Clinical Implication of Plasma Hydrogen Sulfide Levels in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Suzuki, Kunihiro; Sagara, Masaaki; Aoki, Chie; Tanaka, Seiichi; Aso, Yoshimasa

Objective The goal of the present study was to investigate the plasma hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, as the plasma H 2 S levels in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes remain unclear. Methods The plasma H 2 S levels were measured in 154 outpatients with type 2 diabetes and 66 outpatients without diabetes. All blood samples were collected in the outpatient department from 09:00 to 10:00. The patients had fasted from 21:00 the previous evening and had not consumed alcohol or caffeine or smoked until sample collection. The plasma H 2 S levels were measured using the methylene blue assay. The plasma H 2 S levels were determined in triplicate, and the average concentrations were calculated against a calibration curve of sodium sulfide. Results The patients with type 2 diabetes showed a progressive reduction in the plasma H 2 S levels (45.115.5 M versus 54.026.4 M, p<0.05), which paralleled poor glycemic control. There was a significant correlation between a reduction in the plasma H 2 S levels and the HbA1c levels (=-0.505, p<0.01), Furthermore, a reduction in the plasma H 2 S levels was found to be related to a history of cardiovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes (39.913.8 M versus 47.515.9 M, p<0.01). Conclusion Collectively, the plasma H 2 S levels were reduced in patients with type 2 diabetes, which may have implications in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients. The trial was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN no. #000020549).

Different Detector Types Used in Plasma Physics Experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balovnev, A. V.; Manokhin, I. L.; Grigoryeva, I. G.; Kostyushin, V. A.; Savelov, A. S.; Salakhutdinov, G. Kh.

2017-12-01

We analyzed the possibility of using different detector types (semiconductor, scintillator, thermoluminescent, nuclear emulsions) for plasma diagnostics. We investigated the main characteristics of such detectors, on the basis of which an X-ray spectrometer complex was created.

Role of anode length in a mather-type plasma focus

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

Beg, F.N.; Zakaullah, M.; Nisar, M.

In this paper, neutron emission from a 3 KJ Mather-type plasma focus is studied. Specifically, the behavior of system with the change in anode length is investigated. Anode lengths of high and low fluence anisotropy as well as for high neutron yield are identified. Experiment also suggest the possibility of ion beam generation leading to neutron production via beam-plasma interaction.

Plasma exchange in the treatment of thyroid storm secondary to type II amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis.

PubMed

Zhu, Ling; Zainudin, Sueziani Binte; Kaushik, Manish; Khor, Li Yan; Chng, Chiaw Ling

2016-01-01

Type II amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is an uncommon cause of thyroid storm. Due to the rarity of the condition, little is known about the role of plasma exchange in the treatment of severe AIT. A 56-year-old male presented with thyroid storm 2months following cessation of amiodarone. Despite conventional treatment, his condition deteriorated. He underwent two cycles of plasma exchange, which successfully controlled the severe hyperthyroidism. The thyroid hormone levels continued to fall up to 10h following plasma exchange. He subsequently underwent emergency total thyroidectomy and the histology of thyroid gland confirmed type II AIT. Management of thyroid storm secondary to type II AIT can be challenging as patients may not respond to conventional treatments, and thyroid storm may be more harmful in AIT patients owing to the underlying cardiac disease. If used appropriately, plasma exchange can effectively reduce circulating hormones, to allow stabilisation of patients in preparation for emergency thyroidectomy. Type II AIT is an uncommon cause of thyroid storm and may not respond well to conventional thyroid storm treatment.Prompt diagnosis and therapy are important, as patients may deteriorate rapidly.Plasma exchange can be used as an effective bridging therapy to emergency thyroidectomy.This case shows that in type II AIT, each cycle of plasma exchange can potentially lower free triiodothyronine levels for 10h.Important factors to consider when planning plasma exchange as a treatment for thyroid storm include timing of each session, type of exchange fluid to be used and timing of surgery.

Ion-acoustic and electron-acoustic type nonlinear waves in dusty plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volosevich, A.-V.; Meister, C.-V.

2003-04-01

In the present work, two three-dimensional nonlinear theoretical models of electrostatic solitary waves are investigated within the frame of magnetohydrodynamics. Both times, a multi-component plasma is considered, which consists of hot electrons with a rather flexible distribution function, hot ions with Boltzmann-type distribution, and (negatively as well as positively charged) dust. Additionally, cold ion beams are taken into account in the model to study ion-acoustic structures (IAS), and cold electron beams are included into the model to investigate electron-acoustic structures (EAS). The numerical results of the considered theoretical models allow to make the following conclusions: 1) Electrostatic structures with negative potential (of rarefaction type) are formed both in the IAS model and in the EAS model, but structures with negative potential (of compressional type) are formed in the IAS model only. 2) The intervals of various plasma parameters (velocities of ion and electron beams, temperatures, densities of the plasma components, ions' masses), for which the existence of IAS and EAS solitary waves and structures is possible, are calculated. 3) Further, the parameters of the electrostatic structures (wave amplitudes, scales along and perpendicular to the magnetic field, velocities) are estimated. 4) The application of the present numerical simulation for multi-component plasmas to various astrophysical systems under different physical conditions is discussed.

Intercellular adhesion molecule, plasma adiponectin and albuminuria in type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Lenghel, Alina Ramona; Kacso, Ina Maria; Bondor, Cosmina Ioana; Rusu, Crina; Rahaian, Rodica; Gherman Caprioara, Mirela

2012-01-01

Our study addressed the influence of early inflammatory stages of diabetic kidney disease: leukocyte adhesion and monocyte activation (as assessed by intercellular leukocyte adhesion molecule-ICAM-1 and monocyte chemoatractant protein-MCP-1) on the degree of albuminuria. Plasma levels of adiponectin, a possible anti-inflammatory counteracting mechanism, were also studied in correlation to the above-mentioned cytokines. 79 consecutive type 2 diabetic outpatients and 46 controls were included. Routine laboratory analysis, urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (uACR), plasma adiponectin, plasma ICAM-1 and urinary MPC-1 were assessed. In multiple regression ICAM-1 (p=0.004) and adiponectin (p=0.04) were the main determinants of uACR. Plasma adiponectin positively correlated to ICAM-1 (p=0.03, r=0.24). In albuminuric patients (uACR ≥30 mg/g) plasma adiponectin was significantly higher compared to normoalbuminuric ones (uACR <30 mg/g). In albuminuric patients the main determinants of uACR were plasma ICAM-1 and adiponectin. In multiple regression ICAM-1 is the only one that retains statistical significance (p=0.02). Urinary MCP-1 did not correlate to uACR. In our type 2 diabetic patients, plasma levels of ICAM-1 and adiponectin are predictive for albuminuria. Urinary MCP-1 does not correlated to uACR. Plasma adiponectin positively correlates to adhesion molecule ICAM-1 in our cohort. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of random plasma glucose for assessment of glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Ain, Qurratul; Latif, Atif; Jaffar, Syed Raza; Ijaz, Aamir

2017-09-01

To evaluate the accuracy of random plasma glucose in outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for assessing glycaemic control. This comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted at the chemical pathology department of PNS Shifa Hospital, Karachi, from August 2015 to March 2016, and comprised data of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus who reported for evaluation of glycaemic control in non-fasting state. All blood samples were analysed for random plasma glucose and glycated haemoglobin. Random plasma glucose was compared as an index test with glycated haemoglobin considering it as reference standard at a value of less than 7% for good glycaemic control. SPSS 20 was used for data analysis. Of the 222 subjects, 93(42%) had good glycaemic control. Random plasma glucose showed strong positive correlation with glycated haemoglobin (p=0.000).Area under curve for random plasma glucose as determined by plotting receiver operating characteristic curve against glycated haemoglobin value of 7% was 0.89 (95% confidence interval: 0.849-0.930). Random plasma glucose at cut-off value of 150 mg/dl was most efficient for ruling out poor glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with 90.7% sensitivity and69.9% specificity and Youden's index of 0.606. Random plasma glucose may be used to reflect glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in areas where glycated haemoglobin is not feasible.

Comparing transfusion reaction rates for various plasma types: a systematic review and meta-analysis/regression.

PubMed

Saadah, Nicholas H; van Hout, Fabienne M A; Schipperus, Martin R; le Cessie, Saskia; Middelburg, Rutger A; Wiersum-Osselton, Johanna C; van der Bom, Johanna G

2017-09-01

We estimated rates for common plasma-associated transfusion reactions and compared reported rates for various plasma types. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of peer-reviewed articles that reported plasma transfusion reaction rates. Random-effects pooled rates were calculated and compared between plasma types. Meta-regression was used to compare various plasma types with regard to their reported plasma transfusion reaction rates. Forty-eight studies reported transfusion reaction rates for fresh-frozen plasma (FFP; mixed-sex and male-only), amotosalen INTERCEPT FFP, methylene blue-treated FFP, and solvent/detergent-treated pooled plasma. Random-effects pooled average rates for FFP were: allergic reactions, 92/10 5 units transfused (95% confidence interval [CI], 46-184/10 5 units transfused); febrile nonhemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs), 12/10 5 units transfused (95% CI, 7-22/10 5 units transfused); transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO), 6/10 5 units transfused (95% CI, 1-30/10 5 units transfused); transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), 1.8/10 5 units transfused (95% CI, 1.2-2.7/10 5 units transfused); and anaphylactic reactions, 0.8/10 5 units transfused (95% CI, 0-45.7/10 5 units transfused). Risk differences between plasma types were not significant for allergic reactions, TACO, or anaphylactic reactions. Methylene blue-treated FFP led to fewer FNHTRs than FFP (risk difference = -15.3 FNHTRs/10 5 units transfused; 95% CI, -24.7 to -7.1 reactions/10 5 units transfused); and male-only FFP led to fewer cases of TRALI than mixed-sex FFP (risk difference = -0.74 TRALI/10 5 units transfused; 95% CI, -2.42 to -0.42 injuries/10 5 units transfused). Meta-regression demonstrates that the rate of FNHTRs is lower for methylene blue-treated compared with FFP, and the rate of TRALI is lower for male-only than for mixed-sex FFP; whereas no significant differences are observed between plasma types for allergic reactions, TACO

Normal fasting plasma glucose levels and type 2 diabetes in young men.

PubMed

Tirosh, Amir; Shai, Iris; Tekes-Manova, Dorit; Israeli, Eran; Pereg, David; Shochat, Tzippora; Kochba, Ilan; Rudich, Assaf

2005-10-06

The normal fasting plasma glucose level was recently defined as less than 100 mg per deciliter (5.55 mmol per liter). Whether higher fasting plasma glucose levels within this range independently predict type 2 diabetes in young adults is unclear. We obtained blood measurements, data from physical examinations, and medical and lifestyle information from men in the Israel Defense Forces who were 26 to 45 years of age. A total of 208 incident cases of type 2 diabetes occurred during 74,309 person-years of follow-up (from 1992 through 2004) among 13,163 subjects who had baseline fasting plasma glucose levels of less than 100 mg per deciliter. A multivariate model, adjusted for age, family history of diabetes, body-mass index, physical-activity level, smoking status, and serum triglyceride levels, revealed a progressively increased risk of type 2 diabetes in men with fasting plasma glucose levels of 87 mg per deciliter (4.83 mmol per liter) or more, as compared with those whose levels were in the bottom quintile (less than 81 mg per deciliter [4.5 mmol per liter], P for trend <0.001). In multivariate models, men with serum triglyceride levels of 150 mg per deciliter (1.69 mmol per liter) or more, combined with fasting plasma glucose levels of 91 to 99 mg per deciliter (5.05 to 5.50 mmol per liter), had a hazard ratio of 8.23 (95 percent confidence interval, 3.6 to 19.0) for diabetes, as compared with men with a combined triglyceride level of less than 150 mg per deciliter and fasting glucose levels of less than 86 mg per deciliter (4.77 mmol per liter). The joint effect of a body-mass index (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) of 30 or more and a fasting plasma glucose level of 91 to 99 mg per deciliter resulted in a hazard ratio of 8.29 (95 percent confidence interval, 3.8 to 17.8), as compared with a body-mass index of less than 25 and a fasting plasma glucose level of less than 86 mg per deciliter. Higher fasting plasma glucose

Inverse association of plasma vanadium levels with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in a Chinese population.

PubMed

Wang, Xia; Sun, Taoping; Liu, Jun; Shan, Zhilei; Jin, Yilin; Chen, Sijing; Bao, Wei; Hu, Frank B; Liu, Liegang

2014-08-15

Vanadium compounds have been proposed to have beneficial effects on the pathogenesis and complications of type 2 diabetes. Our objective was to evaluate the association between plasma vanadium levels and type 2 diabetes. We performed a case-control study involving 1,598 Chinese subjects with or without newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (December 2004-December 2007). Cases and controls were frequency-matched by age and sex. Plasma vanadium concentrations were measured and compared between groups. Analyses showed that plasma vanadium concentrations were significantly lower in cases with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes than in controls (P = 0.001). Mean plasma vanadium levels in participants with and without diabetes were 1.0 μg/L and 1.2 μg/L, respectively. Participants in the highest quartile of plasma vanadium concentration had a notably lower risk of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (odds ratio = 0.26, 95% confidence interval: 0.19, 0.35; P < 0.001), compared with persons in the lowest quartile. The trend remained significant after adjustment for known risk factors and in further stratification analyses. Our results suggested that plasma vanadium concentrations were inversely associated with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in this Chinese population. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Demonstration of high-performance p-type tin oxide thin-film transistors using argon-plasma surface treatments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bae, Sang-Dae; Kwon, Soo-Hun; Jeong, Hwan-Seok; Kwon, Hyuck-In

2017-07-01

In this work, we investigated the effects of low-temperature argon (Ar)-plasma surface treatments on the physical and chemical structures of p-type tin oxide thin-films and the electrical performance of p-type tin oxide thin-film transistors (TFTs). From the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement, we found that SnO was the dominant phase in the deposited tin oxide thin-film, and the Ar-plasma treatment partially transformed the tin oxide phase from SnO to SnO2 by oxidation. The resistivity of the tin oxide thin-film increased with the plasma-treatment time because of the reduced hole concentration. In addition, the root-mean-square roughness of the tin oxide thin-film decreased as the plasma-treatment time increased. The p-type oxide TFT with an Ar-plasma-treated tin oxide thin-film exhibited excellent electrical performance with a high current on-off ratio (5.2 × 106) and a low off-current (1.2 × 10-12 A), which demonstrates that the low-temperature Ar-plasma treatment is a simple and effective method for improving the electrical performance of p-type tin oxide TFTs.

Characteristics of the Plasma Source for Ground Ionosphere Simulation Surveyed by Disk-Type Langmuir Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryu, Kwangsun; Lee, Junchan; Kim, Songoo; Chung, Taejin; Shin, Goo-Hwan; Cha, Wonho; Min, Kyoungwook; Kim, Vitaly P.

2017-12-01

A space plasma facility has been operated with a back-diffusion-type plasma source installed in a mid-sized vacuum chamber with a diameter of 1.5 m located in Satellite Technology Research Center (SaTReC), Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). To generate plasma with a temperature and density similar to the ionospheric plasma, nickel wires coated with carbonate solution were used as filaments that emit thermal electrons, and the accelerated thermal electrons emitted from the heated wires collide with the neutral gas to form plasma inside the chamber. By using a disk-type Langmuir probe installed inside the vacuum chamber, the generation of plasma similar to the space environment was validated. The characteristics of the plasma according to the grid and plate anode voltages were investigated. The grid voltage of the plasma source is realized as a suitable parameter for manipulating the electron density, while the plate voltage is suitable for adjusting the electron temperature. A simple physical model based on the collision cross-section of electron impact on nitrogen molecule was established to explain the plasma generation mechanism.

Deuteron Beam Source Based on Mather Type Plasma Focus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, L. K.; Yap, S. L.; Wong, C. S.; Zakaullah, M.

2013-04-01

A 3 kJ Mather type plasma focus system filled with deuterium gas is operated at pressure lower than 1 mbar. Operating the plasma focus in a low pressure regime gives a consistent ion beam which can make the plasma focus a reliable ion beam source. In our case, this makes a good deuteron beam source, which can be utilized for neutron generation by coupling a suitable target. This paper reports ion beam measurements obtained at the filling pressure of 0.05-0.5 mbar. Deuteron beam energy is measured by time of flight technique using three biased ion collectors. The ion beam energy variation with the filling pressure is investigated. Deuteron beam of up to 170 keV are obtained with the strongest deuteron beam measured at 0.1 mbar, with an average energy of 80 keV. The total number of deuterons per shot is in the order of 1018 cm-2.

Correlation between plasma pentosidine concentrations and retinal hemodynamics in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Sato, Eiichi; Nagaoka, Taiji; Yokota, Harumasa; Takahashi, Atsushi; Yoshida, Akitoshi

2012-05-01

To investigate whether plasma pentosidine, a well-defined advanced glycation end product, is associated with retinal hemodynamic abnormalities in patients with type 2 diabetes. Prospective cross-sectional study. Forty-two eyes with type 2 diabetes mellitus were evaluated. The type 2 diabetic eyes were divided into 2 groups: 22 eyes (22 patients; mean age, 61 years) with nondiabetic retinopathy (NDR) and 20 eyes (20 patients; mean age, 61 years) with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). We used a retinal laser Doppler system to measure the arterial diameter, velocity, and blood flow in the major temporal retinal arteries. The pulsatility ratio, a resistive index expressed as the peak systolic to the end diastolic velocity ratio, was calculated from the blood velocity traces. Plasma pentosidine was measured in 42 patients with diabetes using a commercially available competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The pulsatility ratio significantly increased in patients with NPDR (4.8 ± 1.5) compared with patients with NDR (3.7 ± 0.8) (P = .0061). No differences in velocity, diameter, or blood flow were seen between the 2 groups. Plasma pentosidine levels also increased significantly (P = .0085) in patients with NPDR (0.057 ± 0.015) compared to patients with NDR (0.047 ± 0.012). The pulsatility ratio was correlated positively with the plasma pentosidine levels in patients with NPDR (Pearson correlation, r = 0.45, P = .044). Multiple regression analysis showed that the plasma pentosidine level was significantly associated with the pulsatility ratio (standardized coefficient, 0.62; P = .009). The vascular rigidity of the retinal arteries may increase with increasing plasma pentosidine in patients with type 2 diabetes with retinopathy. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Formation of high heat resistant coatings by using gas tunnel type plasma spraying.

PubMed

Kobayashi, A; Ando, Y; Kurokawa, K

2012-06-01

Zirconia sprayed coatings are widely used as thermal barrier coatings (TBC) for high temperature protection of metallic structures. However, their use in diesel engine combustion chamber components has the long run durability problems, such as the spallation at the interface between the coating and substrate due to the interface oxidation. Although zirconia coatings have been used in many applications, the interface spallation problem is still waiting to be solved under the critical conditions such as high temperature and high corrosion environment. The gas tunnel type plasma spraying developed by the author can make high quality ceramic coatings such as Al2O3 and ZrO2 coating compared to other plasma spraying method. A high hardness ceramic coating such as Al2O3 coating by the gas tunnel type plasma spraying, were investigated in the previous study. The Vickers hardness of the zirconia (ZrO2) coating increased with decreasing spraying distance, and a higher Vickers hardness of about Hv = 1200 could be obtained at a shorter spraying distance of L = 30 mm. ZrO2 coating formed has a high hardness layer at the surface side, which shows the graded functionality of hardness. In this study, ZrO2 composite coatings (TBCs) with Al2O3 were deposited on SS304 substrates by gas tunnel type plasma spraying. The performance such as the mechanical properties, thermal behavior and high temperature oxidation resistance of the functionally graded TBCs was investigated and discussed. The resultant coating samples with different spraying powders and thickness are compared in their corrosion resistance with coating thickness as variables. Corrosion potential was measured and analyzed corresponding to the microstructure of the coatings. High Heat Resistant Coatings, Gas Tunnel Type Plasma Spraying, Hardness,

Discriminating the hemolytic risk of blood type A plasmas using the complement hemolysis using human erythrocytes (CHUHE) assay.

PubMed

Cunnion, Kenji M; Hair, Pamela S; Krishna, Neel K; Sass, Megan A; Enos, Clinton W; Whitley, Pamela H; Maes, Lanne Y; Goldberg, Corinne L

2017-03-01

The agglutination-based cross-matching method is sensitive for antibody binding to red blood cells but is only partially predictive of complement-mediated hemolysis, which is important in many acute hemolytic transfusion reactions. Here, we describe complement hemolysis using human erythrocytes (CHUHE) assays that directly evaluate complement-mediated hemolysis between individual serum-plasma and red blood cell combinations. The CHUHE assay is used to evaluate correlations between agglutination titers and complement-mediated hemolysis as well as the hemolytic potential of plasma from type A blood donors. Plasma or serum from each type A blood donor was incubated with AB or B red blood cells in the CHUHE assay and measured for free hemoglobin release. CHUHE assays for serum or plasma demonstrate a wide, dynamic range and high sensitivity for complement-mediated hemolysis for individual serum/plasma and red blood cell combinations. CHUHE results suggest that agglutination assays alone are only moderately predictive of complement-mediated hemolysis. CHUHE results also suggest that plasma from particular type A blood donors produce minimal complement-mediated hemolysis, whereas plasma from other type A blood donors produce moderate to high-level complement-mediated hemolysis, depending on the red blood cell donor. The current results indicate that the CHUHE assay can be used to assess complement-mediated hemolysis for plasma or serum from a type A blood donor, providing additional risk discrimination over agglutination titers alone. © 2016 AABB.

On-site SiH4 generator using hydrogen plasma generated in slit-type narrow gap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takei, Norihisa; Shinoda, Fumiya; Kakiuchi, Hiroaki; Yasutake, Kiyoshi; Ohmi, Hiromasa

2018-06-01

We have been developing an on-site silane (SiH4) generator based on use of the chemical etching reaction between solid silicon (Si) and the high-density H atoms that are generated in high-pressure H2 plasma. In this study, we have developed a slit-type plasma source for high-efficiency SiH4 generation. High-density H2 plasma was generated in a narrow slit-type discharge gap using a 2.45 GHz microwave power supply. The plasma’s optical emission intensity distribution along the slit was measured and the resulting distribution was reflected by both the electric power distribution and the hydrogen gas flow. Because the Si etching rate strongly affects the SiH4 generation rate, the Si etching behavior was investigated with respect to variations in the experimental parameters. The weight etch rate increased monotonically with increasing input microwave power. However, the weight etch rate decreased with increasing H2 pressure and an increasing plasma gap. This reduction in the etch rate appears to be related to shrinkage of the plasma generation area because increased input power is required to maintain a constant plasma area with increasing H2 pressure and the increasing plasma gap. Additionally, the weight etch rate also increases with increasing H2 flow rate. The SiH4 generation rate of the slit-type plasma source was also evaluated using gas-phase Fourier transform infrared absorption spectroscopy and the material utilization efficiencies of both Si and the H2 gas for SiH4 gas formation were discussed. The main etch product was determined to be SiH4 and the developed plasma source achieved a SiH4 generation rate of 10 sccm (standard cubic centimeters per minute) at an input power of 900 W. In addition, the Si utilization efficiency exceeded 60%.

Plasma adiponectin concentrations are associated with dietary glycemic index in Malaysian patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Loh, Beng-In; Sathyasuryan, Daniel Robert; Mohamed, Hamid Jan Jan

2013-01-01

Adiponectin, an adipocyte-derived hormone has been implicated in the control of blood glucose and chronic inflammation in type 2 diabetes. However, limited studies have evaluated dietary factors on plasma adiponectin levels, especially among type 2 diabetic patients in Malaysia. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of dietary glycemic index on plasma adiponectin concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 305 type 2 diabetic patients aged 19-75 years from the Penang General Hospital, Malaysia. Socio-demographic information was collected using a standard questionnaire while dietary details were determined by using a pre-validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Anthropometry measurement included weight, height, BMI and waist circumference. Plasma adiponectin concentrations were measured using a commercial ELISA kit. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression. After multivariate adjustment, dietary glycemic index was inversely associated with plasma adiponectin concentrations (β =-0.272, 95% CI -0.262, - 0.094; p<0.001). It was found that in individuals who consumed 1 unit of foods containing high dietary glycemic index that plasma adiponectin level reduced by 0.3 μg/mL. Thirty two percent (31.9%) of the variation in adiponectin concentrations was explained by age, sex, race, smoking status, BMI, waist circumference, HDL-C, triglycerides, magnesium, fiber and dietary glycemic index according to the multiple linear regression model (R2=0.319). These results support the hypothesis that dietary glycemic index influences plasma adiponectin concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes. Controlled clinical trials are required to confirm our findings and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Novel Cyclosilazane-Type Silicon Precursor and Two-Step Plasma for Plasma-Enhanced Atomic Layer Deposition of Silicon Nitride.

PubMed

Park, Jae-Min; Jang, Se Jin; Lee, Sang-Ick; Lee, Won-Jun

2018-03-14

We designed cyclosilazane-type silicon precursors and proposed a three-step plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) process to prepare silicon nitride films with high quality and excellent step coverage. The cyclosilazane-type precursor, 1,3-di-isopropylamino-2,4-dimethylcyclosilazane (CSN-2), has a closed ring structure for good thermal stability and high reactivity. CSN-2 showed thermal stability up to 450 °C and a sufficient vapor pressure of 4 Torr at 60 °C. The energy for the chemisorption of CSN-2 on the undercoordinated silicon nitride surface as calculated by density functional theory method was -7.38 eV. The PEALD process window was between 200 and 500 °C, with a growth rate of 0.43 Å/cycle. The best film quality was obtained at 500 °C, with hydrogen impurity of ∼7 atom %, oxygen impurity less than 2 atom %, low wet etching rate, and excellent step coverage of ∼95%. At 300 °C and lower temperatures, the wet etching rate was high especially at the lower sidewall of the trench pattern. We introduced the three-step PEALD process to improve the film quality and the step coverage on the lower sidewall. The sequence of the three-step PEALD process consists of the CSN-2 feeding step, the NH 3 /N 2 plasma step, and the N 2 plasma step. The H radicals in NH 3 /N 2 plasma efficiently remove the ligands from the precursor, and the N 2 plasma after the NH 3 plasma removes the surface hydrogen atoms to activate the adsorption of the precursor. The films deposited at 300 °C using the novel precursor and the three-step PEALD process showed a significantly improved step coverage of ∼95% and an excellent wet etching resistance at the lower sidewall, which is only twice as high as that of the blanket film prepared by low-pressure chemical vapor deposition.

About an Extreme Achievable Current in Plasma Focus Installation of Mather Type

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

Nikulin, V. Ya.; Polukhin, S. N.; Vikhrev, V. V.

A computer simulation and analytical analysis of the discharge process in Plasma Focus has shown that there is an upper limit to the current which can be achieved in Plasma Focus installation of Mather type by only increasing the capacity of the condenser bank. The maximum current achieved for various plasma focus installations of 1 MJ level is discussed. For example, for the PF-1000 (IFPiLM) and 1 MJ Frascati PF, the maximum current is near 2 MA. Thus, the commonly used method of increasing the energy of the PF installation by increasing of the capacity has no merit. Alternative optionsmore » in order to increase the current are discussed.« less

Two stream instability in n-type gallium arsenide semiconductor quantum plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, S.; Muley, Apurva

2018-01-01

By using quantum hydrodynamic model, we derive a generalized dielectric response function for two stream instability (convective only) in n-type gallium arsenide semiconductor plasma. We investigate the phase and amplification profiles of two stream instability with externally applied electric field ranging from 2600 to 4000 kV m-1 in presence of non-dimensional quantum parameter- H. In this range, a significant number of electrons in satellite valley become comparable to the number of electrons in central valley. The presence of quantum corrections in plasma medium induces two novel modes; one of it has amplifying nature and propagates in forward direction. It also modifies the spectral profile of four pre-existing modes in classical plasma. The existence of two stream instability is also established analytically by deriving the real part of longitudinal electrokinetic power flow density.

Liver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1 targets CYP2D6 on hepatocyte plasma membrane.

PubMed

Muratori, L; Parola, M; Ripalti, A; Robino, G; Muratori, P; Bellomo, G; Carini, R; Lenzi, M; Landini, M P; Albano, E; Bianchi, F B

2000-04-01

Liver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1 (LKM1) is the marker of type 2 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and is detected in up to 6% of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It recognises linear and conformational epitopes of cytochrome P450IID6 (CYP2D6) and may have liver damaging activity, provided that CYP2D6 is accessible to effector mechanisms of autoimmune attack. The presence of LKM1 in the plasma membrane was investigated by indirect immunofluorescence and confocal laser microscopy of isolated rat hepatocytes probed with 10 LKM1 positive sera (five from patients with AIH and five from patients with chronic HCV infection) and a rabbit polyclonal anti-CYP2D6 serum. Serum from both types of patient stained the plasma membrane of non-permeabilised cells, where the fluorescent signal could be visualised as discrete clumps. Conversely, permeabilised hepatocytes showed diffuse submembranous/cytoplasmic staining. Adsorption with recombinant CYP2D6 substantially reduced plasma membrane staining and LKM1 immunoblot reactivity. Plasma membrane staining of LKM1 colocalised with that of anti-CYP2D6. Immunoprecipitation experiments showed that a single 50 kDa protein recognised by anti-CYP2D6 can be isolated from the plasma membrane of intact hepatocytes. AIH and HCV related LKM1 recognise CYP2D6 exposed on the plasma membrane of isolated hepatocytes. This observation supports the notion that anti-CYP2D6 autoreactivity may be involved in the pathogenesis of liver damage.

Prevalence of abnormal plasma liver enzymes in older people with Type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Morling, J R; Strachan, M W J; Hayes, P C; Butcher, I; Frier, B M; Reynolds, R M; Price, J F

2012-04-01

To determine the prevalence and distribution of abnormal plasma liver enzymes in a representative sample of older adults with Type 2 diabetes. Plasma concentrations of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and γ-glutamyltransferase were measured in a randomly selected, population-based cohort of 1066 men and women aged 60-75 years with Type 2 diabetes (the Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study). Overall, 29.1% (95% CI 26.1-31.8) of patients had one or more plasma liver enzymes above the upper limit of the normal reference range. Only 10.1% of these patients had a prior history of liver disease and a further 12.4% reported alcohol intake above recommended limits. Alanine aminotransferase was the most commonly raised liver enzyme (23.1% of patients). The prevalence of abnormal liver enzymes was significantly higher in men (odds ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.07-1.83), in the youngest 5-year age band (odds ratio 2.02, 95% CI 1.44-2.84), in patients with diabetes duration < 5 years (odds ratio 1.38, 95% CI 1.01-1.90), plasma HbA(1c) ≥ 58 mmol/mol (7.5%) (odds ratio 1.43, 95% CI 1.09-1.88), obese BMI (odds ratio 2.84, 95% CI 1.59-3.06) and secondary care management for their diabetes (odds ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.05-1.87). However, all these factors combined accounted for only 7.6% of the variation in liver enzyme abnormality. The prevalence of elevated liver enzymes in people with Type 2 diabetes is high, with only modest variation between clinically defined patient groups. Further research is required to determine the prognostic value of raised, routinely measured liver enzymes to inform decisions on appropriate follow-up investigations. © 2011 The Authors. Diabetic Medicine © 2011 Diabetes UK.

Method for generating extreme ultraviolet with mather-type plasma accelerators for use in Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography

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

Hassanein, Ahmed; Konkashbaev, Isak

A device and method for generating extremely short-wave ultraviolet electromagnetic wave uses two intersecting plasma beams generated by two plasma accelerators. The intersection of the two plasma beams emits electromagnetic radiation and in particular radiation in the extreme ultraviolet wavelength. In the preferred orientation two axially aligned counter streaming plasmas collide to produce an intense source of electromagnetic radiation at the 13.5 nm wavelength. The Mather type plasma accelerators can utilize tin, or lithium covered electrodes. Tin, lithium or xenon can be used as the photon emitting gas source.

Impacts of the Callipyge Mutation on Ovine Plasma Metabolites and Muscle Fibre Type

PubMed Central

Li, Juan; Greenwood, Paul L.; Cockett, Noelle E.; Hadfield, Tracy S.; Vuocolo, Tony; Byrne, Keren; White, Jason D.; Tellam, Ross L.; Schirra, Horst Joachim

2014-01-01

The ovine Callipyge mutation causes postnatal muscle hypertrophy localized to the pelvic limbs and torso, as well as body leanness. The mechanism underpinning enhanced muscle mass is unclear, as is the systemic impact of the mutation. Using muscle fibre typing immunohistochemistry, we confirmed muscle specific effects and demonstrated that affected muscles had greater prevalence and hypertrophy of type 2X fast twitch glycolytic fibres and decreased representation of types 1, 2C, 2A and/or 2AX fibres. To investigate potential systemic effects of the mutation, proton NMR spectra of plasma taken from lambs at 8 and 12 weeks of age were measured. Multivariate statistical analysis of plasma metabolite profiles demonstrated effects of development and genotype but not gender. Plasma from Callipyge lambs at 12 weeks of age, but not 8 weeks, was characterized by a metabolic profile consistent with contributions from the affected hypertrophic fast twitch glycolytic muscle fibres. Microarray analysis of the perirenal adipose tissue depot did not reveal a transcriptional effect of the mutation in this tissue. We conclude that there is an indirect systemic effect of the Callipyge mutation in skeletal muscle in the form of changes of blood metabolites, which may contribute to secondary phenotypes such as body leanness. PMID:24937646

Impacts of the Callipyge mutation on ovine plasma metabolites and muscle fibre type.

PubMed

Li, Juan; Greenwood, Paul L; Cockett, Noelle E; Hadfield, Tracy S; Vuocolo, Tony; Byrne, Keren; White, Jason D; Tellam, Ross L; Schirra, Horst Joachim

2014-01-01

The ovine Callipyge mutation causes postnatal muscle hypertrophy localized to the pelvic limbs and torso, as well as body leanness. The mechanism underpinning enhanced muscle mass is unclear, as is the systemic impact of the mutation. Using muscle fibre typing immunohistochemistry, we confirmed muscle specific effects and demonstrated that affected muscles had greater prevalence and hypertrophy of type 2X fast twitch glycolytic fibres and decreased representation of types 1, 2C, 2A and/or 2AX fibres. To investigate potential systemic effects of the mutation, proton NMR spectra of plasma taken from lambs at 8 and 12 weeks of age were measured. Multivariate statistical analysis of plasma metabolite profiles demonstrated effects of development and genotype but not gender. Plasma from Callipyge lambs at 12 weeks of age, but not 8 weeks, was characterized by a metabolic profile consistent with contributions from the affected hypertrophic fast twitch glycolytic muscle fibres. Microarray analysis of the perirenal adipose tissue depot did not reveal a transcriptional effect of the mutation in this tissue. We conclude that there is an indirect systemic effect of the Callipyge mutation in skeletal muscle in the form of changes of blood metabolites, which may contribute to secondary phenotypes such as body leanness.

Hydrogen production from alcohol reforming in a microwave ‘tornado’-type plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tatarova, E.; Bundaleska, N.; Dias, F. M.; Tsyganov, D.; Saavedra, R.; Ferreira, C. M.

2013-12-01

In this work, an experimental investigation of microwave plasma-assisted reforming of different alcohols is presented. A microwave (2.45 GHz) ‘tornado’-type plasma with a high-speed tangential gas injection (swirl) at atmospheric pressure is applied to decompose alcohol molecules, namely methanol, ethanol and propanol, and to produce hydrogen-rich gas. The reforming efficiency is investigated both in Ar and Ar+ water vapor plasma environments. The hydrogen yield dependence on the partial alcohol flux is analyzed. Mass spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy are used to detect the outlet gas products from the decomposition process. Hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and solid carbon are the main decomposition by-products. A significant increase in the hydrogen production rate is observed with the addition of a small amount of water. Furthermore, optical emission spectroscopy is applied to detect the radiation emitted by the plasma and to estimate the gas temperature and electron density.

Plasma markers of inflammation and prediction of cardiovascular disease and mortality in African Americans with type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Roy, Monique S; Janal, Malvin N; Crosby, Juan; Donnelly, Robert

2016-04-01

To determine whether plasma levels of markers of inflammation are predictive of the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, or mortality in African Americans with type 1 diabetes mellitus. A total of 484 African Americans with type 1 diabetes were included. At baseline and 6-year follow-up, a clinical interview and examination were conducted to document CVD and systemic hypertension. Venous blood for glycated hemoglobin and cholesterol was obtained and albumin excretion rate measured. Mortality was assessed annually between baseline and 6-year follow-up by review of the social security death index. Baseline plasma levels of 28 inflammatory biomarkers were measured using multiplex bead analysis system. After adjusting for baseline age and other confounders, African Americans with type 1 diabetes in the highest quartile of plasma interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP-10) were three times more likely to develop CVD than those in the lowest quartile. African Americans with type 1 diabetes in the lowest quartiles of plasma stromal derived factor-1 (SDF-1) had a 75% higher risk of death than patients in the highest quartile, independently of age, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, body mass index, hypertension, and albuminuria. In African Americans with type 1 diabetes, high plasma IP-10 is an independent predictor for incident CVD and low SDF-1 an independent predictor for mortality. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Liver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1 targets CYP2D6 on hepatocyte plasma membrane

PubMed Central

Muratori, L; Parola, M; Ripalti, A; Robino, G; Muratori, P; Bellomo, G; Carini, R; Lenzi, M; Landini, M; Albano, E; Bianchi, F

2000-01-01

BACKGROUND—Liver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1 (LKM1) is the marker of type 2 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and is detected in up to 6% of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. It recognises linear and conformational epitopes of cytochrome P450IID6 (CYP2D6) and may have liver damaging activity, provided that CYP2D6 is accessible to effector mechanisms of autoimmune attack.
METHODS—The presence of LKM1 in the plasma membrane was investigated by indirect immunofluorescence and confocal laser microscopy of isolated rat hepatocytes probed with 10 LKM1 positive sera (five from patients with AIH and five from patients with chronic HCV infection) and a rabbit polyclonal anti-CYP2D6 serum.
RESULTS—Serum from both types of patient stained the plasma membrane of non-permeabilised cells, where the fluorescent signal could be visualised as discrete clumps. Conversely, permeabilised hepatocytes showed diffuse submembranous/cytoplasmic staining. Adsorption with recombinant CYP2D6 substantially reduced plasma membrane staining and LKM1 immunoblot reactivity. Plasma membrane staining of LKM1 colocalised with that of anti-CYP2D6. Immunoprecipitation experiments showed that a single 50 kDa protein recognised by anti-CYP2D6 can be isolated from the plasma membrane of intact hepatocytes.
CONCLUSIONS—AIH and HCV related LKM1 recognise CYP2D6 exposed on the plasma membrane of isolated hepatocytes. This observation supports the notion that anti-CYP2D6 autoreactivity may be involved in the pathogenesis of liver damage.


Keywords: liver/kidney microsomal antibody type 1; autoimmunity; autoimmune hepatitis; hepatitis C virus infection; confocal microscopy PMID:10716687

The P-type ATPase CtpG preferentially transports Cd2+ across the Mycobacterium tuberculosis plasma membrane.

PubMed

López, Marcela; Quitian, Laudy-Viviana; Calderón, Martha-Nancy; Soto, Carlos-Y

2018-04-01

P 1B -type ATPases are involved in heavy metal transport across the plasma membrane. Some Mycobacterium tuberculosis P-type ATPases are induced during infection, suggesting that this type of transporter could play a critical role in mycobacterial survival. To date, the ion specificity of M. tuberculosis heavy metal-transporting P 1B -ATPases is not well understood. In this work, we observed that, although divalent heavy metal cations such as Cu 2+ , Co 2+ , Ni 2+ , Zn 2+ Cd 2+ and Pb 2+ stimulate the ATPase activity of the putative P 1B -type ATPase CtpG in the plasma membrane, whole cells of M. smegmatis expressing CtpG only tolerate high levels of Cd 2+ and Cu 2+ . As indicator of the catalytic constant, Michaelis-Menten kinetics showed that CtpG embedded in the mycobacterial cell membrane has a V max /K m ratio 7.4-fold higher for Cd 2+ than for Cu 2+ ions. Thus, although CtpG can accept different substrates in vitro, this P-type ATPase transports Cd 2+ more efficiently than other heavy metal cations across the mycobacterial plasma membrane.

[Expression profiles and clinical implication of plasma chemokines in patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection].

PubMed

Fan, F D; Xu, Z J; Zhou, Q; Wang, D J

2017-04-24

Objective: To explore the plasma chemokines expressions and related clinical implication in patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection (AD). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of 65 patients with Stanford type A aortic dissection, hypertensive patients and 11 healthy subjects admitted in our department from October 2013 to December 2014, they were divided into four groups: NH-CON group (11 healthy subjects), H-AD group (29 AD patients with hypertension), NH-AD group (21 AD patients without hypertension), and H-CON group (14 hypertension patients). Four plasma samples from AD patients and 4 plasma samples from healthy subjects were collected randomly with random numbers table, and the levels of different chemokines were examined by protein array analysis. Then, plasma levels of chemokines including macrophage inflammatory protein 1β(MIP-1β), epithelial neutrophil activating peptide 78(ENA-78), interleukin 16(IL-16), interferon inducible protein 10(IP-10) and FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3(Flt-3) ligand were analyzed by luminex. Pearson analysis was used to determine the correlations between the chemokines and serum C reactive protein (CRP) levels. Results: Plasma levels of MIP-1β(34.0(29.3, 47.2) ng/L vs. 51.0(28.2, 80.7) ng/L, P <0.05) and ENA-78(110.5(59.1, 161.4) ng/L vs. 475.7(299.3, 837.3) ng/L, P <0.05) were significantly lower in H-AD group, while plasma IL-16 level was significantly higher in H-AD group(54.7(16.3, 187.8) ng/L vs. 17.5(11.9, 20.8) ng/L, P <0.05) than in H-CON group. Plasma levels of MIP-1β(48.3(26.4, 62.1) ng/L, P <0.05) were significantly lower in H-AD patients than in NH-AD patients. Plasma level of ENA-78 was significantly lower in NH-AD group than in NH-CON group (95.0(58.0, 155.0) ng/L vs. 257.7(85.2, 397.8) ng/L, P <0.05). The levels of IP-10 and Flt-3 ligand were similar among the 4 groups (all P >0.05). Pearson analysis showed that there were no correlation between MIP-1β( r (2)=0.01, P >0.05), ENA-78( r (2)=0.02, P

Urine and plasma metabolites predict the development of diabetic nephropathy in individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Pena, M J; Lambers Heerspink, H J; Hellemons, M E; Friedrich, T; Dallmann, G; Lajer, M; Bakker, S J L; Gansevoort, R T; Rossing, P; de Zeeuw, D; Roscioni, S S

2014-09-01

Early detection of individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus or hypertension at risk for micro- or macroalbuminuria may facilitate prevention and treatment of renal disease. We aimed to discover plasma and urine metabolites that predict the development of micro- or macroalbuminuria. Patients with Type 2 diabetes (n = 90) and hypertension (n = 150) were selected from the community-cohort 'Prevention of REnal and Vascular End-stage Disease' (PREVEND) and the Steno Diabetes Center for this case-control study. Cases transitioned in albuminuria stage (from normo- to microalbuminuria or micro- to macroalbuminuria). Controls, matched for age, gender, and baseline albuminuria stage, remained in normo- or microalbuminuria stage during follow-up. Median follow-up was 2.9 years. Metabolomics were performed on plasma and urine. The predictive performance of a metabolite for albuminuria transition was assessed by the integrated discrimination index. In patients with Type 2 diabetes with normoalbuminuria, no metabolites discriminated cases from controls. In patients with Type 2 diabetes with microalbuminuria, plasma histidine was lower (fold change = 0.87, P = 0.02) and butenoylcarnitine was higher (fold change = 1.17, P = 0.007) in cases vs. controls. In urine, hexose, glutamine and tyrosine were lower in cases vs. controls (fold change = 0.20, P < 0.001; 0.32, P < 0.001; 0.51, P = 0.006, respectively). Adding the metabolites to a model of baseline albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate metabolites improved risk prediction for macroalbuminuria transition (plasma integrated discrimination index = 0.28, P < 0.001; urine integrated discrimination index = 0.43, P < 0.001). These metabolites did not differ between hypertensive cases and controls without Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes-specific plasma and urine metabolites were discovered that predict the development of macroalbuminuria beyond established renal risk markers. These results should be confirmed in a large

Plasma coenzyme Q10 levels in type 2 diabetic patients with retinopathy

PubMed Central

Ates, Orhan; Bilen, Habip; Keles, Sadullah; Alp, H. Hakan; Keleş, Mevlüt Sait; Yıldırım, Kenan; Öndaş, Osman; Pınar, L. Can; Civelekler, Mustafa; Baykal, Orhan

2013-01-01

AIM To determine the relationship between proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDRP) and plasma coenzyme Q10(CoQ10) concentration. METHODS Patients with type 2 diabetes and PDRP were determined to be the case group (n=50). The control group was consist of healthy individuals (n=50). Plasma CoQ10 and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in both groups. RESULTS Ubiquinone-10 (Coenzyme Q10) levels in PDRP and control subjects are 3.81±1.19µmol/L and 1.91±0.62µmol/L, respectively. Plasma MDA levels in PDRP and control subjects were 8.16±2µmol/L and 3.44±2.08µmol/L, respectively. Ratio of Ubiquinol-10/ubiquinone-10 in PDRP and control subjects were 0.26±0.16 and 1.41±0.68, respectively. CONCLUSION The ratio of ubiquinol-10/ubiquinone-10 is found lower in patients with PDRP. High levels of plasma ubiquinol-10/ubiquinone-10 ratio indicate the protective effect on diabetic retinopathy. PMID:24195048

Creatinine plasma at uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus and controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus patients at primary health care in Binjai city, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rusdiana; Savira, M.; Syahputra, M.; Santoso, A.

2018-03-01

The aim of the study knowing the comparison creatinine plasma levels at uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus and controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus patients at Primary Health Care in Binjai city of North Sumatera in Indonesia. This cross-sectional study was conductedon 40 type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients who attended Primary Health Care in Binjai. Patients with age > 40 years old, (both sexes) were included in the study. We recorded different demographic parameter as age, Body Mass Index, Blood Pressure, and personal history status. And we examined the biochemicalparameters including Hba1c, Fasting Blood Sugar Levels (FBL) and creatinine serum. We separated into two groups base on HbA1c test, controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus and uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus. We measured FBL by using the portable measuring instrument, and Thamrin clinical laboratory measured Hba1c, andwe measured creatinine plasmaby spectrophotometry in Biochemistry laboratory. With statistical analysis using T-test found that there was asignificant differencein creatinine plasma levels between uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus with controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (p<0.005).

Air-water ‘tornado’-type microwave plasmas applied for sugarcane biomass treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bundaleska, N.; Tatarova, E.; Dias, F. M.; Lino da Silva, M.; Ferreira, C. M.; Amorim, J.

2014-02-01

The production of cellulosic ethanol from sugarcane biomass is an attractive alternative to the use of fossil fuels. Pretreatment is needed to separate the cellulosic material, which is packed with hemicellulose and lignin in cell wall of sugarcane biomass. A microwave ‘tornado’-type air-water plasma source operating at 2.45 GHz and atmospheric pressure has been applied for this purpose. Samples of dry and wet biomass (˜2 g) have been exposed to the late afterglow plasma stream. The experiments demonstrate that the air-water highly reactive plasma environment provides a number of long-lived active species able to destroy the cellulosic wrapping. Scanning electron microscopy has been applied to analyse the morphological changes occurring due to plasma treatment. The effluent gas streams have been analysed by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Optical emission spectroscopy and FT-IR have been applied to determine the gas temperature in the discharge and late afterglow plasma zones, respectively. The optimal range of the operational parameters is discussed along with the main active species involved in the treatment process. Synergistic effects can result from the action of singlet O2(a 1Δg) oxygen, NO2, nitrous acid HNO2 and OH hydroxyl radical.

Investigation on Plasma Jet Flow Phenomena During DC Air Arc Motion in Bridge-Type Contacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhai, Guofu; Bo, Kai; Chen, Mo; Zhou, Xue; Qiao, Xinlei

2016-05-01

Arc plasma jet flow in the air was investigated under a bridge-type contacts in a DC 270 V resistive circuit. We characterized the arc plasma jet flow appearance at different currents by using high-speed photography, and two polished contacts were used to search for the relationship between roughness and plasma jet flow. Then, to make the nature of arc plasma jet flow phenomena clear, a simplified model based on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) theory was established and calculated. The simulated DC arc plasma was presented with the temperature distribution and the current density distribution. Furthermore, the calculated arc flow velocity field showed that the circular vortex was an embodiment of the arc plasma jet flow progress. The combined action of volume force and contact surface was the main reason of the arc jet flow. supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 51307030, 51277038)

Plume and Discharge Plasma Measurements of an NSTAR-type Ion Thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, John E.; Soulas, George C.; Patterson, Michael J.

2000-01-01

The success of the NASA Deep Space 1 spacecraft has demonstrated that ion propulsion is a viable option for deep space science missions. More aggressive missions such as Comet Nuclear Sample Return and Europa lander will require higher power, higher propellant throughput and longer thruster lifetime than the NASA Solar Electric Propulsion Technology Application Readiness (NSTAR) engine. Presented here are thruster plume and discharge plasma measurements of an NSTAR-type thruster operated from 0.5 kW to 5 kW. From Faraday plume sweeps, beam divergence was determined. From Langmuir probe plume measurements on centerline, low energy ion production on axis due to charge-exchange and direct ionization was assessed. Additionally, plume plasma potential measurements made on axis were used to determine the upper energy limits at which ions created on centerline could be radially accelerated. Wall probes flush-mounted to the thruster discharge chamber anode were used to assess plasma conditions. Langmuir probe measurements at the wall indicated significant differences in the electron temperature in the cylindrical and conical sections of the discharge chamber.

Plume and Discharge Plasma Measurements of an NSTAR-type Ion Thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, John E; Soulas, George C.; Patterson, Michael J.

2000-01-01

The success of the NASA Deep Space I spacecraft has demonstrated that ion propulsion is a viable option for deep space science missions. More aggressive missions such as Comet Nuclear Sample Return and Europa lander will require higher power, higher propellant throughput and longer thruster lifetime than the NASA Solar Electric Propulsion Technology Application Readiness (NSTAR) engine. Presented here are thruster plume and discharge plasma measurements of an NSTAR-type thruster operated from 0.5 kW to 5 kW. From Faraday plume sweeps, beam divergence was determined. From Langmuir probe plume measurements on centerline, low energy ion production on axis due to charge-exchange and direct ionization was assessed. Additionally, plume plasma potential measurements made on axis were used to determine the upper energy limits at which ions created on centerline could be radially accelerated. Wall probes flush-mounted to the thruster discharge chamber anode were used to assess plasma conditions. Langmuir probe measurements at the wall indicated significant differences in the electron temperature in the cylindrical and conical sections of the discharge chamber.

The Type of Fat Ingested at Breakfast Influences the Plasma Lipid Profile of Postmenopausal Women

PubMed Central

Morillas-Ruiz, J. M.; Delgado-Alarcon, J. M.; Rubio-Perez, J. M.; Albaladejo Oton, M. D.

2014-01-01

To assess whether the type of fat ingested at breakfast can modify the plasma lipid profile and other cardiovascular risk variables in postmenopausal women at risk of cardiovascular disease, a longitudinal, randomized, and crossover study was carried out with postmenopausal women at risk of CVD. They were randomly assigned to eat each type of breakfast during one month: 6 study periods (breakfast with the same composition plus butter/margarine/virgin olive oil) separated by two washout periods. On the first and last days of each study period, weight, arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and body mass index were recorded in fasting conditions and a blood sample was collected to measure plasma lipid profile. When comparing final values to baseline values, we only found out statistically significant differences on plasma lipid profiles. Butter-based breakfast increased total cholesterol and HDL, while margarine-based breakfast decreased total cholesterol and LDL and increased HDL. After the olive oil-based breakfast intake, a tendency towards a decrease of total cholesterol and LDL levels and an increase of HDL levels was observed. No statistically significant differences were observed in triglycerides levels, BMI, and arterial pressure in any breakfast type. The margarine-based breakfast was the only one which significantly increased the percentage of volunteers with optimal lipid profiles. The polyunsaturated fat at breakfast has improved the plasma lipid profile in the analyzed sample population, suggesting that PUFA-based breakfast can be advisable in women at risk of CVD. PMID:25136625

Beam-plasma instability in the presence of low-frequency turbulence. [during type 3 solar emission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, M. V.; Dubois, D. F.

1982-01-01

General equations are derived for a linear beam-plasma instability in the presence of low-frequency turbulence. Within a 'quasi-linear' statistical approximation, these equations contain Langmuir wave scattering, diffusion, resonant and nonresonant anomalous absorption, and a 'plasma laser' effect. It is proposed that naturally occurring density irregularities in the solar wind may stabilize the beam-unstable Langmuir waves which occur during type III solar emissions.

Theory of type 3b solar radio bursts. [plasma interaction and electron beams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, R. A.; Delanoee, J.

1975-01-01

During the initial space-time evolution of an electron beam injected into the corona, the strong beam-plasma interaction occurs at the head of the beam, leading to the amplification of a quasi-monochromatic large-amplitude plasma wave that stabilizes by trapping the beam particles. Oscillation of the trapped particles in the wave troughs amplifies sideband electrostatic waves. The sidebands and the main wave subsequently decay to observable transverse electromagnetic waves through the parametric decay instability. This process gives rise to the elementary striation bursts. Owing to velocity dispersion in the beam and the density gradient of the corona, the entire process may repeat at a finite number of discrete plasma levels, producing chains of elementary bursts. All the properties of the type IIIb bursts are accounted for in the context of the theory.

Plasma Fetuin-A Levels and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Stefan, Norbert; Fritsche, Andreas; Weikert, Cornelia; Boeing, Heiner; Joost, Hans-Georg; Häring, Hans-Ulrich; Schulze, Matthias B.

2008-01-01

OBJECTIVE—The liver-secreted protein fetuin-A induces insulin resistance in animals, and circulating fetuin-A is elevated in insulin resistance and fatty liver in humans. We investigated whether plasma fetuin-A levels predict the incidence of type 2 diabetes in a large prospective, population-based study. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A case-cohort study within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-Potsdam study comprising 27,548 subjects was designed. We randomly selected a subcohort of 2,500 individuals of whom 2,164 were diabetes free at baseline and had anamnestic, anthropometrical, and metabolic data for analysis. Of the 849 incident diabetic case subjects identified in the full cohort during 7 years of follow-up, 703 remained for analyses after similar exclusions. RESULTS—Plasma fetuin-A levels were positively associated with diabetes risk after adjustment for age (relative risk [RR] for extreme quintiles 1.75 [95% CI 1.32–2.31]; RR for 10 μg/ml 1.04 [1.03–1.06]). The association remained significant after adjustment for sex, BMI, waist circumference, and lifestyle risk factors (RR for 10 μg/ml 1.03 [1.01–1.06]). Adjustment for glucose, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, A1C, γ-glutamyltransferase, or high-sensitivity C-reactive protein or mutual adjustment for these biomarkers did not appreciably change this result (RR for 10 μg/ml full adjusted model 1.05 [1.02–1.07]). Furthermore, fetuin-A was associated with increased diabetes risk particularly in individuals with elevated plasma glucose. CONCLUSIONS—Our data suggest that fetuin-A is an independent risk factor of type 2 diabetes. PMID:18633113

Two types of energy-dispersed ion structures at the plasma sheet boundary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauvaud, J.-A.; Kovrazhkin, R. A.

