of the petal observed with optical microscope and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Only the cells placed in the surface have the pigments giving the color of the petal.

Reproductive biology of the violet-chested hummingbird in Venezuela and comparisons with other tropical and temperate hummingbirds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fierro-Calderon, Karolina; Martin, T.E.

2007-01-01

We provide details on the breeding biology of the Violet-chested Hummingbird (Sternoclyta cyanopectus) based on 67 nests studied in Yacambu?? National Park, Venezuela, from 2002 through 2006. Clutch size was two white eggs, usually laid every other day. Fresh egg mass (0.95 ?? 0.14 g) was 15% of female mass. Incubation and nestling periods were 20.4 ?? 0.3 and 26.0 ?? 0.4 days, respectively. Nest attentiveness increased from 60% in early incubation to 68% in late incubation. The female spent 50% of her time brooding young nestlings, but ceased brooding by 13 days of age. Only the female fed the young, with a low rate of nest visitation (3.3 trips per hour) that did not increase with age of the young. Growth rate based on nestling mass (K = 0.28) was slow. Daily predation rates decreased across stages and were 0.064 ?? 0.044, 0.033 ?? 0.008, and 0.020 ?? 0.006 during the egg-laying, incubation, and nestling periods, respectively. Most, but not all, life history traits of the Violet-chested Hummingbird were similar to those reported for other tropical and temperate hummingbirds, providing further evidence that this family shows a relatively narrow range of life history variation. ?? The Cooper Ornithological Society 2007.

Microfluidic cell sorting: a review of the advances in the separation of cells from debulking to rare cell isolation.

PubMed

Shields, C Wyatt; Reyes, Catherine D; López, Gabriel P

2015-03-07

Accurate and high throughput cell sorting is a critical enabling technology in molecular and cellular biology, biotechnology, and medicine. While conventional methods can provide high efficiency sorting in short timescales, advances in microfluidics have enabled the realization of miniaturized devices offering similar capabilities that exploit a variety of physical principles. We classify these technologies as either active or passive. Active systems generally use external fields (e.g., acoustic, electric, magnetic, and optical) to impose forces to displace cells for sorting, whereas passive systems use inertial forces, filters, and adhesion mechanisms to purify cell populations. Cell sorting on microchips provides numerous advantages over conventional methods by reducing the size of necessary equipment, eliminating potentially biohazardous aerosols, and simplifying the complex protocols commonly associated with cell sorting. Additionally, microchip devices are well suited for parallelization, enabling complete lab-on-a-chip devices for cellular isolation, analysis, and experimental processing. In this review, we examine the breadth of microfluidic cell sorting technologies, while focusing on those that offer the greatest potential for translation into clinical and industrial practice and that offer multiple, useful functions. We organize these sorting technologies by the type of cell preparation required (i.e., fluorescent label-based sorting, bead-based sorting, and label-free sorting) as well as by the physical principles underlying each sorting mechanism.

Microfluidic Cell Sorting: A Review of the Advances in the Separation of Cells from Debulking to Rare Cell Isolation

PubMed Central

Shields, C. Wyatt; Reyes, Catherine D.; López, Gabriel P.

2015-01-01

Accurate and high throughput cell sorting is a critical enabling technology in molecular and cellular biology, biotechnology, and medicine. While conventional methods can provide high efficiency sorting in short timescales, advances in microfluidics have enabled the realization of miniaturized devices offering similar capabilities that exploit a variety of physical principles. We classify these technologies as either active or passive. Active systems generally use external fields (e.g., acoustic, electric, magnetic, and optical) to impose forces to displace cells for sorting, whereas passive systems use inertial forces, filters, and adhesion mechanisms to purify cell populations. Cell sorting on microchips provides numerous advantages over conventional methods by reducing the size of necessary equipment, eliminating potentially biohazardous aerosols, and simplifying the complex protocols commonly associated with cell sorting. Additionally, microchip devices are well suited for parallelization, enabling complete lab-on-a-chip devices for cellular isolation, analysis, and experimental processing. In this review, we examine the breadth of microfluidic cell sorting technologies, while focusing on those that offer the greatest potential for translation into clinical and industrial practice and that offer multiple, useful functions. We organize these sorting technologies by the type of cell preparation required (i.e., fluorescent label-based sorting, bead-based sorting, and label-free sorting) as well as by the physical principles underlying each sorting mechanism. PMID:25598308

A multispectral sorting device for isolating single wheat kernels with high protein content

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Automated sorting of single wheat kernels according to protein content was demonstrated using two novel multispectral sorting devices with different spectral ranges; 470-1070 nm (silicone based detector) and 910nm-1550 nm (InGaAs based detector). The multispectral data were acquired by rapidly (~12...

Comparison of methylene blue/gentian violet stain to Gram's stain for the rapid diagnosis of gonococcal urethritis in men.

PubMed

Taylor, Stephanie N; DiCarlo, Richard P; Martin, David H

2011-11-01

We compared a simple, one-step staining procedure using a mixture of methylene blue and gentian violet to Gram stain for the detection of gonococcal urethritis. The sensitivity and specificity of both Gram stain and methylene blue/gentian violet stain were 97.3% and 99.6%, respectively. There was a 100% correlation between the 2 methods.

Fabrication of a Silicon MOSFET Device with Bipolar Transistor Source,

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-07-01

NEGATIVE PHOTORESIST PROCEDURE ’•J n •:• fi >. 3 u i fc- Process Coat wafer Air dry Pre bake the resist coating Expose Develop Method Time...Orange (rather broad for orange) 0.82 Salmon 0.85 Dull, light red-violet 0.86 Violet £ 0.87 Blue-violet 0.89 Blue ::’ 0.92 V Blue-green •I 0.95

Comparison of staining of mitotic figures by haematoxylin and eosin-and crystal violet stains, in oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Ankle, Madhuri R; Kale, Alka D; Charantimath, Seema

2007-01-01

Mitosis of cells gives rise to tissue integrity. Defects during mitosis bring about abnormalities. Excessive proliferation of cells due to increased mitosis is one such outcome, which is the hallmark in precancer and cancer. The localization of proliferating cells or their precursors may not be obvious and easy. Establishing an easy way to distinguish these mitotic cells will help in grading and understanding their biological potential. Although immunohistochemistry is an advanced method in use, the cost and time factor makes it less feasible for many laboratories. Selective histochemical stains like toluidine blue, giemsa and crystal violet have been used in tissues including the developing brain, neural tissue and skin. 1) To compare the staining of mitotic cells in haematoxylin and eosin with that in crystal violet. 2) To compare the number of mitotic figures present in normal oral mucosa, epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma in crystal violet-stained sections with that in H and E-stained sections. Ten tissues of normal oral mucosa and 15 tissues each of oral epithelial dysplasia seen in tobacco-associated leukoplakia and squamous cell carcinoma were studied to evaluate the selectivity of 1% crystal violet for mitotic figures. The staining was compared with standard H and E staining. Statistical analysis was done using Mann-Whitney U test. A statistically significant increase in the mean mitotic count was observed in crystal violet-stained sections of epithelial dysplasia as compared to the H and E-stained sections (p=0.0327). A similar increase in the mitotic counts was noted in crystal violet-stained sections of oral squamous cell carcinoma as compared to the H and E-stained sections.(p=0.0443). No significant difference was found in the mitotic counts determined in dysplasia or carcinoma by either the crystal violet (p=0.4429) or the H and E-staining techniques (p=0.2717). One per cent crystal violet provides a definite advantage over the H and E-stained sections in selectively staining the mitotic figures.

Application of visible spectroscopy in waste sorting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spiga, Philippe; Bourely, Antoine

2011-10-01

Today, waste recycling, (bottles, papers...), is a mechanical operation: the waste are crushed, fused and agglomerated in order to obtain new manufactured products (e.g. new bottles, clothes ...). The plastics recycling is the main application in the color sorting process. The colorless plastics recovered are more valuable than the colored plastics. Other emergent applications are in the paper sorting, where the main goal is to sort dyed paper from white papers. Up to now, Pellenc Selective Technologies has manufactured color sorting machines based on RGB cameras. Three dimensions (red, green and blue) are no longer sufficient to detect low quantities of dye in the considered waste. In order to increase the efficiency of the color detection, a new sorting machine, based on visible spectroscopy, has been developed. This paper presents the principles of the two approaches and their difference in terms of sorting performance, making visible spectroscopy a clear winner.

Parallel sort with a ranged, partitioned key-value store in a high perfomance computing environment

DOEpatents

Bent, John M.; Faibish, Sorin; Grider, Gary; Torres, Aaron; Poole, Stephen W.

2016-01-26

Improved sorting techniques are provided that perform a parallel sort using a ranged, partitioned key-value store in a high performance computing (HPC) environment. A plurality of input data files comprising unsorted key-value data in a partitioned key-value store are sorted. The partitioned key-value store comprises a range server for each of a plurality of ranges. Each input data file has an associated reader thread. Each reader thread reads the unsorted key-value data in the corresponding input data file and performs a local sort of the unsorted key-value data to generate sorted key-value data. A plurality of sorted, ranged subsets of each of the sorted key-value data are generated based on the plurality of ranges. Each sorted, ranged subset corresponds to a given one of the ranges and is provided to one of the range servers corresponding to the range of the sorted, ranged subset. Each range server sorts the received sorted, ranged subsets and provides a sorted range. A plurality of the sorted ranges are concatenated to obtain a globally sorted result.

Adsorption of dyes onto carbonaceous materials produced from coffee grounds by microwave treatment.

PubMed

Hirata, Mizuho; Kawasaki, Naohito; Nakamura, Takeo; Matsumoto, Kazuoki; Kabayama, Mineaki; Tamura, Takamichi; Tanada, Seiki

2002-10-01

Organic wastes have been burned for reclamation. However, they have to be recycled and reused for industrial sustainable development. Carbonaceous materials were produced from coffee grounds by microwave treatment. There are many phenolic hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on the surface of carbonaceous materials. The base consumption of the carbonaceous materials was larger than that of the commercially activated carbon. The carbonaceous materials produced from coffee grounds were applied to the adsorbates for the removal of basic dyes (methylene blue and gentian violet) in wastewater. This result indicated that the adsorption of dyes depended upon the surface polar groups on the carbonaceous materials. Moreover, the Freundlich constants of isotherms for the adsorption of methylene blue and gentian violet onto the carbonaceous materials produced from coffee grounds were greater than those for adsorption onto activated carbon or ceramic activated carbon. The interaction was greatest between the surface or porosity of the carbonaceous materials and methylene blue and gentian violet. The microwave treatment would be useful for the carbonization of organic wastes to save energy.

A monolithic glass chip for active single-cell sorting based on mechanical phenotyping.

PubMed

Faigle, Christoph; Lautenschläger, Franziska; Whyte, Graeme; Homewood, Philip; Martín-Badosa, Estela; Guck, Jochen

2015-03-07

The mechanical properties of biological cells have long been considered as inherent markers of biological function and disease. However, the screening and active sorting of heterogeneous populations based on serial single-cell mechanical measurements has not been demonstrated. Here we present a novel monolithic glass chip for combined fluorescence detection and mechanical phenotyping using an optical stretcher. A new design and manufacturing process, involving the bonding of two asymmetrically etched glass plates, combines exact optical fiber alignment, low laser damage threshold and high imaging quality with the possibility of several microfluidic inlet and outlet channels. We show the utility of such a custom-built optical stretcher glass chip by measuring and sorting single cells in a heterogeneous population based on their different mechanical properties and verify sorting accuracy by simultaneous fluorescence detection. This offers new possibilities of exact characterization and sorting of small populations based on rheological properties for biological and biomedical applications.

Artificial selection for structural color on butterfly wings and comparison with natural evolution

PubMed Central

Wasik, Bethany R.; Liew, Seng Fatt; Lilien, David A.; Dinwiddie, April J.; Noh, Heeso; Cao, Hui; Monteiro, Antónia

2014-01-01

Brilliant animal colors often are produced from light interacting with intricate nano-morphologies present in biological materials such as butterfly wing scales. Surveys across widely divergent butterfly species have identified multiple mechanisms of structural color production; however, little is known about how these colors evolved. Here, we examine how closely related species and populations of Bicyclus butterflies have evolved violet structural color from brown-pigmented ancestors with UV structural color. We used artificial selection on a laboratory model butterfly, B. anynana, to evolve violet scales from UV brown scales and compared the mechanism of violet color production with that of two other Bicyclus species, Bicyclus sambulos and Bicyclus medontias, which have evolved violet/blue scales independently via natural selection. The UV reflectance peak of B. anynana brown scales shifted to violet over six generations of artificial selection (i.e., in less than 1 y) as the result of an increase in the thickness of the lower lamina in ground scales. Similar scale structures and the same mechanism for producing violet/blue structural colors were found in the other Bicyclus species. This work shows that populations harbor large amounts of standing genetic variation that can lead to rapid evolution of scales’ structural color via slight modifications to the scales’ physical dimensions. PMID:25092295

Artificial selection for structural color on butterfly wings and comparison with natural evolution.

PubMed

Wasik, Bethany R; Liew, Seng Fatt; Lilien, David A; Dinwiddie, April J; Noh, Heeso; Cao, Hui; Monteiro, Antónia

2014-08-19

Brilliant animal colors often are produced from light interacting with intricate nano-morphologies present in biological materials such as butterfly wing scales. Surveys across widely divergent butterfly species have identified multiple mechanisms of structural color production; however, little is known about how these colors evolved. Here, we examine how closely related species and populations of Bicyclus butterflies have evolved violet structural color from brown-pigmented ancestors with UV structural color. We used artificial selection on a laboratory model butterfly, B. anynana, to evolve violet scales from UV brown scales and compared the mechanism of violet color production with that of two other Bicyclus species, Bicyclus sambulos and Bicyclus medontias, which have evolved violet/blue scales independently via natural selection. The UV reflectance peak of B. anynana brown scales shifted to violet over six generations of artificial selection (i.e., in less than 1 y) as the result of an increase in the thickness of the lower lamina in ground scales. Similar scale structures and the same mechanism for producing violet/blue structural colors were found in the other Bicyclus species. This work shows that populations harbor large amounts of standing genetic variation that can lead to rapid evolution of scales' structural color via slight modifications to the scales' physical dimensions.

Spin-the-bottle Sort and Annealing Sort: Oblivious Sorting via Round-robin Random Comparisons

PubMed Central

Goodrich, Michael T.

2013-01-01

We study sorting algorithms based on randomized round-robin comparisons. Specifically, we study Spin-the-bottle sort, where comparisons are unrestricted, and Annealing sort, where comparisons are restricted to a distance bounded by a temperature parameter. Both algorithms are simple, randomized, data-oblivious sorting algorithms, which are useful in privacy-preserving computations, but, as we show, Annealing sort is much more efficient. We show that there is an input permutation that causes Spin-the-bottle sort to require Ω(n2 log n) expected time in order to succeed, and that in O(n2 log n) time this algorithm succeeds with high probability for any input. We also show there is a specification of Annealing sort that runs in O(n log n) time and succeeds with very high probability. PMID:24550575

Antibacterial mode of action of violacein from Chromobacterium violaceum UTM5 against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

PubMed

Aruldass, Claira Arul; Masalamany, Santhana Raj Louis; Venil, Chidambaram Kulandaisamy; Ahmad, Wan Azlina

2018-02-01

Violacein, violet pigment produced by Chromobacterium violaceum, has attracted much attention recently due to its pharmacological properties including antibacterial activity. The present study investigated possible antibacterial mode of action of violacein from C. violaceum UTM5 against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains. Violet fraction was obtained by cultivating C. violaceum UTM5 in liquid pineapple waste medium, extracted, and fractionated using ethyl acetate and vacuum liquid chromatography technique. Violacein was quantified as major compound in violet fraction using HPLC analysis. Violet fraction displayed bacteriostatic activity against S. aureus ATCC 29213 and methicillin-resistant S. aureus ATCC 43300 with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 3.9 μg/mL. Fluorescence dyes for membrane damage and scanning electron microscopic analysis confirmed the inhibitory effect by disruption on membrane integrity, morphological alternations, and rupture of the cell membranes of both strains. Transmission electron microscopic analysis showed membrane damage, mesosome formation, and leakage of intracellular constituents of both bacterial strains. Mode of action of violet fraction on the cell membrane integrity of both strains was shown by release of protein, K + , and extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) with 110.5 μg/mL, 2.34 μg/mL, and 87.24 ng/μL, respectively, at 48 h of incubation. Violet fraction was toxic to human embryonic kidney (HEK293) and human fetal lung fibroblast (IMR90) cell lines with LC 50 value of 0.998 ± 0.058 and 0.387 ± 0.002 μg/mL, respectively. Thus, violet fraction showed a strong antibacterial property by disrupting the membrane integrity of S. aureus and MRSA strains. This is the first report on the possible mode of antibacterial action of violet fraction from C. violaceum UTM5 on S. aureus and MRSA strains.

Label-free density difference amplification-based cell sorting.

PubMed

Song, Jihwan; Song, Minsun; Kang, Taewook; Kim, Dongchoul; Lee, Luke P

2014-11-01

The selective cell separation is a critical step in fundamental life sciences, translational medicine, biotechnology, and energy harvesting. Conventional cell separation methods are fluorescent activated cell sorting and magnetic-activated cell sorting based on fluorescent probes and magnetic particles on cell surfaces. Label-free cell separation methods such as Raman-activated cell sorting, electro-physiologically activated cell sorting, dielectric-activated cell sorting, or inertial microfluidic cell sorting are, however, limited when separating cells of the same kind or cells with similar sizes and dielectric properties, as well as similar electrophysiological phenotypes. Here we report a label-free density difference amplification-based cell sorting (dDACS) without using any external optical, magnetic, electrical forces, or fluidic activations. The conceptual microfluidic design consists of an inlet, hydraulic jump cavity, and multiple outlets. Incoming particles experience gravity, buoyancy, and drag forces in the separation chamber. The height and distance that each particle can reach in the chamber are different and depend on its density, thus allowing for the separation of particles into multiple outlets. The separation behavior of the particles, based on the ratio of the channel heights of the inlet and chamber and Reynolds number has been systematically studied. Numerical simulation reveals that the difference between the heights of only lighter particles with densities close to that of water increases with increasing the ratio of the channel heights, while decreasing Reynolds number can amplify the difference in the heights between the particles considered irrespective of their densities.

Oxidation kinetics of crystal violet by potassium permanganate in acidic medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Sameera Razi; Ashfaq, Maria; Mubashir; Masood, Summyia

2016-05-01

The oxidation kinetics of crystal violet (a triphenylmethane dye) by potassium permanganate was focused in an acidic medium by the spectrophotometric method at 584 nm. The oxidation reaction of crystal violet by potassium permanganate is carried out in an acidic medium at different temperatures ranging within 298-318 K. The kinetic study was carried out to investigate the effect of the concentration, ionic strength and temperature. The reaction followed first order kinetics with respect to potassium permanganate and crystal violet and the overall rate of the reaction was found to be second order. Thermodynamic activation parameters like the activation energy ( E a), enthalpy change (Δ H*), free energy change (Δ G*), and entropy change (Δ S*) have also been evaluated.

Uptake of dyes by a promising locally available agricultural solid waste: coir pith.

PubMed

Namasivayam, C; Radhika, R; Suba, S

2001-01-01

The adsorption of rhodamine-B and acid violet by coir pith carbon was carried out by varying the parameters such as agitation time, dye concentration, adsorbent dose and pH. The adsorption followed both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The adsorption capacity was found to be 2.56 mg and 8.06 mg dye per g of the adsorbent for rhodamine-B and acid violet, respectively. Adsorption of dyes followed first order rate kinetics. Acidic pH was favorable for the adsorption of acid violet and alkaline pH was favorable to rhodamine-B. Desorption studies showed that alkaline pH was favorable for the desorption of acid violet and acidic pH was favorable for the desorption of rhodamine-B.

A Computer Environment for Beginners' Learning of Sorting Algorithms: Design and Pilot Evaluation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kordaki, M.; Miatidis, M.; Kapsampelis, G.

2008-01-01

This paper presents the design, features and pilot evaluation study of a web-based environment--the SORTING environment--for the learning of sorting algorithms by secondary level education students. The design of this environment is based on modeling methodology, taking into account modern constructivist and social theories of learning while at…

ANALYSIS/PLOT: a graphics package for use with the SORT/ANALYSIS data bases

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

Sady, C.A.

1983-08-01

This report describes a graphics package that is used with the SORT/ANALYSIS data bases. The data listed by the SORT/ANALYSIS program can be presented in pie, bar, line, or Gantt chart form. Instructions for the use of the plotting program and descriptions of the subroutines are given in the report.

Bias Selectable Dual Band AlGaN Ultra-violet Detectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yan, Feng; Miko, Laddawan; Franz, David; Guan, Bing; Stahle, Carl M.

2007-01-01

Bias selectable dual band AlGaN ultra-violet (UV) detectors, which can separate UV-A and UV-B using one detector in the same pixel by bias switching, have been designed, fabricated and characterized. A two-terminal n-p-n photo-transistor-like structure was used. When a forward bias is applied between the top electrode and the bottom electrode, the detectors can successfully detect W-A and reject UV-B. Under reverse bias, they can detect UV-B and reject UV-A. The proof of concept design shows that it is feasible to fabricate high performance dual-band UV detectors based on the current AlGaN material growth and fabrication technologies.

Fast and accurate image recognition algorithms for fresh produce food safety sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Chun-Chieh; Kim, Moon S.; Chao, Kuanglin; Kang, Sukwon; Lefcourt, Alan M.

2011-06-01

This research developed and evaluated the multispectral algorithms derived from hyperspectral line-scan fluorescence imaging under violet LED excitation for detection of fecal contamination on Golden Delicious apples. The algorithms utilized the fluorescence intensities at four wavebands, 680 nm, 684 nm, 720 nm, and 780 nm, for computation of simple functions for effective detection of contamination spots created on the apple surfaces using four concentrations of aqueous fecal dilutions. The algorithms detected more than 99% of the fecal spots. The effective detection of feces showed that a simple multispectral fluorescence imaging algorithm based on violet LED excitation may be appropriate to detect fecal contamination on fast-speed apple processing lines.

Size-dependent magnetic properties of cubic-phase MnSe nanospheres emitting blue-violet fluorescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Kishan; AhmedMir, Irshad; Ranjan, Rahul; Bohidar, H. B.

2018-05-01

We report a facile controlled synthesis of non-iron based cubic phase MnSe magnetic nanocrystals with well-defined spherical shape of different size (7–16 nm, TEM data) by hot injection method without need for special conditions. It was found that the size and its polydispersity could be easily controlled by controlling the reaction temperature. The highly crystalline (confirmed by XRD) synthesized nanoparticles showed blue-violet fluorescence emission and were antiferromagnet in nature. The observed size dependent weak ferromagnetism, resulting hysteresis loop in antiferromagnet was attributed to the surface spins. Strengthening of antiferromagnetism with increasing size could be the reason for shifting of the freezing temperature towards higher side.

The beet Y locus encodes an anthocyanin-MYB-like protein that activates the betalain red pigment pathway

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Almost all flowering plants produce red/violet, phenylalanine-based, anthocyanin pigments. A single order, the Caryophyllales, contains families that replace anthocyanins with tyrosine-based red and yellow betalain pigments. Close biological correlation of pigmentation patterns suggested that betala...

My eSorts and Digital Extensions of Word Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zucker, Tricia A.; Invernizzi, Marcia

2008-01-01

"My eSorts" is a strategy for helping children learn to read and spell in a socially motivated context. It is based on developmental spelling research and the word study approach to teaching phonics and spelling. "eSorting" employs digital desktop publishing tools that allow children to author their own electronic word sorts and then share these…

STUDIES ON BIOLUMINESCENCE : XVII. FLUORESCENCE AND INHIBITION OF LUMINESCENCE IN CTENOPHORES BY ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT.

PubMed

Harvey, E N

1925-01-20

1. Small dumps of the luminous cells of Mnemiopsis cannot readily be stimulated mechanically but will luminesce on treatment with saponin solution. Larger groups of luminous cells (such as are connected with two paddle plates) luminesce on mechanical stimulation. This suggests that mechanical stimulation to luminesce occurs chiefly through a nerve mechanism which has been broken up in the small dumps of luminous tissue. 2. The smallest bits of luminous tissue, even cells freed from the animal by agitation, that will pass through filter paper, lose their power to luminesce in daylight and regain it (at least partially) in the dark. 3. Luminescence of the whole animal and of individual cells is suppressed by near ultra-violet light (without visible light). 4. Inhibition in ultra-violet light is not due to stimulation (by the ultra-violet light) of the animal to luminesce, thereby using up the store of photogenic material. 5. Animals stimulated mechanically several times and placed in ultra-violet light show a luminescence along the meridians in the same positions as the luminescence that appears on stimulation. This luminescence in the ultra-violet or "tonic luminescence," is not obtained with light adapted ctenophores and is interpreted to be a fluorescence of the product of oxidation of the photogenic material. 6. Marked fluorescence of the luminous organ of the glowworm (Photuris) and of the luminous slime of Chatopterus may be observed in ultra-violet but no marked fluorescence of the luminous substances of Cypridina is apparent. 7. Evidence is accumulating to show a close relation between fluorescent and chemiluminescent substances in animals, similar to that described for unsaturated silicon compounds and the Grignard reagents.

Effects of blue or violet light on the inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus by riboflavin-5'-phosphate photolysis.

PubMed

Wong, Tak-Wah; Cheng, Chien-Wei; Hsieh, Zong-Jhe; Liang, Ji-Yuan

2017-08-01

The light sensitive compound riboflavin-5'-phosphate (or flavin mononucleotide, FMN) generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon photo-irradiation. FMN is required by all flavoproteins because it is a cofactor of biological blue-light receptors. The photochemical effects of FMN after irradiation by blue or violet light on the inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus strains, including a methicillin-resistant strain (MRSA), were investigated in this study. Upon blue- or violet-light photo-treatment, FMN was shown to inactivate S. aureus due to the generated ROS. Effective bacterial inactivation can be achieved by FMN photolysis without an exogenous electron provider. Inactivation rates of 94.9 and 95.2% in S. aureus and MRSA, respectively, can be reached by blue light irradiation (2.0mW/cm 2 ) with 120μM FMN for 120min. A lower FMN concentration and a shorter time are required to reach similar effects by violet light irradiation. Inactivation rates of 96.3 and 97.0% in S. aureus and MRSA, respectively, can be reached by violet light irradiation (1.0mW/cm 2 ) with 30μM FMN for 30min. The sensitivity of the inherent photosensitizers is lower under blue-light irradiation. A long exposure photolytic treatment of FMN by blue light is required to inactivate S. aureus. Violet light was found to be more efficient in S. aureus inactivation at the same radiant intensity. FMN photolysis with blue or violet light irradiation enhanced the inactivation rates of S. aureus and MRSA. FMN photochemical treatment could be a supplemental technique in hygienic decontamination processes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design of monitoring system for mail-sorting based on the Profibus S7 series PLC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, W.; Jia, S. H.; Wang, Y. H.; Liu, H.; Tang, G. C.

2017-01-01

With the rapid development of the postal express, the workload of mail sorting is increasing, but the automatic technology of mail sorting is not mature enough. In view of this, the system uses Siemens S7-300 PLC as the main station controller, PLC of Siemens S7-200/400 is from the station controller, through the man-machine interface configuration software MCGS, PROFIBUS-DP communication, RFID technology and mechanical sorting hand achieve mail classification sorting monitoring. Among them, distinguish mail-sorting by scanning RFID posted in the mail electronic bar code (fixed code), the system uses the corresponding controller on the acquisition of information processing, the processed information transmit to the sorting manipulator by PROFIBUS-DP. The system can realize accurate and efficient mail sorting, which will promote the development of mail sorting technology.

Size-based cell sorting with a resistive pulse sensor and an electromagnetic pump in a microfluidic chip.

PubMed

Song, Yongxin; Li, Mengqi; Pan, Xinxiang; Wang, Qi; Li, Dongqing

2015-02-01

An electrokinetic microfluidic chip is developed to detect and sort target cells by size from human blood samples. Target-cell detection is achieved by a differential resistive pulse sensor (RPS) based on the size difference between the target cell and other cells. Once a target cell is detected, the detected RPS signal will automatically actuate an electromagnetic pump built in a microchannel to push the target cell into a collecting channel. This method was applied to automatically detect and sort A549 cells and T-lymphocytes from a peripheral fingertip blood sample. The viability of A549 cells sorted in the collecting well was verified by Hoechst33342 and propidium iodide staining. The results show that as many as 100 target cells per minute can be sorted out from the sample solution and thus is particularly suitable for sorting very rare target cells, such as circulating tumor cells. The actuation of the electromagnetic valve has no influence on RPS cell detection and the consequent cell-sorting process. The viability of the collected A549 cell is not impacted by the applied electric field when the cell passes the RPS detection area. The device described in this article is simple, automatic, and label-free and has wide applications in size-based rare target cell sorting for medical diagnostics. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Ultra violet disinfection: A 3-year history

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

Tubesing, R.R.; Lindeke, D.R.

1998-07-01

The Stillwater Wastewater Treatment Facility is one of nine wastewater treatment facilities operated by the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services in the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metropolitan Area. The facility services the cities of Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, and Bayport. In 1993, an ultra violet disinfection facility began operation to provide the disinfection for the Facility. This presentation discusses the reasons for using ultra violet disinfection in lieu of chlorination/dechlorination facilities, the operating performance, and operating cost factors.

Crystal violet stain as a selective stain for the assessment of mitotic figures in oral epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

PubMed

Jadhav, Kiran B; Ahmed Mujib, B R; Gupta, Nidhi

2012-01-01

Assessment of mitotic figures (MFs) is routinely practiced as prognostic indicator in oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but identification of MFs poses a problem in terms of staining characteristics. To evaluate effectiveness of crystal violet stain for staining of MFs and its comparison with hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) stain. Study sample includes archival tissues embedded in paraffin blocks diagnosed as OED (n = 30) and OSCC (n = 30). The control group comprised of tissue specimen from oral mucosa of healthy volunteers (n = 30). Two serial sections of each tissue specimen were stained separately with H and E stain and 1% crystal violet stain. The stained sections were observed under microscope for identification and counting of MFs. Data obtained was statistically analyzed by using the Man-Whitney U test. A significant increase in number of MFs was observed in OED and OSCC in comparison with normal oral mucosa. There was a highly significant increase in number of MFs in crystal violet stained tissue sections when compared with H and E stain. Metaphase is the most commonly observed phase of mitosis in crystal violet stain when compared with H and E stain for all three groups. Crystal violet stain can be considered as selective stain for mitotic figures.

[Active carbon from Thalia dealbata residues: its preparation and adsorption performance to crystal violet].

PubMed

Chu, Shu-Yi; Yang, Min; Xiao, Ji-Bo; Zhang, Jun; Zhu, Yan-Ping; Yan, Xiang-Jun; Tian, Guang-Ming

2013-06-01

By using phosphoric acid as activation agent, active carbon was prepared from Thalia dealbata residues. The BET specific surface area of the active carbon was 1174.13 m2 x g(-1), micropore area was 426.99 m2 x g(-1), and average pore diameter was 3.23 nm. An investigation was made on the adsorption performances of the active carbon for crystal violet from aqueous solution under various conditions of pH, initial concentration of crystal violet, contact time, and contact temperature. It was shown that the adsorbed amount of crystal violet was less affected by solution pH, and the adsorption process could be divided into two stages, i. e., fast adsorption and slow adsorption, which followed the pseudo-second-order kinetics model. At the temperature 293, 303, and 313 K, the adsorption process was more accordance with Langmuir isotherm model, and the maximum adsorption capacity was 409.83, 425.53, and 438.59 mg x g(-1), respectively. In addition, the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic, and the randomness of crystal violet molecules increased.

[Biosorption of crystal violet and malachite green by Rhodotorula graminis Y-5].

PubMed

Hu, Rong; Huang, Jian-Bo; Yang, Zhou-Ping; Cheng, Zi-Zhang; Jing, De-Jun; Huang, Qian-Ming

2011-12-01

With a shaker, this paper studied the characteristics of the biosorption of crystal violet and malachite green by Rhodotorula graminis Y-5 under different adsorption time, initial pH, and temperature, as well as the desorption and recycling use of the dyes. The biosorption of crystal violet and malachite green by R. graminis Y-5 had the peaks (93.8% and 87.7%, respectively) at pH 7.0, dye concentration 50 mg x L(-1), 150 r x min(-1), 30 degrees C, and lasting 10 hours. After desorption, the biosorption rate of crystal violet and malachite green by R. graminis was 85.5% and 78.5%, respectively, indicating that the biosorption of crystal violet and malachite green was reversible, and the recycling use of the dyes by R. graminis was quite good, i. e., the dyes were renewable and could be recycled. Biosorption could be the mechanism of the decolorization of the dyes. The dyes were mostly adsorbed on the R. graminis surface -OH. The adsorption process was fast, efficient, and reversible, suggesting that R. graminis had a high potential for waste water treatment.

Violet and blue light-induced green fluorescence emissions from dental caries.

PubMed

Shakibaie, F; Walsh, L J

2016-12-01

The objective of this laboratory study was to compare violet and visible blue LED light-elicited green fluorescence emissions from enamel and dentine in healthy or carious states. Microscopic digital photography was undertaken using violet and blue LED illumination (405 nm and 455 nm wavelengths) of tooth surfaces, which were photographed through a custom-made stack of green compensating filters which removed the excitation light and allowed green fluorescence emissions to pass. Green channel pixel data were analysed. Dry sound enamel and sound root surfaces showed strong green fluorescence when excited by violet or blue lights. Regions of cavitated dental caries gave lower green fluorescence, and this was similar whether the dentine in the lesions was the same colour as normal dentine or was darkly coloured. The presence of saliva on the surface did not significantly change the green fluorescence, while the presence of blood diluted in saliva depressed green fluorescence. Using violet or blue illumination in combination with green compensating filters could potentially aid in the assessment of areas of mineral loss. © 2016 Australian Dental Association.

SURVIVAL OF THE RED BLOOD CELLS OF BLOOD TREATED WITH GENTIAN VIOLET. ITS IMPORTANCE IN THE PROPHYLAXIS OF CHAGAS DISEASE TRANSMITTED DURING TRANSFUSION (in Spanish)

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

Maspes, V.; Pieroni, R.R.; Mellone, O.

1959-01-01

The utility of adding gentian violet to blood to be transfused for prophylaxis of Chanas disease is discussed. It is quite useful in regions where a high percentage of blood donore are infected, The survivial of the erythrocytes in blood treated with sufficient gentian violet to kill Trypanosoma Cruzi (1: 4,000) is studied. The study was made at 4 deg C with chromium as the labeling substance, Mean cell life values found varied from 66 to 91 days. It was concluded that other properties of erythrcytes are not significantly changed, Therefore, the wide use of gentian violet in the prophylaxismore » of Chagas disease is recommended. (auth)« less

Research of grasping algorithm based on scara industrial robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Tao; Zuo, Ping; Yang, Hai

2018-04-01

As the tobacco industry grows, facing the challenge of the international tobacco giant, efficient logistics service is one of the key factors. How to complete the tobacco sorting task of efficient economy is the goal of tobacco sorting and optimization research. Now the cigarette distribution system uses a single line to carry out the single brand sorting task, this article adopts a single line to realize the cigarette sorting task of different brands. Using scara robot special algorithm for sorting and packaging, the optimization scheme significantly enhances the indicators of smoke sorting system. Saving labor productivity, obviously improve production efficiency.

A Binary Array Asynchronous Sorting Algorithm with Using Petri Nets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voevoda, A. A.; Romannikov, D. O.

2017-01-01

Nowadays the tasks of computations speed-up and/or their optimization are actual. Among the approaches on how to solve these tasks, a method applying approaches of parallelization and asynchronization to a sorting algorithm is considered in the paper. The sorting methods are ones of elementary methods and they are used in a huge amount of different applications. In the paper, we offer a method of an array sorting that based on a division into a set of independent adjacent pairs of numbers and their parallel and asynchronous comparison. And this one distinguishes the offered method from the traditional sorting algorithms (like quick sorting, merge sorting, insertion sorting and others). The algorithm is implemented with the use of Petri nets, like the most suitable tool for an asynchronous systems description.

IAP-Based Cell Sorting Results in Homogeneous Transplantable Dopaminergic Precursor Cells Derived from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells.

PubMed

Lehnen, Daniela; Barral, Serena; Cardoso, Tiago; Grealish, Shane; Heuer, Andreas; Smiyakin, Andrej; Kirkeby, Agnete; Kollet, Jutta; Cremer, Harold; Parmar, Malin; Bosio, Andreas; Knöbel, Sebastian

2017-10-10

Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived mesencephalic dopaminergic (mesDA) neurons can relieve motor deficits in animal models of Parkinson's disease (PD). Clinical translation of differentiation protocols requires standardization of production procedures, and surface-marker-based cell sorting is considered instrumental for reproducible generation of defined cell products. Here, we demonstrate that integrin-associated protein (IAP) is a cell surface marker suitable for enrichment of hPSC-derived mesDA progenitor cells. Immunomagnetically sorted IAP + mesDA progenitors showed increased expression of ventral midbrain floor plate markers, lacked expression of pluripotency markers, and differentiated into mature dopaminergic (DA) neurons in vitro. Intrastriatal transplantation of IAP + cells sorted at day 16 of differentiation in a rat model of PD resulted in functional recovery. Grafts from sorted IAP + mesDA progenitors were more homogeneous in size and DA neuron density. Thus, we suggest IAP-based sorting for reproducible prospective enrichment of mesDA progenitor cells in clinical cell replacement strategies. Copyright © 2017 Miltenyi Biotec GmbH. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Small-signal modulation characteristics of a polariton laser

PubMed Central

Zunaid Baten, Md; Frost, Thomas; Iorsh, Ivan; Deshpande, Saniya; Kavokin, Alexey; Bhattacharya, Pallab

2015-01-01

Use of large bandgap materials together with electrical injection makes the polariton laser an attractive low-power coherent light source for medical and biomedical applications or short distance plastic fiber communication at short wavelengths (violet and ultra-violet), where a conventional laser is difficult to realize. The dynamic properties of a polariton laser have not been investigated experimentally. We have measured, for the first time, the small signal modulation characteristics of a GaN-based electrically pumped polariton laser operating at room temperature. A maximum −3 dB modulation bandwidth of 1.18 GHz is measured. The experimental results have been analyzed with a theoretical model based on the Boltzmann kinetic equations and the agreement is very good. We have also investigated frequency chirping during such modulation. Gain compression phenomenon in a polariton laser is interpreted and a value is obtained for the gain compression factor. PMID:26154681

Capture Matrices Handbook

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-01

192–195. 2. I. Šafařik and M. Šafařikova.2002. “Detection of Low Concentrations of Malachite Green and Crystal Violet in Water,” Water Research 36... Malachite Green and Crystal Violet in Water,” Water Research 36:196–200. 5. F. P. Schwarz and S. P. Wasik. 1976. “Fluorescence Measurements of Benzene...Detection of Low Concentration of Malachite Green and Crystal Violet in Water,” Water Research 36:196–200. 3. Y. Lee, C.-L. Chang, and L.-M. Fu. 2011

Can narrow-bandwidth light from UV-A to green alter secondary plant metabolism and increase Brassica plant defenses against aphids?

PubMed

Rechner, Ole; Neugart, Susanne; Schreiner, Monika; Wu, Sasa; Poehling, Hans-Michael

2017-01-01

Light of different wavelengths is essential for plant growth and development. Short-wavelength radiation such as UV can shift the composition of flavonoids, glucosinolates, and other plant metabolites responsible for enhanced defense against certain herbivorous insects. The intensity of light-induced, metabolite-based resistance is plant- and insect species-specific and depends on herbivore feeding guild and specialization. The increasing use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in horticultural plant production systems in protected environments enables the creation of tailor-made light scenarios for improved plant cultivation and induced defense against herbivorous insects. In this study, broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) plants were grown in a climate chamber under broad spectra photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) and were additionally treated with the following narrow-bandwidth light generated with LEDs: UV-A (365 nm), violet (420 nm), blue (470 nm), or green (515 nm). We determined the influence of narrow-bandwidth light on broccoli plant growth, secondary plant metabolism (flavonol glycosides and glucosinolates), and plant-mediated light effects on the performance and behavior of the specialized cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae. Green light increased plant height more than UV-A, violet, or blue LED treatments. Among flavonol glycosides, specific quercetin and kaempferol glycosides were increased under violet light. The concentration of 3-indolylmethyl glucosinolate in plants was increased by UV-A treatment. B. brassicae performance was not influenced by the different light qualities, but in host-choice tests, B. brassicae preferred previously blue-illuminated plants (but not UV-A-, violet-, or green-illuminated plants) over control plants.

Can narrow-bandwidth light from UV-A to green alter secondary plant metabolism and increase Brassica plant defenses against aphids?

PubMed Central

Neugart, Susanne; Schreiner, Monika; Wu, Sasa; Poehling, Hans-Michael

2017-01-01

Light of different wavelengths is essential for plant growth and development. Short-wavelength radiation such as UV can shift the composition of flavonoids, glucosinolates, and other plant metabolites responsible for enhanced defense against certain herbivorous insects. The intensity of light-induced, metabolite-based resistance is plant- and insect species-specific and depends on herbivore feeding guild and specialization. The increasing use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in horticultural plant production systems in protected environments enables the creation of tailor-made light scenarios for improved plant cultivation and induced defense against herbivorous insects. In this study, broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) plants were grown in a climate chamber under broad spectra photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) and were additionally treated with the following narrow-bandwidth light generated with LEDs: UV-A (365 nm), violet (420 nm), blue (470 nm), or green (515 nm). We determined the influence of narrow-bandwidth light on broccoli plant growth, secondary plant metabolism (flavonol glycosides and glucosinolates), and plant-mediated light effects on the performance and behavior of the specialized cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae. Green light increased plant height more than UV-A, violet, or blue LED treatments. Among flavonol glycosides, specific quercetin and kaempferol glycosides were increased under violet light. The concentration of 3-indolylmethyl glucosinolate in plants was increased by UV-A treatment. B. brassicae performance was not influenced by the different light qualities, but in host-choice tests, B. brassicae preferred previously blue-illuminated plants (but not UV-A-, violet-, or green-illuminated plants) over control plants. PMID:29190278

Health-friendly high-quality white light using violet-green-red laser and InGaN nanowires-based true yellow nanowires light-emitting diodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janjua, Bilal; Ng, Tien K.; Zhao, Chao; Anjum, Dalaver H.; Prabaswara, Aditya; Consiglio, Giuseppe Bernardo; Shen, Chao; Ooi, Boon S.

2017-02-01

White light based on blue laser - YAG: Ce3+ phosphor has the advantage of implementing solid-state lighting and optical wireless communications combined-functionalities in a single lamp. However, the blue light was found to disrupt melatonin production, and therefore the human circadian rhythm in general; while the yellow phosphor is susceptible to degradation by laser irradiation and also lack tunability in color rendering index (CRI). In this investigation, by using a violet laser, which has 50% less impact on circadian response, as compared to blue light, and an InGaN-quantum-disks nanowires-based light-emitting diode (NWs-LED), we address both issues simultaneously. The white light is therefore generated using violet-green-red lasers, in conjunction with a yellow NWs-LED realized using molecular beam epitaxy technique, on titanium-coated silicon substrates. Unlike the conventional quantum-well-based LED, the NWs-LED showed efficiency-droop free behavior up to 9.8 A/cm2 with peak output power of 400 μW. A low turn-on voltage of 2.1 V was attributed to the formation of conducting titanium nitride layer at NWs nucleation site and improved fabrication process in the presence of relatively uniform height distribution. The 3D quantum confinement and the reduced band bending improve carriers-wavefunctions overlap, resulting in an IQE of 39 %. By changing the relative intensities of the individual color components, CRI of >85 was achieved with tunable correlated color temperature (CCT), thus covering the desired room lighting conditions. Our architecture provides important considerations in designing smart solid-state lighting while addressing the harmful effect of blue light.

Rapid onsite detection of bacterial spores of biothreat importance by paper-based colorimetric method using erbium-pyrocatechol violet complex.

PubMed

Shivakiran, M S; Venkataramana, M; Lakshmana Rao, P V

2016-01-01

Dipicolinic acid (DPA) is an important chemical marker for the detection of bacterial spores. In this study, complexes of lanthanide series elements such as erbium, europium, neodymium, and terbium were prepared with pyrocatechol violet and effectively immobilized the pyrocatechol violet (PV)-metal complex on a filter paper using polyvinyl alcohol. These filter paper strips were employed for the onsite detection of bacterial spores. The test filter papers were evaluated quantitatively with different concentrations of DPA and spores of various bacteria. Among the four lanthanide ions, erbium displayed better sensitivity than the other ions. The limit of detection of this test for DPA was 60 μM and 5 × 10(6) spores. The effect of other non-spore-forming bacteria and interfering chemicals on the test strips was also evaluated. The non-spore-forming bacteria did not have considerable effect on the test strip whereas chemicals such as EDTA had significant effects on the test results. The present test is rapid and robust, capable of providing timely results for better judgement to save resources on unnecessary decontamination procedures during false alarms.

Spectrally-isolated violet to blue wavelength generation by cascaded degenerate four-wave mixing in a photonic crystal fiber.

PubMed

Yuan, Jinhui; Kang, Zhe; Li, Feng; Zhang, Xianting; Zhou, Guiyao; Sang, Xinzhu; Wu, Qiang; Yan, Binbin; Zhou, Xian; Wang, Liang; Zhong, Kangping; Wang, Kuiru; Yu, Chongxiu; Tam, Hwa Yaw; Wai, P K A

2016-06-01

Generation of spectrally-isolated wavelengths in the violet to blue region based on cascaded degenerate four-wave mixing (FWM) is experimentally demonstrated for the first time in a tailor-made photonic crystal fiber, which has two adjacent zero dispersion wavelengths (ZDWs) at 696 and 852 nm in the fundamental mode. The influences of the wavelength λ_p and the input average power P_av of the femtosecond pump pulses on the phase-matched frequency conversion process are studied. When femtosecond pump pulses at λ_p of 880, 870, and 860 nm and P_av of 500 mW are coupled into the normal dispersion region close to the second ZDW, the first anti-Stokes waves generated near the first ZDW act as a secondary pump for the next FWM process. The conversion efficiency η_as2 of the second anti-Stokes waves, which are generated at the violet to blue wavelengths of 430, 456, and 472 nm, are 4.8, 6.48, and 9.66%, for λ_p equalling 880, 870, and 860 nm, respectively.

Image analysis assisted study of mitotic figures in oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma using differential stains.

PubMed

Tandon, Ankita; Singh, Narendra Nath; Brave, V R; Sreedhar, Gadiputi

2016-11-01

Mitosis is a process of cell division resulting in two genetically equivalent daughter cells. Excessive proliferation of cells due to mitosis is the hallmark in pre cancer and cancer. This study was conducted to count the number of mitotic figures in normal oral mucosa, oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma in both Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Crystal Violet stained sections. Also the overall number of mitotic figures with both stains were compared along with the evaluation of staining efficacy of both the stains. The present study was conducted on 20 specimens each of the three categories. These were further divided into two groups for staining with H&E and with 1% Crystal Violet respectively. Images were captured and analyzed using image analysis software Dewinter Biowizard 4.1. Comparison of mitotic figure count in three categories in sections stained with both stains showed statistically significant difference ( p  < 0.001). The mean number of mitotic figures seen in Crystal Violet reagent were significantly higher as seen in H&E stain ( p  < 0.001). The overall diagnostic efficacy of Crystal Violet was 87.6%. Crystal Violet scored over H&E stain and also helped to better appreciate metaphases in Squamous cell carcinoma and telophases in dysplasia. Number of mitotic figures progressively increase with the advancement of the pathology. Use of 1% Crystal Violet provides better appreciation of mitotic figures and can be employed as a selective stain in routine histopathology.

Bio optofluidics cell sorter: cell-BOCS concept and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roth, Tue; Glückstad, Jesper

2012-03-01

The cell-BOCS is a novel microfluidics based cell-sorting instrument utilizing next generation optical trapping technology developed at the Technical University of Denmark. It is targeted emerging bio-medical research and diagnostics markets where it for certain applications offers a number of advantages over conventional fluorescence activated cell-sorting (FACSTM) technology. Advantages include gentle handling of cells, sterile sorting, easy operation, small footprint and lower cost allowing out-of-core-facility use. Application examples are found within sorting of fragile transfected cells, high value samples and primary cell lines, where traditional FACS technology has limited application due to it's droplet-based approach to cell-sorting. In the diagnostics field, in particular applying the cell-BOCS for isolating pure populations of circulating tumor cells is an area that has generated a lot of interest.

Ultra-violet radiation is responsible for the differences in global epidemiology of chickenpox and the evolution of varicella-zoster virus as man migrated out of Africa.

PubMed

Rice, Philip S

2011-04-23

Of the eight human herpes viruses, varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and zoster, has a unique epidemiology. Primary infection is much less common in children in the tropics compared with temperate areas. This results in increased adult susceptibility causing outbreaks, for example in health-care workers migrating from tropical to temperate countries. The recent demonstration that there are different genotypes of varicella-zoster virus and their geographic segregation into tropical and temperate areas suggests a distinct, yet previously unconsidered climatic factor may be responsible for both the clinical and molecular epidemiological features of this virus infection. Unlike other human herpes viruses, varicella-zoster virus does not require intimate contact for infection to occur indicating that transmission may be interrupted by a geographically restricted climatic factor. The factor with the largest difference between tropical and temperate zones is ultra-violet radiation. This could reduce the infectiousness of chickenpox cases by inactivating virus in vesicles, before or after rupture. This would explain decreased transmissibility in the tropics and why the peak chickenpox incidence in temperate zones occurs during winter and spring, when ultra-violet radiation is at its lowest. The evolution of geographically restricted genotypes is also explained by ultra-violet radiation driving natural selection of different virus genotypes with varying degrees of resistance to inactivation, tropical genotypes being the most resistant. Consequently, temperate viruses should be more sensitive to its effects. This is supported by the observation that temperate genotypes are found in the tropics only in specific circumstances, namely where ultra-violet radiation has either been excluded or significantly reduced in intensity. The hypothesis is testable by exposing different virus genotypes to ultra-violet radiation and quantifying virus survival by plaque forming units or quantitative mRNA RT-PCR. The ancestral varicella-zoster virus, most probably a tropical genotype, co-migrated with man as he left Africa approximately 200,000 years ago. For this virus to have lost the selective advantage of resistance to ultra-violet radiation, the hypothesis would predict that the temperate, ultra-violet sensitive virus should have acquired another selective advantage as an evolutionary trade-off. One obvious advantage could be an increased reactivation rate as zoster to set up more rounds of chickenpox transmission. If this were so, the mechanism responsible for resistance to ultra-violet radiation might also be involved in reactivation and latency. This could then provide the first insight into a genetic correlate of the survival strategy of this virus.

Violet LED light enhances the recruitment of a thrip predator in open fields.

PubMed

Ogino, Takumi; Uehara, Takuya; Muraji, Masahiko; Yamaguchi, Terumi; Ichihashi, Takahisa; Suzuki, Takahiro; Kainoh, Yooichi; Shimoda, Masami

2016-09-08

The predatory bug Orius sauteri is an indigenous natural enemy of thrips and whiteflies in Asian countries. To put these bugs to practical use in pest management, methods to attract and retain the bugs in agricultural fields are needed. We previously showed that violet light (405 nm) attracts O. sauteri selectively. Many thrips and whiteflies are attracted to UV or green light. In this study, we examined the effect of violet-LED illumination on O. sauteri in pesticide-free eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) cultivation. In three cultivation trials, the density of O. sauteri on eggplant leaves was consistently higher in the illuminated plots; at least twice that of the non-illuminated plots. Simultaneously, the density of thrips declined markedly to less than half that of the non-illuminated plots. We identified three positive effects of violet light including an "immediate-effect" on predator attraction, a "persistent-effect" on predator reproduction, and a "secondary-effect" on the food web structure. Our results showed that illumination with violet light provides a powerful tool for integrated pest management. This is the first report on the use of illumination to manipulate the behavior of natural enemies.

Violet LED light enhances the recruitment of a thrip predator in open fields

PubMed Central

Ogino, Takumi; Uehara, Takuya; Muraji, Masahiko; Yamaguchi, Terumi; Ichihashi, Takahisa; Suzuki, Takahiro; Kainoh, Yooichi; Shimoda, Masami

2016-01-01

The predatory bug Orius sauteri is an indigenous natural enemy of thrips and whiteflies in Asian countries. To put these bugs to practical use in pest management, methods to attract and retain the bugs in agricultural fields are needed. We previously showed that violet light (405 nm) attracts O. sauteri selectively. Many thrips and whiteflies are attracted to UV or green light. In this study, we examined the effect of violet-LED illumination on O. sauteri in pesticide-free eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) cultivation. In three cultivation trials, the density of O. sauteri on eggplant leaves was consistently higher in the illuminated plots; at least twice that of the non-illuminated plots. Simultaneously, the density of thrips declined markedly to less than half that of the non-illuminated plots. We identified three positive effects of violet light including an “immediate-effect” on predator attraction, a “persistent-effect” on predator reproduction, and a “secondary-effect” on the food web structure. Our results showed that illumination with violet light provides a powerful tool for integrated pest management. This is the first report on the use of illumination to manipulate the behavior of natural enemies. PMID:27604315

A real-time spike sorting method based on the embedded GPU.

PubMed

Zelan Yang; Kedi Xu; Xiang Tian; Shaomin Zhang; Xiaoxiang Zheng

2017-07-01

Microelectrode arrays with hundreds of channels have been widely used to acquire neuron population signals in neuroscience studies. Online spike sorting is becoming one of the most important challenges for high-throughput neural signal acquisition systems. Graphic processing unit (GPU) with high parallel computing capability might provide an alternative solution for increasing real-time computational demands on spike sorting. This study reported a method of real-time spike sorting through computing unified device architecture (CUDA) which was implemented on an embedded GPU (NVIDIA JETSON Tegra K1, TK1). The sorting approach is based on the principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means. By analyzing the parallelism of each process, the method was further optimized in the thread memory model of GPU. Our results showed that the GPU-based classifier on TK1 is 37.92 times faster than the MATLAB-based classifier on PC while their accuracies were the same with each other. The high-performance computing features of embedded GPU demonstrated in our studies suggested that the embedded GPU provide a promising platform for the real-time neural signal processing.

A Methodology for Examining Collateral Effects on Military Operations during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and/or Nuclear Attack - Operational Effectiveness Loss Multiplier (OELM)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

Operational Effectiveness Loss Multiplier (OELM) Deena S. Disraelly G. James Herrera Margaret H. Katz Jessica L. Knight Lucas A. LaViolet Terri J . Walsh...Multiplier (OELM) Deena S. Disraelly G. James Herrera Margaret H. Katz Jessica L. Knight Lucas A. LaViolet Terri J . Walsh Robert A. Zirkle I N...ELEMENT NO(S). 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT NO. Deena S. Disraelly, G. James Herrera, Margaret H. Katz, Jessica L. Knight, Lucas A. LaViolet, Terri J

A Methodology for Examining Collateral Effects on Military Operations during a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and/or Nuclear Attack-Operational Effectiveness Loss Multiplier (OELM)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

Operational Effectiveness Loss Multiplier (OELM) Deena S. Disraelly G. James Herrera Margaret H. Katz Jessica L. Knight Lucas A. LaViolet Terri J . Walsh...Multiplier (OELM) Deena S. Disraelly G. James Herrera Margaret H. Katz Jessica L. Knight Lucas A. LaViolet Terri J . Walsh Robert A. Zirkle I N...James Herrera, Margaret H. Katz, Jessica L. Knight, Lucas A. LaViolet, Terri J . Walsh, and Robert A. Zirkle 5e. TASK NO. DC-6-3250 5f. WORK UNIT

GASEOUS SCINTILLATION COUNTER

DOEpatents

Eggler, C.; Huddleston, C.M.

