Unexpected Analyte Oxidation during Desorption Electrospray Ionization - Mass Spectrometry

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

Pasilis, Sofie P; Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J

2008-01-01

During the analysis of surface spotted analytes using desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS), abundant ions are sometimes observed that appear to be the result of oxygen addition reactions. In this investigation, the effect of sample aging, the ambient lab environment, spray voltage, analyte surface concentration, and surface type on this oxidative modification of spotted analytes, exemplified by tamoxifen and reserpine, during analysis by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry was studied. Simple exposure of the samples to air and to ambient lighting increased the extent of oxidation. Increased spray voltage lead also to increased analyte oxidation, possibly as a resultmore » of oxidative species formed electrochemically at the emitter electrode or in the gas - phase by discharge processes. These oxidative species are carried by the spray and impinge on and react with the sampled analyte during desorption/ionization. The relative abundance of oxidized species was more significant for analysis of deposited analyte having a relatively low surface concentration. Increasing spray solvent flow rate and addition of hydroquinone as a redox buffer to the spray solvent were found to decrease, but not entirely eliminate, analyte oxidation during analysis. The major parameters that both minimize and maximize analyte oxidation were identified and DESI-MS operational recommendations to avoid these unwanted reactions are suggested.« less

Electro-spray deposition of a mesoporous TiO2 charge collection layer: toward large scale and continuous production of high efficiency perovskite solar cells.

PubMed

Kim, Min-cheol; Kim, Byeong Jo; Yoon, Jungjin; Lee, Jin-wook; Suh, Dongchul; Park, Nam-gyu; Choi, Mansoo; Jung, Hyun Suk

2015-12-28

The spin-coating method, which is widely used for thin film device fabrication, is incapable of large-area deposition or being performed continuously. In perovskite hybrid solar cells using CH(3)NH(3)PbI(3) (MAPbI(3)), large-area deposition is essential for their potential use in mass production. Prior to replacing all the spin-coating process for fabrication of perovskite solar cells, herein, a mesoporous TiO(2) electron-collection layer is fabricated by using the electro-spray deposition (ESD) system. Moreover, impedance spectroscopy and transient photocurrent and photovoltage measurements reveal that the electro-sprayed mesoscopic TiO(2) film facilitates charge collection from the perovskite. The series resistance of the perovskite solar cell is also reduced owing to the highly porous nature of, and the low density of point defects in, the film. An optimized power conversion efficiency of 15.11% is achieved under an illumination of 1 sun; this efficiency is higher than that (13.67%) of the perovskite solar cell with the conventional spin-coated TiO(2) films. Furthermore, the large-area coating capability of the ESD process is verified through the coating of uniform 10 × 10 cm(2) TiO(2) films. This study clearly shows that ESD constitutes therefore a viable alternative for the fabrication of high-throughput, large-area perovskite solar cells.

Modification of TiO(2) nanotube surfaces by electro-spray deposition of amoxicillin combined with PLGA for bactericidal effects at surgical implantation sites.

PubMed

Lee, Jung-Hwan; Moon, Seung-Kyun; Kim, Kwang-Mahn; Kim, Kyoung-Nam

2013-01-01

To fabricate the antibiotic-releasing coatings on TiO(2) nanotube surfaces for wide applications of implant and bone plate in medical and dental surgery, the optimal deposition time of amoxicillin/PLGA solution simultaneously performing non-toxicity and a high bactericidal effect for preventing early implant failures was found. FE-SEM, ESD and FT-IR were used for confirming deposition of amoxicillin/PLGA on the TiO(2) surface. Also, the elution of amoxicillin/PLGA in a TiO(2) nanotube surface was measured by a UV-VIS spectrophotometer. The bactericidal effect of amoxicillin on the TiO(2) nanotube surface was evaluated by using Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The cytotoxicity and cell proliferation were observed by WST assay using MC3T3-E1 osteoblast cells. The results indicated that the TiO(2) nanotube surface controlled by electro-spray deposition time with amoxicillin/PLGA solution could provide a high bactericidal effect against S. aureus by the bactericidal effect of amoxicillin, as well as good osteoblast cell proliferation at the TiO(2) nanotube surface without toxicity. This study used electro-spray deposition (ESD) methodology to obtain amoxicillin deposition in nanotube structures of TiO(2) and found the optimal deposition time of amoxicillin/PLGA solution simultaneously performing non-toxicity and a high bactericidal effect for preventing early implant failures.

Separation of Opiate Isomers Using Electrospray Ionization and Paper Spray Coupled to High-Field Asymmetric Waveform Ion Mobility Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manicke, Nicholas E.; Belford, Michael

2015-05-01

One limitation in the growing field of ambient or direct analysis methods is reduced selectivity caused by the elimination of chromatographic separations prior to mass spectrometric analysis. We explored the use of high-field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS), an ambient pressure ion mobility technique, to separate the closely related opiate isomers of morphine, hydromorphone, and norcodeine. These isomers cannot be distinguished by tandem mass spectrometry. Separation prior to MS analysis is, therefore, required to distinguish these compounds, which are important in clinical chemistry and toxicology. FAIMS was coupled to a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, and ionization was performed using either a pneumatically assisted heated electrospray ionization source (H-ESI) or paper spray, a direct analysis method that has been applied to the direct analysis of dried blood spots and other complex samples. We found that FAIMS was capable of separating the three opiate structural isomers using both H-ESI and paper spray as the ionization source.

Silver (I) as DNA glue: Ag+-mediated guanine pairing revealed by removing Watson-Crick constraints

PubMed Central

Swasey, Steven M.; Leal, Leonardo Espinosa; Lopez-Acevedo, Olga; Pavlovich, James; Gwinn, Elisabeth G.

2015-01-01

Metal ion interactions with DNA have far-reaching implications in biochemistry and DNA nanotechnology. Ag+ is uniquely interesting because it binds exclusively to the bases rather than the backbone of DNA, without the toxicity of Hg2+. In contrast to prior studies of Ag+ incorporation into double-stranded DNA, we remove the constraints of Watson-Crick pairing by focusing on homo-base DNA oligomers of the canonical bases. High resolution electro-spray ionization mass spectrometry reveals an unanticipated Ag+-mediated pairing of guanine homo-base strands, with higher stability than canonical guanine-cytosine pairing. By exploring unrestricted binding geometries, quantum chemical calculations find that Ag+ bridges between non-canonical sites on guanine bases. Circular dichroism spectroscopy shows that the Ag+-mediated structuring of guanine homobase strands persists to at least 90 °C under conditions for which canonical guanine-cytosine duplexes melt below 20 °C. These findings are promising for DNA nanotechnology and metal-ion based biomedical science. PMID:25973536

Silver (I) as DNA glue: Ag(+)-mediated guanine pairing revealed by removing Watson-Crick constraints.

PubMed

Swasey, Steven M; Leal, Leonardo Espinosa; Lopez-Acevedo, Olga; Pavlovich, James; Gwinn, Elisabeth G

2015-05-14

Metal ion interactions with DNA have far-reaching implications in biochemistry and DNA nanotechnology. Ag(+) is uniquely interesting because it binds exclusively to the bases rather than the backbone of DNA, without the toxicity of Hg(2+). In contrast to prior studies of Ag(+) incorporation into double-stranded DNA, we remove the constraints of Watson-Crick pairing by focusing on homo-base DNA oligomers of the canonical bases. High resolution electro-spray ionization mass spectrometry reveals an unanticipated Ag(+)-mediated pairing of guanine homo-base strands, with higher stability than canonical guanine-cytosine pairing. By exploring unrestricted binding geometries, quantum chemical calculations find that Ag(+) bridges between non-canonical sites on guanine bases. Circular dichroism spectroscopy shows that the Ag(+)-mediated structuring of guanine homobase strands persists to at least 90 °C under conditions for which canonical guanine-cytosine duplexes melt below 20 °C. These findings are promising for DNA nanotechnology and metal-ion based biomedical science.

Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) membrane assisted direct spray ionization mass spectrometry for agrochemicals screening in foodstuffs.

PubMed

Pereira, Igor; Rodrigues, Marcella Ferreira; Chaves, Andréa Rodrigues; Vaz, Boniek Gontijo

2018-02-01

Paper spray ionization (PSI) has some limitations such as low sensitivity and ionization suppression when complex samples are analyzed. The use of sample preparation devices directly coupled to MS can avoid these restrictions. Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are materials widely used as adsorbent in sample preparation methods such as solid-phase extraction and solid-phase microextraction, and they can provide specifics cavities with affinity to a target molecule. Here, we introduce a new MIP membrane spray ionization method combining MIP and PSI. MIP was synthesized directly on a cellulose membrane. Monuron and 2,4,5-T (2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid) were used as template molecules in MIP synthesis for diuron and 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) analyte sequesters, respectively. Apple, banana and grape methanolic extracts were used as matrices. The MIP membrane spray showed signal intensities of diuron and 2,4-D that were much higher compared to those obtained by non-imprinted polymers(NIP). Calibration curves exhibited R 2 > 0.99 for diuron and 2,4-D in all fruit extracts analyzed. LODs were found less than 0.60µgL -1 and LLOQs were found less than 2.00µgL -1 . The coefficients of variation and relative errors were less than 15% for almost all analyses. The apparent recovery test results ranged between 92,5% and 116.9%. Finally, the MIP membrane spray method was employed for the quantification of diuron and 2,4-D in real samples. Diuron contents were only found in three bananas (4.0, 6.5, and 9.9µgL -1 ). The proposed MIP membrane spray ionization method was straightforward, fast to carry out and provided satisfactory results for analyses of diuron and 2,4-D in apple, banana and grape samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of anti-theft devices directly from the surface of banknotes via easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Schmidt, Eduardo Morgado; Franco, Marcos Fernando; Cuelbas, Claudio José; Zacca, Jorge Jardim; de Carvalho Rocha, Werickson Fortunato; Borges, Rodrigo; de Souza, Wanderley; Sawaya, Alexandra Christine Helena Frankland; Eberlin, Marcos Nogueira; Correa, Deleon Nascimento

2015-09-01

Using Brazilian banknotes as a test case, forensic examination and identification of Rhodamine B dye anti-theft device (ATD) staining on banknotes were performed. Easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS) was used since it allows fast and simple analysis with no sample preparation providing molecular screening of the surface with direct desorption and ionization of the security dye. For a more accurate molecular characterization of the ATD dye, Q Exactive Orbitrap™ Fourier transform (tandem) mass spectrometry using eletrospray ionization (ESI-HRMS/MS) was also applied. Copyright © 2015 The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Graphene oxide membrane as an efficient extraction and ionization substrate for spray-mass spectrometric analysis of malachite green and its metabolite in fish samples.

PubMed

Wei, Shih-Chun; Fan, Shen; Lien, Chia-Wen; Unnikrishnan, Binesh; Wang, Yi-Sheng; Chu, Han-Wei; Huang, Chih-Ching; Hsu, Pang-Hung; Chang, Huan-Tsung

2018-03-20

A graphene oxide (GO) nanosheet-modified N + -nylon membrane (GOM) has been prepared and used as an extraction and spray-ionization substrate for robust mass spectrometric detection of malachite green (MG), a highly toxic disinfectant in liquid samples and fish meat. The GOM is prepared by self-deposition of GO thin film onto an N + -nylon membrane, which has been used for efficient extraction of MG in aquaculture water samples or homogenized fish meat samples. Having a dissociation constant of 2.17 × 10 -9  M -1 , the GOM allows extraction of approximately 98% of 100 nM MG. Coupling of the GOM-spray with an ion-trap mass spectrometer allows quantitation of MG in aquaculture freshwater and seawater samples down to nanomolar levels. Furthermore, the system possesses high selectivity and sensitivity for the quantitation of MG and its metabolite (leucomalachite green) in fish meat samples. With easy extraction and efficient spray ionization properties of GOM, this membrane spray-mass spectrometry technique is relatively simple and fast in comparison to the traditional LC-MS/MS methods for the quantitation of MG and its metabolite in aquaculture products. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Research on the Fatigue Flexural Performance of RC Beams Attacked by Salt Spray

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Jiang-hong; Xu, Fang-yuan; Jin, Wei-liang; Zhang, Jun; Wu, Xi-xi; Chen, Cai-sheng

2018-04-01

The fatigue flexural performance of RC beams attacked by salt spray was studied. A testing method involving electro osmosis, electrical accelerated corrosion and salt spray was proposed. This corrosion process method effectively simulates real-world salt spray and fatigue loading exerted by RC components on sea bridges. Four RC beams that have different stress amplitudes were tested. It is found that deterioration by corrosion and fatigue loading reduces the fatigue life of the RC and decreases the ability of deformation. The fatigue life and deflection ability could be reduced by increasing the stress amplitude and the corrosion duration time. The test result demonstrates that this experimental method can couple corrosion deterioration and fatigue loading reasonably. This procedure may be applied to evaluate the fatigue life and concrete durability of RC components located in a natural salt spray environment.

Effects of Different Extraction Methods on the Extraction Rates of Five Chemical Ingredients of Swertia mussotii Franch by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiong, Yaokun; Zhou, Lifen; Zhao, Yonghong; Liu, Yun; Liu, Xia; Zhu, Genhua; Yan, Zhihong; Liu, Zhiyong

2018-01-01

Objective: To compare the effects of three extraction methods (ultrasound, reflux and percolation) on the contents of gentiopicroside, mangiferin, swertiamain, sweroside and oleanolic acid in Swertia mussotii Franch. Method: The contents of five components were determined by UPLC-ESI/MS. In the solvent system, eluent A was 0.05% (v: v) formic acid with 1mM/L ammonium acetate aqueous solution and eluent B was acetonitrile. Chromatographic separations were achieved using an Agilent EC-C18 column (4.6×100 mm, 2.7 um) at 30 °C. The flow rate was set at 0.8mL/min. The compound ionization was adopted at negative ionization mode by electro spray ionization (ESI). The quantification was performed in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). Results: The linear ranges of swertiamarin, gentiopicroside, mangiferin, sweroside and oleanolic acid are 80∼7450 ng/mL, 103∼6600 ng/mL, 100∼8000 ng/mL, 130∼8450 ng/mL, 100∼7000 ng/mL, respectively. As a result, the content of oleanolic acid was the highest extracted by ultrasonic extraction and the content of mangiferin was the highest extracted by reflux extraction. For percolation extraction, the contents of five components were between ultrasound and reflux extraction. Conclusion: For five components, there are significant differences between the three different extraction methods. The results could provide a reference for the quality control of Swertia mussotii Franch and the research and development of new drugs.

Enhanced ion signals in desorption electrospray ionization using surfactant spray solutions.

PubMed

Badu-Tawiah, Abraham; Cooks, R Graham

2010-08-01

Solvent optimization is an important procedure in desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) and in this study the effects of solvent surface tension are explored. Data are presented for methanol/water/surfactant solvent systems, which show increases in ion signals of more than an order of magnitude when low concentrations of surfactants are added to the standard methanol/water (1:1) spray solvent. Examples of analytes tested include food chemicals, peptides, pharmaceuticals, and drugs of abuse. The improvement in ion intensity is mainly attributed to the effect of surface tension in producing smaller spray droplets, which are shown to cover a larger surface area. Surfactant-containing spray solutions allowed extension of DESI-MS analysis to previously intractable analytes like melamine and highly hydrophobic compounds like the sudan dyes. Copyright 2010 American Society for Mass Spectrometry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Unexpected Reduction of Iminoquinone and Quinone Derivatives in Positive Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry and Possible Mechanism Exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pei, Jiying; Hsu, Cheng-Chih; Zhang, Ruijie; Wang, Yinghui; Yu, Kefu; Huang, Guangming

2017-08-01

Unexpected reduction of iminoquinone (IQ) and quinone derivatives was first reported during positive electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Upon increasing spray voltage, the intensities of IQ and quinone derivatives decreased drastically, accompanying the increase of the intensities of the reduction products, amodiaquine (AQ) and phenol derivatives. To gain more insight into the mechanism of such reduction, we explored the experimental factors that are influential to corona discharge (CD). The results show that experimental parameters that favor severe CD, including metal spray emitter, using water as spray solvent, sheath gas with low dielectric strength (e.g., nitrogen), and shorter spray tip-to-mass spectrometer inlet distance, facilitated the reduction of IQ and quinone derivatives, implying that the reduction should be closely related to CD in the gas phase. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Mass Spectrometry in the Home and Garden

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pulliam, Christopher J.; Bain, Ryan M.; Wiley, Joshua S.; Ouyang, Zheng; Cooks, R. Graham

2015-02-01

Identification of active components in a variety of chemical products used directly by consumers is described at both trace and bulk levels using mass spectrometry. The combination of external ambient ionization with a portable mass spectrometer capable of tandem mass spectrometry provides high chemical specificity and sensitivity as well as allowing on-site monitoring. These experiments were done using a custom-built portable ion trap mass spectrometer in combination with the ambient ionization methods of paper spray, leaf spray, and low temperature plasma ionization. Bactericides, garden chemicals, air fresheners, and other products were examined. Herbicide applied to suburban lawns was detected in situ on single leaves 5 d after application.

Atmospheric Pressure Ionization Using a High Voltage Target Compared to Electrospray Ionization.

PubMed

Lubin, Arnaud; Bajic, Steve; Cabooter, Deirdre; Augustijns, Patrick; Cuyckens, Filip

2017-02-01

A new atmospheric pressure ionization (API) source, viz. UniSpray, was evaluated for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of pharmaceutical compounds by head-to-head comparison with electrospray ionization (ESI) on the same high-resolution MS system. The atmospheric pressure ionization source is composed of a grounded nebulizer spraying onto a high voltage, cylindrical stainless steel target. Molecules are ionized in a similar fashion to electrospray ionization, predominantly producing protonated or deprotonated species. Adduct formation (e.g., proton and sodium adducts) and in-source fragmentation is shown to be almost identical between the two sources. The performance of the new API source was compared with electrospray by infusion of a mix of 22 pharmaceutical compounds with a wide variety of functional groups and physico-chemical properties (molecular weight, logP, and pKa) in more than 100 different conditions (mobile phase strength, solvents, pH, and flow rate). The new API source shows an intensity gain of a factor 2.2 compared with ESI considering all conditions on all compounds tested. Finally, some hypotheses on the ionization mechanism, similarities, and differences with ESI, are discussed. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Atmospheric Pressure Ionization Using a High Voltage Target Compared to Electrospray Ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lubin, Arnaud; Bajic, Steve; Cabooter, Deirdre; Augustijns, Patrick; Cuyckens, Filip

2017-02-01

A new atmospheric pressure ionization (API) source, viz. UniSpray, was evaluated for mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of pharmaceutical compounds by head-to-head comparison with electrospray ionization (ESI) on the same high-resolution MS system. The atmospheric pressure ionization source is composed of a grounded nebulizer spraying onto a high voltage, cylindrical stainless steel target. Molecules are ionized in a similar fashion to electrospray ionization, predominantly producing protonated or deprotonated species. Adduct formation (e.g., proton and sodium adducts) and in-source fragmentation is shown to be almost identical between the two sources. The performance of the new API source was compared with electrospray by infusion of a mix of 22 pharmaceutical compounds with a wide variety of functional groups and physico-chemical properties (molecular weight, logP, and pKa) in more than 100 different conditions (mobile phase strength, solvents, pH, and flow rate). The new API source shows an intensity gain of a factor 2.2 compared with ESI considering all conditions on all compounds tested. Finally, some hypotheses on the ionization mechanism, similarities, and differences with ESI, are discussed.

Rapid identification of regulated organic chemical compounds in toys using ambient ionization and a miniature mass spectrometry system.

PubMed

Guo, Xiangyu; Bai, Hua; Lv, Yueguang; Xi, Guangcheng; Li, Junfang; Ma, Xiaoxiao; Ren, Yue; Ouyang, Zheng; Ma, Qiang

2018-04-01

Rapid, on-site analysis was achieved through significantly simplified operation procedures for a wide variety of toy samples (crayon, temporary tattoo sticker, finger paint, modeling clay, and bubble solution) using a miniature mass spectrometry system with ambient ionization capability. The labor-intensive analytical protocols involving sample workup and chemical separation, traditionally required for MS-based analysis, were replaced by direct sampling analysis using ambient ionization methods. A Mini β ion trap miniature mass spectrometer was coupled with versatile ambient ionization methods, e.g. paper spray, extraction spray and slug-flow microextraction nanoESI for direct identification of prohibited colorants, carcinogenic primary aromatic amines, allergenic fragrances, preservatives and plasticizers from raw toy samples. The use of paper substrates coated with Co 3 O 4 nanoparticles allowed a great increase in sensitivity for paper spray. Limits of detection as low as 5μgkg -1 were obtained for target analytes. The methods being developed based on the integration of ambient ionization with miniature mass spectrometer represent alternatives to current in-lab MS analysis operation, and would enable fast, outside-the-lab screening of toy products to ensure children's safety and health. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multiphoton Ionization Mass and Photoelectron Spectroscopy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-01

tracted information about ion vibrational energy levels. Molecules studted include benzene, toluene, aniline, paradifluorobenzene, nitric oxide ...molecules or subgroups and not to others. Ion specific electrodes play an analogous role in electro - chemistry. The prospect of selectively ionizing a... acetaldehyde and butyraldehyde have been studied at the KrF and ArF laser wavelengths. Their ionization potentials are 10.2 and 9.8 eV, respectively

Direct identification of prohibited substances in cosmetics and foodstuffs using ambient ionization on a miniature mass spectrometry system.

PubMed

Ma, Qiang; Bai, Hua; Li, Wentao; Wang, Chao; Li, Xinshi; Cooks, R Graham; Ouyang, Zheng

2016-03-17

Significantly simplified work flows were developed for rapid analysis of various types of cosmetic and foodstuff samples by employing a miniature mass spectrometry system and ambient ionization methods. A desktop Mini 12 ion trap mass spectrometer was coupled with paper spray ionization, extraction spray ionization and slug-flow microextraction for direct analysis of Sudan Reds, parabens, antibiotics, steroids, bisphenol and plasticizer from raw samples with complex matrices. Limits of detection as low as 5 μg/kg were obtained for target analytes. On-line derivatization was also implemented for analysis of steroid in cosmetics. The developed methods provide potential analytical possibility for outside-the-lab screening of cosmetics and foodstuff products for the presence of illegal substances. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Probe-Substrate Distance Control in Desorption Electrospray Ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yarger, Tyler J.; Yuill, Elizabeth M.; Baker, Lane A.

2018-03-01

We introduce probe-substrate distance (Dps)-control to desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) and report a systematic investigation of key experimental parameters. Examination of voltage, flow rate, and nebulizing gas pressure suggests as Dps decreases, the distance-dependent spray current increases, until a critical point. At the critical point the relationship inverts, and the spray current decreases as the probe moves closer to the surface due to constriction of solution flow by the nebulizing gas. Dps control was used to explore the use of spray current as a signal for feedback positioning, while mass spectrometry imaging was performed simultaneously. Further development of this technique is expected to find application in study of structure-function relationships for clinical diagnostics, biological investigation, and materials characterization. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Monitoring binding affinity between drug and α1-acid glycoprotein in real time by Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Liu, Ning; Lu, Xin; Yang, YuHan; Yao, Chen Xi; Ning, BaoMing; He, Dacheng; He, Lan; Ouyang, Jin

2015-10-01

A new approach for monitoring the binding affinity between drugs and alpha 1-acid glycoprotein in real time was developed based on a combination of drug-protein reaction followed by Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry determination of the free drug concentrations. A known basic drug, propranolol was used to validate the new built method. Binding constant values calculated by venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry was in good accordance with a traditional ultrafiltration combined with high performance liquid chromatography method. Then six types of basic drugs were used as the samples to conduct the real time analysis. Upon injection of alpha 1-acid glycoprotein to the drug mixture, the ion chromatograms were extracted to show the changes in the free drug concentrations in real time. By observing the drop-out of six types of drugs during the whole binding reaction, the binding affinities of different drugs were distinguished. A volume shift validating experiment and an injection delay correcting experiment were also performed to eliminate extraneous factors and verify the reliability of our experiment. Therefore, the features of Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (V-EASI-MS) and the experimental results indicate that our technique is likely to become a powerful tool for monitoring drug-AGP binding affinity in real time. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization and quantification of flavonoids and saponins in adzuki bean (Vigna angularis L.) by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn analysis.

PubMed

Liu, Rui; Cai, Zongwei; Xu, Baojun

2017-09-22

Bioactive activities of adzuki bean have been widely reported, however, the phytochemical information of adzuki bean is incomplete. The aim of this study was to characterize and quantify flavonoids and saponins in adzuki bean. High performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection and electro spray ionization-tandem multi-stage mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS n ) were applied to do qualitative and quantitative analyses. A total of 15 compounds from adzuki bean were identified by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS n . Among 15 compounds identified, four flavonoids (catechin, vitexin-4″-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside) and six saponins (azukisaponin I, II, III, IV, V, and VI) in adzuki bean were further quantified by external calibration method using HPLC-MS with the program of time segment and extract ion chromatogram (EIC) analysis. Current qualitative and quantitative method based on HPLC and MS technique provides a scientific basis for in vitro and in vivo pharmacological study in the future. Graphical abstract Isolation and characterization of flavonoids and saponins from adzuki bean.

Electrospraying and ultraviolet light curing of nanometer-thin polydimethylsiloxane membranes for low-voltage dielectric elastomer transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osmani, Bekim; Töpper, Tino; Siketanc, Matej; Kovacs, Gabor M.; Müller, Bert

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) have attracted interest as actuators, sensors, and even as self-sensing actuators for applications in medicine, soft robotics, and microfluidics. To reach strains of more than 10 %, they currently require operating voltages of several hundred volts. In medical applications for artificial muscles, however, their operation is limited to a very few tens of volts, which implies high permittivity materials and thin-film structures. Such micro- or nanostructures can be prepared using electro-spraying, a cost-effective technique that allows upscaling using multiple nozzles for the fabrication of silicone films down to nanometer thickness. Deposition rates of several micrometers per hour have already been reached. It has been recently demonstrated that such membranes can be fabricated by electro-spraying and subsequent ultraviolet light irradiation. Herein, we introduce a relatively fast deposition of a dimethyl silicone copolymer fluid that contains mercaptopropyl side chains in addition to the methyl groups. Its elastic modulus was tuned with the irradiation dose of the 200 W Hg-Xe lamp. We also investigated the formation of elastomer films, using polymer concentrations in ethyl acetate of 1, 2, 5 and 10 vol%. After curing, the surface roughness was measured by means of atomic force microscopy. This instrument also enabled us to determine the average elastic modulus out of, for example, 400 nanoindentation measurements, using a spherical tip with a radius of 500 nm. The elastomer films were cured for a period of less than one minute, a speed that makes it feasible to combine electro-spraying and in situ curing in a single process step for fabricating low-voltage, multilayer DETs.

Online Monitoring of Methanol Electro-Oxidation Reactions by Ambient Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Si; Wu, Qiuhua; Dewald, Howard D.; Chen, Hao

2017-06-01

Online detection of methanol electro-oxidation reaction products [e.g., formaldehyde (HCHO)] by mass spectrometry (MS) is challenging, owing to the high salt content and extreme pH of the electrolyte solution as well as the difficulty in ionizing the reaction products. Herein we present an online ambient mass spectrometric approach for analyzing HCHO generated from methanol electro-oxidation, taking the advantage of high salt tolerance of desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS). It was found that HCHO can be detected as PhNHNH+=CH2 ( m/z 121) by DESI after online derivatization with PhNHNH2. With this approach, the analysis of HCHO from methanol electro-oxidation by MS was carried out not only in acidic condition but also in alkaline media for the first time. Efficiencies of different electrodes for methanol oxidation at different pHs were also evaluated. Our results show that Au electrode produces more HCHO than Pt-based electrodes at alkaline pH, while the latter have higher yields at acidic solution. The presented methodology would be of great value for elucidating fuel cell reaction mechanisms and for screening ideal fuel cell electrode materials. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Fabrication and modeling of bismuth titanate-PZT ceramic transducers for high temperature applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reinhardt, B.; Searfass, C.; Cyphers, R.; Sinding, K.; Pheil, C.; Tittmann, B.

2013-01-01

Utilization of a spray-on deposition technique of ferroelectric bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) composites has a competitive advantage to standard ultrasonic transducers. These can conform to curved surfaces, can operate at high temperature (Curie-Weiss temperature 685 °C) and are mechanically well-coupled to a substrate. However, an issue with many high temperature transducers such as bismuth titanate ceramics is that they have relatively low transduction efficiency, i.e. d33 is about 12-14 pC/F in Bi4Ti3O12 versus 650 pC/F in PZT-5H. It is a common conception that high-temperature capability comes at the cost of electro-mechanical coupling. It will be shown that the high temperature capability of bismuth-titanate-PZT composite transducers using the spray-on deposition technique previously developed, improves the electro-mechanical coupling while maintaining the high temperature performance and mechanical coupling. This material could provide advantages in harsh environments where high signal-to-noise ratios are needed.

Direct analysis of in-gel proteins by carbon nanotubes-modified paper spray ambient mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Han, Feifei; Yang, Yuhan; Ouyang, Jin; Na, Na

2015-02-07

The in situ and direct extraction, desorption and ionization of in-gel intact proteins after electrophoresis has been achieved by carbon nanotubes (CNTs)-modified paper spray mass spectrometry at ambient conditions. Characteristics of CNTs (including larger surface area, smaller pore diameter and enhanced conductivity) were endowed to the porous filter paper substrate by uniformly dispersing the CNTs on the filter paper. Upon applying electric potential to the CNTs-modified paper, the in-gel proteins were extracted from the gel and subsequently migrated to the tip of the filter paper by electrophoresis-like behavior for paper spray ionization, which was monitored by extracted ion chronograms. The characterizations of modified filter papers and CNTs nanoparticles further confirmed the role of CNTs in in-gel protein extraction, protein migration as well as spray ionization at the paper tip. Under optimized conditions, a mixture of cytochrome c, lysozyme and myoglobin was successfully separated by native electrophoresis and subsequently analysed by the present method, showing a limit of detection of 10 ng per gel band. The present strategy offers a new pathway for the direct detection of in-gel intact proteins at ambient conditions without any pre-treatment (e.g. digestion, chemical extraction and desalting), which exhibits potential applications in top-down proteomics.

Complexation of ferric oxide particles with pectins of different charge density.

PubMed

Milkova, Viktoria; Kamburova, Kamelia; Petkanchin, Ivana; Radeva, Tsetska

2008-09-02

The effect of polyelectrolyte charge density on the electrical properties and stability of suspensions of oppositely charged oxide particles is followed by means of electro-optics and electrophoresis. Variations in the electro-optical effect and the electrophoretic mobility are examined at conditions where fully ionized pectins of different charge density adsorb onto particles with ionizable surfaces. The charge neutralization point coincides with the maximum of particle aggregation in all suspensions. We find that the concentration of polyelectrolyte, needed to neutralize the particle charge, decreases with increasing charge density of the pectin. The most highly charged pectin presents an exception to this order, which is explained with a reduction of the effective charge density of this pectin due to condensation of counterions. The presence of condensed counterions, remaining bound to the pectin during its adsorption on the particle surface, is proved by investigation of the frequency behavior of the electro-optical effect at charge reversal of the particle surface.

Improving the analyte ion signal in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry via electrospray deposition by enhancing incorporation of the analyte in the matrix.

PubMed

Malys, Brian J; Owens, Kevin G

2017-05-15

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is widely used as the ionization method in high-resolution chemical imaging studies that seek to visualize the distribution of analytes within sectioned biological tissues. This work extends the use of electrospray deposition (ESD) to apply matrix with an additional solvent spray to incorporate and homogenize analyte within the matrix overlayer. Analytes and matrix are sequentially and independently applied by ESD to create a sample from which spectra are collected, mimicking a MALDI imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) experiment. Subsequently, an incorporation spray consisting of methanol is applied by ESD to the sample and another set of spectra are collected. The spectra prior to and after the incorporation spray are compared to evaluate the improvement in the analyte signal. Prior to the incorporation spray, samples prepared using α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA) and 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB) as the matrix showed low signal while the sample using sinapinic acid (SA) initially exhibited good signal. Following the incorporation spray, the sample using SA did not show an increase in signal; the sample using DHB showed moderate gain factors of 2-5 (full ablation spectra) and 12-336 (raster spectra), while CHCA samples saw large increases in signal, with gain factors of 14-172 (full ablation spectra) and 148-1139 (raster spectra). The use of an incorporation spray to apply solvent by ESD to a matrix layer already deposited by ESD provides an increase in signal by both promoting incorporation of the analyte within and homogenizing the distribution of the incorporated analyte throughout the matrix layer. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Characterization and application of droplet spray ionization for real-time reaction monitoring.

PubMed

Zhang, Hong; Li, Na; Li, Xiao-di; Jiang, Jie; Zhao, Dan-Dan; You, Hong

2016-08-01

The ionization source for real-time reaction monitoring has attracted tremendous interest in recent years. We have previously reported a reliable approach in which droplet spray ionization (DSI) was used for monitoring chemical reactions in real-time. Herein, we systematically investigated the characterization and application of DSI for real-time reaction monitoring. Analyte ions are generated by loading a sample solution onto a corner of a microscope cover glass positioned in front of the MS inlet and applying a high voltage to the sample. The tolerance to positioning, solvent effect, spray angle and spray time were investigated. Extension to real-time monitoring of macromolecule reactions was also demonstrated by the charge state change of cytochrome c in the presence of acetic acid. The corner could be positioned within an area of approximately 10 × 6 × 5 mm (x, y, z) in front of the MS inlet. The broad polarities of solvents from methanol to PhF were suitable for DSI. It featured monitoring real-time changes in reactions on the time scale of seconds to minutes. A real-time charge state change of cytochrome c was captured. DSI-MS features ease of use, durability of the spray platform and reusability of the ion source. Eliminating the need for a sample transport capillary, DSI opens a new avenue for the in situ analysis and real-time monitoring of short-lived key reaction intermediates even at subsecond dead times. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Application of paper spray ionization for explosives analysis.

PubMed

Tsai, Chia-Wei; Tipple, Christopher A; Yost, Richard A

2017-10-15

A desired feature in the analysis of explosives is to decrease the time of the entire analysis procedure, including sampling. A recently utilized ambient ionization technique, paper spray ionization (PSI), provides the possibility of combining sampling and ionization. However, an interesting phenomenon that occurs in generating negatively charged ions pose some challenges in applying PSI to explosives analysis. The goal of this work is to investigate the possible solutions for generating explosives ions in negative mode PSI. The analysis of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), and 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) was performed. Several solvent systems with different surface tensions and additives were compared to determine their effect on the ionization of explosives. The solvents tested include tert-butanol, isopropanol, methanol, and acetonitrile. The additives tested were carbon tetrachloride and ammonium nitrate. Of the solvents tested, isopropanol yielded the best results. In addition, adding ammonium nitrate to the isopropanol enhanced the analyte signal. Experimentally determined limits of detection (LODs) as low as 0.06 ng for PETN, on paper, were observed with isopropanol and the addition of 0.4 mM ammonium nitrate as the spray solution. In addition, the explosive components of two plastic explosive samples, Composition 4 and Semtex, were successfully analyzed via surface sampling when using the developed method. The analysis of explosives using PSI-MS in negative ion mode was achieved. The addition of ammonium nitrate to isopropanol, in general, enhanced the analyte signal and yielded better ionization stability. Real-world explosive samples were analyzed, which demonstrates one of the potential applications of PSI-MS analysis. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

The Primary Break-up Instabilities in a gas-liquid coaxial atomizer combined with electro-spray

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osuna, Rodrigo; Machicoane, Nathanael; Aliseda, Alberto

2017-11-01

We present an experimental study of a canonical coaxial gas-liquid atomizer, balancing the physics of gas-assisted atomization and electro-sprays. The laminar liquid stream is injected through a long straight metallic pipe at the center of the turbulent gas jet. The liquid needle is used as the anode, while the cathode is formed by a ring located on the streamwise face of the coaxial gas chamber. The gas Reynolds number ranges from 104-106, while keeping the liquid Reynolds number constant at 103. The electrospray voltage applied is varied from 100 to 5000 V and the resulting negative charge transferred to the liquid jet spans from O(10-3 - 10-1) Coulomb per cubic meter. The relative influence of the high speed gas to the liquid electric charge on the primary instability and jet break-up is studied. The effect of the electric field on the atomization process is characterized by high speed visualization at the nozzle exit, complemented with the resulting droplet size distribution in the mid field after break-up has ended. The quantitative visualization captures the fast dynamics of the interface de-stabilization and clearly shows the changes in the liquid stream instabilities caused by the electric field. These instabilities control the liquid droplet sizes and their spatio-temporal distribution in the spray, as measured from light interferometry.

Substrate-Coated Illumination Droplet Spray Ionization: Real-Time Monitoring of Photocatalytic Reactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hong; Li, Na; Zhao, Dandan; Jiang, Jie; You, Hong

2017-09-01

Real-time monitoring of photocatalytic reactions facilitates the elucidation of the mechanisms of the reactions. However, suitable tools for real-time monitoring are lacking. Herein, a novel method based on droplet spray ionization named substrate-coated illumination droplet spray ionization (SCI-DSI) for direct analysis of photocatalytic reaction solution is reported. SCI-DSI addresses many of the analytical limitations of electrospray ionization (ESI) for analysis of photocatalytic-reaction intermediates, and has potential for both in situ analysis and real-time monitoring of photocatalytic reactions. In SCI-DSI-mass spectrometry (MS), a photocatalytic reaction occurs by loading sample solutions onto the substrate-coated cover slip and by applying UV light above the modified slip; one corner of this slip adjacent to the inlet of a mass spectrometer is the high-electric-field location for launching a charged-droplet spray. After both testing and optimizing the performance of SCI-DSI, the value of this method for in situ analysis and real-time monitoring of photocatalytic reactions was demonstrated by the removal of cyclophosphamide (CP) in TiO2/UV. Reaction times ranged from seconds to minutes, and the proposed reaction intermediates were captured and identified by tandem mass spectrometry. Moreover, the free hydroxyl radical (·OH) was identified as the main radicals for CP removal. These results show that SCI-DSI is suitable for in situ analysis and real-time monitoring of CP removal under TiO2-based photocatalytic reactions. SCI-DSI is also a potential tool for in situ analysis and real-time assessment of the roles of radicals during CP removal under TiO2-based photocatalytic reactions. Graphical Abstract[Figure not available: see fulltext.

Fabrication and Testing of Tapered Electro-spray Nozzles

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

4.2 Microclimate Issues .......................................................................................................20 5. Summary and...requirement, while using very low flow rates per nozzle to obtain small combustor geometries. 4.2 Microclimate One of the challenges with this...off the Taylor-cone. To determine if there is an influence of microclimate , the evaporation rate was calculated from the Langmuir equation 1, using

Microporous Ti implant compact coated with hydroxyapatite produced by electro-discharge-sintering and electrostatic-spray-deposition.

PubMed

Jo, Y J; Kim, Y H; Jo, Y H; Seong, J G; Chang, S Y; Van Tyne, C J; Lee, W H

2014-11-01

A single pulse of 1.5 kJ/0.7 g of atomized spherical Ti powder from 300 μF capacitor was applied to produce the porous-surfaced Ti implant compact by electro-discharge-sintering (EDS). A solid core surrounded by porous layer was self-consolidated by a discharge in the middle of the compact in 122 μsec. Average pore size, porosity, and compressive yield strength of EDS Ti compact were estimated to be about 68.2 μm, 25.5%, and 266.4 MPa, respectively. Coatings with hydroxyapatite (HAp) on the Ti compact were conducted by electrostatic-spray-deposition (ESD) method. As-deposited HAp coating was in the form of porous structure and consisted of HAp particles which were uniformly distributed on the Ti porous structure. By heat-treatment at 700 degrees C, HAp particles were agglomerated each other and melted to form a highly smooth and homogeneous HAp thin film consisted of equiaxed nano-scaled grains. Porous-surfaced Ti implant compacts coated with highly crystalline apatite phase were successfully obtained by using the EDS and ESD techniques.

Microstructure, Morphology, and Nanomechanical Properties Near Fine Holes Produced by Electro-Discharge Machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blau, P. J.; Howe, J. Y.; Coffey, D. W.; Trejo, R. M.; Kenik, E. D.; Jolly, B. C.; Yang, N.

2012-08-01

Fine holes in metal alloys are employed for many important technological purposes, including cooling and the precise atomization of liquids. For example, they play an important role in the metering and delivery of fuel to the combustion chambers in energy-efficient, low-emission diesel engines. Electro-discharge machining (EDM) is one process employed to produce such holes. Since the hole shape and bore morphology can affect fluid flow, and holes also represent structural discontinuities in the tips of the spray nozzles, it is important to understand the microstructures adjacent to these holes, the features of the hole walls, and the nanomechanical properties of the material that was in some manner altered by the EDM hole-making process. Several techniques were used to characterize the structure and properties of spray-holes in a commercial injector nozzle. These include scanning electron microscopy, cross sectioning and metallographic etching, bore surface roughness measurements by optical interferometry, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy of recast EDM layers extracted with the help of a focused ion beam.

Method for Continuous Monitoring of Electrospray Ion Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Metzler, Guille; Crathern, Susan; Bachmann, Lorin; Fernández-Metzler, Carmen; King, Richard

2017-10-01

A method for continuously monitoring the performance of electrospray ionization without the addition of hardware or chemistry to the system is demonstrated. In the method, which we refer to as SprayDx, cluster ions with solvent vapor natively formed by electrospray are followed throughout the collection of liquid chromatography-selected reaction monitoring data. The cluster ion extracted ion chromatograms report on the consistency of the ion formation and detection system. The data collected by the SprayDx method resemble the data collected for postcolumn infusion of analyte. The response of the cluster ions monitored reports on changes in the physical parameters of the ion source such as voltage and gas flow. SprayDx is also observed to report on ion suppression in a fashion very similar to a postcolumn infusion of analyte. We anticipate the method finding utility as a continuous readout on the performance of electrospray and other atmospheric pressure ionization processes. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry of DNA nucleobases: implications for a liquid film model.

PubMed

Qiu, Bo; Luo, Hai

2009-05-01

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) mass spectrometry has been implemented on a commercial ion-trap mass spectrometer and used to optimize mass spectrometric conditions for DNA nucleobases: adenine, cytosine, thymine, and guanine. Experimental parameters including spray voltage, distance between mass spectrometer inlet and the sampled spot, and nebulizing gas inlet pressure were optimized. Cluster ions including some magic number clusters of nucleobases were observed for the first time using DESI mass spectrometry. The formation of the cluster species was found to vary with the nucleobases, acidification of the spray solvent, and the deposited sample amount. All the experimental results can be explained well using a liquid film model based on the two-step droplet pick-up mechanism. It is further suggested that solubility of the analytes in the spray solvent is an important factor to consider for their studies by using DESI. 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Detection of strep throat causing bacterium directly from medical swabs by touch spray-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Jarmusch, Alan K; Pirro, Valentina; Kerian, Kevin S; Cooks, R Graham

2014-10-07

Strep throat causing Streptococcus pyogenes was detected in vitro and in simulated clinical samples by performing touch spray ionization-mass spectrometry. MS analysis took only seconds to reveal characteristic bacterial and human lipids. Medical swabs were used as the substrate for ambient ionization. This work constitutes the initial step in developing a non-invasive MS-based test for clinical diagnosis of strep throat. It is limited to the single species, S. pyogenes, which is responsible for the vast majority of cases. The method is complementary to and, with further testing, a potential alternative to current methods of point-of-care detection of S. pyogenes.

Focused analyte spray emission apparatus and process for mass spectrometric analysis

DOEpatents

Roach, Patrick J [Kennewick, WA; Laskin, Julia [Richland, WA; Laskin, Alexander [Richland, WA

2012-01-17

An apparatus and process are disclosed that deliver an analyte deposited on a substrate to a mass spectrometer that provides for trace analysis of complex organic analytes. Analytes are probed using a small droplet of solvent that is formed at the junction between two capillaries. A supply capillary maintains the droplet of solvent on the substrate; a collection capillary collects analyte desorbed from the surface and emits analyte ions as a focused spray to the inlet of a mass spectrometer for analysis. The invention enables efficient separation of desorption and ionization events, providing enhanced control over transport and ionization of the analyte.

Similarities between N-acetylcysteine and Glutathione in Binding to Lead(II) Ions

PubMed Central

Sisombath, Natalie S.; Jalilehvand, Farideh

2015-01-01

N -acetylcysteine is a natural thiol-containing antioxidant, a precursor for cysteine and glutathione, and a potential detoxifying agent for heavy metal ions. However, previous accounts of the efficiency of N-acetylcysteine (H2NAC) in excretion of lead are few and contradicting. Here we report results on the nature of lead(II) complexes formed with N-acetylcysteine in aqueous solution, which were obtained by combining information from several spectroscopic methods, including 207Pb, 13C and 1H NMR, Pb LIII-edge X-ray absorption, Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis.) spectroscopy and electro-spray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Two series of solutions were used containing CPb(II) = 10 and 100 mM, respectively, varying the H2NAC / Pb(II) mole ratios from 2.1 to 10.0 at pH = 9.1 – 9.4. The coordination environments obtained resemble those previously found for the Pb(II) glutathione system: at a ligand-to-lead mole ratio of 2.1 dimeric or oligomeric Pb(II) N-acetylcysteine complexes are formed, while a tri-thiolate [Pb(NAC)3]4− complex dominates in solutions with H2NAC/Pb(II) mole ratios > 3.0. PMID:26624959

A novel analytical method for d-glucosamine quantification and its application in the analysis of chitosan degradation by a minimal enzyme cocktail.

PubMed

Mekasha, Sophanit; Toupalová, Hana; Linggadjaja, Eka; Tolani, Harish A; Anděra, Ladislav; Arntzen, Magnus Ø; Vaaje-Kolstad, Gustav; Eijsink, Vincent G H; Agger, Jane W

2016-10-04

Enzymatic depolymerization of chitosan, a β-(1,4)-linked polycationic polysaccharide composed of d-glucosamine (GlcN) and N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GlcNAc) provides a possible route to the exploitation of chitin-rich biomass. Complete conversion of chitosan to mono-sugars requires the synergistic action of endo- and exo- chitosanases. In the present study we have developed an efficient and cost-effective chitosan-degrading enzyme cocktail containing only two enzymes, an endo-attacking bacterial chitosanase, ScCsn46A, from Streptomyces coelicolor, and an exo-attacking glucosamine specific β-glucosaminidase, Tk-Glm, from the archaeon Thermococcus kodakarensis KOD1. Moreover, we developed a fast, reliable quantitative method for analysis of GlcN using high performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD). The sensitivity of this method is high and less than 50 pmol was easily detected, which is about 1000-fold better than the sensitivity of more commonly used detection methods based on refractive index. We also obtained qualitative insight into product development during the enzymatic degradation reaction by means of ElectroSpray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ionized-Cluster Beam/Partially Ionized Beam Deposition of Electro- Optical and Nonlinear Optical Organic Materials and Device Development

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-08-29

4’- CH3 O--\\\\4 4N -2 nitrostilbene NO 2J (MMONS) 4’-dimethylamfino OCH3 -N-4-stylbazolium j, o3 - 200 3125 1000 tosylate (DAST)or 0 3 (CH3)2N CH3 Styrylpyridinium PH cyanine dye 400 1490 470 ( SPCD ) SO4 (CH3 ½2N lh3 20

Counter Electrical Generation and Distribution: An Assessment for Global Strike in 2035

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-15

magnetic field . Satellites in low earth orbit (LEO) or high earth orbit (HEO) orbits would be disabled from effects of the ionizing electrons on...of delivery.34 High power microwaves may also offer an ability to “dial down” the electro- magnetic fields being used to fine tune the effects on the...target system and reduce collateral damage. At high levels of electro- magnetic fields , permanent and catastrophic damage to circuitry, power lines

Chemical Synthesis Accelerated by Paper Spray: The Haloform Reaction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bain, Ryan M.; Pulliam, Christopher J.; Raab, Shannon A.; Cooks, R. Graham

2016-01-01

In this laboratory, students perform a synthetic reaction in two ways: (i) by traditional bulk-phase reaction and (ii) in the course of reactive paper spray ionization. Mass spectrometry (MS) is used both as an analytical method and a means of accelerating organic syntheses. The main focus of this laboratory exercise is that the same ionization…

Enhanced performance for the analysis of prostaglandins and thromboxanes by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry using a new atmospheric pressure ionization source.

PubMed

Lubin, Arnaud; Geerinckx, Suzy; Bajic, Steve; Cabooter, Deirdre; Augustijns, Patrick; Cuyckens, Filip; Vreeken, Rob J

2016-04-01

Eicosanoids, including prostaglandins and thromboxanes are lipid mediators synthetized from polyunsaturated fatty acids. They play an important role in cell signaling and are often reported as inflammatory markers. LC-MS/MS is the technique of choice for the analysis of these compounds, often in combination with advanced sample preparation techniques. Here we report a head to head comparison between an electrospray ionization source (ESI) and a new atmospheric pressure ionization source (UniSpray). The performance of both interfaces was evaluated in various matrices such as human plasma, pig colon and mouse colon. The UniSpray source shows an increase in method sensitivity up to a factor 5. Equivalent to better linearity and repeatability on various matrices as well as an increase in signal intensity were observed in comparison to ESI. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Instantaneous characterization of vegetable oils via TAG and FFA profiles by easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Simas, Rosineide C; Catharino, Rodrigo R; Cunha, Ildenize B S; Cabral, Elaine C; Barrera-Arellano, Daniel; Eberlin, Marcos N; Alberici, Rosana M

2010-04-01

A fast and reliable method is presented for the analysis of vegetable oils. Easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS) is shown to efficiently desorb and ionize the main oil constituents from an inert surface under ambient conditions and to provide comprehensive triacylglyceride (TAG) and free fatty acid (FFA) profiles detected mainly as either [TAG + Na](+) or [FFA-H](-) ions. EASI(+/-)-MS analysis is simple, easily implemented, requires just a tiny droplet of the oil and is performed without any pre-separation or chemical manipulation. It also causes no fragmentation of TAG ions hence diacylglyceride (DAG) and monoacylglyceride (MAG) profiles and contents can also be measured. The EASI(+/-)-MS profiles of TAG and FFA permit authentication and quality control and can be used, for instance, to access levels of adulteration, acidity, oxidation or hydrolysis of vegetable oils in general.

A new simple and rapid LC-ESI-MS/MS method for quantification of plasma oxysterols as dimethylaminobutyrate esters. Its successful use for the diagnosis of Niemann-Pick type C disease.

PubMed

Boenzi, Sara; Deodato, Federica; Taurisano, Roberta; Martinelli, Diego; Verrigni, Daniela; Carrozzo, Rosalba; Bertini, Enrico; Pastore, Anna; Dionisi-Vici, Carlo; Johnson, David W

2014-11-01

Two oxysterols, cholestan-3β,5α,6β-triol (C-triol) and 7-ketocholesterol (7-KC), have been recently proposed as diagnostic markers of Niemann-Pick type C (NP-C) disease, representing a potential alternative diagnostic tool to the more invasive and time consuming filipin test in cultured fibroblasts. Usually, the oxysterols are detected and quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method using atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) or electro-spray-ionization (ESI) sources, after a variety of derivatization procedures to enhance sensitivity. We developed a sensitive LC-MS/MS method to quantify the oxysterols in plasma as dimethylaminobutyrate ester, suitable for ESI analysis. This method, with an easy liquid-phase extraction and a short derivatization procedure, has been validated to demonstrate specificity, linearity, recovery, lowest limit of quantification, accuracy and precision. The assay was linear over a concentration range of 0.5-200ng/mL for C-triol and 1.0-200ng/mL for 7-KC. Intra-day and inter-day coefficients of variation (CV%) were <15% for both metabolites. Receiver operating characteristic analysis estimates that the area under curve was 0.998 for C-triol, and 0.972 for 7-KC, implying a significant discriminatory power for the method in this patient population of both oxysterols. In summary, our method provides a simple, rapid and non-invasive diagnostic tool for the biochemical diagnosis of NP-C disease. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Purification of CdZnTe by electromigration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, K.; Kim, Sangsu; Hong, Jinki; Lee, Jinseo; Hong, Taekwon; Bolotnikov, A. E.; Camarda, G. S.; James, R. B.

2015-04-01

Electro-migration of ionized/electrically active impurities in CdZnTe (CZT) was successfully demonstrated at elevated temperature with an electric field of 20 V/mm. Copper, which exists in positively charged states, electro-migrated at a speed of 15 μm/h in an electric field of 20 V/mm. A notable variation in impurity concentration along the growth direction with the segregation tendency of the impurities was observed in an electro-migrated CZT boule. Notably, both Ga and Fe, which exist in positively charged states, exhibited the opposite distribution to that of their segregation tendency in Cd(Zn)Te. A CZT detector fabricated from the middle portion of the electro-migrated CZT boule showed an improved mobility-lifetime product of 0.91 × 10-2 cm2/V, compared with that of 1.4 × 10-3 cm2/V, observed in an as-grown (non-electro-migrated) CZT detector. The optimum radiation detector material would have minimum concentration of deep traps required for compensation.

Detection of strep throat causing bacterium directly from medical swabs by touch spray - mass spectrometry

PubMed Central

Jarmusch, Alan K.; Pirro, Valentina; Kerian, Kevin S.; Cooks, Graham

2014-01-01

Strep throat causing Streptococcus pyogenes was detected in vitro and in simulated clinical samples by performing touch spray ionization - mass spectrometry. MS analysis took only seconds to reveal characteristic bacterial and human lipids. Medical swabs were used as the substrate for ambient ionization. This work constitutes the initial step in developing a noninvasive MS-based test for clinical diagnosis of strep throat. It is limited to the single species, S. pyogenes, which is responsible for the vast majority of cases. The method is complementary to and, with further testing, a potential alternative to current methods of point-of-care detection of S. pyogenes. PMID:25102079

CHLORIDEDETERMINATION IN HIGH IONIC STRENGTH SOLUTION OF AMMONIUM ACETATE USING NEGATIVE ION ELECTRON SPRAY IONIZATION (HPLC/MS)

EPA Science Inventory

A precise ion chromatography method has been developed for the determination of chloride in high ionic strength ammonium acetate solutions (10-5 M-5 M) using sodium carbonate/sodium bicarbonate as eluent. Negative ion electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry was used for q...

Fingerprinting and aging of ink by easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Lalli, Priscila M; Sanvido, Gustavo B; Garcia, Jerusa S; Haddad, Renato; Cosso, Ricardo G; Maia, Denison R J; Zacca, Jorge J; Maldaner, Adriano O; Eberlin, Marcos N

2010-04-01

Using easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS), fast and non-destructive fingerprinting identification and aging of ballpoint pen ink writings have been performed directly from paper surfaces under ordinary ambient conditions. EASI-MS data obtained directly from the ink lines showed that pens from different brands provide typical ink chemical profiles. Accelerated ink aging has also been monitored by EASI-MS revealing contrasting degradation behaviors for six different common ink dyes. As demonstrated for Basic Violet 3, some dyes display a cascade of degradation products whose abundances increase linearly with time thus functioning as 'chemical clocks' for ink aging. Analysis of questionable documents has confirmed the ink aging capabilities of EASI-MS. The order of superimposition at a crossing point has also been determined by EASI-MS. For two superimposed ink lines, continuous EASI-MS analysis has also shown that the EASI spray is able to penetrate through the layers and therefore both ink layers could be characterized.

Space Qualification Issues in Acousto-optic and Electro-optic Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Taylor, Edward W.; Trivedi, Sudhir; Kutcher, Sue; Soos, Jolanta

2007-01-01

Satellite and space-based applications of photonic devices and systems require operational reliability in the harsh environment of space for extended periods of time. This in turn requires every component of the systems and their packaging to meet space qualifications. Acousto- and electro-optical devices form the major components of many current space based optical systems, which is the focus of this paper. The major space qualification issues are related to: mechanical stability, thermal effects and operation of the devices in the naturally occurring space radiation environment. This paper will discuss acousto- and electro-optic materials and devices with respect to their stability against mechanical vibrations, thermal cycling in operating and non-operating conditions and device responses to space ionizing and displacement radiation effects. Selection of suitable materials and packaging to meet space qualification criteria will also be discussed. Finally, a general roadmap for production and testing of acousto- and electro-optic devices will be discussed.

Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Three Gelatinous Chinese Medicines and Their Authentications by Tryptic-digested Peptides Profiling using Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-time of Flight/Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Yang, Huan; Zheng, Jie; Wang, Hai-Yan; Li, Nan; Yang, Ya-Ya; Shen, Yu-Ping

2017-01-01

Gelatinous Chinese medicines (GCMs) including Asini Corii Colla, Testudinis Carapacis ET Plastri Colla, and Cervi Cornus Colla, were made from reptile shell or mammalian skin or deer horn, and consumed as a popular tonic, as well as hemopoietic and hemostatic agents. Misuse of them would not exert their functions, and fake or adulterate products have caused drug market disorder and affected food and drug safety. GCMs are rich in denatured proteins, but insufficient in available DNA fragments, hence commonly used cytochrome c oxidase I barcoding was not successful for their authentication. In this study, we performed comparative proteomic analysis of them and their animal origins to identify the composition of intrinsic proteins for the first time. A reliable and convenient approach was proposed for their authentication, by the incorporation of sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, two-dimensional electrophoresis, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS). A total of 26 proteins were identified from medicinal parts of original animals, and GCMs proteins presented in a dispersive manner in electrophoresis analyses due to complicated changes in the structure of original proteins caused by long-term decoction and the addition of ingredients during their manufacturing. In addition, by comparison of MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS profiling, 19 signature peptide fragments originated from the protein of GCM products were selected according to criteria. These could assist in the discrimination and identification of adulterates of GCMs and other ACMs for their form of raw medicinal material, the pulverized, and even the complex. Comparative proteomic analysis of three gelatinous Chinese medicines was conducted, and their authentications were based on tryptic-digested peptides profiling using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry. Abbreviations used: GCMs: Gelatinous Chinese medicines, COI: Cytochrome c oxidase I, SDS-PAGE: Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, 2-DE: Two-dimensional electrophoresis, MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS: Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight/time of flight mass spectrometry, LC: Liquid chromatography, ChP: Chinese Pharmacopoeia, HPLC: High performance liquid chromatography, LC-ESI + -MS: Liquid chromatography-electro spray ionization-mass spectrometry, IEF: isoelectric focusing, HCCA: α-Cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid.

Bipolar Mass Spectrometry of Labile Coordination Complexes, Redox Active Inorganic Compounds, and Proteins Using a Glass Nebulizer for Sonic-Spray Ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonakis, Manolis M.; Tsirigotaki, Alexandra; Kanaki, Katerina; Milios, Constantinos J.; Pergantis, Spiros A.

2013-08-01

In this study, we report on the development of a novel nebulizer configuration for sonic-spray ionization (SSI) mass spectrometry (MS), more specifically for a version of SSI that is referred to as Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization (V-EASI) MS. The developed nebulizer configuration is based on a commercially available pneumatic glass nebulizer that has been used extensively for aerosol formation in atomic spectrometry. In the present study, the nebulizer was modified in order to achieve efficient V-EASI-MS operation. Upon evaluating this system, it has been demonstrated that V-EASI-MS offers some distinct advantages for the analysis of coordination compounds and redox active inorganic compounds over the predominantly used electrospray ionization (ESI) technique. Such advantages, for this type of compounds, are demonstrated here for the first time. More specifically, a series of labile heptanuclear heterometallic [CuII 6LnIII] clusters held together with artificial amino acid ligands, in addition to easily oxidized inorganic oxyanions of selenium and arsenic, were analyzed. The observed advantages pertain to V-EASI appearing to be a "milder" ionization source than ESI, not requiring electrical potentials for gas phase ion formation, thus eliminating the possibility of unwanted redox transformations, allowing for the "simultaneous" detection of negative and positive ions (bipolar analysis) without the need to change source ionization conditions, and also not requiring the use of syringes and delivery pumps. Because of such features, especially because of the absence of ionization potentials, EASI can be operated with minimal requirements for source parameter optimization. We observed that source temperature and accelerating voltage do not seem to affect labile compounds to the extent they do in ESI-MS. In addition, bipolar analysis of proteins was demonstrated here by acquiring both positive and negative ion mass spectra from the same protein solutions, without the need to independently adjust solution and source conditions in each mode. Finally, the simple and efficient operation of a dual-nebulizer configuration was demonstrated for V-EASI-MS for the first time.

Bipolar mass spectrometry of labile coordination complexes, redox active inorganic compounds, and proteins using a glass nebulizer for sonic-spray ionization.

PubMed

Antonakis, Manolis M; Tsirigotaki, Alexandra; Kanaki, Katerina; Milios, Constantinos J; Pergantis, Spiros A

2013-08-01

In this study, we report on the development of a novel nebulizer configuration for sonic-spray ionization (SSI) mass spectrometry (MS), more specifically for a version of SSI that is referred to as Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization (V-EASI) MS. The developed nebulizer configuration is based on a commercially available pneumatic glass nebulizer that has been used extensively for aerosol formation in atomic spectrometry. In the present study, the nebulizer was modified in order to achieve efficient V-EASI-MS operation. Upon evaluating this system, it has been demonstrated that V-EASI-MS offers some distinct advantages for the analysis of coordination compounds and redox active inorganic compounds over the predominantly used electrospray ionization (ESI) technique. Such advantages, for this type of compounds, are demonstrated here for the first time. More specifically, a series of labile heptanuclear heterometallic [Cu(II) 6Ln(III)] clusters held together with artificial amino acid ligands, in addition to easily oxidized inorganic oxyanions of selenium and arsenic, were analyzed. The observed advantages pertain to V-EASI appearing to be a "milder" ionization source than ESI, not requiring electrical potentials for gas phase ion formation, thus eliminating the possibility of unwanted redox transformations, allowing for the "simultaneous" detection of negative and positive ions (bipolar analysis) without the need to change source ionization conditions, and also not requiring the use of syringes and delivery pumps. Because of such features, especially because of the absence of ionization potentials, EASI can be operated with minimal requirements for source parameter optimization. We observed that source temperature and accelerating voltage do not seem to affect labile compounds to the extent they do in ESI-MS. In addition, bipolar analysis of proteins was demonstrated here by acquiring both positive and negative ion mass spectra from the same protein solutions, without the need to independently adjust solution and source conditions in each mode. Finally, the simple and efficient operation of a dual-nebulizer configuration was demonstrated for V-EASI-MS for the first time.

Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for the analysis of pharmaceuticals and metabolites.

PubMed

Kauppila, Tiina J; Wiseman, Justin M; Ketola, Raimo A; Kotiaho, Tapio; Cooks, R Graham; Kostiainen, Risto

2006-01-01

The performance of desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) in the analysis of a group of pharmaceuticals and their glucuronic acid conjugates is reported. The suitability of different sprayer solvents and different surfaces was examined. In the positive ion mode, water/methanol/trifluoroacetic acid performed best, whereas, in the negative ion mode, water/methanol/ammonium hydroxide was found to be the most suitable spray solvent. Of the surfaces investigated, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) was found to give the best performance in terms of sensitivity. Spray solution flow rate and the distance of the sprayer tip from the surface were also found to have significant effects on the signal intensity. Analytes with basic groups efficiently formed the corresponding protonated molecules in the positive ion mode, whereas acidic analytes, such as the glucuronic acid conjugates, formed intense signals due to the deprotonated molecules in the negative ion mode. Ionization of neutral compounds was less efficient and in many cases it was achieved through adduct formation with simple anions or cations. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Thermo-controlled rheology of electro-assembled polyanionic polysaccharide (alginate) and polycationic thermo-sensitive polymers.

PubMed

Niang, Pape Momar; Huang, Zhiwei; Dulong, Virginie; Souguir, Zied; Le Cerf, Didier; Picton, Luc

2016-03-30

Several thermo-sensitive polyelectrolyte complexes were prepared by ionic self-association between an anionic polysaccharide (alginate) and a monocationic copolymer (polyether amine, Jeffamine®-M2005) with a 'Low Critical Solubility Temperature' (LCST). We show that electro-association must be established below the aggregation temperature of the free Jeffamine®, after which the organization of the system is controlled by the thermo-association of Jeffamine® that was previously electro-associated with the alginate. Evidence for this comes primarily from the rheology in the semi-dilute region. Electro- and thermo-associative behaviours are optimal at a pH corresponding to maximum ionization of both compounds (around pH 7). High ionic strength could prevent the electro-association. The reversibility of the transition is possible only at temperatures lower than the LCST of Jeffamine®. Similar behaviour has been obtained with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), which suggests that this behaviour can be observed using a range of anionic polyelectrolytes. In contrast, no specific properties have been found for pullulan, which is a neutral polysaccharide. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry combined with thin-layer chromatography.

PubMed

Haddad, Renato; Milagre, Humberto M S; Catharino, Rodrigo Ramos; Eberlin, Marcos N

2008-04-15

On-spot detection and analyte characterization on thin-layer chromatography (TLC) plates is performed via ambient desorption/ionization and (tandem) mass spectrometry detection, that is, via easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS). As proof-of-principle cases, mixtures of semipolar nitrogenated compounds as well as pharmaceutical drugs and vegetable oils have been tested. The technique has also been applied to monitor a chemical reaction of synthetic importance. EASI is the simplest and gentlest ambient ionization technique currently available, assisted solely by N2 (or air). It uses no voltages, no electrical discharges; no UV or laser beams, and no high temperature and is most easily implemented in all API mass spectrometers. TLC is also the simplest, fastest, and most easily performed chromatographic technique. TLC plus EASI-MS therefore provide a simple and advantageous combination of chromatographic separation and sensitive detection of the TLC spots as well as on-spot MS or MS/MS characterization. The favorable characteristics of TLC-EASI-MS indicate advantageous applications in several areas such as drug and oil analysis, phytochemistry and synthetic chemistry, forensics via reliable counterfeit detection, and quality control.