2004-12-01

We study two main types of ion energy dispersions observed in the energy range ˜1 to 14 keV on board the Interball-Auroral (IA) satellite at altitudes 2-3 RE at the poleward boundary of the plasma sheet. The first type of structure is named velocity dispersed ion structures (VDIS). It is known that VDIS represent a global proton structure with a latitudinal width of ˜0.7-2.5°, where the ion overall energy increases with latitude. IA data allow to show that VDIS are made of substructures lasting for ˜1-3 min. Inside each substructure, high-energy protons arrive first, regardless of the direction of the plasma sheet boundary crossing. A near-continuous rise of the maximal and minimal energies of consecutive substructures with invariant latitude characterizes VDIS. The second type of dispersed structure is named time-of-flight dispersed ion structures (TDIS). TDIS are recurrent sporadic structures in H+ (and also O+) with a quasi-period of ˜3 min and a duration of ˜1-3 min. The maximal energy of TDIS is rather constant and reaches ≥14 keV. During both poleward and equatorward crossings of the plasma sheet boundary, inside each TDIS, high-energy ions arrive first. These structures are accompanied by large fluxes of upflowing H+ and O+ ions with maximal energies up to 5-10 keV. In association with TDIS, bouncing H+ clusters are observed in quasi-dipolar magnetic field tubes, i.e., equatorward from TDIS. The electron populations generally have different properties during observations of VDIS and TDIS. The electron flux accompanying VDIS first increases smoothly and then decreases after Interball-Auroral has passed through the proton structure. The average electron energy in the range ˜0.5-2 keV is typical for electrons from the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL). The electron fluxes associated with TDIS increases suddenly at the polar boundary of the auroral zone. Their average energy, reaching ˜5-8 keV, is typical for CPS. A statistical analysis shows that

Amotosalen-inactivated plasma is as equally well tolerated as quarantine plasma in patients undergoing large volume therapeutic plasma exchange.

PubMed

Guignier, C; Benamara, A; Oriol, P; Coppo, P; Mariat, C; Garraud, O

2018-02-01

A retrospective - single center - survey compared tolerance of individual donor therapeutic plasma in a series of 88 patients principally presenting with thrombotic microangiopathy; all patients underwent therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) performed with more than 90% of either of two types of plasma preparations. One plasma type used in TPE was prepared with pathogen reduction by amotosalen addition and UVA illumination, and the other one was non-manipulated (quarantine plasma). Both types of plasma were single donor. Occurrences of adverse reactions were equally low in either arm (amotosalen: 9 in 4689 bags of ∼200mL [0.019] versus quarantine: 2 in 828 bags [0.024]), confirming the safe use of amotosalen inactivated therapeutic plasma for TPE. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Plasma level of cyclophilin A is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and suggests presence of vascular disease.

PubMed

Ramachandran, Surya; Venugopal, Anila; Kutty, V Raman; A, Vinitha; G, Divya; Chitrasree, V; Mullassari, Ajit; Pratapchandran, N S; Santosh, K R; Pillai, M Radhakrishna; Kartha, C C

2014-02-07

Cyclophilin A, an immunophilin is secreted from human monocytes activated by high glucose. Given its role as an inflammatory mediator of vascular tissue damage associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, we examined plasma levels of cyclophilin A in normal healthy volunteers and patients with type 2 diabetes (DM), with or without coronary artery disease (CAD). Study subjects comprised of 212 patients with DM and CAD,101 patients with diabetes, 122 patients with CAD and 121 normal healthy volunteers. Diabetes was assessed by HbA1c levels while coronary artery disease was established by a positive treadmill test and/or coronary angiography. Plasma cyclophilin A was measured using a cyclophilin A ELISA Kit. Relationship of plasma cyclophilin A levels with blood markers of type 2 diabetes, blood lipid levels and medication for diabetes and coronary artery disease were also explored. Plasma Cyclophilin levels were higher in diabetes patients with or without CAD compared to normal subjects (P < 0.001). Age, fasting blood sugar levels and HbA1C levels were positively associated with increased plasma cyclophilin. Patients using metformin had reduced levels of plasma cyclophilin (p < 0.001).Serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides had no significant association with plasma cyclophilin levels. In patients with increased serum CRP levels, plasma cyclophilin A was also elevated (p = 0.016). Prevalence odds for DM, DM + CAD and CAD are higher in those with high cyclophilin values, compared to those with lower values, after adjusting for age and sex, indicating strong association of high cyclophilin values with diabetes and vascular disease. Our study demonstrates that patients with type 2 diabetes have higher circulating levels of cyclophilin A than the normal population. Plasma cyclophilin levels were increased in patients with diabetes and coronary artery disease suggesting a role of this protein in accelerating vascular

Acute Effects of Morning Light on Plasma Glucose and Triglycerides in Healthy Men and Men with Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Versteeg, Ruth I.; Stenvers, Dirk J.; Visintainer, Dana; Linnenbank, Andre; Tanck, Michael W.; Zwanenburg, Gooitzen; Smilde, Age K.; Fliers, Eric; Kalsbeek, Andries; Serlie, Mireille J.; la Fleur, Susanne E.; Bisschop, Peter H.

2017-01-01

Ambient light intensity is signaled directly to hypothalamic areas that regulate energy metabolism. Observational studies have shown associations between ambient light intensity and plasma glucose and lipid levels, but human data on the acute metabolic effects of light are scarce. Since light is the main signal indicating the onset of the diurnal phase of physical activity and food intake in humans, we hypothesized that bright light would affect glucose and lipid metabolism. Therefore, we determined the acute effects of bright light on plasma glucose and lipid concentrations in 2 randomized crossover trials: (1) in 8 healthy lean men and (2) in 8 obese men with type 2 diabetes. From 0730 h, subjects were exposed to either bright light (4000 lux) or dim light (10 lux) for 5 h. After 1 h of light exposure, subjects consumed a 600-kcal mixed meal. Primary endpoints were fasting and postprandial plasma glucose levels. In healthy men, bright light did not affect fasting or postprandial plasma glucose levels. However, bright light increased fasting and postprandial plasma triglycerides. In men with type 2 diabetes, bright light increased fasting and postprandial glucose levels. In men with type 2 diabetes, bright light did not affect fasting triglyceride levels but increased postprandial triglyceride levels. We show that ambient light intensity acutely affects human plasma glucose and triglyceride levels. Our findings warrant further research into the consequences of the metabolic effects of light for the diagnosis and prevention of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. PMID:28470119

Acute Effects of Morning Light on Plasma Glucose and Triglycerides in Healthy Men and Men with Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Versteeg, Ruth I; Stenvers, Dirk J; Visintainer, Dana; Linnenbank, Andre; Tanck, Michael W; Zwanenburg, Gooitzen; Smilde, Age K; Fliers, Eric; Kalsbeek, Andries; Serlie, Mireille J; la Fleur, Susanne E; Bisschop, Peter H

2017-04-01

Ambient light intensity is signaled directly to hypothalamic areas that regulate energy metabolism. Observational studies have shown associations between ambient light intensity and plasma glucose and lipid levels, but human data on the acute metabolic effects of light are scarce. Since light is the main signal indicating the onset of the diurnal phase of physical activity and food intake in humans, we hypothesized that bright light would affect glucose and lipid metabolism. Therefore, we determined the acute effects of bright light on plasma glucose and lipid concentrations in 2 randomized crossover trials: (1) in 8 healthy lean men and (2) in 8 obese men with type 2 diabetes. From 0730 h, subjects were exposed to either bright light (4000 lux) or dim light (10 lux) for 5 h. After 1 h of light exposure, subjects consumed a 600-kcal mixed meal. Primary endpoints were fasting and postprandial plasma glucose levels. In healthy men, bright light did not affect fasting or postprandial plasma glucose levels. However, bright light increased fasting and postprandial plasma triglycerides. In men with type 2 diabetes, bright light increased fasting and postprandial glucose levels. In men with type 2 diabetes, bright light did not affect fasting triglyceride levels but increased postprandial triglyceride levels. We show that ambient light intensity acutely affects human plasma glucose and triglyceride levels. Our findings warrant further research into the consequences of the metabolic effects of light for the diagnosis and prevention of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia.

Carbonylated plasma proteins as potential biomarkers of obesity induced type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Bollineni, Ravi Chand; Fedorova, Maria; Blüher, Matthias; Hoffmann, Ralf

2014-11-07

Protein carbonylation is a common nonenzymatic oxidative post-translational modification, which is often considered as biomarker of oxidative stress. Recent evidence links protein carbonylation also to obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), though the protein targets of carbonylation in human plasma have not been identified. In this study, we profiled carbonylated proteins in plasma samples obtained from lean individuals and obese patients with or without T2DM. The plasma samples were digested with trypsin, carbonyl groups were derivatized with O-(biotinylcarbazoylmethyl)hydroxylamine, enriched by avidin affinity chromatography, and analyzed by RPC-MS/MS. Signals of potentially modified peptides were targeted in a second LC-MS/MS analysis to retrieve the peptide sequence and the modified residues. A total of 158 unique carbonylated proteins were identified, of which 52 were detected in plasma samples of all three groups. Interestingly, 36 carbonylated proteins were detected only in obese patients with T2DM, whereas 18 were detected in both nondiabetic groups. The carbonylated proteins originated mostly from liver, plasma, platelet, and endothelium. Functionally, they were mainly involved in cell adhesion, signaling, angiogenesis, and cytoskeletal remodeling. Among the identified carbonylated proteins were several candidates, such as VEGFR-2, MMP-1, argin, MKK4, and compliment C5, already connected before to diabetes, obesity and metabolic diseases.

Incompatible type A plasma transfusion in patients requiring massive transfusion protocol: Outcomes of an Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma multicenter study.

PubMed

Stevens, W Tait; Morse, Bryan C; Bernard, Andrew; Davenport, Daniel L; Sams, Valerie G; Goodman, Michael D; Dumire, Russell; Carrick, Matthew M; McCarthy, Patrick; Stubbs, James R; Pritts, Timothy A; Dente, Christopher J; Luo-Owen, Xian; Gregory, Jason A; Turay, David; Gomaa, Dina; Quispe, Juan C; Fitzgerald, Caitlin A; Haddad, Nadeem N; Choudhry, Asad; Quesada, Jose F; Zielinski, Martin D

2017-07-01

With a relative shortage of type AB plasma, many centers have converted to type A plasma for resuscitation of patients whose blood type is unknown. The goal of this study is to determine outcomes for trauma patients who received incompatible plasma transfusions as part of a massive transfusion protocol (MTP). As part of an Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma multi-institutional trial, registry and blood bank data were collected from eight trauma centers for trauma patients (age, ≥ 15 years) receiving emergency release plasma transfusions as part of MTPs from January 2012 to August 2016. Incompatible type A plasma was defined as transfusion to patient blood type B or type AB. Of the 1,536 patients identified, 92% received compatible plasma transfusions and 8% received incompatible type A plasma. Patient characteristics were similar except for greater penetrating injuries (48% vs 36%; p = 0.01) in the incompatible group. In the incompatible group, patients were transfused more plasma units at 4 hours (median, 9 vs. 5; p < 0.001) and overall for stay (11 vs. 9; p = 0.03). No hemolytic transfusion reactions were reported. Two transfusion-related acute lung injury events were reported in the compatible group. Between incompatible and compatible groups, there was no difference in the rates of acute respiratory distress syndrome (6% vs. 8%; p = 0.589), thromboembolic events (9% vs. 7%; p = 0.464), sepsis (6% vs. 8%; p = 0.589), or acute renal failure (8% vs. 8%, p = 0.860). Mortality at 6 (17% vs. 15%, p = 0.775) and 24 hours (25% vs. 23%, p = 0.544) and at 28 days or discharge (38% vs. 35%, p = 0.486) were similar between groups. Multivariate regression demonstrated that Injury Severity Score, older age and more red blood cell transfusion at 4 hours were independently associated with death at 28 days or discharge; Injury Severity Score and more red blood cell transfusion at 4 hours were predictors for morbidity. Incompatible transfusion was not an independent

Characteristics of interplanetary type II radio emission and the relationship to shock and plasma properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lengyel-Frey, D.; Stone, R. G.

1989-01-01

A large sample of type II events is the basis of the present study of the properties of interplanetary type II bursts' radio-emission properties. Type II spectra seem to be composed of fundamental and harmonic components of plasma emission, where the intensity of the fundamental component increases relative to the harmonic as the burst evolves with heliocentric distance; burst average flux density increases as a power of the associated shock's average velocity. Solar wind density structures may have a significant influence on type II bandwidths.

Impact of type 2 diabetes on the plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and its soluble receptors type 1 and type 2 in patients with peripheral arterial disease.

PubMed

Wieczór, Radosław; Gadomska, Grażyna; Ruszkowska-Ciastek, Barbara; Stankowska, Katarzyna; Budzyński, Jacek; Fabisiak, Jacek; Suppan, Karol; Pulkowski, Grzegorz; Rość, Danuta

2015-11-01

Type 2 diabetes coexistent with lower extremity artery disease (peripheral arterial disease (PAD)) can be observed in numerous patients. The mechanism compensating for ischemia and contributing to healing is angiogenesis-the process of forming new blood vessels. The purpose of this study was to assess the likely impact of type 2 diabetes on the plasma levels of proangiogenic factor (vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A)) and angiogenesis inhibitors (soluble VEGF receptors type 1 and type 2 (sVEGFR-1 and sVEGFR-2)) in patients with PAD. Among 46 patients with PAD under pharmacological therapy (non-invasive), we identified, based on medical history, a subgroup with coexistent type 2 diabetes (PAD-DM2+, n=15) and without diabetes (PAD-DM2-, n=31). The control group consisted of 30 healthy subjects. Plasma levels of VEGF-A, sVEGFR-1, and sVEGFR-2 were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The subgroups of PAD-DM2+ and PAD-DM2- revealed significantly higher concentrations of VEGF-A (P=0.000 007 and P=0.000 000 1, respectively) and significantly lower sVEGFR-2 levels (P=0.02 and P=0.000 01, respectively), when compared with the control group. Patients with PAD and coexistent diabetes tended to have a lower level of VEGF-A and higher levels of sVEGFR-1 and sVEGFR-2 comparable with non-diabetic patients. The coexistence of type 2 diabetes and PAD is demonstrated by a tendency to a lower plasma level of proangiogenic factor (VEGF-A) and higher levels of angiogenesis inhibitors (sVEGFR-1 and sVEGFR-2) at the same time. Regardless of the coexistence of type 2 diabetes, hypoxia appears to be a crucial factor stimulating the processes of angiogenesis in PAD patients comparable with healthy individuals, whereas hyperglycemia may have a negative impact on angiogenesis in lower limbs.

Development and application of W/Cu flat-type plasma facing components at ASIPP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Q.; Zhao, S. X.; Sun, Z. X.; Xu, Y.; Li, B.; Wei, R.; Wang, W. J.; Qin, S. G.; Shi, Y. L.; Xie, C. Y.; Wang, J. C.; Wang, X. L.; Missirlian, M.; Guilhem, D.; Liu, G. H.; Yang, Z. S.; Luo, G.-N.

2017-12-01

W/Cu flat-type plasma facing components (PFCs) were widely used in divertor of fusion device because of its advantages, such as low cost, light in weight and good machinability. However, it is very difficult to manufacture them due to the large mismatch between the thermo-mechanical properties of W and Cu. Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP) has successfully developed W/Cu flat-type PFCs for EAST W/Cu divertor project by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) technology. This paper presents the development and application of W/Cu flat-type PFCs at ASIPP. The optimized manufacturing process is to cast pure copper onto the rear side of W tiles at temperature of 1200 °C firstly, and then to HIP the W/Cu tiles onto CuCrZr heat sink at temperature of 600 °C, pressure of 150 MPa and duration of 3 h. W/Cu flat-type testing mock-up for EAST survived 1000 cycles at heat load of 5 MW m-2 in high heat flux tests. And then ASIPP prepared two mock-ups for CEA’s tungsten environment in steady-state tokamak (WEST) project. One mock-up withstood successfully 302 cycles of 20 MW m-2, which are far beyond the design requirement. Since 2014, W/Cu flat-type PFCs were wildly used in EAST upper divertor as baffle and dome components which showed excellent performance in 2015 and 2016 campaigns. Given the success in EAST upper divertor, W/Cu flat-type concept is as well applied in the design of actively cooled Langmuir probes which will be mounted onto EAST divertor targets soon.

ECR Plasma Sterilisation, Argon and Nitrogen Treated Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helhel, Selcuk; Oksuz, Lutfi; Cerezci, Osman; Rad, Abbas Y.

2004-09-01

ECR type plasma system was built to produce plasma in axial direction. Plasma was initiated in a specially designed Nickel - Chrome cylindrical vacuum tube which is being driven through dielectric window by 2.45GHz commercial magnetron source. Tube is also surrounded by a coil driving 150ADC to generate approximately 875Gauss magnetic field at the center. Langmuir probe and ICCD for optical spectrometry were used to characterize internal parameters like electron density, electron temperature and different characteristics of the plasma. Bacillus Subtilis var nigar, bacillus Stearothermophilus, bacillus pumilus E601, Escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus type bacteria were selected as a reference. Each is resistant for different actions while the Bacilus cereus is the most resistant bacteria for microwave interaction. This study presents the effect of system on used bacteria. Those are gram positive and gram negative bacteria that refers to structure of cell wall. The sterilization efficacy of Argon type ECR plasma was found to be over 99, 5% in Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis (vegetative cell), Bacillus cereus (vegetative cell), Bacillus pumilus and Escherichia coli. System response type is less than 2 minutes.

Which is safer source plasma for manufacturing in China: apheresis plasma or recovered plasma?

PubMed

Liu, Yu; Li, Changqing; Wang, Ya; Zhang, Yan; Wu, Binting; Ke, Ling; Xu, Min; Liu, Gui; Liu, Zhong

2016-05-01

In most countries, the plasma for derivative production includes two types of plasma, apheresis plasma (AP) and recovered plasma (RP). However, the plasma recovered from whole blood is not permitted for manufacture in China. Because of the lack of source plasma and the surplus of RP, the Chinese government is considering allowing RP as an equivalent source for the production of plasma derivatives. It is known that human blood can be contaminated by various infectious agents. The objective of the study was to evaluate if infectious risk would increase by enacting this policy. The samples from the two types of blood donors from January 1 to December 31, 2013, were collected. Supplementary testing was conducted and the residual risk (RR) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the two types of blood donors and donations were calculated through the incidence-window period model. Prevalence of the markers of hepatitis E virus, hepatitis A virus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome bunyavirus, cytomegalovirus, B19, and West Nile virus was calculated. No significant difference was found in the RR of the three pathogens in the two types of blood donors. However, after the quarantine period, the RR of HCV and HIV in AP was significantly lower than that in RP. A quarantine period of 2 years will make the infectious risk of RP not significantly different than that of AP. Our data demonstrate that allowing RP to be used for the manufacture of plasma derivatives will not increase its infectious disease risk if coupled with a 2-year inventory hold. © 2016 AABB.

Plasma N-Terminal Pro B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Concentrations in Dogs with Pulmonic Stenosis

PubMed Central

KOBAYASHI, Keiya; HORI, Yasutomo; CHIMURA, Syuuichi

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT The detailed information between plasma N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentrations and dogs with pulmonic stenosis (PS) is still unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical utility of measuring plasma NT-proBNP concentrations in dogs with PS and to determine whether plasma NT-proBNP concentration could be used to assess disease severity. This retrospective study enrolled 30 client-owned, untreated dogs with PS (asymptomatic [n=23] and symptomatic [n=7]) and 11 healthy laboratory beagles. Results of physical examination, thoracic radiography and echocardiography were recorded. Plasma NT-proBNP concentrations were measured using commercial laboratories. Compared to the healthy control dogs, cardiothoracic ratio was significantly increased in dogs with both asymptomatic and symptomatic PS. Similarly, the ratio of the main pulmonary artery to aorta was significantly decreased in dogs with both asymptomatic and symptomatic PS. The pulmonic pressure gradient in the symptomatic PS dogs was significantly higher than that in the asymptomatic PS dogs. Plasma NT-proBNP concentration was significantly elevated in the symptomatic PS dogs compared to the healthy control dogs and the asymptomatic PS dogs. Furthermore, the Doppler-derived pulmonic pressure gradient was significantly correlated with the plasma NT-proBNP concentration (r=0.78, r2=0.61, P<0.0001). Plasma NT-proBNP concentration >764 pmol/l to identify severe PS had a sensitivity of 76.2% and specificity of 81.8%. The plasma NT-proBNP concentration increased by spontaneous PS, i.e. right-sided pressure overload and can be used as an additional method to assess the severity of PS in dogs. PMID:24561377

Plasma N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide concentrations in dogs with pulmonic stenosis.

PubMed

Kobayashi, Keiya; Hori, Yasutomo; Chimura, Syuuichi

2014-06-01

The detailed information between plasma N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentrations and dogs with pulmonic stenosis (PS) is still unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical utility of measuring plasma NT-proBNP concentrations in dogs with PS and to determine whether plasma NT-proBNP concentration could be used to assess disease severity. This retrospective study enrolled 30 client-owned, untreated dogs with PS (asymptomatic [n=23] and symptomatic [n=7]) and 11 healthy laboratory beagles. Results of physical examination, thoracic radiography and echocardiography were recorded. Plasma NT-proBNP concentrations were measured using commercial laboratories. Compared to the healthy control dogs, cardiothoracic ratio was significantly increased in dogs with both asymptomatic and symptomatic PS. Similarly, the ratio of the main pulmonary artery to aorta was significantly decreased in dogs with both asymptomatic and symptomatic PS. The pulmonic pressure gradient in the symptomatic PS dogs was significantly higher than that in the asymptomatic PS dogs. Plasma NT-proBNP concentration was significantly elevated in the symptomatic PS dogs compared to the healthy control dogs and the asymptomatic PS dogs. Furthermore, the Doppler-derived pulmonic pressure gradient was significantly correlated with the plasma NT-proBNP concentration (r=0.78, r(2)=0.61, P<0.0001). Plasma NT-proBNP concentration >764 pmol/l to identify severe PS had a sensitivity of 76.2% and specificity of 81.8%. The plasma NT-proBNP concentration increased by spontaneous PS, i.e. right-sided pressure overload and can be used as an additional method to assess the severity of PS in dogs.

Non-Markovian renormalization of kinetic coefficients for drift-type turbulence in magnetized plasmas

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

Zagorodny, A.; Weiland, J.

2009-05-15

The problem of derivation of the kinetic equations for inhomogeneous plasma in an external magnetic field is considered. The Fokker-Planck-type equations with the non-Markovian kinetic coefficients are proposed. In the time-local limit (small correlation times with respect to the distribution function relaxation time) the relations obtained recover the results known from the appropriate quasilinear theory and the Dupree-Weinstock theory of plasma turbulence. Kinetic calculations of the dielectric response function are also performed with regard to the influence of turbulent fields on particle motion. The equations proposed are used to describe zonal flow generation and to estimate the diffusion coefficient formore » saturated turbulence.« less

Plasma level of cyclophilin A is increased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and suggests presence of vascular disease

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Aims/hypothesis Cyclophilin A, an immunophilin is secreted from human monocytes activated by high glucose. Given its role as an inflammatory mediator of vascular tissue damage associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, we examined plasma levels of cyclophilin A in normal healthy volunteers and patients with type 2 diabetes (DM), with or without coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods Study subjects comprised of 212 patients with DM and CAD,101 patients with diabetes, 122 patients with CAD and 121 normal healthy volunteers. Diabetes was assessed by HbA1c levels while coronary artery disease was established by a positive treadmill test and/or coronary angiography. Plasma cyclophilin A was measured using a cyclophilin A ELISA Kit. Relationship of plasma cyclophilin A levels with blood markers of type 2 diabetes, blood lipid levels and medication for diabetes and coronary artery disease were also explored. Results Plasma Cyclophilin levels were higher in diabetes patients with or without CAD compared to normal subjects (P < 0.001). Age, fasting blood sugar levels and HbA1C levels were positively associated with increased plasma cyclophilin. Patients using metformin had reduced levels of plasma cyclophilin (p < 0.001).Serum levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides had no significant association with plasma cyclophilin levels. In patients with increased serum CRP levels, plasma cyclophilin A was also elevated (p = 0.016). Prevalence odds for DM, DM + CAD and CAD are higher in those with high cyclophilin values, compared to those with lower values, after adjusting for age and sex, indicating strong association of high cyclophilin values with diabetes and vascular disease. Conclusions/interpretations Our study demonstrates that patients with type 2 diabetes have higher circulating levels of cyclophilin A than the normal population. Plasma cyclophilin levels were increased in patients with diabetes and coronary artery disease

Effects of a cinnamon extract on plasma glucose, HbA, and serum lipids in diabetes mellitus type 2.

PubMed

Mang, B; Wolters, M; Schmitt, B; Kelb, K; Lichtinghagen, R; Stichtenoth, D O; Hahn, A

2006-05-01

According to previous studies, cinnamon may have a positive effect on the glycaemic control and the lipid profile in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. The aim of this trial was to determine whether an aqueous cinnamon purified extract improves glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triacylglycerol concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes. A total of 79 patients with diagnosed diabetes mellitus type 2 not on insulin therapy but treated with oral antidiabetics or diet were randomly assigned to take either a cinnamon extract or a placebo capsule three times a day for 4 months in a double-blind study. The amount of aqueous cinnamon extract corresponded to 3 g of cinnamon powder per day. The mean absolute and percentage differences between the pre- and post-intervention fasting plasma glucose level of the cinnamon and placebo groups were significantly different. There was a significantly higher reduction in the cinnamon group (10.3%) than in the placebo group (3.4%). No significant intragroup or intergroup differences were observed regarding HbA1c, lipid profiles or differences between the pre- and postintervention levels of these variables. The decrease in plasma glucose correlated significantly with the baseline concentrations, indicating that subjects with a higher initial plasma glucose level may benefit more from cinnamon intake. No adverse effects were observed. The cinnamon extract seems to have a moderate effect in reducing fasting plasma glucose concentrations in diabetic patients with poor glycaemic control.

Dynamics of apokamp-type atmospheric pressure plasma jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosnin, Eduard A.; Panarin, Victor A.; Skakun, Victor S.; Baksht, Evgeny Kh.; Tarasenko, Victor F.

2017-02-01

The paper describes a new discharge source of atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) in air with no gas supply through the discharge region. In this discharge mode, plasma jets develop from the bending point of a bright current channel between two electrodes and are therefore termed an apokamp (from Greek `off' and `bend'). The apokamp can represent single plasma jets of length up 6 cm or several jets, and the temperature of such jets can range from more than 1000 °C at their base to 100-250 °C at their tip. Apokamps are formed at maximum applied voltage of positive polarity, provided that the second electrode is capacitively decoupled with ground. According to high-speed photography with time resolution from several nanoseconds to several tens of nanoseconds, the apokamp consists of a set of plasma bullets moving with a velocity of 100-220 km/s, which excludes the convective mechanism of plasma decay. Estimates on a 100-ns scale show that the near-electrode zones and the zones from which apokamps develop are close in temperature.

Cold plasma selectivity in the interaction with various types of the cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Volotskova, Olga; Stepp, Mary Ann; Keidar, Michael

2011-10-01

Present research in the area of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) demonstrates great potential in various areas including medicine and biology. Depending on their configuration they can be used for wound healing, sterilization, targeted cell/tissue removal, and cancer treatments. Here we explore potential mechanisms by which CAP alters cell migration and influences cell adhesion. The migration studies are focused on the CAP interaction with fibroblasts and corneal epithelial cells. Data show that various types of cells have different thresholds (treatment times) required to achieve maximum inhibition of cell migration which is around ~30-40%. Studies to assess the impact of CAP treatment on the activation state of integrins and focal adhesion size by immunofluorescence showed more active b1 integrin on the cell surface and large focal adhesions after CAP treatment. Based on these data, a thermodynamic model is presented to explain how CAP leads to integrin activation and focal adhesion assembly. Also responses of the various types of the cells to the cold plasma treatment on the example of the epithelial keratinocytes, papilloma and carcinoma cells are studied. Cell cycle, migration and cell vitality analysis were performed. The goal of this study is to understand the mechanism by which the CAP jet alters cell migration, influences adhesion and cell survival.

An Example of Genetically Distinct HIV Type 1 Variants in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Plasma During Suppressive Therapy

PubMed Central

Dahl, Viktor; Gisslen, Magnus; Hagberg, Lars; Peterson, Julia; Shao, Wei; Spudich, Serena; Price, Richard W.; Palmer, Sarah

2014-01-01

We sequenced the genome of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) recovered from 70 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens and 29 plasma samples and corresponding samples obtained before treatment initiation from 17 subjects receiving suppressive therapy. More CSF sequences than plasma sequences were hypermutants. We determined CSF sequences and plasma sequences in specimens obtained from 2 subjects after treatment initiation. In one subject, we found genetically distinct CSF and plasma sequences, indicating that they came from HIV-1 from 2 different compartments, one potentially the central nervous system, during suppressive therapy. In addition, there was little evidence of viral evolution in the CSF during therapy, suggesting that continuous virus replication is not the major cause of viral persistence in the central nervous system. PMID:24338353

An example of genetically distinct HIV type 1 variants in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma during suppressive therapy.

PubMed

Dahl, Viktor; Gisslen, Magnus; Hagberg, Lars; Peterson, Julia; Shao, Wei; Spudich, Serena; Price, Richard W; Palmer, Sarah

2014-05-15

We sequenced the genome of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) recovered from 70 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens and 29 plasma samples and corresponding samples obtained before treatment initiation from 17 subjects receiving suppressive therapy. More CSF sequences than plasma sequences were hypermutants. We determined CSF sequences and plasma sequences in specimens obtained from 2 subjects after treatment initiation. In one subject, we found genetically distinct CSF and plasma sequences, indicating that they came from HIV-1 from 2 different compartments, one potentially the central nervous system, during suppressive therapy. In addition, there was little evidence of viral evolution in the CSF during therapy, suggesting that continuous virus replication is not the major cause of viral persistence in the central nervous system.

Effects of the addition of blood plasma proteins on physico-chemical properties of emulsion-type pork sausage during cold storage.

PubMed

Kim, Sungho; Jin, Sangkeun; Choi, Jungseok

2017-10-01

Most slaughter blood is discarded, resulting in problems related to costs for wastewater disposal and environmental pollution. However, animal blood contains various proteins such as albumin, globulin and globin and can be used as a natural emulsifier, stabiliser and colour additive. Thus, this study was carried out to investigate the effect of blood plasma proteins on the physico-chemical properties of emulsion-type pork sausages stored at 4°C over 5 weeks. The emulsion-type pork sausages with plasma powders had higher pH than the other treatments during week 5, and higher shear force than the control (P < 0.05). The lightness values of the sausages with plasma powders were lower than the other treatments, whereas the redness and yellowness values were similar with those of the others. The sausages with plasma powders (cattle plasma powder and commercial pig plasma powder) had respectively increased texture properties. In the sensory evaluation, all proteins did not have significant impact on sensory of pork sausages. The results confirmed that plasma protein powders can be considered as a binder for the production of excellent meat products compared to other binders. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Computational model of collisional-radiative nonequilibrium plasma in an air-driven type laser propulsion

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

Ogino, Yousuke; Ohnishi, Naofumi

A thrust power of a gas-driven laser-propulsion system is obtained through interaction with a propellant gas heated by a laser energy. Therefore, understanding the nonequilibrium nature of laser-produced plasma is essential for increasing available thrust force and for improving energy conversion efficiency from a laser to a propellant gas. In this work, a time-dependent collisional-radiative model for air plasma has been developed to study the effects of nonequilibrium atomic and molecular processes on population densities for an air-driven type laser propulsion. Many elementary processes are considered in the number density range of 10{sup 12}/cm{sup 3}<=N<=10{sup 19}/cm{sup 3} and the temperaturemore » range of 300 K<=T<=40,000 K. We then compute the unsteady nature of pulsively heated air plasma. When the ionization relaxation time is the same order as the time scale of a heating pulse, the effects of unsteady ionization are important for estimating air plasma states. From parametric computations, we determine the appropriate conditions for the collisional-radiative steady state, local thermodynamic equilibrium, and corona equilibrium models in that density and temperature range.« less

Comparative characteristics of electron energy spectrum in PIG and arc type discharge plasmas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Romanyuk, L. I.; Suavilnyy, N. Y.

1978-01-01

The electron distribution functions relative to the velocity component directed along the magnetic field are compared for PIG and arc type discharges. The identity of these functions for the plasma region pierced by the primary electron beam and their difference in the peripheral part of the discharge are shown. It is concluded that the electron distribution function in the PIG type discharge is formed during one transit of the primary electron through the discharge gap. The mechanisms of electron energy spectrum formation in both the axis region and the peripheral region of the discharge are discussed.

Diagnostics of ion beam generated from a Mather type plasma focus device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, L. K.; Ngoi, S. K.; Wong, C. S.; Yap, S. L.

2014-03-01

Diagnostics of ion beam emission from a 3 kJ Mather-type plasma focus device have been performed for deuterium discharge at low pressure regime. Deuterium plasma focus was found to be optimum at pressure of 0.2 mbar. The energy spectrum and total number of ions per shot from the pulsed ion beam are determined by using biased ion collectors, Faraday cup, and solid state nuclear track detector CR-39. Average energy of the ion beam obtained is about 60 keV. Total number of the ions has been determined to be in the order of 1011 per shot. Solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTD) CR39 are employed to measure the particles at all angular direction from end on (0°) to side on (90°). Particle tracks are registered by SSNTD at 30° to 90°, except the one at the end-on 0°.

Planetary plasma waves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gurnett, Donald A.

1993-01-01

The primary types of plasma waves observed in the vicinity of the planets Venus, Mars, Earth, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune are described. The observations are organized according to the various types of plasma waves observed, ordered according to decreasing distance from the planet, starting from the sunward side of the planet, and ending in the region near the closest approach. The plasma waves observed include: electron plasma oscillations and ion acoustic waves; trapped continuum radiation; electron cyclotron and upper hybrid waves; whistler-mode emissions; electrostatic ion cyclotron waves; and electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves.

Correlation of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels with metabolic risk markers.

PubMed

Ahued-Ortega, José Armando; León-García, Plácido Enrique; Hernández-Pérez, Elizabeth

2018-04-17

Natriuretic peptide type B (BNP) is a marker of myocardium injury. This peptide has been associated with metabolic risk markers, although controversy exists in this regard. The aim of the present study was to determine the correlation of plasma BNP levels with metabolic risk parameters. A retrospective, observational study that included 152 patients, who were classified according to their clinical diagnosis as patients with metabolic syndrome. Plasma BNP levels and clinical metabolic parameters were assessed by using Spearmańs rank correlation coefficient. A significant inverse association with weight (r=-.408; p<.0001) and BMI (r=-.443; p<.001) was obtained. While a positive significant association with systolic pressure (r=.324; p<.001) was observed. A significant decrease was found in BNP levels and components of metabolic syndrome. (p<.05). Based on the results from this study, we can conclude that BNP determination could be an adequate metabolic marker. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Diagnostics of ion beam generated from a Mather type plasma focus device

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

Lim, L. K., E-mail: yapsl@um.edu.my; Ngoi, S. K., E-mail: yapsl@um.edu.my; Wong, C. S., E-mail: yapsl@um.edu.my

Diagnostics of ion beam emission from a 3 kJ Mather-type plasma focus device have been performed for deuterium discharge at low pressure regime. Deuterium plasma focus was found to be optimum at pressure of 0.2 mbar. The energy spectrum and total number of ions per shot from the pulsed ion beam are determined by using biased ion collectors, Faraday cup, and solid state nuclear track detector CR-39. Average energy of the ion beam obtained is about 60 keV. Total number of the ions has been determined to be in the order of 10{sup 11} per shot. Solid state nuclear trackmore » detectors (SSNTD) CR39 are employed to measure the particles at all angular direction from end on (0°) to side on (90°). Particle tracks are registered by SSNTD at 30° to 90°, except the one at the end-on 0°.« less

Type 2 diabetes associated changes in the plasma non-esterified fatty acids, oxylipins and endocannabinoids

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) has profound effects on metabolism that can be detected in plasma. While increases in circulating non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) are well described in T2D, effects on circulating signaling lipids have received little attention. Oxylipins and endocannabinoids are classes of ...

The effects of alcohol on plasma lipid mediators of inflammation resolution in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Barden, Anne; Shinde, Sujata; Phillips, Michael; Beilin, Lawrence; Mas, Emilie; Hodgson, Jonathan M; Puddey, Ian; Mori, Trevor A

2018-06-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by peripheral insulin resistance and low-grade systemic inflammation. Inflammation resolution is recognised as an important process driven by specialised pro-resolving mediators of inflammation (SPMs) and has the potential to moderate chronic inflammation. Alcohol has the potential to affect synthesis of SPMs by altering key enzymes involved in SPM synthesis and may influence ongoing inflammation associated with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. (i) To examine the effects of alcohol consumed as red wine on plasma SPM in men and women with Type 2 diabetes in a randomised controlled trial and (ii) compare baseline plasma SPM levels in the same patients with those of healthy volunteers. Twenty-four patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomized to a three-period crossover study with men drinking red wine 300 ml/day (∼31 g alcohol/day) and women drinking red wine 230 ml/day (∼24 g alcohol/day), or equivalent volumes of dealcoholized red wine (DRW) or water, each for 4 weeks. The SPM 18-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (18-HEPE), E-series resolvins (Rv) (RvE1-RvE3), 17-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (17-HDHA), and D-series resolvins (RvD1, 17R-RvD1, RvD2, RvD5), 14-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (14-HDHA) and Maresin 1 were measured at the end of each period. A baseline comparison of plasma SPM, hs CRP, lipids and glucose was made with healthy volunteers. Red wine did not differentially affect any of the SPM measured when compared with DRW or water. Baseline levels of the hs-CRP and the SPM 18-HEPE, 17-HDHA, RvD1 and 17R-RvD1 in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus were all significantly elevated compared with healthy controls and remained so after adjusting for age and gender. Moderate alcohol consumption as red wine does not alter plasma SPM in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. The elevation of SPM levels compared with healthy volunteers may be a homeostatic response to counter ongoing inflammation. Copyright © 2018

A Guillemin type E pulse forming network as the driver for a pulsed, high density plasma source.

PubMed

Rathod, Priyavandna J; Anitha, V P; Sholapurwala, Z H; Saxena, Y C

2014-06-01

A Guillemin type E pulse forming network (PFN) has been designed, developed, and tested for its application in generating high density (~1 × 10(18) m(-3)) plasmas. In the present study, plasma thus generated is utilized to investigate the interaction of high power microwaves (HPMs) with plasma in an experimental architecture known as SYMPLE (System for Microwave PLasma Experiment). Plasma discharges of ~100 μs (max) duration are to be produced, by delivering energy of 5 kJ stored in a PFN to the plasma source, a washer gun. The output of the PFN, in terms of its rise time, flat top and amplitude, needs to be tailored, depending on the experimental requirements. An ignitron (NL8900) trigger generator (ITG) is developed in-house to control the PFN discharge through the gun. This ITG is also to be used in a circuit that synchronizes the HPM and plasma shots, to ensure that HPM-plasma interaction takes place during a temporal regime where appropriate parametric conditions are satisfied. Hence it is necessary to retain the jitter within ±2.5 μs. Further, requirement on plasma quiescence (~10%) necessitates maintaining the ripple within 5%. The developmental work of the PFN, keeping in view the above criteria and the test results, is presented in this paper. The parameters of the PFN have been analytically approximated and verified with PSPICE simulation. The test results presented include rise time ~5-8 μs, flat top variable in the range 20-100 μs, ripple within ~1.5%, and jitter within ±2.5 μs, producing quiescent (<10%) plasma discharge meeting the experimental requirements.

Activation of platelet-rich plasma using soluble type I collagen.

PubMed

Fufa, Duretti; Shealy, Blake; Jacobson, May; Kevy, Sherwin; Murray, Martha M

2008-04-01

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has recently been found to be a useful delivery system for growth factors important to oral tissue healing. But application of PRP in a liquid form to a wound site within the oral cavity can be complicated by significant loss of the PRP into the surrounding oral space unless gelation through the clotting mechanism is accomplished. Gelation is currently accomplished using bovine thrombin; however, rare but serious complications of this method have led to the search for alternative clotting mechanisms, including the use of soluble collagen as a clotting activator. In this work, our hypothesis was that soluble type I collagen would be as effective as bovine thrombin in causing clotting of the PRP and stimulating growth factor release from the platelets and granulocytes. PRP from human donors was clotted using type I collagen or bovine thrombin. Clot retraction was determined by measuring clot diameters over time. The release of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AB, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from both types of clots was measured over 10 days using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assasy. Clots formed using type I collagen exhibited far less retraction than those formed with bovine thrombin. Bovine thrombin and type I collagen stimulated similar release of PDGF-AB and VEGF between 1 and 10 days; however, thrombin activation resulted in a greater release of TGF-beta1 during the first 5 days after activation. The use of type I collagen to activate clotting of PRP may be a safe and effective alternative to bovine thrombin. The use of collagen results in less clot retraction and equal release of PDGF-AB and VEGF compared with currently available methods of clot activation.

ACTIVATION OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA USING SOLUBLE TYPE I COLLAGEN

PubMed Central

Fufa, Duretti; Shealy, Blake; Jacobson, May; Kevy, Sherwin; Murray, Martha M.

2008-01-01

PURPOSE Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has recently been found to be a useful delivery system for growth factors important in oral tissue healing. However, application of PRP in a liquid form to a wound site within the oral cavity can be complicated by significant loss of the PRP into the surrounding oral space unless gelation via the clotting mechanism is accomplished. Gelation is currently accomplished using bovine thrombin; however, rare but serious complications of this method have led to the search for alternative clotting mechanisms, including the use of soluble collagen as a clotting activator. In this paper, our hypothesis was that soluble Type I collagen would be as effective as bovine thrombin in causing clotting of the PRP and of stimulating growth factor release from the platelets and granulocytes. MATERIALS AND METHODS PRP from human donors was clotted using Type I collagen or bovine thrombin. Clot retraction was determined by measuring clot diameters over time. The release of PDGF-AB, TGF-β1 and VEGF from both types of clots was measured over 10 days using ELISA. RESULTS Clots formed using Type I collagen had far less retraction than those formed with bovine thrombin. Bovine thrombin and Type I collagen stimulated similar release of PDGF-AB and VEGF between 1 and 10 days; however, thrombin activation resulted in a greater release of TGF-β1 during the first five days after activation. CONCLUSIONS The use of Type I collagen to activate clotting of PRP may be a safe and effective alternative to bovine thrombin. The use of collagen results in less clot retraction and equal release of PDGF-AB and VEGF when compared to currently available methods of clot activation. PMID:18355591

Improving in the fasting, but not the postprandial, glucose level is associated with reduction of plasma d-ROMs level in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Ohara, Makoto; Watanabe, Kentaro; Suzuki, Tatsuya; Sekimizu, Ken-ichi; Motoyama, Masayuki; Ishii, Kazuhito; Sawai, Keisuke; Nakano, Hiroshi; Oba, Kenzo; Mizuno, Kyoichi

2013-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between improvement of glucose metabolism and plasma levels of diacron-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) in patients with type 2 diabetes. As the first daily profile, the plasma levels of glucose and d-ROMs were determined on admission. Then, after treatment to lower plasma glucose levels, the second daily profile of these levels was evaluated. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), the total area under the curve (AUC) of the daily plasma glucose profile (AUCDP), the AUC of the postprandial plasma glucose levels (AUCPP), the AUC of the daily plasma d-ROMs profile (AUCd-ROMs), the coefficient of variation (CV) of plasma glucose (CVPG), and the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE) were calculated. The relationship between the improvement of glucose metabolism and that of oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes was evaluated. The second determinations of FPG, AUCDP, AUCPP, MAGE, and AUCd-ROMs were significantly lower than those of the first determinations, but no significant difference was observed in CVPG. Linear regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between the changes in AUCd-ROMs and the changes in both FPG and AUCDP, whereas no significant association was observed between the change in AUCd-ROMs and the change in AUCPP, CVPG, or MAGE. This study has demonstrated that improvement of the FPG level, but not of the postprandial glucose level, is associated with a reduction of the plasma level of d-ROMs in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide concentration in beta-thalassaemia patients.

PubMed

Aessopos, Athanasios; Farmakis, Dimitrios; Polonifi, Aikaterini; Tsironi, Maria; Fragodimitri, Christina; Hatziliami, Antonia; Karagiorga, Markisia; Diamanti-Kandarakis, Evanthia

2007-05-01

Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentration has significant diagnostic accuracy and prognostic value in various forms of heart disease. Whether BNP is also useful in the evaluation and management of thalassaemia heart disease remains to be determined. Eighty three thalassaemia major patients; 8 with acutely decompensated heart failure (New York Heart Association [NYHA] class III or IV, group A), 25 with NYHA class II symptoms and impaired systolic left ventricular function (ejection fraction<55% or fractional shortening<30%, group B) and 50 with normal systolic function (group C), as well as 50 healthy controls, were studied. Assessment included history, physical examination, Doppler echocardiography and plasma BNP determination. Mean BNP levels were 431+/-219 pg/mL (range, 283-890 pg/mL) in group A, 158+/-31 pg/mL in group B, 176+/-54 pg/mL in group C and 43+/-24 pg/mL in controls. BNP levels were significantly higher in group A (p<0.001), but did not differ between groups B and C. Moreover, BNP was not correlated with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular mass, right ventricular diameter index, Doppler diastolic indexes (except in group C), the mean 2-year serum ferritin concentration or the peak serum ferritin concentration in any of the three patient groups. A potential deficiency of BNP-related neurohormonal mechanisms may impair its clinical usefulness in thalassaemia major.

Review on plasmas in extraordinary media: plasmas in cryogenic conditions and plasmas in supercritical fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stauss, Sven; Muneoka, Hitoshi; Terashima, Kazuo

2018-02-01

Plasma science and technology has enabled advances in very diverse fields: micro- and nanotechnology, chemical synthesis, materials fabrication and, more recently, biotechnology and medicine. While many of the currently employed plasma tools and technologies are very advanced, the types of plasmas used in micro- and nanofabrication pose certain limits, for example, in treating heat-sensitive materials in plasma biotechnology and plasma medicine. Moreover, many physical properties of plasmas encountered in nature, and especially outer space, i.e. very-low-temperature plasmas or plasmas that occur in high-density media, are not very well understood. The present review gives a short account of laboratory plasmas generated under ’extreme’ conditions: at cryogenic temperatures and in supercritical fluids. The fundamental characteristics of these cryogenic plasmas and cryoplasmas, and plasmas in supercritical fluids, especially supercritical fluid plasmas, are presented with their main applications. The research on such exotic plasmas is expected to lead to further understanding of plasma physics and, at the same time, enable new applications in various technological fields.

Development of a Split Bitter-type Magnet System for Dusty Plasma Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bates, Evan; Romero-Talamas, Carlos A.; Birmingham, William J.; Rivera, William F.

2014-10-01

A 10 Tesla Bitter-type magnetic system is under development at the Dusty Plasma Laboratory of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). We present here an optimization technique that uses differential evolution to minimize the omhic heating produced by the coils, while constraining the magnetic field in the experimental volume. The code gives us the optimal dimensions for the coil system including: coil length, turn thickness, disks radii, resistance, and total current required for a constant magnetic field. Finite element parametric optimization is then used to establish the optimal design for water cooling holes. Placement of the cooling holes will also take into consideration the magnetic forces acting on the copper alloy disks to ensure the material strength is not compromised during operation. The proposed power and cooling water delivery subsystems for the coils are also presented. Upon completion and testing of the magnet system, planned experiments include the propagation of magnetized waves in dusty plasma crystals under various boundary conditions, and viscosity in rotational shear flow, among others.

Hyperglucagonemia correlates with plasma levels of non-branched-chain amino acids in patients with liver disease independent of type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Wewer Albrechtsen, Nicolai J; Junker, Anders E; Christensen, Mette; Hædersdal, Sofie; Wibrand, Flemming; Lund, Allan M; Galsgaard, Katrine D; Holst, Jens J; Knop, Filip K; Vilsbøll, Tina

2018-01-01

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) frequently exhibit elevated plasma concentrations of glucagon (hyperglucagonemia). Hyperglucagonemia and α-cell hyperplasia may result from elevated levels of plasma amino acids when glucagon's action on hepatic amino acid metabolism is disrupted. We therefore measured plasma levels of glucagon and individual amino acids in patients with and without biopsy-verified NAFLD and with and without type T2D. Fasting levels of amino acids and glucagon in plasma were measured, using validated ELISAs and high-performance liquid chromatography, in obese, middle-aged individuals with I) normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and NAFLD, II) T2D and NAFLD, III) T2D without liver disease, and IV) NGT and no liver disease. Elevated levels of total amino acids were observed in participants with NAFLD and NGT compared with NGT controls (1,310 ± 235 µM vs. 937 ± 281 µM, P = 0.03) and in T2D and NAFLD compared with T2D without liver disease (1,354 ± 329 µM vs. 511 ± 235 µM, P < 0.0001). Particularly amino acids with known glucagonotropic effects (e.g., glutamine) were increased. Plasma levels of total amino acids correlated to plasma levels of glucagon also when adjusting for body mass index (BMI), glycated hemoglobin (Hb A1c ), and cholesterol levels (β = 0.013 ± 0.007, P = 0.024). Elevated plasma levels of total amino acids associate with hyperglucagonemia in NAFLD patients independently of glycemic control, BMI or cholesterol - supporting the potential importance of a "liver-α-cell axis" in which glucagon regulates hepatic amino acid metabolism. Fasting hyperglucagonemia as seen in T2D may therefore represent impaired hepatic glucagon action with increasing amino acids levels. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Hypersecretion of glucagon (hyperglucagonemia) has been suggested to be linked to type 2 diabetes. Here, we show that levels of amino acids correlate with levels of

Regular walking improves plasma protein concentrations that promote blood hyperviscosity in women 65-74 yr with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Simmonds, Michael J; Sabapathy, Surendran; Serre, Kevin R; Haseler, Luke J; Gass, Gregory C; Marshall-Gradisnik, Sonya M; Minahan, Clare L

2016-11-25

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of regular treadmill walking on plasma factors that increase low-shear blood viscosity and red blood cell aggregation in older women with type 2 diabetes. Eighteen women with type 2 diabetes (age: 69±3 yr; body mass index: 30.5±5.0 kg⋅m-2) performed 12-wk of 120 min⋅wk-1 of supervised treadmill walking at an intensity equivalent to the gas-exchange threshold. Peak exercise values, anthropometry and blood indices of diabetic status, markers of inflammation, and plasma fibrinogen were analysed during a 6-wk pre-training 'control' period, and then after 6 and 12-wk of regular walking. Regular walking significantly increased peak oxygen uptake (p = 0.01). Body mass, waist to hip ratio, and glycaemic control did not change. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures decreased by 8.5% (p < 0.01) and 7.2% (p < 0.01) respectively, cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio decreased by 9.6% (p = 0.01), and HDL concentration significantly increased (p = 0.01). While 12 wk of regular walking did not significantly alter plasma concentrations of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-α, or C-reactive protein, plasma fibrinogen concentration decreased by 6.9% (p < 0.01) and plasma interleukin-10 (IL-10) concentration increased from 1.15±0.32 to 1.62±0.22 mmol⋅L-1 (p < 0.04). Improved plasma inflammatory profile and decreased plasma fibrinogen concentration is induced by regular walking, independent of glycaemic control. These factors may mediate the improved haemorheology associated with exercise training in metabolic disorders.

Effects of gas temperature in the plasma layer on RONS generation in array-type dielectric barrier discharge at atmospheric pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Sung-Young; Yi, Changho; Eom, Sangheum; Park, Seungil; Kim, Seong Bong; Ryu, Seungmin; Yoo, Suk Jae

2017-12-01

In this work, we studied the control of plasma-produced species under a fixed gas composition (i.e., ambient air) in a 10 kHz-driven array-type dielectric barrier atmospheric-pressure plasma discharge. Instead of the gas composition, only the gas velocity was controlled. Thus, the plasma-maintenance cost was considerably lower than methods such as external N2 or O2 injection. The plasma-produced species were monitored using Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy. The discharge properties were measured using a voltage probe, current probe, infrared camera, and optical emission spectroscopy. The results showed that the major plasma products largely depend on the gas temperature in the plasma discharge layer. The gas temperature in the plasma discharge layer was significantly different to the temperature of the ceramic adjacent to the plasma discharge layer, even in the small discharge power density of ˜15 W/cm2 or ˜100 W/cm3. Because the vibrational excitation of N2 was suppressed by the higher gas flow, the major plasma-produced species shifted from NOx in low flow to O3 in high flow.

Post-partum plasma C-peptide and ghrelin concentrations are predictive of type 2 diabetes in women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Lappas, Martha; Jinks, Debra; Ugoni, Antony; Louizos, Connie C J; Permezel, Michael; Georgiou, Harry M

2015-07-01

Women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus (pGDM) are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. The aim of this study was to determine if circulating levels of metabolic hormones 12 weeks following a GDM pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes 8-10 years later. Fasting plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, C-peptide, ghrelin, GIP, GLP-1, glucagon, leptin, PAI-1, resistin and visfatin were measured in 98 normal glucose tolerant women, 12 weeks following an index GDM pregnancy. Women were assessed every 2 years for up to 10 years for development of overt type 2 diabetes. After a median follow-up period of 8.7 years, 22.5% of women with a pGDM pregnancy developed type 2 diabetes. Significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes were fasting plasma glucose levels >5 mmol/L during pregnancy and at 12 weeks post-pregnancy. In addition, higher C-peptide levels and lower ghrelin levels at 12 weeks post-pregnancy were also significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes. Fasting plasma glucose during pregnancy and post-partum, and post-partum C-peptide and ghrelin levels were significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes in women with pGDM. This is the first report that identifies C-peptide and ghrelin as potential biomarkers for the prediction of type 2 diabetes in women with a history of GDM. © 2014 Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

A New Type of Plasma Wakefield Accelerator Driven By Magnetowaves

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

Chen, Pisin; /KIPAC, Menlo Park /Taiwan, Natl. Taiwan U.; Chang, Feng-Yin

2011-09-12

We present a new concept for a plasma wakefield accelerator driven by magnetowaves (MPWA). This concept was originally proposed as a viable mechanism for the 'cosmic accelerator' that would accelerate cosmic particles to ultra-high energies in the astrophysical setting. Unlike the more familiar plasma wakefield accelerator (PWFA) and the laser wakefield accelerator (LWFA) where the drivers, the charged-particle beam and the laser, are independently existing entities, MPWA invokes the high-frequency and high-speed whistler mode as the driver, which is a medium wave that cannot exist outside of the plasma. Aside from the difference in drivers, the underlying mechanism that excitesmore » the plasma wakefield via the ponderomotive potential is common. Our computer simulations show that under appropriate conditions, the plasma wakefield maintains very high coherence and can sustain high-gradient acceleration over many plasma wavelengths. We suggest that in addition to its celestial application, the MPWA concept can also be of terrestrial utility. A proof-of-principle experiment on MPWA would benefit both terrestrial and celestial accelerator concepts.« less

Dietary Japanese millet protein ameliorates plasma levels of adiponectin, glucose, and lipids in type 2 diabetic mice.