1959-04-28

A gaseous excitation counter for detecting the presence amd measuring the energy of subatomic particles and electromagnetic radiation is described. The counter includes a gas-tight chamber filled with an elemental gas capable of producing ultra-violet excitation quanta when irradiated with subatomic particles and electromagnetic radiation. The gas has less than one in a thousand parts ultra-violet absorbing contamination. When nuclear radiation ps present the ultra-violet light produced by the gas strikes a fluorescent material within the counter, responsive to produce visible excitation quanta, and photo-sensitive counting means detect the visible emission.

Particle Transport and Size Sorting in Bubble Microstreaming Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thameem, Raqeeb; Rallabandi, Bhargav; Wang, Cheng; Hilgenfeldt, Sascha

2014-11-01

Ultrasonic driving of sessile semicylindrical bubbles results in powerful steady streaming flows that are robust over a wide range of driving frequencies. In a microchannel, this flow field pattern can be fine-tuned to achieve size-sensitive sorting and trapping of particles at scales much smaller than the bubble itself; the sorting mechanism has been successfully described based on simple geometrical considerations. We investigate the sorting process in more detail, both experimentally (using new parameter variations that allow greater control over the sorting) and theoretically (incorporating the device geometry as well as the superimposed channel flow into an asymptotic theory). This results in optimized criteria for size sorting and a theoretical description that closely matches the particle behavior close to the bubble, the crucial region for size sorting.

Improved resolution in extracellular vesicle populations using 405 instead of 488 nm side scatter

PubMed Central

McVey, Mark J.; Spring, Christopher M.; Kuebler, Wolfgang M.

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT Improvements in identification and assessment of extracellular vesicles (EVs) have fuelled a recent surge in EV publications investigating their roles as biomarkers and mediators of disease. Meaningful scientific comparisons are, however, hampered by difficulties in accurate, reproducible enumeration and characterization of EVs in biological fluids. High-sensitivity flow cytometry (FCM) is presently the most commonly applied strategy to assess EVs, yet its utility is limited by variant ability to resolve smaller EVs. Here, we propose the use of 405 nm (violet) wavelength lasers in place of 488 nm (blue) for side scatter (SSC) detection to obtain greater resolution of EVs using high-sensitivity FCM. To test this hypothesis, we modelled EV resolution by violet versus blue SSC in silico and compared resolution of reference beads and biological EVs from plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid using either violet or blue wavelength SSC EV detection. Mie scatter modelling predicted that violet as compared to blue SSC increases resolution of small (100–500 nm) spherical particles with refractive indices (1.34–1.46) similar to EVs by approximately twofold in terms of light intensity and by nearly 20% in SSC signal quantum efficiency. Resolution of reference beads was improved by violet instead of blue SSC with two- and fivefold decreases in coefficients of variation for particles of 300–500 nm and 180–240 nm size, respectively. Resolution was similarly improved for detection of EVs from plasma or BAL fluid. Violet SSC detection for high-sensitivity FCM allows for significantly greater resolution of EVs in plasma and BAL compared to conventional blue SSC and particularly improves resolution of smaller EVs. Notably, the proposed strategy is readily implementable and inexpensive for machines already equipped with 405 nm SSC or the ability to accommodate 405/10 nm bandpass filters in their violet detector arrays. PMID:29696076

One-step fabrication of 3D silver paste electrodes into microfluidic devices for enhanced droplet-based cell sorting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Lang; Cai, Bo; Yu, Xiao-Lei; Guo, Shi-Shang; Liu, Wei; Zhao, Xing-Zhong

2015-05-01

3D microelectrodes are one-step fabricated into a microfluidic droplet separator by filling conductive silver paste into PDMS microchambers. The advantages of 3D silver paste electrodes in promoting droplet sorting accuracy are systematically demonstrated by theoretical calculation, numerical simulation and experimental validation. The employment of 3D electrodes also helps to decrease the droplet sorting voltage, guaranteeing that cells encapsulated in droplets undergo chip-based sorting processes are at better metabolic status for further potential cellular assays. At last, target droplet containing single cell are selectively sorted out from others by an appropriate electric pulse. This method provides a simple and inexpensive alternative to fabricate 3D electrodes, and it is expected our 3D electrode-integrated microfluidic droplet separator platform can be widely used in single cell operation and analysis.

Unsupervised neural spike sorting for high-density microelectrode arrays with convolutive independent component analysis.

PubMed

Leibig, Christian; Wachtler, Thomas; Zeck, Günther

2016-09-15

Unsupervised identification of action potentials in multi-channel extracellular recordings, in particular from high-density microelectrode arrays with thousands of sensors, is an unresolved problem. While independent component analysis (ICA) achieves rapid unsupervised sorting, it ignores the convolutive structure of extracellular data, thus limiting the unmixing to a subset of neurons. Here we present a spike sorting algorithm based on convolutive ICA (cICA) to retrieve a larger number of accurately sorted neurons than with instantaneous ICA while accounting for signal overlaps. Spike sorting was applied to datasets with varying signal-to-noise ratios (SNR: 3-12) and 27% spike overlaps, sampled at either 11.5 or 23kHz on 4365 electrodes. We demonstrate how the instantaneity assumption in ICA-based algorithms has to be relaxed in order to improve the spike sorting performance for high-density microelectrode array recordings. Reformulating the convolutive mixture as an instantaneous mixture by modeling several delayed samples jointly is necessary to increase signal-to-noise ratio. Our results emphasize that different cICA algorithms are not equivalent. Spike sorting performance was assessed with ground-truth data generated from experimentally derived templates. The presented spike sorter was able to extract ≈90% of the true spike trains with an error rate below 2%. It was superior to two alternative (c)ICA methods (≈80% accurately sorted neurons) and comparable to a supervised sorting. Our new algorithm represents a fast solution to overcome the current bottleneck in spike sorting of large datasets generated by simultaneous recording with thousands of electrodes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Statistical Characteristics of Single Sort of Grape Bulgarian Wines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyadzhiev, D.

2008-10-01

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the differences in the values of the 8 basic physicochemical indices of single sort of grape Bulgarian wines (white and red ones), obligatory for the standardization of ready production in the winery. Statistically significant differences in the values of various sorts and vintages are established and possibilities for identifying the sort and the vintage on the base of these indices by applying discriminant analysis are discussed.

Biosorption potential of synthetic dyes by heat-inactivated and live Lentinus edodes CCB-42 immobilized in loofa sponges.

PubMed

Gimenez, Gabriela Gregolin; Ruiz, Suelen Pereira; Caetano, Wilker; Peralta, Rosane Marina; Matioli, Graciette

2014-12-01

Lentinus edodes CCB-42 was immobilized in loofa sponges and applied to the biosorption of the synthetic dyes congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet. Live immobilized microorganisms achieved average decolorations of congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet of 97.8, 99.7 and 90.6 %, respectively. The loofa sponge was the support and the coadjuvant promoting dye adsorption. The biosorption conditions were optimized for each dye, yielding 30 °C, pH 5.0 and a 12 h reaction time for congo red; 25 °C, pH 3.0 and 36 h for bordeaux red; and 25 °C, pH 8.0 and 24 h for methyl violet. Operational stability was evaluated over five consecutive cycles, with both bordeaux red and congo red exhibiting decolorations above 90 %, while the decoloration of methyl violet decreased after the third cycle. In the sixth month of storage, congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet had decolorations of 93.1, 79.4 and 73.8 %, respectively. Biosorption process best fit the pseudo-second-order kinetic and Freundlich isotherm models. Maximum biosorption capacity of heat-treated L. edodes immobilized in loofa sponge was determined as 143.678, 500.00 and 381.679 mg/g for congo red, bordeaux red and methyl violet, respectively. Treatment with immobilized L. edodes reduced the phytotoxicity of the medium containing dyes. FT-Raman experiments suggested the occurrence of interactions between loofa sponge fibers, L. edodes and dye. L. edodes CCB-42 immobilized in loofa sponges represents a promising new mode of treatment of industrial effluents.

Opioid Use after TBI

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

hippocampal formation. b. Cresyl violet histochemistry Cresyl violet histological processing of tissue stains Nissl substance, which is composed mostly of...for:  Reactive glial response is being determined by measuring the luminance intensity of GFAP staining  Necrotic and apoptotic cell death by

MOVPE growth of violet GaN LEDs on β-Ga2O3 substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ding; Hoffmann, Veit; Richter, Eberhard; Tessaro, Thomas; Galazka, Zbigniew; Weyers, Markus; Tränkle, Günther

2017-11-01

We report that a H2-free atmosphere is essential for the initial stage of metalorganic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE) growth of GaN on β-Ga2O3 to prevent the surface from damage. A simple growth method is proposed that can easily transfer established GaN growth recipes from sapphire to β-Ga2O3 with both (-2 0 1) and (1 0 0) orientations. This method features a thin AlN nucleation layer grown below 900 °C in N2 atmosphere to protect the surface of β-Ga2O3 from deterioration during further growth under the H2 atmosphere. Based on this, we demonstrate working violet vertical light emitting diodes (VLEDs) on n-conductive β-Ga2O3 substrates.

A Low-Cost Liquid-Chromatography System Using a Spectronic 20-Based Detector.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jezorek, John R.; And Others

1986-01-01

Describes the design and evaluation of a Spectronic 20-based detector as well as a simple system for postcolumn derivatization useful for metal-ion chromatographic detection. Both detection and derivatization can be performed in the ultra-violet (UV) mode using a low-cost UV-visible spectrophotometer and UV-region derivatization reagents. (JN)

Vibrios from Fish Pen Slime Which Mimic Escherichia coli on Violet Red Bile Agar

PubMed Central

Rosen, A.; Levin, R. E.

1970-01-01

Organisms from fish pen slime which mimicked coliforms and Escherichia coli on Violet Red Bile Agar were identified as members of the genus Vibrio on the basis of metabolic and morphological characteristics. Images PMID:4195607

The adaptive significance of sensory bias in a foraging context: floral colour preferences in the bumblebee Bombus terrestris.

PubMed

Raine, Nigel E; Chittka, Lars

2007-06-20

Innate sensory biases could play an important role in helping naïve animals to find food. As inexperienced bees are known to have strong innate colour biases we investigated whether bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) colonies with stronger biases for the most rewarding flower colour (violet) foraged more successfully in their local flora. To test the adaptive significance of variation in innate colour bias, we compared the performance of colour-naïve bees, from nine bumblebee colonies raised from local wild-caught queens, in a laboratory colour bias paradigm using violet (bee UV-blue) and blue (bee blue) artificial flowers. The foraging performance of the same colonies was assessed under field conditions. Colonies with a stronger innate bias for violet over blue flowers in the laboratory harvested more nectar per unit time under field conditions. In fact, the colony with the strongest bias for violet (over blue) brought in 41% more nectar than the colony with the least strong bias. As violet flowers in the local area produce more nectar than blue flowers (the next most rewarding flower colour), these data are consistent with the hypothesis that local variation in flower traits could drive selection for innate colour biases.

Application of saponin biosurfactant and its recovery in the MEUF process for removal of methyl violet from wastewater.

PubMed

Samal, Kulbhushan; Das, Chandan; Mohanty, Kaustubha

2017-12-01

The potential of saponin, a biosurfactant, in the micellar enhanced ultrafiltration (MEUF) process was tested systematically for removal of methyl violet from wastewater. For this, the aqueous extract of reetha (Sapindus mukorossi) pericarp which contains saponin was used as the biosurfactant. First, the micellar solubilization of methyl violet in saponin micelles was investigated in terms of molar solubilization power (SP) of saponin. It was observed that the adsorption of methyl violet on the agglomerates of saponin micelles was mainly responsible for the enhanced solubilization. The Gibbs free energy of solubilization (calculated as -29.63 kJ mol -1 ) suggested that process was feasible and spontaneous. The MEUF experiments were performed in batch as well as continuous mode using saponin biosurfactant, and the effect of operating parameters on permeate flux and solute retention were evaluated. The removal of methyl violet in MEUF process was >99% achieved with 10 kDa polyethersulfone (PES) membrane for feed dye concentration of 250 mg L -1 at studied conditions. Finally, the saponin in permeate was recovered using n-heptane and n-butanol by solvent extraction process. The solvent n-butanol showed better extraction efficiency as compared to n-heptane for saponin extraction. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Adaptive Significance of Sensory Bias in a Foraging Context: Floral Colour Preferences in the Bumblebee Bombus terrestris

PubMed Central

Raine, Nigel E.; Chittka, Lars

2007-01-01

Innate sensory biases could play an important role in helping naïve animals to find food. As inexperienced bees are known to have strong innate colour biases we investigated whether bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) colonies with stronger biases for the most rewarding flower colour (violet) foraged more successfully in their local flora. To test the adaptive significance of variation in innate colour bias, we compared the performance of colour-naïve bees, from nine bumblebee colonies raised from local wild-caught queens, in a laboratory colour bias paradigm using violet (bee UV-blue) and blue (bee blue) artificial flowers. The foraging performance of the same colonies was assessed under field conditions. Colonies with a stronger innate bias for violet over blue flowers in the laboratory harvested more nectar per unit time under field conditions. In fact, the colony with the strongest bias for violet (over blue) brought in 41% more nectar than the colony with the least strong bias. As violet flowers in the local area produce more nectar than blue flowers (the next most rewarding flower colour), these data are consistent with the hypothesis that local variation in flower traits could drive selection for innate colour biases. PMID:17579727

Antioxidative and antigenotoxic activity of extracts from cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) flowers.

PubMed

Jang, In-Cheol; Park, Jae-Hee; Park, Eunju; Park, Hae-Ryong; Lee, Seung-Cheol

2008-12-01

The Cosmos bipinnatus has been used in a traditional herbal remedy for various diseases such as jaundice, intermittent fever, and splenomegaly. The present study describes the preliminary evaluation of antioxidant activities and antigenotoxic effect of Cosmos bipinnatus flowers according to four different colors (white, pink, orange, and violet). The antioxidants properties were evaluated by determining TPC, DPPH RSA, ABTS RSA, and RP. The highest TPC of methanolic CFE (at concentration of 1 mg/ml) showed in violet colored CF (1,013 microM), and IC(50) of DPPH RSA, ABTS RSA, and RP were also the lowest in violet colored CFE with values of 0.61, 1.48, and 0.82 mg/ml, respectively. The antigenotoxic effect of the CFE on DNA damage induced by H(2)O(2) in human leukocytes was evaluated by Comet assay. Pretreatments with CFE produced significant reductions in oxidative DNA damage at the concentration of 500 microg/ml, except for violet colored CFE. The ED(50) value of white colored CFE has shown the highest inhibition (0.40 mg/ml) on H(2)O(2) induced DNA damage, followed by orange > pink > violet color. These results suggested that Cosmos bipinnatus has significant antioxidant activity and protective effect against oxidative DNA damage.

Ultra-violet radiation is responsible for the differences in global epidemiology of chickenpox and the evolution of varicella-zoster virus as man migrated out of Africa

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Of the eight human herpes viruses, varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and zoster, has a unique epidemiology. Primary infection is much less common in children in the tropics compared with temperate areas. This results in increased adult susceptibility causing outbreaks, for example in health-care workers migrating from tropical to temperate countries. The recent demonstration that there are different genotypes of varicella-zoster virus and their geographic segregation into tropical and temperate areas suggests a distinct, yet previously unconsidered climatic factor may be responsible for both the clinical and molecular epidemiological features of this virus infection. Presentation of the hypothesis Unlike other human herpes viruses, varicella-zoster virus does not require intimate contact for infection to occur indicating that transmission may be interrupted by a geographically restricted climatic factor. The factor with the largest difference between tropical and temperate zones is ultra-violet radiation. This could reduce the infectiousness of chickenpox cases by inactivating virus in vesicles, before or after rupture. This would explain decreased transmissibility in the tropics and why the peak chickenpox incidence in temperate zones occurs during winter and spring, when ultra-violet radiation is at its lowest. The evolution of geographically restricted genotypes is also explained by ultra-violet radiation driving natural selection of different virus genotypes with varying degrees of resistance to inactivation, tropical genotypes being the most resistant. Consequently, temperate viruses should be more sensitive to its effects. This is supported by the observation that temperate genotypes are found in the tropics only in specific circumstances, namely where ultra-violet radiation has either been excluded or significantly reduced in intensity. Testing the Hypothesis The hypothesis is testable by exposing different virus genotypes to ultra-violet radiation and quantifying virus survival by plaque forming units or quantitative mRNA RT-PCR. Implications of the hypothesis The ancestral varicella-zoster virus, most probably a tropical genotype, co-migrated with man as he left Africa approximately 200,000 years ago. For this virus to have lost the selective advantage of resistance to ultra-violet radiation, the hypothesis would predict that the temperate, ultra-violet sensitive virus should have acquired another selective advantage as an evolutionary trade-off. One obvious advantage could be an increased reactivation rate as zoster to set up more rounds of chickenpox transmission. If this were so, the mechanism responsible for resistance to ultra-violet radiation might also be involved in reactivation and latency. This could then provide the first insight into a genetic correlate of the survival strategy of this virus. PMID:21513563

Application of Raman spectroscopy to identification and sorting of post-consumer plastics for recycling

DOEpatents

Sommer, Edward J.; Rich, John T.

2001-01-01

A high accuracy rapid system for sorting a plurality of waste products by polymer type. The invention involves the application of Raman spectroscopy and complex identification techniques to identify and sort post-consumer plastics for recycling. The invention reads information unique to the molecular structure of the materials to be sorted to identify their chemical compositions and uses rapid high volume sorting techniques to sort them into product streams at commercially viable throughput rates. The system employs a laser diode (20) for irradiating the material sample (10), a spectrograph (50) is used to determine the Raman spectrum of the material sample (10) and a microprocessor based controller (70) is employed to identify the polymer type of the material sample (10).

Droplet sorting based on the number of encapsulated particles using a solenoid valve.

PubMed

Cao, Zhenning; Chen, Fangyuan; Bao, Ning; He, Huacheng; Xu, Peisheng; Jana, Saikat; Jung, Sunghwan; Lian, Hongzhen; Lu, Chang

2013-01-07

Droplet microfluidics provides a high-throughput platform for screening subjects and conditions involved in biology. Droplets with encapsulated beads and cells have been increasingly used for studying molecular and cellular biology. Droplet sorting is needed to isolate and analyze the subject of interest during such screening. The vast majority of current sorting techniques use fluorescence intensity emitted by each droplet as the only criterion. However, due to the randomness and imperfections in the encapsulation process, typically a mixed population of droplets with an uneven number of encapsulated particles results and is used for screening. Thus droplet sorting based on the number of encapsulated particles becomes necessary for isolating or enriching droplets with a specific occupancy. In this work, we developed a fluorescence-activated microfluidic droplet sorter that integrated a simple deflection mechanism based on the use of a solenoid valve and a sophisticated signal processing system with a microcontroller as the core. By passing droplets through a narrow interrogation channel, the encapsulated particles were detected individually. The microcontroller conducted the computation to determine the number of encapsulated particles in each droplet and made the sorting decision accordingly that led to actuation of the solenoid valve. We tested both fluorescent beads and stained cells and our results showed high efficiency and accuracy for sorting and enrichment.

Diagnostic reliability of MMPI-2 computer-based test interpretations.

PubMed

Pant, Hina; McCabe, Brian J; Deskovitz, Mark A; Weed, Nathan C; Williams, John E

2014-09-01

Reflecting the common use of the MMPI-2 to provide diagnostic considerations, computer-based test interpretations (CBTIs) also typically offer diagnostic suggestions. However, these diagnostic suggestions can sometimes be shown to vary widely across different CBTI programs even for identical MMPI-2 profiles. The present study evaluated the diagnostic reliability of 6 commercially available CBTIs using a 20-item Q-sort task developed for this study. Four raters each sorted diagnostic classifications based on these 6 CBTI reports for 20 MMPI-2 profiles. Two questions were addressed. First, do users of CBTIs understand the diagnostic information contained within the reports similarly? Overall, diagnostic sorts of the CBTIs showed moderate inter-interpreter diagnostic reliability (mean r = .56), with sorts for the 1/2/3 profile showing the highest inter-interpreter diagnostic reliability (mean r = .67). Second, do different CBTIs programs vary with respect to diagnostic suggestions? It was found that diagnostic sorts of the CBTIs had a mean inter-CBTI diagnostic reliability of r = .56, indicating moderate but not strong agreement across CBTIs in terms of diagnostic suggestions. The strongest inter-CBTI diagnostic agreement was found for sorts of the 1/2/3 profile CBTIs (mean r = .71). Limitations and future directions are discussed. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Surface acoustic wave actuated cell sorting (SAWACS).

PubMed

Franke, T; Braunmüller, S; Schmid, L; Wixforth, A; Weitz, D A

2010-03-21

We describe a novel microfluidic cell sorter which operates in continuous flow at high sorting rates. The device is based on a surface acoustic wave cell-sorting scheme and combines many advantages of fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) and fluorescence activated droplet sorting (FADS) in microfluidic channels. It is fully integrated on a PDMS device, and allows fast electronic control of cell diversion. We direct cells by acoustic streaming excited by a surface acoustic wave which deflects the fluid independently of the contrast in material properties of deflected objects and the continuous phase; thus the device underlying principle works without additional enhancement of the sorting by prior labelling of the cells with responsive markers such as magnetic or polarizable beads. Single cells are sorted directly from bulk media at rates as fast as several kHz without prior encapsulation into liquid droplet compartments as in traditional FACS. We have successfully directed HaCaT cells (human keratinocytes), fibroblasts from mice and MV3 melanoma cells. The low shear forces of this sorting method ensure that cells survive after sorting.

Functional analysis of Antirrhinum kelloggii flavonoid 3'-hydroxylase and flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase genes; critical role in flower color and evolution in the genus Antirrhinum.

PubMed

Ishiguro, Kanako; Taniguchi, Masumi; Tanaka, Yoshikazu

2012-05-01

The enzymes flavonoid 3'-hydroxylase (F3'H) and flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase (F3'5'H) play an important role in flower color by determining the B-ring hydroxylation pattern of anthocyanins, the major floral pigments. F3'5'H is necessary for biosynthesis of the delphinidin-based anthocyanins that confer a violet or blue color to most plants. Antirrhinum majus does not produce delphinidin and lacks violet flower colour while A. kelloggii produces violet flowers containing delphinidin. To understand the cause of this inter-specific difference in the Antirrhinum genus, we isolated one F3'H and two F3'5'H homologues from the A. kelloggii petal cDNA library. Their amino acid sequences showed high identities to F3'Hs and F3'5'Hs of closely related species. Transgenic petunia expressing these genes had elevated amounts of cyanidin and delphinidin respectively, and flower color changes in the transgenics reflected the type of accumulated anthocyanidins. The results indicate that the homologs encode F3'H and F3'5'H, respectively, and that the ancestor of A. majus lost F3'5'H activity after its speciation from the ancestor of A. kelloggii.

Room-temperature continuous-wave electrically injected InGaN-based laser directly grown on Si

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Yi; Zhou, Kun; Sun, Qian; Liu, Jianping; Feng, Meixin; Li, Zengcheng; Zhou, Yu; Zhang, Liqun; Li, Deyao; Zhang, Shuming; Ikeda, Masao; Liu, Sheng; Yang, Hui

2016-09-01

Silicon photonics would greatly benefit from efficient, visible on-chip light sources that are electrically driven at room temperature. To fully utilize the benefits of large-scale, low-cost manufacturing foundries, it is highly desirable to grow direct bandgap III-V semiconductor lasers directly on Si. Here, we report the demonstration of a blue-violet (413 nm) InGaN-based laser diode grown directly on Si that operates under continuous-wave current injection at room temperature, with a threshold current density of 4.7 kA cm-2. The heteroepitaxial growth of GaN on Si is confronted with a large mismatch in both the lattice constant and the coefficient of thermal expansion, often resulting in a high density of defects and even microcrack networks. By inserting an Al-composition step-graded AlN/AlGaN multilayer buffer between the Si and GaN, we have not only successfully eliminated crack formation, but also effectively reduced the dislocation density. The result is the realization of a blue-violet InGaN-based laser on Si.

Add/drop filters based on SiC technology for optical interconnects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vieira, M.; Vieira, M. A.; Louro, P.; Fantoni, A.; Silva, V.

2014-03-01

In this paper we demonstrate an add/drop filter based on SiC technology. Tailoring of the channel bandwidth and wavelength is experimentally demonstrated. The concept is extended to implement a 1 by 4 wavelength division multiplexer with channel separation in the visible range. The device consists of a p-i'(a-SiC:H)-n/p-i(a-Si:H)-n heterostructure. Several monochromatic pulsed lights, separately or in a polychromatic mixture illuminated the device. Independent tuning of each channel is performed by steady state violet bias superimposed either from the front and back sides. Results show that, front background enhances the light-to-dark sensitivity of the long and medium wavelength channels and quench strongly the others. Back violet background has the opposite behaviour. This nonlinearity provides the possibility for selective removal or addition of wavelengths. An optoelectronic model is presented and explains the light filtering properties of the add/drop filter, under different optical bias conditions.

Phenotypic and functional characterization of earthworm coelomocyte subsets: Linking light scatter-based cell typing and imaging of the sorted populations.

PubMed

Engelmann, Péter; Hayashi, Yuya; Bodó, Kornélia; Ernszt, Dávid; Somogyi, Ildikó; Steib, Anita; Orbán, József; Pollák, Edit; Nyitrai, Miklós; Németh, Péter; Molnár, László

2016-12-01

Flow cytometry is a common approach to study invertebrate immune cells including earthworm coelomocytes. However, the link between light-scatter- and microscopy-based phenotyping remains obscured. Here we show, by means of light scatter-based cell sorting, both subpopulations (amoebocytes and eleocytes) can be physically isolated with good sort efficiency and purity confirmed by downstream morphological and cytochemical applications. Immunocytochemical analysis using anti-EFCC monoclonal antibodies combined with phalloidin staining has revealed antigenically distinct, sorted subsets. Screening of lectin binding capacity indicated wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) as the strongest reactor to amoebocytes. This is further evidenced by WGA inhibition assays that suggest high abundance of N-acetyl-d-glucosamine in amoebocytes. Post-sort phagocytosis assays confirmed the functional differences between amoebocytes and eleocytes, with the former being in favor of bacterial engulfment. This study has proved successful in linking flow cytometry and microscopy analysis and provides further experimental evidence of phenotypic and functional heterogeneity in earthworm coelomocyte subsets. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

MetaSort untangles metagenome assembly by reducing microbial community complexity

PubMed Central

Ji, Peifeng; Zhang, Yanming; Wang, Jinfeng; Zhao, Fangqing

2017-01-01

Most current approaches to analyse metagenomic data rely on reference genomes. Novel microbial communities extend far beyond the coverage of reference databases and de novo metagenome assembly from complex microbial communities remains a great challenge. Here we present a novel experimental and bioinformatic framework, metaSort, for effective construction of bacterial genomes from metagenomic samples. MetaSort provides a sorted mini-metagenome approach based on flow cytometry and single-cell sequencing methodologies, and employs new computational algorithms to efficiently recover high-quality genomes from the sorted mini-metagenome by the complementary of the original metagenome. Through extensive evaluations, we demonstrated that metaSort has an excellent and unbiased performance on genome recovery and assembly. Furthermore, we applied metaSort to an unexplored microflora colonized on the surface of marine kelp and successfully recovered 75 high-quality genomes at one time. This approach will greatly improve access to microbial genomes from complex or novel communities. PMID:28112173

Biochar pyrolyzed from MgAl-layered double hydroxides pre-coated ramie biomass (Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaud.): Characterization and application for crystal violet removal.

PubMed

Tan, Xiao-Fei; Liu, Yun-Guo; Gu, Yan-Ling; Liu, Shao-Bo; Zeng, Guang-Ming; Cai, Xiaoxi; Hu, Xin-Jiang; Wang, Hui; Liu, Si-Mian; Jiang, Lu-Hua

2016-12-15

A novel biochar/MgAl-layered double hydroxides composite (CB-LDH) was prepared for the removal of crystal violet from aqueous solution by pyrolyzing MgAl-LDH pre-coated ramie stem (Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaud.). Pyrolysis played dual role for both converting biomass into biochar and calcining MgAl-LDH during the pyrolysis process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and zeta potential analysis were used to characterize the CB-LDH. The results of characterization suggested that the calcined LDH was successfully synthesized and coated on biochar. The resulted CB-LDH had higher total pore volume and more functional groups than the pristine biochar. Adsorption experimental data fitted well with the pseudo-second order kinetics model and the Freundlich isotherm model. The rate-controlled step was controlled by film-diffusion initially and then followed by intra-particle diffusion. Thermodynamic analysis showed that the adsorption of crystal violet was a spontaneous and endothermic process. The higher pH and temperature of the solution enhanced the adsorption performance. CB-LDH could also have excellent ability for the removal of crystal violet from the actual industrial wastewater and groundwater with high ionic strength. LDH adsorption, electrostatic attraction, pore-filling, π-π interaction and hydrogen bond might be the main mechanisms for crystal violet adsorption on CB-LDH. The results of this study indicated that CB-LDH is a sustainable and green adsorbent with high performance for crystal violet contaminated wastewater treatment and groundwater remediation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biological effects of blocking blue and other visible light on the mouse retina.

PubMed

Narimatsu, Toshio; Ozawa, Yoko; Miyake, Seiji; Kubota, Shunsuke; Yuki, Kenya; Nagai, Norihiro; Tsubota, Kazuo

2014-08-01

To elucidate the biological effects of blocking fluorescent light on the retina using specific blocking materials. Seven- to 8-week-old BALB/c mice were divided into three groups and placed in one of the three boxes: one blocked ultraviolet and violet wavelengths of light (violet blockade), one blocked ultraviolet, violet, blue and some other visible wavelengths (blue-plus blockade), and one allowed most visible light to pass through (control). They were then exposed to a white fluorescent lamp for 1 h at 5.65E-05 mW/cm(2) /s. After treatment, the electroretinogram, retinal outer nuclear layer thickness and retinal outer segment length were measured. In addition, retinal apoptotic cells were quantified by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling assay and c-Fos messenger RNA, and protein levels were measured by real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot analyses, respectively. The blue-plus blockade group retained a significantly better electroretinogram response following light exposure than the control or violet blockade groups. The blue-plus blockade group also exhibited greater outer nuclear layer thickness and greater outer-segment length, and fewer apoptotic cells after light exposure than the other groups. The c-Fos messenger RNA and protein levels were substantially reduced in the blue-plus blockade group and reduced to a lesser extent in the violet blockade group. The blockade of blue plus additional visible wavelengths of light was most effective in protecting the retina from light-induced damage. The blockade of violet light alone was also effective in reducing intracellular molecular responses, but these effects were not sufficient for attenuating retinal degeneration. © 2013 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.

Reduction of irregular breathing artifacts in respiration-correlated CT images using a respiratory motion model.

PubMed

Hertanto, Agung; Zhang, Qinghui; Hu, Yu-Chi; Dzyubak, Oleksandr; Rimner, Andreas; Mageras, Gig S

2012-06-01

Respiration-correlated CT (RCCT) images produced with commonly used phase-based sorting of CT slices often exhibit discontinuity artifacts between CT slices, caused by cycle-to-cycle amplitude variations in respiration. Sorting based on the displacement of the respiratory signal yields slices at more consistent respiratory motion states and hence reduces artifacts, but missing image data (gaps) may occur. The authors report on the application of a respiratory motion model to produce an RCCT image set with reduced artifacts and without missing data. Input data consist of CT slices from a cine CT scan acquired while recording respiration by monitoring abdominal displacement. The model-based generation of RCCT images consists of four processing steps: (1) displacement-based sorting of CT slices to form volume images at 10 motion states over the cycle; (2) selection of a reference image without gaps and deformable registration between the reference image and each of the remaining images; (3) generation of the motion model by applying a principal component analysis to establish a relationship between displacement field and respiration signal at each motion state; (4) application of the motion model to deform the reference image into images at the 9 other motion states. Deformable image registration uses a modified fast free-form algorithm that excludes zero-intensity voxels, caused by missing data, from the image similarity term in the minimization function. In each iteration of the minimization, the displacement field in the gap regions is linearly interpolated from nearest neighbor nonzero intensity slices. Evaluation of the model-based RCCT examines three types of image sets: cine scans of a physical phantom programmed to move according to a patient respiratory signal, NURBS-based cardiac torso (NCAT) software phantom, and patient thoracic scans. Comparison in physical motion phantom shows that object distortion caused by variable motion amplitude in phase-based sorting is visibly reduced with model-based RCCT. Comparison of model-based RCCT to original NCAT images as ground truth shows best agreement at motion states whose displacement-sorted images have no missing slices, with mean and maximum discrepancies in lung of 1 and 3 mm, respectively. Larger discrepancies correlate with motion states having a larger number of missing slices in the displacement-sorted images. Artifacts in patient images at different motion states are also reduced. Comparison with displacement-sorted patient images as a ground truth shows that the model-based images closely reproduce the ground truth geometry at different motion states. Results in phantom and patient images indicate that the proposed method can produce RCCT image sets with reduced artifacts relative to phase-sorted images, without the gaps inherent in displacement-sorted images. The method requires a reference image at one motion state that has no missing data. Highly irregular breathing patterns can affect the method's performance, by introducing artifacts in the reference image (although reduced relative to phase-sorted images), or in decreased accuracy in the image prediction of motion states containing large regions of missing data. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

BayesMotif: de novo protein sorting motif discovery from impure datasets.

PubMed

Hu, Jianjun; Zhang, Fan

2010-01-18

Protein sorting is the process that newly synthesized proteins are transported to their target locations within or outside of the cell. This process is precisely regulated by protein sorting signals in different forms. A major category of sorting signals are amino acid sub-sequences usually located at the N-terminals or C-terminals of protein sequences. Genome-wide experimental identification of protein sorting signals is extremely time-consuming and costly. Effective computational algorithms for de novo discovery of protein sorting signals is needed to improve the understanding of protein sorting mechanisms. We formulated the protein sorting motif discovery problem as a classification problem and proposed a Bayesian classifier based algorithm (BayesMotif) for de novo identification of a common type of protein sorting motifs in which a highly conserved anchor is present along with a less conserved motif regions. A false positive removal procedure is developed to iteratively remove sequences that are unlikely to contain true motifs so that the algorithm can identify motifs from impure input sequences. Experiments on both implanted motif datasets and real-world datasets showed that the enhanced BayesMotif algorithm can identify anchored sorting motifs from pure or impure protein sequence dataset. It also shows that the false positive removal procedure can help to identify true motifs even when there is only 20% of the input sequences containing true motif instances. We proposed BayesMotif, a novel Bayesian classification based algorithm for de novo discovery of a special category of anchored protein sorting motifs from impure datasets. Compared to conventional motif discovery algorithms such as MEME, our algorithm can find less-conserved motifs with short highly conserved anchors. Our algorithm also has the advantage of easy incorporation of additional meta-sequence features such as hydrophobicity or charge of the motifs which may help to overcome the limitations of PWM (position weight matrix) motif model.

Micropropagation of African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha Wendl.).

PubMed

Shukla, Mukund; Sullivan, J Alan; Jain, Shri Mohan; Murch, Susan J; Saxena, Praveen K

2013-01-01

Micropropagation is an important tool for rapid multiplication and the creation of genetic variability in African violets (Saintpaulia ionantha Wendl.). Successful in vitro propagation depends on the specific requirements and precise manipulation of various factors such as the type of explants used, physiological state of the mother plant, plant growth regulators in the culture medium, and growth conditions. Development of cost-effective protocols with a high rate of multiplication is a crucial requirement for commercial application of micropropagation. The current chapter describes an optimized protocol for micropropagation of African violets using leaf explants obtained from in vitro grown plants. In this process, plant regeneration occurs via both somatic embryogenesis and shoot organogenesis simultaneously in the explants induced with the growth regulator thidiazuron (TDZ; N-phenyl-N'-1,2,3-thidiazol-5-ylurea). The protocol is simple, rapid, and efficient for large-scale propagation of African violet and the dual routes of regeneration allow for multiple applications of the technology from simple clonal propagation to induction or selection of variants to the production of synthetic seeds.

Nature and origin of the violet stains on the walls of a Roman tomb.

PubMed

Dominguez-Moñino, Irene; Diaz-Herraiz, Marta; Jurado, Valme; Laiz, Leonila; Miller, Ana Z; Santos, Juan Luis; Alonso, Esteban; Saiz-Jimenez, Cesareo

2017-11-15

The Circular Mausoleum tomb (Roman Necropolis of Carmona, Spain) dates back from the first century AD and is characterized by a dense microbial (phototrophic) colonization on the walls and ceiling. However, some walls exhibited an important number of violet stains of unknown origin. The microbial communities of these violet stains are mainly composed of cyanobacteria, streptomycetes and fungi. A strain of Streptomyces parvus, isolated from the walls, produces a violet pigment in culture media. High performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry of the culture extracts obtained from this Streptomyces revealed the presence of a few granaticins, pigments with a benzoisochromanequinone structure. When metabolically active in the tomb, S. parvus synthesizes the pigments that diffuse into the mortar. During rain and/or wetting periods, the pigments are solubilized by alkaline waters and elute from the starting position to the surrounding mortar, enlarging the pigmented area and thus contributing to this exceptional biodeterioration phenomenon. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Corner detection and sorting method based on improved Harris algorithm in camera calibration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Ying; Wang, Yonghong; Dan, Xizuo; Huang, Anqi; Hu, Yue; Yang, Lianxiang

2016-11-01

In traditional Harris corner detection algorithm, the appropriate threshold which is used to eliminate false corners is selected manually. In order to detect corners automatically, an improved algorithm which combines Harris and circular boundary theory of corners is proposed in this paper. After detecting accurate corner coordinates by using Harris algorithm and Forstner algorithm, false corners within chessboard pattern of the calibration plate can be eliminated automatically by using circular boundary theory. Moreover, a corner sorting method based on an improved calibration plate is proposed to eliminate false background corners and sort remaining corners in order. Experiment results show that the proposed algorithms can eliminate all false corners and sort remaining corners correctly and automatically.

Novel wafer stepper with violet LED light source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ting, Yung-Chiang; Shy, Shyi-Long

2014-03-01

Novel wafer stepper by using contact or proximity printing will be developed, using violet LED light source to replace Hg Arc. lamp or laser. Mirror, filter and condenser lens for Hg Arc. Lamp or laser and reduction lens for projection printing can be discarded. Reliability and manufacturing cost of wafer stepper can be improved. Exposure result by using IP3600 resist and wafer stepper with violet LED light source (wave-length 360nm to 410 nm) will be obtained. This novel wafer stepper can be used for 3DIC, MEMS and bio-chip lithography application by using thin and thick resist with sub-micron to 100 micron thickness.

Characterization and error analysis of an operational retrieval algorithm for estimating column ozone and aerosol properties from ground-based ultra-violet irradiance measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, Thomas E.; L'Ecuyer, Tristan; Slusser, James; Stephens, Graeme; Krotkov, Nick; Davis, John; Goering, Christian

2005-08-01

Extensive sensitivity and error characteristics of a recently developed optimal estimation retrieval algorithm which simultaneously determines aerosol optical depth (AOD), aerosol single scatter albedo (SSA) and total ozone column (TOC) from ultra-violet irradiances are described. The algorithm inverts measured diffuse and direct irradiances at 7 channels in the UV spectral range obtained from the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) UV-B Monitoring and Research Program's (UVMRP) network of 33 ground-based UV-MFRSR instruments to produce aerosol optical properties and TOC at all seven wavelengths. Sensitivity studies of the Tropospheric Ultra-violet/Visible (TUV) radiative transfer model performed for various operating modes (Delta-Eddington versus n-stream Discrete Ordinate) over domains of AOD, SSA, TOC, asymmetry parameter and surface albedo show that the solutions are well constrained. Realistic input error budgets and diagnostic and error outputs from the retrieval are analyzed to demonstrate the atmospheric conditions under which the retrieval provides useful and significant results. After optimizing the algorithm for the USDA site in Panther Junction, Texas the retrieval algorithm was run on a cloud screened set of irradiance measurements for the month of May 2003. Comparisons to independently derived AOD's are favorable with root mean square (RMS) differences of about 3% to 7% at 300nm and less than 1% at 368nm, on May 12 and 22, 2003. This retrieval method will be used to build an aerosol climatology and provide ground-truthing of satellite measurements by running it operationally on the USDA UV network database.

Genetic engineering of novel bluer-colored chrysanthemums produced by accumulation of delphinidin-based anthocyanins.

PubMed

Noda, Naonobu; Aida, Ryutaro; Kishimoto, Sanae; Ishiguro, Kanako; Fukuchi-Mizutani, Masako; Tanaka, Yoshikazu; Ohmiya, Akemi

2013-10-01

Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.) have no purple-, violet- or blue-flowered cultivars because they lack delphinidin-based anthocyanins. This deficiency is due to the absence of the flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase gene (F3'5'H), which encodes the key enzyme for delphinidin biosynthesis. In F3'5'H-transformed chrysanthemums, unpredictable and unstable expression levels have hampered successful production of delphinidin and reduced desired changes in flower color. With the aim of achieving delphinidin production in chrysanthemum petals, we found that anthocyanin biosynthetic gene promoters combined with a translational enhancer increased expression of some F3'5'H genes and accompanying delphinidin-based anthocyanin accumulation in transgenic chrysanthemums. Dramatic accumulation of delphinidin (up to 95%) was achieved by simple overexpression of Campanula F3'5'H controlled by a petal-specific flavanone 3-hydroxylase promoter from chrysanthemum combined with the 5'-untranslated region of the alcohol dehydrogenase gene as a translational enhancer. The flower colors of transgenic lines producing delphinidin-based anthocyanins changed from a red-purple to a purple-violet hue in the Royal Horticultural Society Colour Charts. This result represents a promising step toward molecular breeding of blue chrysanthemums.

Cultural Resources Investigations of the West Bank Hurricane Protection Project, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-09-01

most common understory plants include thistle (Carduus sp.), violet (Viola sp.), bur- marigold (Bidens laevis), and ferns. Drained cypress-tupelo swamp... marigold (Bidens laevis), violet (Viola sp.), thistle (Carduus sp.), and Southern shield fern (Thelypteris kunthil). Drained marsh makes up the

Why Did Newton See Indigo in the Spectrum?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Biernson, George

1972-01-01

The arrangement of colors in Newton's color circle suggests that it was derived from paint mixtures, not light mixtures. If this is true it may be concluded that what Newton called indigo represents violet in modern terminology, and what he called violet represents purple. (Author/TS)

Fluorescence screening of leucomalachite green and leucogentian violet residues in catfish

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The tripheylmethane dyes malachite green (MG) and gentian violet (GV) are effective fungicides, ectoparasiticides and disinfectants in aquaculture. This practice may leave toxic residues in seafood which is not allowed by FDA and many regulatory agencies worldwide. In this work, residues of their me...

Degradation of organic pollutants by Ag, Cu and Sn doped waste non-metallic printed circuit boards.

PubMed

Ramaswamy, Kadari; Radha, Velchuri; Malathi, M; Vithal, Muga; Munirathnam, Nagegownivari R

2017-02-01

The disposal and reuse of waste printed circuit boards have been the major global concerns. Printed circuit boards, a form of Electronic waste (hereafter e-waste), have been chemically processed, doped with Ag + , Cu 2+ and Sn 2+ , and used as visible light photocatalysts against the degradation of methylene blue and methyl violet. The elemental analyses of pristine and metal doped printed circuit board were obtained using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectra and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The morphology of parent and doped printed circuit board was obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements. The photocatalytic activity of parent and metal doped samples was carried out for the decomposition of organic pollutants, methylene blue and methyl violet, under visible light irradiation. Metal doped waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) have shown higher photocatalytic activity against the degradation of methyl violet and methylene blue under visible light irradiation. Scavenger experiments were performed to identify the reactive intermediates responsible for the degradation of methylene blue and methyl violet. The reactive species responsible for the degradation of MV and MB were found to be holes and hydroxyl radicals. A possible mechanism of degradation of methylene blue and methyl violet is given. The stability and reusability of the catalysts are also investigated. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Adsorption of Crystal Violet Dye Using Zeolite A Synthesized From Coal Fly Ash

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jumaeri; Kusumastuti, E.; Santosa, S. J.; Sutarno

2017-02-01

Adsorption of Crystal Violet (CV) dye using zeolite A synthesized from coal fly ash (ZA) has been done. Effect of pH, contact time, and the initial concentration of dye adsorption was studied in this adsorption. Model experimental of adsorption isotherms and adsorption kinetics were also studied. The adsorption is done in a batch reactor at room temperature. A total of 0.01 g of zeolite A was added to the Erlenmeyer flask 50 mL containing 20 mL of the dye solution of Crystal Violet in a variety of conditions of pH, contact time and initial concentration. Furthermore, Erlenmeyer flask and its contents were shaken using an orbital shaker at a speed of 200 rpm. After a specified period of adsorption, the solution was centrifuged for 2 minutes so that the solids separated from the solution. The concentration of the dye after adsorption determined using Genesis-20 Spectrophotometer. The results showed that the Zeolite A synthesized from coal fly ash could be used as an effective adsorbent for Crystal Violet dye. The optimum adsorption occurs at pH 6, and contact time 45 minutes. At the initial concentration of 2 to 6 mg/L, adsorption is reduced from 79 to 62.8%. Crystal Violet dye adsorption in zeolite A fulfilled kinetic model of pseudo-order 2 and model of Freundlich adsorption isotherm.

Ag nanoparticles agargel nanocomposites for SERS detection of cultural heritage interest pigments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amato, F.; Micciche', C.; Cannas, M.; Gelardi, F. M.; Pignataro, B.; Li Vigni, M.; Agnello, S.

2018-02-01

Agarose gel (agargel) composites with commercial and laboratory made silver nanoparticles were prepared by a wet solution method at room temperature. The gel composites were used for pigment extraction and detection by Raman spectroscopy. Red (alizarin) and violet (crystal violet) pigments deposited on paper were extracted by the composites and were investigated by micro-Raman spectroscopy. Evaluation was carried out of the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) effect induced by the silver nanoparticles embedded in the gel. A kinetic approach as a function of time was used to determine the efficiency of pigments extraction by composites deposition. A non-invasive extraction process of few minutes is demonstrated. This process induces active SERS for both used pigments. The reported results show the full exploitability of agargel silver nanoparticle composites for the extraction of pigments from paper based artworks.

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

Beer, Neil Reginald; Lee, Abraham; Hatch, Andrew

A non-contact system for sorting monodisperse water-in-oil emulsion droplets in a microfluidic device based on the droplet's contents and their interaction with an applied electromagnetic field or by identification and sorting.

Migration behavior of organic dyes based on physicochemical properties of solvents as background electrolytes in non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Gu, Minjeong; Cho, Keunchang; Kang, Seong Ho

2018-07-27

The migration behavior of organic fluorescent dyes (i.e., crystal violet, methyl violet base, methyl violet B base, rhodamine 6G, and rhodamine B base) in non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis (NACE) was investigated by focusing on the physicochemical properties of various organic solvents [ethanol, methanol, 2-propanol, dimethylformamide (DMF), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)] in background electrolyte (BGE). Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and UV/Vis detectors were employed to observe both the migration time of organic dyes and the electroosmotic flow (EOF) in NACE, respectively. As seen in conventional aqueous BGE, the mobility of EOF in organic solvents tended to rise when the ratio between the dielectric constant and the solvent's viscosity (ε/η) increased in accordance with Smoluchowski's equation. However, unlike the ε/η of pure organic solvents, the migration order of dyes changed as follows: methanol (60.0) > DMF (45.8) > ethanol (22.8) > DMSO (23.4) > 2-propanol (9.8). Since the amount of acetic acid added to balance the pH depends on the pK a of each solvent, EOF changed when the difference in the ε/η value was small. This resulted from the inhibition of mobility, and its difference was dependent on the ε/η of BGEs with high ionic strength. In particular, the actual mobility of dyes in DMF showed excellent compliance with the Debye-Hückel-Onsager (DHO) theory extended by Falkenhagen and Pitts, which enabled us to analyze all dyes within 15 min with excellent resolution (R s >  2.5) under optimum NACE conditions (10 mM sodium borate and 4661 mM acetic acid in 100% DMF, pH 4.5). In addition, the NACE method was successfully applied for analyzing commercially available ballpoint ink pens. Thus, these results could be used to anticipate the migration order of organic dyes in a 100% NACE separation system. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Improving Student Results in the Crystal Violet Chemical Kinetics Experiment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kazmierczak, Nathanael; Vander Griend, Douglas A.

2017-01-01

Despite widespread use in general chemistry laboratories, the crystal violet chemical kinetics experiment frequently suffers from erroneous student results. Student calculations for the reaction order in hydroxide often contain large asymmetric errors, pointing to the presence of systematic error. Through a combination of "in silico"…

Differential inheritance of pepper (capsicum annum) fruit pigments results in black to violet fruit color

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Color and appearance of fruits and vegetables are critical determinants of product quality and may afford high-value market opportunities. Exploiting the rich genetic diversity in Capsicum, we characterized the inheritance of black and violet immature fruit color and chlorophyll, carotenoid and ant...

75 FR 34699 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Rescission of Countervailing Duty Administrative Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-18

... from India: Rescission of Countervailing Duty Administrative Review AGENCY: Import Administration... review of the countervailing duty order on Carbazole Violet Pigment 23(CVP-23) from India. See... Pigments requesting an administrative review of the countervailing duty order on CVP-23 from India for the...

76 FR 24855 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Rescission of Administrative Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-03

... From India: Rescission of Administrative Review AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade... administrative review of the antidumping duty order on carbazole violet pigment 23 (CVP 23) from India for the... Federal Register the antidumping duty order on CVP 23 from India. See Notice of Amended Final...

75 FR 26716 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Extension of Time Limit for Final Results of...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-12

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [C-533-839] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from India: Extension of Time Limit for Final Results of Countervailing Duty Administrative Review... the preliminary results of the administrative review of the countervailing duty order on carbazole...

75 FR 25840 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from the People's Republic of China: Extension of Time Limit for the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-10

... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-570-892] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23... Administrative Review AGENCY: Import Administration, International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce... Department) published the preliminary results of the administrative review of the antidumping duty order on...

Unsupervised spike sorting based on discriminative subspace learning.

PubMed

Keshtkaran, Mohammad Reza; Yang, Zhi

2014-01-01

Spike sorting is a fundamental preprocessing step for many neuroscience studies which rely on the analysis of spike trains. In this paper, we present two unsupervised spike sorting algorithms based on discriminative subspace learning. The first algorithm simultaneously learns the discriminative feature subspace and performs clustering. It uses histogram of features in the most discriminative projection to detect the number of neurons. The second algorithm performs hierarchical divisive clustering that learns a discriminative 1-dimensional subspace for clustering in each level of the hierarchy until achieving almost unimodal distribution in the subspace. The algorithms are tested on synthetic and in-vivo data, and are compared against two widely used spike sorting methods. The comparative results demonstrate that our spike sorting methods can achieve substantially higher accuracy in lower dimensional feature space, and they are highly robust to noise. Moreover, they provide significantly better cluster separability in the learned subspace than in the subspace obtained by principal component analysis or wavelet transform.

Using the Identity Processing Style Q-Sort to Examine Identity Styles of Turkish Young Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eryigit, Suna; Kerpelman, Jennifer

2009-01-01

This paper reports on two studies with Turkish young adults that used the Turkish version of the Identity Processing Style Q-Sort (IPSQ). The IPSQ is based on Berzonsky's informational, normative, and diffused identity styles. Participants sort descriptors of the styles into columns ranging from most to least like them. Patterns in Turkish young…

High-Throughput, Motility-Based Sorter for Microswimmers such as C. elegans

PubMed Central

Yuan, Jinzhou; Zhou, Jessie; Raizen, David M.; Bau, Haim H.

2015-01-01

Animal motility varies with genotype, disease, aging, and environmental conditions. In many studies, it is desirable to carry out high throughput motility-based sorting to isolate rare animals for, among other things, forward genetic screens to identify genetic pathways that regulate phenotypes of interest. Many commonly used screening processes are labor-intensive, lack sensitivity, and require extensive investigator training. Here, we describe a sensitive, high throughput, automated, motility-based method for sorting nematodes. Our method is implemented in a simple microfluidic device capable of sorting thousands of animals per hour per module, and is amenable to parallelism. The device successfully enriches for known C. elegans motility mutants. Furthermore, using this device, we isolate low-abundance mutants capable of suppressing the somnogenic effects of the flp-13 gene, which regulates C. elegans sleep. By performing genetic complementation tests, we demonstrate that our motility-based sorting device efficiently isolates mutants for the same gene identified by tedious visual inspection of behavior on an agar surface. Therefore, our motility-based sorter is capable of performing high throughput gene discovery approaches to investigate fundamental biological processes. PMID:26008643

Development of the biology card sorting task to measure conceptual expertise in biology.

PubMed

Smith, Julia I; Combs, Elijah D; Nagami, Paul H; Alto, Valerie M; Goh, Henry G; Gourdet, Muryam A A; Hough, Christina M; Nickell, Ashley E; Peer, Adrian G; Coley, John D; Tanner, Kimberly D

2013-01-01

There are widespread aspirations to focus undergraduate biology education on teaching students to think conceptually like biologists; however, there is a dearth of assessment tools designed to measure progress from novice to expert biological conceptual thinking. We present the development of a novel assessment tool, the Biology Card Sorting Task, designed to probe how individuals organize their conceptual knowledge of biology. While modeled on tasks from cognitive psychology, this task is unique in its design to test two hypothesized conceptual frameworks for the organization of biological knowledge: 1) a surface feature organization focused on organism type and 2) a deep feature organization focused on fundamental biological concepts. In this initial investigation of the Biology Card Sorting Task, each of six analytical measures showed statistically significant differences when used to compare the card sorting results of putative biological experts (biology faculty) and novices (non-biology major undergraduates). Consistently, biology faculty appeared to sort based on hypothesized deep features, while non-biology majors appeared to sort based on either surface features or nonhypothesized organizational frameworks. Results suggest that this novel task is robust in distinguishing populations of biology experts and biology novices and may be an adaptable tool for tracking emerging biology conceptual expertise.

Inert Reassessment Document for D & C Green No. 6

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Based upon the reasonable certainty of no harm safety findings, D&C Green No. 6, D&C Red No. 17, D&C Red No. 33, D&C Violet No. 2, and FD&C Yellow No. 6 Aluminum Lake can each be classified as L ist 4B inert ingredients.

Design of mechanical arm for an automatic sorting system of recyclable cans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Resti, Y.; Mohruni, A. S.; Burlian, F.; Yani, I.; Amran, A.

2018-04-01

The use of a mechanical arm for an automatic sorting system of used cans should be designed carefully. The right design will result in a high precision sorting rate and a short sorting time. The design includes first; design manipulator,second; determine link and joint specifications, and third; build mechanical systems and control systems. This study aims to design the mechanical arm as a hardware system for automatic cans sorting system. The material used for the manipulator is the aluminum plate. The manipulator is designed using 6 links and 6 join where the 6th link is the end effectorand the 6th join is the gripper. As a driving motor used servo motor, while as a microcontroller used Arduino Uno which is connected with Matlab programming language. Based on testing, a mechanical arm designed for this recyclable canned recycling system has a precision sorting rate at 93%, where the average total time required for sorting is 10.82 seconds.

The Development and Validation of the Algebra Curriculum Based Measure: A Measure of Preschool Children's Sorting and Classifying Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maherally, Mohammad Iqbal

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an assessment tool entitled the Algebra Curriculum Based Measure (ACBM) with the intent of measuring preschool children's sorting and classifying skills based on one attribute (color, shape, and size) and two attributes (color and shape) simultaneously; and their ability to explain their…

A new method for reporting and interpreting textural composition of spawning gravel.