The involvement of a polyphenol-rich extract of black chokeberry in oxidative stress on experimental arterial hypertension.

PubMed

Ciocoiu, Manuela; Badescu, Laurentiu; Miron, Anca; Badescu, Magda

2013-01-01

The aim of this study is to characterize the content of Aronia melanocarpa Elliott (black chokeberry) extract and also to estimate the influence of polyphenolic compounds contained in chokeberries on oxidative stress, on an L-NAME-induced experimental model of arterial hypertension. The rat blood pressure values were recorded using a CODA Noninvasive Blood Pressure System. HPLC/DAD coupled with ElectroSpray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry allowed identification of five phenolic compounds in berries ethanolic extract as follows: chlorogenic acid, kuromanin, rutin, hyperoside, and quercetin. The serous activity of glutathione-peroxidase (GSH-Px) has significantly lower values in the hypertensive (AHT) group as compared to the group protected by polyphenols (AHT + P). The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) values are lower in the AHT group and they are significantly higher in the AHT + P group. All the measured blood pressure components revealed a biostatistically significant blood pressure drop between the AHT group and the AHT + P group. The results reveal the normalization of the reduced glutathion (GSH) concentration as well as a considerable reduction in the malondialdehyde (MDA) serum concentration in the AHT + P group. Ethanolic extract of black chokeberry fruits not only has a potential value as a prophylactic agent but also may function as a nutritional supplement in the management of arterial hypertension.

Integration of paper spray ionization high-field asymmetric waveform ion mobility spectrometry for forensic applications.

PubMed

Tsai, Chia-Wei; Tipple, Christopher A; Yost, Richard A

2018-04-15

Paper spray ionization (PSI) is an attractive ambient ionization source for mass spectrometry (MS) since it allows the combination of surface sampling and ionization. The minimal sample preparation inherent in this approach greatly reduces the time needed for analysis. However, the ions generated from interfering compounds in the sample and the paper substrate may interfere with the analyte ions. Therefore, the integration of PSI with high-field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) is of significant interest since it should reduce the background ions entering the mass analyzer without complicating the analysis or increasing analysis time. Here we demonstrate the integration of PSI with FAIMS/MS and its potential for analysis of samples of forensic interest. In this work, the parameters that can influence the integration, including sampling and ionization by paper spray, the FAIMS separation of analytes from each other and background interferences, and the length of time that a usable signal can be observed for explosives on paper, were evaluated with the integrated system. In the negative ion analysis of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX), and 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), amounts as low as 1 ng on paper were readily observed. The successful positive ion separation of a set of illicit drugs including heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine was also achieved. In addition, the positive ion analysis of the chemical warfare agent simulants dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) and diisopropyl methylphosphonate (DIMP) was evaluated. The integration of PSI-FAIMS/MS was demonstrated for the analyses of explosives in negative ion mode and for illicit drugs and CW simulants in positive mode. Paper background ions that could interfere with these analyses were separated by FAIMS. The compensation voltage of an ion obtained by FAIMS provided an additional identification parameter to be combined with the mass spectrum for each analyte. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Bismuth Titanate Fabricated by Spray-on Deposition and Microwave Sintering For High-Temperature Ultrasonic Transducers.

PubMed

Searfass, Clifford T; Pheil, C; Sinding, K; Tittmann, B R; Baba, A; Agrawal, D K

2016-01-01

Thick films of ferroelectric bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) have been fabricated by spray-on deposition in conjunction with microwave sintering for use as high-temperature ultrasonic transducers. The elastic modulus, density, permittivity, and conductivity of the films were characterized. Electro-mechanical properties of the films were estimated with a commercial d33 meter which gave 16 pC/N. This value is higher than typically reported for bulk bismuth titanate; however, these films withstand higher field strengths during poling which is correlated with higher d33 values. Films were capable of operating at 650 °C for roughly 5 min before depoling and can operate at 600 °C for at least 7 days.

Mass Spectrometry for Research and Application in Therapeutic Drug Monitoring or Clinical and Forensic Toxicology.

PubMed

Maurer, Hans H

2018-04-30

This paper reviews current applications of various hyphenated low- and high-resolution mass spectrometry techniques in the field of therapeutic drug monitoring and clinical/forensic toxicology in both research and practice. They cover gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization, or paper spray ionization coupled to quadrupole, ion trap, time-of-flight, or Orbitrap mass analyzers.

Use of 3-nitrobenzonitrile as an additive for improved sensitivity in sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Kanaki, Katerina; Pergantis, Spiros A

2014-12-15

Sonic-spray ionization (SSI) has been shown to produce gas-phase ions for a wide range of compounds, without the application of voltage or a laser. However, it remains to be shown that it can also provide similar sensitivities to those obtained by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Here we report on an attempt to further improve the sensitivity of SSI-MS, more specifically a version of SSI that is referred to as Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization (V-EASI) MS, by adding a signal-enhancing additive to the sample solution. The additive used is 3-nitrobenzonitrile (3-NBN), which has recently been used with success in a new ionization approach named matrix-assisted ionization vacuum. In order to conduct this study we have analyzed a range of compounds, including peptides, metalloproteins, and some organometalloids. During the V-EASI-MS analyses molecular ion and protonated molecule signal intensities as well as their corresponding signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios, obtained in the presence and absence of the 3-NBN, were compared. The 3-NBN-assisted V-EASI-MS approach developed here provides significant improvement in sensitivity relative to conventional V-EASI-MS for almost all compounds tested. More specifically, for peptides a 1.6- to 4-fold enhancement was realized, for proteins the enhancements were from 2- to 5-fold, and for some metalloid species enhancements reached up to 10-fold. However, optimum additive concentration and ion transfer capillary temperature were found to be compound-dependent and thus require optimization in order for maximum enhancements to be achieved. In most cases the 3-NBN-assisted V-EASI-MS approach provides comparable sensitivities and S/N ratios to ESI-MS on the same ion trap mass spectrometer. The use of 3-NBN with V-EASI-MS gives rise to a novel 3-NBN-assisted MS technique, which has demonstrated considerable signal enhancement for most of the compounds analyzed, thus improving its competitiveness towards the well-established and dominating ESI-MS technique. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Purification of CdZnTe by Electromigration

DOE PAGES

Kim, K.; Kim, Sangsu; Hong, Jinki; ...

2015-04-14

Electro-migration of ionized/electrically active impurities in CdZnTe (CZT) was successfully demonstrated at elevated temperature with an electric field of 20 V/mm. Copper, which exists in positively charged states, electro-migrated at a speed of 15 lm/h in an electric field of 20 V/mm. A notable variation in impurity concentration along the growth direction with the segregation tendency of the impurities was observed in an electro-migrated CZT boule. Notably, both Ga and Fe, which exist in positively charged states, exhibited the opposite distribution to that of their segregation tendency in Cd(Zn)Te. Furthermore, a CZT detector fabricated from the middle portion of themore » electromigrated CZT boule showed an improved mobility-lifetime product of 0.91 10 -2 cm 2 /V, compared to that of 1.4 10 -3 cm 2 /V, observed in an as-grown (non-electro-migrated) CZT detector. The optimum radiation detector material would have minimum concentration of deep traps required for compensation.« less

Miniature Oxidizer Ionizer for a Fuel Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartley, Frank

2006-01-01

A proposed miniature device for ionizing the oxygen (or other oxidizing gas) in a fuel cell would consist mostly of a membrane ionizer using the same principles as those of the device described in the earlier article, Miniature Bipolar Electrostatic Ion Thruster (NPO-21057). The oxidizing gas would be completely ionized upon passage through the holes in the membrane ionizer. The resulting positively charged atoms or molecules of oxidizing gas could then, under the influence of the fringe fields of the ionizer, move toward the fuel-cell cathode that would be part of a membrane/electrode assembly comprising the cathode, a solid-electrolyte membrane, and an anode. The electro-oxidized state of the oxidizer atoms and molecules would enhance transfer of them through the cathode, thereby reducing the partial pressure of the oxidizer gas between the ionizer and the fuel-cell cathode, thereby, in turn, causing further inflow of oxidizer gas through the holes in the membrane ionizer. Optionally the ionizer could be maintained at a positive electric potential with respect to the cathode, in which case the resulting electric field would accelerate the ions toward the cathode.

Spray combustion at normal and reduced gravity in counterflow and co-flow configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gomez, Alessandro; Chen, Gung

1995-01-01

Liquid fuel dispersion in practical systems is typically achieved by spraying the fuel into a polydisperse distribution of droplets evaporating and burning in a turbulent gaseous environment In view of the nearly insurmountable difficulties of this two-phase flow, a systematic study of spray evaporation and burning in configurations of gradually increasing levels of complexity, starting from laminar sprays to fully turbulent ones, would be useful. A few years ago we proposed to use an electrostatic spray of charged droplets for this type of combustion experiments under well-defined conditions. In the simplest configuration, a liquid is fed into a small metal tube maintained at several kilovolts relative to a ground electrode few centimeters away. Under the action of the electric field, the liquid meniscus at the outlet of the capillary takes a conical shape, with a thin jet emerging from the cone tip (cone-jet mode). This jet breaks up farther downstream into a spray of charged droplets - the so-called ElectroSpray (ES). Several advantages distinguish the electrospray from alternative atomization techniques: (1) it can produce quasi-monodisperse droplets over a phenomenal size range; (2) the atomization, that is strictly electrostatic, is decoupled from gas flow processes, which provides some flexibility in the selection and control of the experimental conditions; (3) the Coulombic repulsion of homopolarly charged droplets induces spray self-dispersion and prevents droplet coalescence; (4) the ES provides the opportunity of studying regimes of slip between droplets and host gas without compromising the control of the spray properties; and (5) the compactness and potential controllability of this spray generation system makes it appealing for studies in reduced-gravity environments aimed at isolating the spray behavior from natural convection complications. With these premises, in March 1991 we initiated a series of experiments under NASA sponsorship (NAG3-1259 and 1688) in which the ES was used as a research tool to examine spray combustion in counter-flow and co-flow spray diffusion flames, as summarized below. The ultimate objective of this investigation is to examine the formation and burning of sprays of liquid fuels, at both normal and reduced gravity, first in laminar regimes and then in turbulent ones.

Mass spectrometry detection and imaging of inorganic and organic explosive device signatures using desorption electro-flow focusing ionization.

PubMed

Forbes, Thomas P; Sisco, Edward

2014-08-05

We demonstrate the coupling of desorption electro-flow focusing ionization (DEFFI) with in-source collision induced dissociation (CID) for the mass spectrometric (MS) detection and imaging of explosive device components, including both inorganic and organic explosives and energetic materials. We utilize in-source CID to enhance ion collisions with atmospheric gas, thereby reducing adducts and minimizing organic contaminants. Optimization of the MS signal response as a function of in-source CID potential demonstrated contrasting trends for the detection of inorganic and organic explosive device components. DEFFI-MS and in-source CID enabled isotopic and molecular speciation of inorganic components, providing further physicochemical information. The developed system facilitated the direct detection and chemical mapping of trace analytes collected with Nomex swabs and spatially resolved distributions within artificial fingerprints from forensic lift tape. The results presented here provide the forensic and security sectors a powerful tool for the detection, chemical imaging, and inorganic speciation of explosives device signatures.

Low pressure electrospray ionization system and process for effective transmission of ions

DOEpatents

Tang, Keqi [Richland, WA; Page, Jason S [Kennewick, WA; Kelly, Ryan T [Wet Richland, WA; Smith, Richard D [Richland, WA

2010-03-02

A system and method are disclosed that provide up to complete transmission of ions between coupled stages with low effective ion losses. A novel "interfaceless" electrospray ionization system is further described that operates the electrospray at a reduced pressure such that standard electrospray sample solutions can be directly sprayed into an electrodynamic ion funnel which provides ion focusing and transmission of ions into a mass analyzer.

Perfume fingerprinting by easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry: nearly instantaneous typification and counterfeit detection.

PubMed

Haddad, Renato; Catharino, Rodrigo Ramos; Marques, Lygia Azevedo; Eberlin, Marcos Nogueira

2008-11-01

Perfume counterfeiting is an illegal worldwide practice that involves huge economic losses and potential consumer risk. EASI is a simple, easily performed and rapidly implemented desorption/ionization technique for ambient mass spectrometry (MS). Herein we demonstrate that EASI-MS allows nearly instantaneous perfume typification and counterfeit detection. Samples are simply sprayed onto a glass rod or paper surface and, after a few seconds of ambient drying, a profile of the most polar components of the perfume is acquired. These components provide unique and reproducible chemical signatures for authentic perfume samples. Counterfeiting is readily recognized since the exact set and relative proportions of the more polar chemicals, sometimes at low concentrations, are unknown or hard to reproduce by the counterfeiters and hence very distinct and variable EASI-MS profiles are observed for the counterfeit samples.

Identification of multiply charged proteins and amino acid clusters by liquid nitrogen assisted spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Kumar Kailasa, Suresh; Hasan, Nazim; Wu, Hui-Fen

2012-08-15

The development of liquid nitrogen assisted spray ionization mass spectrometry (LNASI MS) for the analysis of multiply charged proteins (insulin, ubiquitin, cytochrome c, α-lactalbumin, myoglobin and BSA), peptides (glutathione, HW6, angiotensin-II and valinomycin) and amino acid (arginine) clusters is described. The charged droplets are formed by liquid nitrogen assisted sample spray through a stainless steel nebulizer and transported into mass analyzer for the identification of multiply charged protein ions. The effects of acids and modifier volumes for the efficient ionization of the above analytes in LNASI MS were carefully investigated. Multiply charged proteins and amino acid clusters were effectively identified by LNASI MS. The present approach can effectively detect the multiply charged states of cytochrome c at 400 nM. A comparison between LNASI and ESI, CSI, SSI and V-EASI methods on instrumental conditions, applied temperature and observed charge states for the multiply charged proteins, shows that the LNASI method produces the good quality spectra of amino acid clusters at ambient conditions without applied any electric field and heat. To date, we believe that the LNASI method is the most simple, low cost and provided an alternative paradigm for production of multiply charged ions by LNASI MS, just as ESI-like ions yet no need for applying any electrical field and it could be operated at low temperature for generation of highly charged protein/peptide ions. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of direct and alternating current vacuum ultraviolet lamps in atmospheric pressure photoionization.

PubMed

Vaikkinen, Anu; Haapala, Markus; Kersten, Hendrik; Benter, Thorsten; Kostiainen, Risto; Kauppila, Tiina J

2012-02-07

A direct current induced vacuum ultraviolet (dc-VUV) krypton discharge lamp and an alternating current, radio frequency (rf) induced VUV lamp that are essentially similar to lamps in commercial atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) ion sources were compared. The emission distributions along the diameter of the lamp exit window were measured, and they showed that the beam of the rf lamp is much wider than that of the dc lamp. Thus, the rf lamp has larger efficient ionization area, and it also emits more photons than the dc lamp. The ionization efficiencies of the lamps were compared using identical spray geometries with both lamps in microchip APPI mass spectrometry (μAPPI-MS) and desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization-mass spectrometry (DAPPI-MS). A comprehensive view on the ionization was gained by studying six different μAPPI solvent compositions, five DAPPI spray solvents, and completely solvent-free DAPPI. The observed reactant ions for each solvent composition were very similar with both lamps except for toluene, which showed a higher amount of solvent originating oxidation products with the rf lamp than with the dc lamp in μAPPI. Moreover, the same analyte ions were detected with both lamps, and thus, the ionization mechanisms with both lamps are similar. The rf lamp showed a higher ionization efficiency than the dc lamp in all experiments. The difference between the lamp ionization efficiencies was greatest when high ionization energy (IE) solvent compositions (IEs above 10 eV), i.e., hexane, methanol, and methanol/water, (1:1 v:v) were used. The higher ionization efficiency of the rf lamp is likely due to the larger area of high intensity light emission, and the resulting larger efficient ionization area and higher amount of photons emitted. These result in higher solvent reactant ion production, which in turn enables more efficient analyte ion production. © 2012 American Chemical Society

Electro Spray Method for Flexible Display

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-05-12

conditions which expensive and complicated.8-9) Kim et al. reported the fabrication of IZO thin films via combustion processing and obtained mobility values...metal nitrates as metal sources in solutions. Through the high self-generated energies by the combustion of acetylacetone or urea in solution...barrier to increase the mobility of solution-process-derived TFTs. Therefore, we used H2O as the solvent in our precursor solution. The use of H2O

Reactive uptake of HOCl to laboratory generated sea salt particles and nascent sea-spray aerosol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, N. R.; Ryder, O. S.; Bertram, T. H.

2013-12-01

Field observations suggest that the reactive uptake of HOCl on marine aerosol particles is an important source of chlorine radicals, particularly under low NOx conditions. However to date, laboratory measurements disagree on the magnitude of the reactive uptake coefficient for HOCl by a factor of 5 (γ(HOCl) ranges between 0.0004 and 0.0018), and there are no measurements of γ(HOCl) on nascent sea-spray aerosol. Here, we present measurements of the reactive uptake of HOCl to laboratory generated sodium chloride and sea-spray aerosol particles generated in a novel Marine Aerosol Reference Tank (MART), coupled to an entrained aerosol flow reactor and Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometer (CIMS). Measurements of γ(HOCl) retrieved here are compared against those in the literature, and the role of organic coatings on nascent sea-spray aerosol is explored.

Spatially resolved investigation of systemic and contact pesticides in plant material by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI).

PubMed

Gerbig, Stefanie; Brunn, Hubertus E; Spengler, Bernhard; Schulz, Sabine

2015-09-01

Distribution of pesticides both on the surface of leaves and in cross sections of plant stem and leaves was investigated using desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) with a spatial resolution of 50-100 μm. Two commercially available insecticide sprays containing different contact pesticides were applied onto leaves of Cotoneaster horizontalis, and the distributions of all active ingredients were directly analyzed. The first spray contained pyrethrins and rapeseed oil, both known as natural insecticides. Each component showed an inhomogeneous spreading throughout the leaf, based on substance polarity and solubility. The second spray contained the synthetic insecticides imidacloprid and methiocarb. Imidacloprid accumulated on the border of the leaf, while methiocarb was distributed more homogenously. In order to investigate the incorporation of a systemically acting pesticide into Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, a commercially available insecticide tablet containing dimethoate was spiked to the soil of the plant. Cross sections of the stem and leaf were obtained 25 and 60 days after application. Dimethoate was mainly detected in the transport system of the plant after 25 days, while it was found to be homogenously distributed in a leaf section after 60 days.

Direct characterization of commercial lecithins by easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Fernandes, Gabriel D; Alberici, Rosana M; Pereira, Gustavo G; Cabral, Elaine C; Eberlin, Marcos N; Barrera-Arellano, Daniel

2012-12-01

Commercial lecithins are composed mainly of phospholipids and triacylglycerols. The analysis of the commercial lecithins, including their fraction of phospholipids, normally involves laborious and expensive protocols. Easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS) is shown to be an efficient technique for the analysis of lipids. Samples of commercial lecithins including standards, refined, deoiled and modified soy lecithin were tested. Characteristic profiles of phosphatidylcholines and triacylglycerols are detected by EASI(+)-MS, whereas EASI(-)-MS provided phosphatidylethanolamines, glycophospholipids and free fatty acids profiles. Acetylated lecithins also displayed characteristic acetylated derivatives. EASI-MS data was also compared to MALDI-MS, and found to display richer compositional information. The industrial process applied to lecithin fabrication was also characterised via typical EASI-MS profiles. EASI-MS both in its positive and negative ion modes offers a direct, fast and efficient technique able to characterise commercial lecithin. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Studying Reaction Intermediates Formed at Graphenic Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Depanjan; Sen Gupta, Soujit; Narayanan, Rahul; Pradeep, Thalappil

2014-03-01

We report in-situ production and detection of intermediates at graphenic surfaces, especially during alcohol oxidation. Alcohol oxidation to acid occurs on graphene oxide-coated paper surface, driven by an electrical potential, in a paper spray mass spectrometry experiment. As paper spray ionization is a fast process and the time scale matches with the reaction time scale, we were able to detect the intermediate, acetal. This is the first observation of acetal formed in surface oxidation. The process is not limited to alcohols and the reaction has been extended to aldehydes, amines, phosphenes, sugars, etc., where reaction products were detected instantaneously. By combining surface reactions with ambient ionization and mass spectrometry, we show that new insights into chemical reactions become feasible. We suggest that several other chemical transformations may be studied this way. This work opens up a new pathway for different industrially and energetically important reactions using different metal catalysts and modified substrate.

Corona Discharge Suppression in Negative Ion Mode Nanoelectrospray Ionization via Trifluoroethanol Addition.

PubMed

McClory, Phillip J; Håkansson, Kristina

2017-10-03

Negative ion mode nanoelectrospray ionization (nESI) is often utilized to analyze acidic compounds, from small molecules to proteins, with mass spectrometry (MS). Under high aqueous solvent conditions, corona discharge is commonly observed at emitter tips, resulting in low ion abundances and reduced nESI needle lifetimes. We have successfully reduced corona discharge in negative ion mode by trace addition of trifluoroethanol (TFE) to aqueous samples. The addition of as little as 0.2% TFE increases aqueous spray stability not only in nESI direct infusion, but also in nanoflow liquid chromatography (nLC)/MS experiments. Negative ion mode spray stability with 0.2% TFE is approximately 6× higher than for strictly aqueous samples. Upon addition of 0.2% TFE to the mobile phase of nLC/MS experiments, tryptic peptide identifications increased from 93 to 111 peptides, resulting in an average protein sequence coverage increase of 18%.

Electro-Deposited Primer Development and Low-Polluting Primer Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-08-01

in the use of spray-applied primers are nonuniform corrosion protection, poor control of primer thickness, and variable strength of the adhesive bond...AL=)r- U’) LA C) .LAV) . L" () - C:’. L L :0 3c’. ) %D r- LAIr - LA I r-.%D ’D( o oD𔃺t- LA Ln DLI m to r- 0 0l- I cn M - in C.0 CD I (n m~ : c) = I V

Determination of rutin in rat plasma by ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry and application to pharmacokinetic study.

PubMed

Chen, Mengchun; Zhang, Xiaoqian; Wang, Hao; Lin, Baoli; Wang, Shuanghu; Hu, Guoxin

2015-04-01

A sensitive and rapid ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-MS) method for the determination of rutin in rat plasma was developed and validated. After addition of tolbutamide as internal standard (IS), protein precipitation by acetonitrile was used as sample preparation. The chromatographic separation was performed on an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 × 50 mm, 1.7 μm particle size), using acetonitrile-0.1% formic acid as the mobile phase with gradient elution, delivered at a flow-rate of 0.4 mL/min. Mass spectrometric analysis was performed using a XEVO TQD mass spectrometer coupled with an electro-spray ionization (ESI) source in the positive ion mode. The MRM transitions of m/z 610.91→302.98 and m/z 271.2→155.1 were used to quantify for rutin and tolbutamide, respectively. This assay method has been fully validated in terms of specificity, linearity, recovery and matrix effect, accuracy, precision and stability. Calibration curves were linear in the concentration ranges of 25-2000 ng/mL for rutin. Only 3 min was needed for an analytical run. This developed method was successfully used for determination of rutin in rat plasma for pharmacokinetic study. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Simultaneous determination of acetaminophen and dihydrocodeine in human plasma by UPLC-MS/MS: Its pharmacokinetic application.

PubMed

Qiu, Xiangjun; Lou, Dan; Su, Ding; Liu, Zebin; Gao, Pengtao; Zhang, Nan-sheng

2015-06-15

An ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated to determine acetaminophen (AAP) and dihydrocodeine (DHC) in human plasma simultaneously. Plasma samples were prepared using protein precipitation with acetonitrile, the two analytes and the internal standard midazolam were separated on an Acquity UPLC BEH C18 column and mass spectrometric analysis was performed using a QTrap5500 mass spectrometer coupled with an electro-spray ionization (ESI) source in the positive ion mode. The MRM transitions of m/z 151.2→110.0 and m/z 302.3→199.2 were used to quantify for AAP and DHC, respectively. The linearity of this method was found to be within the concentration range of 50-10000ng/mL for AAP, and 1-100ng/mL for DHC in human plasma, respectively. The lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) was 50ng/mL and 1ng/mL for AAP and DHC in human plasma, respectively. The relative standard deviations (RSD) of intra and inter precision were less than 10% for both AAP and DHC. The analysis time of per sample was 1.0min. The developed and validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of AAP (500mg) with DHC (20mg) capsule in Chinese healthy volunteers (N=20). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant potential of andrographolide and echiodinin isolated from callus culture of Andrographis paniculata Nees

PubMed Central

Arifullah, Mohmmed; Namsa, Nima Dandu; Mandal, Manabendra; Chiruvella, Kishore Kumar; Vikrama, Paritala; Gopal, Ghanta Rama

2013-01-01

Objective To evaluate the anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant activity of andrographolide (AND) and echiodinin (ECH) of Andrographis paniculata. Methods In this study, an attempt has been made to demonstrate the anti-microbial and anti-oxidant activity of isolated AND and ECH by broth micro-dilution method and 2,2-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, respectively. Structure elucidation was determined by electro-spray ionization-MSD, NMR (1H and 13C) and IR spectra. Results AND was effective against most of the strains tested including Mycobacterium smegmatis, showing broad spectrum of growth inhibition activity with Minimum inhibitory concentration values against Staphylococcus aureus (100 µg/mL), Streptococcus thermophilus (350 µg/mL) Bacillus subtilis (100 µg/mL), Escherichia coli (50 µg/mL), Mycobacterium smegmatis (200 µg/mL), Klebsiella pneumonia (100 µg/mL), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (200 µg/mL). ECH showed specific anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at a concentration higher than 225 µg/mL. Both AND and ECH were not effective against the two yeast strains, Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae tested in this study. Conclusion This preliminary study showed promising anti-bacterial activity and moderate free radical scavenging activity of AND and ECH, and it may provide the scientific rationale for its popular folklore medicines. PMID:23905016

Efficient counter-current chromatographic isolation and structural identification of two new cinnamic acids from Echinacea purpurea.

PubMed

Lu, Ying; Li, JiaYin; Li, MiLu; Hu, Xia; Tan, Jun; Liu, Zhong Hua

2012-10-01

Two new cinnamic acids, 2-O-caffeoyl-3-O-isoferuloyltartaric (3), and 2, 3-di-O-isoferuloyltartaric acid (5), along with three known caffeic acids, cichoric acid (1), 2-O-caffeoyl-3-O-feruloyltartaric acid (2) and 2-O-caffeoyl-3-O-p-coumaroyltartaric acid (4), have been successfully isolated and purified from Echinacea purpurea. In this study, we investigated an efficient method for the preparative isolation and purification of cinnamic acids from E. purpurea by high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC). The separation was performed using a two-phase solvent composed of n-hexane-ethyl-acetate-methanol-0.5% aqueous acetic acid (1:3:1:4, v/v). The upper phase was used as the stationary phase and the lower phase as the mobile phase, with a flow rate of 1.6 mL/min. From 250 mg of crude extracts, 65.1 mg of 1, 8.3 mg of 2, 4.0 mg of 3, 4.5 mg of 4, and 4.3 mg of 5 were isolated in one-step, with purities of 98.5%, 97.7%, 94.6%, 94.3%, and 98.6%, respectively, as evaluated by HPLC-DAD. The chemical structures were identified by electro spray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and one- and two-dimensional NMR spectra. HSCCC was very efficient for the separation and purification of the cinnamic acids from

Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Empagliflozin in Healthy Egyptian Volunteers Using LC-MS/MS and Comparison with Other Ethnic Populations.

PubMed

Ayoub, Bassam M; Mowaka, Shereen; Elzanfaly, Eman S; Ashoush, Nermeen; Elmazar, Mohamed M; Mousa, Shaker A

2017-05-31

The present study considered the pharmacokinetic evaluation of empagliflozin after administration to Egyptian volunteers, and the results were compared with other ethnic populations. The FDA recognizes that standard methods of defining racial subgroups are necessary to compare results across pharmacokinetic studies and to assess potential subgroup differences. The design of the study was as an open labeled, randomized, one treatment, one period, single dose pharmacokinetic study. The main pharmacokinetic parameters estimated were C max , T max , t 1/2 , elimination rate constant, AUC 0-t and AUC 0-inf . The insignificant difference in pharmacokinetic parameters between Egyptians and white German subjects suggests that no dose adjustment should be considered with administration of 25 mg empagliflozin to Egyptian population. A new LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated, allowing sensitive estimation of empagliflozin (25-600 ng mL -1 ) in human plasma using dapagliflozin as an internal standard (IS). The method was applied successfully on the underlying pharmacokinetic study with enhanced sample preparation that involved liquid-liquid extraction. Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM) of the transition pairs of m/z 449.01 to 371.21 for empagliflozin and m/z 407.00 to 328.81 for dapagliflozin (IS) was employed utilizing negative mode Electro Spray Ionization (ESI). The validated LC-MS/MS method is suitable for further toxicodynamic and bioequivalence studies.

Real-time analysis of self-assembled nucleobases by Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Na, Na; Shi, Ruixia; Long, Zi; Lu, Xin; Jiang, Fubin; Ouyang, Jin

2014-10-01

In this study, the real-time analysis of self-assembled nucleobases was employed by Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (V-EASI-MS). With the analysis of three nucleobases including 6-methyluracil (6MU), uracil (U) and thymine (T) as examples, different orders of clusters centered with different metal ions were recorded in both positive and negative modes. Compared with the results obtained by traditional electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) under the same condition, more clusters with high orders, such as [6MU7+Na](+), [6MU15+2NH4](2+), [6MU10+Na](+), [T7+Na](+), and [T15+2NH4](2+) were detected by V-EASI-MS, which demonstrated the soft ionization ability of V-EASI for studying the non-covalent interaction in a self-assembly process. Furthermore, with the injection of K(+) to the system by a syringe pumping, the real-time monitoring of the formation of nucleobases clusters was achieved by the direct extraction of samples from the system under the Venturi effect. Therefore, the effect of cations on the formation of clusters during self-assembly of nucleobases was demonstrated, which was in accordance with the reports. Free of high voltage, heating or radiation during the ionization, this technique is much soft and suitable for obtaining the real-time information of the self-assembly system, which also makes it quite convenient for extraction samples from the reaction system. This "easy and soft" ionization technique has provided a potential pathway for monitoring and controlling the self-assembly processes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Spray pyrolytic deposition of α-MoO3 film and its use in dye-sensitized solar cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamboli, Parvin S.; Jagtap, Chaitali V.; Kadam, Vishal S.; Ingle, Ravi V.; Vhatkar, Rajiv S.; Mahajan, Smita S.; Pathan, Habib M.

2018-04-01

Thermal decomposition of ammonium para molybdate tetrahydrate precursor has been studied to determine degradation temperatures in air atmosphere. Current work explores the synthesis of α-MoO3 films by an economical spray pyrolysis technique using ammonium para molybdate tetrahydrate precursor in the presence of compressed air. A variety of characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared, and Raman spectroscopy were carried out, and the studies have confirmed that orthorhombic phase formation of MoO3 takes place with spongy mesh-type structure. The study of electro-catalytic activity of α-MoO3 in titania-based dye-sensitized solar cell is also carried out by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and Tafel curves to evaluate its performance as a counter electrode.

Direct determination of trace phthalate esters in alcoholic spirits by spray-inlet microwave plasma torch ionization tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Miao, Meng; Zhao, Gaosheng; Xu, Li; Dong, Junguo; Cheng, Ping

2018-03-01

A direct analytical method based on spray-inlet microwave plasma torch tandem mass spectrometry was applied to simultaneously determine 4 phthalate esters (PAEs), namely, benzyl butyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dipentyl phthalate, and dodecyl phthalate with extremely high sensitivity in spirits without sample treatment. Among the 4 brands of spirit products, 3 kinds of PAE compounds were directly determined at very low concentrations from 1.30 to 114 ng·g -1 . Compared with other online and off-line methods, the spray-inlet microwave plasma torch tandem mass spectrometry technique is extremely simple, rapid, sensitive, and high efficient, providing an ideal screening tool for PAEs in spirits. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Electrospray Encapsulation of Toll-Like Receptor Agonist Resiquimod in Polymer Microparticles for the Treatment of Visceral Leishmaniasis

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-15

production using the methods described below. The remaining cells were analyzed for viability. To the cells still adhered to the culture plate, 180 μL of...2009, 43 (9), 902−910. (23) Jaworek, A. Micro - and nanoparticle production by electro- spraying. Powder Technol. 2007, 176 (1), 18−35. (24) Almeria, B...Jhunjhunwala, S.; Raimondi, G.; Thomson, A. W.; Little, S. R. Delivery of rapamycin to dendritic cells using degradable micro - particles. J

Ionization techniques in capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry: principles, design, and application.

PubMed

Hommerson, Paul; Khan, Amjad M; de Jong, Gerhardus J; Somsen, Govert W

2011-01-01

A major step forward in the development and application of capillary electrophoresis (CE) was its coupling to ESI-MS, first reported in 1987. More than two decades later, ESI has remained the principal ionization technique in CE-MS, but a number of other ionization techniques have also been implemented. In this review the state-of-the-art in the employment of soft ionization techniques for CE-MS is presented. First the fundamentals and general challenges of hyphenating conventional CE and microchip electrophoresis with MS are outlined. After elaborating on the characteristics and role of ESI, emphasis is put on alternative ionization techniques including sonic spray ionization (SSI), thermospray ionization (TSI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI), matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) and continuous-flow fast atom bombardment (CF-FAB). The principle of each ionization technique is outlined and the experimental set-ups of the CE-MS couplings are described. The strengths and limitations of each ionization technique with respect to CE-MS are discussed and the applicability of the various systems is illustrated by a number of typical examples. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ion sources for electric propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stuhlinger, E.

1971-01-01

Ion systems, which accelerate ions of Cs, Hg, or colloid particles by electrostatic fields, are furthest advanced and ready for application. Four kinds of ion sources have been developed: The contact ionization source for Cs as propellants, the electron bombardment source for Cs or Hg, the RF ionization source for Hg, and the hollow needle spray nozzle for colloidal glycerol particles. In each case, the ion beam must be neutralized by injection of electrons shortly behind the exit orifice to avoid adverse space charge effects.

Low pressure electrospray ionization system and process for effective transmission of ions

DOEpatents

Tang, Keqi [Richland, WA; Page, Jason S [Kennewick, WA; Kelly, Ryan T [West Richland, WA; Smith, Richard D [Richland, WA

2012-05-08

Systems and methods that provide up to complete transmission of ions between coupled stages with low effective ion losses. An "interfaceless" electrospray ionization system is further described that operates an electrospray at a reduced pressure such that standard electrospray sample solutions can be directly sprayed into an electrodynamic ion funnel which provides ion focusing and transmission of ions into a mass analyzer. Furthermore, chambers maintained at different pressures can allow for more optimal operating conditions for an electrospray emitter and an ion guide.

Exposure to Airborne Particles and Volatile Organic Compounds from Polyurethane Molding, Spray Painting, Lacquering, and Gluing in a Workshop

PubMed Central

Mølgaard, Bjarke; Viitanen, Anna-Kaisa; Kangas, Anneli; Huhtiniemi, Marika; Larsen, Søren Thor; Vanhala, Esa; Hussein, Tareq; Boor, Brandon E.; Hämeri, Kaarle; Koivisto, Antti Joonas

2015-01-01

Due to the health risk related to occupational air pollution exposure, we assessed concentrations and identified sources of particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a handcraft workshop producing fishing lures. The work processes in the site included polyurethane molding, spray painting, lacquering, and gluing. We measured total VOC (TVOC) concentrations and particle size distributions at three locations representing the various phases of the manufacturing and assembly process. The mean working-hour TVOC concentrations in three locations studied were 41, 37, and 24 ppm according to photo-ionization detector measurements. The mean working-hour particle number concentration varied between locations from 3000 to 36,000 cm−3. Analysis of temporal and spatial variations of TVOC concentrations revealed that there were at least four substantial VOC sources: spray gluing, mold-release agent spraying, continuous evaporation from various lacquer and paint containers, and either spray painting or lacquering (probably both). The mold-release agent spray was indirectly also a major source of ultrafine particles. The workers’ exposure can be reduced by improving the local exhaust ventilation at the known sources and by increasing the ventilation rate in the area with the continuous source. PMID:25849539

Electrostatic-spray ionization mass spectrometry sniffing for perfume fingerprinting.

PubMed

Tobolkina, Elena; Qiao, Liang; Xu, Guobin; Girault, Hubert H

2013-11-15

The perfume market is growing significantly, and it is easy to find imitative fragrances of probably all types of perfume. Such imitative fragrances are usually of lower quality than the authentic ones, creating a possible threat for perfume companies. Therefore, it is important to develop efficient chemical analysis techniques to screen rapidly perfume samples. Electrostatic-spray ionization (ESTASI) was used to analyze directly samples sprayed or deposited on different types of paper. A linear ion trap mass spectrometer was used to detect the ions produced by ESTASI with a modified extended transfer capillary for 'sniffing' ions from the paper. Several commercial perfumes and a model perfume were analyzed by ESTASI-sniffing. The results obtained by paper ESTASI-MS of commercial fragrances were compared with those obtained from ESI-MS. In addition, a commercial fragrance was first nebulized on the hand and then soaked up by blotting paper, which was afterwards placed on an insulating plate for ESTASI-MS analysis. Analysis of peptides and proteins was also performed to show that the paper ESTASI-MS could be used for samples with very different molecular masses. Paper ESTASI-MS yields a rapid fingerprinting characterization of perfume fragrances, avoiding time-consuming sample-preparation steps, and thereby performing a rapid screening in a few seconds. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Matrix vapor deposition/recrystallization and dedicated spray preparation for high-resolution scanning microprobe matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (SMALDI-MS) of tissue and single cells.

PubMed

Bouschen, Werner; Schulz, Oliver; Eikel, Daniel; Spengler, Bernhard

2010-02-01

Matrix preparation techniques such as air spraying or vapor deposition were investigated with respect to lateral migration, integration of analyte into matrix crystals and achievable lateral resolution for the purpose of high-resolution biological imaging. The accessible mass range was found to be beyond 5000 u with sufficient analytical sensitivity. Gas-assisted spraying methods (using oxygen-free gases) provide a good compromise between crystal integration of analyte and analyte migration within the sample. Controlling preparational parameters with this method, however, is difficult. Separation of the preparation procedure into two steps, instead, leads to an improved control of migration and incorporation. The first step is a dry vapor deposition of matrix onto the investigated sample. In a second step, incorporation of analyte into the matrix crystal is enhanced by a controlled recrystallization of matrix in a saturated water atmosphere. With this latter method an effective analytical resolution of 2 microm in the x and y direction was achieved for scanning microprobe matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (SMALDI-MS). Cultured A-498 cells of human renal carcinoma were successfully investigated by high-resolution MALDI imaging using the new preparation techniques. Copyright 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Facile preparation of polymer microspheres and fibers with a hollow core and porous shell for oil adsorption and oil/water separation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Jiefeng; Song, Xin; Huang, Xuewu; Wang, Ling; Li, Bei; Xue, Huaiguo

2018-05-01

Non-solvent assisted electrospinning was proposed for fabricating Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres and fibers with a hollow core and porous shell, which could be used for oil adsorption and oil/water separation. Propanediol was chosen as the non-solvent because of its high surface tension and viscosity as well as large phase separation tendency with polymer, which was beneficial to the formation of both the hollow core and porous shell during the electrospinning. With the increase of the polymer solution concentration, the microsphere gradually evolved to the bead-on-string geometry and finally to a continuous fiber form, indicating the transition from electro-spraying to electrospinning. The hollow core and dense surface pores enhanced the hydrophobicity, oleophilicity, permeability, and specific surface area of the fibers, and hence imparted the fibrous mat a high oil adsorption capacity. When the porous hollow microspheres were electro-sprayed onto the stainless steel mesh followed by the PDMS modification, the modified mesh became super-hydrophobic and super-oleophilic with the contact angle of 153° and sliding angle of 4°. The as-prepared mesh showed rapid oil/water separation with high efficiency and excellent recycling performance. The flux for separation of oil/water mixture could reach as high as 11,000 L m-2 h-1. This facile non-solvent assisted electrospinning method provides a new avenue for preparation of multifunctional porous materials which possess potential applications in large-scale oil/water separation.

40 CFR 63.1001 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... the purposes of this subpart, means to take action for the purpose of stopping or reducing leakage of.... Liquids dripping means any visible leakage from the seal including dripping, spraying, misting, clouding... compounds based on a detection principle such as infra-red, photo ionization, or thermal conductivity...

In situ analysis of corrosion inhibitors using a portable mass spectrometer with paper spray ionization.

PubMed

Jjunju, Fred P M; Li, Anyin; Badu-Tawiah, Abraham; Wei, Pu; Li, Linfan; Ouyang, Zheng; Roqan, Iman S; Cooks, R Graham

2013-07-07

Paper spray (PS) ambient ionization is implemented using a portable mass spectrometer and applied to the detection of alkyl quaternary ammonium salts in a complex oil matrix. These salts are commonly used as active components in the formulation of corrosion inhibitors. They were identified in oil and confirmed by their fragmentation patterns recorded using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The cations of alkyl and benzyl-substituted quaternary ammonium salts showed characteristic neutral losses of CnH2n (n carbon number of the longest chain) and C7H8, respectively. Individual quaternary ammonium compounds were detected at low concentrations (<1 ng μL(-1)) and over a dynamic range of ∼5 pg μL(-1) to 500 pg μL(-1) (ppb). Direct detection of these compounds in complex oil samples without prior sample preparation or pre-concentration was also demonstrated using a home-built miniature mass spectrometer at levels below 1 ng μL(-1).

Rapid Analysis of Bisphenol A and Its Analogues in Food Packaging Products by Paper Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Chen, Shuo; Chang, Quanying; Yin, Kai; He, Qunying; Deng, Yongxiu; Chen, Bo; Liu, Chengbin; Wang, Ying; Wang, Liping

2017-06-14

In this study, a paper spray ionization mass spectrometric (PS-MS) method was developed for the rapid in situ screening and simultaneous quantitative analysis of bisphenol A and its analogues, i.e., bisphenol S, bisphenol F, and bisphenol AF, in food packaging products. At the optimal PS-MS conditions, the calibration curves of bisphenols in the range of 1-100 μg/mL were linear. The correlation coefficients were higher than 0.998, and the LODs of the target compounds were 0.1-0.3 μg/mL. After a simple treatment by dichloromethane on the surface, the samples were analyzed by PS-MS in situ for rapid screening without a traditional sample pretreatment procedure, such as powdering, extraction, and enrichment steps. The analytical time of the PS-MS method was less than 1 min. In comparison with conventional HPLC-MS/MS, it was demonstrated that PS-MS was a more effective high-throughput screening and quantitative analysis method.

What Protein Charging (and Supercharging) Reveal about the Mechanism of Electrospray Ionization

PubMed Central

Loo, Rachel R. Ogorzalek; Lakshmanan, Rajeswari

2014-01-01

Understanding the charging mechanism of electrospray ionization is central to overcoming shortcomings such as ion suppression or limited dynamic range and explaining phenomena such as supercharging. Towards that end, we explore what accumulated observations reveal about the mechanism of electrospray. We introduce the idea of an intermediate region for electrospray ionization (and other ionization methods) to account for the facts that solution charge state distributions (CSDs) do not correlate to those observed by ESI– MS (the latter bear more charge) and that gas phase reactions can reduce, but not increase the extent of charging. This region incorporates properties, e.g., basicities, intermediate between solution and gas phase. Assuming that droplet species polarize within the high electric field leads to equations describing ion emission resembling those from the equilibrium partitioning model. The equations predict many trends successfully, including CSD shifts to higher m/z for concentrated analytes and shifts to lower m/z for sprays employing smaller emitter opening diameters. From this view, a single mechanism can be formulated to explain how reagents that promote analyte charging (“supercharging”) such as m–NBA, sulfolane, and 3–nitrobenzonitrile increase analyte charge from “denaturing” and “native” solvent systems. It is suggested that additives’ Brønsted basicities are inversely correlated to their ability to shift CSDs to lower m/z in positive ESI, as are Brønsted acidities for negative ESI. Because supercharging agents reduce an analyte's solution ionization, excess spray charge is bestowed on evaporating ions carryingfewer opposing charges. Brønsted basicity (or acidity) determines how much ESI charge is lost to the agent (unavailable to evaporating analyte). PMID:25135609

A New Electrospray Aerosol Generator with High Particle Transmission Efficiency

PubMed Central

Fu, Huijing; Patel, Anand C.; Holtzman, Michael J.; Chen, Da-Ren

2012-01-01

A new single-capillary electrospray (ES) aerosol generator has been developed for monodisperse particle production with maximal transmission efficiency. The new generator consists of both a spray chamber in a point-to-orifice-plate configuration and a charge reduction chamber that can hold up to 4 Nuclespot ionizers (Model P-2042, NRD Inc.). The 2 chambers are partitioned by an orifice plate. To optimize the particle transmission efficiency of the prototype, a systematic study was performed on the generator by varying the system setup and operation. Two key dimensions of the generator setup, the orifice diameter and the distance from the capillary tip to the orifice plate, were varied. Fluorescence analysis was applied to characterize the loss of ES-generated particles at different locations of the prototype. It was found that particle loss in the generator could be reduced by either increasing the orifice diameter or decreasing the distance between the capillary tip and the orifice plate. Increasing either the total radioactivity of the ionizers or the flowrate of the particle carrier gas also further decreased the particle loss in the system. The maximum particle transmission efficiency of 88.0% was obtained with the spray chamber fully opened to the charge reduction chamber, the capillary tip at the same level as the orifice plate, and 4 bipolar ionizers installed. PMID:22829715

Ambient ionization mass spectrometric analysis of human surgical specimens to distinguish renal cell carcinoma from healthy renal tissue.

PubMed

Alfaro, Clint M; Jarmusch, Alan K; Pirro, Valentina; Kerian, Kevin S; Masterson, Timothy A; Cheng, Liang; Cooks, R Graham

2016-08-01

Touch spray-mass spectrometry (TS-MS) is an ambient ionization technique (ionization of unprocessed samples in the open air) that may find intraoperative applications in quickly identifying the disease state of cancerous tissues and in defining surgical margins. In this study, TS-MS was performed on fresh kidney tissue (∼1-5 cm(3)), within 1 h of resection, from 21 human subjects afflicted by renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The preliminary diagnostic value of TS-MS data taken from freshly resected tissue was evaluated. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the negative ion mode (m/z 700-1000) data provided the separation between RCC (16 samples) and healthy renal tissue (13 samples). Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) on the PCA-compressed data estimated sensitivity (true positive rate) and specificity (true negative rate) of 98 and 95 %, respectively, based on histopathological evaluation. The results indicate that TS-MS might provide rapid diagnostic information in spite of the complexity of unprocessed kidney tissue and the presence of interferences such as urine and blood. Desorption electrospray ionization-MS imaging (DESI-MSI) in the negative ionization mode was performed on the tissue specimens after TS-MS analysis as a reference method. The DESI imaging experiments provided phospholipid profiles (m/z 700-1000) that also separated RCC and healthy tissue in the PCA space, with PCA-LDA sensitivity and specificity of 100 and 89 %, respectively. The TS and DESI loading plots indicated that different ions contributed most to the separation of RCC from healthy renal tissue (m/z 794 [PC 34:1 + Cl](-) and 844 [PC 38:4 + Cl](-) for TS vs. m/z 788 [PS 36:1 - H](-) and 810 [PS 38:4 - H](-) for DESI), while m/z 885 ([PI 38:4 - H](-)) was important in both TS and DESI. The prospect, remaining hurdles, and future work required for translating TS-MS into a method of intraoperative tissue diagnosis are discussed. Graphical abstract Touch spray-mass spectrometry used for lipid profiling of fresh human renal cell carcinoma. Left) Photograph of the touch spray probe pointed at the MS inlet. Right) Average mass spectra of healthy renal tissue (blue) and RCC (red).

Simultaneous drug identification in urine of sexual assault victims by using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Lee, Hei Hwa; Chen, Suen Chi; Lee, Jong Feng; Lin, Hsin Yu; Chen, Bai Hsiun

2018-01-01

According to domestic and international epidemiological investigation, the proportion of substance involved sexual assault has the trend of ascent. In the past, laboratory methods that investigated urine sample of the sexual assault victims was to screen with enzyme immunoassay and then confirmed with mass spectrometry. The objective of the study is to simultaneously identify abused drugs in 126 decoded urine samples of sexual assault victims by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. The instrument was operated in multiple-reaction monitoring with an electro-spray positive ionization mode. Chromatograms were separated with ACE5 C18 column on a gradient of acetonitrile. After liquid-liquid extraction, samples were passed through a 0.22μm PVDF filter before injection into the system. The limits of quantitation ranged from 0.2 to 10ng/mL. The precision (CV) results were below 12.9% (intraday) and 15.0% (interday). The intraday accuracy ranged from 84.8 to 121.0%, interday accuracy ranged from 72.0 to 117.3%. We found that 29 (23.0%) were positive for drugs. The most common drug identified is flunitrazepam (11.1%), followed by nimetazepam and ketamine (7.9%), some new psychoactive substances, such as 2C-B, mephedrone, methylone, PMA and PMMA were also identified. We identified abused drugs, benzodiazepines, and new psychoactive substances in urine of sexual assault victims by using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, characterization and cytotoxicity studies of palladium(II)-proflavine complexes.

PubMed

Polyanskaya, Tatyana V; Kazhdan, Irene; Motley, D Michelle; Walmsley, Judith A

2010-11-01

An investigation of the reaction of Pd(II) complexes with proflavine (3,6-diaminoacridine) resulted in the isolation of the compounds [Pd(terpy)(proflavine)](NO(3))(HSO(4))*3H(2)O, 1, (terpy = 2,2':6',2″-terpyridine), [Pd(en)(proflavineH))](NO(3))(SO(4)), 2, (en = ethylenediamine), and [Pd(proflavineH)Cl(2)](SO(4))(0.5)*H(2)O, 3. They have been isolated and characterized by NMR, IR, and electro-spray ionization mass spectrometry techniques and by elemental analyses. The proflavine was bonded to the Pd(II) through the endocyclic nitrogen in 1, but through the proflavine NH(2) in 2. Compound 3 appeared to be polymeric in the solid state with a 1:1 mole ratio of Pd(II):proflavine. Upon solution of 3 in DMSO, two unique species were formed. In one species the Pd(II) was bonded to two proflavines through the endocyclic nitrogen (1:2 mole ratio) and in the other species, a Pd(II) was bonded to each NH(2) group of a single proflavine (2:1 mole ratio). Molecular modeling of the equilibrium geometry by Spartan 8 produced structures which were consistent with the experimental data on the solutions of the three compounds. In vitro cytotoxicity testing against two breast cancer cell lines and one ovarian cancer cell line showed that compounds 1 and 3 had significant activity. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 63.11507 - What are my standards and management practices?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... distilled/de-ionized water, water filtration, pre-cleaning of parts to be plated, and thorough rinsing of... emissions from the thermal spraying process and transports the emissions to a water curtain, fabric filter... and transports the emissions to a water curtain, fabric filter, cartridge, or HEPA filter, according...

Pt-Pd bimetallic nanoparticles on MWCNTs: catalyst for hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Félix-Navarro, R. M.; Beltrán-Gastélum, M.; Salazar-Gastélum, M. I.; Silva-Carrillo, C.; Reynoso-Soto, E. A.; Pérez-Sicairos, S.; Lin, S. W.; Paraguay-Delgado, F.; Alonso-Núñez, G.

2013-08-01

Bimetallic nanoparticles of Pt-Pd were deposited by the microemulsion method on a multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) to obtain a Pt-Pd/MWCNTs for electrocatalytic reduction of O2 to H2O2. The activity and selectivity of the catalyst was determined qualitatively by the rotating disk electrode method in acidic medium. The catalyst was spray-coated onto a reticulated vitreous carbon substrate and quantitatively was tested in bulk electrolysis for 20 min under potentiostatic conditions (0.5 V vs Ag/AgCl) in a 0.5 M H2SO4 electrolyte using dissolved O2. The bulk electrolysis experiments show that the Pt-Pd/MWCNTs catalyst is more efficient for H2O2 electrogeneration than a MWCNTs catalyst. Nitrobenzene degradation by electrogenerated H2O2 alone and Electro-Fenton process were also tested. Our results show that both processes decompose nitrobenzene, but the Electro-Fenton process does it more efficiently. The prepared nanoparticulated catalyst shows a great potential in environmental applications.

Analysis of Compounds Dissolved in Nonpolar Solvents by Electrospray Ionization on Conductive Nanomaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Bing; Gao, Yuanji; Ji, Baocheng; Ma, Fengwei; Ding, Lisheng; Zhou, Yan

2018-03-01

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) technique has limitations in analysis of compounds that are dissolved in nonpolar solvents. In this study, ambient ionization of compounds in solvents that are not "friendly" to electrospray ionization, such as n-hexane, is achieved by conductive nanomaterials spray ionization (CNMSI) on nanomaterial emitters, including carbon nanotubes paper and mesodendritic silver covered metal, which applies high voltages to emitters made of these materials without the assistance of polar solvents. Although the time intensity curves (TIC) commonly vary from 4.5% to 23.7% over analyses, protonated molecular ions were found to be the most abundant species, demonstrating good reproducibility of the technique in terms of ionized species. Higher mass spectrometric responses are observed in analyzing nonpolar systems than polar systems. 2-Methoxyacetophenone, 4-methylacetophenone, benzothiazole, quinolone, and cycloheptanone as low as 2 pg in n-hexane can be directly detected using the developed method. The developed technique expands the analysis capability of ESI-MS for direct, online analysis of nonpolar systems, such as low polarity extracts, normal phase liquid chromatography eluates, and synthetic mixtures. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Enhanced adsorption of ionizable antibiotics on activated carbon fiber under electrochemical assistance in continuous-flow modes.

PubMed

Wang, Sitan; Li, Xiaona; Zhao, Huimin; Quan, Xie; Chen, Shuo; Yu, Hongtao

2018-05-01

Ionizable antibiotics have attracted serious concerns because of their variable dissociation forms and thereby rendering unique toxicity and microorganism resistance. Developing an efficient and environmentally friendly method for removing these micropollutants from environmental media remains very challenging. Here, electro-assisted adsorption onto activated carbon fiber in continuous-flow mode was used to remove three ionizable antibiotics, sulfadimethoxine (SDM), ciprofloxacin (CIP), and clarithromycin (CLA), from water. Benefiting from strengthened electrostatic interactions, the adsorption capacities for the target antibiotics (10 mg/L) in flow mode (70.9-202.2 mg/g) increased by ∼5 times under a potential of 1.0 V (SDM) or -1.0 V (CIP and CLA) relative to those of open circuit (OC) adsorption. Meanwhile, effluent concentration decreased from >100 μg/L to 9.6 μg/L with removal efficiency increasing from 99.0% to 99.9%. Moreover, high recovery efficiency of ACF up to 96.35 ± 0.65% was achieved by imposing a reverse potential (-1.0 V) relative to that used for SDM adsorption. In addition, trace levels of antibiotics (364-580 ng/L) in surface water could be removed effectively to achieve low effluent concentration (0.4-1.2 ng/L) and high removal efficiency (99.9%) upon treating up to ∼1560 bed volumes (BVs), demonstrating the potential of electro-assisted adsorption for practical application in water treatment. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Transparent electrode for optical switch

DOEpatents

Goldhar, Julius; Henesian, Mark A.

1986-01-01

A low pressure gas electrode utilizing ionized gas in a glow discharge regime forms a transparent electrode for electro-optical switches. The transparent electrode comprises a low pressure gas region on both sides of the crystal. When the gas is ionized, e.g., by a glow discharge in the low pressure gas, the plasma formed is a good conductor. The gas electrode acts as a highly uniform conducting electrode. Since the plasma is transparent to a high energy laser beam passing through the crystal, the electrode is a transparent electrode. A crystal exposed from two sides to such a plasma can be charged up uniformly to any desired voltage. The plasma can be created either by the main high voltage pulser used to charge up the crystal or by auxiliary discharges or external sources of ionization. A typical configuration utilizes 10 torr argon in the discharge region adjacent to each crystal face.

Analysis of biodiesel and biodiesel-petrodiesel blends by high performance thin layer chromatography combined with easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Eberlin, Livia S; Abdelnur, Patricia V; Passero, Alan; de Sa, Gilberto F; Daroda, Romeu J; de Souza, Vanderlea; Eberlin, Marcos N

2009-08-01

High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) combined with on-spot detection and characterization via easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS) is applied to the analysis of biodiesel (B100) and biodiesel-petrodiesel blends (BX). HPTLC provides chromatographic resolution of major components whereas EASI-MS allows on-spot characterization performed directly on the HPTLC surface at ambient conditions. Constituents (M) are detected by EASI-MS in a one component-one ion fashion as either [M + Na](+) or [M + H](+). For both B100 and BX samples, typical profiles of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) detected as [FAME + Na](+) ions allow biodiesel typification. The spectrum of the petrodiesel spot displays a homologous series of protonated alkyl pyridines which are characteristic for petrofuels (natural markers). The spectrum for residual or admixture oil spots is characterized by sodiated triglycerides [TAG + Na](+). The application of HPTLC to analyze B100 and BX samples and its combination with EASI-MS for on-spot characterization and quality control is demonstrated.

LSD and 9,10-dihydro-LSD analyses in street drug blotter samples via easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS).

PubMed

Romão, Wanderson; Sabino, Bruno D; Bueno, Maria Izabel M S; Vaz, Boniek G; Júnior, Amadeu C; Maldaner, Adriano O; de Castro, Eustáquio V R; Lordeiro, Rogério A; Nascentes, Clésia C; Eberlin, Marcos N; Augusti, Rodinei

2012-09-01

Normally, the identification of the LSD drug is performed by forensic laboratories, using the Ehrlich spot test. However, this is a nonspecific analysis. Additionally, the Brazilian Federal Police has identified the presence of a new compound in seized blotters: 9,10-dihydro-LSD, an uncontrolled substance. In this work, easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry in the positive ion mode, EASI(+)-MS, was used to characterize LSD and 9,10-dihydro-LSD compositions directly from the surface of blotters. The presence of LSD in the seized blotter samples were also confirmed via high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector. In a set of 41 blotters analyzed by EASI(+)-MS, 28 showed positive results for LSD, seven for 9,10-dihydro-LSD, and another six samples showed negative results for both LSD and 9,10-dihydro-LSD. The combination of thin layer chromatography with EASI-MS also demonstrated to be a relatively simple and powerful screening tool for forensic analysis of street drugs. © 2012 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Rapid Microcystin Determination Using a Paper Spray Ionization Method with a Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry System.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiaoqiang; Huang, Zhengxu; Gao, Wei; Li, Xue; Li, Lei; Zhu, Hui; Mo, Ting; Huang, Bao; Zhou, Zhen

2016-07-13

The eutrophication of surface water sources and climate changes have resulted in an annual explosion of cyanobacterial blooms in many irrigating and drinking water resources. To decrease health risks to the public, a rapid real time method for the synchronous determination of two usually harmful microcystins (MC-RR and MC-LR) in environmental water samples was built by employing a paper spray ionization method coupled with a time-of-flight mass spectrometer system. With this approach, direct analysis of microcystin mixtures without sample preparation has been achieved. Rapid detection was performed, simulating the release process of microcystins in reservoir water samples, and the routine detection frequency was every three minutes. The identification time of microcystins was reduced from several hours to a few minutes. The limit of detection is 1 μg/L, and the limit of quantitation is 3 μg/L. This method displays the ability for carrying out rapid, direct, and high-throughput experiments for determination of microcystins, and it would be of significant interest for environmental and food safety applications.

Automated MALDI Matrix Coating System for Multiple Tissue Samples for Imaging Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mounfield, William P.; Garrett, Timothy J.

2012-03-01

Uniform matrix deposition on tissue samples for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is key for reproducible analyte ion signals. Current methods often result in nonhomogenous matrix deposition, and take time and effort to produce acceptable ion signals. Here we describe a fully-automated method for matrix deposition using an enclosed spray chamber and spray nozzle for matrix solution delivery. A commercial air-atomizing spray nozzle was modified and combined with solenoid controlled valves and a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to control and deliver the matrix solution. A spray chamber was employed to contain the nozzle, sample, and atomized matrix solution stream, and to prevent any interference from outside conditions as well as allow complete control of the sample environment. A gravity cup was filled with MALDI matrix solutions, including DHB in chloroform/methanol (50:50) at concentrations up to 60 mg/mL. Various samples (including rat brain tissue sections) were prepared using two deposition methods (spray chamber, inkjet). A linear ion trap equipped with an intermediate-pressure MALDI source was used for analyses. Optical microscopic examination showed a uniform coating of matrix crystals across the sample. Overall, the mass spectral images gathered from tissues coated using the spray chamber system were of better quality and more reproducible than from tissue specimens prepared by the inkjet deposition method.

Automated MALDI matrix coating system for multiple tissue samples for imaging mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Mounfield, William P; Garrett, Timothy J

2012-03-01

Uniform matrix deposition on tissue samples for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) is key for reproducible analyte ion signals. Current methods often result in nonhomogenous matrix deposition, and take time and effort to produce acceptable ion signals. Here we describe a fully-automated method for matrix deposition using an enclosed spray chamber and spray nozzle for matrix solution delivery. A commercial air-atomizing spray nozzle was modified and combined with solenoid controlled valves and a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to control and deliver the matrix solution. A spray chamber was employed to contain the nozzle, sample, and atomized matrix solution stream, and to prevent any interference from outside conditions as well as allow complete control of the sample environment. A gravity cup was filled with MALDI matrix solutions, including DHB in chloroform/methanol (50:50) at concentrations up to 60 mg/mL. Various samples (including rat brain tissue sections) were prepared using two deposition methods (spray chamber, inkjet). A linear ion trap equipped with an intermediate-pressure MALDI source was used for analyses. Optical microscopic examination showed a uniform coating of matrix crystals across the sample. Overall, the mass spectral images gathered from tissues coated using the spray chamber system were of better quality and more reproducible than from tissue specimens prepared by the inkjet deposition method.

Sudden death involving inhalation of 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a) with spray cleaner: three case reports.

PubMed

Sakai, Kentaro; Maruyama-Maebashi, Kyoko; Takatsu, Akihiro; Fukui, Kenji; Nagai, Tomonori; Aoyagi, Miwako; Ochiai, Eriko; Iwadate, Kimiharu

2011-03-20

Spray cleaner is a cleaning product containing compressed 1,1-difluoroethane (HFC-152a) to blow dust off electric devices and other sensitive equipment; however, it is also inhaled to induce euphoria. This report describes three cases of death involving HFC-152a inhalation with spray cleaner under different circumstances. In case 1, death was during inhalation for euphoria with which led to having frostbite. In case 2, death may have been associated with suicidal intention. Case 3 was also considered an accidental autoerotic death. In all three cases, HFC-152a was detected at 99.2-136.2mg/l in blood samples, 94.5-191.9 mg/l in urine samples and 3.6-18.4 mg in the gastric contents according to gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. To prevent death associated with HFC-152a inhalation from spray cleaner, the danger of the sudden death should be announced to people, given the ready availability of commercial products containing HFC-152a. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automatic sampling and analysis of organics and biomolecules by capillary action-supported contactless atmospheric pressure ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Hsieh, Cheng-Huan; Meher, Anil Kumar; Chen, Yu-Chie

2013-01-01

Contactless atmospheric pressure ionization (C-API) method has been recently developed for mass spectrometric analysis. A tapered capillary is used as both the sampling tube and spray emitter in C-API. No electric contact is required on the capillary tip during C-API mass spectrometric analysis. The simple design of the ionization method enables the automation of the C-API sampling system. In this study, we propose an automatic C-API sampling system consisting of a capillary (∼1 cm), an aluminium sample holder, and a movable XY stage for the mass spectrometric analysis of organics and biomolecules. The aluminium sample holder is controlled by the movable XY stage. The outlet of the C-API capillary is placed in front of the orifice of a mass spectrometer, whereas the sample well on the sample holder is moved underneath the capillary inlet. The sample droplet on the well can be readily infused into the C-API capillary through capillary action. When the sample solution reaches the capillary outlet, the sample spray is readily formed in the proximity of the mass spectrometer applied with a high electric field. The gas phase ions generated from the spray can be readily monitored by the mass spectrometer. We demonstrate that six samples can be analyzed in sequence within 3.5 min using this automatic C-API MS setup. Furthermore, the well containing the rinsing solvent is alternately arranged between the sample wells. Therefore, the C-API capillary could be readily flushed between runs. No carryover problems are observed during the analyses. The sample volume required for the C-API MS analysis is minimal, with less than 1 nL of the sample solution being sufficient for analysis. The feasibility of using this setup for quantitative analysis is also demonstrated.

Electro-Thermal Transient Simulation of Silicon Carbide Power Mosfet

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

ionization rate than electron in silicon carbide , the breakdown voltage almost remains constant even at elevated temperatures . This is due to the positive... temperature coefficient of holes in case of silicon carbide as discussed in [7, 8]. The higher ambient temperature influences the leakage current...in the RLC ring down circuit . E. Power Dissipation and Lattice Temperature The power dissipation for any switching device is dependent on the

Electric Field Distortion in Electro-Optical Devices Subjected to Ionizing Radiation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-12-26

applies- ties of scientif ic advances to nam military spae system . Versatilty and flaxibility hews beon developed to a high degree by the lehoratory...personel In deeling with the many problems encountered ina the nation’s rapidly dsvelopnas space system . 1expertise In the latest scientific developments is...desiga, distributed architectures for spacoerne m o putars, fault-tolerant c.speter system , artificia intelligence. end microelectronics applications

Decontamination of Streptococci biofilms and Bacillus cereus spores on plastic surfaces with DC and pulsed corona discharges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koval'ová, Zuzana; Tarabová, Kataŕna; Hensel, Karol; Machala, Zdenko

2013-02-01

Cold air plasmas of DC and pulsed corona discharges: positive streamers and negative Trichel pulses were used for bio-decontamination of Streptococci biofilm and Bacillus cereus spores on polypropylene plastic surfaces. The reduction of bacterial population (evaluated as log10) in the biofilm on plastic surfaces treated by DC corona reached 2.4 logs with 10 min treatment time and 3.3 logs with 2 min treatment time with water spraying. The enhancement of plasma biocidal effects on the biofilm by electro-spraying of water through a hollow needle high-voltage electrode was investigated. No significant polarity effect was found with DC corona. Pulsed corona was demonstrated slightly more bactericidal for spores, especially in the negative polarity where the bacterial population reduction reached up to 2.2 logs at 10 min exposure time. Contribution to the Topical Issue "13th International Symposium on High Pressure Low Temperature Plasma Chemistry (Hakone XIII)", Edited by Nicolas Gherardi, Henryca Danuta Stryczewska and Yvan Ségui.