PubMed

Nishizawa, Naoyuki; Togawa, Tubasa; Park, Kyung-Ok; Sato, Daiki; Miyakoshi, Yo; Inagaki, Kazuya; Ohmori, Norimasa; Ito, Yoshiaki; Nagasawa, Takashi

2009-02-01

Millet is an important food crop in Asia and Africa, but the health benefits of dietary millet are little known. This study defined the effects of dietary Japanese millet on diabetic mice. Feeding of a high-fat diet containing Japanese millet protein concentrate (JMP, 20% protein) to type 2 diabetic mice for 3 weeks significantly increased plasma levels of adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL cholesterol) and decreased the levels of glucose and triglyceride as compared to control. The starch fraction of Japanese millet had no effect on glucose or adiponectin levels, but the prolamin fraction beneficially modulated plasma glucose and insulin concentrations as well as adiponectin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha gene expression. Considering the physiological significance of adiponectin and HDL cholesterol levels in type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease, our findings imply that dietary JMP has the potential to ameliorate these diseases.

Role of plasma electrons in the generation of a gas discharge plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gruzdev, V. A.; Zalesski, V. G.; Rusetski, I. S.

2012-12-01

The role of different ionization mechanisms in penning-type gas discharges used to generate an emitting plasma in plasma electron sources is considered. It is shown that, under certain conditions, a substantial contribution to the process of gas ionization is provided by plasma electrons.

Concordance of Changes in Metabolic Pathways Based on Plasma Metabolomics and Skeletal Muscle Transcriptomics in Type 1 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Dutta, Tumpa; Chai, High Seng; Ward, Lawrence E.; Ghosh, Aditya; Persson, Xuan-Mai T.; Ford, G. Charles; Kudva, Yogish C.; Sun, Zhifu; Asmann, Yan W.; Kocher, Jean-Pierre A.; Nair, K. Sreekumaran

2012-01-01

Insulin regulates many cellular processes, but the full impact of insulin deficiency on cellular functions remains to be defined. Applying a mass spectrometry–based nontargeted metabolomics approach, we report here alterations of 330 plasma metabolites representing 33 metabolic pathways during an 8-h insulin deprivation in type 1 diabetic individuals. These pathways included those known to be affected by insulin such as glucose, amino acid and lipid metabolism, Krebs cycle, and immune responses and those hitherto unknown to be altered including prostaglandin, arachidonic acid, leukotrienes, neurotransmitters, nucleotides, and anti-inflammatory responses. A significant concordance of metabolome and skeletal muscle transcriptome–based pathways supports an assumption that plasma metabolites are chemical fingerprints of cellular events. Although insulin treatment normalized plasma glucose and many other metabolites, there were 71 metabolites and 24 pathways that differed between nondiabetes and insulin-treated type 1 diabetes. Confirmation of many known pathways altered by insulin using a single blood test offers confidence in the current approach. Future research needs to be focused on newly discovered pathways affected by insulin deficiency and systemic insulin treatment to determine whether they contribute to the high morbidity and mortality in T1D despite insulin treatment. PMID:22415876

Inverse Association of Plasma Chromium Levels with Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes: A Case-Control Study

PubMed Central

Chen, Sijing; Jin, Xiaoling; Shan, Zhilei; Li, Shuzhen; Yin, Jiawei; Sun, Taoping; Luo, Cheng; Yang, Wei; Yao, Ping; Yu, Kaifeng; Zhang, Yan; Cheng, Qian; Cheng, Jinquan; Bao, Wei; Liu, Liegang

2017-01-01

Chromium has long been known as an enhancer of insulin action. However, the role of chromium in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in humans remains controversial. The current study aimed to examine the associations of plasma chromium levels with T2DM and pre-diabetes mellitus (pre-DM). We conducted a case-control study involving 1471 patients with newly diagnosed T2DM, 682 individuals with newly diagnosed pre-DM, and 2290 individuals with normal glucose tolerance in a Chinese population from 2009 to 2014. Plasma chromium was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Plasma chromium levels were lower in the T2DM and pre-DM groups than in the control group (median: 3.68 μg/L, 3.61 μg/L, 3.97 μg/L, respectively, p < 0.001). After adjustment for potential confounding factors, the odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for T2DM across increasing quartiles of plasma chromium levels were 1 (referent), 0.67 (0.55–0.83), 0.64 (0.51–0.79), and 0.58 (0.46–0.73), respectively (p for trend <0.001). The corresponding odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for pre-DM were 1 (referent), 0.70 (0.54–0.91), 0.67 (0.52–0.88), and 0.58 (0.43–0.78), respectively (p for trend < 0.001). Our results indicated that plasma chromium concentrations were inversely associated with T2DM and pre-DM in Chinese adults. PMID:28304331

Inverse Association of Plasma Chromium Levels with Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes: A Case-Control Study.

PubMed

Chen, Sijing; Jin, Xiaoling; Shan, Zhilei; Li, Shuzhen; Yin, Jiawei; Sun, Taoping; Luo, Cheng; Yang, Wei; Yao, Ping; Yu, Kaifeng; Zhang, Yan; Cheng, Qian; Cheng, Jinquan; Bao, Wei; Liu, Liegang

2017-03-17

Chromium has long been known as an enhancer of insulin action. However, the role of chromium in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in humans remains controversial. The current study aimed to examine the associations of plasma chromium levels with T2DM and pre-diabetes mellitus (pre-DM). We conducted a case-control study involving 1471 patients with newly diagnosed T2DM, 682 individuals with newly diagnosed pre-DM, and 2290 individuals with normal glucose tolerance in a Chinese population from 2009 to 2014. Plasma chromium was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Plasma chromium levels were lower in the T2DM and pre-DM groups than in the control group (median: 3.68 μg/L, 3.61 μg/L, 3.97 μg/L, respectively, p < 0.001). After adjustment for potential confounding factors, the odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for T2DM across increasing quartiles of plasma chromium levels were 1 (referent), 0.67 (0.55-0.83), 0.64 (0.51-0.79), and 0.58 (0.46-0.73), respectively ( p for trend <0.001). The corresponding odds ratios (95% confidence interval) for pre-DM were 1 (referent), 0.70 (0.54-0.91), 0.67 (0.52-0.88), and 0.58 (0.43-0.78), respectively ( p for trend < 0.001). Our results indicated that plasma chromium concentrations were inversely associated with T2DM and pre-DM in Chinese adults.

Association of Plasma Ghrelin Levels with Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Saudi Subjects

PubMed Central

Al Qarni, Ali Ahmed; Joatar, Faris Elbahi; Das, Nagalla; Awad, Mohamed; Eltayeb, Mona; Al-Zubair, Ahmed Gasim; Ali, Muhalab E.; Al Masaud, Abdulaziz; Shire, Abdirashid M.; Gumaa, Khalid

2017-01-01

Background Although the exact mechanism of insulin resistance (IR) has not yet been established, IR is the hallmark characteristic of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between plasma ghrelin levels and IR in Saudi subjects with T2DM. Methods Patients with T2DM (n=107, cases) and non-diabetic apparently healthy subjects (n=101, controls) from Saudi Arabia were included in this study. The biochemical profiles and plasma insulin levels of all subjects were analyzed, and IR was estimated using the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index. Active ghrelin levels in plasma were measured using the radioimmunoassay technique. Results Only 46.7% (50 of 107) of the T2DM subjects had IR, including 26% (28 of 107) with severe IR (HOMA-IR ≥5), while 5.9% (six of 101) of the controls had moderate IR (3 ≤HOMA-IR <5). HOMA-IR values were not associated with age, disease duration, or gender. Importantly, T2DM itself and the co-occurrence of IR with T2DM were significantly associated with low plasma ghrelin levels. However, ghrelin levels were inversely correlated with the HOMA-IR index, body weight, and fasting plasma insulin levels, mainly in the control subjects, which was indicative of the breakdown of metabolic homeostasis in T2DM. Conclusion The prevalence of IR was relatively low, and IR may be inversely associated with plasma ghrelin levels among Saudi patients with T2DM. PMID:28555463

Blood plasma apolipoproteins A-I and B in different types of hyperlipoproteinaemia: comparative analysis of population groups in Moscow and Prague.

PubMed

Metel'skaya, V A; Ceska, R; Perova, N V; Sobra, J

1988-01-01

The level of blood plasma apolipoproteins A-I and B was studied in Moscow and Prague residents with different types of hyperlipoproteinaemia (HLP). The analysis proceeded in two directions. On the one hand, lipoprotein (LP) spectra in residents of both cities with the same type of LP disturbance (HLP type IIa, IIb or IV) were compared; in Prague lipid and apolipoprotein content was compared in inhabitants with a normal lipid level and those with HLP types I, III and V. The analysis showed that inhabitants of Prague with types II and IV HLP have a higher concentrations of high density LP cholesterol. At the same time, it was found that the apolipoprotein profile of blood plasma LP in HLP patients was similar to that in patients living elsewhere. The authors regard comparative study of LP system disturbances in residents of different cities and countries differing in their geographical, ethnic and ecological conditions as a promising approach to understanding the mechanisms responsible for the development of HLP.

Low-Temperature Plasma Coating for Aluminum

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-03-01

AFRL-ML-WP-TR-2001-4104 LOW-TEMPERATURE PLASMA COATING FOR ALUMINUM DR. HIROTSUGU YASUDA CENTER FOR SURFACE SCIENCE & PLASMA TECHNOLOGY...Date 00032001 Report Type N/A Dates Covered (from... to) - Title and Subtitle Low-Temperature Plasma Coating for Aluminum Contract Number...REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED Final, 6/29/1996 - 3/31/2001 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE LOW-TEMPERATURE PLASMA COATING FOR ALUMINUM 5. FUNDING NUMBERS C

Fasting plasma levels of nesfatin-1 in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus and the nutrient-related fluctuation of nesfatin-1 level in normal humans.

PubMed

Li, Qing-Chun; Wang, Hai-Yan; Chen, Xi; Guan, Hong-Zai; Jiang, Zheng-Yao

2010-01-08

The novel satiety factor nesfatin-1 has been shown to decrease food intake and body weight in rodents after i.c.v. injection. However, no further developments regarding the true patho-physiological relevance of nesfatin-1 in obesity and type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1 DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2 DM) have been reported. A recent study by Stengel et al. demonstrated that a down-regulation of NUCB2 mRNA in gastric endocrine cells was observed after 24-h fasting. They raised the possibility that nesfatin/NUCB2 gene expression may be regulated by nutritional status, suggesting that nesfatin-1 in the stomach might play a role in satiety. In the present study, fasting levels in plasma nesfatin-1, insulin and glucose were measured and analyzed in healthy subjects and in patients with T1 DM and T2 DM. Plasma nesfatin-1 levels were measured 6 times before and after oral glucose ingestion in healthy subjects. No sex differences in plasma nesfatin-1 were found. The mean fasting plasma nesfatin-1 levels were slightly but not significantly higher in T1 DM patients compared to healthy subjects. However, fasting plasma nesfatin-1 levels were significantly lower in T2 DM patients compared to healthy subjects and T1 DM patients. Plasma nesfatin-1 did not change acutely, although a small rise in circulating nesfatin-1 occurred within 30 min after the beginning of an oral glucose ingestion (from a mean basal value of 0.99+/-0.23 ng/ml to a maximum of 1.08+/-0.24 ng/ml). No significant difference in plasma nesfatin-1 before and after an oral glucose was observed. In conclusion, we showed that fasting nesfatin-1 was significantly lower in T2 DM patients compared to healthy subjects and T1 DM patients. The significance of this result is unclear but the reduction in fasting nesfatin-1 may be one of the appetite-related hormones involved in diabetic hyperphagia. In addition, neither glucose nor saline ingestions affected plasma nesfatin-1, suggesting that gastric chemosensation is

Copeptin Plasma Levels are Associated With Decline of Renal Function in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

PubMed

Villela-Torres, Maria De La Luz; Higareda-Mendoza, Ana Edith; Gómez-García, Anel; Alvarez-Paredes, Alfonso Rafael; García-López, Elvia; Stenvikel, Peter; Gu, Harvest F; Rashid-Qureshi, Abbul; Lindholm, Bengt; Alvarez-Aguilar, Cleto

2018-04-14

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a leading complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and is considered as a public health problem. Copeptin is a surrogate marker of arginine vasopressin (AVP) system and is proposed as a biomarker of decline renal function. Evaluate whether plasma copeptin levels may be used as a biomarker of decline renal function in patients with T2DM. A total of 480 patients with T2DM and different stages of CKD were included. Plasma levels of copeptin, cystatin-C, and other biochemical parameters were measured. The correlation between copeptin and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), estimated based on plasma cystatin-C levels, was investigated. Plasma copeptin levels were gradually increased from the stage 1-5 of CKD in the patients with T2DM. In univariate linear regression analysis, high plasma levels of copeptin were associated with lower GFR (Standardized β = -0.535, R 2  = 0.287, p <0.0001). This association remained significant even after being adjusted for glucose levels and years of T2DM diagnosis, mean blood pressure, pharmacological treatment, gender, and age. The results show that high plasma copeptin levels are associated with the decline of renal function in patients with T2DM and, therefore, copeptin may be considered as a biomarker of renal function. Further evaluation of plasma copeptin levels to predict morbidity and mortality of T2DM patients, with or without CKD, has been taken into our consideration. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

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

Pestehe, S. J., E-mail: sjpest@tabrizu.ac.ir; Mohammadnejad, M.; Research Institute for Applied Physics and Astronomy, University of Tabriz, Tabriz

A theoretical model is developed to study the signals from a typical dynamic Faraday cup, and using this model the output signals from this structure are obtained. A detailed discussion on the signal structure, using different experimental conditions, is also given. It is argued that there is a possibility of determining the total charge of the generated ion pulse, the maximum velocity of the ions, ion velocity distribution, and the number of ion species for mixed working gases, under certain conditions. In addition, the number of different ionization stages, the number of different pinches in one shot, and the numbermore » of different existing acceleration mechanisms can also be determined provided that the mentioned conditions being satisfied. An experiment is carried out on the Filippov type 90 kJ Sahand plasma focus using Ar as the working gas at the pressure of 0.25 Torr. The data from a typical shot are fitted to a signal from the model and the total charge of the related energetic ion pulse is deduced using the values of the obtained fit parameters. Good agreement between the obtained amount of the total charge and the values obtained during other experiments on the same plasma focus device is observed.« less

Study of discrete-particle effects in a one-dimensional plasma simulation with the Krook type collision model

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

Lai, Po-Yen; Chen, Liu; Institute for Fusion Theory and Simulation, Zhejiang University, 310027 Hangzhou

2015-09-15

The thermal relaxation time of a one-dimensional plasma has been demonstrated to scale with N{sub D}{sup 2} due to discrete particle effects by collisionless particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations, where N{sub D} is the particle number in a Debye length. The N{sub D}{sup 2} scaling is consistent with the theoretical analysis based on the Balescu-Lenard-Landau kinetic equation. However, it was found that the thermal relaxation time is anomalously shortened to scale with N{sub D} while externally introducing the Krook type collision model in the one-dimensional electrostatic PIC simulation. In order to understand the discrete particle effects enhanced by the Krook type collisionmore » model, the superposition principle of dressed test particles was applied to derive the modified Balescu-Lenard-Landau kinetic equation. The theoretical results are shown to be in good agreement with the simulation results when the collisional effects dominate the plasma system.« less

Formation of Nitrogen Oxides in an Apokamp-Type Plasma Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosnin, É. A.; Goltsova, P. A.; Panarin, V. A.; Skakun, V. S.; Tarasenko, V. F.; Didenko, M. V.

2017-08-01

Using optical and chemical processes, the composition of the products of decay of the atmospheric-pressure non-equilibrium plasma is determined in a pulsed, high-voltage discharge in the modes of apokampic and corona discharges. It is shown that the products of decay primarily contain nitrogen oxides NO x, and in the mode of the corona discharge - ozone. Potential applications of this source of plasma are discussed with respect to plasma processing of the seeds of agricultural crops.

Aortic arch calcification detectable on chest X-ray films is associated with plasma diacron-reactive oxygen metabolites in patients with type 2 diabetes but without cardiovascular disease.

PubMed

Watanabe, Kentaro; Ohara, Makoto; Suzuki, Tatsuya; Ouchi, Motoshi; Suzuki, Kazunari; Hashimoto, Masao; Saigusa, Taro; Aoyama, Junya; Nakano, Hiroshi; Oba, Kenzo

2013-01-01

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between aortic arch calcification (AAC) detectable on chest X-ray films and plasma diacron-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) in patients with type 2 diabetes but without cardiovascular disease. Forty-nine patients with type 2 diabetes but without cardiovascular disease were evaluated with chest X-ray examinations and divided into those with AAC (n=26) and those without AAC (n=23). Biochemical variables, including plasma levels of d-ROMS, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), were evaluated after an overnight fast. The relationships of AAC with both inflammation and oxidative-stress variables were evaluated. The plasma level of d-ROMs in subjects with AAC was significantly higher than that in subjects without AAC, whereas plasma levels of hsCRP, PAI-1, and Lp(a) in subjects with AAC were higher, but not significantly so, than those in subjects without AAC. Multivariate linear regression analysis with AAC grade as the dependent variable and plasma levels of d-ROMs, hsCRP, PAI-1, or Lp(a) as independent variables demonstrated a significant association of AAC grade with plasma levels of d-ROMs but not with plasma levels of hsCRP, PAI-1, or Lp(a). The plasma level of d-ROMs is associated with AAC in patients with type 2 diabetes but without cardiovascular disease. Hence, the results of the present study suggest that AAC in these patients is strongly associated with oxidative stress. Furthermore, patients with type 2 diabetes and AAC may be at high risk for the development and progression of various diabetic complications induced by oxidative stress.

Global parameter optimization of a Mather-type plasma focus in the framework of the Gratton-Vargas two-dimensional snowplow model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Auluck, S. K. H.

2014-12-01

Dense plasma focus (DPF) is known to produce highly energetic ions, electrons and plasma environment which can be used for breeding short-lived isotopes, plasma nanotechnology and other material processing applications. Commercial utilization of DPF in such areas would need a design tool that can be deployed in an automatic search for the best possible device configuration for a given application. The recently revisited (Auluck 2013 Phys. Plasmas 20 112501) Gratton-Vargas (GV) two-dimensional analytical snowplow model of plasma focus provides a numerical formula for dynamic inductance of a Mather-type plasma focus fitted to thousands of automated computations, which enables the construction of such a design tool. This inductance formula is utilized in the present work to explore global optimization, based on first-principles optimality criteria, in a four-dimensional parameter-subspace of the zero-resistance GV model. The optimization process is shown to reproduce the empirically observed constancy of the drive parameter over eight decades in capacitor bank energy. The optimized geometry of plasma focus normalized to the anode radius is shown to be independent of voltage, while the optimized anode radius is shown to be related to capacitor bank inductance.

Design of a 500-kJ Mather-type plasma focus device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heidarnia, A.; Sadighzadeh, A.; Zaeem, A. A.; Damideh, V.

2016-12-01

In this article, design of a 500-kJ Mather-type plasma focus device to achieve 1011 neutrons/shot is reported. One of its important characteristics is the triple-part anode design. The anode is surrounded by an alumina insulator. The second part of the anode is changeable in order to locate cylindrical, conical, or other shapes of pieces mounted on it. This geometry leads to the easier investigation of the neutron and X-ray emissions of the device. The third part of the anode is for changing the materials exposed to different kinds of radiations. The design parameters are considered by semiempirical and empirical formulas and are sketched by Solidworks software. Also, the peak current and neutron yield are estimated.

Relationships Among Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and Plasma Cytokines in African American Women.

PubMed

Denis, Gerald V; Sebastiani, Paola; Andrieu, Guillaume; Tran, Anna H; Strissel, Katherine J; Lombardi, Frank L; Palmer, Julie R

2017-11-01

The principal objective of this investigation was to identify novel cytokine associations with BMI and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Cytokines were profiled from African American women with obesity who donated plasma to the Komen Tissue Bank. Multiplex bead arrays of analytes were used to quantify 88 cytokines and chemokines in association with clinical diagnoses of metabolic health. Regression models were generated after elimination of outliers. Among women with obesity, T2D was associated with breast adipocyte hypertrophy and with six plasma analytes, including four chemokines (chemokine [C-C motif] ligand 2, chemokine [C-C motif] ligand 16, chemokine [C-X-C motif] ligand 1, and chemokine [C-X-C motif] ligand 16) and two growth factors (interleukin 2 and epidermal growth factor). In addition, three analytes were associated with obesity independently of diabetes: interleukin 4, soluble CD40 ligand, and chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 3. Profiling of inflammatory cytokines combined with measures of BMI may produce a more personalized risk assessment for obesity-associated disease in African American women. © 2017 The Obesity Society.

Plasma triglyceride determination can identify increased risk of statin-induced type 2 diabetes: a hypothesis.

PubMed

Armato, J; Ruby, R; Reaven, G

2015-04-01

To evaluate the ability of plasma triglyceride (TG) measurements to identify statin-treated persons at accentuated risk of statin-induced type 2 diabetes (T2DM). The experimental population consisted of nondiabetic, statin-treated patients (n = 469), classified as being at high risk for T2DM, subdivided on the basis of a plasma TG concentration of 1.7 mmol/L. Comparisons were made of demographic characteristics, concentrations of fasting glucose, insulin, HbA1c, and hs-CRP, oral glucose tolerance tests, estimates of insulin action and secretion, and lipid/lipoprotein profiles. Despite similar fasting glucose and HbA1c concentrations, patients with elevated TG concentrations displayed markers of increased risk of T2DM (insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia), more adverse lipid/lipoprotein profiles, and increased prevalence of abnormal hs-CRP values. These findings demonstrate that plasma TG concentrations ≥ 1.7 mmol/L identified a subset of individuals at enhanced risk of developing statin-induced diabetes within a population classified prior to statin treatment as being at high risk of T2DM. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Foundations of High-Pressure Thermal Plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murphy, Anthony B.; Uhrlandt, Dirk

2018-06-01

An introduction to the main methods used to produce, model and measure thermal plasmas is provided, with emphasis on the differences between thermal plasmas and other types of processing plasmas. The critical properties of thermal plasmas are explained in physical terms and their importance in different applications is considered. The characteristics, and advantages and disadvantages, of the different main types of thermal plasmas (transferred and non-transferred arcs, radio-frequency inductively-coupled plasmas and microwave plasmas) are discussed. The methods by which flow is stabilized in arc plasmas are considered. The important concept of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) is explained, leading into a discussion of the importance of thermophysical properties, and their calculation in LTE and two-temperature plasmas. The standard equations for modelling thermal plasmas are presented and contrasted with those used for non-equilibrium plasmas. Treatments of mixed-gas and non-LTE plasmas are considered, as well as the sheath regions adjacent to electrodes. Finally, the main methods used for electrical, optical, spectroscopic and laser diagnostics of thermal plasmas are briefly introduced, with an emphasis on the required assumptions for their reliable implementation, and the specific requirements of thermal plasmas.

Merging and Splitting of Plasma Spheroids in a Dusty Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mikikian, Maxime; Tawidian, Hagop; Lecas, Thomas

2012-12-01

Dust particle growth in a plasma is a strongly disturbing phenomenon for the plasma equilibrium. It can induce many different types of low-frequency instabilities that can be experimentally observed, especially using high-speed imaging. A spectacular case has been observed in a krypton plasma where a huge density of dust particles is grown by material sputtering. The instability consists of well-defined regions of enhanced optical emission that emerge from the electrode vicinity and propagate towards the discharge center. These plasma spheroids have complex motions resulting from their mutual interaction that can also lead to the merging of two plasma spheroids into a single one. The reverse situation is also observed with the splitting of a plasma spheroid into two parts. These results are presented for the first time and reveal new behaviors in dusty plasmas.

Design of a 500-kJ Mather-type plasma focus device

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

Heidarnia, A., E-mail: a-heidarnia@yahoo.com; Sadighzadeh, A.; Zaeem, A. A.

In this article, design of a 500-kJ Mather-type plasma focus device to achieve 10{sup 11} neutrons/shot is reported. One of its important characteristics is the triple-part anode design. The anode is surrounded by an alumina insulator. The second part of the anode is changeable in order to locate cylindrical, conical, or other shapes of pieces mounted on it. This geometry leads to the easier investigation of the neutron and X-ray emissions of the device. The third part of the anode is for changing the materials exposed to different kinds of radiations. The design parameters are considered by semiempirical and empiricalmore » formulas and are sketched by Solidworks software. Also, the peak current and neutron yield are estimated.« less

C-type natriuretic peptide plasma levels are elevated in subjects with achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia, and thanatophoric dysplasia.

PubMed

Olney, Robert C; Prickett, Timothy C R; Espiner, Eric A; Mackenzie, William G; Duker, Angela L; Ditro, Colleen; Zabel, Bernhard; Hasegawa, Tomonobu; Kitoh, Hiroshi; Aylsworth, Arthur S; Bober, Michael B

2015-02-01

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a crucial regulator of endochondral bone growth. In a previous report of a child with acromesomelic dysplasia, Maroteaux type (AMDM), caused by loss-of-function of the CNP receptor (natriuretic peptide receptor-B [NPR-B]), plasma levels of CNP were elevated. In vitro studies have shown that activation of the MAPK kinase (MEK)/ERK MAPK pathway causes functional inhibition of NPR-B. Achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia, and thanatophoric dysplasia are syndromes of short-limbed dwarfism caused by activating mutations of fibroblast growth factor receptor-3, which result in overactivation of the MEK/ERK MAPK pathway. The purpose of this study was to determine whether these syndromes exhibit evidence of CNP resistance as reflected by increases in plasma CNP and its amino-terminal propeptide (NTproCNP). This was a prospective, observational study. Participants were 63 children and 20 adults with achondroplasia, 6 children with hypochondroplasia, 2 children with thanatophoric dysplasia, and 4 children and 1 adult with AMDM. Plasma levels of CNP and NTproCNP were higher in children with achondroplasia with CNP SD scores (SDSs) of 1.0 (0.3-1.4) (median [interquartile range]) and NTproCNP SDSs of 1.4 (0.4-1.8; P < .0005). NTproCNP levels correlated with height velocity. Levels were also elevated in adults with achondroplasia (CNP SDSs of 1.5 [0.7-2.1] and NTproCNP SDSs of 0.5 [0.1-1.0], P < .005). In children with hypochondroplasia, CNP SDSs were 1.3 (0.7-1.5) (P = .08) and NTproCNP SDSs were 1.9 (1.8-2.3) (P < .05). In children with AMDM, CNP SDSs were 1.6 (1.4-3.3) and NTproCNP SDSs were 4.2 (2.7-6.2) (P < .01). In these skeletal dysplasias, elevated plasma levels of proCNP products suggest the presence of tissue resistance to CNP.

Contribution of B2 receptors for bradykinin in Arthus reaction-induced plasma extravasation in wild-type or B2 transgenic knockout mice

PubMed Central

Samadfam, R; Teixeira, C; Bkaily, G; Sirois, P; de Brum-Fernandes, A; D'Orleans-Juste, P

2000-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the contribution of bradykinin (BK) B1 and B2 receptors in a model of type III hypersensitivity, the reverse passive Arthus reaction (RPA), in wild-type mice and transgenic B2 knockout littermates.BK (10 μg mouse−1) or bovine serum albumin (0.5 mg mouse−1) induced a sustained Evans blue extravasation for more than 80 min in naive or rabbit anti-bovine serum albumin-treated mice (RPA model), respectively. The response to the two stimuli was prevented by the B2 receptor antagonist, HOE-140, but not by [Leu8]desArg9-BK (B1 receptor antagonist).In contrast to the wild-type littermates, RPA and bradykinin were unable to trigger an increase in plasma extravasation in B2 knockout mice.Furthermore, endothelin-1 (5 μg mouse−1) and a selective NK-1 receptor agonist [Sar9,Met (O2)11]-SP (20 μg mouse−1), triggered a significant increase in peritoneal plasma extravasation in both wild-type and B2 knockout animals.A pretreatment with indomethacin (200 μg mouse−1) significantly reduced the RPA-induced but not the BK-induced increase in Evans blue extravasation. Furthermore, RPA, but not BK, triggered a significant indomethacin-sensitive increase in peritoneal prostaglandin E2 content.Our results suggest a pivotal role for B2 receptors in the mechanism of plasma extravasation which occurs during the reverse passive Arthus reaction in the mouse. Moreover, our results suggest an important contribution of prostanoids in the plasma leakage mechanisms triggered by RPA but not by bradykinin. PMID:10780980

Unmatter Plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smarandache, Florentin

2015-11-01

``Unmatter Plasma'' is a novel form of plasma, exclusively made of matter and its antimatter counterpart. An experiment (2015) on matter-antimatter plasma [or unmatter plasma] was recently successful at the Astra Gemini laser facility at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Oxford, United Kingdom. The experiment that was made has produced electron-positron plasma. The positron is the antimatter of the electron, having an opposite charge of the electron, but the other properties are the same. Unmatter is considered as a combination of matter and antimatter. For example electron-positron is a type of unmatter. We coined the word ``unmatter'' (2004) that means neither matter nor antimatter, but something in between. Besides matter and antimatter there may exist unmatter (as a new form of matter) in accordance with the neutrosophy theory that between an entity and its opposite there exist intermediate entities.

Modification of electromagnetic fields and plasma resistance by thermal effects in helicon plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabir, M.; Niknam, A. R.

2017-05-01

The effects of the thermal motion of charged particles on physical characteristics of collisional helicon plasmas are investigated. First, the dielectric permittivity tensor of a helicon plasma is obtained by considering the thermal and collisional effects in the kinetic theory. Then, the electromagnetic wave and plasma resistance equations are presented and solved in a helicon plasma source with a Nagoya type III antenna. It is shown that by increasing the temperature of plasma electrons, the effective collision frequency is increased, and consequently, the peaks of resistance profiles are lowered and broadened.

Effects of a low-fat diet compared with those of a high-monounsaturated fat diet on body weight, plasma lipids and lipoproteins, and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Gerhard, Glenn T; Ahmann, Andrew; Meeuws, Kaatje; McMurry, Martha P; Duell, P Barton; Connor, William E

2004-09-01

An important therapeutic goal for patients with type 2 diabetes is weight loss, which improves metabolic abnormalities. Ad libitum low-fat diets cause weight loss in nondiabetic populations. Compared with diets higher in monounsaturated fat, however, eucaloric low-fat diets may increase plasma triacylglycerol concentrations and worsen glycemic control in persons with type 2 diabetes. We investigated whether, in type 2 diabetes patients, an ad libitum low-fat diet would cause greater weight loss than would a high-monounsaturated fat diet and would do this without increasing plasma triacylglycerol concentrations or worsening glycemic control. Eleven patients with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to receive an ad libitum low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet or a high-monounsaturated fat diet, each for 6 wk. The diets offered contained 125% of the estimated energy requirement to allow self-selection of food quantity. The response variables were body weight; fasting plasma lipid, lipoprotein, glucose, glycated hemoglobin A(1c), and fructosamine concentrations; insulin sensitivity; and glucose disposal. Body weight decreased significantly (1.53 kg; P < 0.001) only with the low-fat diet. Plasma total, LDL-, and HDL-cholesterol concentrations tended to decrease during both diets. There were no interaction effects between diet and the lipid profile response over time. Plasma triacylglycerol concentrations, glycemic control, and insulin sensitivity did not differ significantly between the 2 diets. Contrary to expectations, the ad libitum, low-fat, high-fiber diet promoted weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes without causing unfavorable alterations in plasma lipids or glycemic control.

[Associations of insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell function with plasma glucose level in type 2 diabetes].

PubMed

Nian, Xiaoping; Sun, Gaisheng; Dou, Chunmei; Hou, Hongbo; Fan, Xiuping; Yu, Hongmei; Ma, Ling; He, Bingxian

2002-06-10

To investigate the influence of insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell function on plasma glucose level in type 2 diabetes so as to provide theoretical basis for reasonable selection of hypoglycemic agents. The plasma non-specific insulin (NSINS), true insulin (TI) and glucose in eight-one type 2 diabetics, 38 males and 43 females, with a mean age of 53 years, were examined 0, 30, 60 and 120 minutes after they had 75 grams of instant noodles. The patients were divided into two groups according to their fasting plasma glucose (FPG): group A (FPG < 8.89 mmol/L) and group B (FPG> = 8.89 mmol/L). The insulin resistance was evaluated by HOMA-IR, the beta-cell function was evaluated by HOMA-beta formula and the formula deltaI(30)/deltaG(30) = (deltaI(30)-deltaI(0))/(deltaG(30)-deltaG(0)). The insulin area under curve (INSAUC) was evaluated by the formula INSAUC=FINS/2+INS(30)+INS(60)+INS(120)/2. The mean FPG was 6.23 mmol/L in group A and 12.6 mmol/L in group B. PG2H was 11.7 mmol/L in group A and 19.2 mmol/L in group B. The TI levels in group B at 0, 30, 60, 120 min during standard meal test were significantly higher than those in group A: 6.15 +/- 1.06 vs 4.77 +/- 1.06, 9.76 +/- 1.1 vs 5.88 +/- 1.1,14.68 +/- 1.11 vs 6.87 +/- 1.1 and 17.13 +/- 1.12 vs 8.0 +/- 1.1 microU/dl (all P< 0.01). The NSINS showed the same trend. The insulin resistance in group B was 1.5 times that in group A. With the insulin resistance adjusted, the beta cell function in group A was 5 to 6 times that in group B. The INSAUC in group A was 1.66 times larger than that in group B, especially the INSAUC for true insulin (2 times larger). The contribution of insulin resistance and beta cell function to PG2H was half by half in group A and 1:8 in group B. beta cell function calculated by insulin (Homa-beta) explained 41% of the plasma glucose changes in group A and 54% of the plasma glucose changes in group B. The contribution of insulin deficiency to plasma glocose was 3.3.times that of insulin

Plasma C-type natriuretic peptide as a predictor for therapeutic response to metoprolol in children with postural tachycardia syndrome.

PubMed

Lin, Jing; Han, Zhenhui; Li, Hongxia; Chen, Selena Ying; Li, Xueying; Liu, Ping; Wang, Yuli; Tang, Chaoshu; Du, Junbao; Jin, Hongfang

2015-01-01

POTS is a global public-health disease, but predictor for therapeutic response to metoprolol in children with POTS is lacking. This study was designed to investigate predictive value of plasma C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol on postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in children. Totally 34 children with POTS and 27 healthy children were included in the study. The head-up test or head-up tilt test was used to check heart rate and blood pressure from supine to upright in subjects. A double antibody (competitive) sandwich immunoluminometric assay was used to detect plasma CNP. Metoprolol was used to treat children with POTS. The difference in plasma concentrations of CNP between responders and non-responders was compared. An ROC curve was used to analyze plasma CNP to predict efficacy of metoprolol on POTS in children. Plasma CNP in children with POTS was significantly higher than that of healthy children [(51.9 ± 31.4) vs. (25.1 ± 19.1) pg/ml, P <0.001]. Plasma CNP in responders to metoprolol was significantly higher than non-responders [(59.1 ± 33.5) vs. (34.8 ± 16.7) pg/ml, P = 0.037] before treatment. The ROC curve showed that area under the curve was 0.821 (95% CI 0.642-0.999). The cut-off value of plasma CNP > 32.55 pg/ml yielded a sensitivity of 95.8% and specificity of 70% in predicting therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol on POTS children. Plasma CNP might serve as a useful predictor for the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol on POTS in children.

Plasma C-Type Natriuretic Peptide as a Predictor for Therapeutic Response to Metoprolol in Children with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome

PubMed Central

Li, Hongxia; Chen, Selena Ying; Li, Xueying; Liu, Ping; Wang, Yuli; Tang, Chaoshu; Du, Junbao; Jin, Hongfang

2015-01-01

POTS is a global public-health disease, but predictor for therapeutic response to metoprolol in children with POTS is lacking. This study was designed to investigate predictive value of plasma C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol on postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) in children. Totally 34 children with POTS and 27 healthy children were included in the study. The head-up test or head-up tilt test was used to check heart rate and blood pressure from supine to upright in subjects. A double antibody (competitive) sandwich immunoluminometric assay was used to detect plasma CNP. Metoprolol was used to treat children with POTS. The difference in plasma concentrations of CNP between responders and non-responders was compared. An ROC curve was used to analyze plasma CNP to predict efficacy of metoprolol on POTS in children. Plasma CNP in children with POTS was significantly higher than that of healthy children [(51.9 ± 31.4) vs. (25.1 ± 19.1) pg/ml, P <0.001]. Plasma CNP in responders to metoprolol was significantly higher than non-responders [(59.1 ± 33.5) vs. (34.8 ± 16.7) pg/ml, P = 0.037] before treatment. The ROC curve showed that area under the curve was 0.821 (95% CI 0.642–0.999). The cut-off value of plasma CNP > 32.55 pg/ml yielded a sensitivity of 95.8% and specificity of 70% in predicting therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol on POTS children. Plasma CNP might serve as a useful predictor for the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol on POTS in children. PMID:25811760

Diverse molecular forms of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide in heart failure.

PubMed

Nishikimi, Toshio; Minamino, Naoto; Nakao, Kazuwa

2011-06-01

Recent studies have shown that not only plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP)-32, but also plasma proBNP-108 is increased in heart failure (HF), and that the current BNP-32 assay kit crossreacts with proBNP-108. It also was shown that both BNP-32 and proBNP-108 were higher in HF than in normal. The proBNP-108/total BNP (BNP-32 + proBNP-108) ratio was widely distributed and patients with HF with ventricular overload had higher proBNP-108/total BNP ratio than HF patients with atrial overload. Consistent with this finding, proBNP-108 was the major molecular form in ventricular tissue, and BNP-32 was the major molecular form in atrial tissue. In addition, proBNP-108 was the major molecular form of BNP in pericardial fluid. The proBNP-108/total BNP ratio increased with deterioration of HF and decreased with improvement of HF. Thus, not only BNP-32, but also proBNP-108 is increased in HF and the proBNP-108/total BNP ratio also rises in association with pathophysiological conditions such as ventricular overload. A new hypothesis that O-glycosylation at Thr71 in a region close to the cleavage site impairs proBNP-108 processing was proposed. In the future, the precise mechanism of increased proBNP-108 in HF should be elucidated.

Preliminary scaling laws for plasma current, ion kinetic temperature, and plasma number density in the NASA Lewis bumpy torus plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, J. R.

1976-01-01

Parametric variation of independent variables which may affect the characteristics of bumpy torus plasma have identified those which have a significant effect on the plasma current, ion kinetic temperature, and plasma number density, and those which do not. Empirical power law correlations of the plasma current, and the ion kinetic temperature and number density were obtained as functions of potential applied to the midplane electrode rings, the background neutral gas pressure, and the magnetic field strength. Additional parameters studied included the type of gas, the polarity of the midplane electrode rings, the mode of plasma operation, and the method of measuring the plasma number density. No significant departures from the scaling laws appear to occur at the highest ion kinetic temperatures or number densities obtained to date.

Evaluation on nitrogen oxides and nanoparticle removal and nitrogen monoxide generation using a wet-type nonthermal plasma reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takehana, Kotaro; Kuroki, Tomoyuki; Okubo, Masaaki

2018-05-01

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted from power plants and combustion sources cause air pollution problems. Selective catalytic reduction technology is remarkably useful for NOx removal. However, there are several drawbacks such as preparation of reducing agents, usage of harmful heavy metals, and higher cost. On the other hand, trace NO is a vasodilator agent and employed in inhalation therapies for treating pulmonary hypertension in humans. Considering these factors, in the present study, a wet-type nonthermal plasma reactor, which can control NOx and nanoparticle emissions and generate NO, is investigated. The fundamental characteristics of the reactor are investigated. First, the experiment of nanoparticle removal is carried out. Collection efficiencies of over 99% are achieved for nanoparticles at 50 and 100 ml min‑1 of liquid flow rates. Second, experiments of NOx removal under air atmosphere and NOx generation under nitrogen atmosphere are carried out. NOx-removal efficiencies of over 95% under the air plasma are achieved in 50–200 ml min‑1 liquid flow rates. Moreover, under nitrogen plasma, NOx is generated, of which the major portion is NO. For example, NO concentration is 25 ppm, while NOx concentration is 31 ppm at 50 ml min‑1 liquid flow rate. Finally, experiments of NO generation under the nitrogen atmosphere with or without flowing water are carried out. When water flows on the inner surface of the reactor, approximately 14 ppm of NO is generated. Therefore, NO generation requires flowing water. It is considered that the reaction of N and OH, which is similar to the extended Zeldovich mechanism, could occur to induce NO formation. From these results, it is verified that the wet-type plasma reactor is useful for NOx removal and NO generation under nitrogen atmosphere with flowing water.

Pulsed Plasma Electron Sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krasik, Yakov

2008-11-01

Pulsed (˜10-7 s) electron beams with high current density (>10^2 A/cm^2) are generated in diodes with electric field of E > 10^6 V/cm. The source of electrons in these diodes is explosive emission plasma, which limits pulse duration; in the case E < 10^5 V/cm this plasma is not uniform and there is a time delay in its formation. Thus, there is a continuous interest in research of electron sources which can be used for generation of uniform electron beams produced at E <= 10^5 V/cm. In the present report, several types of plasma electron source (PES) will be considered. The first type of PES is fiber-based cathodes, with and without CsI coating. The operation of these cathodes is governed by the formation of the flashover plasma which serves as a source of electrons. The second type of PES is the ferroelectric plasma source (FPS). The operation of FPS, characterized by the formation of dense surface flashover plasma is accompanied also by the generation of fast microparticles and energetic neutrals. The latter was explained by Coulomb micro-explosions of the ferroelectric surface due to an large time-varying electric field at the front of the expanding plasma. A short review of recent achievements in the operation of a multi-FPS-assisted hollow anode to generate a large area electron beam will be presented as well. Finally, parameters of the plasma produced by a multi-capillary cathode with FPS and velvet igniters will be discussed. Ya. E. Krasik, J. Z. Gleizer, D. Yarmolich, A. Krokhmal, V. Ts. Gurovich, S.Efimov, J. Felsteiner V. Bernshtam, and Yu. M. Saveliev, J. Appl. Phys. 98, 093308 (2005). Ya. E. Krasik, A. Dunaevsky, and J. Felsteiner, Phys. Plasmas 8, 2466 (2001). D. Yarmolich, V. Vekselman, V. Tz. Gurovich, and Ya. E. Krasik, Phys. Rev. Lett. 100, 075004 (2008). J. Z. Gleizer, Y. Hadas and Ya. E. Krasik, Europhysics Lett. 82, 55001 (2008).

Noninvasive measurement of plasma glucose from exhaled breath in healthy and type 1 diabetic subjects

PubMed Central

Oliver, Stacy R.; Ngo, Jerry; Flores, Rebecca; Midyett, Jason; Meinardi, Simone; Carlson, Matthew K.; Rowland, F. Sherwood; Blake, Donald R.; Galassetti, Pietro R.

2011-01-01

Effective management of diabetes mellitus, affecting tens of millions of patients, requires frequent assessment of plasma glucose. Patient compliance for sufficient testing is often reduced by the unpleasantness of current methodologies, which require blood samples and often cause pain and skin callusing. We propose that the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in exhaled breath can be used as a novel, alternative, noninvasive means to monitor glycemia in these patients. Seventeen healthy (9 females and 8 males, 28.0 ± 1.0 yr) and eight type 1 diabetic (T1DM) volunteers (5 females and 3 males, 25.8 ± 1.7 yr) were enrolled in a 240-min triphasic intravenous dextrose infusion protocol (baseline, hyperglycemia, euglycemia-hyperinsulinemia). In T1DM patients, insulin was also administered (using differing protocols on 2 repeated visits to separate the effects of insulinemia on breath composition). Exhaled breath and room air samples were collected at 12 time points, and concentrations of ∼100 VOCs were determined by gas chromatography and matched with direct plasma glucose measurements. Standard least squares regression was used on several subsets of exhaled gases to generate multilinear models to predict plasma glucose for each subject. Plasma glucose estimates based on two groups of four gases each (cluster A: acetone, methyl nitrate, ethanol, and ethyl benzene; cluster B: 2-pentyl nitrate, propane, methanol, and acetone) displayed very strong correlations with glucose concentrations (0.883 and 0.869 for clusters A and B, respectively) across nearly 300 measurements. Our study demonstrates the feasibility to accurately predict glycemia through exhaled breath analysis over a broad range of clinically relevant concentrations in both healthy and T1DM subjects. PMID:21467303

Elevation of plasma 1-deoxy-sphingolipids in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a susceptibility to neuropathy?

PubMed

Dohrn, M F; Othman, A; Hirshman, S K; Bode, H; Alecu, I; Fähndrich, E; Karges, W; Weis, J; Schulz, J B; Hornemann, T; Claeys, K G

2015-05-01

Diabetic distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSPN) is a frequent, disabling complication of diabetes mellitus. There is increasing evidence that sphingolipids play a role in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Whether neurotoxic 1-deoxy-sphingolipids are elevated in DSPN patients' plasma and whether levels correlate to the DSPN stage were examined. The plasma profile of 12 sphingoid bases in patients with DSPN and T2DM(n = 39) were cross-sectionally compared to other nerve disorders including chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) (n = 13), transthyretin-related familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) (n = 10), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) (n = 13) and small fibre neuropathy (n = 12) by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Correlations to the DSPN stage were additionally performed. Furthermore, the sphingoid base distribution in sural nerve specimens was measured in patients with DSPN (n = 6) compared to CIDP (n = 3). A significantly increased amount of 1-deoxy-sphingolipids [1-deoxy-sphinganine (0.11 ± 0.06 μmol/l), 1-deoxy-sphingosine (0.24 ± 0.16 μmol/l)] in patients with DSPN was observed compared to age-matched healthy controls (0.06 ± 0.03 μmol/l; 0.12 ± 0.05 μmol/l) and to the other groups. (Para)clinical parameters including sensory loss, neuropathic pain, weakness, vibration perception, nerve conduction velocity, sensory nerve action potentials (sural nerve) and duration of T2DM did not correlate with plasma 1-deoxy-sphingolipid levels, neither did the clinical stage according to the Dyck classification for DSPN. Sphingolipid levels in sural nerve biopsies showed no differences between DSPN and CIDP. Contrarily, patients with a small fibre neuropathy had decreased C₂₀-sphingosine plasma levels. 1-deoxy-sphingolipid plasma levels are significantly elevated in DSPN. They are already detectable in early disease stages but do not correlate with the clinical course. Further knowledge on 1-deoxy

Lipidomic profiling reveals distinct differences in plasma lipid composition in healthy, prediabetic, and type 2 diabetic individuals

PubMed Central

Zhong, Huanzi; Fang, Chao; Fan, Yanqun; Lu, Yan; Wen, Bo; Ren, Huahui; Hou, Guixue; Yang, Fangming; Xie, Hailiang; Jie, Zhuye; Peng, Ye; Ye, Zhiqiang; Wu, Jiegen; Zi, Jin; Zhao, Guoqing; Chen, Jiayu; Bao, Xiao; Hu, Yihe; Gao, Yan; Zhang, Jun; Yang, Huanming; Wang, Jian; Madsen, Lise; Kristiansen, Karsten

2017-01-01

Abstract The relationship between dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) has been extensively reported, but the global lipid profiles, especially in the East Asia population, associated with the development of T2D remain to be characterized. Liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry was applied to detect the global lipidome in the fasting plasma of 293 Chinese individuals, including 114 T2D patients, 81 prediabetic subjects, and 98 individuals with normal glucose tolerance (NGT). Both qualitative and quantitative analyses revealed a gradual change in plasma lipid features with T2D patients exhibiting characteristics close to those of prediabetic individuals, whereas they differed significantly from individuals with NGT. We constructed and validated a random forest classifier with 28 lipidomic features that effectively discriminated T2D from NGT or prediabetes. Most of the selected features significantly correlated with diabetic clinical indices. Hydroxybutyrylcarnitine was positively correlated with fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour postprandial glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR). Lysophosphatidylcholines such as lysophosphatidylcholine (18:0), lysophosphatidylcholine (18:1), and lysophosphatidylcholine (18:2) were all negatively correlated with HOMA-IR. The altered plasma lipidome in Chinese T2D and prediabetic subjects suggests that lipid features may play a role in the pathogenesis of T2D and that such features may provide a basis for evaluating risk and monitoring disease development. PMID:28505362

Plasma Periostin Levels Are Increased in Chinese Subjects with Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes and Are Positively Correlated with Glucose and Lipid Parameters.

PubMed

Luo, Yuanyuan; Qu, Hua; Wang, Hang; Wei, Huili; Wu, Jing; Duan, Yang; Liu, Dan; Deng, Huacong

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study is to examine the relations among plasma periostin, glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin resistance and inflammation in Chinese patients with obesity (OB), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Plasma periostin levels in the T2DM group were significantly higher than the NGT group (P < 0.01). Patients with both OB and T2DM had the highest periostin levels. Correlation analysis showed that plasma periostin levels were positively correlated with weight, waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2 h postchallenge plasma glucose (2 h PG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), fasting insulin (FINS), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), TNF-α, and IL-6 (P < 0.05 or 0.001) and negatively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that TG, TNF-α, and HOMA-IR were independent related factors in influencing the levels of plasma periostin (P < 0.001). These results suggested that Chinese patients with obesity and T2DM had significantly higher plasma periostin levels. Plasma periostin levels were strongly associated with plasma TG, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance.

Mechanism and comparison of needle-type non-thermal direct and indirect atmospheric pressure plasma jets on the degradation of dyes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Attri, Pankaj; Yusupov, Maksudbek; Park, Ji Hoon; Lingamdinne, Lakshmi Prasanna; Koduru, Janardhan Reddy; Shiratani, Masaharu; Choi, Eun Ha; Bogaerts, Annemie

2016-10-01

Purified water supply for human use, agriculture and industry is the major global priority nowadays. The advanced oxidation process based on atmospheric pressure non-thermal plasma (NTP) has been used for purification of wastewater, although the underlying mechanisms of degradation of organic pollutants are still unknown. In this study we employ two needle-type atmospheric pressure non-thermal plasma jets, i.e., indirect (ID-APPJ) and direct (D-APPJ) jets operating at Ar feed gas, for the treatment of methylene blue, methyl orange and congo red dyes, for two different times (i.e., 20 min and 30 min). Specifically, we study the decolorization/degradation of all three dyes using the above mentioned plasma sources, by means of UV-Vis spectroscopy, HPLC and a density meter. We also employ mass spectroscopy to verify whether only decolorization or also degradation takes place after treatment of the dyes by the NTP jets. Additionally, we analyze the interaction of OH radicals with all three dyes using reactive molecular dynamics simulations, based on the density functional-tight binding method. This investigation represents the first report on the degradation of these three different dyes by two types of NTP setups, analyzed by various methods, and based on both experimental and computational studies.

Modelisation numerique d'un actionneur plasma de type decharge a barriere dielectrique par la methode de derive-diffusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xing, Jacques

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuator is a proposed device for active for control in order to improve the performances of aircraft and turbomachines. Essentially, these actuators are made of two electrodes separated by a layer of dielectric material and convert electricity directly into flow. Because of the high costs associated with experiences in realistic operating conditions, there is a need to develop a robust numerical model that can predict the plasma body force and the effects of various parameters on it. Indeed, this plasma body force can be affected by atmospheric conditions (temperature, pressure, and humidity), velocity of the neutral flow, applied voltage (amplitude, frequency, and waveform), and by the actuator geometry. In that respect, the purpose of this thesis is to implement a plasma model for DBD actuator that has the potential to consider the effects of these various parameters. In DBD actuator modelling, two types of approach are commonly proposed, low-order modelling (or phenomenological) and high-order modelling (or scientific). However a critical analysis, presented in this thesis, showed that phenomenological models are not robust enough to predict the plasma body force without artificial calibration for each specific case. Moreover, there are based on erroneous assumptions. Hence, the selected approach to model the plasma body force is a scientific drift-diffusion model with four chemical species (electrons, positive ions, negative ions, and neutrals). This model was chosen because it gives consistent numerical results comparatively with experimental data. Moreover, this model has great potential to include the effect of temperature, pressure, and humidity on the plasma body force and requires only a reasonable computational time. This model was independently implemented in C++ programming language and validated with several test cases. This model was later used to simulate the effect of the plasma body force on the laminar

A membrane-anchored E-type endo-1,4-beta-glucanase is localized on Golgi and plasma membranes of higher plants.

PubMed

Brummell, D A; Catala, C; Lashbrook, C C; Bennett, A B

1997-04-29

Endo-1,4-beta-D-glucanases (EGases, EC 3.2.1.4) are enzymes produced in bacteria, fungi, and plants that hydrolyze polysaccharides possessing a 1,4-beta-D-glucan backbone. All previously identified plant EGases are E-type endoglucanases that possess signal sequences for endoplasmic reticulum entry and are secreted to the cell wall. Here we report the characterization of a novel E-type plant EGase (tomato Cel3) with a hydrophobic transmembrane domain and structure typical of type II integral membrane proteins. The predicted protein is composed of 617 amino acids and possesses seven potential sites for N-glycosylation. Cel3 mRNA accumulates in young vegetative tissues with highest abundance during periods of rapid cell expansion, but is not hormonally regulated. Antibodies raised to a recombinant Cel3 protein specifically recognized three proteins, with apparent molecular masses of 93, 88, and 53 kDa, in tomato root microsomal membranes separated by sucrose density centrifugation. The 53-kDa protein comigrated in the gradient with plasma membrane markers, the 88-kDa protein with Golgi membrane markers, and the 93-kDa protein with markers for both Golgi and plasma membranes. EGase enzyme activity was also found in regions of the density gradient corresponding to both Golgi and plasma membranes, suggesting that Cel3 EGase resides in both membrane systems, the sites of cell wall polymer biosynthesis. The in vivo function of Cel3 is not known, but the only other known membrane-anchored EGase is present in Agrobacterium tumefaciens where it is required for cellulose biosynthesis.

Ion Beam And Plasma Jet Generated By A 3 kJ Plasma Focus

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

Lim, L. K.; Ngoi, S. K.; Yap, S. L.

The plasma focus device is well known as a copious source of X-ray, neutrons, ion and electron beams. In this work, the characteristics of energetic ion beam emission in a 3 kJ Mather-type plasma focus is studied. The plasma focus system is operated at low pressure with argon as the working gas. The objective of the project is to obtain the argon ion beam and the plasma jet. The ion beam and plasma jet are used for material processing. In order to investigate the effect of the ion beam and plasma jet, crystalline silicon substrates are placed above the anode.more » Samples obtained after irradiation with the plasma focus discharge are analyzed by using the Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX).« less

Knowledge, attitude and practice of exercise for plasma blood glucose control among patients with type-2 diabetes.