Treesearch

Fredrick B. Lotspeich; Fred H. Everest

1981-01-01

A new method has been developed for collecting, sorting, and interpreting gravel quality. Samples are collected with a tri-tube freeze-core device and dry-sorted by using sieves based on the Wentworth scale. An index to the quality of gravel is obtained by dividing geometric mean particle size by the sorting coefficient (a measure of the distribution of grain sizes) of...

FISHIS: Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization in Suspension and Chromosome Flow Sorting Made Easy

PubMed Central

Giorgi, Debora; Farina, Anna; Grosso, Valentina; Gennaro, Andrea; Ceoloni, Carla; Lucretti, Sergio

2013-01-01

The large size and complex polyploid nature of many genomes has often hampered genomics development, as is the case for several plants of high agronomic value. Isolating single chromosomes or chromosome arms via flow sorting offers a clue to resolve such complexity by focusing sequencing to a discrete and self-consistent part of the whole genome. The occurrence of sufficient differences in the size and or base-pair composition of the individual chromosomes, which is uncommon in plants, is critical for the success of flow sorting. We overcome this limitation by developing a robust method for labeling isolated chromosomes, named Fluorescent In situ Hybridization In suspension (FISHIS). FISHIS employs fluorescently labeled synthetic repetitive DNA probes, which are hybridized, in a wash-less procedure, to chromosomes in suspension following DNA alkaline denaturation. All typical A, B and D genomes of wheat, as well as individual chromosomes from pasta (T. durum L.) and bread (T. aestivum L.) wheat, were flow-sorted, after FISHIS, at high purity. For the first time in eukaryotes, each individual chromosome of a diploid organism, Dasypyrum villosum (L.) Candargy, was flow-sorted regardless of its size or base-pair related content. FISHIS-based chromosome sorting is a powerful and innovative flow cytogenetic tool which can develop new genomic resources from each plant species, where microsatellite DNA probes are available and high quality chromosome suspensions could be produced. The joining of FISHIS labeling and flow sorting with the Next Generation Sequencing methodology will enforce genomics for more species, and by this mightier chromosome approach it will be possible to increase our knowledge about structure, evolution and function of plant genome to be used for crop improvement. It is also anticipated that this technique could contribute to analyze and sort animal chromosomes with peculiar cytogenetic abnormalities, such as copy number variations or cytogenetic aberrations. PMID:23469124

FISHIS: fluorescence in situ hybridization in suspension and chromosome flow sorting made easy.

PubMed

Giorgi, Debora; Farina, Anna; Grosso, Valentina; Gennaro, Andrea; Ceoloni, Carla; Lucretti, Sergio

2013-01-01

The large size and complex polyploid nature of many genomes has often hampered genomics development, as is the case for several plants of high agronomic value. Isolating single chromosomes or chromosome arms via flow sorting offers a clue to resolve such complexity by focusing sequencing to a discrete and self-consistent part of the whole genome. The occurrence of sufficient differences in the size and or base-pair composition of the individual chromosomes, which is uncommon in plants, is critical for the success of flow sorting. We overcome this limitation by developing a robust method for labeling isolated chromosomes, named Fluorescent In situ Hybridization In suspension (FISHIS). FISHIS employs fluorescently labeled synthetic repetitive DNA probes, which are hybridized, in a wash-less procedure, to chromosomes in suspension following DNA alkaline denaturation. All typical A, B and D genomes of wheat, as well as individual chromosomes from pasta (T. durum L.) and bread (T. aestivum L.) wheat, were flow-sorted, after FISHIS, at high purity. For the first time in eukaryotes, each individual chromosome of a diploid organism, Dasypyrum villosum (L.) Candargy, was flow-sorted regardless of its size or base-pair related content. FISHIS-based chromosome sorting is a powerful and innovative flow cytogenetic tool which can develop new genomic resources from each plant species, where microsatellite DNA probes are available and high quality chromosome suspensions could be produced. The joining of FISHIS labeling and flow sorting with the Next Generation Sequencing methodology will enforce genomics for more species, and by this mightier chromosome approach it will be possible to increase our knowledge about structure, evolution and function of plant genome to be used for crop improvement. It is also anticipated that this technique could contribute to analyze and sort animal chromosomes with peculiar cytogenetic abnormalities, such as copy number variations or cytogenetic aberrations.

27 CFR 21.60 - Formula No. 33.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... pounds of gentian violet or gentian violet, U.S.P. (b) Authorized uses. (1) As a solvent: 052.Inks (not including meat branding inks). 210.External pharmaceuticals, not U.S.P. or N.F. 249.Miscellaneous external...). (c) Conditions governing use. Meat branding inks made with Formula No. 33 do not meet U.S. Department...

27 CFR 21.60 - Formula No. 33.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... pounds of gentian violet or gentian violet, U.S.P. (b) Authorized uses. (1) As a solvent: 052.Inks (not including meat branding inks). 210.External pharmaceuticals, not U.S.P. or N.F. 249.Miscellaneous external...). (c) Conditions governing use. Meat branding inks made with Formula No. 33 do not meet U.S. Department...

27 CFR 21.60 - Formula No. 33.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... pounds of gentian violet or gentian violet, U.S.P. (b) Authorized uses. (1) As a solvent: 052.Inks (not including meat branding inks). 210.External pharmaceuticals, not U.S.P. or N.F. 249.Miscellaneous external...). (c) Conditions governing use. Meat branding inks made with Formula No. 33 do not meet U.S. Department...

27 CFR 21.60 - Formula No. 33.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... pounds of gentian violet or gentian violet, U.S.P. (b) Authorized uses. (1) As a solvent: 052.Inks (not including meat branding inks). 210.External pharmaceuticals, not U.S.P. or N.F. 249.Miscellaneous external...). (c) Conditions governing use. Meat branding inks made with Formula No. 33 do not meet U.S. Department...

21 CFR 74.2602 - D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false D&C Violet No. 2. 74.2602 Section 74.2602 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF COLOR... safely used for coloring externally applied cosmetics in amounts consistent with good manufacturing...

21 CFR 74.2602a - Ext. D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...,10-dioxo-1-anthracenyl) amino]-5-methyl-benzenesulfonic acid. (b) Specifications. Ext. D&C Violet No... Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF... than 0.1 percent. p- Toluidine sulfonic acids, sodium salts, not more than 0.2 percent. Subsidiary...

21 CFR 74.2602a - Ext. D&C Violet No. 2.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...,10-dioxo-1-anthracenyl) amino]-5-methyl-benzenesulfonic acid. (b) Specifications. Ext. D&C Violet No... Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES GENERAL LISTING OF... than 0.1 percent. p- Toluidine sulfonic acids, sodium salts, not more than 0.2 percent. Subsidiary...

HPLC Determination and MS Confirmation of Malachite Green, Gentian Violet, and Their Leuco Metabolites in Catfish Muscle

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Residues of malachite green (MG), gentian violet (GV), and their leuco metabolites in catfish muscle were individually determined by HPLC using visible and fluorescence detectors. This detection scheme obviated a PbO2 column that converts leuco forms to chromatic forms for visible detection, thus el...

The Violet Experience: Social Interaction through Eclectic Music Learning Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dakon, Jacob M.; Cloete, Elene

2018-01-01

In this qualitative case study, we used participant observation and interviews to examine Violet, a Flemish string youth orchestra. In doing so, we identify the qualities that constitute an 'eclectic' ensemble space, herein defined as a musical environment that uses a blend of informal and formal learning practices. Moreover, we emphasize how…

76 FR 76161 - Clean Water Act Section 303(d): Availability of Three Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) in Louisiana

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-06

... Ponchatoula Creek and Dissolved Ponchatoula River. oxygen. 041201 Bayou Labranche-- Dissolved Headwaters to Lake oxygen. Pontchartrain (Scenic) (Estuarine). 041805 Lake Borgne Canal (Violet Dissolved Canal)--MS River siphon oxygen. at Violet to Bayou Dupre (Scenic) (Estuarine). The EPA requests the public provide...

75 FR 23239 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Extension of Time Limit for Final Results of Antidumping...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-03

... Register the preliminary results of the administrative review of the antidumping duty order on CVP 23 from... DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE International Trade Administration [A-533-838] Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From India: Extension of Time Limit for Final Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Review AGENCY...

Surviving Paradise: A Hawaiian Tale.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gibson, Andrea

2002-01-01

An Ohio University program that introduces botany students to field work sent a team to study Hawaiian species of violets and algae, endangered by invasive, imported plants. The situation of the native species relates to larger scientific and ecological issues because algae is the basis of the aquatic food chain, and violets adapt in unique ways…

75 FR 36630 - Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 from the People's Republic of China: Final Results of Antidumping...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-28

... from the People's Republic of China: Final Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Review AGENCY... the People's Republic of China (PRC). See Carbazole Violet Pigment 23 From the People's Republic of... (December 29, 2009) (Preliminary Results). This administrative review covers one exporter of the subject...

CellSort: a support vector machine tool for optimizing fluorescence-activated cell sorting and reducing experimental effort.

PubMed

Yu, Jessica S; Pertusi, Dante A; Adeniran, Adebola V; Tyo, Keith E J

2017-03-15

High throughput screening by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) is a common task in protein engineering and directed evolution. It can also be a rate-limiting step if high false positive or negative rates necessitate multiple rounds of enrichment. Current FACS software requires the user to define sorting gates by intuition and is practically limited to two dimensions. In cases when multiple rounds of enrichment are required, the software cannot forecast the enrichment effort required. We have developed CellSort, a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm that identifies optimal sorting gates based on machine learning using positive and negative control populations. CellSort can take advantage of more than two dimensions to enhance the ability to distinguish between populations. We also present a Bayesian approach to predict the number of sorting rounds required to enrich a population from a given library size. This Bayesian approach allowed us to determine strategies for biasing the sorting gates in order to reduce the required number of enrichment rounds. This algorithm should be generally useful for improve sorting outcomes and reducing effort when using FACS. Source code available at http://tyolab.northwestern.edu/tools/ . k-tyo@northwestern.edu. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

PhySortR: a fast, flexible tool for sorting phylogenetic trees in R.

PubMed

Stephens, Timothy G; Bhattacharya, Debashish; Ragan, Mark A; Chan, Cheong Xin

2016-01-01

A frequent bottleneck in interpreting phylogenomic output is the need to screen often thousands of trees for features of interest, particularly robust clades of specific taxa, as evidence of monophyletic relationship and/or reticulated evolution. Here we present PhySortR, a fast, flexible R package for classifying phylogenetic trees. Unlike existing utilities, PhySortR allows for identification of both exclusive and non-exclusive clades uniting the target taxa based on tip labels (i.e., leaves) on a tree, with customisable options to assess clades within the context of the whole tree. Using simulated and empirical datasets, we demonstrate the potential and scalability of PhySortR in analysis of thousands of phylogenetic trees without a priori assumption of tree-rooting, and in yielding readily interpretable trees that unambiguously satisfy the query. PhySortR is a command-line tool that is freely available and easily automatable.

Analysis of violet-excited fluorochromes by flow cytometry using a violet laser diode.

PubMed

Telford, William G; Hawley, Teresa S; Hawley, Robert G

2003-07-01

Low power violet laser diodes (VLDs) have been evaluated as potential replacements for water-cooled argon-ion and krypton-ion ultraviolet and violet lasers for DNA content analysis using the Hoechst dyes and 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (Shapiro HMN, Perlmutter NG: Cytometry 44:133-136, 2001). In this study, we used a VLD to excite a variety of violet-excited fluorescent molecules important in biomedical analysis, including the fluorochromes Cascade Blue and Pacific Blue, the expressible fluorescent protein cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), and the fluorogenic alkaline phosphatase (AP) substrate 2-(5'-chloro-2'-phosphoryloxyphenyl)-6-chloro-4-(3H)-quinazoline (ELF-97; for endogenous AP detection and cell surface labeling with AP-conjugated antibodies). Comparisons were made between VLD excitation and a krypton-ion laser emitting at 407 nm (both at higher power levels and with the beam attenuated at levels approximating the VLD) on the same FACSVantage SE stream-in-air flow cytometer. We evaluated a Power Technology 408-nm VLD (30 mW) equipped with circularization optics (18 mW maximum output, set to 15 mW) and a Coherent I-302C krypton-ion laser emitting at power levels ranging from 15 to 75 mW. Cascade Blue, Pacific Blue, and CFP showed comparable signal-to-noise ratios and levels of sensitivity with VLD excitation versus the krypton-ion laser at high and VLD-matched power outputs. Multicolor fluorescent protein analysis with 488-nm excitation of green fluorescent protein and DsRed and VLD excitation of CFP was therefore feasible and was demonstrated. Similar levels of excitation efficiency between krypton-ion and VLD sources also were observed for ELF-97 detection. These evaluations confirmed that VLDs may be cost- and maintenance-effective replacements for water-cooled gas lasers for applications requiring violet excitation in addition to DNA binding dyes. Published 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Raman sorting and identification of single living micro-organisms with optical tweezers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Changan; Chen, De; Li, Yong-Qing

2005-07-01

We report on a novel technique for sorting and identification of single biological cells and food-borne bacteria based on laser tweezers and Raman spectroscopy (LTRS). With this technique, biological cells of different physiological states in a sample chamber were identified by their Raman spectral signatures and then they were selectively manipulated into a clean collection chamber with optical tweezers through a microchannel. As an example, we sorted the live and dead yeast cells into the collection chamber and validated this with a standard staining technique. We also demonstrated that bacteria existing in spoiled foods could be discriminated from a variety of food particles based on their characteristic Raman spectra and then isolated with laser manipulation. This label-free LTRS sorting technique may find broad applications in microbiology and rapid examination of food-borne diseases.

Microspherical photonics: Sorting resonant photonic atoms by using light

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

Maslov, Alexey V., E-mail: avmaslov@yandex.ru; Astratov, Vasily N., E-mail: astratov@uncc.edu

2014-09-22

A method of sorting microspheres by resonant light forces in vacuum, air, or liquid is proposed. Based on a two-dimensional model, it is shown that the sorting can be realized by allowing spherical particles to traverse a focused beam. Under resonance with the whispering gallery modes, the particles acquire significant velocity along the beam direction. This opens a unique way of large-volume sorting of nearly identical photonic atoms with 1/Q accuracy, where Q is the resonance quality factor. This is an enabling technology for developing super-low-loss coupled-cavity structures and devices.

Selection and characterization of a DNA aptamer to crystal violet.

PubMed

Chen, Yang; Wang, Jine; Zhang, Yajie; Xu, Lijun; Gao, Tian; Wang, Bing; Pei, Renjun

2018-06-13

Aptamers are short single-stranded DNA or RNA, which can be selected in vitro by systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). In order to develop novel light-up probes to substitute G-quadruplex (G4), we selected a DNA aptamer for crystal violet (CV), a triphenylmethane light-up dye, by a modified affinity chromatography-based SELEX. The ssDNA pool was first coupled on streptavidin-coated agarose beads through a biotin labeled complementary oligonucleotide, and then the aptamer sequences would be released from agarose beads by CV affinity. This method is simple, straightforward and effective. The aptamer sequence with a low micromolar dissociation constant (Kd) and good specificity was achieved after 11 rounds of selection. The light-up properties of the CV-aptamer were also investigated, and the CV showed dramatic fluorescence enhancement. The CV-aptamer pair could be further used as a novel light-up fluorescent probe to design biosensors.

An Unsupervised Online Spike-Sorting Framework.

PubMed

Knieling, Simeon; Sridharan, Kousik S; Belardinelli, Paolo; Naros, Georgios; Weiss, Daniel; Mormann, Florian; Gharabaghi, Alireza

2016-08-01

Extracellular neuronal microelectrode recordings can include action potentials from multiple neurons. To separate spikes from different neurons, they can be sorted according to their shape, a procedure referred to as spike-sorting. Several algorithms have been reported to solve this task. However, when clustering outcomes are unsatisfactory, most of them are difficult to adjust to achieve the desired results. We present an online spike-sorting framework that uses feature normalization and weighting to maximize the distinctiveness between different spike shapes. Furthermore, multiple criteria are applied to either facilitate or prevent cluster fusion, thereby enabling experimenters to fine-tune the sorting process. We compare our method to established unsupervised offline (Wave_Clus (WC)) and online (OSort (OS)) algorithms by examining their performance in sorting various test datasets using two different scoring systems (AMI and the Adamos metric). Furthermore, we evaluate sorting capabilities on intra-operative recordings using established quality metrics. Compared to WC and OS, our algorithm achieved comparable or higher scores on average and produced more convincing sorting results for intra-operative datasets. Thus, the presented framework is suitable for both online and offline analysis and could substantially improve the quality of microelectrode-based data evaluation for research and clinical application.

Efficient Scalable Median Filtering Using Histogram-Based Operations.

PubMed

Green, Oded

2018-05-01

Median filtering is a smoothing technique for noise removal in images. While there are various implementations of median filtering for a single-core CPU, there are few implementations for accelerators and multi-core systems. Many parallel implementations of median filtering use a sorting algorithm for rearranging the values within a filtering window and taking the median of the sorted value. While using sorting algorithms allows for simple parallel implementations, the cost of the sorting becomes prohibitive as the filtering windows grow. This makes such algorithms, sequential and parallel alike, inefficient. In this work, we introduce the first software parallel median filtering that is non-sorting-based. The new algorithm uses efficient histogram-based operations. These reduce the computational requirements of the new algorithm while also accessing the image fewer times. We show an implementation of our algorithm for both the CPU and NVIDIA's CUDA supported graphics processing unit (GPU). The new algorithm is compared with several other leading CPU and GPU implementations. The CPU implementation has near perfect linear scaling with a speedup on a quad-core system. The GPU implementation is several orders of magnitude faster than the other GPU implementations for mid-size median filters. For small kernels, and , comparison-based approaches are preferable as fewer operations are required. Lastly, the new algorithm is open-source and can be found in the OpenCV library.

Making a Chemical Rainbow

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Angelin, Marcus; Ramstrom, Olof

2010-01-01

In this laboratory experiment, high school students are challenged to prepare a six-layered chemical "rainbow" in a test tube. Students start with six unknown, colorless liquids and six pigments ranging from violet to red. The experiment is problem based and forces the students to apply their knowledge of solubility and density and combine it with…

Jews, Reds, and Violets: Anti-Semitism and Anti-Radicalism at New York University, 1916-1929.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shaffer, Robert

1987-01-01

Presents a history of anti-Semitism among students and administrators at the Heights campus of New York University in the 1920s. Focuses on the effort to lower Jewish enrollment, an attempt based on the biased perception that Jews were un-American radicals and inassimilable immigrants. (KH)

OH SENSOR BASED ON ULTRA-VIOLET, CONTINUOUS-WAVE ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY UTILIZING A FREQUENCY-QUADRUPLED, FIBER-AMPLIFIED EXTERNAL CAVITY DIODE LASER. (R828180)

EPA Science Inventory

The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Concl...

TITANIUM DIOXIDE AND ULTRA-VIOLET LIGHT: A SUSTAINABLE AND INEXPENSIVE SOLUTION FOR ADDRESSING DRINKING WATER QUALITY ISSUES IN THE DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

EPA Science Inventory

The Ti0₂ based purification system reactor was built and tested by various diagnostic techniques for its efficacy in detoxification of water against organic and biological matter. Initial experiments were done with ultraviolet lamp as ...

Development of the Biology Card Sorting Task to Measure Conceptual Expertise in Biology

PubMed Central

Smith, Julia I.; Combs, Elijah D.; Nagami, Paul H.; Alto, Valerie M.; Goh, Henry G.; Gourdet, Muryam A. A.; Hough, Christina M.; Nickell, Ashley E.; Peer, Adrian G.; Coley, John D.; Tanner, Kimberly D.

2013-01-01

There are widespread aspirations to focus undergraduate biology education on teaching students to think conceptually like biologists; however, there is a dearth of assessment tools designed to measure progress from novice to expert biological conceptual thinking. We present the development of a novel assessment tool, the Biology Card Sorting Task, designed to probe how individuals organize their conceptual knowledge of biology. While modeled on tasks from cognitive psychology, this task is unique in its design to test two hypothesized conceptual frameworks for the organization of biological knowledge: 1) a surface feature organization focused on organism type and 2) a deep feature organization focused on fundamental biological concepts. In this initial investigation of the Biology Card Sorting Task, each of six analytical measures showed statistically significant differences when used to compare the card sorting results of putative biological experts (biology faculty) and novices (non–biology major undergraduates). Consistently, biology faculty appeared to sort based on hypothesized deep features, while non–biology majors appeared to sort based on either surface features or nonhypothesized organizational frameworks. Results suggest that this novel task is robust in distinguishing populations of biology experts and biology novices and may be an adaptable tool for tracking emerging biology conceptual expertise. PMID:24297290

Improved contact lens disinfection by exposure to violet radiation.

PubMed

Hoenes, Katharina; Stangl, Felix; Gross, Andrej; Hessling, Martin

2016-01-01

Conventional procedures for contact lens disinfection, based on solutions with aggressive chemical ingredients, not only affect microorganisms but operate likewise damaging towards the epithelial eye surface. The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of an alternative or complementary disinfection procedure for contact lenses based on irradiation within the visible wavelength range. Suspensions of S. auricularis, B. subtilis and E. coli were exposed to 405 nm irradiation, for determining the disinfection efficacy. Surviving rates were analyzed by membrane filtration as well as a semi-quantitative analysis using DipSlides. A significant antibacterial effect of the 405 nm irradiation is verifiable for all probed bacteria. Using S. auricularis, there has been no colony forming after an irradiation exposure of 2 hours. The hitherto existing results give reason for the assumption that violet LEDs integrated in contact lens cases will provide a subsidiary disinfection activity and maybe even offer the reduction of chemical ingredients in lens cleaning solutions to become gentler to the eye. In addition the danger of a rerise of the germ concentration after the completion of the disinfection procedure will be reduced.

Terrific Trichomes (and Other Specialised Cells) in African Violets: How to Get a Lot from One Plant in the Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cottrell, Vicki M.

2013-01-01

African violet (genus "Saintpaulia") was identified as a particularly suitable genus for the study of specialised plant cells in the classroom using microscopes. The techniques described here involve simple preparation without staining. The cells and structures that can be investigated include: trichomes (hairs); stomata; guard cells and…

7 CFR 318.13-16 - Regulated articles allowed interstate movement subject to specified conditions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...(s) Additionalrequirements Hawaii Bananas 1 Musa spp Fruit (b)(1)(i), (b)(2)(ii) Litchi Litchi..., johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2)(iii) Pineapple 2 Ananas comosus Fruit... escuelentus Fruit (b)(3)(i) Pot marigold, johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2...

7 CFR 318.13-16 - Regulated articles allowed interstate movement subject to specified conditions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...(s) Additionalrequirements Hawaii Bananas 1 Musa spp Fruit (b)(1)(i), (b)(2)(ii) Litchi Litchi..., johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2)(iii) Pineapple 2 Ananas comosus Fruit... escuelentus Fruit (b)(3)(i) Pot marigold, johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2...

7 CFR 318.13-16 - Regulated articles allowed interstate movement subject to specified conditions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...(s) Additionalrequirements Hawaii Bananas 1 Musa spp Fruit (b)(1)(i), (b)(2)(ii) Litchi Litchi..., johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2)(iii) Pineapple 2 Ananas comosus Fruit... escuelentus Fruit (b)(3)(i) Pot marigold, johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2...

7 CFR 318.13-16 - Regulated articles allowed interstate movement subject to specified conditions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

...(s) Additionalrequirements Hawaii Bananas 1 Musa spp Fruit (b)(1)(i), (b)(2)(ii) Litchi Litchi..., johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2)(iii) Pineapple 2 Ananas comosus Fruit... escuelentus Fruit (b)(3)(i) Pot marigold, johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2...

Publications - GMC 386 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

Science.gov Websites

from the FEX Limited Partnership Aklaq #6 well and white light and ultra-violet photography of the FEX Limited Partnership Aklaq #2, Aklaq #6, and Aklaqyaak #1 wells Authors: Talisman Energy Inc. Publication results from the FEX Limited Partnership Aklaq #6 well and white light and ultra-violet photography of the

Raman-activated cell sorting based on dielectrophoretic single-cell trap and release.

PubMed

Zhang, Peiran; Ren, Lihui; Zhang, Xu; Shan, Yufei; Wang, Yun; Ji, Yuetong; Yin, Huabing; Huang, Wei E; Xu, Jian; Ma, Bo

2015-02-17

Raman-activated cell sorting (RACS) is a promising single-cell technology that holds several significant advantages, as RACS is label-free, information-rich, and potentially in situ. To date, the ability of the technique to identify single cells in a high-speed flow has been limited by inherent weakness of the spontaneous Raman signal. Here we present an alternative pause-and-sort RACS microfluidic system that combines positive dielectrophoresis (pDEP) for single-cell trap and release with a solenoid-valve-suction-based switch for cell separation. This has allowed the integration of trapping, Raman identification, and automatic separation of individual cells in a high-speed flow. By exerting a periodical pDEP field, single cells were trapped, ordered, and positioned individually to the detection point for Raman measurement. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, a mixture of two cell strains containing carotenoid-producing yeast (9%) and non-carotenoid-producing Saccharomyces cerevisiae (91%) was sorted, which enriched the former to 73% on average and showed a fast Raman-activated cell sorting at the subsecond level.

Light Therapy in Mental Hospitals

PubMed Central

Cormac, H. Dove

1929-01-01

The position of actinotherapy in Mental Hospitals in this country is reviewed. An investigation of the results of ultra-violet irradiation in mental disorders at Parkside Mental Hospital is described and it is shown that certain types of the psychoses appear to benefit. The physiological action of actinic rays in relation to mental disorders is discussed and their mode of action on the nervous system suggested. Reference is made to substances which sensitize the body tissues to sunlight and ultra-violet radiation. An allusion is made to glass, penetrable by a portion of the actinic rays, and its uses. The need for ultra-violet ray apparatus in every mental hospital is urged both for treatment of mental and physical conditions and for the study of its action. PMID:19986837

Study of an Educational Hand Sorting Intervention for Reducing Aflatoxin B1 in Groundnuts in Rural Gambia.

PubMed

Xu, Y A; Doel, Andrew; Watson, Sinead; Routledge, Michael N; Elliott, Christopher T; Moore, Sophie E; Gong, Yun Yun

2017-01-01

Aflatoxin, a human liver carcinogen, frequently contaminates groundnuts, maize, rice, and other grains, especially in Africa. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention that involved training rural Gambian women on how to identify and remove moldy groundnuts to reduce aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ) contamination. In total, 25 women, recruited from the West Kiang region of The Gambia, were trained on how to recognize and remove moldy groundnuts. Market-purchased groundnuts were hand sorted by the women. Groundnuts were sampled at baseline (n =5), after hand sorting ("clean," n =25 and "moldy," n =25), and after roasting (n =5). All samples were analyzed for AFB 1 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A reduction of 42.9% was achieved based on the median AFB 1 levels at baseline and after hand sorting (clean groundnuts), whereas an alternative estimate, based on the total AFB 1 in moldy and clean groundnuts, indicated a reduction of 96.7%, with a loss of only 2% of the groundnuts. By roasting the already clean sorted groundnuts, the AFB 1 reduction achieved (based on median levels) was 39.3%. This educational intervention on how to identify and remove moldy groundnuts was simple and effective in reducing AFB 1 contamination.

Grading of apples based on firmness and soluble solids content using VIS-SWNIR spectroscopy and spectral scattering techniques

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Sorting apple fruit based on internal quality will enhance the industry’s competiveness and profitability and assure consumer satisfaction. In this research, visible and shortwave near-infrared (Vis-SWNIR) spectroscopy (460–1,100 nm) and spectral scattering (450–1,050 nm) were used for sorting apple...

Design and control of multifunctional sorting and training platform based on PLC control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wan, Hongqiang; Ge, Shuai; Han, Peiying; Li, Fancong; Zhang, Simiao

2018-05-01

Electromechanical integration, as a multi-disciplinary subject, has been paid much attention by universities and is widely used in the automation production of enterprises. Aiming at the problem of the lack of control among enterprises and the lack of training among colleges and universities, this paper presents a design of multifunctional sorting training platform based on PLC control. Firstly, the structure of the platform is determined and three-dimensional modeling is done. Then design the platform's aerodynamic control and electrical control. Finally, realize the platform sorting function through PLC programming and configuration software development. The training platform can be used to design the practical training experiment, which has a strong advance and pertinence in the electromechanical integration teaching. At the same time, the platform makes full use of modular thinking to make the sorting modules more flexible. Compared with the traditional training platform, its teaching effect is more significant.

Technical note: Impact of a molasses-based liquid feed supplement on the feed sorting behavior and growth of grain-fed veal calves.

PubMed

Gordon, L J; DeVries, T J

2016-08-01

This study was designed to determine the effect of adding a molasses-based liquid feed (LF) supplement to a high-grain mixed ration on the feed sorting behavior and growth of grain-fed veal calves. Twenty-four Holstein bull veal calves (90.2 ± 2.6 d of age, weighing 137.5 ± 16.9 kg) were split into groups of 4 and exposed, in a crossover design with 35-d periods, to each of 2 treatment diets: 1) control diet (76.0% high-moisture corn, 19.0% protein supplement, and 5.0% alfalfa/grass haylage) and 2) LF diet (68.4% corn, 17.1% protein supplement, 9.0% molasses-based LF, and 4.5% alfalfa/grass haylage). Diets were designed to support 1.5 kg/d of growth. Data were collected for the final 3 wk of each treatment period. Feed intakes were recorded daily and calves were weighed 2 times/wk. Feed samples of fresh feed and refusals were collected 3 times/wk for particle size analysis. The particle size separator had 3 screens (19, 8, and 1.18 mm) and a bottom pan, resulting in 4 fractions (long, medium, short, and fine). Sorting was calculated as the actual intake of each fraction expressed as a percent of its predicted intake. Calves tended ( = 0.08) to sort for long particles on the control diet (110.5%) and did not sort these particles on the LF diet (96.8%). Sorting for medium particles (102.6%) was similar ( = 0.9) across diets. Calves sorted against short particles on the LF diet (97.5%; = 0.04) but did not sort this fraction on the control diet (99.4%). Calves sorted against fine particles (79.3%) to a similar extent ( = 0.2) on both diets. Dry matter intake was similar across diets (6.1 kg/d; = 0.9), but day-to-day variability in DMI was greater (0.5 vs. 0.4 kg/d; = 0.04) when calves were fed the control compared with the LF diet. Calves on both diets had similar ADG (1.6 kg/d; = 0.8) as well as within-pen variability in ADG (0.4 kg/d; = 0.7). The feed-to-gain ratio was also similar between control and LF diets (4.3 vs. 3.9 kg DM/kg gain; = 0.4). The results suggest that supplementation of a molasses-based LF to high-grain fattening veal calf diets can reduce variability in feed consumption, both within and across days.

Adsorption of crystal violet onto functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes: Equilibrium and kinetic studies.

PubMed

Sabna, V; Thampi, Santosh G; Chandrakaran, S

2016-12-01

Synthetic dyes present in effluent from textile, paper and paint industries contain crystal violet (CV), a known carcinogenic agent. This study investigates the modification of multiwalled carbon nanotubes by acid reflux method and equilibrium and kinetic behaviour of adsorption of CV onto functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (fMWNTs) in batch system. High stability of the fMWNTs suspension in water indicates the hydrophilicity of fMWNTs induced due to the formation of functional groups that make hydrogen bonds with water molecules. fMWNTs were characterized by Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) spectroscopy and the functional groups present on the fMWNTs were confirmed. Characteristic variation was observed in the FTIR spectra of fMWNTs after adsorption of crystal violet onto it. Adsorption characteristics were evaluated as a function of system variables such as contact time, dosage of fMWNTs and initial concentration and pH of the crystal violet solution. Adsorption capacity of fMWNTs and percentage removal of the dye increased with increase in contact time, adsorbent dosage and pH but declined with increase in initial concentration of the dye. fMWNTs showed higher adsorption capacity compared to that of pristine MWNTs. Data showed good fit with the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models and the pseudo-second order kinetic model; the maximum adsorption capacity was 90.52mg/g. Kinetic parameters such as rate constants, equilibrium adsorption capacities and regression coefficients were estimated. Results indicate that fMWNTs are an effective adsorbent for the removal of crystal violet from aqueous solution. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Detection and identification of dyes in blue writing inks by LC-DAD-orbitrap MS.

PubMed

Sun, Qiran; Luo, Yiwen; Yang, Xu; Xiang, Ping; Shen, Min

2016-04-01

In the field of forensic questioned document examination, to identify dyes detected in inks not only provides a solid foundation for ink discrimination in forged contents identification, but also facilitates the investigation of ink origin or the study regarding ink dating. To detect and identify potential acid and basic dyes in blue writing inks, a liquid chromatography-diode array detection-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (LC-DAD-Orbitrap MS) method was established. Three sulfonic acid dyes (Acid blue 1, Acid blue 9 and Acid red 52) and six triphenylmethane basic dyes (Ethyl violet, Crystal violet, Methyl violet 2B, Basic blue 7, Victoria blue B and Victoria blue R) were employed as reference dyes for method development. Determination of the nine dyes was validated to evaluate the instrument performance, and it turned out to be sensitive and stable enough for quantification. The method was then applied in the screening analysis of ten blue roller ball pen inks and twenty blue ballpoint pen inks. As a result, including TPR (a de-methylated product of Crystal violet), ten known dyes and four unknown dyes were detected in the inks. The latter were further identified as a de-methylated product of Victoria blue B, Acid blue 104, Acid violet 49 and Acid blue 90, through analyzing their characteristic precursor and product ions acquired by Orbitrap MS with good mass accuracy. The results showed that the established method is capable of detecting and identifying potential dyes in blue writing inks. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Q sort theory and technique.

PubMed

Nyatanga, L

1989-10-01

This paper is based on the author's experience of using the Q sort technique with BA Social Sciences (BASS) students, and the community psychiatric nursing (CPN, ENB No 811 course). The paper focuses on two main issues: 1. The theoretical assumptions underpinning the Q Sort technique. Carl Rogers' self theory and some of the values of humanistic psychology are summarised. 2. The actual technique procedure and meaning of results are highlighted. As the Q Sort technique is potentially useful in a variety of sittings some of which are listed in this paper, the emphasis has deliberately been placed in understanding the theoretical underpinning and the operationalisation (sensitive interpretation) of the theory to practice.

7 CFR 318.13-16 - Regulated articles allowed interstate movement subject to specified conditions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...(s) Additionalrequirements Hawaii Bananas 1 Musa spp Fruit (b)(1)(i), (b)(2)(ii) Pot marigold, johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2)(iii) Pineapple 2 Ananas comosus Fruit (b)(2... Fruit (b)(3)(i) Pot marigold, johnny-jump-ups, pansies, and violets Calendula spp Flower (b)(2)(iii) U.S...

Violet laser diodes as light sources for cytometry.

PubMed

Shapiro, H M; Perlmutter, N G

2001-06-01

Violet laser diodes have recently become commercially available. These devices emit 5-25 mW in the range of 395-415 nm, and are available in systems that incorporate the diodes with collimating optics and regulated power supplies in housing incorporating thermoelectric coolers, which are necessary to maintain stable output. Such systems now cost several thousand dollars, but are expected to drop substantially in price. Materials and Methods A 4-mW, 397-nm violet diode system was used in a laboratory-built flow cytometer to excite fluorescence of DAPI and Hoechst dyes in permeabilized and intact cells. Forward and orthogonal light scattering were also measured. DNA content histograms with good precision (G(0)/G(1) coefficient of variation 1.7%) were obtained with DAPI staining; precision was lower using Hoechst 33342. Hoechst 34580, with an excitation maximum nearer 400 nm, yielded the highest fluorescence intensity, but appeared to decompose after a short time in solution. Scatter signals exhibited relatively broad distributions. Violet laser diodes are relatively inexpensive, compact, efficient, and quiet light sources for DNA fluorescence measurement using DAPI and Hoechst dyes; they can also excite several other fluorescent probes. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Violet-green excitation for NIR luminescence of Yb3+ ions in Bi2O3-B2O3-SiO2-Ga2O3 glasses.

PubMed

Li, Weiwei; Cheng, Jimeng; Zhao, Guoying; Chen, Wei; Hu, Lili; Guzik, Malgorzata; Boulon, Georges

2014-04-21

60Bi(2)O(3)-20B(2)O(3)-10SiO(2)-10Ga(2)O(3) glasses doped with 1-9 mol% Yb(2)O(3) were prepared and investigated mainly on their violet-green excitation for the typical NIR emission of Yb(3+), generally excited in the NIR. Two violet excitation bands at 365 nm and 405 nm are related to Yb(2+) and Bi(3+). 465 nm excitation band and 480 nm absorption band in the blue-green are assigned to Bi(0) metal nanoparticles/grains. Yb-content-dependence of the excitation and absorption means that Bi(0) is the reduced product of Bi(3+), but greatly competed by the redox reaction of Yb(2+) ↔ Yb(3+). It is proved that the violet-green excitations result in the NIR emission of Yb(3+). On the energy transfer, the virtual level of Yb(3+)-Yb(3+) as well as Bi(0) dimers probably plays an important role. An effective and controllable way is suggested to achieve nano-optical applications by Bi(0) metal nanoparticles/grains and Yb(3+).

A sorting system with automated gates permits individual operant experiments with mice from a social home cage.

PubMed

Winter, York; Schaefers, Andrea T U

2011-03-30

Behavioral experiments based on operant procedures can be time-consuming for small amounts of data. While individual testing and handling of animals can influence attention, emotion, and behavior, and interfere with experimental outcome, many operant protocols require individual testing. We developed an RFID-technology- and transponder-based sorting system that allows removing the human factor for longer-term experiments. Identity detectors and automated gates route mice individually from their social home cage to an adjacent operant compartment with 24/7 operation. CD1-mice learnt quickly to individually pass through the sorting system. At no time did more than a single mouse enter the operant compartment. After 3 days of adjusting to the sorting system, groups of 4 mice completed about 50 experimental trials per day in the operant compartment without experimenter intervention. The automated sorting system eliminates handling, isolation, and disturbance of the animals, eliminates experimenter-induced variability, saves experimenter time, and is financially economical. It makes possible a new approach for high-throughput experimentation, and is a viable tool for increasing quality and efficiency of many behavioral and neurobiological investigations. It can connect a social home cage, through individual sorting automation, to diverse setups including classical operant chambers, mazes, or arenas with video-based behavior classification. Such highly automated systems will permit efficient high-throughput screening even for transgenic animals with only subtle neurological or psychiatric symptoms where elaborate or longer-term protocols are required for behavioral diagnosis. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detection of intracellular glutathione using ThiolTracker violet stain and fluorescence microscopy.

PubMed

Mandavilli, Bhaskar S; Janes, Michael S

2010-07-01

Glutathione plays an important role in protecting mammalian cells from oxidative stress and cell death. Because reduced glutathione (GSH) represents the large majority of intracellular free thiols, cell-permeant, thiol-reactive fluorescent probes represent potentially useful indicators of intracellular GSH. The ThiolTracker Violet stain (a registered trademark of Invitrogen) is a bright fluorescent probe that is highly reactive to thiols and can be used as a convenient and effective indicator of intracellular GSH and general redox status by a variety of detection modalities. While this probe has been validated in flow cytometry and microplate fluorimetry assays, the following method will describe details on the use of the ThiolTracker Violet dye in traditional fluorescence microscopy, as well as high-content imaging and analysis.

The characterization of photographic materials as substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaughan, J.; Hortin, N.; Christie, S.; Kvasnik, F.; Scully, P. J.

2005-06-01

In this study, five types of photographic materials were obtained from commercial sources and characterized for use as substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The substrates are photographic emulsions coated on glass or paper support. The emulsions were developed to maximize the amount of metallic silver aggregated into clusters. The test analyte, Cresyl Violet, was deposited directly onto the substrate surface. The permeable nature of the supporting gelatin matrix enables the interaction between the target analyte and the solid silver clusters. The surface enhanced Raman spectra of a 2.75 × 10-7 M concentration of Cresyl Violet in ethanol were obtained using these photographic substrates. The Raman and resonant Raman enhancement of Cresyl Violet varies from substrate to substrate, as does the ratio of Raman to resonant Raman peak heights.

Spike sorting using locality preserving projection with gap statistics and landmark-based spectral clustering.

PubMed

Nguyen, Thanh; Khosravi, Abbas; Creighton, Douglas; Nahavandi, Saeid

2014-12-30

Understanding neural functions requires knowledge from analysing electrophysiological data. The process of assigning spikes of a multichannel signal into clusters, called spike sorting, is one of the important problems in such analysis. There have been various automated spike sorting techniques with both advantages and disadvantages regarding accuracy and computational costs. Therefore, developing spike sorting methods that are highly accurate and computationally inexpensive is always a challenge in the biomedical engineering practice. An automatic unsupervised spike sorting method is proposed in this paper. The method uses features extracted by the locality preserving projection (LPP) algorithm. These features afterwards serve as inputs for the landmark-based spectral clustering (LSC) method. Gap statistics (GS) is employed to evaluate the number of clusters before the LSC can be performed. The proposed LPP-LSC is highly accurate and computationally inexpensive spike sorting approach. LPP spike features are very discriminative; thereby boost the performance of clustering methods. Furthermore, the LSC method exhibits its efficiency when integrated with the cluster evaluator GS. The proposed method's accuracy is approximately 13% superior to that of the benchmark combination between wavelet transformation and superparamagnetic clustering (WT-SPC). Additionally, LPP-LSC computing time is six times less than that of the WT-SPC. LPP-LSC obviously demonstrates a win-win spike sorting solution meeting both accuracy and computational cost criteria. LPP and LSC are linear algorithms that help reduce computational burden and thus their combination can be applied into real-time spike analysis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stability-based sorting: The forgotten process behind (not only) biological evolution.

PubMed

Toman, Jan; Flegr, Jaroslav

2017-12-21

Natural selection is considered to be the main process that drives biological evolution. It requires selected entities to originate dependent upon one another by the means of reproduction or copying, and for the progeny to inherit the qualities of their ancestors. However, natural selection is a manifestation of a more general persistence principle, whose temporal consequences we propose to name "stability-based sorting" (SBS). Sorting based on static stability, i.e., SBS in its strict sense and usual conception, favours characters that increase the persistence of their holders and act on all material and immaterial entities. Sorted entities could originate independently from each other, are not required to propagate and need not exhibit heredity. Natural selection is a specific form of SBS-sorting based on dynamic stability. It requires some form of heredity and is based on competition for the largest difference between the speed of generating its own copies and their expiration. SBS in its strict sense and selection thus have markedly different evolutionary consequences that are stressed in this paper. In contrast to selection, which is opportunistic, SBS is able to accumulate even momentarily detrimental characters that are advantageous for the long-term persistence of sorted entities. However, it lacks the amplification effect based on the preferential propagation of holders of advantageous characters. Thus, it works slower than selection and normally is unable to create complex adaptations. From a long-term perspective, SBS is a decisive force in evolution-especially macroevolution. SBS offers a new explanation for numerous evolutionary phenomena, including broad distribution and persistence of sexuality, altruistic behaviour, horizontal gene transfer, patterns of evolutionary stasis, planetary homeostasis, increasing ecosystem resistance to disturbances, and the universal decline of disparity in the evolution of metazoan lineages. SBS acts on all levels in all biotic and abiotic systems. It could be the only truly universal evolutionary process, and an explanatory framework based on SBS could provide new insight into the evolution of complex abiotic and biotic systems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

78 FR 25946 - Hardwood and Decorative Plywood From the People's Republic of China: Antidumping Duty Investigation

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-03

..., ultra-violet light cured polyurethanes, oil or oil-modified or water based polyurethanes, wax, epoxy... obscure the grain, texture or markings of wood include, but are not limited to, paper, aluminum, high... to the CBP. See Notice of Final Determination of Sales at Less Than Fair Value, and Negative...

EFFECTS OF AQUATIC HUMIC SUBSTANCES ON ANALYSIS FOR HYDROGEN PEROXIDE USING PEROXIDASE-CATALYZED OXIDATIONS OF TRIARYLMETHANES OR P-HYDROXYPENYLACETIC ACID (JOURNAL VERSION)

EPA Science Inventory

A sensitive procedure is described for trace analysis of hydrogen peroxide in water. The process involves the peroxide-catalyzed oxidation of the leuco forms of two dyes, crystal violet and malachite green. The sensitivity of this procedure, as well as of another procedure based ...

A new species of Daedalea (Basidiomycota) and a synopsis of core species in Daedalea sensu stricto

Treesearch

Daniel L. Lindner; Leif Ryvarden; Timothy J. Baroni

2011-01-01

Daedalea neotropica, a species with striking violet stains on the pileus and pore surface, is described from material collected in the Maya Mountains of Belize. A synopsis of Daedalea sensu stricto is provided based on morphological and DNA sequence data. Analyses indicate that at least four species should be included in ...

A flow-injection mass spectrometry fingerprinting method for authentication and quality assessment of Scutellaria lateriflora-based dietary supplements

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Identification and differentiation of anthocyanins and non-anthocyanin compounds in natural products can be very difficult by mass spectrometry. Using a ultra-violet/visible detector can be helpful, but not fool-proof, and it requires an additional detector. To solve the problem, a fast and reliab...

Gene Expression in Single Cells Isolated from the CWR-R1 Prostate Cancer Cell Line and Human Prostate Tissue Based on the Side Population Phenotype.

PubMed

Gangavarapu, Kalyan J; Miller, Austin; Huss, Wendy J

2016-09-01

Defining biological signals at the single cell level can identify cancer initiating driver mutations. Techniques to isolate single cells such as microfluidics sorting and magnetic capturing systems have limitations such as: high cost, labor intense, and the requirement of a large number of cells. Therefore, the goal of our current study is to identify a cost and labor effective, reliable, and reproducible technique that allows single cell isolation for analysis to promote regular laboratory use, including standard reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). In the current study, we utilized single prostate cells isolated from the CWR-R1 prostate cancer cell line and human prostate clinical specimens, based on the ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter efflux of dye cycle violet (DCV), side population assay. Expression of four genes: ABCG2; Aldehyde dehydrogenase1A1 (ALDH1A1); androgen receptor (AR); and embryonic stem cell marker, Oct-4, were determined. Results from the current study in the CWR-R1 cell line showed ABCG2 and ALDH1A1 gene expression in 67% of single side population cells and in 17% or 100% of non-side population cells respectively. Studies using single cells isolated from clinical specimens showed that the Oct-4 gene is detected in only 22% of single side population cells and in 78% of single non-side population cells. Whereas, AR gene expression is in 100% single side population and non-side population cells isolated from the same human prostate clinical specimen. These studies show that performing RT-PCR on single cells isolated by FACS can be successfully conducted to determine gene expression in single cells from cell lines and enzymatically digested tissue. While these studies provide a simple yes/no expression readout, the more sensitive quantitative RT-PCR would be able to provide even more information if necessary.

Gene Expression in Single Cells Isolated from the CWR-R1 Prostate Cancer Cell Line and Human Prostate Tissue Based on the Side Population Phenotype

PubMed Central

Gangavarapu, Kalyan J; Miller, Austin; Huss, Wendy J

2016-01-01

Defining biological signals at the single cell level can identify cancer initiating driver mutations. Techniques to isolate single cells such as microfluidics sorting and magnetic capturing systems have limitations such as: high cost, labor intense, and the requirement of a large number of cells. Therefore, the goal of our current study is to identify a cost and labor effective, reliable, and reproducible technique that allows single cell isolation for analysis to promote regular laboratory use, including standard reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). In the current study, we utilized single prostate cells isolated from the CWR-R1 prostate cancer cell line and human prostate clinical specimens, based on the ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter efflux of dye cycle violet (DCV), side population assay. Expression of four genes: ABCG2; Aldehyde dehydrogenase1A1 (ALDH1A1); androgen receptor (AR); and embryonic stem cell marker, Oct-4, were determined. Results from the current study in the CWR-R1 cell line showed ABCG2 and ALDH1A1 gene expression in 67% of single side population cells and in 17% or 100% of non-side population cells respectively. Studies using single cells isolated from clinical specimens showed that the Oct-4 gene is detected in only 22% of single side population cells and in 78% of single non-side population cells. Whereas, AR gene expression is in 100% single side population and non-side population cells isolated from the same human prostate clinical specimen. These studies show that performing RT-PCR on single cells isolated by FACS can be successfully conducted to determine gene expression in single cells from cell lines and enzymatically digested tissue. While these studies provide a simple yes/no expression readout, the more sensitive quantitative RT-PCR would be able to provide even more information if necessary. PMID:27785389

A degradation-based sorting method for lithium-ion battery reuse.

PubMed

Chen, Hao; Shen, Julia

2017-01-01

In a world where millions of people are dependent on batteries to provide them with convenient and portable energy, battery recycling is of the utmost importance. In this paper, we developed a new method to sort 18650 Lithium-ion batteries in large quantities and in real time for harvesting used cells with enough capacity for battery reuse. Internal resistance and capacity tests were conducted as a basis for comparison with a novel degradation-based method based on X-ray radiographic scanning and digital image contrast computation. The test results indicate that the sorting accuracy of the test cells is about 79% and the execution time of our algorithm is at a level of 200 milliseconds, making our method a potential real-time solution for reusing the remaining capacity in good used cells.

An on-chip imaging droplet-sorting system: a real-time shape recognition method to screen target cells in droplets with single cell resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Girault, Mathias; Kim, Hyonchol; Arakawa, Hisayuki; Matsuura, Kenji; Odaka, Masao; Hattori, Akihiro; Terazono, Hideyuki; Yasuda, Kenji

2017-01-01

A microfluidic on-chip imaging cell sorter has several advantages over conventional cell sorting methods, especially to identify cells with complex morphologies such as clusters. One of the remaining problems is how to efficiently discriminate targets at the species level without labelling. Hence, we developed a label-free microfluidic droplet-sorting system based on image recognition of cells in droplets. To test the applicability of this method, a mixture of two plankton species with different morphologies (Dunaliella tertiolecta and Phaeodactylum tricornutum) were successfully identified and discriminated at a rate of 10 Hz. We also examined the ability to detect the number of objects encapsulated in a droplet. Single cell droplets sorted into collection channels showed 91 ± 4.5% and 90 ± 3.8% accuracy for D. tertiolecta and P. tricornutum, respectively. Because we used image recognition to confirm single cell droplets, we achieved highly accurate single cell sorting. The results indicate that the integrated method of droplet imaging cell sorting can provide a complementary sorting approach capable of isolating single target cells from a mixture of cells with high accuracy without any staining.

An on-chip imaging droplet-sorting system: a real-time shape recognition method to screen target cells in droplets with single cell resolution.

PubMed

Girault, Mathias; Kim, Hyonchol; Arakawa, Hisayuki; Matsuura, Kenji; Odaka, Masao; Hattori, Akihiro; Terazono, Hideyuki; Yasuda, Kenji

2017-01-06

A microfluidic on-chip imaging cell sorter has several advantages over conventional cell sorting methods, especially to identify cells with complex morphologies such as clusters. One of the remaining problems is how to efficiently discriminate targets at the species level without labelling. Hence, we developed a label-free microfluidic droplet-sorting system based on image recognition of cells in droplets. To test the applicability of this method, a mixture of two plankton species with different morphologies (Dunaliella tertiolecta and Phaeodactylum tricornutum) were successfully identified and discriminated at a rate of 10 Hz. We also examined the ability to detect the number of objects encapsulated in a droplet. Single cell droplets sorted into collection channels showed 91 ± 4.5% and 90 ± 3.8% accuracy for D. tertiolecta and P. tricornutum, respectively. Because we used image recognition to confirm single cell droplets, we achieved highly accurate single cell sorting. The results indicate that the integrated method of droplet imaging cell sorting can provide a complementary sorting approach capable of isolating single target cells from a mixture of cells with high accuracy without any staining.

Automatic Spike Sorting Using Tuning Information

PubMed Central

Ventura, Valérie

2011-01-01

Current spike sorting methods focus on clustering neurons’ characteristic spike waveforms. The resulting spike-sorted data are typically used to estimate how covariates of interest modulate the firing rates of neurons. However, when these covariates do modulate the firing rates, they provide information about spikes’ identities, which thus far have been ignored for the purpose of spike sorting. This letter describes a novel approach to spike sorting, which incorporates both waveform information and tuning information obtained from the modulation of firing rates. Because it efficiently uses all the available information, this spike sorter yields lower spike misclassification rates than traditional automatic spike sorters. This theoretical result is verified empirically on several examples. The proposed method does not require additional assumptions; only its implementation is different. It essentially consists of performing spike sorting and tuning estimation simultaneously rather than sequentially, as is currently done. We used an expectation-maximization maximum likelihood algorithm to implement the new spike sorter. We present the general form of this algorithm and provide a detailed implementable version under the assumptions that neurons are independent and spike according to Poisson processes. Finally, we uncover a systematic flaw of spike sorting based on waveform information only. PMID:19548802

Automatic spike sorting using tuning information.

PubMed

Ventura, Valérie

2009-09-01

Current spike sorting methods focus on clustering neurons' characteristic spike waveforms. The resulting spike-sorted data are typically used to estimate how covariates of interest modulate the firing rates of neurons. However, when these covariates do modulate the firing rates, they provide information about spikes' identities, which thus far have been ignored for the purpose of spike sorting. This letter describes a novel approach to spike sorting, which incorporates both waveform information and tuning information obtained from the modulation of firing rates. Because it efficiently uses all the available information, this spike sorter yields lower spike misclassification rates than traditional automatic spike sorters. This theoretical result is verified empirically on several examples. The proposed method does not require additional assumptions; only its implementation is different. It essentially consists of performing spike sorting and tuning estimation simultaneously rather than sequentially, as is currently done. We used an expectation-maximization maximum likelihood algorithm to implement the new spike sorter. We present the general form of this algorithm and provide a detailed implementable version under the assumptions that neurons are independent and spike according to Poisson processes. Finally, we uncover a systematic flaw of spike sorting based on waveform information only.

Feature extraction using extrema sampling of discrete derivatives for spike sorting in implantable upper-limb neural prostheses.

PubMed

Zamani, Majid; Demosthenous, Andreas

2014-07-01

Next generation neural interfaces for upper-limb (and other) prostheses aim to develop implantable interfaces for one or more nerves, each interface having many neural signal channels that work reliably in the stump without harming the nerves. To achieve real-time multi-channel processing it is important to integrate spike sorting on-chip to overcome limitations in transmission bandwidth. This requires computationally efficient algorithms for feature extraction and clustering suitable for low-power hardware implementation. This paper describes a new feature extraction method for real-time spike sorting based on extrema analysis (namely positive peaks and negative peaks) of spike shapes and their discrete derivatives at different frequency bands. Employing simulation across different datasets, the accuracy and computational complexity of the proposed method are assessed and compared with other methods. The average classification accuracy of the proposed method in conjunction with online sorting (O-Sort) is 91.6%, outperforming all the other methods tested with the O-Sort clustering algorithm. The proposed method offers a better tradeoff between classification error and computational complexity, making it a particularly strong choice for on-chip spike sorting.