Formation of structure, phase composition and properties of electro explosion resistant coatings using electron-beam processing

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

Romanov, Denis A., E-mail: romanov-da@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: kos2906@mail.ru, E-mail: budovskih-ea@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: gromov@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: da-rom@live.ru; Sosnin, Kirill V., E-mail: romanov-da@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: kos2906@mail.ru, E-mail: budovskih-ea@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: gromov@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: da-rom@live.ru; Budovskikh, Evgenij A., E-mail: romanov-da@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: kos2906@mail.ru, E-mail: budovskih-ea@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: gromov@physics.sibsiu.ru, E-mail: da-rom@live.ru

2014-11-14

For the first time, the high intensity electron beam modification of electroexplosion composite coatings of MoCu, MoCCu, WCu, WCCu and TiB{sub 2}Cu systems was done. The studies of phase and elemental composition, defective structure conditions of these coatings were carried out. The regimes of electron-beam processing making possible to form the dense, specular luster surface layers having a submicrocrystalline structure were revealed. It was established that electron-beam processing of elecroexplosion spraying of layer of elecroexplosion spraying carried out in the regime of melting results in the formation of structurally and contrationally homogeneous surface layer. Investigation of the effect of electron-beammore » processing of electroexplosion electroerosion resistant coatings on their tribological properties (wear resistanse and coefficient of friction) and electroerosion resistance was done. It was shown that all the examined costings demonstrate the increase of electroerosion resistance in spark erosion up to 10 times.« less

The Progress of Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schuster, Arthur

2015-10-01

Introduction; 1. Scope of lectures. State of physics in 1875. Science of energy. Theory of gases. Elastic solid theory of light. Maxwell's theory of electricity. Training of students. Maxwell's view. Accurate measurement and discovery of Argon. German methods. Kirchhoff's laboratory. Wilhelm Weber's laboratory. The two laboratories of Berlin. Laboratory instruction at Manchester. Position of physics in mathematical tripos at Cambridge. Todhunter's views. The Cavendish laboratory. Spectrum analysis. The radiometer. Theory of vortex atom; 2. Action at a distance. Elastic solid of theory of light. Maxwell's theory of electrical action. Electro-magnetic theory. Verification of electromagnetic theory by Hertz. Electro-magnetic waves. Wireless telegraphy. First suggestion of molecular structure of electricity. Early experiments in the electric discharge through gases. Kathode rays. Works of Goldstein and Crookes. Hittorf's investigations. Own work on the discharge through gases. Ionization of gases. Magnetic deflexion of kathode rays. J. J. Thomson's experiments. Measurement of atomic charge; 3. Roentgen's discovery. Theories of Roentgen rays. Ionizing power of Roentgen rays. Conduction of electricity through ionized gases. Discovery of radio-activity. Discovery of radium. Magnetic deflexion of rays emitted by radio-active bodies. Discovery of emanations. Theory of radio-active change. Decay of the atom. Connexion between helium and the a ray. Helium produced by radium. Strutt's researches on helium accumulated in rocks. Electric inertia. Constitution of atom. J. J. Thomson's theory of Roentgen radiation. The Michelson-Morley experiment. Principle of relativity. The Zeeman effect. Other consequences of electron theory. Contrast between old and modern school of physics; 4. Observational sciences. Judgment affected by scale. Terrestrial magnetism. Existence of potential. Separation of internal and external causes. Diurnal variation. Magnetic storms. Their causes. Solar influence. Theories of secular variation. Atmospheric electricity. Negative charge of Earth. Ionization of air. Origin of atmospheric electricity. Electric charge of rain. Ebert's theory. Cause of thunderstorms. The age of the Earth. Rigidity of Earth. Displacement of axis. Gravitation. Identity of molecules of the same kind; Index.

Simultaneous determination of eight metabolites of organophosphate and pyrethroid pesticides in urine.

PubMed

Guo, Xin Y; Sun, Li S; Huang, Meng Y; Xu, Wei L; Wang, Ying; Wang, Na

2017-01-02

A simultaneous method for quantifying eight metabolites of organophosphate pesticides and pyrethroid pesticides in urine samples has been established. The analytes were extracted using liquid-liquid extraction coupled with WCX solid phase extraction (SPE) cartridges. Eight metabolites were chemically derivatized before analysis using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS-MS). The separation was performed on a HP-5MS capillary column (30 m × 0.25 mm × 0.25 µm) with temperature programming. The detection was performed under electro-spray ionization (ESI) in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. An internal standard method was used. The extraction solvent, types of SPE cartridges and eluents were optimized by comparing the sample recoveries under different conditions. The results showed that the calibration curves of the five organophosphorus pesticides metabolites were linear in the range of 0.2-200 μg/L (r 2 ≥ 0.992) and that of the three pyrethroid pesticides metabolites were linear in the range of 0.025-250 μg/L (r 2 ≥ 0.991). The limits of detection (LODs, S/N ≥ 3) and the limits of quantification (LOQs, S/N ≥ 10) of the eight metabolites were 0.008-0.833 μg/L and 0.25-2.5 μg/L, respectively. The recoveries of the eight metabolites ranged from 54.08% to 82.49%. This efficient, stable, and cost-effective method is adequate to handle the large number of samples required for surveying the exposure level of organophosphorus and pyrethroid pesticides in the general population.

A sharp, robust, and quantitative method by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for the measurement of EAD for acute radiation syndrome and its application.

PubMed

Zhang, Yiwei; Li, Jian; Meng, Zhiyun; Zhu, Xiaoxia; Gan, Hui; Gu, Ruolan; Wu, Zhuona; Zheng, Ying; Wei, Jinbin; Dou, Guifang

2017-06-15

17-Ethinyl-3,17-dihydroxyandrost-5-ene (EAD) is an agent designed for the treatment of acute radiation syndrome (ARS). Given its vital role played in the prevention and mitigation of ARS, the development of a sharp, sensitive and robust liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method to monitor the metabolism of EAD in vivo was crucial. A new method was constructed and validated for the determination of EAD with the internal standard of androst-5-ene-3β,17β-diol (5-AED). The blood samples were precipitated with methanol, centrifuged, from which the supernatant was separated on UPLC with C18 column and eluted in gradient with acetonitrile and Milli-Q water both containing 0.1% formic acid (FA). Quantification was performed by a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer with electro spray ionization (ESI) in multiple reactive monitoring (MRM) positive mode. A good linearity was obtained with R>0.99 for EAD within its calibration range from 5 to 1000ngmL -1 with a lowest limit of quantification (LLOQ) of 5ngmL -1 . Inter- and intra-day accuracy and precision of three levels of quality control (QC) samples were within the range of 15%, while the LLOQ was within 20%. Samples were stable under the circumstances of the experiments. The method was simple, accurate and robust applied to determine the concentrations of EAD in Wistar rat after a single administration of EAD orally at the dose of 100mgkg -1 . Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Validation of Armadillo officinalis Dumèril, 1816 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) as a bioindicator: in vivo study of air benzene exposure.

PubMed

Agodi, A; Oliveri Conti, G; Barchitta, M; Quattrocchi, A; Lombardo, B M; Montesanto, G; Messina, G; Fiore, M; Ferrante, M

2015-04-01

This study tests the potential for using Armadillo officinalis as a bioindicator of exposure to and activation of benzene metabolic pathways using an in vivo model. A. officinalis specimens collected in a natural reserve were divided into a control and three test groups exposed to 2.00, 5.32 or 9.09 µg/m(3) benzene for 24h. Three independent tests were performed to assess model reproducibility. Animals were dissected to obtain three pooled tissue samples per group: hepatopancreas (HEP), other organs and tissues (OOT), and exoskeleton (EXO). Muconic acid (MA), S-phenylmercapturic acid (S-PMA), two human metabolites of benzene, and changes in mtDNA copy number, a human biomarker of benzene exposure, were determined in each sample; benzene was determined only in EXO. MA was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultraviolet (UV) detection, S-PMA by triple quadrupole mass spectrometer liquid chromatography with electro spray ionization (LC-MS-ESI-TQD), mtDNA by real-time quantitative PCR and end-point PCR, and benzene by quadrupole mass spectrometer head-space gas chromatography (HSGC-MS). MA and S-PMA levels rose both in HEP and OOT; EXO exhibited increasing benzene concentrations; and mtDNA copy number rose in HEP but not in OOT samples. Overall, our findings demonstrate that A. officinalis is a sensitive bioindicator of air benzene exposure and show for the first time its ability to reproduce human metabolic dynamics. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of sulfonamides, trimethoprim and dapsone in honey and validation according to Commission Decision 2002/657/EC for banned compounds [corrected].

PubMed

Economou, Anastasios; Petraki, Olympia; Tsipi, Despina; Botitsi, Eleni

2012-08-15

This work reports a sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for identification and quantification of seven sulfonamides, trimethoprim and dapsone in honey. The method is based on a solid-phase extraction (SPE) step of the target analytes with Oasis HLB cartridges after acidic hydrolysis of the honey sample to liberate the sugar-bound sulfonamides. Analysis was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) in the positive electro-spray ionization (ESI) mode with two different isotopically labeled internal standards with the view to improve the quantitative performance of the method. The method validation has been performed according to the Commission Decision 2002/657/EC; the average recoveries, measured at three concentration levels (1.5, 2.5 and 5.0 μg kg(-1)), have been estimated in the range 70 to 106% while the respective % relative standard deviations of the within-laboratory reproducibility ranged from 6 to 18%. Mean values of the expanded uncertainties calculated were in the range 22-41% at the 99% confidence level. Decision limit (CCα) and detection capability (CCβ) values were in the ranges 0.4-0.9 and 0.7-1.4 μg kg(-1), respectively. Matrix effects have been investigated demonstrating a moderate signal suppression/enhancement for most of the target compounds. The method described has been successfully applied to the analysis of honey samples; sulfamethoxazole, sulfathiazole and trimethoprim were detected in some cases. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous determination of calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside, ononin, calycosin, formononetin, astragaloside IV, and astragaloside II in rat plasma after oral administration of Radix Astragali extraction for their pharmacokinetic studies by ultra-pressure liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Liu, Xiao-hua; Zhao, Jian-bang; Guo, Long; Yang, Ying-lai; Hu, Fang; Zhu, Rui-juan; Feng, Shi-lan

2014-09-01

A sensitive and reliable ultra-pressure liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of six main bioactive components, i.e., calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside, ononin, calycosin, formononetin, astragaloside IV, and astragaloside II in rat plasma after oral administration of the 95 % ethanol extraction from Radix Astragali. Plasma samples were extracted with Waters Oasis(TM) HLB 1 cc (30 mg) Extraction Cartridges (SPE) separated on an UPLC™ BEH C18 column and detected by MS with electro spray ionization interface in positive selective ion monitoring mode. Calibration curves offered linear ranges of two orders of magnitude with r (2) > 0.99. The method had the lower limit quantification of 1.30, 0.73, 1.17, 2.33, 0.63, and 0.83 ng/mL for ononin, calycosin, calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside, formononetin, astragaloside IV, and astragaloside II, respectively, with precision less than 10 %. The RSD of intra- and inter-day variations ranged from 1.66 to 6.46 and 3.39 to 6.58 %. This developed method was applied subsequently to pharmacokinetic studies of the six compounds in rats successfully. The proposed method was for the first time to compare the pharmacokinetic difference between calycosin-7-O-β-D-glucoside and calycosin in rat plasma, so as between ononin and formononetin, and studied to the astragaloside II pharmacokinetics in rat plasma.

Latitudinal Variations of Auroral-Zone Ionization Distribution.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-02-01

CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER(s) Robert M. Robinson F49620-80-C-0014 Roland T. Tsunoda 9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS 10. PROGRAM ELEMENT , PROJECT...scanned. A. Auroral Zone Ionospheric Conductivity A key element in modelling the magnetosphere-ionosphere circuit is the auroral zone ionospheric...while the maximum conductivity for the evening eastward electro- jet was less than 20 mho in our data set . In other words, both the south- ward field and

Investigation of Singly Ionized Iodine Spectroscopy in Support of Electrostatic Propulsion Diagnostics Development

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-07-02

from complex user interactions due to the use of liquid lasing medium with finite lifetime. Solid state lasers such as titanium sapphire (Ti:Sapphire...transitions for laser -induced fluorescence of an accelerated atomic iodine singly charged ion (I+). While the second spectrum of iodine has been analyzed...diagnostics tools, such as laser -induced fluorescence (LIF), to examine the plasma acceleration within an electro-static plasma propulsion thruster. While

Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Cancer Diagnosis and Surgical Margin Evaluation

PubMed Central

Ifa, Demian R.; Eberlin, Livia S.

2017-01-01

Background There is a clinical need for new technologies that would enable rapid disease diagnosis based on diagnostic molecular signatures. Ambient ionization mass spectrometry has revolutionized the means by which molecular information can be obtained from tissue samples in real time and with minimal sample pretreatment. New developments in ambient ionization techniques applied to clinical research suggest that ambient ionization mass spectrometry will soon become a routine medical tool for tissue diagnosis. Content This review summarizes the main developments in ambient ionization techniques applied to tissue analysis, with focus on desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, probe electrospray ionization, touch spray, and rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry. We describe their applications to human cancer research and surgical margin evaluation, highlighting integrated approaches tested for ex vivo and in vivo human cancer tissue analysis. We also discuss the challenges for clinical implementation of these tools and offer perspectives on the future of the field. Summary A variety of studies have showcased the value of ambient ionization mass spectrometry for rapid and accurate cancer diagnosis. Small molecules have been identified as potential diagnostic biomarkers, including metabolites, fatty acids, and glycerophospholipids. Statistical analysis allows tissue discrimination with high accuracy rates (>95%) being common. This young field has challenges to overcome before it is ready to be broadly accepted as a medical tool for cancer diagnosis. Growing research in new, integrated ambient ionization mass spectrometry technologies and the ongoing improvements in the existing tools make this field very promising for future translation into the clinic. PMID:26555455

A pre-clinical pharmacokinetic study in rats of three naturally occurring iridoid glycosides, Picroside-I, II and III, using a validated simultaneous HPLC-MS/MS assay.

PubMed

Zhu, Jianwei; Xue, Bingyang; Ma, Bo; Zhang, Qi; Liu, Ming; Liu, Lei; Yao, Di; Qi, Huanhuan; Wang, Yonglu; Ying, Hanjie; Wu, Zimei

2015-07-01

A selective and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography-electro-spray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) method was developed for the simultaneous quantitative determination of Picroside-I, II, and III in rat plasma and tissue homogenate to aid the pre-clinical studies. The chromatographic separation was performed on a Hypersil GOLD AQ C18 column using a gradient elution program with a mobile phase consisting of 2mM ammonium acetate and acetonitrile. The detection was achieved using a triple quadrupole tandem MS in negative ionization multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. One-step protein precipitation was selected for plasma and tissue sample preparation while liquid-liquid extraction failed to achieve satisfactory recoveries. The calibration curves of all three analytes in either plasma or tissue homogenate showed good linearity over the concentration range of 0.5-500ng/mL with a limit of quantitation at 0.5ng/mL. Both the intra- and inter-day accuracy and precision were within ±10%. The extraction recoveries were >70%, and the relative matrix effect ranged from 80.4% to 107.4% in all the biological samples. All the analytes were stable in matrices for at least 24h at room temperature, or 21 days in frozen. Three freeze/thaw cycles did not cause degradation. The method was successfully applied for quantification of the three iridoid glycosides in the collected plasma and various tissues following intravenous administration in rats. Picroside-I, II, and III were all eliminated rapidly with large volume of distribution. Among the three glycosides, Picroside-II showed the highest liver uptake, and only Picroside-I and II were found to get across the blood brain barrier (BBB). These results were consistent with their hepatoprotective or neuroprotective effects reported clinically. With the aid of the efficient and reliable simultaneous LC-ESI-MS/MS assay this pharmacokinetic study provided insights into their therapeutic targets of these three iridoid glycosides as well as valuable experimental basis for an expansion of their clinical indications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fast quantitative detection of cocaine in beverages using nanoextractive electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Hu, Bin; Peng, Xuejiao; Yang, Shuiping; Gu, Haiwei; Chen, Huanwen; Huan, Yanfu; Zhang, Tingting; Qiao, Xiaolin

2010-02-01

Without any sample pretreatment, effervescent beverage fluids were manually sprayed into the primary ion plume created by using a nanoelectrospray ionization source for direct ionization, and the analyte ions of interest were guided into an ion trap mass spectrometer for tandem mass analysis. Functional ingredients (e.g., vitamins, taurine, and caffeine, etc.) and spiked impurity (e.g., cocaine) in various beverages, such as Red Bull energy drink, Coco-cola, and Pepsi samples were rapidly identified within 1.5 s. The limit of detection was found to be 7-15 fg (S/N = 3) for cocaine in different samples using the characteristic fragment (m/z 150) observed in the MS(3) experiments. Typical relative standard deviation and recovery of this method were 6.9%-8.6% and 104%-108% for direct analysis of three actual samples, showing that nanoextractive electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry is a useful technique for fast screening cocaine presence in beverages. 2010. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Ammonium Bicarbonate Addition Improves the Detection of Proteins by Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Honarvar, Elahe; Venter, Andre R.

2017-06-01

The analysis of protein by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) is considered impractical due to a mass-dependent loss in sensitivity with increase in protein molecular weights. With the addition of ammonium bicarbonate to the DESI-MS analysis the sensitivity towards proteins by DESI was improved. The signal to noise ratio (S/N) improvement for a variety of proteins increased between 2- to 3-fold relative to solvent systems containing formic acid and more than seven times relative to aqueous methanol spray solvents. Three methods for ammonium bicarbonate addition during DESI-MS were investigated. The additive delivered improvements in S/N whether it was mixed with the analyte prior to sample deposition, applied over pre-prepared samples, or simply added to the desorption spray solvent. The improvement correlated well with protein pI but not with protein size. Other ammonium or bicarbonate salts did not produce similar improvements in S/N, nor was this improvement in S/N observed for ESI of the same samples. As was previously described for ESI, DESI also caused extensive protein unfolding upon the addition of ammonium bicarbonate. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Wood typification by Venturi easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry: the case of the endangered Mahogany tree.

PubMed

Cabral, Elaine C; Simas, Rosineide C; Santos, Vanessa G; Queiroga, Carmen L; da Cunha, Valnei S; de Sá, Gilberto F; Daroda, Romeu J; Eberlin, Marcos N

2012-01-01

Venturi easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry in both its liquid (V(L) -EASI-MS) and solid sample modes (V(S) -EASI-MS) is shown to provide nearly immediate and secure typification of woods, as demonstrated for Mahogany, an endangered and most valuable type of tropical wood. This reddish wood displays unique phytochemical markers (phragmalin-type limonoids) which are rapidly detected from the wood surface by V(S) -EASI-MS or from a simple methanol extract of a tiny wood chip by V(L) -EASI-MS. Unique profiles were obtained for Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) whereas genuine samples of six other similar types of woods, which are commonly falsified by artificial coloring and commercialized as Mahogany, display also typical but dissimilar pythochemical profiles as compared to that of the authentic wood. Variable and atypical chemical profiles were observed for artificially colored woods. Secure chemical characterization via V(S) -EASI-MS or V(s) -EASI-MS fingerprints of Mahogany and other types of woods with similar appearance should help to control the illegal logging and trade of this and other endangered woods and their falsification, and to create certified standards. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Tissue spray ionization mass spectrometry for rapid recognition of human lung squamous cell carcinoma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Yiping; Chen, Liru; Zhou, Wei; Chingin, Konstantin; Ouyang, Yongzhong; Zhu, Tenggao; Wen, Hua; Ding, Jianhua; Xu, Jianjun; Chen, Huanwen

2015-05-01

Tissue spray ionization mass spectrometry (TSI-MS) directly on small tissue samples has been shown to provide highly specific molecular information. In this study, we apply this method to the analysis of 38 pairs of human lung squamous cell carcinoma tissue (cancer) and adjacent normal lung tissue (normal). The main components of pulmonary surfactants, dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC, m/z 757.47), phosphatidylcholine (POPC, m/z 782.52), oleoyl phosphatidylcholine (DOPC, m/z 808.49), and arachidonic acid stearoyl phosphatidylcholine (SAPC, m/z 832.43), were identified using high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Monte Carlo sampling partial least squares linear discriminant analysis (PLS-LDA) was used to distinguish full-mass-range mass spectra of cancer samples from the mass spectra of normal tissues. With 5 principal components and 30 - 40 Monte Carlo samplings, the accuracy of cancer identification in matched tissue samples reached 94.42%. Classification of a tissue sample required less than 1 min, which is much faster than the analysis of frozen sections. The rapid, in situ diagnosis with minimal sample consumption provided by TSI-MS is advantageous for surgeons. TSI-MS allows them to make more informed decisions during surgery.

Monitoring Enzymatic Reactions in Real Time Using Venturi Easy Ambient Sonic-Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

We developed a technique to monitor spatially confined surface reactions with mass spectrometry under ambient conditions, without the need for voltage or organic solvents. Fused-silica capillaries immersed in an aqueous solution, positioned in close proximity to each other and the functionalized surface, created a laminar flow junction with a resulting reaction volume of ∼5 pL. The setup was operated with a syringe pump, delivering reagents to the surface through a fused-silica capillary. The other fused-silica capillary was connected to a Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization source, sampling the resulting analytes at a slightly higher flow rate compared to the feeding capillary. The combined effects of the inflow and outflow maintains a chemical microenvironment, where the rate of advective transport overcomes diffusion. We show proof-of-concept where acetylcholinesterase was immobilized on an organosiloxane polymer through electrostatic interactions. The hydrolysis of acetylcholine by acetylcholinesterase into choline was monitored in real-time for a range of acetylcholine concentrations, fused-silica capillary geometries, and operating flow rates. Higher reaction rates and conversion yields were observed with increasing acetylcholine concentrations, as would be expected. PMID:27249533

Influence of laser on the droplet behavior in short-circuiting, globular, and spray modes of hybrid fiber laser-MIG welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Chuang; Feng, Jiecai; Li, Liqun; Chen, Yanbin

2016-09-01

The effects of laser on the droplet behavior in short-circuiting, globular, and spray modes of hybrid fiber laser-MIG welding were studied. Transfer sequence of a droplet, welding current wave and morphology of plasma in the three modes of arc welding and hybrid welding were comparatively investigated. Compared with arc welding, the transfer frequency and landing location of droplet in the three modes of hybrid welding changed. In short-circuiting and globular modes, the droplet transfer was promoted by the laser, while the droplet transfer was hindered by the laser in spray mode. The magnitudes and directions of electromagnetic force and plasma drag force acting on the droplet were the keys to affect the droplet behavior. The magnitudes and directions of electromagnetic force and plasma drag force were converted due to the variation of the current distribution into the droplet, which were caused by the laser induced plasma with low ionization potential.

Contribution to the production of lactulose-rich whey by in situ electro-isomerization of lactose and effect on whey proteins after electro-activation as confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight-mass spectrometry and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

PubMed

Kareb, Ourdia; Champagne, Claude P; Aïder, Mohammed

2016-04-01

Cheese-whey, a major co-product of the dairy industry, has recently been the subject of many technological applications. We studied the bioconversion of whey into valuable bio-products such as a potential lactulose prebiotic and compounds with antioxidant properties. This paper examines efficiency, safety, and economics of electro-activation as an eco-friendly technology for a maximum valorization of whey. Thus, a bottom-up approach was therefore addressed. The effect of 4 experimental parameters--low working temperatures (0, 10, and 25 °C), current intensities (400, 600, and 800 mA), volume conditions (100, 200, and 300 mL), and feed concentrations [7, 14, and 28% (wt/vol)]--on lactose-whey isomerization to lactulose under electro-activation process were studied. Structural characteristics of whey proteins and antioxidant functionality were also investigated. The results showed a compromise to be reached between both parameters. Therefore, the maximum yield of 35% of lactulose was achieved after 40 min of reaction at the working temperature of 10 °C under 400 mA electric current field and 100-mL volume conditions with using feed solution at 7% (wt/vol). The isomerization of lactose to lactulose is accomplished by subsequent degradation to galactose, but only at a very small amount. Additionally, whey electro-activation showed significantly elevated antioxidant capacity compared with the untreated samples. The enhancement of antioxidant functionality of whey electro-activation resulted from the synergistic effect of its partial hydrolysis and the formation of antioxidant components that were able to scavenge free radicals. In conclusion, the findings of this study reveal that the whey treated by the safety electro-activation technology has both lactulose-prebiotic and antioxidant properties and could have a substantial application in the manufacture of pharmaceutical and functional foods. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Defense Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). Abstracts of Phase II Awards. 1985.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-01-01

SILICIDES : NEW SILICON COMPATIBLE ELECTRO-OPTIC MATERIALS TOPIC: 3 OFFICE: DARPA THE GOAL OF THIS WORK IS TO OBTAIN SINGLE CRYSTAL FILMS OF SEMI...CONSTITUENTS. CON- STITUENTS WITH IONIZATION POTENTIALS COMPARABLE TO THE WORK FUNCTION A ARE EVOLVED AS POSITIVE IONS (USUALLY SODIUM ATOMIC IONS FROM... SODIUM COMPOUND IMPURITIES). ARRIVAL OF A PARTICLE AT THE SURFACE CAUSES A BURST OF MANY IONS WHICH ARE DRAWN TO A NEARBY ION COLLECTOR ELECT- RODE

Methods of Making Z-Shielding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomsen, III, Donald Laurence (Inventor); Cano, Roberto J. (Inventor); Jensen, Brian J. (Inventor); Hales, Stephen J. (Inventor); Alexa, Joel A. (Inventor)

2014-01-01

Methods of building Z-graded radiation shielding and covers. In one aspect, the method includes: providing a substrate surface having about medium Z-grade; plasma spraying a first metal having higher Z-grade than the substrate surface; and infusing a polymer layer to form a laminate. In another aspect, the method includes electro/electroless plating a first metal having higher Z-grade than the substrate surface. In other aspects, the methods include improving an existing electronics enclosure to build a Z-graded radiation shield by applying a temperature controller to at least part of the enclosure and affixing at least one layer of a first metal having higher Z-grade from the enclosure.

Structure characterization and wear performance of NiTi thermal sprayed coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cinca, N.; Isalgué, A.; Fernández, J.; Guilemany, J. M.

2010-08-01

NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) has been studied for many years for its shape memory and pseudoelastic properties, as well as its biocompatibility, which make it suitable for many biomedical applications. However, SMA NiTi is also interesting for relevant wear resistance near the transition temperature which, along with its high oxidation and corrosion resistance, suggests its use as a coating to increase the lifetime of some components. Also, whereas bulk material properties have been characterized in respect of the nominal composition, manufacturing methods and thermo-mechanical treatments, NiTi overlays have been investigated much less. Most existent works in this field specifically deal with magnetron sputtering technology for thin films and its use in micro-devices (micro-electro-mechanical systems, MEMS), just some works refer to vacuum plasma spraying (VPS) for thicker coatings. The present paper explores and compares the microstructure and wear-related properties of coatings obtained from atomized NiTi powders, by VPS as well as by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) and high velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) techniques. In the present case, the wear behaviour of the NiTi deposits has been studied by rubber-wheel equipment and ball-on-disk tests. The results obtained at room temperature show that the APS-quenched coatings exhibit a preferential dry sliding wear mechanism, while the VPS and HVOF coatings show an abrasive mechanism.

Development and Evaluation of a Combined Cultivator and Band Sprayer with a Row-Centering RTK-GPS Guidance System

PubMed Central

Perez-Ruiz, Manuel; Carballido, Jacob; Agüera, Juan; Rodríguez-Lizana, Antonio

2013-01-01

Typically, low-pressure sprayers are used to uniformly apply pre- and post-emergent herbicides to control weeds in crop rows. An innovative machine for weed control in inter-row and intra-row areas, with a unique combination of inter-row cultivation tooling and intra-row band spraying for six rows and an electro-hydraulic side-shift frame controlled by a GPS system, was developed and evaluated. Two weed management strategies were tested in the field trials: broadcast spraying (the conventional method) and band spraying with mechanical weed control using RTK-GPS (the experimental method). This approach enabled the comparison between treatments from the perspective of cost savings and efficacy in weed control for a sugar beet crop. During the 2010–2011 season, the herbicide application rate (112 L ha−1) of the experimental method was approximately 50% of the conventional method, and thus a significant reduction in the operating costs of weed management was achieved. A comparison of the 0.2-trimmed means of weed population post-treatment showed that the treatments achieved similar weed control rates at each weed survey date. Sugar beet yields were similar with both methods (p = 0.92). The use of the experimental equipment is cost-effective on ≥20 ha of crops. These initial results show good potential for reducing herbicide application in the Spanish beet industry. PMID:23478600

Development and evaluation of a combined cultivator and band sprayer with a row-centering RTK-GPS guidance system.

PubMed

Perez-Ruiz, Manuel; Carballido, Jacob; Agüera, Juan; Rodríguez-Lizana, Antonio

2013-03-11

Typically, low-pressure sprayers are used to uniformly apply pre- and post-emergent herbicides to control weeds in crop rows. An innovative machine for weed control in inter-row and intra-row areas, with a unique combination of inter-row cultivation tooling and intra-row band spraying for six rows and an electro-hydraulic side-shift frame controlled by a GPS system, was developed and evaluated. Two weed management strategies were tested in the field trials: broadcast spraying (the conventional method) and band spraying with mechanical weed control using RTK-GPS (the experimental method). This approach enabled the comparison between treatments from the perspective of cost savings and efficacy in weed control for a sugar beet crop. During the 2010-2011 season, the herbicide application rate (112 L ha(-1)) of the experimental method was approximately 50% of the conventional method, and thus a significant reduction in the operating costs of weed management was achieved. A comparison of the 0.2-trimmed means of weed population post-treatment showed that the treatments achieved similar weed control rates at each weed survey date. Sugar beet yields were similar with both methods (p = 0.92). The use of the experimental equipment is cost-effective on ≥20 ha of crops. These initial results show good potential for reducing herbicide application in the Spanish beet industry.

Patient-controlled analgesia: therapeutic interventions using transdermal electro-activated and electro-modulated drug delivery.

PubMed

Indermun, Sunaina; Choonara, Yahya E; Kumar, Pradeep; Du Toit, Lisa C; Modi, Girish; Luttge, Regina; Pillay, Viness

2014-02-01

Chronic pain poses a major concern to modern medicine and is frequently undertreated, causing suffering and disability. Patient-controlled analgesia, although successful, does have limitations. Transdermal delivery is the pivot to which analgesic research in drug delivery has centralized, especially with the confines of needle phobias and associated pain related to traditional injections, and the existing limitations associated with oral drug delivery. Highlighted within is the possibility of further developing transdermal drug delivery for chronic pain treatment using iontophoresis-based microneedle array patches. A concerted effort was made to review critically all available therapies designed for the treatment of chronic pain. The drug delivery systems developed for this purpose and nondrug routes are elaborated on, in a systematic manner. Recent developments and future goals in transdermal delivery as a means to overcome the individual limitations of the aforementioned delivery routes are represented as well. The approval of patch-like devices that contain both the microelectronic-processing mechanism and the active medicament in a small portable device is still awaited by the pharmaceutical industry. This anticipated platform may provide transdermal electro-activated and electro-modulated drug delivery systems a feasible attempt in chronic pain treatment. Iontophoresis has been proven an effective mode used to administer ionized drugs in physiotherapeutic, diagnostic, and dermatological applications and may be an encouraging probability for the development of devices and aids in the treatment of chronic pain. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

Characterization of ANFO explosive by high accuracy ESI(±)-FTMS with forensic identification on real samples by EASI(-)-MS.

PubMed

Hernandes, Vinicius Veri; Franco, Marcos Fernado; Santos, Jandyson Machado; Melendez-Perez, Jose J; de Morais, Damila Rodrigues; Rocha, Werickson Fortunato de Carvalho; Borges, Rodrigo; de Souza, Wanderley; Zacca, Jorge Jardim; Logrado, Lucio Paulo Lima; Eberlin, Marcos Nogueira; Correa, Deleon Nascimento

2015-04-01

Ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO) is an explosive used in many civil applications. In Brazil, ANFO has unfortunately also been used in criminal attacks, mainly in automated teller machine (ATM) explosions. In this paper, we describe a detailed characterization of the ANFO composition and its two main constituents (diesel and a nitrate explosive) using high resolution and accuracy mass spectrometry performed on an FT-ICR-mass spectrometer with electrospray ionization (ESI(±)-FTMS) in both the positive and negative ion modes. Via ESI(-)-MS, an ion marker for ANFO was characterized. Using a direct and simple ambient desorption/ionization technique, i.e., easy ambient sonic-spray ionization mass spectrometry (EASI-MS), in a simpler, lower accuracy but robust single quadrupole mass spectrometer, the ANFO ion marker was directly detected from the surface of banknotes collected from ATM explosion theft. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of conductive target influence in plasma jet experiments through helium metastable and electric field measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Darny, T.; Pouvesle, J.-M.; Puech, V.; Douat, C.; Dozias, S.; Robert, Eric

2017-04-01

The use of cold atmospheric pressure plasma jets for in vivo treatments implies most of the time plasma interaction with conductive targets. The effect of conductive target contact on the discharge behavior is studied here for a grounded metallic target and compared to the free jet configuration. In this work, realized with a plasma gun, we measured helium metastable HeM (23S1) concentration (by laser absorption spectroscopy) and electric field (EF) longitudinal and radial components (by electro-optic probe). Both diagnostics were temporally and spatially resolved. Mechanisms after ionization front impact on the target surface have been identified. The remnant conductive ionized channel behind the ionization front electrically transiently connects the inner high voltage electrode to the target. Due to impedance mismatching between the ionized channel and the target, a secondary ionization front is initiated and rapidly propagates from the target surface to the inner electrode through this ionized channel. This leads to a greatly enhanced HeM production inside the plasma plume and the capillary. Forward and reverse dynamics occur with further multi reflections of more or less damped ionization fronts between the inner electrode and the target as long as the ionized channel is persisting. This phenomenon is very sensitive to parameters such as target distance and ionized channel conductivity affecting electrical coupling between these two and evidenced using positive or negative voltage polarity and nitrogen admixture. In typical operating conditions for the plasma gun used in this work, it has been found that after the secondary ionization front propagation, when the ionized channel is conductive enough, a glow like discharge occurs with strong conduction current. HeM production and all species excitation, especially reactive ones, are then driven by high voltage pulse evolution. The control of forward and reverse dynamics, impacting on the production of the glow like discharge, will be useful for biomedical applications on living tissues.

Preparation of the spacer for narrow electrode gap configuration in ionization-based gas sensor

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

Saheed, Mohamed Shuaib Mohamed; Mohamed, Norani Muti; Burhanudin, Zainal Arif

2012-09-26

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have started to be developed as the sensing element for ionization-based gas sensors due to the demand for improved sensitivity, selectivity, stability and other sensing properties beyond what can be offered by the conventional ones. Although these limitations have been overcome, the problems still remain with the conventional ionization-based gas sensors in that they are bulky and operating with large breakdown voltage and high temperature. Recent studies have shown that the breakdown voltage can be reduced by using nanostructured electrodes and narrow electrode gap. Nanostructured electrode in the form of aligned CNTs array with evenly distributed nanotipsmore » can enhance the linear electric field significantly. The later is attributed to the shorter conductivity path through narrow electrode gap. The paper presents the study on the design consideration in order to realize ionization based gas sensor using aligned carbon nanotubes array in an optimum sensor configuration with narrow electrode gap. Several deposition techniques were studied to deposit the spacer, the key component that can control the electrode gap. Plasma spray deposition, electron beam deposition and dry oxidation method were employed to obtain minimum film thickness around 32 {mu}m. For plasma spray method, sand blasting process is required in order to produce rough surface for strong bonding of the deposited film onto the surface. Film thickness, typically about 39 {mu}m can be obtained. For the electron beam deposition and dry oxidation, the film thickness is in the range of nanometers and thus unsuitable to produce the spacer. The deposited multilayer film consisting of copper, alumina and ferum on which CNTs array will be grown was found to be removed during the etching process. This is attributed to the high etching rate on the thin film which can be prevented by reducing the rate and having a thicker conductive copper film.« less

Sol-gel coated ion sources for liquid chromatography-direct electron ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Riboni, Nicolò; Magrini, Laura; Bianchi, Federica; Careri, Maria; Cappiello, Achille

2017-07-25

Advances in interfacing liquid chromatography and electron ionization mass spectrometry are presented. New ion source coatings synthesized by sol-gel technology were developed and tested as vaporization surfaces in terms of peak intensity, peak width and peak delay for the liquid chromatography-direct electron ionization mass spectrometry (Direct-EI) determination of environmental pollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and steroids. Silica-, titania-, and zirconia-based coatings were sprayed inside the stainless steel ion source and characterized in terms of thermal stability, film thickness and morphology. Negligible weight losses until 350-400 °C were observed for all the materials, with coating thicknesses in the 6 (±1)-11 (±2) μm range for optimal ionization process. The best performances in terms of both peak intensity and peak width were obtained by using the silica-based coating: the detection of the investigated compounds was feasible at low ng μl -1 levels with a good precision (RSD < 9% for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and <11% for hormones). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study of the spray to globular transition in gas metal arc welding: a spectroscopic investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Valensi, F.; Pellerin, S.; Castillon, Q.; Boutaghane, A.; Dzierzega, K.; Zielinska, S.; Pellerin, N.; Briand, F.

2013-06-01

The gas metal arc welding (GMAW) process is strongly influenced by the composition of the shielding gas. In particular, addition of CO2 increases the threshold current for the transition from unstable globular to more stable spray transfer mode. We report on the diagnostics—using optical emission spectroscopy—of a GMAW plasma in pure argon and in mixtures of argon, CO2 and N2 while operated in spray and globular transfer modes. The spatially resolved plasma parameters are obtained by applying the Abel transformation to laterally integrated emission data. The Stark widths of some iron lines are used to determine both electron density and temperature, and line intensities yield relative contents of neutral and ionized iron to argon. Our experimental results indicate a temperature drop on the arc axis in the case of spray arc transfer. This drop reduces with addition of N2 and disappears in globular transfer mode when CO2 is added. Despite the temperature increase, the electron density decreases with CO2 concentration. The highest concentration of iron is observed in the plasma column upper part (close to the anode) and for GMAW with CO2. Our results are compared with recently published works where the effect of non-homogeneous metal vapour concentration has been taken into account.

Antagonistic Activity and Mode of Action of Phenazine-1-Carboxylic Acid, Produced by Marine Bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA31x, Against Vibrio anguillarum In vitro and in a Zebrafish In vivo Model

PubMed Central

Zhang, Linlin; Tian, Xueying; Kuang, Shan; Liu, Ge; Zhang, Chengsheng; Sun, Chaomin

2017-01-01

Phenazine and its derivatives are very important secondary metabolites produced from Pseudomonas spp. and have exhibited broad-spectrum antifungal and antibacterial activities. However, till date, there are few reports about marine derived Pseudomonas and its production of phenazine metabolites. In this study, we isolated a marine Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PA31x which produced natural product inhibiting the growth of Vibrio anguillarum C312, one of the most serious bacterial pathogens in marine aquaculture. Combining high-resolution electro-spray-ionization mass spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analyses, the functional compound against V. anguillarum was demonstrated to be phenazine-1-carboxylic acid (PCA), an important phenazine derivative. Molecular studies indicated that the production of PCA by P. aeruginosa PA31x was determined by gene clusters phz1 and phz2 in its genome. Electron microscopic results showed that treatment of V. anguillarum with PCA developed complete lysis of bacterial cells with fragmented cytoplasm being released to the surrounding environment. Additional evidence indicated that reactive oxygen species generation preceded PCA-induced microbe and cancer cell death. Notably, treatment with PCA gave highly significant protective activities against the development of V. anguillarum C312 on zebrafish. Additionally, the marine derived PCA was further found to effectively inhibit the growth of agricultural pathogens, Acidovorax citrulli NP1 and Phytophthora nicotianae JM1. Taken together, this study reveals that marine Pseudomonas derived PCA carries antagonistic activities against both aquacultural and agricultural pathogens, which broadens the application fields of PCA. PMID:28289406

Extraction and Separation of Active Ingredients in Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill and the Study of their Antifungal Effects

PubMed Central

Liu, Jun; Zhang, Jie; Guo, Wei; Xiao, Weilie; Yao, Yuncong

2016-01-01

Schisandra chinensis extracts (SEs) have traditionally been used as an oriental medicine for the treatment of various human diseases, however, their further application in the biocontrol of plant disease remains poorly understood. This study was conducted to develop eco-friendly botanical pesticides from extracts of S. chinensis and assess whether they could play a key role in plant disease defense. Concentrated active fractions (SE-I, SE-II, and SE-III) were obtained from S. chinensis via specific extraction and separation. Then, lignan-like substances, such as Schisanhenol B, were detected via High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-ElectroSpray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS) analyses of the active fractions. Moreover, the results from biological tests on colony growth inhibition and spore germination indicated that SE-I, SE-II, and SE-III could inhibit hyphal growth and spore generation of three important plant pathogenic fungi (Monilinia fructicola, Fusarium oxysporum, and Botryosphaeria dothidea). The study of the mechanisms of resistant fungi revealed that the oxidation resistance system, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), was activated. The expression of genes related to defense, such as pathogenesis-related protein (PR4), α-farnesene synthase (AFS), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) were shown to be up-regulated after treatment with SEs, which suggested an increase in apple immunity and that fruits were induced to effectively defend against the infection of pathogenic fungi (B. dothidea). This study revealed that SEs and their lignans represent promising resources for the development of safe, effective, and multi-targeted agents against pathogenic fungi. PMID:27152614

Characterization, anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of Costa Rican noni juice (Morinda citrifolia L.).

PubMed

Dussossoy, E; Brat, P; Bony, E; Boudard, F; Poucheret, P; Mertz, C; Giaimis, J; Michel, A

2011-01-07

Noni fruit (Morinda citrifolia L.) juice has been used for more than 2000 years in Polynesia as a traditional folk medicine. The aim of the present study was to finely characterize noni juice from Costa Rica and to evaluate its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. A microfiltrated noni juice was prepared with Costarican nonis. HPLC-DAD and Electro Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometric detection (HPLC-ESI-MS) were used to identify phenolic compounds and iridoids. The anti-oxidative activity of noni juice was measured in vitro by both Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging methods. The anti-inflammatory effects of noni juice were investigated in vitro by: measuring its effect on nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 production by activated macrophages, evaluating its inhibitory activities on cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 and in vivo on a carrageenan-induced paw oedema model in rats. Several polyphenols belonging to the coumarin, flavonoid and phenolic acid groups, and two iridoids were identified. Noni juice demonstrated a mean range free radical scavenging capacity. Furthermore, it also reduced carrageenan-induced paw oedema, directly inhibited cyclooxygenase COX-1 and COX-2 activities and inhibited the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins E(2) (PGE(2)) in activated J774 cells, in a dose dependent manner. This study showed that noni's biological effects include: (1) anti-oxidant properties probably associated with phenolic compounds, iridoids and ascorbic acid and (2) anti-inflammatory action through NO and PGE(2) pathways that might also be strengthened by anti-oxidant effects. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of an aqueous extract of Tanacetum parthenium L. Schultz-Bip (Asteraceae) in mice.

PubMed

Cárdenas, Jorge; Reyes-Pérez, Valeria; Hernández-Navarro, María Dolores; Dorantes-Barrón, Ana María; Almazán, Salvador; Estrada-Reyes, Rosa

2017-03-22

Tanacetum parthenium L. Schultz-Bip (Asteraceae) is widely used worldwide in traditional medicine for the treatment of convulsions and culture-bound syndromes such as susto (fear). The aim of this work was to evaluate the anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of an aqueous extract of T. parthenium in behavioral paradigms in mice. The effects of T. parthenium were compared with those produced by anxiolytic and antidepressant drugs. We carried out the chemical characterization of the main constituents of T. parthenium. The involvement with the GABAergic and serotoninergic neurotransmitter systems were explored be means of synergic and antagonist experiments. The anxiolytic-like effect was evaluated using the Burying Behavior Test (BBT) and the Elevated Plus-Maze Test (PMT). The antidepressant-like effect was evaluated in the Forced Swimming Test (FST), and ambulatory activity was assessed in the Open Field Test (OFT). Employing the behavioral tests, synergism and antagonism experiments with Alprazolam, Muscimol, and Picrotoxin were carried out in the PMT. In a series of independent experiments, concomitant administration of T. parthenium and Alprazolam, Fluoxetine, or p-chlorophenylalanine were conducted in the FST. For chemical characterization, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Electro Spray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS) analysis was performed. T. parthenium exerts clear anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects in mice, without affecting the ambulatory activity of the experimental subjects. Anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like T. parthenium effects result, at least part from the involvement of the GABAergic system. Our results support the use of Tanacetum parthenium in traditional medicine and suggest its therapeutic potential in the comorbid anxiety and depression. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of "one-pot" method for multi-class compounds in porcine formula feed by multi-function impurity adsorption cleaning followed ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry detection.

PubMed

Wang, Peilong; Wang, Xiao; Zhang, Wei; Su, Xiaoou

2014-02-01

A novel and efficient determination method for multi-class compounds including β-agonists, sedatives, nitro-imidazoles and aflatoxins in porcine formula feed based on a fast "one-pot" extraction/multifunction impurity adsorption (MFIA) clean-up procedure has been developed. 23 target analytes belonging to four different class compounds could be determined simultaneously in a single run. Conditions for "one-pot" extraction were studied in detail. Under the optimized conditions, the multi-class compounds in porcine formula feed samples were extracted and purified with methanol contained ammonia and absorbents by one step. The compounds in extracts were purified by using multi types of absorbent based on MFIA in one pot. The multi-walled carbon nanotubes were employed to improved clean-up efficiency. Shield BEH C18 column was used to separate 23 target analytes, followed by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) detection using an electro-spray ionization source in positive mode. Recovery studies were done at three fortification levels. Overall average recoveries of target compounds in porcine formula feed at each levels were >51.6% based on matrix fortified calibration with coefficients of variation from 2.7% to 13.2% (n=6). The limit of determination (LOD) of these compounds in porcine formula feed sample matrix was <5.0 μg/kg. This method was successfully applied in screening and confirmation of target drugs in >30 porcine formula feed samples. It was demonstrated that the integration of the MFIA protocol with the MS/MS instrument could serve as a valuable strategy for rapid screening and reliable confirmatory analysis of multi-class compounds in real samples. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous determination of triprolidine and pseudoephedrine in human plasma by liquid chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Shakya, Ashok K; Arafat, Tawfiq A; Abuawwad, Ahmad N; Melhim, Munther; Al-Ghani, Jafar; Yacoub, Mahmoud J

2009-12-15

A highly efficient, selective and specific method for simultaneous quantitation of triprolidine and pseudoephedrine in human plasma by liquid chromatography-ion trap-tandem mass spectrometry coupled with electro spray ionization (LC-ESI-ion trap-tandem MS) has been validated and successfully applied to a clinical pharmacokinetic study. Both targeted compounds together with the internal standard (gabapentin) were extracted from the plasma by direct protein precipitation. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a C(18) ACE((R)) column (50.0mmx2.1mm, 5mum, Advance Chromatography Technologies, Aberdeen, UK), using an isocratic mobile phase, consisting of water, methanol and formic acid (55:45:0.5, v/v/v), at a flow-rate of 0.3mL/min. The transition monitored (positive mode) was m/z 279.1-->m/z 208.1 for triprolidine, m/z 165.9-->m/z 148.0 for pseudoephedrine and m/z 172.0-->m/z 154.0 for gabapentin (IS). This method had a chromatographic run time of 5.0min and a linear calibration curves ranged from 0.2 to 20.0ng/mL for triprolidine and 5.0-500.0ng/mL for pseudoephedrine. The within- and between-batch accuracy and precision (expressed as coefficient of variation, %C.V.) evaluated at four quality control levels were within 94.3-106.3% and 1.0-9.6% respectively. The mean recoveries of triprolidine, pseudoephedrine and gabapentin were 93.6, 76.3 and 82.0% respectively. Stability of triprolidine and pseudoephedrine was assessed under different storage conditions. The validated method was successfully employed for the bioequivalence study of triprolidine and pseudoephedrine formulation in twenty six volunteers under fasting conditions.

Highly sensitive LC-MS/MS-ESI method for determination of phenelzine in human plasma and its application to a human pharmacokinetic study.

PubMed

Kallem, Raja Reddy; Jillela, Bhupathi; Ravula, Arun Reddy; Samala, Ramakrishna; Andy, Adinarayana; Ramesh, Mullangi; Rao, Jvln Seshagiri

2016-06-01

A selective, sensitive and rapid LC-MS/MS method has been developed and validated for quantification of the phenelzine (PZ) in 200μL of human plasma using hydroxyzine (HZ) as an internal standard (IS) as per regulatory guidelines. The sample preparation involved the derivatization of PZ using pentaflurobenzaldehyde followed by solid phase extraction process to extract PZ and HZ from human plasma. LC-MS/MS was operated under the multiple reaction-monitoring mode (MRM) using the electro spray ionization technique in positive ion mode and the transitions of m/z 305.1→105.1 and m/z 375.3→201.1 were used to measure the derivative of PZ and IS, respectively. The total run time was 3.5min and the elution of PZ and HZ occurred at 2.53, and 1.92min, respectively; this was achieved with a mobile phase consisting of 10mM ammonium acetate: acetonitrile (20:80, v/v) at a flow rate of 1.0mL/min on an Ace C18 column with a split ratio of 70:30. The developed method was validated in human plasma with a lower limit of quantitation 0.51ng/mL. A linear response function was established for the range of concentrations 0.51-25.2ng/mL (r>0.995) for PZ. The intra- and inter-day precision values met the acceptance criteria. PZ was stable in the battery of stability studies viz., stock solution, bench-top, auto-sampler, long-term and freeze/thaw cycles. The developed assay method was applied to an oral bioequivalence study in humans. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Silica Coated Paper Substrate for Paper-Spray Analysis of Therapeutic Drugs in Dried Blood Spots

PubMed Central

Zhang, Zhiping; Xu, Wei; Manicke, Nicholas E.; Cooks, R. Graham; Ouyang, Zheng

2011-01-01

Paper spray is a newly developed ambient ionization method that has been applied for direct qualitative and quantitative analysis of biological samples. The properties of the paper substrate and spray solution have a significant impact on the release of chemical compounds from complex sample matrices, the diffusion of the analytes through the substrate, and the formation of ions for mass spectrometry analysis. In this study, a commercially available silica-coated paper was explored in an attempt to improve the analysis of therapeutic drugs in dried blood spots (DBS). The dichloromethane/isopropanol solvent has been identified as an optimal spray solvent for the analysis. The comparison was made with paper spray using chromatography paper as substrate with methanol/water as solvent for the analysis of verapamil, citalopram, amitriptyline, lidocaine and sunitinib in dried blood spots. It has been demonstrated the efficiency of recovery of the analytes was notably improved with the silica coated paper and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) for the drug analysis was 0.1 ng mL−1 using a commercial triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The use of silica paper substrate also resulted in a sensitivity improvement of 5-50 fold in comparison with chromatography papers, including the Whatmann ET31 paper used for blood card. Analysis using a handheld miniature mass spectrometer Mini 11 gave LOQs of 10~20 ng mL−1 for the tested drugs, which is sufficient to cover the therapeutic ranges of these drugs. PMID:22145627

Electro-assisted solid-phase microextraction based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophen) combined with GC for the quantification of tricyclic antidepressants.

PubMed

Davarani, Saied Saeed Hosseiny; Nojavan, Saeed; Asadi, Roghayeh; Banitaba, Mohammad Hossein

2013-07-01

In this study, a platinum wire coated with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophen) was used as an electro-assisted solid-phase microextraction fiber for the quantification of tricyclic antidepressant drugs in biological samples by coupling to GC employing a flame ionization detector. In this study, an electric field increased the extraction rate and recovery. The fiber used as a solid phase was synthesized by the electropolymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophen monomers onto a platinum wire. The ability of this fiber to extract imipramine, desipramine, and clomipramine by using the electro-assisted solid-phase microextraction technique was evaluated. The effect of various parameters that influence the extraction efficiency, which include solution temperature, extraction time, stirring rate, ionic strength, time and temperature of desorption, and thickness of the fiber, was optimized. Under optimized conditions, the linear ranges and regression coefficients of calibration curves were in the range of 0.5-250 and 0.990-0.998 ng/mL, respectively. Detection limits were in the range of 0.15-0.45 ng/mL. Finally, this method was applied to the determination of drugs in urine and wastewater samples and recoveries were 4.8-108.9%. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Rapid analysis of drug dissolution by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Liu, Yang; Liu, Ning; Zhou, Ya-Nan; Lin, Lan; He, Lan

2017-03-20

With a great quantity of solid dosage tested by dissolution technology, developing a rapid and sensitive method to access the content of drug within dissolution media is highly desired by analysts and scientists. Traditionally, dissolution media is not compatible with mass spectrometry since the inorganic salts in the media might damage the mass spectrometer. Here, paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PSI-MS), one of the ambient mass spectrometry technologies, is developed to characterize the content of drugs in dissolution media. The porous structure of paper can effectively retain salts from entering mass spectrometer. This makes the measurement of drug content within dissolution media by mass spectrometer possible. After the experimental parameters were optimized, calibration curves of model drugs - enalapril, quinapril and benazepril were established by using corresponding deuterated internal standards. PSI-MS was then deployed to characterize the content of enalapril from the dissolution testing of enalapril tablets. The results from PSI-MS are comparable to those from HPLC characterization. More importantly, the analysis time of 6 samples is shortened from 90min to 6min. Detection limit of enalapril maleate tablets by PSI-MS is 1/300 of LC. PSI-MS is rapid, sensitive and accurate in analyzing drug content from dissolution tests. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Quantitation of anthocyanins in elderberry fruit extracts and nutraceutical formulations with paper spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Cody, Robert B; Tamura, Jun; Downard, Kevin M

2018-01-01

The ability to rapidly identify and quantitate, over a wide range of concentrations, anthocyanins in food and therapeutic products is important to ensuring their presence at medicinally significant levels. Sensitive, yet mild, analysis conditions are required given their susceptibility to degradation and transformation. Paper spray ionization has been used to detect and quantify the levels of anthocyanin levels in extracts of fresh and dried elderberries, and elderberry stems, as well as 3 commercially available nutraceutical formulations. The component cyanidin glucosides, including cyanidin-3-sambubioside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside, cyanidin-3-sambubioside-5-glucoside, and the aglycone cyanidin, were readily detected in a range of sources. Quantitation was achieved by establishing a calibration plot from dilutions of a stock solution of cyanidin-3,5-diglucoside containing malvidin-3,5-diglucoside as an internal standard at a fixed concentration. The same standard was used to quantify the anthocyanin content in the fruit and nutraceutical formulations. Wide 5-fold variations in anthocyanin concentration were detected in the nutraceutical formulations from different suppliers ranging from 1050 to 5430 mg/100 g. These concentrations compared with 500 to 2370 mg/100 g measured in the dried stems and fruit, respectively. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A piezo-ring-on-chip microfluidic device for simple and low-cost mass spectrometry interfacing.

PubMed

Tsao, Chia-Wen; Lei, I-Chao; Chen, Pi-Yu; Yang, Yu-Liang

2018-02-12

Mass spectrometry (MS) interfacing technology provides the means for incorporating microfluidic processing with post MS analysis. In this study, we propose a simple piezo-ring-on-chip microfluidic device for the controlled spraying of MALDI-MS targets. This device uses a low-cost, commercially-available ring-shaped piezoelectric acoustic atomizer (piezo-ring) directly integrated into a polydimethylsiloxane microfluidic device to spray the sample onto the MS target substrate. The piezo-ring-on-chip microfluidic device's design, fabrication, and actuation, and its pulsatile pumping effects were evaluated. The spraying performance was examined by depositing organic matrix samples onto the MS target substrate by using both an automatic linear motion motor, and manual deposition. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) was performed to analyze the peptide samples on the MALDI target substrates. Using our technique, model peptides with 10 -6 M concentration can be successfully detected. The results also indicate that the piezo-ring-on-chip approach forms finer matrix crystals and presents better MS signal uniformity with little sample consumption compared to the conventional pipetting method.

Research topics on EO systems for maritime platforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dijk, Judith; Bijl, Piet; van den Broek, Sebastiaan P.; van Eijk, Alenxander M. J.

2014-10-01

Our world is constantly changing, and this has its effect on worldwide military operations. For example, there is a change from conventional warfare into a domain that contains asymmetric threats as well. The availability of high-quality imaging information from Electro-Optical (EO) sensors is of high importance, for instance for timely detection and identification of small threatening vessels in an environment with a large amount of neutral vessels. Furthermore, Rules of Engagement often require a visual identification before action is allowed. The challenge in these operations is to detect, classify and identify a target at a reasonable range, while avoiding too many false alarms or missed detections. Current sensor technology is not able to cope with the performance requirements under all circumstances. For example, environmental conditions can reduce the sensor range in such a way that the operational task becomes challenging or even impossible. Further, limitations in automatic detection algorithms occur, e.g. due to the effects of sun glints and spray which are not yet well-modelled in the detection filters. For these reasons, Tactical Decision Aids will become an important factor in future operations to select the best moment to act. In this paper, we describe current research within The Netherlands on this topic. The Defence Research and Development Programme "Multifunctional Electro-Optical Sensor Suite (MEOSS)" aims at the development of knowledge necessary for optimal employment of Electro-Optical systems on board of current and future ships of the Royal Netherlands Navy, in order to carry out present and future maritime operations in various environments and weather conditions.

Direct and non-destructive proof of authenticity for the 2nd generation of Brazilian real banknotes via easy ambient sonic spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Schmidt, Eduardo Morgado; Franco, Marcos Fernando; Regino, Karen Gomes; Lehmann, Eraldo Luiz; Arruda, Marco Aurélio Zezzi; de Carvalho Rocha, Werickson Fortunato; Borges, Rodrigo; de Souza, Wanderley; Eberlin, Marcos Nogueira; Correa, Deleon Nascimento

2014-12-01

Using a desorption/ionization technique, easy ambient sonic-spray ionization coupled to mass spectrometry (EASI-MS), documents related to the 2nd generation of Brazilian Real currency (R$) were screened in the positive ion mode for authenticity based on chemical profiles obtained directly from the banknote surface. Characteristic profiles were observed for authentic, seized suspect counterfeit and counterfeited homemade banknotes from inkjet and laserjet printers. The chemicals in the authentic banknotes' surface were detected via a few minor sets of ions, namely from the plasticizers bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), most likely related to the official offset printing process, and other common quaternary ammonium cations, presenting a similar chemical profile to 1st-generation R$. The seized suspect counterfeit banknotes, however, displayed abundant diagnostic ions in the m/z 400-800 range due to the presence of oligomers. High-accuracy FT-ICR MS analysis enabled molecular formula assignment for each ion. The ions were separated by 44 m/z, which enabled their characterization as Surfynol® 4XX (S4XX, XX=40, 65, and 85), wherein increasing XX values indicate increasing amounts of ethoxylation on a backbone of 2,4,7,9-tetramethyl-5-decyne-4,7-diol (Surfynol® 104). Sodiated triethylene glycol monobutyl ether (TBG) of m/z 229 (C10H22O4Na) was also identified in the seized counterfeit banknotes via EASI(+) FT-ICR MS. Surfynol® and TBG are constituents of inks used for inkjet printing. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Development of High Precision Metal Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems Column for Portable Surface Acoustic Wave Gas Chromatograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwaya, Takamitsu; Akao, Shingo; Sakamoto, Toshihiro; Tsuji, Toshihiro; Nakaso, Noritaka; Yamanaka, Kazushi

2012-07-01

In the field of environmental measurement and security, a portable gas chromatograph (GC) is required for the on-site analysis of multiple hazardous gases. Although the gas separation column has been downsized using micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS) technology, an MEMS column made of silicon and glass still does not have sufficient robustness and a sufficiently low fabrication cost for a portable GC. In this study, we fabricated a robust and inexpensive high-precision metal MEMS column by combining diffusion-bonded etched stainless-steel plates with alignment evaluation using acoustic microscopy. The separation performance was evaluated using a desktop GC with a flame ionization detector and we achieved the high separation performance comparable to the best silicon MEMS column fabricated using a dynamic coating method. As an application, we fabricated a palm-size surface acoustic wave (SAW) GC combining this column with a ball SAW sensor and succeeded in separating and detecting a mixture of volatile organic compounds.

Investigation of novel sol-gel hydrophobic surfaces for desorption electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry analysis.

PubMed

Penna, Andrea; Elviri, Lisa; Careri, Maria; Mangia, Alessandro; Predieri, Giovanni

2011-05-01

Sol-gel-based materials were synthesized, characterized and finally tested as solid supports for desorption electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) analysis of a mixture of compounds of different polarity. Films with thickness in the 2-4 μm range were obtained by a dip-coating process using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and octyltriethoxysilane (OTES) as sol-gel precursors. Three types of surface with different hydrophobic character were obtained by varying the TEOS/OTES ratio in the sol-gel mixture. Each coating was characterized by atomic force microscopy investigations, gaining insight into homogeneity, smoothness and thickness of the obtained films. To study hydrophobicity of each surface, surface free energy measurements were performed. Different DESI-MS responses were observed when different solvent mixture deposition procedures and solvent spray compositions were investigated. Results were finally compared to those obtained by using commercial polytetrafluoroethylene-coated slides. It was found that surface free energy plays an important role in the desorption/ionization process as a function of the polarity of analytes.

Progress of MICE RFCC Module

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

Li, D.; Bowring, D.; DeMello, A.

2012-05-20

Recent progress on the design and fabrication of the RFCC (RF and superconducting Coupling Coil) module for the international MICE (Muon Ionization Cooling Experiment) are reported. The MICE ionization cooling channel has two RFCC modules, each having four 201- MHz normal conducting RF cavities surrounded by one superconducting coupling coil (solenoid) magnet. The magnet is designed to be cooled by three cryocoolers. Fabrication of the RF cavities is complete; preparation for the cavity electro-polishing, low power RF measurements, and tuning are in progress at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). Fabrication of the cold mass of the first coupling coil magnetmore » has been completed in China and the cold mass arrived at LBNL in late 2011. Preparations for testing the cold mass are currently under way at Fermilab. Plans for the RFCC module assembly and integration are being developed and are described.« less

Low-frequency oscillations in Hall thrusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Li-Qiu; Han, Liang; Yu, Da-Ren; Guo, Ning

2015-05-01

In this paper, we summarize the research development of low-frequency oscillations in the last few decades. The findings of physical mechanism, characteristics and stabilizing methods of low-frequency oscillations are discussed. It shows that it is unreasonable and incomplete to model an ionization region separately to analyze the physical mechanism of low-frequency oscillations. Electro-dynamics as well as the formation conditions of ionization distribution play an important role in characteristics and stabilizing of low-frequency oscillations. Understanding the physical mechanism and characteristics of low- frequency oscillations thoroughly and developing a feasible method stabilizing this instability are still important research subjects. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 51477035), the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, China (Grant No. HIT.NSRIF 2015064), and the Open Research Fund Program of State Key Laboratory of Cryogenic Vacuum Technology and Physics, China (Grant No. ZDK201304).

Ionizing doses and displacement damage testing of COTS CMOS imagers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernard, Frédéric; Petit, Sophie; Courtade, Sophie

2017-11-01

CMOS sensors begin to be a credible alternative to CCD sensors in some space missions. However, technology evolution of CMOS sensors is much faster than CCD one's. So a continuous technology evaluation is needed for CMOS imagers. Many of commercial COTS (Components Off The Shelf) CMOS sensors use organic filters, micro-lenses and non rad-hard technologies. An evaluation of the possibilities offered by such technologies is interesting before any custom development. This can be obtained by testing commercial COTS imagers. This article will present electro-optical performances evolution of off the shelves CMOS imagers after Ionizing Doses until 50kRad(Si) and Displacement Damage environment tests (until 1011 p/cm2 at 50 MeV). Dark current level and non uniformity evolutions are compared and discussed. Relative spectral response measurement and associated evolution with irradiation will also be presented and discussed. Tests have been performed on CNES detection benches.

Determination of geniposide in adjuvant arthritis rat plasma by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method and its application to oral bioavailability and plasma protein binding ability studies.