PubMed

Awotidebe, Taofeek O; Adedoyin, Rufus A; Afolabi, Mubaraq A; Opiyo, Rose

2016-01-01

Exercise plays significant role in the health outcomes of patients with diabetes, however, little is known about patients' knowledge of exercise for plasma blood glucose control among patients with type-2 diabetes (T2D). This study investigated knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of exercise for plasma blood glucose control among patients with T2D. This cross-sectional study recruited 299 patients with T2D (male=105; female=194) from selected government hospitals in Osun State, Nigeria using purposive sampling technique. Validated questionnaires were used to assess of exercise for plasma blood glucose control and socioeconomic status (SES) of the patients. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Alpha level was set at <0.05. The mean age of respondents was 51.9±9.8 years. A majority, 245(81.9%) were married individuals and more than half, 195(65.3%) were in the low SES. One hundred and forty-eight (49.5%) had good knowledge of exercise whilst 269(90.0%) had negative attitude to exercise practice. Less than a third, 82(27.4%) engaged in exercise practice for plasma blood glucose control. There was significant association between knowledge and practice of exercise ((2)=12.535; p=0.002). Furthermore, significant associations were found between knowledge and gender ((2)=11.453; p=0.003), and socioeconomic status ((2)=29.127, p=0.001) but not associated with attitude towards exercise (p>0.05). Patients with demonstrated good knowledge of exercise for plasma blood glucose control but reported negative attitude and poor practice of exercise. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Transition in discharge plasma of Hall thruster type in presence of secondary electron emissive surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schweigert, I. V.; Yadrenkin, M. A.; Fomichev, V. P.

2017-11-01

Modification of the sheath structure near the emissive plate placed in magnetized DC discharge plasma of Hall thruster type was studied in the experiment and in kinetic simulations. The plate is made from Al2O3 which has enhanced secondary electron emission yield. The energetic electrons emitted by heated cathode provide the volume ionization and the secondary electron emission from the plate. An increase of the electron beam energy leads to an increase of the secondary electron generation, which initiates the transition in sheath structure over the emissive plate.

Plasma apolipoprotein C-III levels, triglycerides, and coronary artery calcification in type 2 diabetics.

PubMed

Qamar, Arman; Khetarpal, Sumeet A; Khera, Amit V; Qasim, Atif; Rader, Daniel J; Reilly, Muredach P

2015-08-01

Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins have emerged as causal risk factors for developing coronary heart disease independent of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Apolipoprotein C-III (ApoC-III) modulates triglyceride-rich lipoprotein metabolism through inhibition of lipoprotein lipase and hepatic uptake of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. Mutations causing loss-of-function of ApoC-III lower triglycerides and reduce coronary heart disease risk, suggestive of a causal role for ApoC-III. Little data exist about the relationship of ApoC-III, triglycerides, and atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Here, we examined the relationships between plasma ApoC-III, triglycerides, and coronary artery calcification in patients with T2DM. Plasma ApoC-III levels were measured in a cross-sectional study of 1422 subjects with T2DM but without clinically manifest coronary heart disease. ApoC-III levels were positively associated with total cholesterol (Spearman r=0.36), triglycerides (r=0.59), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r=0.16), fasting glucose (r=0.16), and glycosylated hemoglobin (r=0.12; P<0.0001 for all). In age, sex, and race-adjusted analysis, ApoC-III levels were positively associated with coronary artery calcification (Tobit regression ratio, 1.78; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-2.50 per SD increase in ApoC-III; P<0.001). As expected for an intermediate mediator, these findings were attenuated when adjusted for both triglycerides (Tobit regression ratio, 1.43; 95% confidence interval, 0.94-2.18; P=0.086) and separately for very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (Tobit regression ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-1.71; P=0.53). In persons with T2DM, increased plasma ApoC-III is associated with higher triglycerides, less favorable cardiometabolic phenotypes, and higher coronary artery calcification, a measure of subclinical atherosclerosis. Therapeutic inhibition of ApoC-III may thus be a novel strategy for reducing plasma

[The delivery of therapeutic plasma: Therapeutic plasma of today and tomorrow].

PubMed

Garraud, O

2016-11-01

Since plasma for direct therapeutic use comprises no cellular fraction, it has long stood for a standardized and rather simple component; meanwhile, rules for its issuing to patients have long been strict. During the very last years, there has been a paradigm shift as novel indications have raised and possible needs for distinct types of plasma depending on the missing clotting factors in the patient. During the same period of time, plasma inactivated by solvent-detergent, which was a labile component in France, has been re-qualified by European authorities as a plasma derived-drug. The French recommendations for use of plasma - though quite recently revised (2012) - are disputed by some experts and would merit a revisit. This state-of-the art manuscript aims at presenting the novel situation of therapeutic plasma and suggesting possible evolution. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Preliminary scaling laws for plasma current, ion kinetic temperature, and plasma number density in the NASA Lewis Bumpy Torus plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roth, J. R.

1976-01-01

Parametric variation of independent variables which may affect the characteristics of the NASA Lewis Bumpy Torus plasma have identified those which have a significant effect on the plasma current, ion kinetic temperature, and plasma number density, and those which do not. Empirical power-law correlations of the plasma current, and the ion kinetic temperature and number density were obtained as functions of the potential applied to the midplane electrode rings, the background neutral gas pressure, and the magnetic field strength. Additional parameters studied include the type of gas, the polarity of the midplane electrode rings (and hence the direction of the radial electric field), the mode of plasma operation, and the method of measuring the plasma number density. No significant departures from the scaling laws appear to occur at the highest ion kinetic temperatures or number densities obtained to date.

Fasting plasma triglycerides predict the glycaemic response to treatment of Type 2 diabetes by gastric electrical stimulation. A novel lipotoxicity paradigm

PubMed Central

Lebovitz, H E; Ludvik, B; Yaniv, I; Haddad, W; Schwartz, T; Aviv, R

2013-01-01

Background Non-stimulatory, meal-mediated electrical stimulation of the stomach (TANTALUS-DIAMOND) improves glycaemic control and causes modest weight loss in patients with Type 2 diabetes who are inadequately controlled on oral anti-diabetic medications. The magnitude of the glycaemic response in clinical studies has been variable. A preliminary analysis of data from patients who had completed 6 months of treatment indicated that the glycaemic response to the electrical stimulation was inversely related to the baseline fasting plasma triglyceride level. Method An analysis of 40 patients who had had detailed longitudinal studies for 12 months. Results Twenty-two patients with fasting plasma triglycerides ≤ 1.7 mmol/l had mean decreases in HbA1c after 3, 6 and 12 months of gastric contraction modulation treatment of −15 ± 2.1 mmol/mol (−1.39 ± 0.20%), −16 ± 2.2 mmol/mol (−1.48 ± 0.20%) and −14 ± 3.0 mmol/mol (−1.31 ± 0.26%), respectively. In contrast, 18 patients with fasting plasma triglyceride > 1.7 mmol/l had mean decreases in HbA1c of −7 ± 1.7 mmol/mol (−0.66 ± 0.16%), −5 ± 1.6 mmol/mol (−0.44 ± 0.18%) and −5 ± 1.7 mmol/mol (−0.42 ± 0.16%), respectively. Pearson's correlation coefficient between fasting plasma triglyceride and decreases in HbA1c at 12 months of treatment was 0.34 (P < 0.05). Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was unchanged during 12 months of treatment in patients with high baseline fasting triglycerides, while it progressively improved in patients with low fasting plasma triglycerides. Patients with low fasting plasma triglycerides had a tendency to lose more weight than those with high fasting plasma triglycerides, but this did not achieve statistical significance. Conclusions The data presented suggest the existance of a triglyceride lipotoxic mechanism that interferes with gastric/neural mediated pathways that can regulate glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. The data

Porting plasma physics simulation codes to modern computing architectures using the type="smallcap">libmrc framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Germaschewski, Kai; Abbott, Stephen

2015-11-01

Available computing power has continued to grow exponentially even after single-core performance satured in the last decade. The increase has since been driven by more parallelism, both using more cores and having more parallelism in each core, e.g. in GPUs and Intel Xeon Phi. Adapting existing plasma physics codes is challenging, in particular as there is no single programming model that covers current and future architectures. We will introduce the open-source type="smallcap">libmrc framework that has been used to modularize and port three plasma physics codes: The extended MHD code MRCv3 with implicit time integration and curvilinear grids; the OpenGGCM global magnetosphere model; and the particle-in-cell code PSC. type="smallcap">libmrc consolidates basic functionality needed for simulations based on structured grids (I/O, load balancing, time integrators), and also introduces a parallel object model that makes it possible to maintain multiple implementations of computational kernels, on e.g. conventional processors and GPUs. It handles data layout conversions and enables us to port performance-critical parts of a code to a new architecture step-by-step, while the rest of the code can remain unchanged. We will show examples of the performance gains and some physics applications.

Plasma branched chain/aromatic amino acids, enriched Mediterranean diet and risk of type 2 diabetes: case-cohort study within the PREDIMED Trial.

PubMed

Ruiz-Canela, Miguel; Guasch-Ferré, Marta; Toledo, Estefanía; Clish, Clary B; Razquin, Cristina; Liang, Liming; Wang, Dong D; Corella, Dolores; Estruch, Ramón; Hernáez, Álvaro; Yu, Edward; Gómez-Gracia, Enrique; Zheng, Yan; Arós, Fernando; Romaguera, Dora; Dennis, Courtney; Ros, Emilio; Lapetra, José; Serra-Majem, Lluis; Papandreou, Christopher; Portoles, Olga; Fitó, Montserrat; Salas-Salvadó, Jordi; Hu, Frank B; Martínez-González, Miguel A

2018-07-01

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and aromatic amino acids (AAAs) are associated with type 2 diabetes. However, repeated measurements of BCAA/AAA and their interactions with dietary interventions have not been evaluated. We investigated the associations between baseline and changes at 1 year in BCAA/AAA with type 2 diabetes in the context of a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) trial. We included 251 participants with incident type 2 diabetes and a random sample of 694 participants (641 participants without type 2 diabetes and 53 overlapping cases) in a case-cohort study nested within the PREvención con DIeta MEDiterránea (PREDIMED) trial. Participants were randomised to a MedDiet+extra-virgin olive oil (n = 273), a MedDiet+nuts (n = 324) or a control diet (n = 295). We used LC-MS/MS to measure plasma levels of amino acids. Type 2 diabetes was a pre-specified secondary outcome of the PREDIMED trial. Elevated plasma levels of individual BCAAs/AAAs were associated with higher type 2 diabetes risk after a median follow-up of 3.8 years: multivariable HR for the highest vs lowest quartile ranged from 1.32 for phenylalanine ([95% CI 0.90, 1.92], p for trend = 0.015) to 3.29 for leucine ([95% CI 2.03, 5.34], p for trend<0.001). Increases in BCAA score at 1 year were associated with higher type 2 diabetes risk in the control group with HR per SD = 1.61 (95% CI 1.02, 2.54), but not in the MedDiet groups (p for interaction <0.001). The MedDiet+extra-virgin olive oil significantly reduced BCAA levels after 1 year of intervention (p = 0.005 vs the control group). Our results support that higher baseline BCAAs and their increases at 1 year were associated with higher type 2 diabetes risk. A Mediterranean diet rich in extra-virgin olive oil significantly reduced the levels of BCAA and attenuated the positive association between plasma BCAA levels and type 2 diabetes incidence. Clinical trial number: SRCTN35739639 ( www.controlled-trials.com ).

Changes in plasma levels of B-type natriuretic peptide with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PubMed

Nishimura, Koichi; Nishimura, Takashi; Onishi, Katsuya; Oga, Toru; Hasegawa, Yoshinori; Jones, Paul W

2014-01-01

Elevated plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and their association with heart failure have been reported in subjects with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). To examine and compare plasma BNP levels and diastolic and systolic dysfunction in subjects with AECOPD and stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In all, 87 unselected consecutive hospitalizations due to AECOPD in 61 subjects and a total of 190 consecutive subjects with stable COPD were recruited. Plasma BNP levels were compared cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Transthoracic echocardiographic examinations were also performed in the hospitalized subjects. In the hospitalized subjects, the median plasma BNP level (interquartile range) was 55.4 (26.9-129.3) pg/mL and was higher than that of patients with stable COPD: 18.3 (10.0-45.3) for Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease grade I; 25.8 (11.0-53.7) for grade II; 22.1 (9.1-52.6) for grade III; and 17.2 (9.6-22.9) pg/mL for grade I V, all P<0.001. In 15 subjects studied prospectively, the median plasma BNP level was 19.4 (9.8-32.2) pg/mL before AECOPD, 72.7 (27.7-146.3) pg/mL during AECOPD, and 14.6 (12.9-39.0) pg/mL after AECOPD (P<0.0033 and P<0.0013, respectively). Median plasma BNP levels during AECOPD were significantly higher in ten unsuccessfully discharged subjects 260.5 (59.4-555.0) than in 48 successfully discharged subjects 48.5 (24.2-104.0) pg/mL (P=0.0066). Only 5.6% of AECOPD subjects were associated with systolic dysfunction defined as a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50%; a further 7.4% were considered to have impaired relaxation defined as an E/A wave velocity ratio <0.8 and a deceleration time of E >240 ms. BNP levels were weakly correlated with the E/peak early diastolic velocity of the mitral annulus (Ea) ratio (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient =0.353, P=0.018), but they were not correlated with the LVEF (Spearman's rank correlation

Investigation of Plasmas Having Complex, Dynamic Evolving Morphology

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

Bellan, Paul M.

2017-01-03

Three different types of plasmas have been investigated using both experimental and theoretical methods. The first type of plasma is dense, highly ionized, governed by magnetohydrodynamics, and highly dynamic. This plasma is relevant to solar coronal loops, astrophysical jets, and other situations where strong magnetic forces act on the plasma. A well-diagnosed laboratory experiment creates a magnetohydrodynamically driven highly collimated plasma jet. This jet undergoes a kink instability such that it rapidly develops a corkscrew shape. The kink causes lateral acceleration of the jet, and this lateral acceleration drives a Rayleigh-Taylor instability that in turn chokes the current flowing inmore » the jet and causes a magnetic reconnection. The magnetic reconnection causes electron and ion heating as well as emission of whistler waves. This entire sequence of events has been observed, measured in detail, and related to theoretical models. The second type of plasma is a transient rf-produced plasma used as a seed plasma for the magnetohydrodynamic experiments described above. Detailed atomic physics ionization processes have been investigated and modeled. The third type of plasma that has been studied is a dusty plasma where the dust particles are spontaneously growing ice grains. The rapid growth of the ice grains to large size and their highly ordered alignment has been investigated as well as collective motion of the ice grains, including well-defined flows on the surface of nested toroids. In addition to the experimental work described above, several related theoretical models have been developed, most notably a model showing how a complex interaction between gravity and magnetic fields on extremely weakly ionized plasma in an accretion disk provides an electric power source that can drive astrophysical jets associated with the accretion disk. Eighteen papers reporting this work have been published in a wide variety of journals.« less

Imposed, ordered dust structures and other plasma features in a strongly magnetized plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thomas, Edward; Leblanc, Spencer; Lynch, Brian; Konopka, Uwe; Merlino, Robert; Rosenberg, Marlene

2015-11-01

The Magnetized Dusty Plasma Experiment (MDPX) device has been in operation for just over one year. In that time, the MDPX device has been operating using a uniform magnetic field configuration up to 3.0 Tesla and has successfully produced plasmas and dusty plasmas at high magnetic fields. In these experimental studies, we have made observations of a new type of imposed, ordered structure in a dusty plasma at magnetic fields above 1 T. These dusty plasma structures are shown to scale inversely with neutral pressure and are shown to reflect the spatial structure of a wire mesh placed in the plasma. Additionally, recent measurements have been made that give insights into the effective potential that establishes the ordered structures in the plasma. In this presentation, we report on details of the imposed, ordered dusty plasma structure as well as filamentary features that also appear in the plasma and modify the confinement of the dusty plasma. This work is supported with funding from the NSF and Department of Energy.

Plasma extracellular superoxide dismutase concentration, allelic variations in the SOD3 gene and risk of myocardial infarction and all-cause mortality in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Mohammedi, Kamel; Bellili-Muñoz, Naïma; Marklund, Stefan L; Driss, Fathi; Le Nagard, Hervé; Patente, Thiago A; Fumeron, Frédéric; Roussel, Ronan; Hadjadj, Samy; Marre, Michel; Velho, Gilberto

2015-01-15

Oxidative stress is involved in development of diabetes complications. Extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD, SOD3) is a major extracellular antioxidant enzyme and is highly expressed in arterial walls. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) and 8-iso-prostaglandin (isoprostane) are markers of oxidative stress. We investigated association of SOD3 gene variants, plasma concentrations of EC-SOD, AOPP and isoprostane with myocardial infarction and mortality in diabetic patients. We studied three cohorts designed to evaluate the vascular complications of diabetes: the GENEDIAB study (469 participants with type 1 diabetes at baseline; follow-up data for 259 participants), the GENESIS study (603 participants with type 1 diabetes at baseline; follow-up data for 525 participants) and the DIABHYCAR study (3137 participants with type 2 diabetes at baseline and follow-up). Duration of follow-up was 9, 5, and 5 years, respectively. Main outcome measures were incidence of myocardial infarction, and cardiovascular and total mortality during follow-up. Six single nucleotide polymorphisms in the SOD3 locus were genotyped in the three cohorts. Plasma concentrations of EC-SOD, AOPP, and isoprostane were measured in baseline samples of GENEDIAB participants. In GENEDIAB/GENESIS pooled cohorts, the minor T-allele of rs2284659 variant was inversely associated with the prevalence at baseline (Odds Ratio 0.48, 95% CI 0.29-0.78, p = 0.004) and the incidence during follow-up of myocardial infarction (Hazard Ratio 0.58, 95% CI 0.40-0.83, p = 0.003) and with cardiovascular (HR 0.33, 95% CI 0.08-0.74, p = 0.004) and all-cause mortality (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.21-0.73, p = 0.0006). The protective allele was associated with higher plasma EC-SOD and lower plasma AOPP concentrations in GENEDIAB. It was also inversely associated with incidence of myocardial infarction (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.59-0.94, p = 0.01) and all-cause mortality (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.79-0.97, p = 0

Plasma diagnostics of non-equilibrium atmospheric plasma jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shashurin, Alexey; Scott, David; Keidar, Michael; Shneider, Mikhail

2014-10-01

Intensive development and biomedical application of non-equilibrium atmospheric plasma jet (NEAPJ) facilitates rapid growth of the plasma medicine field. The NEAPJ facility utilized at the George Washington University (GWU) demonstrated efficacy for treatment of various cancer types (lung, bladder, breast, head, neck, brain and skin). In this work we review recent advances of the research conducted at GWU concerned with the development of NEAPJ diagnostics including Rayleigh Microwave Scattering setup, method of streamer scattering on DC potential, Rogowski coils, ICCD camera and optical emission spectroscopy. These tools allow conducting temporally-resolved measurements of plasma density, electrical potential, charge and size of the streamer head, electrical currents flowing though the jet, ionization front propagation speed etc. Transient dynamics of plasma and discharge parameters will be considered and physical processes involved in the discharge will be analyzed including streamer breakdown, electrical coupling of the streamer tip with discharge electrodes, factors determining NEAPJ length, cross-sectional shape and propagation path etc.

Key steps in type III secretion system (T3SS) towards translocon assembly with potential sensor at plant plasma membrane.

PubMed

Ji, Hongtao; Dong, Hansong

2015-09-01

Many plant- and animal-pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria employ the type III secretion system (T3SS) to translocate effector proteins from bacterial cells into the cytosol of eukaryotic host cells. The effector translocation occurs through an integral component of T3SS, the channel-like translocon, assembled by hydrophilic and hydrophobic proteinaceous translocators in a two-step process. In the first, hydrophilic translocators localize to the tip of a proteinaceous needle in animal pathogens, or a proteinaceous pilus in plant pathogens, and associate with hydrophobic translocators, which insert into host plasma membranes in the second step. However, the pilus needs to penetrate plant cell walls in advance. All hydrophilic translocators so far identified in plant pathogens are characteristic of harpins: T3SS accessory proteins containing a unitary hydrophilic domain or an additional enzymatic domain. Two-domain harpins carrying a pectate lyase domain potentially target plant cell walls and facilitate the penetration of the pectin-rich middle lamella by the bacterial pilus. One-domain harpins target plant plasma membranes and may play a crucial role in translocon assembly, which may also involve contrapuntal associations of hydrophobic translocators. In all cases, sensory components in the target plasma membrane are indispensable for the membrane recognition of translocators and the functionality of the translocon. The conjectural sensors point to membrane lipids and proteins, and a phosphatidic acid and an aquaporin are able to interact with selected harpin-type translocators. Interactions between translocators and their sensors at the target plasma membrane are assumed to be critical for translocon assembly. © 2014 BSPP AND JOHN WILEY & SONS LTD.

Characteristics of plasma-puff trigger for a inverse-pinch plasma switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Eun H.; Venable, Demetrius D.; Han, Kwang S.; Lee, Ja H.

1993-01-01

The plasma-puff triggering mechanism based on a hypocycloidal pinch geometry was investigated to determine the optimal operating conditions for the azimuthally uniform surface flashover which initiates plasma-puff under wide ranges of fill gas pressure of Ar, He and N2. The optimal fill-gas pressure range for the azimuthally uniform plasma-puff was about 120 mTorr less than or equal to P(sub op) less than or equal to 450 Torr for He and N2. For Argon 120 mTorr is less than or equal to P(sub op) is less than or equal to 5 Torr. The inverse-pinch switch was triggered with the plasma-puff and the switching capability under various electrical parameters and working gas pressures of Ar, He and N2 was determined. The azimuthally uniform switching discharges were dependent on the type of fill gas and its fill pressure. A new concept of plasma-focus driven plasma-puff will be discussed in comparison with the current hypocycloidal-pinch plasma-puff triggering.

Regulation of the plasma membrane type III phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase by positively charged compounds.

PubMed

Yang, W; Boss, W F

1994-08-15

The effects of positively charged compounds on a plasma membrane, type III phosphatidylinositol 4-kinase were studied. To determine whether the enzyme would respond differently to the compounds in a membrane-associated versus a soluble state, both the plasma membrane and solubilized (released by 0.01% (v/v) Triton X-100) PI 4-kinase were used. Spermidine, spermine, polylysine, cardiotoxin, melittin, and histone stimulated the solubilized PI 4-kinase but had little effect on or weakly stimulated the membrane-associated PI 4-kinase. Polyarginine inhibited membrane-associated PI 4-kinase 75% and inhibited the solubilized PI 4-kinase 30%, indicating that charge alone was not sufficient for activation. Polyarginine also eliminated the activation of the solubilized PI 4-kinase by a PI 4-kinase activator protein, PIK-A49. Calmodulin, a common calcium-binding protein, at micromolar levels strongly inhibited solubilized PI 4-kinase activity but did not inhibit membrane-associated PI 4-kinase activity. The inhibition of the solubilized PI 4-kinase by calmodulin was calcium independent. Calcium alone (1 microM-0.1 mM) inhibited PI 4-kinase activity only slightly (< 30%). The differential effects of the positively charged compounds on the solubilized and membrane-associated PI 4-kinase were not due to substrate availability because both enzymes were assayed in the presence of excess PI (0.6 mM) and 0.3% (v/v) Triton X-100. The data suggest that positively charged compounds affected the enzyme activity not only by interacting with the substrates or products of the reaction but also by interacting with the PI 4-kinase or regulatory components in the plasma membrane.

Titan's Variable Plasma Interaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ledvina, S. A.; Brecht, S. H.

2015-12-01

Cassini observations have found that the plasma and magnetic field conditions upstream of Titan are far more complex than they were thought to be after the Voyager encounter. Rymer et al., (2009) used the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) electron observations to classify the plasma conditions along Titan's orbit into 5 types (Plasma Sheet, Lobe, Mixed, Magnetosheath and Misc.). Nemeth et al., (2011) found that the CAPS ion observations could also be separated into the same plasma regions as defined by Rymer et al. Additionally the T-96 encounter found Titan in the solar wind adding a sixth classification. Understanding the effects of the variable upstream plasma conditions on Titan's plasma interaction and the evolution of Titan's ionosphere/atmosphere is one of the main objectives of the Cassini mission. To compliment the mission we perform hybrid simulations of Titan's plasma interaction to examine the effects of the incident plasma distribution function and the flow velocity. We closely examine the results on Titan's induced magnetosphere and the resulting pickup ion properties.

Plasma Free Amino Acid Profiling of Five Types of Cancer Patients and Its Application for Early Detection

PubMed Central

Miyagi, Yohei; Higashiyama, Masahiko; Gochi, Akira; Akaike, Makoto; Ishikawa, Takashi; Miura, Takeshi; Saruki, Nobuhiro; Bando, Etsuro; Kimura, Hideki; Imamura, Fumio; Moriyama, Masatoshi; Ikeda, Ichiro; Chiba, Akihiko; Oshita, Fumihiro; Imaizumi, Akira; Yamamoto, Hiroshi; Miyano, Hiroshi; Horimoto, Katsuhisa; Tochikubo, Osamu; Mitsushima, Toru; Yamakado, Minoru; Okamoto, Naoyuki

2011-01-01

Background Recently, rapid advances have been made in metabolomics-based, easy-to-use early cancer detection methods using blood samples. Among metabolites, profiling of plasma free amino acids (PFAAs) is a promising approach because PFAAs link all organ systems and have important roles in metabolism. Furthermore, PFAA profiles are known to be influenced by specific diseases, including cancers. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to determine the characteristics of the PFAA profiles in cancer patients and the possibility of using this information for early detection. Methods and Findings Plasma samples were collected from approximately 200 patients from multiple institutes, each diagnosed with one of the following five types of cancer: lung, gastric, colorectal, breast, or prostate cancer. Patients were compared to gender- and age- matched controls also used in this study. The PFAA levels were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)–electrospray ionization (ESI)–mass spectrometry (MS). Univariate analysis revealed significant differences in the PFAA profiles between the controls and the patients with any of the five types of cancer listed above, even those with asymptomatic early-stage disease. Furthermore, multivariate analysis clearly discriminated the cancer patients from the controls in terms of the area under the receiver-operator characteristics curve (AUC of ROC >0.75 for each cancer), regardless of cancer stage. Because this study was designed as case-control study, further investigations, including model construction and validation using cohorts with larger sample sizes, are necessary to determine the usefulness of PFAA profiling. Conclusions These findings suggest that PFAA profiling has great potential for improving cancer screening and diagnosis and understanding disease pathogenesis. PFAA profiles can also be used to determine various disease diagnoses from a single blood sample, which involves a relatively simple

Differential effect of T-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channel disruption on renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate in vivo.

PubMed

Thuesen, Anne D; Andersen, Henrik; Cardel, Majken; Toft, Anja; Walter, Steen; Marcussen, Niels; Jensen, Boye L; Bie, Peter; Hansen, Pernille B L

2014-08-15

Voltage-gated Ca(2+) (Cav) channels play an essential role in the regulation of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Because T-type Cav channels are differentially expressed in pre- and postglomerular vessels, it was hypothesized that they impact renal blood flow and GFR differentially. The question was addressed with the use of two T-type Cav knockout (Cav3.1(-/-) and Cav3.2(-/-)) mouse strains. Continuous recordings of blood pressure and heart rate, para-aminohippurate clearance (renal plasma flow), and inulin clearance (GFR) were performed in conscious, chronically catheterized, wild-type (WT) and Cav3.1(-/-) and Cav3.2(-/-) mice. The contractility of afferent and efferent arterioles was determined in isolated perfused blood vessels. Efferent arterioles from Cav3.2(-/-) mice constricted significantly more in response to a depolarization compared with WT mice. GFR was increased in Cav3.2(-/-) mice with no significant changes in renal plasma flow, heart rate, and blood pressure. Cav3.1(-/-) mice had a higher renal plasma flow compared with WT mice, whereas GFR was indistinguishable from WT mice. No difference in the concentration response to K(+) was observed in isolated afferent and efferent arterioles from Cav3.1(-/-) mice compared with WT mice. Heart rate was significantly lower in Cav3.1(-/-) mice compared with WT mice with no difference in blood pressure. T-type antagonists significantly inhibited the constriction of human intrarenal arteries in response to a small depolarization. In conclusion, Cav3.2 channels support dilatation of efferent arterioles and affect GFR, whereas Cav3.1 channels in vivo contribute to renal vascular resistance. It is suggested that endothelial and nerve localization of Cav3.2 and Cav3.1, respectively, may account for the observed effects. Copyright © 2014 the American Physiological Society.

Association between alcohol consumption and plasma fetuin-A and its contribution to incident type 2 diabetes in women.

PubMed

Ley, Sylvia H; Sun, Qi; Jimenez, Monik C; Rexrode, Kathryn M; Manson, Joann E; Jensen, Majken K; Rimm, Eric B; Hu, Frank B

2014-01-01

The benefits of moderate alcohol consumption for type 2 diabetes have been postulated to involve a mechanism of improved insulin sensitivity. Fetuin-A, which is known to inhibit insulin signalling, has emerged as a biomarker for diabetes risk. Alcohol consumption may influence circulating fetuin-A concentrations and subsequently diabetes risk by altering the insulin signal. We therefore hypothesised that moderate alcohol consumption would be associated with lower fetuin-A concentration and that fetuin-A would partly explain the association between alcohol consumption and incident type 2 diabetes. Among diabetes-free female participants in the Nurses' Health Study (n = 1,331), multiple linear regression was conducted to assess the association between alcohol consumption and plasma fetuin-A. Least-squares means (lsmeans) of fetuin-A were estimated in categories of alcohol consumption (0, 0.1-4.9, 5-14.9 and ≥ 15 g/day). The proportion of alcohol consumption and diabetes association explained by baseline fetuin-A was assessed in 470 matched incident diabetes case-control pairs with follow-up 2000-2006. Higher alcohol consumption was associated with lower plasma fetuin-A (p for trend = 0.009): lsmean ± SE 476.5 ± 5.9 μg/ml for abstainers, 468.9 ± 5.2 μg/ml for 0.1-4.9 g/day consumers, 455.9 ± 7.0 μg/ml for 5.0-14.9 g/day consumers, and 450.0 ± 9.4 μg/ml for ≥ 15.0 g/day consumers. Fetuin-A and fasting insulin explained 18.4% and 54.8%, respectively, of the inverse association between alcohol consumption and diabetes after multiple adjustment (both p for contribution <0.04). Moderate alcohol consumption is associated with lower plasma fetuin-A in diabetes-free women. Fetuin-A and insulin explain a significant proportion of the association between alcohol consumption and incident type 2 diabetes. Further studies are needed to examine potential biological mechanisms underlying this association.

Increased Plasma Levels of Select Deoxy-ceramide and Ceramide Species are Associated with Increased Odds of Diabetic Neuropathy in Type 1 Diabetes: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Hammad, Samar M; Baker, Nathaniel L; El Abiad, Jad M; Spassieva, Stefanka D; Pierce, Jason S; Rembiesa, Barbara; Bielawski, Jacek; Lopes-Virella, Maria F; Klein, Richard L

2017-03-01

Plasma deoxy-sphingoid bases are elevated in type 2 diabetes patients and correlate with the stage of diabetic distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy; however, associations between deoxy-sphingolipids (DSL) and neuropathy in type 1 diabetes have not been examined. The primary aim of this exploratory pilot study was to assess the associations between multiple sphingolipid species including DSL and free amino acids and the presence of symptomatic neuropathy in a DCCT/EDIC type 1 diabetes subcohort. Using mass spectroscopy, plasma levels of DSL and free amino acids in DCCT/EDIC type 1 diabetes participants (n = 80), with and without symptoms of neuropathy, were investigated. Patient-determined neuropathy was based on 15-item self-administered questionnaire (Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument) developed to assess distal symmetrical peripheral neuropathy in diabetes. Patients who scored ≥4, or reported inability to sense their feet during walking or to distinguish hot from cold water while bathing were considered neuropathic. Plasma levels of ceramide, sphingomyelin, hexosyl- and lactosylceramide species, and amino acids were measured and analyzed relative to neuropathy status in the patient. Deoxy-C24-ceramide, C24- and C26-ceramide were higher in patients with neuropathy than those without neuropathy. Cysteine was higher in patients with neuropathy. No differences in other sphingolipids or amino acids were detected. The covariate-adjusted Odds Ratios of positive patient-reported neuropathy was associated with increased levels of deoxy-C24-, and deoxy-C24:1-ceramide; C22-, C24-, and C26-ceramide; and cysteine. Plasma deoxy-ceramide and ceramide species may have potential diagnostic and prognostic significance in diabetic neuropathy.

Increased Plasma Levels of Select Deoxy-ceramide and Ceramide Species are Associated with Increased Odds of Diabetic Neuropathy in Type 1 Diabetes: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Baker, Nathaniel L.; El Abiad, Jad M.; Spassieva, Stefanka D.; Pierce, Jason S.; Rembiesa, Barbara; Bielawski, Jacek; Lopes-Virella, Maria F.; Klein, Richard L.; Investigators, DCCT/EDIC Group of

2017-01-01

Plasma deoxy-sphingoid bases are elevated in type 2 diabetes patients and correlate with the stage of diabetic distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy; however, associations between deoxy-sphingolipids (DSL) and neuropathy in type 1 diabetes have not been examined. The primary aim of this exploratory pilot study was to assess the associations between multiple sphingolipid species including DSL and free amino acids and the presence of symptomatic neuropathy in a DCCT/EDIC type 1 diabetes subcohort. Using mass spectroscopy, plasma levels of DSL and free amino acids in DCCT/EDIC type 1 diabetes participants (n = 80), with and without symptoms of neuropathy, were investigated. Patient-determined neuropathy was based on 15-item self-administered questionnaire (Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument) developed to assess distal symmetrical peripheral neuropathy in diabetes. Patients who scored ≥4, or reported inability to sense their feet during walking or to distinguish hot from cold water while bathing were considered neuropathic. Plasma levels of ceramide, sphingomyelin, hexosyl- and lactosylceramide species, and amino acids were measured and analyzed relative to neuropathy status in the patient. Deoxy-C24-ceramide, C24- and C26-ceramide were higher in patients with neuropathy than those without neuropathy. Cysteine was higher in patients with neuropathy. No differences in other sphingolipids or amino acids were detected. The covariate-adjusted Odds Ratios of positive patient-reported neuropathy was associated with increased levels of deoxy-C24-, and deoxy-C24:1-ceramide; C22-, C24-, and C26-ceramide; and cysteine. Plasma deoxy-ceramide and ceramide species may have potential diagnostic and prognostic significance in diabetic neuropathy. PMID:27388466

Plasma Proteins Modified by Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) Reveal Site-specific Susceptibilities to Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Greifenhagen, Uta; Frolov, Andrej; Blüher, Matthias; Hoffmann, Ralf

2016-04-29

Protein glycation refers to the reversible reaction between aldoses (or ketoses) and amino groups yielding relatively stable Amadori (or Heyns) products. Consecutive oxidative cleavage reactions of these products or the reaction of amino groups with other reactive substances (e.g. α-dicarbonyls) yield advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that can alter the structures and functions of proteins. AGEs have been identified in all organisms, and their contents appear to rise with some diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Here, we report a pilot study using highly sensitive and specific proteomics approach to identify and quantify AGE modification sites in plasma proteins by reversed phase HPLC mass spectrometry in tryptic plasma digests. In total, 19 AGE modification sites corresponding to 11 proteins were identified in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus under poor glycemic control. The modification degrees of 15 modification sites did not differ among cohorts of normoglycemic lean or obese and type 2 diabetes mellitus patients under good and poor glycemic control. The contents of two amide-AGEs in human serum albumin and apolipoprotein A-II were significantly higher in patients with poor glycemic control, although the plasma levels of both proteins were similar among all plasma samples. These two modification sites might be useful to predict long term, AGE-related complications in diabetic patients, such as impaired vision, increased arterial stiffness, or decreased kidney function. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Anomalous resistivity effect on multiple ion beam emission and hard x-ray generation in a Mather type plasma focus device

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

Behbahani, R. A.; Aghamir, F. M.

Multi ion beam and hard x-ray emissions were detected in a high inductance (more than 100 nH) Mather type plasma focus (PF) device at different filling gas pressures and charging voltages. The signal analysis was performed through the current trace, as it is the fundamental signal from which all of the phenomena in a PF device can be extracted. Two different fitting processes were carried out according to Lee's computational (snow-plow) model. In the first process, only plasma dynamics and classical (Spitzer) resistances were considered as energy consumer parameters for plasma. This led to an unsuccessful fitting and did notmore » answer the energy transfer mechanism into plasma. A second fitting process was considered through the addition of anomalous resistance, which provided the best fit. Anomalous resistance was the source of long decrease in current trace, and multi dips and multi peaks of high voltage probe. Multi-peak features were interpreted considering the second fitting process along with the mechanisms for ion beam production and hard x-ray emission. To show the important role of the anomalous resistance, the duration of the current drop was discussed.« less

Sphingomyelin-induced inhibition of the plasma membrane calcium ATPase causes neurodegeneration in type A Niemann-Pick disease.

PubMed

Pérez-Cañamás, A; Benvegnù, S; Rueda, C B; Rábano, A; Satrústegui, J; Ledesma, M D

2017-05-01

Niemann-Pick disease type A (NPA) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder characterized by severe neurological alterations that leads to death in childhood. Loss-of-function mutations in the acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) gene cause NPA, and result in the accumulation of sphingomyelin (SM) in lysosomes and plasma membrane of neurons. Using ASM knockout (ASMko) mice as a NPA disease model, we investigated how high SM levels contribute to neural pathology in NPA. We found high levels of oxidative stress both in neurons from these mice and a NPA patient. Impaired activity of the plasma membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA) increases intracellular calcium. SM induces PMCA decreased activity, which causes oxidative stress. Incubating ASMko-cultured neurons in the histone deacetylase inhibitor, SAHA, restores PMCA activity and calcium homeostasis and, consequently, reduces the increased levels of oxidative stress. No recovery occurs when PMCA activity is pharmacologically impaired or genetically inhibited in vitro. Oral administration of SAHA prevents oxidative stress and neurodegeneration, and improves behavioral performance in ASMko mice. These results demonstrate a critical role for plasma membrane SM in neuronal calcium regulation. Thus, we identify changes in PMCA-triggered calcium homeostasis as an upstream mediator for NPA pathology. These findings can stimulate new approaches for pharmacological remediation in a disease with no current clinical treatments.

Negative ion source with hollow cathode discharge plasma

DOEpatents

Hershcovitch, Ady; Prelec, Krsto

1983-01-01

A negative ion source of the type where negative ions are formed by bombarding a low-work-function surface with positive ions and neutral particles from a plasma, wherein a highly ionized plasma is injected into an anode space containing the low-work-function surface. The plasma is formed by hollow cathode discharge and injected into the anode space along the magnetic field lines. Preferably, the negative ion source is of the magnetron type.

Correlation between plasma concentration ratios of SN-38 glucuronide and SN-38 and neutropenia induction in patients with colorectal cancer and wild-type UGT1A1 gene

PubMed Central

HIROSE, KOICHI; KOZU, CHIHIRO; YAMASHITA, KOSHIRO; MARUO, EIJI; KITAMURA, MIZUHO; HASEGAWA, JUNICHI; OMODA, KEI; MURAKAMI, TERUO; MAEDA, YORINOBU

2011-01-01

In irinotecan (CPT-11)-based chemotherapy, neutropenia and diarrhea are often induced. In the present study, the clinical significance of the concentration ratios of 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin (SN-38) glucuronide (SN-38G) and SN-38 in the plasma in predicting CPT-11-induced neutropenia was examined. A total of 17 patients with colorectal cancer and wild-type UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1 gene were enrolled and treated with CPT-11 as part of the FOLFIRI regimen [CPT-11 and fluorouracil (5-FU)]. Blood was taken exactly 15 min following a 2-h continuous infusion of CPT-11. Plasma concentrations of SN-38, SN-38G and CPT-11 were determined by a modified high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The median, maximum and minimum values of plasma SN-38G/SN-38 ratios were 4.25, 7.09 and 1.03, respectively, indicating that UGT activities are variable among patients with the wild-type UGT1A1 gene. The plasma SN-38G/SN-38 ratios decreased with an increase in the trial numbers of chemotherapy (r=0.741, p=0.000669), suggesting that CPT-11 treatment suppresses UGT activity, and the low plasma SN-38G/SN-38 ratios resulted in the induction of greater neutropenia. However, in this analysis, 2 clearly separated regression lines were observed between plasma SN-38G/SN-38 ratios and neutropenia induction. In conclusion, UGT activity involved in SN-38 metabolism is variable among patients with the wild-type UGT1A1 gene, and each CPT-11 treatment suppresses UGT activity. One-point determination of the plasma SN-38G/SN-38 ratio may provide indications for the prediction of CPT-11-induced neutropenia and adjustment of the optimal dose, although further studies are required. PMID:22740978

Type 1 angiotensin II receptor-associated protein ARAP1 binds and recycles the receptor to the plasma membrane.

PubMed

Guo, Deng-Fu; Chenier, Isabelle; Tardif, Valerie; Orlov, Sergei N; Inagami, Tadashi

2003-10-31

The carboxyl terminus of the type 1 angiotensin II receptor (AT(1)) plays an important role in receptor phosphorylation, desensitization, and internalization. The yeast two-hybrid system was employed to isolate proteins associated with the carboxyl terminal region of the AT(1A) receptor. In the present study, we report the isolation of a novel protein, ARAP1, which promotes recycling of AT(1A) to the plasma membrane in HEK-293 cells. ARAP1 cDNA encodes a 493-amino-acid protein and its mRNA is ubiquitously expressed in rat tissues. A complex of ARAP1 and AT(1A) was observed by immunoprecipitation and Western blotting in HEK-293 cells. In the presence of ARAP1, recycled AT(1A) showed a significant Ca(2+) release response to a second stimulation by Ang II 30 min after the first treatment. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed co-localization of recycled AT(1A) and ARAP1 in the plasma membrane 45 min after the initial exposure to Ang II. Taken together, these results indicate a role for ARAP1 in the recycling of the AT(1) receptor to the plasma membrane with presumable concomitant recovery of receptor signal functions.

Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide concentrations in dogs with right-sided congestive heart failure

PubMed Central

KANNO, Nobuyuki; HORI, Yasutomo; HIDAKA, Yuichi; CHIKAZAWA, Seishiro; KANAI, Kazutaka; HOSHI, Fumio; ITOH, Naoyuki

2015-01-01

The clinical utility of plasma natriuretic peptide concentrations in dogs with right-sided congestive heart failure (CHF) remains unclear. We investigated whether plasma levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are useful for assessing the congestive signs of right-sided heart failure in dogs. This retrospective study enrolled 16 healthy dogs and 51 untreated dogs with presence (n=28) or absence (n=23) of right-sided CHF. Medical records of physical examinations, thoracic radiography and echocardiography were reviewed. The plasma concentration of canine ANP was measured with a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay. Plasma NT-proBNP concentrations were determined using an enzyme immunoassay. Plasma ANP and NT-proBNP concentrations in dogs with right-sided CHF were significantly higher than in healthy controls and those without right-sided CHF. The plasma NT-proBNP concentration >3,003 pmol/l used to identify right-sided CHF had a sensitivity of 88.5% and specificity of 90.3%. An area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.93. The AUC for NT-proBNP was significantly higher than the AUCs for the cardiothoracic ratio, vertebral heart score, ratio of right ventricular end-diastolic internal diameter to body surface area, tricuspid late diastolic flow and ratio of the velocities of tricuspid early to late diastolic flow. These results suggest that plasma ANP and NT-proBNP concentrations increase markedly in dogs with right-sided CHF. Particularly, NT-proBNP is simple and helpful biomarkers to assess the right-sided CHF. PMID:26607133

Parametric decay of current-driven Langmuir oscillations and wave packet formation in plateau plasmas: Relevance to type III bursts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauer, K.; Malaspina, D.; Pulupa, M.

2016-12-01

Instead of starting with an unstable electron beam, our focus is directed on the nonlinear response of Langmuir oscillations which are driven after beam stabilization by the still persisting current of the (stable) two-electron plasma. The velocity distribution function of the second population forms a plateau with weak damping over a more or less extended wave number range k. As shown by PIC simulations, this so-called plateau plasma drives primarily Langmuir oscillations at the plasma frequency ωe with k=0 over long times without remarkable change of the distribution function. The Langmuir oscillations, however, act as pump wave for parametric decay by which an electron-acoustic wave slightly below ωe and a counter-streaming ion-acoustic wave are generated. Both high-frequency waves have nearly the same amplitude which is simply given by the product of plateau density and velocity. Beating of these two wave types leads to pronounced Langmuir amplitude modulation, in good agreement with solar wind and foreshock WIND observations where waveforms and electron distribution functions have simultaneously been analyzed.

Bauhinia variegata (Caesalpiniaceae) leaf extract: An effective treatment option in type I and type II diabetes.

PubMed

Kulkarni, Yogesh A; Garud, Mayuresh S

2016-10-01

Among various metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus is one of the most common disorder. Present study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of aqueous extract of Bauhinia variegata leaves (AE) in animal models of type I and type II diabetes. Type I diabetes was induced by streptozotocin at the dose of 55mg/kg (i.p.) in male Sprague Dawley rats while type II diabetes was induced by high fat diet and streptozotocin at the dose of 35mg/kg (i.p.). Diabetic animals were treated with AE at the dose of 250, 500 and 1000mg/kg. Glipizide (5mg/kg) was used as standard treatment drug. Treatment was given for 28days. Parameters evaluated were body weight, plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, total proteins, albumin, creatinine and bun urea nitrogen. In type II diabetes, high density lipoprotein levels in plasma and plasma insulin level were also evaluated. Histopathological study of pancreases were carried out in type I study. AE showed significant decrease in plasma glucose significantly. AE was also found to decrease cholesterol, triglyceride, creatinine and blood urea nitrogen level in both types of diabetes. AE did not show any significant effect on plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase. AE was found to increase the albumin and total protein levels. Histopathological study showed that AE decreases the necrotic changes in the pancreatic tissue. Aqueous extract of B. variegata leaves was found effective in treatment of both type I and type II diabetes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Plasma thyroid hormone concentration is associated with hepatic triglyceride content in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Bril, Fernando; Kadiyala, Sushma; Portillo Sanchez, Paola; Sunny, Nishanth E; Biernacki, Diane; Maximos, Maryann; Kalavalapalli, Srilaxmi; Lomonaco, Romina; Suman, Amitabh; Cusi, Kenneth

2016-01-01

The underlying mechanisms responsible for the development and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are unclear. Since the thyroid hormone regulates mitochondrial function in the liver, we designed this study in order to establish the association between plasma free T4 levels and hepatic triglyceride accumulation and histological severity of liver disease in patients with T2DM and NAFLD. This is a cross-sectional study including a total of 232 patients with T2DM. All patients underwent a liver MR spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS) to quantify hepatic triglyceride content, and an oral glucose tolerance test to estimate insulin resistance. A liver biopsy was performed in patients with a diagnosis of NAFLD. Patients were divided into 5 groups according to plasma free T4 quintiles. We observed that decreasing free T4 levels were associated with an increasing prevalence of NAFLD (from 55% if free T4≥1.18 ng/dL to 80% if free T4<0.80 ng/dL, p=0.016), and higher hepatic triglyceride accumulation by (1)H-MRS (p<0.001). However, lower plasma free T4 levels were not significantly associated with more insulin resistance or more severe liver histology (ie, inflammation, ballooning, or fibrosis). Decreasing levels of plasma free T4 are associated with a higher prevalence of NAFLD and increasing levels of hepatic triglyceride content in patients with T2DM. These results suggest that thyroid hormone may play a role in the regulation of hepatic steatosis and support the notion that hypothyroidism may be associated with NAFLD. No NCT number required. Copyright © 2016 American Federation for Medical Research.

Post-pinch generation of electron beam in a low energy Mather-type plasma focus device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Behbahani, R. A.; Aghamir, F. M.; Aghamir

2013-10-01

The post-pinch generation of electron beam in a low energy Mather-type plasma focus (PF) device has been investigated. A fast-calibrated Rogowski coil was used to monitor the emission of electron beam. A two-channel diode X-ray spectrometer along with suitable filters provided the records of energy spectrum of X-ray radiation. Single time-period emissions of electron beam with duration of 100 to 20 ns were recorded in the high range of the device operating pressure (0.8-2 mbar). However, in the low range regime (0.2-0.8 mbar), occurrence of single spike electron beam with duration of 150 +/- 50 ns, as well as multi-emission of electrons with duration of 400 +/- 50 ns, was visible. A multi-peak of tube voltage along with multi-time-period radiation of X-rays dominated by copper lines (Cukα and Cukβ) was noticeable in the low-pressure range. The generated electron beam during the post-pinch phase of anomalous resistances is suspected to be the main source of X-ray radiation. This can also be related to the turbulence of the plasma column during the occurrence of anomalous resistances.

EDITORIAL: Plasma jets and plasma bullets Plasma jets and plasma bullets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kong, M. G.; Ganguly, B. N.; Hicks, R. F.

2012-06-01

-mentioned early studies has witnessed a considerable and exciting growth in terms of new phenomena observed, new physics and chemistry uncovered, new plasma jet sources conceived, and new applications developed. Examples include the observations of plasma bullets on a nanosecond scale [16], the similarity of plasma bullets to streamers [17], arrays of plasma jets as metamaterials [18], and a rapid increase of applications in biomedicine [19]. However the considerable growth in the research of plasma jets has not been adequately supported, so far, by a sound fundamental underpinning, partly resulting from a somewhat underdevelopment of effective diagnostics and modelling tools. Recognizing the critical importance of basic science for future growth of low-temperature plasma jet technology, this special issue on plasma jets and bullets aims to address some of the most important fundamental questions. Many of the special issue papers continue the established line of investigation to characterize the formation of plasma bullets, using typically ultrafast imaging, electrical detection including electric field and plasma conductivity measurement, and optical emission spectrometry [20]-[26]. These offer strong experimental evidence for the well-known hypothesis that a plasma jet is a form of streamer, and that the ionization wave plays a critical role in their formation. The interaction of two parallel plasma jets [27] and manipulation of plasma jet characteristics [28, 29] are also reported using a similar combination of experimental techniques. Some of the common characteristics of plasma jets are summarized in a review paper in this special issue [30]. A somewhat different line of investigation is employed in a detailed experimental characterization of deterministic chaos in atmospheric plasma jets [31], one of the few non-bullet modes of plasma jets. Although chaos in ionized gases have been observed in other types of discharge plasmas, their applications have not so far been linked

Negative ion source with hollow cathode discharge plasma

DOEpatents

Hershcovitch, A.; Prelec, K.

1980-12-12

A negative ion source of the type where negative ions are formed by bombarding a low-work-function surface with positive ions and neutral particles from a plasma, wherein a highly ionized plasma is injected into an anode space containing the low-work-function surface is described. The plasma is formed by hollow cathode discharge and injected into the anode space along the magnetic field lines. Preferably, the negative ion source is of the magnetron type.

Effect of multiply charged ions on the performance and beam characteristics in annular and cylindrical type Hall thruster plasmas

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

Kim, Holak; Lim, Youbong; Choe, Wonho, E-mail: wchoe@kaist.ac.kr

2014-10-06

Plasma plume and thruster performance characteristics associated with multiply charged ions in a cylindrical type Hall thruster (CHT) and an annular type Hall thruster are compared under identical conditions such as channel diameter, channel depth, propellant mass flow rate. A high propellant utilization in a CHT is caused by a high ionization rate, which brings about large multiply charged ions. Ion currents and utilizations are much different due to the presence of multiply charged ions. A high multiply charged ion fraction and a high ionization rate in the CHT result in a higher specific impulse, thrust, and discharge current.

TACI is required for efficient plasma cell differentiation in response to T-independent type 2 antigens.

PubMed

Mantchev, George T; Cortesão, Catarina S; Rebrovich, Michelle; Cascalho, Marilia; Bram, Richard J

2007-08-15

The control of systemic infection by encapsulated microorganisms requires T-independent type II (TI-2) Ab responses to bacterial polysaccharides. To understand how such responses evolve, we explored the function of transmembrane activator calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor (TACI), a member of the TNFR family, required for TI-2 Ab production. Quasimonoclonal (QM) mice produce robust TI-2 responses to 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenylacetate (NP)-Ficoll, owing to the high precursor frequency of NP-specific B cells in the marginal zone of the spleen. QM mice that lack TACI produce decreased numbers of IgM (2-fold) and IgG (1.6-fold) NP-specific ASCs, compared with TACI-positive QM mice in response to immunization with NP-Ficoll. Our studies indicate that TACI acts at a remote time from activation because TACI is not necessary for activation and proliferation of B cells both in vitro and in vivo. Instead, TACI-deficient QM B cells remained in the cell cycle longer than TACI-proficient QM cells and had impaired plasma cell differentiation in response to NP-Ficoll. We conclude that TACI has dual B cell-autonomous functions, inhibiting prolonged B cell proliferation and stimulating plasma cell differentiation, thus resolving the longstanding paradox that TACI may have both B cell-inhibitory and -stimulatory functions. By promoting plasma cell differentiation earlier during clonal expansion, TACI may decrease the chances of autoantibody production by somatic hypermutation of Ig genes in response to T-independent Ags.

Prolonged Caloric Restriction in Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Decreases Plasma CETP and Increases Apolipoprotein AI Levels Without Improving the Cholesterol Efflux Properties of HDL

PubMed Central

Wang, Yanan; Snel, Marieke; Jonker, Jacqueline T.; Hammer, Sebastiaan; Lamb, Hildo J.; de Roos, Albert; Meinders, A. Edo; Pijl, Hanno; Romijn, Johannes A.; Smit, Johannes W.A.; Jazet, Ingrid M.; Rensen, Patrick C.N.

2011-01-01

OBJECTIVE Using a mouse model for human-like lipoprotein metabolism, we observed previously that reduction of the hepatic triglyceride (TG) content resulted in a decrease in plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and an increase in HDL levels. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of prolonged caloric restriction in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, resulting in a major reduction in hepatic TG content, on plasma CETP and HDL levels. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We studied 27 obese (BMI: 37.2 ± 0.9 kg/m2) insulin-dependent patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (14 men and 13 women, aged 55 ± 2 years) who received a 16-week very low calorie diet (VLCD). At baseline and after a 16-week VLCD, plasma lipids, lipoproteins, and CETP were measured. Furthermore, functionality of HDL with respect to inducing cholesterol efflux from human monocyte cells (THP-1) was determined. RESULTS A 16-week VLCD markedly decreased plasma CETP concentration (−18%; P < 0.01) and increased plasma apolipoprotein (apo)AI levels (+16%; P < 0.05), without significantly affecting plasma HDL-cholesterol and HDL-phospholipids. Although a VLCD results in HDL that is less lipidated, the functionality of HDL with respect to inducing cholesterol efflux in vitro was unchanged. CONCLUSIONS The marked decrease in hepatic TG content induced by a 16-week VLCD is accompanied by a decrease in plasma CETP concentration and an increase in apoAI levels, without improving the cholesterol efflux properties of HDL in vitro. PMID:21994427

Plasma amino acid profiles are associated with insulin, C-peptide and adiponectin levels in type 2 diabetic patients

PubMed Central

Nakamura, H; Jinzu, H; Nagao, K; Noguchi, Y; Shimba, N; Miyano, H; Watanabe, T; Iseki, K

2014-01-01

Objectives: Plasma-free amino acid (PFAA) profiles have been associated with a future risk of developing diabetes or cardiovascular disease in nondiabetic subjects. These PFAA alterations might predominantly result from the metabolic shift caused by insulin resistance and visceral fat deposition. The variety of PFAA profiles within diabetic subjects is not well researched. In this study, we focused on type 2 diabetic subjects and examined the association between PFAA profiles and insulin- and glucose-related variables. Methods: Fifty-one Japanese subjects diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were recruited from an outpatient clinic. The plasma concentrations of 21 amino acids; glucose-related markers including glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), glycoalbumin and 1,5-anhydroglucitol; insulin-related markers including insulin, C-peptide, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance; and adipocytokines including adiponectin and leptin were determined. The association of PFAA and other metabolic profiles were analyzed, and stratified analyses of the PFAAs and clinical characteristics were performed according to the fasting plasma insulin and HbA1c levels. In addition, the PFAA indices that correlate to visceral fat obesity were evaluated. Results: Although strong correlations between PFAAs and glucose-related markers were not observed, several amino acids (branched-chain amino acids, tryptophan, alanine, tyrosine, glutamate and proline) and PFAA indices that evaluate visceral obesity were highly correlated with insulin-related markers and adiponectin (P<0.001). In the group of diabetic patients with hyperinsulinemia, the amino acid levels were significantly increased, which generally demonstrated good concordance with insulin-related markers and adiponectin levels. Conclusions: The PFAA profiles in diabetic patients were strongly associated with hyperinsulinemia and hypoadiponectinemia, which might become risk evaluation factors for the development of

Antihypertensive efficacy of the losartan/hydrochlorothiazide combination and its effect on plasma B-type natriuretic peptide in hypertensive patients uncontrolled by angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist-based therapy: a multicentre prospective observational study.