An on-chip imaging droplet-sorting system: a real-time shape recognition method to screen target cells in droplets with single cell resolution

PubMed Central

Girault, Mathias; Kim, Hyonchol; Arakawa, Hisayuki; Matsuura, Kenji; Odaka, Masao; Hattori, Akihiro; Terazono, Hideyuki; Yasuda, Kenji

2017-01-01

A microfluidic on-chip imaging cell sorter has several advantages over conventional cell sorting methods, especially to identify cells with complex morphologies such as clusters. One of the remaining problems is how to efficiently discriminate targets at the species level without labelling. Hence, we developed a label-free microfluidic droplet-sorting system based on image recognition of cells in droplets. To test the applicability of this method, a mixture of two plankton species with different morphologies (Dunaliella tertiolecta and Phaeodactylum tricornutum) were successfully identified and discriminated at a rate of 10 Hz. We also examined the ability to detect the number of objects encapsulated in a droplet. Single cell droplets sorted into collection channels showed 91 ± 4.5% and 90 ± 3.8% accuracy for D. tertiolecta and P. tricornutum, respectively. Because we used image recognition to confirm single cell droplets, we achieved highly accurate single cell sorting. The results indicate that the integrated method of droplet imaging cell sorting can provide a complementary sorting approach capable of isolating single target cells from a mixture of cells with high accuracy without any staining. PMID:28059147

Research and Development of Target Recognition and Location Crawling Platform based on Binocular Vision

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Weidong; Lei, Zhu; Yuan, Zhang; Gao, Zhenqing

2018-03-01

The application of visual recognition technology in industrial robot crawling and placing operation is one of the key tasks in the field of robot research. In order to improve the efficiency and intelligence of the material sorting in the production line, especially to realize the sorting of the scattered items, the robot target recognition and positioning crawling platform based on binocular vision is researched and developed. The images were collected by binocular camera, and the images were pretreated. Harris operator was used to identify the corners of the images. The Canny operator was used to identify the images. Hough-chain code recognition was used to identify the images. The target image in the image, obtain the coordinates of each vertex of the image, calculate the spatial position and posture of the target item, and determine the information needed to capture the movement and transmit it to the robot control crawling operation. Finally, In this paper, we use this method to experiment the wrapping problem in the express sorting process The experimental results show that the platform can effectively solve the problem of sorting of loose parts, so as to achieve the purpose of efficient and intelligent sorting.

Expansion of the scope of AOAC first action method 2012.25 - single-laboratory validation of triphenylmethane dye and leuco metabolite analysis in shrimp, tilapia, catfish, and salmon by LC-MS/MS

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Prior to conducting a collaborative study of AOAC First Action 2012.25 LC-MS/MS analytical method for the determination of residues of three triphenylmethane dyes (malachite green, crystal violet, and brilliant green) and their metabolites (leucomalachite green and leucocrystal violet) in seafood, a...

Conservation assessment for great-spurred violet in the Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota and Wyoming

Treesearch

J. Hope Hornbeck; Carolyn Hull Sieg; Deanna J. Reyher

2003-01-01

Great-spurred violet (Viola selkirkii Pursh ex Goldie; Violaceae) is an early spring flowering herb that occurs in the boreal and Rocky Mountain regions of North America, and cool temperate regions of Eurasia, eastern China and Japan. In the Black Hills, the species is restricted to spruce-dominated forests in cold, shady ravines from 5,400 to 7,000...

Typhoon seen during the STS-79 mission

NASA Image and Video Library

1996-09-20

STS79-E-5099 (20 September 1996) --- The crew members have been able to spot two typhoons - the larger Violet, north of the Philippines, and a lesser one called Willie, near Vietnam - and a tropical depression from Earth-orbit, during Flight Day 5. They aimed the Electronic Still Camera (ESC) at this storm, believed to be Violet, during the early hours of September 20, 1996.

Treatment of oral thrush in HIV/AIDS patients with lemon juice and lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) and gentian violet.

PubMed

Wright, S C; Maree, J E; Sibanyoni, M

2009-03-01

The purpose of the study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of lemon juice and lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) in the treatment of oral thrush in HIV/AIDS patients when compared with the control group using gentian violet aqueous solution 0.5%. Oral thrush is a frequent complication of HIV infection. In the Moretele Hospice, due to financial constraints, the treatment routinely given to patients with oral thrush is either lemon juice directly into the mouth or a lemon grass infusion made from lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) grown and dried at the hospice. These two remedies have been found to be very efficacious therefore are used extensively. Gentian violet, the first line medication for oral thrush in South Africa, is not preferred by the primary health clinic patients due to the visible purple stain which leads them to being stigmatized as HIV-positive. Cymbopogon citratus and Citrus limon have known antifungal properties. The study design was a randomised controlled trial. Ninety patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: gentian violet, lemon juice or lemon grass. Inclusion criteria included being HIV-positive with a diagnosis of oral thrush. The study period was 11 days and patients were followed up every second day. International ethical principles were adhered to during the study. Of the 90 patients, 83 completed the study. In the intention-to-treat analysis, none of the p-values were significant therefore the null hypothesis could not be rejected. In the analysis of the participants who actually completed the trial, the lemon juice showed better results than the gentian violet aqueous solution 0.5% in the treatment of oral thrush in an HIV-positive population (p<0.02). The null hypothesis in terms of the lemon grass and gentian violet could also be rejected on the basis of the Chi-square test and the likelihood ratio test (p<0.05). Though the patient population was small, the use of lemon juice and lemon grass for the treatment of oral candidiasis in an HIV population was validated by the randomised controlled trial.

The effects of hoechst 33342 staining and the male sample donor on the sorting efficiency of canine spermatozoa.

PubMed

Rodenas, C; Lucas, X; Tarantini, T; Del Olmo, D; Roca, J; Vazquez, J M; Martinez, E A; Parrilla, I

2014-02-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of Hoechst 33342 (H-42) concentration and of the male donor on the efficiency of sex-sorting procedure in canine spermatozoa. Semen samples from six dogs (three ejaculates/dog) were diluted to 100 × 10(6) sperm/ml, split into four aliquots, stained with increasing H-42 concentrations (5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 μl, respectively) and sorted by flow cytometry. The rates of non-viable (FDA+), oriented (OS) and selected spermatozoa (SS), as well as the average sorting rates (SR, sorted spermatozoa/s), were used to determine the sorting efficiency. The effects of the sorting procedure on the quality of sorted spermatozoa were evaluated in terms of total motility (TM), percentage of viable spermatozoa (spermatozoa with membrane and acrosomal integrity) and percentage of spermatozoa with reacted/damaged acrosomes. X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm populations were identified in all of the samples stained with 7.5, 10 and 12.5 μl of H-42, while these two populations were only identified in 77.5% of samples stained with 5 μl. The values of OS, SS and SR were influenced by the male donor (p < 0.01) but not by the H-42 concentration used. The quality of sorted sperm samples immediately after sorting was similar to that of fresh samples, while centrifugation resulted in significant reduction (p < 0.05) in TM and in the percentage of viable spermatozoa and a significant increase (p < 0.01) in the percentage of spermatozoa with damage/reacted acrosomes. In conclusion, the sex-sorting of canine spermatozoa by flow cytometry can be performed successfully using H-42 concentrations between 7.5 and 12.5 μl. The efficiency of the sorting procedure varies based on the dog from which the sperm sample derives. © 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Nondestructive detection of infested chestnuts based on NIR spectroscopy

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Insect feeding is a significant postharvest problem for processors of Chestnuts (Castanea sativa, Miller). In most cases, damage from insects is 'hidden', i.e. not visually detectable on the fruit surface. Consequently, traditional sorting techniques, including manual sorting, are generally inadequa...

Spectral shifts of mammalian ultraviolet-sensitive pigments (short wavelength-sensitive opsin 1) are associated with eye length and photic niche evolution.

PubMed

Emerling, Christopher A; Huynh, Hieu T; Nguyen, Minh A; Meredith, Robert W; Springer, Mark S

2015-11-22

Retinal opsin photopigments initiate mammalian vision when stimulated by light. Most mammals possess a short wavelength-sensitive opsin 1 (SWS1) pigment that is primarily sensitive to either ultraviolet or violet light, leading to variation in colour perception across species. Despite knowledge of both ultraviolet- and violet-sensitive SWS1 classes in mammals for 25 years, the adaptive significance of this variation has not been subjected to hypothesis testing, resulting in minimal understanding of the basis for mammalian SWS1 spectral tuning evolution. Here, we gathered data on SWS1 for 403 mammal species, including novel SWS1 sequences for 97 species. Ancestral sequence reconstructions suggest that the most recent common ancestor of Theria possessed an ultraviolet SWS1 pigment, and that violet-sensitive pigments evolved at least 12 times in mammalian history. We also observed that ultraviolet pigments, previously considered to be a rarity, are common in mammals. We then used phylogenetic comparative methods to test the hypotheses that the evolution of violet-sensitive SWS1 is associated with increased light exposure, extended longevity and longer eye length. We discovered that diurnal mammals and species with longer eyes are more likely to have violet-sensitive pigments and less likely to possess UV-sensitive pigments. We hypothesize that (i) as mammals evolved larger body sizes, they evolved longer eyes, which limited transmittance of ultraviolet light to the retina due to an increase in Rayleigh scattering, and (ii) as mammals began to invade diurnal temporal niches, they evolved lenses with low UV transmittance to reduce chromatic aberration and/or photo-oxidative damage. © 2015 The Author(s).

Spectral shifts of mammalian ultraviolet-sensitive pigments (short wavelength-sensitive opsin 1) are associated with eye length and photic niche evolution

PubMed Central

Emerling, Christopher A.; Huynh, Hieu T.; Nguyen, Minh A.; Meredith, Robert W.; Springer, Mark S.

2015-01-01

Retinal opsin photopigments initiate mammalian vision when stimulated by light. Most mammals possess a short wavelength-sensitive opsin 1 (SWS1) pigment that is primarily sensitive to either ultraviolet or violet light, leading to variation in colour perception across species. Despite knowledge of both ultraviolet- and violet-sensitive SWS1 classes in mammals for 25 years, the adaptive significance of this variation has not been subjected to hypothesis testing, resulting in minimal understanding of the basis for mammalian SWS1 spectral tuning evolution. Here, we gathered data on SWS1 for 403 mammal species, including novel SWS1 sequences for 97 species. Ancestral sequence reconstructions suggest that the most recent common ancestor of Theria possessed an ultraviolet SWS1 pigment, and that violet-sensitive pigments evolved at least 12 times in mammalian history. We also observed that ultraviolet pigments, previously considered to be a rarity, are common in mammals. We then used phylogenetic comparative methods to test the hypotheses that the evolution of violet-sensitive SWS1 is associated with increased light exposure, extended longevity and longer eye length. We discovered that diurnal mammals and species with longer eyes are more likely to have violet-sensitive pigments and less likely to possess UV-sensitive pigments. We hypothesize that (i) as mammals evolved larger body sizes, they evolved longer eyes, which limited transmittance of ultraviolet light to the retina due to an increase in Rayleigh scattering, and (ii) as mammals began to invade diurnal temporal niches, they evolved lenses with low UV transmittance to reduce chromatic aberration and/or photo-oxidative damage. PMID:26582021

Epigenetic differentiation and relationship to adaptive genetic divergence in discrete populations of the violet Viola cazorlensis.

PubMed

Herrera, Carlos M; Bazaga, Pilar

2010-08-01

*In plants, epigenetic variations based on DNA methylation are often heritable and could influence the course of evolution. Before this hypothesis can be assessed, fundamental questions about epigenetic variation remain to be addressed in a real-world context, including its magnitude, structuring within and among natural populations, and autonomy in relation to the genetic context. *Extent and patterns of cytosine methylation, and the relationship to adaptive genetic divergence between populations, were investigated for wild populations of the southern Spanish violet Viola cazorlensis (Violaceae) using the methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) technique, a modification of the amplified fragment length polymorphism method (AFLP) based on the differential sensitivity of isoschizomeric restriction enzymes to site-specific cytosine methylation. *The genome of V. cazorlensis plants exhibited extensive levels of methylation, and methylation-based epigenetic variation was structured into distinct between- and within- population components. Epigenetic differentiation of populations was correlated with adaptive genetic divergence revealed by a Bayesian population-genomic analysis of AFLP data. Significant associations existed at the individual genome level between adaptive AFLP loci and the methylation state of methylation-susceptible MSAP loci. *Population-specific, divergent patterns of correlated selection on epigenetic and genetic individual variation could account for the coordinated epigenetic-genetic adaptive population differentiation revealed by this study.

Cavity-enhanced frequency doubling from 795nm to 397.5nm ultra-violet coherent radiation with PPKTP crystals in the low pump power regime.

PubMed

Wen, Xin; Han, Yashuai; Bai, Jiandong; He, Jun; Wang, Yanhua; Yang, Baodong; Wang, Junmin

2014-12-29

We demonstrate a simple, compact and cost-efficient diode laser pumped frequency doubling system at 795 nm in the low power regime. In two configurations, a bow-tie four-mirror ring enhancement cavity with a PPKTP crystal inside and a semi-monolithic PPKTP enhancement cavity, we obtain 397.5nm ultra-violet coherent radiation of 35mW and 47mW respectively with a mode-matched fundamental power of about 110mW, corresponding to a conversion efficiency of 32% and 41%. The low loss semi-monolithic cavity leads to the better results. The constructed ultra-violet coherent radiation has good power stability and beam quality, and the system has huge potential in quantum optics and cold atom physics.

Microfluidic droplet sorting using integrated bilayer micro-valves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yuncong; Tian, Yang; Xu, Zhen; Wang, Xinran; Yu, Sicong; Dong, Liang

2016-10-01

This paper reports on a microfluidic device capable of sorting microfluidic droplets utilizing conventional bilayer pneumatic micro-valves as sorting controllers. The device consists of two micro-valves placed symmetrically on two sides of a sorting area, each on top of a branching channel at an inclined angle with respect to the main channel. Changes in transmitted light intensity, induced by varying light absorbance by each droplet, are used to divert the droplet from the sorting area into one of the three outlet channels. When no valve is activated, the droplet flows into the outlet channel in the direction of the main channel. When one of the valves is triggered, the flexible membrane of valve will first be deflected. Once the droplet leaves the detection point, the deflected membrane will immediately return to its default flattened position, thereby exerting a drawing pressure on the droplet and deviating it from its original streamline to the outlet on the same side as the valve. This sorting method will be particularly suitable for numerous large-scale integrated microfluidic systems, where pneumatic micro-valves are already used. Only few structural modifications are needed to achieve droplet sorting capabilities in these systems. Due to the mechanical nature of diverting energy applied to droplets, the proposed sorting method may induce only minimal interference to biological species or microorganisms encapsulated inside the droplets that may accompany electrical, optical and magnetic-based techniques.

4D CT sorting based on patient internal anatomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ruijiang; Lewis, John H.; Cerviño, Laura I.; Jiang, Steve B.

2009-08-01

Respiratory motion during free-breathing computed tomography (CT) scan may cause significant errors in target definition for tumors in the thorax and upper abdomen. A four-dimensional (4D) CT technique has been widely used for treatment simulation of thoracic and abdominal cancer radiotherapy. The current 4D CT techniques require retrospective sorting of the reconstructed CT slices oversampled at the same couch position. Most sorting methods depend on external surrogates of respiratory motion recorded by extra instruments. However, respiratory signals obtained from these external surrogates may not always accurately represent the internal target motion, especially when irregular breathing patterns occur. We have proposed a new sorting method based on multiple internal anatomical features for multi-slice CT scan acquired in the cine mode. Four features are analyzed in this study, including the air content, lung area, lung density and body area. We use a measure called spatial coherence to select the optimal internal feature at each couch position and to generate the respiratory signals for 4D CT sorting. The proposed method has been evaluated for ten cancer patients (eight with thoracic cancer and two with abdominal cancer). For nine patients, the respiratory signals generated from the combined internal features are well correlated to those from external surrogates recorded by the real-time position management (RPM) system (average correlation: 0.95 ± 0.02), which is better than any individual internal measures at 95% confidence level. For these nine patients, the 4D CT images sorted by the combined internal features are almost identical to those sorted by the RPM signal. For one patient with an irregular breathing pattern, the respiratory signals given by the combined internal features do not correlate well with those from RPM (correlation: 0.68 ± 0.42). In this case, the 4D CT image sorted by our method presents fewer artifacts than that from the RPM signal. Our 4D CT internal sorting method eliminates the need of externally recorded surrogates of respiratory motion. It is an automatic, accurate, robust, cost efficient and yet simple method and therefore can be readily implemented in clinical settings.

Noise-robust unsupervised spike sorting based on discriminative subspace learning with outlier handling.

PubMed

Keshtkaran, Mohammad Reza; Yang, Zhi

2017-06-01

Spike sorting is a fundamental preprocessing step for many neuroscience studies which rely on the analysis of spike trains. Most of the feature extraction and dimensionality reduction techniques that have been used for spike sorting give a projection subspace which is not necessarily the most discriminative one. Therefore, the clusters which appear inherently separable in some discriminative subspace may overlap if projected using conventional feature extraction approaches leading to a poor sorting accuracy especially when the noise level is high. In this paper, we propose a noise-robust and unsupervised spike sorting algorithm based on learning discriminative spike features for clustering. The proposed algorithm uses discriminative subspace learning to extract low dimensional and most discriminative features from the spike waveforms and perform clustering with automatic detection of the number of the clusters. The core part of the algorithm involves iterative subspace selection using linear discriminant analysis and clustering using Gaussian mixture model with outlier detection. A statistical test in the discriminative subspace is proposed to automatically detect the number of the clusters. Comparative results on publicly available simulated and real in vivo datasets demonstrate that our algorithm achieves substantially improved cluster distinction leading to higher sorting accuracy and more reliable detection of clusters which are highly overlapping and not detectable using conventional feature extraction techniques such as principal component analysis or wavelets. By providing more accurate information about the activity of more number of individual neurons with high robustness to neural noise and outliers, the proposed unsupervised spike sorting algorithm facilitates more detailed and accurate analysis of single- and multi-unit activities in neuroscience and brain machine interface studies.

Noise-robust unsupervised spike sorting based on discriminative subspace learning with outlier handling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keshtkaran, Mohammad Reza; Yang, Zhi

2017-06-01

Objective. Spike sorting is a fundamental preprocessing step for many neuroscience studies which rely on the analysis of spike trains. Most of the feature extraction and dimensionality reduction techniques that have been used for spike sorting give a projection subspace which is not necessarily the most discriminative one. Therefore, the clusters which appear inherently separable in some discriminative subspace may overlap if projected using conventional feature extraction approaches leading to a poor sorting accuracy especially when the noise level is high. In this paper, we propose a noise-robust and unsupervised spike sorting algorithm based on learning discriminative spike features for clustering. Approach. The proposed algorithm uses discriminative subspace learning to extract low dimensional and most discriminative features from the spike waveforms and perform clustering with automatic detection of the number of the clusters. The core part of the algorithm involves iterative subspace selection using linear discriminant analysis and clustering using Gaussian mixture model with outlier detection. A statistical test in the discriminative subspace is proposed to automatically detect the number of the clusters. Main results. Comparative results on publicly available simulated and real in vivo datasets demonstrate that our algorithm achieves substantially improved cluster distinction leading to higher sorting accuracy and more reliable detection of clusters which are highly overlapping and not detectable using conventional feature extraction techniques such as principal component analysis or wavelets. Significance. By providing more accurate information about the activity of more number of individual neurons with high robustness to neural noise and outliers, the proposed unsupervised spike sorting algorithm facilitates more detailed and accurate analysis of single- and multi-unit activities in neuroscience and brain machine interface studies.

Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting of Live Versus Dead Bacterial Cells and Spores

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bernardini, James N.; LaDuc, Myron T.; Diamond, Rochelle; Verceles, Josh

2012-01-01

This innovation is a coupled fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and fluorescent staining technology for purifying (removing cells from sampling matrices), separating (based on size, density, morphology, and live versus dead), and concentrating cells (spores, prokaryotic, eukaryotic) from an environmental sample.

Design and analysis on sorting blade for automated size-based sorting device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Razali, Zol Bahri; Kader, Mohamed Mydin M. Abdul; Samsudin, Yasser Suhaimi; Daud, Mohd Hisam

2017-09-01

Nowadays rubbish separating or recycling is a main problem of nation, where peoples dumped their rubbish into dumpsite without caring the value of the rubbish if it can be recycled and reused. Thus the author proposed an automated segregating device, purposely to teach people to separate their rubbish and value the rubbish that can be reused. The automated size-based mechanical segregating device provides significant improvements in terms of efficiency and consistency in this segregating process. This device is designed to make recycling easier, user friendly, in the hope that more people will take responsibility if it is less of an expense of time and effort. This paper discussed about redesign a blade for the sorting device which is to develop an efficient automated mechanical sorting device for the similar material but in different size. The machine is able to identify the size of waste and it depends to the coil inside the container to separate it out. The detail design and methodology is described in detail in this paper.

A rapid method combining Golgi and Nissl staining to study neuronal morphology and cytoarchitecture.

PubMed

Pilati, Nadia; Barker, Matthew; Panteleimonitis, Sofoklis; Donga, Revers; Hamann, Martine

2008-06-01

The Golgi silver impregnation technique gives detailed information on neuronal morphology of the few neurons it labels, whereas the majority remain unstained. In contrast, the Nissl staining technique allows for consistent labeling of the whole neuronal population but gives very limited information on neuronal morphology. Most studies characterizing neuronal cell types in the context of their distribution within the tissue slice tend to use the Golgi silver impregnation technique for neuronal morphology followed by deimpregnation as a prerequisite for showing that neuron's histological location by subsequent Nissl staining. Here, we describe a rapid method combining Golgi silver impregnation with cresyl violet staining that provides a useful and simple approach to combining cellular morphology with cytoarchitecture without the need for deimpregnating the tissue. Our method allowed us to identify neurons of the facial nucleus and the supratrigeminal nucleus, as well as assessing cellular distribution within layers of the dorsal cochlear nucleus. With this method, we also have been able to directly compare morphological characteristics of neuronal somata at the dorsal cochlear nucleus when labeled with cresyl violet with those obtained with the Golgi method, and we found that cresyl violet-labeled cell bodies appear smaller at high cellular densities. Our observation suggests that cresyl violet staining is inadequate to quantify differences in soma sizes.

Raman-Activated Droplet Sorting (RADS) for Label-Free High-Throughput Screening of Microalgal Single-Cells.

PubMed

Wang, Xixian; Ren, Lihui; Su, Yetian; Ji, Yuetong; Liu, Yaoping; Li, Chunyu; Li, Xunrong; Zhang, Yi; Wang, Wei; Hu, Qiang; Han, Danxiang; Xu, Jian; Ma, Bo

2017-11-21

Raman-activated cell sorting (RACS) has attracted increasing interest, yet throughput remains one major factor limiting its broader application. Here we present an integrated Raman-activated droplet sorting (RADS) microfluidic system for functional screening of live cells in a label-free and high-throughput manner, by employing AXT-synthetic industrial microalga Haematococcus pluvialis (H. pluvialis) as a model. Raman microspectroscopy analysis of individual cells is carried out prior to their microdroplet encapsulation, which is then directly coupled to DEP-based droplet sorting. To validate the system, H. pluvialis cells containing different levels of AXT were mixed and underwent RADS. Those AXT-hyperproducing cells were sorted with an accuracy of 98.3%, an enrichment ratio of eight folds, and a throughput of ∼260 cells/min. Of the RADS-sorted cells, 92.7% remained alive and able to proliferate, which is equivalent to the unsorted cells. Thus, the RADS achieves a much higher throughput than existing RACS systems, preserves the vitality of cells, and facilitates seamless coupling with downstream manipulations such as single-cell sequencing and cultivation.

Methods of analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory; processing, taxonomy, and quality control of benthic macroinvertebrate samples

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moulton, Stephen R.; Carter, James L.; Grotheer, Scott A.; Cuffney, Thomas F.; Short, Terry M.

2000-01-01

Qualitative and quantitative methods to process benthic macroinvertebrate (BMI) samples have been developed and tested by the U.S. Geological Survey?s National Water Quality Laboratory Biological Group. The qualitative processing method is based on visually sorting a sample for up to 2 hours. Sorting focuses on attaining organisms that are likely to result in taxonomic identifications to lower taxonomic levels (for example, Genus or Species). Immature and damaged organisms are also sorted when they are likely to result in unique determinations. The sorted sample remnant is scanned briefly by a second person to determine if obvious taxa were missed. The quantitative processing method is based on a fixed-count approach that targets some minimum count, such as 100 or 300 organisms. Organisms are sorted from randomly selected 5.1- by 5.1-centimeter parts of a gridded subsampling frame. The sorted remnant from each sample is resorted by a second individual for at least 10 percent of the original sort time. A large-rare organism search is performed on the unsorted remnant to sort BMI taxa that were not likely represented in the sorted grids. After either qualitatively or quantitatively sorting the sample, BMIs are identified by using one of three different types of taxonomic assessment. The Standard Taxonomic Assessment is comparable to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Rapid Bioassessment Protocol III and typically provides Genus- or Species-level taxonomic resolution. The Rapid Taxonomic Assessment is comparable to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Rapid Bioassessment Protocol II and provides Familylevel and higher taxonomic resolution. The Custom Taxonomic Assessment provides Species-level resolution whenever possible for groups identified to higher taxonomic levels by using the Standard Taxonomic Assessment. The consistent use of standardized designations and notes facilitates the interpretation of BMI data within and among water-quality studies. Taxonomic identifications are quality assured by verifying all referenced taxa and randomly reviewing 10 percent of the taxonomic identifications performed weekly by Biological Group taxonomists. Taxonomic errors discovered during this review are corrected. BMI data are reviewed for accuracy and completeness prior to release. BMI data are released phylogenetically in spreadsheet format and unprocessed abundances are corrected for laboratory and field subsampling when necessary.

A wearable pressure sensor based on ultra-violet/ozone microstructured carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane arrays for electronic skins.

PubMed

Yu, Guohui; Hu, Jingdong; Tan, Jianping; Gao, Yang; Lu, Yongfeng; Xuan, Fuzhen

2018-03-16

Pressure sensors with high performance (e.g., a broad pressure sensing range, high sensitivities, rapid response/relaxation speeds, temperature-stable sensing), as well as a cost-effective and highly efficient fabrication method are highly desired for electronic skins. In this research, a high-performance pressure sensor based on microstructured carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane arrays was fabricated using an ultra-violet/ozone (UV/O 3 ) microengineering technique. The UV/O 3 microengineering technique is controllable, cost-effective, and highly efficient since it is conducted at room temperature in an ambient environment. The pressure sensor offers a broad pressure sensing range (7 Pa-50 kPa), a sensitivity of ∼ -0.101 ± 0.005 kPa -1 (<1 kPa), a fast response/relaxation speed of ∼10 ms, a small dependence on temperature variation, and a good cycling stability (>5000 cycles), which is attributed to the UV/O 3 engineered microstructures that amplify and transfer external applied forces and rapidly store/release the energy during the PDMS deformation. The sensors developed show the capability to detect external forces and monitor human health conditions, promising for the potential applications in electronic skin.

A wearable pressure sensor based on ultra-violet/ozone microstructured carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane arrays for electronic skins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Guohui; Hu, Jingdong; Tan, Jianping; Gao, Yang; Lu, Yongfeng; Xuan, Fuzhen

2018-03-01

Pressure sensors with high performance (e.g., a broad pressure sensing range, high sensitivities, rapid response/relaxation speeds, temperature-stable sensing), as well as a cost-effective and highly efficient fabrication method are highly desired for electronic skins. In this research, a high-performance pressure sensor based on microstructured carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane arrays was fabricated using an ultra-violet/ozone (UV/O3) microengineering technique. The UV/O3 microengineering technique is controllable, cost-effective, and highly efficient since it is conducted at room temperature in an ambient environment. The pressure sensor offers a broad pressure sensing range (7 Pa-50 kPa), a sensitivity of ˜ -0.101 ± 0.005 kPa-1 (<1 kPa), a fast response/relaxation speed of ˜10 ms, a small dependence on temperature variation, and a good cycling stability (>5000 cycles), which is attributed to the UV/O3 engineered microstructures that amplify and transfer external applied forces and rapidly store/release the energy during the PDMS deformation. The sensors developed show the capability to detect external forces and monitor human health conditions, promising for the potential applications in electronic skin.

Development of electrochemiluminescent inhibition method for determination of gentian violet in aquatic water.

PubMed

Wang, Sui; Hao, Tingting; Yu, Xinwei; Gai, Panpan; Guo, Zhiyong

2012-04-01

Gentian violet (GV) was found to quench the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of the tris(2,2'-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II)/tris-n-propylamine (Ru(bpy)3(2+)-TPA) system at a glass carbon electrode (GCE). Based on the ECL signal changes, a simple and ultrasensitive detection method for GV in aquatic water was established. Under the optimized conditions, the quenched ECL intensity versus the logarithm of the concentration of GV was linear over a concentration range from 1.0×10(-10) to 5.0×10(-7) mol L(-1), and the limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 4.5×10(-12) mol L(-1) (S/N=3). The results obtained by the ECL system were better than other reported methods in literatures in terms of sensitivity or linear response range. The method was successfully applied to determine GV in aquatic water, and the relative standard deviations (RSDs) were found less than 6.3%, and the recoveries were obtained from 98.7 to 111.0%. Moreover, a possible mechanism of the quenching effect was primarily discussed based on UV-visible absorption spectra, cyclic voltammograms and IECL-E curves. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The duration of time that beef cattle are fed a high-grain diet affects feed sorting behavior both before and after acute ruminal acidosis1,2.

PubMed

DeVries, T J; Schwaiger, T; Beauchemin, K A; Penner, G B

2014-04-01

The objective of this study was to determine how duration of time that cattle are fed a high-grain diet affects feed sorting, both before and after an episode of acute ruminal acidosis. Sixteen Angus heifers (261 ± 6.1 kg; BW ± SEM) were assigned to 1 of 4 blocks and fed a backgrounding (BG) diet (60% forage, DM basis). Within block, heifers were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments differing in days fed a high-grain (HG; 9% forage, DM basis, fed ad libitum) diet before a ruminal acidosis challenge: 34 d for long adapted (LA) and 8 d for short adapted (SA). Ruminal acidosis was induced by restricting feed to 50% of DMI as a proportion of BW (determined individually for each heifer) for 24 h followed by an intraruminal infusion of ground barley at 10% of DMI as a proportion of BW measured before feed restriction. Feed and orts were sampled during the BG period, the first 26 d on the HG diet (only for LA cattle), the 8-d baseline (BASE) period, on the day of the ruminal acidosis challenge (CH), and during 2 consecutive 8-d recovery periods (REC1 and REC2) for each heifer and subjected to particle size analysis: 19-mm (long), 8-mm (medium), and 1.18-mm (short) screens and a pan (fine). On the BG diet, sorting for medium particles tended to be greater (104.2 vs. 102.1%; P = 0.07) for LA heifers than SA heifers, while sorting against short particles was greater (98.2 vs. 100.0%; P = 0.05) for LA heifers. During the first 26 d on the HG diet, LA cattle sorted for (P < 0.001) long (118.8%), medium (117.8%), and short (104.1%) particles and sorted against (P < 0.001) fine particles (45.3%). This sorting pattern was consistent for LA heifers during BASE period, CH day, and recovery periods, across which SA heifers exhibited less sorting (P ≤ 0.1). Greater duration of pH < 5.5 during the BASE period was associated with greater sorting for long particles (R(2) = 0.75, P = 0.01) in LA heifers and for long (R(2) = 0.49, P = 0.05) and medium (R(2) = 0.88, P < 0.001) particles in SA heifers. Long-adapted heifers linearly increased the extent of sorting for long (P = 0.007) and medium (P < 0.001) particles and against fine particles (P = 0.05) during the days following the challenge to a greater extent than SA heifers. Overall, the results demonstrate that longer-term exposure of beef heifers to a HG diet, which caused persistent low rumen pH, influenced feed sorting of heifers, both before and after an induced bout of acute ruminal acidosis, in a manner that would help attenuate the effects of acidosis.

Sensitive electrochemical detection of NADH and ethanol at low potential based on pyrocatechol violet electrodeposited on single walled carbon nanotubes-modified pencil graphite electrode.

PubMed

Zhu, Jun; Wu, Xiao-Yan; Shan, Dan; Yuan, Pei-Xin; Zhang, Xue-Ji

2014-12-01

In this work, the electrodeposition of pyrocatechol violet (PCV) was initially investigated by the electrochemical surface plasmon resonance (ESPR) technique. Subsequently, PCV was used as redox-mediator and was electrodeposited on the surface of pencil graphite electrode (PGE) modified with single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Owing to the remarkable synergistic effect of SWCNTs and PCV, PGE/SWCNTs/PCV exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity towards dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) oxidation at low potential (0.2V vs. SCE) with fast amperometric response (<10s), broad linear range (1.3-280 μM), good sensitivity (146.2 μA mM(-1)cm(-2)) and low detection limit (1.3 μM) at signal-to-noise ratio of 3. Thus, this PGE/SWCNTs/PCV could be further used to fabricate a sensitive and economic ethanol biosensor using alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) via a glutaraldehyde/BSA cross-linking procedure. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dental calculus detection using the VistaCam.

PubMed

Shakibaie, Fardad; Walsh, Laurence J

2016-12-01

The VistaCam® intra-oral camera system (Dürr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany) is a fluorescence system using light emitting diodes that produce a 405-nm violet light. This wavelength has potential application for detection of dental calculus based on red emissions from porphyrin molecules. This study assessed the digital scores obtained for both supragingival and subgingival calculus on 60 extracted teeth and compared these with lesions of dental caries. It has also examined the effect of saliva and blood on the fluorescence readings for dental calculus. VistaCam fluorescence scores for both supragingival (1.7-3.3) and subgingival calculus (1.3-2.4) were higher than those for sound root surfaces (0.9-1.1) and dental caries (0.9-2.2) ( p  < .05). The readings for calculus samples were not affected by the presence of saliva or blood. These results suggest that the use of violet light fluorescence could be a possible adjunct to clinical examination for deposits of dental calculus.

Method for high-precision multi-layered thin film deposition for deep and extreme ultraviolet mirrors

DOEpatents

Ruffner, Judith Alison

1999-01-01

A method for coating (flat or non-flat) optical substrates with high-reflectivity multi-layer coatings for use at Deep Ultra-Violet ("DUV") and Extreme Ultra-Violet ("EUV") wavelengths. The method results in a product with minimum feature sizes of less than 0.10-.mu.m for the shortest wavelength (13.4-nm). The present invention employs a computer-based modeling and deposition method to enable lateral and vertical thickness control by scanning the position of the substrate with respect to the sputter target during deposition. The thickness profile of the sputter targets is modeled before deposition and then an appropriate scanning algorithm is implemented to produce any desired, radially-symmetric thickness profile. The present invention offers the ability to predict and achieve a wide range of thickness profiles on flat or figured substrates, i.e., account for 1/R.sup.2 factor in a model, and the ability to predict and accommodate changes in deposition rate as a result of plasma geometry, i.e., over figured substrates.

A degradation-based sorting method for lithium-ion battery reuse

PubMed Central

Chen, Hao

2017-01-01

In a world where millions of people are dependent on batteries to provide them with convenient and portable energy, battery recycling is of the utmost importance. In this paper, we developed a new method to sort 18650 Lithium-ion batteries in large quantities and in real time for harvesting used cells with enough capacity for battery reuse. Internal resistance and capacity tests were conducted as a basis for comparison with a novel degradation-based method based on X-ray radiographic scanning and digital image contrast computation. The test results indicate that the sorting accuracy of the test cells is about 79% and the execution time of our algorithm is at a level of 200 milliseconds, making our method a potential real-time solution for reusing the remaining capacity in good used cells. PMID:29023485

Impact of respiratory-correlated CT sorting algorithms on the choice of margin definition for free-breathing lung radiotherapy treatments.

PubMed

Thengumpallil, Sheeba; Germond, Jean-François; Bourhis, Jean; Bochud, François; Moeckli, Raphaël

2016-06-01

To investigate the impact of Toshiba phase- and amplitude-sorting algorithms on the margin strategies for free-breathing lung radiotherapy treatments in the presence of breathing variations. 4D CT of a sphere inside a dynamic thorax phantom was acquired. The 4D CT was reconstructed according to the phase- and amplitude-sorting algorithms. The phantom was moved by reproducing amplitude, frequency, and a mix of amplitude and frequency variations. Artefact analysis was performed for Mid-Ventilation and ITV-based strategies on the images reconstructed by phase- and amplitude-sorting algorithms. The target volume deviation was assessed by comparing the target volume acquired during irregular motion to the volume acquired during regular motion. The amplitude-sorting algorithm shows reduced artefacts for only amplitude variations while the phase-sorting algorithm for only frequency variations. For amplitude and frequency variations, both algorithms perform similarly. Most of the artefacts are blurring and incomplete structures. We found larger artefacts and volume differences for the Mid-Ventilation with respect to the ITV strategy, resulting in a higher relative difference of the surface distortion value which ranges between maximum 14.6% and minimum 4.1%. The amplitude- is superior to the phase-sorting algorithm in the reduction of motion artefacts for amplitude variations while phase-sorting for frequency variations. A proper choice of 4D CT sorting algorithm is important in order to reduce motion artefacts, especially if Mid-Ventilation strategy is used. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differential evolution enhanced with multiobjective sorting-based mutation operators.

PubMed

Wang, Jiahai; Liao, Jianjun; Zhou, Ying; Cai, Yiqiao

2014-12-01

Differential evolution (DE) is a simple and powerful population-based evolutionary algorithm. The salient feature of DE lies in its mutation mechanism. Generally, the parents in the mutation operator of DE are randomly selected from the population. Hence, all vectors are equally likely to be selected as parents without selective pressure at all. Additionally, the diversity information is always ignored. In order to fully exploit the fitness and diversity information of the population, this paper presents a DE framework with multiobjective sorting-based mutation operator. In the proposed mutation operator, individuals in the current population are firstly sorted according to their fitness and diversity contribution by nondominated sorting. Then parents in the mutation operators are proportionally selected according to their rankings based on fitness and diversity, thus, the promising individuals with better fitness and diversity have more opportunity to be selected as parents. Since fitness and diversity information is simultaneously considered for parent selection, a good balance between exploration and exploitation can be achieved. The proposed operator is applied to original DE algorithms, as well as several advanced DE variants. Experimental results on 48 benchmark functions and 12 real-world application problems show that the proposed operator is an effective approach to enhance the performance of most DE algorithms studied.

Spiking Neural Networks Based on OxRAM Synapses for Real-Time Unsupervised Spike Sorting.

PubMed

Werner, Thilo; Vianello, Elisa; Bichler, Olivier; Garbin, Daniele; Cattaert, Daniel; Yvert, Blaise; De Salvo, Barbara; Perniola, Luca

2016-01-01

In this paper, we present an alternative approach to perform spike sorting of complex brain signals based on spiking neural networks (SNN). The proposed architecture is suitable for hardware implementation by using resistive random access memory (RRAM) technology for the implementation of synapses whose low latency (<1μs) enables real-time spike sorting. This offers promising advantages to conventional spike sorting techniques for brain-computer interfaces (BCI) and neural prosthesis applications. Moreover, the ultra-low power consumption of the RRAM synapses of the spiking neural network (nW range) may enable the design of autonomous implantable devices for rehabilitation purposes. We demonstrate an original methodology to use Oxide based RRAM (OxRAM) as easy to program and low energy (<75 pJ) synapses. Synaptic weights are modulated through the application of an online learning strategy inspired by biological Spike Timing Dependent Plasticity. Real spiking data have been recorded both intra- and extracellularly from an in-vitro preparation of the Crayfish sensory-motor system and used for validation of the proposed OxRAM based SNN. This artificial SNN is able to identify, learn, recognize and distinguish between different spike shapes in the input signal with a recognition rate about 90% without any supervision.

High-speed sorting of grains by color and surface texture

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A high-speed, low-cost, image-based sorting device was developed to detect and separate grains with different colors/textures. The device directly combines a complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) color image sensor with a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) that was programmed to execute ...

Sort entropy-based for the analysis of EEG during anesthesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Liang; Huang, Wei-Zhi

2010-08-01

The monitoring of anesthetic depth is an absolutely necessary procedure in the process of surgical operation. To judge and control the depth of anesthesia has become a clinical issue which should be resolved urgently. EEG collected wiil be processed by sort entrop in this paper. Signal response of the surface of the cerebral cortex is determined for different stages of patients in the course of anesthesia. EEG is simulated and analyzed through the fast algorithm of sort entropy. The results show that discipline of phasic changes for EEG is very detected accurately,and it has better noise immunity in detecting the EEG anaesthetized than approximate entropy. In conclusion,the computing of Sort entropy algorithm requires shorter time. It has high efficiency and strong anti-interference.

Protein Sorting Prediction.

PubMed

Nielsen, Henrik

2017-01-01

Many computational methods are available for predicting protein sorting in bacteria. When comparing them, it is important to know that they can be grouped into three fundamentally different approaches: signal-based, global-property-based and homology-based prediction. In this chapter, the strengths and drawbacks of each of these approaches is described through many examples of methods that predict secretion, integration into membranes, or subcellular locations in general. The aim of this chapter is to provide a user-level introduction to the field with a minimum of computational theory.

Co-assembly of Viral Envelope Glycoproteins Regulates Their Polarized Sorting in Neurons

PubMed Central

Mardones, Gonzalo A.; Bonifacino, Juan S.

2014-01-01

Newly synthesized envelope glycoproteins of neuroinvasive viruses can be sorted in a polarized manner to the somatodendritic and/or axonal domains of neurons. Although critical for transneuronal spread of viruses, the molecular determinants and interregulation of this process are largely unknown. We studied the polarized sorting of the attachment (NiV-G) and fusion (NiV-F) glycoproteins of Nipah virus (NiV), a paramyxovirus that causes fatal human encephalitis, in rat hippocampal neurons. When expressed individually, NiV-G exhibited a non-polarized distribution, whereas NiV-F was specifically sorted to the somatodendritic domain. Polarized sorting of NiV-F was dependent on interaction of tyrosine-based signals in its cytosolic tail with the clathrin adaptor complex AP-1. Co-expression of NiV-G with NiV-F abolished somatodendritic sorting of NiV-F due to incorporation of NiV-G•NiV-F complexes into axonal transport carriers. We propose that faster biosynthetic transport of unassembled NiV-F allows for its proteolytic activation in the somatodendritic domain prior to association with NiV-G and axonal delivery of NiV-G•NiV-F complexes. Our study reveals how interactions of viral glycoproteins with the host's transport machinery and between themselves regulate their polarized sorting in neurons. PMID:24831812

Aircraft noise, health, and residential sorting: evidence from two quasi-experiments.

PubMed

Boes, Stefan; Nüesch, Stephan; Stillman, Steven

2013-09-01

We explore two unexpected changes in flight regulations to estimate the causal effect of aircraft noise on health. Detailed measures of noise are linked with longitudinal data on individual health outcomes based on the exact address information. Controlling for individual heterogeneity and spatial sorting into different neighborhoods, we find that aircraft noise significantly increases sleeping problems and headaches. Models that do not control for such heterogeneity and sorting substantially underestimate the negative health effects, which suggests that individuals self-select into residence based on their unobserved sensitivity to noise. Our study demonstrates that the combination of quasi-experimental variation and panel data is very powerful for identifying causal effects in epidemiological field studies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Detection and isolation of rare cells by 2-step enrichment high-speed flow cytometry/cell sorting and single cell LEAP laser ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zordan, M. D.; Leary, James F.

2011-02-01

The clonal isolation of rare cells, especially cancer and stem cells, in a population is important to the development of improved medical treatment. We have demonstrated that the Laser-Enabled Analysis and Processing (LEAP, Cyntellect Inc., San Diego, CA) instrument can be used to efficiently produce single cell clones by photoablative dilution. Additionally, we have also shown that cells present at low frequencies can be cloned by photoablative dilution after they are pre-enriched by flow cytometry based cell sorting. Circulating tumor cells were modeled by spiking isolated peripheral blood cells with cells from the lung carcinoma cell line A549. Flow cytometry based cell sorting was used to perform an enrichment sort of A549 cells directly into a 384 well plate. Photoablative dilution was performed with the LEAPTM instrument to remove any contaminating cells, and clonally isolate 1 side population cell per well. We were able to isolate and grow single clones of side population cells using this method at greater than 90% efficiency. We have developed a 2 step method that is able to perform the clonal isolation of rare cells based on a medically relevant functional phenotype.

A technique for generating phase-space-based Monte Carlo beamlets in radiotherapy applications.

PubMed

Bush, K; Popescu, I A; Zavgorodni, S

2008-09-21

As radiotherapy treatment planning moves toward Monte Carlo (MC) based dose calculation methods, the MC beamlet is becoming an increasingly common optimization entity. At present, methods used to produce MC beamlets have utilized a particle source model (PSM) approach. In this work we outline the implementation of a phase-space-based approach to MC beamlet generation that is expected to provide greater accuracy in beamlet dose distributions. In this approach a standard BEAMnrc phase space is sorted and divided into beamlets with particles labeled using the inheritable particle history variable. This is achieved with the use of an efficient sorting algorithm, capable of sorting a phase space of any size into the required number of beamlets in only two passes. Sorting a phase space of five million particles can be achieved in less than 8 s on a single-core 2.2 GHz CPU. The beamlets can then be transported separately into a patient CT dataset, producing separate dose distributions (doselets). Methods for doselet normalization and conversion of dose to absolute units of Gy for use in intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plan optimization are also described.

Preparation and catalytic performance of copper-containing magnetic catalysts for degradation of azo dye (direct violet).

PubMed

Duan, Qiannan; Lee, Jianchao; Chen, Han; Zheng, Yunyun

2017-12-01

A novel magnetically separable magnetic activated carbon supporting-copper (MCAC) catalyst for catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO) was prepared by chemical impregnation. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The catalytic performance of the catalysts was evaluated by direct violet (D-BL) degradation in CWPO experiments. The influence of preparative and operational parameters (dipping conditions, calcination temperature, catalyst loading H 2 O 2 dosage, pH, reaction temperature, additive salt ions and initial D-BL concentration) on degradation performance of CWPO process was investigated. The resulting MCAC catalyst showed higher reusability in direct violet oxidation than the magnetic activated carbon (MAC). Besides, dynamic tests also showed the maximal degradation rate reached 90.16% and its general decoloring ability of MCAC was 34 mg g -1 for aqueous D-BL.

Fatal Chromobacterium violaceum septicaemia in northern Laos, a modified oxidase test and post-mortem forensic family G6PD analysis.

PubMed

Slesak, Günther; Douangdala, Phouvieng; Inthalad, Saythong; Silisouk, Joy; Vongsouvath, Manivanh; Sengduangphachanh, Amphonesavanh; Moore, Catrin E; Mayxay, Mayfong; Matsuoka, Hiroyuki; Newton, Paul N

2009-07-29

Chromobacterium violaceum is a Gram negative facultative anaerobic bacillus, found in soil and stagnant water, that usually has a violet pigmented appearance on agar culture. It is rarely described as a human pathogen, mostly from tropical and subtropical areas. A 53 year-old farmer died with Chromobacterium violaceum septicemia in Laos. A modified oxidase method was used to demonstrate that this violacious organism was oxidase positive. Forensic analysis of the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase genotypes of his family suggest that the deceased patient did not have this possible predisposing condition. C. violaceum infection should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with community-acquired septicaemia in tropical and subtropical areas. The apparently neglected but simple modified oxidase test may be useful in the oxidase assessment of other violet-pigmented organisms or of those growing on violet coloured agar.

Luminescent sensing of Cu2+, CrO42- and photocatalytic degradation of methyl violet by Zn(II) metal-organic framework (MOF) having 5,5‧-(1H-2,3,5-triazole-1,4-diyl)diisophthalic acid ligand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Weiping; Li, Baohong; Gu, Chuying; Wang, Jun; Singh, Amita; Kumar, Abhinav

2017-11-01

A porous Zn(II) metal-organic framework (MOF) [Zn(H2L)(4,4‧-bipy)0.5]n (1) has been selected and its luminescence sensing for cations and anions as well as the photocatalytic property against methyl violet have been explored. Luminescence studies indicated that 1 could be an efficient multifunctional fluorescent material for highly sensitive detection of metal cation Cu2+ and anions CrO42-. The luminescence intensity of 1 was found to decrease proportionately with increase in the concentration of Cu2+ and CrO42-. Furthermore, the photocatalytic property of 1 for degradation of the methyl violet (MV) have been explored and a possible photocatalytic mechanism have been proposed using density of states (DOS) and partial DOS (pDOS) calculations.

Assembly of potassium niobate nanosheets/silver oxide composite films with good SERS performance towards crystal violet detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Kun; Hong, Zhen; Kang, Shi-Zhao; Qin, Lixia; Li, Guodong; Li, Xiangqing

2018-04-01

The orderly potassium niobate nanosheets/silver oxide (Ag2O) composite films with uniform morphology were achieved by layer-by-layer self-assembly combined with ultraviolet light irradiation. The composition, structure and morphology of the potassium niobate nanosheets/Ag2O composite films were studied by XPS, XRD and SEM. Furthermore, the films were used as a SERS probe to detect crystal violet molecules. The results showed that the potassium niobate nanosheets/Ag2O composite films were an active substrate for fast and sensitive detection of crystal violet with low concentration. The limit of detection by the films can reach 1 × 10-6 mol L-1. Both electromagnetic enhancement and chemical enhancement contributed to the enhanced SERS in the (potassium niobate nanosheets/Ag2O)4 films. Moreover, it was found that the films were relatively stable under light irradiation or heat treatment in a certain range.

The Serious Games of Racial Accounting in Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martinez, Martha Irene

2011-01-01

Educational disparities are frequently framed in racial comparisons that are based on data generated by sorting and counting racial subgroups. Our reliance on these data, and the sorting and counting mechanisms entailed therein, is fundamental to debates about racial inequalities. What is largely ignored in achievement gap discourse is how racial…

A Theory-Based Treatment Model for Psychopathy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallace, John F.; Newman, Joseph P.

2004-01-01

The most salient characteristic of the psychopath is the propensity to engage in maladaptive and inappropriate behavior of all sorts, including antisocial and criminal actions. Consequently, there is considerable interest--particularly in the field of criminology--in determining what sorts of treatment interventions are likely to be effective in…

Sorting of fungal-damaged white sorghum

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A high-speed, color image-based sorting machine was modified to separate white sorghum with symptoms of fungal damage. Most of the sorghum tested was typically white, but over 27% of the bulk contained grains with fungal damage of various degrees, from severe to very slight. Grains with slight fun...

A combined emitter threat assessment method based on ICW-RCM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ying; Wang, Hongwei; Guo, Xiaotao; Wang, Yubing

2017-08-01

Considering that the tradition al emitter threat assessment methods are difficult to intuitively reflect the degree of target threaten and the deficiency of real-time and complexity, on the basis of radar chart method(RCM), an algorithm of emitter combined threat assessment based on ICW-RCM (improved combination weighting method, ICW) is proposed. The coarse sorting is integrated with fine sorting in emitter combined threat assessment, sequencing the emitter threat level roughly accordance to radar operation mode, and reducing task priority of the low-threat emitter; On the basis of ICW-RCM, sequencing the same radar operation mode emitter roughly, finally, obtain the results of emitter threat assessment through coarse and fine sorting. Simulation analyses show the correctness and effectiveness of this algorithm. Comparing with classical method of emitter threat assessment based on CW-RCM, the algorithm is visual in image and can work quickly with lower complexity.

Optimized distributed systems achieve significant performance improvement on sorted merging of massive VCF files.

PubMed

Sun, Xiaobo; Gao, Jingjing; Jin, Peng; Eng, Celeste; Burchard, Esteban G; Beaty, Terri H; Ruczinski, Ingo; Mathias, Rasika A; Barnes, Kathleen; Wang, Fusheng; Qin, Zhaohui S

2018-06-01

Sorted merging of genomic data is a common data operation necessary in many sequencing-based studies. It involves sorting and merging genomic data from different subjects by their genomic locations. In particular, merging a large number of variant call format (VCF) files is frequently required in large-scale whole-genome sequencing or whole-exome sequencing projects. Traditional single-machine based methods become increasingly inefficient when processing large numbers of files due to the excessive computation time and Input/Output bottleneck. Distributed systems and more recent cloud-based systems offer an attractive solution. However, carefully designed and optimized workflow patterns and execution plans (schemas) are required to take full advantage of the increased computing power while overcoming bottlenecks to achieve high performance. In this study, we custom-design optimized schemas for three Apache big data platforms, Hadoop (MapReduce), HBase, and Spark, to perform sorted merging of a large number of VCF files. These schemas all adopt the divide-and-conquer strategy to split the merging job into sequential phases/stages consisting of subtasks that are conquered in an ordered, parallel, and bottleneck-free way. In two illustrating examples, we test the performance of our schemas on merging multiple VCF files into either a single TPED or a single VCF file, which are benchmarked with the traditional single/parallel multiway-merge methods, message passing interface (MPI)-based high-performance computing (HPC) implementation, and the popular VCFTools. Our experiments suggest all three schemas either deliver a significant improvement in efficiency or render much better strong and weak scalabilities over traditional methods. Our findings provide generalized scalable schemas for performing sorted merging on genetics and genomics data using these Apache distributed systems.

Optimized distributed systems achieve significant performance improvement on sorted merging of massive VCF files

PubMed Central

Gao, Jingjing; Jin, Peng; Eng, Celeste; Burchard, Esteban G; Beaty, Terri H; Ruczinski, Ingo; Mathias, Rasika A; Barnes, Kathleen; Wang, Fusheng

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Sorted merging of genomic data is a common data operation necessary in many sequencing-based studies. It involves sorting and merging genomic data from different subjects by their genomic locations. In particular, merging a large number of variant call format (VCF) files is frequently required in large-scale whole-genome sequencing or whole-exome sequencing projects. Traditional single-machine based methods become increasingly inefficient when processing large numbers of files due to the excessive computation time and Input/Output bottleneck. Distributed systems and more recent cloud-based systems offer an attractive solution. However, carefully designed and optimized workflow patterns and execution plans (schemas) are required to take full advantage of the increased computing power while overcoming bottlenecks to achieve high performance. Findings In this study, we custom-design optimized schemas for three Apache big data platforms, Hadoop (MapReduce), HBase, and Spark, to perform sorted merging of a large number of VCF files. These schemas all adopt the divide-and-conquer strategy to split the merging job into sequential phases/stages consisting of subtasks that are conquered in an ordered, parallel, and bottleneck-free way. In two illustrating examples, we test the performance of our schemas on merging multiple VCF files into either a single TPED or a single VCF file, which are benchmarked with the traditional single/parallel multiway-merge methods, message passing interface (MPI)–based high-performance computing (HPC) implementation, and the popular VCFTools. Conclusions Our experiments suggest all three schemas either deliver a significant improvement in efficiency or render much better strong and weak scalabilities over traditional methods. Our findings provide generalized scalable schemas for performing sorted merging on genetics and genomics data using these Apache distributed systems. PMID:29762754

Raman tweezers in microfluidic systems for analysis and sorting of living cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pilát, Zdeněk.; Ježek, Jan; Kaňka, Jan; Zemánek, Pavel

2014-12-01

We have devised an analytical and sorting system combining optical trapping with Raman spectroscopy in microfluidic environment, dedicated to identification and sorting of biological objects, such as living cells of various unicellular organisms. Our main goal was to create a robust and universal platform for non-destructive and non-contact sorting of micro-objects based on their Raman spectral properties. This approach allowed us to collect spectra containing information about the chemical composition of the objects, such as the presence and composition of pigments, lipids, proteins, or nucleic acids, avoiding artificial chemical probes such as fluorescent markers. The non-destructive nature of this optical analysis and manipulation allowed us to separate individual living cells of our interest in a sterile environment and provided the possibility to cultivate the selected cells for further experiments. We used a mixture of polystyrene micro-particles and algal cells to test and demonstrate the function of our analytical and sorting system. The devised system could find its use in many medical, biotechnological, and biological applications.

Raman tweezers in microfluidic systems for analysis and sorting of living cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pilát, Zdenëk; Ježek, Jan; Kaňka, Jan; Zemánek, Pavel

2014-03-01

We have devised an analytical and sorting system combining optical trapping with Raman spectroscopy in microfluidic environment in order to identify and sort biological objects, such as living cells of various prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. Our main objective was to create a robust and universal platform for non-contact sorting of microobjects based on their Raman spectral properties. This approach allowed us to collect information about the chemical composition of the objects, such as the presence and composition of lipids, proteins, or nucleic acids without using artificial chemical probes such as fluorescent markers. The non-destructive and non-contact nature of this optical analysis and manipulation allowed us to separate individual living cells of our interest in a sterile environment and provided the possibility to cultivate the selected cells for further experiments. We used differently treated cells of algae to test and demonstrate the function of our analytical and sorting system. The devised system could find its use in many medical, biotechnological, and biological applications.