PubMed

Chen, Jian; Wu, Hong; Xu, Guo-Bing; Dai, Miao-Miao; Hu, Shun-Li; Sun, Liang-Liang; Wang, Wei; Wang, Rong; Li, Shu-Pin; Li, Guo-Qiang

2015-04-10

A specific, sensitive and high throughput ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric method (UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS) was established and validated to assay geniposide (GE), a promising anti-inflammatory drug, in adjuvant arthritis rat plasma: application to pharmacokinetic and oral bioavailability studies and plasma protein binding ability. Plasma samples were processed by de-proteinised with ice-cold methanol and separated on an ACQUITY UPLC™ HSS C18 column (100 mm × 2.1mm i.d., 1.8 μm particle size) at a gradient flow rate of 0.2 mL/min using acetonitrile-0.1% formic acid in water as mobile phase, and the total run time was 9 min. Mass detection was performed in selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode with negative electro-spray ionization includes the addition of paeoniflorin (Pae) as an internal standard (IS). The mass transition ion-pair was followed as m/z 387.4 → 122.4 for GE and m/z 479.4 → 449.0 for IS. The calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 2-50,000 ng/mL with lower limit of quantification of 2 ng/mL. The intra-day and inter-day precisions (RSD, %) of the assay were less than 8.4%, and the accuracy was within ± 6.4% in terms of relative error (RE). Extraction recovery, matrix effect and stability were satisfactory in adjuvant arthritis rat plasma. The UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of GE after oral administration of depurated GE at 33, 66, 132 mg/kg and intravenous injection at 33, 66, 132 mg/kg in adjuvant arthritis (AA) rats. In addition, it was found that GE has rapid absorption and elimination, low absolute bioavailability, high plasma protein binding ability in AA rats after oral administration within the tested dosage range. It suggested that GE showed slow distribution into the intra- and extracellular space, and the binding rate was not proportionally dependent on plasma concentration of GE when the concentration of GE was below 5.0 μg/mL. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Coupling corona discharge for ambient extractive ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Hu, Bin; Zhang, Xinglei; Li, Ming; Peng, Xuejiao; Han, Jing; Yang, Shuiping; Ouyang, Yongzhong; Chen, Huanwen

2011-12-07

Unlike the extractive electrospray ionization (EESI) technique described elsewhere, a corona discharge instead of electrospray ionization has been utilized to charge a neutral solvent spray under ambient conditions for the generation of highly charged microdroplets, which impact a neutral sample plume for the extractive ionization of the analytes in raw samples without any sample pretreatment. Using the positive ion mode, molecular radical cations were easily generated for the detection of non-polar compounds (e.g., benzene, cyclohexane, etc.), while protonated molecular ions of polar compounds (e.g., acetonitrile, acetic ether) were readily produced for the detection. By dispensing the matrix in a relatively large space, this method tolerates highly complex matrices. For a given sample such as lily fragrances, more compounds were detected by the method established here than the EESI technique. An acceptable relative standard deviation (RSD 8.9%, n = 11) was obtained for the direct measurement of explosives (10 ppb) in waste water samples. The experimental data demonstrate that this method could simultaneously detect both polar and non-polar analytes with high sensitivity, showing promising applications for the rapid detection of a wide variety of compounds present in complex matrices.

High temperature low friction surface coating

DOEpatents

Bhushan, Bharat

1980-01-01

A high temperature, low friction, flexible coating for metal surfaces which are subject to rubbing contact includes a mixture of three parts graphite and one part cadmium oxide, ball milled in water for four hours, then mixed with thirty percent by weight of sodium silicate in water solution and a few drops of wetting agent. The mixture is sprayed 12-15 microns thick onto an electro-etched metal surface and air dried for thirty minutes, then baked for two hours at 65.degree. C. to remove the water and wetting agent, and baked for an additional eight hours at about 150.degree. C. to produce the optimum bond with the metal surface. The coating is afterwards burnished to a thickness of about 7-10 microns.

In2O3-based multicomponent metal oxide films and their prospects for thermoelectric applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korotcenkov, G.; Brinzari, V.; Cho, B. K.

2016-02-01

Thermoelectric properties of In2O3-SnO2-based multi-component metal oxide films formed by spray pyrolysis method are studied. It is shown that the introduction of additional components such as gallium and zinc can control the parameters of the deposited layers. At that, the doping with gallium is more effective for optimization of the efficiency of the thermoelectric conversion. The explanation of the observed changes in the electro-physical and thermoelectric properties of the films at the composition change is given. It is found that the main changes in the properties of multicomponent metal oxide films take place at concentrations of dopants which correspond to their limit solubility in the dominant oxide.

Thin layer chromatography coupled to paper spray ionization mass spectrometry for cocaine and its adulterants analysis.

PubMed

De Carvalho, Thays C; Tosato, Flavia; Souza, Lindamara M; Santos, Heloa; Merlo, Bianca B; Ortiz, Rafael S; Rodrigues, Rayza R T; Filgueiras, Paulo R; França, Hildegardo S; Augusti, Rodinei; Romão, Wanderson; Vaz, Boniek G

2016-05-01

Thin layer chromatography (TLC) is a simple and inexpensive type of chromatography that is extensively used in forensic laboratories for drugs of abuse analysis. In this work, TLC is optimized to analyze cocaine and its adulterants (caffeine, benzocaine, lidocaine and phenacetin) in which the sensitivity (visual determination of LOD from 0.5 to 14mgmL(-1)) and the selectivity (from the study of three different eluents: CHCl3:CH3OH:HCOOHglacial (75:20:5v%), (C2H5)2O:CHCl3 (50:50v%) and CH3OH:NH4OH (100:1.5v%)) were evaluated. Aiming to improve these figures of merit, the TLC spots were identified and quantified (linearity with R(2)>0.98) by the paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS-MS), reaching now lower LOD values (>1.0μgmL(-1)). The method developed in this work open up perspective of enhancing the reliability of traditional and routine TLC analysis employed in the criminal expertise units. Higher sensitivity, selectivity and rapidity can be provided in forensic reports, besides the possibility of quantitative analysis. Due to the great simplicity, the PS(+)-MS technique can also be coupled directly to other separation techniques such as the paper chromatography and can still be used in analyses of LSD blotter, documents and synthetic drugs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Combined Desorption Ionization by Charge Exchange (DICE) and Desorption Electrospray Ionization (DESI) Source for Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chan, Chang-Ching; Bolgar, Mark S.; Miller, Scott A.; Attygalle, Athula B.

2011-01-01

A source that couples the desorption ionization by charge exchange (DICE) and desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) techniques together was demonstrated to broaden the range of compounds that can be analyzed in a single mass spectrometric experiment under ambient conditions. A tee union was used to mix the spray reagents into a partially immiscible blend before this mixture was passed through a conventional electrospray (ES) probe capillary. Using this technique, compounds that are ionized more efficiently by the DICE method and those that are ionized better with the DESI procedure could be analyzed simultaneously. For example, hydroquinone, which is not detected when subjected to DESI-MS in the positive-ion generation mode, or the sodium adduct of guaifenesin, which is not detected when examined by DICE-MS, could both be detected in one experiment when the two techniques were combined. The combined technique was able to generate the molecular ion, proton and metal adduct from the same compound. When coupled to a tandem mass spectrometer, the combined source enabled the generation of product ion spectra from the molecular ion and the [M + H]+ or [M + metal]+ ions of the same compound without the need to physically change the source from DICE to DESI. The ability to record CID spectra of both the molecular ion and adduct ions in a single mass spectrometric experiment adds a new dimension to the array of mass spectrometric methods available for structural studies.

Electrospray ion source with reduced analyte electrochemistry

DOEpatents

Kertesz, Vilmos [Knoxville, TN; Van Berkel, Gary [Clinton, TN

2011-08-23

An electrospray ion (ESI) source and method capable of ionizing an analyte molecule without oxidizing or reducing the analyte of interest. The ESI source can include an emitter having a liquid conduit, a working electrode having a liquid contacting surface, a spray tip, a secondary working electrode, and a charge storage coating covering partially or fully the liquid contacting surface of the working electrode. The liquid conduit, the working electrode and the secondary working electrode can be in liquid communication. The electrospray ion source can also include a counter electrode proximate to, but separated from, said spray tip. The electrospray ion source can also include a power system for applying a voltage difference between the working electrodes and a counter-electrode. The power system can deliver pulsed voltage changes to the working electrodes during operation of said electrospray ion source to minimize the surface potential of the charge storage coating.

Electrospray ion source with reduced analyte electrochemistry

DOEpatents

Kertesz, Vilmos; Van Berkel, Gary J

2013-07-30

An electrospray ion (ESI) source and method capable of ionizing an analyte molecule without oxidizing or reducing the analyte of interest. The ESI source can include an emitter having a liquid conduit, a working electrode having a liquid contacting surface, a spray tip, a secondary working electrode, and a charge storage coating covering partially or fully the liquid contacting surface of the working electrode. The liquid conduit, the working electrode and the secondary working electrode can be in liquid communication. The electrospray ion source can also include a counter electrode proximate to, but separated from, said spray tip. The electrospray ion source can also include a power system for applying a voltage difference between the working electrodes and a counter-electrode. The power system can deliver pulsed voltage changes to the working electrodes during operation of said electrospray ion source to minimize the surface potential of the charge storage coating.

An atmospheric pressure ionization source using a high voltage target compared to electrospray ionization for the LC/MS analysis of pharmaceutical compounds.

PubMed

Lubin, Arnaud; De Vries, Ronald; Cabooter, Deirdre; Augustijns, Patrick; Cuyckens, Filip

2017-08-05

The type and design of an ionization source can have a significant influence on the performances of a bioanalytical method. It is, therefore, of high interest to evaluate the performances of newly introduced sources to highlight their benefits and limitations in comparison to other well established sources. In this paper, liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC/MS) performances of a new atmospheric pressure ionization (API) source, commercialized as UniSpray, is evaluated. The dynamic range of 24 pharmaceutical and biological compounds is compared between the new API source and electrospray ionization (ESI) for 3 different mobile phase conditions. Matrix effects are also compared with ESI on a refined selection of 19 pharmaceutical and biological compounds in 4 matrices commonly encountered in bioanalysis. A slightly better dynamic range towards lower concentrations was often observed with the new API source. Matrix effects were quite similar between the two sources with a small, but statistically significant, lower percentage of matrix effects observed for the new API source in plasma and bile in the positive ion mode, and bile in negative ion mode for ESI. Finally, the sensitivity of late eluting compounds could be improved on the new API source by post-column addition of water. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Solvated dissipative electro-elastic network model of hydrated proteins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, Daniel

2013-03-01

Elastic network models coarse grain proteins into a network of residue beads connected by springs. We add dissipative dynamics to this mechanical system by applying overdamped Langevin equations of motion to normal-mode vibrations of the network. In addition, the network is made heterogeneous and softened at the protein surface by accounting for hydration of the ionized residues. Solvation changes the network Hessian in two ways. Diagonal solvation terms soften the spring constants and off-diagonal dipole-dipole terms correlate displacements of the ionized residues. The model is used to formulate the response functions of the electrostatic potential and electric field appearing in theories of redox reactions and spectroscopy. We also formulate the dielectric response of the protein and find that solvation of the surface ionized residues leads to a slow relaxation peak in the dielectric loss spectrum, about two orders of magnitude slower than the main peak of protein relaxation. Finally, the solvated network is used to formulate the allosteric response of the protein to ion binding. The global thermodynamics of ion binding is not strongly affected by the network solvation, but it dramatically enhances conformational changes in response to placing a charge at the a the active site.

Solvated dissipative electro-elastic network model of hydrated proteins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, Daniel R.; Matyushov, Dmitry V.

2012-10-01

Elastic network models coarse grain proteins into a network of residue beads connected by springs. We add dissipative dynamics to this mechanical system by applying overdamped Langevin equations of motion to normal-mode vibrations of the network. In addition, the network is made heterogeneous and softened at the protein surface by accounting for hydration of the ionized residues. Solvation changes the network Hessian in two ways. Diagonal solvation terms soften the spring constants and off-diagonal dipole-dipole terms correlate displacements of the ionized residues. The model is used to formulate the response functions of the electrostatic potential and electric field appearing in theories of redox reactions and spectroscopy. We also formulate the dielectric response of the protein and find that solvation of the surface ionized residues leads to a slow relaxation peak in the dielectric loss spectrum, about two orders of magnitude slower than the main peak of protein relaxation. Finally, the solvated network is used to formulate the allosteric response of the protein to ion binding. The global thermodynamics of ion binding is not strongly affected by the network solvation, but it dramatically enhances conformational changes in response to placing a charge at the active site of the protein.

Measuring Sodium Chloride Contents of Aerosols

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sinha, M. P.; Friedlander, S. K.

1986-01-01

Amount of sodium chloride in individual aerosol particles measured in real time by analyzer that includes mass spectrometer. Analyzer used to determine mass distributions of active agents in therapeutic or diagnostic aerosols derived from saline solutions and in analyzing ocean spray. Aerosol particles composed of sodium chloride introduced into oven, where individually vaporized on hot wall. Vapor molecules thermally dissociated, and some of resulting sodium atoms ionized on wall. Ions leave oven in burst and analyzed by spectrometer, which is set to monitor sodium-ion intensity.

Dust: A major environmental hazard on the earth's moon

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

Heiken, G.; Vaniman, D.; Lehnert, B.

1990-01-01

On the Earth's Moon, obvious hazards to humans and machines are created by extreme temperature fluctuations, low gravity, and the virtual absence of any atmosphere. The most important other environmental factor is ionizing radiation. Less obvious environmental hazards that must be considered before establishing a manned presence on the lunar surface are the hazards from micrometeoroid bombardment, the nuisance of electro-statically-charged lunar dust, and an alien visual environment without familiar clues. Before man can establish lunar bases and lunar mining operations, and continue the exploration of that planet, we must develop a means of mitigating these hazards. 4 refs.

A one-step matrix application method for MALDI mass spectrometry imaging of bacterial colony biofilms.

PubMed

Li, Bin; Comi, Troy J; Si, Tong; Dunham, Sage J B; Sweedler, Jonathan V

2016-11-01

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging of biofilms cultured on agar plates is challenging because of problems related to matrix deposition onto agar. We describe a one-step, spray-based application of a 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid solution for direct matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging of hydrated Bacillus subtilis biofilms on agar. Using both an optimized airbrush and a home-built automatic sprayer, region-specific distributions of signaling metabolites and cannibalistic factors were visualized from B. subtilis cells cultivated on biofilm-promoting medium. The approach provides a homogeneous, relatively dry coating on hydrated samples, improving spot to spot signal repeatability compared with sieved matrix application, and is easily adapted for imaging a range of agar-based biofilms. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Analysis of Organic Anionic Surfactants in Fine and Coarse Fractions of Freshly Emitted Sea Spray Aerosol

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

Cochran, Richard E.; Laskina, Olga; Jayarathne, Thilina

The inclusion of organic compounds in freshly emitted sea spray aerosol (SSA) has been shown to be size-dependent, with an increasing organic fraction in smaller particles. Defining the molecular composition of sea spray aerosol has proven challenging, due to the mix of continental and background particles even in remote marine environments. Here we have used electrospray ionization-high resolution mass spectrometry in negative ion mode to identify organic compounds in nascent sea spray collected throughout a 25-day mesocosm experiment. Over 280 organic compounds from ten major homologous series were identified. These compounds were operationally defined as molecules containing a hydrophobic alkylmore » chain with a hydrophilic head group making them surface active. The most abundant class of molecules detected were saturated (C8–C24) and unsaturated (C12–C22) fatty acids. Fatty acid derivatives (including saturated oxo-fatty acids (C5–C18) and saturated hydroxy-fatty acids (C5–C18) were also identified. Interestingly, anthropogenic influences on SSA from the seawater were observed in the form of sulfate (C2–C7, C12–C17) and sulfonate (C16–C22) species. During the mesocosm, the distributions of molecules within each homologous series were observed to respond to variations among the levels of phytoplankton and bacteria in the seawater, indicating an important role of biological processes in determining the composition of SSA.« less

Screening and Quantification of Aliphatic Primary Alkyl Corrosion Inhibitor Amines in Water Samples by Paper Spray Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Jjunju, Fred P M; Maher, Simon; Damon, Deidre E; Barrett, Richard M; Syed, S U; Heeren, Ron M A; Taylor, Stephen; Badu-Tawiah, Abraham K

2016-01-19

Direct analysis and identification of long chain aliphatic primary diamine Duomeen O (n-oleyl-1,3-diaminopropane), corrosion inhibitor in raw water samples taken from a large medium pressure water tube boiler plant water samples at low LODs (<0.1 pg) has been demonstrated for the first time, without any sample preparation using paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS). The presence of Duomeen O in water samples was confirmed via tandem mass spectrometry using collision-induced dissociation and supported by exact mass measurement and reactive paper spray experiments using an LTQ Orbitrap Exactive instrument. Data shown herein indicate that paper spray ambient ionization can be readily used as a rapid and robust method for in situ direct analysis of polymanine corrosion inhibitors in an industrial water boiler plant and other related samples in the water treatment industry. This approach was applied for the analysis of three complex water samples including feedwater, condensate water, and boiler water, all collected from large medium pressure (MP) water tube boiler plants, known to be dosed with varying amounts of polyamine and amine corrosion inhibitor components. Polyamine chemistry is widely used for example in large high pressure (HP) boilers operating in municipal waste and recycling facilities to prevent corrosion of metals. The samples used in this study are from such a facility in Coventry waste treatment facility, U.K., which has 3 × 40 tonne/hour boilers operating at 17.5 bar.

Direct olive oil analysis by mass spectrometry: A comparison of different ambient ionization methods.

PubMed

Lara-Ortega, Felipe J; Beneito-Cambra, Miriam; Robles-Molina, José; García-Reyes, Juan F; Gilbert-López, Bienvenida; Molina-Díaz, Antonio

2018-04-01

Analytical methods based on ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AIMS) combine the classic outstanding performance of mass spectrometry in terms of sensitivity and selectivity along with convenient features related to the lack of sample workup required. In this work, the performance of different mass spectrometry-based methods has been assessed for the direct analyses of virgin olive oil for quality purposes. Two sets of experiments have been setup: (1) direct analysis of untreated olive oil using AIMS methods such as Low-Temperature Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LTP-MS) or paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS); or alternatively (2) the use of atmospheric pressure ionization (API) mass spectrometry by direct infusion of a diluted sample through either atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) or electrospray (ESI) ionization sources. The second strategy involved a minimum sample work-up consisting of a simple olive oil dilution (from 1:10 to 1:1000) with appropriate solvents, which originated critical carry over effects in ESI, making unreliable its use in routine; thus, ESI required the use of a liquid-liquid extraction to shift the measurement towards a specific part of the composition of the edible oil (i.e. polyphenol rich fraction or lipid/fatty acid profile). On the other hand, LTP-MS enabled direct undiluted mass analysis of olive oil. The use of PS-MS provided additional advantages such as an extended ionization coverage/molecular weight range (compared to LTP-MS) and the possibility to increase the ionization efficiency towards nonpolar compounds such as squalene through the formation of Ag + adducts with carbon-carbon double bounds, an attractive feature to discriminate between oils with different degree of unsaturation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ambient mass spectrometry: Direct analysis of dimethoate, tebuconazole, and trifloxystrobin on olive and vine leaves by desorption electrospray ionization interface.

PubMed

Mainero Rocca, Lucia; Cecca, Juri; L'Episcopo, Nunziata; Fabrizi, Giovanni

2017-11-01

A new field of application for a relatively new mass-spectrometric interface such as desorption electrospray ionization was evaluated. For this purpose, its behavior was tested versus quantitative analysis of dimethoate, trifloxystrobin, and tebuconazole directly on olive and vine leaves surface. The goal was workers exposure assessment during field re-entry operations since evidence suggests an association between chronic occupational exposure to some agrochemicals and severe adverse effects. Desorption electrospray ionization gave good response working in positive ionization mode, while numerous test were necessary for the choice of a unique blend of spray solvents suitable for all 3 substances. The best compromise, in terms of signal to noise ratios, was obtained with the CH 3 OH/H 2 O (80:20) mixture. The obvious difficulties related to the impossibility to use the internal standard were overcome through an accurate validation. Limits of detection and quantitation, dynamic ranges, matrix effects, and intraday precisions were calculated, and a small monitoring campaign was arranged to test method applicability and to evaluate potential dermal exposure. This protocol was developed in work safety field, but after a brief investigation, it was find to be suitable also for food residue evaluation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Development of a multiplexed electrospray micro-thruster with post-acceleration and beam containment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lenguito, G.; Gomez, A.

2013-10-01

We report the development of a compact thruster based on Multiplexed ElectroSprays (MES). It relied on a microfabricated Si array of emitters coupled with an extractor electrode and an accelerator electrode. The accelerator stage was introduced for two purposes: containing beam opening and avoiding electrode erosion due to droplet impingement, as well as boosting specific impulse and thrust. Multiplexing is generally necessary as a thrust multiplier to reach eventually the level required (O(102) μN) by small satellites. To facilitate system optimization and debugging, we focused on a 7-nozzle MES device and compared its performance to that of a single emitter. To ensure uniformity of operation of all nozzles their hydraulic impedance was augmented by packing them with micrometer-size beads. Two propellants were tested: a solution of 21.5% methyl ammonium formate in formamide and the better performing pure ionic liquid ethyl ammonium nitrate (EAN). The 7-MES device spraying EAN at ΔV = 5.93 kV covered a specific impulse range from 620 s to 1900 s and a thrust range from 0.6 μN to 5.4 μN, at 62% efficiency. Remarkably, less than 1% of the beam was demonstrated to impact on the accelerator electrode, which bodes well for long-term applications in space.

Simultaneous Extraction Optimization and Analysis of Flavonoids from the Flowers of Tabernaemontana heyneana by High Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Diode Array Detector and Electron Spray Ionization/Mass Spectrometry

PubMed Central

Sathishkumar, Thiyagarajan; Baskar, Ramakrishnan; Aravind, Mohan; Tilak, Suryanarayanan; Deepthi, Sri; Bharathikumar, Vellalore Maruthachalam

2013-01-01

Flavonoids are exploited as antioxidants, antimicrobial, antithrombogenic, antiviral, and antihypercholesterolemic agents. Normally, conventional extraction techniques like soxhlet or shake flask methods provide low yield of flavonoids with structural loss, and thereby, these techniques may be considered as inefficient. In this regard, an attempt was made to optimize the flavonoid extraction using orthogonal design of experiment and subsequent structural elucidation by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector-electron spray ionization/mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS) techniques. The shake flask method of flavonoid extraction was observed to provide a yield of 1.2 ± 0.13 (mg/g tissue). With the two different solvents, namely, ethanol and ethyl acetate, tried for the extraction optimization of flavonoid, ethanol (80.1 mg/g tissue) has been proved better than ethyl acetate (20.5 mg/g tissue). The optimal conditions of the extraction of flavonoid were found to be 85°C, 3 hours with a material ratio of 1 : 20, 75% ethanol, and 1 cycle of extraction. About seven different phenolics like robinin, quercetin, rutin, sinapoyl-hexoside, dicaffeic acid, and two unknown compounds were identified for the first time in the flowers of T. heyneana. The study has also concluded that L16 orthogonal design of experiment is an effective method for the extraction of flavonoid than the shake flask method. PMID:25969771

Sea-State Dependence of Aerosol Concentration in the Marine Atmospheric Boundary Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lenain, L.; Melville, W. K.

2016-02-01

While sea spray aerosols represent a large portion of the aerosols present in the marine environment, and despite evidence of the importance of surface wave and wave-breaking related processes in the coupling of the ocean with the atmosphere, sea spray source generation functions are traditionally parameterized by the wind speed at 10m. It is clear that unless the wind and wave field are fully developed, the source function will be a function of both wind and wave parameters. In this study, we report on an air-sea interaction experiment, the ONR phase-resolved High-Resolution Air-Sea Interaction experiments (HIRES), conducted off the coast of Northern California in June 2010. Detailed measurements of aerosol number concentration in the Marine Atmospheric Boundary Layer (MABL), at altitudes ranging from as low as 30m and up to 800m AMSL over a broad range of environmental conditions (significant wave height, Hs, of 2 to 4.5m and wind speed at 10m height, U10, of 10 to 18 m/s) collected from an instrumented research aircraft, are presented. Aerosol number densities and volume are computed over a range of particle diameters from 0.1 to 200 µm, while the surface conditions, i.e. significant wave height, moments of the breaker length distribution Λ(c), and wave breaking dissipation, were measured by a suite of electro-optical sensors that included the NASA Airborne Topographic Mapper (ATM). The sea-state dependence of the aerosol concentration in the MABL is evident, ultimately stressing the need to incorporate wave and wave kinematics in the spray source generation functions that are traditionally primarily parameterized by surface winds. A scaling of the measured aerosol volume distribution by wave and atmospheric state variables is proposed.

Plasma impregnation of wood with fire retardants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pabeliña, Karel G.; Lumban, Carmencita O.; Ramos, Henry J.

2012-02-01

The efficacy of chemical and plasma treatments with phosphate and boric compounds, and nitrogen as flame retardants on wood are compared in this study. The chemical treatment involved the conventional method of spraying the solution over the wood surface at atmospheric condition and chemical vapor deposition in a vacuum chamber. The plasma treatment utilized a dielectric barrier discharge ionizing and decomposing the flame retardants into innocuous simple compounds. Wood samples are immersed in either phosphoric acid, boric acid, hydrogen or nitrogen plasmas or a plasma admixture of two or three compounds at various concentrations and impregnated by the ionized chemical reactants. Chemical changes on the wood samples were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) while the thermal changes through thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA). Plasma-treated samples exhibit superior thermal stability and fire retardant properties in terms of highest onset temperature, temperature of maximum pyrolysis, highest residual char percentage and comparably low total percentage weight loss.

Electrospray ionization from nanopipette emitters with tip diameters of less than 100 nm.

PubMed

Yuill, Elizabeth M; Sa, Niya; Ray, Steven J; Hieftje, Gary M; Baker, Lane A

2013-09-17

Work presented here demonstrates application of nanopipettes pulled to orifice diameters of less than 100 nm as electrospray ionization emitters for mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometric analysis of a series of peptides and proteins electrosprayed from pulled-quartz capillary nanopipette emitters with internal diameters ranging from 37 to 70 nm is detailed. Overall, the use of nanopipette emitters causes a shift toward the production of ions of higher charge states and leads to a reduction in width of charge-state distribution as compared to typical nanospray conditions. Further, nanopipettes show improved S/N and the same signal precision as typical nanospray, despite the much smaller dimensions. As characterized by SEM images acquired before and after spray, nanopipettes are shown to be robust under conditions employed. Analytical calculations and numerical simulations are used to calculate the electric field at the emitter tip, which can be significant for the small diameter tips used.

Quantitative determination of the hydrolysis products of nitrogen mustards in human urine by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Lemire, Sharon W; Ashley, David L; Calafat, Antonia M

2003-01-01

Nitrogen mustards are a public health concern because of their extreme vesicant properties and the possible exposure of workers during the destruction of chemical stockpiles. A sensitive, rapid, accurate, and precise analysis for the quantitation of ultratrace levels of N-ethyldiethanolamine (EDEA) and N-methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) in human urine as a means of assessing recent exposure to the nitrogen mustards bis(2-chloroethyl)ethylamine and bis(2-chloroethyl)methylamine, respectively, was developed. The method was based on solid-phase extraction, followed by analysis of the urine extract using isotope-dilution high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry with TurbolonSpray ionization and multiple-reaction monitoring. The method limits of detection were 0.41 ng/mL for EDEA and 0.96 ng/mL for MDEA in 1 mL of urine with coefficients of variation < 10% for both compounds.

Molecular recognition of emerald ash borer infestation using leaf spray mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Falcone, Caitlin E; Cooks, R Graham

2016-06-15

The introduction of the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis) (EAB) from Asia to Michigan, USA, in the 1990s caused the widespread death of ash trees in two Canadian provinces and 24 US states. The three current methods for the detection of emerald ash borer infestation, visual surveys, tree girdling and artificial traps, can be unreliable, and there is clearly a need for a rapid, dependable technique for the detection of emerald ash borer infestation. Leaf spray, an ambient ionization method for mass spectrometry (MS), gives direct chemical information on a leaf sample by applying a high voltage to a naturally or artificially sharply pointed leaf piece causing ions to be generated directly from the leaf tip for MS analysis. Leaflets from 23 healthy and EAB-infested ash trees were analyzed by leaf spray mass spectrometry in an attempt to distinguish healthy and EAB-infested ash trees. In negative ion mode, healthy ash trees showed an increased abundance of ions m/z 455.5, 471.5 and 487.5, and ash trees infested with the EAB displayed an increased abundance of ions m/z 181 and 217. The identities of the chemical discriminators ursolic acid and oleanolic acid in healthy ash trees, and six-carbon sugar alcohols in infested ash trees, were determined by tandem mass spectrometry and confirmed with standards. This preliminary study suggests that leaf spray mass spectrometry of ash tree leaflets provides a potential tool for the early detection of ash tree infestation by the emerald ash borer. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Measurements of photorefractive and absorptive gratings in GaAs:EL2 and their use in extracting material parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rychnovsky, Steve; Gilbreath, G. C.; Zavriyev, A.

1996-10-01

Simultaneous measurements of the photorefractive and the absorptive grating gain components in GaAs:EL2 are made and are shown to display qualitative behavior consistent with linearized solutions of a two-carrier rate equation model. These two components, together with the linear absorption coefficient, permit determination of four independent material parameters, e.g., the ionized and the nonionized EL2 densities, the hole photoionization cross section ( sigma h), and the electro-optic coefficient (r41). Data obtained at optical wavelengths of 0.96 and 1.06 mu m indicate that sigma h and r41 are larger than published values. .

A Methoxydiphenylamine-Substituted Carbazole Twin Derivative: An Efficient Hole-Transporting Material for Perovskite Solar Cells.

PubMed

Gratia, Paul; Magomedov, Artiom; Malinauskas, Tadas; Daskeviciene, Maryte; Abate, Antonio; Ahmad, Shahzada; Grätzel, Michael; Getautis, Vytautas; Nazeeruddin, Mohammad Khaja

2015-09-21

The small-molecule-based hole-transporting material methoxydiphenylamine-substituted carbazole was synthesized and incorporated into a CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cell, which displayed a power conversion efficiency of 16.91%, the second highest conversion efficiency after that of Spiro-OMeTAD. The investigated hole-transporting material was synthesized in two steps from commercially available and relatively inexpensive starting reagents. Various electro-optical measurements (UV/Vis, IV, thin-film conductivity, hole mobility, DSC, TGA, ionization potential) have been carried out to characterize the new hole-transporting material. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Three-dimensional printing-based electro-millifluidic devices for fabricating multi-compartment particles.

PubMed

Chen, Qiu Lan; Liu, Zhou; Shum, Ho Cheung

2014-11-01

In this work, we demonstrate the use of stereolithographic 3D printing to fabricate millifluidic devices, which are used to engineer particles with multiple compartments. As the 3D design is directly transferred to the actual prototype, this method accommodates 3D millimeter-scaled features that are difficult to achieve by either lithographic-based microfabrication or traditional macrofabrication techniques. We exploit this approach to produce millifluidic networks to deliver multiple fluidic components. By taking advantage of the laminar flow, the fluidic components can form liquid jets with distinct patterns, and each pattern has clear boundaries between the liquid phases. Afterwards, droplets with controlled size are fabricated by spraying the liquid jet in an electric field, and subsequently converted to particles after a solidification step. As a demonstration, we fabricate calcium alginate particles with structures of (1) slice-by-slice multiple lamellae, (2) concentric core-shells, and (3) petals surrounding the particle centers. Furthermore, distinct hybrid particles combining two or more of the above structures are also obtained. These compartmentalized particles impart spatially dependent functionalities and properties. To show their applicability, various ingredients, including fruit juices, drugs, and magnetic nanoparticles are encapsulated in the different compartments as proof-of-concepts for applications, including food, drug delivery, and bioassays. Our 3D printed electro-millifluidic approach represents a convenient and robust method to extend the range of structures of functional particles.

On spray drying of oxidized corn starch cross-linked gelatin microcapsules for drug release.

PubMed

Dang, Xugang; Yang, Mao; Shan, Zhihua; Mansouri, Shahnaz; May, Bee K; Chen, Xiaodong; Chen, Hui; Woo, Meng Wai

2017-05-01

Spray-dried gelatin/oxidized corn starch (G/OCS) microcapsules were produced for drug release application. The prepared microcapsules were characterized through a scanning electron microscope (SEM) picture and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The swelling characteristics of the G/OCS microcapsules and release properties of vitamin C were then investigated. The results from structural analysis indicated that the presence of miscibility and compatibility between oxidized corn starch and gelatin, and exhibits high thermal stability up to 326°C. The swelling of G/OCS microcapsules increased with increasing pH and reduced with decreasing ionic strength, attributed to the cross-linking between gelatin and oxidized corn starch, ionization of functional groups. Vitamin C release characteristic revealed controlled release behavior in the first 3h of contact with an aqueous medium. This release behavior was independent of the swelling behavior indicating the potential of the encapsulating matrix to produce controlled release across a spectrum of pH environment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous screening for 238 drugs in blood by liquid chromatography-ion spray tandem mass spectrometry with multiple-reaction monitoring.

PubMed

Gergov, M; Ojanperä, I; Vuori, E

2003-09-25

A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) method is presented for the qualitative screening for 238 drugs in blood samples, which is considerably more than in previous methods. After a two-step liquid-liquid extraction and C(18) chromatography, the compounds were introduced into a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer equipped with a turbo ion spray ion source operating in the positive ionization mode. Identification was based on the compound's absolute retention time, protonated molecular ion, and one representative fragment ion obtained by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) at an individually selected collision energy of 20, 35, or 50 eV. The limit of detection (LOD) for the majority of the compounds (80%) was < or = 0.05 mg/l, ranging from 0.002 mg/l (e.g., antihistamines) to 5 mg/l (acidic compounds), and for malathion it was 10 mg/l. The LOD values were sufficiently low to allow the majority of compounds to be detected at therapeutic concentrations in the blood.

Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometry Measurement of Aminotransferase Activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Xin; Li, Xin; Zhang, Chengsen; Xu, Yang; Cooks, R. Graham

2017-06-01

A change in enzyme activity has been used as a clinical biomarker for diagnosis and is useful in evaluating patient prognosis. Current laboratory measurements of enzyme activity involve multi-step derivatization of the reaction products followed by quantitative analysis of these derivatives. This study simplified the reaction systems by using only the target enzymatic reaction and directly detecting its product. A protocol using paper spray mass spectrometry for identifying and quantifying the reaction product has been developed. Evaluation of the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was chosen as a proof-of-principle. The volume of sample needed is greatly reduced compared with the traditional method. Paper spray has a desalting effect that avoids sprayer clogging problems seen when examining serum samples by nanoESI. This very simple method does not require sample pretreatment and additional derivatization reactions, yet it gives high quality kinetic data, excellent limits of detection (60 ppb from serum), and coefficients of variation <10% in quantitation. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Solidification of Undercooled Melts of Al-Based Alloys on Earth and in Space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herlach, Dieter M.; Burggraf, Stefan; Galenko, Peter; Gandin, Charles-André; Garcia-Escorial, Asuncion; Henein, Hani; Karrasch, Christian; Mullis, Andrew; Rettenmayr, Markus; Valloton, Jonas

2017-08-01

Containerless processing of droplets and drops by atomization and electromagnetic levitation are applied to undercool metallic melts and alloys prior to solidification. Heterogeneous nucleation on crucible walls is completely avoided giving access to large undercoolings. Experiments are performed both under terrestrial (1 g) conditions and in reduced gravity ( µg) as well. Microgravity conditions are realized by the free fall of small droplets during atomization of a spray of droplets, individual drops in a drop tube and by electromagnetic levitation of drops during parabolic flights, sounding rocket missions, and using the electro-magnetic levitator multi-user facility on board the International Space Station. The comparison of both sets of experiments in 1 g and µg leads to an estimation of the influence of forced convection on dendrite growth kinetics and microstructure evolution.

Isolation of cyanidin 3-glucoside from blue honeysuckle fruits by high-speed counter-current chromatography.

PubMed

Chen, Liang; Xin, Xiulan; Lan, Rong; Yuan, Qipeng; Wang, Xiaojie; Li, Ye

2014-01-01

Blue honeysuckle fruits are rich in anthocyanins with many beneficial effects such as reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancers. High-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) was used for the separation of anthocyanin on a preparative scale from blue honeysuckle fruit crude extract with a biphasic solvent system composed of tert-butyl methyl ether/n-butanol/acetonitrile/water/trifluoroacetic acid (2:2:1:5:0.01, v/v) for the first time in this paper. Each injection of 100 mg crude extract yielded 22.8 mg of cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G) at 98.1% purity. The compound was identified by means of electro-spray ionisation mass (ESI/MS) and (1)H and (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Advanced ice protection systems test in the NASA Lewis icing research tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bond, Thomas H.; Shin, Jaiwon; Mesander, Geert A.

1991-01-01

Tests of eight different deicing systems based on variations of three different technologies were conducted in the NASA Lewis Research Center Icing Research Tunnel (IRT) in June and July 1990. The systems used pneumatic, eddy current repulsive, and electro-expulsive means to shed ice. The tests were conducted on a 1.83 m span, 0.53 m chord NACA 0012 airfoil operated at a 4 degree angle of attack. The models were tested at two temperatures: a glaze condition at minus 3.9 C and a rime condition at minus 17.2 C. The systems were tested through a range of icing spray times and cycling rates. Characterization of the deicers was accomplished by monitoring power consumption, ice shed particle size, and residual ice. High speed video motion analysis was performed to quantify ice particle size.

Electro-thermal vaporization direct analysis in real time-mass spectrometry for water contaminant analysis during space missions.

PubMed

Dwivedi, Prabha; Gazda, Daniel B; Keelor, Joel D; Limero, Thomas F; Wallace, William T; Macatangay, Ariel V; Fernández, Facundo M

2013-10-15

The development of a direct analysis in real time-mass spectrometry (DART-MS) method and first prototype vaporizer for the detection of low molecular weight (∼30-100 Da) contaminants representative of those detected in water samples from the International Space Station is reported. A temperature-programmable, electro-thermal vaporizer (ETV) was designed, constructed, and evaluated as a sampling interface for DART-MS. The ETV facilitates analysis of water samples with minimum user intervention while maximizing analytical sensitivity and sample throughput. The integrated DART-ETV-MS methodology was evaluated in both positive and negative ion modes to (1) determine experimental conditions suitable for coupling DART with ETV as a sample inlet and ionization platform for time-of-flight MS, (2) to identify analyte response ions, (3) to determine the detection limit and dynamic range for target analyte measurement, and (4) to determine the reproducibility of measurements made with the method when using manual sample introduction into the vaporizer. Nitrogen was used as the DART working gas, and the target analytes chosen for the study were ethyl acetate, acetone, acetaldehyde, ethanol, ethylene glycol, dimethylsilanediol, formaldehyde, isopropanol, methanol, methylethyl ketone, methylsulfone, propylene glycol, and trimethylsilanol.

Development of a Rotating Magnetized Plasma Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cooke, David; Patton, James; Reid, Remington; Stiles, Ashley; Morrison, Patrik; Koch, Andrei

2017-10-01

Momentum coupling in plasma is a mechanism that is central to a wide range of interesting and important phenomena, magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, solar eruptions, the interaction of an electro-dynamic tether system in the Earth's ionosphere, and the Critical Ionization Velocity (CIV) mechanism are a few examples. One result of the Space Shuttle Tethered Satellite experiment, TSS-1R, was that the current-voltage response of the experiment in all orbit conditions fell into a narrow range of curves when parameterized as a plasma probe [Thompson, GRL,1998]. Another striking result was the lack of dependence on the Alfvén velocity or other electro-magnetic parameters. This result has led us to revisit the understanding of the speed with which an electric field propagates along the magnetic field using EM-PIC simulation and experiments in our new magnetized plasma chamber. Our initial experiment is a rotating plasma using a solenoidal magnetic field and a radial electric field, with pulsed differential rotation of the plasma column to study the strength of coupling and propagation speed. Characteristics of our `first light' rotating plasma will be presented. Supported by Air Force Office Scientific Research 16RVCOR264.

Conformation of ionizable poly Para phenylene ethynylene in dilute solutions

DOE PAGES

Wijesinghe, Sidath; Maskey, Sabina; Perahia, Dvora; ...

2015-11-03

The conformation of dinonyl poly para phenylene ethynylenes (PPEs) with carboxylate side chains, equilibrated in solvents of different quality is studied using molecular dynamics simulations. PPEs are of interest because of their tunable electro-optical properties, chemical diversity, and functionality which are essential in wide range of applications. The polymer conformation determines the conjugation length and their assembly mode and affects electro-optical properties which are critical in their current and potential uses. The current study investigates the effect of carboxylate fraction on PPEs side chains on the conformation of chains in the dilute limit, in solvents of different quality. The dinonylmore » PPE chains are modeled atomistically, where the solvents are modeled both implicitly and explicitly. Dinonyl PPEs maintained a stretched out conformation up to a carboxylate fraction f of 0.7 in all solvents studied. The nonyl side chains are extended and oriented away from the PPE backbone in toluene and in implicit good solvent whereas in water and implicit poor solvent, the nonyl side chains are collapsed towards the PPE backbone. Thus, rotation around the aromatic ring is fast and no long range correlations are seen within the backbone.« less

Conformation of ionizable poly Para phenylene ethynylene in dilute solutions

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

Wijesinghe, Sidath; Maskey, Sabina; Perahia, Dvora

The conformation of dinonyl poly para phenylene ethynylenes (PPEs) with carboxylate side chains, equilibrated in solvents of different quality is studied using molecular dynamics simulations. PPEs are of interest because of their tunable electro-optical properties, chemical diversity, and functionality which are essential in wide range of applications. The polymer conformation determines the conjugation length and their assembly mode and affects electro-optical properties which are critical in their current and potential uses. The current study investigates the effect of carboxylate fraction on PPEs side chains on the conformation of chains in the dilute limit, in solvents of different quality. The dinonylmore » PPE chains are modeled atomistically, where the solvents are modeled both implicitly and explicitly. Dinonyl PPEs maintained a stretched out conformation up to a carboxylate fraction f of 0.7 in all solvents studied. The nonyl side chains are extended and oriented away from the PPE backbone in toluene and in implicit good solvent whereas in water and implicit poor solvent, the nonyl side chains are collapsed towards the PPE backbone. Thus, rotation around the aromatic ring is fast and no long range correlations are seen within the backbone.« less

Experimental study of plume induced by nanosecond repetitively pulsed spark microdischarges in air at atmospheric pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orriere, Thomas; Benard, Nicolas; Moreau, Eric; Pai, David

2016-09-01

Nanosecond repetitively pulsed (NRP) spark discharges have been widely studied due to their high chemical reactivity, low gas temperature, and high ionization efficiency. They are useful in many research areas: nanomaterials synthesis, combustion, and aerodynamic flow control. In all of these fields, particular attention has been devoted to chemical species transport and/or hydrodynamic and thermal effects for applications. The aim of this study is to generate an electro-thermal plume by combining an NRP spark microdischarge in a pin-to-pin configuration with a third DC-biased electrode placed a few centimeters away. First, electrical characterization and optical emission spectroscopy were performed to reveal important plasma processes. Second, particle image velocimetry was combined with schlieren photography to investigate the main characteristics of the generated flow. Heating processes are measured by using the N2(C ->B) (0,2) and (1,3) vibrational bands, and effects due to the confinement of the discharge are described. Moreover, the presence of atomic ions N+ and O+ is discussed. Finally, the electro-thermal plume structure is characterized by a flow velocity around 1.8 m.s-1, and the thermal kernel has a spheroidal shape.

Real time monitoring of accelerated chemical reactions by ultrasonication-assisted spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Lin, Shu-Hsuan; Lo, Ta-Ju; Kuo, Fang-Yin; Chen, Yu-Chie

2014-01-01

Ultrasonication has been used to accelerate chemical reactions. It would be ideal if ultrasonication-assisted chemical reactions could be monitored by suitable detection tools such as mass spectrometry in real time. It would be helpful to clarify reaction intermediates/products and to have a better understanding of reaction mechanism. In this work, we developed a system for ultrasonication-assisted spray ionization mass spectrometry (UASI-MS) with an ~1.7 MHz ultrasonic transducer to monitor chemical reactions in real time. We demonstrated that simply depositing a sample solution on the MHz-based ultrasonic transducer, which was placed in front of the orifice of a mass spectrometer, the analyte signals can be readily detected by the mass spectrometer. Singly and multiply charged ions from small and large molecules, respectively, can be observed in the UASI mass spectra. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer used in the UASI setup accelerates the chemical reactions while being monitored via UASI-MS. The feasibility of using this approach for real-time acceleration/monitoring of chemical reactions was demonstrated. The reactions of Girard T reagent and hydroxylamine with steroids were used as the model reactions. Upon the deposition of reactant solutions on the ultrasonic transducer, the intermediate/product ions are readily generated and instantaneously monitored using MS within 1 s. Additionally, we also showed the possibility of using this reactive UASI-MS approach to assist the confirmation of trace steroids from complex urine samples by monitoring the generation of the product ions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Sensitive ionization of non-volatile analytes using protein solutions as spray liquid in desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Zhu, Zhiqiang; Han, Jing; Zhang, Yan; Zhou, Yafei; Xu, Ning; Zhang, Bo; Gu, Haiwei; Chen, Huanwen

2012-12-15

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) is the most popular ambient ionization technique for direct analysis of complex samples without sample pretreatment. However, for many applications, especially for trace analysis, it is of interest to improve the sensitivity of DESI-mass spectrometry (MS). In traditional DESI-MS, a mixture of methanol/water/acetic acid is usually used to generate the primary ions. In this article, dilute protein solutions were electrosprayed in the DESI method to create multiply charged primary ions for the desorption ionization of trace analytes on various surfaces (e.g., filter paper, glass, Al-foil) without any sample pretreatment. The analyte ions were then detected and structurally characterized using a LTQ XL mass spectrometer. Compared with the methanol/water/acetic acid (49:49:2, v/v/v) solution, protein solutions significantly increased the signal levels of non-volatile compounds such as benzoic acid, TNT, o-toluidine, peptide and insulin in either positive or negative ion detection mode. For all the analytes tested, the limits of detection (LODs) were reduced to about half of the original values which were obtained using traditional DESI. The results showed that the signal enhancement is highly correlated with the molecular weight of the proteins and the selected solid surfaces. The proposed DESI method is a universal strategy for rapid and sensitive detection of trace amounts of strongly bound and/or non-volatile analytes, including explosives, peptides, and proteins. The results indicate that the sensitivity of DESI can be further improved by selecting larger proteins and appropriate solid surfaces. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Metabolomic profiling of anionic metabolites by capillary electrophoresis mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Soga, Tomoyoshi; Igarashi, Kaori; Ito, Chiharu; Mizobuchi, Katsuo; Zimmermann, Hans-Peter; Tomita, Masaru

2009-08-01

We describe a sheath flow capillary electrophoresis time-of-flight mass spectrometry (CE-TOFMS) method in the negative mode using a platinum electrospray ionization (ESI) spray needle, which allows the comprehensive analysis of anionic metabolites. The material of the spray needle had significant effect on the measurement of anions. A stainless steel spray needle was oxidized and corroded at the anodic electrode due to electrolysis. The precipitation of iron oxides (rust) plugged the capillary outlet, resulting in shortened capillary lifetime. Many anionic metabolites also formed complexes with the iron oxides or migrating nickel ion, which was also generated by electrolysis and moved toward the cathode (the capillary inlet). The metal-anion complex formation significantly reduced detection sensitivity of the anionic compounds. The use of a platinum ESI needle prevented both oxidation of the metals and needle corrosion. Sensitivity using the platinum needle increased from several- to 63-fold, with the largest improvements for anions exhibiting high metal chelating properties such as carboxylic acids, nucleotides, and coenzyme A compounds. The detection limits for most anions were between 0.03 and 0.87 micromol/L (0.8 and 24 fmol) at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. This method is quantitative, sensitive, and robust, and its utility was demonstrated by the analysis of the metabolites in the central metabolic pathways extracted from mouse liver.

Two possible improvements for mass spectrometry analysis of intact biomolecules.

PubMed

Raznikov, Valeriy V; Zelenov, Vladislav V; Aparina, Elena V; Pikhtelev, Alexander R; Sulimenkov, Ilia V; Raznikova, Marina O

2017-08-01

The goals of our study were to investigate abilities of two approaches to eliminate possible errors in electrospray mass spectrometry measurements of biomolecules. Passing of a relatively dense supersonic gas jet through ionization region followed by its hitting the spray of the analyzed solution in low vacuum may be effective to keep an initial biomolecule structure in solution. Provided that retention of charge carriers for some sites in the biomolecule cannot be changed noticeably in electrospray ion source, decomposition and separation of charge-state distributions of electrosprayed ions may give additional information about native structure of biomolecules in solution.

Method and apparatus for multispray emitter for mass spectrometry

DOEpatents

Smith, Richard D.; Tang, Keqi; Lin, Yuehe

2004-12-14

A method and apparatus that utilizes two or more emitters simultaneously to form an electrospray of a sample that is then directed into a mass spectrometer, thereby increasing the total ion current introduced into an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer, given a liquid flow rate of a sample. The method and apparatus are most conveniently constructed as an array of spray emitters fabricated on a single chip, however, the present invention encompasses any apparatus wherein two or more emitters are simultaneously utilized to form an electrospray of a sample that is then directed into a mass spectrometer.

Electrodeposited MCrAlY Coatings for Gas Turbine Engine Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Y.

2015-11-01

Electrolytic codeposition is a promising alternative process for fabricating MCrAlY coatings. The coating process involves two steps, i.e., codeposition of CrAlY-based particles and a metal matrix of Ni, Co, or (Ni,Co), followed by a diffusion heat treatment to convert the composite coating to the desired MCrAlY microstructure. Despite the advantages such as low cost and non-line-of-sight, this coating process is less known than electron beam-physical vapor deposition and thermal spray processes for manufacturing high-temperature coatings. This article provides an overview of the electro-codeposited MCrAlY coatings for gas turbine engine applications, highlighting the unique features of this coating process and some important findings in the past 30 years. Challenges and research opportunities for further optimization of this type of MCrAlY coatings are also discussed.

Bio-Decontamination of Water and Surfaces by DC Discharges in Atmospheric Air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Machala, Zdenko; Tarabová, Barbora; Pelach, Michal; Šipoldová, Zuzana; Hensel, Karol; Janda, Mário; Šikurová, Libuša

Two types of DC-driven atmospheric air discharges, including a streamer corona and a transient spark with short high current pulses of limited energy, were employed for bio-decontamination of water and various surfaces (agar plates, plastic foils, human teeth) contaminated by bacteria or spores (Salmonella typhimurium, Bacillus cereus). Both discharges generate cold non-equilibrium plasma. The discharges combined with the electro-spraying of the treated water through the needle electrode lead to fast and efficient bio-decontamination. Experiments comparing direct and indirect plasma effects, oxidation stress measurements in the cell membranes, and chemical changes induced in the treated water enable assessment of the plasma agents being responsible for microbial inactivation. Radicals and reactive oxygen species seem to be dominant biocidal agents, although deeper understanding of the plasma-induced water chemistry and of the temporal evolution of the bio-inactivation processes is needed.

Electrospraying and Electrospinning of Polymers for Biomedical Applications. Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) and Poly(Ethylene-Co-Vinylacetate). Appendix 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stitzel, Joel D.; Bowlin, Gary L.; Mansfield, Kevin; Wnek, Gary E.; Simpson, David G.

2000-01-01

Significant opportunities exist for the processing of polymers (homopolymers and blends) using electric fields. Specific attention is given here to electrospinning, but we note that electroaerosol formation and field-modulated film casting represent additional processing options. Of particular interest is the ability to generate polymer fibers of sub-micron dimensions using electrospinning, down to about 0.05 microns (50 nm), a size range that has been traditionally difficult to access. In our work, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), PLA/PGA, poly(lactic acid) PLA, and poly(ethylene-co-vinylacetate) (PEVA) have been deposited from solutions in methylene chloride or chloroform by electrospraying or electrospinning to afford morphologically tailored materials for tissue engineering and related applications. Low solution concentrations tend to favor electrostatic spraying ('electro-aerosolization') while higher concentrations lead to spinning on fibrous mats. Preliminary observations of muscle cell growth on PLA electrospun mats are reported.

Rapid fingerprinting and classification of extra virgin olive oil by microjet sampling and extractive electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Law, Wai Siang; Chen, Huan Wen; Balabin, Roman; Berchtold, Christian; Meier, Lukas; Zenobi, Renato

2010-04-01

Microjet sampling in combination with extractive electrospray ionization (EESI) mass spectrometry (MS) was applied to the rapid characterization and classification of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) without any sample pretreatment. When modifying the composition of the primary ESI spray solvent, mass spectra of an identical EVOO sample showed differences. This demonstrates the capability of this technique to extract molecules with varying polarities, hence generating rich molecular information of the EVOO. Moreover, with the aid of microjet sampling, compounds of different volatilities (e.g.E-2-hexenal, trans-trans-2,4-heptadienal, tyrosol and caffeic acid) could be sampled simultaneously. EVOO data was also compared with that of other edible oils. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed to discriminate EVOO and EVOO adulterated with edible oils. Microjet sampling EESI-MS was found to be a simple, rapid (less than 2 min analysis time per sample) and powerful method to obtain MS fingerprints of EVOO without requiring any complicated sample pretreatment steps.

Liquid chromatographic/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric study of polyphenolic composition of four cultivars of Fragaria vesca L. berries and their comparative evaluation.

PubMed

Del Bubba, Massimo; Checchini, Leonardo; Chiuminatto, Ugo; Doumett, Saer; Fibbi, Donatella; Giordani, Edgardo

2012-09-01

High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ion spray mass spectrometry in the tandem mode with both negative and positive ionization was used for investigating a variety of polyphenolic compounds in four genotypes of Fragaria vesca berries. About 60 phenolic compounds belonging to the compound classes of phenolic acids, ellagitannins, ellagic acid derivatives, flavonols, monomeric and oligomeric flavanols, dihydrochalcones and anthocyanins were reported, providing for the first time a quite complete picture of polyphenolic composition of F. vesca berries. Some of the polyphenols herein investigated, such as a tris-galloyl-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-hexose, two castalagin/vescalagin-like isomers and peonidin-malonylglucoside, were described for the first time. Principal component analysis applied on original HPLC-MS/MS data, acquired in multiple reaction monitoring mode, successfully discriminated the four investigated cultivars on the basis of their polyphenolic composition, highlighting the fundamental role of mass spectrometry for food characterization. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Chemical characterization of synthetic cannabinoids by electrospray ionization FT-ICR mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Kill, Jade B; Oliveira, Izabela F; Tose, Lilian V; Costa, Helber B; Kuster, Ricardo M; Machado, Leandro F; Correia, Radigya M; Rodrigues, Rayza R T; Vasconcellos, Géssica A; Vaz, Boniek G; Romão, Wanderson

2016-09-01

The synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) represent the most recent advent of the new psychotropic substances (NPS) and has become popularly known to mitigate the effects of the Δ(9)-THC. The SCs are dissolved in organic solvents and sprayed in a dry herbal blend. However, little information is reported on active ingredients of SCs as well as the excipients or diluents added to the herbal blend. In this work, the direct infusion electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron mass spectrometry technique (ESI-FT-ICR MS) was applied to explore the chemical composition of nine samples of herbal extract blends, where a total of 11 SCs (UR-144, JWH-073, XLR-11, JWH-250, JWH-122, AM-2201, AKB48, JWH-210, JWH-081, MAM-2201 and 5F-AKB48) were identified in the positive ionization mode, ESI(+), and other 44 chemical species (saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, sugars, flavonoids, etc.) were detected in the negative ionization mode, ESI(-). Additionally, CID experiments were performed, and fragmentation pathways were proposed to identify the connectivity of SCs. Thus, the direct infusion ESI-FT-ICR MS technique is a powerful tool in forensic chemistry that enables the rapid and unequivocal way for the determination of molecular formula, the degree of unsaturation (DBE-double bond equivalent) and exact mass (<1ppm) of a total of 55 chemical species without the prior separation step. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rapid in situ detection of alkaloids in plant tissue under ambient conditions using desorption electrospray ionization.

PubMed

Talaty, Nari; Takáts, Zoltán; Cooks, R Graham

2005-12-01

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) mass spectrometry is applied to the in situ detection of alkaloids in the tissue of poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) and deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna). The experiment is carried out by electrospraying micro-droplets of solvent onto native or freshly-cut plant tissue surfaces. No sample preparation is required and the mass spectra are recorded under ambient conditions, in times of a few seconds. The impact of the sprayed droplets on the surface produces gaseous ions from organic compounds originally present in the plant tissue. The effects of operating parameters, including the electrospray high voltage, heated capillary temperature, the solvent infusion rate and the carrier gas pressure on analytical performance are evaluated and optimized. Different types of plant material are analyzed including seeds, stems, leaves, roots and flowers. All the previously reported alkaloids have been detected in C. maculatum, while fifteen out of nineteen known alkaloids for D. stramonium and the principal alkaloids of A. belladonna were also identified. All identifications were confirmed by tandem mass spectrometry. Results obtained show similar mass spectra, number of alkaloids, and signal intensities to those obtained when extraction and separation processes are performed prior to mass spectrometric analysis. Evidence is provided that DESI ionization occurs by both a gas-phase ionization process and by a droplet pick-up mechanism. Quantitative precision of DESI is compared with conventional electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (after sample workup) and the RSD values for the same set of 25 dicotyledonous C. maculatum seeds (one half of each seed analyzed by ESI and the other by DESI) are 9.8% and 5.2%, respectively.

Online Simultaneous Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange of Multitarget Gas-Phase Molecules by Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry Coupled with Gas Chromatography.

PubMed

Jeong, Eun Sook; Cha, Eunju; Cha, Sangwon; Kim, Sunghwan; Oh, Han Bin; Kwon, Oh-Seung; Lee, Jaeick

2017-11-21

In this study, a hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange method using gas chromatography-electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry (GC-ESI/MS) was first investigated as a novel tool for online H/D exchange of multitarget analytes. The GC and ESI source were combined with a homemade heated column transfer line. GC-ESI/MS-based H/D exchange occurs in an atmospheric pressure ion source as a result of reacting the gas-phase analyte eluted from GC with charged droplets of deuterium oxide infused as the ESI spray solvent. The consumption of the deuterated solvent at a flow rate of 2 μL min -1 was more economical than that in online H/D exchange methods reported to date. In-ESI-source H/D exchange by GC-ESI/MS was applied to 11 stimulants with secondary amino or hydroxyl groups. After H/D exchange, the spectra of the stimulants showed unexchanged, partially exchanged, and fully exchanged ions showing various degrees of exchange. The relative abundances corrected for naturally occurring isotopes of the fully exchanged ions of stimulants, except for etamivan, were in the range 24.3-85.5%. Methylephedrine and cyclazodone showed low H/D exchange efficiency under acidic, neutral, and basic spray solvent conditions and nonexchange for etamivan with an acidic phenolic OH group. The in-ESI-source H/D exchange efficiency by GC-ESI/MS was sufficient to determine the number of hydrogen by elucidation of fragmentation from the spectrum. Therefore, this online H/D exchange technique using GC-ESI/MS has potential as an alternative method for simultaneous H/D exchange of multitarget analytes.

Rapid, in situ detection of cocaine residues based on paper spray ionization coupled with ion mobility spectrometry.

PubMed

Li, Ming; Zhang, Jingjing; Jiang, Jie; Zhang, Jing; Gao, Jing; Qiao, Xiaolin

2014-04-07

In this paper, a novel approach based on paper spray ionization coupled with ion mobility spectrometry (PSI-IMS) was developed for rapid, in situ detection of cocaine residues in liquid samples and on various surfaces (e.g. glass, marble, skin, wood, fingernails), without tedious sample pretreatment. The obvious advantages of PSI are its low cost, easy operation and simple configuration without using nebulizing gas or discharge gas. Compared with mass spectrometry, ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) takes advantage of its low cost, easy operation, and simple configuration without requiring a vacuum system. Therefore, IMS is a more congruous detection method for PSI in the case of rapid, in situ analysis. For the analysis of cocaine residues in liquid samples, dynamic responses from 5 μg mL(-1) to 200 μg mL(-1) with a linear coefficient (R(2)) of 0.992 were obtained. In this case, the limit of detection (LOD) was calculated to be 2 μg mL(-1) as signal to noise (S/N) was 3 with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 6.5% for 11 measurements (n = 11). Cocaine residues on various surfaces such as metal, glass, marble, wood, skin, and fingernails were also directly analyzed before wiping the surfaces with a piece of paper. The LOD was calculated to be as low as 5 ng (S/N = 3, RSD = 6.3%, n = 11). This demonstrates the capability of the PSI-IMS method for direct detection of cocaine residues at scenes of cocaine administration. Our results show that PSI-IMS is a simple, sensitive, rapid and economical method for in situ detection of this illicit drug, which could help governments to combat drug abuse.

Signal enhancement for gradient reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry analysis with trifluoroacetic and other strong acid modifiers by postcolumn addition of propionic acid and isopropanol.

PubMed

Kuhlmann, F E; Apffel, A; Fischer, S M; Goldberg, G; Goodley, P C

1995-12-01

Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) and other volatile strong acids, used as modifiers in reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, cause signal suppression for basic compounds when analyzed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). Evidence is presented that signal suppression is caused by strong ion pairing between the TFA anion and the protonated sample cation of basic sample molecules. The ion-pairing process "masks" the protonated sample cations from the ESI-MS electric fields by rendering them "neutral. " Weakly basic molecules are not suppressed by this process. The TFA signal suppression effect is independent from the well-known spray problem that electrospray has with highly aqueous solutions that contain TFA. This previously reported spray problem is caused by the high conductivity and surface tension of aqueous TFA solutions. A practical method to enhance the signal for most basic analytes in the presence of signal-suppressing volatile strong acids has been developed. The method employs postcolumn addition of a solution of 75% propionic acid and 25% isopropanol in a ratio 1:2 to the column flow. Signal enhancement is typically 10-50 times for peptides and other small basic molecules. Thus, peptide maps that use ESI-MS for detection can be performed at lower levels, with conventional columns, without the need to use capillary chromatography or reduced mass spectral resolution to achieve satisfactory sensitivity. The method may be used with similar results for heptafluorobutyric acid and hydrochloric acid. A mechanism for TFA signal suppression and signal enhancement by the foregoing method, is proposed.

Liquid and gelled sprays for mixing hypergolic propellants using an impinging jet injection system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

James, Mark D.

The characteristics of sprays produced by liquid rocket injectors are important in understanding rocket engine ignition and performance. The includes, but is not limited to, drop size distribution, spray density, drop velocity, oscillations in the spray, uniformity of mixing between propellants, and the spatial distribution of drops. Hypergolic ignition and the associated ignition delay times are also important features in rocket engines, providing high reliability and simplicity of the ignition event. The ignition delay time is closely related to the level and speed of mixing between a hypergolic fuel and oxidizer, which makes the injection method and conditions crucial in determining the ignition performance. Although mixing and ignition of liquid hypergolic propellants has been studied for many years, the processes for injection, mixing, and ignition of gelled hypergolic propellants are less understood. Gelled propellants are currently under investigation for use in rocket injectors to combine the advantages of solid and liquid propellants, although not without their own difficulties. A review of hypergolic ignition has been conducted for selected propellants, and methods for achieving ignition have been established. This research is focused on ignition using the liquid drop-on-drop method, as well as the doublet impinging jet injector. The events leading up to ignition, known as pre-ignition stage are discussed. An understanding of desirable ignition and combustion performance requires a study of the effects of injection, temperature, and ambient pressure conditions. A review of unlike-doublet impinging jet injection mixing has also been conducted. This includes mixing factors in reactive and non-reactive sprays. Important mixing factors include jet momentum, jet diameter and length, impingement angle, mass distribution, and injector configuration. An impinging jet injection system is presented using an electro-mechanically driven piston for injecting liquid and gelled hypergolic propellants. A calibration of the system is done with water in preparation for hypergolic injection, and characteristics of individual water and gelled JP-8 jets are studied at velocities in the range of 3 ft/s to 61 ft/s. The piston response is also analyzed to characterize the startup and steady state liquid jet velocities using orifices of 0.02" in diameter. Using this injection system, water and gelled JP-8 sprays are formed and compared across injection velocities of 30 ft/s to 121 ft/s. The comparison includes sheet shape and disintegration, total number of drops, drop size distributions, drop eccentricity, most populated drop bin size, and mean drop sizes. A test matrix for investigating the effects of mixing on ignition of MMH and IRFNA through different injection conditions are presented. First, water and IRFNA are injected to create a spray in the combustion chamber in order to verify effectiveness of test procedures and the test hardware. Next, injection of the hypergolic propellants MMH and IRFNA are done in accordance to the test matrix, although ignition was not observed as expected. These injections are followed by simple drop-on-drop tests to investigate propellant quality and ignition delay. Drop tests are performed with propellants IRFNA/MMH, and again with H2O2/Block 0 as possible propellant replacements for the proposed test plan.

Paper spray mass spectrometry and PLS-DA improved by variable selection for the forensic discrimination of beers.

PubMed

Pereira, Hebert Vinicius; Amador, Victória Silva; Sena, Marcelo Martins; Augusti, Rodinei; Piccin, Evandro

2016-10-12

Paper spray mass spectrometry (PS-MS) combined with partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was applied for the first time in a forensic context to a fast and effective differentiation of beers. Eight different brands of American standard lager beers produced by four different breweries (141 samples from 55 batches) were studied with the aim at performing a differentiation according to their market prices. The three leader brands in the Brazilian beer market, which have been subject to fraud, were modeled as the higher-price class, while the five brands most used for counterfeiting were modeled as the lower-price class. Parameters affecting the paper spray ionization were examined and optimized. The best MS signal stability and intensity was obtained while using the positive ion mode, with PS(+) mass spectra characterized by intense pairs of signals corresponding to sodium and potassium adducts of malto-oligosaccharides. Discrimination was not apparent neither by using visual inspection nor principal component analysis (PCA). However, supervised classification models provided high rates of sensitivity and specificity. A PLS-DA model using full scan mass spectra were improved by variable selection with ordered predictors selection (OPS), providing 100% of reliability rate and reducing the number of variables from 1701 to 60. This model was interpreted by detecting fifteen variables as the most significant VIP (variable importance in projection) scores, which were therefore considered diagnostic ions for this type of beer counterfeit. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a validated UPLC-qTOF-MS Method for the determination of curcuminoids and their pharmacokinetic study in mice.