PubMed

Meno, Hiroshi; Inou, Tetsuji; Tanaka, Michiko; Tsuchiya, Yoshihiro; Shiga, Yuhei; Kobayashi, Kenji; Nakamura, Yuichiro; Ota, Takeaki; Kubara, Ichiro

2012-03-01

Although strict blood pressure (BP) control is effective in the prevention of cardiovascular events, it is often insufficient in many hypertensive patients. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been shown to be associated with cardiovascular events. We investigated the effects of the losartan/hydrochlorothiazide combination on BP and plasma BNP in hypertensive patients uncontrolled by an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist (angiotensin receptor blocker [ARB])-based therapy. In a multicentre prospective observational study, we enrolled 185 patients aged 36-79 years (mean age 63.8 years) with essential hypertension but without symptoms of heart failure who received an ARB-based therapy for ≥3 months but failed to achieve a target BP recommended by the Japanese Society of Hypertension (JSH). ARBs were switched to losartan (LOS) 50 mg/hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) 12.5 mg. The antihypertensive efficacy, safety, and effects of this combination on blood biochemical parameters and plasma BNP were evaluated for 12 months. Mean ± SD systolic and diastolic BP decreased from 152 ± 13/87 ± 10 mmHg to 128 ± 14/74 ± 10 mmHg, respectively, after 12 months (p < 0.001). Mean ± SD plasma BNP levels decreased significantly from 46.0 ± 83.0 pg/mL to 40.8 ± 68.0 pg/mL (p < 0.05). The percentage of patients who achieved the JSH 2004 target BP was 51% after 12 months; the percentage was 63% in elderly patients aged ≥65 years without complications, and 43% in patients with concomitant diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease. No association was found between a decrease in plasma BNP levels and BP, age, body mass index or estimated glomerular filtration rate. There was a significant increase in serum uric acid and a decrease in serum potassium, but both were within the range of normal values. Adverse events were observed in 8.6% of the patients. Antihypertensive treatment using two types of drugs (LOS/HCTZ) with

[The profile of plasma non-esterified fatty acids in children with different terms of type 1 diabetes mellitus].

PubMed

Akmurzina, V A; Petryairina, E E; Saveliev, S V; Selishcheva, A A

2016-01-01

Composition and quantitative content of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were investigated in plasma samples of healthy children (12) and children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) (31) by gas chromatography (GC) after preliminary NEFA solid-phase extraction from plasma lipids. There was a significant (p<0.001) 1.6-fold increase in the total level of NEFA regardless of the disease duration. In the group of DM1 children with the disease period less than 1 year there was an increase in the arachidonic acid (20:4) content (30%) and the oleic acid trans-isomer (18:1) content (82%), and also a decrease in the docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 n3) content (26% ) and the docosapentaenoic acids (22:5 n-6) content (60%). In the group of DM1 children with prolonged course of this disease the altered NEFA levels returned to the normal level.

Engineering Considerations for the Self-Energizing Magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD)-Type Fusion Plasma Thruster

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-02-01

Feasibility studies Of dense plasma focus (DPF) device as a fusion propulsion thruster have been performed. Both conventional and spin-polarized D...uncertainties remain in the validity of scaling laws on capacitor mass at high current beyond 1 MA. Fusion Propulsion, Dense Plasma Focus , Magnetoplasmadynamic Thruster, Advanced Fuel, D-3He Fusion, Spin-Polarized Fusion.

Spheromak plasma flow injection into a torus chamber and the HIST plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatuzaki, Akinori

2005-10-01

The importance of plasma flow or two-fluid effect is recognized in understanding the relaxed states of high-beta torus plasmas, start-up and current drive by non-coaxial helicity injection, magnetic reconnection and plasma dynamo in fusion, laboratory and space plasmas. As a new approach to create a flowing two-fluid plasma equilibrium, we have tried to inject tangentially the plasma flow with spheromak-type magnetic configurations into a torus vacuum chamber with an external toroidal magnetic field (TF) coil. In the initial experiments, the RFP-like configuration with helical magnetic structures was realized in the torus vessel. The ion flow measurement with Mach probes showed that the ion flow keeps the same direction despite the reversal of the toroidal current and the axial electric field. The ion fluid comes to flow in the opposite direction to the electron fluid by the reversal of TF. This result suggests that not only electron but also ion flow contributes significantly on the reversed toroidal current. In this case, the ratio of ui to the electron flow velocity ue is estimated as ui/ue ˜ 1/2. We also will inject the spheromak flow into the HIST spherical torus plasmas to examine the possibilities to embedding the two-fluid effect in the ST plasmas.

[Plasma homocysteine, Lp(a), and oxidative stress markers in peripheral macroangiopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus].

PubMed

Real, Jose T; Folgado, José; Molina Mendez, Mercedes; Martinez-Hervás, Sergio; Peiro, Marta; Ascaso, Juan F

2016-01-01

To study new risk factors for peripheral macroangiopathy (PM) in patients with diabetes, as oxidative stress (OS) and its interaction with classical risk factors: age, Lp(a), plasma homocysteine values and HbA1c. We studied 204 type2 diabetic (T2DM) patients, consecutive selected form a reference hospital and a secondary hospital form our Community (2009-2010). Design was a case (ABI<0.89) control (ABI0.9-1.2) study. PM was defined using ankle brachial index (ABI). Thirty nine T2DM subjects presented ABI>1.2 and were excluded. Clinical and biological parameters were determined using standard methods. Comparing clinical and biological parameters obtained in both studied groups (T2DM+ABI<0.9 vs T2DM+ABI0.9-1.2), we found statistical significant differences in age, evolution time of diabetes, Lp(a) and plasma homocysteine values. No differences were found in OS parameters: reduced glutathione, oxidized glutathione and maloldialdehide between studied groups. Plasma homocysteine values were an independent risk factor for the presence of PM and were related to evolution time of diabetes and reduced glutathione. We have confirmed that Lp(a) and independently plasma homocysteine values were related to PM in T2DM subjects. No association with PM and OS markers (GSH, GSSG and MDA) were found in T2DM with more than 10years of evolution time of their disease and high prevalence of chronic complications. Copyright © 2016 Sociedad Española de Arteriosclerosis. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

X-ray emission from high temperature plasmas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harries, W. L.

1977-01-01

The physical processes occurring in plasma focus devices were investigated with particular emphasis on X-ray emission. Topics discussed include: trajectories of high energy electrons; detection of ion trajectories; spatial distribution of neutron emission; space and time resolved emission of hard X-rays from a plasma focus; the staged plasma focus as a variation of the hypocloidal pinch; formation of current sheets in a staged plasma focus; and X-ray and neutron emission from a staged plasma focus. The possibility of operating dense plasma-focus type devices in multiple arrays beyond the scaling law for a single gun is discussed.

Charcateristics of Plasma Waves Excited During Gas Release and Plasma Injection Into The Ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klos, Z.; Gdalevich, G. L.; Mikhailov, I.

Waves in broad frequency range are generated during the injection of fast plasma as well as release of neutral gas into ionosphere from the spacecraft. The excited wave modes depend on the environmental plasma parameters, geometry of injection as well as on the rate of ionisation of plasma in the stream. The neutral xenon gas was released from the board of the ACTIVE satellite (in 1989) and parallel with the release process the VLF as well as HF waves were diagnosed. On the other hand the xenon plasma from gun generator was injected into the ionosphere from the board of APEX satellite (in 1991) and also broad frequency range of emission was registered. In the present paper are compared the plasma waves characteristics observed in these two types of experiments.

A Concept of Cross-Ferroic Plasma Turbulence

PubMed Central

Inagaki, S.; Kobayashi, T.; Kosuga, Y.; Itoh, S.-I.; Mitsuzono, T.; Nagashima, Y.; Arakawa, H.; Yamada, T.; Miwa, Y.; Kasuya, N.; Sasaki, M.; Lesur, M.; Fujisawa, A.; Itoh, K.

2016-01-01

The variety of scalar and vector fields in laboratory and nature plasmas is formed by plasma turbulence. Drift-wave fluctuations, driven by density gradients in magnetized plasmas, are known to relax the density gradient while they can generate flows. On the other hand, the sheared flow in the direction of magnetic fields causes Kelvin-Helmholtz type instabilities, which mix particle and momentum. These different types of fluctuations coexist in laboratory and nature, so that the multiple mechanisms for structural formation exist in extremely non-equilibrium plasmas. Here we report the discovery of a new order in plasma turbulence, in which chained structure formation is realized by cross-interaction between inhomogeneities of scalar and vector fields. The concept of cross-ferroic turbulence is developed, and the causal relation in the multiple mechanisms behind structural formation is identified, by measuring the relaxation rate and dissipation power caused by the complex turbulence-driven flux. PMID:26917218

Structure of micro-instabilities in tokamak plasmas: Stiff transport or plasma eruptions?

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

Dickinson, D., E-mail: dd502@york.ac.uk; EURATOM/CCFE Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3DB; Roach, C. M.

2014-01-15

Solutions to a model 2D eigenmode equation describing micro-instabilities in tokamak plasmas are presented that demonstrate a sensitivity of the mode structure and stability to plasma profiles. In narrow regions of parameter space, with special plasma profiles, a maximally unstable mode is found that balloons on the outboard side of the tokamak. This corresponds to the conventional picture of a ballooning mode. However, for most profiles, this mode cannot exist, and instead, a more stable mode is found that balloons closer to the top or bottom of the plasma. Good quantitative agreement with a 1D ballooning analysis is found, providedmore » the constraints associated with higher order profile effects, often neglected, are taken into account. A sudden transition from this general mode to the more unstable ballooning mode can occur for a critical flow shear, providing a candidate model for why some experiments observe small plasma eruptions (Edge Localised Modes, or ELMs) in place of large Type I ELMs.« less

Energetic-ion-driven global instabilities in stellarator/helical plasmas and comparison with tokamak plasmas

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

Toi, K.; Ogawa, K.; Isobe, M.

2011-01-01

Comprehensive understanding of energetic-ion-driven global instabilities such as Alfven eigenmodes (AEs) and their impact on energetic ions and bulk plasma is crucially important for tokamak and stellarator/helical plasmas and in the future for deuterium-tritium (DT) burning plasma experiments. Various types of global modes and their associated enhanced energetic ion transport are commonly observed in toroidal plasmas. Toroidicity-induced AEs and ellipticity-induced AEs, whose gaps are generated through poloidal mode coupling, are observed in both tokamak and stellarator/helical plasmas. Global AEs and reversed shear AEs, where toroidal couplings are not as dominant were also observed in those plasmas. Helicity induced AEs thatmore » exist only in 3D plasmas are observed in the large helical device (LHD) and Wendelstein 7 Advanced Stellarator plasmas. In addition, the geodesic acoustic mode that comes from plasma compressibility is destabilized by energetic ions in both tokamak and LHD plasmas. Nonlinear interaction of these modes and their influence on the confinement of the bulk plasma as well as energetic ions are observed in both plasmas. In this paper, the similarities and differences in these instabilities and their consequences for tokamak and stellarator/helical plasmas are summarized through comparison with the data sets obtained in LHD. In particular, this paper focuses on the differences caused by the rotational transform profile and the 2D or 3D geometrical structure of the plasma equilibrium. Important issues left for future study are listed.« less

Compact Torus plasma ring accelerator: a new type driver for inertial confinement fusion

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

Hartman, C.W.; Eddleman, J.L.; Hammer, J.H.

1986-08-22

We discuss the acceleration of magnetically-confined plasma rings to provide a driver for ICF. The acceleration of plasma rings is predicted to be efficient and following focusing, to generate ion-bombardment power in the range 10/sup 15/ to 10/sup 16/ W/cm/sup 2/ at a total deposition energy of multimegajoules. The simplicity of plasma ring accelerator suggests that a 5 MJ (on target) driver would cost in the range 1 to 5 $/joule. First experimental tests of the accelerator are described.

The Study of Compact Plasma Source of SXR of Vacuum Spark Type with Capillary Concentrator and It's Application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kantsyrev, V. L.; Kopytok, K. I.; Shlyaptseva, A. S.

1994-03-01

The results are presented dealing with the working out and study of the plasma source of soft X-ray (SXR) of the new type. Experimental set up included compact low-inductance vacuum spark (LIVS) with initial energy supply equal up to 2.5 kJ and glass-capillary concentrator (GCC) of SXR. The characteristics of SXR of vacuum spark and properties of SXR were studied using diagnostic complex. The coefficient of conversion of initial energy supply into SXR (η) amounted to 0.01 in range 1.2nm. Value η had peak dependence on atomic number of anode Za. The spectra were recorded belonging to Ne-like, F-like ions of Fe, Cu ions and He-like, H-like ions of Al, Ti, Fe. Glass capillary concentrator consists of about several hundreds glass capillaries Flux density of SXR in focusing spot was up to 105-106 Wt/cm, density of energy is up to 20-30 mJ/cm2 at diameter of SXR focusing spot equal to about 2-3mm in the range 0.7-1.0 nm. The plasma source of the new type is intended for X-ray microscopy, study of influence of SXR on the surface of solid state. It allows to carry out experiments making only on electron synchrotronic sources of SXR.

Immunoglobulin G, Plasma Cells, and Lymphocytes in the Murine Vagina after Vaginal or Parenteral Immunization with Attenuated Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2

PubMed Central

Parr, Earl L.; Parr, Margaret B.

1998-01-01

This investigation evaluated immunity to vaginal herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection after local or parenteral immunization with attenuated HSV-2. Vaginal immunization induced sterilizing immunity against challenge with a high dose of wild-type virus, whereas parenteral immunizations protected against neurologic disease but did not entirely prevent infection of the vagina. Vaginal immunization caused 86- and 31-fold increases in the numbers of immunoglobulin G (IgG) plasma cells in the vagina at 6 weeks and 10 months after immunization, whereas parenteral immunizations did not increase plasma cell numbers in the vagina. Vaginal secretion/serum titer ratios and specific antibody activities in vaginal secretions and serum indicated that IgG viral antibody was produced in the vagina and released into vaginal secretions at 6 weeks and 10 months after vaginal immunization but not after parenteral immunizations. In contrast to the case for plasma cells, the numbers of T and B lymphocytes in the vagina were similar in vaginally and parenterally immunized mice. Also, lymphocyte numbers in the vagina were markedly but similarly increased by vaginal challenge with HSV-2 in both vaginally and parenterally immunized mice. Lymphocyte recruitment to the vagina after virus challenge appeared to involve memory lymphocytes, because it was not observed in nonimmunized mice. Thus, local vaginal immunization with attenuated HSV-2 increased the number of IgG plasma cells in the vagina and increased vaginal secretion/serum titer ratios to 3.0- to 4.7-fold higher than in parenterally immunized groups but caused little if any selective homing of T and B lymphocytes to the vagina. PMID:9573285

Transparent conductive p-type lithium-doped nickel oxide thin films deposited by pulsed plasma deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yanwei; Zhang, Qun; Xi, Junhua; Ji, Zhenguo

2012-07-01

Transparent p-type Li0.25Ni0.75O conductive thin films were prepared on conventional glass substrates by pulsed plasma deposition. The effects of substrate temperature and oxygen pressure on structural, electrical and optical properties of the films were investigated. The electrical resistivity decreases initially and increases subsequently as the substrate temperature increases. As the oxygen pressure increases, the electrical resistivity decreases monotonically. The possible physical mechanism was discussed. And a hetero p-n junction of p-Li0.25Ni0.75O/n-SnO2:W was fabricated by depositing n-SnO2:W on top of the p-Li0.25Ni0.75O, which exhibits typical rectifying current-voltage characteristics.

A novel technique based on a plasma focus device for nano-porous gallium nitride formation on P-type silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharifi Malvajerdi, S.; Salar Elahi, A.; Habibi, M.

2017-04-01

A new deposition formation was observed with a Mather-type Plasma Focus Device (MPFD). MPFD was unitized to fabricate porous Gallium Nitride (GaN) on p-type Silicon (Si) substrate with a (100) crystal orientation for the first time in a deposition process. GaN was deposited on Si with 4 and 7 shots. The samples were subjected to a 3 phase annealing procedure. First, the semiconductors were annealed in the PFD with nitrogen plasma shots after their deposition. Second, a thermal chemical vapor deposition annealed the samples for 1 h at 1050 °C by nitrogen gas at a pressure of 1 Pa. Finally, an electric furnace annealed the samples for 1 h at 1150 °C with continuous flow of nitrogen. Porous GaN structures were observed by Field emission scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Furthermore, X-Ray diffraction analysis was carried out to determine the crystallinity of GaN after the samples were annealed. Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy indicated the amount of gallium, nitrogen, and oxygen due to the self-oxidation of the samples. Photoluminescence spectroscopy revealed emissions at 2.94 eV and 3.39 eV, which shows that hexagonal wurtzite crystal structures were formed.

Current sheath behavior and its velocity enhancement in a low energy Mather-type plasma focus device

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

Aghamir, F. M.; Behbahani, R. A.

The dynamics of the plasma sheath layer and its velocity enhancement have been studied in a low energy (4.9 kJ) Mather-type plasma focus device. Experiments were performed to study the effect of the Lorentz force variation on the current sheath expansion and movement, as well as the existence of traction between all parts of the sheath layer. Two different shape of anodes (cylindrical and step) along with an axial magnetic probe were used to investigate the effects of various experimental conditions, namely different charging voltages and gas pressures. In order to explore the upper limit of the current sheath velocity,more » a comparison has been made between the experimental data gathered by the probe and the Lee's computational model. The limitations governing the enhancement of the current sheath velocity that can lead to the deterioration of a good focusing phenomenon were also investigated. The increase of the current sheath velocity due to the usage of the step anode on ion generation and hard x-ray emissions have been demonstrated by means of an ion collector and a hard x-ray detector.« less

Elmo bumpy square plasma confinement device

DOEpatents

Owen, L.W.

1985-01-01

The invention is an Elmo bumpy type plasma confinement device having a polygonal configuration of closed magnet field lines for improved plasma confinement. In the preferred embodiment, the device is of a square configuration which is referred to as an Elmo bumpy square (EBS). The EBS is formed by four linear magnetic mirror sections each comprising a plurality of axisymmetric assemblies connected in series and linked by 90/sup 0/ sections of a high magnetic field toroidal solenoid type field generating coils. These coils provide corner confinement with a minimum of radial dispersion of the confined plasma to minimize the detrimental effects of the toroidal curvature of the magnetic field. Each corner is formed by a plurality of circular or elliptical coils aligned about the corner radius to provide maximum continuity in the closing of the magnetic field lines about the square configuration confining the plasma within a vacuum vessel located within the various coils forming the square configuration confinement geometry.

Plasma Chemistry of Vibrationally Nonequilibrium Molecules

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-11-01

WL-TR-93-2116 PLASMA CHEMISTRY OF VIBRATIONALLY NONEQUILIBRIUM MOLECULES AD-A279 630--, J. WILLIAM RICH DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING D THE...1AT9E L. REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED ONLY Man"_November 1993 Final 09 July 1990_- 08 July 1993 4 MITL AND SUBTITLE S. FUNDNG NUMERS & Plasma Chemistry of...k14. SUBIECT TERMS 15. NUMBER OF PAGES Molecular Energy Transfer; Plasma Chemistry ; Ionization; 4% Vibrational Relaxation; Nitric Oxide; Carbon

Inverse association between plasma homocysteine concentrations and type 2 diabetes mellitus among a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population.

PubMed

Yu, C; Wang, J; Wang, F; Han, X; Hu, H; Yuan, J; Miao, X; Yao, P; Wei, S; Wang, Y; Liang, Y; Chen, W; Zhang, X; Guo, H; Yang, H; Tang, Y; Zheng, D; Wu, T; He, M

2018-03-01

Plasma homocysteine concentrations have been reported to be associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with controversial findings. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between plasma homocysteine concentrations and T2DM. A cross-sectional study including 19,085 eligible participants derived from the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort was conducted. Plasma homocysteine concentrations were measured by Abbott Architect i2000 Automatic analyzer and T2DM was defined according to American Diabetes Association criteria. Logistic regression model was used to explore the association between plasma homocysteine concentrations and T2DM. The prevalence of T2DM was 19.0% in the whole population (mean age 62.9 years), 21.8% in males, and 17.1% in females. In the multivariable logistic regression analyses, compared with those in the lowest quintile, the OR (95% CI) of T2DM was 1.05 (0.92-1.21), 0.99 (0.86-1.14), 0.90 (0.78-1.05), and 0.77 (0.66-0.90) for quintile 2 to quintile 5 of homocysteine concentrations after adjustment for potential confounders (P for trend < 0.0001). Homocysteine concentrations were associated with decreased T2DM prevalence risk (OR = 0.88 per SD increase of homocysteine concentration; 95% CI: 0.84-0.93). A significant interaction between homocysteine concentrations and drinking status on T2DM prevalence risk was observed (P for interaction = 0.03). The inverse association of plasma homocysteine concentrations with T2DM prevalence risk was observed in non-drinkers but not in current drinkers. Plasma homocysteine concentrations were inversely correlated with T2DM among a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population. Copyright © 2017 The Italian Society of Diabetology, the Italian Society for the Study of Atherosclerosis, the Italian Society of Human Nutrition, and the Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of serum, EDTA plasma and P100 plasma for luminex-based biomarker multiplex assays in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the SPIROMICS study.

PubMed

O'Neal, Wanda K; Anderson, Wayne; Basta, Patricia V; Carretta, Elizabeth E; Doerschuk, Claire M; Barr, R Graham; Bleecker, Eugene R; Christenson, Stephanie A; Curtis, Jeffrey L; Han, Meilan K; Hansel, Nadia N; Kanner, Richard E; Kleerup, Eric C; Martinez, Fernando J; Miller, Bruce E; Peters, Stephen P; Rennard, Stephen I; Scholand, Mary Beth; Tal-Singer, Ruth; Woodruff, Prescott G; Couper, David J; Davis, Sonia M

2014-01-08

As a part of the longitudinal Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) study, Subpopulations and Intermediate Outcome Measures in COPD study (SPIROMICS), blood samples are being collected from 3200 subjects with the goal of identifying blood biomarkers for sub-phenotyping patients and predicting disease progression. To determine the most reliable sample type for measuring specific blood analytes in the cohort, a pilot study was performed from a subset of 24 subjects comparing serum, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) plasma, and EDTA plasma with proteinase inhibitors (P100). 105 analytes, chosen for potential relevance to COPD, arranged in 12 multiplex and one simplex platform (Myriad-RBM) were evaluated in duplicate from the three sample types from 24 subjects. The reliability coefficient and the coefficient of variation (CV) were calculated. The performance of each analyte and mean analyte levels were evaluated across sample types. 20% of analytes were not consistently detectable in any sample type. Higher reliability and/or smaller CV were determined for 12 analytes in EDTA plasma compared to serum, and for 11 analytes in serum compared to EDTA plasma. While reliability measures were similar for EDTA plasma and P100 plasma for a majority of analytes, CV was modestly increased in P100 plasma for eight analytes. Each analyte within a multiplex produced independent measurement characteristics, complicating selection of sample type for individual multiplexes. There were notable detectability and measurability differences between serum and plasma. Multiplexing may not be ideal if large reliability differences exist across analytes measured within the multiplex, especially if values differ based on sample type. For some analytes, the large CV should be considered during experimental design, and the use of duplicate and/or triplicate samples may be necessary. These results should prove useful for studies evaluating selection of samples for evaluation of

Comparison of serum, EDTA plasma and P100 plasma for luminex-based biomarker multiplex assays in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the SPIROMICS study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background As a part of the longitudinal Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) study, Subpopulations and Intermediate Outcome Measures in COPD study (SPIROMICS), blood samples are being collected from 3200 subjects with the goal of identifying blood biomarkers for sub-phenotyping patients and predicting disease progression. To determine the most reliable sample type for measuring specific blood analytes in the cohort, a pilot study was performed from a subset of 24 subjects comparing serum, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) plasma, and EDTA plasma with proteinase inhibitors (P100™). Methods 105 analytes, chosen for potential relevance to COPD, arranged in 12 multiplex and one simplex platform (Myriad-RBM) were evaluated in duplicate from the three sample types from 24 subjects. The reliability coefficient and the coefficient of variation (CV) were calculated. The performance of each analyte and mean analyte levels were evaluated across sample types. Results 20% of analytes were not consistently detectable in any sample type. Higher reliability and/or smaller CV were determined for 12 analytes in EDTA plasma compared to serum, and for 11 analytes in serum compared to EDTA plasma. While reliability measures were similar for EDTA plasma and P100 plasma for a majority of analytes, CV was modestly increased in P100 plasma for eight analytes. Each analyte within a multiplex produced independent measurement characteristics, complicating selection of sample type for individual multiplexes. Conclusions There were notable detectability and measurability differences between serum and plasma. Multiplexing may not be ideal if large reliability differences exist across analytes measured within the multiplex, especially if values differ based on sample type. For some analytes, the large CV should be considered during experimental design, and the use of duplicate and/or triplicate samples may be necessary. These results should prove useful for studies evaluating

Plasma ignition for laser propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Askew, R. F.

1982-01-01

For a specific optical system a pulsed carbon dioxide laser having an energy output of up to 15 joules was used to initiate a plasma in air at one atmosphere pressure. The spatial and temporal development of the plasma were measured using a multiframe image converter camera. In addition the time dependent velocity of the laser supported plasma front which moves opposite to the direction of the laser pulse was measured in order to characterize the type of wavefront developed. Reliable and reproducible spark initiation was achieved. The lifetime of the highly dense plasma at the initial focal spot was determined to be less than 100 nanoseconds. The plasma front propagates toward the laser at a variable speed ranging from zero to 1.6 x 1,000,000 m/sec. The plasma front propagates for a total distance of approximately five centimeters for the energy and laser pulse shape employed.

Electromagnetic radiation from beam-plasma instabilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stenzel, R. L.; Whelan, D. A.

1982-01-01

The mechanism by which unstable electrostatic waves of an electron-beam plasma system are converted into observed electromagnetic waves is of great current interest in space plasma physics. Electromagnetic radiation arises from both natural beam-plasma systems, e.g., type III solar bursts and kilometric radiation, and from man-made electron beams injected from rockets and spacecraft. In the present investigation the diagnostic difficulties encountered in space plasmas are overcome by using a large laboratory plasma. A finite diameter (d approximately equal to 0.8 cm) electron beam is injected into a uniform quiescent magnetized afterglow plasma of dimensions large compared with electromagnetic wavelength. Electrostatic waves grow, saturate and decay within the uniform central region of the plasma volume so that linear mode conversion on density gradients can be excluded as a possible generation mechanism for electromagnetic waves.

Impurity-induced divertor plasma oscillations

DOE PAGES

Smirnov, R. D.; Kukushkin, A. S.; Krasheninnikov, S. I.; ...

2016-01-07

Two different oscillatory plasma regimes induced by seeding the plasma with high- and low-Z impurities are found for ITER-like divertor plasmas, using computer modeling with the DUSTT/UEDGE and SOLPS4.3 plasma-impurity transport codes. The oscillations are characterized by significant variations of the impurity-radiated power and of the peak heat load on the divertor targets. Qualitative analysis of the divertor plasma oscillations reveals different mechanisms driving the oscillations in the cases of high- and low-Z impurity seeding. The oscillations caused by the high-Z impurities are excited near the X-point by an impurity-related instability of the radiation-condensation type, accompanied by parallel impurity ionmore » transport affected by the thermal and plasma friction forces. The driving mechanism of the oscillations induced by the low-Z impurities is related to the cross-field transport of the impurity atoms, causing alteration between the high and low plasma temperature regimes in the plasma recycling region near the divertor targets. As a result, the implications of the impurity-induced plasma oscillations for divertor operation in the next generation tokamaks are also discussed.« less

Direct plasma interaction with living tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fridman, Gregory

For some time, plasma has been used in medicine to cauterize or cut tissue using heat and mechanical energy. In the recent decade, some researchers around the world have started to investigate how gas jets that pass through thermal plasma can be employed in medicine. This thesis presents the first investigation of biomedical uses of non-thermal plasma discharge which comes in direct contact with living tissue. It is demonstrated that the direct application of non-thermal plasma in air can cause rapid deactivation of bacteria on surfaces of tissues without causing any visible tissue damage. Medical need for such a device is discussed. Construction and operation of various types of non-thermal plasma power supplies and many types of treatment electrodes are presented as well. Application of this plasma to living organisms is shown to be safe from both the electrical perspective and from the biological perspective. Biological safety is revealed through a series of differential skin toxicity trials on human cadaver tissue, live hairless mouse skin tissue, live pig skin tissue, and finally in an open wound model on pigs. Direct non-thermal plasma in air is shown to deactivate bacteria about 100 times faster than indirect application using jets. A series of experiments reveal that this effectiveness is due to the ability of direct discharge to bring charges to tissue surfaces. It is demonstrated that neither ultraviolet (UV) radiation nor neutral active species such as hydroxyl radicals or ozone produced in plasma are responsible for the main effect on bacteria. Although much additional work remains on establishing detailed mechanism by which charges from plasma achieve this effect, the work carried out in this thesis clearly demonstrates that direct application of non-thermal plasma in air can be a very useful tool in medicine.

Waterspout as a special type of atmospheric aerosol dusty plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rantsev-Kartinov, Valentin A.

2004-11-01

An analysis of databases of photographic images of oceanic surface revealed the presence of oceanic skeletal structures (OSS) [1] Rantsev-Kartinov V.A., Preprint . The OSSs presumably differ from the formerly found skeletal structures (SS) (Phys. Lett. A 306 (2002) 175) only by the fact that OSS are filled in with the closely packed blocks of a smaller size, up to thin, tens of microns-sized capillaries. The SSs in the Earth atmosphere were suggested [1] to be produced during atmospheric electricity activity by the volcanic-born dust. The fall-out of such SSs on the oceanic surface is a material source of OSS. Here we suggest that an OSS block [1] in the form of vertically oriented floating cylinder may be a stimulator of waterspout (WS). The main body of WS may be interpreted as a special type of atmospheric aerosol dusty plasma, and WS column - as a long-lived filament, being formed in the process of electric breakdown between the cloud and oceanic surface. The charged water drops aerosol may behave similar to microdust and lift upward to the cloud by the electrostatic force. With such a capillary&;electrostatic model of WS, it appears possible to interpret many effects related to WS.

Variation of betaine, N,N-dimethylglycine, choline, glycerophosphorylcholine, taurine and trimethylamine-N-oxide in the plasma and urine of overweight people with type 2 diabetes over a two-year period.

PubMed

McEntyre, Christopher J; Lever, Michael; Chambers, Stephen T; George, Peter M; Slow, Sandy; Elmslie, Jane L; Florkowski, Christopher M; Lunt, Helen; Krebs, Jeremy D

2015-05-01

Plasma betaine concentrations and urinary betaine excretions have high test-retest reliability. Abnormal betaine excretion is common in diabetes. We aimed to confirm the individuality of plasma betaine and urinary betaine excretion in an overweight population with type 2 diabetes and compare this with the individuality of other osmolytes, one-carbon metabolites and trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), thus assessing their potential usefulness as disease markers. Urine and plasma were collected from overweight subjects with type 2 diabetes at four time points over a two-year period. We measured the concentrations of the osmolytes: betaine, glycerophosphorylcholine (GPC) and taurine, as well as TMAO, and the one-carbon metabolites, N,N-dimethylglycine (DMG) and free choline. Samples were measured using tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Betaine showed a high degree of individuality (or test-retest reliability) in the plasma (index of individuality = 0.52) and urine (index of individuality = 0.45). Betaine in the plasma had positive and negative log-normal reference change values (RCVs) of 54% and -35%, respectively. The other osmolytes, taurine and GPC were more variable in the plasma of individuals compared to the urine. DMG and choline showed high individuality in the plasma and urine. TMAO was highly variable in the plasma and urine (log-normal RCVs ranging from 403% to -80% in plasma). Betaine is highly individual in overweight people with diabetes. Betaine, its metabolite DMG, and precursor choline showed more reliability than the osmolytes, GPC and taurine. The low reliability of TMAO suggests that a single TMAO measurement has low diagnostic value. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

Mather-type dense plasma focus as a new optical pump for short-wavelength high-power lasers

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

Fanning, J.J.; Kim, K.

For the first time, a Mather-type dense plasma focus (MDPF) is successfully operated as an optical pump for lasers. Rhodamine-6G dye is optically pumped using the MDPF fluorescence, producing a laser pulse 1 ..mu..s in duration and more than 50 kW in output power. No optimization is attempted either of the laser cavity or of the lasing medium concentration and volume. A brief description of the experimental setup is presented, along with a summary and discussion of the results. The advantages of the present optical pump source and, in particular, their implications for the pumping of short-wavelength lasers are discussed.

RELATIVISTIC CYCLOTRON INSTABILITY IN ANISOTROPIC PLASMAS

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

López, Rodrigo A.; Moya, Pablo S.; Muñoz, Víctor

2016-11-20

A sufficiently large temperature anisotropy can sometimes drive various types of electromagnetic plasma micro-instabilities, which can play an important role in the dynamics of relativistic pair plasmas in space, astrophysics, and laboratory environments. Here, we provide a detailed description of the cyclotron instability of parallel propagating electromagnetic waves in relativistic pair plasmas on the basis of a relativistic anisotropic distribution function. Using plasma kinetic theory and particle-in-cell simulations, we study the influence of the relativistic temperature and the temperature anisotropy on the collective and noncollective modes of these plasmas. Growth rates and dispersion curves from the linear theory show amore » good agreement with simulations results.« less

High-Speed Imaging of Dusty Plasma Instabilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tawidian, H.; Couëdel, L.; Mikikian, M.; Lecas, T.; Boufendi, L.; Vallée, O.

2011-11-01

Dust particles in a plasma acquire negative charges by capturing electrons. If the dust particle density is high, a huge loss of free electrons can trigger unstable behaviors in the plasma. Several types of plasma behaviors are analyzed thanks to a high-speed camera like dust particle growth instabilities (DPGI) and a new phenomenon called plasma spheroids. These small plasma spheroids are about a few mm, have a slightly enhanced luminosity, and are observed in the vicinity of the electrodes. Different behaviors are identified for these spheroids like a rotational motion, or a chaotic regime (fast appearance and disappearance).

Inulin Supplementation Does Not Reduce Plasma Trimethylamine N-Oxide Concentrations in Individuals at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes.

PubMed

Baugh, Mary Elizabeth; Steele, Cortney N; Angiletta, Christopher J; Mitchell, Cassie M; Neilson, Andrew P; Davy, Brenda M; Hulver, Matthew W; Davy, Kevin P

2018-06-20

Trimethylamine N -oxide (TMAO) is associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Prebiotic supplementation has been purported to reduce TMAO production, but whether prebiotics reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO levels is unclear. Sedentary, overweight/obese adults at risk for T2DM ( n = 18) were randomized to consume a standardized diet (55% carbohydrate, 30% fat) with 10 g/day of either an inulin supplement or maltodextrin placebo for 6 weeks. Blood samples were obtained in the fasting state and hourly during a 4-h high-fat challenge meal (820 kcal; 25% carbohydrate, 63% fat; 317.4 mg choline, 62.5 mg betaine, 8.1 mg l-carnitine) before and after the diet. Plasma TMAO and trimethylamine (TMA) moieties (choline, l-carnitine, betaine, and γ-butyrobetaine) were measured using isocratic ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). There were no differences in fasting or postprandial TMAO or TMA moieties between the inulin and placebo groups at baseline (all p > 0.05). There were no significant changes in fasting or postprandial plasma TMAO or TMA moiety concentrations following inulin or placebo. These findings suggest that inulin supplementation for 6 weeks did not reduce fasting or postprandial TMAO in individuals at risk for T2DM. Future studies are needed to identify efficacious interventions that reduce plasma TMAO concentrations.

The study of helicon plasma source

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

Miao Tingting; Shang Yong; Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049

2010-02-15

Helicon plasma source is known as efficient generator of uniform and high density plasma. A helicon plasma source was developed for investigation of plasma neutralization and plasma lens in the Institute of Modern Physics in China. In this paper, the characteristics of helicon plasma have been studied by using Langmuir four-probe and a high argon plasma density up to 3.9x10{sup 13} cm{sup -3} have been achieved with the Nagoya type III antenna at the conditions of the magnetic intensity of 200 G, working gas pressure of 2.8x10{sup -3} Pa, and rf power of 1200 W with a frequency of 27.12more » MHz. In the experiment, the important phenomena have been found: for a given magnetic induction intensity, the plasma density became greater with the increase in rf power and tended to saturation, and the helicon mode appeared at the rf power between 200 and 400 W.« less

The study of helicon plasma source.

PubMed

Miao, Ting-Ting; Zhao, Hong-Wei; Liu, Zhan-Wen; Shang, Yong; Sun, Liang-Ting; Zhang, Xue-Zhen; Zhao, Huan-Yu

2010-02-01

Helicon plasma source is known as efficient generator of uniform and high density plasma. A helicon plasma source was developed for investigation of plasma neutralization and plasma lens in the Institute of Modern Physics in China. In this paper, the characteristics of helicon plasma have been studied by using Langmuir four-probe and a high argon plasma density up to 3.9x10(13) cm(-3) have been achieved with the Nagoya type III antenna at the conditions of the magnetic intensity of 200 G, working gas pressure of 2.8x10(-3) Pa, and rf power of 1200 W with a frequency of 27.12 MHz. In the experiment, the important phenomena have been found: for a given magnetic induction intensity, the plasma density became greater with the increase in rf power and tended to saturation, and the helicon mode appeared at the rf power between 200 and 400 W.

Light-induced modification of plant plasma membrane ion transport.

PubMed

Marten, I; Deeken, R; Hedrich, R; Roelfsema, M R G

2010-09-01

Light is not only the driving force for electron and ion transport in the thylakoid membrane, but also regulates ion transport in various other membranes of plant cells. Light-dependent changes in ion transport at the plasma membrane and associated membrane potential changes have been studied intensively over the last century. These studies, with various species and cell types, revealed that apart from regulation by chloroplasts, plasma membrane transport can be controlled by phytochromes, phototropins or channel rhodopsins. In this review, we compare light-dependent plasma membrane responses of unicellular algae (Eremosphaera and Chlamydomonas), with those of a multicellular alga (Chara), liverworts (Conocephalum), mosses (Physcomitrella) and several angiosperm cell types. Light-dependent plasma membrane responses of Eremosphaera and Chara are characterised by the dominant role of K(+) channels during membrane potential changes. In most other species, the Ca(2+)-dependent activation of plasma membrane anion channels represents a general light-triggered event. Cell type-specific responses are likely to have evolved by modification of this general response or through the development of additional light-dependent signalling pathways. Future research to elucidate these light-activated signalling chains is likely to benefit from the recent identification of S-type anion channel genes and proteins capable of regulating these channels.

Study of Plasma Flows Generated in Plasma Focus Discharge in Different Regimes of Working Gas Filling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voitenko, D. A.; Ananyev, S. S.; Astapenko, G. I.; Basilaia, A. D.; Markolia, A. I.; Mitrofanov, K. N.; Myalton, V. V.; Timoshenko, A. P.; Kharrasov, A. M.; Krauz, V. I.

2017-12-01

Results are presented from experimental studies of the plasma flows generated in the KPF-4 Phoenix Mather-type plasma focus device (Sukhum Physical Technical Institute). In order to study how the formation and dynamics of the plasma flow depend on the initial distribution of the working gas, a system of pulsed gas puffing into the discharge volume was developed. The system allows one to create profiled gas distributions, including those with a reduced gas density in the region of plasma flow propagation. Results of measurements of the magnetic field, flow profile, and flow deceleration dynamics at different initial distributions of the gas pressure are presented.

[Purification of human goose-type lysozyme 2 (HLysG2) from human seminal plasma and analysis of its enzymatic properties].

PubMed

Huang, Peng; Yang, Zhifang; Bao, Jianying; Zhang, Ning; Li, Wenshu

2017-03-01

Objective To purify human goose-type lysozyme 2 (HLysG2) from human seminal plasma by chromatography and analyze its enzymatic properties. Methods The distribution of HLysG2 in semen was analyzed by Western blot analysis. Seminal plasma was subjected to the separation of target protein using cation-exchange chromatography, chitin affinity chromatography and size-exclusion chromatography. The purified product was identified by Western blot analysis and mass spectrometry (MS).The purity was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Then, the optimum pH, ion concentration and temperature of HLysG2 and its standard activity were determined by the turbidimetric assay. The bactericidal activity of HLysG2 was assessed by the colony-forming assay. Results The existence of HLysG2 in seminal plasma was confirmed by Western blot analysis. A protein of about 21.5 kDa was purified from seminal plasma by the three kinds of chromatography and identified as HLysG2 by Western blot analysis and MS. The final purity of the purified product was above 99.0% and the peak enzymatic activity reached 13 800 U/mg under the condition of pH 6.4, 0.09 mol/L Na + , 30DegreesCelsius. In vitro assay indicated that HLysG2 had a significant killing effect on Micrococcus lysodeikticus, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, but not on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. Conclusion Native HLysG2 can be obtained from seminal plasma by chromatography. It has in vitro bactericidal activity against Gram-positive bacteria, suggesting that it might play a role in innate immunity of the male reproductive system.

Increased plasma Kidney Injury Molecule-1 suggests early progressive renal decline in non-proteinuric patients with Type 1 diabetes

PubMed Central

Nowak, Natalia; Skupien, Jan; Niewczas, Monika A.; Yamanouchi, Masayuki; Major, Melissa; Croall, Stephanie; Smiles, Adam; Warram, James H.; Bonventre, Joseph V.; Krolewski, Andrzej S.

2015-01-01

Progressively decreasing glomerular filtration rate (GFR), or renal decline, is seen in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and normoalbuminuria or microalbuminuria. Here we examined the associations of kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) in plasma and urine with the risk of renal decline and determine whether those associations are independent of markers of glomerular damage. The study group comprised patients with T1D from the 2nd Joslin Kidney Study of which 259 had normoalbuminuria and 203 had microalbuminuria. Serial measurements over 4 to 10 years of follow-up (median 8 years) of serum creatinine and cystatin C were used jointly to estimate eGFRcr-cys slopes and time of onset of CKD stage 3 or higher. Baseline urinary excretion of IgG2 and albumin were used as markers of glomerular damage, and urinary excretion of KIM-1 and its plasma concentration were used as markers of proximal tubular damage. All patients had normal renal function at baseline. During follow-up, renal decline (eGFRcr-cys loss 3.3% or more per year) developed in 96 patients and 62 progressed to CKD stage 3. For both outcomes, the risk rose with increasing baseline levels of plasma KIM-1. In multivariable models, elevated baseline plasma KIM-1 was strongly associated with risk of early progressive renal decline, regardless of baseline clinical characteristics, serum TNFR1 or markers of glomerular damage. Thus, damage to proximal tubules may play an independent role in the development of early progressive renal decline in non-proteinuric patients with T1D. PMID:26509588

Synthesis of nano-structure tungsten nitride thin films on silicon using Mather-type plasma focus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussnain, A.; Rawat, R. S.; Ahmad, R.; Umar, Z. A.; Hussain, T.; Lee, P.; Chen, Z.

2015-07-01

Nano-structure thin film of tungsten nitride was deposited onto Si-substrate at room temperature using Mather-type plasma focus (3.3 kJ) machine. Substrate was exposed against 10, 20, 30, and 40 deposition shots and its corresponding effect on structure, morphology, conductivity and nano-hardness has been systematically studied. The X-ray diffractormeter spectra of the exposed samples show the presence of various phases of WN and WN2 that depends on number of deposition shots. Surface morphological study revealed the uniform distribution of nano-sized grains on deposited film surface. Hardness and conductivity of exposed substrate improved with higher deposition shots. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy survey scan of 40 deposition shots confirmed the elemental presence of W and N on Si-substrate.

Dense Plasma Focus - From Alternative Fusion Source to Versatile High Energy Density Plasma Source for Plasma Nanotechnology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rawat, R. S.

2015-03-01

The dense plasma focus (DPF), a coaxial plasma gun, utilizes pulsed high current electrical discharge to heat and compress the plasma to very high density and temperature with energy densities in the range of 1-10 × 1010 J/m3. The DPF device has always been in the company of several alternative magnetic fusion devices as it produces intense fusion neutrons. Several experiments conducted on many different DPF devices ranging over several order of storage energy have demonstrated that at higher storage energy the neutron production does not follow I4 scaling laws and deteriorate significantly raising concern about the device's capability and relevance for fusion energy. On the other hand, the high energy density pinch plasma in DPF device makes it a multiple radiation source of ions, electron, soft and hard x-rays, and neutrons, making it useful for several applications in many different fields such as lithography, radiography, imaging, activation analysis, radioisotopes production etc. Being a source of hot dense plasma, strong shockwave, intense energetic beams and radiation, etc, the DPF device, additionally, shows tremendous potential for applications in plasma nanoscience and plasma nanotechnology. In the present paper, the key features of plasma focus device are critically discussed to understand the novelties and opportunities that this device offers in processing and synthesis of nanophase materials using, both, the top-down and bottom-up approach. The results of recent key experimental investigations performed on (i) the processing and modification of bulk target substrates for phase change, surface reconstruction and nanostructurization, (ii) the nanostructurization of PLD grown magnetic thin films, and (iii) direct synthesis of nanostructured (nanowire, nanosheets and nanoflowers) materials using anode target material ablation, ablated plasma and background reactive gas based synthesis and purely gas phase synthesis of various different types of

Comparative measurements of plasma potential with ball-pen and Langmuir probe in low-temperature magnetized plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zanáška, M.; Adámek, J.; Peterka, M.; Kudrna, P.; Tichý, M.

2015-03-01

The ball-pen probe (BPP) is used for direct plasma potential measurements in magnetized plasma. The probe can adjust the ratio of the electron and ion saturation currents Isat-/Isat+ to be close to one and therefore its I-V characteristic becomes nearly symmetric. If this is achieved, the floating potential of the BPP is close to the plasma potential. Because of its rather simple construction, it offers an attractive probe for measurements in magnetized plasma. Comparative measurements of plasma potential by BPPs of different dimensions as well as one Langmuir probe (LP) in an argon discharge plasma of a cylindrical magnetron were performed at various experimental conditions. An additional comparison by an emissive probe was also performed. All these types of probes provide similar values of plasma potential in a wide range of plasma parameters. Our results for three different BPP dimensions indicate that the BPP can be operated in a cylindrical magnetron DC argon discharge if the value of the ratio of the magnetic field and neutral gas pressure, B/p, is greater than approximately 10 mT/Pa.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity After Exercise Training is Linked to Reduced Plasma C14:0 Ceramide in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes

PubMed Central

Kasumov, Takhar; Solomon, Thomas P.J.; Hwang, Calvin; Huang, Hazel; Haus, Jacob M.; Zhang, Renliang; Kirwan, John P.

2015-01-01

Objective To assess the effect of exercise training on insulin sensitivity and plasma ceramides in obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods Twenty-four adults with obesity and normal glucose tolerance (NGT, n=14), or diabetes (n=10) were studied before and after a 12-week supervised exercise-training program (5 d/wk, 1 hr/d, 80–85% of maximum heart rate). Changes in body composition were assessed using hydrostatic weighing and computed tomography. Peripheral tissue insulin sensitivity was assessed by a 40 mU/m2/min hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp. Plasma ceramides (C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C20:0, C24:0 and C24:1) were quantified using electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry after separation with HPLC. Results Plasma ceramides were similar for the obese NGT and subjects with diabetes, despite differences in glucose tolerance. Exercise significantly reduced body weight and adiposity, and increased peripheral insulin sensitivity in both groups (P<0.05). In addition, plasma C14:0, C16:0, C18:1, and C24:0 ceramide levels were reduced in all subjects following the intervention (P<0.05). Decreases in total (r=-0.51, P=0.02) and C14:0 (r=-0.56, P=0.009) ceramide were negatively correlated with the increase in insulin sensitivity. Conclusion Ceramides are linked to exercise training-induced improvements in insulin sensitivity, and plasma C14:0 ceramide may provide a specific target for investigating lipid-related insulin resistance in obesity and T2D. PMID:25966363

Possible limits of plasma linear colliders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimmermann, F.

2017-07-01

Plasma linear colliders have been proposed as next or next-next generation energy-frontier machines for high-energy physics. I investigate possible fundamental limits on energy and luminosity of such type of colliders, considering acceleration, multiple scattering off plasma ions, intrabeam scattering, bremsstrahlung, and betatron radiation. The question of energy efficiency is also addressed.

Sandwich-type enzyme immunoassay for big endothelin-I in plasma: concentrations in healthy human subjects unaffected by sex or posture.

PubMed

Aubin, P; Le Brun, G; Moldovan, F; Villette, J M; Créminon, C; Dumas, J; Homyrda, L; Soliman, H; Azizi, M; Fiet, J

1997-01-01

A sandwich-type enzyme immunoassay has been developed for measuring human big endothelin-1 (big ET-1) in human plasma and supernatant fluids from human cell cultures. Big ET-1 is the precursor of endothelin 1 (ET-1), the most potent vasoconstrictor known. A rabbit antibody raised against the big ET-1 COOH-terminus fragment was used as an immobilized antibody (anti-P16). The Fab' fragment of a monoclonal antibody (1B3) raised against the ET-1 loop fragment was used as the enzyme-labeled antibody, after being coupled to acetylcholinesterase. The lowest detectable value in the assay was 1.2 pg/mL (0.12 pg/well). The assay was highly specific for big ET-1, demonstrating no cross-reactivity with ET-1, <0.4% cross-reactivity with big endothelin-2 (big ET-2), and <0.1% with big endothelin-3 (big ET-3). We used this assay to evaluate the effect of two different postural positions (supine and standing) on plasma big ET-1 concentrations in 11 male and 11 female healthy subjects. Data analysis revealed that neither sex nor body position influenced plasma big ET-1 concentrations. This assay should thus permit the detection of possible variations in plasma concentrations of big ET-1 in certain pathologies and, in association with ET-1 assay, make possible in vitro study of endothelin-converting enzyme activity in cell models. Such studies could clarify the physiological and clinical roles of this family of peptides.

Atmospheric plasma surface modifications of electrospun PCL/chitosan/PCL hybrid scaffolds by nozzle type plasma jets for usage of cell cultivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Surucu, Seda; Masur, Kai; Turkoglu Sasmazel, Hilal; Von Woedtke, Thomas; Weltmann, Klaus Dieter

2016-11-01

This paper reports Ar gas, Ar + O2, Ar + O2 + N2 gas mixtures and dry air plasma modifications by atmospheric pressure argon driven kINPen and air driven Diener (PlasmaBeam) plasma jets to alter surface properties of three dimensional (3D), electrospun PCL/Chitosan/PCL layer by layer hybrid scaffolds to improve human fibroblast (MRC5) cell attachment and growth. The characterizations of the samples were done by contact angle (CA) measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The results showed that the plasma modification carried out under dry air and Ar + O2 + N2 gas mixtures were altered effectively the nanotopography and the functionality of the material surfaces. It was found that the samples treated with Ar + O2 + N2 gas mixtures for 1 min and dry air for 9 min have better hydrophilicity 78.9° ± 1.0 and 75.6° ± 0.1, respectively compared to the untreated samples (126.5°). Biocompatibility performance of the scaffolds was determined with alamarBlue (aB) assay and MTT assay methods, Giemsa staining, fluorescence microscope, confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses. The results showed that plasma treated samples increased the hydrophilicity and oxygen functionality and topography of the surfaces significantly, thus affecting the cell viability and proliferation on/within scaffolds.

Plasma Source Development for LAPD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pribyl, P.; Gekelman, W.; Drandell, M.; Grunspen, S.; Nakamoto, M.; McBarron, A.

2003-10-01

The Large Plasma Device (LAPD) relies on an indirectly heated Barium Oxide (BaO) cathode to generate an extremely repeatable low-noise plasma. However there are two defects of this system: one is that the cathode is subject to oxygen poisoning in the event of accidental air leaks, requiring a lengthy recoating and regeneration process. Second, the indirect radiative heating is only about 50 % efficient, leading to a series of reliability issues. Alternate plasma sources are being investigated, including two types of directly heated BaO cathode and several configurations of inductively coupled RF plasmas. Direct heating for a cathode can be achieved either by embedding heaters within the nickel substrate, or by using inductive heating techniques to drive currents within the nickel itself. In both cases, the BaO coating still serves to emit the electrons and thus generate the plasma arc. An improved system would generate the plasma without the use of a "cathode" e.g. by inductively coupling energy directly into the plasma discharge. This technique is being investigated from the point of view of whether a) the bulk of the plasma column can be made sufficiently low-noise to be of experimental value and b) sufficiently dense plasmas can be formed.

Method and apparatus for monitoring plasma processing operations

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Michael Lane; Stevenson, Joel O'Don; Ward, Pamela Peardon Denise

2001-01-01

The invention generally relates to various aspects of a plasma process, and more specifically the monitoring of such plasma processes. One aspect relates in at least some manner to calibrating or initializing a plasma monitoring assembly. This type of calibration may be used to address wavelength shifts, intensity shifts, or both associated with optical emissions data obtained on a plasma process. A calibration light may be directed at a window through which optical emissions data is being obtained to determine the effect, if any, that the inner surface of the window is having on the optical emissions data being obtained therethrough, the operation of the optical emissions data gathering device, or both. Another aspect relates in at least some manner to various types of evaluations which may be undertaken of a plasma process which was run, and more typically one which is currently being run, within the processing chamber. Plasma health evaluations and process identification through optical emissions analysis are included in this aspect. Yet another aspect associated with the present invention relates in at least some manner to the endpoint of a plasma process (e.g., plasma recipe, plasma clean, conditioning wafer operation) or discrete/discernible portion thereof (e.g., a plasma step of a multiple step plasma recipe). A final aspect associated with the present invention relates to how one or more of the above-noted aspects may be implemented into a semiconductor fabrication facility, such as the distribution of wafers to a wafer production system.