Flow cytometric sex sorting affects CD4 membrane distribution and binding of exogenous DNA on bovine sperm cells.

PubMed

Domingues, William Borges; da Silveira, Tony Leandro Rezende; Komninou, Eliza Rossi; Monte, Leonardo Garcia; Remião, Mariana Härter; Dellagostin, Odir Antônio; Corcini, Carine Dahl; Varela Junior, Antônio Sergio; Seixas, Fabiana Kömmling; Collares, Tiago; Campos, Vinicius Farias

2017-08-01

Bovine sex-sorted sperm have been commercialized and successfully used for the production of transgenic embryos of the desired sex through the sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) technique. However, sex-sorted sperm show a reduced ability to internalize exogenous DNA. The interaction between sperm cells and the exogenous DNA has been reported in other species to be a CD4-like molecule-dependent process. The flow cytometry-based sex-sorting process subjects the spermatozoa to different stresses causing changes in the cell membrane. The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship between the redistribution of CD4-like molecules and binding of exogenous DNA to sex-sorted bovine sperm. In the first set of experiments, the membrane phospholipid disorder and the redistribution of the CD4 were evaluated. The second set of experiments was conducted to investigate the effect of CD4 redistribution on the mechanism of binding of exogenous DNA to sperm cells and the efficiency of lipofection in sex-sorted bovine sperm. Sex-sorting procedure increased the membrane phospholipid disorder and induced the redistribution of CD4-like molecules. Both X-sorted and Y-sorted sperm had decreased DNA bound to membrane in comparison with the unsorted sperm; however, the binding of the exogenous DNA was significantly increased with the addition of liposomes. Moreover, we demonstrated that the number of sperm-bound exogenous DNA was decreased when these cells were preincubated with anti-bovine CD4 monoclonal antibody, supporting our hypothesis that CD4-like molecules indeed play a crucial role in the process of exogenous DNA/bovine sperm cells interaction.

Physical Mechanisms Driving Cell Sorting in Hydra.

PubMed

Cochet-Escartin, Olivier; Locke, Tiffany T; Shi, Winnie H; Steele, Robert E; Collins, Eva-Maria S

2017-12-19

Cell sorting, whereby a heterogeneous cell mixture organizes into distinct tissues, is a fundamental patterning process in development. Hydra is a powerful model system for carrying out studies of cell sorting in three dimensions, because of its unique ability to regenerate after complete dissociation into individual cells. The physicists Alfred Gierer and Hans Meinhardt recognized Hydra's self-organizing properties more than 40 years ago. However, what drives cell sorting during regeneration of Hydra from cell aggregates is still debated. Differential motility and differential adhesion have been proposed as driving mechanisms, but the available experimental data are insufficient to distinguish between these two. Here, we answer this longstanding question by using transgenic Hydra expressing fluorescent proteins and a multiscale experimental and numerical approach. By quantifying the kinematics of single cell and whole aggregate behaviors, we show that no differences in cell motility exist among cell types and that sorting dynamics follow a power law with an exponent of ∼0.5. Additionally, we measure the physical properties of separated tissues and quantify their viscosities and surface tensions. Based on our experimental results and numerical simulations, we conclude that tissue interfacial tensions are sufficient to explain cell sorting in aggregates of Hydra cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the aggregate's geometry during sorting is key to understanding the sorting dynamics and explains the exponent of the power law behavior. Our results answer the long standing question of the physical mechanisms driving cell sorting in Hydra cell aggregates. In addition, they demonstrate how powerful this organism is for biophysical studies of self-organization and pattern formation. Copyright © 2017 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

How to develop a Standard Operating Procedure for sorting unfixed cells

PubMed Central

Schmid, Ingrid

2012-01-01

Written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are an important tool to assure that recurring tasks in a laboratory are performed in a consistent manner. When the procedure covered in the SOP involves a high-risk activity such as sorting unfixed cells using a jet-in-air sorter, safety elements are critical components of the document. The details on sort sample handling, sorter set-up, validation, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance, personal protective equipment (PPE), and operator training, outlined in the SOP are to be based on careful risk assessment of the procedure. This review provides background information on the hazards associated with sorting of unfixed cells and the process used to arrive at the appropriate combination of facility design, instrument placement, safety equipment, and practices to be followed. PMID:22381383

Comparative environmental evaluation of construction waste management through different waste sorting systems in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Hossain, Md Uzzal; Wu, Zezhou; Poon, Chi Sun

2017-11-01

This study aimed to compare the environmental performance of building construction waste management (CWM) systems in Hong Kong. Life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was applied to evaluate the performance of CWM systems holistically based on primary data collected from two real building construction sites and secondary data obtained from the literature. Different waste recovery rates were applied based on compositions and material flow to assess the influence on the environmental performance of CWM systems. The system boundary includes all stages of the life cycle of building construction waste (including transportation, sorting, public fill or landfill disposal, recovery and reuse, and transformation and valorization into secondary products). A substitutional LCA approach was applied for capturing the environmental gains due to the utilizations of recovered materials. The results showed that the CWM system by using off-site sorting and direct landfilling resulted in significant environmental impacts. However, a considerable net environmental benefit was observed through an on-site sorting system. For example, about 18-30kg CO 2 eq. greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission were induced for managing 1 t of construction waste through off-site sorting and direct landfilling, whereas significant GHGs emission could be potentially avoided (considered as a credit -126 to -182kg CO 2 eq.) for an on-site sorting system due to the higher recycling potential. Although the environmental benefits mainly depend on the waste compositions and their sortability, the analysis conducted in this study can serve as guidelines to design an effective and resource-efficient building CWM system. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry peak sorting algorithm.

PubMed

Oh, Cheolhwan; Huang, Xiaodong; Regnier, Fred E; Buck, Charles; Zhang, Xiang

2008-02-01

We report a novel peak sorting method for the two-dimensional gas chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC x GC/TOF-MS) system. The objective of peak sorting is to recognize peaks from the same metabolite occurring in different samples from thousands of peaks detected in the analytical procedure. The developed algorithm is based on the fact that the chromatographic peaks for a given analyte have similar retention times in all of the chromatograms. Raw instrument data are first processed by ChromaTOF (Leco) software to provide the peak tables. Our algorithm achieves peak sorting by utilizing the first- and second-dimension retention times in the peak tables and the mass spectra generated during the process of electron impact ionization. The algorithm searches the peak tables for the peaks generated by the same type of metabolite using several search criteria. Our software also includes options to eliminate non-target peaks from the sorting results, e.g., peaks of contaminants. The developed software package has been tested using a mixture of standard metabolites and another mixture of standard metabolites spiked into human serum. Manual validation demonstrates high accuracy of peak sorting with this algorithm.

Isolation and Characterization of Paracoccus sp. GSM2 Capable of Degrading Textile Azo Dye Reactive Violet 5

PubMed Central

Bheemaraddi, Mallikarjun C.; Shivannavar, Channappa T.; Gaddad, Subhashchandra M.

2014-01-01

A potential bacterial strain GSM2, capable of degrading an azo dye Reactive Violet 5 as a sole source of carbon, was isolated from textile mill effluent from Solapur, India. The 16S rDNA sequence and phenotypic characteristics indicated an isolated organism as Paracoccus sp. GSM2. This strain exhibited complete decolorization of Reactive Violet 5 (100 mg/L) within 16 h, while maximally it could decolorize 800 mg/L of dye within 38 h with 73% decolorization under static condition. For color removal, the most suitable pH and temperature were pH 6.0–9.0 and 25–40°C, respectively. The isolate was able to decolorize more than 70% of five structurally different azo dyes within 38 h. The isolate is salt tolerant as it can bring out more than 90% decolorization up to a salt concentration of 2% (w/v). UV-Visible absorption spectra before and after decolorization suggested that decolorization was due to biodegradation and was further confirmed by FT-IR spectroscopy. Overall results indicate the effectiveness of the strain GSM2 explored for the treatment of textile industry effluents containing various azo dyes. To our knowledge, this could be the first report on biodegradation of Reactive Violet 5 by Paracoccus sp. GSM2. PMID:24883397

Spectral enhancement of leucocrystal violet treated footwear impression evidence in blood.

PubMed

Spence, Lindsay; Asmussen, Gary

2003-03-27

The results presented demonstrate the capacity for spectral enhancement to substantially improve the forensic examination of footwear impressions in blood treated with leucocrystal violet (LCV). The UV-Vis absorption spectra were generated of (i) an aqueous solution of leucocrystal violet, (ii) leucocrystal violet in 3% H(2)O(2), (iii) LCV working solution and (iv) whole blood added to LCV working solution. The resultant fluorescence emission spectra were subsequently generated (lambda(ex)=630nm, lambda(em)=661-900nm). The results indicate that the UV-Vis absorption spectra of an unbuffered solution of whole blood with LCV working solution produces a strong absorbance curve with a maxima at 630nm. Subsequent excitation at this wavelength and generation of the emission spectrum in the fluorescence mode indicates that a solution of whole blood added to LCV working solution is an extremely weak fluorophore. Therefore, to enable an adequate and timely enhancement of blood impression evidence treated with LCV utilising either visible fluorescence or infrared luminescence requires (i) selection of the most appropriate excitation wavelength (lambda(ex)) and emission wavelength (lambda(em)) with extremely narrow band pass filters, which in the absence of substrate matrix interference is excitation at 630nm producing the emission maxima at 665nm and (ii) a visual enhancement system such as a CCD colour IR video camera with image integration.

Autism and Attachment: The Attachment Q-Sort

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rutgers, Anna H.; Van Ijzendoorn, Marinus H.; Bakermans-Kranenburg, Marian J.; Swinkels, Sophie H. N.

2007-01-01

Children with autism are able to show secure attachment behaviours to their parents/caregivers. Most studies on attachment in children with autism used a (modified) Strange Situation Procedure (SSP) to examine attachment security. An advantage of the Attachment Q-Sort (AQS) over the SSP is that it can be attuned to the secure-base behaviour of…

Seed availability constrains plant species sorting along a soil fertility gradient

Treesearch

Bryan L. Foster; Erin J. Questad; Cathy D. Collins; Cheryl A. Murphy; Timothy L. Dickson; Val H. Smith

2011-01-01

1. Spatial variation in species composition within and among communities may be caused by deterministic, niche-based species sorting in response to underlying environmental heterogeneity as well as by stochastic factors such as dispersal limitation and variable species pools. An important goal in ecology is to reconcile deterministic and stochastic perspectives of...

TT : a program that implements predictor sort design and analysis

Treesearch

S. P. Verrill; D. W. Green; V. L. Herian

1997-01-01

In studies on wood strength, researchers sometimes replace experimental unit allocation via random sampling with allocation via sorts based on nondestructive measurements of strength predictors such as modulus of elasticity and specific gravity. This report documents TT, a computer program that implements recently published methods to increase the sensitivity of such...

Induction of lateral lumens through disruption of a monoleucine-based basolateral-sorting motif in betacellulin

PubMed Central

Singh, Bhuminder; Bogatcheva, Galina; Starchenko, Alina; Sinnaeve, Justine; Lapierre, Lynne A.; Williams, Janice A.; Goldenring, James R.; Coffey, Robert J.

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Directed delivery of EGF receptor (EGFR) ligands to the apical or basolateral surface is a crucial regulatory step in the initiation of EGFR signaling in polarized epithelial cells. Herein, we show that the EGFR ligand betacellulin (BTC) is preferentially sorted to the basolateral surface of polarized MDCK cells. By using sequential truncations and site-directed mutagenesis within the BTC cytoplasmic domain, combined with selective cell-surface biotinylation and immunofluorescence, we have uncovered a monoleucine-based basolateral-sorting motif (EExxxL, specifically 156EEMETL161). Disruption of this sorting motif led to equivalent apical and basolateral localization of BTC. Unlike other EGFR ligands, BTC mistrafficking induced formation of lateral lumens in polarized MDCK cells, and this process was significantly attenuated by inhibition of EGFR. Additionally, expression of a cancer-associated somatic BTC mutation (E156K) led to BTC mistrafficking and induced lateral lumens in MDCK cells. Overexpression of BTC, especially mistrafficking forms, increased the growth of MDCK cells. These results uncover a unique role for BTC mistrafficking in promoting epithelial reorganization. PMID:26272915

Application of sperm sorting and associated reproductive technology for wildlife management and conservation.

PubMed

O'Brien, J K; Steinman, K J; Robeck, T R

2009-01-01

Efforts toward the conservation and captive breeding of wildlife can be enhanced by sperm sorting and associated reproductive technologies such as sperm cryopreservation and artificial insemination (AI). Sex ratio management is of particular significance to species which naturally exist in female-dominated social groups. A bias of the sex ratio towards females of these species will greatly assist in maintaining socially cohesive groups and minimizing male-male aggression. Another application of this technology potentially exists for endangered species, as the preferential production of females can enable propagation of those species at a faster rate. The particular assisted reproductive technology (ART) used in conjunction with sperm sorting for the production of offspring is largely determined by the quality and quantity of spermatozoa following sorting and preservation processes. Regardless of the ART selected, breeding decisions involving sex-sorted spermatozoa should be made in conjunction with appropriate genetic management. Zoological-based research on reproductive physiology and assisted reproduction, including sperm sorting, is being conducted on numerous terrestrial and marine mammals. The wildlife species for which the technology has undergone the most advance is the bottlenose dolphin. AI using sex-sorted fresh or frozen-thawed spermatozoa has become a valuable tool for the genetic and reproductive management of captive bottlenose dolphins with six pre-sexed calves, all of the predetermined sex born to date.

A Framework for the Comparative Assessment of Neuronal Spike Sorting Algorithms towards More Accurate Off-Line and On-Line Microelectrode Arrays Data Analysis.

PubMed

Regalia, Giulia; Coelli, Stefania; Biffi, Emilia; Ferrigno, Giancarlo; Pedrocchi, Alessandra

2016-01-01

Neuronal spike sorting algorithms are designed to retrieve neuronal network activity on a single-cell level from extracellular multiunit recordings with Microelectrode Arrays (MEAs). In typical analysis of MEA data, one spike sorting algorithm is applied indiscriminately to all electrode signals. However, this approach neglects the dependency of algorithms' performances on the neuronal signals properties at each channel, which require data-centric methods. Moreover, sorting is commonly performed off-line, which is time and memory consuming and prevents researchers from having an immediate glance at ongoing experiments. The aim of this work is to provide a versatile framework to support the evaluation and comparison of different spike classification algorithms suitable for both off-line and on-line analysis. We incorporated different spike sorting "building blocks" into a Matlab-based software, including 4 feature extraction methods, 3 feature clustering methods, and 1 template matching classifier. The framework was validated by applying different algorithms on simulated and real signals from neuronal cultures coupled to MEAs. Moreover, the system has been proven effective in running on-line analysis on a standard desktop computer, after the selection of the most suitable sorting methods. This work provides a useful and versatile instrument for a supported comparison of different options for spike sorting towards more accurate off-line and on-line MEA data analysis.

A Framework for the Comparative Assessment of Neuronal Spike Sorting Algorithms towards More Accurate Off-Line and On-Line Microelectrode Arrays Data Analysis

PubMed Central

Pedrocchi, Alessandra

2016-01-01

Neuronal spike sorting algorithms are designed to retrieve neuronal network activity on a single-cell level from extracellular multiunit recordings with Microelectrode Arrays (MEAs). In typical analysis of MEA data, one spike sorting algorithm is applied indiscriminately to all electrode signals. However, this approach neglects the dependency of algorithms' performances on the neuronal signals properties at each channel, which require data-centric methods. Moreover, sorting is commonly performed off-line, which is time and memory consuming and prevents researchers from having an immediate glance at ongoing experiments. The aim of this work is to provide a versatile framework to support the evaluation and comparison of different spike classification algorithms suitable for both off-line and on-line analysis. We incorporated different spike sorting “building blocks” into a Matlab-based software, including 4 feature extraction methods, 3 feature clustering methods, and 1 template matching classifier. The framework was validated by applying different algorithms on simulated and real signals from neuronal cultures coupled to MEAs. Moreover, the system has been proven effective in running on-line analysis on a standard desktop computer, after the selection of the most suitable sorting methods. This work provides a useful and versatile instrument for a supported comparison of different options for spike sorting towards more accurate off-line and on-line MEA data analysis. PMID:27239191

The monoamine oxidase inhibition properties of selected structural analogues of methylene blue

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

Delport, Anzelle

The thionine dye, methylene blue (MB), is a potent inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO) A, a property that may, at least in part, mediate its antidepressant effects in humans and animals. The central inhibition of MAO-A by MB has also been linked to serotonin toxicity (ST) which may arise when MB is used in combination with serotonergic drugs. Structural analogues and the principal metabolite of MB, azure B, have also been reported to inhibit the MAO enzymes, with all compounds exhibiting specificity for the MAO-A isoform. To expand on the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of MAO inhibition by MB analogues, themore » present study investigates the human MAO inhibition properties of five MB analogues: neutral red, Nile blue, new methylene blue, cresyl violet and 1,9-dimethyl methylene blue. Similar to MB, these analogues also are specific MAO-A inhibitors with cresyl violet (IC{sub 50} = 0.0037 μM), Nile blue (IC{sub 50} = 0.0077 μM) and 1,9-dimethyl methylene blue (IC{sub 50} = 0.018 μM) exhibiting higher potency inhibition compared to MB (IC{sub 50} = 0.07 μM). Nile blue also represents a potent MAO-B inhibitor with an IC{sub 50} value of 0.012 μM. From the results it may be concluded that non-thionine MB analogues (e.g. cresyl violet and Nile blue) also may exhibit potent MAO inhibition, a property which should be considered when using these compounds in pharmacological studies. Benzophenoxazines such as cresyl violet and Nile blue are, similar to phenothiazines (e.g. MB), representative of high potency MAO-A inhibitors with a potential risk of ST. - Highlights: • MB analogues, cresyl violet and Nile blue, are high potency MAO-A inhibitors. • Nile blue also represents a potent MAO-B inhibitor. • Potent MAO-A inhibition should alert to potential serotonin toxicity.« less

An integrated micromechanical large particle in flow sorter (MILPIS)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fuad, Nurul M.; Skommer, Joanna; Friedrich, Timo; Kaslin, Jan; Wlodkowic, Donald

2015-06-01

At present, the major hurdle to widespread deployment of zebrafish embryo and larvae in large-scale drug development projects is lack of enabling high-throughput analytical platforms. In order to spearhead drug discovery with the use of zebrafish as a model, platforms need to integrate automated pre-test sorting of organisms (to ensure quality control and standardization) and their in-test positioning (suitable for high-content imaging) with modules for flexible drug delivery. The major obstacle hampering sorting of millimetre sized particles such as zebrafish embryos on chip-based devices is their substantial diameter (above one millimetre), mass (above one milligram), which both lead to rapid gravitational-induced sedimentation and high inertial forces. Manual procedures associated with sorting hundreds of embryos are very monotonous and as such prone to significant analytical errors due to operator's fatigue. In this work, we present an innovative design of a micromechanical large particle in-flow sorter (MILPIS) capable of analysing, sorting and dispensing living zebrafish embryos for drug discovery applications. The system consisted of a microfluidic network, revolving micromechanical receptacle actuated by robotic servomotor and opto-electronic sensing module. The prototypes were fabricated in poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) transparent thermoplastic using infrared laser micromachining. Elements of MILPIS were also fabricated in an optically transparent VisiJet resin using 3D stereolithography (SLA) processes (ProJet 7000HD, 3D Systems). The device operation was based on a rapidly revolving miniaturized mechanical receptacle. The latter function was to hold and position individual fish embryos for (i) interrogation, (ii) sorting decision-making and (iii) physical sorting..The system was designed to separate between fertilized (LIVE) and non-fertilized (DEAD) eggs, based on optical transparency using infrared (IR) emitters and receivers embedded in the system. Digital oscilloscope were used to distinguish the diffraction signals from IR sensors when both LIVE and DEAD embryos were flow through in the chip. Image process analysis were also used as detection module to track DEAD embryos as it flowed in the channel.

Online sorting of recovered wood waste by automated XRF-technology: part II. Sorting efficiencies.

PubMed

Hasan, A Rasem; Solo-Gabriele, Helena; Townsend, Timothy

2011-04-01

Sorting of waste wood is an important process practiced at recycling facilities in order to detect and divert contaminants from recycled wood products. Contaminants of concern include arsenic, chromium and copper found in chemically preserved wood. The objective of this research was to evaluate the sorting efficiencies of both treated and untreated parts of the wood waste stream, and metal (As, Cr and Cu) mass recoveries by the use of automated X-ray fluorescence (XRF) systems. A full-scale system was used for experimentation. This unit consisted of an XRF-detection chamber mounted on the top of a conveyor and a pneumatic slide-way diverter which sorted wood into presumed treated and presumed untreated piles. A randomized block design was used to evaluate the operational conveyance parameters of the system, including wood feed rate and conveyor belt speed. Results indicated that online sorting efficiencies of waste wood by XRF technology were high based on number and weight of pieces (70-87% and 75-92% for treated wood and 66-97% and 68-96% for untreated wood, respectively). These sorting efficiencies achieved mass recovery for metals of 81-99% for As, 75-95% for Cu and 82-99% of Cr. The incorrect sorting of wood was attributed almost equally to deficiencies in the detection and conveyance/diversion systems. Even with its deficiencies, the system was capable of producing a recyclable portion that met residential soil quality levels established for Florida, for an infeed that contained 5% of treated wood. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A cell sorting and trapping microfluidic device with an interdigital channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tu, Jing; Qiao, Yi; Xu, Minghua; Li, Junji; Liang, Fupeng; Duan, Mengqin; Ju, An; Lu, Zuhong

2016-12-01

The growing interest in cell sorting and trapping is driving the demand for high performance technologies. Using labeling techniques or external forces, cells can be identified by a series of methods. However, all of these methods require complicated systems with expensive devices. Based on inherent differences in cellular morphology, cells can be sorted by specific structures in microfluidic devices. The weir filter is a basic and efficient cell sorting and trapping structure. However, in some existing weir devices, because of cell deformability and high flow velocity in gaps, trapped cells may become stuck or even pass through the gaps. Here, we designed and fabricated a microfluidic device with interdigital channels for cell sorting and trapping. The chip consisted of a sheet of silicone elastomer polydimethylsiloxane and a sheet of glass. A square-wave-like weir was designed in the middle of the channel, comprising the interdigital channels. The square-wave pattern extended the weir length by three times with the channel width remaining constant. Compared with a straight weir, this structure exhibited a notably higher trapping capacity. Interdigital channels provided more space to slow down the rate of the pressure decrease, which prevented the cells from becoming stuck in the gaps. Sorting a mixture K562 and blood cells to trap cells demonstrated the efficiency of the chip with the interdigital channel to sort and trap large and less deformable cells. With stable and efficient cell sorting and trapping abilities, the chip with an interdigital channel may be widely applied in scientific research fields.

Size-sensitive sorting of microparticles through control of flow geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Cheng; Jalikop, Shreyas V.; Hilgenfeldt, Sascha

2011-07-01

We demonstrate a general concept of flow manipulation in microfluidic environments, based on controlling the shape and position of flow domains in order to force switching and sorting of microparticles without moving parts or changes in design geometry. Using microbubble acoustic streaming, we show that regulation of the relative strength of streaming and a superimposed Poiseuille flow allows for size-selective trapping and releasing of particles, with particle size sensitivity much greater than what is imposed by the length scales of microfabrication. A simple criterion allows for quantitative tuning of microfluidic devices for switching and sorting of particles of desired size.

The use of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in the digitisation of herbarium specimen labels.

PubMed

Drinkwater, Robyn E; Cubey, Robert W N; Haston, Elspeth M

2014-01-01

At the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) the use of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to aid the digitisation process has been investigated. This was tested using a herbarium specimen digitisation process with two stages of data entry. Records were initially batch-processed to add data extracted from the OCR text prior to being sorted based on Collector and/or Country. Using images of the specimens, a team of six digitisers then added data to the specimen records. To investigate whether the data from OCR aid the digitisation process, they completed a series of trials which compared the efficiency of data entry between sorted and unsorted batches of specimens. A survey was carried out to explore the opinion of the digitisation staff to the different sorting options. In total 7,200 specimens were processed. When compared to an unsorted, random set of specimens, those which were sorted based on data added from the OCR were quicker to digitise. Of the methods tested here, the most successful in terms of efficiency used a protocol which required entering data into a limited set of fields and where the records were filtered by Collector and Country. The survey and subsequent discussions with the digitisation staff highlighted their preference for working with sorted specimens, in which label layout, locations and handwriting are likely to be similar, and so a familiarity with the Collector or Country is rapidly established.

Solving multi-objective job shop scheduling problems using a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piroozfard, Hamed; Wong, Kuan Yew

2015-05-01

The efforts of finding optimal schedules for the job shop scheduling problems are highly important for many real-world industrial applications. In this paper, a multi-objective based job shop scheduling problem by simultaneously minimizing makespan and tardiness is taken into account. The problem is considered to be more complex due to the multiple business criteria that must be satisfied. To solve the problem more efficiently and to obtain a set of non-dominated solutions, a meta-heuristic based non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is presented. In addition, task based representation is used for solution encoding, and tournament selection that is based on rank and crowding distance is applied for offspring selection. Swapping and insertion mutations are employed to increase diversity of population and to perform intensive search. To evaluate the modified non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm, a set of modified benchmarking job shop problems obtained from the OR-Library is used, and the results are considered based on the number of non-dominated solutions and quality of schedules obtained by the algorithm.

Predicting and interpreting identification errors in military vehicle training using multidimensional scaling.

PubMed

Bohil, Corey J; Higgins, Nicholas A; Keebler, Joseph R

2014-01-01

We compared methods for predicting and understanding the source of confusion errors during military vehicle identification training. Participants completed training to identify main battle tanks. They also completed card-sorting and similarity-rating tasks to express their mental representation of resemblance across the set of training items. We expected participants to selectively attend to a subset of vehicle features during these tasks, and we hypothesised that we could predict identification confusion errors based on the outcomes of the card-sort and similarity-rating tasks. Based on card-sorting results, we were able to predict about 45% of observed identification confusions. Based on multidimensional scaling of the similarity-rating data, we could predict more than 80% of identification confusions. These methods also enabled us to infer the dimensions receiving significant attention from each participant. This understanding of mental representation may be crucial in creating personalised training that directs attention to features that are critical for accurate identification. Participants completed military vehicle identification training and testing, along with card-sorting and similarity-rating tasks. The data enabled us to predict up to 84% of identification confusion errors and to understand the mental representation underlying these errors. These methods have potential to improve training and reduce identification errors leading to fratricide.

The creation of radiation dominated plasmas using laboratory extreme ultra-violet lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tallents, G. J.; Wilson, S.; West, A.; Aslanyan, V.; Lolley, J.; Rossall, A. K.

2017-06-01

Ionization in experiments where solid targets are irradiated by high irradiance extreme ultra-violet (EUV) lasers is examined. Free electron degeneracy effects on ionization in the presence of a high EUV flux of radiation is shown to be important. Overlap of the physics of such plasmas with plasma material under compression in indirect inertial fusion is explored. The design of the focusing optics needed to achieve high irradiance (up to 1014 Wcm-2) using an EUV capillary laser is presented.

Upconversion of Tm3+ ions in BaY2F8

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruan, Yongfeng; Tsuboi, Taiju

1999-06-01

Up-conversion of red light with wavelength of 660 nm in Tm3+-doped BaY2F8 powder results in the two violet luminescence bands with peaks at 417 and 430 nm and two blue luminescence bands with peaks at 455 and 470 nm. The two violet bands are observed to be stronger than the blue bands. The blue luminescence is also observed by pumping with 993 nm light. The up-conversion is explained by a multiple excited state absorption process.

How to develop a standard operating procedure for sorting unfixed cells.

PubMed

Schmid, Ingrid

2012-07-01

Written standard operating procedures (SOPs) are an important tool to assure that recurring tasks in a laboratory are performed in a consistent manner. When the procedure covered in the SOP involves a high-risk activity such as sorting unfixed cells using a jet-in-air sorter, safety elements are critical components of the document. The details on sort sample handling, sorter set-up, validation, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance, personal protective equipment (PPE), and operator training, outlined in the SOP are to be based on careful risk assessment of the procedure. This review provides background information on the hazards associated with sorting of unfixed cells and the process used to arrive at the appropriate combination of facility design, instrument placement, safety equipment, and practices to be followed. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Removal of methyl violet 2B dye from aqueous solution using Nepenthes rafflesiana pitcher and leaves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kooh, Muhammad Raziq Rahimi; Dahri, Muhammad Khairud; Lim, Linda B. L.

2017-11-01

This study reported Nepenthes rafflesiana pitcher (NP) and Nepenthes rafflesiana leaves (NL) as new adsorbents for methyl violet (MV) dye. The experiments were done using 2 h contact time and without any pH alteration (pH 4.4). The effects of pH and ionic strength revealed hydrophobic-hydrophobic interaction as the predominant force of dye interaction with the adsorbent. Both NP-MV and NL-MV followed pseudo-second-order model indicating the adsorption processes may be governed by chemical process. Weber-Morris intraparticle diffusion model verified that the rate-limiting step of both the NP-MV and NL-MV systems is not intraparticle diffusion. The Langmuir model best described the adsorption process with high maximum monolayer adsorption ( q m) of 288.7 and 194.0 mg g-1 for NP-MV and NL-MV, respectively. Thermodynamics studies revealed both NP-MV and NL-MV systems are spontaneous and endothermic in nature. From the regeneration study, it was found that NP's and NL's adsorption capacities could be recovered using distilled water and base whereby distilled water was able to recover 78% (NP) and 71% (NL) while base was able to recover 82% for both samples after three regeneration cycles.

The Relationships between Processing Facial Identity, Emotional Expression, Facial Speech, and Gaze Direction during Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spangler, Sibylle M.; Schwarzer, Gudrun; Korell, Monika; Maier-Karius, Johanna

2010-01-01

Four experiments were conducted with 5- to 11-year-olds and adults to investigate whether facial identity, facial speech, emotional expression, and gaze direction are processed independently of or in interaction with one another. In a computer-based, speeded sorting task, participants sorted faces according to facial identity while disregarding…

Exploring Associations of Character Profiles and Out-Of-School Time Activities among Children and Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shubert, Jennifer; Metzger, Aaron; Wray-Lake, Laura; Syvertsen, Amy K.

2016-01-01

Conceptualizing character from a relational developmental systems metatheory, this study utilizes a person- oriented approach to examine profiles of character strengths in children and adolescents. Using Q sort methodology, 90 youth (Mage = 13.0, 51% female) sorted 12 character strengths based on how much each strength represented them. Using Q…

Predictor sort sampling, tight t`s, and the analysis of covariance : theory, tables, and examples

Treesearch

S. P. Verrill; D. W. Green

In recent years wood strength researchers have begun to replace experimental unit allocation via random sampling with allocation via sorts based on nondestructive measurements of strength predictors such as modulus of elasticity and specific gravity. Although this procedure has the potential of greatly increasing experimental sensitivity, as currently implemented it...

EXPERIMENT - APOLLO 16 (UV)

NASA Image and Video Library

1972-06-06

S72-40820 (21 April 1972) --- A color enhancement of a photograph taken on ultra-violet light showing the spectrum of the upper atmosphere of Earth and geocorona. The bright horizontal line is far ultra-violet emission (1216 angstrom) of hydrogen extending 10 degrees (40,000 miles) either side of Earth. The knobby vertical line shows several ultra-violet emissions from Earth's sunlit atmosphere, each "lump" being produced by one type gas (oxygen, nitrogen, helium, etc.). The spectral dispersion is about 10 angstrom per millimeter on this enlargement. The UV camera/spectrograph was operated on the lunar surface by astronaut John W. Young, commander of the Apollo 16 lunar landing mission. It was designed and built at the Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, D.C. While astronauts Young and Charles M. Duke Jr., lunar module pilot, descended in the Lunar Module (LM) "Orion" to explore the Descartes highlands region of the moon, astronaut Thomas K. Mattingly II, command module pilot, remained with the Command and Service Modules (CSM) "Casper" in lunar orbit.

Post-column reaction for simultaneous analysis of chromatic and leuco forms of malachite green and crystal violet by high-performance liquid chromatography with photometric detection

USGS Publications Warehouse

Allen, J.L.; Meinertz, J.R.

1991-01-01

The chromatic and leuco forms of malachite green and crystal violet were readily separated and detected by a sensitive and selective high-performance liquid chromatographic procedure. The chromatic and leuco forms of the dyes were separated within 11 min on a C18 column with a mobile phase of 0.05 M sodium acetate and 0.05 M acetic acid in water (19%) and methanol (81%). A reaction chamber, containing 10% PbO2 in Celite 545, was placed between the column and the spectrophotometric detector to oxidize the leuco forms of the dyes to their chromatic forms. Chromatic and leuco malachite green were quantified by their absorbance at 618 nm; and chromatic and leuco Crystal Violet by their absorbance at 588 nm. Detection limits for chromatic and leuco forms of both dyes ranged from 0.12 to 0.28 ng. A linear range of 1 to 100 ng was established for both forms of the dyes.

Temporal variability of the surface and atmosphere of Mars: Viking Orbiter color observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcewen, A. S.

1992-01-01

We are near the final stages in the processing of a large Viking Orbiter global color dataset. Mosaics from 57 spacecraft revolutions (or 'revs' hereafter) were produced, most in both red and violet or red, green, and violet filters. Phase angles range from 13 deg to 85 deg. A total of approximately 2000 frames were processed through radiometric calibration, cosmetic cleanup, geometric control, reprojection, and mosaicking into single-rev mosaics at a scale of 1 km/pixel. All of the mosaics are geometrically tied to the 1/256 deg/pixel Mars Digital Image Mosaic (MDIM). Photometric normalization is in progress, to be followed by production of a 'best coverage' global mosaic at a scale of 1/64 deg/pixel (0.923 km/pixel). Global coverage is near 100 percent in red-filter mosaics and 98 percent and 60 percent in corresponding violet- and green-filter mosaics, respectively. Soon after completion, all final datasets (including single-rev mosaics) will be distributed to the planetary community on compact disks.

Characterization of Staphylococcus epidermidis strains isolated from industrial cleanrooms under regular routine disinfection.

PubMed

Ribič, U; Klančnik, A; Jeršek, B

2017-05-01

The purpose of this study was the genotypic and phenotypic characterization of 57 strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from cleanroom environments, based on their biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance profiles. Biofilm formation was investigated using real-time PCR (icaA, aap, bhp genes), the Congo red agar method and the crystal violet assay. The majority of the strains (59·7%; 34/57) did not form biofilms according to the crystal violet assay, although the biofilm-associated genes were present in 94·7% (54/57) of the strains. Of the biofilm formers (40·4%; 23/57), 39·1% (9/23) have been identified as strong biofilm formers (>4× crystal violet absorbance cut-off). Resistance to a commercial disinfectant and its quaternary ammonium active component, didecyl-dimethyl-ammonium chloride (DDAC), was determined according to minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and the presence of the qac (quaternary ammonium compound) genes. More than 95% (55/57) of the Staph. epidermidis strains had the qacA/B and qacC genes, but not the other qac genes. The MICs for the disinfectant and DDAC varied among the Staph. epidermidis strains, although none were resistant. Although 59·6% of the Staph. epidermidis strains did not form biofilms and none were resistant to DDAC, more than 94% had the genetic basis for development of resistance to quaternary ammonium compounds, and among them at least 14·0% (8/57) might represent a high risk to cleanroom hygiene as strong biofim formers with qacA/B and qacC genes. To assure controlled cleanroom environments, bacterial strains isolated from cleanroom environments need to be characterized regularly using several investigative methods. © 2017 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Surface microstructural features of scales in relation to toxic stress of Basic Violet-1.

PubMed

Kaur, Kirandeep; Kaur, Ramandeep; Kaur, Arvinder

2016-01-01

The present work deals with scanning electron microscopic (SEM) studies of the scales of Labeo rohita on exposure to lethal and sublethal doses of Basic Violet-1 (an important textile and hair colorant). The dye induced loosening of the scales and caused breakage and disorganization of lepidonts. Erosion of lepidonts occurred mostly in the fish exposed to 0.20 and 0.40 mg/L dye, during acute exposure and to 0.0225 and 0.045 mg/L dye, during the subchronic exposure. However, lepidonts were sloughed off from their sockets in 0.60 and 0.80 mg/L dye during acute exposure and in 0.09 mg/L dye during the subchronic exposure. Circuli, the base that provides anchorage to the lepidonts, got damaged, and tubercles responsible for coloration of a fish became atrophied with an increase in the duration of exposure. The results of the present investigation clearly indicated that exposure to Basic Violet-1 (BV-1) even at a concentration as low as 0.0225 mg was responsible for deleterious changes in the scale morphology of the test fish after 150 days of exposure. Similar changes were observed in the scales of the dead fish also. It can thus be suggested that this noninvasive technique is very helpful for evaluating the health status of an aquatic body. At the same time, the changes in ultramorphology of scales can act as an early indicator of the stress of very minute doses of dyes and even the scales of a dead fish can act as indicators of the untoward changes that would have occurred in the environment of the fish before death.

Physicochemical modeling of reactive violet 5 dye adsorption on home-made cocoa shell and commercial activated carbons using the statistical physics theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sellaoui, Lotfi; Lima, Éder Cláudio; Dotto, Guilherme Luiz; Dias, Silvio L. P.; Ben Lamine, Abdelmottaleb

Two equilibrium models based on statistical physics, i.e., monolayer model with single energy and multilayer model with saturation, were developed and employed to access the steric and energetic aspects in the adsorption of reactive violet 5 dye (RV-5) on cocoa shell activated carbon (AC) and commercial activated carbon (CAC), at different temperatures (from 298 to 323 K). The results showed that the multilayer model with saturation was able to represent the adsorption system. This model assumes that the adsorption occurs by a formation of certain number of layers. The n values ranged from 1.10 to 2.98, indicating that the adsorbate molecules interacted in an inclined position on the adsorbent surface and aggregate in solution. The study of the total number of the formed layers (1 + L2) showed that the steric hindrance is the dominant factor. The description of the adsorbate-adsorbent interactions by calculation of the adsorption energy indicated that the process occurred by physisorption in nature, since the values were lower than 40 kJ mol-1.

A chemometric-assisted method for the simultaneous determination of malachite green and crystal violet in water based on absorbance-pH data generated by a homemade pH gradient apparatus.

PubMed

Yu, Shuling; Yuan, Xuejie; Yang, Jing; Yuan, Jintao; Shi, Jiahua; Wang, Yali; Chen, Yuewen; Gao, Shufang

2015-01-01

An attractive method of generating second-order data was developed by a dropping technique to generate pH gradient simultaneously coupled with diode-array spectrophotometer scanning. A homemade apparatus designed for the pH gradient. The method and the homemade apparatus were used to simultaneously determine malachite green (MG) and crystal violet (CV) in water samples. The absorbance-pH second-order data of MG or CV were obtained from the spectra of MG or CV in a series of pH values of HCl-KCl solution. The second-order data of mixtures containing MG and CV that coexisted with interferents were analyzed using multidimensional partial least-squares with residual bilinearization. The method and homemade apparatus were used to simultaneously determine MG and CV in fish farming water samples and in river ones with satisfactory results. The presented method and the homemade apparatus could serve as an alternative tool to handle some analysis problems. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Method for high-precision multi-layered thin film deposition for deep and extreme ultraviolet mirrors

DOEpatents

Ruffner, J.A.

1999-06-15

A method for coating (flat or non-flat) optical substrates with high-reflectivity multi-layer coatings for use at Deep Ultra-Violet (DUV) and Extreme Ultra-Violet (EUV) wavelengths. The method results in a product with minimum feature sizes of less than 0.10 [micro]m for the shortest wavelength (13.4 nm). The present invention employs a computer-based modeling and deposition method to enable lateral and vertical thickness control by scanning the position of the substrate with respect to the sputter target during deposition. The thickness profile of the sputter targets is modeled before deposition and then an appropriate scanning algorithm is implemented to produce any desired, radially-symmetric thickness profile. The present invention offers the ability to predict and achieve a wide range of thickness profiles on flat or figured substrates, i.e., account for 1/R[sup 2] factor in a model, and the ability to predict and accommodate changes in deposition rate as a result of plasma geometry, i.e., over figured substrates. 15 figs.

Quantitative assessment of distance to collection point and improved sorting information on source separation of household waste.

PubMed

Rousta, Kamran; Bolton, Kim; Lundin, Magnus; Dahlén, Lisa

2015-06-01

The present study measures the participation of households in a source separation scheme and, in particular, if the household's application of the scheme improved after two interventions: (a) shorter distance to the drop-off point and (b) easy access to correct sorting information. The effect of these interventions was quantified and, as far as possible, isolated from other factors that can influence the recycling behaviour. The study was based on households located in an urban residential area in Sweden, where waste composition studies were performed before and after the interventions by manual sorting (pick analysis). Statistical analyses of the results indicated a significant decrease (28%) of packaging and newsprint in the residual waste after establishing a property close collection system (intervention (a)), as well as significant decrease (70%) of the miss-sorted fraction in bags intended for food waste after new information stickers were introduced (intervention (b)). Providing a property close collection system to collect more waste fractions as well as finding new communication channels for information about sorting can be used as tools to increase the source separation ratio. This contribution also highlights the need to evaluate the effects of different types of information and communication concerning sorting instructions in a property close collection system. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Towards understanding and managing the learning process in mail sorting.

PubMed

Berglund, M; Karltun, A

2012-01-01

This paper was based on case study research at the Swedish Mail Service Division and it addresses learning time to sort mail at new districts and means to support the learning process on an individual as well as organizational level. The study population consisted of 46 postmen and one team leader in the Swedish Mail Service Division. Data were collected through measurements of time for mail sorting, interviews and a focus group. The study showed that learning to sort mail was a much more complex process and took more time than expected by management. Means to support the learning process included clarification of the relationship between sorting and the topology of the district, a good work environment, increased support from colleagues and management, and a thorough introduction for new postmen. The identified means to support the learning process require an integration of human, technological and organizational aspects. The study further showed that increased operations flexibility cannot be reinforced without a systems perspective and thorough knowledge about real work activities and that ergonomists can aid businesses to acquire this knowledge.

High-Throughput, Motility-Based Sorter for Microswimmers and Gene Discovery Platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Jinzhou; Raizen, David; Bau, Haim

2015-11-01

Animal motility varies with genotype, disease progression, aging, and environmental conditions. In many studies, it is desirable to carry out high throughput motility-based sorting to isolate rare animals for, among other things, forward genetic screens to identify genetic pathways that regulate phenotypes of interest. Many commonly used screening processes are labor-intensive, lack sensitivity, and require extensive investigator training. Here, we describe a sensitive, high throughput, automated, motility-based method for sorting nematodes. Our method was implemented in a simple microfluidic device capable of sorting many thousands of animals per hour per module, and is amenable to parallelism. The device successfully enriched for known C. elegans motility mutants. Furthermore, using this device, we isolated low-abundance mutants capable of suppressing the somnogenic effects of the flp-13 gene, which regulates sleep-like quiescence in C. elegans. Subsequent genomic sequencing led to the identification of a flp-13-suppressor gene. This research was supported, in part, by NIH NIA Grant 5R03AG042690-02.

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

PubMed

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

2018-04-24

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

Rapid discovery of peptide capture candidates with demonstrated specificity for structurally similar toxins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkes, Deborah A.; Hurley, Margaret M.; Coppock, Matthew B.; Farrell, Mikella E.; Pellegrino, Paul M.; Stratis-Cullum, Dimitra N.

2016-05-01

Peptides have emerged as viable alternatives to antibodies for molecular-based sensing due to their similarity in recognition ability despite their relative structural simplicity. Various methods for peptide capture reagent discovery exist, including phage display, yeast display, and bacterial display. One of the primary advantages of peptide discovery by bacterial display technology is the speed to candidate peptide capture agent, due to both rapid growth of bacteria and direct utilization of the sorted cells displaying each individual peptide for the subsequent round of biopanning. We have previously isolated peptide affinity reagents towards protective antigen of Bacillus anthracis using a commercially available automated magnetic sorting platform with improved enrichment as compared to manual magnetic sorting. In this work, we focus on adapting our automated biopanning method to a more challenging sort, to demonstrate the specificity possible with peptide capture agents. This was achieved using non-toxic, recombinant variants of ricin and abrin, RiVax and abrax, respectively, which are structurally similar Type II ribosomal inactivating proteins with significant sequence homology. After only two rounds of biopanning, enrichment of peptide capture candidates binding abrax but not RiVax was achieved as demonstrated by Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) studies. Further sorting optimization included negative sorting against RiVax, proper selection of autoMACS programs for specific sorting rounds, and using freshly made buffer and freshly thawed protein target for each round of biopanning for continued enrichment over all four rounds. Most of the resulting candidates from biopanning for abrax binding peptides were able to bind abrax but not RiVax, demonstrating that short peptide sequences can be highly specific even at this early discovery stage.

Droplet based microfluidics for highthroughput screening of antibody secreting cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Liheng; Heyman, John; Mazutis, Linas; Ung, Lloyd; Guerra, Rodrigo; Aubrecht, Donald; Weitz, David

2014-03-01

We present a droplet based microfluidic platform that allows highthroughput screening of antibody secreting cells. We coencapsulate single cells, fluorescent probes, and detection beads into emulsion droplets with diameter of 40 micron. The beads capture antibodies secreted by cells, resulting in a pronounced fluorescent signal that activates dielectrophoresis sorting at rate about 500 droplets per second. Moreover, we demonstrate that Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) can be successfully applied to the cell encapsulated in a single sorted droplet. Our work highlights the potential of droplet based microfluidics as a platform to generate recombinant antibodies.

Microplate-based high throughput screening procedure for the isolation of lipid-rich marine microalgae

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

We describe a new selection method based on BODIPY (4,4-difluoro-1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene) staining, fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) and microplate-based isolation of lipid-rich microalgae from an environmental sample. Our results show that direct sorting onto solid medium upon FACS can save about 3 weeks during the scale-up process as compared with the growth of the same cultures in liquid medium. This approach enabled us to isolate a biodiverse collection of several axenic and unialgal cultures of different phyla. PMID:22192119

Microplate-based high throughput screening procedure for the isolation of lipid-rich marine microalgae.

PubMed

Pereira, Hugo; Barreira, Luísa; Mozes, André; Florindo, Cláudia; Polo, Cristina; Duarte, Catarina V; Custódio, Luísa; Varela, João

2011-12-22

We describe a new selection method based on BODIPY (4,4-difluoro-1,3,5,7-tetramethyl-4-bora-3a,4a-diaza-s-indacene) staining, fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) and microplate-based isolation of lipid-rich microalgae from an environmental sample. Our results show that direct sorting onto solid medium upon FACS can save about 3 weeks during the scale-up process as compared with the growth of the same cultures in liquid medium. This approach enabled us to isolate a biodiverse collection of several axenic and unialgal cultures of different phyla.

Evaluation of different methods to detect microbial hygiene indicators relevant in the dairy industry.

PubMed

Hervert, C J; Alles, A S; Martin, N H; Boor, K J; Wiedmann, M

2016-09-01

It is estimated that 19% of the total food loss from retail, food service, and households comes from dairy products. A portion of this loss may be attributed to premature spoilage of products due to lapses in sanitation and postpasteurization contamination at the processing level. Bacterial groups including coliforms, Enterobacteriaceae (EB), and total gram-negative organisms represent indicators of poor sanitation or postpasteurization contamination in dairy products worldwide. Although Petrifilms (3M, St. Paul, MN) and traditional selective media are commonly used for the testing of these indicator organism groups throughout the US dairy industry, new rapid methods are also being developed. This project was designed to evaluate the ability of different methods to detect coliforms, EB, and other gram-negative organisms isolated from various dairy products and dairy processing environments. Using the Food Microbe Tracker database, a collection of 211 coliform, EB, and gram-negative bacterial isolates representing 25 genera associated with dairy products was assembled for this study. We tested the selected isolates in pure culture (at levels of approximately 15 to 300 cells/test) to evaluate the ability of 3M Coliform Petrifilm to detect coliforms, 3M Enterobacteriaceae Petrifilm, violet red bile glucose agar, and an alternative flow cytometry-based method (bioMérieux D-Count, Marcy-l'Étoile, France) to detect EB, and crystal violet tetrazolium agar to detect total gram-negative organisms. Of the 211 gram-negative isolates tested, 82% (174/211) had characteristic growth on crystal violet tetrazolium agar. Within this set of 211 gram-negative organisms, 175 isolates representing 19 EB genera were screened for detection using EB selective/differential testing methods. We observed positive results for 96% (168/175), 90% (158/175), and 86% (151/175) of EB isolates when tested on EB Petrifilm, violet red bile glucose agar, and D-Count, respectively; optimization of the cut-off thresholds for the D-Count may further improve its sensitivity and specificity, but will require additional data and may vary in food matrices. Additionally, 74% (129/175) of the EB isolates tested positive as coliforms. The data obtained from this study identify differences in detection between 5 microbial hygiene indicator tests and highlight the benefits of EB and total gram-negative testing methods. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Using Sorting by Reversal: Breakpoint Graph for Gene Assembly in Ciliates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brijder, Robert; Jan Hoogeboom, Hendrik

2007-09-01

The theory of gene assembly in ciliates has much in common with the theory of sorting by reversal. Both model processes that are based on splicing, and have a fixed begin and end product. The main difference is the type of splicing operations used to obtain the end product from the begin product. In this overview paper we show that the concept of breakpoint graph, known from the theory of sorting by reversal, has many uses in the theory of gene assembly. Our aim is to present the material in an intuitive and informal manner to allow for an efficient introduction into the subject.

Particle migration and sorting in microbubble streaming flows

PubMed Central

Thameem, Raqeeb; Hilgenfeldt, Sascha

2016-01-01

Ultrasonic driving of semicylindrical microbubbles generates strong streaming flows that are robust over a wide range of driving frequencies. We show that in microchannels, these streaming flow patterns can be combined with Poiseuille flows to achieve two distinctive, highly tunable methods for size-sensitive sorting and trapping of particles much smaller than the bubble itself. This method allows higher throughput than typical passive sorting techniques, since it does not require the inclusion of device features on the order of the particle size. We propose a simple mechanism, based on channel and flow geometry, which reliably describes and predicts the sorting behavior observed in experiment. It is also shown that an asymptotic theory that incorporates the device geometry and superimposed channel flow accurately models key flow features such as peak speeds and particle trajectories, provided it is appropriately modified to account for 3D effects caused by the axial confinement of the bubble. PMID:26958103

The Dynamics of Development on the Dimensional Change Card Sorting Task

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van Bers, Bianca M. C. W.; Visser, Ingmar; van Schijndel, Tessa J. P.; Mandell, Dorothy J.; Raijmakers, Maartje E. J.

2011-01-01

A widely used paradigm to study cognitive flexibility in preschoolers is the Dimensional Change Card Sorting (DCCS) task. The developmental dynamics of DCCS performance was studied in a cross-sectional design (N = 93, 3 to 5 years of age) using a computerized version of the standard DCCS task. A model-based analysis of the data showed that…

Sorting in the Labor Market: Do Gregarious Workers Flock to Interactive Jobs?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krueger, Alan B.; Schkade, David

2008-01-01

This paper tests a central implication of the theory of equalizing differences, that workers sort into jobs with different attributes based on their preferences. We present evidence from four new time-use data sets for the United States and France suggesting that workers who are more gregarious, as revealed by their behavior when they are not…

Age Differences in Perseveration: Cognitive and Neuroanatomical Mediators of Performance on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Head, Denise; Kennedy, Kristen M.; Rodrigue, Karen M.; Raz, Naftali

2009-01-01

Aging effects on the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) are fairly well established but the mechanisms of the decline are not clearly understood. In this study, we examined the cognitive and neural mechanisms mediating age-related increases in perseveration on the WCST. MRI-based volumetry and measures of selected executive functions in…

A Task Type for Measuring the Representational Component of Quantitative Proficiency. GRE Board Professional Report No. 92-05P.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bennett, Randy Elliot; And Others

Two computer-based categorization tasks were developed and pilot tested. In study 1, the task asked examinees to sort mathematical word problem stems according to prototypes. Results with 9 faculty members and 107 undergraduates showed that those who sorted well tended to have higher Graduate Record Examination General Test scores and college…

Single-cell analysis and sorting using droplet-based microfluidics.

PubMed

Mazutis, Linas; Gilbert, John; Ung, W Lloyd; Weitz, David A; Griffiths, Andrew D; Heyman, John A

2013-05-01

We present a droplet-based microfluidics protocol for high-throughput analysis and sorting of single cells. Compartmentalization of single cells in droplets enables the analysis of proteins released from or secreted by cells, thereby overcoming one of the major limitations of traditional flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. As an example of this approach, we detail a binding assay for detecting antibodies secreted from single mouse hybridoma cells. Secreted antibodies are detected after only 15 min by co-compartmentalizing single mouse hybridoma cells, a fluorescent probe and single beads coated with anti-mouse IgG antibodies in 50-pl droplets. The beads capture the secreted antibodies and, when the captured antibodies bind to the probe, the fluorescence becomes localized on the beads, generating a clearly distinguishable fluorescence signal that enables droplet sorting at ∼200 Hz as well as cell enrichment. The microfluidic system described is easily adapted for screening other intracellular, cell-surface or secreted proteins and for quantifying catalytic or regulatory activities. In order to screen ∼1 million cells, the microfluidic operations require 2-6 h; the entire process, including preparation of microfluidic devices and mammalian cells, requires 5-7 d.

Self-sorted photoconductive xerogels† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Full experimental details, rheological data, pK a titrations, further NMR data, full details of the photoconductivity set-up, further photoconductivity measurements. See DOI: 10.1039/c6sc02644c Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Draper, Emily R.; Lee, Jonathan R.; Wallace, Matthew; Jäckel, Frank; Cowan, Alexander J.

2016-01-01

We show that a perylene bisimide (PBI)-based gelator forms self-sorted mixtures with a stilbene-based gelator. To form the self-sorted gels, we use a slow pH change induced by the hydrolysis of glucono-δ-lactone (GdL) to gluconic acid. We prove that self-sorting occurs using NMR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, rheology, and viscometry. The corresponding xerogels are photoconductive. Importantly, the wavelength dependence of the photoconductive films is different to that of the films formed from the perylene bisimide alone. Transient absorption spectroscopy of the xerogels reveals changes in the spectrum of the PBI on the picosecond timescale in the presence of stilbene with a PBI radical anion being formed within 10 ps when the stilbene is present. The ability to form the PBI radical anion under visible light leads to the enhanced spectral response of the multicomponent gels. These systems therefore have potential as useful visible-active optoelectronics. PMID:28451108

Single-cell analysis and sorting using droplet-based microfluidics

PubMed Central

Mazutis, Linas; Gilbert, John; Ung, W Lloyd; Weitz, David A; Griffiths, Andrew D; Heyman, John A

2014-01-01

We present a droplet-based microfluidics protocol for high-throughput analysis and sorting of single cells. compartmentalization of single cells in droplets enables the analysis of proteins released from or secreted by cells, thereby overcoming one of the major limitations of traditional flow cytometry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. as an example of this approach, we detail a binding assay for detecting antibodies secreted from single mouse hybridoma cells. secreted antibodies are detected after only 15 min by co-compartmentalizing single mouse hybridoma cells, a fluorescent probe and single beads coated with anti-mouse IgG antibodies in 50-pl droplets. the beads capture the secreted antibodies and, when the captured antibodies bind to the probe, the fluorescence becomes localized on the beads, generating a clearly distinguishable fluorescence signal that enables droplet sorting at ~200 Hz as well as cell enrichment. the microfluidic system described is easily adapted for screening other intracellular, cell-surface or secreted proteins and for quantifying catalytic or regulatory activities. In order to screen ~1 million cells, the microfluidic operations require 2–6 h; the entire process, including preparation of microfluidic devices and mammalian cells, requires 5–7 d. PMID:23558786

New Observations and Studies of Saturn's Long-Lived North Polar SPOT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanchez-Lavega, Agustin; Rojas, Jose Félix; Acarreta, Juan Ramón; Lecacheux, Jean; Colas, François; Sada, Pedro V.