PubMed

Verma, Mahendra K; Najar, Ishtiyaq A; Tikoo, Manoj K; Singh, Gurdarshan; Gupta, Devinder K; Anand, Rajneesh; Khajuria, Ravi K; Sharma, Subhash C; Johri, Rakesh K

2013-01-29

A specific and sensitive UPLC-qTOF-MS/MS method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of curcuminoids. These Curcuminoids comprises of curcumin, a principal curcuminoid and other two namely, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin obtained from rhizomes of Curcuma longa an ancient Indian curry spice turmeric, family (Zingiberaceae). These analytes were separated on a reverse phase C18 column by using a mobile phase of acetonitrile: 5% acetonitrile in water with 0.07% acetic acid (75:25 v/v), flow rate of 100 μL/min was maintained. The qTOF-MS was operated under multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode using electro-spray ionization (ESI) technique with positive ion polarity. The major product ions in the positive mode for curcuminoids were at m/z 369.1066, 339.1023 and 309.0214 respectively. The recovery of the analytes from mouse plasma was optimized using solid phase extraction technique. The total run time was 5 min and the peaks of the compounds, bisdemethoxycurcumin, demethoxycurcumin and curcumin occurred at 2.06, 2.23 and 2.40 min respectively. The calibration curves of bisdemethoxycurcumin, demethoxycurcumin and curcumin were linear over the concentration range of 2-1000 ng/mL (r2, 0.9951), 2-1000 ng/mL (r2, 0.9970) and 2-1000 ng/mL (r2, 0.9906) respectively.Intra-assay and inter-assay accuracy in terms of % bias for curcumin was in between -7.95to +6.21, and -7.03 to + 6.34; for demethoxycurcumin was -6.72 to +6.34, and -7.86 to +6.74 and for bisdesmetoxycurcumin was -8.23 to +6.37 and -8.47 to +7.81. The lower limit of quantitation for curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin was 2.0 ng/mL. Analytes were stable under various conditions (in autosampler, during freeze-thaw, at room temperature, and under deep-freeze conditions). This validated method was used during pharmacokinetic studies of curcumin in the mouse plasma. A specific, accurate and precise UPLC-qTOF-MS/MS method for the determination of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin both individually and simultaneously was optimized.

A multi-targeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry screening procedure for the detection in human urine of drugs non-prohibited in sport commonly used by the athletes.

PubMed

Mazzarino, Monica; Cesarei, Lorenzo; de la Torre, Xavier; Fiacco, Ilaria; Robach, Paul; Botrè, Francesco

2016-01-05

This work presents an analytical method for the simultaneous analysis in human urine of 38 pharmacologically active compounds (19 benzodiazepine-like substances, 7 selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, 4 azole antifungal drugs, 5 inhibitors of the phosphodiesterases type 4 and 3 inhibitors of the phosphodiesterase type 5) by liquid-chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. The above substances classes include both the most common "non banned" drugs used by the athletes (based on the information reported on the "doping control form") and those drugs who are suspected to be performance enhancing and/or act as masking agents in particular conditions. The chromatographic separation was performed by a reverse-phase octadecyl column using as mobile phases acetonitrile and ultra-purified water, both with 0.1% formic acid. The detection was carried out using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometric analyser, positive electro-spray as ionization source and selected reaction monitoring as acquisition mode. Sample pre-treatment consisted in an enzymatic hydrolysis followed by a liquid-liquid extraction in neutral field using tert-butyl methyl-ether. The analytical procedure, once developed, was validated in terms of sensitivity (lower limits of detection in the range of 1-50 ng mL(-1)), specificity (no interferences were detected at the retention time of all the analytes under investigation), recovery (≥60% with a satisfactory repeatability, CV % lower than 10), matrix effect (lower than 30%) and reproducibility of retention times (CV% lower than 0.1) and of relative abundances (CV% lower than 15). The performance and the applicability of the method was evaluated by analyzing real samples containing benzodiazepines (alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem or zoplicone) or inhibitors of the phosphodiesterases type 5 (sildenafil or vardenafil) and samples obtained incubating two of the phosphodiesterases type 4 studied (cilomilast or roflumilast) with pooled human liver microsomes. All the parent compounds, together with their main phase I metabolites, were clearly detected using the analytical procedures here developed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of a novel carbon-coating strategy for producing core-shell structured carbon coated LiFePO4 for an improved Li-ion battery performance.

PubMed

Pratheeksha, Parakandy Muzhikara; Mohan, Erabhoina Hari; Sarada, Bulusu Venkata; Ramakrishna, Mantripragada; Hembram, Kalyan; Srinivas, Pulakhandam Veera Venkata; Daniel, Paul Joseph; Rao, Tata Narasinga; Anandan, Srinivasan

2016-12-21

In the present study, LiFePO 4 (LFP) has been synthesized using a flame spray pyrolysis unit followed by carbon coating on LFP using a novel strategy of dehydration assisted polymerization process (DAP) in order to improve its electronic conductivity. Characterization studies revealed the presence of a pure LFP structure and the formation of a thin, uniform and graphitic carbon layer with a thickness of 6-8 nm on the surface of the LFP. A carbon coated LFP with 3 wt% of carbon, using a DAP process, delivered a specific capacity of 167 mA h g -1 at a 0.1C rate, whereas LFP carbon coated by a carbothermal process (CLFP-C) delivered a capacity of 145 mA h g -1 at 0.1C. Further carbon coated LFP by the DAP exhibited a good rate capability and cyclic stability. The enhanced electrochemical performance of C-LFP by DAP is attributed to the presence of a uniform, thin and ordered graphitic carbon layer with a core-shell structure, which greatly increased the electronic conductivity of LFP and thereby showed an improved electro-chemical performance. Interestingly, the developed carbon coating process has been extended to synthesize a bulk quantity (0.5 kg) of carbon coated LFP under optimized experimental conditions as a part of up-scaling and the resulting material electro-chemical performance has been evaluated and compared with commercial electrode materials. Bulk C-LFP showed a capacity of 131 mA h g -1 and 87 mA h g -1 at a rate of 1C and at 10C, respectively, illustrating that the developed DAP process greatly improved the electrochemical performance of LFP in terms of rate capability and cyclic stability, not only during the lab scale synthesis but also during the large scale synthesis. Benchmark studies concluded that the electro-chemical performance of C-LFP by DAP is comparable with that of TODA LFP and better than that of UNTPL LFP. The DAP process developed in the present study can be extended to other electrode materials as well.

Analysis of nitrogen-based explosives with desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Kauppila, T J; Flink, A; Pukkila, J; Ketola, R A

2016-02-28

Fast methods that allow the in situ analysis of explosives from a variety of surfaces are needed in crime scene investigations and home-land security. Here, the feasibility of the ambient mass spectrometry technique desorption atmospheric pressure photoionization (DAPPI) in the analysis of the most common nitrogen-based explosives is studied. DAPPI and desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) were compared in the direct analysis of trinitrotoluene (TNT), trinitrophenol (picric acid), octogen (HMX), cyclonite (RDX), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), and nitroglycerin (NG). The effect of different additives in DAPPI dopant and in DESI spray solvent on the ionization efficiency was tested, as well as the suitability of DAPPI to detect explosives from a variety of surfaces. The analytes showed ions only in negative ion mode. With negative DAPPI, TNT and picric acid formed deprotonated molecules with all dopant systems, while RDX, HMX, PETN and NG were ionized by adduct formation. The formation of adducts was enhanced by addition of chloroform, formic acid, acetic acid or nitric acid to the DAPPI dopant. DAPPI was more sensitive than DESI for TNT, while DESI was more sensitive for HMX and picric acid. DAPPI could become an important method for the direct analysis of nitroaromatics from a variety of surfaces. For compounds that are thermally labile, or that have very low vapor pressure, however, DESI is better suited. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Compact plasma accelerator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, John E. (Inventor)

2004-01-01

A compact plasma accelerator having components including a cathode electron source, an anodic ionizing gas source, and a magnetic field that is cusped. The components are held by an electrically insulating body having a central axis, a top axial end, and a bottom axial end. The cusped magnetic field is formed by a cylindrical magnet having an axis of rotation that is the same as the axis of rotation of the insulating body, and magnetized with opposite poles at its two axial ends; and an annular magnet coaxially surrounding the cylindrical magnet, magnetized with opposite poles at its two axial ends such that a top axial end has a magnetic polarity that is opposite to the magnetic polarity of a top axial end of the cylindrical magnet. The ionizing gas source is a tubular plenum that has been curved into a substantially annular shape, positioned above the top axial end of the annular magnet such that the plenum is centered in a ring-shaped cusp of the magnetic field generated by the magnets. The plenum has one or more capillary-like orifices spaced around its top such that an ionizing gas supplied through the plenum is sprayed through the one or more orifices. The plenum is electrically conductive and is positively charged relative to the cathode electron source such that the plenum functions as the anode; and the cathode is positioned above and radially outward relative to the plenum.

Fast profiling of anthocyanins in wine by desorption nano-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Hartmanova, Lucie; Ranc, Vaclav; Papouskova, Barbora; Bednar, Petr; Havlicek, Vladimir; Lemr, Karel

2010-06-18

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) mass spectrometry appears to be a useful technique applicable in different areas (e.g. analysis of pharmaceuticals, identification of biologically active compounds in tissues, imaging mass spectrometry). Its modification termed desorption nano-electrospray (nano-DESI) was tested for analysis of anthocyanins. Acidifying of samples and acidic spray liquid (methanol:water=75:25 with 0.2% HCOOH) were essential for obtaining good quality spectra. Profiles of main anthocyanins in wine samples, two vintages (2005 and 2007) of three cultivars (Alibernet, Neronet and Rubinet), were successfully acquired. They were in agreement with results of LC/MS experiments (anthocyanins isolated by solid phase extraction were separated by mu-HPLC with gradient elution and detected by ESI-MS). Nano-DESI-MS data also allowed to determine ratio of two cultivars (Neronet and Rubinet) in their mixture and to detect coloring of wine by tenturier or elderberry extract. Detection of main anthocyanins in slices of wine grape, chokeberries and elderberries or in a wine stain on cotton fabric is also presented. Copyright (c) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Coupling of Ultrafast LC with Mass Spectrometry by DESI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cai, Yi; Liu, Yong; Helmy, Roy; Chen, Hao

2014-10-01

Recently we reported a desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) interface to combine liquid chromatography (LC) with mass spectrometry (MS) using a new LC eluent splitting strategy through a tiny orifice on LC capillary tube [ J. Am. Soc. Mass Spectrom. 25, 286 (2014)]. The interface introduces negligible dead volume and back pressure, thereby allowing "near real-time" MS detection, fast LC elution, and online MS-directed purification. This study further evaluates the LC/DESI-MS performance with focus of using ultra-fast LC. Using a monolithic C18 column, metabolites in urine can be separated within 1.6 min and can be online collected for subsequent structure elucidation (e.g., by NMR, UV, IR) in a recovery yield up to 99%. Using a spray solvent with alkaline pH, negative ions could be directly generated for acidic analytes (e.g., ibuprofen) in acidic LC eluent by DESI, offering a novel protocol to realize "wrong-way around" ionization for LC/MS analysis. In addition, DESI-MS is found to be compatible with ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) for the first time.

Dynamic structural change of the self-assembled lanthanum complex induced by lithium triflate for direct catalytic asymmetric aldol-Tishchenko reaction.

PubMed

Horiuchi, Yoshihiro; Gnanadesikan, Vijay; Ohshima, Takashi; Masu, Hyuma; Katagiri, Kosuke; Sei, Yoshihisa; Yamaguchi, Kentaro; Shibasaki, Masakatsu

2005-09-05

The development of a direct catalytic asymmetric aldol-Tishchenko reaction and the nature of its catalyst are described. An aldol-Tishchenko reaction of various propiophenone derivatives with aromatic aldehydes was promoted by [LaLi3(binol)3] (LLB), and reactivity and enantioselectivity were dramatically enhanced by the addition of lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiOTf). First, we observed a dynamic structural change of LLB by the addition of LiOTf using 13C NMR spectroscopy, electronspray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), and cold-spray ionization mass spectrometry (CSI-MS). X-ray crystallography revealed that the structure of the newly generated self-assembled complex was a binuclear [La2Li4(binaphthoxide)5] complex 6. A reverse structural change of complex 6 to LLB by the addition of one equivalent of Li2(binol) was also confirmed by ESI-MS and experimental results. The drastic concentration effects on the direct catalytic asymmetric aldol-Tishchenko reaction suggested that the addition of LiOTf to LLB generated an active oligomeric catalyst species.

Electrospray ionization from a gap with adjustable width.

PubMed

Ek, Patrik; Sjödahl, Johan; Roeraade, Johan

2006-01-01

In this paper, we present a new concept for electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, where the sample is applied in a gap which is formed between the edges of two triangular-shaped tips. The size of the spray orifice can be changed by varying the gap width. The tips were fabricated from polyethylene terephthalate film with a thickness of 36 microm. To improve the wetting of the gap and sample confinement, the edges of the tips forming the gap were hydrophilized by means of silicon dioxide deposition. Electrospray was performed with gap widths between 1 and 36 microm and flow rates down to 75 nL/min. The gap width could be adjusted in situ during the mass spectrometry experiments and nozzle clogging could be managed by simply widening the gap. Using angiotensin I as analyte, the signal-to-noise ratio increased as the gap width was decreased, and a shift towards higher charge states was observed. The detection limit for angiotensin I was in the low nM range. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Plasma spray nozzle with low overspray and collimated flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beason, Jr., George P. (Inventor); McKechnie, Timothy N. (Inventor); Power, Christopher A. (Inventor)

1996-01-01

An improved nozzle for reducing overspray in high temperature supersonic plasma spray devices comprises a body defining an internal passageway having an upstream end and a downstream end through which a selected plasma gas is directed. The nozzle passageway has a generally converging/diverging Laval shape with its upstream end converging to a throat section and its downstream end diverging from the throat section. The upstream end of the passageway is configured to accommodate a high current cathode for producing an electrical arc in the passageway to heat and ionize the gas flow to plasma form as it moves along the passageway. The downstream end of the nozzle is uniquely configured through the methodology of this invention to have a contoured bell-shape that diverges from the throat to the exit of the nozzle. Coating material in powder form is injected into the plasma flow in the region of the bell-shaped downstream end of the nozzle and the powder particles become entrained in the flow. The unique bell shape of the nozzle downstream end produces a plasma spray that is ideally expanded at the nozzle exit and thus virtually free of shock phenomena, and that is highly collimated so as to exhibit significantly reduced fanning and diffusion between the nozzle and the target. The overall result is a significant reduction in the amount of material escaping from the plasma stream in the form of overspray and a corresponding improvement in the cost of the coating operation and in the quality and integrity of the coating itself.

Numerical Investigation of Two-Phase Flows With Charged Droplets in Electrostatic Field

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Sang-Wook

1996-01-01

A numerical method to solve two-phase turbulent flows with charged droplets in an electrostatic field is presented. The ensemble-averaged Navier-Stokes equations and the electrostatic potential equation are solved using a finite volume method. The transitional turbulence field is described using multiple-time-scale turbulence equations. The equations of motion of droplets are solved using a Lagrangian particle tracking scheme, and the inter-phase momentum exchange is described by the Particle-In-Cell scheme. The electrostatic force caused by an applied electrical potential is calculated using the electrostatic field obtained by solving a Laplacian equation and the force exerted by charged droplets is calculated using the Coulombic force equation. The method is applied to solve electro-hydrodynamic sprays. The calculated droplet velocity distributions for droplet dispersions occurring in a stagnant surrounding are in good agreement with the measured data. For droplet dispersions occurring in a two-phase flow, the droplet trajectories are influenced by aerodynamic forces, the Coulombic force, and the applied electrostatic potential field.

FAST TRACK COMMUNICATION: Plasma agents in bio-decontamination by dc discharges in atmospheric air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Machala, Zdenko; Chládeková, Lenka; Pelach, Michal

2010-06-01

Bio-decontamination of water and surfaces contaminated by bacteria (Salmonella typhimurium) was investigated in two types of positive dc discharges in atmospheric pressure air, in needle-to-plane geometry: the streamer corona and its transition to a novel regime called transient spark with short high current pulses of limited energy. Both generate a cold non-equilibrium plasma. Electro-spraying of treated water through a needle electrode was applied for the first time and resulted in fast bio-decontamination. Experiments providing separation of various biocidal plasma agents, along with the emission spectra and coupled with oxidation stress measurements in the cell membranes helped to better understand the mechanisms of microbial inactivation. The indirect exposure of contaminated surfaces to neutral active species was almost as efficient as the direct exposure to the plasma, whereas applying only UV radiation from the plasma had no biocidal effects. Radicals and reactive oxygen species were identified as dominant biocidal agents.

LPG sensing characteristics of electrospray deposited SnO2 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gürbüz, Mevlüt; Günkaya, Göktuğ; Doğan, Aydın

2014-11-01

In this study, SnO2 films were fabricated on conductive substrate such as aluminum and platinum coated alumina using electro-spray deposition (ESD) method for gas sensor applications. Solution flow rate, coating time, substrate-nozzle distance and solid/alcohol ratio were studied to optimize SnO2 film structure. The morphology of the deposited films was characterized by stereo and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gas sensing properties of tin oxide films were investigated using liquid petroleum gas (LPG) for various lower explosive limit (LEL). The results obtained from microscopic analyses show that optimum SnO2 films were evaluated at flow rate of 0.05 ml/min, at distance of 6 cm, for 10 min deposition time, for 20 gSnO2/Lethanol ratio and at 7 kV DC electric field. By the results obtained from the gas sensing behavior, the sensitivity of the films was increased with operating temperature. The films showed better sensitivity for 20 LEL LPG concentration at 450 °C operating temperature.

Target detection portal

DOEpatents

Linker, Kevin L.; Brusseau, Charles A.

2002-01-01

A portal apparatus for screening persons or objects for the presence of trace amounts of target substances such as explosives, narcotics, radioactive materials, and certain chemical materials. The portal apparatus can have a one-sided exhaust for an exhaust stream, an interior wall configuration with a concave-shape across a horizontal cross-section for each of two facing sides to result in improved airflow and reduced washout relative to a configuration with substantially flat parallel sides; air curtains to reduce washout; ionizing sprays to collect particles bound by static forces, as well as gas jet nozzles to dislodge particles bound by adhesion to the screened person or object. The portal apparatus can be included in a detection system with a preconcentrator and a detector.

Three-Dimensional Nanometer Features of Direct Current Electrical Trees in Low-Density Polyethylene.

PubMed

Pallon, Love K H; Nilsson, Fritjof; Yu, Shun; Liu, Dongming; Diaz, Ana; Holler, Mirko; Chen, Xiangrong R; Gubanski, Stanislaw; Hedenqvist, Mikael S; Olsson, Richard T; Gedde, Ulf W

2017-03-08

Electrical trees are one reason for the breakdown of insulating materials in electrical power systems. An understanding of the growth of electrical trees plays a crucial role in the development of reliable high voltage direct current (HVDC) power grid systems with transmission voltages up to 1 MV. A section that contained an electrical tree in low-density polyethylene (LDPE) has been visualized in three dimensions (3D) with a resolution of 92 nm by X-ray ptychographic tomography. The 3D imaging revealed prechannel-formations with a lower density with the width of a couple of hundred nanometers formed around the main branch of the electrical tree. The prechannel structures were partially connected with the main tree via paths through material with a lower density, proving that the tree had grown in a step-by-step manner via the prestep structures formed in front of the main channels. All the prechannel structures had a size well below the limit of the Paschen law and were thus not formed by partial discharges. Instead, it is suggested that the prechannel structures were formed by electro-mechanical stress and impact ionization, where the former was confirmed by simulations to be a potential explanation with electro-mechanical stress tensors being almost of the same order of magnitude as the short-term modulus of low-density polyethylene.

The electrical, optical, structural and thermoelectrical characterization of n- and p-type cobalt-doped SnO 2 transparent semiconducting films prepared by spray pyrolysis technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagheri-Mohagheghi, Mohammad-Mehdi; Shokooh-Saremi, Mehrdad

2010-10-01

The electrical, optical and structural properties of Cobalt (Co) doped SnO 2 transparent semiconducting thin films, deposited by the spray pyrolysis technique, have been studied. The SnO 2:Co films, with different Co-content, were deposited on glass substrates using an aqueous-ethanol solution consisting of tin and cobalt chlorides. X-ray diffraction studies showed that the SnO 2:Co films were polycrystalline only with tin oxide phases and preferential orientations along (1 1 0) and (2 1 1) planes and grain sizes in the range 19-82 nm. Optical transmittance spectra of the films showed high transparency ∼75-90% in the visible region, decreasing with increase in Co-doping. The optical absorption edge for undoped SnO 2 films was found to be 3.76 eV, while for higher Co-doped films shifted toward higher energies (shorter wavelengths) in the range 3.76-4.04 eV and then slowly decreased again to 4.03 eV. A change in sign of the Hall voltage and Seebeck coefficient was observed for a specific acceptor dopant level ∼11.4 at% in film and interpreted as a conversion from n-type to p-type conductivity. The thermoelectric electro-motive force (e.m.f.) of the films was measured in the temperature range 300-500 K and Seebeck coefficients were found in the range from -62 to +499 μVK -1 for various Co-doped SnO 2 films.

The Enceladus Ionizing Radiation Environment: Implications for Biomolecules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Teodoro, L. A.; Elphic, R. C.; Davila, A. F.; McKay, C.; Dartnell, L.

2016-12-01

Enceladus' subsurface ocean is a possible abode for life, but it is inaccessible with current technology. However, icy particles and vapor are being expelled into space through surface fractures known as Tiger Stripes, forming a large plume centered in the South Polar Terrains. Direct chemical analyses by Cassini have revealed salts and organic compounds in a significant fraction of plume particles, which suggests that the subsurface ocean is the main source of materials in the plume (i.e. frozen ocean spray). While smaller icy particles in the plume reach escape velocity and feed Saturn's E-ring, larger particles fall back on the moon's surface, where they accumulate as icy mantling deposits at practically all latitudes. The organic content of these fall-out materials could be of great astrobiological relevance. Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCRs) that strike both Enceladus' surface and the lofted icy particles produce ionizing radiation in the form of high-energy electrons, protons, gamma rays, neutrons and muons. An additional source of ionizing radiation is the population of energetic charged particles in Saturn's magnetosphere. The effects of ionizing radiation in matter always involve the destruction of chemical bonds and the creation of free radicals. Both affect organic matter, and can damage or destroy biomarkers over time. Using ionizing radiation transport codes, we recreated the radiation environment on the surface of Enceladus, and evaluated its possible effects on organic matter (including biomarkers) in the icy mantling deposits. Here, we present full Monte-Carlo simulations of the nuclear reactions induced by the GCRs hitting Enceladus's surface using a code based on the GEANT-4 toolkit for the transport of particles. To model the GCR primary spectra for Z= 1-26 (protons to iron nuclei) we assumed the CREAME96 model under solar minimum, modified to take into account Enceladus' location. We considered bulk compositions of: i) pure water ice, ii) water ice and organics (1-10%), and iii) water ice, organics and salts (up to 2%). The computed flux of ionizing radiation is converted into dosage at the molecular level using a "biologically-weighted" scheme, which provides an estimate of the biomarkers' survival time.

In-tube electro-membrane extraction with a sub-microliter organic solvent consumption as an efficient technique for synthetic food dyes determination in foodstuff samples.

PubMed

Bazregar, Mohammad; Rajabi, Maryam; Yamini, Yadollah; Asghari, Alireza; Abdossalami asl, Yousef

2015-09-04

A simple and efficient extraction technique with a sub-microliter organic solvent consumption termed as in-tube electro-membrane extraction (IEME) is introduced. This method is based upon the electro-kinetic migration of ionized compounds by the application of an electrical potential difference. For this purpose, a thin polypropylene (PP) sheet placed inside a tube acts as a support for the membrane solvent, and 30μL of an aqueous acceptor solution is separated by this solvent from 1.2mL of an aqueous donor solution. This method yielded high extraction recoveries (63-81%), and the consumption of the organic solvent used was only 0.5μL. By performing this method, the purification is high, and the utilization of the organic solvent, used as a mediator, is very simple and repeatable. The proposed method was evaluated by extraction of four synthetic food dyes (Amaranth, Ponceau 4R, Allura Red, and Carmoisine) as the model analytes. Optimization of variables affecting the method was carried out in order to achieve the best extraction efficiency. These variables were the type of membrane solvent, applied extraction voltage, extraction time, pH range, and concentration of salt added. Under the optimized conditions, IEME-HPLC-UV provided a good linearity in the range of 1.00-800ngmL(-1), low limits of detection (0.3-1ngmL(-1)), and good extraction repeatabilities (RSDs below 5.2%, n=5). It seems that this design is a proper one for the automation of the method. Also the consumption of the organic solvent in a sub-microliter scale, and its simplicity, high efficiency, and high purification can help one getting closer to the objectives of the green chemistry. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Online monitoring of electrocatalytic reactions of alcohols at platinum and gold electrodes in acidic, neutral and alkaline media by capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection (EC-CE-C4 D).

PubMed

Ferreira Santos, Mauro Sérgio; Silva Lopes, Fernando; Gutz, Ivano Gebhardt Rolf

2017-11-01

An EC-CE-C 4 D flow system was applied to the investigation of electrocatalytic processes by monitoring carboxylic acids formed during the electro-oxidation at various potentials of primary alcohols (mixture of 1 mmol/L of ethanol, n-propanol, n-butanol and n-pentanol) in acidic, neutral and alkaline media. The electro-oxidation was carried out on gold and platinum disk electrodes (3 mm of diameter) in a thin-layer electrochemical flow cell. Products were sampled 50 μm apart from the electrode directly into the capillary. All the generated carboxylates were determined in near real time (less than 2 min) by CE-C 4 D in counter-flow mode, with Tris/HCl buffer solution (pH 8.6) as BGE. Long sequences of 5-min experiments were run automatically, exploring the applied potential, electrolysis time and solution composition. Electro-oxidation at 1.5 V (versus Ag/AgCl quasi-reference) during 50 s in acidic medium was found appropriate for both Pt and Au electrodes when the determination of alcohols after derivatization is intended. A noteworthy selectivity effect was observed on the Au electrode. The signal corresponding to pentanoate is similar on both electrodes while the signal of ethanoate (acetate) is four times larger on gold than on platinum. The carboxylate signals were lower in alkaline medium (below the determination limit on Pt) than in acidic and neutral media. On gold, the formation of carboxylates was anticipated (0.85 V in alkaline medium versus 1.40 V in neutral medium). The automatic online monitoring of electrochemical processes by EC-CE-C 4 D holds great potential to investigate ionic/ionizable intermediates/products of new electrocatalysts and/or alternative fuels. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

HCN Polymers: Toward Structure Comprehension Using High Resolution Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonnet, Jean-Yves; Thissen, Roland; Frisari, Ma; Vuitton, Veronique; Quirico, Eric; Le Roy, Léna; Fray, Nicolas; Cottin, Hervé; Horst, Sarah; Yelle, Roger

A lot of solar system materials, including cometary ices and Titan aerosols, contain dark matter that can be interpreted as complex nitrogen bearing organic matter [1]. In laboratory experi-ments, HCN polymers are thus analogs of great interest. In fact they may be present in Titan atmosphere and in comet nuclei and then reprocessed as a CN distributed source [2], when ices began to sublimate and ejects from the nucleus organic matter grains [3]. The presence of HCN polymers is suggested because HCN molecule has been directly observed in 1P/Halley comet [4] and others. HCN polymers are also of prebiotic interest [5] as it can form amino acid under hydrolysis conditions. Even if they have been studied during the last decades, their chemical composition and structure are still poorly understood, and a great analytical effort has to be continued. In this way we present a high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and a high resolution tandem mass spectrometry (MS/HRMS) analysis of HCN polymers. It was shown [6] that this is a suitable technique to elucidate composition and structure of the soluble part of tholins analogs of Titan's atmosphere aerosols. HCN polymers have never been studied by HRMS, thus we used a LTQ-Orbitrap XL high resolution mass spectrometer to analyse the HCN polymers. These are produced at LISA by direct polymerisation of pure liquid HCN, catalyzed by ammonia. HCN polymers have been completely dissolved in methanol and then injected in the mass spectrometer by ElectroSpray Ionization (ESI). This atmospheric pressure ionization process produces protonated or deprotonated ions, but it does not fragment molecules. Thus HRMS, allows a direct access to the stoechiometry of all the ionizable molecules present in the samples. Fragmentation analyses (MS/MS) of selected ions have also been performed. Thess analysis provide information about the different chemical fonctionnalities present in HCN poly-mers and also about their structure. Thus we are able to derive quantitative and qualitative parameters, (H/C, N/C ratios for exemple). [1] D. P. Cruikshank, H. Imanaka, and C. M. Dalle Ore. Tholins as coloring agents on outer Solar System bodies. Advances in Space Research, 36:178-183, 2005. [2] H. Cottin and N. Fray. Distributed Sources in Comets. Space Science Reviews, 138:179-197, July 2008. [3] J. Kissel, R. Z. Sagdeev, J. L. Bertaux, V. N. Angarov, J. Audouze, J. E. Blamont, K. Buchler, E. N. Evlanov, H. Fechtig, M. N. Fomenkova, H. von Hoerner, N. A. Inogamov, V. N. Khromov, W. Knabe, F. R. Krueger, Y. Langevin, B. Leonasv, A. C. Levasseur-Regourd, G. G.Managadze, S. N. Podkolzin, V. D. Shapiro, S. R. Tabaldyev, and B. V. Zubkov. Com-position of comet Halley dust particles from VEGA observations. Nature, 321:280-282, May 1986. [4] D. Despois, J. Crovisier, D. Bockelee-Morvan, E. Gerard, and J. Schraml. Observations of hydrogen cyanide in comet halley. Astronomy and Astrophysics, 160:L11+, May 1986. [5] C. N. Matthews and R. D. Minard. Hydrogen cyanide polymers connect cosmochemistry and biochemistry. In IAU Symposium, volume 251 of IAU Symposium, pages 453-458, October 2008. [6] N. Sarker, A. Somogyi, J. I. Lunine, and M. A. Smith. Titan Aerosol Analogues: Analysis of the Nonvolatile Tholins. Astrobiology, 3:719-726, December 2003.

On-surface Fenton and Fenton-like reactions appraised by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Resende, S F; Oliveira, B S; Augusti, R

2018-06-21

On-surface degradation of sildenafil (an adequate substrate as it contains assorted functional groups in its structure) promoted by the Fenton (Fe 2+ / H 2 O 2 ) and Fenton-like (M n+ / H 2 O 2 ; M n+ = Fe 3+ , Co 2+ , Cu 2+ , Mn 2+ ) systems was investigated by using paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS-MS). The performance of each system was compared by measuring the ratio between the relative intensities of the ions of m/z 475 (protonated sildenafil) and m/z 235 (protonated lidocaine, used as a convenient internal standard and added to the paper just before the PS-MS analyzes). The results indicated the following order in the rates of such reactions: Fe 2+ /H 2 O 2 > H 2 O 2 > Cu 2+ /H 2 O 2 > M n+ / H 2 O 2 (M n+ = Fe 3+ , Co 2+ , Mn 2+ ) ~ M n+ (M n+ = Fe 2+ , Fe 3+ , Co 2+ , Cu 2+ , Mn 2 . The superior capability of Fe 2+ /H 2 O 2 in causing the degradation of sildenafil indicates that Fe 2+ efficiently decomposes H 2 O 2 to yield hydroxyl radicals, quite reactive species that cause the substrate oxidation. The results also indicate that H 2 O 2 can spontaneously decompose likely to yield hydroxyl radicals, although in a much smaller extension than the Fenton system. This effect, however, is strongly inhibited by the presence of the other cations, i. e. Fe 3+ , Co 2+ , Cu 2+ and Mn 2+ . A unique oxidation by-product was detected in the reaction between Fe 2+ /H 2 O 2 with sildenafil and a possible structure for it was proposed based on the MS/MS data. The on-surface reaction of other substrates (trimethoprim and tamoxifen) with the Fenton system was also investigated. In conclusion, PS-MS shown to be a convenient platform to promptly monitor on-surface oxidation reactions. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Comparison of PCR/electron spray ionization-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry versus traditional clinical microbiology for active surveillance of organisms contaminating high-use surfaces in a burn intensive care unit, an orthopedic ward and healthcare workers.

PubMed

Yun, Heather C; Kreft, Rachael E; Castillo, Mayra A; Ehrlich, Garth D; Guymon, Charles H; Crouch, Helen K; Chung, Kevin K; Wenke, Joseph C; Hsu, Joseph R; Spirk, Tracy L; Costerton, J William; Mende, Katrin; Murray, Clinton K

2012-10-10

Understanding nosocomial pathogen transmission is restricted by culture limitations. Novel platforms, such as PCR-based electron spray ionization-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS), may be useful as investigational tools. Traditional clinical microbiology (TCM) and PCR/ESI-TOF-MS were used to recover and detect microorganisms from the hands and personal protective equipment of 10 burn intensive care unit (ICU) healthcare workers providing clinical care at a tertiary care military referral hospital. High-use environmental surfaces were assessed in 9 burn ICU and 10 orthopedic patient rooms. Clinical cultures during the study period were reviewed for pathogen comparison with investigational molecular diagnostic methods. From 158 samples, 142 organisms were identified by TCM and 718 by PCR/ESI-TOF-MS. The molecular diagnostic method detected more organisms (4.5 ± 2.1 vs. 0.9 ± 0.8, p < 0.01) from 99% vs. 67% of samples (p < 0.01). TCM detected S. aureus in 13 samples vs. 21 by PCR/ESI-TOF-MS. Gram-negative organisms were less commonly identified than gram-positive by both methods; especially by TCM. Among all detected bacterial species, similar percentages were typical nosocomial pathogens (18-19%) for TCM vs. PCR/ESI-TOF-MS. PCR/ESI-TOF-MS also detected mecA in 112 samples, vanA in 13, and KPC-3 in 2. MecA was associated (p < 0.01) with codetection of coagulase negative staphylococci but not S. aureus. No vanA was codetected with enterococci; one KPC-3 was detected without Klebsiella spp. In this pilot study, PCR/ESI-TOF-MS detected more organisms, especially gram-negatives, compared to TCM, but the current assay format is limited by the number of antibiotic resistance determinants it covers. Further large-scale assessments of PCR/ESI-TOF-MS for hospital surveillance are warranted.

Development of a multiphysics model to characterize the responsive behavior of urea-sensitive hydrogel as biosensor.

PubMed

Goh, K B; Li, Hua; Lam, K Y

2017-05-15

A remarkable feature of biomaterials is their ability to deform in response to certain external bio-stimuli. Here, a novel biochemo-electro-mechanical model is developed for the numerical characterization of the urea-sensitive hydrogel in response to the external stimulus of urea. The urea sensitivity of the hydrogel is usually characterized by the states of ionization and denaturation of the immobilized urease, as such the model includes the effect of the fixed charge groups and temperature coupled with pH on the activity of the urease. Therefore, a novel rate of reaction equation is proposed to characterize the hydrolysis of urea that accounts for both the ionization and denaturation states of the urease subject to the environmental conditions. After examination with the published experimental data, it is thus confirmed that the model can characterize well the responsive behavior of the urea-sensitive hydrogel subject to the urea stimulus, including the distribution patterns of the electrical potential and pH of the hydrogel. The results point to an innovative means for generating electrical power via the enzyme-induced pH and electrical potential gradients, when the hydrogel comes in contact with the urea-rich solution, such as human urine. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The application of electrolytic photoetching and photopolishing to AISI 304 stainless steel and the electrolytic photoetching of amorphous cobalt alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomaz, Marita Duarte Canhao da Silva Pereira Fernandes

The results presented cover broad aspects of a quantitative investigation into the elecrolytic etching and polishing of metals and alloys through photographically produced dielectric stencils (Photoresists). A study of the potential field generated between a cathode and relatively smaller anode sites as those defined by a dielectric stencil was carried out. Numerical, analytical and graphical methods yielded answers to the factors determining lateral dissolution (undercut) at the anode/stencil interface. A quasi steady state numerical model simulating the transient behavior of the partially masked electrodes undergoing dissolution was obtained. AISI 304 stainless steel was electrolytically photoetched in 10% w/w HCl electrolyte. The optimised process parameters were utilised for quantifying the effects of galvanostatic etching of the anode as that defined by a relatively narrow adherent resist stencil. Stainless steel was also utilised in investigating electrolytic photopolishing. A polishing electrolyte (orthophosphoric acid-glycerol) was modified by the addition of a surfactant which yielded surface texture values of 70nm (Ra) and high levels of specular reflectance. These results were used in the production of features upon the metal surface through photographically produced precision stencils. The process was applied to the production of edge filters requiring high quality surface textures in precision recesses. Some of the new amorphous material exhibited high resistance to dissolution in commercially used spray etching formulations. One of these materials is a cobalt based alloy produced by chill block spinning. This material was also investigated and electro etched in 10% w/w HCl solution. Although passivity was not overcome, by selecting suitable operating parameters the successful electro photoetching of precision magnetic recording head laminations was achieved. Similarly, a polycrystalline nickel based alloy also exhibiting passivity in commercially used etchants was successfully etched in the above electrolyte.

De-icing of the altitude wind tunnel turning vanes by electro-magnetic impulse

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zumwalt, G. W.; Ross, R.

1986-01-01

The Altitude Wind Tunnel at the NASA-Lewis facility is being proposed for a refurbishment and moderization. Two major changes are: (1) the increasing of the test section Mach number to 0.90, and (2) the addition of spray nozzles to provide simulation of flight in icing clouds. Features to be retained are the simulation of atmospheric temperature and pressure to 50,000 foot altitude and provision for full-scale aircraft engine operation by the exhausting of the aircraft combustion gases and ingestion of air to replace that used in combustion. The first change required a re-design of the turning vanes in the two corners downstream of the test section due to the higher Mach number at the corners. The second change threatens the operation of the turning vanes by the expected ice build-up, particulary on the first-corner vanes. De-icing by heat has two drawbacks: (1) an extremely large amount of heat is required, and (2) the melted ice would tend to collect as ice on some other surfaces in the tunnel, namely, the tunnel propellers and the cooling coils. An alternate de-icing method had been under development for three years under NASA-Lewis grants to the Wichita State University. This report describes the electro-impulse de-icing (EIDI) method and the testing work done to assess its applicability to wind tunnel turning vane de-icing. Tests were conducted in the structural dynamics laboratory and in the NASA Icing Research Tunnel. Good ice protection was achieved at lower power consumption and at a wide range of tunnel operations conditions. Recommendations for design and construction of the system for this application of the EIDI method are given.

Response of Cloud Condensation Nuclei (> 50 nm) to changes in ion-nucleation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pedersen, J. O.; Enghoff, M. B.; Svensmark, H.

2012-12-01

The role of ionization in the formation of clouds and aerosols has been debated for many years. A body of evidence exists that correlates cloud properties to galactic cosmic ray ionization; however these results are still contested. In recent years experimental evidence has also been produced showing that ionization can promote the nucleation of small aerosols at atmospheric conditions. The experiments showed that an increase in ionization leads to an increase in the formation of ultrafine aerosols (~3 nm), but in the real atmosphere such small particles have to grow by coagulation and condensation to become cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) in order to have an effect on clouds. However, numerical studies predict that variations in the count of ultra-fine aerosols will lead only to an insignificant change in the count of CCN. This is due to 1) the competition between the additional ultra-fine aerosols for the limited supply of condensable gases leading to a slower growth and 2) the increased loss rates of the additional particles during the longer growth-time. We investigated the growth of aerosols to CCN sizes using an 8 m3 reaction chamber made from electro-polished stainless steel. One side was fitted with a Teflon foil to allow ultraviolet light to illuminate the chamber, which was continuously flushed with dry purified air. Variable concentrations of water vapor, ozone, and sulfur dioxide could be added to the chamber. UV-lamps initiated photochemistry producing sulfuric acid. Ionization could be enhanced with two Cs-137 gamma sources (30 MBq), mounted on each side of the chamber. Figure 1 shows the evolution of the aerosols, following a nucleation event induced by the gamma sources. Previous to the event the aerosols were in steady state. Each curve represents a size bin: 3-10 nm (dark purple), 10-20 nm (purple), 20-30 nm (blue), 30-40 nm (light blue), 40-50 nm (green), 50-60 nm (yellow), and 60-68 nm (red). Black curves show a ~1 hour smoothing. The initial increase in small aerosols persists all the way to the largest size bin. Similar experiments where the aerosol burst was produced with either the ionization source or an aerosol generator (neutralized aerosols) were made and compared with each other and model runs. The runs using neutral aerosol bursts agree with the model predictions, where the initial burst is dampened such that there is little or no change in the largest sizes. Thus there seems to be a fundamental difference between the bursts produced by ionization and those produced by the aerosol generator. Growth of aerosols, nucleated by ionization.

Modules and methods for all photonic computing

DOEpatents

Schultz, David R.; Ma, Chao Hung

2001-01-01

A method for all photonic computing, comprising the steps of: encoding a first optical/electro-optical element with a two dimensional mathematical function representing input data; illuminating the first optical/electro-optical element with a collimated beam of light; illuminating a second optical/electro-optical element with light from the first optical/electro-optical element, the second optical/electro-optical element having a characteristic response corresponding to an iterative algorithm useful for solving a partial differential equation; iteratively recirculating the signal through the second optical/electro-optical element with light from the second optical/electro-optical element for a predetermined number of iterations; and, after the predetermined number of iterations, optically and/or electro-optically collecting output data representing an iterative optical solution from the second optical/electro-optical element.

Measurement of quasi-isentropic compressibility of helium and deuterium at pressures of 1500-2000 GPa

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

Mochalov, M. A., E-mail: postmaster@ifv.vniief.ru; Il'kaev, R. I.; Fortov, V. E.

2012-10-15

The quasi-isentropic compressibility of helium and deuterium plasmas at pressures of up to 1500-2000 GPa has been measured using devices with spherical geometry and an X-ray diagnostic complex comprising three betatrons and a multichannel imaging system with electro-optic gamma detectors. A deuterium density of 4.5 g/cm{sup 3} and a helium density of 3.8 g/cm{sup 3} have been obtained at pressures of 2210 and 1580 GPa, respectively. The internal energy of a deuterium plasma at the indicated pressure is about 1 MJ/cm{sup 3}, which is about 100 times greater than the specific energy of condensed chemical explosives. Analysis of the obtainedmore » data shows that the degree of helium ionization under the achieved plasma compression parameters is about 0.9.« less

Development and Characterization of a Laser-Induced Acoustic Desorption Source.

PubMed

Huang, Zhipeng; Ossenbrüggen, Tim; Rubinsky, Igor; Schust, Matthias; Horke, Daniel A; Küpper, Jochen

2018-03-20

A laser-induced acoustic desorption source, developed for use at central facilities, such as free-electron lasers, is presented. It features prolonged measurement times and a fixed interaction point. A novel sample deposition method using aerosol spraying provides a uniform sample coverage and hence stable signal intensity. Utilizing strong-field ionization as a universal detection scheme, the produced molecular plume is characterized in terms of number density, spatial extend, fragmentation, temporal distribution, translational velocity, and translational temperature. The effect of desorption laser intensity on these plume properties is evaluated. While translational velocity is invariant for different desorption laser intensities, pointing to a nonthermal desorption mechanism, the translational temperature increases significantly and higher fragmentation is observed with increased desorption laser fluence.

Homogeneous Matrix Deposition on Dried Agar for MALDI Imaging Mass Spectrometry of Microbial Cultures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoffmann, Thomas; Dorrestein, Pieter C.

2015-11-01

Matrix deposition on agar-based microbial colonies for MALDI imaging mass spectrometry is often complicated by the complex media on which microbes are grown. This Application Note demonstrates how consecutive short spray pulses of a matrix solution can form an evenly closed matrix layer on dried agar. Compared with sieving dry matrix onto wet agar, this method supports analyte cocrystallization, which results in significantly more signals, higher signal-to-noise ratios, and improved ionization efficiency. The even matrix layer improves spot-to-spot precision of measured m/z values when using TOF mass spectrometers. With this technique, we established reproducible imaging mass spectrometry of myxobacterial cultures on nutrient-rich cultivation media, which was not possible with the sieving technique.

Electro-optic and acousto-optic scanning and deflection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gottlieb, M.; Ireland, C. L. M.; Ley, J. M.

This book attempts to cover sufficient electro- and acousto-optic theory for the reader to understand and appreciate the design and application of solid state optical deflectors. It is also hoped that for the more experienced engineer the book will serve as a useful reference book covering the most important work in this field of engineering. The theory of the electro-optic effect is considered along with the properties and selection of electro-optic materials, the principles of electro-optic deflectors, electro-optic deflector designs, and applications for electro-optic deflectors. Attention is given to EM wave propagation in a crystal, the linear electro-optic effect, the quadratic electro-optic effect in crystals and in liquids, electro-optic ceramics in the (Pb,La)(Zr,Ti)O3 system, and digital and analog light deflectors. Aspects related to acousto-optic deflectors are discussed, taking into account acousto-optic interactions, materials for acousto-optic scanning, acoustic techniques, scanning systems, and acousto-optic light diffraction in thin films.

Time-resolved method to distinguish protein/peptide oxidation during electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Pei, Jiying; Hsu, Cheng-Chih; Yu, Kefu; Wang, Yinghui; Huang, Guangming

2018-06-29

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) is one of the most prevalent techniques used to monitor protein/peptide oxidation induced by reactive oxygen species (ROSs). However, both corona discharge (CD) and electrochemistry (EC) can also lead to protein/peptide oxidation during ESI. Because the two types of oxidation occur almost simultaneously, determining the extent to which the two pathways contribute to protein/peptide oxidation is difficult. Herein, a time-resolved method was introduced to identify and differentiate CD- and EC-induced oxidation. Using this approach, we separated the instantaneous CD-induced oxidation from the hysteretic EC-induced oxidation, and the effects of the spray voltage and flow rate of the ESI source on both oxidation types were investigated with a homemade ESI source. For angiotensin II analogue (b-DRVYVHPF-y), the dehydrogenation and oxygenation species were the detected EC-induced oxidation products, while the oxygenation species were the major CD-induced oxidation products. This time-resolved approach was also applicable to a commercial HESI source, in which both CD and EC were responsible for hemoglobin and cytochrome c oxidation with upstream grounding while CD dominated the oxidation without upstream grounding. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cyclododecane exposure in the field of conservation and restoration of art objects.

PubMed

Vernez, David; Wognin, Barthélémy; Tomicic, Catherine; Plateel, Gregory; Charrière, Nicole; Bruhin, Stefanie

2011-04-01

Recent work practices in the conservation and restoration involve the use of cyclododecane (CDD, CAS 294-62-2) to protect fragile artifacts during their handling or transportation. Little is known about its toxicity, and no previous exposure has been reported. A short field investigation was conducted to characterize the exposure conditions to both CDD vapors and aerosols. Measurements were conducted in the laboratory of conservation and restoration of the archeological service in Bern (Switzerland). Three indoor and four outdoor typical work situations, either during brush or spray gun applications, were investigated. Measurements were performed on charcoal adsorbent tube and analyzed by a gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector. Measurements have been conducted during both brush and spray gun applications. Indoor exposures were of 0.75-15.5 mg/m(3), while outdoors exposures were 19.5-53.9 mg/m(3). Exposures appear to be extremely localized due to both physicochemical properties and application methods of the CDD. Vapor exposure increases dramatically with the confinement of the workplace. Preventive measures should be undertaken to limit as much as possible these exposures. Field work in confined areas (ditches, underground) is of particular concern. CDD-coated artifacts or materials should be stored in ventilated areas to avoid delayed exposures.

Method for minimizing decarburization and other high temperature oxygen reactions in a plasma sprayed material

DOEpatents

Lenling, William J.; Henfling, Joseph A.; Smith, Mark F.

1993-06-08

A method is disclosed for spray coating material which employs a plasma gun that has a cathode, an anode, an arc gas inlet, a first powder injection port, and a second powder injection port. A suitable arc gas is introduced through the arc gas inlet, and ionization of the arc gas between the cathode and the anode forms a plasma. The plasma is directed to emenate from an open-ended chamber defined by the boundary of the anode. A coating is deposited upon a base metal part by suspending a binder powder within a carrier gas that is fed into the plasma through the first powder injection port; a material subject to degradation by high temperature oxygen reactions is suspended within a carrier gas that is fed into the plasma through the second injection port. The material fed through the second injection port experiences a cooler portion of the plasma and has a shorter dwell time within the plasma to minimize high temperature oxygen reactions. The material of the first port and the material of the second port intermingle within the plasma to form a uniform coating having constituent percentages related to the powder-feed rates of the materials through the respective ports.

Formation of low charge state ions of synthetic polymers using quaternary ammonium compounds.

PubMed

Nasioudis, Andreas; Joyce, William F; van Velde, Jan W; Heeren, Ron M A; van den Brink, Oscar F

2010-07-01

Factors such as high polymer dispersity and variation in elemental composition (of copolymers) often complicate the electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis of synthetic polymers with high molar mass. In the experiments described in this study, quaternary ammonium compounds were observed to facilitate the production of low charge state pseudomolecular ions when added to the spray solution for ESI-MS. This approach was then used for the ESI time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS) analysis of synthetic polymers. Hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride permitted the successful analysis of poly(ethylene glycol) of 2-40 kDa, poly(propylene glycol) and poly(tetramethylene glycol) oligomers. Increasing the quaternary ammonium compounds' concentration results in the production of low charge state pseudomolecular ions. A comparison of structurally different quaternary ammonium compounds showed that the best performance is expected from large molecules with specific charge localization, which leaves the charge available for interactions. The applicability of the method for the MS analysis of other polymeric systems was also studied. In the case of poly(tetramethylene glycol), the method not only shifted the distributions to higher m/z values but also allowed the detection of high molecular weight material that was not observed without addition of the modifier to the spray solution.

Rapid analysis of Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (Zhishi) using paper spray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Liu, Xuemei; Gu, Zhixin; Guo, Yuan; Liu, Jingjing; Ma, Ming; Chen, Bo; Wang, Liping

2017-04-15

Paper spray-mass spectrometry (PS-MS) is a rapid, solvent-efficient, and high-throughput analytical method for analyzing complex samples. In this study, a PS-MS method was developed to obtain MS profiles of Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (aka Zhishi in Chinese) in positive and negative ion modes. In combination with multivariate analyses, including principal component analysis and cluster analysis, the PS-MS profiles of 25 batches of Zhishi were discriminated in 25 batches of Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride (aka Qingpi in Chinese; an adulterant of Zhishi). Moreover, a rapid quantitative analysis of synephrine, a prescriptive quality control component of Zhishi listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, was conducted with PS-MS using synephrine-d2 as an internal standard (IS). The linearity range was 1.68-16.8μg/mL (R 2 =0.9985), the limit of quantitation was 0.5μg/mL. Relative standard deviations in the intra- and inter-day precision of the MS were 4.87 and 4.90%, respectively. Compared with HPLC results, there was no significant difference in the quantitation of synephrine. This study demonstrated that the PS-MS method is useful for the rapid discrimination and quality control of Zhishi samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Electro-physiological changes in the brain induced by caffeine or glucose nasal spray.

PubMed

De Pauw, K; Roelands, B; Van Cutsem, J; Marusic, U; Torbeyns, T; Meeusen, R

2017-01-01

A direct link between the mouth cavity and the brain for glucose (GLUC) and caffeine (CAF) has been established. The aim of this study is to determine whether a direct link for both substrates also exist between the nasal cavity and the brain. Ten healthy male subjects (age 22 ± 1 years) performed three experimental trials, separated by at least 2 days. Each trial included a 20-s nasal spray (NAS) period in which solutions placebo (PLAC), GLUC, or CAF were provided in a double-blind, randomized order. During each trial, four cognitive Stroop tasks were performed: two familiarization trials and one pre- and one post-NAS trial. Reaction times and accuracy for different stimuli (neutral, NEUTR; congruent, CON; incongruent INCON) were determined. Electroencephalography was continuously measured throughout the trials. During the Stroop tasks pre- and post-NAS, the P300 was assessed and during NAS, source localization was performed using standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA). NAS activated the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). CAF-NAS also increased θ and β activity in frontal cortices. Furthermore, GLUC-NAS increased the β activity within the insula. GLUC-NAS also increased the P300 amplitude with INCON (P = 0.046) and reduced P300 amplitude at F3-F4 and P300 latency at CP1-CP2-Cz with NEUTR (P = 0.001 and P = 0.016, respectively). The existence of nasal bitter and sweet taste receptors possibly induce these brain responses. Greater cognitive efficiency was observed with GLUC-NAS. CAF-NAS activated cingulate, insular, and sensorymotor cortices, whereas GLUC-NAS activated sensory, cingulate, and insular cortices. However, no effect on the Stroop task was found.

Electro-Optic Computing Architectures. Volume I

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-02-01

The objective of the Electro - Optic Computing Architecture (EOCA) program was to develop multi-function electro - optic interfaces and optical...interconnect units to enhance the performance of parallel processor systems and form the building blocks for future electro - optic computing architectures...Specifically, three multi-function interface modules were targeted for development - an Electro - Optic Interface (EOI), an Optical Interconnection Unit (OW

Bioactivity of cellulose acetate/hydroxyapatite nanoparticle composite fiber by an electro-spinning process.

PubMed

Kwak, Dae Hyun; Lee, Eun Ju; Kim, Deug Joong

2014-11-01

Hydroxyapatite/cellulose acetate composite webs were fabricated by an electro-spinning process. This electro-spinning process makes it possible to fabricate complex three-dimensional shapes. Nano fibrous web consisting of cellulose acetate and hydroxyapatite was produced from their mixture solution by using an electro-spinning process under high voltage. The surface of the electro-spun fiber was modified by a plasma and alkaline solution in order to increase its bioactivity. The structure, morphology and properties of the electro-spun fibers were investigated and an in-vitro bioactivity test was evaluated in simulated body fluid (SBF). Bioactivity of the electro-spun web was enhanced with the filler concentration and surface treatment. The surface changes of electro-spun fibers modified by plasma and alkaline solution were investigated by FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) and XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy).

Effects of electric field on the maximum electro-spinning rate of silk fibroin solutions.

PubMed

Park, Bo Kyung; Um, In Chul

2017-02-01

Owing to the excellent cyto-compatibility of silk fibroin (SF) and the simple fabrication of nano-fibrous webs, electro-spun SF webs have attracted much research attention in numerous biomedical fields. Because the production rate of electro-spun webs is strongly dependent on the electro-spinning rate used, the electro-spinning rate becomes more important. In the present study, to improve the electro-spinning rate of SF solutions, various electric fields were applied during electro-spinning of SF, and its effects on the maximum electro-spinning rate of SF solution as well as diameters and molecular conformations of the electro-spun SF fibers were examined. As the electric field was increased, the maximum electro-spinning rate of the SF solution also increased. The maximum electro-spinning rate of a 13% SF solution could be increased 12×by increasing the electric field from 0.5kV/cm (0.25mL/h) to 2.5kV/cm (3.0mL/h). The dependence of the fiber diameter on the present electric field was not significant when using less-concentrated SF solutions (7-9% SF). On the other hand, at higher SF concentrations the electric field had a greater effect on the resulting fiber diameter. The electric field had a minimal effect of the molecular conformation and crystallinity index of the electro-spun SF webs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Basic Research of Intrinsic Tamper Indication Markings Defined by Pulsed Laser Irradiation (Quad Chart).

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

Moody, Neville R.

Objective: We will research how short (ns) and ultrashort (fs) laser pulses interact with the surfaces of various materials to create complex color layers and morphological patterns. Method: We are investigating the site-specific, formation of microcolor features. Also, research includes a fundamental study of the physics underlying periodic ripple formation during femtosecond laser irradiation. Status of effort: Laser induced color markings were demonstrated on an increased number of materials (including metal thin films) and investigated for optical properties and microstructure. Technology that allows for marking curved surfaces (and large areas) has been implemented. We have used electro-magnetic solvers to modelmore » light-solid interactions leading to periodic surface ripple patterns. This includes identifying the roles of surface plasmon polaritons. Goals/Milestones: Research corrosion resistance of oxide color markings (salt spray, fog, polarization tests); Through modeling, investigate effects of multi-source scattering and interference on ripple patterns; Investigate microspectrophotometry for mapping color; and Investigate new methods for laser color marking curved surfaces and large areas.« less

Mechanisms of the passage of dark currents through Cd(Zn)Te semi-insulating crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sklyarchuk, V.; Fochuk, P.; Rarenko, I.; Zakharuk, Z.; Sklyarchuk, O.; Nykoniuk, Ye.; Rybka, A.; Kutny, V.; Bolotnikov, A. E.; James, R. B.

2014-09-01

We investigated the passage of dark currents through semi-insulating crystals of Cd(Zn)Te with weak n-type conductivity that are used widely as detectors of ionizing radiation. The crystals were grown from a tellurium solution melt at 800 оС by the zone-melting method, in which a polycrystalline rod in a quartz ampoule was moved through a zone heater at a rate of 2 mm per day. The synthesis of the rod was carried out at ~1150 оС. We determined the important electro-physical parameters of this semiconductor, using techniques based on a parallel study of the temperature dependence of current-voltage characteristics in both the ohmic and the space-charge-limited current regions. We established in these crystals the relationship between the energy levels and the concentrations of deep-level impurity states, responsible for dark conductivity and their usefulness as detectors.

Radical scavenging behavior of eriodictyol and fustin flavonoid compounds - A DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadasivam, K.; Praveena, R.; Anbakzhakan, K.

2018-05-01

The density functional theory (DFT) protocol together with B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) level of theory has been utilized to explore and compare the structural features and molecular characteristics of two naturally occurring flavonoid compounds eriodictyol and fustin. The -OH bond dissociation energy (BDE) for all the radical species have been computed and interpreted in accordance with the radical scavenging activity. The ionization potential (IP) value of fustin flavonoid compound was found to be within the range of synthetic food additives. The polar nature and their capacity to polarise other atoms are established through the dipole moment analysis. Additionally, various parameters that are relevant to chemical potential such as electron affinity, hardness, softness, electro negativity and electrophilic index were calculated and analysed in the light of quercetin flavonoid compound in view of their antioxidant activity. The antioxidant capability of fustin is found to be superior to eriodictyol flavonoid.

Magnetron cathodes in plasma electrode Pockels cells

DOEpatents

Rhodes, M.A.

1995-04-25

Magnetron cathodes, which produce high current discharges, form greatly improved plasma electrodes on each side of an electro-optic crystal. The plasma electrode has a low pressure gas region on both sides of the crystal. When the gas is ionized, e.g., by a glow discharge in the low pressure gas, the plasma formed is a good conductor. The gas electrode acts as a highly uniform conducting electrode. Since the plasma is transparent to a high energy laser beam passing through the crystal, the plasma is transparent. A crystal exposed from two sides to such a plasma can be charged up uniformly to any desired voltage. A typical configuration utilizes helium at 50 millitorr operating pressure and 2 kA discharge current. The magnetron cathode produces a more uniform plasma and allows a reduced operating pressure which leads to lower plasma resistivity and a more uniform charge on the crystal. 5 figs.

Magnetron cathodes in plasma electrode pockels cells

DOEpatents

Rhodes, Mark A.

1995-01-01

Magnetron cathodes, which produce high current discharges, form greatly improved plasma electrodes on each side of an electro-optic crystal. The plasma electrode has a low pressure gas region on both sides of the crystal. When the gas is ionized, e.g., by a glow discharge in the low pressure gas, the plasma formed is a good conductor. The gas electrode acts as a highly uniform conducting electrode. Since the plasma is transparent to a high energy laser beam passing through the crystal, the plasma is transparent. A crystal exposed from two sides to such a plasma can be charged up uniformly to any desired voltage. A typical configuration utilizes helium at 50 millitorr operating. pressure and 2 kA discharge current. The magnetron cathode produces a more uniform plasma and allows a reduced operating pressure which leads to lower plasma resistivity and a more uniform charge on the crystal.

Polymeric Materials for Electro-Optic Testing.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-07-01

what Langmuir Blodgett films are, how they are grown and deposited on a material, and the electro - optic effects in Langmuir/Blodgett films. Stephen...Kowel has experimented with several different types of organic dyes mixed in the films to increase the electro - optic effect in the films. The bulk of his...test integrated circuits. Keywords: Langmuir Blodgett films, Electro - optic testing, Integrated circuits, Linear electro - optic effect.

Electro-Optic Surface Field Imaging System

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

ELECTRO - OPTIC SURFACE FIELD IMAGING SYSTEM L. E. Kingsley and W. R. Donaldson LABORATORY FOR LASER ENERGETICS University of Rochester 250 East...surface electric fields present during switch operation. The electro - optic , or Pockel’s effect, provides an extremely useful probe of surface electric...fields. Using the electro - optic effect, surface fields can be measured with an optical probe. This paper describes an electro - optic probe which is

Electro-Optic Computing Architectures: Volume II. Components and System Design and Analysis

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-02-01

The objective of the Electro - Optic Computing Architecture (EOCA) program was to develop multi-function electro - optic interfaces and optical...interconnect units to enhance the performance of parallel processor systems and form the building blocks for future electro - optic computing architectures...Specifically, three multi-function interface modules were targeted for development - an Electro - Optic Interface (EOI), an Optical Interconnection Unit

Precursor and Neutral Loss Scans in an RF Scanning Linear Quadrupole Ion Trap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Snyder, Dalton T.; Szalwinski, Lucas J.; Schrader, Robert L.; Pirro, Valentina; Hilger, Ryan; Cooks, R. Graham

2018-03-01

Methodology for performing precursor and neutral loss scans in an RF scanning linear quadrupole ion trap is described and compared to the unconventional ac frequency scan technique. In the RF scanning variant, precursor ions are mass selectively excited by a fixed frequency resonance excitation signal at low Mathieu q while the RF amplitude is ramped linearly to pass ions through the point of excitation such that the excited ion's m/z varies linearly with time. Ironically, a nonlinear ac frequency scan is still required for ejection of the product ions since their frequencies vary nonlinearly with the linearly varying RF amplitude. In the case of the precursor scan, the ejection frequency must be scanned so that it is fixed on a product ion m/z throughout the RF scan, whereas in the neutral loss scan, it must be scanned to maintain a constant mass offset from the excited precursor ions. Both simultaneous and sequential permutation scans are possible; only the former are demonstrated here. The scans described are performed on a variety of samples using different ionization sources: protonated amphetamine ions generated by nanoelectrospray ionization (nESI), explosives ionized by low-temperature plasma (LTP), and chemical warfare agent simulants sampled from a surface and analyzed with swab touch spray (TS). We lastly conclude that the ac frequency scan variant of these MS/MS scans is preferred due to electronic simplicity. In an accompanying manuscript, we thus describe the implementation of orthogonal double resonance precursor and neutral loss scans on the Mini 12 using constant RF voltage. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Sensitivity of GC-EI/MS, GC-EI/MS/MS, LC-ESI/MS/MS, LC-Ag(+) CIS/MS/MS, and GC-ESI/MS/MS for analysis of anabolic steroids in doping control.

PubMed

Cha, Eunju; Kim, Sohee; Kim, Ho Jun; Lee, Kang Mi; Kim, Ki Hun; Kwon, Oh-Seung; Lee, Jaeick

2015-01-01

This study compared the sensitivity of various separation and ionization methods, including gas chromatography with an electron ionization source (GC-EI), liquid chromatography with an electrospray ionization source (LC-ESI), and liquid chromatography with a silver ion coordination ion spray source (LC-Ag(+) CIS), coupled to a mass spectrometer (MS) for steroid analysis. Chromatographic conditions, mass spectrometric transitions, and ion source parameters were optimized. The majority of steroids in GC-EI/MS/MS and LC-Ag(+) CIS/MS/MS analysis showed higher sensitivities than those obtained with other analytical methods. The limits of detection (LODs) of 65 steroids by GC-EI/MS/MS, 68 steroids by LC-Ag(+) CIS/MS/MS, 56 steroids by GC-EI/MS, 54 steroids by LC-ESI/MS/MS, and 27 steroids by GC-ESI/MS/MS were below cut-off value of 2.0 ng/mL. LODs of steroids that formed protonated ions in LC-ESI/MS/MS analysis were all lower than the cut-off value. Several steroids such as unconjugated C3-hydroxyl with C17-hydroxyl structure showed higher sensitivities in GC-EI/MS/MS analysis relative to those obtained using the LC-based methods. The steroids containing 4, 9, 11-triene structures showed relatively poor sensitivities in GC-EI/MS and GC-ESI/MS/MS analysis. The results of this study provide information that may be useful for selecting suitable analytical methods for confirmatory analysis of steroids. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Homogeneous matrix deposition on dried agar for MALDI imaging mass spectrometry of microbial cultures.

PubMed

Hoffmann, Thomas; Dorrestein, Pieter C

2015-11-01

Matrix deposition on agar-based microbial colonies for MALDI imaging mass spectrometry is often complicated by the complex media on which microbes are grown. This Application Note demonstrates how consecutive short spray pulses of a matrix solution can form an evenly closed matrix layer on dried agar. Compared with sieving dry matrix onto wet agar, this method supports analyte cocrystallization, which results in significantly more signals, higher signal-to-noise ratios, and improved ionization efficiency. The even matrix layer improves spot-to-spot precision of measured m/z values when using TOF mass spectrometers. With this technique, we established reproducible imaging mass spectrometry of myxobacterial cultures on nutrient-rich cultivation media, which was not possible with the sieving technique. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

METHOD OF PRODUCING AND ACCELERATING AN ION BEAM

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, John E. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

A method of producing and accelerating an ion beam comprising the steps of providing a magnetic field with a cusp that opens in an outward direction along a centerline that passes through a vertex of the cusp: providing an ionizing gas that sprays outward through at least one capillary-like orifice in a plenum that is positioned such that the orifice is on the centerline in the cusp, outward of the vortex of the cusp; providing a cathode electron source, and positioning it outward of the orifice and off of the centerline; and positively charging the plenum relative to the cathode electron source such that the plenum functions as m anode. A hot filament may be used as the cathode electron source, and permanent magnets may be used to provide the magnetic field.