Method and apparatus for monitoring plasma processing operations

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Michael Lane; Stevenson, Joel O'Don; Ward, Pamela Peardon Denise

2001-01-01

The invention generally relates to various aspects of a plasma process, and more specifically the monitoring of such plasma processes. One aspect relates in at least some manner to calibrating or initializing a plasma monitoring assembly. This type of calibration may be used to address wavelength shifts, intensity shifts, or both associated with optical emissions data obtained on a plasma process. A calibration light may be directed at a window through which optical emissions data is being obtained to determine the effect, if any, that the inner surface of the window is having on the optical emissions data being obtained therethrough, the operation of the optical emissions data gathering device, or both. Another aspect relates in at least some manner to various types of evaluations which may be undertaken of a plasma process which was run, and more typically one which is currently being run, within the processing chamber. Plasma health evaluations and process identification through optical emissions analysis are included in this aspect. Yet another aspect associated with the present invention relates in at least some manner to the endpoint of a plasma process (e.g., plasma recipe, plasma clean, conditioning wafer operation) or discrete/discemible portion thereof (e.g., a plasma step of a multiple step plasma recipe). A final aspect associated with the present invention relates to how one or more of the above-noted aspects may be implemented into a semiconductor fabrication facility, such as the distribution of wafers to a wafer production system.

Method and apparatus for monitoring plasma processing operations

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Michael Lane; Stevenson, Joel O'Don; Ward, Pamela Peardon Denise

2000-01-01

The invention generally relates to various aspects of a plasma process, and more specifically the monitoring of such plasma processes. One aspect relates in at least some manner to calibrating or initializing a plasma monitoring assembly. This type of calibration may be used to address wavelength shifts, intensity shifts, or both associated with optical emissions data obtained on a plasma process. A calibration light may be directed at a window through which optical emissions data is being obtained to determine the effect, if any, that the inner surface of the window is having on the optical emissions data being obtained therethrough, the operation of the optical emissions data gathering device, or both. Another aspect relates in at least some manner to various types of evaluations which may be undertaken of a plasma process which was run, and more typically one which is currently being run, within the processing chamber. Plasma health evaluations and process identification through optical emissions analysis are included in this aspect. Yet another aspect associated with the present invention relates in at least some manner to the endpoint of a plasma process (e.g., plasma recipe, plasma clean, conditioning wafer operation) or discrete/discernible portion thereof (e.g., a plasma step of a multiple step plasma recipe). A final aspect associated with the present invention relates to how one or more of the above-noted aspects may be implemented into a semiconductor fabrication facility, such as the distribution of wafers to a wafer production system.

Method and apparatus for monitoring plasma processing operations

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Michael Lane; Stevenson, Joel O'Don; Ward, Pamela Peardon Denise

2002-07-16

The invention generally relates to various aspects of a plasma process, and more specifically the monitoring of such plasma processes. One aspect relates in at least some manner to calibrating or initializing a plasma monitoring assembly. This type of calibration may be used to address wavelength shifts, intensity shifts, or both associated with optical emissions data obtained on a plasma process. A calibration light may be directed at a window through which optical emissions data is being obtained to determine the effect, if any, that the inner surface of the window is having on the optical emissions data being obtained therethrough, the operation of the optical emissions data gathering device, or both. Another aspect relates in at least some manner to various types of evaluations which may be undertaken of a plasma process which was run, and more typically one which is currently being run, within the processing chamber. Plasma health evaluations and process identification through optical emissions analysis are included in this aspect. Yet another aspect associated with the present invention relates in at least some manner to the endpoint of a plasma process (e.g., plasma recipe, plasma clean, conditioning wafer operation) or discrete/discernible portion thereof (e.g., a plasma step of a multiple step plasma recipe). A final aspect associated with the present invention relates to how one or more of the above-noted aspects may be implemented into a semiconductor fabrication facility, such as the distribution of wafers to a wafer production system.

Plasma jet printing for flexible substrates

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

Gandhiraman, Ram P.; Singh, Eric; Diaz-Cartagena, Diana C.

2016-03-21

Recent interest in flexible electronics and wearable devices has created a demand for fast and highly repeatable printing processes suitable for device manufacturing. Robust printing technology is critical for the integration of sensors and other devices on flexible substrates such as paper and textile. An atmospheric pressure plasma-based printing process has been developed to deposit different types of nanomaterials on flexible substrates. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes were deposited on paper to demonstrate site-selective deposition as well as direct printing without any type of patterning. Plasma-printed nanotubes were compared with non-plasma-printed samples under similar gas flow and other experimental conditions and foundmore » to be denser with higher conductivity. The utility of the nanotubes on the paper substrate as a biosensor and chemical sensor was demonstrated by the detection of dopamine, a neurotransmitter, and ammonia, respectively.« less

Comparison of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels in single ventricle patients with systemic ventricle heart failure versus isolated cavopulmonary failure.

PubMed

Law, Yuk Ming; Ettedgui, Jose; Beerman, Lee; Maisel, Alan; Tofovic, Stevan

2006-08-15

The measurement of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) has emerged as a useful biomarker of heart failure in patients with cardiomyopathy. The pathophysiology of heart failure in single ventricle (SV) circulation may be distinct from that of cardiomyopathies. A distinct pattern of BNP elevation in heart failure in the SV population was hypothesized: it is elevated in heart failure secondary to ventricular dysfunction but not in isolated cavopulmonary failure. BNP was measured prospectively in SV patients at catheterization (n = 22) and when assessing for heart failure (n = 11) (7 normal controls). Of 33 SV subjects (median age 62 months), 13 had aortopulmonary connections and 20 had cavopulmonary connections. Median and mean +/- SD BNP levels by shunt type were 184 and 754 +/- 1,086 pg/ml in the patients with aortopulmonary connections, 38 and 169 +/- 251 pg/ml in the patients with cavopulmonary connections, and 10 and 11 +/- 5 pg/ml in normal controls, respectively (p = 0.004). Median systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure (8mm Hg, R = 0.45), mean pulmonary artery pressure (14.5 mm Hg, R = 0.62), and mean right atrial pressure (6.5 mm Hg, R = 0.54) were correlated with plasma BNP. SV subjects with symptomatic heart failure from dysfunctional systemic ventricles had median and mean +/- SD BNP levels of 378 and 714 +/- 912 pg/ml (n = 18) compared with patients with isolated failed Glenn or Fontan connections (19 and 23 +/- 16 pg/ml [n = 7, p = 0.001]) and those with no heart failure (22 and 22 +/- 12 pg/ml [n = 8, p = 0.001]). Excluding the group with cavopulmonary failure, the severity of heart failure from systemic ventricular dysfunction was associated with plasma BNP. In conclusion, plasma BNP is elevated in SV patients with systemic ventricular or left-sided cardiac failure. BNP is not elevated in patients missing a pulmonary ventricle with isolated cavopulmonary failure.

Minor drug-resistant HIV type-1 variants in breast milk and plasma of HIV type-1-infected Ugandan women after nevirapine single-dose prophylaxis.

PubMed

Pilger, Daniel; Hauser, Andrea; Kuecherer, Claudia; Mugenyi, Kizito; Kabasinguzi, Rose; Somogyi, Sybille; Harms, Gundel; Kunz, Andrea

2011-01-01

Nevirapine single-dose (NVP-SD) reduces mother-to-child transmission of HIV type-1 (HIV-1), but frequently induces resistance mutations in the HIV-1 genome. Little is known about drug-resistant HIV-1 variants in the breast milk of women who have taken NVP-SD. Blood and breast milk samples of 39 HIV-1-infected Ugandan women were taken 6-12 weeks after NVP-SD intake. Samples were analysed by population sequencing and allele-specific real-time PCR (AS-PCR) with detection limits for NVP-resistant HIV-1 variants (K103N and Y181C) of < 1% of the total viral population. AS-PCR results for both plasma and breast milk were obtained for 19 women who constituted the final study group (HIV-1 subtype frequencies were A1 n = 11, D n = 5, G n = 2 and C n = 1). A total of 7 (37%) and 10 (53%) women carried NVP-resistant virus in breast milk and plasma, respectively. Overall, 71% (5/7) women with NVP-resistant HIV-1 in breast milk displayed >1 drug-resistant variant. Resistance in breast milk was higher at week 6 (6/13 samples [46%]) compared with week 12 (1/6 samples [17%]). In total, 10 drug-resistant populations harbouring the K103N and/or Y181C mutation were detected in the 19 breast milk samples; 7 (70%) were caused by resistant minorities (< 5% of the total HIV-1 population). In the four women with drug-resistant virus in both plasma and breast milk, the mutation patterns differed between the two compartments. Minor populations of drug-resistant HIV-1 were frequently found in breast milk of Ugandan women after exposure to NVP-SD. Further studies need to explore the role of minor drug-resistant variants in the postnatal transmission of (resistant) HIV-1.

Method and apparatus for monitoring plasma processing operations

DOEpatents

Smith, Jr., Michael Lane; Ward, Pamela Denise Peardon; Stevenson, Joel O'Don

2002-01-01

The invention generally relates to various aspects of a plasma process, and more specifically the monitoring of such plasma processes. One aspect relates in at least some manner to calibrating or initializing a plasma monitoring assembly. This type of calibration may be used to address wavelength shifts, intensity shifts, or both associated with optical emissions data obtained on a plasma process. A calibration light may be directed at a window through which optical emissions data is being obtained to determine the effect, if any, that the inner surface of the window is having on the optical emissions data being obtained therethrough, the operation of the optical emissions data gathering device, or both. Another aspect relates in at least some manner to various types of evaluations which may be undertaken of a plasma process which was run, and more typically one which is currently being run, within the processing chamber. Plasma health evaluations and process identification through optical emissions analysis are included in this aspect. Yet another aspect associated with the present invention relates in at least some manner to the endpoint of a plasma process (e.g., plasma recipe, plasma clean, conditioning wafer operation) or discrete/discernible portion thereof (e.g., a plasma step of a multiple step plasma recipe). Another aspect associated with the present invention relates to how one or more of the above-noted aspects may be implemented into a semiconductor fabrication facility, such as the distribution of wafers to a wafer production system. A final aspect of the present invention relates to a network a plurality of plasma monitoring systems, including with remote capabilities (i.e., outside of the clean room).

Measurement of the effective energy of pulsed X-rays emitted from a Mather-type plasma focus device.

PubMed

Miremad, Seyed Milad; Shirani Bidabadi, Babak

2017-07-01

The current study examined the effective energy of pulsed x-rays emitted from a Mather-type plasma focus device with copper anodes at an energy range of 2-3kJ using x-ray transmission radiography. Aluminum filters of different thicknesses and dental x-ray film were used. When air gas was used at a constant voltage of 21kV at 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 mbar, the effective energy of pulsed the x-ray was 10.9, 10.7, 17.3 and 15.8keV, respectively. At 0.6 mbar of air, as the operating voltage increased to 19, 21 and 23kV, the effective energy of the x-ray radiation was 10.6, 10.7 and 12.4keV, respectively. Comprehensive investigation of the characteristics of x-ray emission from plasma focus devices makes it feasible to use this device as an intensive x-ray generator for medical and industrial purposes. The present study is a part of a program which is planned to realize these applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on plasma concentrations of calcium-binding protein in normal and rachitic (vitamin D-dependent rickets type I) pigs.

PubMed

Maunder, E M; Pillay, A V; Care, A D

1987-10-01

An i.v. injection of calcitriol (1,25-(OH)2D3) had no effect within 2.5 h on plasma concentrations of calbindin-D9K (vitamin D-induced calcium-binding protein; CaBP) in hypocalcaemic pigs with inherited vitamin D-dependent rickets type I or in their normocalcaemic siblings or half-siblings. Three days later the plasma concentration of CaBP had doubled in the hypocalcaemic pigs, but was unaltered in the normocalcaemic siblings and half-siblings. Following daily i.v. injections of 1,25-(OH)2D3 for a further 5 days (days 4-8) plasma concentrations of CaBP increased in both the hypocalcaemic (days 4-8) and normocalcaemic (day 8) pigs, the effect being more rapid and greater in the hypocalcaemic 1,25-(OH)2D3-deficient animals. An i.v. injection of 1,25-(OH)2D3 to pure Yucatan pigs also had no effect on plasma concentrations of CaBP within 1.5 h, but in the following 1 h there was some indication of an increase in plasma CaBP levels. In contrast to the normal pigs, insulin-induced hypoglycaemia did not lead to a peak in plasma CaBP concentrations in the hypocalcaemic pigs. There was also no change in the plasma concentrations of 1,25-(OH)2D3 associated with the peak in plasma CaBP following insulin-induced hypoglycaemia in normocalcaemic pigs. These results suggest that changes in plasma concentrations of 1,25-(OH)2D3 are not directly involved in mediating the increase in plasma CaBP which follows hypoglycaemia induced by insulin in normal pigs, although 1,25-(OH)2D3 probably plays a permissive role.

Formation of ECR Plasma in a Dielectric Plasma Guide under Self-Excitation of a Standing Ion-Acoustic Wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balmashnov, A. A.; Kalashnikov, A. V.; Kalashnikov, V. V.; Stepina, S. P.; Umnov, A. M.

2018-01-01

The formation of a spatially localized plasma with a high brightness has been experimentally observed in a dielectric plasma guide under the electron cyclotron resonance discharge at the excitation of a standing ion-acoustic wave. The results obtained show the possibility of designing compact high-intensity radiation sources with a spectrum determined by the working gas or gas mixture type, high-intensity chemically active particle flow sources, and plasma thrusters for correcting orbits of light spacecraft.

Influence of electron injection into 27 cm audio plasma cell on the plasma diagnostics

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

Haleem, N. A.; Ragheb, M. S.; Zakhary, S. G.

2013-08-15

In this article, the plasma is created in a Pyrex tube (L = 27 cm, φ= 4 cm) as a single cell, by a capacitive audio frequency (AF) discharge (f = 10–100 kHz), at a definite pressure of ∼0.2 Torr. A couple of tube linear and deviating arrangements show plasma characteristic conformity. The applied AF plasma and the injection of electrons into two gas mediums Ar and N{sub 2} revealed the increase of electron density at distinct tube regions by one order to attain 10{sup 13}/cm{sup 3}. The electrons temperature and density strengths are in contrast to each other. Whilemore » their distributions differ along the plasma tube length, they show a decaying sinusoidal shape where their peaks position varies by the gas type. The electrons injection moderates electron temperature and expands their density. The later highest peak holds for the N{sub 2} gas, at electrons injection it changes to hold for the Ar. The sinusoidal decaying density behavior generates electric fields depending on the gas used and independent of tube geometry. The effect of the injected electrons performs a responsive impact on electrons density not attributed to the gas discharge. Analytical tools investigate the interaction of the plasma, the discharge current, and the gas used on the electrodes. It points to the emigration of atoms from each one but for greater majority they behave to a preferred direction. Meanwhile, only in the linear regime, small percentage of atoms still moves in reverse direction. Traces of gas atoms revealed on both electrodes due to sheath regions denote lack of their participation in the discharge current. In addition, atoms travel from one electrode to the other by overcoming the sheaths regions occurring transportation of particles agglomeration from one electrode to the other. The electrons injection has contributed to increase the plasma electron density peaks. These electrons populations have raised the generated electrostatic fields assisting the elemental ions

Quantitative plasma biomarker analysis in HDI exposure assessment.

PubMed

Flack, Sheila L; Fent, Kenneth W; Trelles Gaines, Linda G; Thomasen, Jennifer M; Whittaker, Steve; Ball, Louise M; Nylander-French, Leena A

2010-01-01

Quantification of amines in biological samples is important for evaluating occupational exposure to diisocyanates. In this study, we describe the quantification of 1,6-hexamethylene diamine (HDA) levels in hydrolyzed plasma of 46 spray painters applying 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI)-containing paint in vehicle repair shops collected during repeated visits to their workplace and their relationship with dermal and inhalation exposure to HDI monomer. HDA was detected in 76% of plasma samples, as heptafluorobutyryl derivatives, and the range of HDA concentrations was < or =0.02-0.92 microg l(-1). After log-transformation of the data, the correlation between plasma HDA levels and HDI inhalation exposure measured on the same workday was low (N = 108, r = 0.22, P = 0.026) compared with the correlation between plasma HDA levels and inhalation exposure occurring approximately 20 to 60 days before blood collection (N = 29, r = 0.57, P = 0.0014). The correlation between plasma HDA levels and HDI dermal exposure measured on the same workday, although statistically significant, was low (N = 108, r = 0.22, P = 0.040) while the correlation between HDA and dermal exposure occurring approximately 20 to 60 days before blood collection was slightly improved (N = 29, r = 0.36, P = 0.053). We evaluated various workplace factors and controls (i.e. location, personal protective equipment use and paint booth type) as modifiers of plasma HDA levels. Workers using a downdraft-ventilated booth had significantly lower plasma HDA levels relative to semi-downdraft and crossdraft booth types (P = 0.0108); this trend was comparable to HDI inhalation and dermal exposure levels stratified by booth type. These findings indicate that HDA concentration in hydrolyzed plasma may be used as a biomarker of cumulative inhalation and dermal exposure to HDI and for investigating the effectiveness of exposure controls in the workplace.

Absence of detectable immunoreactive alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone in plasma in various types of Cushing's disease.

PubMed

Croughs, R J; Thijssen, J H; Mol, J A

1991-03-01

We have measured alpha-MSH in plasma of normal subjects and subjects with various diseases of the pituitary-adrenocortical system using a radioimmunoassay with a sensitivity of 1.2 pmol/l. No alpha-MSH could be detected in plasma of normal subjects (n = 6), in plasma of patients with Addison's disease (n = 3), Nelson's syndrome (n = 2), bromocriptine responsive (n = 2) and unresponsive (n = 5) Cushing's disease and in plasma of psychiatric patients on chronic treatment with the dopamine antagonist haloperidol (n = 5). Plasma alpha-MSH remained undetectable in 2 patients with Cushing's disease after iv injection of 60 micrograms/kg haloperidol. In contrast, alpha-MSH was detectable in plasma of normal dogs (n = 2) and dogs with pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (n = 2), whereas the iv injection of halo peridol was associated with a rise of plasma alpha-MSH. Thus we are unable to detect circulating alpha-MSH in man despite the use of a sensitive radioimmunoassay.

Correlation and association between plasma platelet-, monocyte- and endothelial cell-derived microparticles in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Nomura, Shosaku; Inami, Norihito; Shouzu, Akira; Urase, Fumiaki; Maeda, Yasuhiro

2009-09-01

Elevated platelet-derived mircoparticles (MP) (PDMP), endothelial cell-derived MP (EDMP), and monocyte-derived MP (MDMP) concentrations are documented in almost all thrombotic diseases. However, the intricate interactions between PDMP, MDMP and EDMP in hypertensive patients with or without type 2 diabetes remains poorly understood. Therefore, to clarify the correlation and association of MPs, we measured and analysed the levels of MPs in 359 hypertensive patients. We compared the results of chemokines, cell adhesion molecules, platelet activation markers and microparticles in hypertensive patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus. The levels of all markers were significantly higher in the hypertensive patients with diabetes than in the non-diabetic patients. For hypertensive patients with diabetes, univariate analysis showed that age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-CHO), creatinine (CRTN), soluble P-selectin (sP-selectin), soluble E-selectin (sE-selectin), soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), regulated on activation normally T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), monocyte chemotactic peptide-1 (MCP-1), MDMP and EDMP were significantly associated with PDMP. In addition, systolic blood pressure, HDL cholesterol, sP-selectin, sE-selectin, sVCAM-1, sCD40L, RANTES, MDMP and EDMP were significant factors in the multivariate model with PDMP. Furthermore, a correlation between plasma PDMP and MDMP or EDMP in hypertensive patients were observed both with and without diabetes. These results suggest that the existence of diabetes mellitus affects PDMP generation in hypertensive patients and that enhanced plasma levels of PDMP and an association between the plasma levels of PDMP, MDMP and EDMP may result in the development of atherothrombotic complications in hypertensive patients.

A Thomson-type mass and energy spectrometer for characterizing ion energy distributions in a coaxial plasma gun operating in a gas-puff mode

PubMed Central

Rieker, G. B.; Poehlmann, F. R.; Cappelli, M. A.

2013-01-01

Measurements of ion energy distribution are performed in the accelerated plasma of a coaxial electromagnetic plasma gun operating in a gas-puff mode at relatively low discharge energy (900 J) and discharge potential (4 kV). The measurements are made using a Thomson-type mass and energy spectrometer with a gated microchannel plate and phosphor screen as the ion sensor. The parabolic ion trajectories are captured from the sensor screen with an intensified charge-coupled detector camera. The spectrometer was designed and calibrated using the Geant4 toolkit, accounting for the effects on the ion trajectories of spatial non-uniformities in the spectrometer magnetic and electric fields. Results for hydrogen gas puffs indicate the existence of a class of accelerated protons with energies well above the coaxial discharge potential (up to 24 keV). The Thomson analyzer confirms the presence of impurities of copper and iron, also of relatively high energies, which are likely erosion or sputter products from plasma-electrode interactions. PMID:23983449

A Thomson-type mass and energy spectrometer for characterizing ion energy distributions in a coaxial plasma gun operating in a gas-puff mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rieker, G. B.; Poehlmann, F. R.; Cappelli, M. A.

2013-07-01

Measurements of ion energy distribution are performed in the accelerated plasma of a coaxial electromagnetic plasma gun operating in a gas-puff mode at relatively low discharge energy (900 J) and discharge potential (4 kV). The measurements are made using a Thomson-type mass and energy spectrometer with a gated microchannel plate and phosphor screen as the ion sensor. The parabolic ion trajectories are captured from the sensor screen with an intensified charge-coupled detector camera. The spectrometer was designed and calibrated using the Geant4 toolkit, accounting for the effects on the ion trajectories of spatial non-uniformities in the spectrometer magnetic and electric fields. Results for hydrogen gas puffs indicate the existence of a class of accelerated protons with energies well above the coaxial discharge potential (up to 24 keV). The Thomson analyzer confirms the presence of impurities of copper and iron, also of relatively high energies, which are likely erosion or sputter products from plasma-electrode interactions.

A Thomson-type mass and energy spectrometer for characterizing ion energy distributions in a coaxial plasma gun operating in a gas-puff mode.

PubMed

Rieker, G B; Poehlmann, F R; Cappelli, M A

2013-07-01

Measurements of ion energy distribution are performed in the accelerated plasma of a coaxial electromagnetic plasma gun operating in a gas-puff mode at relatively low discharge energy (900 J) and discharge potential (4 kV). The measurements are made using a Thomson-type mass and energy spectrometer with a gated microchannel plate and phosphor screen as the ion sensor. The parabolic ion trajectories are captured from the sensor screen with an intensified charge-coupled detector camera. The spectrometer was designed and calibrated using the Geant4 toolkit, accounting for the effects on the ion trajectories of spatial non-uniformities in the spectrometer magnetic and electric fields. Results for hydrogen gas puffs indicate the existence of a class of accelerated protons with energies well above the coaxial discharge potential (up to 24 keV). The Thomson analyzer confirms the presence of impurities of copper and iron, also of relatively high energies, which are likely erosion or sputter products from plasma-electrode interactions.

Electromagnetic resonances of plasma column between two metallic plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dvinin, Sergey; Dovzhenko, Vitaly; Sinkevich, Oleg

2015-09-01

It is known that there are two types of electrodynamic resonances of bounded supercritical plasma, placed between the two metal planes are possible. The first type is associated with the excitation of surface waves propagating along the lateral surface. The second one is caused by standing surface waves in the sheath at plasma-metal boundary. This work is concerned with theoretical study of the resonance properties of plasma slab in cases where both effects can be observed together. Resonance densities and frequencies are calculated. Solution of Maxwell's equations is demonstrated that directions of energy flows in first and second cases are opposite. Energy transfer to lateral surface waves is prevailing, if the field frequency is higher than the frequency, corresponding to the geometric plasma-sheath resonance. Amplitude of waves at plasma metal boundary becomes greater in opposite case. Discharge properties in both cases are calculated including joint excitation.

APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING AND MANIPULATING PLASMAS

DOEpatents

Colgate, S.A.; Ferguson, J.P.; Furth, H.P.; Wright, R.E.

1960-07-26

An electrical pinch discharge apparatus is described for producing and manipulating high-temperature plasmas. The apparatus may be of either the linear or toroidal pinch discharge type. Arrangements are provided whereby stabilizing fields may be trapped in the plasma external to the main pinch discharge path and the boundary condition of the stabilizing field programed so as to stabilize the discharge or to promote instabilities in the discharge as desired. The produced plasmas may be employed for various purposes, and fusion neutrons have been produced with the apparatus.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of thermoelectric nanostructured n-type silicon-germanium alloys synthesized employing spark plasma sintering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bathula, Sivaiah; Gahtori, Bhasker; Jayasimhadri, M.; Tripathy, S. K.; Tyagi, Kriti; Srivastava, A. K.; Dhar, Ajay

2014-08-01

Owing to their high thermoelectric (TE) figure-of-merit, nanostructured Si80Ge20 alloys are evolving as a potential replacement for their bulk counterparts in designing efficient radio-isotope TE generators. However, as the mechanical properties of these alloys are equally important in order to avoid in-service catastrophic failure of their TE modules, we report the strength, hardness, fracture toughness, and thermal shock resistance of nanostructured n-type Si80Ge20 alloys synthesized employing spark plasma sintering of mechanically alloyed nanopowders of its constituent elements. These mechanical properties show a significant enhancement, which has been correlated with the microstructural features at nano-scale, delineated by transmission electron microscopy.

The enhancement mechanism of thin plasma layer on antenna radiation

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

Wang, Chunsheng, E-mail: wangcs@hit.edu.cn; Jiang, Binhao; Li, Xueai

A model of plasma-antenna is carried out to study the radiation enhancement mechanism of antenna covered by thin plasma layer. The results show when the radiation intensity achieves maximum, a region of equal electric field is formed due to the reflection of electric field at the interface of plasma and air. The plasma layer acted as an extension of the antenna. Furthermore, the shape of plasma layer is changed to verify the effect of plasma boundary on antenna radiation. The study shows the effect of thin plasma layer on electromagnetic field and provides a type of plasma antenna.

Industrial Applications of Low Temperature Plasmas

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

Bardsley, J N

2001-03-15

The use of low temperature plasmas in industry is illustrated by the discussion of four applications, to lighting, displays, semiconductor manufacturing and pollution control. The type of plasma required for each application is described and typical materials are identified. The need to understand radical formation, ionization and metastable excitation within the discharge and the importance of surface reactions are stressed.

Improved insulin sensitivity after exercise training is linked to reduced plasma C14:0 ceramide in obesity and type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Kasumov, Takhar; Solomon, Thomas P J; Hwang, Calvin; Huang, Hazel; Haus, Jacob M; Zhang, Renliang; Kirwan, John P

2015-07-01

To assess the effect of exercise training on insulin sensitivity and plasma ceramides in obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Twenty-four adults with obesity and normal glucose tolerance (NGT, n = 14) or diabetes (n = 10) were studied before and after a 12-week supervised exercise-training program (5 days/week, 1 h/day, 80-85% of maximum heart rate). Changes in body composition were assessed using hydrostatic weighing and computed tomography. Peripheral tissue insulin sensitivity was assessed by a 40 mU/m(2) /min hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp. Plasma ceramides (C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C20:0, C24:0, and C24:1) were quantified using electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry after separation with HPLC. Plasma ceramides were similar for the subjects with obesity and NGT and the subjects with diabetes, despite differences in glucose tolerance. Exercise significantly reduced body weight and adiposity and increased peripheral insulin sensitivity in both groups (P < 0.05). In addition, plasma C14:0, C16:0, C18:1, and C24:0 ceramide levels were reduced in all subjects following the intervention (P < 0.05). Decreases in total (r = -0.51, P = 0.02) and C14:0 (r = -0.56, P = 0.009) ceramide were negatively correlated with the increase in insulin sensitivity. Ceramides are linked to exercise training-induced improvements in insulin sensitivity, and plasma C14:0 ceramide may provide a specific target for investigating lipid-related insulin resistance in obesity and T2D. © 2015 The Obesity Society.

Comparative measurements of plasma potential with ball-pen and Langmuir probe in low-temperature magnetized plasma

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

Zanáška, M.; Kudrna, P.; Tichý, M.

The ball-pen probe (BPP) is used for direct plasma potential measurements in magnetized plasma. The probe can adjust the ratio of the electron and ion saturation currents I{sub sat}{sup −}/I{sub sat}{sup +} to be close to one and therefore its I-V characteristic becomes nearly symmetric. If this is achieved, the floating potential of the BPP is close to the plasma potential. Because of its rather simple construction, it offers an attractive probe for measurements in magnetized plasma. Comparative measurements of plasma potential by BPPs of different dimensions as well as one Langmuir probe (LP) in an argon discharge plasma ofmore » a cylindrical magnetron were performed at various experimental conditions. An additional comparison by an emissive probe was also performed. All these types of probes provide similar values of plasma potential in a wide range of plasma parameters. Our results for three different BPP dimensions indicate that the BPP can be operated in a cylindrical magnetron DC argon discharge if the value of the ratio of the magnetic field and neutral gas pressure, B/p, is greater than approximately 10 mT/Pa.« less

Quasi-steady carbon plasma source for neutral beam injector

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

Koguchi, H., E-mail: h-koguchi@aist.go.jp; Sakakita, H.; Kiyama, S.

2014-02-15

Carbon plasma is successfully sustained during 1000 s without any carrier gas in the bucket type ionization chamber with cusp magnetic field. Every several seconds, seed plasmas having ∼3 ms duration time are injected into the ionization chamber by a shunting arch plasma gun. The weakly ionized carbon plasma ejected from the shunting arch is also ionized by 2.45 GHz microwave at the electron cyclotron resonance surface and the plasma can be sustained even in the interval of gun discharges. Control of the gun discharge interval allows to keep high pressure and to sustain the plasma for long duration.

Quasi-steady carbon plasma source for neutral beam injector.

PubMed

Koguchi, H; Sakakita, H; Kiyama, S; Shimada, T; Sato, Y; Hirano, Y

2014-02-01

Carbon plasma is successfully sustained during 1000 s without any carrier gas in the bucket type ionization chamber with cusp magnetic field. Every several seconds, seed plasmas having ∼3 ms duration time are injected into the ionization chamber by a shunting arch plasma gun. The weakly ionized carbon plasma ejected from the shunting arch is also ionized by 2.45 GHz microwave at the electron cyclotron resonance surface and the plasma can be sustained even in the interval of gun discharges. Control of the gun discharge interval allows to keep high pressure and to sustain the plasma for long duration.

Thomson scattering from a three-component plasma.

PubMed

Johnson, W R; Nilsen, J

2014-02-01

A model for a three-component plasma consisting of two distinct ionic species and electrons is developed and applied to study x-ray Thomson scattering. Ions of a specific type are assumed to be identical and are treated in the average-atom approximation. Given the plasma temperature and density, the model predicts mass densities, effective ionic charges, and cell volumes for each ionic type, together with the plasma chemical potential and free-electron density. Additionally, the average-atom treatment of individual ions provides a quantum-mechanical description of bound and continuum electrons. The model is used to obtain parameters needed to determine the dynamic structure factors for x-ray Thomson scattering from a three-component plasma. The contribution from inelastic scattering by free electrons is evaluated in the random-phase approximation. The contribution from inelastic scattering by bound electrons is evaluated using the bound-state and scattering wave functions obtained from the average-atom calculations. Finally, the partial static structure factors for elastic scattering by ions are evaluated using a two-component version of the Ornstein-Zernike equations with hypernetted chain closure, in which electron-ion interactions are accounted for using screened ion-ion interaction potentials. The model is used to predict the x-ray Thomson scattering spectrum from a CH plasma and the resulting spectrum is compared with experimental results obtained by Feltcher et al. [Phys. Plasmas 20, 056316 (2013)].

Crystal structure of the plasma membrane proton pump.

PubMed

Pedersen, Bjørn P; Buch-Pedersen, Morten J; Morth, J Preben; Palmgren, Michael G; Nissen, Poul

2007-12-13

A prerequisite for life is the ability to maintain electrochemical imbalances across biomembranes. In all eukaryotes the plasma membrane potential and secondary transport systems are energized by the activity of P-type ATPase membrane proteins: H+-ATPase (the proton pump) in plants and fungi, and Na+,K+-ATPase (the sodium-potassium pump) in animals. The name P-type derives from the fact that these proteins exploit a phosphorylated reaction cycle intermediate of ATP hydrolysis. The plasma membrane proton pumps belong to the type III P-type ATPase subfamily, whereas Na+,K+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase are type II. Electron microscopy has revealed the overall shape of proton pumps, however, an atomic structure has been lacking. Here we present the first structure of a P-type proton pump determined by X-ray crystallography. Ten transmembrane helices and three cytoplasmic domains define the functional unit of ATP-coupled proton transport across the plasma membrane, and the structure is locked in a functional state not previously observed in P-type ATPases. The transmembrane domain reveals a large cavity, which is likely to be filled with water, located near the middle of the membrane plane where it is lined by conserved hydrophilic and charged residues. Proton transport against a high membrane potential is readily explained by this structural arrangement.

Hydrodynamic optical-field-ionized plasma channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shalloo, R. J.; Arran, C.; Corner, L.; Holloway, J.; Jonnerby, J.; Walczak, R.; Milchberg, H. M.; Hooker, S. M.

2018-05-01

We present experiments and numerical simulations which demonstrate that fully ionized, low-density plasma channels could be formed by hydrodynamic expansion of plasma columns produced by optical field ionization. Simulations of the hydrodynamic expansion of plasma columns formed in hydrogen by an axicon lens show the generation of 200 mm long plasma channels with axial densities of order ne(0 ) =1 ×1017cm-3 and lowest-order modes of spot size WM≈40 μ m . These simulations show that the laser energy required to generate the channels is modest: of order 1 mJ per centimeter of channel. The simulations are confirmed by experiments with a spherical lens which show the formation of short plasma channels with 1.5 ×1017cm-3≲ne(0 ) ≲1 ×1018cm-3 and 61 μ m ≳WM≳33 μ m . Low-density plasma channels of this type would appear to be well suited as multi-GeV laser-plasma accelerator stages capable of long-term operation at high pulse repetition rates.

Shunting arc plasma source for pure carbon ion beam.

PubMed

Koguchi, H; Sakakita, H; Kiyama, S; Shimada, T; Sato, Y; Hirano, Y

2012-02-01

A plasma source is developed using a coaxial shunting arc plasma gun to extract a pure carbon ion beam. The pure carbon ion beam is a new type of deposition system for diamond and other carbon materials. Our plasma device generates pure carbon plasma from solid-state carbon material without using a hydrocarbon gas such as methane gas, and the plasma does not contain any hydrogen. The ion saturation current of the discharge measured by a double probe is about 0.2 mA∕mm(2) at the peak of the pulse.

Shunting arc plasma source for pure carbon ion beam

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

Koguchi, H.; Sakakita, H.; Kiyama, S.

2012-02-15

A plasma source is developed using a coaxial shunting arc plasma gun to extract a pure carbon ion beam. The pure carbon ion beam is a new type of deposition system for diamond and other carbon materials. Our plasma device generates pure carbon plasma from solid-state carbon material without using a hydrocarbon gas such as methane gas, and the plasma does not contain any hydrogen. The ion saturation current of the discharge measured by a double probe is about 0.2 mA/mm{sup 2} at the peak of the pulse.

Plasma membrane repair in plants.

PubMed

Schapire, Arnaldo L; Valpuesta, Victoriano; Botella, Miguel A

2009-12-01

Resealing is the membrane-repair process that enables cells to survive disruption, preventing the loss of irreplaceable cell types and eliminating the cost of replacing injured cells. Given that failure in the resealing process in animal cells causes diverse types of muscular dystrophy, plasma membrane repair has been extensively studied in these systems. Animal proteins with Ca(2+)-binding domains such as synaptotagmins and dysferlin mediate Ca(2+)-dependent exocytosis to repair plasma membranes after mechanical damage. Until recently, no components or proof for membrane repair mechanisms have been discovered in plants. However, Arabidopsis SYT1 is now the first plant synaptotagmin demonstrated to participate in Ca(2+)-dependent repair of membranes. This suggests a conservation of membrane repair mechanisms between animal and plant cells.

Plasma jet ignition device

DOEpatents

McIlwain, Michael E.; Grant, Jonathan F.; Golenko, Zsolt; Wittstein, Alan D.

1985-01-15

An ignition device of the plasma jet type is disclosed. The device has a cylindrical cavity formed in insulating material with an electrode at one end. The other end of the cylindrical cavity is closed by a metal plate with a small orifice in the center which plate serves as a second electrode. An arc jumping between the first electrode and the orifice plate causes the formation of a highly-ionized plasma in the cavity which is ejected through the orifice into the engine cylinder area to ignite the main fuel mixture. Two improvements are disclosed to enhance the operation of the device and the length of the plasma plume. One improvement is a metal hydride ring which is inserted in the cavity next to the first electrode. During operation, the high temperature in the cavity and the highly excited nature of the plasma breaks down the metal hydride, liberating hydrogen which acts as an additional fuel to help plasma formation. A second improvement consists of a cavity insert containing a plurality of spaced, metal rings. The rings act as secondary spark gap electrodes reducing the voltage needed to maintain the initial arc in the cavity.

One-hour and two-hour postload plasma glucose concentrations are comparable predictors of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Southwestern Native Americans.

PubMed

Paddock, Ethan; Hohenadel, Maximilian G; Piaggi, Paolo; Vijayakumar, Pavithra; Hanson, Robert L; Knowler, William C; Krakoff, Jonathan; Chang, Douglas C

2017-09-01

Elevated 2-h plasma glucose concentration (2 h-PG) during a 75 g OGTT predict the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, 1-h plasma glucose concentration (1 h-PG) is associated with insulin secretion and may be a better predictor of type 2 diabetes. We aimed to investigate the association between 1 h-PG and 2 h-PG using gold standard methods for measuring insulin secretion and action. We also compared 1 h-PG and 2 h-PG as predictors of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This analysis included adult volunteers without diabetes, predominantly Native Americans of Southwestern heritage, who were involved in a longitudinal epidemiological study from 1965 to 2007, with a baseline OGTT that included measurement of 1 h-PG. Group 1 (n = 716) underwent an IVGTT and hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp for measurement of acute insulin response (AIR) and insulin-stimulated glucose disposal (M), respectively. Some members of Group 1 (n = 490 of 716) and members of a second, larger, group (Group 2; n = 1946) were followed-up to assess the development of type 2 diabetes (median 9.0 and 12.8 years follow-up, respectively). Compared with 2 h-PG (r = -0.281), 1 h-PG (r = -0.384) was more closely associated with AIR, whereas, compared with 1 h-PG (r = -0.340), 2 h-PG (r = -0.408) was more closely associated with M. Measures of 1 h-PG and 2 h-PG had similar abilities to predict type 2 diabetes, which did not change when both were included in the model. A 1 h-PG cut-off of 9.3 mmol/l provided similar levels of sensitivity and specificity as a 2 h-PG cut-off of 7.8 mmol/l; the latter is used to define impaired glucose tolerance, a recognised predictor of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The 1 h-PG was associated with important physiological predictors of type 2 diabetes and was as effective as 2 h-PG for predicting type 2 diabetes mellitus. The 1 h-PG is, therefore, an alternative method of identifying individuals with an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes

Antibody specificities associated with neutralization breadth in plasma from human immunodeficiency virus type 1 subtype C-infected blood donors.

PubMed

Gray, Elin S; Taylor, Natasha; Wycuff, Diane; Moore, Penny L; Tomaras, Georgia D; Wibmer, Constantinos Kurt; Puren, Adrian; DeCamp, Allan; Gilbert, Peter B; Wood, Blake; Montefiori, David C; Binley, James M; Shaw, George M; Haynes, Barton F; Mascola, John R; Morris, Lynn

2009-09-01

Defining the specificities of the anti-human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) envelope antibodies able to mediate broad heterologous neutralization will assist in identifying targets for an HIV-1 vaccine. We screened 70 plasmas from chronically HIV-1-infected individuals for neutralization breadth. Of these, 16 (23%) were found to neutralize 80% or more of the viruses tested. Anti-CD4 binding site (CD4bs) antibodies were found in almost all plasmas independent of their neutralization breadth, but they mainly mediated neutralization of the laboratory strain HxB2 with little effect on the primary virus, Du151. Adsorption with Du151 monomeric gp120 reduced neutralizing activity to some extent in most plasma samples when tested against the matched virus, although these antibodies did not always confer cross-neutralization. For one plasma, this activity was mapped to a site overlapping the CD4-induced (CD4i) epitope and CD4bs. Anti-membrane-proximal external region (MPER) (r = 0.69; P < 0.001) and anti-CD4i (r = 0.49; P < 0.001) antibody titers were found to be correlated with the neutralization breadth. These anti-MPER antibodies were not 4E10- or 2F5-like but spanned the 4E10 epitope. Furthermore, we found that anti-cardiolipin antibodies were correlated with the neutralization breadth (r = 0.67; P < 0.001) and anti-MPER antibodies (r = 0.6; P < 0.001). Our study suggests that more than one epitope on the envelope glycoprotein is involved in the cross-reactive neutralization elicited during natural HIV-1 infection, many of which are yet to be determined, and that polyreactive antibodies are possibly involved in this phenomenon.

Reconnection Processes in the Chromosphere and Corona

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibata, Kazunari

2012-07-01

Magnetic reconnection is a fundamental key physical process in magnetized plasmas. Recent space solar observations revealed that magnetic reconnection is ubiquitous in the solar chromospheres and corona. Especially recent Hinode observations has found various types of tiny chromospheric jets, such as chromospheric anemone jets (Shibata et al. 2007), penumbral microjets (Katsukawa et al. 2007), light bridge jets from sunspot umbra (Shimizu et al. 2009), etc. It was also found that the corona is full of tiny X-ray jets (Cirtain et al. 2007). Often they are seen as helical spinning jets (Shimojo et al. 2007, Patsourakos et al. 2008, Pariat et al. 2009, Filippov et al. 2009, Kamio et al. 2010) with Alfvenic waves (Nishizuka et al. 2008, Liu et al. 2009) and there are increasing evidence of magnetic reconnection in these tiny jets. We can now say that as spatial resolution of observations become better and better, smaller and smaller flares and jets have been discovered, which implies that the magnetized solar atmosphere consist of fractal structure and dynamics, i.e., fractal reconnection. Bursty radio and hard X-ray emissions from flares also suggest the fractal reconnection and associated particle acceleration. Since magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) does not contain any characteristic length and time scale, it is natural that MHD structure, dynamics, and reconnection, tend to become fractal in ideal MHD plasmas with large magnetic Reynolds number such as in the solar atmosphere. We would discuss recent observations and theories related to fractal reconnection in the chromospheres and corona, and discuss possible implication to chromospheric and coronal heating.

Investigation of a staged plasma-focus apparatus. [pinch construction and current sheet dynamics investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.; Mcfarland, D. R.; Harries, W. L.

1978-01-01

A new staged plasma-focus geometry combining two Mather-type plasma-focus guns was constructed, and the current-sheet dynamics were investigated. The production of simultaneous pairs of plasma foci was achieved. The intensities of X-ray and fusion-neutron emission were measured and found to agree with the scaling law for a plasma focus. Advantages of this new geometry include the possibility of using plasma-focus type pinches in multiple arrays at power levels beyond the validity regime of the current scaling law for a single gun.

Temporal expression profiling of plasma proteins reveals oxidative stress in early stages of Type 1 Diabetes progression

DOE PAGES

Liu, Chih-Wei; Bramer, Lisa; Webb-Robertson, Bobbie-Jo; ...

2017-10-07

We report that blood markers other than islet autoantibodies are greatly needed to indicate the pancreatic beta cell destruction process as early as possible, and more accurately reflect the progression of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1D). To this end, a longitudinal proteomic profiling of human plasma using TMT-10plex-based LC-MS/MS analysis was performed to track temporal proteomic changes of T1D patients (n = 11) across 9 serial time points, spanning the period of T1D natural progression, in comparison with those of the matching healthy controls (n = 10). To our knowledge, the current study represents the largest (> 2000 proteins measured)more » longitudinal expression profiles of human plasma proteome in T1D research. By applying statistical trend analysis on the temporal expression patterns between T1D and controls, and Benjamini-Hochberg procedure for multiple-testing correction, 13 protein groups were regarded as having statistically significant differences during the entire follow-up period. Moreover, 16 protein groups, which play pivotal roles in response to oxidative stress, have consistently abnormal expression trend before seroconversion to islet autoimmunity. Importantly, the expression trends of two key reactive oxygen species-decomposing enzymes, Catalase and Superoxide dismutase were verified independently by ELISA.« less

Temporal expression profiling of plasma proteins reveals oxidative stress in early stages of Type 1 Diabetes progression

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

Liu, Chih-Wei; Bramer, Lisa; Webb-Robertson, Bobbie-Jo

We report that blood markers other than islet autoantibodies are greatly needed to indicate the pancreatic beta cell destruction process as early as possible, and more accurately reflect the progression of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1D). To this end, a longitudinal proteomic profiling of human plasma using TMT-10plex-based LC-MS/MS analysis was performed to track temporal proteomic changes of T1D patients (n = 11) across 9 serial time points, spanning the period of T1D natural progression, in comparison with those of the matching healthy controls (n = 10). To our knowledge, the current study represents the largest (> 2000 proteins measured)more » longitudinal expression profiles of human plasma proteome in T1D research. By applying statistical trend analysis on the temporal expression patterns between T1D and controls, and Benjamini-Hochberg procedure for multiple-testing correction, 13 protein groups were regarded as having statistically significant differences during the entire follow-up period. Moreover, 16 protein groups, which play pivotal roles in response to oxidative stress, have consistently abnormal expression trend before seroconversion to islet autoimmunity. Importantly, the expression trends of two key reactive oxygen species-decomposing enzymes, Catalase and Superoxide dismutase were verified independently by ELISA.« less

Physics-electrical hybrid model for real time impedance matching and remote plasma characterization in RF plasma sources.

PubMed

Sudhir, Dass; Bandyopadhyay, M; Chakraborty, A

2016-02-01

Plasma characterization and impedance matching are an integral part of any radio frequency (RF) based plasma source. In long pulse operation, particularly in high power operation where plasma load may vary due to different reasons (e.g. pressure and power), online tuning of impedance matching circuit and remote plasma density estimation are very useful. In some cases, due to remote interfaces, radio activation and, due to maintenance issues, power probes are not allowed to be incorporated in the ion source design for plasma characterization. Therefore, for characterization and impedance matching, more remote schemes are envisaged. Two such schemes by the same authors are suggested in these regards, which are based on air core transformer model of inductive coupled plasma (ICP) [M. Bandyopadhyay et al., Nucl. Fusion 55, 033017 (2015); D. Sudhir et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 85, 013510 (2014)]. However, the influence of the RF field interaction with the plasma to determine its impedance, a physics code HELIC [D. Arnush, Phys. Plasmas 7, 3042 (2000)] is coupled with the transformer model. This model can be useful for both types of RF sources, i.e., ICP and helicon sources.

Physics-electrical hybrid model for real time impedance matching and remote plasma characterization in RF plasma sources

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

Sudhir, Dass, E-mail: dass.sudhir@iter-india.org; Bandyopadhyay, M.; Chakraborty, A.

2016-02-15

Plasma characterization and impedance matching are an integral part of any radio frequency (RF) based plasma source. In long pulse operation, particularly in high power operation where plasma load may vary due to different reasons (e.g. pressure and power), online tuning of impedance matching circuit and remote plasma density estimation are very useful. In some cases, due to remote interfaces, radio activation and, due to maintenance issues, power probes are not allowed to be incorporated in the ion source design for plasma characterization. Therefore, for characterization and impedance matching, more remote schemes are envisaged. Two such schemes by the samemore » authors are suggested in these regards, which are based on air core transformer model of inductive coupled plasma (ICP) [M. Bandyopadhyay et al., Nucl. Fusion 55, 033017 (2015); D. Sudhir et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 85, 013510 (2014)]. However, the influence of the RF field interaction with the plasma to determine its impedance, a physics code HELIC [D. Arnush, Phys. Plasmas 7, 3042 (2000)] is coupled with the transformer model. This model can be useful for both types of RF sources, i.e., ICP and helicon sources.« less

Differences in plasma apelin and visfatin levels between patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and healthy subjects and response after acute hyperglycemia and insulin administration.

PubMed

Alexiadou, Kleopatra; Kokkinos, Alexander; Liatis, Stavros; Perrea, Despoina; Katsilambros, Nicholas; Tentolouris, Nicholas

2012-01-01

Previous data suggest that apelin and visfatin play a role in metabolism and glucose homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to determine differences in plasma apelin and visfatin concentrations between healthy subjects and patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and to study the effect of hyperglycemia and insulin administration on their levels in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. One hundred patients with T1DM and 52 healthy subjects were examined. Nine patients with type 1 diabetes and 9 controls participated in a further study. In the main study, blood samples were taken after a 12-hour fast. In a further study, an oral glucose tolerance test was performed on two occasions. In session A, at baseline, insulin lispro (7 units) was administered subcutaneously to the type 1 diabetic patients, while a placebo injection was administered to controls. In session B, no insulin or placebo was administered. Apelin, visfatin, insulin and glucose levels were measured at baseline and 10, 20, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 min after glucose consumption. Fasting plasma apelin concentrations were higher (p<0.001), while fasting visfatin levels tended to be lower (p=0.06) in patients with type 1 diabetes in comparison to healthy subjects. In the diabetes group, fasting apelin (but not visfatin) correlated with HDL-C (p=0.001). Apelin and visfatin did not change significantly during the oral glucose tolerance test in either group with or without exogenous insulin administration.

Real-time interferometric diagnostics of rubidium plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Djotyan, G. P.; Bakos, J. S.; Kedves, M. Á.; Ráczkevi, B.; Dzsotjan, D.; Varga-Umbrich, K.; Sörlei, Zs.; Szigeti, J.; Ignácz, P.; Lévai, P.; Czitrovszky, A.; Nagy, A.; Dombi, P.; Rácz, P.

2018-03-01

A method of interferometric real-time diagnostics is developed and applied to rubidium plasma created by strong laser pulses in the femtosecond duration range at different initial rubidium vapor densities using a Michelson-type interferometer. A cosine fit with an exponentially decaying relative phase is applied to the obtained time-dependent interferometry signals to measure the density-length product of the created plasma and its recombination time constant. The presented technique may be applicable for real-time measurements of rubidium plasma dynamics in the AWAKE experiment at CERN, as well as for real-time diagnostics of plasmas created in different gaseous media and on surfaces of solid targets.

Plasma YKL-40 during pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Rinnov, Anders R; Rathcke, Camilla N; Bonde, Lisbeth; Vilsbøll, Tina; Knop, Filip K

2015-11-01

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is characterised by hyperglycaemia during pregnancy. The clinical circumstances involved in the development of GDM leaves the patient at a high risk of the subsequent development of type 2 diabetes. Plasma levels of the inflammation marker YKL-40 are elevated in type 2 diabetes and correlate with fasting plasma glucose levels and insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes. With the present study we aimed to determine if pregnancy (and associated insulin resistance) with or without GDM affects plasma YKL-40 levels. Plasma from women diagnosed with GDM and healthy normal glucose-tolerant pregnant women (non-GDM) was obtained at the third trimester of pregnancy and again 3-4 months following delivery, and levels of YKL-40 and interleukin 6 (IL-6; known to regulate YKL-40) were measured. Plasma YKL-40 levels were similarly low during pregnancy in both groups and increased significantly after delivery, but remained lower in the GDM group compared with the non-GDM group postpartum. In contrast, plasma IL-6 levels were not affected by pregnancy or diagnosis of GDM, Nevertheless, YKL-40 levels were associated with IL-6 levels in the non-GDM group (but not in the GDM group). Pregnancy seems to be associated with a temporary reduction in circulating YKL-40, which increases after delivery, but to a much lesser extent in women with GDM than in non-GDM women. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Is There Any Relationship between Plasma 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3, Adipokine Profiles and Excessive Body Weight in Type 2 Diabetic Patients?

PubMed Central

Dziemidok, Piotr; Kiełczykowska, Małgorzata; Kurzepa, Jacek; Szcześniak, Grzegorz; Musik, Irena

2017-01-01

A growing interest in the role of vitamin D in metabolic diseases led us to study the relationships between 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) and the profiles of selected adipokines in type 2 diabetic (T2DM) patients. The study comprised 92 type 2 diabetics divided into quartiles regarding 25(OH)D3 concentration. Each group was divided into male and female subgroups. All the studied patients had their anthropometric and biochemical parameters determined. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentration was determined by HPLC, while the selected adipokines (leptin, adiponectin, resistin and visfatin) by ELISA methods. The ratio of leptin to adiponectin (L/A) was calculated for all the patients. In 85.3% of diabetics a full (<20 ng/mL) or moderate (20–30 ng/mL) vitamin D deficit was found. Irrespective of sex, plasma leptin concentration decreased across increasing quartiles of 25(OH)D3 level. In women, 25(OH)D3 was negatively correlated with BMI, leptin level as well as L/A ratio, and positively with adiponectin concentration. In men, 25(OH)D3 was positively correlated with HDL and negatively with systolic blood pressure (SBP), leptin level and L/A ratio. Considering all the patients, there ocurred a significant negative correlation between 25(OH)D3 and SBP, BMI, WHR, TG, leptin and L/A ratio and positive ones between 25(OH)D3 and both adiponectin and HDL. The results of the study support the existence of the relationship among vitamin D, obesity and leptin in type 2 diabetic patients. PMID:29295491

Elevated plasma B-type natriuretic peptide concentration and resistive index, but not decreased aortic distensibility, associate with impaired blood flow at popliteal artery in type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Tajima, Yoshitaka; Suzuki, Eiji; Saito, Jun; Murase, Hiroshi; Horikawa, Yukio; Takeda, Jun

2015-01-01

Blood flow in lower extremity arteries is frequently impaired in diabetic patients even though they have a normal ankle-brachial index (ABI 1.0-1.4). Risk factors contributing to this lower extremity arterial disease have not been fully elucidated. We enrolled 52 type 2 diabetic patients with normal ABI and 30 age-matched nondiabetic subjects consecutively admitted to our hospital. Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentrations were measured. Distensibility in ascending thoracic and abdominal aortas as well as total flow volume and resistive index at popliteal artery were evaluated by gated magnetic resonance imaging. An automatic device was used to measure ABI and brachial-ankle pulse-wave velocity (baPWV). Diabetic patients showed lower distensibility in ascending thoracic aorta (p<0.001) and total flow volume (p<0.001) and higher baPWV (p<0.001) and resistive index (p=0.005) and similar BNP and distensibility in abdominal aorta compared to nondiabetic subjects. Simple linear regression analyses revealed that distensibility in ascending thoracic (p=0.019) and abdominal (p=0.030) aortas positively as well as baPWV (p=0.020), resistive index (p<0.001) and BNP (p<0.001) negatively correlated with total flow volume. Stepwise multiple regression analysis demonstrated that increased BNP and resistive index were independent risk factors for total flow volume in diabetic patients (r(2)=0.639, p<0.001). These results indicate that increased plasma BNP levels and peripheral vascular resistance, but not decreased aortic distensibility, associate with impaired blood flow in lower extremity arteries in diabetic patients.

The Diagnostics of the External Plasma for the Plasma Rocket

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karr, Gerald R.