1997-08-01

We report on a new series of ground-based CCD observations at visual wavelengths, covering a period of 1255 days between May 1992 and November 1995, of the longest-lived asymmetric feature known in Saturn's atmosphere: the north polar spot (NPS). This completes our previous analysis of this feature during the period 1990-1991 (A. Sanchez-Lavega, J. Lecacheux, F. Colas, and P. Lagues, 1993,Science260,329-332). Longitude measurements of the NPS indicate an averaged longitudinal drift of -0.030 deg/day for the whole period 1990-1995 corresponding to a zonal velocity of 0.11 msec-1. These data, when combined with previous and new measurements of the NPS position on Voyager 1 and 2 images obtained in 1980 and 1981, indicate a long-term drift in longitude of the NPS with a constant angular acceleration of 1.1 × 10-5deg/(day)2. High-resolution Voyager 2 violet, blue, green, and orange images were used to measure the size and reflectivity of the NPS. Its structure is characterized by a bright elliptical core surrounded by a dark ring and a large uniform area. The contrast between all these features changes appreciably from violet to orange: the spot is dark in violet but bright in orange relative to its surroundings. The spot is embedded within a region seeded by a “field of bright clouds” with characteristic size 1000 km reminiscent of a cellular convection pattern. The NPS's east-west apparent size is shorter at violet-blue (about 7000 km as limited by a dark ring at these wavelengths) than at green-orange (about 11,000 km corresponding to the large uniform area). Green processed images show apparent spiral patterns within the NPS consistent with anticyclonic vorticity. The results of ground-based photometry of the north polar region (NPR) and the NPS in the red methane absorption bands and their adjacent continuum are consistent with a radiative transfer model of the cloud vertical structure consisting of a clear gas layer, a haze layer, and a semi-infinite cloud. In the context of this model the NPS cloud tops are slightly higher than neighboring clouds reaching a pressure level of 45 mbar. Calculations of the seasonal insolation at the north pole, together with a simple linear radiative response of the atmosphere to this heating at different altitudes, suggest temperature changes at the level of the NPS cloud tops which should influence the NPS dynamics. Because of the long lifetime of the NPS, and because its motions did not vary appreciably during the long observing period, we suggest that the main properties and dynamics of the NPS are insensitive to the external solar forcing.

Card sorting to evaluate the robustness of the information architecture of a protocol website.

PubMed

Wentzel, J; Müller, F; Beerlage-de Jong, N; van Gemert-Pijnen, J

2016-02-01

A website on Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, MRSA-net, was developed for Health Care Workers (HCWs) and the general public, in German and in Dutch. The website's content was based on existing protocols and its structure was based on a card sort study. A Human Centered Design approach was applied to ensure a match between user and technology. In the current study we assess whether the website's structure still matches user needs, again via a card sort study. An open card sort study was conducted. Randomly drawn samples of 100 on-site search queries as they were entered on the MRSA-net website (during one year of use) were used as card input. In individual sessions, the cards were sorted by each participant (18 German and 10 Dutch HCWs, and 10 German and 10 Dutch members of the general public) into piles that were meaningful to them. Each participant provided a label for every pile of cards they created. Cluster analysis was performed on the resulting sorts, creating an overview of clusters of items placed together in one pile most frequently. In addition, pile labels were qualitatively analyzed to identify the participants' mental models. Cluster analysis confirmed existing categories and revealed new themes emerging from the search query samples, such as financial issues and consequences for the patient. Even though MRSA-net addresses these topics, they are not prominently covered in the menu structure. The label analysis shows that 7 of a total of 44 MRSA-net categories were not reproduced by the participants. Additional themes such as information on other pathogens and categories such as legal issues emerged. This study shows that the card sort performed to create MRSA-net resulted in overall long-lasting structure and categories. New categories were identified, indicating that additional information needs emerged. Therefore, evaluating website structure should be a recurrent activity. Card sorting with ecological data as input for the cards is useful to identify changes in needs and mental models. By combining qualitative and quantitative analysis we gained insight into additional information needed by the target group, including their view on the domain and related themes. The results show differences between the four user groups in their sorts, which can mostly be explained by the groups' background. These findings confirm that HCD is a valuable approach to tailor information to the target group. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in the digitisation of herbarium specimen labels

PubMed Central

Drinkwater, Robyn E.; Cubey, Robert W. N.; Haston, Elspeth M.

2014-01-01

Abstract At the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) the use of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) to aid the digitisation process has been investigated. This was tested using a herbarium specimen digitisation process with two stages of data entry. Records were initially batch-processed to add data extracted from the OCR text prior to being sorted based on Collector and/or Country. Using images of the specimens, a team of six digitisers then added data to the specimen records. To investigate whether the data from OCR aid the digitisation process, they completed a series of trials which compared the efficiency of data entry between sorted and unsorted batches of specimens. A survey was carried out to explore the opinion of the digitisation staff to the different sorting options. In total 7,200 specimens were processed. When compared to an unsorted, random set of specimens, those which were sorted based on data added from the OCR were quicker to digitise. Of the methods tested here, the most successful in terms of efficiency used a protocol which required entering data into a limited set of fields and where the records were filtered by Collector and Country. The survey and subsequent discussions with the digitisation staff highlighted their preference for working with sorted specimens, in which label layout, locations and handwriting are likely to be similar, and so a familiarity with the Collector or Country is rapidly established. PMID:25009435

Differential recognition of a dileucine-based sorting signal by AP-1 and AP-3 reveals a requirement for both BLOC-1 and AP-3 in delivery of OCA2 to melanosomes

PubMed Central

Sitaram, Anand; Dennis, Megan K.; Chaudhuri, Rittik; De Jesus-Rojas, Wilfredo; Tenza, Danièle; Setty, Subba Rao Gangi; Wood, Christopher S.; Sviderskaya, Elena V.; Bennett, Dorothy C.; Raposo, Graça; Bonifacino, Juan S.; Marks, Michael S.

2012-01-01

Cell types that generate unique lysosome-related organelles (LROs), such as melanosomes in melanocytes, populate nascent LROs with cargoes that are diverted from endosomes. Cargo sorting toward melanosomes correlates with binding via cytoplasmically exposed sorting signals to either heterotetrameric adaptor AP-1 or AP-3. Some cargoes bind both adaptors, but the relative contribution of each adaptor to cargo recognition and their functional interactions with other effectors during transport to melanosomes are not clear. Here we exploit targeted mutagenesis of the acidic dileucine–based sorting signal in the pigment cell–specific protein OCA2 to dissect the relative roles of AP-1 and AP-3 in transport to melanosomes. We show that binding to AP-1 or AP-3 depends on the primary sequence of the signal and not its position within the cytoplasmic domain. Mutants that preferentially bound either AP-1 or AP-3 each trafficked toward melanosomes and functionally complemented OCA2 deficiency, but AP-3 binding was necessary for steady-state melanosome localization. Unlike tyrosinase, which also engages AP-3 for optimal melanosomal delivery, both AP-1– and AP-3–favoring OCA2 variants required BLOC-1 for melanosomal transport. These data provide evidence for distinct roles of AP-1 and AP-3 in OCA2 transport to melanosomes and indicate that BLOC-1 can cooperate with either adaptor during cargo sorting to LROs. PMID:22718909

Microgap ultra-violet detector

DOEpatents

Wuest, Craig R.; Bionta, Richard M.

1994-01-01

A microgap ultra-violet detector of photons with wavelengths less than 400 run (4000 Angstroms) which comprises an anode and a cathode separated by a gas-filled gap and having an electric field placed across the gap. Either the anode or the cathode is semi-transparent to UV light. Upon a UV photon striking the cathode an electron is expelled and accelerated across the gap by the electric field causing interactions with other electrons to create an electron avalanche which contacts the anode. The electron avalanche is detected and converted to an output pulse.

BRMS1 Suppresses Breast Cancer Metastasis to Bone via Its Regulation of microRNA-125b and Downstream Attenuation of TNF-Alpha and HER2 Signaling Pathways

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-01

cytoskeleton genes and genes regulating focal adhesion assembly, such as a5 integrin, Tenascin C, Talin-1, Profilin 1, and Actinin [35]. Intravital ...and allowed to adhere for time indicated, at which point cells were fixed and stainedwith crystal violet. Representative images for times 5, 10, 15...matrix milieu and imaged by time-lapse microscopy for 1 h or fixed and stained with crystal violet at times indicated. As shown in Figure 1C and

Quirks of dye nomenclature. 8. Methylene blue, azure and violet.

PubMed

Cooksey, C J

2017-01-01

Methylene blue was synthesized in 1877 and soon found application in medicine, staining for microscopy and as an industrial dye and pigment. An enormous literature has accumulated since its introduction. Early on, it was known that methylene blue could be degraded easily by demethylation; consequently, the purity of commercial samples often was low. Therefore, demethylation products, such as azures and methylene violet, also are considered here. The names and identity of the components, their varying modes of manufacture, analytical methods and their contribution to biological staining are discussed.

Microgap ultra-violet detector

DOEpatents

Wuest, C.R.; Bionta, R.M.

1994-09-20

A microgap ultra-violet detector of photons with wavelengths less than 400 run (4,000 Angstroms) which comprises an anode and a cathode separated by a gas-filled gap and having an electric field placed across the gap is disclosed. Either the anode or the cathode is semi-transparent to UV light. Upon a UV photon striking the cathode an electron is expelled and accelerated across the gap by the electric field causing interactions with other electrons to create an electron avalanche which contacts the anode. The electron avalanche is detected and converted to an output pulse. 2 figs.

Up-conversion media on basis single crystals BaY2F8 for UV and VUV solid state lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pushkar, A. A.; Ouvarova, T. V.; Molchanov, V. N.

2007-04-01

Crystal BaY IIF 8 represents the big interest as the perspective active media for lasers ultra-violet (UV) and vacuumultra- violet (VUV) regions. For the decision of problems with solarization this media and a choice of sources pump it is offered to use up-conversion mechanisms pump with activators from rare-earth elements (RE). We have developed technology of grown of oriented monocrystals BaY IIF 8, have defined influence of orientation on growth rate and quality ofthe received monocrystals.

Identification of microbes from the surfaces of food-processing lines based on the flow cytometric evaluation of cellular metabolic activity combined with cell sorting.

PubMed

Juzwa, W; Duber, A; Myszka, K; Białas, W; Czaczyk, K

2016-09-01

In this study the design of a flow cytometry-based procedure to facilitate the detection of adherent bacteria from food-processing surfaces was evaluated. The measurement of the cellular redox potential (CRP) of microbial cells was combined with cell sorting for the identification of microorganisms. The procedure enhanced live/dead cell discrimination owing to the measurement of the cell physiology. The microbial contamination of the surface of a stainless steel conveyor used to process button mushrooms was evaluated in three independent experiments. The flow cytometry procedure provided a step towards monitoring of contamination and enabled the assessment of microbial food safety hazards by the discrimination of active, mid-active and non-active bacterial sub-populations based on determination of their cellular vitality and subsequently single cell sorting to isolate microbial strains from discriminated sub-populations. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.97; p < 0.05) between the bacterial cell count estimated by the pour plate method and flow cytometry, despite there being differences in the absolute number of cells detected. The combined approach of flow cytometric CRP measurement and cell sorting allowed an in situ analysis of microbial cell vitality and the identification of species from defined sub-populations, although the identified microbes were limited to culturable cells.

Categorization and reasoning among tree experts: do all roads lead to Rome?

PubMed

Medin, D L; Lynch, E B; Coley, J D; Atran, S

1997-02-01

To what degree do conceptual systems reflect universal patterns of featural covariation in the world (similarity) or universal organizing principles of mind, and to what degree do they reflect specific goals, theories, and beliefs of the categorizer? This question was addressed in experiments concerned with categorization and reasoning among different types of tree experts (e.g., taxonomists, landscape workers, parks maintenance personnel). The results show an intriguing pattern of similarities and differences. Differences in sorting between taxonomists and maintenance workers reflect differences in weighting of morphological features. Landscape workers, in contrast, sort trees into goal-derived categories based on utilitarian concerns. These sorting patterns carry over into category-based reasoning for the taxonomists and maintenance personnel but not the landscape workers. These generalizations interact with taxonomic rank and suggest that the genus (or folk generic) level is relatively and in some cases absolutely privileged. Implications of these findings for theories of categorization are discussed.

Non-invasive sex assessment in bovine semen by Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Luca, A. C.; Managó, S.; Ferrara, M. A.; Rendina, I.; Sirleto, L.; Puglisi, R.; Balduzzi, D.; Galli, A.; Ferraro, P.; Coppola, G.

2014-05-01

X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm cell sorting is of great interest, especially for animal production management systems and genetic improvement programs. Here, we demonstrate an optical method based on Raman spectroscopy to separate X- and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm cells, overcoming many of the limitations associated with current sex-sorting protocols. A priori Raman imaging of bull spermatozoa was utilized to select the sampling points (head-neck region), which were then used to discriminate cells based on a spectral classification model. Main variations of Raman peaks associated with the DNA content were observed together with a variation due to the sex membrane proteins. Next, we used principal component analysis to determine the efficiency of our device as a cell sorting method. The results (>90% accuracy) demonstrated that Raman spectroscopy is a powerful candidate for the development of a highly efficient, non-invasive, and non-destructive tool for sperm sexing.

Preparation of Calcined Zirconia-Carbon Composite from Metal Organic Frameworks and Its Application to Adsorption of Crystal Violet and Salicylic Acid

PubMed Central

Hasan, Zubair; Cho, Dong-Wan; Nam, In-Hyun; Chon, Chul-Min; Song, Hocheol

2016-01-01

Zirconia-carbon (ZC) composites were prepared via calcination of Zr-based metal organic frameworks, UiO-66 and amino-functionalized UiO-66, under N2 atmosphere. The prepared composites were characterized using a series of instrumental analyses. The surface area of the ZC composites increased with the increase of calcination temperature, with the formation of a graphite oxide phase observed at 900 °C. The composites were used for adsorptive removal of a dye (crystal violet, CV) and a pharmaceutical and personal care product (salicylic acid, SA). The increase of the calcination temperature resulted in enhanced adsorption capability of the composites toward CV. The composite calcined at 900 °C exhibited a maximum uptake of 243 mg·g−1, which was much greater than that by a commercial activated carbon. The composite was also effective in SA adsorption (102 mg·g−1), and N-functionalization of the composite further enhanced its adsorption capability (109 mg·g−1). CV adsorption was weakly influenced by solution pH, but was more dependent on the surface area and pore volume of the ZC composite. Meanwhile, SA adsorption showed strong pH dependence, which implies an active role of electrostatic interactions in the adsorption process. Base-base repulsion and hydrogen bonding are also suggested to influence the adsorption of CV and SA, especially for the N-functionalized composite. PMID:28773387

Neural spike sorting using iterative ICA and a deflation-based approach.

PubMed

Tiganj, Z; Mboup, M

2012-12-01

We propose a spike sorting method for multi-channel recordings. When applied in neural recordings, the performance of the independent component analysis (ICA) algorithm is known to be limited, since the number of recording sites is much lower than the number of neurons. The proposed method uses an iterative application of ICA and a deflation technique in two nested loops. In each iteration of the external loop, the spiking activity of one neuron is singled out and then deflated from the recordings. The internal loop implements a sequence of ICA and sorting for removing the noise and all the spikes that are not fired by the targeted neuron. Then a final step is appended to the two nested loops in order to separate simultaneously fired spikes. We solve this problem by taking all possible pairs of the sorted neurons and apply ICA only on the segments of the signal during which at least one of the neurons in a given pair was active. We validate the performance of the proposed method on simulated recordings, but also on a specific type of real recordings: simultaneous extracellular-intracellular. We quantify the sorting results on the extracellular recordings for the spikes that come from the neurons recorded intracellularly. The results suggest that the proposed solution significantly improves the performance of ICA in spike sorting.

A new technology for automatic identification and sorting of plastics for recycling.

PubMed

Ahmad, S R

2004-10-01

A new technology for automatic sorting of plastics, based upon optical identification of fluorescence signatures of dyes, incorporated in such materials in trace concentrations prior to product manufacturing, is described. Three commercial tracers were selected primarily on the basis of their good absorbency in the 310-370 nm spectral band and their identifiable narrow-band fluorescence signatures in the visible band of the spectrum when present in binary combinations. This absorption band was selected because of the availability of strong emission lines in this band from a commercial Hg-arc lamp and high fluorescence quantum yields of the tracers at this excitation wavelength band. The plastics chosen for tracing and identification are HDPE, LDPE, PP, EVA, PVC and PET and the tracers were compatible and chemically non-reactive with the host matrices and did not affect the transparency of the plastics. The design of a monochromatic and collimated excitation source, the sensor system are described and their performances in identifying and sorting plastics doped with tracers at a few parts per million concentration levels are evaluated. In an industrial sorting system, the sensor was able to sort 300 mm long plastic bottles at a conveyor belt speed of 3.5 m.sec(-1) with a sorting purity of -95%. The limitation was imposed due to mechanical singulation irregularities at high speed and the limited processing speed of the computer used.

Pulsed laser activated cell sorter (PLACS) for high-throughput fluorescent mammalian cell sorting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yue; Wu, Ting-Hsiang; Chung, Aram; Kung, Yu-Chung; Teitell, Michael A.; Di Carlo, Dino; Chiou, Pei-Yu

2014-09-01

We present a Pulsed Laser Activated Cell Sorter (PLACS) realized by exciting laser induced cavitation bubbles in a PDMS microfluidic channel to create high speed liquid jets to deflect detected fluorescent samples for high speed sorting. Pulse laser triggered cavitation bubbles can expand in few microseconds and provide a pressure higher than tens of MPa for fluid perturbation near the focused spot. This ultrafast switching mechanism has a complete on-off cycle less than 20 μsec. Two approaches have been utilized to achieve 3D sample focusing in PLACS. One is relying on multilayer PDMS channels to provide 3D hydrodynamic sheath flows. It offers accurate timing control of fast (2 m sec-1) passing particles so that synchronization with laser bubble excitation is possible, an critically important factor for high purity and high throughput sorting. PLACS with 3D hydrodynamic focusing is capable of sorting at 11,000 cells/sec with >95% purity, and 45,000 cells/sec with 45% purity using a single channel in a single step. We have also demonstrated 3D focusing using inertial flows in PLACS. This sheathless focusing approach requires 10 times lower initial cell concentration than that in sheath-based focusing and avoids severe sample dilution from high volume sheath flows. Inertia PLACS is capable of sorting at 10,000 particles sec-1 with >90% sort purity.

Coupling Bacterial Activity Measurements with Cell Sorting by Flow Cytometry.

PubMed

Servais; Courties; Lebaron; Troussellier

1999-08-01

> Abstract A new procedure to investigate the relationship between bacterial cell size and activity at the cellular level has been developed; it is based on the coupling of radioactive labeling of bacterial cells and cell sorting by flow cytometry after SYTO 13 staining. Before sorting, bacterial cells were incubated in the presence of tritiated leucine using a procedure similar to that used for measuring bacterial production by leucine incorporation and then stained with SYTO 13. Subpopulations of bacterial cells were sorted according to their average right-angle light scatter (RALS) and fluorescence. Average RALS was shown to be significantly related to the average biovolume. Experiments were performed on samples collected at different times in a Mediterranean seawater mesocosm enriched with nitrogen and phosphorus. At four sampling times, bacteria were sorted in two subpopulations (cells smaller and larger than 0.25 µm(3)). The results indicate that, at each sampling time, the growth rate of larger cells was higher than that of smaller cells. In order to confirm this tendency, cell sorting was performed on six subpopulations differing in average biovolume during the mesocosm follow-up. A clear increase of the bacterial growth rates was observed with increasing cell size for the conditions met in this enriched mesocosm.http://link.springer-ny.com/link/service/journals/00248/bibs/38n2p180.html

Effects of Overstocking at the Feedbunk on the Growth Performance and Sorting Characteristics of a Forage-based Diet Offered for Ad-libitum Intake to Replacement Holstein Dairy Heifers

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Various forms of overcrowding are common in heifer-rearing operations. Our objectives for this study were to evaluate the effects of overstocking at the feedbunk (100, 133, 160, or 200% of capacity) on the growth performance, feedbunk-sorting behaviors, and hygiene of 128 gravid Holstein heifers (47...

Investigation of new dyes for chromovitrectomy: preclinical biocompatibility of trisodium, orangell and methyl violet.

PubMed

Badaro, Emmerson; Souza-Lima, Rodrigo A; Novais, Eduardo A; Maia, Mauricio; Hirai, Flávio; Meyer, Carsten H; Farah, Michel Eid; Rodrigues, Eduardo B

2015-01-01

To investigate the retinal toxicity by electroretinography (ERG), clinical examination and histology after intravitreal injection of biological stains in two concentrations: Trisodium (0.50 g/L and 1.00 g/L), Orangell (0.25 g/L and 1.00 g/L) and Methyl Violet (0.50 g/L and 1.00 g/L). Eighteen New-Zealand albinos rabbits were assigned in six groups (n = 3 in each group). The animals in group 1 received Trisodium in the dose of 0.50 g/L and group 2 received 1.00 g/L; Group 3 received Orangell in the dose of 0.25 g/L and group 4 received 1.00 g/L; Group 5 received Methyl Violet in the dose of 1.00 g/L and group 6 received 0.50 g/L. A volume of 0.05 mL of dye was injected in the right eyes, whereas the left eyes received the same volume of balanced salt solution (BSS) as control. ERG recordings and clinical examination were performed at baseline and seven days after intravitreal injection. The ERG responses at one week after injection were compared with baseline levels. A decrease in the post-injection amplitude of more than 50% was considered remarkable. After the 7-day follow-up, rabbits were euthanized and eye enucleated for light microscopy (LM) histological evaluation. At clinical examination by indirect ophthalmoscopy seven days after dye injection, all eyes were negative for cataract, hemorrhage, retinal detachment, and intraocular opacities. Amplitude analysis of maximum scotopic b-wave showed no significant reduction in either dye injected or control eyes. Neither dye nor BSS caused significant retinal alteration on LM at doses tested. Trisodium, Orangell and Methyl Violet can be applied in future studies in order to prove the capacity to stain preretinal tissues and vitreous without toxicity. The three dyes did not induce significant ERG amplitude reduction or LM alterations in this preliminary experimental research. Trisodium, Orangell and Methyl Violet may be potentially useful vital dyes for ocular surgery, and deserve further investigation.

Red-purple flower color and delphinidin-type pigments in the flowers of Pueraria lobata (Leguminosae).

PubMed

Tatsuzawa, Fumi; Tanikawa, Natsu; Nakayama, Masayoshi

2017-05-01

A previously undescribed acylated anthocyanin was extracted from the red-purple flowers of Pueraria lobata with 5% HOAc-H 2 O, and determined to be petunidin 3-O-(β-glucopyranoside)-5-O-[6-O-(malonyl)-β-glucopyranoside], by chemical and spectroscopic methods. In addition, two known acylated anthocyanins, delphinidin 3-O-(β-glucopyranoside)-5-O-[6-O-(malonyl)-β-glucopyranoside] and malvidin 3-O-(β-glucopyranoside)-5-O-[6-O-(malonyl)-β-glucopyranoside] were identified. Delphinidin 3,5-di-glucoside, petunidin 3,5-di-glucoside, and malvidin 3,5-di-glucoside, have been known as major components of P. lobata in the former study. However, malonyl esters amounts were detected over 10 times compared with non-malonyl esters amounts. In those anthocyanins the most abundant anthocyanin was petunidin 3-O-(β-glucopyranoside)-5-O-[6-O-(malonyl)-β-glucopyranoside] in total flowers. On the visible absorption spectral curve of fresh red-purple petals, one characteristic absorption maximum was observed at 520 nm, which is similar to those of flowers containing pelargonidin derivatives. In contrast, the absorption spectral curve of old violet petals was observed at 500(sh), 536, 564(sh), and 613(sh) nm, which are similar to those of violet flowers containing delphinidin-type pigments. Pressed juices of both fresh red-purple petals and old violet petals had pH5.2 and 5.5 respectively, and had the same flavonoid constitution. Crude fresh red-purple petal pigments extracted by pH 2.2 and pH 5.2 buffers exhibited the same color and spectral curves as fresh red-purple petals and old violet petals, respectively. Moreover, in a cross-TLC experiment of crude extracted pigments, red-purple color was exhibited by the anthocyanin region and the crossed region of anthocyanins and isoflavone. Thus, it may be assumed that the unusually low pH in the vacuole of fresh petals plays an important role to form red-purple flower color against weak acidic pH in the vacuole of old violet P. lobata petals. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fluence map optimization (FMO) with dose-volume constraints in IMRT using the geometric distance sorting method.

PubMed

Lan, Yihua; Li, Cunhua; Ren, Haozheng; Zhang, Yong; Min, Zhifang

2012-10-21

A new heuristic algorithm based on the so-called geometric distance sorting technique is proposed for solving the fluence map optimization with dose-volume constraints which is one of the most essential tasks for inverse planning in IMRT. The framework of the proposed method is basically an iterative process which begins with a simple linear constrained quadratic optimization model without considering any dose-volume constraints, and then the dose constraints for the voxels violating the dose-volume constraints are gradually added into the quadratic optimization model step by step until all the dose-volume constraints are satisfied. In each iteration step, an interior point method is adopted to solve each new linear constrained quadratic programming. For choosing the proper candidate voxels for the current dose constraint adding, a so-called geometric distance defined in the transformed standard quadratic form of the fluence map optimization model was used to guide the selection of the voxels. The new geometric distance sorting technique can mostly reduce the unexpected increase of the objective function value caused inevitably by the constraint adding. It can be regarded as an upgrading to the traditional dose sorting technique. The geometry explanation for the proposed method is also given and a proposition is proved to support our heuristic idea. In addition, a smart constraint adding/deleting strategy is designed to ensure a stable iteration convergence. The new algorithm is tested on four cases including head-neck, a prostate, a lung and an oropharyngeal, and compared with the algorithm based on the traditional dose sorting technique. Experimental results showed that the proposed method is more suitable for guiding the selection of new constraints than the traditional dose sorting method, especially for the cases whose target regions are in non-convex shapes. It is a more efficient optimization technique to some extent for choosing constraints than the dose sorting method. By integrating a smart constraint adding/deleting scheme within the iteration framework, the new technique builds up an improved algorithm for solving the fluence map optimization with dose-volume constraints.

Sorting cells by their density

PubMed Central

Norouzi, Nazila; Bhakta, Heran C.

2017-01-01

Sorting cells by their type is an important capability in biological research and medical diagnostics. However, most cell sorting techniques rely on labels or tags, which may have limited availability and specificity. Sorting different cell types by their different physical properties is an attractive alternative to labels because all cells intrinsically have these physical properties. But some physical properties, like cell size, vary significantly from cell to cell within a cell type; this makes it difficult to identify and sort cells based on their sizes alone. In this work we continuously sort different cells types by their density, a physical property with much lower cell-to-cell variation within a cell type (and therefore greater potential to discriminate different cell types) than other physical properties. We accomplish this using a 3D-printed microfluidic chip containing a horizontal flowing micron-scale density gradient. As cells flow through the chip, Earth’s gravity makes each cell move vertically to the point where the cell’s density matches the surrounding fluid’s density. When the horizontal channel then splits, cells with different densities are routed to different outlets. As a proof of concept, we use our density sorter chip to sort polymer microbeads by their material (polyethylene and polystyrene) and blood cells by their type (white blood cells and red blood cells). The chip enriches the fraction of white blood cells in a blood sample from 0.1% (in whole blood) to nearly 98% (in the output of the chip), a 1000x enrichment. Any researcher with access to a 3D printer can easily replicate our density sorter chip and use it in their own research using the design files provided as online Supporting Information. Additionally, researchers can simulate the performance of a density sorter chip in their own applications using the Python-based simulation software that accompanies this work. The simplicity, resolution, and throughput of this technique make it suitable for isolating even rare cell types in complex biological samples, in a wide variety of different research and clinical applications. PMID:28723908

Short communication: Feed sorting of dairy heifers is influenced by method of dietary transition.

PubMed

Miller-Cushon, E K; Vogel, J P; DeVries, T J

2015-04-01

This study investigated the effect of exposing heifers to individual feed components on the extent and pattern of feed sorting upon transition to a novel ration. Holstein heifers (394 ± 62 d old, weighing 409.8 ± 37.3 kg; mean ± SD), consuming a familiar mixed silage-based ration [55% corn silage and 45% haylage, dry matter (DM) basis], were transitioned to a novel total mixed ration [TMR; 41.6% haylage, 36.5% corn silage, 14.6% high-moisture corn, and 7.3% protein supplement, DM basis] by 1 of 2 treatments: direct transition to novel TMR (DIR; n = 5) or exposure to novel TMR components individually before receiving novel TMR (COM; n = 6). During the baseline period (d 1 to 4), all heifers were offered the familiar silage-based ration. During transition (d 5 to 12), DIR heifers received the novel TMR, whereas COM heifers received the novel TMR components offered separately, in amounts according to TMR composition (target 15% orts). After transition (d 13 to 20), all heifers received the novel TMR. Feed intake and feeding time were determined daily and fresh feed and individual orts were sampled every 2d for particle size analysis and neutral detergent fiber content. The particle size separator consisted of 3 screens (18, 9, and 1.18 mm) and a bottom pan, resulting in 4 fractions (long, medium, short, and fine). Sorting activity for each fraction was calculated as actual intake expressed as a percentage of predicted intake. We detected no effect of treatment on dry matter intake or feeding time. After transition to the novel TMR, COM heifers sorted to a greater extent than did DIR heifers, sorting against long particles (95.4 vs. 98.9%) and for short particles (101.7 vs. 100.6%). Differences in sorting patterns resulted in COM heifers tending to have lower neutral detergent fiber intake as a percentage of predicted intake (98.9 vs. 100.5%). The results of this study suggest that the degree of feed sorting may be influenced by method of transition to a novel ration. Copyright © 2015 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A task analysis of the shift from teacher instructions to self-instructions in performing an in-common task.

PubMed

Grote, I; Rosales, J; Baer, D M

1996-11-01

Three preschool children repeatedly did four kinds of sorts with a deck of stimulus cards: a difficult, untaught target sort and three other sorts considered analytic of self-instructing the target performance. The untaught target sort was to find in a deck of cards those matching what two sample cards had in common. Most preschool children must be taught to mediate this problem. The three other kinds of sorts taught skills involved in the target performance or its mediation. As correct self-instructive talk emerged in the target sorts, it was confirmed. The untaught target sorts were interspersed infrequently among the three alternating directly taught skill sorts, to see if accurate target sorts, and accurate self-instructive talk about the target sorts, would emerge as the three skill sorts were mastered. As all the sorts progressed, increasing accuracy was seen first in the skill sorts and then in the untaught target sorts. All three subjects showed subsequent generalization to new target sorts involving other stimulus sets. Correct spontaneous self-instructions about the target sorts increased from near zero at the beginning of the experiment to consistency at its end. Thus the three skill sorts appeared sufficient for the emergence of a self-instructed solution to the previously insoluble target performance.

Comparison and evaluation of mitotic figures in oral epithelial dysplasia using crystal violet and Feulgen stain.

PubMed

Rao, Roopa S; Patil, Shankargouda; Agarwal, Anveeta

2014-05-01

Routine staining procedures often pose a problem in differentiating a mitotic cell from an apoptotic cell, deteriorating the reliability of histology grading. Although various new methods have been recommended for identifying mitotic figures (MFs) in tissues, the time factor and cost makes them less feasible. Thus, an attempt was made to evaluate the efficacy of crystal violet and Feulgen reaction in identifying MFs and also to see for any variation in the number of MFs in various grades of Epithelial dysplasia. 1. Using crystal violet and Feulgen stain in the identification and counting of MFs on diagnosed cases of epithelial dysplasia and thereby to evaluate their efficacy. 2. To evaluate the variation in the number of MFs in various grades of epithelial dysplasia. The study sample includes retrieval of 30 formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue sections diagnosed for different grades of epithelial dysplasia (WHO grading system, 2005) from the archives, Department of Oral Pathology, MSRDC, Bengaluru. Ten tissue sections each of mild, moderate and severe epithelial dysplasia were stained with H&E, Feulgen and 1% crystal violet stains and the number of MFs were counted. Five cases of cervical carcinoma were taken as control. Stained sections were compared, and data obtained was statistically analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. A significant increase in the number of MFs (p = 0.02) was observed in Feulgen stained sections as compared to H&E stain. Feulgen stain can be considered as a simple, reliable, cost-effective and reproducible method of staining MFs.

Enhanced photocatalytic performance of CeO2-TiO2 nanocomposite for degradation of crystal violet dye and industrial waste effluent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zahoor, Mehvish; Arshad, Amara; Khan, Yaqoob; Iqbal, Mazhar; Bajwa, Sadia Zafar; Soomro, Razium Ali; Ahmad, Ishaq; Butt, Faheem K.; Iqbal, M. Zubair; Wu, Aiguo; Khan, Waheed S.

2018-03-01

This study presents the synthesis of CeO2-TiO2 nanocomposite and its potential application for the visible light-driven photocatalytic degradation of model crystal violet dye as well as real industrial waste water. The ceria-titania (CeO2-TiO2) nanocomposite material was synthesised using facile hydrothermal route without the assistance of any template molecule. As-prepared composite was characterised by SEM, TEM, HRTEM, XRD, XPS for surface features, morphological and crystalline characters. The formed nanostructures were determined to possess crystal-like geometrical shape and average size less than 100 nm. The as-synthesised nanocomposite was further investigated for their heterogeneous photocatalytic potential against the oxidative degradation of CV dye taken as model pollutant. The photo-catalytic performance of the as-synthesised material was evaluated both under ultra-violet as well as visible light. Best photocatalytic performance was achieved under visible light with complete degradation (100%) exhibited within 60 min of irradiation time. The kinetics of the photocatalytic process were also considered and the reaction rate constant for CeO2-TiO2 nanocomposite was determined to be 0.0125 and 0.0662 min-1 for ultra-violet and visible region, respectively. In addition, the as-synthesised nanocomposite demonstrated promising results when considered for the photo-catalytic degradation of coloured industrial waste water collected from local textile industry situated in Faisalabad region of Pakistan. Enhanced photo-catalytic performance of CeO2-TiO2 nanocomposite was proposed owing to heterostructure formation leading to reduced electron-hole recombination.

Do patients with schizophrenia use prosody to encode contrastive discourse status?

PubMed Central

Michelas, Amandine; Faget, Catherine; Portes, Cristel; Lienhart, Anne-Sophie; Boyer, Laurent; Lançon, Christophe; Champagne-Lavau, Maud

2014-01-01

Patients with schizophrenia (SZ) often display social cognition disorders, including Theory of Mind (ToM) impairments and communication disruptions. Thought language disorders appear to be primarily a disruption of pragmatics, SZ can also experience difficulties at other linguistic levels including the prosodic one. Here, using an interactive paradigm, we showed that SZ individuals did not use prosodic phrasing to encode the contrastive status of discourse referents in French. We used a semi-spontaneous task to elicit noun-adjective pairs in which the noun in the second noun-adjective fragment was identical to the noun in the first fragment (e.g., BONBONS marron “brown candies” vs. BONBONS violets “purple candies”) or could contrast with it (e.g., BOUGIES violettes “purple candles” vs. BONBONS violets “purple candies”). We found that healthy controls parsed the target noun in the second noun-adjective fragment separately from the color adjective, to warn their interlocutor that this noun constituted a contrastive entity (e.g., BOUGIES violettes followed by [BONBONS] [violets]) compared to when it referred to the same object as in the first fragment (e.g., BONBONS marron followed by [BONBONS violets]). On the contrary, SZ individuals did not use prosodic phrasing to encode contrastive status of target nouns. In addition, SZ's difficulties to use prosody of contrast were correlated to their score in a classical ToM task (i.e., the hinting task). Taken together, our data provide evidence that SZ patients exhibit difficulties to prosodically encode discourse statuses and sketch a potential relationship between ToM and the use of linguistic prosody. PMID:25101025

Web page sorting algorithm based on query keyword distance relation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Han; Cui, Hong Gang; Tang, Hao

2017-08-01

In order to optimize the problem of page sorting, according to the search keywords in the web page in the relationship between the characteristics of the proposed query keywords clustering ideas. And it is converted into the degree of aggregation of the search keywords in the web page. Based on the PageRank algorithm, the clustering degree factor of the query keyword is added to make it possible to participate in the quantitative calculation. This paper proposes an improved algorithm for PageRank based on the distance relation between search keywords. The experimental results show the feasibility and effectiveness of the method.

Switch-on fluorescent strategy based on crystal violet-functionalized CdTe quantum dots for detecting L-cysteine and glutathione in water and urine.

PubMed

Sheng, Zhen; Chen, Ligang

2017-10-01

The concentration of L-cysteine (Cys) and glutathione (GSH) is closely related to the critical risk of various diseases. In our study, a new rapid method for the determination of Cys and GSH in water and urine samples has been developed using a fluorescent probe technique, which was based on crystal violet (CV)-functionalized CdTe quantum dots (QDs). The original QDs emitted fluorescence light, which was turned off upon adding CV. This conjugation of CV and QDs could be attributed to electrostatic interaction between COO - of mercaptopropionic acid (MPA) on the surface of QDs and N + of CV in aqueous solution. In addition, Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) also occurred between CdTe QDs and CV. After adding Cys or GSH to the solution, Cys or GSH exhibited a stronger binding preference toward Cd 2+ than Cd 2+ -MPA, which disturbed the interaction between MPA and QDs. Thus, most MPA was able to be separated from the surface of QDs because of the participation of Cys or GSH. Then, the fluorescence intensity of the CdTe QDs was enhanced. Good linear relationships were obtained in the range of 0.02-40 μg mL -1 and 0.02-50 μg mL -1 , and the detection limits were calculated as 10.5 ng mL -1 and 8.2 ng mL -1 , for Cys and GSH, respectively. In addition, the concentrations of biological thiols in water and urine samples were determined by the standard addition method using Cys as the standard; the quantitative recoveries were in the range of 97.3-105.8%, and relative standard deviations (RSDs) ranged from 2.5 to 3.7%. The method had several unique properties, such as simplicity, lower cost, high sensitivity, and environmental acceptability. Graphical abstract Crystal violet-functionalized CdTe quantum dots for detecting L-cysteine and glutathione with switch-on fluorescent strategy.

Iridescence of a Marine Bacterium and Classification of Prokaryotic Structural Colors

PubMed Central

Vukusic, Peter; Luke, Stephen

2012-01-01

Iridescence is a property of structural color that is occasionally encountered in higher eukaryotes but that has been poorly documented in the prokaryotic kingdom. In the present work, we describe a marine bacterium, identified as Cellulophaga lytica, isolated from the surface of an anemone, that exhibits bright green iridescent colonies under direct epi-illumination. This phenomenon has not previously been investigated in detail. In this study, color changes of C. lytica colonies were observed at various angles of direct illumination or observation. Its iridescent green appearance was dominant on various growth media. Red and violet colors were also discerned on colony edges. Remarkable C. lytica bacterial iridescence was revealed and characterized using high-resolution optical spectrometry. In addition to this, by culturing other bacterial strains to which various forms of faintly iridescent traits have previously been attributed, we identify four principal appearance characteristics of structural color in prokaryotes. A new general classification of bacterial iridescence is therefore proposed in this study. Furthermore, a specific separate class is described for iridescent C. lytica strains because they exhibit what is so far a unique intense glitter-like iridescence in reflection. C. lytica is the first prokaryote discovered to produce the same sort of intense iridescence under direct illumination as that associated with higher eukaryotes, like some insects and birds. Due to the nature of bacterial biology, cultivation, and ubiquity, this discovery may be of significant interest for both ecological and nanoscience endeavors. PMID:22267664

Sorting variables for each case: a new algorithm to calculate injury severity score (ISS) using SPSS-PC.

PubMed

Linn, S

One of the more often used measures of multiple injuries is the injury severity score (ISS). Determination of the ISS is based on the abbreviated injury scale (AIS). This paper suggests a new algorithm to sort the AISs for each case and calculate ISS. The program uses unsorted abbreviated injury scale (AIS) levels for each case and rearranges them in descending order. The first three sorted AISs representing the three most severe injuries of a person are then used to calculate injury severity score (ISS). This algorithm should be useful for analyses of clusters of injuries especially when more patients have multiple injuries.

Visualization of Stereoselective Supramolecular Polymers by Chirality-Controlled Energy Transfer.

PubMed

Sarkar, Aritra; Dhiman, Shikha; Chalishazar, Aditya; George, Subi J

2017-10-23

Chirality-driven self-sorting is envisaged to efficiently control functional properties in supramolecular materials. However, the challenge arises because of a lack of analytical methods to directly monitor the enantioselectivity of the resulting supramolecular assemblies. Presented herein are two fluorescent core-substituted naphthalene-diimide-based donor and acceptor molecules with minimal structural mismatch and they comprise strong self-recognizing chiral motifs to determine the self-sorting process. As a consequence, stereoselective supramolecular polymerization with an unprecedented chirality control over energy transfer has been achieved. This chirality-controlled energy transfer has been further exploited as an efficient probe to visualize microscopically the chirality driven self-sorting. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Dielectrophoretic focusing integrated pulsed laser activated cell sorting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Xiongfeng; Kung, Yu-Chun; Wu, Ting-Hsiang; Teitell, Michael A.; Chiou, Pei-Yu

2017-08-01

We present a pulsed laser activated cell sorter (PLACS) integrated with novel sheathless size-independent dielectrophoretic (DEP) focusing. Microfluidic fluorescence activated cell sorting (μFACS) systems aim to provide a fully enclosed environment for sterile cell sorting and integration with upstream and downstream microfluidic modules. Among them, PLACS has shown a great potential in achieving comparable performance to commercial aerosol-based FACS (>90% purity at 25,000 cells sec-1). However conventional sheath flow focusing method suffers a severe sample dilution issue. Here we demonstrate a novel dielectrophoresis-integrated pulsed laser activated cell sorter (DEP-PLACS). It consists of a microfluidic channel with 3D electrodes laid out to provide a tunnel-shaped electric field profile along a 4cmlong channel for sheathlessly focusing microparticles/cells into a single stream in high-speed microfluidic flows. All focused particles pass through the fluorescence detection zone along the same streamline regardless of their sizes and types. Upon detection of target fluorescent particles, a nanosecond laser pulse is triggered and focused in a neighboring channel to generate a rapidly expanding cavitation bubble for precise sorting. DEP-PLACS has achieved a sorting purity of 91% for polystyrene beads at a throughput of 1,500 particle/sec.

Investigation of TiO2 photocatalyst performance for decolorization in the presence of hydrodynamic cavitation as hybrid AOP.

PubMed

Bethi, Bhaskar; Sonawane, S H; Rohit, G S; Holkar, C R; Pinjari, D V; Bhanvase, B A; Pandit, A B

2016-01-01

In this article, an acoustic cavitation engineered novel approach for the synthesis of TiO2, cerium and Fe doped TiO2 nanophotocatalysts is reported. The prepared TiO2, cerium and Fe doped TiO2 nanophotocatalysts were characterized by XRD and TEM analysis to evaluate its structure and morphology. Photo catalytic performance of undoped TiO2 catalyst was investigated for the decolorization of crystal violet dye in aqueous solution at pH of 6.5 in the presence of hydro dynamic cavitation. Effect of catalyst doping with Fe and Ce was also studied for the decolorization of crystal violet dye. The results shows that, 0.8% of Fe-doped TiO2 exhibits maximum photocatalytic activity in the decolorization study of crystal violet dye due to the presence of Fe in the TiO2 and it may acts as a fenton reagent. Kinetic studies have also been reported for the hybrid AOP (HAOP) that followed the pseudo first-order reaction kinetics. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Luminescent properties and energy transfer in the green phosphors LaBSiO5:Tb3+, Ce3+.

PubMed

Wang, Zhengliang; Cheng, Ping; He, Pei; Liu, Yong; Zhou, Yayun; Zhou, Qiang

2015-09-01

LaBSiO5 phosphors doped with Ce(3+) and Tb(3+) were synthesized using the conventional solid-state method at 1100 °C. The phase purity and luminescent properties of these phosphors are investigated. LaBSiO5:Tb(3+) phosphors show intense green emission, and LaBSiO5 phosphors doped with Ce(3+) show blue-violet emission under UV light excitation. LaBSiO5 phosphors co-doped with Ce(3+) and Tb(3+) exhibit blue-violet and green emission under excitation by UV light. The blue-violet emission is due to the 5d-4f transition of Ce(3+) and the green emission is ascribed to the (5) D4 → (7) F5 transition of Tb(3+). The spectral overlap between the excitation band of Tb(3+) and the emission band of Ce(3+) supports the occurrence of energy transfer from Ce(3+) to Tb(3+), and the energy transfer process was investigated. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Using violet laser-induced chlorophyll fluorescence emission spectra for crop yield assessment of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp) varieties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, Benjamin; Buah-Bassuah, Paul K.; Tetteh, Jonathan P.

2004-07-01

The use of violet laser-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (LICF) emission spectra to monitor the growth of five varieties of cowpea in the University of Cape Coast Botanical Garden is presented. Radiation from a continuous-wave violet laser diode emitting at 396 nm through a fibre is closely incident on in vivo leaves of cowpea to excite chlorophyll fluorescence, which is detected by an integrated spectrometer with CCD readout. The chlorophyll fluorescence spectra with peaks at 683 and 731 nm were used for growth monitoring of the cowpea plants over three weeks and analysed using Gaussian spectral functions with curve fitted parameters to determine the peak positions, area under the spectral curve and the intensity ratio F683/F731. The variation in the intensity ratio of the chlorophyll bands showed sensitive changes indicating the photosynthetic activity of the cowpea varieties. A discussion of the fluorescence result as compared to conventional assessment is presented with regard to discrimination between the cowpea varieties in terms of crop yield performance.

Structure and photoluminescence properties of TeO2-core/TiO2-shell nanowires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sunghoon; An, Soyeon; Lee, Chongmu

2013-12-01

TeO2-core/TiO2-shell nanowires were fabricated by thermal evaporation of Te powders and MOCVD of TiO2. The as-synthesized TeO2 nanowires showed a weak broad violet band centered at approximately 430 nm. The emission peak was shifted to a bluish violet region (∼455 nm) by the encapsulation of the nanowires with a TiO2 thin film. The intensity of the major emission from the core-shell nanowires showed strong dependence on the shell layer thickness. The strongest emission was obtained for the shell layer thickness of ∼15 nm and its intensity was approximately 80 times higher than that of the violet emission from the as-synthesized TeO2 nanowires. This enhancement in emission intensity is attributed to the subwavelength optical resonant cavity formation in the shell layer. The major emission intensity was enhanced further and blue-shifted by annealing, which might be attributed to the increase in the Ti interstitial and O vacancy concentrations in the TeO2 cores during annealing.

Chemical mechanism of the Gram stain and synthesis of a new electron-opaque marker for electron microscopy which replaces the iodine mordant of the stain.

PubMed Central

Davies, J A; Anderson, G K; Beveridge, T J; Clark, H C

1983-01-01

Crystal violet (hexamethyl-para-rosaniline chloride) interacts with aqueous KI-I2 during the Gram stain via a simple metathetical anion exchange to produce a chemical precipitate. There is an apparent 1:1 stoichiometry between anion (I-) and cation (hexamethyl-para-rosaniline+) during the reaction and, since the small chloride anion is replaced by the bulkier iodide, the complex formed becomes insoluble in water. It is this same precipitate which forms in the cellular substance of bacteria (both gram-positive and gram-negative types) and which initiates the Gram reaction. Potassium trichloro(eta 2-ethylene)-platinum(II), as an electronopaque marker for electron microscopy, was chemically synthesized, and it produced an anion in aqueous solution which was compatible with crystal violet for the Gram stain. It interacted with crystal violet in a similar manner as iodide to produce an insoluble complex which was chemically and physically analogous to the dye-iodide precipitate. This platinum anion therefore allows the Gram staining mechanism to be followed by electron microscopy. Images PMID:6195147

Effect of various visible light photoinitiators on the polymerization and color of light-activated resins.

PubMed

Arikawa, Hiroyuki; Takahashi, Hideo; Kanie, Takahito; Ban, Seiji

2009-07-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate effects of various visible light photoinitiators on the polymerization efficiency and color of the light-activated resins. Four photoinitiators, including camphorquinone, phenylpropanedione, monoacrylphosphine oxide (TPO), and bisacrylphosphine oxide (Ir819), were used. Each photoinitiator was dissolved in a Bis-GMA and TEGDMA monomer mixture. Materials were polymerized using dental quartz-tungsten halogen lamp (QTH), plasma-ark lamp and blue LED light-curing units, and a custom-made violet LED light unit. The degree of monomer conversion and CIE L*a*b* color values of the resins were measured using a FTIR and spectral transmittance meter. The degree of monomer conversions of TPO- and Ir819-containing resins polymerized with the violet-LED unit were higher than camphorquinone-containing resin polymerized with the QTH light-curing unit. The lowest color values were observed for the TPO-containing resin. Our results indicate that the TPO photoinitiator and the violet-LED light unit may provide a useful and improved photopolymerization system for dental light-activated resins.

Effect of QW thickness and numbers on performance characteristics of deep violet InGaN MQW lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alahyarizadeh, Gh.; Amirhoseiny, M.; Hassan, Z.

2015-03-01

The performance characteristics of deep violet indium gallium nitride (InGaN) multiquantum well (MQW) laser diodes (LDs) with an emission wavelength of around 390 nm have been investigated using the integrated system engineering technical computer aided design (ISE-TCAD) software. A comparative study on the effect of quantum well (QW) thickness and number on electrical and optical performance of deep violet In0.082Ga0.918N/GaN MQW LDs have been carried out. The simulation results showed that the highest slope efficiency and external differential quantum efficiency (DQE), as well as the lowest threshold current are obtained when the number of wells is two. The different QW thickness values of 2.2, 2.5, 2.8, 3 and 3.2 nm were compared and the best results were achieved for 2.5 nm QW thickness. The radiative recombination rate decreases with increasing QW thickness because of decreasing electron and hole carrier densities in wells. By increasing QW thickness, output power decreases and threshold current increases.

Adsorption of gentian violet dyes in aqueous solution on microporous AlPOs molecular sieves synthesized by ionothermal method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fortas, W.; Djelad, A.; Hasnaoui, M. A.; Sassi, M.; Bengueddach, A.

2018-02-01

In this work, AlPO-34, like-chabazite (CHA) zeolite, was ionothermally prepared using the ionic liquid (IL), 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride [EMIMCl], as solvent. The solids obtained were characterized by x-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal analysis (TG) and nitrogen adsorption/desorption at 77.3 K. The results show that the ionic liquid is occluded in the AlPO-34 framework and consequently it acts also as a structure-directing agent. The variation of chemical composition led to AlPO-34 materials with different crystal sizes and morphologies. The well crystallized AlPO-34 material was used as adsorbent for Crystal Violet (CV) dye removal from aqueous solutions. The effect of adsorption parameters such as pH and initial concentration were investigated. It was found that adsorption dyes is favorable at pH = 6. The adsorption isotherm data follow the Langmuir equation in which parameters are calculated. The selected AlPO-34 sample exhibited a high crystal violet dye removal of 46.08 mg g-1 at pH = 6.

Developing educational competencies for dissemination and implementation research training programs: an exploratory analysis using card sorts.

PubMed

Padek, Margaret; Colditz, Graham; Dobbins, Maureen; Koscielniak, Nikolas; Proctor, Enola K; Sales, Anne E; Brownson, Ross C

2015-08-12

With demand increasing for dissemination and implementation (D&I) training programs in the USA and other countries, more structured, competency-based, and tested curricula are needed to guide training programs. There are many benefits to the use of competencies in practice-based education such as the establishment of rigorous standards as well as providing an additional metrics for development and growth. As the first aim of a D&I training grant, an exploratory study was conducted to establish a new set of D&I competencies to guide training in D&I research. Based upon existing D&I training literature, the leadership team compiled an initial list of competencies. The research team then engaged 16 additional colleagues in the area of D&I science to provide suggestions to the initial list. The competency list was then additionally narrowed to 43 unique competencies following feedback elicited from these D&I researchers. Three hundred additional D&I researchers were then invited via email to complete a card sort in which the list of competencies were sorted into three categories of experience levels. Participants had previous first-hand experience with D&I or knowledge translation training programs in the past. Participants reported their self-identified D&I expertise level as well as the country in which their home institution is located. A mean score was calculated for each competency based on their experience level categorization. From these mean scores, beginner-, intermediate-, and advanced-level tertiles were created for the competencies. The card sort request achieved a 41 % response rate (n = 124). The list of 43 competencies was organized into four broad domains and sorted based on their experience level score. Eleven competencies were classified into the "Beginner" category, 27 into "Intermediate," and 5 into "Advanced." Education and training developers can use this competency list to formalize future trainings in D&I research, create more evidence-informed curricula, and enable overall capacity building and accompanying metrics in the field of D&I training and research.

Critical Role of the Sorting Polymer in Carbon Nanotube-Based Minority Carrier Devices.

PubMed

Mallajosyula, Arun T; Nie, Wanyi; Gupta, Gautam; Blackburn, Jeffrey L; Doorn, Stephen K; Mohite, Aditya D

2016-12-27

A prerequisite for carbon nanotube-based optoelectronic devices is the ability to sort them into a pure semiconductor phase. One of the most common sorting routes is enabled through using specific wrapping polymers. Here we show that subtle changes in the polymer structure can have a dramatic influence on the figures of merit of a carbon nanotube-based photovoltaic device. By comparing two commonly used polyfluorenes (PFO and PFO-BPy) for wrapping (7,5) and (6,5) chirality SWCNTs, we demonstrate that they have contrasting effects on the device efficiency. We attribute this to the differences in their ability to efficiently transfer charge. Although PFO may act as an efficient interfacial layer at the anode, PFO-BPy, having the additional pyridine side groups, forms a high resistance layer degrading the device efficiency. By comparing PFO|C 60 and C 60 -only devices, we found that presence of a PFO layer at low optical densities resulted in the increase of all three solar cell parameters, giving nearly an order of magnitude higher efficiency over that of C 60 -only devices. In addition, with a relatively higher contribution to photocurrent from the PFO-C 60 interface, an open circuit voltage of 0.55 V was obtained for PFO-(7,5)-C 60 devices. On the other hand, PFO-BPy does not affect the open circuit voltage but drastically reduces the short circuit current density. These results indicate that the charge transport properties and energy levels of the sorting polymers have to be taken into account to fully understand their effect on carbon nanotube-based solar cells.

Design and simulation of programmable relational optoelectronic time-pulse coded processors as base elements for sorting neural networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krasilenko, Vladimir G.; Nikolsky, Alexander I.; Lazarev, Alexander A.; Lazareva, Maria V.

2010-05-01

In the paper we show that the biologically motivated conception of time-pulse encoding usage gives a set of advantages (single methodological basis, universality, tuning simplicity, learning and programming et al) at creation and design of sensor systems with parallel input-output and processing for 2D structures hybrid and next generations neuro-fuzzy neurocomputers. We show design principles of programmable relational optoelectronic time-pulse encoded processors on the base of continuous logic, order logic and temporal waves processes. We consider a structure that execute analog signal extraction, analog and time-pulse coded variables sorting. We offer optoelectronic realization of such base relational order logic element, that consists of time-pulse coded photoconverters (pulse-width and pulse-phase modulators) with direct and complementary outputs, sorting network on logical elements and programmable commutation blocks. We make technical parameters estimations of devices and processors on such base elements by simulation and experimental research: optical input signals power 0.2 - 20 uW, processing time 1 - 10 us, supply voltage 1 - 3 V, consumption power 10 - 100 uW, extended functional possibilities, learning possibilities. We discuss some aspects of possible rules and principles of learning and programmable tuning on required function, relational operation and realization of hardware blocks for modifications of such processors. We show that it is possible to create sorting machines, neural networks and hybrid data-processing systems with untraditional numerical systems and pictures operands on the basis of such quasiuniversal hardware simple blocks with flexible programmable tuning.