Electro-Optic Beam Steering Using Non-Linear Organic Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-08-01

York (SUNY), Buffalo, for potential application to the Hughes electro - optic beam deflector device. Evaluations include electro - optic coefficient...response time, transmission, and resistivity. Electro - optic coefficient measurements were made at 633 nm using a simple reflection technique. The

49 CFR 236.817 - Switch, electro-pneumatic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Switch, electro-pneumatic. 236.817 Section 236.817 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, electro-pneumatic. A switch operated by an electro-pneumatic switch-and-lock movement. ...

49 CFR 236.817 - Switch, electro-pneumatic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Switch, electro-pneumatic. 236.817 Section 236.817 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, electro-pneumatic. A switch operated by an electro-pneumatic switch-and-lock movement. ...

49 CFR 236.817 - Switch, electro-pneumatic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Switch, electro-pneumatic. 236.817 Section 236.817 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, electro-pneumatic. A switch operated by an electro-pneumatic switch-and-lock movement. ...

49 CFR 236.817 - Switch, electro-pneumatic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Switch, electro-pneumatic. 236.817 Section 236.817 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, electro-pneumatic. A switch operated by an electro-pneumatic switch-and-lock movement. ...

49 CFR 236.817 - Switch, electro-pneumatic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Switch, electro-pneumatic. 236.817 Section 236.817 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Switch, electro-pneumatic. A switch operated by an electro-pneumatic switch-and-lock movement. ...

Polycrystalline PLZT/ITO Ceramic Electro-Optic Phase Gratings: Electro- Optically Reconfigurable Diffractive Devices for Free-Space and In-Wafer Interconnects

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-09-01

free-space and waveguide interconnects is investigated through the fabrication, testing and modeling of polycrystalline PLZT/ITO ceramic electro - optic phase...only gratings. PLZT Diffraction grating, Electro - optic diffraction grating, Optical switching, Optical interconnects, Reconfigurable interconnect

Comparison of PCR/Electron spray Ionization-Time-of-Flight-Mass Spectrometry versus Traditional Clinical Microbiology for active surveillance of organisms contaminating high-use surfaces in a burn intensive care unit, an orthopedic ward and healthcare workers

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Understanding nosocomial pathogen transmission is restricted by culture limitations. Novel platforms, such as PCR-based electron spray ionization-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (ESI-TOF-MS), may be useful as investigational tools. Methods Traditional clinical microbiology (TCM) and PCR/ESI-TOF-MS were used to recover and detect microorganisms from the hands and personal protective equipment of 10 burn intensive care unit (ICU) healthcare workers providing clinical care at a tertiary care military referral hospital. High-use environmental surfaces were assessed in 9 burn ICU and 10 orthopedic patient rooms. Clinical cultures during the study period were reviewed for pathogen comparison with investigational molecular diagnostic methods. Results From 158 samples, 142 organisms were identified by TCM and 718 by PCR/ESI-TOF-MS. The molecular diagnostic method detected more organisms (4.5 ± 2.1 vs. 0.9 ± 0.8, p < 0.01) from 99% vs. 67% of samples (p < 0.01). TCM detected S. aureus in 13 samples vs. 21 by PCR/ESI-TOF-MS. Gram-negative organisms were less commonly identified than gram-positive by both methods; especially by TCM. Among all detected bacterial species, similar percentages were typical nosocomial pathogens (18-19%) for TCM vs. PCR/ESI-TOF-MS. PCR/ESI-TOF-MS also detected mecA in 112 samples, vanA in 13, and KPC-3 in 2. MecA was associated (p < 0.01) with codetection of coagulase negative staphylococci but not S. aureus. No vanA was codetected with enterococci; one KPC-3 was detected without Klebsiella spp. Conclusions In this pilot study, PCR/ESI-TOF-MS detected more organisms, especially gram-negatives, compared to TCM, but the current assay format is limited by the number of antibiotic resistance determinants it covers. Further large-scale assessments of PCR/ESI-TOF-MS for hospital surveillance are warranted. PMID:23050585

Paper spray mass spectrometry applied in the monitoring of a chemical system in dynamic chemical equilibrium: the redox process of methylene blue.

PubMed

de Paula, Camila Cristina Almeida; Valadares, Alberto; Jurisch, Marina; Piccin, Evandro; Augusti, Rodinei

2016-05-15

The monitoring of chemical systems in dynamic equilibrium is not an easy task. This is due to the high rate at which the system returns to equilibrium after being perturbed, which hampers the possibility of following the aftereffects of the disturbance. In this context, it is necessary to use a fast analytical technique that requires no (or minimal) sample preparation, and which is capable of monitoring the species constituting the system in equilibrium. Paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS-MS), a recently introduced ambient ionization technique, has such characteristics and hence was chosen for monitoring a model system: the redox process of methylene blue. The model system evaluated herein was composed of three cationic species of methylene blue (MB), which coexist in a dynamic redox system: (1) [MB](+) of m/z 284 (cationic MB); (2) [MB + H + e](+•) of m/z 285 (the protonated form of a transient species resulting from the reduction of [MB](+) ); (3) [MB + 2H + 2e](+) or [leuco-MB + H](+) of m/z 286 (the protonated leuco form of MB). Aliquots of a MB solution were collected before and after the addition of a reducing agent (metallic zinc) and directly analyzed by PS-MS for identification of the predominant cationic species at different conditions. The mass spectra revealed that before the addition of the reducing agent the ion of m/z 284 (cationic MB) is the unique species. Upon the addition of the reducing agent and acid, however, the solution continuously undergo discoloration while reduced species derived directly from cationic MB (m/z 285 and 286) are detected in the mass spectra with increasing intensities. Fragmentation patterns obtained for each ionic species, i.e. [MB](+) , [MB + H + e](+•) and [leuco-MB + H](+) , shown to be consistent with the proposed structures. The PS-MS technique proved to be suitable for an in situ and 'near' real-time analysis of the dynamic equilibrium involving the redox of MB in aqueous medium. The data clearly demonstrated how the redox equilibrium shifts depending on the disturbance caused to the system. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Evaluation of a commercial electro-kinetically pumped sheath-flow nanospray interface coupled to an automated capillary zone electrophoresis system.

PubMed

Peuchen, Elizabeth H; Zhu, Guije; Sun, Liangliang; Dovichi, Norman J

2017-03-01

Capillary zone electrophoresis-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (CZE-ESI-MS) is attracting renewed attention for proteomic and metabolomic analysis. An important reason for this interest is the maturation and commercialization of interfaces for coupling CZE with ESI-MS. One of these interfaces is an electro-kinetically pumped sheath flow nanospray interface developed by the Dovichi group, in which a very low sheath flow is generated based on electroosmosis within a glass emitter. CMP Scientific has commercialized this interface as the EMASS-II ion source. In this work, we compared the performance of the EMASS-II ion source with our in-house system. The performance of the systems is equivalent. We also coupled the EMASS-II ion source with a PrinCE Next|480 capillary electrophoresis autosampler and an Orbitrap mass spectrometer, and analyzed this system's performance in terms of sensitivity, reproducibility, and separation performance for separation of tryptic digests, intact proteins, and amino acids. The system produced reproducible analysis of BSA digest; the RSDs of peptide intensity and migration time across 24 runs were less than 20 and 6%, respectively. The system produced a linear calibration curve of intensity across a 30-fold range of tryptic digest concentration. The combination of a commercial autosampler and electrospray interface efficiently separated amino acids, peptides, and intact proteins, and only required 5 μL of sample for analysis. Graphical Abstract The commercial and locally constructed versions of the interface provide similar numbers of protein identifications from a Xenopus laevis fertilized egg digest.

Quantum mechanical design and structure of the Li@B10H14 basket with a remarkably enhanced electro-optical response.

PubMed

Muhammad, Shabbir; Xu, Hongliang; Liao, Yi; Kan, Yuhe; Su, Zhongmin

2009-08-26

An innovative type of lithium decahydroborate (Li@B(10)H(14)) complex with a basketlike complexant of decaborane (B(10)H(14)) has been designed using quantum mechanical methods. As Li atom binds in a handle fashion to terminal electrophilic boron atoms of the decaborane basket, its NBO charge q (Li) is found to be 0.876, close to +1. This shows that the Li atom has been ionized to form a cation and an anion at the open end of B(10)H(14). The most fascinating feature of this Li doping is its loosely bound valence electron, which has been pulled into the cavity of the B(10)H(14) basket and become diffuse by the electron-deficient morphological features of the open end of the B(10)H(14) basket. Strikingly, the first hyperpolarizability (beta(0)) of Li@B(10)H(14) is about 340 times larger than that of B(10)H(14), computed to be 23,075 au (199 x 10(-30) esu) and 68 au, respectively. Besides this, the intercalation of the Li atom to the B(10)H(14) basket brings some distinctive changes in its Raman, (11)B NMR, and UV-vis spectra along with its other electronic properties that might be used by the experimentalists to identify this novel kind of Li@B(10)H(14) complex with a large electro-optical response. This study may evoke the possibility to explore a new thriving area, i.e., alkali metal-boranes for NLO application.

Electro-osmotic flow of semidilute polyelectrolyte solutions.

PubMed

Uematsu, Yuki; Araki, Takeaki

2013-09-07

We investigate electro-osmosis in aqueous solutions of polyelectrolytes using mean-field equations. A solution of positively charged polyelectrolytes is confined between two negatively charged planar surfaces, and an electric field is applied parallel to the surfaces. When electrostatic attraction between the polymer and the surface is strong, the polymers adhere to the surface, forming a highly viscous adsorption layer that greatly suppresses the electro-osmosis. Conversely, electro-osmosis is enhanced by depleting the polymers from the surfaces. We also found that the electro-osmotic flow is invertible when the electrostatic potential decays to its bulk value with the opposite sign. These behaviors are well explained by a simple mathematical form of the electro-osmotic coefficient.

Electro-optic device with gap-coupled electrode

DOEpatents

Deri, Robert J.; Rhodes, Mark A.; Bayramian, Andrew J.; Caird, John A.; Henesian, Mark A.; Ebbers, Christopher A.

2013-08-20

An electro-optic device includes an electro-optic crystal having a predetermined thickness, a first face and a second face. The electro-optic device also includes a first electrode substrate disposed opposing the first face. The first electrode substrate includes a first substrate material having a first thickness and a first electrode coating coupled to the first substrate material. The electro-optic device further includes a second electrode substrate disposed opposing the second face. The second electrode substrate includes a second substrate material having a second thickness and a second electrode coating coupled to the second substrate material. The electro-optic device additionally includes a voltage source electrically coupled to the first electrode coating and the second electrode coating.

Electro-Optic Diffraction Grating Tuned Laser.

DTIC Science & Technology

The patent concerns an electro - optic diffraction grating tuned laser comprising a laser medium, output mirror, retro-reflective grating and an electro - optic diffraction grating beam deflector positioned between the laser medium and the reflective diffraction grating. An optional angle multiplier may be used between the electro - optic diffraction grating and the reflective grating.

Electro-Optic Generation and Detection of Femtosecond Electromagnetic Pulses

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-11-20

electromagnetic pulses from an electro - optic crystal following their generation by electro - optic Cherenkov radiation, and their subsequent propagation and detection...in free space; (4) The measurement of subpicosecond electrical response of a new organic electrooptic material (polymer); (5) The observation of terahertz transition radiation from the surfaces of electro - optic crystals.

Embedded Electro-Optic Sensor Network for the On-Site Calibration and Real-Time Performance Monitoring of Large-Scale Phased Arrays

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-07-09

This final report summarizes the progress during the Phase I SBIR project entitled Embedded Electro - Optic Sensor Network for the On-Site Calibration...network based on an electro - optic field-detection technique (the Electro - optic Sensor Network, or ESN) for the performance evaluation of phased

Electro-Optic Propagation

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-09-30

Electro - Optic Propagation Stephen Doss-Hammel SPAWARSYSCEN San Diego code 2858 49170 Propagation Path San Diego, CA 92152-7385 phone: (619...OBJECTIVES The electro - optical propagation objectives are: 1) The acquisition and analysis of mid-wave and long-wave infrared transmission and...elements to the electro - optical propagation model development. The first element is the design and execution of field experiments to generate useful

Development of New Electro-Optic and Acousto-Optic Materials.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

Improved materials are required for active optical devices, including electro - optic and acousto-optic modulators, switches and tunable filters, as...many microwave applications. In addition, electro - optic and acousto-optic devices are materials limited because the materials currently available are...these materials for applications involving the electro - optic effect, degenerate four-wave mixing and surface acoustic wave technology.

Investigation of quadratic electro-optic effects and electro-absorption process in GaN/AlGaN spherical quantum dot

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Quadratic electro-optic effects (QEOEs) and electro-absorption (EA) process in a GaN/AlGaN spherical quantum dot are theoretically investigated. It is found that the magnitude and resonant position of third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility depend on the nanostructure size and aluminum mole fraction. With increase of the well width and barrier potential, quadratic electro-optic effect and electro-absorption process nonlinear susceptibilities are decreased and blueshifted. The results show that the DC Kerr effect in this case is much larger than that in the bulk case. Finally, it is observed that QEOEs and EA susceptibilities decrease and broaden with the decrease of relaxation time. PMID:24646318

Sieve-based device for MALDI sample preparation. I. Influence of sample deposition conditions in oligonucleotide analysis to achieve significant increases in both sensitivity and resolution.

PubMed

Molin, Laura; Cristoni, Simone; Crotti, Sara; Bernardi, Luigi Rossi; Seraglia, Roberta; Traldi, Pietro

2008-11-01

Spraying of oligonucleotide-matrix solutions through a stainless steel (ss) sieve (38 microm, 450 mesh) leads to the formation, on the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) sample holder, of uniformly distributed microcrystals, well separated from each other. When the resulting sample holder surface is irradiated by laser, abundant molecular species form, with a clear increase in both intensity and resolution with respect to values obtained by 'Dried Droplet', 'Double Layer', and 'Sandwich' deposition methods. In addition, unlike the usual situation, the sample is perfectly homogeneous, and identical spectra are obtained by irradiating different areas. On one hand, the data indicate that this method is highly effective for oligonucleotide MALDI analysis, and on the other, that it can be validly employed for fully automated MALDI procedures.

Untrapping Kinetically Trapped Ions: The Role of Water Vapor and Ion-Source Activation Conditions on the Gas-Phase Protomer Ratio of Benzocaine Revealed by Ion-Mobility Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Xia, Hanxue; Attygalle, Athula B

2017-12-01

The role of water vapor in transforming the thermodynamically preferred species of protonated benzocaine to the less favored protomer was investigated using helium-plasma ionization (HePI) in conjunction with ion-mobility mass spectrometry (IM-MS). The IM arrival-time distribution (ATD) recorded from a neat benzocaine sample desorbed to the gas phase by a stream of dry nitrogen and ionized by HePI showed essentially one peak for the O-protonated species. However, when water vapor was introduced to the enclosed ion source, within a span of about 150 ms the ATD profile changed completely to one dominated by the N-protonated species. Under spray-based ionization conditions, the nature and composition of the solvents have been postulated to play a decisive role in defining the manifested protomer ratios. In reality, the solvent vapors present in the ion source (particularly the ambient humidity) indirectly dictate the gas-phase ratio of the protomers. Evidently, the gas-phase protomer ratio established at the confinement of the ions is readjusted by the ion-activation that takes place during the transmission of ions to the vacuum. Although it has been repeatedly stated that ions can retain a "memory" of their solution structures because they can be kinetically trapped, and thereby represent their solution-based stabilities, we show that the initial airborne ions can undergo significant transformations in the transit through the intermediate vacuum zones between the ion source and the mass detector. In this context, we demonstrate that the kinetically trapped N-protomer of benzocaine can be untrapped by reducing the humidity of the enclosed ion source. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Untrapping Kinetically Trapped Ions: The Role of Water Vapor and Ion-Source Activation Conditions on the Gas-Phase Protomer Ratio of Benzocaine Revealed by Ion-Mobility Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Hanxue; Attygalle, Athula B.

2017-12-01

The role of water vapor in transforming the thermodynamically preferred species of protonated benzocaine to the less favored protomer was investigated using helium-plasma ionization (HePI) in conjunction with ion-mobility mass spectrometry (IM-MS). The IM arrival-time distribution (ATD) recorded from a neat benzocaine sample desorbed to the gas phase by a stream of dry nitrogen and ionized by HePI showed essentially one peak for the O-protonated species. However, when water vapor was introduced to the enclosed ion source, within a span of about 150 ms the ATD profile changed completely to one dominated by the N-protonated species. Under spray-based ionization conditions, the nature and composition of the solvents have been postulated to play a decisive role in defining the manifested protomer ratios. In reality, the solvent vapors present in the ion source (particularly the ambient humidity) indirectly dictate the gas-phase ratio of the protomers. Evidently, the gas-phase protomer ratio established at the confinement of the ions is readjusted by the ion-activation that takes place during the transmission of ions to the vacuum. Although it has been repeatedly stated that ions can retain a "memory" of their solution structures because they can be kinetically trapped, and thereby represent their solution-based stabilities, we show that the initial airborne ions can undergo significant transformations in the transit through the intermediate vacuum zones between the ion source and the mass detector. In this context, we demonstrate that the kinetically trapped N-protomer of benzocaine can be untrapped by reducing the humidity of the enclosed ion source. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Nanoporous TiNb2O7/C Composite Microspheres with Three-Dimensional Conductive Network for Long-Cycle-Life and High-Rate-Capability Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

PubMed

Zhu, Guozhen; Li, Qing; Zhao, Yunhao; Che, Renchao

2017-11-29

On the basis of the advantages of ideal cycling stability, high discharge voltage (1.65 V), and excellent reversibility, more and more attention has been focused on TiNb 2 O 7 (marked as TNO) as an anode material candidate for lithium-ion batteries. However, the poor electronic conductivity and low ionic diffusion rate intrinsically restrict its practical use. Herein, we first synthesize the TNO/C composite microspheres with three-dimensionally (marked as 3D) electro-conductive carbon network and abundant nanoporous structure by a simple spray-drying method. The microspheres are constructed by irregularly primary cubic nanoparticle units with size of 100-200 nm. The nanopores throughout the microspheres range from 1 to 50 nm. As an anode material, the prepared TNO/C composite microspheres demonstrate a prominent charge/discharge capacity of 323.2/326 mA h g -1 after 300 cycles at 0.25 C (1 C = 388 mA g -1 ) and 259.9/262.5 mA h g -1 after 1000 long cycles at a high current density of 5 C, revealing the ideal reversible capacity and long cycling life. Meanwhile, the TNO/C composite microspheres present ideal rate performance, showing the discharge capacity of 120 mA h g -1 at 30 C after 10 cycles. The super electrochemical performance could be attributed to the 3D electro-conductive carbon network and nanoporous structure. The nanopores facilitate the permeation of electrolyte into the intercontacting regions of the anode materials. Carbon layers disperse uniformly throughout the 3D microspheres, effectively improving the electrical conductivity of the electrode. Hence, the prepared TNO/C composite microspheres have great potential to be used as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.

METHOD OF APPLYING COPPER COATINGS TO URANIUM

DOEpatents

Gray, A.G.

1959-07-14

A method is presented for protecting metallic uranium, which comprises anodic etching of the uranium in an aqueous phosphoric acid solution containing chloride ions, cleaning the etched uranium in aqueous nitric acid solution, promptly electro-plating the cleaned uranium in a copper electro-plating bath, and then electro-plating thereupon lead, tin, zinc, cadmium, chromium or nickel from an aqueous electro-plating bath.

Stoichiometric Lithium Niobate (SLN) Based Linearized Electro-Optic (EO) Modulator

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-01-01

AFRL-SN-RS-TR-2006-15 Final Technical Report January 2006 STOICHIOMETRIC LITHIUM NIOBATE (SLN) BASED LINEARIZED ELECTRO - OPTIC (EO...LITHIUM NIOBATE (SLN) BASED LINEARIZED ELECTRO - OPTIC (EO) MODULATOR 6. AUTHOR(S) Dr Stuart Kingsley, Dr Sri Sriram 5. FUNDING NUMBERS C...SUBJECT TERMS electro - optic modulator, linearization, directional coupler, variable coupling, optical waveguide, Mach-Zehnder, photonic link, lithium

Electro-Optic Propagation

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-09-30

Electro - Optic Propagation Stephen Doss-Hammel SPAWARSYSCEN San Diego code 2858 49170 Propagation Path San Diego, CA 92152-7385 phone: (619...scenarios to extend the capabilities of TAWS to surface and low altitude situations. OBJECTIVES The electro - optical propagation objectives are: 1...development of a new propagation assessment tool called EOSTAR ( Electro - Optical Signal Transmission and Ranging). The goal of the EOSTAR project is to

Multidimensional System Analysis of Electro-Optic Sensors with Sampled Deterministic Output.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-12-18

System descriptions of scanning and staring electro - optic sensors with sampled output are developed as follows. Functions representing image...to complete the system descriptions. The results should be useful for designing electro - optic sensor systems and correcting data for instrumental...effects and other experimental conditions. Keywords include: Electro - optic system analysis, Scanning sensors, Staring sensors, Spatial sampling, and Temporal sampling.

Photoinduced electro-optics measurements of biosilica transformation to cristobalite

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

Fuchs, Ido; Aluma, Yaniv; Ilan, Micha

2015-03-15

In this paper we studied the photoinduced electro optics effects in the thermal transformation process of biosilica to cristobalite, at a relatively low temperature and ambient pressure. This process was characterized by a variety of standards techniques with emphasis on linear electro optic effect measurements. Overall we demonstrated that photoinduced electro optics measurements are very sensitive to the transformation from amorphous structure of silica in the natural sponge samples to laminar string morphology of cristobalite. With this technique we could probe the change in the samples chirality from achiral bio silica to chiral cristobalite structure. Furthermore it is shown thatmore » natural biosilica have photoinduced linear electro optics respond indicating the chiral natural of biosilica. - Graphical abstract: The phase transformation of biosilica from marine sponges to Cristobalite under thermal treatment was investigated using photoinduced electro optics measurements. The figure shows the changes of the electro-optic coefficient of cristobalite and biosilica. - Highlights: • We examine phase transformation of biosilica. • We report transition from amorphous biosilica to crystalline Cristobalite. • Biosilica transformation to Cristobalite at temperature of 850 °C. • Biosilica transformation is studied with photoinduced measurements. • We examine changes in the photoinduced linear electro optics properties.« less

Observation of nanometer-sized electro-active defects in insulating layers by fluorescence microscopy and electrochemistry.

PubMed

Renault, Christophe; Marchuk, Kyle; Ahn, Hyun S; Titus, Eric J; Kim, Jiyeon; Willets, Katherine A; Bard, Allen J

2015-06-02

We report a method to study electro-active defects in passivated electrodes. This method couples fluorescence microscopy and electrochemistry to localize and size electro-active defects. The method was validated by comparison with a scanning probe technique, scanning electrochemical microscopy. We used our method for studying electro-active defects in thin TiO2 layers electrodeposited on 25 μm diameter Pt ultramicroelectrodes (UMEs). The permeability of the TiO2 layer was estimated by measuring the oxidation of ferrocenemethanol at the UME. Blocking of current ranging from 91.4 to 99.8% was achieved. Electro-active defects with an average radius ranging between 9 and 90 nm were observed in these TiO2 blocking layers. The distribution of electro-active defects over the TiO2 layer is highly inhomogeneous and the number of electro-active defect increases for lower degree of current blocking. The interest of the proposed technique is the possibility to quickly (less than 15 min) image samples as large as several hundreds of μm(2) while being able to detect electro-active defects of only a few tens of nm in radius.

A strong electro-optically active lead-free ferroelectric integrated on silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abel, Stefan; Stöferle, Thilo; Marchiori, Chiara; Rossel, Christophe; Rossell, Marta D.; Erni, Rolf; Caimi, Daniele; Sousa, Marilyne; Chelnokov, Alexei; Offrein, Bert J.; Fompeyrine, Jean

2013-04-01

The development of silicon photonics could greatly benefit from the linear electro-optical properties, absent in bulk silicon, of ferroelectric oxides, as a novel way to seamlessly connect the electrical and optical domain. Of all oxides, barium titanate exhibits one of the largest linear electro-optical coefficients, which has however not yet been explored for thin films on silicon. Here we report on the electro-optical properties of thin barium titanate films epitaxially grown on silicon substrates. We extract a large effective Pockels coefficient of reff=148 pm V-1, which is five times larger than in the current standard material for electro-optical devices, lithium niobate. We also reveal the tensor nature of the electro-optical properties, as necessary for properly designing future devices, and furthermore unambiguously demonstrate the presence of ferroelectricity. The integration of electro-optical active films on silicon could pave the way towards power-efficient, ultra-compact integrated devices, such as modulators, tuning elements and bistable switches.

Direct electro-optic effect in langasites and α-quartz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, Vadim

2018-05-01

Strain-constant (clamped) electro-optic coefficients r11S of langasite La3Ga5SiO14 (LGS), langatate La3Ga5.5Ta0.5O14 (LGT), catangasite Ca3TaGa3Si2O14 (CTGS) and α-quartz are measured at 1540 nm in the frequency range of 3-25 MHz. Experimental ratio of clamped and unclamped electro-optic coefficients r11S/r11T is 0.97 for LGS, 0.91 for LGT, 0.31 for CTGS, and 0.49 for quartz. Most of direct electro-optic effect in LGS and LGT is associated with lanthanum ions: clamped electro-optic coefficient r11S in lanthanum-free CTGS is 14 times less than in LGS. Low piezoelectric contribution to unclamped electro-optic coefficient r11T makes LGS and LGT promising materials for electro-optic devices, whose performance can be deteriorated by piezoelectric effect, especially, for high-voltage optical voltage sensors.

Waveguide electro-optic modulators based on intrinsically polar self-assembled superlattices (SASs)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhifu; Ho, Seng Tiong; Chang, Seongsik; Zhao, Yiguang; Marks, Tobin J.; Kang, Hu; van der Boom, Milko E.; Zhu, Peiwang

2002-12-01

In this paper we describe methods of fabricating and characterizing organic electro-optic modulators based on intrinsically polar self-assembled superlattices. These structures are intrinsically acentric, and exhibit large second harmonic generation and electro-optic responses without the requirement of poling by an external electric field. A novel wet chemical protection-deprotection approach for the growth of self-assembled superlattices have been developed, and the refractive indices of self-assembled organic electro-optic superlattices may be tuned during the self-assembly process. Prototype electro-optic modulators based on chromophoric self-assembled superlattices have been designed and fabricated. The effective electro-optic coefficient of the self-assembled superlattice film in a phase modulator is estimated as about 20 pm/V at a wavelength of 1064 nm.

External electro-optic sampling utilizing a poled polymer asymmetric Fabry Perot cavity as an electro-optical probe tip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Kaixin; Zhang, Hongbo; Zhang, Daming; Yang, Han; Yi, Maobin

2002-09-01

External electro-optic sampling utilizing a poled polymer asymmetry Fabry-Perot cavity as electro-optic probe tip has been demonstrated. Electro-optical polymer spin coated on the high-reflectivity mirror (HRM) was corona poled. Thus, an asymmetric F-P cavity was formed based on the different reflectivity of the polymer and HRM and it converted the phase modulation that originates from electro-optic effect of the poled polymer to amplitude modulation, so only one laser beam is needed in this system. The principle of the sampling was analyzed by multiple reflection and index ellipsoid methods. A 1.2 GHz microwave signal propagating on coplanar waveguide transmission line was sampled, and the voltage sensitivity about 0.5 mV/ Hz was obtained.

Comparison of the performance between a spray gun and a spray boom in ornamentals.

PubMed

Foqué, D; Nuyttens, D

2011-01-01

Flemish greenhouse growers predominantly use handheld spray guns and spray lances for their crop protection purposes although these techniques are known for their heavy workload and their high operator exposure risks. Moreover, when these techniques are compared with spray boom equipment, they are often found to be less effective. On the other hand, handheld spraying techniques are less expensive and more flexible to use. Additionally, many Flemish growers are convinced that a high spray volume and spray pressure is needed to assure a good plant protection. The aim of this work was to evaluate and compare the spray deposition, penetration and uniformity between a manually pulled horizontal spray boom and a spray gun under controlled laboratory conditions. In total, six different spray application techniques were evaluated. In general, the total deposition results were comparable between the spray boom and the spray gun applications but the boom applications resulted in a more uniform spray distribution over the crop. On a plant level, the spray distribution was not uniform for the different techniques with highest deposits on the upper side of the top leaves. Using spray guns at a higher spray pressure did not improve spray penetration and deposition on the bottom side of the leaves. From the different nozzle types, the XR 80 03 gave the best results. Plant density clearly affected crop penetration and deposition on the bottom side of the leaves.

Liquid Fertilizer Spraying Performance Using A Knapsack Power Sprayer On Soybean Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gatot, P.; Anang, R.

2018-05-01

An effort for increasing soybean production can be conducted by applying liquid fertilizer on soybean cultivation field. The objective of this research was to determine liquid fertilizer spraying performance using knapsack power sprayer TASCO TF-900 on a soybean cultivation field. Performances test were conducted in the Laboratory of Spraying Test and on a soybean cultivation field to determine (1) effective spraying width, (2) droplets diameter, (3) droplets density, (4) effective spraying discharge rate, and (5) effective field capacity of spraying. The research was conducted using 2 methods: (1) one-nozzle spraying, and (2) four- nozzles spraying. Results of the research showed that at a constant pressure of 900 kPa effective spraying width using one-nozzle spraying and four-nozzles spraying were 0.62 m and 1.10 m. A bigger effective spraying width was resulted in a bigger average effective spraying discharge rate and average effective spraying field capacity of 4.52 l/min and 83.92 m2/min on forward walking speed range of 0.94 m/s up to 1.77 m/s. On the contrary, bigger effective spraying width was result in bigger droplets diameter of 502.73 μm and a smaller droplets density of 98.39 droplets/cm2, whereas smaller effective spraying width was resulted in a smaller droplets diameter of 367.09 μm and a bigger droplets density of 350.53 droplets/cm2. One-nozzle spraying method produced a better spraying quality than four-nozzles spraying method, although four-nozzles spraying was resulted in a bigger effective field capacity of spraying.

LC-MS/MS and GC-MS methods in propofol detection: Evaluation of the two analytical procedures.

PubMed

Vaiano, Fabio; Serpelloni, Giovanni; Focardi, Martina; Fioravanti, Alessia; Mari, Francesco; Bertol, Elisabetta

2015-11-01

Propofol is a short-acting hypnotic agent that is commonly used to induce and maintain anesthesia. Propofol abuse and its involvement in suicide deaths have increased in recent years, especially among healthcare personnel. An example is the suicide of a 61-year-old nurse found with a propofol drip in his left arm. We describe the postmortem concentration of propofol in various tissues (femoral and cardiac blood, bile, urine, brain, and liver) and in the drip. The toxicological analyses were performed through two analytical methods, differing in derivatization reaction and in instrumentation: silylation for gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS), as routinely performed in our laboratory for this kind of analyses (lower limits of quantification-LLOQ-in urine and blood: 0.3 and 5ng/ml); for liquid chromatograph-tandem mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) an innovative azo-coupling derivatization (LLOQ: 0.0004 and 0.1ng/ml). This latter produces an azo-derivative (molecular composition: C18H22ON2; molecular weight: 282Da) highly ionizable in electro-spray ion source, both in negative and positive ionizations. These two methods were compared to evaluate the effectiveness of this new LC-MS/MS analysis. An acidic hydrolysis (HCl 6N, 100°C, and 1h) was performed for the biological samples (1ml or 1g) irrespective of the analytical method applied. The drip content was extracted adding phosphate buffer (pH 8) and a dichloromethane/ethylacetate 8:2 (v:v) mixture. Derivatization steps were: silylation with N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA)+tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) for GC-MS; regarding LC-MS/MS, azo-coupling reaction with the aryl-diazonium salt (0-5°C, and 30min). The analyses were achieved in selected-ion monitoring for GC-MS (m/z, 235,250,73 propofol"; m/z, 252,267,27 propofol-d17) and in multiple reaction monitoring ([M-H](-): m/z 283→241,77, azo-propofol; m/z 299→251,77, azo-propofol-d17) for LC-MS/MS. Autopsy showed no significant findings. Propofol concentrations were (LC-MS/MS vs GC-MS, respectively): 15.1 vs 14.5mg/ml, drip content; 7.11 vs 6.07μg/ml, cardiac blood; 9.50 vs 7.19μg/ml, femoral blood; 0.64 vs 1.07μg/ml, bile; 0.042 vs 0.051μg/ml urine; 4.93 vs 5.89μg/g, brain; and 7.88 vs 6.80μg/g, liver. These values are comparable with the ones described in literature for death by acute propofol intoxication; the drip content is compatible with a diluted formulation of propofol available in Italy (20mg/ml injectable emulsion). The comparison shows an excellent fitting of the data (R(2): 0.9362). Toxicological results proved the cause of death as acute propofol intoxication. Furthermore, the new LC-MS/MS method showed an excellent effectiveness and reliability when compared to the routinely used GC-MS method. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Advanced Organic Electro-Optic Materials for Integrated Device Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-06-01

Electro - optic chromophores (FTC and CLD) were synthesized in bulk (kilogram) quantities and were distributed to the participants of this program...to stabilize electro - optic activity for operation at elevated temperatures and photon flux levels. Over 100 variants of these chromophores were...1.5-2.0 improvement over FTC and CLD chromophores in terms of electro - optic activity at telecommunication wavelengths. They also have proven more

Processing and Fusion of Electro-Optic Information

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-04-01

UNCLASSIFIED Defense Technical Information Center Compilation Part Notice ADP010886 TITLE: Processing and Fusion of Electro - Optic Information...component part numbers comprise the compilation report: ADP010865 thru ADP010894 UNCLASSIFIED 21-1 Processing and Fusion of Electro - Optic Information I...additional electro - optic (EO) sensor model within OOPSDG. It describes TM IT TT T T T performance estimates found prior to producing the New Ne- New

Electro-Optic Properties of Holographically Patterned, Polymer Stabilized Cholesteric Liquid Crystals (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

Electro - optic properties of cholesteric liquid crystals with holographically patterned polymer stabilization were examined. It is hypothesized that...enhanced electro - optic properties of the final device. Prior to holographic patterning, polymer stabilization with large elastic memory was generated by way... electro - optic properties appear to stem from a single dimension domain size increase, which allows for a reduction in the LC/polymer interaction.

Comparison of the Characteristics and Performance of Flurbiprofen 8.75 mg Spray for Sore Throat.

PubMed

Veale, David; Shephard, Adrian; Adams, Verity; Lidster, Charlotte

2017-01-01

Sore throat sprays provide targeted relief by delivering the active ingredient directly to the site of pain. Different sprays vary in characteristics, thus affecting delivery of the active ingredient to the throat, which can impact compliance. The characteristics and performance of FLURBIPROFEN 8.75 mg SPRAY were compared with 12 other sprays. Parameters assessed included spray angle and pattern, droplet size distribution, shot weight uniformity and shot weight throughout life. Among all sprays tested WICK Sulagil Halsspray had the smallest spray angle (46°) and also the smallest diameter spray pattern (X=32.8 mm; Y=34.4 mm). Thiovalone® Buccal Spray Suspension had both the largest spray angle (82°) and largest diameter spray pattern (X=62.6 mm; Y=78.0 mm). Hasco Sept® Aerosol Spray had the smallest droplet size (Dv90=118.4 μm) whereas OKi infiammazione e dolore® 0.16% spray had the largest (Dv90=214.34 μm). In terms of shot weight uniformity, TANTUM® VERDE GOLA 0.25% spray showed the least variation (2% RSD) between shots and UNIBEN Aerosol Spray the most (23.4% RSD). Shot weight throughout life studies showed that FLURBIPROFEN 8.75 mg SPRAY had the least deviation from shot weight (1.77%) whereas OKi infiammazione e dolore® 0.16% spray deviated the most (44.9%). FLURBIPROFEN 8.75 mg SPRAY had the second smallest spray angle/pattern and droplet size distribution and also the least variation in shot weight. Different sore throat sprays vary in different attributes, affecting delivery of the active ingredient. FLURBIPROFEN 8.75 mg SPRAY performed well overall, ranking first among all sprays tested, and providing a dose which is targeted and uniformly delivered throughout the life of the bottle. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Rarefied gas electro jet (RGEJ) micro-thruster for space propulsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanco, Ariel; Roy, Subrata

2017-11-01

This article numerically investigates a micro-thruster for small satellites which utilizes plasma actuators to heat and accelerate the flow in a micro-channel with rarefied gas in the slip flow regime. The inlet plenum condition is considered at 1 Torr with flow discharging to near vacuum conditions (<0.05 Torr). The Knudsen numbers at the inlet and exit planes are ~0.01 and ~0.1, respectively. Although several studies have been performed in micro-hallow cathode discharges at constant pressure, to our knowledge, an integrated study of the glow discharge physics and resulting fluid flow of a plasma thruster under these low pressure and low Knudsen number conditions is yet to be reported. Numerical simulations of the charge distribution due to gas ionization processes and the resulting rarefied gas flow are performed using an in-house code. The mass flow rate, thrust, specific impulse, power consumption and the thrust effectiveness of the thruster are predicted based on these results. The ionized gas is modelled using local mean energy approximation. An electrically induced body force and a thermal heating source are calculated based on the space separated charge distribution and the ion Joule heating, respectively. The rarefied gas flow with these electric force and heating source is modelled using density-based compressible flow equations with slip flow boundary conditions. The results show that a significant improvement of specific impulse can be achieved over highly optimized cold gas thrusters using the same propellant.

The impact of the 17 March 2015- St. Patrick's Day storm on the evolutionary pattern of Equatorial Ionization Anomaly over the Indian longitudes using high resolution spatio-temporal TEC maps - New insights

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yadav, S.; Sunda, S.; Sridharan, R.

2016-12-01

The impact of the St. Patrick's Day storm (17 March 2015) on the major equatorial electro-dynamical process viz., the Equatorial Ionization Anomaly (EIA) has been assessed using 2D (lat. x long.) total electron content (TEC) maps generated from the ground based SBAS (Satellite Based Augmentation System) enabled receiver data. The various aspects of EIA viz., i) evolution/devolution, ii) longitudinal structure, and iii) its variability during different phases of a geomagnetic storm have been brought out. These 2D TEC maps, which have a large latitudinal (5̊ S-45° N) and longitudinal (55-110° E) coverage, show the complete reversal in the longitudinal structure of EIA during the recovery phase of the storm as compared to the quiet day. These results have been explained in the light of the combined effects of the storm associated processes viz., i) the penetration electric fields of magnetosphere origin, ii) storm induced thermospheric winds, and iii) activation of the consequent disturbance dynamo, effectively distorting the longitudinal wave number 4 (WN4) structure of the EIA. It has been shown unambiguously that even a separation of few degrees in longitude ( 30̊) could experience significantly different forcings. The relevance and the far reaching consequences of the study in the light of the current trends and requirements for reliable satellite based navigation are highlighted.

Experimental investigation on the characteristics of supersonic fuel spray and configurations of induced shock waves.

PubMed

Wang, Yong; Yu, Yu-Song; Li, Guo-Xiu; Jia, Tao-Ming

2017-01-05

The macro characteristics and configurations of induced shock waves of the supersonic sprays are investigated by experimental methods. Visualization study of spray shape is carried out with the high-speed camera. The macro characteristics including spray tip penetration, velocity of spray tip and spray angle are analyzed. The configurations of shock waves are investigated by Schlieren technique. For supersonic sprays, the concept of spray front angle is presented. Effects of Mach number of spray on the spray front angle are investigated. The results show that the shape of spray tip is similar to blunt body when fuel spray is at transonic region. If spray entered the supersonic region, the oblique shock waves are induced instead of normal shock wave. With the velocity of spray increasing, the spray front angle and shock wave angle are increased. The tip region of the supersonic fuel spray is commonly formed a cone. Mean droplet diameter of fuel spray is measured using Malvern's Spraytec. Then the mean droplet diameter results are compared with three popular empirical models (Hiroyasu's, Varde's and Merrigton's model). It is found that the Merrigton's model shows a relative good correlation between models and experimental results. Finally, exponent of injection velocity in the Merrigton's model is fitted with experimental results.

Experimental investigation on the characteristics of supersonic fuel spray and configurations of induced shock waves

PubMed Central

Wang, Yong; Yu, Yu-song; Li, Guo-xiu; Jia, Tao-ming

2017-01-01

The macro characteristics and configurations of induced shock waves of the supersonic sprays are investigated by experimental methods. Visualization study of spray shape is carried out with the high-speed camera. The macro characteristics including spray tip penetration, velocity of spray tip and spray angle are analyzed. The configurations of shock waves are investigated by Schlieren technique. For supersonic sprays, the concept of spray front angle is presented. Effects of Mach number of spray on the spray front angle are investigated. The results show that the shape of spray tip is similar to blunt body when fuel spray is at transonic region. If spray entered the supersonic region, the oblique shock waves are induced instead of normal shock wave. With the velocity of spray increasing, the spray front angle and shock wave angle are increased. The tip region of the supersonic fuel spray is commonly formed a cone. Mean droplet diameter of fuel spray is measured using Malvern’s Spraytec. Then the mean droplet diameter results are compared with three popular empirical models (Hiroyasu’s, Varde’s and Merrigton’s model). It is found that the Merrigton’s model shows a relative good correlation between models and experimental results. Finally, exponent of injection velocity in the Merrigton’s model is fitted with experimental results. PMID:28054555

Three-dimensional device characterization by high-speed cinematography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maier, Claus; Hofer, Eberhard P.

2001-10-01

Testing of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) for optimization purposes or reliability checks can be supported by device visualization whenever an optical access is available. The difficulty in such an investigation is the short time duration of dynamical phenomena in micro devices. This paper presents a test setup to visualize movements within MEMS in real-time and in two perpendicular directions. A three-dimensional view is achieved by the combination of a commercial high-speed camera system, which allows to take up to 8 images of the same process with a minimum interframe time of 10 ns for the first direction, with a second visualization system consisting of a highly sensitive CCD camera working with a multiple exposure LED illumination in the perpendicular direction. Well synchronized this provides 3-D information which is treated by digital image processing to correct image distortions and to perform the detection of object contours. Symmetric and asymmetric binary collisions of micro drops are chosen as test experiments, featuring coalescence and surface rupture. Another application shown here is the investigation of sprays produced by an atomizer. The second direction of view is a prerequisite for this measurement to select an intended plane of focus.

Nonlinear Optical Acrylic Polymers and Use Thereof in Optical and Electro-Optic Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-01-07

COVERED 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Nonlinear Optical Acrylic Polymers and Use Thereof in Optical and Electro - Optic Devices 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT...generators, computational devices and the like. 15. SUBJECT TERMS optical devices, electro - optical devices, optical signal processing...THEREOF IN OPTICAL AND ELECTRO - OPTIC DEVICES [75] Inventors: Le*lie H. Sperling, Bethlehem; Clarence J. Murphy, Stroudsburg; Warren A. Rosen

Cavitation Erosion of Electro Spark Deposited Nitinol vs. Stellite Alloy on Stainless Steel Substrate

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-07-15

EROSION OF ELECTRO SPARK DEPOSITED NITINOL VS. STELLITE® ALLOY ON STAINLESS STEEL SUBSTRATE Theresa A. Hoffard Lean-Miguel San Pedro Mikhail...SUBTITLE 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER CAVITATION EROSION TESTING OF ELECTRO SPARK DEPOSITED NITINOL VS STELLITE® ALLOY ON STAINLESS STEEL SUBTRATE 5b. GRANT...of combining Nitinol (NiTi) superelastic metal alloy with ElectroSpark Deposition (ESD) technology to increase the cavitation erosion resistance of

High signal-to-noise-ratio electro-optical terahertz imaging system based on an optical demodulating detector array.

PubMed

Spickermann, Gunnar; Friederich, Fabian; Roskos, Hartmut G; Bolívar, Peter Haring

2009-11-01

We present a 64x48 pixel 2D electro-optical terahertz (THz) imaging system using a photonic mixing device time-of-flight camera as an optical demodulating detector array. The combination of electro-optic detection with a time-of-flight camera increases sensitivity drastically, enabling the use of a nonamplified laser source for high-resolution real-time THz electro-optic imaging.

High performance electro-optical modulator based on photonic crystal and graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malekmohammad, M.; Asadi, R.

2017-07-01

An electro-optical modulator is demonstrated based on Fano-resonance effect in an out-of-plane illumination of one-dimensional slab photonic crystal composed of two graphene layers. It has been shown that high sensitivity of the Fano-resonance and electro-refractive tuning of graphene layers provides a suitable condition to obtain an electro-optical modulator with low energy consumption (8 pJ) with contrast of 0.4.

Electro-optic component mounting device

DOEpatents

Gruchalla, M.E.

1994-09-13

A technique is provided for integrally mounting a device such as an electro-optic device in a transmission line to avoid series resonant effects. A center conductor of the transmission line has an aperture formed therein for receiving the device. The aperture splits the center conductor into two parallel sections on opposite sides of the device. For a waveguide application, the center conductor is surrounded by a conductive ground surface which is spaced apart from the center conductor with a dielectric material. One set of electrodes formed on the surface of the electro-optic device is directly connected to the center conductor and an electrode formed on the surface of the electro-optic device is directly connected to the conductive ground surface. The electrodes formed on the surface of the electro-optic device are formed on curved sections of the surface of the device to mate with correspondingly shaped electrodes on the conductor and ground surface to provide a uniform electric field across the electro-optic device. The center conductor includes a passage formed therein for passage of optical signals to an electro-optic device. 10 figs.

Effect of spray angle and spray volume on deposition of a medium droplet spray with air support in ivy pot plants.

PubMed

Foqué, Dieter; Pieters, Jan G; Nuyttens, David

2014-03-01

Spray boom systems, an alternative to the predominantly-used spray guns, have the potential to considerably improve crop protection management in glasshouses. Based on earlier experiments, the further optimization of the deposits of a medium spray quality extended range flat fan nozzle type using easy adjustable spray boom settings was examined. Using mineral chelate tracers and water sensitive papers, the spray results were monitored at three plant levels, on the upper side and the underside of the leaves, and on some off-target collectors. In addition, the deposition datasets of all tree experiments were compared. The data showed that the most efficient spray distribution with the medium spray quality flat fan nozzles was found with a 30° forward angled spray combined with air support and an application rate of 1000 L ha(-1) . This technique resulted in a more uniform deposition in the dense canopy and increased spray deposition on the lower side of the leaves compared with the a standard spray boom application. Applying 1000 L ha(-1) in two subsequent runs instead of one did not seem to show any added value. Spray deposition can be improved hugely simply by changing some spray boom settings like nozzle type, angling the spray, using air support and adjusting the spray volume to the crop. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

A theoretical framework for the study of compression sensing in ionic polymer metal composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volpini, Valentina; Bardella, Lorenzo; Rodella, Andrea; Cha, Youngsu; Porfiri, Maurizio

2017-04-01

Ionic Polymer Metal Composites (IPMCs) are electro-responsive materials for sensing and actuation, consisting of an ion-exchange polymeric membrane with ionized units, plated within noble metal electrodes. In this work, we investigate the sensing response of IPMCs that are subject to a through-the-thickness compression, by specializing the continuum model introduced by Cha and Porfiri,1 to this one-dimensional problem. This model modifies the classical Poisson-Nernst-Plank system governing the electrochemistry in the absence of mechanical effects, by accounting for finite deformations underlying the actuation and sensing processes. With the aim of accurately describing the IPMC dynamic compressive behavior, we introduce a spatial asymmetry in the properties of the membrane, which must be accounted for to trigger a sensing response. Then, we determine an analytical solution by applying the singular perturbation theory, and in particular the method of matched asymptotic expansions. This solution shows a good agreement with experimental findings reported in literature.

Sub-cycle control of terahertz high-harmonic generation by dynamical Bloch oscillations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schubert, O.; Hohenleutner, M.; Langer, F.; Urbanek, B.; Lange, C.; Huttner, U.; Golde, D.; Meier, T.; Kira, M.; Koch, S. W.; Huber, R.

2014-02-01

Ultrafast charge transport in strongly biased semiconductors is at the heart of high-speed electronics, electro-optics and fundamental solid-state physics. Intense light pulses in the terahertz spectral range have opened fascinating vistas. Because terahertz photon energies are far below typical electronic interband resonances, a stable electromagnetic waveform may serve as a precisely adjustable bias. Novel quantum phenomena have been anticipated for terahertz amplitudes, reaching atomic field strengths. We exploit controlled (multi-)terahertz waveforms with peak fields of 72 MV cm-1 to drive coherent interband polarization combined with dynamical Bloch oscillations in semiconducting gallium selenide. These dynamics entail the emission of phase-stable high-harmonic transients, covering the entire terahertz-to-visible spectral domain between 0.1 and 675 THz. Quantum interference of different ionization paths of accelerated charge carriers is controlled via the waveform of the driving field and explained by a quantum theory of inter- and intraband dynamics. Our results pave the way towards all-coherent terahertz-rate electronics.

The HyperV 8000 μg, 50 km/s Plasma Railgun for PLX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brockington, Samuel; Case, Andrew; Messer, Sarah; Wu, Linchun; Witherspoon, F. Douglas

2012-10-01

HyperV has developed a gas fed, pulsed, plasma railgun which accelerates 8000 μg of argon to 50 km/s meeting the performance requirements originally specified for the Plasma Liner Experiment (PLX). The present 2.5 cm square-bore plasma railgun forms plasma armatures from high density neutral gas, pre-ionizes it electro-thermally, and accelerates the armature with 30 cm long parallel-plate railgun electrodes driven by a pulse forming network (PFN). A high voltage, high current linear array spark-gap switch and flexible, low-inductance transmission line were designed and constructed to handle the increased current load. We will describe these systems and present initial performance data from high current operation of the plasma rail gun from spectroscopy, interferometry, and imaging systems. Measurements of momentum, pressure, magnetic field, and other optical diagnostics will also be discussed as well as plans for upcoming experimentation to increase performance even further. Work supported by USDOE under DE-FG02-05ER54810 and DE-FG02-08ER85114.

Effect of spray application technique on spray deposition in greenhouse strawberries and tomatoes.

PubMed

Braekman, Pascal; Foque, Dieter; Messens, Winy; Van Labeke, Marie-Christine; Pieters, Jan G; Nuyttens, David

2010-02-01

Increasingly, Flemish greenhouse growers are using spray booms instead of spray guns to apply plant protection products. Although the advantages of spray booms are well known, growers still have many questions concerning nozzle choice and settings. Spray deposition using a vertical spray boom in tomatoes and strawberries was compared with reference spray equipment. Five different settings of nozzle type, size and pressure were tested with the spray boom. In general, the standard vertical spray boom performed better than the reference spray equipment in strawberries (spray gun) and in tomatoes (air-assisted sprayer). Nozzle type and settings significantly affected spray deposition and crop penetration. Highest overall deposits in strawberries were achieved using air-inclusion or extended-range nozzles. In tomatoes, the extended-range nozzles and the twin air-inclusion nozzles performed best. Using smaller-size extended-range nozzles above the recommended pressure range resulted in lower deposits, especially inside the crop canopy. The use of a vertical spray boom is a promising technique for applying plant protection products in a safe and efficient way in tomatoes and strawberries, and nozzle choice and setting should be carefully considered.

Electro-Optic Identification Research Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-04-01

Electro - optic identification (EOID) sensors provide photographic quality images that can be used to identify mine-like contacts provided by long...tasks such as validating existing electro - optic models, development of performance metrics, and development of computer aided identification and

Method and tool for contracting tubular members by electro-hydraulic forming before hydroforming

DOEpatents

Golovashchenko, Sergey Fedorovich [Beverly Hills, MI

2011-03-15

A tubular preform is contracted in an electro-hydraulic forming operation. The tubular preform is wrapped with one or more coils of wire and placed in a chamber of an electro-hydraulic forming tool. The electro-hydraulic forming tool is discharged to form a compressed area on a portion of the tube. The tube is then placed in a hydroforming tool that expands the tubular preform to form a part.

Wave-Coupled Millimeter-Wave Electro-Optic Techniques

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-03-01

This report details results on two antenna-coupled millimeter-wave electro - optic modulators, the slot-vee antenna-coupled modulator and a 94 GHz...study of the effects of velocity mismatch on linearized electro - optic modulators was made and the results published. A key result was that directional...drift in electro - optic modulators was made and protons were determined to be the cause. Several inventions were made to reduce or eliminate proton-caused bias drift.

Improved Electro-Optical Switches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nelson, Bruce N.; Cooper, Ronald F.

1994-01-01

Improved single-pole, double-throw electro-optical switches operate in switching times less than microsecond developed for applications as optical communication systems and networks of optical sensors. Contain no moving parts. In comparison with some prior electro-optical switches, these are simpler and operate with smaller optical losses. Beam of light switched from one output path to other by applying, to electro-optical crystal, voltage causing polarization of beam of light to change from vertical to horizontal.

Electro-active sensor, method for constructing the same; apparatus and circuitry for detection of electro-active species

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buehler, Martin (Inventor)

2009-01-01

An electro-active sensor includes a nonconductive platform with a first electrode set attached with a first side of a nonconductive platform. The first electrode set serves as an electrochemical cell that may be utilized to detect electro-active species in solution. A plurality of electrode sets and a variety of additional electrochemical cells and sensors may be attached with the nonconductive platform. The present invention also includes a method for constructing the aforementioned electro-active sensor. Additionally, an apparatus for detection and observation is disclosed, where the apparatus includes a sealable chamber for insertion of a portion of an electro-active sensor. The apparatus allows for monitoring and detection activities. Allowing for control of attached cells and sensors, a dual-mode circuitry is also disclosed. The dual-mode circuitry includes a switch, allowing the circuitry to be switched from a potentiostat to a galvanostat mode.

Electro-Conductive Membranes for Permeation Enhancement and Fouling Mitigation: A Short Review

PubMed Central

Pantuso, Elvira; De Filpo, Giovanni; Nicoletta, Fiore Pasquale

2017-01-01

The research on electro-conductive membranes has expanded in recent years. These membranes have strong prospective as key components in next generation water treatment plants because they are engineered in order to enhance their performance in terms of separation, flux, fouling potential, and permselectivity. The present review summarizes recent developments in the preparation of electro-conductive membranes and the mechanisms of their response to external electric voltages in order to obtain an improvement in permeation and mitigation in the fouling growth. In particular, this paper deals with the properties of electro-conductive polymers and the preparation of electro-conductive polymer membranes with a focus on responsive membranes based on polyaniline, polypyrrole and carbon nanotubes. Then, some examples of electro-conductive membranes for permeation enhancement and fouling mitigation by electrostatic repulsion, hydrogen peroxide generation and electrochemical oxidation will be presented. PMID:28788091

Recent Progress on Cellulose-Based Electro-Active Paper, Its Hybrid Nanocomposites and Applications

PubMed Central

Khan, Asif; Abas, Zafar; Kim, Heung Soo; Kim, Jaehwan

2016-01-01

We report on the recent progress and development of research into cellulose-based electro-active paper for bending actuators, bioelectronics devices, and electromechanical transducers. The cellulose electro-active paper is characterized in terms of its biodegradability, chirality, ample chemically modifying capacity, light weight, actuation capability, and ability to form hybrid nanocomposites. The mechanical, electrical, and chemical characterizations of the cellulose-based electro-active paper and its hybrid composites such as blends or coatings with synthetic polymers, biopolymers, carbon nanotubes, chitosan, and metal oxides, are explained. In addition, the integration of cellulose electro-active paper is highlighted to form various functional devices including but not limited to bending actuators, flexible speaker, strain sensors, energy harvesting transducers, biosensors, chemical sensors and transistors for electronic applications. The frontiers in cellulose paper devices are reviewed together with the strategies and perspectives of cellulose electro-active paper and cellulose nanocomposite research and applications. PMID:27472335

Recent Progress on Cellulose-Based Electro-Active Paper, Its Hybrid Nanocomposites and Applications.

PubMed

Khan, Asif; Abas, Zafar; Kim, Heung Soo; Kim, Jaehwan

2016-07-26

We report on the recent progress and development of research into cellulose-based electro-active paper for bending actuators, bioelectronics devices, and electromechanical transducers. The cellulose electro-active paper is characterized in terms of its biodegradability, chirality, ample chemically modifying capacity, light weight, actuation capability, and ability to form hybrid nanocomposites. The mechanical, electrical, and chemical characterizations of the cellulose-based electro-active paper and its hybrid composites such as blends or coatings with synthetic polymers, biopolymers, carbon nanotubes, chitosan, and metal oxides, are explained. In addition, the integration of cellulose electro-active paper is highlighted to form various functional devices including but not limited to bending actuators, flexible speaker, strain sensors, energy harvesting transducers, biosensors, chemical sensors and transistors for electronic applications. The frontiers in cellulose paper devices are reviewed together with the strategies and perspectives of cellulose electro-active paper and cellulose nanocomposite research and applications.

On nonlinear thermo-electro-elasticity.

PubMed

Mehnert, Markus; Hossain, Mokarram; Steinmann, Paul

2016-06-01

Electro-active polymers (EAPs) for large actuations are nowadays well-known and promising candidates for producing sensors, actuators and generators. In general, polymeric materials are sensitive to differential temperature histories. During experimental characterizations of EAPs under electro-mechanically coupled loads, it is difficult to maintain constant temperature not only because of an external differential temperature history but also because of the changes in internal temperature caused by the application of high electric loads. In this contribution, a thermo-electro-mechanically coupled constitutive framework is proposed based on the total energy approach. Departing from relevant laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamically consistent constitutive equations are formulated. To demonstrate the performance of the proposed thermo-electro-mechanically coupled framework, a frequently used non-homogeneous boundary-value problem, i.e. the extension and inflation of a cylindrical tube, is solved analytically. The results illustrate the influence of various thermo-electro-mechanical couplings.

On nonlinear thermo-electro-elasticity

PubMed Central

Mehnert, Markus; Hossain, Mokarram

2016-01-01

Electro-active polymers (EAPs) for large actuations are nowadays well-known and promising candidates for producing sensors, actuators and generators. In general, polymeric materials are sensitive to differential temperature histories. During experimental characterizations of EAPs under electro-mechanically coupled loads, it is difficult to maintain constant temperature not only because of an external differential temperature history but also because of the changes in internal temperature caused by the application of high electric loads. In this contribution, a thermo-electro-mechanically coupled constitutive framework is proposed based on the total energy approach. Departing from relevant laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamically consistent constitutive equations are formulated. To demonstrate the performance of the proposed thermo-electro-mechanically coupled framework, a frequently used non-homogeneous boundary-value problem, i.e. the extension and inflation of a cylindrical tube, is solved analytically. The results illustrate the influence of various thermo-electro-mechanical couplings. PMID:27436985

Investigation of the electrical characteristics of electrically conducting yarns and fabrics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbarov, R. D.; Baymuratov, B. H.; Akbarov, D. N.; Ilhamova, M.

2017-11-01

Electro-conductive textile materials and products are used presently giving solutions to the problems, related to static electricity, electromagnetic shielding and electromagnetic radiation. Thus a study of their electro-physical characteristics, character of conductivity, possibility of forecasting of electric parameters etc has a substantial value. This work shows the possibility of production electro-conducting textile materials with stable anti-static properties by introduction of electro-conducting yarn into the structure of fabrics. The results of the research, directed to the study of the electro-physical characteristics of electroconducting yarn and fabrics, are influenced by the frequent washing of polyester fabrics containing the different amounts of electro-conducting filaments in the composition. This article reviews the results of the related research, of the electrical characteristics of the yarn and fabric, of the effect of multiple water treatments on the electrical properties of polyester fabrics, containing in their composition different amounts of electrically conductive yarns.

Improved Orifice Plate for Spray Gun

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cunningham, W.

1986-01-01

Erratic spray pattern of commercial spray gun changed to repeatable one by simple redesign of two parts. In modified spray gun orifice plate and polytetrafluoroethylene bushing redesigned to assure centering and alignment with nozzle. Such improvement useful in many industrial applications requiring repeatable spray patterns. Might include spraying of foam insulation, paint, other protective coatings, detergents, abrasives, adhesives, process chemicals, or fuels. Unmodified spray gun produces erratic spray because lateral misalignment between orifice plate and nozzle.

Shell-binary nanoparticle materials with variable electrical and electro-mechanical properties.

PubMed

Zhang, P; Bousack, H; Dai, Y; Offenhäusser, A; Mayer, D

2018-01-18

Nanoparticle (NP) materials with the capability to adjust their electrical and electro-mechanical properties facilitate applications in strain sensing technology. Traditional NP materials based on single component NPs lack a systematic and effective means of tuning their electrical and electro-mechanical properties. Here, we report on a new type of shell-binary NP material fabricated by self-assembly with either homogeneous or heterogeneous arrangements of NPs. Variable electrical and electro-mechanical properties were obtained for both materials. We show that the electrical and electro-mechanical properties of these shell-binary NP materials are highly tunable and strongly affected by the NP species as well as their corresponding volume fraction ratio. The conductivity and the gauge factor of these shell-binary NP materials can be altered by about five and two orders of magnitude, respectively. These shell-binary NP materials with different arrangements of NPs also demonstrate different volume fraction dependent electro-mechanical properties. The shell-binary NP materials with a heterogeneous arrangement of NPs exhibit a peaking of the sensitivity at medium mixing ratios, which arises from the aggregation induced local strain enhancement. Studies on the electron transport regimes and micro-morphologies of these shell-binary NP materials revealed the different mechanisms accounting for the variable electrical and electro-mechanical properties. A model based on effective medium theory is used to describe the electrical and electro-mechanical properties of such shell-binary nanomaterials and shows an excellent match with experiment data. These shell-binary NP materials possess great potential applications in high-performance strain sensing technology due to their variable electrical and electro-mechanical properties.

Hydroxyl radical generation in electro-Fenton process with a gas-diffusion electrode: Linkages with electro-chemical generation of hydrogen peroxide and iron redox cycle.

PubMed

Yatagai, Tomonori; Ohkawa, Yoshiko; Kubo, Daichi; Kawase, Yoshinori

2017-01-02

The hydroxyl radical generation in an electro-Fenton process with a gas-diffusion electrode which is strongly linked with electro-chemical generation of hydrogen peroxide and iron redox cycle was studied. The OH radical generation subsequent to electro-chemical generations of H 2 O 2 was examined under the constant potential in the range of Fe 2+ dosage from 0 to 1.0 mM. The amount of generated OH radical initially increased and gradually decreased after the maximum was reached. The initial rate of OH radical generation increased for the Fe 2+ dosage <0.25 mM and at higher Fe 2+ dosages remained constant. At higher Fe 2+ dosages the precipitation of Fe might inhibit the enhancement of OH radical generation. The experiments for decolorization and total organic carbon (TOC) removal of azo-dye Orange II by the electro-Fenton process were conducted and the quick decolorization and slow TOC removal of Orange II were found. To quantify the linkages of OH radical generation with dynamic behaviors of electro-chemically generated H 2 O 2 and iron redox cycle and to investigate effects of OH radical generation on the decolorization and TOC removal of Orange II, novel reaction kinetic models were developed. The proposed models could satisfactory clarify the linkages of OH radical generation with electro-chemically generated H 2 O 2 and iron redox cycle and simulate the decolorization and TOC removal of Orange II by the electro-Fenton process.

Enhanced methanol electro-oxidation reaction on Pt-CoOx/MWCNTs hybrid electro-catalyst

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nouralishahi, Amideddin; Rashidi, Ali Morad; Mortazavi, Yadollah; Khodadadi, Abbas Ali; Choolaei, Mohammadmehdi

2015-04-01

The electro-catalytic behavior of Pt-CoOx/MWCNTs in methanol electro-oxidation reaction (MOR) is investigated and compared to that of Pt/MWCNTs. The electro-catalysts were synthesized by an impregnation method using NaBH4 as the reducing agent. The morphological and physical characteristics of samples are examined by XRD, TEM, ICP and EDS techniques. In the presence of CoOx, Pt nanoparticles were highly distributed on the support with an average particle size of 2 nm, an obvious decrease from 5.1 nm for Pt/MWCNTs. Cyclic voltammetry, CO-stripping, Chronoamperometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements are used to study the electrochemical behavior of the electro-catalysts. The results revealed a considerable enhancement in the oxidation kinetics of COads on Pt active sites by the participation of CoOx. Compared to Pt/MWCNTs, Pt-CoOx/MWCNTs sample has a larger electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) and higher electro-catalytic activity and stability toward methanol electro-oxidation. According to the results of cyclic voltammetry, the forward anodic peak current density enhances more than 89% at the optimum atomic ratio of Pt:Co = 2:1. Furthermore, inclusion of cobalt oxide species causes the onset potential of methanol electro-oxidation reaction to shift 84 mV to negative values compared to that on Pt/MWCNTs. Based on EIS data, dehydrogenation of methanol is the rate-determining step of MOR on both Pt/MWCNTs and Pt-CoOx/MWCNTs, at small overpotentials. However, at higher overpotentials, the oxidation of adsorbed oxygen-containing groups controls the total rate of MOR process.