1997-01-01

Three regions of plasma temperature/energy are being investigated to understand fully the behavior of the plasma created by the propulsion device and the operation of the RPA. Each type of plasma has a RPA associated with it; i.e. a thermal RPA, a collimated RPA, and a high temperature RPA. Through the process of developing the thermal and collimated RPAs, the proper knowledge and experience has been gained to not only design a high temperature RPA for the plasma rocket, but to understand its operation, results, and uncertainty. After completing a literature search for, reading published papers on, and discussing the operation of the RPA with electric propulsion researchers, I applied the knowledge gained to the development of a RPA for thermal plasma. A design of a thermal RPA was made which compensates for a large Debye length and low ionized plasma. From this design a thermal RPA was constructed. It consists of an outer stainless steel casing, a phenolic insulator (outgases slightly), and stainless steel mesh for the voltage screens. From the experience and knowledge gained in the development of the thermal RPA, a RPA for collimated plasma was developed. A collimated RPA has been designed and constructed. It compensate for a smaller Debye length and much higher ionization than that existing in the thermal plasma. It is 17% of the size of the thermal RPA. A stainless steel casing shields the detector from impinging electrons and ions. An insulating material, epoxy resin, was utilized which has a negligible outgassing. This material can be molded in styrofoam and machined quite nicely. It is capable of withstanding moderately high temperatures. Attached to this resin insulator are inconel screens attached by silver plated copper wire to a voltage supply. All the work on the RPAs and thermal ion source, I performed in the University of Alabama in Huntsville's (UAH) engineering machine shop.

Comparison of biochemical values in serum and plasma, fresh and frozen plasma, and hemolyzed samples from orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica).

PubMed

Hawkins, Michelle G; Kass, Philip H; Zinkl, Joseph G; Tell, Lisa A

2006-06-01

To the authors' knowledge, on the basis of sample type, storage condition, or hemolysis, differences in serum and plasma biochemical values have not been evaluated in orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica). The purpose of this study was to compare values for biochemical analytes in serum vs plasma, fresh vs frozen plasma, and nonhemolyzed vs hemolyzed samples in orange-winged Amazon parrots. We also compared differences in serum and plasma yield from whole-blood aliquots. Fifteen biochemical analytes were evaluated in paired serum and plasma, fresh and frozen plasma, nonhemolyzed and hemolyzed serum and plasma samples from orange-winged Amazon parrots (n = 10) using a wet reagent analyzer. Hemolysis was assessed qualitatively (visually) and quantitatively (hemoglobin [Hgb] measured spectrophotometrically). Serum and plasma yields from 500-microl whole-blood aliquots were determined from centrifuged samples. Analyte values significantly differed among sample groups, but were still within published reference intervals, with the exception of increases in potassium concentration in markedly hemolyzed serum and plasma samples. Clinically important changes in hemolyzed serum and plasma samples included increases in potassium, phosphorus, and albumin concentrations and lactate dehydrogenase activity. The degree of hemolysis assigned qualitatively did not correlate with quantitative Hgb concentration. A significantly greater yield of plasma (288 +/- 13 microL) than serum (241 +/- 44 microL) was obtained. Significant differences may occur in different sample types, however, only changes in potassium, phosphorus, albumin, and lactate dehydrogenase values in hemolyzed samples were considered clinically relevant. Lack of agreement between qualitative and quantitative Hgb concentration indicates the unreliability of visual estimation. Based on higher sample yield, and lack of clinically relevant differences from serum, plasma is a better sample choice for clinical

Background diet and fat type alters plasma lipoprotein response but not aortic cholesterol accumulation in F1B Golden Syrian hamsters.

PubMed

Dillard, Alice; Matthan, Nirupa R; Spartano, Nicole L; Butkowski, Ann E; Lichtenstein, Alice H

2013-12-01

Dietary modification alters plasma lipoprotein profiles and atherosclerotic lesion progression in humans and some animal models. Variability in response to diet induced atherosclerosis has been reported in hamsters. Assessed was the interaction between background diet composition and dietary fat type on aortic cholesterol accumulation, lipoprotein profiles, hepatic lipids and selected genes. F1B Golden Syrian hamsters (20/group) were fed (12 weeks) semi-purified or non-purified diets containing either 10 % (w/w) coconut oil or safflower oil and 0.15 % (w/w) cholesterol. The non-purified diets relative to semi-purified diets resulted in significantly higher TC (72 % [percent difference] and 38 %, coconut oil and safflower oil, respectively) and nHDL-C (84 and 61 %, coconut oil and safflower oil, respectively), and lower HDL-C (-47 and -45 %, coconut oil and safflower oil, respectively) concentrations. Plasma triacylglycerol concentrations in the hamsters fed the non-purified coconut oil-supplemented diets were three- to fourfold higher than non-purified safflower oil-supplemented, and both semi-purified diets. With the exception of HDL-C, a significant effect of fat type was observed in TC, nHDL-C and triacylglycerol (all P < 0.05) concentrations. Regardless of diet induced differences in lipoprotein profiles, there was no significant effect on aortic cholesterol accumulation. There was an inverse relationship between plasma nHDL-C and triacylglycerol, and hepatic cholesteryl ester content (P < 0.001). Diet induced differences in hepatic gene transcription (LDL receptor, apoB-100, microsomal transfer protein) were not reflected in protein concentrations. Although hamsters fed non-purified and/or saturated fatty acid-supplemented diets had more atherogenic lipoprotein profiles compared to hamsters fed semi-purified and/or polyunsaturated fatty acid-supplemented diets these differences were not reflected in aortic cholesterol accumulation.

Optical Pumping of High Power Lasers with an Array of Plasma Pinches.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-04-01

Two dense plasma focus systems, the hypocycloidal pinch and the Mather type were investigated as the potential excitation light sources for high...was also performed for the first time using the Mather type dense plasma focus (MDPF) sucsessfully. Results thus fare indicate that both HCP and MDPF

Note: A portable pulsed neutron source based on the smallest sealed-type plasma focus device.

PubMed

Niranjan, Ram; Rout, R K; Mishra, Prabhat; Srivastava, Rohit; Rawool, A M; Kaushik, T C; Gupta, Satish C

2011-02-01

Development and operation of a portable and compact pulsed neutron source based on sealed-type plasma focus (PF) device are reported. The unit is the smallest sealed-type neutron producing PF device. The effective volume of the PF unit is 33 cm(3) only. A compact size single capacitor (4 μF) is used as the energy driver. A battery based power supply unit is used for charging the capacitor and triggering the spark gap. The PF unit is operated at 10 kV (200 J) and at a deuterium gas filling pressure of 8 mb. The device is operated over a time span of 200 days and the neutron emissions have been observed for 200 shots without changing the gas in between the shots. The maximum yield of this device is 7.8 × 10(4) neutrons/pulse. Beyond 200 shots the yield is below the threshold (1050 neutrons/pulse) of our (3)He detector. The neutron energy is evaluated using time of flight technique and the value is (2.49 ± 0.27) MeV. The measured neutron pulse width is (24 ± 5) ns. Multishot and long duration operations envisage the potentiality of such portable device for repetitive mode of operation.

Study on the immunological safety of universal plasma in the Chinese population in vitro.

PubMed

Chen, Guanyi; Zhu, Liguo; Wang, Shufang; Zhuang, Yuan; Yu, Yang; Wang, Deqing

2017-04-01

The prepared procedure for universal plasma in the Chinese population has been developed. However, the immunological safety with the level of antibodies, soluble immune complexes and complements is necessary to investigate. The universal plasma was pooled at the optimal ratio of A:B:AB=6:2.5:1.5 at 22°C for 1 hour. The titer of IgM antibodies was detected by saline agglutination, and the titer of IgG antibodies was detected by a Polybrene test after IgM destroyed by 2-mereaptoethanol. The hemolysis extent of RBC was investigated by an extracorporal hemolysis test, and the concentration of free-hemoglobin was determined by the ortho-tolidine method. The levels of CIC-C1q, C3b and TCC (C5-9) were tested using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The titer of IgM and IgG in universal plasma was lower than 2 and 4, respectively. The hemolysis of the universal plasma with A, B and AB group RBCs was negative with values of 5.5, 6.8 and 5.7, respectively. The level of CIC-C1q and TCC (C5-9) in universal plasma was comparable to that in A or B type pooled plasma, but CIC-C1q was lower than that and TCC (C5-9) was higher than that in AB type pooled plasma. The level of complement C3b was comparable to that in A type pooled plasma, but lower than that in B type pooled plasma and higher than that in AB type pooled plasma. The results of this study demonstrated that the immunological levels were within an acceptable range and confirmed the safety in vitro. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Use of multiple competitors for quantification of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 RNA in plasma.

PubMed

Vener, T; Nygren, M; Andersson, A; Uhlén, M; Albert, J; Lundeberg, J

1998-07-01

Quantification of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA in plasma has rapidly become an important tool in basic HIV research and in the clinical care of infected individuals. Here, a quantitative HIV assay based on competitive reverse transcription-PCR with multiple competitors was developed. Four RNA competitors containing identical PCR primer binding sequences as the viral HIV-1 RNA target were constructed. One of the PCR primers was fluorescently labeled, which facilitated discrimination between the viral RNA and competitor amplicons by fragment analysis with conventional automated sequencers. The coamplification of known amounts of the RNA competitors provided the means to establish internal calibration curves for the individual reactions resulting in exclusion of tube-to-tube variations. Calibration curves were created from the peak areas, which were proportional to the starting amount of each competitor. The fluorescence detection format was expanded to provide a dynamic range of more than 5 log units. This quantitative assay allowed for reproducible analysis of samples containing as few as 40 viral copies of HIV-1 RNA per reaction. The within- and between-run coefficients of variation were <24% (range, 10 to 24) and <36% (range, 27 to 36), respectively. The high reproducibility (standard deviation, <0.13 log) of the overall procedure for quantification of HIV-1 RNA in plasma, including sample preparation, amplification, and detection variations, allowed reliable detection of a 0.5-log change in RNA viral load. The assay could be a useful tool for monitoring HIV-1 disease progression and antiviral treatment and can easily be adapted to the quantification of other pathogens.

Molecular forms of C-type natriuretic peptide in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma reflect differential processing in brain and pituitary tissues.

PubMed

Wilson, Michele O; Barrell, Graham K; Prickett, Timothy C R; Espiner, Eric A

2018-01-01

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a paracrine growth factor widely expressed within tissues of the central nervous system. Consistent with this is the high concentration of CNP in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), exceeding levels in the systemic circulation. CNP abundance is high in hypothalamus and especially enriched in pituitary tissue where - in contrast to hypothalamus - processing to CNP-22 is minimal. Recently we have shown that dexamethasone acutely raises CNP peptides throughout the brain as well as in CSF and plasma. Postulating that molecular forms of CNP would differ in central tissues compared to forms in pituitary and plasma, we have characterized the molecular forms of CNP in tissues (hypothalamus, anterior and posterior pituitary gland) and associated fluids (CSF and plasma) using size-exclusion high performance liquid chromatography (SE-HPLC) and radioimmunoassay in control (saline-treated) and dexamethasone-treated adult sheep. Three immunoreactive-CNP components were identified which were consistent with proCNP (1-103), CNP-53 and CNP-22, but the presence and proportions of these different fragments differed among tissues. Peaks consistent with CNP-53 were the dominant form in all tissues and fluids. Peaks consistent with proCNP, conspicuous in hypothalamic extracts, were negligible in CSF whereas proportions of low molecular weight immunoreactivity (IR) consistent with CNP-22 were similar in hypothalamus, posterior pituitary gland and CSF. In contrast, in both plasma and the anterior pituitary gland, proportions of higher molecular weight IR, consistent with CNP-53 and proCNP, predominated, and low molecular weight IR consistent with CNP-22 was very low. After dexamethasone, proCNP like material - but not other forms - was increased in all samples except CSF, consistent with increased synthesis and secretion. In conclusion, immunoreactive forms of CNP in central tissues differ from those identified in anterior pituitary tissue and plasma

Direct chemical evidence for sphingolipid domains in the plasma membranes of fibroblasts [High-Resolution Chemical Imaging of Sphingolipid Distribution in the Plasma Membrane

DOE PAGES

Frisz, Jessica F.; Lou, Kaiyan; Klitzing, Haley A.; ...

2013-01-28

Sphingolipids play important roles in plasma membrane structure and cell signaling. Yet, their lateral distribution in the plasma membrane is poorly understood. Here we quantitatively analyzed the sphingolipid organization on the entire dorsal surface of intact cells by mapping the distribution of 15N-enriched ions from metabolically labeled 15N-sphingolipids in the plasma membrane using high-resolution imaging mass spectrometry. Many types of control experiments (internal, positive, negative, and fixation temperature), along with parallel experiments involving the imaging of fluorescent sphingolipids$-$both in living cells and during fixation of living cells$-$exclude potential artifacts. Micrometer-scale sphingolipid patches consisting of numerous 15Nsphingolipid microdomains with mean diametersmore » of ~200 nm are always present in the plasma membrane. Depletion of 30% of the cellular cholesterol did not eliminate the sphingolipid domains, but did reduce their abundance and long range organization in the plasma membrane. In contrast, disruption of the cytoskeleton eliminated the sphingolipid domains. These results indicate that these sphingolipid assemblages are not lipid rafts, and are instead a distinctly different type of sphingolipid-enriched plasma membrane domain that depends upon cortical actin.« less

Characterization of gas tunnel type plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite-nanostructure titania composite coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yugeswaran, S.; Kobayashi, A.; Ucisik, A. Hikmet; Subramanian, B.

2015-08-01

Hydroxyapatite (HA) can be coated onto metal implants as a ceramic biocompatible coating to bridge the growth between implants and human tissue. Meanwhile many efforts have been made to improve the mechanical properties of the HA coatings without affecting its bioactivity. In the present study, nanostructure titania (TiO2) was mixed with HA powder and HA-nanostructure TiO2 composite coatings were produced by gas tunnel type plasma spraying torch under optimized spraying conditions. For this purpose, composition of 10 wt% TiO2 + 90 wt% HA, 20 wt% TiO2 + 80 wt% HA and 30 wt% TiO2 + 70 wt% HA were selected as the feedstock materials. The phase, microstructure and mechanical properties of the coatings were characterized. The obtained results validated that the increase in weight percentage of nanostructure TiO2 in HA coating significantly increased the microhardness, adhesive strength and wear resistance of the coatings. Analysis of the in vitro bioactivity and cytocompatibility of the coatings were done using conventional simulated body fluid (c-SBF) solution and cultured green fluorescent protein (GFP) labeled marrow stromal cells (MSCs) respectively. The bioactivity results revealed that the composite coating has bio-active surface with good cytocompatibility.

Apparatus for recording emissions from a rapidly generated plasma from a single plasma producing event

DOEpatents

Tan, Tai Ho; Williams, Arthur H.

1985-01-01

An optical fiber-coupled detector visible streak camera plasma diagnostic apparatus. Arrays of optical fiber-coupled detectors are placed on the film plane of several types of particle, x-ray and visible spectrometers or directly in the path of the emissions to be measured and the output is imaged by a visible streak camera. Time and spatial dependence of the emission from plasmas generated from a single pulse of electromagnetic radiation or from a single particle beam burst can be recorded.

Apparatus for recording emissions from a rapidly generated plasma from a single plasma producing event

DOEpatents

Tan, T.H.; Williams, A.H.

An optical fiber-coupled detector visible streak camera plasma diagnostic apparatus. Arrays of optical fiber-coupled detectors are placed on the film plane of several types of particle, x-ray and visible spectrometers or directly in the path of the emissions to be measured and the output is imaged by a visible streak camera. Time and spatial dependence of the emission from plasma generated from a single pulse of electromagnetic radiation or from a single particle beam burst can be recorded.

Flight Plasma Diagnostics for High-Power, Solar-Electric Deep-Space Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Lee; De Soria-Santacruz Pich, Maria; Conroy, David; Lobbia, Robert; Huang, Wensheng; Choi, Maria; Sekerak, Michael J.

2018-01-01

NASA's Asteroid Redirect Robotic Mission (ARRM) project plans included a set of plasma and space environment instruments, the Plasma Diagnostic Package (PDP), to fulfill ARRM requirements for technology extensibility to future missions. The PDP objectives were divided into the classes of 1) Plasma thruster dynamics, 2) Solar array-specific environmental effects, 3) Plasma environmental spacecraft effects, and 4) Energetic particle spacecraft environment. A reference design approach and interface requirements for ARRM's PDP was generated by the PDP team at JPL and GRC. The reference design consisted of redundant single-string avionics located on the ARRM spacecraft bus as well as solar array, driving and processing signals from multiple copies of several types of plasma, effects, and environments sensors distributed over the spacecraft and array. The reference design sensor types were derived in part from sensors previously developed for USAF Research Laboratory (AFRL) plasma effects campaigns such as those aboard TacSat-2 in 2007 and AEHF-2 in 2012.

The sequential development of type I and type II ostertagiasis in young cattle with special reference to biochemical and serological changes.

PubMed

Entrocasso, C; McKellar, Q; Parkins, J J; Bairden, K; Armour, J; Kloosterman, A

1986-08-01

The sequential development of Type I and Type II ostertagiasis over a 2-year period in the same naturally infected cattle is described for the first time. Particular reference is made to biochemical and serological changes. Positive relationships were demonstrated between the clinical signs of both Type I and Type II disease, and marked increases in the levels of plasma pepsinogen, plasma gastrin and antibody titres to adult Ostertagia antigen. At necropsy, there were significant relationships between the combined total of adult and developing 5th stage larvae of Ostertagia spp. and the levels of both plasma pepsinogen and gastrin. By the end of the second grazing season the cattle had acquired an immunity to infection with Ostertagia spp. and had very low burdens of this parasite at necropsy. However some of these cattle maintained elevated plasma pepsinogen levels when under natural challenge by Ostertagia spp. larvae and the aetiology of these changes and the problems of diagnosis using this parameter are discussed. Similar trends of infection were observed for Cooperia oncophora, although resistance to the parasite developed more rapidly.

Adaptive plasma for cancer therapy: physics, mechanism and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keidar, Michael

2017-10-01

One of the most promising applications of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is the cancer therapy. The uniqueness of plasma is in its ability to change composition in situ. Plasma self-organization could lead to formation of coherent plasma structures. These coherent structures tend to modulate plasma chemistry and composition, including reactive species, the electric field and charged particles. Formation of coherent plasma structures allows the plasma to adapt to external boundary conditions, such as different cells types and their contextual tissues. In this talk we will explore possibilities and opportunities that the adaptive plasma therapeutic system might offer. We shall define such an adaptive system as a plasma device that is able to adjust the plasma composition to obtain optimal desirable outcomes through its interaction with cells and tissues. The efficacy of cold plasma in a pre-clinical model of various cancer types such as lung, bladder, breast, head, neck, brain and skin has been demonstrated. Both in-vitro and in-vivo studies revealed that cold plasmas selectively kill cancer cells. Recently mechanism of plasma selectivity based on aquaporin hypothesis has been proposed. Aquaporins (AQPs) are the confirmed membrane channels of H2O2 and other large molecules. We have demonstrated that the anti-cancer capacity of plasma could be inhibited by silencing the expression of AQPs. Additional possible cell feedback mechanism was recently discovered. It is associated with production of reactive species during direct CAP treatment by cancer cells. Selective production of hydrogen peroxide by different cells can lead to adaptation of chemistry at the plasma-cell interface based on the cellular input. In particular we have found that the discharge voltage is an important factor affecting the ratio of reactive oxygen species to reactive nitrogen species in the gas phase and this correlates well with effect of hydrogen peroxide production by cells. This work was

Gas discharge plasmas are effective in inactivating Bacillus and Clostridium spores.

PubMed

Tseng, Shawn; Abramzon, Nina; Jackson, James O; Lin, Wei-Jen

2012-03-01

Bacterial spores are the most resistant form of life and have been a major threat to public health and food safety. Nonthermal atmospheric gas discharge plasma is a novel sterilization method that leaves no chemical residue. In our study, a helium radio-frequency cold plasma jet was used to examine its sporicidal effect on selected strains of Bacillus and Clostridium. The species tested included Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus stearothermophilus, Clostridium sporogenes, Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium difficile, and Clostridium botulinum type A and type E. The plasmas were effective in inactivating selected Bacillus and Clostridia spores with D values (decimal reduction time) ranging from 2 to 8 min. Among all spores tested, C. botulinum type A and C. sporogenes were significantly more resistant to plasma inactivation than other species. Observations by phase contrast microscopy showed that B. subtilis spores were severely damaged by plasmas and the majority of the treated spores were unable to initiate the germination process. There was no detectable fragmentation of the DNA when the spores were treated for up to 20 min. The release of dipicolinic acid was observed almost immediately after the plasma treatment, indicating the spore envelope damage could occur quickly resulting in dipicolinic acid release and the reduction of spore resistance.

Plasma-based water treatment: development of a general mechanistic model to estimate the treatability of different types of contaminants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mededovic Thagard, Selma; Stratton, Gunnar R.; Dai, Fei; Bellona, Christopher L.; Holsen, Thomas M.; Bohl, Douglas G.; Paek, Eunsu; Dickenson, Eric R. V.

2017-01-01

To determine the types of applications for which plasma-based water treatment (PWT) is best suited, the treatability of 23 environmental contaminants was assessed through treatment in a gas discharge reactor with argon bubbling, termed the enhanced-contact reactor. The contaminants were treated in a mixture to normalize reaction conditions and convective transport limitations. Treatability was compared in terms of the observed removal rate constant (k obs). To characterize the influence of interfacial processes on k obs, a model was developed that accurately predicts k obs for each compound, as well as the contributions to k obs from each of the three general degradation mechanisms thought to occur at or near the gas-liquid interface: ‘sub-surface’, ‘surface’ and ‘above-surface’. Sub-surface reactions occur just underneath the gas-liquid interface between the contaminants and dissolved plasma-generated radicals, contributing significantly to the removal of compounds that lack surfactant-like properties and so are not highly concentrated at the interface. Surface reactions occur at the interface between the contaminants and dissolved radicals, contributing significantly to the removal of surfactant-like compounds that have high interfacial concentrations. The contaminants’ interfacial concentrations were calculated using surface-activity parameters determined through surface tension measurements. Above-surface reactions are proposed to take place in the plasma interior between highly energetic plasma species and exposed portions of compounds that extend out of the interface. This mechanism largely accounts for the degradation of surfactant-like contaminants that contain highly hydrophobic perfluorocarbon groups, which are most likely to protrude from the interface. For a few compounds, the degree of exposure to the plasma interior was supported by new and previously reported molecular dynamics simulations results. By reviewing the predicted

Risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus associated with plasma lipid levels: The rural Chinese cohort study.

PubMed

Zhang, Ming; Zhou, Junmei; Liu, Yu; Sun, Xizhuo; Luo, Xinping; Han, Chengyi; Zhang, Lu; Wang, Bingyuan; Ren, Yongcheng; Zhao, Yang; Zhang, Dongdong; Liu, Xuejiao; Hu, Dongsheng

2018-01-01

To investigate the association of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk and plasma lipid levels in rural Chinese. Each lipid variable was divided into quartiles and dichotomized by clinical cutoff points. Cox proportional-hazards model was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association of T2DM risk and plasma lipid levels and explore the interaction between plasma lipid levels and other risk factors. 11,929 participants were included in the analysis. We documented 720 incident cases of T2DM over 70,720.84 person-years of follow-up, for an incidence of 10.18/1,000 person-years. In the multivariable-adjusted model, risk of T2DM was increased with the highest versus lowest quartiles of total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides (TG) levels and TC/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and TG/HDL-C ratios. The HRs (95% CIs) for the fourth quartiles, for example, were 1.34 (1.03-1.74), 2.32 (1.73-3.13), 1.66 (1.23-2.25), and 1.84 (1.38-2.45), respectively. In addition, risk of T2DM was increased with high TG level and TC/HDL-C and TG/HDL-C ratios by clinical cutoffs. The HRs (95% CIs) were 1.50 (1.25-1.80), 1.24 (1.03-1.48), and 1.44 (1.18-1.75), respectively. Risk of T2DM was associated with interactions between all lipid variables and age and BMI. TG level and TG/HDL-C ratio additionally interacted with gender (all P interaction  < 0.0001). Risk of T2DM was increased with elevated serum levels of TC and TG and TC/HDL-C and TG/HDL-C ratios and also with interactions between high TC and TG levels and TC/HDL-C and TG/HDL-C ratios and age and BMI in a rural Chinese population. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Plasma levels of advanced glycation endproducts are associated with type 1 diabetes and coronary artery calcification

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) may play a role in the development of coronary artery calcification (CAC) in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). We studied plasma AGEs in association with T1DM and CAC, and whether or not the latter association could be explained by low-grade inflammation (LGI) or endothelial dysfunction (ED). Methods We studied 165 individuals with and 169 without T1DM. CAC was quantified in a CAC score based on CT-scanning. Plasma levels of protein-bound pentosidine, Nϵ-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) and Nϵ-(carboxyethyl)lysine (CEL) were measured with HPLC/UPLC with fluorescence detection or tandem-mass spectrometry. Tetrahydropyrimidine (THP) was measured with ELISA, as were HsCRP, and sVCAM-1 and vWF, as markers for LGI and ED, respectively. Associations were analyzed with ANCOVA and adjusted for age, sex, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, smoking, blood pressure, lipid profile, eGFR and T1DM. Results Individuals with T1DM had higher plasma levels of pentosidine, CML and THP compared with controls; means (95% CI) were 0.69 (0.65-0.73) vs. 0.51 (0.48-0.54) nmol/mmol LYS, p < 0.001; 105 (102–107) vs. 93 (90–95) nmol/mmol LYS, p < 0.001; and 126 (118–134) vs. 113 (106–120) U/mL, p = 0.03, respectively. Levels of pentosidine were higher in individuals with T1DM with a moderate to high compared with a low CAC score, means (95% CI) were 0.81 (0.70-0.93) vs. 0.67 (0.63-0.71) nmol/mmol LYS, p = 0.03, respectively. This difference was not attenuated by adjustment for LGI or ED. Conclusions We found a positive association between pentosidine and CAC in T1DM. These results may indicate that AGEs are possibly involved in the development of CAC in individuals with T1DM. PMID:24134530

Protective coatings of metal surfaces by cold plasma treatment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manory, R.; Grill, A.

1985-01-01

The cold plasma techniques for deposition of various types of protective coatings are reviewed. The main advantage of these techniques for deposition of ceramic films is the lower process temperature, which enables heat treating of the metal prior to deposition. In the field of surface hardening of steel, significant reduction of treatment time and energy consumption were obtained. A simple model for the plasma - surface reactions in a cold plasma system is presented, and the plasma deposition techniques are discussed in view of this model.

Development of TPF-1 plasma focus for education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Picha, R.; Promping, J.; Channuie, J.; Poolyarat, N.; Sangaroon, S.; Traikool, T.

2017-09-01

The plasma focus is a device that uses high voltage and electromagnetic force to induce plasma generation and acceleration, in order to cause nuclear reactions. Radiation of various types (X-ray, gamma ray, electrons, ions, neutrons) can be generated using this method during the pinch phase, thus making the plasma focus able to serve as a radiation source. Material testing, modification, and identification are among the current applications of the plasma focus. Other than being an alternative option to isotopic sources, the plasma focus, which requires multidisciplinary team of personnel to design, operate, and troubleshoot, can also serve as an excellent learning device for physics and engineering students in the fields including, but not limited to, plasma physics, nuclear physics, electronics engineering, and mechanical engineering. This work describes the parameters and current status of Thai Plasma Focus 1 (TPF-1) and the characteristics of the plasma being produced in the machine using a Rogowski coil.

Plasma channel optical pumping device and method

DOEpatents

Judd, O.P.

1983-06-28

A device and method are disclosed for optically pumping a gaseous laser using blackbody radiation produced by a plasma channel which is formed from an electrical discharge between two electrodes spaced at opposite longitudinal ends of the laser. A preionization device which can comprise a laser or electron beam accelerator produces a preionization beam which is sufficient to cause an electrical discharge between the electrodes to initiate the plasma channel along the preionization path. The optical pumping energy is supplied by a high voltage power supply rather than by the preionization beam. High output optical intensities are produced by the laser due to the high temperature blackbody radiation produced by the plasma channel, in the same manner as an exploding wire type laser. However, unlike the exploding wire type laser, the disclosed invention can be operated in a repetitive manner by utilizing a repetitive pulsed preionization device. 5 figs.

Plasma RNA integrity analysis: methodology and validation.

PubMed

Wong, Blenda C K; Lo, Y M Dennis

2006-09-01

The detection of cell-free RNA in plasma and serum of human subjects has found increasing applications in the field of medical diagnostics. However, many questions regarding the biology of circulating RNA remain to be addressed. One issue concerns the molecular nature of these circulating RNA species. We have recently developed a simple and quantitative method to investigate the integrity of plasma RNA. Our results have suggested that cell-free RNA in plasma is generally present as fragmented molecules instead of intact transcripts, with a predominance of 5' fragments. In this article, we summarize the basic principles in the experimental design for plasma RNA integrity analysis and highlight some of the important technical considerations for this type of investigation.

Turbulent complex (dusty) plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhdanov, Sergey; Schwabe, Mierk

2017-04-01

As a paradigm of complex system dynamics, solid particles immersed into a weakly ionized plasma, so called complex (dusty) plasmas, were (and continue to be) a subject of many detailed studies. Special types of dynamical activity have been registered, in particular, spontaneous pairing, entanglement and cooperative action of a great number of particles resulting in formation of vortices, self-propelling, tunneling, and turbulent movements. In the size domain of 1-10 mkm normally used in experiments with complex plasmas, the characteristic dynamic time-scale is of the order of 0.01-0.1 s, and these particles can be visualized individually in real time, providing an atomistic (kinetic) level of investigations. The low-R turbulent flow induced either by the instability in a complex plasma cloud or formed behind a projectile passing through the cloud is a typical scenario. Our simulations showed formation of a fully developed system of vortices and demonstrated that the velocity structure functions scale very close to the theoretical predictions. As an important element of self-organization, cooperative and turbulent particle motions are present in many physical, astrophysical, and biological systems. Therefore, experiments with turbulent wakes and turbulent complex plasma oscillations are a promising mean to observe and study in detail the anomalous transport on the level of individual particles.

VLF and HF Plasma Waves Associated with Spread-F Plasma Depletions Observed on the C/NOFS Satellite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pfaff, Robert; Freudenreich, H.; Schuck, P.; Klenzing, J.

2011-01-01

The C/NOFS spacecraft frequently encounters structured plasma depletions associated with equatorial spread-F along its trajectory that varies between 401 km perigee and 867 km apogee in the low latitude ionosphere. We report two classes of plasma waves detected with the Vector Electric Field Investigation (VEFI) that appear when the plasma frequency is less than the electron gyro frequency, as is common in spread-F depletions where the plasma number density typically decreases below 10(exp 4)/cu cm. In these conditions, both broadband VLF waves with a clear cutoff at the lower hybrid frequency and broadband HF waves with a clear cutoff at the plasma frequency are observed. We interpret these waves as "hiss-type" emissions possibly associated with the flow of suprathermal electrons within the inter-hemispherical magnetic flux tubes. We also report evidence of enhanced wave "transients" sometimes embedded in the broader band emissions that are associated with lightning sferics detected within the depleted plasma regions that appear in both the VLF and HF data. Theoretical implications of these observations are discussed.

Cold plasma decontamination of foods.

PubMed

Niemira, Brendan A

2012-01-01

Cold plasma is a novel nonthermal food processing technology that uses energetic, reactive gases to inactivate contaminating microbes on meats, poultry, fruits, and vegetables. This flexible sanitizing method uses electricity and a carrier gas, such as air, oxygen, nitrogen, or helium; antimicrobial chemical agents are not required. The primary modes of action are due to UV light and reactive chemical products of the cold plasma ionization process. A wide array of cold plasma systems that operate at atmospheric pressures or in low pressure treatment chambers are under development. Reductions of greater than 5 logs can be obtained for pathogens such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus. Effective treatment times can range from 120 s to as little as 3 s, depending on the food treated and the processing conditions. Key limitations for cold plasma are the relatively early state of technology development, the variety and complexity of the necessary equipment, and the largely unexplored impacts of cold plasma treatment on the sensory and nutritional qualities of treated foods. Also, the antimicrobial modes of action for various cold plasma systems vary depending on the type of cold plasma generated. Optimization and scale up to commercial treatment levels require a more complete understanding of these chemical processes. Nevertheless, this area of technology shows promise and is the subject of active research to enhance efficacy.

Sensitive typing of reverse ABO blood groups with a waveguide-mode sensor.

PubMed

Uno, Shigeyuki; Tanaka, Torahiko; Ashiba, Hiroki; Fujimaki, Makoto; Tanaka, Mutsuo; Hatta, Yoshihiro; Takei, Masami; Awazu, Koichi; Makishima, Makoto

2018-07-01

Portable, on-site blood typing methods will help provide life-saving blood transfusions to patients during an emergency or natural calamity, such as significant earthquakes. We have previously developed waveguide-mode (WM) sensors for forward ABO and Rh(D) blood typing and detection of antibodies against hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus. In this study, we evaluated a WM-sensor for reverse ABO blood typing. Since reverse ABO blood typing is a method for detection of antibodies against type A and type B oligosaccharide antigens on the surface of red blood cells (RBCs), we fixed a synthetic type A or type B trisaccharide antigen on the sensor chip of the WM sensor. We obtained significant changes in the reflectance spectra from a WM sensor on type A antigen with type B plasma and type O plasma and on type B antigen with type A plasma and type O plasma, and no spectrum changes on type A antigen or type B antigen with type AB plasma. Signal enhancement with the addition of a peroxidase reaction failed to increase the sensitivity for detection on oligosaccharide chips. By utilizing hemagglutination detection using regent type A and type B RBCs, we successfully determined reverse ABO blood groups with higher sensitivity compared to a method using oligosaccharide antigens. Thus, functionality of a portable device utilizing a WM sensor can be expanded to include reverse ABO blood typing and, in combination with forward ABO typing and antivirus antibody detection, may be useful for on-site blood testing in emergency settings. Copyright © 2018 The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Axial plasma detachment in helicon plasmas during a global transition due to spontaneous self organization: instabilities, bifurcation and the helicon core formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty Thakur, Saikat; Hong, Rongjie; Tynan, George

2017-10-01

We observe axial plasma detachment in a helicon plasma device that occurs simultaneously along with a spontaneous, self-organized global transition in the plasma dynamics via a transport bifurcation with strong hysteresis, at a certain B_crit. For B plasma is dominated by density gradient driven resistive drift waves. For B >B_crit, the plasma exhibits steepened density and ion temperature gradients, strong shearing in the azimuthal and parallel velocities, and multiple, simultaneously present, radially separated plasma instabilities. The axial detachment also follows the same hysteresis curves associated with the transport bifurcation that led to the transition. The value of B_crit depends on the source parameters (pressure, gas flow rate, rf power etc.). This study allows access to new regimes to study plasma turbulence and transport as well as plasma detachment and helicon core formation. We find that the plasma can exist in more than one type of helicon modes.

A Physics Exploratory Experiment on Plasma Liner Formation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thio, Y. C. Francis; Knapp, Charles E.; Kirkpatrick, Ronald C.; Siemon, Richard E.; Turchi, Peter

2002-01-01

Momentum flux for imploding a target plasma in magnetized target fusion (MTF) may be delivered by an array of plasma guns launching plasma jets that would merge to form an imploding plasma shell (liner). In this paper, we examine what would be a worthwhile experiment to do in order to explore the dynamics of merging plasma jets to form a plasma liner as a first step in establishing an experimental database for plasma-jets driven magnetized target fusion (PJETS-MTF). Using past experience in fusion energy research as a model, we envisage a four-phase program to advance the art of PJETS-MTF to fusion breakeven Q is approximately 1). The experiment (PLX (Plasma Liner Physics Exploratory Experiment)) described in this paper serves as Phase I of this four-phase program. The logic underlying the selection of the experimental parameters is presented. The experiment consists of using twelve plasma guns arranged in a circle, launching plasma jets towards the center of a vacuum chamber. The velocity of the plasma jets chosen is 200 km/s, and each jet is to carry a mass of 0.2 mg - 0.4 mg. A candidate plasma accelerator for launching these jets consists of a coaxial plasma gun of the Marshall type.

High Frequency Plasma Generators for Ion Thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Divergilio, W. F.; Goede, H.; Fosnight, V. V.

1981-01-01

The results of a one year program to experimentally adapt two new types of high frequency plasma generators to Argon ion thrusters and to analytically study a third high frequency source concept are presented. Conventional 30 cm two grid ion extraction was utilized or proposed for all three sources. The two plasma generating methods selected for experimental study were a radio frequency induction (RFI) source, operating at about 1 MHz, and an electron cyclotron heated (ECH) plasma source operating at about 5 GHz. Both sources utilize multi-linecusp permanent magnet configurations for plasma confinement. The plasma characteristics, plasma loading of the rf antenna, and the rf frequency dependence of source efficiency and antenna circuit efficiency are described for the RFI Multi-cusp source. In a series of tests of this source at Lewis Research Center, minimum discharge losses of 220+/-10 eV/ion were obtained with propellant utilization of .45 at a beam current of 3 amperes. Possible improvement modifications are discussed.

High frequency plasma generator for ion thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goede, H.; Divergilio, W. F.; Fosnight, V. V.; Komatsu, G.

1984-01-01

The results of a program to experimentally develop two new types of plasma generators for 30 cm electrostatic argon ion thrusters are presented. The two plasma generating methods selected for this study were by radio frequency induction (RFI), operating at an input power frequency of 1 MHz, and by electron cyclotron heating (ECH) at an operating frequency of 5.0 GHz. Both of these generators utilize multiline cusp permanent magnet configurations for plasma confinement and beam profile optimization. The program goals were to develop a plasma generator possessing the characteristics of high electrical efficiency (low eV/ion) and simplicity of operation while maintaining the reliability and durability of the conventional hollow cathode plasma sources. The RFI plasma generator has achieved minimum discharge losses of 120 eV/ion while the ECH generator has obtained 145 eV/ion, assuming a 90% ion optical transparency of the electrostatic acceleration system. Details of experimental tests with a variety of magnet configurations are presented.

Laboratory-scale uranium RF plasma confinement experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roman, W. C.

1976-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted using 80 kW and 1.2 MW RF induction heater facilities to aid in developing the technology necessary for designing a self-critical fissioning uranium plasma core reactor. Pure uranium hexafluoride (UF6) was injected into argon-confined, steady-state, RF-heated plasmas in different uranium plasma confinement tests to investigate the characteristics of plamas core nuclear reactors. The objectives were: (1) to confine as high a density of uranium vapor as possible within the plasma while simultaneously minimizing the uranium compound wall deposition; (2) to develop and test materials and handling techniques suitable for use with high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous UF6; and (3) to develop complementary diagnostic instrumentation and measurement techniques to characterize the uranium plasma and residue deposited on the test chamber components. In all tests, the plasma was a fluid-mechanically-confined vortex-type contained within a fused-silica cylindrical test chamber. The test chamber peripheral wall was 5.7 cm ID by 10 cm long.

Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma)—Health Professional Version

Cancer.gov

There are several types of plasma cell neoplasms, including monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), isolated plasmacytoma of the bone, extramedullary plasmacytoma, and multiple myeloma. Find evidence-based information on plasma cell neoplasms treatment, research, and statistics.

Antibody Specificities Associated with Neutralization Breadth in Plasma from Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Subtype C-Infected Blood Donors▿ †

PubMed Central

Gray, Elin S.; Taylor, Natasha; Wycuff, Diane; Moore, Penny L.; Tomaras, Georgia D.; Wibmer, Constantinos Kurt; Puren, Adrian; DeCamp, Allan; Gilbert, Peter B.; Wood, Blake; Montefiori, David C.; Binley, James M.; Shaw, George M.; Haynes, Barton F.; Mascola, John R.; Morris, Lynn

2009-01-01

Defining the specificities of the anti-human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) envelope antibodies able to mediate broad heterologous neutralization will assist in identifying targets for an HIV-1 vaccine. We screened 70 plasmas from chronically HIV-1-infected individuals for neutralization breadth. Of these, 16 (23%) were found to neutralize 80% or more of the viruses tested. Anti-CD4 binding site (CD4bs) antibodies were found in almost all plasmas independent of their neutralization breadth, but they mainly mediated neutralization of the laboratory strain HxB2 with little effect on the primary virus, Du151. Adsorption with Du151 monomeric gp120 reduced neutralizing activity to some extent in most plasma samples when tested against the matched virus, although these antibodies did not always confer cross-neutralization. For one plasma, this activity was mapped to a site overlapping the CD4-induced (CD4i) epitope and CD4bs. Anti-membrane-proximal external region (MPER) (r = 0.69; P < 0.001) and anti-CD4i (r = 0.49; P < 0.001) antibody titers were found to be correlated with the neutralization breadth. These anti-MPER antibodies were not 4E10- or 2F5-like but spanned the 4E10 epitope. Furthermore, we found that anti-cardiolipin antibodies were correlated with the neutralization breadth (r = 0.67; P < 0.001) and anti-MPER antibodies (r = 0.6; P < 0.001). Our study suggests that more than one epitope on the envelope glycoprotein is involved in the cross-reactive neutralization elicited during natural HIV-1 infection, many of which are yet to be determined, and that polyreactive antibodies are possibly involved in this phenomenon. PMID:19553335

The single-subunit RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase RSL1 targets PYL4 and PYR1 ABA receptors in plasma membrane to modulate abscisic acid signaling.

PubMed

Bueso, Eduardo; Rodriguez, Lesia; Lorenzo-Orts, Laura; Gonzalez-Guzman, Miguel; Sayas, Enric; Muñoz-Bertomeu, Jesús; Ibañez, Carla; Serrano, Ramón; Rodriguez, Pedro L

2014-12-01

Membrane-delimited events play a crucial role for ABA signaling and PYR/PYL/RCAR ABA receptors, clade A PP2Cs and SnRK2/CPK kinases modulate the activity of different plasma membrane components involved in ABA action. Therefore, the turnover of PYR/PYL/RCARs in the proximity of plasma membrane might be a step that affects receptor function and downstream signaling. In this study we describe a single-subunit RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase RSL1 that interacts with the PYL4 and PYR1 ABA receptors at the plasma membrane. Overexpression of RSL1 reduces ABA sensitivity and rsl1 RNAi lines that impair expression of several members of the RSL1/RFA gene family show enhanced sensitivity to ABA. RSL1 bears a C-terminal transmembrane domain that targets the E3 ligase to plasma membrane. Accordingly, bimolecular fluorescent complementation (BiFC) studies showed the RSL1-PYL4 and RSL1-PYR1 interaction is localized to plasma membrane. RSL1 promoted PYL4 and PYR1 degradation in vivo and mediated in vitro ubiquitylation of the receptors. Taken together, these results suggest ubiquitylation of ABA receptors at plasma membrane is a process that might affect their function via effect on their half-life, protein interactions or trafficking. © 2014 The Authors The Plant Journal © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Association between microbiota-dependent metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide and type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Shan, Zhilei; Sun, Taoping; Huang, Hao; Chen, Sijing; Chen, Liangkai; Luo, Cheng; Yang, Wei; Yang, Xuefeng; Yao, Ping; Cheng, Jinquan; Hu, Frank B; Liu, Liegang

2017-09-01

Background: The association of trimethylamine- N -oxide (TMAO), a microbiota-dependent metabolite from dietary choline and carnitine, with type 2 diabetes was inconsistent. Objective: We evaluated the association of plasma TMAO with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and the potential modification of TMAO-generating enzyme flavin monooxygenase 3 (FMO3) polymorphisms. Design: This was an age- and sex-matched case-control study of 2694 participants: 1346 newly diagnosed cases of type 2 diabetes and 1348 controls. Concentrations of plasma TMAO were measured, and FMO3 E158K polymorphisms (rs2266782) were genotyped. Results: Medians (IQRs) of plasma TMAO concentration were 1.47 μmol/L (0.81-2.20 μmol/L) for controls and 1.77 μmol/L (1.09-2.80 μmol/L) for type 2 diabetes cases. From the lowest to the highest quartiles of plasma TMAO, the multivariable adjusted ORs of type 2 diabetes were 1.00 (reference), 1.38 (95% CI: 1.08, 1.77), 1.64 (95% CI: 1.28, 2.09), and 2.55 (95% CI: 1.99, 3.28) ( P -trend < 0.001); each SD of ln-transformed plasma TMAO was associated with a 38% (95% CI: 26%, 51%) increment in ORs of type 2 diabetes. The FMO3 rs2266782 polymorphism was not associated with type 2 diabetes. The positive association between plasma TMAO and type 2 diabetes was consistent in each rs2266782 genotype group, and no significant interaction was observed ( P = 0.093). Conclusions: Our results suggested that higher plasma TMAO was associated with increased odds of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes and that this association was not modified by the FMO3 rs2266782 polymorphism. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03130894. © 2017 American Society for Nutrition.

The metabolites in peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed greater differences between patients with impaired fasting glucose or type 2 diabetes and healthy controls than those in plasma.

PubMed

Kim, Minjoo; Kim, Minkyung; Han, Ji Yun; Lee, Sang-Hyun; Jee, Sun Ha; Lee, Jong Ho

2017-03-01

To determine differences between peripheral blood mononuclear cells and the plasma metabolites in patients with impaired fasting glucose or type 2 diabetes and healthy controls. In all, 65 nononobese patients (aged 30-70 years) with impaired fasting glucose or type 2 diabetes and 65 nonobese sex-matched healthy controls were included, and fasting peripheral blood mononuclear cell and plasma metabolomes were profiled. The diabetic or impaired fasting glucose patients showed higher circulating and peripheral blood mononuclear cell lipoprotein phospholipase A 2 activities, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and tumour necrosis factor-α than controls. Compared with controls, impaired fasting glucose or diabetic subjects showed increases in 11 peripheral blood mononuclear cell metabolites: six amino acids (valine, leucine, methionine, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan), l-pyroglutamic acid, two fatty acid amides containing palmitic amide and oleamide and two lysophosphatidylcholines. In impaired fasting glucose or diabetic patients, peripheral blood mononuclear cell lipoprotein phospholipase A 2 positively associated with peripheral blood mononuclear cell lysophosphatidylcholines and circulating inflammatory markers, including tumour necrosis factor-α, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and lipoprotein phospholipase A 2 activities. In plasma metabolites between patients and healthy controls, we observed significant increases in only three amino acids (proline, valine and leucine) and decreases in only five lysophosphatidylcholines. This study demonstrates significant differences in the peripheral blood mononuclear cell metabolome in patients with impaired fasting glucose or diabetes compared with healthy controls. These differences were greater than those observed in the plasma metabolome. These data suggest peripheral blood mononuclear cells as a useful tool to better understand the inflammatory pathophysiology of diabetes.

Engineering Consideration for the Self-Energizing Magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) - Type Fusion Plasma Thruster

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-02-01

currents can be reached by optimizing the electrode geometry and the charging circuit voltage and that the equivalent circuit modelling provides a realistic basis for analyzing plasma focus pinch dynamics.

Dielectric barrier discharge and jet type plasma surface modifications of hybrid polymeric poly (ε-caprolactone)/chitosan scaffolds.

PubMed

Ozkan, Ozan; Turkoglu Sasmazel, Hilal

2018-04-01

In this study, dry air plasma jet and dielectric barrier discharge Ar + O 2 or Ar + N 2 plasma modifications and their effects on wettability, topography, functionality and biological efficiency of the hybrid polymeric poly (ε-caprolactone)/chitosan scaffolds were reported. The samples treated with Ar + O 2 dielectric barrier discharge plasma (80 sccm O 2 flow rate, 3-min treatment) or with dry air plasma jet (15-cm nozzle-sample distance, 13-min treatment) had the closest wettability (49.11 ± 1.83 and 53.60 ± 0.95, respectively) to the commercial tissue culture polystyrene used for cell cultivation. Scanning electron microscopy images and X-ray photoelectron spectrometry analysis showed increase in topographical roughness and OH/NH 2 functionality, respectively. Increased fluid uptake capacity for the scaffolds treated with Ar + O 2 dielectric barrier discharge plasma (73.60% ± 1.78) and dry air plasma jet (72.48% ± 0.75) were also noted. Finally, initial cell attachment as well as seven-day cell viability, growth and proliferation performances were found to be significantly better for both plasma treated scaffolds than for untreated scaffolds.

Association of plasma ghrelin levels and ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism with mild cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetic patients.

PubMed

Huang, Rong; Han, Jing; Tian, Sai; Cai, Rongrong; Sun, Jie; Shen, Yanjue; Wang, Shaohua

2017-02-28

People with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at increased risks of cognitive impairment. We aimed to investigate the association of plasma ghrelin levels and ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in T2DM patients. In addition to elevated glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), T2DM patients with MCI had decreased plasma ghrelin levels compared with their healthy-cognition subjects (all p < 0.05). Further logistic regression analysis showed that ghrelin level was one of independent factors for MCI in T2DM patients (p < 0.05). Moreover, partial correlation analysis demonstrated that ghrelin levels were positively associated with the scores of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (r = 0.196, p = 0.041) and Auditory Verbal Learning Test-delayed recall (r = 0.197, p = 0.040) after adjustment for HbA1c, FBG and HOMA-IR, wherein the latter represented episodic memory functions. No significant differences were found for the distributions of genotype and allele of ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism between MCI and control group. A total of 218 T2DM patients, with 112 patients who satisfied the MCI diagnostic criteria and 106 who exhibited healthy cognition, were enrolled in this study. Demographic characteristics, clinical variables and cognitive performances were extensively assessed. Plasma ghrelin levels and ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism were also determined. Our results suggest that decreased ghrelin levels are associated with MCI, especially with episodic memory dysfunction in T2DM populations.

Decrease of Plasma Glucose by Hibiscus taiwanensis in Type-1-Like Diabetic Rats

PubMed Central

Wang, Lin-Yu; Chung, Hsien-Hui

2013-01-01

Hibiscus taiwanensis (Malvaceae) is widely used as an alternative herb to treat disorders in Taiwan. In the present study, it is used to screen the effect on diabetic hyperglycemia in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ-diabetic rats). The extract of Hibiscus taiwanensis showed a significant plasma glucose-lowering action in STZ-diabetic rats. Stems of Hibiscus taiwanensis are more effective than other parts to decrease the plasma glucose in a dose-dependent manner. Oral administration of Hibiscus taiwanensis three times daily for 3 days into STZ-diabetic rats increased the sensitivity to exogenous insulin showing an increase in insulin sensitivity. Moreover, similar repeated administration of Hibiscus taiwanensis for 3 days in STZ-diabetic rats produced a marked reduction of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) expression in liver and an increased expression of glucose transporter subtype 4 (GLUT 4) in skeletal muscle. Taken together, our results suggest that Hibiscus taiwanensis has the ability to lower plasma glucose through an increase in glucose utilization via elevation of skeletal GLUT 4 and decrease of hepatic PEPCK in STZ-diabetic rats. PMID:23690841

Usefulness of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide to identify ventricular dysfunction in pediatric and adult patients with congenital heart disease.

PubMed

Law, Yuk M; Keller, Bradley B; Feingold, Brian M; Boyle, Gerard J

2005-02-15

The usefulness of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels to assess ventricular dysfunction in children and the congenital heart disease population remains largely unknown. We retrospectively analyzed 62 patients with or without known heart disease who had plasma BNP measured for the investigation of new or severity grading of known ventricular dysfunction. BNP levels were significantly higher in patients with ventricular dysfunction (mean 623 +/- 146 pg/ml, range 5 to 5,000) than in patients without ventricular dysfunction (mean 22 +/- 5 pg/ml, range 5 to 63; p <0.01). Using a cutoff of 40 pg/ml, BNP levels detected heart disease associated with ventricular dysfunction at a sensitivity of 85%, specificity of 81%, positive predictive value of 92%, and negative predictive value of 68%. The degree of BNP elevation was also associated with the severity of heart failure and high ventricular filling pressures. Plasma BNP elevation can be a reliable test in children and young adults with various kinds of congenital heart disease resulting in ventricular dysfunction.

Determination of Coreceptor Usage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 from Patient Plasma Samples by Using a Recombinant Phenotypic Assay

PubMed Central

Trouplin, Virginie; Salvatori, Francesca; Cappello, Fanny; Obry, Veronique; Brelot, Anne; Heveker, Nikolaus; Alizon, Marc; Scarlatti, Gabriella; Clavel, François; Mammano, Fabrizio

2001-01-01

We developed a recombinant virus technique to determine the coreceptor usage of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) from plasma samples, the source expected to represent the most actively replicating virus population in infected subjects. This method is not subject to selective bias associated with virus isolation in culture, a step required for conventional tropism determination procedures. The addition of a simple subcloning step allowed semiquantitative evaluation of virus populations with a different coreceptor (CCR5 or CXCR4) usage specificity present in each plasma sample. This procedure detected mixtures of CCR5- and CXCR4-exclusive virus populations as well as dualtropic viral variants, in variable proportions. Sequence analysis of dualtropic clones indicated that changes in the V3 loop are necessary for the use of CXCR4 as a coreceptor, but the overall context of the V1-V3 region is important to preserve the capacity to use CCR5. This convenient technique can greatly assist the study of virus evolution and compartmentalization in infected individuals. PMID:11119595

Report on the solar physics-plasma physics workshop

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sturrock, P. A.; Baum, P. J.; Beckers, J. M.; Newman, C. E.; Priest, E. R.; Rosenberg, H.; Smith, D. F.; Wentzel, D. G.

1976-01-01

The paper summarizes discussions held between solar physicists and plasma physicists on the interface between solar and plasma physics, with emphasis placed on the question of what laboratory experiments, or computer experiments, could be pursued to test proposed mechanisms involved in solar phenomena. Major areas discussed include nonthermal plasma on the sun, spectroscopic data needed in solar plasma diagnostics, types of magnetic field structures in the sun's atmosphere, the possibility of MHD phenomena involved in solar eruptive phenomena, the role of non-MHD instabilities in energy release in solar flares, particle acceleration in solar flares, shock waves in the sun's atmosphere, and mechanisms of radio emission from the sun.

Plasma & reactive ion etching to prepare ohmic contacts

DOEpatents

Gessert, Timothy A.

2002-01-01

A method of making a low-resistance electrical contact between a metal and a layer of p-type CdTe surface by plasma etching and reactive ion etching comprising: a) placing a CdS/CdTe layer into a chamber and evacuating said chamber; b) backfilling the chamber with Argon or a reactive gas to a pressure sufficient for plasma ignition; and c) generating plasma ignition by energizing a cathode which is connected to a power supply to enable the plasma to interact argon ions alone or in the presence of a radio-frequency DC self-bias voltage with the p-CdTe surface.

Developments in Plasma-Source Mass Spectrometry

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-07-11

Spectrometry 12 PERSONAL AUTHOR(S) Gary M. Hieftje and George H. Vickers 13a. TYPE OF REPORT b.TMCOEE . TEO POTYerMohay 5.AGCUN Technical FROM TO 11 July...4134006 TECHNICAL REPORT NO. 41 DEVELOPMENTS IN PLASMA-SOURCE MASS SPECTROMETRY by Gary M. Hieftje and George H. Vickers Acessoo i or * NTIS GRMX Prepared...G. M. Hieftje , and A. T. Zander, Spectrochim. Acta 1987, 42B, 29 60 Determination of Lead Isotope Ratios by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass

Plasma puff initiation of high Coulomb transfer switches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Venable, D. D.; Choi, E. H.