Generation of blue chrysanthemums by anthocyanin B-ring hydroxylation and glucosylation and its coloration mechanism.

PubMed

Noda, Naonobu; Yoshioka, Satoshi; Kishimoto, Sanae; Nakayama, Masayoshi; Douzono, Mitsuru; Tanaka, Yoshikazu; Aida, Ryutaro

2017-07-01

Various colored cultivars of ornamental flowers have been bred by hybridization and mutation breeding; however, the generation of blue flowers for major cut flower plants, such as roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations, has not been achieved by conventional breeding or genetic engineering. Most blue-hued flowers contain delphinidin-based anthocyanins; therefore, delphinidin-producing carnation, rose, and chrysanthemum flowers have been generated by overexpression of the gene encoding flavonoid 3',5'-hydroxylase (F3'5'H), the key enzyme for delphinidin biosynthesis. Even so, the flowers are purple/violet rather than blue. To generate true blue flowers, blue pigments, such as polyacylated anthocyanins and metal complexes, must be introduced by metabolic engineering; however, introducing and controlling multiple transgenes in plants are complicated processes. We succeeded in generating blue chrysanthemum flowers by introduction of butterfly pea UDP (uridine diphosphate)-glucose:anthocyanin 3',5'- O -glucosyltransferase gene, in addition to the expression of the Canterbury bells F3'5'H . Newly synthesized 3',5'-diglucosylated delphinidin-based anthocyanins exhibited a violet color under the weakly acidic pH conditions of flower petal juice and showed a blue color only through intermolecular association, termed "copigmentation," with flavone glucosides in planta. Thus, we achieved the development of blue color by a two-step modification of the anthocyanin structure. This simple method is a promising approach to generate blue flowers in various ornamental plants by metabolic engineering.

A novel automated spike sorting algorithm with adaptable feature extraction.

PubMed

Bestel, Robert; Daus, Andreas W; Thielemann, Christiane

2012-10-15

To study the electrophysiological properties of neuronal networks, in vitro studies based on microelectrode arrays have become a viable tool for analysis. Although in constant progress, a challenging task still remains in this area: the development of an efficient spike sorting algorithm that allows an accurate signal analysis at the single-cell level. Most sorting algorithms currently available only extract a specific feature type, such as the principal components or Wavelet coefficients of the measured spike signals in order to separate different spike shapes generated by different neurons. However, due to the great variety in the obtained spike shapes, the derivation of an optimal feature set is still a very complex issue that current algorithms struggle with. To address this problem, we propose a novel algorithm that (i) extracts a variety of geometric, Wavelet and principal component-based features and (ii) automatically derives a feature subset, most suitable for sorting an individual set of spike signals. Thus, there is a new approach that evaluates the probability distribution of the obtained spike features and consequently determines the candidates most suitable for the actual spike sorting. These candidates can be formed into an individually adjusted set of spike features, allowing a separation of the various shapes present in the obtained neuronal signal by a subsequent expectation maximisation clustering algorithm. Test results with simulated data files and data obtained from chick embryonic neurons cultured on microelectrode arrays showed an excellent classification result, indicating the superior performance of the described algorithm approach. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated characterization and assembly of individual nanowires for device fabrication.

PubMed

Yu, Kaiyan; Yi, Jingang; Shan, Jerry W

2018-05-15

The automated sorting and positioning of nanowires and nanotubes is essential to enabling the scalable manufacturing of nanodevices for a variety of applications. However, two fundamental challenges still remain: (i) automated placement of individual nanostructures in precise locations, and (ii) the characterization and sorting of highly variable nanomaterials to construct well-controlled nanodevices. Here, we propose and demonstrate an integrated, electric-field based method for the simultaneous automated characterization, manipulation, and assembly of nanowires (ACMAN) with selectable electrical conductivities into nanodevices. We combine contactless and solution-based electro-orientation spectroscopy and electrophoresis-based motion-control, planning and manipulation strategies to simultaneously characterize and manipulate multiple individual nanowires. These nanowires can be selected according to their electrical characteristics and precisely positioned at different locations in a low-conductivity liquid to form functional nanodevices with desired electrical properties. We validate the ACMAN design by assembling field-effect transistors (FETs) with silicon nanowires of selected electrical conductivities. The design scheme provides a key enabling technology for the scalable, automated sorting and assembly of nanowires and nanotubes to build functional nanodevices.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Vascular Target Discovery in Breast Cancer-Associated Angiogenesis

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-09-01

Matrigel plug and sorted by flow cytometry . Sorting of these retrieved cells based on co-expression of the GFP marker and cell- surface endothelial...express the green fluorescent protein (GFP) and clonal MSC populations can be isolated and phenotypically and genotypically analyzed by flow cytometry ...monoclonal populations of these GFP+ murine MSCs and conducted flow cytometry analysis to determine their phenotype. Specifically, we determined if

BRMS1 Suppresses Breast Cancer Metastasis to Bone via Its Regulation of MicroRNA-125b and Downstream Attenuation of TNF-alpha and HER2 Signaling Pathways

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

genes regulating focal adhesion assembly, such as a5 integrin, Tenascin C, Talin-1, Profilin 1, and Actinin [35]. Intravital microscopy had shown...adhere for time indicated, at which point cells were fixed and stainedwith crystal violet. Representative images for times 5, 10, 15, 30, and 60 min... imaged by time-lapse microscopy for 1 h or fixed and stained with crystal violet at times indicated. As shown in Figure 1C and quantified in Figure 1D

Induction of betacyanin formation in Chenopodium album cell cultures by co-cultivation with the duckweed Wolffia arrhiza.

PubMed

Rudat, A; Ehwald, R

1994-02-01

Cells of Chenopodium album and whole plants of the duckweed Wolffia arrhiza were cocultivated. In the presence of Wolffia arrhiza the synthesis of a red-violet pigment (betacyanin) was induced in several cells or cell clusters of Chenopodium album in the light. The exchange of solutes through the liquid phase was necessary for the induction of pigment formation. The red-violet cells could be selected and subcultivated resulting in a red callus. A reddish cell suspension was obtained in liquid culture in the presence of the duckweeds.

The Principle of the Micro-Electronic Neural Bridge and a Prototype System Design.

PubMed

Huang, Zong-Hao; Wang, Zhi-Gong; Lu, Xiao-Ying; Li, Wen-Yuan; Zhou, Yu-Xuan; Shen, Xiao-Yan; Zhao, Xin-Tai

2016-01-01

The micro-electronic neural bridge (MENB) aims to rebuild lost motor function of paralyzed humans by routing movement-related signals from the brain, around the damage part in the spinal cord, to the external effectors. This study focused on the prototype system design of the MENB, including the principle of the MENB, the neural signal detecting circuit and the functional electrical stimulation (FES) circuit design, and the spike detecting and sorting algorithm. In this study, we developed a novel improved amplitude threshold spike detecting method based on variable forward difference threshold for both training and bridging phase. The discrete wavelet transform (DWT), a new level feature coefficient selection method based on Lilliefors test, and the k-means clustering method based on Mahalanobis distance were used for spike sorting. A real-time online spike detecting and sorting algorithm based on DWT and Euclidean distance was also implemented for the bridging phase. Tested by the data sets available at Caltech, in the training phase, the average sensitivity, specificity, and clustering accuracies are 99.43%, 97.83%, and 95.45%, respectively. Validated by the three-fold cross-validation method, the average sensitivity, specificity, and classification accuracy are 99.43%, 97.70%, and 96.46%, respectively.

Surgical Marking Pen Dye Inhibits Saphenous Vein Cell Proliferation and Migration in Saphenous Vein Graft Tissue

PubMed Central

Kikuchi, Shinsuke; Kenagy, Richard D; Gao, Lu; Wight, Thomas N; Azuma, Nobuyoshi; Sobel, Michael; Clowes, Alexander W

2014-01-01

Objective Markers containing dyes such as crystal violet (CAS 548-62-9) are routinely used on the adventitia of vein bypass grafts to avoid twisting during placement. Since little is known about how these dyes affect vein graft healing and function, we determined the effect of crystal violet on cell migration and proliferation, which are responses to injury after grafting. Methods Fresh human saphenous veins were obtained as residual specimens from leg bypass surgeries. Portions of the vein that had been surgically marked with crystal violet were analyzed separately from those that had no dye marking. In the laboratory, they were split into easily dissected inner and outer layers after removal of endothelium. This f cleavage plane was within the circular muscle layer of the media. Cell migration from explants was measured daily as either 1) % migration positive explants, which exclusively measures migration, or 2) the number of cells on the plastic surrounding each explant, which measures migration plus proliferation. Cell proliferation and apoptosis (Ki67 and TUNEL staining, respectively) were determined in dye-marked and unmarked areas of cultured vein rings. The dose-dependent effects of crystal violet were measured for cell migration from explants as well as proliferation, migration, and death of cultured outer layer cells. Dye was extracted from explants with ethanol and quantified by spectrophotometry. Results There was significantly less cell migration from visibly blue, compared to unstained, outer layer explants by both methods. There was no significant difference in migration from inner layer explants adjacent to blue-stained or unstained sections of vein, because dye did not penetrate to the inner layer. Ki67 staining of vein in organ culture, which is a measure of proliferation, progressively increased up to 6 days in non-blue outer layer and was abolished in the blue outer layer. Evidence of apoptosis (TUNEL staining) was present throughout the wall and not different in blue-stained and unstained vein wall segments. Blue outer layer explants had 65.9±8.0 ng dye/explant compared to 2.1±1.3 for non-blue outer layer explants. Dye applied in vitro to either outer or inner layer explants dose-dependently inhibited migration (IC50=8.5 ng/explant). The IC50s of crystal violet for outer layer cell proliferation and migration were 0.1 and 1.2 μg/ml, while the EC50 for death was between 1 and 10 μg/ml. Conclusion Crystal violet inhibits venous cell migration and proliferation indicating that alternative methods should be considered for marking vein grafts. PMID:25935273

Crystal structure of the Streptomyces coelicolor sortase E1 transpeptidase provides insight into the binding mode of the novel class E sorting signal

DOE PAGES

Kattke, Michele D.; Chan, Albert H.; Duong, Andrew; ...

2016-12-09

Here, many species of Gram-positive bacteria use sortase transpeptidases to covalently affix proteins to their cell wall or to assemble pili. Sortase-displayed proteins perform critical and diverse functions for cell survival, including cell adhesion, nutrient acquisition, and morphological development, among others. Based on their amino acid sequences, there are at least six types of sortases (class A to F enzymes); however, class E enzymes have not been extensively studied. Class E sortases are used by soil and freshwater-dwelling Actinobacteria to display proteins that contain a non-canonical LAXTG sorting signal, which differs from 90% of known sorting signals by substitution ofmore » alanine for proline. Here we report the first crystal structure of a class E sortase, the 1.93 Å resolution structure of the SrtE1 enzyme from Streptomyces coelicolor. The active site is bound to a tripeptide, providing insight into the mechanism of substrate binding. SrtE1 possesses β3/β4 and β6/β7 active site loops that contact the LAXTG substrate and are structurally distinct from other classes. We propose that SrtE1 and other class E sortases employ a conserved tyrosine residue within their β3/β4 loop to recognize the amide nitrogen of alanine at position P3 of the sorting signal through a hydrogen bond, as seen here. Incapability of hydrogen-bonding with canonical proline-containing sorting signals likely contributes to class E substrate specificity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that surface anchoring of proteins involved in aerial hyphae formation requires an N-terminal segment in SrtE1 that is presumably positioned within the cytoplasm. Combined, our results reveal unique features within class E enzymes that enable them to recognize distinct sorting signals, and could facilitate the development of substrate-based inhibitors of this important enzyme family.« less

Does the Introduction of the Ranking Task in Valuation Studies Improve Data Quality and Reduce Inconsistencies? The Case of the EQ-5D-5L.

PubMed

Ramos-Goñi, Juan M; Rand-Hendriksen, Kim; Pinto-Prades, Jose Luis

2016-06-01

Time trade-off (TTO)-based valuation studies for the three-level version of the EuroQol five-dimensional questionnaire (EQ-5D) typically started off with a ranking task (ordering the health states by preference). This was not included in the protocol for the five-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L) valuation study. To test whether reintroducing a ranking task before the composite TTO (C-TTO) could help to reduce inconsistencies in C-TTO responses and improve the data quality. Respondents were randomly assigned to three study arms. The control arm was the present EQ-5D-5L study protocol, without ranking. The second arm (ranking without sorting) preceded the present protocol by asking respondents to rank the target health states using physical cards. The states were then valued in random order using C-TTO. In the third arm (ranking and sorting), the ranked states remained visible through the C-TTO tasks and the order of valuation was determined by the ranking. The study used only 10 EQ-5D-5L health states. We compared the C-TTO-based inconsistent pairs of health states and ties. The final sample size was 196 in the control arm, 205 in the ranking without sorting arm, and 199 in the ranking and sorting arm. The percentages of ties by respondents were 15.1%, 12.5%, and 12.6% for the control arm, the ranking without sorting arm, and the ranking and sorting arm, respectively. The extra cost for adding the ranking task was about 15%. The benefit does not justify the effort involved in the ranking task. For this reason, the addition of the ranking task to the present EQ-5D-5L valuation protocol is not an attractive option. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

ALGORITHM FOR SORTING GROUPED DATA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, J. D.

1994-01-01

It is often desirable to sort data sets in ascending or descending order. This becomes more difficult for grouped data, i.e., multiple sets of data, where each set of data involves several measurements or related elements. The sort becomes increasingly cumbersome when more than a few elements exist for each data set. In order to achieve an efficient sorting process, an algorithm has been devised in which the maximum most significant element is found, and then compared to each element in succession. The program was written to handle the daily temperature readings of the Voyager spacecraft, particularly those related to the special tracking requirements of Voyager 2. By reducing each data set to a single representative number, the sorting process becomes very easy. The first step in the process is to reduce the data set of width 'n' to a data set of width '1'. This is done by representing each data set by a polynomial of length 'n' based on the differences of the maximum and minimum elements. These single numbers are then sorted and converted back to obtain the original data sets. Required input data are the name of the data file to read and sort, and the starting and ending record numbers. The package includes a sample data file, containing 500 sets of data with 5 elements in each set. This program will perform a sort of the 500 data sets in 3 - 5 seconds on an IBM PC-AT with a hard disk; on a similarly equipped IBM PC-XT the time is under 10 seconds. This program is written in BASIC (specifically the Microsoft QuickBasic compiler) for interactive execution and has been implemented on the IBM PC computer series operating under PC-DOS with a central memory requirement of approximately 40K of 8 bit bytes. A hard disk is desirable for speed considerations, but is not required. This program was developed in 1986.

Field fertility of liquid stored and cryopreserved flow cytometrically sex-sorted stallion sperm.

PubMed

Gibb, Z; Grupen, C G; Maxwell, W M C; Morris, L H A

2017-03-01

The fertility of sex-sorted, cryopreserved stallion sperm must be improved for the sex-sorting technology to be applied commercially. To optimise the conditions used to liquid store stallion sperm prior to sex-sorting and assess the fertility of sperm following sex-sorting and cryopreservation. Both in vitro experiment and randomised controlled trial in healthy, client-owned mares. Stallion ejaculates (n = 9) were diluted in either a skimmed milk (KMT) or BSA (I-BSA) based media to 25 × 10 6 sperm/ml directly (+SP25) or washed to remove seminal plasma and diluted to 25 or 111 × 10 6 sperm/ml (-SP25 and -SP111). Sperm were stored for 18 h at 10 to 15°C and -SP25 and +SP25 treatments were centrifuged and resuspended to 111 × 10 6 sperm/ml. Sperm were incubated under H33342 staining conditions and motility, viability and acrosome integrity assessed. Semen was collected from stallions (n = 4), liquid stored at 10-15°C for up to 5 h and sperm either cryopreserved directly, sex-sorted and cryopreserved, or sex-sorted and returned to liquid storage until insemination. Low-dose hysteroscopic insemination was performed in 23 mares randomly allocated to the semen preparation group and pregnancy determined following embryo flushing on Day 9 after ovulation, or via transrectal ultrasonography on Day 14 after ovulation. Skimmed milk was superior to I-BSA in maintaining motility, viability and acrosome integrity. Seminal plasma removal did not affect the parameters measured at the concentrations examined. Conception rates did not differ significantly between the groups, although a high incidence of pregnancy loss was observed in both the cryopreserved groups. While the conception rates achieved are among the highest yet reported for sex-sorted, cryopreserved stallion sperm, the high incidence of pregnancy loss suggests that the development of the resulting embryos was significantly impaired by the sperm processing treatments. © 2016 EVJ Ltd.

A real time sorting algorithm to time sort any deterministic time disordered data stream

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saini, J.; Mandal, S.; Chakrabarti, A.; Chattopadhyay, S.

2017-12-01

In new generation high intensity high energy physics experiments, millions of free streaming high rate data sources are to be readout. Free streaming data with associated time-stamp can only be controlled by thresholds as there is no trigger information available for the readout. Therefore, these readouts are prone to collect large amount of noise and unwanted data. For this reason, these experiments can have output data rate of several orders of magnitude higher than the useful signal data rate. It is therefore necessary to perform online processing of the data to extract useful information from the full data set. Without trigger information, pre-processing on the free streaming data can only be done with time based correlation among the data set. Multiple data sources have different path delays and bandwidth utilizations and therefore the unsorted merged data requires significant computational efforts for real time manifestation of sorting before analysis. Present work reports a new high speed scalable data stream sorting algorithm with its architectural design, verified through Field programmable Gate Array (FPGA) based hardware simulation. Realistic time based simulated data likely to be collected in an high energy physics experiment have been used to study the performance of the algorithm. The proposed algorithm uses parallel read-write blocks with added memory management and zero suppression features to make it efficient for high rate data-streams. This algorithm is best suited for online data streams with deterministic time disorder/unsorting on FPGA like hardware.

Sort-Mid tasks scheduling algorithm in grid computing.

PubMed

Reda, Naglaa M; Tawfik, A; Marzok, Mohamed A; Khamis, Soheir M

2015-11-01

Scheduling tasks on heterogeneous resources distributed over a grid computing system is an NP-complete problem. The main aim for several researchers is to develop variant scheduling algorithms for achieving optimality, and they have shown a good performance for tasks scheduling regarding resources selection. However, using of the full power of resources is still a challenge. In this paper, a new heuristic algorithm called Sort-Mid is proposed. It aims to maximizing the utilization and minimizing the makespan. The new strategy of Sort-Mid algorithm is to find appropriate resources. The base step is to get the average value via sorting list of completion time of each task. Then, the maximum average is obtained. Finally, the task has the maximum average is allocated to the machine that has the minimum completion time. The allocated task is deleted and then, these steps are repeated until all tasks are allocated. Experimental tests show that the proposed algorithm outperforms almost other algorithms in terms of resources utilization and makespan.

Urban adolescent high-risk sexual behavior: corroboration of focus group discussions through pile-sorting. The AIDS Youth Research Team.

PubMed

Stanton, B F; Aronson, R; Borgatti, S; Galbraith, J; Feigelman, S

1993-01-01

Risk activities for acquisition of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remain prevalent among urban adolescents. While interdisciplinary approaches to examine the variables contributing to risk/protective behaviors have been promoted, strategies for such explorations require further formulation. Recently we employed focus group discussions to explore factors placing urban adolescents at risk for engaging in HIV risk behaviors. The focus group format enables substantial interaction on a topic in a limited time period, but does not always provide expression of the full range of behavioral options. In this study we investigated the use of pile-sorts for confirmation of impressions from focus group discussions among 57 urban youths aged 10-14. The pile-sorts revealed some support for most of the views expressed in the group discussions. However, the sorts revealed more variability in views than was expressed in the group discussions. Substantial gender and age-based differences in perceptions were revealed with potentially important intervention implications.

A discrimination model in waste plastics sorting using NIR hyperspectral imaging system.

PubMed

Zheng, Yan; Bai, Jiarui; Xu, Jingna; Li, Xiayang; Zhang, Yimin

2018-02-01

Classification of plastics is important in the recycling industry. A plastic identification model in the near infrared spectroscopy wavelength range 1000-2500 nm is proposed for the characterization and sorting of waste plastics using acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The model is built by the feature wavelengths of standard samples applying the principle component analysis (PCA), and the accuracy, property and cross-validation of the model were analyzed. The model just contains a simple equation, center of mass coordinates, and radial distance, with which it is easy to develop classification and sorting software. A hyperspectral imaging system (HIS) with the identification model verified its practical application by using the unknown plastics. Results showed that the identification accuracy of unknown samples is 100%. All results suggested that the discrimination model was potential to an on-line characterization and sorting platform of waste plastics based on HIS. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Functions of Adaptor Protein (AP)-3 and AP-1 in Tyrosinase Sorting from Endosomes to MelanosomesD⃞

PubMed Central

Theos, Alexander C.; Tenza, Danièle; Martina, José A.; Hurbain, Ilse; Peden, Andrew A.; Sviderskaya, Elena V.; Stewart, Abigail; Robinson, Margaret S.; Bennett, Dorothy C.; Cutler, Daniel F.; Bonifacino, Juan S.; Marks, Michael S.; Raposo, Graça

2005-01-01

Specialized cells exploit adaptor protein complexes for unique post-Golgi sorting events, providing a unique model system to specify adaptor function. Here, we show that AP-3 and AP-1 function independently in sorting of the melanocyte-specific protein tyrosinase from endosomes to the melanosome, a specialized lysosome-related organelle distinguishable from lysosomes. AP-3 and AP-1 localize in melanocytes primarily to clathrin-coated buds on tubular early endosomes near melanosomes. Both adaptors recognize the tyrosinase dileucine-based melanosome sorting signal, and tyrosinase largely colocalizes with each adaptor on endosomes. In AP-3-deficient melanocytes, tyrosinase accumulates inappropriately in vacuolar and multivesicular endosomes. Nevertheless, a substantial fraction still accumulates on melanosomes, concomitant with increased association with endosomal AP-1. Our data indicate that AP-3 and AP-1 function in partially redundant pathways to transfer tyrosinase from distinct endosomal subdomains to melanosomes and that the AP-3 pathway ensures that tyrosinase averts entrapment on internal membranes of forming multivesicular bodies. PMID:16162817

Sort-Mid tasks scheduling algorithm in grid computing

PubMed Central

Reda, Naglaa M.; Tawfik, A.; Marzok, Mohamed A.; Khamis, Soheir M.

2014-01-01

Scheduling tasks on heterogeneous resources distributed over a grid computing system is an NP-complete problem. The main aim for several researchers is to develop variant scheduling algorithms for achieving optimality, and they have shown a good performance for tasks scheduling regarding resources selection. However, using of the full power of resources is still a challenge. In this paper, a new heuristic algorithm called Sort-Mid is proposed. It aims to maximizing the utilization and minimizing the makespan. The new strategy of Sort-Mid algorithm is to find appropriate resources. The base step is to get the average value via sorting list of completion time of each task. Then, the maximum average is obtained. Finally, the task has the maximum average is allocated to the machine that has the minimum completion time. The allocated task is deleted and then, these steps are repeated until all tasks are allocated. Experimental tests show that the proposed algorithm outperforms almost other algorithms in terms of resources utilization and makespan. PMID:26644937

Interpreting Abstract Interpretations in Membership Equational Logic

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fischer, Bernd; Rosu, Grigore

2001-01-01

We present a logical framework in which abstract interpretations can be naturally specified and then verified. Our approach is based on membership equational logic which extends equational logics by membership axioms, asserting that a term has a certain sort. We represent an abstract interpretation as a membership equational logic specification, usually as an overloaded order-sorted signature with membership axioms. It turns out that, for any term, its least sort over this specification corresponds to its most concrete abstract value. Maude implements membership equational logic and provides mechanisms to calculate the least sort of a term efficiently. We first show how Maude can be used to get prototyping of abstract interpretations "for free." Building on the meta-logic facilities of Maude, we further develop a tool that automatically checks and abstract interpretation against a set of user-defined properties. This can be used to select an appropriate abstract interpretation, to characterize the specified loss of information during abstraction, and to compare different abstractions with each other.

Caveolin Transfection Results in Caveolae Formation but Not Apical Sorting of Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored Proteins in Epithelial Cells

PubMed Central

Lipardi, Concetta; Mora, Rosalia; Colomer, Veronica; Paladino, Simona; Nitsch, Lucio; Rodriguez-Boulan, Enrique; Zurzolo, Chiara

1998-01-01

Most epithelial cells sort glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins to the apical surface. The “raft” hypothesis, based on data mainly obtained in the prototype cell line MDCK, postulates that apical sorting depends on the incorporation of apical proteins into cholesterol/glycosphingolipid (GSL) rafts, rich in the cholesterol binding protein caveolin/VIP21, in the Golgi apparatus. Fischer rat thyroid (FRT) cells constitute an ideal model to test this hypothesis, since they missort both endogenous and transfected GPI- anchored proteins to the basolateral plasma membrane and fail to incorporate them into cholesterol/glycosphingolipid clusters. Because FRT cells lack caveolin, a major component of the caveolar coat that has been proposed to have a role in apical sorting of GPI- anchored proteins (Zurzolo, C., W. Van't Hoff, G. van Meer, and E. Rodriguez-Boulan. 1994. EMBO [Eur. Mol. Biol. Organ.] J. 13:42–53.), we carried out experiments to determine whether the lack of caveolin accounted for the sorting/clustering defect of GPI- anchored proteins. We report here that FRT cells lack morphological caveolae, but, upon stable transfection of the caveolin1 gene (cav1), form typical flask-shaped caveolae. However, cav1 expression did not redistribute GPI-anchored proteins to the apical surface, nor promote their inclusion into cholesterol/GSL rafts. Our results demonstrate that the absence of caveolin1 and morphologically identifiable caveolae cannot explain the inability of FRT cells to sort GPI-anchored proteins to the apical domain. Thus, FRT cells may lack additional factors required for apical sorting or for the clustering with GSLs of GPI-anchored proteins, or express factors that inhibit these events. Alternatively, cav1 and caveolae may not be directly involved in these processes. PMID:9456321

Hoechst fluorescence intensity can be used to separate viable bromodeoxyuridine-labeled cells from viable non-bromodeoxyuridine-labeled cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mozdziak, P. E.; Pulvermacher, P. M.; Schultz, E.; Schell, K.

2000-01-01

BACKGROUND: 5-Bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) is a powerful compound to study the mitotic activity of a cell. Most techniques that identify BrdU-labeled cells require conditions that kill the cells. However, the fluorescence intensity of the membrane-permeable Hoechst dyes is reduced by the incorporation of BrdU into DNA, allowing the separation of viable BrdU positive (BrdU+) cells from viable BrdU negative (BrdU-) cells. METHODS: Cultures of proliferating cells were supplemented with BrdU for 48 h and other cultures of proliferating cells were maintained without BrdU. Mixtures of viable BrdU+ and viable BrdU- cells from the two proliferating cultures were stained with Hoechst 33342. The viable BrdU+ and BrdU- cells were sorted into different fractions from a mixture of BrdU+ and BrdU- cells based on Hoechst fluorescence intensity and the ability to exclude the vital dye, propidium iodide. Subsequently, samples from the original mixture, the sorted BrdU+ cell population, and the sorted BrdU- cell population were immunostained using an anti-BrdU monoclonal antibody and evaluated using flow cytometry. RESULTS: Two mixtures consisting of approximately 55% and 69% BrdU+ cells were sorted into fractions consisting of greater than 93% BrdU+ cells and 92% BrdU- cells. The separated cell populations were maintained in vitro after sorting to demonstrate their viability. CONCLUSIONS: Hoechst fluorescence intensity in combination with cell sorting is an effective tool to separate viable BrdU+ from viable BrdU- cells for further study. The separated cell populations were maintained in vitro after sorting to demonstrate their viability. Copyright 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Denni Algorithm An Enhanced Of SMS (Scan, Move and Sort) Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aprilsyah Lubis, Denni; Salim Sitompul, Opim; Marwan; Tulus; Andri Budiman, M.

2017-12-01

Sorting has been a profound area for the algorithmic researchers, and many resources are invested to suggest a more working sorting algorithm. For this purpose many existing sorting algorithms were observed in terms of the efficiency of the algorithmic complexity. Efficient sorting is important to optimize the use of other algorithms that require sorted lists to work correctly. Sorting has been considered as a fundamental problem in the study of algorithms that due to many reasons namely, the necessary to sort information is inherent in many applications, algorithms often use sorting as a key subroutine, in algorithm design there are many essential techniques represented in the body of sorting algorithms, and many engineering issues come to the fore when implementing sorting algorithms., Many algorithms are very well known for sorting the unordered lists, and one of the well-known algorithms that make the process of sorting to be more economical and efficient is SMS (Scan, Move and Sort) algorithm, an enhancement of Quicksort invented Rami Mansi in 2010. This paper presents a new sorting algorithm called Denni-algorithm. The Denni algorithm is considered as an enhancement on the SMS algorithm in average, and worst cases. The Denni algorithm is compared with the SMS algorithm and the results were promising.

Rmax: A systematic approach to evaluate instrument sort performance using center stream catch☆

PubMed Central

Riddell, Andrew; Gardner, Rui; Perez-Gonzalez, Alexis; Lopes, Telma; Martinez, Lola

2015-01-01

Sorting performance can be evaluated with regard to Purity, Yield and/or Recovery of the sorted fraction. Purity is a check on the quality of the sample and the sort decisions made by the instrument. Recovery and Yield definitions vary with some authors regarding both as how efficient the instrument is at sorting the target particles from the original sample, others distinguishing Recovery from Yield, where the former is used to describe the accuracy of the instrument’s sort count. Yield and Recovery are often neglected, mostly due to difficulties in their measurement. Purity of the sort product is often cited alone but is not sufficient to evaluate sorting performance. All of these three performance metrics require re-sampling of the sorted fraction. But, unlike Purity, calculating Yield and/or Recovery calls for the absolute counting of particles in the sorted fraction, which may not be feasible, particularly when dealing with rare populations and precious samples. In addition, the counting process itself involves large errors. Here we describe a new metric for evaluating instrument sort Recovery, defined as the number of particles sorted relative to the number of original particles to be sorted. This calculation requires only measuring the ratios of target and non-target populations in the original pre-sort sample and in the waste stream or center stream catch (CSC), avoiding re-sampling the sorted fraction and absolute counting. We called this new metric Rmax, since it corresponds to the maximum expected Recovery for a particular set of instrument parameters. Rmax is ideal to evaluate and troubleshoot the optimum drop-charge delay of the sorter, or any instrument related failures that will affect sort performance. It can be used as a daily quality control check but can be particularly useful to assess instrument performance before single-cell sorting experiments. Because we do not perturb the sort fraction we can calculate Rmax during the sort process, being especially valuable to check instrument performance during rare population sorts. PMID:25747337

Application of edible paraffin oil for cationic dye removal from water using emulsion liquid membrane.

PubMed

Zereshki, Sina; Daraei, Parisa; Shokri, Amin

2018-05-18

Using an emulsion liquid membrane based on edible oils is investigated for removing cationic dyes from aqueous solutions. There is a great potential for using edible oils in food industry extraction processes. The parameters affecting the stability of the emulsion and the extraction rate were studied. These parameters were the emulsification time, the stirring speed, the surfactant concentration, the internal phase concentration, the feed phase concentration, the volume ratio of internal phase to organic phase and the treat ratio. In order to stabilize the emulsion without using a carrier, edible paraffin oil and heptane are used at an 80:20 ratio. The optimum conditions for the extraction of methylene blue (MB), crystal violet and methyl violet (CV and MV) cationic dyes using edible paraffin oil as an environment friendly solvent are represented. A removal percentage of 95% was achieved for a mixture of dyes. The optimum concentration of sodium hydroxide in the internal phase, which results a stabile emulsion with a high stripping efficiency of 96%, was 0.04 M. An excellent membrane recovery was observed and the extraction of dyes did not decrease up to seven run cycles. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a Real-Time Resistance Measurement for Vibrio parahaemolyticus Detection by the Lecithin-Dependent Hemolysin Gene

PubMed Central

Xiang, Guiming; Pu, Xiaoyun; Jiang, Dongneng; Liu, Linlin; Liu, Chang; Liu, Xiaobo

2013-01-01

The marine bacterium Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) causes gastroenteritis in humans via the ingestion of raw or undercooked contaminated seafood, and early diagnosis and prompt treatment are important for the prevention of V. parahaemolyticus-related diseases. In this study, a real-time resistance measurement based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), electrochemical ion bonding (Crystal violet and Mg2+), real-time monitoring, and derivative analysis was developed. V. parahaemolyticus DNA was first amplified by LAMP, and the products (DNA and pyrophosphate) represented two types of negative ions that could combine with a positive dye (Crystal violet) and positive ions (Mg2+) to increase the resistance of the reaction liquid. This resistance was measured in real-time using a specially designed resistance electrode, thus permitting the quantitative detection of V. parahaemolyticus. The results were obtained in 1–2 hours, with a minimum bacterial density of 10 CFU.mL−1 and high levels of accuracy (97%), sensitivity (96.08%), and specificity (97.96%) when compared to cultivation methods. Therefore, this simple and rapid method has a potential application in the detection of V. parahaemolyticus on a gene chip or in point-of-care testing. PMID:23991096

Spectroscopic investigation of alloyed quantum dot-based FRET to cresyl violet dye.

PubMed

Kotresh, M G; Adarsh, K S; Shivkumar, M A; Mulimani, B G; Savadatti, M I; Inamdar, S R

2016-05-01

Quantum dots (QDs), bright luminescent semiconductor nanoparticles, have found numerous applications ranging from optoelectronics to bioimaging. Here, we present a systematic investigation of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) from hydrophilic ternary alloyed quantum dots (CdSeS/ZnS) to cresyl violet dye with a view to explore the effect of composition of QD donors on FRET efficiency. Fluorescence emission of QD is controlled by varying the composition of QD without altering the particle size. The results show that quantum yield of the QDs increases with increase in the emission wavelength. The FRET parameters such as spectral overlap J(λ), Förster distance R0, intermolecular distance (r), rate of energy transfer k(T)(r), and transfer efficiency (E) are determined by employing both steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. Additionally, dynamic quenching is noticed to occur in the present FRET system. Stern-Volmer (K(D)) and bimolecular quenching constants (k(q)) are determined from the Stern-Volmer plot. It is observed that the transfer efficiency follows a linear dependence on the spectral overlap and the quantum yield of the donor as predicted by the Förster theory upon changing the composition of the QD. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Chip-based device for parallel sorting, amplification, detection, and identification of nucleic acid subsequences

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

Beer, Neil Reginald; Colston, Jr, Billy W.

An apparatus for chip-based sorting, amplification, detection, and identification of a sample having a planar substrate. The planar substrate is divided into cells. The cells are arranged on the planar substrate in rows and columns. Electrodes are located in the cells. A micro-reactor maker produces micro-reactors containing the sample. The micro-reactor maker is positioned to deliver the micro-reactors to the planar substrate. A microprocessor is connected to the electrodes for manipulating the micro-reactors on the planar substrate. A detector is positioned to interrogate the sample contained in the micro-reactors.

Stream-based Hebbian eigenfilter for real-time neuronal spike discrimination

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Principal component analysis (PCA) has been widely employed for automatic neuronal spike sorting. Calculating principal components (PCs) is computationally expensive, and requires complex numerical operations and large memory resources. Substantial hardware resources are therefore needed for hardware implementations of PCA. General Hebbian algorithm (GHA) has been proposed for calculating PCs of neuronal spikes in our previous work, which eliminates the needs of computationally expensive covariance analysis and eigenvalue decomposition in conventional PCA algorithms. However, large memory resources are still inherently required for storing a large volume of aligned spikes for training PCs. The large size memory will consume large hardware resources and contribute significant power dissipation, which make GHA difficult to be implemented in portable or implantable multi-channel recording micro-systems. Method In this paper, we present a new algorithm for PCA-based spike sorting based on GHA, namely stream-based Hebbian eigenfilter, which eliminates the inherent memory requirements of GHA while keeping the accuracy of spike sorting by utilizing the pseudo-stationarity of neuronal spikes. Because of the reduction of large hardware storage requirements, the proposed algorithm can lead to ultra-low hardware resources and power consumption of hardware implementations, which is critical for the future multi-channel micro-systems. Both clinical and synthetic neural recording data sets were employed for evaluating the accuracy of the stream-based Hebbian eigenfilter. The performance of spike sorting using stream-based eigenfilter and the computational complexity of the eigenfilter were rigorously evaluated and compared with conventional PCA algorithms. Field programmable logic arrays (FPGAs) were employed to implement the proposed algorithm, evaluate the hardware implementations and demonstrate the reduction in both power consumption and hardware memories achieved by the streaming computing Results and discussion Results demonstrate that the stream-based eigenfilter can achieve the same accuracy and is 10 times more computationally efficient when compared with conventional PCA algorithms. Hardware evaluations show that 90.3% logic resources, 95.1% power consumption and 86.8% computing latency can be reduced by the stream-based eigenfilter when compared with PCA hardware. By utilizing the streaming method, 92% memory resources and 67% power consumption can be saved when compared with the direct implementation of GHA. Conclusion Stream-based Hebbian eigenfilter presents a novel approach to enable real-time spike sorting with reduced computational complexity and hardware costs. This new design can be further utilized for multi-channel neuro-physiological experiments or chronic implants. PMID:22490725

Sorting waves and associated eigenvalues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carbonari, Costanza; Colombini, Marco; Solari, Luca

2017-04-01

The presence of mixed sediment always characterizes gravel bed rivers. Sorting processes take place during bed load transport of heterogeneous sediment mixtures. The two main elements necessary to the occurrence of sorting are the heterogeneous character of sediments and the presence of an active sediment transport. When these two key ingredients are simultaneously present, the segregation of bed material is consistently detected both in the field [7] and in laboratory [3] observations. In heterogeneous sediment transport, bed altimetric variations and sorting always coexist and both mechanisms are independently capable of driving the formation of morphological patterns. Indeed, consistent patterns of longitudinal and transverse sorting are identified almost ubiquitously. In some cases, such as bar formation [2] and channel bends [5], sorting acts as a stabilizing effect and therefore the dominant mechanism driving pattern formation is associated with bed altimetric variations. In other cases, such as longitudinal streaks, sorting enhances system instability and can therefore be considered the prevailing mechanism. Bedload sheets, first observed by Khunle and Southard [1], represent another classic example of a morphological pattern essentially triggered by sorting, as theoretical [4] and experimental [3] results suggested. These sorting waves cause strong spatial and temporal fluctuations of bedload transport rate typical observed in gravel bed rivers. The problem of bed load transport of a sediment mixture is formulated in the framework of a 1D linear stability analysis. The base state consists of a uniform flow in an infinitely wide channel with active bed load transport. The behaviour of the eigenvalues associated with fluid motion, bed evolution and sorting processes in the space of the significant flow and sediment parameters is analysed. A comparison is attempted with the results of the theoretical analysis of Seminara Colombini and Parker [4] and Stecca, Siviglia and Blom [6]. [1] Kuhnle, R.A. and Southard, J.B. 1988. Bed Load Transport Fluctuations in a Gravel Bed Laboratory Channel. Water Resources Research, 24(2), 247-260. [2] Lanzoni, S. and Tubino, M. 1999. Grain sorting and bar instability. Journal of Fluid Mechanics. 393, 149-174. [3] Recking, A., Frey, P., Paquier, A. and Belleudy, P. 2009. An experimental investigation of mechanisms involved in bed load sheet production and migration. Journal of Geophysical Research, 114, F03010. [4] Seminara, G., Colombini, M. and Parker, G. 1996. Nearly pure sorting waves and formation of bedload sheets. Journal of Fluid Mechanics. 312, (1996), 253-278. [5] Seminara, G., Solari, L. and Tubino, M. 1997. Finite amplitude scour and grain sorting in wide channel bends. XXVII IAHR Congress, San Francisco, 1445-1450. [6] Stecca, G., Siviglia, A. and Blom, A. 2014. Mathematical analysis of the Saint-Venant-Hirano model for mixed-sediment morphodynamics. Water Resources Research, 50, 7563-7589. [7] Whiting, P.J., Dietrich, W.E., Leopold, L. B., Drake, T. G. and Shreve, R.L. 1988. Bedload sheets in heterogeneous sediment. Geology, 16, 105-108.

A real-time traffic control method for the intersection with pre-signals under the phase swap sorting strategy

PubMed Central

Bie, Yiming; Wang, Yinhai

2017-01-01

To deal with the conflicts between left-turn and through traffic streams and increase the discharge capacity, this paper addresses the pre-signal which is implemented at a signalized intersection. Such an intersection with pre-signal is termed as a tandem intersection. For the tandem intersection, phase swap sorting strategy is deemed as the most effective phasing scheme in view of some exclusive merits, such as easier compliance of drivers, and shorter sorting area. However, a major limitation of the phase swap sorting strategy is not considered in previous studies: if one or more vehicle is left at the sorting area after the signal light turns to red, the capacity of the approach would be dramatically dropped. Besides, previous signal control studies deal with a fixed timing plan that is not adaptive with the fluctuation of traffic flows. Therefore, to cope with these two gaps, this paper firstly takes an in-depth analysis of the traffic flow operations at the tandem intersection. Secondly, three groups of loop detectors are placed to obtain the real-time vehicle information for adaptive signalization. The lane selection behavior in the sorting area is considered to set the green time for intersection signals. With the objective of minimizing the vehicle delay, the signal control parameters are then optimized based on a dynamic programming method. Finally, numerical experiments show that average vehicle delay and maximum queue length can be reduced under all scenarios. PMID:28531198

Heavy mineral sorting and distributions within massive sandstone divisions (Bouma A divisions) of Brushy Canyon Formation turbidites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Motanated, K.; Tice, M. M.

2009-12-01

KANNIPA MOTANATED and MICHAEL M. TICE Department of Geology and Geophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3115, USA Sediment sorting data are commonly used for interpreting depositional environments, analyzing mechanisms of deposition and transportation, and inferring relative transport distance of sediments. Typically, sorting in sandstones is estimated by point-counting thin sections which is a time consuming procedure and requires cutting sections of rock samples. We demonstrate a new technique for quantifying sediment sorting using element distribution maps obtained by x-ray fluorescence microscopy. We show that hydraulic sorting of Zr- and Ti- bearing grains (probably zircon and rutile, respectively) results in characteristic vertical profiles of Zr and Ti abundances within the Bouma A divisions of turbidites of the Brushy Canyon Formation, Delaware Basin, southern New Mexico. Zr- and Ti- bearing grains decrease in abundance and diameter from bases to tops of A divisions in every sample examined in this study. These results contrast with previous observations which suggest that grading in Brushy Canyon Formation structureless sandstones is absent or rare. The data support turbiditic interpretations of these rocks against traction current interpretations which rely on the lack of textural grading. Grading is reflected in vertical profiles of Ti/Al, Zr/Al and Zr/Ti ratios, which each decrease upward. These compositional variations could potentially be used as geochemical proxies for physical sorting, and might be useful for inferring depositional processes and relative transport distances.

A real-time traffic control method for the intersection with pre-signals under the phase swap sorting strategy.

PubMed

Bie, Yiming; Liu, Zhiyuan; Wang, Yinhai

2017-01-01

To deal with the conflicts between left-turn and through traffic streams and increase the discharge capacity, this paper addresses the pre-signal which is implemented at a signalized intersection. Such an intersection with pre-signal is termed as a tandem intersection. For the tandem intersection, phase swap sorting strategy is deemed as the most effective phasing scheme in view of some exclusive merits, such as easier compliance of drivers, and shorter sorting area. However, a major limitation of the phase swap sorting strategy is not considered in previous studies: if one or more vehicle is left at the sorting area after the signal light turns to red, the capacity of the approach would be dramatically dropped. Besides, previous signal control studies deal with a fixed timing plan that is not adaptive with the fluctuation of traffic flows. Therefore, to cope with these two gaps, this paper firstly takes an in-depth analysis of the traffic flow operations at the tandem intersection. Secondly, three groups of loop detectors are placed to obtain the real-time vehicle information for adaptive signalization. The lane selection behavior in the sorting area is considered to set the green time for intersection signals. With the objective of minimizing the vehicle delay, the signal control parameters are then optimized based on a dynamic programming method. Finally, numerical experiments show that average vehicle delay and maximum queue length can be reduced under all scenarios.

Sorting of the Neuroendocrine Secretory Protein Secretogranin II into the Regulated Secretory Pathway

PubMed Central

Courel, Maïté; Vasquez, Michael S.; Hook, Vivian Y.; Mahata, Sushil K.; Taupenot, Laurent

2008-01-01

Secretogranin II (SgII) belongs to the granin family of prohormones widely distributed in dense-core secretory granules (DCGs) of endocrine, neuroendocrine, and neuronal cells, including sympathoadrenal chromaffin cells. The mechanisms by which secretory proteins, and granins in particular, are sorted into the regulated secretory pathway are unsettled. We designed a strategy based on novel chimeric forms of human SgII fused to fluorescent (green fluorescent protein) or chemiluminescent (embryonic alkaline phosphatase) reporters to identify trafficking determinants mediating DCG targeting of SgII in sympathoadrenal cells. Three-dimensional deconvolution fluorescence microscopy and secretagogue-stimulated release studies demonstrate that SgII chimeras are correctly targeted to DCGs and released by exocytosis in PC12 and primary chromaffin cells. Results from a Golgi-retained mutant form of SgII suggest that sorting of SgII into DCGs depends on a saturable sorting machinery at the trans-Golgi/trans-Golgi network. Truncation analyses reveal the presence of DCG-targeting signals within both the N- and C-terminal regions of SgII, with the putative α-helix-containing SgII-(25-41) and SgII-(334-348) acting as sufficient, independent sorting domains. This study defines sequence features of SgII mediating vesicular targeting in sympathoadrenal cells and suggests a mechanism by which discrete domains of the molecule function in sorting, perhaps by virtue of a particular arrangement in tertiary structure and/or interaction with a specific component of the DCG membrane. PMID:18299326

Sorting of the neuroendocrine secretory protein Secretogranin II into the regulated secretory pathway: role of N- and C-terminal alpha-helical domains.

PubMed

Courel, Maïté; Vasquez, Michael S; Hook, Vivian Y; Mahata, Sushil K; Taupenot, Laurent

2008-04-25

Secretogranin II (SgII) belongs to the granin family of prohormones widely distributed in dense-core secretory granules (DCGs) of endocrine, neuroendocrine, and neuronal cells, including sympathoadrenal chromaffin cells. The mechanisms by which secretory proteins, and granins in particular, are sorted into the regulated secretory pathway are unsettled. We designed a strategy based on novel chimeric forms of human SgII fused to fluorescent (green fluorescent protein) or chemiluminescent (embryonic alkaline phosphatase) reporters to identify trafficking determinants mediating DCG targeting of SgII in sympathoadrenal cells. Three-dimensional deconvolution fluorescence microscopy and secretagogue-stimulated release studies demonstrate that SgII chimeras are correctly targeted to DCGs and released by exocytosis in PC12 and primary chromaffin cells. Results from a Golgi-retained mutant form of SgII suggest that sorting of SgII into DCGs depends on a saturable sorting machinery at the trans-Golgi/trans-Golgi network. Truncation analyses reveal the presence of DCG-targeting signals within both the N- and C-terminal regions of SgII, with the putative alpha-helix-containing SgII-(25-41) and SgII-(334-348) acting as sufficient, independent sorting domains. This study defines sequence features of SgII mediating vesicular targeting in sympathoadrenal cells and suggests a mechanism by which discrete domains of the molecule function in sorting, perhaps by virtue of a particular arrangement in tertiary structure and/or interaction with a specific component of the DCG membrane.

The Case for Absolute Ligand Discrimination: Modeling Information Processing and Decision by Immune T Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

François, Paul; Altan-Bonnet, Grégoire

2016-03-01

Some cells have to take decision based on the quality of surroundings ligands, almost irrespective of their quantity, a problem we name "absolute discrimination". An example of absolute discrimination is recognition of not-self by immune T Cells. We show how the problem of absolute discrimination can be solved by a process called "adaptive sorting". We review several implementations of adaptive sorting, as well as its generic properties such as antagonism. We show how kinetic proofreading with negative feedback implement an approximate version of adaptive sorting in the immune context. Finally, we revisit the decision problem at the cell population level, showing how phenotypic variability and feedbacks between population and single cells are crucial for proper decision.

A 1.375-approximation algorithm for sorting by transpositions.

PubMed

Elias, Isaac; Hartman, Tzvika

2006-01-01

Sorting permutations by transpositions is an important problem in genome rearrangements. A transposition is a rearrangement operation in which a segment is cut out of the permutation and pasted in a different location. The complexity of this problem is still open and it has been a 10-year-old open problem to improve the best known 1.5-approximation algorithm. In this paper, we provide a 1.375-approximation algorithm for sorting by transpositions. The algorithm is based on a new upper bound on the diameter of 3-permutations. In addition, we present some new results regarding the transposition diameter: we improve the lower bound for the transposition diameter of the symmetric group and determine the exact transposition diameter of simple permutations.

Design and Development of a High Speed Sorting System Based on Machine Vision Guiding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenchang; Mei, Jiangping; Ding, Yabin

In this paper, a vision-based control strategy to perform high speed pick-and-place tasks on automation product line is proposed, and relevant control software is develop. Using Delta robot to control a sucker to grasp disordered objects from one moving conveyer and then place them on the other in order. CCD camera gets one picture every time the conveyer moves a distance of ds. Objects position and shape are got after image processing. Target tracking method based on "Servo motor + synchronous conveyer" is used to fulfill the high speed porting operation real time. Experiments conducted on Delta robot sorting system demonstrate the efficiency and validity of the proposed vision-control strategy.

ROENTGEN: case-based reasoning and radiation therapy planning.

PubMed Central

Berger, J.

1992-01-01

ROENTGEN is a design assistant for radiation therapy planning which uses case-based reasoning, an artificial intelligence technique. It learns both from specific problem-solving experiences and from direct instruction from the user. The first sort of learning is the normal case-based method of storing problem solutions so that they can be reused. The second sort is necessary because ROENTGEN does not, initially, have an internal model of the physics of its problem domain. This dependence on explicit user instruction brings to the forefront representational questions regarding indexing, failure definition, failure explanation and repair. This paper presents the techniques used by ROENTGEN in its knowledge acquisition and design activities. PMID:1482869

An investigation of the sites occupied by atomic barium in solid xenon—A 2D-EE luminescence spectroscopy and molecular dynamics study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davis, Barry M.; Gervais, Benoit; McCaffrey, John G.

2018-03-01

A detailed characterisation of the luminescence recorded for the 6p 1P1-6s 1S0 transition of atomic barium isolated in annealed solid xenon has been undertaken using two-dimensional excitation-emission (2D-EE) spectroscopy. In the excitation spectra extracted from the 2D-EE scans, two dominant thermally stable sites were identified, consisting of a classic, three-fold split Jahn-Teller band, labeled the blue site, and an unusual asymmetric 2 + 1 split band, the violet site. A much weaker band has also been identified, whose emission is strongly overlapped by the violet site. The temperature dependence of the luminescence for these sites was monitored revealing that the blue site has a non-radiative channel competing effectively with the fluorescence even at 9.8 K. By contrast, the fluorescence decay time of the violet site was recorded to be 4.3 ns and independent of temperature up to 24 K. The nature of the dominant thermally stable trapping sites was investigated theoretically with Diatomics-in-Molecule (DIM) molecular dynamics simulations. The DIM model was parameterized with ab initio multi-reference configuration interaction calculations for the lowest energy excited states of the BaṡXe pair. The simulated absorption spectra are compared with the experimental results obtained from site-resolved excitation spectroscopy. The simulations allow us to assign the experimental blue feature spectrum to a tetra-vacancy trapping site in the bulk xenon fcc crystal—a site often observed when trapping other metal atoms in rare gas matrices. By contrast, the violet site is assigned to a specific 5-atom vacancy trapping site located at a grain boundary.

The monoamine oxidase inhibition properties of selected structural analogues of methylene blue.

PubMed

Delport, Anzelle; Harvey, Brian H; Petzer, Anél; Petzer, Jacobus P

2017-06-15

The thionine dye, methylene blue (MB), is a potent inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO) A, a property that may, at least in part, mediate its antidepressant effects in humans and animals. The central inhibition of MAO-A by MB has also been linked to serotonin toxicity (ST) which may arise when MB is used in combination with serotonergic drugs. Structural analogues and the principal metabolite of MB, azure B, have also been reported to inhibit the MAO enzymes, with all compounds exhibiting specificity for the MAO-A isoform. To expand on the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of MAO inhibition by MB analogues, the present study investigates the human MAO inhibition properties of five MB analogues: neutral red, Nile blue, new methylene blue, cresyl violet and 1,9-dimethyl methylene blue. Similar to MB, these analogues also are specific MAO-A inhibitors with cresyl violet (IC 50 =0.0037μM), Nile blue (IC 50 =0.0077μM) and 1,9-dimethyl methylene blue (IC 50 =0.018μM) exhibiting higher potency inhibition compared to MB (IC 50 =0.07μM). Nile blue also represents a potent MAO-B inhibitor with an IC 50 value of 0.012μM. From the results it may be concluded that non-thionine MB analogues (e.g. cresyl violet and Nile blue) also may exhibit potent MAO inhibition, a property which should be considered when using these compounds in pharmacological studies. Benzophenoxazines such as cresyl violet and Nile blue are, similar to phenothiazines (e.g. MB), representative of high potency MAO-A inhibitors with a potential risk of ST. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Determination of residues of three triphenylmethane dyes and their metabolites (malachite green, leuco malachite green, crystal violet, leuco crystal violet, and brilliant green) in aquaculture products by LC/MS/MS: first action 2012.25.

PubMed

Hurtaud-Pessel, Dominique; Couëdor, Pierrick; Verdon, Eric; Dowell, Dawn

2013-01-01

During the AOAC Annual Meeting held from September 30 to October 3, 2012 in Las Vegas, NV, the Expert Review Panel (ERP) on Veterinary Drug Residues reviewed data for the method for determination of residues of three triphenylmethane dyes and their metabolites (malachite green, leuco malachite green, crystal violet, leuco crystal violet, and brilliant green) in aquaculture products by LC/MS/MS, previously published in the Journal of Chromatography A 1218, 1632-1645 (2006). The method data were reviewed and compared to the standard method performance requirements (SMPRs) found in SMPR 2009.001, published in AOAC's Official Methods of Analysis, 19th Ed. (2012). The ERP determined that the data were acceptable, and the method was approved AOAC Official First Action. The method uses acetonitrile to isolate the analyte from the matrix. Then determination is conducted by LCIMS/MS with positive electrospray ionization. Accuracy ranged from 100.1 to 109.8% for samples fortified at levels of 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 2.0 microg/kg. Precision ranged from 2.0 to 10.3% RSD for the intraday samples and 1.9 to 10.6% for the interday samples analyzed over 3 days. The described method is designed to accurately operate in the analytical range from 0.5 to 2 microg/kg, where the minimum required performance limit for laboratories has been fixed in the European Union at 2.0 microg/kg for these banned substances and their metabolites. Upper levels of concentrations (1-100 microg/kg) can be analyzed depending on the different optional calibrations used.

Improved panels for clinical immune phenotyping: Utilization of the violet laser.