UV Lamp as a Facile Ozone Source for Structural Analysis of Unsaturated Lipids Via Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stinson, Craig A.; Zhang, Wenpeng; Xia, Yu

2017-12-01

Ozonolysis of alkene functional groups is a type of highly specific and effective chemical reaction, which has found increasing applications in structural analysis of unsaturated lipids via coupling with mass spectrometry (MS). In this work, we utilized a low-pressure mercury lamp (6 W) to initiate ozonolysis inside electrospray ionization (ESI) sources. By placing the lamp near a nanoESI emitter that partially transmits 185 nm ultraviolet (UV) emission from the lamp, dissolved dioxygen in the spray solution was converted into ozone, which subsequently cleaved the double bonds within fatty acyls of lipids. Solvent conditions, such as presence of water and acid solution pH, were found to be critical in optimizing ozonolysis yields. Fast (on seconds time scale) and efficient (50%-100% yield) ozonolysis was achieved for model unsaturated phospholipids and fatty acids with UV lamp-induced ozonolysis incorporated on a static and an infusion nanoESI source. The method was able to differentiate double bond location isomers and identify the geometry of the double bond based on yield. The analytical utility of UV lamp-induced ozonolysis was further demonstrated by implementation on a liquid chromatography (LC)-MS platform. Ozonolysis was effected in a flow microreactor that was made from ozone permeable tubing, so that ambient ozone produced by the lamp irradiation could diffuse into the reactor and induce online ozonolysis post-LC separation and before ESI-MS.

Chiral micellar electrokinetic chromatography (CMEKC)-atmospheric pressure photoionization of benzoin derivatives using mixed molecular micelles

PubMed Central

He, Jun; Shamsi, Shahab A.

2012-01-01

In the present work we report, for the first time, the successful on-line coupling of chiral micellar electrokinetic chromatography (CMEKC) to atmospheric pressure photo-ionization mass spectrometry (APPI-MS). Four structurally similar neutral test solutes (e.g., benzoin derivatives) were successfully ionized by APPI-MS. The mass spectra in the positive ion mode showed that the protonated molecular ions of benzoins are not the most abundant fragment ions. Simultaneous enantioseparation by CMEKC and on-line APPI-MS detection of four photoinitiators: hydrobenzoin (HBNZ), benzoin (BNZ), benzoin methyl ether (BME), benzoin ethyl ether (BEE), were achieved using an optimized molar ratio of mixed molecular micelle of two polymeric chiral surfactants (polysodium N-undecenoxy carbonyl-L-leucinate and polysodium N-undecenoyl-L,L-leucylvalinate). The CMEKC conditions, such as voltage, chiral polymeric surfactant concentration, buffer pH, and BGE concentration, were optimized using a multivariate central composite design (CCD). The sheath liquid composition (involving % v/v methanol, dopant concentration, electrolyte additive concentration, and flow rate) and spray chamber parameters (drying gas flow rate, drying gas temperature, and vaporizer temperature) were also optimized with CCD. Models built based on the CCD results and response surface method was used to analyze the interactions between factors and their effects on the responses. The final overall optimum conditions for CMEKC-APPI-MS were also predicted and found in agreement with the experimentally optimized parameters. PMID:21500208

EVALUATION OF THE ELECTRO-PL AND ELECTROKLEAN DUST COLLECTORS

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

Dennis, R.; Kristal, E.; Silverman, L.

1958-07-21

Results are presented from performance tests on the Electro-PL and Electro-Klean air cleaning devices. Both devices were tested for moderate cleaning of low loadings such as those encountered in the atmospheric dust range. (C.H.)

Evaluation of effervescent atomizer internal design on the spray unsteadiness using a phase/Doppler particle analyzer

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

Liu, Meng; Duan, YuFeng; Zhang, TieNan

2010-09-15

The purpose of this research was to investigate the dependence of effervescent spray unsteadiness on operational conditions and atomizer internal design by the ideal spray theory of Edwards and Marx. The convergent-divergent effervescent atomizer spraying water with air as atomizing medium in the ''outside-in'' gas injection was used in this study. Results demonstrated that droplet formation process at various air to liquid ratio (ALR) led to the spray unsteadiness and all droplet size classes exhibited unsteadiness behavior in spray. The spray unsteadiness reduced quickly at ALR of 3% and decreased moderately at ALR of other values as the axial distancemore » increased. When the axial distance was 200 mm, the spray unsteadiness reduced dramatically with the increase in radial distance, but lower spray unsteadiness at the center of spray and higher spray unsteadiness at the edge of spray were shown as the axial distance increased. The spray unsteadiness at the center region of spray increased with the injection pressure. Low spray unsteadiness and good atomization performance can be obtained when the diameter of incline aeration holes increased at ALR of 10%. Although short mixing chamber with large discharge orifice diameter for convergent-divergent effervescent atomizer produced good atomization, the center region of spay showed high spray unsteadiness and maybe formed the droplet clustering. (author)« less

Direct and Efficient Dehydrogenation of Tetrahydroquinolines and Primary Amines Using Corona Discharge Generated on Ambient Hydrophobic Paper Substrate.

PubMed

Davis, Kathryn M; Badu-Tawiah, Abraham K

2017-04-01

The exposure of an aqueous-based liquid drop containing amines and graphite particles to plasma generated by a corona discharge results in heterogeneous aerobic dehydrogenation reactions. This green oxidation reaction occurring in ambient air afforded the corresponding quinolines and nitriles from tetrahydroquinolines and primary amines, respectively, at >96% yields in less than 2 min of reaction time. The accelerated dehydrogenation reactions occurred on the surface of a low energy hydrophobic paper, which served both as container for holding the reacting liquid drop and as a medium for achieving paper spray ionization of reaction products for subsequent characterization by ambient mass spectrometry. Control experiments indicate superoxide anions (O 2 •- ) are the main reactive species; the presence of graphite particles introduced heterogeneous surface effects, and enabled the efficient sampling of the plasma into the grounded analyte droplet solution. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Direct and Efficient Dehydrogenation of Tetrahydroquinolines and Primary Amines Using Corona Discharge Generated on Ambient Hydrophobic Paper Substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davis, Kathryn M.; Badu-Tawiah, Abraham K.

2017-04-01

The exposure of an aqueous-based liquid drop containing amines and graphite particles to plasma generated by a corona discharge results in heterogeneous aerobic dehydrogenation reactions. This green oxidation reaction occurring in ambient air afforded the corresponding quinolines and nitriles from tetrahydroquinolines and primary amines, respectively, at >96% yields in less than 2 min of reaction time. The accelerated dehydrogenation reactions occurred on the surface of a low energy hydrophobic paper, which served both as container for holding the reacting liquid drop and as a medium for achieving paper spray ionization of reaction products for subsequent characterization by ambient mass spectrometry. Control experiments indicate superoxide anions (O2 •-) are the main reactive species; the presence of graphite particles introduced heterogeneous surface effects, and enabled the efficient sampling of the plasma into the grounded analyte droplet solution.

PROCESSING OF RADIOACTIVE WASTE

DOEpatents

Allemann, R.T.; Johnson, B.M. Jr.

1961-10-31

A process for concentrating fission-product-containing waste solutions from fuel element processing is described. The process comprises the addition of sugar to the solution, preferably after it is made alkaline; spraying the solution into a heated space whereby a dry powder is formed; heating the powder to at least 220 deg C in the presence of oxygen whereby the powder ignites, the sugar is converted to carbon, and the salts are decomposed by the carbon; melting the powder at between 800 and 900 deg C; and cooling the melt. (AEC) antidiuretic hormone from the blood by the liver. Data are summarized from the following: tracer studies on cardiovascular functions; the determination of serum protein-bound iodine; urinary estrogen excretion in patients with arvanced metastatic mammary carcinoma; the relationship between alheroclerosis aad lipoproteins; the physical chemistry of lipoproteins; and factors that modify the effects of densely ionizing radia

Acousto-Optic and Linear Electro-Optic Properties of Organic Polymeric Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-04-27

Naval Research Laboratory Washington, DC 20375-5000 NRL Memorandum Report 6454 od I3 Acousto - Optic and Linear Electro-Optic Properties of Organic...PROGRAM P1RC;EC7 ASK Arlington, VA 22217-5000 ELEMENT NO NO1 I1I TITLE (Include Security Classification) Acousto - Optic and Linear Electro-Optic...briefly discussing the important molecular properties for enhanced acousto ~ optic and electro-Ooptic ef fects and then relating these to "current

Studies of the Electro-Optic Effect.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-01

electro - optic effect in crystalline solids has been pursued by employing a tight-binding theory for dielectric susceptibilities. The electronic and lattice contributions to the second-order electro - optic susceptibility have been treated separately and the lattice response of a crystal to an external dc electric field has been investigated in a general formalism. The theory has been specifically applied to the compound, tellurium dioxide. In addition, an experimental determination of the electro - optic coefficient, re, in thallium

TRANSVERSE MODE ELECTRO-OPTIC MATERIALS.

DTIC Science & Technology

electro - optic modulators presently used are crystals such as KDP which exhibit a longitudinal electro - optic effect. It has been demonstrated that a more efficient modulator can be produced when a crystal having a transverse electro - optic effect is employed. Generally these crystals are produced either from the melt or from fluxes. Since melt grown crystals must be cooled through several hundred degrees and often must undergo phase transitions, these crystals are generally highly strained. Flux grown crystals are also

Electro-optic crystal mosaics for the generation of terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Carrig, Timothy J.; Taylor, Antoinette J.; Stewart, Kevin R.

1996-01-01

Apparatus for the generation of high energy terahertz radiation is presented and comprises laser means effective to produce subpicosecond optical pulses and a mosaic comprising a plurality of planar electro-optic crystals fastened together edge to edge in the form of a grid. The electro-optic crystals are in optical communication with the subpicosecond optical pulses, and behave as a single large electro-optic crystal, producing high energy terahertz radiation by way of optical rectification.

Electro-Optic Modulator.

DTIC Science & Technology

An electro - optic modulator is used to modulate coherent light beams by the application of an electric potential. It combines a Fabry-Perot etalon and...a diffraction grating in a single unit. An etalon is constructed with an electro - optic material between reflecting surfaces. A voltage applied...between alternate, spaced-apart electrodes of a metal grid attached to one reflecting surface induces a diffraction grating in the electro optic material. Light entering the etalon is diffracted, reflected and efficiently coupled out.

High-speed, Low Voltage, Miniature Electro-optic Modulators Based on Hybrid Photonic-Crystal/Polymer/Sol-Gel Technology

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-01

code) 01/02/2012 FINAL 15/11/2008 - 15/11/2011 High-speed, Low Voltage, Miniature Electro - optic Modulators Based on Hybrid Photonic-Crystal/Polymer... optic modulator, silicon photonics, integrated optics, electro - optic polymer, avionics, optical communications, sol-gel, nanotechnology U U U UU 25...2011 Program Manager: Dr. Charles Y-C Lee High-speed, Low Voltage, Miniature Electro - optic Modulators Based on Hybrid Photonic-Crystal/Polymer/Sol

Electro-optic crystal mosaics for the generation of terahertz radiation

DOEpatents

Carrig, T.J.; Taylor, A.J.; Stewart, K.R.

1996-08-06

Apparatus for the generation of high energy terahertz radiation is presented and comprises laser means effective to produce subpicosecond optical pulses and a mosaic comprising a plurality of planar electro-optic crystals fastened together edge to edge in the form of a grid. The electro-optic crystals are in optical communication with the subpicosecond optical pulses, and behave as a single large electro-optic crystal, producing high energy terahertz radiation by way of optical rectification. 5 figs.

Electro pneumatic trainer embedded with programmable integrated circuit (PIC) microcontroller and graphical user interface platform for aviation industries training purposes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burhan, I.; Azman, A. A.; Othman, R.

2016-10-01

An electro pneumatic trainer embedded with programmable integrated circuit (PIC) microcontroller and Visual Basic (VB) platform is fabricated as a supporting tool to existing teaching and learning process, and to achieve the objectives and learning outcomes towards enhancing the student's knowledge and hands-on skill, especially in electro pneumatic devices. The existing learning process for electro pneumatic courses conducted in the classroom does not emphasize on simulation and complex practical aspects. VB is used as the platform for graphical user interface (GUI) while PIC as the interface circuit between the GUI and hardware of electro pneumatic apparatus. Fabrication of electro pneumatic trainer interfacing between PIC and VB has been designed and improved by involving multiple types of electro pneumatic apparatus such as linear drive, air motor, semi rotary motor, double acting cylinder and single acting cylinder. Newly fabricated electro pneumatic trainer microcontroller interface can be programmed and re-programmed for numerous combination of tasks. Based on the survey to 175 student participants, 97% of the respondents agreed that the newly fabricated trainer is user friendly, safe and attractive, and 96.8% of the respondents strongly agreed that there is improvement in knowledge development and also hands-on skill in their learning process. Furthermore, the Lab Practical Evaluation record has indicated that the respondents have improved their academic performance (hands-on skills) by an average of 23.5%.

High-Performance Molybdenum Coating by Wire–HVOF Thermal Spray Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tailor, Satish; Modi, Ankur; Modi, S. C.

2018-04-01

Coating deposition on many industrial components with good microstructural, mechanical properties, and better wear resistance is always a challenge for the thermal spray community. A number of thermal spray methods are used to develop such promising coatings for many industrial applications, viz. arc spray, flame spray, plasma, and HVOF. All these processes have their own limitations to achieve porous free, very dense, high-performance wear-resistant coatings. In this work, an attempt has been made to overcome this limitation. Molybdenum coatings were deposited on low-carbon steel substrates using wire-high-velocity oxy-fuel (W-HVOF; WH) thermal spray system (trade name HIJET 9610®). For a comparison, Mo coatings were also fabricated by arc spray, flame spray, plasma spray, and powder-HVOF processes. As-sprayed coatings were analyzed using x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy for phase, and microstructural analysis, respectively. Coating microhardness, surface roughness, and porosity were also measured. Adhesion strength and wear tests were conducted to determine the mechanical and wear properties of the as-sprayed coatings. Results show that the coatings deposited by W-HVOF have better performance in terms of microstructural, mechanical, and wear resistance properties, in comparison with available thermal spray process (flame spray and plasma spray).

Particle size distribution of aerosols sprayed from household hand-pump sprays containing fluorine-based and silicone-based compounds.

PubMed

Kawakami, Tsuyoshi; Isama, Kazuo; Ikarashi, Yoshiaki

2015-01-01

Japan has published safety guideline on waterproof aerosol sprays. Furthermore, the Aerosol Industry Association of Japan has adopted voluntary regulations on waterproof aerosol sprays. Aerosol particles of diameter less than 10 µm are considered as "fine particles". In order to avoid acute lung injury, this size fraction should account for less than 0.6% of the sprayed aerosol particles. In contrast, the particle size distribution of aerosols released by hand-pump sprays containing fluorine-based or silicone-based compounds have not been investigated in Japan. Thus, the present study investigated the aerosol particle size distribution of 16 household hand-pump sprays. In 4 samples, the ratio of fine particles in aerosols exceeded 0.6%. This study confirmed that several hand-pump sprays available in the Japanese market can spray fine particles. Since the hand-pump sprays use water as a solvent and their ingredients may be more hydrophilic than those of aerosol sprays, the concepts related to the safety of aerosol-sprays do not apply to the hand pump sprays. Therefore, it may be required for the hand-pump spray to develop a suitable method for evaluating the toxicity and to establish the safety guideline.

ELECTRO-OPTIC PROJECTION STUDY.

DTIC Science & Technology

light modulation. The light valve tubes used in the study employ an electron beam to develop discrete electric fields through an electro - optic material...Characteristics of two electro - optic materials, potassium dihydrogen phosphate and potassium dideuterium phosphate, were measured in order to optimize the

An overview of spray drift reduction testing of spray nozzles

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The importance of the development and testing of drift reduction technologies (DRTs) is increasing. Common spray drift reduction technologies include spray nozzles and spray adjuvants. Following draft procedures developed for a DRT program, three spray nozzles were tested under high air speed cond...

Development of spray guns for the application of rigid foam insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Peter B.

1993-01-01

The paper describes the activities initiated to improve the existing spray gun system used for spraying insulating foam on the External Tank of the Space Shuttle, due to the quality variations of the applied foam noted in the past. Consideration is given to the two tasks of the project: (1) investigations of possible improvements, as an interim measure, to the spray gun currently used to apply the large acreage spray-on-foam insulation and the evaluation of other commercial equipment; and (2) the design and fabrication of a new automatic spray gun. The design and operation of the currently used Binks 43 PA spray gun are described together with several new breadboard spray guns designed and fabricated and the testing procedures developed. These new guns include the Modular Automatic Foam spray gun, the Ball Valve spray gun, and the Tapered Plug Valve (TPV) gun. As a result of tests, the TPV spray gun is recommended to replace the currently used automatic spray gun.

Electro-convective versus electroosmotic instability in concentration polarization.

PubMed

Rubinstein, Isaak; Zaltzman, Boris

2007-10-31

Electro-convection is reviewed as a mechanism of mixing in the diffusion layer of a strong electrolyte adjacent to a charge-selective solid, such as an ion exchange (electrodialysis) membrane or an electrode. Two types of electro-convection in strong electrolytes may be distinguished: bulk electro-convection, due to the action of the electric field upon the residual space charge of a quasi-electro-neutral bulk solution, and convection induced by electroosmotic slip, due to electric forces acting in the thin electric double layer of either quasi-equilibrium or non-equilibrium type near the solid/liquid interface. According to recent studies, the latter appears to be the likely source of mixing in the diffusion layer, leading to 'over-limiting' conductance in electrodialysis. Electro-convection near a planar uniform charge selective solid/liquid interface sets on as a result of hydrodynamic instability of one-dimensional steady state electric conduction through such an interface. We compare the results of linear stability analysis obtained for instabilities of this kind appearing in the full electro-convective and limiting non-equilibrium electroosmotic formulations. The short- and long-wave aspects of these instabilities are discussed along with the wave number selection principles.

Electro-optic component mounting device

DOEpatents

Gruchalla, Michael E.

1994-01-01

A technique is provided for integrally mounting a device such as an electro-optic device (50) in a transmission line to avoid series resonant effects. A center conductor (52) of the transmission line has an aperture (58) formed therein for receiving the device (50). The aperture (58) splits the center conductor into two parallel sections on opposite sides of the device. For a waveguide application, the center conductor is surrounded by a conductive ground surface (54), which is spaced apart from the center conductor with a dielectric material (56). One set of electrodes formed on the surface of the electro-optic device (50) is directly connected to the center conductor 52 and an electrode formed on the surface of the electro-optic device is directly connected to the conductive ground surface (54). The electrodes formed on the surface of the electro-optic device are formed on curved sections of the surface of the device to mate with correspondingly shaped electrodes on the conductor and ground surface to provide a uniform electric field across the electro-optic device. The center conductor includes a passage ( 60) formed therein for passage of optical signals to an electro-optic device.

An evaluation of the electric arc spray and (HPPS) processes for the manufacturing of high power plasma spraying MCrAIY coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sacriste, D.; Goubot, N.; Dhers, J.; Ducos, M.; Vardelle, A.

2001-06-01

The high power plasma torch (PlazJet) can be used to spray refractory ceramics with high spray rates and deposition efficiency. It can provide dense and hard coating with high bond strengths. When manufacturing thermal barrier coatings, the PlazJet gun is well adapted to spraying the ceramic top coat but not the MCrAIY materials that are used as bond coat. Arc spraying can compete with plasma spraying for metallic coatings since cored wires can be used to spray alloys and composites. In addition, the high production rate of arc spraying enables a significant decrease in coating cost. This paper discusses the performances of the PlazJet gun, and a twin-wire are spray system, and compares the properties and cost of MCrAIY coatings made with these two processes. For arc spraying, the use of air or nitrogen as atomizing gas is also investigated.

ELECTRO-OPTIC PROJECTOR STUDY.

DTIC Science & Technology

The report describes research and development tasks undertaken in the development of a Pockels Effect electro - optic light valve. Two reflex...lens electron optics are used in different configurations. The electro - optic crystal utilized was KD2PO4 and when operated in a reflex mode provides

Electro-Optic Modulator and Method

DTIC Science & Technology

An optical intensity modulator which uses a Sagnac interferometer having an electro - optic phase modulator therein. An electric modulation signal is...modulating the optical signals by the electrical signal, the electro - optic effect in the modulator phase shifts the optical signals with respect to one another

Application of Electro Chemical Machining for materials used in extreme conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandilov, Z.

2018-03-01

Electro-Chemical Machining (ECM) is the generic term for a variety of electrochemical processes. ECM is used to machine work pieces from metal and metal alloys irrespective of their hardness, strength or thermal properties, through the anodic dissolution, in aerospace, automotive, construction, medical equipment, micro-systems and power supply industries. The Electro Chemical Machining is extremely suitable for machining of materials used in extreme conditions. General overview of the Electro-Chemical Machining and its application for different materials used in extreme conditions is presented.

Theoretical and Experimental Studies of the Electro-Optic Effect: Toward a Microscopic Understanding.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

electro - optic effect is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. The theoretical approach is based upon W.A. Harrison’s ’Bond-Orbital Model’. The separate electronic and lattice contributions to the second-order, electro - optic susceptibility are examined within the context of this model and formulae which can accommodate any crystal structure are presented. In addition, a method for estimating the lattice response to a low frequency (dc) electric field is outlined. Finally, experimental measurements of the electro -

Electro-Optics In Two Years

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simcik, John C.

1989-04-01

Texas State Technical Institute-Waco (TSTI-WACO) was the first school in the United States to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Laser Electro-Optics Technology. The program began in September 1969 and has produced 1,827 graduates since inception. These graduates are readily adaptable to any area of the laser electro-optics industry. Areas of study include Optics, Electronics, Vacuum, Physics, Mathematics, and English with emphasis on Electro-Optics. Graduate placement is centered around research and development, life sciences and manufacturing in technical and engineering areas.

Polymer Coatings Reduce Electro-osmosis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herren, Blair J.; Snyder, Robert; Shafer, Steven G.; Harris, J. Milton; Van Alstine, James M.

1989-01-01

Poly(ethylene glycol) film controls electrostatic potential. Electro-osmosis in quartz or glass chambers reduced or reversed by coating inside surface of chambers with monomacromolecular layers of poly(ethylene glycol). Stable over long times. Electrostatic potential across surface of untreated glass or plastic chamber used in electro-phoresis is negative and attracts cations in aqueous electrolyte. Cations solvated, entrains flow of electrolyte migrating toward cathode. Electro-osmotic flow interferes with desired electrophoresis of particles suspended in electrolyte. Polymer coats nontoxic, transparent, and neutral, advantageous for use in electrophoresis.

Experimental characterization of gasoline sprays under highly evaporating conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Muhammad Mahabat; Sheikh, Nadeem Ahmed; Khalid, Azfar; Lughmani, Waqas Akbar

2018-05-01

An experimental investigation of multistream gasoline sprays under highly evaporating conditions is carried out in this paper. Temperature increase of fuel and low engine pressure could lead to flash boiling. The spray shape is normally modified significantly under flash boiling conditions. The spray plumes expansion along with reduction in the axial momentum causes the jets to merge and creates a low-pressure area below the injector's nozzle. These effects initiate the collapse of spray cone and lead to the formation of a single jet plume or a big cluster like structure. The collapsing sprays reduces exposed surface and therefore they last longer and subsequently penetrate more. Spray plume momentum increase, jet plume reduction and spray target widening could delay or prevent the closure condition and limit the penetration (delayed formation of the cluster promotes evaporation). These spray characteristics are investigated experimentally using shadowgraphy, for five and six hole injectors, under various boundary conditions. Six hole injectors produce more collapsing sprays in comparison to five hole injector due to enhanced jet to jet interactions. The spray collapse tendency reduces with increase in injection pressure due high axial momentum of spray plumes. The spray evaporation rates of five hole injector are observed to be higher than six hole injectors. Larger spray cone angles of the six hole injectors promote less penetrating and less collapsing sprays.

Electro-kinetically driven peristaltic transport of viscoelastic physiological fluids through a finite length capillary: Mathematical modeling.

PubMed

Tripathi, Dharmendra; Yadav, Ashu; Bég, O Anwar

2017-01-01

Analytical solutions are developed for the electro-kinetic flow of a viscoelastic biological liquid in a finite length cylindrical capillary geometry under peristaltic waves. The Jefferys' non-Newtonian constitutive model is employed to characterize rheological properties of the fluid. The unsteady conservation equations for mass and momentum with electro-kinetic and Darcian porous medium drag force terms are reduced to a system of steady linearized conservation equations in an axisymmetric coordinate system. The long wavelength, creeping (low Reynolds number) and Debye-Hückel linearization approximations are utilized. The resulting boundary value problem is shown to be controlled by a number of parameters including the electro-osmotic parameter, Helmholtz-Smoluchowski velocity (maximum electro-osmotic velocity), and Jefferys' first parameter (ratio of relaxation and retardation time), wave amplitude. The influence of these parameters and also time on axial velocity, pressure difference, maximum volumetric flow rate and streamline distributions (for elucidating trapping phenomena) is visualized graphically and interpreted in detail. Pressure difference magnitudes are enhanced consistently with both increasing electro-osmotic parameter and Helmholtz-Smoluchowski velocity, whereas they are only elevated with increasing Jefferys' first parameter for positive volumetric flow rates. Maximum time averaged flow rate is enhanced with increasing electro-osmotic parameter, Helmholtz-Smoluchowski velocity and Jefferys' first parameter. Axial flow is accelerated in the core (plug) region of the conduit with greater values of electro-osmotic parameter and Helmholtz-Smoluchowski velocity whereas it is significantly decelerated with increasing Jefferys' first parameter. The simulations find applications in electro-osmotic (EO) transport processes in capillary physiology and also bio-inspired EO pump devices in chemical and aerospace engineering. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electro-optic studies of novel organic materials and devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Jianjun

1997-11-01

Specific single crystal organic materials have high potential for use in high speed optical signal processing and various other electro-optic applications. In this project some of the most important organic crystal materials were studied regarding their detailed electro- optic properties and potential device applications. In particular, the electro-optic properties of N-(4- Nitrophenyl)-L-Prolinol (NPP) and 4'-N,N- dimethylamino-4-methylstilbazolium tosylate (DAST) both of which have extremely large second order susceptibilites were studied. The orientation of the thin film crystal with respect to the substrate surface was determined using-X-ray diffraction. The principal axes of the single crystal thin film were determined by polarization transmission microscopy. The elements of the electro-optic coefficient tensor were measured by field induced birefringence measurements. Detailed measurements for NPP thin films with different orientations of the external electric field with respect to the charge transfer axis were carried out at a wavelength of 1064nm. The wavelength dependence of the electro-optic effect for DAST single crystal thin films was measured using a Ti:Sapphire laser. Several device geometries involving organic single crystal thin film materials were studied. A new method for the fabrication of channel waveguides for organic materials was initiated. Channel waveguides for NPP and ABP were obtained using this methods. Optical modulation due to the electro-optic effect based on the organic channel waveguide for NPP single crystal was demonstrated. The electro-optic modulation using NPP single crystals thin film in a Fabry-Perot cavity was measured. A device using a optical fiber half coupler and organic electro-optic thin film material was constructed, and it has potential applications in optical signal processing.

Effects of nozzle type and spray angle on spray deposition in ivy pot plants.

PubMed

Foqué, Dieter; Nuyttens, David

2011-02-01

Fewer plant protection products are now authorised for use in ornamental growings. Frequent spraying with the same product or a suboptimal technique can lead to resistance in pests and diseases. Better application techniques could improve the sustainable use of the plant protection products still available. Spray boom systems--instead of the still predominantly used spray guns--might improve crop protection management in greenhouses considerably. The effect of nozzle type, spray pressure and spray angle on spray deposition and coverage in ivy pot plants was studied, with a focus on crop penetration and spraying the bottom side of the leaves in this dense crop. The experiments showed a significant and important effect of collector position on deposition and coverage in the plant. Although spray deposition and coverage on the bottom side of the leaves are generally low, they could be improved 3.0-4.9-fold using the appropriate application technique. When using a spray boom in a dense crop, the nozzle choice, spray pressure and spray angle should be well considered. The hollow-cone, the air-inclusion flat-fan and the standard flat-fan nozzle with an inclined spray angle performed best because of the effect of swirling droplets, droplets with a high momentum and droplet direction respectively. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry.

Nickel as a catalyst for the electro-oxidation of methanol in alkaline medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdel Rahim, M. A.; Abdel Hameed, R. M.; Khalil, M. W.

The use of Ni as a catalyst for the electro-oxidation of methanol in alkaline medium was studied by cyclic voltammetry. It was found that only Ni dispersed on graphite shows a catalytic activity towards methanol oxidation but massive Ni does not. Ni was dispersed on graphite by the electro-deposition from acidic NiSO 4 solution using potentiostatic and galvanostatic techniques. The catalytic activity of the C/Ni electrodes towards methanol oxidation was found to vary with the amount of electro-deposited Ni. The dependence of the oxidation current on methanol concentration and scan rate was discussed. It was concluded from the electro-chemical measurements and SEM analysis that methanol oxidation starts as Ni-oxide is formed on the electrode surface.

A decision-support tool to predict spray deposition of insecticides in commercial potato fields and its implications for their performance.

PubMed

Nansen, Christian; Vaughn, Kathy; Xue, Yingen; Rush, Charlie; Workneh, Fekede; Goolsby, John; Troxclair, Noel; Anciso, Juan; Gregory, Ashley; Holman, Daniel; Hammond, Abby; Mirkov, Erik; Tantravahi, Pratyusha; Martini, Xavier

2011-08-01

Approximately US $1.3 billion is spent each year on insecticide applications in major row crops. Despite this significant economic importance, there are currently no widely established decision-support tools available to assess suitability of spray application conditions or of the predicted quality or performance of a given commercial insecticide applications. We conducted a field study, involving 14 commercial spray applications with either fixed wing airplane (N=8) or ground rig (N=6), and we used environmental variables as regression fits to obtained spray deposition (coverage in percentage). We showed that (1) ground rig applications provided higher spray deposition than aerial applications, (2) spray deposition was lowest in the bottom portion of the canopy, (3) increase in plant height reduced spray deposition, (4) wind speed increased spray deposition, and (5) higher ambient temperatures and dew point increased spray deposition. Potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Sulc) (Hemiptera: Triozidae), mortality increased asymptotically to approximately 60% in response to abamectin spray depositions exceeding around 20%, whereas mortality of psyllid adults reached an asymptotic response approximately 40% when lambda-cyhalothrin/thiamethoxam spray deposition exceeded 30%. A spray deposition support tool was developed (http://pilcc.tamu.edu/) that may be used to make decisions regarding (1) when is the best time of day to conduct spray applications and (2) selecting which insecticide to spray based on expected spray deposition. The main conclusion from this analysis is that optimization of insecticide spray deposition should be considered a fundamental pillar of successful integrated pest management programs to increase efficiency of sprays (and therefore reduce production costs) and to reduce risk of resistance development in target pest populations.

Electro-osmotic mobility of non-Newtonian fluids

PubMed Central

Zhao, Cunlu; Yang, Chun

2011-01-01

Electrokinetically driven microfluidic devices are usually used to analyze and process biofluids which can be classified as non-Newtonian fluids. Conventional electrokinetic theories resulting from Newtonian hydrodynamics then fail to describe the behaviors of these fluids. In this study, a theoretical analysis of electro-osmotic mobility of non-Newtonian fluids is reported. The general Cauchy momentum equation is simplified by incorporation of the Gouy–Chapman solution to the Poisson–Boltzmann equation and the Carreau fluid constitutive model. Then a nonlinear ordinary differential equation governing the electro-osmotic velocity of Carreau fluids is obtained and solved numerically. The effects of the Weissenberg number (Wi), the surface zeta potential (ψ¯s), the power-law exponent(n), and the transitional parameter (β) on electro-osmotic mobility are examined. It is shown that the results presented in this study for the electro-osmotic mobility of Carreau fluids are quite general so that the electro-osmotic mobility for the Newtonian fluids and the power-law fluids can be obtained as two limiting cases. PMID:21503161

[Fundamental aspects for accrediting medical equipment calibration laboratories in Colombia].

PubMed

Llamosa-Rincón, Luis E; López-Isaza, Giovanni A; Villarreal-Castro, Milton F

2010-02-01

Analysing the fundamental methodological aspects which should be considered when drawing up calibration procedure for electro-medical equipment, thereby permitting international standard-based accreditation of electro-medical metrology laboratories in Colombia. NTC-ISO-IEC 17025:2005 and GTC-51-based procedures for calibrating electro-medical equipment were implemented and then used as patterns. The mathematical model for determining the estimated uncertainty value when calibrating electro-medical equipment for accreditation by the Electrical Variable Metrology Laboratory's Electro-medical Equipment Calibration Area accredited in compliance with Superintendence of Industry and Commerce Resolution 25771 May 26th 2009 consists of two equations depending on the case; they are: E = (Ai + sigmaAi) - (Ar + sigmaAr + deltaAr1) and E = (Ai + sigmaAi) - (Ar + sigmaA + deltaAr1). The mathematical modelling implemented for measuring uncertainty in the Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira's Electrical Variable Metrology Laboratory (Electro-medical Equipment Calibration Area) will become a good guide for calibration initiated in other laboratories in Colombia and Latin-America.

Electro-diffusion in a plasma with two ion species

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

Kagan, Grigory; Tang Xianzhu

2012-08-15

Electric field is a thermodynamic force that can drive collisional inter-ion-species transport in a multicomponent plasma. In an inertial confinement fusion capsule, such transport causes fuel ion separation even with a target initially prepared to have equal number densities for the two fuel ion species. Unlike the baro-diffusion driven by ion pressure gradient and the thermo-diffusion driven by ion and electron temperature gradients, electro-diffusion has a critical dependence on the charge-to-mass ratio of the ion species. Specifically, it is shown here that electro-diffusion vanishes if the ion species have the same charge-to-mass ratio. An explicit expression for the electro-diffusion ratiomore » is obtained and used to investigate the relative importance of electro- and baro-diffusion mechanisms. In particular, it is found that electro-diffusion reinforces baro-diffusion in the deuterium and tritium mix, but tends to cancel it in the deuterium and helium-3 mix.« less

Modelling electro-active polymers with a dispersion-type anisotropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hossain, Mokarram; Steinmann, Paul

2018-02-01

We propose a novel constitutive framework for electro-active polymers (EAPs) that can take into account anisotropy with a chain dispersion. To enhance actuation behaviour, particle-filled EAPs become promising candidates nowadays. Recent studies suggest that particle-filled EAPs, which can be cured under an electric field during the manufacturing time, do not necessarily form perfect anisotropic composites, rather they create composites with dispersed chains. Hence in this contribution, an electro-mechanically coupled constitutive model is devised that considers the chain dispersion with a probability distribution function in an integral form. To obtain relevant quantities in discrete form, numerical integration over the unit sphere is utilized. Necessary constitutive equations are derived exploiting the basic laws of thermodynamics that result in a thermodynamically consistent formulation. To demonstrate the performance of the proposed electro-mechanically coupled framework, we analytically solve a non-homogeneous boundary value problem, the extension and inflation of an axisymmetric cylindrical tube under electro-mechanically coupled load. The results capture various electro-mechanical couplings with the formulation proposed for EAP composites.

Dense electro-optic frequency comb generated by two-stage modulation for dual-comb spectroscopy.

PubMed

Wang, Shuai; Fan, Xinyu; Xu, Bingxin; He, Zuyuan

2017-10-01

An electro-optic frequency comb enables frequency-agile comb-based spectroscopy without using sophisticated phase-locking electronics. Nevertheless, dense electro-optic frequency combs over broad spans have yet to be developed. In this Letter, we propose a straightforward and efficient method for electro-optic frequency comb generation with a small line spacing and a large span. This method is based on two-stage modulation: generating an 18 GHz line-spacing comb at the first stage and a 250 MHz line-spacing comb at the second stage. After generating an electro-optic frequency comb covering 1500 lines, we set up an easily established mutually coherent hybrid dual-comb interferometer, which combines the generated electro-optic frequency comb and a free-running mode-locked laser. As a proof of concept, this hybrid dual-comb interferometer is used to measure the absorption and dispersion profiles of the molecular transition of H 13 CN with a spectral resolution of 250 MHz.

A thermodynamically-consistent large deformation theory coupling photochemical reaction and electrochemistry for light-responsive gels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dehghany, Mohammad; Zhang, Haohui; Naghdabadi, Reza; Hu, Yuhang

2018-07-01

Gels are composed of crosslinked polymer network and solvent molecules. When the main chain network is incorporated with functional groups that can undergo photo-chemical reaction upon light irradiation, the gel becomes light-responsive. Under irradiation, the photosensitive groups may undergo photo-ionization process and generate charges that are attached to the main chain or diffuse into the solvent. The newly generated ions disturb the osmotic balance of the gel medium. As a result, water molecules and mobile ions are driven into or out of the network to compensate the osmotic imbalance, which eventually leads to macroscopic swelling or shrinking of the gel. In this work, we develop a rigorous nonequilibrium thermodynamic framework to study the coupled photo-chemo-electro-mechanical responses of the photo-ionizable gels. We first discuss the mathematical descriptions of the light propagation and photo-induced chemical reactions inside the gel, as well as the equations governing the kinetics of the photo-chemical reactions. We then explore the consequences of the fundamental laws of thermodynamics in deriving the governing equations of the photo-ionizable gels. The continuous light irradiation drives the gel system towards a new thermodynamic stationary state that is away from equilibrium and is accompanied by energy dissipation. Next, we focus on the photo stationary state of the gel and explore the consequences of the continuous irradiation on the mechanical response of the gel in both optically thin and optically thick configurations. In the optically thin cases, we quantitatively compare the theoretical prediction with experimental data available in the literature. In one example, we show that the model can quantitatively capture the photo-tunable volume-phase transition of the Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) gel grafted with photo-responsive triphenylmethane leucocyanide groups. In another example, we show that the model can quantitatively study the effect of salt concentration and pH value of the external solution on the photo-induced swelling of the polyacrylamide gels incorporated with triphenylmethane leucohydroxide groups. Finally, for the optically thick gels, we develop a finite element code to study their inhomogeneous deformations due to the light attenuation. This work will be of great importance for precise control and optimal design of photo-ionizable gels in future applications.

Electro-osmosis of non-Newtonian fluids in porous media using lattice Poisson-Boltzmann method.

PubMed

Chen, Simeng; He, Xinting; Bertola, Volfango; Wang, Moran

2014-12-15

Electro-osmosis in porous media has many important applications in various areas such as oil and gas exploitation and biomedical detection. Very often, fluids relevant to these applications are non-Newtonian because of the shear-rate dependent viscosity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the behaviors and physical mechanism of electro-osmosis of non-Newtonian fluids in porous media. Model porous microstructures (granular, fibrous, and network) were created by a random generation-growth method. The nonlinear governing equations of electro-kinetic transport for a power-law fluid were solved by the lattice Poisson-Boltzmann method (LPBM). The model results indicate that: (i) the electro-osmosis of non-Newtonian fluids exhibits distinct nonlinear behaviors compared to that of Newtonian fluids; (ii) when the bulk ion concentration or zeta potential is high enough, shear-thinning fluids exhibit higher electro-osmotic permeability, while shear-thickening fluids lead to the higher electro-osmotic permeability for very low bulk ion concentration or zeta potential; (iii) the effect of the porous medium structure depends significantly on the constitutive parameters: for fluids with large constitutive coefficients strongly dependent on the power-law index, the network structure shows the highest electro-osmotic permeability while the granular structure exhibits the lowest permeability on the entire range of power law indices considered; when the dependence of the constitutive coefficient on the power law index is weaker, different behaviors can be observed especially in case of strong shear thinning. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transport and deposition of the fire biomarker levoglucosan across the tropical North Atlantic Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schreuder, Laura T.; Hopmans, Ellen C.; Stuut, Jan-Berend W.; Sinninghe Damsté, Jaap S.; Schouten, Stefan

2018-04-01

Biomass burning impacts biogeochemical cycling, vegetation dynamics and climate. However, interactions between fire, climate and vegetation are not well understood and therefore studies have attempted to reconstruct fire and vegetation history under different climatic conditions using sedimentary archives. Here we focus on levoglucosan, a thermal by-product of cellulose generated during biomass burning, and, therefore, a potential fire biomarker in the marine sedimentary archive. However, before levoglucosan can be applied as a biomass burning proxy in marine sediments, there is a need for studies on how levoglucosan is transported to the marine environment, how it is reflecting biomass burning on continents, as well as the fate of levoglucosan in the marine water column and during deposition in marine sediments. Here we present analyses of levoglucosan, using an improved Ultra High Pressure Liquid Chromatography-Electro Spray Ionization/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI/HRMS) method, in atmospheric particles, in particulate matter settling through the water column and in marine surface sediments on a longitudinal transect crossing the tropical North Atlantic Ocean at 12°N. Levoglucosan was detected in the atmosphere, although in low concentration, possibly due to the sampled particle size, the source area of the aerosols, or the short time interval of sampling by which large burning events may have been missed. In sinking particles in the tropical North Atlantic Ocean we find that levoglucosan deposition is influenced by a mineral ballast effect associated with marine biogenic particles, and that levoglucosan is not transported in association with mineral dust particles. Highest levoglucosan concentrations and seasonal differences in sinking particles were found close to continents and low concentrations and seasonal differences were found in the open ocean. Close to Africa, levoglucosan concentration is higher during winter, reflecting seasonal burning in northwestern Africa. However, close to South America levoglucosan concentrations appear to be affected by riverine transport from the Amazon River. In surface sediments close to South America, levoglucosan concentration is higher than in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, implying that here the influence from the South American continent is important and perennial. Our study provides evidence that degradation of levoglucosan during settling in the marine water column is not substantial, but is substantial at the sediment-water interface. Nevertheless, levoglucosan was detected in all surface sediments throughout the tropical North Atlantic, indicating its presence in the marine sedimentary record, which reveals the potential for levoglucosan as a biomass burning proxy in marine sediments.

Optimization of Fibrin Glue Spray Systems for Ophthalmic Surgery

PubMed Central

Chaurasia, Shyam S.; Champakalakshmi, Ravi; Angunawela, Romesh I.; Tan, Donald T.; Mehta, Jodhbir S.

2012-01-01

Purpose To optimize fibrin glue (FG) spray for ophthalmic surgery using two spray applicators, EasySpray and DuploSpray systems, by varying the distance from point of application and the pressure/flow rate, and to compare the adhesive strength of sutured and sutureless (FG sprayed) conjunctival graft surgery in a rabbit model. Methods FG was sprayed on a 0.2 mm-thick sheet of paper using EasySpray by variously combining application distances of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 cm with pressures of 10, 15, and 20 psi. DuploSpray was used at the same distances but with varying flow rates of 1 and 2 L/min. Subsequently, FG was sprayed on porcine corneas and FG thickness was analyzed by histology. In addition, adhesive strength of the conjunctival graft (0.5 × 0.5 cm) attached to the rabbit cornea by sutured and sutureless surgery (FG spray) was compared using a tension meter. Results Histology measurements revealed that the FG thickness decreased with increases in distance and pressure of spray using the EasySpray applicator on paper and porcine corneal sections. The adhesive strength of the sutured conjunctival graft (41 ± 4.85 [kilopascal] KPa) was found to be higher than the graft attached by spraying (10 ± 2.3 KPa) and the sequential addition of FG (6 ± 0.714 KPa). Conclusions The EasySpray applicator formed a uniform spread of FG at a distance-pressure combination of 5 cm and 20 psi. The conjunctival graft attached with sutures had higher adhesive strength compared with grafts glued with a spray applicator. Although the adhesive strength of FG applied through the applicator was similar to the drop-wise sequential technique, the former was more cost effective because more samples could be sprayed compared with the sequential manual technique. Translational Relevance The standardization of the spray system for the application of FG in ophthalmology will provide an economical method for delivering consistent healing results after surgery. PMID:24049702

Efficacy of Aedes aegypti control by indoor Ultra Low Volume (ULV) insecticide spraying in Iquitos, Peru

PubMed Central

Okamoto, Kenichi W.; Astete, Helvio; Vasquez, Gissella M.; Del Aguila, Clara; Pinedo, Raul; Cardenas, Roldan; Pacheco, Carlos; Chalco, Enrique; Rodriguez-Ferruci, Hugo; Scott, Thomas W.; Lloyd, Alun L.; Gould, Fred

2018-01-01

Background Aedes aegypti is a primary vector of dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and urban yellow fever viruses. Indoor, ultra low volume (ULV) space spraying with pyrethroid insecticides is the main approach used for Ae. aegypti emergency control in many countries. Given the widespread use of this method, the lack of large-scale experiments or detailed evaluations of municipal spray programs is problematic. Methodology/Principal findings Two experimental evaluations of non-residual, indoor ULV pyrethroid spraying were conducted in Iquitos, Peru. In each, a central sprayed sector was surrounded by an unsprayed buffer sector. In 2013, spray and buffer sectors included 398 and 765 houses, respectively. Spraying reduced the mean number of adults captured per house by ~83 percent relative to the pre-spray baseline survey. In the 2014 experiment, sprayed and buffer sectors included 1,117 and 1,049 houses, respectively. Here, the sprayed sector’s number of adults per house was reduced ~64 percent relative to baseline. Parity surveys in the sprayed sector during the 2014 spray period indicated an increase in the proportion of very young females. We also evaluated impacts of a 2014 citywide spray program by the local Ministry of Health, which reduced adult populations by ~60 percent. In all cases, adult densities returned to near-baseline levels within one month. Conclusions/Significance Our results demonstrate that densities of adult Ae. aegypti can be reduced by experimental and municipal spraying programs. The finding that adult densities return to approximately pre-spray densities in less than a month is similar to results from previous, smaller scale experiments. Our results demonstrate that ULV spraying is best viewed as having a short-term entomological effect. The epidemiological impact of ULV spraying will need evaluation in future trials that measure capacity of insecticide spraying to reduce human infection or disease. PMID:29624581

Electro-Optic Identification (EOID) Research Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-09-30

1 Electro - Optic Identification (EOID) Research Program Gene M. Cumm Northrop Grumman Oceanic and Naval Systems P.O. Box 1488 Annapolis...control number. 1. REPORT DATE 30 SEP 2001 2. REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED 00-00-2001 to 00-00-2001 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Electro - Optic Identification

A Comparison of Fuel Sprays from Several Types of Injection Nozzles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Dana W

1936-01-01

This report presents the tests results of a series of tests made of the sprays from 14 fuel injection nozzles of 9 different types, the sprays being injected into air at atmospheric density and at 6 and 14 times atmospheric density. High-speed spark photographs of the sprays from each nozzle at each air density were taken at the rate of 2,000 per second, and from them were obtained the dimensions of the sprays and the rates of spray-tip penetration. The sprays were also injected against plasticine targets placed at different distances from the nozzles, and the impressions made in the plasticine were used as an indication of the distribution of the fuel within the spray. Cross-sectional sketches of the different types of sprays are given showing the relative sizes of the spray cores and envelopes. The characteristics of the sprays are compared and discussed with respect to their application to various types of engines.

An application of digital image processing techniques to the characterization of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) spray

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Y. L.; Xu, B. Y.; Cai, S. L.

2006-12-01

To control fuel injection, optimize combustion and reduce emissions for LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) engines, it is necessary and important to understand the characteristics of LPG sprays. The present work investigates the geometry of LPG sprays, including spray tip penetration, spray angle, projected spray area and spray volume, by using schlieren photography and digital image processing techniques. Two types of single nozzle injectors were studied, with the same nozzle diameter, but one with and one without a double-hole flow-split head. A code developed to analyse the results directly from the digitized images is shown to be more accurate and efficient than manual measurement and analysis. Test results show that a higher injection pressure produces a longer spray tip penetration, a larger projected spray area and spray volume, but a smaller spray cone angle. The injector with the double-hole split-head nozzle produces better atomization and shorter tip penetration at medium and late injection times, but longer tip penetration in the early stage.

Foliar spray banding characteristics

Treesearch

A.R. Womac; C.W. Smith; Joseph E. Mulrooney

2004-01-01

Foliar spray banding was explored as a means of reducing peticide use compared to broadcast applications. Barious geometric spray patterns and delivery angles of foliar spray bands were investigated to increase spray deposits in a crop row at a constant spray rate of 94 L/ha. Wind-free laboratory results indicated that a banded application using three 65° hollow-cone...

Light extinction method on high-pressure diesel injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Tzay-Fa; El-Beshbeeshy, Mahmound S.; Corradini, Michael L.; Farrell, Patrick V.

1995-09-01

A two dimensional optical diagnostic technique based on light extinction was improved and demonstrated in an investigation of diesel spray characteristics at high injection pressures. Traditional light extinction methods require the spray image to be perpendicular to the light path. In the improved light extinction scheme, a tilted spray image which has an angle with the light path is still capable of being processed. This technique utilizes high speed photography and digital image analysis to obtain qualitative and quantitative information of the spray characteristics. The injection system used was an electronically controlled common rail unit injector system with injection pressures up to 100 MPa. The nozzle of the injector was a mini-sac type with six holes on the nozzle tip. Two different injection angle nozzles, 125 degree(s) and 140 degree(s), producing an in-plane tilted spray and an out of plane tilted spray were investigated. The experiments were conducted on a constant volume spray chamber with the injector mounted tilted at an angle of 62.5 degree(s)$. Only one spray plume was viewed, and other sprays were free to inject to the chamber. The spray chamber was pressurized with argon and air under room temperature to match the combustion chamber density at the start of the injection. The experimental results show that the difference in the spray tip penetration length, spray angle, and overall average Sauter mean diameter is small between the in- plane tilted spray and the out of plane tilted spray. The results also show that in-plane tilted spray has a slightly larger axial cross- section Sauter mean diameter than the out of plane tilted spray.

Hydrogen no-vent fill testing in a 5 cubic foot (142 liter) tank using spray nozzle and spray bar liquid injection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, Matthew E.; Nyland, Ted W.

1992-01-01

A total of 38 hydrogen no-vent fill tests were performed in this test series using various size spray nozzles and a spray bar with different hole sizes in a 5 cubic foot receiver tank. Fill levels of 90 percent by volume or greater were achieved in 26 of the tests while maintaining a receiver tank pressure below 30 psia. Spray nozzles were mounted at the top of the tank, whereas, the spray bar was centered in the tank axially. The spray nozzle no-vent fills demonstrated tank pressure and temperature responses comparable to previous test series. Receiver tank pressure responses for the spray bar configuration were similar to the spray nozzle tests with the pressure initially rising rapidly, then leveling off as vapor condenses onto the discharging liquid streams, and finally ramping up near the end of the test due to ullage compression. Both liquid injection techniques tested were capable of filling the receiver tank to 90 percent under variable test conditions. Comparisons between the spray nozzle and spray bar configurations for well matched test conditions indicate the spray nozzle injection technique is more effective in minimizing the receiving tank pressure throughout a no-vent fill compared to the spray bar under normal gravity conditions.

Sewer Lateral Electro Scan Field Verification Pilot (WERF Report INFR4R12)

EPA Science Inventory

Abstract:WERF selected a proposed research project to field test an emerging technology for inspecting sanitary sewer lateral pipes. The technology is called Electro Scan and is used to find defects in laterals that allow the infiltration of groundwater into the lateral. Electro ...

A LATTICE THEORY OF THE ELECTRO-OPTIC EFFECTS IN SEMICONDUCTORS.

DTIC Science & Technology

A unified lattice theory of the electro - optic effect in semiconductor crystals, which encompasses the piezo-electric and elasto-optic effects, is...presented. Expressions are derived for the constant stress and constant strain electro - optic coefficients and the results are specialized to crystals of the zincblende structure. (Author)

Electro-Technologies. Guide to Standards and Implementation. Career & Technology Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alberta Dept. of Education, Edmonton. Curriculum Standards Branch.

With this Career and Technologies Studies (CTS) curriculum guide, secondary students in Alberta can do the following: develop skills that can be applied in their daily lives; refine career-planning skills; develop technology-related skills in electro-technologies; enhance employability skills, especially in electro-technologies industries; and…

Field Demonstration of Electro-Scan Defect Location Technology for Condition Assessment of Wastewater Collection Systems - Paper

EPA Science Inventory

A USEPA-sponsored field demonstration program was conducted to gather technically reliable cost and performance information on the electro-scan (FELL -41) pipeline condition assessment technology. Electro-scan technology can be used to estimate the magnitude and location of pote...

Generalized Oseen transformation for and enhancement of Bragg characteristics of electro-optic structurally chiral materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lakhtakia, Akhlesh

2006-05-01

The Oseen transformation is generalized to define a non-electro-optic structurally chiral material, wherein propagation along the axis of chirality is equivalent to that in an electro-optic SCM with local 4¯2m point group symmetry. This generalization shows that the exploitation of the Pockels effect amounts to an enhancement of the effective local birefringence, which in turn can enhance the characteristics of the circular Bragg phenomenon. Electro-optic SCMs can therefore serve as efficient and electrically controllable circular- and elliptical-polarization rejection filters.

Tunable microwave bandpass filter integrated power divider based on the high anisotropy electro-optic nematic liquid crystal.

PubMed

Liu, Yupeng; Liu, Yang; Li, Haiyan; Jiang, Di; Cao, Weiping; Chen, Hui; Xia, Lei; Xu, Ruimin

2016-07-01

A novel, compact microwave tunable bandpass filter integrated power divider, based on the high anisotropy electro-optic nematic liquid crystal, is proposed in this letter. Liquid crystal, as the electro-optic material, is placed between top inverted microstrip line and the metal plate. The proposed structure can realize continuous tunable bandpass response and miniaturization. The proposed design concept is validated by the good performance of simulation results and experimental results. The electro-optic material has shown great potential for microwave application.

Analysis of Electro-Optic Materials Properties on Guided Wave Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-12-16

AD-A262 787 APPLIED RESEARCH, INC, ANALYSIS OF ELECTRO - OPTIC MATERIALS PROPERTIES ON GUIDED WAVE DEVICES FINAL REPORT DTI 6700 ODYSSEY DR HUNTSVILLE...ALABAMA 35814-1220 s IMAR1893 APPROVED FOR PUKIC RE’.EASE DISTRIBUTION UNLIMlITED Applied Research Inc. ARI/92iR-048Z ANALYSIS OF ELECTRO - OPTIC MATERIALS...uNiT ATTN: Dr. 2aul Ashley-AMSMI-RD-~WS--CM ELEMENT NO 4 NO IAr SSiON No t1I TI TLE iciup SeawIfy 0Mft*G’I Analysis of Electro - optic Materials

Electro-Optic Effect in the PESO Acousto-Optic Modulator

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-11-09

AD-A286 355 NAIC-ID(RS)T-0395-94 NATIONAL AIR INTELLIGENCE CENTER ELECTRO - OPTIC EFFECT IN THE PESO ACOUSTO-OPTIC MODULATOR by Tai Renzhong, Lu Futun...owing to coupling.betw;ee.elecuc grazing" and "acou- tic grating". Linear electro - optic effect in PESO modulator is helpful to the diffraction and...crystaO A-l/Am,ARjAb, anl / ar:.. thtta=30 and theta=900 . Along these two orientations. th;- electro - optic effect is restricted tcŽ the rn :-t m:,n e

Robust Hinfinity position control synthesis of an electro-hydraulic servo system.

PubMed

Milić, Vladimir; Situm, Zeljko; Essert, Mario

2010-10-01

This paper focuses on the use of the techniques based on linear matrix inequalities for robust H(infinity) position control synthesis of an electro-hydraulic servo system. A nonlinear dynamic model of the hydraulic cylindrical actuator with a proportional valve has been developed. For the purpose of the feedback control an uncertain linearized mathematical model of the system has been derived. The structured (parametric) perturbations in the electro-hydraulic coefficients are taken into account. H(infinity) controller extended with an integral action is proposed. To estimate internal states of the electro-hydraulic servo system an observer is designed. Developed control algorithms have been tested experimentally in the laboratory model of an electro-hydraulic servo system. Copyright © 2010 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Highly stable and low loss electro-optic polymer waveguides for high speed microring modulators using photodefinition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balakrishnan, M.; Diemeer, M. B. J.; Driessen, A.; Faccini, M.; Verboom, W.; Reinhoudt, D. N.; Leinse, A.

2006-02-01

Different electro-optic polymer systems are analyzed with respect to their electro-optic activity, glass transition temperature (T g) and photodefinable properties. The polymers tested are polysulfone (PS) and SU8. The electro-optic chromophore, tricyanovinylidenediphenylaminobenzene (TCVDPA), which was reported to have a high photochemical stability 1 has been employed in the current work. Tert-butyl-TCVDPA, having bulky side groups, was synthesized and a doubling of the electro-optic coefficient (r33) compared to the unmodified TCVDPA was shown. A microring resonator design was made based on the PS-TCVDPA system. SU8 (passive) and TCVDPA (active) channel waveguides were fabricated by the photodefinition technique and the passive waveguide losses were measured to be 5 dB/cm at 1550 nm.

Spray pattern analysis in TWAS using photogrammetry and digital image correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tillmann, W.; Rademacher, H. G.; Hagen, L.; Abdulgader, M.; El Barad’ei, M.

2018-06-01

In terms of arc spraying processes, the spray plume characteristic is mainly affected by the flow characteristic of the atomization gas at the nozzle inlet and intersection point of the wire tips, which in turn affect the particle distribution at the moment of impact when molten spray particles splash onto the substrate. With respect to the route of manufacturing of near net-shaped coatings on complex geometries, the acquisition of the spray patterns is pressingly necessary to determine the produced coating thickness. Within the scope of this study, computer fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were carried out to determine the distribution of spray particles for different spray parameter settings. The results were evaluated by three-dimensional spray spot analyses using an optical measurement based on photogrammetry and digital image correlation. The optical measurement represents a promising and much faster candidate to measure spray patterns compared to the tactile measurement system but with an equal accuracy. For given nozzle configurations and spray parameter settings, numerous spray patterns were examined to their shape factors, demonstrating the potential of an online analysis, which encompasses a “fast sample loop” and a data processing system to generate a three-dimensional surface of the spray spot profile.

Influence of Cold-Sprayed, Warm-Sprayed, and Plasma-Sprayed Layers Deposition on Fatigue Properties of Steel Specimens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cizek, J.; Matejkova, M.; Dlouhy, I.; Siska, F.; Kay, C. M.; Karthikeyan, J.; Kuroda, S.; Kovarik, O.; Siegl, J.; Loke, K.; Khor, Khiam Aik

2015-06-01

Titanium powder was deposited onto steel specimens using four thermal spray technologies: plasma spray, low-pressure cold spray, portable cold spray, and warm spray. The specimens were then subjected to strain-controlled cyclic bending test in a dedicated in-house built device. The crack propagation was monitored by observing the changes in the resonance frequency of the samples. For each series, the number of cycles corresponding to a pre-defined specimen cross-section damage was used as a performance indicator. It was found that the grit-blasting procedure did not alter the fatigue properties of the steel specimens (1% increase as compared to as-received set), while the deposition of coatings via all four thermal spray technologies significantly increased the measured fatigue lives. The three high-velocity technologies led to an increase of relative lives to 234% (low-pressure cold spray), 210% (portable cold spray), and 355% (warm spray) and the deposition using plasma spray led to an increase of relative lives to 303%. The observed increase of high-velocity technologies (cold and warm spray) could be attributed to a combination of homogeneous fatigue-resistant coatings and induction of peening stresses into the substrates via the impingement of the high-kinetic energy particles. Given the intrinsic character of the plasma jet (low-velocity impact of semi/molten particles) and the mostly ceramic character of the coating (oxides, nitrides), a hypothesis based on non-linear coatings behavior is provided in the paper.

Hydrogen bonding intermolecular effect on electro-optical response of doped 6PCH nematic liquid crystal with some azo dyes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiani, S.; Zakerhamidi, M. S.; Tajalli, H.

2016-05-01

Previous studies on the electro-optical responses of dye-doped liquid crystal have shown that dopant material have a considerable effect on their electro-optical responses. Despite the studies carried out on electro-optical properties of dye-doped liquid crystal, no attention has been paid to study of the interaction and structural effects in this procedure. In this paper, linear dyes and with similar structure were selected as dopants. The only difference in used dyes is the functional groups in their tails. So, doping of these dyes into liquid crystals determines the influence of interaction type on electro-optical behaviours of the doped systems. Therefore, in this work, two aminoazobenzene (;A-dye;: hydrogen bond donor) and dimethyl-aminoazobenzene (;B-dye;) dyes with different compositional percentages in liquid crystal host were used. Electro-optical Kerr behaviour, the pre-transition temperature and third order nonlinear susceptibility were investigated. The obtained results effectively revealed that type of interactions between the dye and liquid crystal is determinative of behavioral difference of doped system, compared to pure liquid crystal. Also, pre-transitional behaviour and thereupon Kerr electro-optical responses were affected by formed interactions into doped systems. In other words, it will be shown that addition of any dopants in liquid crystal, regardless of the nature of interactions, cannot cause appropriate electro-optical responses. In fact, type of dye, nature of interactions between dopant and liquid crystalline host as well as concentration of dye are the key factors in selecting the appropriate liquid crystal and dopant dye.

Layered growth with bottom-spray granulation for spray deposition of drug.

PubMed

Er, Dawn Z L; Liew, Celine V; Heng, Paul W S

2009-07-30

The gap in scientific knowledge on bottom-spray fluidized bed granulation has emphasized the need for more studies in this area. This paper comparatively studied the applicability of a modified bottom-spray process and the conventional top-spray process for the spray deposition of a micronized drug during granulation. The differences in circulation pattern, mode of growth and resultant granule properties between the two processes were highlighted. The more ordered and consistent circulation pattern of particles in a bottom-spray fluidized bed was observed to give rise to layered granule growth. This resulted in better drug content uniformity among the granule batches and within a granule batch. The processes' sensitivities to wetting and feed material characteristics were also compared and found to differ markedly. Less robustness to differing process conditions was observed for the top-spray process. The resultant bottom-spray granules formed were observed to be less porous, more spherical and had good flow properties. The bottom-spray technique can thus be potentially applied for the spray deposition of drug during granulation and was observed to be a good alternative to the conventional technique for preparing granules.

Growth of ultra-thin TiO 2 films by spray pyrolysis on different substrates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oja Acik, I.; Junolainen, A.; Mikli, V.; Danilson, M.; Krunks, M.

2009-12-01

In the present study TiO 2 films were deposited by spray pyrolysis method onto ITO covered glass and Si (1 0 0) substrates. The spray solution containing titanium(IV) isopropoxide, acetylacetone and ethanol was sprayed at a substrate temperature of 450 °C employing 1-125 spray pulses (1 s spray and 30 s pause). According to AFM, continuous coverage of ITO and Si substrates with TiO 2 layer is formed by 5-10 and below 5 spray pulses, respectively. XPS studies revealed that TiO 2 film growth on Si substrate using up to 4 spray pulses follows 2D or layer-by-layer-growth. Above 4 spray pulses, 3D or island growth becomes dominant irrespective of the substrate. Only 50 spray pulses result in TiO 2 layer with the thickness more than XPS measurement escape depth as any signal from the substrate could not be detected. TiO 2 grain size remains 30 nm on ITO and increases from 10-20 nm to 50-100 nm on Si substrate with the number of spray pulses from 1 to 125.

A critical review on the spray drying of fruit extract: effect of additives on physicochemical properties.

PubMed

Krishnaiah, Duduku; Nithyanandam, Rajesh; Sarbatly, Rosalam

2014-01-01

Spray drying accomplishes drying while particles are suspended in the air and is one method in the family of suspended particle processing systems, along with fluid-bed drying, flash drying, spray granulation, spray agglomeration, spray reaction, spray cooling, and spray absorption. This drying process is unique because it involves both particle formation and drying. The present paper reviews spray drying of fruit extracts, such as acai, acerola pomace, gac, mango, orange, cactus pear, opuntia stricta fruit, watermelon, and durian, and the effects of additives on physicochemical properties such as antioxidant activity, total carotenoid content, lycopene and β-carotene content, hygroscopy, moisture content, volatile retention, stickiness, color, solubility, glass transition temperature, bulk density, rehydration, caking, appearance under electron microscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction. The literature clearly demonstrates that the effect of additives and encapsulation play a vital role in determining the physicochemical properties of fruit extract powder. The technical difficulties in spray drying of fruit extracts can be overcome by modifying the spray dryer design. It also reveals that spray drying is a novel technology for converting fruit extract into powder form.

Mixing of an Airblast-atomized Fuel Spray Injected into a Crossflow of Air

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leong, May Y.; McDonell, Vincent G.; Samuelsen, G. Scott

2000-01-01

The injection of a spray of fuel droplets into a crossflow of air provides a means of rapidly mixing liquid fuel and air for combustion applications. Injecting the liquid as a spray reduces the mixing length needed to accommodate liquid breakup, while the transverse injection of the spray into the air stream takes advantage of the dynamic mixing induced by the jet-crossflow interaction. The structure of the spray, formed from a model plain-jet airblast atomizer, is investigated in order to determine and understand the factors leading to its dispersion. To attain this goal, the problem is divided into the following tasks which involve: (1) developing planar imaging techniques that visualize fuel and air distributions in the spray, (2) characterizing the airblast spray without a crossflow, and (3) characterizing the airblast spray upon injection into a crossflow. Geometric and operating conditions are varied in order to affect the atomization, penetration, and dispersion of the spray into the crossflow. The airblast spray is first characterized, using imaging techniques, as it issues into a quiescent environment. The spray breakup modes are classified in a liquid Reynolds number versus airblast Weber number regime chart. This work focuses on sprays formed by the "prompt" atomization mode, which induces a well-atomized and well-dispersed spray, and which also produces a two-lobed liquid distribution corresponding to the atomizing air passageways in the injector. The characterization of the spray jet injected into the crossflow reveals the different processes that control its dispersion. Correlations that describe the inner and outer boundaries of the spray jet are developed, using the definition of a two-phase momentum-flux ratio. Cross-sections of the liquid spray depict elliptically-shaped distributions, with the exception of the finely-atomized sprays which show kidney-shaped distributions reminiscent of those obtained in gaseous jet in crossflow systems. A droplet trajectory analysis overpredicts the liquid mass penetration, and indicates a need for a more rigorous model to account for the three-dimensional mixing field induced by the jet-crossflow interaction. Nonetheless, the general procedures and criteria that are outlined can be used to efficiently assess and compare the quality of sprays formed under different conditions.

Method of synthesizing a plurality of reactants and producing thin films of electro-optically active transition metal oxides

DOEpatents

Tracy, C. Edwin; Benson, David K.; Ruth, Marta R.

1987-01-01

A method of synthesizing electro-optically active reaction products from a plurality of reactants by inducing a reaction by plasma deposition among the reactants. The plasma reaction is effective for consolidating the reactants and producing thin films of electro-optically active transition metal oxides.

Ferroelectric Tungsten Bronze Bulk Crystals and Epitaxial Thin Films for Electro-Optic Device Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-01

improved, they show a considerable enhancement in electro - optic and photorefractive properties, specifically for Ce(3+)-doped SBN:60 crystals. The...concentration of impurity ions increased. Undoped SBN:60 single crystals have also been grown and they are almost striation-free and exhibit excellent electro - optic properties.

New Light Sources and Concepts for Electro-Optic Sampling

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-03-01

Research to improve electro - optic sampling led to the development of several high performance optical phase modulators. These phase modulators serve...method of optical pulse shape measurement was demonstrated with 3 ps time resolution, excellent power sensitivity and relative system simplicity. These experiments have opened up the field of temporal optics. Electro - optic sampling.

Ferroelectric Tungsten Bronze Bulk Crystals and Epitaxial Thin Films for Electro-Optic Device Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-02-01

110) film orientations. Electro - optic measurements on SBN:60 single crystals have shown a high value for r51 of 80 x 10 to the minus 12th power m/v...showing morphotropic boundary conditions with enhanced dielectric properties. Both systems look promising for future electro - optic development.

Electro-optical Probing Of Terahertz Integrated Circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhasin, K. B.; Romanofsky, R.; Whitaker, J. F.; Valdmanis, J. A.; Mourou, G.; Jackson, T. A.

1990-01-01

Electro-optical probe developed to perform noncontact, nondestructive, and relatively noninvasive measurements of electric fields over broad spectrum at millimeter and shorter wavelengths in integrated circuits. Manipulated with conventional intregrated-circuit-wafer-probing equipment and operated without any special preparation of integrated circuits. Tip of probe small electro-optical crystal serving as proximity electric-field sensor.

Electro-Optical Laser Technology. Curriculum Utilization. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nawn, John H.

This report describes a program to prepare students for employment as laser technicians and laser operators and to ensure that they have the necessary skills required by the industry. The objectives are to prepare a curriculum and syllabus for an associate degree program in Electro-Optical Laser Technology. The 2-year Electro-Optical Laser program…

Method for the electro-addressable functionalization of electrode arrays

DOEpatents

Harper, Jason C.; Polsky, Ronen; Dirk, Shawn M.; Wheeler, David R.; Arango, Dulce C.; Brozik, Susan M.

2015-12-15

A method for preparing an electrochemical biosensor uses bias-assisted assembly of unreactive -onium molecules on an electrode array followed by post-assembly electro-addressable conversion of the unreactive group to a chemical or biological recognition group. Electro-addressable functionalization of electrode arrays enables the multi-target electrochemical sensing of biological and chemical analytes.

Performance of an Electro-Hydrostatic Actuator on the F-18 Systems Research Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Navarro, Robert

1997-01-01

An electro-hydrostatic actuator was evaluated at NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California. The primary goal of testing this actuator system was the flight demonstration of power-by-wire technology on a primary flight control surface. The electro-hydrostatic actuator uses an electric motor to drive a hydraulic pump and relies on local hydraulics for force transmission. This actuator replaced the F-18 standard left aileron actuator on the F-18 Systems Research Aircraft and was evaluated throughout the Systems Research Aircraft flight envelope. As of July 24, 1997 the electro-hydrostatic actuator had accumulated 23.5 hours of flight time. This paper presents the electro-hydrostatic actuator system configuration and component description, ground and flight test plans, ground and flight test results, and lessons learned. This actuator performs as well as the standard actuator and has more load capability than required by aileron actuator specifications of McDonnell- Douglas Aircraft, St. Louis, Missouri. The electro-hydrostatic actuator system passed all of its ground tests with the exception of one power-off test during unloaded dynamic cycling.

Coupled Electro-Hydrodynamic Effects of Electro-Osmosis from Pore Scale to Darcy Scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schotting, R.; Joekar-Niasar, V.; Leijnse, A.

2011-12-01

Electro-osmosis is "movement of a fluid under the effect of an electric field in a porous medium". This phenomenon has many applications in civil engineering (slope stabilization, dewatering), environmental engineering (soil remediation, sludge dewatering), chemical engineering (micro- or nano- mixers), medical engineering (drug delivery), etc. The key factor in electro-osmosis is the competition between the electrochemical and hydrodynamic forces as well as the coupling between the solid surface and the electrolyte properties. The objective of this research is to understand the influence of pore-scale heterogeneities of surface properties on the Darcy-scale behavior. We develop novel analytical solutions for the flow and transport of electrolyte including electro-hydrodynamic forces in a single micro-channel. We propose the complete analytical solution for monovalent electrolyte at full range overlapping double layers, and nonlinear electric field, including the Donan effect in transport of ions. These pore-scale formulations are numerically upscaled to obtain the Darcy-scale behavior. Our results show the contribution of electro-osmotic, chemical-osmotic and hydrodynamic components of the flow equation on pressure field evolution and multi-directional flow field at Darcy scale.

Physicochemical treatments of anionic surfactants wastewater: Effect on aerobic biodegradability.

PubMed

Aloui, Fathi; Kchaou, Sonia; Sayadi, Sami

2009-05-15

The effect of different physicochemical treatments on the aerobic biodegradability of an industrial wastewater resulting from a cosmetic industry has been investigated. This industrial wastewater contains 11423 and 3148mgL(-1) of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and anionic surfactants, respectively. The concentration of COD and anionic surfactants were followed throughout the diverse physicochemical treatments and biodegradation experiments. Different pretreatments of this industrial wastewater using chemical flocculation process with lime and aluminium sulphate (alum), and also advanced oxidation process (electro-coagulation (Fe and Al) and electro-Fenton) led to important COD and anionic surfactants removals. The best results were obtained using electro-Fenton process, exceeding 98 and 80% of anionic surfactants and COD removals, respectively. The biological treatment by an isolated strain Citrobacter braakii of the surfactant wastewater, as well as the pretreated wastewater by the various physicochemical processes used in this study showed that the best results were obtained with electro-Fenton pretreated wastewater. The characterization of the treated surfactant wastewater by the integrated process (electro-coagulation or electro-Fenton)-biological showed that it respects Tunisian discharge standards.

Frequency accurate coherent electro-optic dual-comb spectroscopy in real-time.

PubMed

Martín-Mateos, Pedro; Jerez, Borja; Largo-Izquierdo, Pedro; Acedo, Pablo

2018-04-16

Electro-optic dual-comb spectrometers have proved to be a promising technology for sensitive, high-resolution and rapid spectral measurements. Electro-optic combs possess very attractive features like simplicity, reliability, bright optical teeth, and typically moderate but quickly tunable optical spans. Furthermore, in a dual-comb arrangement, narrowband electro-optic combs are generated with a level of mutual coherence that is sufficiently high to enable optical multiheterodyning without inter-comb stabilization or signal processing systems. However, this valuable tool still presents several limitations; for instance, on most systems, absolute frequency accuracy and long-term stability cannot be guaranteed; likewise, interferometer-induced phase noise restricts coherence time and limits the attainable signal-to-noise ratio. In this paper, we address these drawbacks and demonstrate a cost-efficient absolute electro-optic dual-comb instrument based on a frequency stabilization mechanism and a novel adaptive interferogram acquisition approach devised for electro-optic dual-combs capable of operating in real-time. The spectrometer, completely built from commercial components, provides sub-ppm frequency uncertainties and enables a signal-to-noise ratio of 10000 (intensity noise) in 30 seconds of integration time.

Oxidation of Levafix CA reactive azo-dyes in industrial wastewater of textile dyeing by electro-generated Fenton's reagent.

PubMed

El-Desoky, Hanaa S; Ghoneim, Mohamed M; El-Sheikh, Ragaa; Zidan, Naglaa M

2010-03-15

The indirect electrochemical removal of pollutants from effluents has become an attractive method in recent years. Removal (decolorization and mineralization) of Levafix Blue CA and Levafix Red CA reactive azo-dyes from aqueous media by electro-generated Fenton's reagent (Fe(2+)/H(2)O(2)) using a reticulated vitreous carbon cathode and a platinum gauze anode was optimized. Progress of oxidation (decolorization and mineralization) of the investigated azo-dyes with time of electro-Fenton's reaction was monitored by UV-visible absorbance measurements, Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and HPLC analysis. The results indicated that the electro-Fenton's oxidation system is efficient for treatment of such types of reactive dyes. Oxidation of each of the investigated azo-dyes by electro-generated Fenton's reagent up to complete decolorization and approximately 90-95% mineralization was achieved. Moreover, the optimized electro-Fenton's oxidation was successfully applied for complete decolorization and approximately 85-90% mineralization of both azo-dyes in real industrial wastewater samples collected from textile dyeing house at El-Mahalla El-Kobra, Egypt. (c) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Hydrogel Walkers with Electro-Driven Motility for Cargo Transport.

PubMed

Yang, Chao; Wang, Wei; Yao, Chen; Xie, Rui; Ju, Xiao-Jie; Liu, Zhuang; Chu, Liang-Yin

2015-08-28

In this study, soft hydrogel walkers with electro-driven motility for cargo transport have been developed via a facile mould-assisted strategy. The hydrogel walkers consisting of polyanionic poly(2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid-co-acrylamide) exhibit an arc looper-like shape with two "legs" for walking. The hydrogel walkers can reversibly bend and stretch via repeated "on/off" electro-triggers in electrolyte solution. Based on such bending/stretching behaviors, the hydrogel walkers can move their two "legs" to achieve one-directional walking motion on a rough surface via repeated "on/off" electro-triggering cycles. Moreover, the hydrogel walkers loaded with very heavy cargo also exhibit excellent walking motion for cargo transport. Such hydrogel systems create new opportunities for developing electro-controlled soft systems with simple design/fabrication strategies in the soft robotic field for remote manipulation and transportation.

Electro-optic spatial decoding on the spherical-wavefront Coulomb fields of plasma electron sources.

PubMed

Huang, K; Esirkepov, T; Koga, J K; Kotaki, H; Mori, M; Hayashi, Y; Nakanii, N; Bulanov, S V; Kando, M

2018-02-13

Detections of the pulse durations and arrival timings of relativistic electron beams are important issues in accelerator physics. Electro-optic diagnostics on the Coulomb fields of electron beams have the advantages of single shot and non-destructive characteristics. We present a study of introducing the electro-optic spatial decoding technique to laser wakefield acceleration. By placing an electro-optic crystal very close to a gas target, we discovered that the Coulomb field of the electron beam possessed a spherical wavefront and was inconsistent with the previously widely used model. The field structure was demonstrated by experimental measurement, analytic calculations and simulations. A temporal mapping relationship with generality was derived in a geometry where the signals had spherical wavefronts. This study could be helpful for the applications of electro-optic diagnostics in laser plasma acceleration experiments.

A fluorescent imaging technique for quantifying spray deposits on plant leaves

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Because of the unique characteristics of electrostatically-charged sprays, use of traditional methods to quantify deposition from these sprays has been challenging. A new fluorescent imaging technique was developed to quantify spray deposits from electrostatically-charged sprays on natural plant lea...

A user-friendly model for spray drying to aid pharmaceutical product development.

PubMed

Grasmeijer, Niels; de Waard, Hans; Hinrichs, Wouter L J; Frijlink, Henderik W

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to develop a user-friendly model for spray drying that can aid in the development of a pharmaceutical product, by shifting from a trial-and-error towards a quality-by-design approach. To achieve this, a spray dryer model was developed in commercial and open source spreadsheet software. The output of the model was first fitted to the experimental output of a Büchi B-290 spray dryer and subsequently validated. The predicted outlet temperatures of the spray dryer model matched the experimental values very well over the entire range of spray dryer settings that were tested. Finally, the model was applied to produce glassy sugars by spray drying, an often used excipient in formulations of biopharmaceuticals. For the production of glassy sugars, the model was extended to predict the relative humidity at the outlet, which is not measured in the spray dryer by default. This extended model was then successfully used to predict whether specific settings were suitable for producing glassy trehalose and inulin by spray drying. In conclusion, a spray dryer model was developed that is able to predict the output parameters of the spray drying process. The model can aid the development of spray dried pharmaceutical products by shifting from a trial-and-error towards a quality-by-design approach.

Secure communications of CAP-4 and OOK signals over MMF based on electro-optic chaos.

PubMed

Ai, Jianzhou; Wang, Lulu; Wang, Jian

2017-09-15

Chaos-based secure communication can provide a high level of privacy in data transmission. Here, we experimentally demonstrate secure signal transmission over two kinds of multimode fiber (MMF) based on electro-optic intensity chaos. High-quality synchronization is achieved in an electro-optic feedback configuration. Both 5  Gbit/s carrier-less amplitude/phase (CAP-4) modulation and 10  Gbit/s on-off key (OOK) signals are recovered efficiently in electro-optic chaos-based communication systems. Degradations of chaos synchronization and communication system due to mismatch of various hardware keys are also discussed.

Electrical and mechanical characterization of nanoscale-layered cellulose-based electro-active paper.

PubMed

Yun, Gyu-Young; Yun, Ki-Ju; Kim, Joo-Hyung; Kim, Jaehwan

2011-01-01

In order to understand the electro-mechanical behavior of piezoelectric electro active paper (EAPap), the converse and direct piezoelectric characterization of cellulose EAPap was studied and compared. A delay between the electrical field and the induced strain of EAPap was observed due to the inner nano-voids or the localized amorphous regions in layer-by-layered structure to capture or hold the electrical charges and remnant ions. The linear relation between electric field and induced strain is also observed. The electro-mechanical performance of EAPap is discussed in detail in this paper.

An active interference projector for the electro-optical test facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crowe, D. G.; Nowak, T. M.

1980-09-01

A projection system is described which can simulate emissions from flares, muzzle-flashes, shellbursts, and other emissive agents which may degrade the performance of electro-optical systems in the 0.5-15 micron spectral range. The simulation capability obtained will allow the apparent radiance and temporal characteristics of muzzleflashes and shellbursts to be mimicked at simulated ranges as close as 23 m within the Electro-Optical Test Facility. This demonstrates that tests of electro-optical system performance in the presence of interferers can be performed under laboratory conditions with higher repeatability and lower cost than field tests.

A spray flamelet/progress variable approach combined with a transported joint PDF model for turbulent spray flames

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Yong; Olguin, Hernan; Gutheil, Eva

2017-05-01

A spray flamelet/progress variable approach is developed for use in spray combustion with partly pre-vaporised liquid fuel, where a laminar spray flamelet library accounts for evaporation within the laminar flame structures. For this purpose, the standard spray flamelet formulation for pure evaporating liquid fuel and oxidiser is extended by a chemical reaction progress variable in both the turbulent spray flame model and the laminar spray flame structures, in order to account for the effect of pre-vaporised liquid fuel for instance through use of a pilot flame. This new approach is combined with a transported joint probability density function (PDF) method for the simulation of a turbulent piloted ethanol/air spray flame, and the extension requires the formulation of a joint three-variate PDF depending on the gas phase mixture fraction, the chemical reaction progress variable, and gas enthalpy. The molecular mixing is modelled with the extended interaction-by-exchange-with-the-mean (IEM) model, where source terms account for spray evaporation and heat exchange due to evaporation as well as the chemical reaction rate for the chemical reaction progress variable. This is the first formulation using a spray flamelet model considering both evaporation and partly pre-vaporised liquid fuel within the laminar spray flamelets. Results with this new formulation show good agreement with the experimental data provided by A.R. Masri, Sydney, Australia. The analysis of the Lagrangian statistics of the gas temperature and the OH mass fraction indicates that partially premixed combustion prevails near the nozzle exit of the spray, whereas further downstream, the non-premixed flame is promoted towards the inner rich-side of the spray jet since the pilot flame heats up the premixed inner spray zone. In summary, the simulation with the new formulation considering the reaction progress variable shows good performance, greatly improving the standard formulation, and it provides new insight into the local structure of this complex spray flame.

Detailed assessment of diesel spray atomization models using visible and X-ray extinction measurements

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

Magnotti, G. M.; Genzale, C. L.

The physical mechanisms characterizing the breakup of a diesel spray into droplets are still unknown. This gap in knowledge has largely been due to the challenges of directly imaging this process or quantitatively measuring the outcomes of spray breakup, such as droplet size. Recent x-ray measurements by Argonne National Laboratory, utilized in this work, provide needed information about the spatial evolution of droplet sizes in selected regions of the spray under a range of injection pressures (50–150 MPa) and ambient densities (7.6–22.8 kg/m3) relevant for diesel operating conditions. Ultra-small angle x-ray scattering (USAXS) measurements performed at the Advanced Photon Sourcemore » are presented, which quantify Sauter mean diameters (SMD) within optically thick regions of the spray that are inaccessible by conventional droplet sizing measurement techniques, namely in the near-nozzle region, along the spray centerline, and within the core of the spray. To quantify droplet sizes along the periphery of the spray, a complementary technique is proposed and introduced, which leverages the ratio of path-integrated x-ray and visible laser extinction (SAMR) measurements to quantify SMD. The SAMR and USAXS measurements are then utilized to evaluate current spray models used for engine computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations. We explore the ability of a carefully calibrated spray model, premised on aerodynamic wave growth theory, to capture the experimentally observed trends of SMD throughout the spray. The spray structure is best predicted with an aerodynamic primary and secondary breakup process that is represented with a slower time constant and larger formed droplet size than conventionally recommended for diesel spray models. Additionally, spray model predictions suggest that droplet collisions may not influence the resultant droplet size distribution along the spray centerline in downstream regions of the spray.« less

Wind tunnel and field evaluation of drift from aerial spray applications with multiple spray formulations

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The impact of different spray tank modifiers into an active ingredient spray mixture on spray atomization and in-field behavior under aerial application conditions were examined. Wind tunnel tests demonstrated that active ingredient solutions potentially results in significantly different atomizati...

Spray drift reduction evaluations of spray nozzles using a standardized testing protocol

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The development and testing of drift reduction technologies has come to the forefront of application research in the past few years in the United States. Drift reduction technologies (DRTs) can be spray nozzles, sprayer modifications, spray delivery assistance, spray property modifiers (adjuvants),...

Use of Proper Orthogonal Decomposition Towards Time-resolved Image Analysis of Sprays

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-03-15

High-speed movies of optically dense sprays exiting a Gas-Centered Swirl Coaxial (GCSC) injector are subjected to image analysis to determine spray...sequence prior to image analysis . Results of spray morphology including spray boundary, widths, angles and boundary oscillation frequencies, are

Effects of growth temperatures on the physical properties of Cu2ZnSnS4 thin films deposited through spray pyrolysis for solar cell applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fadavieslam, M. R.; Keshavarz, S.

2018-02-01

This paper reports the effects of substrate temperature on the structural, optical, and electrical properties of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin films deposited on soda lime glass through spray pyrolysis without sulfurization. Substrate temperatures ranged from 250 to 500 °C at a step of 50 °C, and a precursor solution was prepared by dissolving copper chloride, zinc acetate, zinc chloride, and thiourea in ethanol and di-ionized water. The films were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and electrical resistance and Hall effect measurements, respectively, obtained by two-point probe and van der Pauw techniques. XRD revealed the formation of polycrystalline CZTS thin films and the appearance of relatively intense and sharp diffraction peaks at (112), (200), (220), and (312) of a kesterite phase with (112) preferential orientation, in which the crystalline degree increased as substrate temperature increased. Surface morphological analysis demonstrated the formation of a smooth, compact, and uniform CZTS surface. When substrate temperature increased from 250 to 500 °C, single-crystal grains increased from 6.38 to 28 nm, carrier concentration increased from 3.4 × 1017 to 2.36 × 1019 cm-3, Hall mobility increased from 30.96 to 68.52 cm2/V.S, optical band gap decreased from 1.74 to 1.14 eV, and resistivity decreased from 0.59 to 3.87 × 10-3 Ωcm. Hall effect analysis indicated that the films exhibited p-type conductivity.

NASA Tech Briefs, August 2009

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2009-01-01

Topics covered include: Aligning a Receiving Antenna Array to Reduce Interference; Collecting Ground Samples for Balloon-Borne Instruments; Tethered Pyrotechnic Apparatus for Acquiring a Ground Sample; Enhanced Video-Oculography System; Joint Carrier-Phase Synchronization and LDPC Decoding; Dual-Polarization, Sideband-Separating, Balanced Receiver for 1.5 THz Modular Battery Charge Controller; Efficient Multiplexer FPGA Block Structures Based on G4FETs; VLSI Microsystem for Rapid Bioinformatic Pattern Recognition; Low-Noise Amplifier for 100 to 180 GHz; Improved Fabrication of Ceramic Matrix Composite/Foam Core Integrated Structures; Inert Welding/Brazing Gas Filters and Dryers; Fabricating Copper Nanotubes by Electrodeposition; Reducing Aerodynamic Drag on Empty Open Cargo Vehicles; Rotary Percussive Auto-Gopher for Deep Drilling and Sampling; More About Reconfigurable Exploratory Robotic Vehicles; Thermostatic Valves Containing Silicone-Oil Actuators; Improving Heat Flux Performance of Flat Surface in Spray-Cooling Systems; Treating Fibrous Insulation to Reduce Thermal Conductivity; Silica-Aerogel Composites Opacified with La(sub0.7)Sr(sub0.3)MnO3; Cyclic Oxidation Behavior of CuCrAl Cold-Sprayed Coatings for Reusable Launch Vehicles; Ceramic Fiber Structures for Cryogenic Load-Bearing Applications; Elastomer Reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes; Biologically Inspired Purification and Dispersion of SWCNTs; A Technique for Adjusting Eigenfrequencies of WGM Resonators; Low-Pressure, Field-Ionizing Mass Spectrometer; Modifying Operating Cycles to Increase Stability in a LITS; Chamber for Simulating Martian and Terrestrial Environments; Algorithm for Detecting a Bright Spot in an Image; Extreme Programming: Maestro Style; Adaptive Behavior for Mobile Robots; Protocol for Communication Networking for Formation Flying; Planning Complex Sequences Using Compressed Representations; and Self-Supervised Learning of Terrain Traversability from Proprioceptive Sensors.

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

Kim, Moonsoo; Kim, Jongmin; Cho, Jaehee

Graphical abstract: The presence of Chlorine in the outer surface resulted in a highly electro-negative surface states and an increase in the vacuum energy level. - Highlights: • We investigated the influence of chlorine surface treatment on ITO properties. • Chlorination induced the change of the electro-static potential in the outer surface. • Chlorine electro-chemical treatment of ITO is a simple, fast and effective technique. - Abstract: In this work, we investigate the influence of a chlorine-based electro-chemical surface treatment on the characteristics of indium tin oxide (ITO) including the work function, chemical composition, and phase transition. The treated ITOsmore » were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultra-violet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), 4-point probe measurements, and grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GI-XRD). We confirmed a change of the chemical composition in the near-surface region of the ITO and the formation of indium-chlorine (In-Cl) bonds and surface dipoles (via XPS). In particular, the change of the electro-static potential in the outer surface was caused by chlorination. Due to the vacuum-level shift after the electro-chemical treatment in a dilute hydrochloric acid, the ITO work function was increased by ∼0.43 eV (via UPS); furthermore, the electro-negativity of the chlorine anions attracted electrons to emit them from the hole transport layer (HTL) to the ITO anodes, resulting in an increase of the hole-injection efficiency.« less

A novel electro-driven membrane for removal of chromium ions using polymer inclusion membrane under constant D.C. electric current.

PubMed

Kaya, Ahmet; Onac, Canan; Alpoguz, H Korkmaz

2016-11-05

In this study, the use of polymer inclusion membrane under constant electric current for the removal of Cr(VI) from water has investigated for the first time. Transport of Cr(VI) is performed by an electric current from the donor phase to the acceptor phase with a constant electric current of 0.5A. The optimized membrane includes of 12.1% 2-nitrophenyl octyl ether (2-NPOE), 77.6% cellulose triacetate (CTA), 10.3% tricapryl-methylammonium chloride (Aliquat 336) as a carrier. We tested the applicability of the selected membrane for Cr(VI) removal in real environmental water samples and evaluated its reusability. Electro membrane experiments were carried out under various parameters, such as the effect of electro membrane voltage at constant DC electric current; electro membrane current at constant voltage, acceptor phase pH, and stable electro membrane; and a comparison of polymer inclusion membrane and electro membrane transport studies. The Cr(VI) transport was achieved 98.33% after 40min under optimized conditions. An alternative method has been employed that eliminates the changing of electrical current by the application of constant electric current for higher reproducibility of electro membrane extraction experiments by combining the excellent selective and long-term use features of polymer inclusion membrane. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 63.11177 - What records must I keep?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

....11173(e)(3)(i). (c) Documentation from the spray gun manufacturer that each spray gun with a cup... operation, you must keep the records specified in paragraphs (e) through (g) of this section, as applicable... spray gun, electrostatic application, airless spray gun, or air assisted airless spray gun, has been...

Modifications Of A Commercial Spray Gun

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Allen, Peter B.

1993-01-01

Commercial spray gun modified to increase spray rate and make sprayed coats more nearly uniform. Consists of gun head and pneumatic actuator. Actuator opens valves for two chemical components, called "A" and "B," that react to produce foam. Components flow through orifices, into mixing chamber in head. Mixture then flows through control orifice to spray tip. New spray tip tapered to reduce area available for accumulation of foam and makes tip easier to clean.

Multiple-Nozzle Spray Head Applies Foam Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walls, Joe T.

1993-01-01

Spray head equipped with four-nozzle turret mixes two reactive components of polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foam insulating material and sprays reacting mixture onto surface to be insulated. If nozzle in use becomes clogged, fresh one automatically rotated into position, with minimal interruption of spraying process. Incorporates features recirculating and controlling pressures of reactive components to maintain quality of foam by ensuring proper blend at outset. Also used to spray protective coats on or in ships, aircraft, and pipelines. Sprays such reactive adhesives as epoxy/polyurethane mixtures. Components of spray contain solid-particle fillers for strength, fire retardance, toughness, resistance to abrasion, or radar absorption.

Characterization of sprays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chigier, N.; Mao, C.-P.

1984-01-01

It is pointed out that most practical power generation and propulsion systems involve the burning of different types of fuel sprays, taking into account aircraft propulsion, industrial furnaces, boilers, gas turbines, and diesel engines. There has been a lack of data which can serve as a basis for spray model development and validation. A major aim of the present investigation is to fill this gap. Experimental apparatus and techniques for studying the characteristics of fuel sprays are discussed, taking into account two-dimensional still photography, cinematography, holography, a laser diffraction particle sizer, and a laser anemometer. The considered instruments were used in a number of experiments, taking into account three different types of fuel spray. Attention is given to liquid fuel sprays, high pressure pulsed diesel sprays, and coal-water slurry sprays.

Analysis of high injection pressure and ambient temperature on biodiesel spray characteristics using computational fluid dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashim, Akasha; Khalid, Amir; Jaat, Norrizam; Sapit, Azwan; Razali, Azahari; Nizam, Akmal

2017-09-01

Efficiency of combustion engines are highly affected by the formation of air-fuel mixture prior to ignition and combustion process. This research investigate the mixture formation and spray characteristics of biodiesel blends under variant in high ambient and injection conditions using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The spray characteristics such as spray penetration length, spray angle and fluid flow were observe under various operating conditions. Results show that increase in injection pressure increases the spray penetration length for both biodiesel and diesel. Results also indicate that higher spray angle of biodiesel can be seen as the injection pressure increases. This study concludes that spray characteristics of biodiesel blend is greatly affected by the injection and ambient conditions.

Arc spray process for the aircraft and stationary gas turbine industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sampson, E. R.; Zwetsloot, M. P.

1997-06-01

Technological advances in arc spray have produced a system that competes favorably with other thermal spray processes. In the past, arc spray was thought of as a process for very large parts that need thick buildups. However, an attachment device known as the arc jet system has been developed that focuses the pattern and accelerates the particles. This attachment device, coupled with the in-troduction of metal-cored wires that provide the same chemistries as plasma-sprayed powders, pro-vides application engineers with a viable economic alternative to existing spray methods. A comparative evaluation of a standard production plasma spray system was conducted with the arc spray process using the attachment device. This evaluation was conducted by an airline company on four major parts coated with nickel-aluminum. Results show that, for these applications, the arc spray process offers several benefits.

Field evaluation of a self-propelled sprayer and effects of the application rate on spray deposition and losses to the ground in greenhouse tomato crops.

PubMed

Sánchez-Hermosilla, Julián; Rincón, Víctor J; Páez, Francisco; Agüera, Francisco; Carvajal, Fernando

2011-08-01

In the greenhouses of south-eastern Spain, plant protection products are applied using mainly sprayers at high pressures and high volumes. This results in major losses on the ground and less than uniform spray deposition on the canopy. Recently, self-propelled vehicles equipped with vertical spray booms have appeared on the market. In this study, deposition on the canopy and the losses to the ground at different spray volumes have been compared, using a self-propelled vehicle with vertical spray booms versus a gun sprayer. Three different spray volumes have been tested with a boom sprayer, and two with a spray gun. The vehicle with the vertical spray boom gave similar depositions to those made with the gun, but at lower application volumes. Also, the distribution of the vertical spray boom was more uniform, with lower losses to the ground. The vertical spray booms used in tomato crops improve the application of plant protection products with respect to the spray gun, reducing the application volumes and the environmental risks of soil pollution. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.

Nanosized aerosols from consumer sprays: experimental analysis and exposure modeling for four commercial products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lorenz, Christiane; Hagendorfer, Harald; von Goetz, Natalie; Kaegi, Ralf; Gehrig, Robert; Ulrich, Andrea; Scheringer, Martin; Hungerbühler, Konrad

2011-08-01

Consumer spray products are already on the market in the cosmetics and household sector, which suggest by their label that they contain engineered nanoparticles (ENP). Sprays are considered critical for human health, because the lungs represent a major route for the uptake of ENP into the human body. To contribute to the exposure assessment of ENP in consumer spray products, we analyzed ENP in four commercially available sprays: one antiperspirant, two shoe impregnation sprays, and one plant-strengthening agent. The spray dispersions were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) and (scanning-) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM). Aerosols were generated by using the original vessels, and analyzed by scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and (S)TEM. On the basis of SMPS results, the nanosized aerosol depositing in the respiratory tract was modeled for female and male consumers. The derived exposure levels reflect a single spray application. We identified ENP in the dispersions of two products (shoe impregnation and plant spray). Nanosized aerosols were observed in three products that contained propellant gas. The aerosol number concentration increased linearly with the sprayed amount, with the highest concentration resulting from the antiperspirant. Modeled aerosol exposure levels were in the range of 1010 nanosized aerosol components per person and application event for the antiperspirant and the impregnation sprays, with the largest fraction of nanosized aerosol depositing in the alveolar region. Negligible exposure from the application of the plant spray (pump spray) was observed.

A Multiple-Dose, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group QT/QTc Study to Evaluate the Electrophysiologic Effects of THC/CBD Spray.

PubMed

Sellers, Edward M; Schoedel, Kerri; Bartlett, Cindy; Romach, Myroslava; Russo, Ethan B; Stott, Colin G; Wright, Stephen; White, Linda; Duncombe, Paul; Chen, Chien-Feng

2013-07-01

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/cannabidiol (CBD) oromucosal spray has proved efficacious in the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis and chronic pain. A thorough QT/QTc study was performed to investigate the effects of THC/CBD spray on electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters in compliance with regulatory requirements, evaluating the effect of a recommended daily dose (8 sprays/day) and supratherapeutic doses (24 or 36 sprays/day) of THC/CBD spray on the QT/QTc interval in 258 healthy volunteers. The safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of THC/CBD spray were also evaluated. Therapeutic and supratherapeutic doses of THC/CBD spray had no effect on cardiac repolarization with primary and secondary endpoints of QTcI and QTcF/QTcB, respectively, showing similar results. There was no indication of any effect on heart rate, atrioventricular conduction, or cardiac depolarization and no new clinically relevant morphological changes were observed. Overall, 19 subjects (25.0%) in the supratherapeutic (24/36 daily sprays of THC/CBD spray) dose group and one (1.6%) in the moxifloxacin group withdrew early due to intolerable AEs. Four psychiatric serious adverse events (AEs) in the highest dose group resulted in a reduction in the surpatherapeutic dose to 24 sprays/day. In conclusion, THC/CBD spray does not significantly affect ECG parameters. Additionally, THC/CBD spray is well tolerated at therapeutic doses with an AE profile similar to previous clinical studies. © The Author(s) 2013.

EFFECT OF AQUEOUS PHASE PROPERTIES ON CLAY PARTICLE ZETA POTENTIAL AND ELECTRO-OSMOTIC PERMEABILITY: IMPLICATIONS FOR ELECTRO-KINETIC SOIL REMEDIATION PROCESSES

EPA Science Inventory

The influence of aqueous phase properties (pH, ionic strength and divalent metal ion concentration) on clay particle zeta potential and packed-bed electro-osmotic permeability was quantified. Although pH strongly altered the zeta potential of a Georgia kaolinite, it did not signi...

Electro-hydrodynamic spray synthesis and low temperature spectroscopic characterization of Perovskite thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarang, Som; Ishihara, Hidetaka; Tung, Vincent; Ghosh, Sayantani

Utilizing a Marangoni flow inspired electrospraying technique, we synthesize hybrid perovskite (PVSK) thin films with broad absorption spectrum and high crystallinity. The precursor solvents are electrosprayed onto an indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate, resulting in a gradient force developing between the droplet surface and the bulk due to the varying vapor pressure in the bi-solvent system. This gradient force helps the droplets propagate and merge with surrounding ones, forming a uniform thin film with excellent morphological and topological characteristics, as evident from the average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16%. In parallel, we use low temperature static and dynamic photoluminescence spectroscopy to probe the grain boundaries and defects in the synthesized PVSK thin films. At 120 K, the emergence of the low temperature orthorhombic phase is accompanied by reduction in lifetimes by an order of magnitude, a result attributed to charge transfer between the orthorhombic and tetragonal domains, as well as due to a crossover from free charge carrier to excitonic recombination. Our fabrication technique and optical studies help in advancement of PVSK based technology by providing unique insights into the fundamental physics of these novel materials. This research was supported by National Aeronautics and Space administration (NASA) Grant No: NNX15AQ01A.

Barium Titanate Photonic Crystal Electro-Optic Modulators for Telecommunication and Data Network Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Girouard, Peter D.

The microwave, optical, and electro-optic properties of epitaxial barium titanate thin films grown on (100) MgO substrates and photonic crystal electro-optic modulators fabricated on these films were investigated to demonstrate the applicability of these devices for telecommunication and data networks. The electrical and electro-optical properties were characterized up to modulation frequencies of 50 GHz, and the optical properties of photonic crystal waveguides were determined for wavelengths spanning the optical C band between 1500 and 1580 nm. Microwave scattering parameters were measured on coplanar stripline devices with electrode gap spacings between 5 and 12 mum on barium titanate films with thicknesses between 230 and 680 nm. The microwave index and device characteristic impedance were obtained from the measurements. Larger (lower) microwave indices (impedances) were obtained for devices with narrower electrode gap spacings and on thicker films. Thinner film devices have both lower index mismatch between the co-propagating microwave and optical signals and lower impedance mismatch to a 50O system, resulting in a larger predicted electro-optical 3 dB bandwidth. This was experimentally verified with electro-optical frequency response measurements. These observations were applied to demonstrate a record high 28 GHz electro-optic bandwidth measured for a BaTiO3 conventional ridge waveguide modulator having 1mm long electrodes and 12 mum gap spacing on a 260nm thick film. The half-wave voltage and electro-optic coefficients of barium titanate modulators were measured for films having thicknesses between 260 and 500 nm. The half-wave voltage was directly measured at low frequencies using a polarizer-sample-compensator-analyzer setup by over-driving waveguide integrated modulators beyond their linear response regime. Effective in-device electro-optic coefficients were obtained from the measured half-wave voltages. The effective electro-optic coefficients were found to increase with both applied electrical dc bias and with film thickness. A record low 0.39V ˙ cm (0.45V ˙ cm) voltage-length product was measured for barium titanate modulators operating at telecommunication wavelengths on a device with 5 ?m electrode gap spacing on a 500nm thick film modulated at a frequency of 100 Hz (1 MHz). This measured voltage-length product is more than a factor of 5 lower than that reported for state-of-the-art silicon conventional waveguide modulators. The electro-optical characterization of BaTiO3 films revealed a trade-off that exists for traveling wave BaTiO3 modulators: lower voltages are obtained in thicker film devices with narrow electrode gap spacing while larger bandwidths are obtained in thinner film devices with wider electrode gap spacing. These findings were supported by calculations of the film thickness dependent half-wave voltage and electro-optic bandwidth. In order to demonstrate modulators having simultaneously low voltage operation and high electro-optic bandwidth, photonic crystal waveguide modulators with large group index were investigated through theory and experiment. The theory for slow light phase delay in linear optical materials was extended for second order nonlinear optical materials. This theory was incorporated into a detailed model for predicting photonic crystal modulator performance in terms of voltage-length product and electro-optic bandwidth. Modeling shows that barium titanate photonic crystal modulators with sub-millimeter length, sub-volt operation, and greater than 40 GHz electro-optic bandwidth are achievable in a single device. Two types of photonic crystal waveguides (PC) on BaTiO3 films were designed, fabricated, and characterized: waveguides with hexagonal lattice symmetry and waveguides with hexagonal symmetry having a line defect oriented in the direction of light propagation. Excellent agreement was obtained between the simulated and measured transmission for hexagonal lattice PC waveguides. An extinction of 20 dB was measured across a 9.9 nm stop band edge, yielding a record large band edge sharpness of 2 dB/nm for all photonic crystal waveguides on ferroelectric films. A 12-fold enhancement of the electro-optic coefficient was measured via optical spectral analysis in a line defect BaTiO3 modulator, yielding an effective electro-optic coefficient of 900 pm/V in the photonic crystal region at a modulation frequency of 10 GHz. This enhancement was demonstrated over a 48 nm range, demonstrating the wideband operation of these devices.

Sono-electro-magnetic therapy for treating chronic pelvic pain syndrome in men: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial.

PubMed

Kessler, Thomas M; Mordasini, Livio; Weisstanner, Christian; Jüni, Peter; da Costa, Bruno R; Wiest, Roland; Thalmann, George N

2014-01-01

To assess the efficacy and safety of sono-electro-magnetic therapy compared to placebo in men with refractory CPPS. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind single center trial, we assessed the effect of sono-electro-magnetic therapy in men with treatment refractory CPPS. Sixty male patients were randomly assigned to treatment with either sono-electro-magnetic (n = 30) or placebo therapy (n = 30) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was a change in the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) from baseline to 12 weeks. The 12-week difference between sono-electro-magnetic and placebo therapy in changes of the NIH-CPSI total score was -3.1 points (95% CI -6.8 to 0.6, p = 0.11). In secondary comparisons of NIH-CPSI sub-scores, we found differences between groups most pronounced for the quality-of-life sub-score (difference at 12 weeks -1.6, 95% CI -2.8 to -0.4, p = 0.015). In stratified analyses, the benefit of sono-electro-magnetic therapy appeared more pronounced among patients who had a symptom duration of 12 months or less (difference in NIH-CPSI total score -8.3, 95% CI -14.5 to 2.6) than in patients with a longer symptom duration (-0.8, 95% CI -4.6 to 3.1; p for interaction = 0.023). Sono-electro-magnetic therapy did not result in a significant improvement of symptoms in the overall cohort of treatment refractory CPPS patients compared to placebo treatment. Subgroup analysis indicates, however, that patients with a symptom-duration of 12 months or less may benefit from sono-electro-magnetic therapy, warranting larger randomized controlled trials in this subpopulation. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00688506.

UV Lamp as a Facile Ozone Source for Structural Analysis of Unsaturated Lipids Via Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Stinson, Craig A; Zhang, Wenpeng; Xia, Yu

2018-03-01

Ozonolysis of alkene functional groups is a type of highly specific and effective chemical reaction, which has found increasing applications in structural analysis of unsaturated lipids via coupling with mass spectrometry (MS). In this work, we utilized a low-pressure mercury lamp (6 W) to initiate ozonolysis inside electrospray ionization (ESI) sources. By placing the lamp near a nanoESI emitter that partially transmits 185 nm ultraviolet (UV) emission from the lamp, dissolved dioxygen in the spray solution was converted into ozone, which subsequently cleaved the double bonds within fatty acyls of lipids. Solvent conditions, such as presence of water and acid solution pH, were found to be critical in optimizing ozonolysis yields. Fast (on seconds time scale) and efficient (50%-100% yield) ozonolysis was achieved for model unsaturated phospholipids and fatty acids with UV lamp-induced ozonolysis incorporated on a static and an infusion nanoESI source. The method was able to differentiate double bond location isomers and identify the geometry of the double bond based on yield. The analytical utility of UV lamp-induced ozonolysis was further demonstrated by implementation on a liquid chromatography (LC)-MS platform. Ozonolysis was effected in a flow microreactor that was made from ozone permeable tubing, so that ambient ozone produced by the lamp irradiation could diffuse into the reactor and induce online ozonolysis post-LC separation and before ESI-MS. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

UV Lamp as a Facile Ozone Source for Structural Analysis of Unsaturated Lipids Via Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stinson, Craig A.; Zhang, Wenpeng; Xia, Yu

2018-03-01

Ozonolysis of alkene functional groups is a type of highly specific and effective chemical reaction, which has found increasing applications in structural analysis of unsaturated lipids via coupling with mass spectrometry (MS). In this work, we utilized a low-pressure mercury lamp (6 W) to initiate ozonolysis inside electrospray ionization (ESI) sources. By placing the lamp near a nanoESI emitter that partially transmits 185 nm ultraviolet (UV) emission from the lamp, dissolved dioxygen in the spray solution was converted into ozone, which subsequently cleaved the double bonds within fatty acyls of lipids. Solvent conditions, such as presence of water and acid solution pH, were found to be critical in optimizing ozonolysis yields. Fast (on seconds time scale) and efficient (50%-100% yield) ozonolysis was achieved for model unsaturated phospholipids and fatty acids with UV lamp-induced ozonolysis incorporated on a static and an infusion nanoESI source. The method was able to differentiate double bond location isomers and identify the geometry of the double bond based on yield. The analytical utility of UV lamp-induced ozonolysis was further demonstrated by implementation on a liquid chromatography (LC)-MS platform. Ozonolysis was effected in a flow microreactor that was made from ozone permeable tubing, so that ambient ozone produced by the lamp irradiation could diffuse into the reactor and induce online ozonolysis post-LC separation and before ESI-MS. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Quantitative analysis of drug distribution by ambient mass spectrometry imaging method with signal extinction normalization strategy and inkjet-printing technology.

PubMed

Luo, Zhigang; He, Jingjing; He, Jiuming; Huang, Lan; Song, Xiaowei; Li, Xin; Abliz, Zeper

2018-03-01

Quantitative mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a robust approach that provides both quantitative and spatial information for drug candidates' research. However, because of complicated signal suppression and interference, acquiring accurate quantitative information from MSI data remains a challenge, especially for whole-body tissue sample. Ambient MSI techniques using spray-based ionization appear to be ideal for pharmaceutical quantitative MSI analysis. However, it is more challenging, as it involves almost no sample preparation and is more susceptible to ion suppression/enhancement. Herein, based on our developed air flow-assisted desorption electrospray ionization (AFADESI)-MSI technology, an ambient quantitative MSI method was introduced by integrating inkjet-printing technology with normalization of the signal extinction coefficient (SEC) using the target compound itself. The method utilized a single calibration curve to quantify multiple tissue types. Basic blue 7 and an antitumor drug candidate (S-(+)-deoxytylophorinidine, CAT) were chosen to initially validate the feasibility and reliability of the quantitative MSI method. Rat tissue sections (heart, kidney, and brain) administered with CAT was then analyzed. The quantitative MSI analysis results were cross-validated by LC-MS/MS analysis data of the same tissues. The consistency suggests that the approach is able to fast obtain the quantitative MSI data without introducing interference into the in-situ environment of the tissue sample, and is potential to provide a high-throughput, economical and reliable approach for drug discovery and development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Regional electro-hyperthermia--technical principles, clinical results and health insurance aspects].

PubMed

Heyll, Uwe

2012-06-01

The method of electro-hyperthermia is based on the production of alternating currents from capacitive coupled electrodes. Because of the associated heating of body tissues, the electro-hyperthermia is promoted as an alternative to the more sophisticated methods of scientific hyperthermia, which find use in oncologic diseases. The analysis of technical data, however, reveals that the electro-hyperthermia is not qualified for a focused, effective and therapeutically useful heating of circumscribed target areas. Data from clinical studies demonstrating efficacy for defined indications are not available. The application of electro-hyperthermia is excluded form the German system of public health insurance. As proof of medical necessity cannot be provided, there is also no claim for reimbursement from private health insurance. According to legal regulations in Germany, an invoice as hyperthermia treatment is usually not possible. Rather, an item from the electrotherapy section of the official provision of medical fees (GOA) has to be chosen.

Electro-optically Q-switched dual-wavelength Nd:YLF laser emitting at 1047 nm and 1053 nm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Men, Shaojie; Liu, Zhaojun; Cong, Zhenhua; Li, Yongfu; Zhang, Xingyu

2015-05-01

A flash-lamp pumped electro-optically Q-switched dual-wavelength Nd:YLF laser is demonstrated. Two Nd:YLF crystals placed in two cavities are employed to generate orthogonally polarized 1047 nm and 1053 nm radiations, respectively. The two cavities are jointed together by a polarizer and share the same electro-optical Q-switch. Two narrow-band pass filters are used to block unexpected oscillations at the hold-off state of the electro-optical Q-switch. In this case, electro-optical Q-switching is able to operate successfully. With pulse synchronization realized, the maximum output energy of 66.2 mJ and 83.9 mJ are obtained for 1047 nm and 1053 nm lasers, respectively. Correspondingly, the minimum pulse width is both 17 ns for 1047 nm and 1053 nm lasers. Sum frequency generation is realized. This demonstrates the potential of this laser in difference-frequency generations to obtain terahertz wave.

Electro-osmotically driven liquid delivery method and apparatus

DOEpatents

Rakestraw, David J.; Anex, Deon S.; Yan, Chao; Dadoo, Rajeev; Zare, Richard N.

1999-01-01

Method and apparatus for controlling precisely the composition and delivery of liquid at sub-.mu.L/min flow rate. One embodiment of such a delivery system is an electro-osmotically driven gradient flow delivery system that generates dynamic gradient flows with sub-.mu.L/min flow rates by merging a plurality of electro-osmotic flows. These flows are delivered by a plurality of delivery arms attached to a mixing connector, where they mix and then flow into a receiving means, preferably a column. Each inlet of the plurality of delivery arms is placed in a corresponding solution reservoir. A plurality of independent programmable high-voltage power supplies is used to apply a voltage program to each of the plurality of solution reservoirs to regulate the electro-osmotic flow in each delivery arm. The electro-osmotic flow rates in the delivery arms are changed with time according to each voltage program to deliver the required gradient profile to the column.

The Study on the Performance of Carbon Supported PtSnM (M = W, Pd, and Ni) Ternary Electro-Catalysts for Ethanol Electro-Oxidation Reaction.

PubMed

Noh, Chang Soo; Heo, Dong Hyun; Lee, Ki Rak; Jeon, Min Ku; Sohn, Jung Min

2016-05-01

PtSn/C and Pt5Sn4M/C (M = W, Pd, Ni) electrocatalysts were prepared by impregnation method using NaBH4 as a reducing agent. Chemical composition, crystalline size, and alloy formation were determined by EDX, XRD and TEM. The average particle sizes of the synthesized catalysts were approximately 3.64-4.95 nm. The electro-chemical properties were measured by CO stripping, cyclic voltammetry, linear sweep voltammetry, and chronoamperometry. The maximum specific activity of the electro-catalysts for ethanol electro-oxidation was 406.08 mA m(-2) in Pt5Sn4Pd/C. The poisoning rate of the Pt5Sn4Pd/C (0.0017% s(-1)) was 4.5 times lower than that of the PtSn/C (0.0076% s(-1)).

A magneto-electro-optical effect in a plasmonic nanowire material

PubMed Central

Valente, João; Ou, Jun-Yu; Plum, Eric; Youngs, Ian J.; Zheludev, Nikolay I.

2015-01-01

Electro- and magneto-optical phenomena play key roles in photonic technology enabling light modulators, optical data storage, sensors and numerous spectroscopic techniques. Optical effects, linear and quadratic in external electric and magnetic field are widely known and comprehensively studied. However, optical phenomena that depend on the simultaneous application of external electric and magnetic fields in conventional media are barely detectable and technologically insignificant. Here we report that a large reciprocal magneto-electro-optical effect can be observed in metamaterials. In an artificial chevron nanowire structure fabricated on an elastic nano-membrane, the Lorentz force drives reversible transmission changes on application of a fraction of a volt when the structure is placed in a fraction-of-tesla magnetic field. We show that magneto-electro-optical modulation can be driven to hundreds of thousands of cycles per second promising applications in magneto-electro-optical modulators and field sensors at nano-tesla levels. PMID:25906761

The influence of menthol on thermoregulation and perception during exercise in warm, humid conditions.

PubMed

Gillis, D Jason; House, James R; Tipton, Michael J

2010-10-01

Menthol has recently been added to various cooling products that claim to enhance athletic performance. This study assessed the effect of two such solutions during exercise in warm, humid conditions. Twelve participants (22 ± 2.9 years; VO2peak 47.4 ± 6.2 mL kg(-1) min(-1)) completed a peak power (PO(peak)) test and three separate exercise bouts in 30°C and 70% relative humidity after being sprayed with 100 mL of water containing either 0.05 or 0.2% l-menthol, or a control spray. During each trial, participants underwent 15 min of rest, spraying, 15 min of rest and 45 min of exercise at 45% of PO(peak). The following variables were measured: rectal temperature (T (re)), sweat rate (SR), skin blood flow (SBF), heart rate (HR), thermal comfort (TC) and sensation (TS) votes, irritation (IRR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Mean skin (MST) and body temperatures (Tbody) were calculated. There was no significant difference in MST, Tbody SR, SBF, HR, TC or RPE between conditions. Spraying with 0.2% menthol significantly (P < 0.05) elevated T (re) by 0.2°C compared to the other conditions. Both menthol sprays caused participants to feel significantly cooler than control spraying (P = 0.001), but 0.2% spraying induced significantly cooler sensations (P = 0.01) than 0.05% spraying. Both menthol sprays induced greater irritation (P < 0.001) than control spraying. These findings suggest that 0.05% menthol spraying induced cooler upper body sensations without measurable thermoregulatory impairment. T (re) was significantly elevated with 0.2% spraying. Irritation persisted with both menthol sprays while TC remained unchanged, suggesting a causal relationship. The use in sport of a spray similar to those tested here remains equivocal.

Modeling metal droplet sprays in spray forming

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

Muoio, N.G.; Crowe, C.T.; Fritsching, U.

1995-12-31

Spray casting is a process whereby a molten metal stream is atomized and deposited on a substrate. The rapid solidification of the metal droplets gives rise to a fine grain structure and improved material properties. This paper presents a simulation for the fluid and thermal interaction of the fluid and droplets in the spray and the effect on the droplet spray pattern. Good agreement is obtained between the measured and predicted droplet mass flux distribution in the spray.

A User-Friendly Model for Spray Drying to Aid Pharmaceutical Product Development

PubMed Central

Grasmeijer, Niels; de Waard, Hans; Hinrichs, Wouter L. J.; Frijlink, Henderik W.

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to develop a user-friendly model for spray drying that can aid in the development of a pharmaceutical product, by shifting from a trial-and-error towards a quality-by-design approach. To achieve this, a spray dryer model was developed in commercial and open source spreadsheet software. The output of the model was first fitted to the experimental output of a Büchi B-290 spray dryer and subsequently validated. The predicted outlet temperatures of the spray dryer model matched the experimental values very well over the entire range of spray dryer settings that were tested. Finally, the model was applied to produce glassy sugars by spray drying, an often used excipient in formulations of biopharmaceuticals. For the production of glassy sugars, the model was extended to predict the relative humidity at the outlet, which is not measured in the spray dryer by default. This extended model was then successfully used to predict whether specific settings were suitable for producing glassy trehalose and inulin by spray drying. In conclusion, a spray dryer model was developed that is able to predict the output parameters of the spray drying process. The model can aid the development of spray dried pharmaceutical products by shifting from a trial-and-error towards a quality-by-design approach. PMID:24040240

46 CFR 34.25-20 - Spray nozzles-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Spray nozzles-T/ALL. 34.25-20 Section 34.25-20 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT Water Spray Extinguishing Systems, Details § 34.25-20 Spray nozzles—T/ALL. (a) Spray nozzles shall be of an approved type. ...

46 CFR 34.25-20 - Spray nozzles-T/ALL.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Spray nozzles-T/ALL. 34.25-20 Section 34.25-20 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY TANK VESSELS FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT Water Spray Extinguishing Systems, Details § 34.25-20 Spray nozzles—T/ALL. (a) Spray nozzles shall be of an approved type. ...

77 FR 40550 - Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Maryland; Revision for the Control...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-10

... filtered spray booth and enclosed spray gun cleaner. Maryland's 1997 SIP-approved regulation COMAR 26.11.19... equipment and materials storage such as spray booths, spray guns, and sealed containers for cleaning rags... standards include procedures for cleaning the spray gun equipment for applying automotive coatings. Affected...

Effects of spray mixtures on droplet size under aerial application conditions and implications on drift

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The use of simulated and mimic sprays for atomization studies in high speed wind tunnels allows researchers to limit the amount of active ingredients used in spray tests; however, it is important that these simulated and mimic sprays have the same physical and atomization characteristics of spray co...

Electrostatic spraying in the chemical control of Triozoida limbata (Enderlein) (Hemiptera: Triozidae) in guava trees (Psidium guajava L.).

PubMed

Tavares, Rafael M; Cunha, João Par; Alves, Thales C; Bueno, Mariana R; Silva, Sérgio M; Zandonadi, César Hs

2017-06-01

Owing to the difficulty in reaching targets during pesticide applications on guava trees, it is important to evaluate new technologies that may improve pest management. In electrostatic spraying, an electric force is added to the droplets to control their movements such that they are efficiently directed to the target. The present study evaluated the performance of electrostatic and non-electrostatic spraying in the control of the guava psyllid, the deposition of the spray mixture on the leaves and the losses to the soil. The deposition of the spray mixture was up to 2 times greater when using electrostatic spraying in comparison with non-electrostatic application. The losses of the spray mixture to the soil were up to 4 times smaller with the electrostatic spraying. Electrostatic spraying had better control of the psyllid. It was possible to reduce the volume rate of application with electrostatic spraying without adversely affecting the control of the guava psyllid. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

A laser tomographic investigation of liquid fuel sprays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yule, A. J.; Ahseng, C.; Felton, P.; Ungut, A.; Chigier, N. A.

1980-01-01

A light scattering technique is combined with a tomographic transformation to convert line of sight integrated data, measured in sprays, to measurements of droplet size and concentration in volume elements within the spray. The technique is developed and assessed by systematic experiments in axisymmetric sprays generated by twin-fluid atomisers. The good agreement found shows that, provided certain conditions are satisfied by the local spray structure, the technique provides information on spray structure, similar in detail and extent to that derived by photography, but with reduced experimental time. The technique is applied to an investigation of a kerosene spray vaporizing in a hot gas stream.

Measurements in liquid fuel sprays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chigier, N.

1984-01-01

Techniques for studying the events directly preceding combustion in the liquid fuel sprays are being used to provide information as a function of space and time on droplet size, shape, number density, position, angle of flight and velocity. Spray chambers were designed and constructed for: (1) air-assist liquid fuel research sprays; (2) high pressure and temperature chamber for pulsed diesel fuel sprays; and (3) coal-water slurry sprays. Recent results utilizing photography, cinematography, and calibration of the Malvern particle sizer are reported. Systems for simultaneous measurement of velocity and particle size distributions using laser Doppler anemometry interferometry and the application of holography in liquid fuel sprays are being calibrated.

Effects of nasal drug delivery device and its orientation on sprayed particle deposition in a realistic human nasal cavity.

PubMed

Tong, Xuwen; Dong, Jingliang; Shang, Yidan; Inthavong, Kiao; Tu, Jiyuan

2016-10-01

In this study, the effects of nasal drug delivery device and the spray nozzle orientation on sprayed droplets deposition in a realistic human nasal cavity were numerically studied. Prior to performing the numerical investigation, an in-house designed automated actuation system representing mean adults actuation force was developed to produce realistic spray plume. Then, the spray plume development was filmed by high speed photography system, and spray characteristics such as spray cone angle, break-up length, and average droplet velocity were obtained through off-line image analysis. Continuing studies utilizing those experimental data as boundary conditions were applied in the following numerical spray simulations using a commercially available nasal spray device, which was inserted into a realistic adult nasal passage with external facial features. Through varying the particle releasing direction, the deposition fractions of selected particle sizes on the main nasal passage for targeted drug delivery were compared. The results demonstrated that the middle spray direction showed superior spray efficiency compared with upper or lower directions, and the 10µm agents were the most suitable particle size as the majority of sprayed agents can be delivered to the targeted area, the main passage. This study elaborates a comprehensive approach to better understand nasal spray mechanism and evaluate its performance for existing nasal delivery practices. Results of this study can assist the pharmaceutical industry to improve the current design of nasal drug delivery device and ultimately benefit more patients through optimized medications delivery. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of handpiece maintenance sprays on resin bonding to dentin.

PubMed

Sugawara, Toyotarou; Kameyama, Atsushi; Haruyama, Akiko; Oishi, Takumi; Kukidome, Nobuyuki; Takase, Yasuaki; Tsunoda, Masatake

2010-01-01

To investigate the influence of maintenance spray on resin bonding to dentin. The crown of extracted, caries-free human molars was transversally sectioned with a model trimmer to prepare the dentin surfaces from mid-coronal sound dentin, and then uniformly abraded with #600 silicon carbide paper. The dentin surfaces were randomly divided into three groups: oil-free spray group where maintenance cleaner for air bearing handpieces was sprayed onto the dentin surface for 1 s and rinsed with water spray for 30 s; oil-containing spray group where maintenance cleaner for micro motor handpieces was sprayed onto the dentin surface for 1 s and rinsed with water spray for 30 s; and control group where the surface was rinsed with water spray for 30 s and then air-dried. These surfaces were then bonded with Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray Medical), and resin composite (Clearfil AP-X, Kuraray Medical) build-up crowns were incrementally constructed on the bonded surfaces. After storage for 24 h in 37°C water, the bonded teeth were sectioned into hour-glass shaped slices (0.7-mm thick) perpendicular to the bonded surfaces. The specimens were then subjected to microtensile bond strength (μTBS) testing at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and the Tukey-Kramer test. Maintenance spray-contaminated specimens (oil-free and oil-containing spray groups) showed significantly lower μTBS than control specimens (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the spray-contaminated groups (P > 0.05). Maintenance spray significantly reduces the bond strength of Clearfil SE Bond to dentin.

Electro-optic Q-switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zou, Yingyin (Inventor); Chen, Qiushui (Inventor); Zhang, Run (Inventor); Jiang, Hua (Inventor)

2006-01-01

An electro-optic Q-switch for generating sequence of laser pulses was disclosed. The Q-switch comprises a quadratic electro-optic material and is connected with an electronic unit generating a radio frequency wave with positive and negative pulses alternatively. The Q-switch is controlled by the radio frequency wave in such a way that laser pulse is generated when the radio frequency wave changes its polarity.

Development of polymeric coatings for control of electro-osmotic flow in ASTP MA-011 electrophoresis technology experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patterson, W. J.

1976-01-01

The development of a methyl cellulose based coating system for control of electro-osmotic flow at the walls of electrophoresis cells is described. Flight electrophoresis columns were coated with this system, resulting in a flight set of six columns. In flight photography of MA-011 electrophoretic separations verified control of electro-osmotic flow.

Optical probing of electric fields with an electro-acoustic effect toward integrated circuit diagnosis.

PubMed

Jin, Ru-Long; Yang, Han; Zhao, Di; Chen, Qi-Dai; Yan, Zhao-Xu; Yi, Mao-Bin; Sun, Hong-Bo

2010-02-15

Electro-optic probing of electric fields has been considered as a promising approach for integrated circuit diagnosis. However, the method is subject to relatively weak voltage sensitivity. In this Letter, we solve the problems with electro-acoustic effect. In contrast to the general electro-optic effect, the light phase modulation induced by the acoustic effect is 2 orders of magnitude stronger at its resonant frequency, as we observed in a GaAs thin film probe. Furthermore, this what we believe to be a novel method shows a highly reproducible linearity between the detected signals and the input voltages, which facilitates the voltage calibration.

Optical and electro-optic anisotropy of epitaxial PZT thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Minmin; Du, Zehui; Jing, Lin; Yoong Tok, Alfred Iing; Tong Teo, Edwin Hang

2015-07-01

Strong optical and electro-optic (EO) anisotropy has been investigated in ferroelectric Pb(Zr0.48Ti0.52)O3 thin films epitaxially grown on Nb-SrTiO3 (001), (011), and (111) substrates using magnetron sputtering. The refractive index, electro-optic, and ferroelectric properties of the samples demonstrate the significant dependence on the growth orientation. The linear electro-optic coefficients of the (001), (011), and (111)-oriented PZT thin films were 270.8, 198.8, and 125.7 pm/V, respectively. Such remarkable anisotropic EO behaviors have been explained according to the structure correlation between the orientation dependent distribution, spontaneous polarization, epitaxial strain, and domain pattern.

Experimental study of the electrode material for electro-osmosis in mudflat sludge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yi-min; Xu, Hao-feng

2017-11-01

In order to study the performance of electro-osmosis, several tests including indoor electro-osmosis experiments using copper, aluminum as the anode and cathode electrode materials, and Mercury Intrusion Porosimiter (MIP) were conducted. The results indicate that the drainage ratio using aluminum is faster than that of copper while the energy consumption per unit is lower, the effectiveness is better than that of copper. After electro-osmosis, the percentage of pore with large diameter shows a remarkable decrease comparing with the remolded soil which result in the increase of pore with small diameter. The reasons were discussed in this paper.

Application of electro acoustics for dewatering pharmaceutical sludge

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

Golla, P.S.; Johnson, H.W.

1992-02-01

Application of electro acoustic principles for dewatering has been developed by Battelle Institute. The Department of Energy, Battelle Institute, and Ashbrook-Simon-Hartley, have jointly developed an Electro Acoustic Dewatering press (EAD press). The EAD press applies a combination of mechanical pressure, electrical current and ultrasonics. This press is utilized after conventional dewatering devices and can remove up to 50% water from filtered sludge cake at a fraction of the cost incurred in existing thermal drying devices. The dominant mechanism of sludge dewatering by EAD press is electro-osmosis due to the application of a direct current field. Electro-osmosis is caused by anmore » electrical double layer of oppositely charged ions formed at the solid liquid interface, which is characterized by zeta potential. The ultrasonic fields help electro-osmosis by consolidation of the filter cake and by release of inaccessible liquid. The EAD press has been tested successfully on a variety of materials including apple pomace, corn gluten, sewage sludge, and coal fines. A three week long full scale trial was conducted successfully at a pharmaceutical industry to determine the application of this technology for dewatering waste activated sludge.« less

Micro-electro-mechanically switchable near infrared complementary metamaterial absorber

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

Pitchappa, Prakash; Pei Ho, Chong; Institute of Microelectronics

2014-05-19

We experimentally demonstrate a micro-electro-mechanically switchable near infrared complementary metamaterial absorber by integrating the metamaterial layer to be the out of plane movable microactuator. The metamaterial layer is electrostatically actuated by applying voltage across the suspended complementary metamaterial layer and the stationary bottom metallic reflector. Thus, the effective spacing between the metamaterial layer and bottom metal reflector is varied as a function of applied voltage. With the reduction of effective spacing between the metamaterial and reflector layers, a strong spectral blue shift in the peak absorption wavelength can be achieved. With spacing change of 300 nm, the spectral shift of 0.7 μmmore » in peak absorption wavelength was obtained for near infrared spectral region. The electro-optic switching performance of the device was characterized, and a striking switching contrast of 1500% was achieved at 2.1 μm. The reported micro-electro-mechanically tunable complementary metamaterial absorber device can potentially enable a wide range of high performance electro-optical devices, such as continuously tunable filters, modulators, and electro-optic switches that form the key components to facilitate future photonic circuit applications.« less

Electro-oxidation of methanol on gold in alkaline media: Adsorption characteristics of reaction intermediates studied using time resolved electro-chemical impedance and surface plasmon resonance techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Assiongbon, K. A.; Roy, D.

2005-12-01

Electro-catalytic oxidation of methanol is the anode reaction in direct methanol fuel cells. We have studied the adsorption characteristics of the intermediate reactants of this multistep reaction on a gold film electrode in alkaline solutions by combining surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements with Fourier transform electro-chemical impedance spectroscopy (FT-EIS). Methanol oxidation in this system shows no significant effects of "site poisoning" by chemisorbed CO. Our results suggest that OH - chemisorbed onto Au acts as a stabilizing agent for the surface species of electro-active methanol. Double layer charging/discharging and adsorption/desorption of OH - show more pronounced effects than adsorption/oxidation of methanol in controlling the surface charge density of the Au substrate. These effects are manifested in both the EIS and the SPR data, and serve as key indicators of the surface reaction kinetics. The data presented here describe the important role of adsorbed OH - in electro-catalysis of methanol on Au, and demonstrate how SPR and FT-EIS can be combined for quantitative probing of catalytically active metal-solution interfaces.