PubMed

Ryherd, Mark; Plassmeyer, Matthew; Alexander, Connor; Eugenio, Ines; Kleschenko, Yuliya; Badger, Ariel; Gupta, Raavi; Alpan, Oral; Sønder, Søren Ulrik

2017-05-10

Clinical diagnostic laboratories are subject to numerous regulations imposed by government agencies. Laboratory developed tests for flow cytometry panels are essentially restricted to the use of analyte-specific reagents (ASR) antibodies. With the advances in clinical flow cytometry systems, there is a trend toward the utilization of blue/red/violet laser flow systems and 8 to 10-color panels. Currently, the selection of commercially available ASR antibodies for the violet laser is very limited. The market is dominated by Brilliant Violet 421 (BV421) manufactured by BD Biosciences and Pacific Blue (PB) manufactured by Beckman Coulter. In this study, we compare BV421 and PB conjugated ASR antibodies. Whole blood was stained and acquired on a Gallios flow cytometer system. For single color staining, the stain index (SI) was calculated. For the two panels, the compensation matrix was calculated and the performance of the antibody cocktails analyzed in FCS Express. The results show that five out of six tested BV421 conjugated antibodies have significantly higher SI than their PB counterparts. Furthermore, BV421 antibodies require less compensation for spillover than PB. Finally, BV421 conjugated antibodies give better separation between negative and positive populations in the context of an 8 and 10 color panel without affecting the intensity of the other dyes. Overall, using BV421 conjugated antibodies results in better separation between populations compared to PB conjugated antibodies without negatively affecting other fluorochromes in our panels. We conclude that the BV421 conjugated ASR antibodies are currently the better available option for clinical flow panels. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society. © 2017 International Clinical Cytometry Society.

PoMo: An Allele Frequency-Based Approach for Species Tree Estimation

PubMed Central

De Maio, Nicola; Schrempf, Dominik; Kosiol, Carolin

2015-01-01

Incomplete lineage sorting can cause incongruencies of the overall species-level phylogenetic tree with the phylogenetic trees for individual genes or genomic segments. If these incongruencies are not accounted for, it is possible to incur several biases in species tree estimation. Here, we present a simple maximum likelihood approach that accounts for ancestral variation and incomplete lineage sorting. We use a POlymorphisms-aware phylogenetic MOdel (PoMo) that we have recently shown to efficiently estimate mutation rates and fixation biases from within and between-species variation data. We extend this model to perform efficient estimation of species trees. We test the performance of PoMo in several different scenarios of incomplete lineage sorting using simulations and compare it with existing methods both in accuracy and computational speed. In contrast to other approaches, our model does not use coalescent theory but is allele frequency based. We show that PoMo is well suited for genome-wide species tree estimation and that on such data it is more accurate than previous approaches. PMID:26209413

Opto electronic tweezers based smart sweeper for cells/micro-particles sorting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verma, R. S.; Kumar, N.

2018-04-01

We report on use of opto-electronic tweezers based sorting approach, termed as smart sweepers, for sorting the microscopic particles by using the Dielectrophoretic (DEP) force response of cells on applied a.c. bias frequency. The applied a.c. bias was kept in negative DEP region, close to the crossover frequency of one of the particles. A line shaped intensity pattern, generated by a cylindrical lens, was scanned across the mixture sample. The particles whose cross over frequency was close to the applied bias frequency, experienced negligible negative DEP(n-DEP) force. On the other hand, the other type of particle experienced large repelling force and were forced to move along the scanning direction of the line shaped intensity profile. We, as a proof of concept, demonstrated the working principle of opto electronic smart sweepers by sweeping out the polystyrene particles from a mixture consisting of polystyrene microspheres (PSM) and red blood cells (RBCs) and leaving RBCs in the region of interest.

Binary-space-partitioned images for resolving image-based visibility.

PubMed

Fu, Chi-Wing; Wong, Tien-Tsin; Tong, Wai-Shun; Tang, Chi-Keung; Hanson, Andrew J

2004-01-01

We propose a novel 2D representation for 3D visibility sorting, the Binary-Space-Partitioned Image (BSPI), to accelerate real-time image-based rendering. BSPI is an efficient 2D realization of a 3D BSP tree, which is commonly used in computer graphics for time-critical visibility sorting. Since the overall structure of a BSP tree is encoded in a BSPI, traversing a BSPI is comparable to traversing the corresponding BSP tree. BSPI performs visibility sorting efficiently and accurately in the 2D image space by warping the reference image triangle-by-triangle instead of pixel-by-pixel. Multiple BSPIs can be combined to solve "disocclusion," when an occluded portion of the scene becomes visible at a novel viewpoint. Our method is highly automatic, including a tensor voting preprocessing step that generates candidate image partition lines for BSPIs, filters the noisy input data by rejecting outliers, and interpolates missing information. Our system has been applied to a variety of real data, including stereo, motion, and range images.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Vascular Target Discovery in Breast Cancer-Associated Angiogenesis

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-09-01

demonstrating this marker as demonstrated by flow cytometry . These GFP+ MSCs were subsequently analyzed for expression of commonly reported markers of...phenotypically and genotypically analyzed by flow cytometry and gene chip analysis, respectively. We have also shown that MSCs can then be stimulated to...positive MSCs retrieved by collagenase digestion of the Matrigel plug and sorted by flow cytometry . Sorting of these retrieved cells based on co-expression

Rapid screening for plasmid DNA.

PubMed

Hughes, C; Meynell, G G

1977-03-07

A procedure is described for demonstrating plasmid DNA and its molecular weight, based on rate zonal centrifugation of unlabelled DNA in neutral sucrose gradients containing a low concentration of ethidium bromide. Each DNA species is then visualized as a discrete fluorescent band when the centrifuge tube is illuminated with ultra-violet light. Plasmids exist as closed circular and as relaxed circular molecules, which sediment separately, but during preparation of lysates, closed circular molecules are nicked so that each plasmid forms only a single band of relaxed circles within the gradient.

Free-Flow Zone Electrophoresis of Peptides and Proteins in PDMS Microchip for Narrow pI Range Sample Prefractionation Coupled with Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Song, Yong-Ak; Chan, Michael; Celio, Chris; Tannenbaum, Steven R.; Wishnok, John S.; Han, Jongyoon

2010-01-01

In this paper, we are evaluating the strategy of sorting peptides / proteins based on the charge to mass without resorting to ampholytes and / or isoelectric focusing, using a single- and two-step free-flow zone electrophoresis. We developed a simple fabrication method to create a salt bridge for free-flow zone electrophoresis in PDMS chips by surface printing a hydrophobic layer on a glass substrate. Since the surface-printed hydrophobic layer prevents plasma bonding between the PDMS chip and the substrate, an electrical junction gap can be created for free-flow zone electrophoresis. With this device, we demonstrated a separation of positive and negative peptides and proteins at a given pH in standard buffer systems, and validated the sorting result with LC/MS. Furthermore, we coupled two sorting steps via off-chip titration, and isolated peptides within specific pI ranges from sample mixtures, where the pI range was simply set by the pH values of the buffer solutions. This free-flow zone electrophoresis sorting device, with its simplicity of fabrication, and a sorting resolution of 0.5 pH unit, can potentially be a high-throughput sample fractionation tool for targeted proteomics using LC/MS. PMID:20163146

IB-LBM simulation on blood cell sorting with a micro-fence structure.

PubMed

Wei, Qiang; Xu, Yuan-Qing; Tian, Fang-bao; Gao, Tian-xin; Tang, Xiao-ying; Zu, Wen-Hong

2014-01-01

A size-based blood cell sorting model with a micro-fence structure is proposed in the frame of immersed boundary and lattice Boltzmann method (IB-LBM). The fluid dynamics is obtained by solving the discrete lattice Boltzmann equation, and the cells motion and deformation are handled by the immersed boundary method. A micro-fence consists of two parallel slope post rows which are adopted to separate red blood cells (RBCs) from white blood cells (WBCs), in which the cells to be separated are transported one after another by the flow into the passageway between the two post rows. Effected by the cross flow, RBCs are schemed to get through the pores of the nether post row since they are smaller and more deformable compared with WBCs. WBCs are required to move along the nether post row till they get out the micro-fence. Simulation results indicate that for a fix width of pores, the slope angle of the post row plays an important role in cell sorting. The cells mixture can not be separated properly in a small slope angle, while obvious blockages by WBCs will take place to disturb the continuous cell sorting in a big slope angle. As an optimal result, an adaptive slope angle is found to sort RBCs form WBCs correctly and continuously.

Spike sorting of synchronous spikes from local neuron ensembles

PubMed Central

Pröpper, Robert; Alle, Henrik; Meier, Philipp; Geiger, Jörg R. P.; Obermayer, Klaus; Munk, Matthias H. J.

2015-01-01

Synchronous spike discharge of cortical neurons is thought to be a fingerprint of neuronal cooperativity. Because neighboring neurons are more densely connected to one another than neurons that are located further apart, near-synchronous spike discharge can be expected to be prevalent and it might provide an important basis for cortical computations. Using microelectrodes to record local groups of neurons does not allow for the reliable separation of synchronous spikes from different cells, because available spike sorting algorithms cannot correctly resolve the temporally overlapping waveforms. We show that high spike sorting performance of in vivo recordings, including overlapping spikes, can be achieved with a recently developed filter-based template matching procedure. Using tetrodes with a three-dimensional structure, we demonstrate with simulated data and ground truth in vitro data, obtained by dual intracellular recording of two neurons located next to a tetrode, that the spike sorting of synchronous spikes can be as successful as the spike sorting of nonoverlapping spikes and that the spatial information provided by multielectrodes greatly reduces the error rates. We apply the method to tetrode recordings from the prefrontal cortex of behaving primates, and we show that overlapping spikes can be identified and assigned to individual neurons to study synchronous activity in local groups of neurons. PMID:26289473

Parallel integer sorting with medium and fine-scale parallelism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dagum, Leonardo

1993-01-01

Two new parallel integer sorting algorithms, queue-sort and barrel-sort, are presented and analyzed in detail. These algorithms do not have optimal parallel complexity, yet they show very good performance in practice. Queue-sort designed for fine-scale parallel architectures which allow the queueing of multiple messages to the same destination. Barrel-sort is designed for medium-scale parallel architectures with a high message passing overhead. The performance results from the implementation of queue-sort on a Connection Machine CM-2 and barrel-sort on a 128 processor iPSC/860 are given. The two implementations are found to be comparable in performance but not as good as a fully vectorized bucket sort on the Cray YMP.

Sort computation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dorband, John E.

1988-01-01

Sorting has long been used to organize data in preparation for further computation, but sort computation allows some types of computation to be performed during the sort. Sort aggregation and sort distribution are the two basic forms of sort computation. Sort aggregation generates an accumulative or aggregate result for each group of records and places this result in one of the records. An aggregate operation can be any operation that is both associative and commutative, i.e., any operation whose result does not depend on the order of the operands or the order in which the operations are performed. Sort distribution copies the value from a field of a specific record in a group into that field in every record of that group.

Critical role of the sorting polymer in carbon nanotube-based minority carrier devices

DOE PAGES

Mallajosyula, Arun T.; Nie, Wanyi; Gupta, Gautam; ...

2016-11-27

A prerequisite for carbon nanotube-based optoelectronic devices is the ability to sort them into a pure semiconductor phase. One of the most common sorting routes is enabled through using specific wrapping polymers. Here we show that subtle changes in the polymer structure can have a dramatic influence on the figures of merit of a carbon nanotube-based photovoltaic device. By comparing two commonly used polyfluorenes (PFO and PFO-BPy) for wrapping (7,5) and (6,5) chirality SWCNTs, we demonstrate that they have contrasting effects on the device efficiency. We attribute this to the differences in their ability to efficiently transfer charge. Although PFOmore » may act as an efficient interfacial layer at the anode, PFO-BPy, having the additional pyridine side groups, forms a high resistance layer degrading the device efficiency. By comparing PFO|C 60 and C 60-only devices, we found that presence of a PFO layer at low optical densities resulted in the increase of all three solar cell parameters, giving nearly an order of magnitude higher efficiency over that of C 60-only devices. In addition, with a relatively higher contribution to photocurrent from the PFO-C 60 interface, an open circuit voltage of 0.55 V was obtained for PFO-(7,5)-C 60 devices. On the other hand, PFO-BPy does not affect the open circuit voltage but drastically reduces the short circuit current density. Lastly, these results indicate that the charge transport properties and energy levels of the sorting polymers have to be taken into account to fully understand their effect on carbon nanotube-based solar cells.« less

Derivation of sorting programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Varghese, Joseph; Loganantharaj, Rasiah

1990-01-01

Program synthesis for critical applications has become a viable alternative to program verification. Nested resolution and its extension are used to synthesize a set of sorting programs from their first order logic specifications. A set of sorting programs, such as, naive sort, merge sort, and insertion sort, were successfully synthesized starting from the same set of specifications.

Rapid fabrication of three-dimensional structures for dielectrophoretic sorting of lipid-containing organisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schor, Alisha R.; Buie, Cullen R.

2016-10-01

In this work, we demonstrate a microfluidic particle sorter consisting of three-dimensional, conducting microposts. Our sorter uses dielectrophoresis (DEP) to sort high- and low-lipid phenotypes of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. Y. lipolytica is one of the many microorganisms being explored as a hydrocarbon source for biodiesel, Omega-3 additives, and other products derived from fatty acids. A rapid, non-destructive, lipid-based sorting tool would accelerate the commercialization of these products. Our device consists of an array of 105, 25 μm wide gold microposts that span the height of a 15 μm channel. This array generates an electric field in a microfluidic device that is uniform through the channel height, but has a custom-shaped non-uniformity in the horizontal directions. This is crucial in order to achieve continuous sorting using DEP, as it ensures all cells are exposed to the same conditions throughout the channel height. By using very low currents (100 μA), we are able to electroplate these post arrays in fewer than 15 min. This is an order of magnitude improvement over previous reports of electroplated microstructures. With an applied signal of 250 MHz, 2.6 V pp in our device, we separate a heterogeneous population with a purity of 97.8% in the low-lipid stream and 71.4% in the high-lipid stream. The high-lipid stream purity can be improved by adjusting the spacing of the array. This unique protocol for the rapid fabrication of 3D microstructures has enabled the creation of a non-invasive sorting tool for genetically engineered, lipid-producing organisms. The ability to screen organisms based on lipid content will alleviate one of the major bottlenecks in commercialization of microbial biofuels.

Role of adaptor proteins and clathrin in the trafficking of human kidney anion exchanger 1 (kAE1) to the cell surface.

PubMed

Junking, Mutita; Sawasdee, Nunghathai; Duangtum, Natapol; Cheunsuchon, Boonyarit; Limjindaporn, Thawornchai; Yenchitsomanus, Pa-thai

2014-07-01

Kidney anion exchanger 1 (kAE1) plays an important role in acid-base homeostasis by mediating chloride/bicarbornate (Cl-/HCO3-) exchange at the basolateral membrane of α-intercalated cells in the distal nephron. Impaired intracellular trafficking of kAE1 caused by mutations of SLC4A1 encoding kAE1 results in kidney disease - distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA). However, it is not known how the intracellular sorting and trafficking of kAE1 from trans-Golgi network (TGN) to the basolateral membrane occurs. Here, we studied the role of basolateral-related sorting proteins, including the mu1 subunit of adaptor protein (AP) complexes, clathrin and protein kinase D, on kAE1 trafficking in polarized and non-polarized kidney cells. By using RNA interference, co-immunoprecipitation, yellow fluorescent protein-based protein fragment complementation assays and immunofluorescence staining, we demonstrated that AP-1 mu1A, AP-3 mu1, AP-4 mu1 and clathrin (but not AP-1 mu1B, PKD1 or PKD2) play crucial roles in intracellular sorting and trafficking of kAE1. We also demonstrated colocalization of kAE1 and basolateral-related sorting proteins in human kidney tissues by double immunofluorescence staining. These findings indicate that AP-1 mu1A, AP-3 mu1, AP-4 mu1 and clathrin are required for kAE1 sorting and trafficking from TGN to the basolateral membrane of acid-secreting α-intercalated cells. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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

Kattke, Michele D.; Chan, Albert H.; Duong, Andrew

Here, many species of Gram-positive bacteria use sortase transpeptidases to covalently affix proteins to their cell wall or to assemble pili. Sortase-displayed proteins perform critical and diverse functions for cell survival, including cell adhesion, nutrient acquisition, and morphological development, among others. Based on their amino acid sequences, there are at least six types of sortases (class A to F enzymes); however, class E enzymes have not been extensively studied. Class E sortases are used by soil and freshwater-dwelling Actinobacteria to display proteins that contain a non-canonical LAXTG sorting signal, which differs from 90% of known sorting signals by substitution ofmore » alanine for proline. Here we report the first crystal structure of a class E sortase, the 1.93 Å resolution structure of the SrtE1 enzyme from Streptomyces coelicolor. The active site is bound to a tripeptide, providing insight into the mechanism of substrate binding. SrtE1 possesses β3/β4 and β6/β7 active site loops that contact the LAXTG substrate and are structurally distinct from other classes. We propose that SrtE1 and other class E sortases employ a conserved tyrosine residue within their β3/β4 loop to recognize the amide nitrogen of alanine at position P3 of the sorting signal through a hydrogen bond, as seen here. Incapability of hydrogen-bonding with canonical proline-containing sorting signals likely contributes to class E substrate specificity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that surface anchoring of proteins involved in aerial hyphae formation requires an N-terminal segment in SrtE1 that is presumably positioned within the cytoplasm. Combined, our results reveal unique features within class E enzymes that enable them to recognize distinct sorting signals, and could facilitate the development of substrate-based inhibitors of this important enzyme family.« less

Microfluidic EmbryoSort technology: towards in flow analysis, sorting and dispensing of individual vertebrate embryos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fuad, Nurul M.; Wlodkowic, Donald

2013-12-01

The demand to reduce the numbers of laboratory animals has facilitated the emergence of surrogate models such as tests performed on zebrafish (Danio rerio) or African clawed frog's (Xenopus levis) eggs, embryos and larvae. Those two model organisms are becoming increasingly popular replacements to current adult animal testing in toxicology, ecotoxicology and also in drug discovery. Zebrafish eggs and embryos are particularly attractive for toxicological analysis due their size (diameter 1.6 mm), optical transparency, large numbers generated per fish and very straightforward husbandry. The current bottleneck in using zebrafish embryos for screening purposes is, however, a tedious manual evaluation to confirm the fertilization status and subsequent dispensing of single developing embryos to multitier plates to perform toxicity analysis. Manual procedures associated with sorting hundreds of embryos are very monotonous and as such prone to significant analytical errors due to operator's fatigue. In this work, we present a proofof- concept design of a continuous flow embryo sorter capable of analyzing, sorting and dispensing objects ranging in size from 1.5 - 2.5 mm. The prototypes were fabricated in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) transparent thermoplastic using infrared laser micromachining. The application of additive manufacturing processes to prototype Lab-on-a-Chip sorters using both fused deposition manufacturing (FDM) and stereolithography (SLA) were also explored. The operation of the device was based on a revolving receptacle capable of receiving, holding and positioning single fish embryos for both interrogation and subsequent sorting. The actuation of the revolving receptacle was performed using a DC motor and/or microservo motor. The system was designed to separate between fertilized (LIVE) and non-fertilized (DEAD) eggs, based on optical transparency using infrared (IR) emitters and receivers.

Unexpected random urinary protein:creatinine ratio results–limitations of the pyrocatechol violet-dye method

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background For clinicians, it is important to rely on accurate laboratory results for patient care and optimal use of health care resources. We sought to explore our observations that urine protein:creatinine ratios (PrCr) ≥30 mg/mmol are seen not infrequently associated with normal pregnancy outcome. Methods Urine samples were collected prospectively from 160 pregnant women attending high-risk maternity clinics at a tertiary care facility. Urinary protein was measured using a pyrocatechol violet assay and urinary creatinine by an enzymatic method on Vitros analysers. Maternal/perinatal outcomes were abstracted from hospital records. Results 91/233 (39.1%) samples had a PrCr ≥30 mg/mmol, especially when urinary creatinine concentration was <3 mM (94.1%) vs. ≥3 mM (16.4%) (p < 0.001). When using the last sample before delivery, 47/160 (29.4%) had a PrCr ≥30 mg/mmol in diluted urine vs. only 17/160 (15.4%) in more concentrated urine (p < 0.001); PrCr positive results were also more frequent among the 32 (20.0%) women with known normal pregnancy outcome (90.9% vs. 0) (p < 0.001). Using the same analyser, 0.12 g/L urinary protein was ‘detected’ in deionised water. Re-analysis of data from two cohorts revealed substantially less inflation of PrCr in dilute urine using a pyrogallol red assay. Conclusions Random urinary PrCr was overestimated in dilute urine when tested using a common pyrocatechol violet dye-based method. This effect was reduced in cohorts when pyrogallol red assays were used. False positive results can impact on diagnosis and patient care. This highlights the need for both clinical and laboratory quality improvement projects and standardization of laboratory protein measurement. PMID:23865673

The effect of thermal treatment on antioxidant capacity and pigment contents in separated betalain fractions.

PubMed

Mikołajczyk-Bator, Katarzyna; Pawlak, Sylwia

2016-01-01

Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables significantly reduces the risk of cardio-vascular disease. This beneficial effect on the human organism is ascribed to the antioxidant compounds these foods contain. Unfortunately, many products, particularly vegetables, need to be subjected to thermal processing before consumption. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of such thermal treatment on the antioxidant capacity and pigment contents in separated fractions of violet pigments (betacyanins) and yellow pigments (betaxanthins and betacyanins). Fractions of violet and yellow pigments were obtained by separation of betalain pigments from fresh roots of 3 red beet cultivars using column chromatography and solid phase extraction (SPE). The betalain pigment content was determined in all samples before and after thermal treatment (90°C/30 min) by spectrophotometry, according to Nilsson's method [1970] and antioxidant capacity was assessed based on ABTS. Betalain pigments in the separated fractions were identified using HPLC-MS. After thermal treatment of betacyanin fractions a slight, but statistically significant degradation of pigments was observed, while the antioxidant capacity of these fractions did not change markedly. Losses of betacyanin content amounted to 13-15% depending on the cultivar, while losses of antioxidant capacity were approx. 7%. HPLC/MS analyses showed that before heating, betanin was the dominant pigment in the betacyanin fraction, while after heating it was additionally 15-decarboxy-betanin. Isolated fractions of yellow pigments in red beets are three times less heat-resistant than betacyanin fractions. At losses of yellow pigment contents in the course of thermal treatment reaching 47%, antioxidant capacity did not change markedly (a decrease by approx. 5%). In the yellow pigment fractions neobetanin was the dominant peak in the HPLC chromatogram, while vulgaxanthin was found in a much smaller area, whereas after heating additionally 2-decarboxy-2,3-dehydro-neobetanin was detected. Both groups of betalain pigments (betacyanins and betaxanthins) exhibit antioxidant capacity before and after heating. Violet beatacyjanins are 3 times more stable when heated than yellow betaxanthins.

Adding liquid feed to a total mixed ration reduces feed sorting behavior and improves productivity of lactating dairy cows.

PubMed

DeVries, T J; Gill, R M

2012-05-01

This study was designed to determine the effect of adding a molasses-based liquid feed (LF) supplement to a total mixed ration (TMR) on the feed sorting behavior and production of dairy cows. Twelve lactating Holstein cows (88.2±19.5 DIM) were exposed, in a crossover design with 21-d periods, to each of 2 treatment diets: 1) control TMR and 2) control TMR with 4.1% dietary dry matter LF added. Dry matter intake (DMI), sorting, and milk yield were recorded for the last 7 d of each treatment period. Milk samples were collected for composition analysis for the last 3 d of each treatment period; these data were used to calculate 4% fat-corrected milk and energy-corrected milk yield. Sorting was determined by subjecting fresh feed and orts samples to particle separation and expressing the actual intake of each particle fraction as a percentage of the predicted intake of that fraction. Addition of LF did not noticeably change the nutrient composition of the ration, with the exception of an expected increase in dietary sugar concentration (from 4.0 to 5.4%). Liquid feed supplementation affected the particle size distribution of the ration, resulting in a lesser amount of short and a greater amount of fine particles. Cows sorted against the longest ration particles on both treatment diets; the extent of this sorting was greater on the control diet (55.0 vs. 68.8%). Dry matter intake was 1.4 kg/d higher when cows were fed the LF diet as compared with the control diet, resulting in higher acid-detergent fiber, neutral-detergent fiber, and sugar intakes. As a result of the increased DMI, cows tended to produce 1.9 kg/d more milk and produced 3.1 and 3.2 kg/d more 4% fat-corrected milk and energy-corrected milk, respectively, on the LF diet. As a result, cows tended to produce more milk fat (0.13 kg/d) and produced more milk protein (0.09 kg/d) on the LF diet. No difference between treatments was observed in the efficiency of milk production. Overall, adding a molasses-based LF to TMR can be used to decrease feed sorting, enhance DMI, and improve milk yield. Copyright © 2012 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

TH-EF-BRA-06: A Novel Retrospective 3D K-Space Sorting 4D-MRI Technique Using a Radial K-Space Acquisition MRI Sequence

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

Liu, Y; Subashi, E; Yin, F

Purpose: Current retrospective 4D-MRI provides superior tumor-to-tissue contrast and accurate respiratory motion information for radiotherapy motion management. The developed 4D-MRI techniques based on 2D-MRI image sorting require a high frame-rate of the MR sequences. However, several MRI sequences provide excellent image quality but have low frame-rate. This study aims at developing a novel retrospective 3D k-space sorting 4D-MRI technique using radial k-space acquisition MRI sequences to improve 4D-MRI image quality and temporal-resolution for imaging irregular organ/tumor respiratory motion. Methods: The method is based on a RF-spoiled, steady-state, gradient-recalled sequence with minimal echo time. A 3D radial k-space data acquisition trajectorymore » was used for sampling the datasets. Each radial spoke readout data line starts from the 3D center of Field-of-View. Respiratory signal can be extracted from the k-space center data point of each spoke. The spoke data was sorted based on its self-synchronized respiratory signal using phase sorting. Subsequently, 3D reconstruction was conducted to generate the time-resolved 4D-MRI images. As a feasibility study, this technique was implemented on a digital human phantom XCAT. The respiratory motion was controlled by an irregular motion profile. To validate using k-space center data as a respiratory surrogate, we compared it with the XCAT input controlling breathing profile. Tumor motion trajectories measured on reconstructed 4D-MRI were compared to the average input trajectory. The mean absolute amplitude difference (D) was calculated. Results: The signal extracted from k-space center data matches well with the input controlling respiratory profile of XCAT. The relative amplitude error was 8.6% and the relative phase error was 3.5%. XCAT 4D-MRI demonstrated a clear motion pattern with little serrated artifacts. D of tumor trajectories was 0.21mm, 0.23mm and 0.23mm in SI, AP and ML directions, respectively. Conclusion: A novel retrospective 3D k-space sorting 4D-MRI technique has been developed and evaluated on human digital phantom. NIH (1R21CA165384-01A1)« less

Study on Impact Acoustic—Visual Sensor-Based Sorting of ELV Plastic Materials

PubMed Central

Huang, Jiu; Tian, Chuyuan; Ren, Jingwei; Bian, Zhengfu

2017-01-01

This paper concentrates on a study of a novel multi-sensor aided method by using acoustic and visual sensors for detection, recognition and separation of End-of Life vehicles’ (ELVs) plastic materials, in order to optimize the recycling rate of automotive shredder residues (ASRs). Sensor-based sorting technologies have been utilized for material recycling for the last two decades. One of the problems still remaining results from black and dark dyed plastics which are very difficult to recognize using visual sensors. In this paper a new multi-sensor technology for black plastic recognition and sorting by using impact resonant acoustic emissions (AEs) and laser triangulation scanning was introduced. A pilot sorting system which consists of a 3-dimensional visual sensor and an acoustic sensor was also established; two kinds commonly used vehicle plastics, polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and two kinds of modified vehicle plastics, polypropylene/ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer (PP-EPDM) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene/polycarbonate (ABS-PC) were tested. In this study the geometrical features of tested plastic scraps were measured by the visual sensor, and their corresponding impact acoustic emission (AE) signals were acquired by the acoustic sensor. The signal processing and feature extraction of visual data as well as acoustic signals were realized by virtual instruments. Impact acoustic features were recognized by using FFT based power spectral density analysis. The results shows that the characteristics of the tested PP and ABS plastics were totally different, but similar to their respective modified materials. The probability of scrap material recognition rate, i.e., the theoretical sorting efficiency between PP and PP-EPDM, could reach about 50%, and between ABS and ABS-PC it could reach about 75% with diameters ranging from 14 mm to 23 mm, and with exclusion of abnormal impacts, the actual separation rates were 39.2% for PP, 41.4% for PP/EPDM scraps as well as 62.4% for ABS, and 70.8% for ABS/PC scraps. Within the diameter range of 8-13 mm, only 25% of PP and 27% of PP/EPDM scraps, as well as 43% of ABS, and 47% of ABS/PC scraps were finally separated. This research proposes a new approach for sensor-aided automatic recognition and sorting of black plastic materials, it is an effective method for ASR reduction and recycling. PMID:28594341

Check-All-That-Apply (CATA), Sorting, and Polarized Sensory Positioning (PSP) with Astringent Stimuli

PubMed Central

Fleming, Erin E.; Ziegler, Gregory R.; Hayes, John E.

2015-01-01

Multiple rapid sensory profiling techniques have been developed as more efficient alternatives to traditional sensory descriptive analysis. Here, we compare the results of three rapid sensory profiling techniques – check-all-that-apply (CATA), sorting, and polarized sensory positioning (PSP) – using a diverse range of astringent stimuli. These rapid methods differ in their theoretical basis, implementation, and data analyses, and the relative advantages and limitations are largely unexplored. Additionally, we were interested in using these methods to compare varied astringent stimuli, as these compounds are difficult to characterize using traditional descriptive analysis due to high fatigue and potential carry-over. In the CATA experiment, subjects (n=41) were asked to rate the overall intensity of each stimulus as well as to endorse any relevant terms (from a list of 13) which characterized the sample. In the sorting experiment, subjects (n=30) assigned intensity-matched stimuli into groups 1-on-1 with the experimenter. In the PSP experiment, (n=41) subjects first sampled and took notes on three blind references (‘poles’) before rating each stimulus for its similarity to each of the 3 poles. Two-dimensional perceptual maps from correspondence analysis (CATA), multidimensional scaling (sorting), and multiple factor analysis (PSP) were remarkably similar, with normalized RV coefficients indicating significantly similar plots, regardless of method. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering of all data sets using Ward’s minimum variance as the linkage criteria showed the clusters of astringent stimuli were approximately based on the respective class of astringent agent. Based on the descriptive CATA data, it appears these differences may be due to the presence of side tastes such as bitterness and sourness, rather than astringent sub-qualities per se. Although all three methods are considered ‘rapid,’ our prior experience with sorting suggests it is best performed 1:1 with the experimenter, which makes sorting relatively less efficient than CATA or PSP. Based on the evaluation criteria used here, the choice of method depends on the time constraints of the experimenter and the need for descriptive terms to understand the sensory space of the samples. Accordingly, we recommend a mixed approach that combines CATA with a subsequent PSP task so that the product space can be well characterized before choosing poles for PSP. PMID:26113771

Study on Impact Acoustic-Visual Sensor-Based Sorting of ELV Plastic Materials.

PubMed

Huang, Jiu; Tian, Chuyuan; Ren, Jingwei; Bian, Zhengfu

2017-06-08

This paper concentrates on a study of a novel multi-sensor aided method by using acoustic and visual sensors for detection, recognition and separation of End-of Life vehicles' (ELVs) plastic materials, in order to optimize the recycling rate of automotive shredder residues (ASRs). Sensor-based sorting technologies have been utilized for material recycling for the last two decades. One of the problems still remaining results from black and dark dyed plastics which are very difficult to recognize using visual sensors. In this paper a new multi-sensor technology for black plastic recognition and sorting by using impact resonant acoustic emissions (AEs) and laser triangulation scanning was introduced. A pilot sorting system which consists of a 3-dimensional visual sensor and an acoustic sensor was also established; two kinds commonly used vehicle plastics, polypropylene (PP) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and two kinds of modified vehicle plastics, polypropylene/ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer (PP-EPDM) and acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene/polycarbonate (ABS-PC) were tested. In this study the geometrical features of tested plastic scraps were measured by the visual sensor, and their corresponding impact acoustic emission (AE) signals were acquired by the acoustic sensor. The signal processing and feature extraction of visual data as well as acoustic signals were realized by virtual instruments. Impact acoustic features were recognized by using FFT based power spectral density analysis. The results shows that the characteristics of the tested PP and ABS plastics were totally different, but similar to their respective modified materials. The probability of scrap material recognition rate, i.e., the theoretical sorting efficiency between PP and PP-EPDM, could reach about 50%, and between ABS and ABS-PC it could reach about 75% with diameters ranging from 14 mm to 23 mm, and with exclusion of abnormal impacts, the actual separation rates were 39.2% for PP, 41.4% for PP/EPDM scraps as well as 62.4% for ABS, and 70.8% for ABS/PC scraps. Within the diameter range of 8-13 mm, only 25% of PP and 27% of PP/EPDM scraps, as well as 43% of ABS, and 47% of ABS/PC scraps were finally separated. This research proposes a new approach for sensor-aided automatic recognition and sorting of black plastic materials, it is an effective method for ASR reduction and recycling.

Safe sorting of GFP-transduced live cells for subsequent culture using a modified FACS vantage.

PubMed

Sørensen, T U; Gram, G J; Nielsen, S D; Hansen, J E

1999-12-01

A stream-in-air cell sorter enables rapid sorting to a high purity, but it is not well suited for sorting of infectious material due to the risk of airborne spread to the surroundings. A FACS Vantage cell sorter was modified for safe use with potentially HIV infected cells. Safety tests with bacteriophages were performed to evaluate the potential spread of biologically active material during cell sorting. Cells transduced with a retroviral vector carrying the gene for GFP were sorted on the basis of their GFP fluorescence, and GFP expression was followed during subsequent culture. The bacteriophage sorting showed that the biologically active material was confined to the sorting chamber. A failure mode simulating a nozzle blockage resulted in detectable droplets inside the sorting chamber, but no droplets could be detected when an additional air suction from the sorting chamber had been put on. The GFP transduced cells were sorted to 99% purity. Cells not expressing GFP at the time of sorting did not turn on the gene during subsequent culture. Un-sorted cells and cells sorted to be positive for GFP showed a decrease in the fraction of GFP positive cells during culture. Sorting of live infected cells can be performed safely and with no deleterious effects on vector expression using the modified FACS Vantage instrument. Copyright 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Cresyl Violet Adsorption on Sonicated Graphite Oxide.

PubMed

Coello-Fiallos, D; Cazzanelli, E; Tavolaro, A; Tavolaro, P; Arias, M; Caputi, L S

2018-04-01

We present a study of adsorption of Cresyl Violet (CV) in aqueous solution on sonicated Graphite Oxide (sGO). For comparison, we also show adsorption results of Methylene Blue (MB) and Acridine Orange (AO) performed in the same conditions. The adsorbent was synthesized by the Tour's method followed by washing in water and ethanol and sonication, without any reduction, and studied by Raman, IR, UV-Vis, SEM and TEM techniques. Our results show that adsorption fits the pseudosecond order model for the three dyes, and that the adsorption quantity for CV is 125.0 mg g-1, while for MB and AO is 123.3 and 94.6 mg g-1 respectively.

UV-vis, IR and 1H NMR spectroscopic studies and characterization of ionic-pair crystal violet-oxytetracycline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orellana, Sandra; Soto, César; Toral, M. Inés

2010-01-01

The present study shows the formation and characterization of the ionic-pair between the antibiotic oxytetracycline and the dye crystal violet in ammonia solution pH 9.0 ± 0.2 extracted into chloroform. The characterization was demonstrated using UV-vis spectrophotometry, 1H NMR, measurement of relaxation times T1 and IR spectroscopy, using a comparison between the signals of individual pure compounds with the signals with the mixture CV-OTC in different alkaline media. The formation of ionic-pair was also corroborated by new signals and chemical shifts. (2D) NMR spectroscopy experiments show that the interaction is electrostatic.

Photographer : JPL Range : 6.5 million kilometers (4 million miles) Six violet images of Jupiter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

Photographer : JPL Range : 6.5 million kilometers (4 million miles) Six violet images of Jupiter makes the mosaic photo, showing the Great Red Spot as a swirling vortex type motion. This motion is also seen in several nearby white clouds. These bright white clouds and the Red Spot are rotating in a counter clockwise direction, except the peculiar filimentary cloud to the right of the Red Spot is going clockwise. The top of the picture shows the turbulence from the equatorial jet and more northerly atmospheric currents. The smallest clouds shown are only 70 miles (120 km) across.

Enhanced adsorption of methyl violet and congo red by using semi and full IPN of polymethacrylic acid and chitosan.

PubMed

Maity, Jayabrata; Ray, Samit Kumar

2014-04-15

Semi and full interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) type hydrogels were prepared by free radical in situ polymerization of methacrylic acid in presence of chitosan using N,N'-methylene-bis-acrylamide (MBA) and glutaraldehyde (for full IPN) as crosslinker. Several semi and full IPN type hydrogels were prepared by varying initiator and crosslinker concentration and also monomer to chitosan mass ratio. These hydrogels were characterized and used for removal of methyl violet and congo red dye from water. Isotherms and kinetics of dye adsorption were also evaluated. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Naked-eye determination of oxalate anion in aqueous solution with copper ion and pyrocatechol violet.

PubMed

Su, Jing; Sun, Yuan-Qiang; Huo, Fang-Jun; Yang, Yu-Tao; Yin, Cai-Xia

2010-11-01

A novel strategy for the determination of oxalate anions was successfully established using a copper ion and pyrocatechol violet (PV) ensemble. The sensor ensemble can discriminate oxalate over other common anions including F(-), Cl(-), I(-), Br(-), HPO(4)(2-), PO(4)(3-), AcO(-), CO(3)(2-), SO(4)(2-), ClO(4)(-), P(2)O(7)(4-), S(2-) (deposited by Ag(+)), CN(-) (shielded by Fe(3+)) and can detect oxalate at low microgram levels in quasi-physiological aqueous solutions. The detection of the oxalate anion gives rise to a rapid observable visual color change from blue to yellow.

In situ Silver Spot Preparation and on-Plate Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection in Thin Layer Chromatography Separation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herman, K.; Mircescu, N. E.; Szabo, L.; Leopold, L. F.; Chiş, V.; Leopold, N.

2013-05-01

An improved approach for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection of mixture constituents after thin layer chromatography (TLC) separation is presented. A SERS active silver substrate was prepared under open air conditions, directly on the thin silica film by photo-reduction of silver nitrate, allowing the detection of binary mixtures of cresyl violet, bixine, crystal violet, and Cu(II) complex of 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol. The recorded SERS spectrum provides a unique spectral fingerprint for each molecule; therefore the use of analyte standards is avoided, thus rendering the presented procedure advantageous compared to the conventional detection methodology in TLC.

[Effect of medicinal plant extracts on the growth of microorganisms].

PubMed

Baronets, N G; Adlova, G P; Mel'nikova, V A

2001-01-01

Extracts obtained from sweatweed and licorice roots, flax seeds, milfoil, bur-marigold, plantain, coltsfoot, nettle, Indian corn stigmas, laminaria produced a stimulating effect on the growth of Candida albicans test strain and Streptococcus pyogenes test strain Dick 1. Sweatweed, licorice, Aerva lanata and violet extracts influenced the growth of Corynebacterium xerosis 1911, while sweatweed, violet, horse-tail, bur-marigold, camomile, plantain, and nettle extracts influenced the growth of shigellae. The stimulating effect could be supposedly produced by biologically active substances contained in medicinal plants (organic acids, alkaloids, carotinoids, vitamins, microelements). Further studies aimed at the identification of substances producing the stimulating effect are planned.

Oxidation preventative capping layer for deep-ultra-violet and soft x-ray multilayers

DOEpatents

Prisbrey, Shon T.

2004-07-06

The invention uses iridium and iridium compounds as a protective capping layer on multilayers having reflectivity in the deep ultra-violet to soft x-ray regime. The iridium compounds can be formed in one of two ways: by direct deposition of the iridium compound from a prepared target or by depositing a thin layer (e.g., 5-50 angstroms) of iridium directly onto an element. The deposition energy of the incoming iridium is sufficient to activate the formation of the desired iridium compound. The compounds of most interest are iridium silicide (IrSi.sub.x) and iridium molybdenide (IrMo.sub.x).

Extreme ultra-violet movie camera for imaging microsecond time scale magnetic reconnection

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

Chai, Kil-Byoung; Bellan, Paul M.

2013-12-15

An ultra-fast extreme ultra-violet (EUV) movie camera has been developed for imaging magnetic reconnection in the Caltech spheromak/astrophysical jet experiment. The camera consists of a broadband Mo:Si multilayer mirror, a fast decaying YAG:Ce scintillator, a visible light block, and a high-speed visible light CCD camera. The camera can capture EUV images as fast as 3.3 × 10{sup 6} frames per second with 0.5 cm spatial resolution. The spectral range is from 20 eV to 60 eV. EUV images reveal strong, transient, highly localized bursts of EUV radiation when magnetic reconnection occurs.

CSL encodes a leucine-rich-repeat protein implicated in red/violet light signaling to the circadian clock in Chlamydomonas

PubMed Central

Kinoshita, Ayumi; Niwa, Yoshimi; Onai, Kiyoshi; Fukuzawa, Hideya; Ishiura, Masahiro

2017-01-01

The green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii shows various light responses in behavior and physiology. One such photoresponse is the circadian clock, which can be reset by external light signals to entrain its oscillation to daily environmental cycles. In a previous report, we suggested that a light-induced degradation of the clock protein ROC15 is a trigger to reset the circadian clock in Chlamydomonas. However, light signaling pathways of this process remained unclear. Here, we screened for mutants that show abnormal ROC15 diurnal rhythms, including the light-induced protein degradation at dawn, using a luciferase fusion reporter. In one mutant, ROC15 degradation and phase resetting of the circadian clock by light were impaired. Interestingly, the impairments were observed in response to red and violet light, but not to blue light. We revealed that an uncharacterized gene encoding a protein similar to RAS-signaling-related leucine-rich repeat (LRR) proteins is responsible for the mutant phenotypes. Our results indicate that a previously uncharacterized red/violet light signaling pathway is involved in the phase resetting of circadian clock in Chlamydomonas. PMID:28333924

Decolorization of Malachite Green and Crystal Violet by Waterborne Pathogenic Mycobacteria

PubMed Central

Jones, Jefferson J.; Falkinham III, Joseph O.

2003-01-01

Mycobacterium avium, Mycobacterium intracellulare, Mycobacterium scrofulaceum, Mycobacterium marinum, and Mycobacterium chelonae tolerate high concentrations of the dyes malachite green and crystal violet. Cells of strains of those species decolorized (reduced) both malachite green and crystal violet. Because decolorized malachite green lacked antimicrobial activity, the resistance of these mycobacteria could be due, in part, to their ability to decolorize the dyes. Small amounts of malachite green and its reduced, decolorized product were detected in the lipid fraction of M. avium strain A5 cells grown in the presence of malachite green, suggesting that a minor component of resistance could be due to sequestering the dyes in the extensive mycobacterial cell surface lipid. The membrane fraction of M. avium strain A5 had at least a fivefold-higher specific decolorization rate than did the crude extract, suggesting that the decolorization activity is membrane associated. The malachite green-decolorizing activity of the membrane fraction of M. avium strain A5 was abolished by either boiling or proteinase exposure, suggesting that the decolorizing activity was due to a protein. Decolorization activity of membrane fractions was stimulated by ferrous ion and inhibited by dinitrophenol and metyrapone. PMID:12821489

Modeling of nonequilibrium CO Fourth-Positive and CN Violet emission in CO2-N2 gases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnston, C. O.; Brandis, A. M.

2014-12-01

This work develops a chemical kinetic rate model for simulating nonequilibrium radiation from CO2-N2 gases, representative of Mars or Venus entry shock layers. Using recent EAST shock tube measurements of nonequilibrium CO 4th Positive and CN Violet emission at pressures and velocities ranging from 0.10 to 1.0 Torr and 6 to 8 km/s, the rate model is developed through an optimization procedure that minimizes the disagreement between the measured and simulated nonequilibrium radiance profiles. Only the dissociation rates of CO2, CO, and NO, along with the CN + O and CO + N rates were treated as unknown in this optimization procedure, as the nonequilibrium radiance was found to be most sensitive to them. The other rates were set to recent values from the literature. Increases in over a factor of 5 in the CO dissociation rate relative to the previous widely used value were found to provide the best agreement with measurements, while the CO2 rate was not changed. The developed model is found to capture the measured nonequilibrium radiance of CO 4th Positive and CN Violet within error bars of ±30%.

Enhanced tetrazolium violet reduction of Salmonella spp. by magnesium addition to the culture media.

PubMed

Junillon, Thomas; Morand, Lucie; Flandrois, Jean Pierre

2014-09-01

Tetrazolium salts (TTZ), such as tetrazolium violet (TV), have been widely used for microbiological studies. The formation of the colored formazan product due to bacterial reduction of the uncolored reagent is extensively exploited to stain cells or colonies in agar or on filters. But an important toxic effect of tetrazolium salts on bacteria exists that limits their use at high concentrations, impairing the efficient staining of the colonies. This is especially the case for Salmonella spp. where we observed, using a classic photometric approach and mathematical modeling of the growth, an important impact of tetrazolium violet on the apparent growth rate below the inhibitory concentration. In this study, we demonstrate that adding magnesium to the medium in the presence of TV leads to a significant increase in the apparent growth rate. Moreover, when higher TV concentrations are used which lead to total inhibition of Salmonella strains, magnesium addition to the culture media allows growth and TV reduction. This effect of magnesium may allow the use of higher TTZ concentrations in liquid growth media and enhance bacteria detection capabilities. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of metal ions on autofluorescence of the dry rot fungus Serpula lacrymans grown on spruce wood.

PubMed

Gabriel, Jiří; Žižka, Zdeněk; Švec, Karel; Nasswettrová, Andrea; Šmíra, Pavel; Kofroňová, Olga; Benada, Oldřich

2016-03-01

This work describes autofluorescence of the mycelium of the dry rot fungus Serpula lacrymans grown on spruce wood blocks impregnated with various metals. Live mycelium, as opposed to dead mycelium, exhibited yellow autofluorescence upon blue excitation, blue fluorescence with ultraviolet (UV) excitation, orange-red and light-blue fluorescence with violet excitation, and red fluorescence with green excitation. Distinctive autofluorescence was observed in the fungal cell wall and in granula localized in the cytoplasm. In dead mycelium, the intensity of autofluorescence decreased and the signal was diffused throughout the cytoplasm. Metal treatment affected both the color and intensity of autofluorescence and also the morphology of the mycelium. The strongest yellow signal was observed with blue excitation in Cd-treated samples, in conjunction with increased branching and the formation of mycelial loops and protrusions. For the first time, we describe pink autofluorescence that was observed in Mn-, Zn-, and Cu-treated samples with UV, violet or. blue excitation. The lowest signals were obtained in Cu- and Fe-treated samples. Chitin, an important part of the fungal cell wall exhibited intensive primary fluorescence with UV, violet, blue, and green excitation.

Design and realization of sort manipulator of crystal-angle sort machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ming-shun; Chen, Shu-ping; Guan, Shou-ping; Zhang, Yao-wei

2005-12-01

It is a current tendency of development in automation technology to replace manpower with manipulators in working places where dangerous, harmful, heavy or repetitive work is involved. The sort manipulator is installed in a crystal-angle sort machine to take the place of manpower, and engaged in unloading and sorting work. It is the outcome of combing together mechanism, electric transmission, and pneumatic element and micro-controller control. The step motor makes the sort manipulator operate precisely. The pneumatic elements make the sort manipulator be cleverer. Micro-controller's software bestows some simple artificial intelligence on the sort manipulator, so that it can precisely repeat its unloading and sorting work. The combination of manipulator's zero position and step motor counting control puts an end to accumulating error in long time operation. A sort manipulator's design in the practice engineering has been proved to be correct and reliable.

Complexity Optimization and High-Throughput Low-Latency Hardware Implementation of a Multi-Electrode Spike-Sorting Algorithm

PubMed Central

Dragas, Jelena; Jäckel, David; Hierlemann, Andreas; Franke, Felix

2017-01-01

Reliable real-time low-latency spike sorting with large data throughput is essential for studies of neural network dynamics and for brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), in which the stimulation of neural networks is based on the networks' most recent activity. However, the majority of existing multi-electrode spike-sorting algorithms are unsuited for processing high quantities of simultaneously recorded data. Recording from large neuronal networks using large high-density electrode sets (thousands of electrodes) imposes high demands on the data-processing hardware regarding computational complexity and data transmission bandwidth; this, in turn, entails demanding requirements in terms of chip area, memory resources and processing latency. This paper presents computational complexity optimization techniques, which facilitate the use of spike-sorting algorithms in large multi-electrode-based recording systems. The techniques are then applied to a previously published algorithm, on its own, unsuited for large electrode set recordings. Further, a real-time low-latency high-performance VLSI hardware architecture of the modified algorithm is presented, featuring a folded structure capable of processing the activity of hundreds of neurons simultaneously. The hardware is reconfigurable “on-the-fly” and adaptable to the nonstationarities of neuronal recordings. By transmitting exclusively spike time stamps and/or spike waveforms, its real-time processing offers the possibility of data bandwidth and data storage reduction. PMID:25415989

Complexity optimization and high-throughput low-latency hardware implementation of a multi-electrode spike-sorting algorithm.

PubMed

Dragas, Jelena; Jackel, David; Hierlemann, Andreas; Franke, Felix

2015-03-01

Reliable real-time low-latency spike sorting with large data throughput is essential for studies of neural network dynamics and for brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), in which the stimulation of neural networks is based on the networks' most recent activity. However, the majority of existing multi-electrode spike-sorting algorithms are unsuited for processing high quantities of simultaneously recorded data. Recording from large neuronal networks using large high-density electrode sets (thousands of electrodes) imposes high demands on the data-processing hardware regarding computational complexity and data transmission bandwidth; this, in turn, entails demanding requirements in terms of chip area, memory resources and processing latency. This paper presents computational complexity optimization techniques, which facilitate the use of spike-sorting algorithms in large multi-electrode-based recording systems. The techniques are then applied to a previously published algorithm, on its own, unsuited for large electrode set recordings. Further, a real-time low-latency high-performance VLSI hardware architecture of the modified algorithm is presented, featuring a folded structure capable of processing the activity of hundreds of neurons simultaneously. The hardware is reconfigurable “on-the-fly” and adaptable to the nonstationarities of neuronal recordings. By transmitting exclusively spike time stamps and/or spike waveforms, its real-time processing offers the possibility of data bandwidth and data storage reduction.

CryoEM and image sorting for flexible protein/DNA complexes.

PubMed

Villarreal, Seth A; Stewart, Phoebe L

2014-07-01

Intrinsically disordered regions of proteins and conformational flexibility within complexes can be critical for biological function. However, disorder, flexibility, and heterogeneity often hinder structural analyses. CryoEM and single particle image processing techniques offer the possibility of imaging samples with significant flexibility. Division of particle images into more homogenous subsets after data acquisition can help compensate for heterogeneity within the sample. We present the utility of an eigenimage sorting analysis for examining two protein/DNA complexes with significant conformational flexibility and heterogeneity. These complexes are integral to the non-homologous end joining pathway, and are involved in the repair of double strand breaks of DNA. Both complexes include the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) and biotinylated DNA with bound streptavidin, with one complex containing the Ku heterodimer. Initial 3D reconstructions of the two DNA-PKcs complexes resembled a cryoEM structure of uncomplexed DNA-PKcs without additional density clearly attributable to the remaining components. Application of eigenimage sorting allowed division of the DNA-PKcs complex datasets into more homogeneous subsets. This led to visualization of density near the base of the DNA-PKcs that can be attributed to DNA, streptavidin, and Ku. However, comparison of projections of the subset structures with 2D class averages indicated that a significant level of heterogeneity remained within each subset. In summary, image sorting methods allowed visualization of extra density near the base of DNA-PKcs, suggesting that DNA binds in the vicinity of the base of the molecule and potentially to a flexible region of DNA-PKcs. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Task Analysis of the Shift from Teacher Instructions to Self-Instructions in Performing an In-Common Task.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Grote, Irene; And Others

1996-01-01

Three preschoolers performed four sorts with stimulus cards--an untaught target sort and three directly taught alternating sorts considered to self-instruct the target performance. Accuracy increased first in the skill sorts and then in the untaught target sorts. All subjects generalized to new target sorts. Correct spontaneous self-instructions…

Mechanisms of Polarized Organelle Distribution in Neurons

PubMed Central

Britt, Dylan J.; Farías, Ginny G.; Guardia, Carlos M.; Bonifacino, Juan S.

2016-01-01

Neurons are highly polarized cells exhibiting axonal and somatodendritic domains with distinct complements of cytoplasmic organelles. Although some organelles are widely distributed throughout the neuronal cytoplasm, others are segregated to either the axonal or somatodendritic domains. Recent findings show that organelle segregation is largely established at a pre-axonal exclusion zone (PAEZ) within the axon hillock. Polarized sorting of cytoplasmic organelles at the PAEZ is proposed to depend mainly on their selective association with different microtubule motors and, in turn, with distinct microtubule arrays. Somatodendritic organelles that escape sorting at the PAEZ can be subsequently retrieved at the axon initial segment (AIS) by a microtubule- and/or actin-based mechanism. Dynamic sorting along the PAEZ-AIS continuum can thus explain the polarized distribution of cytoplasmic organelles between the axonal and somatodendritic domains. PMID:27065809

A mower detector to judge soil sorting

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

Bramlitt, E.T.; Johnson, N.R.

1995-12-31

Thermo Nuclear Services (TNS) has developed a mower detector as an inexpensive and fast means for deciding potential value of soil sorting for cleanup. It is a shielded detector box on wheels pushed over the ground (as a person mows grass) at 30 ft/min with gamma-ray counts recorded every 0.25 sec. It mirror images detection by the TNS transportable sorter system which conveys soil at 30 ft/min and toggles a gate to send soil on separate paths based on counts. The mower detector shows if contamination is variable and suitable for sorting, and by unique calibration sources, it indicates detectionmore » sensitivity. The mower detector has been used to characterize some soil at Department of Energy sites in New Jersey and South Carolina.« less

Power feasibility of implantable digital spike-sorting circuits for neural prosthetic systems.

PubMed

Zumsteg, Zachary S; Ahmed, Rizwan E; Santhanam, Gopal; Shenoy, Krishna V; Meng, Teresa H

2004-01-01

A new class of neural prosthetic systems aims to assist disabled patients by translating cortical neural activity into control signals for prosthetic devices. Based on the success of proof-of-concept systems in the laboratory, there is now considerable interest in increasing system performance and creating implantable electronics for use in clinical systems. A critical question that impacts system performance and the overall architecture of these systems is whether it is possible to identify the neural source of each action potential (spike sorting) in real-time and with low power. Low power is essential both for power supply considerations and heat dissipation in the brain. In this paper we report that several state-of-the-art spike sorting algorithms implemented in modern CMOS VLSI processes are expected to be power realistic.

Continuous high throughput molecular adhesion based cell sorting using ridged microchannels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tasadduq, Bushra; Wang, Gonghao; Alexeev, Alexander; Sarioglu, Ali Fatih; Sulchek, Todd

2016-11-01

Cell molecular interactions govern important physiological processes such as stem cell homing, inflammation and cancer metastasis. But due to a lack of effective separation technologies selective to these interactions it is challenging to specifically sort cells. Other label free separation techniques based on size, stiffness and shape do not provide enough specificity to cell type, and correlation to clinical condition. We propose a novel microfluidic device capable of high throughput molecule dependent separation of cells by flowing them through a microchannel decorated with molecule specific coated ridges. The unique aspect of this sorting design is the use of optimized gap size which is small enough to lightly squeeze the cells while flowing under the ridged part of the channel to increase the surface area for interaction between the ligand on cell surface and coated receptor molecule but large enough so that biomechanical markers, stiffness and viscoelasticity, do not dominate the cell separation mechanism. We are able to separate Jurkat cells based on its expression of PSGL-1ligand using ridged channel coated with P selectin at a flow rate of 0.045ml/min and achieve 2-fold and 5-fold enrichment of PSGL-1 positive and negative Jurkat cells respectively.