1990-01-01

The plasma-puff triggering mechanism based on a hypocycloidal pinch geometry was investigated to determine the optimal operating conditions for the azimuthally uniform surface flashover which initiates plasma-puff under wide range of fill gas pressure of Ar, He and N2. The optimal fill gas pressure for the azimuthally uniform plasma-puff was about 120 mTorr and 450 Torr for He and N2, and between 120 mTorr and 5 Torr for Ar. The inverse pinch switch was triggered with the plasma-puff and the switching capability under various electrical parameters and working gas pressures of Ar, He and N2 was determined. It was also shown that the azimuthally uniform switching discharges were dependent on the type of fill gas and its fill pressure. A new concept of plasma-focus driven plasma-puff was also discussed in comparison with the hypocycloidal pinch plasma-puff triggering. The main discharge of inverse pinch switch with plasma-focus driven plasma-puff trigger is found to be more azimuthally uniform than that with hypocycloidal pinch plasma-puff trigger in a gas pressure region between 80 mTorr and 1 Torr.

Use of Multiple Competitors for Quantification of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 RNA in Plasma

PubMed Central

Vener, Tanya; Nygren, Malin; Andersson, AnnaLena; Uhlén, Mathias; Albert, Jan; Lundeberg, Joakim

1998-01-01

Quantification of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) RNA in plasma has rapidly become an important tool in basic HIV research and in the clinical care of infected individuals. Here, a quantitative HIV assay based on competitive reverse transcription-PCR with multiple competitors was developed. Four RNA competitors containing identical PCR primer binding sequences as the viral HIV-1 RNA target were constructed. One of the PCR primers was fluorescently labeled, which facilitated discrimination between the viral RNA and competitor amplicons by fragment analysis with conventional automated sequencers. The coamplification of known amounts of the RNA competitors provided the means to establish internal calibration curves for the individual reactions resulting in exclusion of tube-to-tube variations. Calibration curves were created from the peak areas, which were proportional to the starting amount of each competitor. The fluorescence detection format was expanded to provide a dynamic range of more than 5 log units. This quantitative assay allowed for reproducible analysis of samples containing as few as 40 viral copies of HIV-1 RNA per reaction. The within- and between-run coefficients of variation were <24% (range, 10 to 24) and <36% (range, 27 to 36), respectively. The high reproducibility (standard deviation, <0.13 log) of the overall procedure for quantification of HIV-1 RNA in plasma, including sample preparation, amplification, and detection variations, allowed reliable detection of a 0.5-log change in RNA viral load. The assay could be a useful tool for monitoring HIV-1 disease progression and antiviral treatment and can easily be adapted to the quantification of other pathogens. PMID:9650926

Outcomes Related to the Use of Frozen Plasma or Pooled Solvent/Detergent-Treated Plasma in Critically Ill Children.

PubMed

Camazine, Maraya N; Karam, Oliver; Colvin, Ryan; Leteurtre, Stephane; Demaret, Pierre; Tucci, Marisa; Muszynski, Jennifer A; Stanworth, Simon; Spinella, Philip C

2017-05-01

To determine if the use of fresh frozen plasma/frozen plasma 24 hours compared to solvent detergent plasma is associated with international normalized ratio reduction or ICU mortality in critically ill children. This is an a priori secondary analysis of a prospective, observational study. Study groups were defined as those transfused with either fresh frozen plasma/frozen plasma 24 hours or solvent detergent plasma. Outcomes were international normalized ratio reduction and ICU mortality. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine independent associations. One hundred one PICUs in 21 countries. All critically ill children admitted to a participating unit were included if they received at least one plasma unit during six predefined 1-week (Monday to Friday) periods. All children were exclusively transfused with either fresh frozen plasma/frozen plasma 24 hours or solvent detergent plasma. None. There were 443 patients enrolled in the study. Twenty-four patients (5%) were excluded because no plasma type was recorded; the remaining 419 patients were analyzed. Fresh frozen plasma/frozen plasma 24 hours group included 357 patients, and the solvent detergent plasma group included 62 patients. The median (interquartile range) age and weight were 1 year (0.2-6.4) and 9.4 kg (4.0-21.1), respectively. There was no difference in reason for admission, severity of illness score, pretransfusion international normalized ratio, or lactate values; however, there was a difference in primary indication for plasma transfusion (p < 0.001). There was no difference in median (interquartile range) international normalized ratio reduction, between fresh frozen plasma/frozen plasma 24 hours and solvent detergent plasma study groups, -0.2 (-0.4 to 0) and -0.2 (-0.3 to 0), respectively (p = 0.80). ICU mortality was lower in the solvent detergent plasma versus fresh frozen plasma/frozen plasma 24 hours groups, 14.5% versus 29.1%%, respectively (p = 0.02). Upon adjusted analysis

Comparison of plasma and erythrocyte membrane fatty acid compositions in patients with end-stage renal disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Sertoglu, Erdim; Kurt, Ismail; Tapan, Serkan; Uyanik, Metin; Serdar, Muhittin A; Kayadibi, Huseyin; El-Fawaeir, Saad

2014-02-01

In this study, we aimed to compare the serum lipid profile and fatty acid (FA) compositions of erythrocyte membrane (EM) and plasma in three different patient groups (group 1: type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)+end-stage renal disease (ESRD), group 2: ESRD, group 4: T2DM) and healthy controls (group 3) simultaneously. 40 ESRD patients treated with hemodialysis (HD) in Gulhane School of Medicine (20 with T2DM) and 32 controls (17 with T2DM, 15 healthy controls) were included in the study. Plasma and EM FA concentrations were measured by gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Plasma and EM palmitic acid (PA) and stearic acid (SA) levels were significantly higher in T2DM patients compared to controls (p=0.040 and p=0.002 for plasma, p=0.001 and p=0.010 for EM, respectively). EM docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels were also significantly lower in patients with ESRD+T2DM and ESRD compared to controls (p=0.004 and p=0.037, respectively). Patients with insulin resistance display a pattern of high long chain saturated FAs (PA, SA and arachidic acids). However, while there are no recognized standards for normal EM DHA content, decreased levels of EM DHA in ESRD patient groups (groups 1 and 2) suggest that there may be reduced endogenous synthesis of DHA in HD subjects, due to the decreased functionality of desaturase and elongase enzymes. Because membrane PUFA content affects membrane fluidity and cell signaling, these findings are worthy of further investigation. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparison between the water activation effects by pulsed and sinusoidal helium plasma jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Han; Liu, Dingxin; Xia, Wenjie; Chen, Chen; Wang, Weitao; Liu, Zhijie; Wang, Xiaohua; Kong, Michael G.

2018-01-01

Comparisons between pulsed and sinusoidal plasma jets have been extensively reported for the discharge characteristics and gaseous reactive species, but rarely for the aqueous reactive species in water solutions treated by the two types of plasma jets. This motivates us to compare the concentrations of aqueous reactive species induced by a pulsed and a sinusoidal plasma jet, since it is widely reported that these aqueous reactive species play a crucial role in various plasma biomedical applications. Experimental results show that the aqueous H2O2, OH/O2-, and O2-/ONOO- induced by the pulsed plasma jet have higher concentrations, and the proportional difference increases with the discharge power. However, the emission intensities of OH(A) and O(3p5P) are higher for the sinusoidal plasma jet, which may be attributed to its higher gas temperature since more water vapor could participate in the plasma. In addition, the efficiency of bacterial inactivation induced by the pulsed plasma jet is higher than that for the sinusoidal plasma jet, in accordance with the concentration relation of aqueous reactive species for the two types of plasma jets.

Plasma concentration of soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) is elevated in type 2 diabetic patients, and sICAM-1 synthesis is associated with leptin-induced activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway.

PubMed

Cha, Jin Joo; Hyun, Young Youl; Jee, Yi Hwa; Lee, Mi Jin; Han, Kum Hyun; Kang, Young Sun; Han, Sang Youb; Cha, Dae Ryong

2013-08-01

The intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and leptin are important inflammatory biomarkers. We investigated whether plasma-soluble ICAM-1 levels were related to the diabetic nephropathy and systemic inflammation. One hundred forty-seven type 2 diabetic patients and 46 healthy control subjects were studied. Plasma sICAM-1 concentrations were significantly higher in the diabetic groups than controls and increased significantly as diabetic nephropathy advanced. Plasma sICAM-1 levels were positively correlated with body mass index, fasting and postprandial blood glucose, urinary albumin excretion, and negatively correlated with creatinine clearance. Multiple regression analysis showed that plasma leptin levels were associated with a significant increase in plasma sICAM-1 levels. In cultured HUVECs, leptin increased ICAM-1 production in a dose-dependent manner, and this stimulating effect of leptin on ICAM-1 expression was reversed by MEK inhibitor, PD98059. Overall, these findings suggest that activation of leptin synthesis in a diabetic environment promotes ICAM-1 activation via mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in type 2 diabetic patients.

Laser-heated emissive plasma probe.

PubMed

Schrittwieser, Roman; Ionita, Codrina; Balan, Petru; Gstrein, Ramona; Grulke, Olaf; Windisch, Thomas; Brandt, Christian; Klinger, Thomas; Madani, Ramin; Amarandei, George; Sarma, Arun K

2008-08-01

Emissive probes are standard tools in laboratory plasmas for the direct determination of the plasma potential. Usually they consist of a loop of refractory wire heated by an electric current until sufficient electron emission. Recently emissive probes were used also for measuring the radial fluctuation-induced particle flux and other essential parameters of edge turbulence in magnetized toroidal hot plasmas [R. Schrittwieser et al., Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 50, 055004 (2008)]. We have developed and investigated various types of emissive probes, which were heated by a focused infrared laser beam. Such a probe has several advantages: higher probe temperature without evaporation or melting and thus higher emissivity and longer lifetime, no deformation of the probe in a magnetic field, no potential drop along the probe wire, and faster time response. The probes are heated by an infrared diode laser with 808 nm wavelength and an output power up to 50 W. One probe was mounted together with the lens system on a radially movable probe shaft, and radial profiles of the plasma potential and of its oscillations were measured in a linear helicon discharge.

Plasma Cell Neoplasms (Including Multiple Myeloma) Treatment (PDQ®)—Patient Version

Cancer.gov

Plasma cell neoplasms occur when abnormal plasma cells or myeloma cells form tumors in the bones or soft tissues of the body. Multiple myeloma, plasmacytoma, lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) are different types of plasma cell neoplasms. Find out about risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tests, prognosis, and treatment for these diseases.

Plasma-panel based detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedman, Peter

2017-09-01

The plasma panel sensor (PPS) is a novel micropattern gas detector inspired by plasma display panels (PDPs), the core component of plasma-TVs. A PDP comprises millions of discrete cells per square meter, each of which, when provided with a signal pulse, can initiate and sustain a plasma discharge. Configured as a detector, a pixel or cell is biased to discharge when a free-electron is generated in the gas. The PPS consists of an array of small plasma discharge pixels, and can be configured to have either an ``open-cell'' or ``closed-cell'' structure, operating with high gain in the Geiger region. We describe both configurations and their application to particle physics. The open-cell PPS lends itself to ultra-low-mass, ultrathin structures, whereas the closed-cell microhexcavity PPS is capable of higher performance. For the ultrathin-PPS, we are fabricating 3-inch devices based on two types of extremely thin, inorganic, transparent, substrate materials: one being 8-10 µm thick, and the other 25-27 µm thick. These gas-filled ultrathin devices are designed to operate in a beam-line vacuum environment, yet must be hermetically-sealed and gas-filled in an ambient environment at atmospheric pressure. We have successfully fabricated high resolution, submillimeter pixel electrodes on both types of ultrathin substrates. We will also report on the fabrication, staging and operation of the first microhexcavity detectors (µH-PPS). The first µH-PPS prototype devices have a 16 by 16 matrix of closed packed hexagon pixels, each having a 2 mm width. Initial tests of these detectors, conducted with Ne based gases at atmospheric pressure, indicate that each pixel responds independent of its neighboring cells, producing volt level pulse amplitudes in response to ionizing radiation. Results will include the hit rate response to a radioactive beta source, cosmic ray muons, the background from spontaneous discharge, pixel isolation and uniformity, and efficiency measurements. This

Aerospace Applications of Non-Equilibrium Plasma

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blankson, Isaiah M.

2016-01-01

Nonequilibrium plasma/non-thermal plasma/cold plasmas are being used in a wide range of new applications in aeronautics, active flow control, heat transfer reduction, plasma-assisted ignition and combustion, noise suppression, and power generation. Industrial applications may be found in pollution control, materials surface treatment, and water purification. In order for these plasma processes to become practical, efficient means of ionization are necessary. A primary challenge for these applications is to create a desired non-equilibrium plasma in air by preventing the discharge from transitioning into an arc. Of particular interest is the impact on simulations and experimental data with and without detailed consideration of non-equilibrium effects, and the consequences of neglecting non-equilibrium. This presentation will provide an assessment of the presence and influence of non-equilibrium phenomena for various aerospace needs and applications. Specific examples to be considered will include the forward energy deposition of laser-induced non-equilibrium plasmoids for sonic boom mitigation, weakly ionized flows obtained from pulsed nanosecond discharges for an annular Hall type MHD generator duct for turbojet energy bypass, and fundamental mechanisms affecting the design and operation of novel plasma-assisted reactive systems in dielectric liquids (water purification, in-pipe modification of fuels, etc.).

Plasma processing of superconducting radio frequency cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Upadhyay, Janardan

The development of plasma processing technology of superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities not only provides a chemical free and less expensive processing method, but also opens up the possibility for controlled modification of the inner surfaces of the cavity for better superconducting properties. The research was focused on the transition of plasma etching from two dimensional flat surfaces to inner surfaces of three dimensional (3D) structures. The results could be applicable to a variety of inner surfaces of 3D structures other than SRF cavities. Understanding the Ar/Cl2 plasma etching mechanism is crucial for achieving the desired modification of Nb SRF cavities. In the process of developing plasma etching technology, an apparatus was built and a method was developed to plasma etch a single cell Pill Box cavity. The plasma characterization was done with the help of optical emission spectroscopy. The Nb etch rate at various points of this cavity was measured before processing the SRF cavity. Cylindrical ring-type samples of Nb placed on the inner surface of the outer wall were used to measure the dependence of the process parameters on plasma etching. The measured etch rate dependence on the pressure, rf power, dc bias, temperature, Cl2 concentration and diameter of the inner electrode was determined. The etch rate mechanism was studied by varying the temperature of the outer wall, the dc bias on the inner electrode and gas conditions. In a coaxial plasma reactor, uniform plasma etching along the cylindrical structure is a challenging task due to depletion of the active radicals along the gas flow direction. The dependence of etch rate uniformity along the cylindrical axis was determined as a function of process parameters. The formation of dc self-biases due to surface area asymmetry in this type of plasma and its variation on the pressure, rf power and gas composition was measured. Enhancing the surface area of the inner electrode to reduce the

Specific Activation of the Plant P-type Plasma Membrane H+-ATPase by Lysophospholipids Depends on the Autoinhibitory N- and C-terminal Domains.

PubMed

Wielandt, Alex Green; Pedersen, Jesper Torbøl; Falhof, Janus; Kemmer, Gerdi Christine; Lund, Anette; Ekberg, Kira; Fuglsang, Anja Thoe; Pomorski, Thomas Günther; Buch-Pedersen, Morten Jeppe; Palmgren, Michael

2015-06-26

Eukaryotic P-type plasma membrane H(+)-ATPases are primary active transport systems that are regulated at the post-translation level by cis-acting autoinhibitory domains, which can be relieved by protein kinase-mediated phosphorylation or binding of specific lipid species. Here we show that lysophospholipids specifically activate a plant plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase (Arabidopsis thaliana AHA2) by a mechanism that involves both cytoplasmic terminal domains of AHA2, whereas they have no effect on the fungal counterpart (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pma1p). The activation was dependent on the glycerol backbone of the lysophospholipid and increased with acyl chain length, whereas the headgroup had little effect on activation. Activation of the plant pump by lysophospholipids did not involve the penultimate residue, Thr-947, which is known to be phosphorylated as part of a binding site for activating 14-3-3 protein, but was critically dependent on a single autoinhibitory residue (Leu-919) upstream of the C-terminal cytoplasmic domain in AHA2. A corresponding residue is absent in the fungal counterpart. These data indicate that plant plasma membrane H(+)-ATPases evolved as specific receptors for lysophospholipids and support the hypothesis that lysophospholipids are important plant signaling molecules. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Surface Brightness Test and Plasma Redshift

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brynjolfsson, Ari

2006-03-01

The plasma redshift of photons in a hot sparse plasma follows from basic axioms of physics. It has no adjustable parameters (arXiv:astro-ph/0406437). Both the distance-redshift relation and the magnitude-redshift relation for supernovae and galaxies are well-defined functions of the average electron densities in intergalactic space. We have previously shown that the predictions of the magnitude-redshift relation in plasma- redshift cosmology match well the observed relations for the type Ia supernovae (SNe). No adjustable parameters such as the time variable ``dark energy'' and ``dark matter'' are needed. We have also shown that plasma redshift cosmology predicts well the intensity and black body spectrum of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). Plasma redshift explains also the spectrum below and above the 2.73 K black body CMB, and the X-ray background. In the following, we will show that the good observations and analyses of the relation between surface brightness and redshift for galaxies, as determined by Allan Sandage and Lori M. Lubin in 2001, are well predicted by the plasma redshift. All these relations are inconsistent with cosmic time dilation and the contemporary big-bang cosmology.

Circulating plasma vascular endothelial growth factor and microvascular complications of type 1 diabetes mellitus: the influence of ACE inhibition.

PubMed

Chaturvedi, N; Fuller, J H; Pokras, F; Rottiers, R; Papazoglou, N; Aiello, L P

2001-04-01

To determine whether circulating plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is elevated in the presence of diabetic microvascular complications, and whether the impact of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors on these complications can be accounted for by changes in circulating VEGF. Samples (299/354 of those with retinal photographs) from the EUCLID placebo-controlled clinical trial of the ACE inhibitor lisinopril in mainly normoalbuminuric non-hypertensive Type 1 diabetic patients were used. Albumin excretion rate (AER) was measured 6 monthly. Geometric mean VEGF levels by baseline retinopathy status, change in retinopathy over 2 years, and by treatment with lisinopril were calculated. No significant correlation was observed between VEGF at baseline and age, diabetes duration, glycaemic control, blood pressure, smoking, fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor. Mean VEGF concentration at baseline was 11.5 (95% confidence interval 6.0--27.9) pg/ml in those without retinopathy, 12.9 (6.0--38.9) pg/ml in those with non-proliferative retinopathy, and 16.1 (8.1--33.5) pg/ml in those with proliferative retinopathy (P = 0.06 for trend). Baseline VEGF was 15.2 pg/ml in those who progressed by at least one level of retinopathy by 2 years compared to 11.8 pg/ml in those who did not (P = 0.3). VEGF levels were not altered by lisinopril treatment. Results were similar for AER. Circulating plasma VEGF concentration is not strongly correlated with risk factor status or microvascular disease in Type 1 diabetes, nor is it affected by ACE inhibition. Changes in circulating VEGF cannot account for the beneficial effect of ACE inhibition on retinopathy.

Plasma Transfusion: History, Current Realities, and Novel Improvements.

PubMed

Watson, Justin J J; Pati, Shibani; Schreiber, Martin A

2016-11-01

Traumatic hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable death after trauma. Early transfusion of plasma and balanced transfusion have been shown to optimize survival, mitigate the acute coagulopathy of trauma, and restore the endothelial glycocalyx. There are a myriad of plasma formulations available worldwide, including fresh frozen plasma, thawed plasma, liquid plasma, plasma frozen within 24 h, and lyophilized plasma (LP). Significant equipoise exists in the literature regarding the optimal plasma formulation. LP is a freeze-dried formulation that was originally developed in the 1930s and used by the American and British military in World War II. It was subsequently discontinued due to risk of disease transmission from pooled donors. Recently, there has been a significant amount of research focusing on optimizing reconstitution of LP. Findings show that sterile water buffered with ascorbic acid results in decreased blood loss with suppression of systemic inflammation. We are now beginning to realize the creation of a plasma-derived formulation that rapidly produces the associated benefits without logistical or safety constraints. This review will highlight the history of plasma, detail the various types of plasma formulations currently available, their pathophysiological effects, impacts of storage on coagulation factors in vitro and in vivo, novel concepts, and future directions.

The effects of upstream plasma properties on Titan's ionosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ledvina, S. A.; Brecht, S. H.

2016-12-01

Cassini observations have found that the plasma and magnetic field conditions upstream of Titan are far more complex than they were thought to be after the Voyager encounter. Rymer et al., (2009) used the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) electron observations to classify the plasma conditions along Titan's orbit into 5 types (Plasma Sheet, Lobe, Mixed, Magnetosheath and Misc.). Nemeth et al., (2011) found that the CAPS ion observations could also be separated into the same plasma regions as defined by Rymer et al. Additionally the T-96 encounter found Titan in the solar wind adding a sixth classification. Understanding the effects of the variable upstream plasma conditions on Titan's plasma interaction and the evolution of Titan's ionosphere/atmosphere is one of the main objectives of the Cassini mission. To compliment the mission we perform hybrid simulations of Titan's plasma interaction to examine how the properties of the incident plasma (composition, density, temperature etc…) affect Titan's ionosphere. We examine how much ionospheric plasma is lost from Titan as well as the amount of mass and energy deposited into Titan's atmosphere.

Hydrogen plasma treatment of very thin p-type nanocrystalline Si films grown by RF-PECVD in the presence of B(CH3)3

PubMed Central

Filonovich, Sergej Alexandrovich; Águas, Hugo; Busani, Tito; Vicente, António; Araújo, Andreia; Gaspar, Diana; Vilarigues, Marcia; Leitão, Joaquim; Fortunato, Elvira; Martins, Rodrigo

2012-01-01

We have characterized the structure and electrical properties of p-type nanocrystalline silicon films prepared by radio-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition and explored optimization methods of such layers for potential applications in thin-film solar cells. Particular attention was paid to the characterization of very thin (∼20 nm) films. The cross-sectional morphology of the layers was studied by fitting the ellipsometry spectra using a multilayer model. The results suggest that the crystallization process in a high-pressure growth regime is mostly realized through a subsurface mechanism in the absence of the incubation layer at the substrate-film interface. Hydrogen plasma treatment of a 22-nm-thick film improved its electrical properties (conductivity increased more than ten times) owing to hydrogen insertion and Si structure rearrangements throughout the entire thickness of the film. PMID:27877504

Schlieren Cinematography of Current Driven Plasma Jet Dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loebner, Keith; Underwood, Thomas; Cappelli, Mark

2016-10-01

Schlieren cinematography of a pulsed plasma deflagration jet is presented and analyzed. An ultra-high frame rate CMOS camera coupled to a Z-type laser Schlieren apparatus is used to obtain flow-field refractometry data for the continuous flow Z-pinch formed within the plasma deflagration jet. The 10 MHz frame rate for 256 consecutive frames provides high temporal resolution, enabling turbulent fluctuations and plasma instabilities to be visualized over the course of a single pulse (20 μs). The Schlieren signal is radiometrically calibrated to obtain a two dimensional mapping of the refraction angle of the axisymmetric pinch plasma, and this mapping is then Abel inverted to derive the plasma density distribution as a function radius, axial coordinate, and time. Analyses of previously unknown discharge characteristics and comparisons with prior work are discussed.

Plasma Wind Tunnel Testing of Electron Transpiration Cooling Concept

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-02-28

AFRL-AFOSR-UK-TR-2017-0012 Plasma Wind Tunnel Testing of Electron Transpiration Cooling Concept Olivier Chazot INSTITUT VON KARMAN DE DYNAMIQUE DES...28-02-2017 2. REPORT TYPE Final 3. DATES COVERED (From - To) 01 Dec 2015 to 30 Nov 2016 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Plasma Wind Tunnel Testing of Electron ...Aeronautics and Aerospace Department B-1640 Rhode Saint Genèse Belgium Internal Ref: ARR 1605 February 2017 Plasma Wind Tunnel Testing of Electron

Effective hard x-ray spectrum of a tabletop Mather-type plasma focus optimized for flash radiography of metallic objects

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

Raspa, V.; Moreno, C.; Sigaut, L.

The effective spectrum of the hard x-ray output of a Mather-type tabletop plasma focus device was determined from attenuation data on metallic samples using commercial radiographic film coupled to a Gd{sub 2}O{sub 2}S:Tb phosphor intensifier screen. It was found that the radiation has relevant spectral components in the 40-150 keV range, with a single maximum around 60-80 keV. The radiation output allows for 50 ns resolution, good contrast, and introspective imaging of metallic objects even through metallic walls. A numerical estimation of the induced voltage on the focus during the compressional stage is briefly discussed.

Carrier concentration dependence of donor activation energy in n-type GaN epilayers grown on Si (1 1 1) by plasma-assisted MBE

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

Kumar, Mahesh; Central Research Laboratory, Bharat Electronics, Bangalore 560 013; Bhat, Thirumaleshwara N.

Highlights: ► The n-type GaN layers were grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy. ► The optical characteristics of a donor level in Si-doped GaN were studied. ► Activation energy of a Si-related donor was estimated from temperature dependent PL measurements. ► PL peak positions, FWHM of PL and activation energies are found to be proportional to the cube root of carrier density. ► The involvement of donor levels is supported by the temperature-dependent electron concentration measurements. -- Abstract: The n-type GaN layers were grown by plasma-assisted MBE and either intentionally doped with Si or unintentionally doped. The optical characteristics ofmore » a donor level in Si-doped, GaN were studied in terms of photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy as a function of electron concentration. Temperature dependent PL measurements allowed us to estimate the activation energy of a Si-related donor from temperature-induced decay of PL intensity. PL peak positions, full width at half maximum of PL and activation energies are found to be proportional to the cube root of carrier density. The involvement of donor levels is supported by the temperature-dependent electron concentration measurements.« less

Sterilization by pure oxygen plasma and by oxygen-hydrogen peroxide plasma: an efficacy study.

PubMed

Boscariol, M R; Moreira, A J; Mansano, R D; Kikuchi, I S; Pinto, T J A

2008-04-02

Plasma is an innovative sterilization method characterized by a low toxicity to operators and patients, and also by its operation at temperatures close to room temperatures. The use of different parameters for this method of sterilization and the corresponding results were analyzed in this study. A low-pressure inductive discharge was used to study the plasma sterilization processes. Oxygen and a mixture of oxygen and hydrogen peroxide were used as plasma source gases. The efficacy of the processes using different combinations of parameters such as plasma-generation method, type of gas, pressure, gas flow rate, temperature, power, and exposure time was evaluated. Two phases were developed for the processes, one using pure oxygen and the other a mixture of gases. Bacillus subtilis var. niger ATCC 9372 (Bacillus atrophaeus) spores inoculated on glass coverslips were used as biological indicators to evaluate the efficacy of the processes. All cycles were carried out in triplicate for different sublethal exposure times to calculate the D value by the enumeration method. The pour-plate technique was used to quantify the spores. D values of between 8 and 3 min were obtained. Best results were achieved at high power levels (350 and 400 W) using pure oxygen, showing that plasma sterilization is a promising alternative to other sterilization methods.

Use of Atmospheric-Pressure Plasma Jet for Polymer Surface Modification: An Overview

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

Kuettner, Lindsey A.

Atmospheric-pressure plasma jets (APPJs) are playing an increasingly important role in materials processing procedures. Plasma treatment is a useful tool to modify surface properties of materials, especially polymers. Plasma reacts with polymer surfaces in numerous ways thus the type of process gas and plasma conditions must be explored for chosen substrates and materials to maximize desired properties. This report discusses plasma treatments and looks further into atmospheric-pressure plasma jets and the effects of gases and plasma conditions. Following the short literature review, a general overview of the future work and research at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is discussed.

Low-Molecular-Weight Plasma Proteome Analysis Using Top-Down Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Cheon, Dong Huey; Yang, Eun Gyeong; Lee, Cheolju; Lee, Ji Eun

2017-01-01

While human plasma has a wealth of diagnostic information regarding the state of the human body in heath and disease, low molecular weight (LMW) proteome (<30 kDa) has been shown to contain a rich source of diagnostic biomarkers. Here we describe a protocol for top-down proteomic analysis to identify and characterize the LMW proteoforms present in four types of human plasma samples without immunoaffinity depletion and with depletion of the top two, six, and seven high-abundance proteins. Each type of plasma sample was first fractionated based on molecular weight using gel-eluted liquid fraction entrapment electrophoresis (GELFrEE). Then, the GELFrEE fractions containing up to 30 kDa were subjected to nanocapillary-LC-MS/MS, and the high-resolution MS and MS/MS data were processed using ProSightPC software. As a result, a total of 442 LMW proteins and cleaved products, including those with posttranslational modifications (PTMs) and single amino acid variations (SAAVs), were identified with a threshold E-value of 1 × 10 -4 from the four types of plasma samples.

Properties of zirconia after plasma treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alekseenko, V. P.; Kulkov, S. N.

2017-09-01

The influence of high-frequency plasma treatment on the properties of zirconia powder is shown in the work. The powder was produced by a plasma-chemical method. The powders had a foamy form with the size of agglomerates of 5-10 μm and crystallites of 20-50 nm. The powders were treated by the pulse plasma unit with dielectric barrier discharge generator. It was shown that the plasma processing changes the acidity of water-powder suspensions from 8.1 to 4.3 pH, which signifies the powders' wettability improvement. It was revealed that more intensive mixing using ultrasound influences the acidity level, reducing it in comparison with mixing by paddle-type agitator. It was shown that these changes of surface properties have relaxation by 4% per day and extrapolation of this dependence shows that the powder will have initial properties after 400 hours storage at room conditions.

Development and Experimental Operation of a Flashboard Plasma Cathode Test Stand

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

grid-controlled system [31]. J.R. Bayless and his group developed a new type of plasma cathode electron gun qualified for pulsed and continuous...Interferometry of flashboard and cable- gun plasma opening switches on hawk,” IEEE Trans. Plasma Sci., vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 189–195, Apr. 1997. [29] C...The plasma -cathode electron gun ,” IEEE Journal of Quantum Electronics, vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 213–218, Feb 1974. [33] Ady Hershcovitch

Association of cultured myotubes and fasting plasma metabolite profiles with mitochondrial dysfunction in type 2 diabetes subjects.

PubMed

Abu Bakar, Mohamad Hafizi; Sarmidi, Mohamad Roji

2017-08-22

Accumulating evidence implicates mitochondrial dysfunction-induced insulin resistance in skeletal muscle as the root cause for the greatest hallmarks of type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, the identification of specific metabolite-based markers linked to mitochondrial dysfunction in T2D has not been adequately addressed. Therefore, we sought to identify the markers-based metabolomics for mitochondrial dysfunction associated with T2D. First, a cellular disease model was established using human myotubes treated with antimycin A, an oxidative phosphorylation inhibitor. Non-targeted metabolomic profiling of intracellular-defined metabolites on the cultured myotubes with mitochondrial dysfunction was then determined. Further, a targeted MS-based metabolic profiling of fasting blood plasma from normal (n = 32) and T2D (n = 37) subjects in a cross-sectional study was verified. Multinomial logical regression analyses for defining the top 5% of the metabolites within a 95% group were employed to determine the differentiating metabolites. The myotubes with mitochondrial dysfunction exhibited insulin resistance, oxidative stress and inflammation with impaired insulin signalling activities. Four metabolic pathways were found to be strongly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in the cultured myotubes. Metabolites derived from these pathways were validated in an independent pilot investigation of the fasting blood plasma of healthy and diseased subjects. Targeted metabolic analysis of the fasting blood plasma with specific baseline adjustment revealed 245 significant features based on orthogonal partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) with a p-value < 0.05. Among these features, 20 significant metabolites comprised primarily of branched chain and aromatic amino acids, glutamine, aminobutyric acid, hydroxyisobutyric acid, pyroglutamic acid, acylcarnitine species (acetylcarnitine, propionylcarnitine, dodecenoylcarnitine, tetradecenoylcarnitine

Design a 10 kJ IS Mather Type Plasma Focus for Solid Target Activation to Produce Short-Lived Radioisotopes 12C(d,n)13N

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadat Kiai, S. M.; Adlparvar, S.; Sheibani, S.; Elahi, M.; Safarien, A.; Farhangi, S.; Zirak, A. R.; Alhooie, S.; Mortazavi, B. N.; Khalaj, M. M.; Khanchi, A. R.; Dabirzadeh, A. A.; Kashani, A.; Zahedi, F.

2010-10-01

A 10 kJ (15 kV, 88 μF) IS (Iranian Sun) Mather type plasma focus device has been studied to determine the activity of a compound exogenous carbon solid target through 12C(d,n)13N nuclear reaction. The produced 13N is a short-lived radioisotope with a half-life of 9.97 min and threshold energy of 0.28 MeV. The results indicate that energetic deuterons impinging on the solid target can produce yield of = 6.7 × 10-5 with an activity of A = 6.8 × 104 Bq for one plasma focus shut and A ν = 4 × 105 Bq for 6 shut per mint when the projectile maximum deuterons energy is E max = 3 MeV.

Association of plasma ghrelin levels and ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism with mild cognitive impairment in type 2 diabetic patients

PubMed Central

Huang, Rong; Han, Jing; Tian, Sai; Cai, Rongrong; Sun, Jie; Shen, Yanjue; Wang, Shaohua

2017-01-01

Background and aims People with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at increased risks of cognitive impairment. We aimed to investigate the association of plasma ghrelin levels and ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in T2DM patients. Results In addition to elevated glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), T2DM patients with MCI had decreased plasma ghrelin levels compared with their healthy-cognition subjects (all p < 0.05). Further logistic regression analysis showed that ghrelin level was one of independent factors for MCI in T2DM patients (p < 0.05). Moreover, partial correlation analysis demonstrated that ghrelin levels were positively associated with the scores of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (r = 0.196, p = 0.041) and Auditory Verbal Learning Test-delayed recall (r = 0.197, p = 0.040) after adjustment for HbA1c, FBG and HOMA-IR, wherein the latter represented episodic memory functions. No significant differences were found for the distributions of genotype and allele of ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism between MCI and control group. Materials and methods A total of 218 T2DM patients, with 112 patients who satisfied the MCI diagnostic criteria and 106 who exhibited healthy cognition, were enrolled in this study. Demographic characteristics, clinical variables and cognitive performances were extensively assessed. Plasma ghrelin levels and ghrelin rs4684677 polymorphism were also determined. Conclusions Our results suggest that decreased ghrelin levels are associated with MCI, especially with episodic memory dysfunction in T2DM populations. PMID:28146431

Complexity and Intermittent Turbulence in Space Plasmas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chang, Tom; Tam, Sunny W. Y.; Wu, Cheng-Chin

2004-01-01

Sporadic and localized interactions of coherent structures arising from plasma resonances can be the origin of "complexity" of the coexistence of non- propagating spatiotemporal fluctuations and propagating modes in space plasmas. Numerical simulation results are presented to demonstrate the intermittent character of the non-propagating fluctuations. The technique of the dynamic renormalization-group is introduced and applied to the study of scale invariance of such type of multiscale fluctuations. We also demonstrate that the particle interactions with the intermittent turbulence can lead to the efficient energization of the plasma populations. An example related to the ion acceleration processes in the auroral zone is provided.

A dense plasma ultraviolet source

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.; Mcfarland, D. R.

1978-01-01

The intense ultraviolet emission from the NASA Hypocycloidal-Pinch (HCP) plasma is investigated. The HCP consists of three disk electrodes whose cross section has a configuration similar to the cross section of a Mather-type plasma focus. Plasma foci were produced in deuterium, helium, xenon, and krypton gases in order to compare their emission characteristics. Time-integrated spectra in the wavelength range from 200 nm to 350 nm and temporal variations of the uv emission were obtained with a uv spectrometer and a photomultiplier system. Modifications to enhance uv emission in the iodine-laser pump band (250 to 290 nm) and preliminary results produced by these modifications are presented. Finally, the advantages of the HCP as a uv over use of conventional xenon lamps with respect to power output limit, spectral range, and lifetime are discussed.

Apparatus for generating quasi-free-space microwave-driven plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoff, Brad W.; French, David M.; Reid, Remington R.; Lawrance, Julie E.; Lepell, P. David; Maestas, Sabrina S.

2016-03-01

An apparatus for generating quasi-free-space microwave-driven plasmas has been designed, constructed, and tested. The plasma is driven by a multi-kW, ˜5 GHz microwave beam focused at the center of a vacuum chamber using a Koch-type metal plate lens. Sustained plasma discharges have been generated in argon at pressures ranging from 150 to 200 mTorr, at beam power levels ranging from 5 to 10 kW, and at gas flow rates of approximately 200 SCCM.

Apparatus for generating quasi-free-space microwave-driven plasmas

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

Hoff, Brad W.; French, David M.; Reid, Remington R.

An apparatus for generating quasi-free-space microwave-driven plasmas has been designed, constructed, and tested. The plasma is driven by a multi-kW, ∼5 GHz microwave beam focused at the center of a vacuum chamber using a Koch-type metal plate lens. Sustained plasma discharges have been generated in argon at pressures ranging from 150 to 200 mTorr, at beam power levels ranging from 5 to 10 kW, and at gas flow rates of approximately 200 SCCM.

Apparatus for generating quasi-free-space microwave-driven plasmas.

PubMed

Hoff, Brad W; French, David M; Reid, Remington R; Lawrance, Julie E; Lepell, P David; Maestas, Sabrina S

2016-03-01

An apparatus for generating quasi-free-space microwave-driven plasmas has been designed, constructed, and tested. The plasma is driven by a multi-kW, ∼5 GHz microwave beam focused at the center of a vacuum chamber using a Koch-type metal plate lens. Sustained plasma discharges have been generated in argon at pressures ranging from 150 to 200 mTorr, at beam power levels ranging from 5 to 10 kW, and at gas flow rates of approximately 200 SCCM.

Plasma pharmacy - physical plasma in pharmaceutical applications.

PubMed

von Woedtke, Th; Haertel, B; Weltmann, K-D; Lindequist, U

2013-07-01

During the last years the use of physical plasma for medical applications has grown rapidly. A multitude of findings about plasma-cell and plasma-tissue interactions and its possible use in therapy have been provided. One of the key findings of plasma medical basic research is that several biological effects do not result from direct plasma-cell or plasma-tissue interaction but are mediated by liquids. Above all, it was demonstrated that simple liquids like water or physiological saline, are antimicrobially active after treatment by atmospheric pressure plasma and that these effects are attributable to the generation of different low-molecular reactive species. Besides, it could be shown that plasma treatment leads to the stimulation of specific aspects of cell metabolism and to a transient and reversible increase of diffusion properties of biological barriers. All these results gave rise to think about another new and innovative field of medical plasma application. In contrast to plasma medicine, which means the direct use of plasmas on or in the living organism for direct therapeutic purposes, this field - as a specific field of medical plasma application - is called plasma pharmacy. Based on the present state of knowledge, most promising application fields of plasma pharmacy might be: plasma-based generation of biologically active liquids; plasma-based preparation, optimization, or stabilization of - mainly liquid - pharmaceutical preparations; support of drug transport across biological barriers; plasma-based stimulation of biotechnological processes.

Dense plasma focus production in a hypocycloidal pinch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.; Mcfarland, D. R.; Hohl, F.

1975-01-01

A type of high-power pinch apparatus consisting of disk electrodes was developed, and diagnostic measurements to study its mechanism of dense plasma production were made. The collapse fronts of the current sheets are well organized, and dense plasma focuses are produced on the axis with radial stability in excess of 5 microns. A plasma density greater than 10 to the 18th power/cubic cm was determined with Stark broadening and CO2 laser absorption. A plasma temperature of approximately 1 keV was measured with differential transmission of soft X-rays through thin foils. Essentially complete absorption of a high-energy CO2 laser beam was observed. The advantages of this apparatus over the coaxial plasma focus are in (1) the plasma volume, (2) the stability, (3) the containment time, (4) the easy access to additional heating by laser or electron beams, and (5) the possibility of scaling up to a multiple array for high-power operation.

Plasma vitamin D and osteo-cartilaginous markers in Italian males affected by intervertebral disc degeneration: Focus on seasonal and pathological trend of type II collagen degradation.

PubMed

Brayda-Bruno, Marco; Viganò, Marco; Cauci, Sabina; Vitale, Jacopo A; de Girolamo, Laura; De Luca, Paola; Lombardi, Giovanni; Banfi, Giuseppe; Colombini, Alessandra

2017-08-01

To evaluate plasma vitamin D and cross-linked C-telopeptides of type I (CTx-I) and type II (CTx-II) collagen concentrations in males with lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration (IVD) compared to healthy controls. Improved knowledge might suggest to optimize the vitamin D status of IVD patients and contribute to clarify mechanisms of cartilage degradation. 79 Italian males with lumbar IVD assessed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and 79 age, sex and BMI-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Plasma 25hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), CTx-I and CTx-II were measured by immunoassays. Circannual seasonality, correlation between biomarkers concentrations and clinical variables were assessed. Overall subjects 25(OH)D and CTx-II showed month rhythmicity with acrophase in August/September and October/November, and nadir in February/March and April/May, respectively. An inverse correlation between 25(OH)D and CTx-I, and a direct correlation between CTx-II and CTx-I were observed. IVD patients, particularly with osteochondrosis, showed higher CTx-II than healthy controls. Month of sampling may affect plasma 25(OH)D and CTx-II concentrations. The correlation between CTx-I and CTx-II suggests an interplay between the osteo-cartilaginous endplate and the fibro-cartilaginous disc. The results of this study highlighted that osteochondrosis associates with increased cartilaginous catabolism. Vitamin D supplementation seems more necessary in winter for lumbar IVD patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Potent influence of obesity on suppression of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels in patients with acute heart failure: An approach using covariance structure analysis.

PubMed

Kinoshita, Koji; Kawai, Makoto; Minai, Kosuke; Ogawa, Kazuo; Inoue, Yasunori; Yoshimura, Michihiro

2016-07-15

Plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels may vary widely among patients with similar stages of heart failure, in whom obesity might be the only factor reducing plasma BNP levels. We investigated the effect of obesity and body mass index (BMI) on plasma BNP levels using serial measurements before and after treatment (pre- and post-BNP and pre- and post-BMI) in patients with acute heart failure. Multiple regression analysis and covariance structure analysis were performed to study the interactions between clinical factors in 372 patients. The pre-BMI was shown as a combination index of obesity and fluid accumulation, whereas the post-BMI was a conventional index of obesity. There was a significant inverse correlation between BMI and BNP in each condition before and after treatment for heart failure. The direct significant associations of the log pre-BNP with the log post-BNP (β: 0.387), the post-BMI (β: -0.043), and the pre-BMI (β: 0.030) were analyzed by using structural equation modeling. The post-BMI was inversely correlated, but importantly, the pre-BMI was positively correlated, with the log pre-BNP, because the pre-BMI probably entailed an element of fluid accumulation. There were few patients with extremely high levels of pre-BNP among those with high post-BMI, due to suppressed secretion of BNP. The low plasma BNP levels in true obesity patients with acute heart failure are of concern, because plasma BNP cannot increase in such patients. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Soluble CD26 and CD30 plasma levels in HIV infected patients with and without GB virus type C coinfection.

PubMed

Mostafa, Haji-Molla-Hoseini; Ali-Akbar, Pourfathollah; Zahra, Soheili; Minoo, Mohraz; Sedigheh, Amini; Mahnaz, Aghaiepour; Shahram, Samiee; Mahin, Nikoogoftar; Mina, Moghtadaie

2007-06-15

GB virus type C (GBV-C) probably influences HIV infection associated disease by either directly inhibiting HIV replication or enhancing the immune competence to cope with HIV. Still the definitive mechanisms of this inhibitory effect need to be identified. To address the possibility of immune modulating effects of GBV-C coinfection in HIV patients we evaluated plasma levels of soluble (s) CD26 and CD30 in HIV infected patients with and without GBV-C. Cross-sectional comparison of sCD26 and sCD30 levels among 6 HIV/GBV-C coinfected, 11 HIV mono-infected and 13 healthy controls was carried out. We used a commercial EIA to evaluate sCD26 and scD30 and a RT-PCR assay to detect active GBV-C infection. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis. No statistically significant differences were observed in levels of sCD26 and sCD30 in plasma of HIV infected patients with and without GBV-C viremia. GBV-C infection does not appear to influence the sCD26 and sCD30 levels.

High Degree of Interlaboratory Reproducibility of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Protease and Reverse Transcriptase Sequencing of Plasma Samples from Heavily Treated Patients

PubMed Central

Shafer, Robert W.; Hertogs, Kurt; Zolopa, Andrew R.; Warford, Ann; Bloor, Stuart; Betts, Bradley J.; Merigan, Thomas C.; Harrigan, Richard; Larder, Brendon A.

2001-01-01

We assessed the reproducibility of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) and protease sequencing using cryopreserved plasma aliquots obtained from 46 heavily treated HIV-1-infected individuals in two laboratories using dideoxynucleotide sequencing. The rates of complete sequence concordance between the two laboratories were 99.1% for the protease sequence and 99.0% for the RT sequence. Approximately 90% of the discordances were partial, defined as one laboratory detecting a mixture and the second laboratory detecting only one of the mixture's components. Only 0.1% of the nucleotides were completely discordant between the two laboratories, and these were significantly more likely to occur in plasma samples with lower plasma HIV-1 RNA levels. Nucleotide mixtures were detected at approximately 1% of the nucleotide positions, and in every case in which one laboratory detected a mixture, the second laboratory either detected the same mixture or detected one of the mixture's components. The high rate of concordance in detecting mixtures and the fact that most discordances between the two laboratories were partial suggest that most discordances were caused by variation in sampling of the HIV-1 quasispecies by PCR rather than by technical errors in the sequencing process itself. PMID:11283081

Decreased plasma neuregulin 4 concentration is associated with increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Yan, Pi-Jun; Xu, Yong; Wan, Qin; Feng, Jian; Li, Hua; Gao, Chen-Lin; Yang, Jun; Zhong, Hai-Hua; Zhang, Zhi-Hong

2017-12-01

Inflammation has been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This principal objective of this study was to investigate if the secretion of neuregulin 4 (Nrg4), a soluble protein associated with metabolic syndrome and subclinical cardiovascular disease, is correlated with the inflammation marker high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus (nT2DM). A study group of 311 nT2DM patients was divided into three subgroups based on hs-CRP tertiles. Multiple linear regression was conducted to explore the association between plasma Nrg4 and hs-CRP levels. The nT2DM patients with the highest hs-CRP levels (>2.46 mg/L) exhibited higher atherogenic coefficients and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) levels, but lower levels of plasma Nrg4, as compared to those with the lowest hs-CRP levels (<0.63 mg/L). Plasma Nrg4 levels were inversely associated with white blood cell count, hs-CRP, and AIP and positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), before and after adjustment for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). hs-CRP was the factor most strongly associated with plasma Nrg4 levels. These results indicate that lower plasma Nrg4 levels may be associated with elevated hs-CRP in nT2DM patients. It generates the hypothesis that decreased levels of Nrg4 may trigger the development of atherosclerosis through its proinflammatory effects. These findings need to be confirmed by further prospective studies.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus coincident with pulmonary tuberculosis is associated with heightened systemic type 1, type 17, and other proinflammatory cytokines.

PubMed

Kumar, Nathella Pavan; Sridhar, Rathinam; Banurekha, Vaithilingam V; Jawahar, Mohideen S; Fay, Michael P; Nutman, Thomas B; Babu, Subash

2013-10-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for the development of active tuberculosis, although the biological basis underlying this susceptibility remains poorly characterized. To identify the influence of coincident diabetes mellitus on cytokine levels in pulmonary tuberculosis, we examined circulating levels of a panel of cytokines and chemokines in the plasma of individuals with tuberculosis with diabetes and compared them with those of individuals without diabetes. Tuberculosis with diabetes is characterized by elevated circulating levels of type 1 (IFN-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, and IL-2), type 2 (IL-5), and type 17 (IL-17A) cytokines but decreased circulating levels of IL-22. This was associated with increased systemic levels of other proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18) and an antiinflammatory cytokine (IL-10) but not type 1 IFNs. Moreover, tuberculosis antigen-stimulated whole blood also showed increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Finally, type 1 and type 17 cytokines in plasma exhibit a significant positive correlation with hemoglobin A1C levels, indicating that impaired control of diabetes is associated with this proinflammatory milieu. Multivariate analysis revealed that the association of proinflammatory cytokines with diabetes mellitus was not influenced by age, sex, or other metabolic parameters. Our data reveal that tuberculosis with diabetes is characterized by heightened cytokine responsiveness, indicating that chronic inflammation underlying type 2 diabetes potentially contributes to increased immune pathology and poor control in tuberculosis infection.

Reliable Diagnosis of Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase Type IA Deficiency by Analysis of Plasma Acylcarnitine Profiles.

PubMed

Heiner-Fokkema, M Rebecca; Vaz, Frédéric M; Maatman, Ronald; Kluijtmans, Leo A J; van Spronsen, Francjan J; Reijngoud, Dirk-Jan

2017-01-01

Carnitine palmitoyltransferase IA (CPT-IA) deficiency is an inherited disorder of the carnitine cycle (MIM #255120). Patients affected by this deficiency might be missed easily because of lack of specific and sensitive biochemical markers. In this study, sensitivity and specificity of plasma free carnitine (C0) and long-chain acylcarnitines (lc-ac: C16:0-, C16:1-, C18:0-, C18:1- and C18:2-ac) was evaluated, including the sum of lc-ac (∑lc-ac) and the molar ratios C0/(C16:0-ac+C18:0-ac) and C0/∑lc-ac. Nine plasma acylcarnitine profiles of 4 CPT-IA deficient patients were compared with profiles of 2,190 subjects suspected of or diagnosed with an inherited disorder of metabolism. Age-dependent reference values were calculated based on the patient population without a definite diagnosis of an inborn error of metabolism (n = 1,600). Sensitivity, specificity, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated based on samples of the whole patient population. Concentrations of C0 in plasma were normal in all CPT-IA deficient patient samples. ROC analyses showed highest diagnostic values for C18:0-ac, C18:1-ac, and ∑lc-ac (AUC 1.000) and lowest for C0 (AUC 0.738). Combining two markers, i.e., a plasma C18:1-ac concentration <0.05 μmol/L and a molar ratio of C0/(C16:0-ac+C18:0-ac) >587, specificity to diagnose CPT-IA deficiency increased to 99.3% compared with either C18:1-ac (97.4%) or C0/(C16:0-ac+C18:0-ac) (96.9%) alone, all at a sensitivity of 100%. Combination of a low concentration of C18:1-ac with a high molar ratio of C0/(C16:0-ac+C18:0-ac) ratio in plasma has high diagnostic value for CPT-IA deficiency. Patients with a clinical suspicion of CPT-IA deficiency can be diagnosed with this test combination.

Non-invasive prenatal detection of achondroplasia using circulating fetal DNA in maternal plasma.

PubMed

Lim, Ji Hyae; Kim, Mee Jin; Kim, Shin Young; Kim, Hye Ok; Song, Mee Jin; Kim, Min Hyoung; Park, So Yeon; Yang, Jae Hyug; Ryu, Hyun Mee

2011-02-01

To perform a reliable non-invasive detection of the fetal achondroplasia using maternal plasma. We developed a quantitative fluorescent-polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) method suitable for detection of the FGFR3 mutation (G1138A) causing achondroplasia. This method was applied in a non-invasive detection of the fetal achondroplasia using circulating fetal-DNA (cf-DNA) in maternal plasma. Maternal plasmas were obtained at 27 weeks of gestational age from women carrying an achondroplasia fetus or a normal fetus. Two percent or less achondroplasia DNA was reliably detected by QF-PCR. In a woman carrying a normal fetus, analysis of cf-DNA showed only one peak of the wild-type G allele. In a woman expected an achondroplasia fetus, analysis of cf-DNA showed the two peaks of wild-type G allele and mutant-type A allele and accurately detected the fetal achondroplasia. The non-invasive method using maternal plasma and QF-PCR may be useful for diagnosis of the fetal achondroplasia.

Plasma flow in peripheral region of detached plasma in linear plasma device

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

Hayashi, Y., E-mail: hayashi-yuki13@ees.nagoya-u.ac.jp; Ohno, N.; Kajita, S.

2016-01-15

A plasma flow structure is investigated using a Mach probe under detached plasma condition in a linear plasma device NAGDIS-II. A reverse flow along the magnetic field is observed in a steady-state at far-peripheral region of the plasma column in the upstream side from the recombination front. These experimental results indicate that plasma near the recombination front should strongly diffuse across the magnetic field, and it should be transported along the magnetic field in the reverse flow direction. Furthermore, bursty plasma density fluctuations associated with intermittent convective plasma transport are observed in the far-peripheral region of the plasma column inmore » both upstream and downstream sides from the recombination front. Such a nondiffusive transport can contribute to the intermittent reverse plasma flow, and the experimental results indicate that intermittent transports are frequently produced near the recombination front.« less

Identification of lipopolysaccharide-interacting plasma membrane-type proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana.

PubMed

Vilakazi, Cornelius S; Dubery, Ian A; Piater, Lizelle A

2017-02-01

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an amphiphatic bacterial glycoconjugate found on the external membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. This endotoxin is considered as a microbe-associated molecular pattern (MAMP) molecule and has been shown to elicit defense responses in plants. Here, LPS-interacting proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana plasma membrane (PM)-type fractions were captured and identified in order to investigate those involved in LPS perception and linked to triggering of innate immune responses. A novel proteomics-based affinity-capture strategy coupled to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was employed for the enrichment and identification of LPS-interacting proteins. As such, LPS isolated from Burkholderia cepacia (LPS B.cep. ) was immobilized on three independent and distinct affinity-based matrices to serve as bait for interacting proteins from A. thaliana leaf and callus tissue. These were resolved by 1D electrophoresis and identified by mass spectrometry. Proteins specifically bound to LPS B.cep. have been implicated in membrane structure (e.g. COBRA-like and tubulin proteins), membrane trafficking and/or transport (e.g. soluble NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins, patellin, aquaporin, PM instrinsic proteins (PIP) and H + -ATPase), signal transduction (receptor-like kinases and calcium-dependent protein kinases) as well as defense/stress responses (e.g. hypersensitive-induced response (HIR) proteins, jacalin-like lectin domain-containing protein and myrosinase-binding proteins). The novel affinity-capture strategy for the enrichment of LPS-interacting proteins proved to be effective, especially in the binding of proteins involved in plant defense responses, and can thus be used to elucidate LPS-mediated molecular recognition and disease mechanism(s). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Inductive plasmas for plasma processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keller, John H.

1996-05-01

With the need for high plasma density and low pressure in single wafer etching tools, a number of inductive etching systems have been and are being developed for commercial sale. This paper reviews some of the history of low-pressure inductive plasmas, gives features of inductive plasmas, limitations, corrections and presents uses for plasma processing. The theory for the skin depth, rf coil impedance and efficiency is also discussed.

Dietary saturated fatty acid type modifies the plasma phospholipidome in obese mice

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A high intake of saturated fatty acids (SFA) is associated with obesity and its related diseases. However, the contribution of particular SFAs to obesity has not been investigated. We tested the hypothesis that the composition of dietary SFA causes selective changes in the plasma phospholipidome in ...

EDITORIAL: Laser and plasma accelerators Laser and plasma accelerators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bingham, Robert

2009-02-01

by Chen et al where the driver, instead of being a laser, is a whistler wave known as the magnetowave plasma accelerator. The application to electron--positron plasmas that are found around pulsars is studied in the paper by Shukla, and to muon acceleration by Peano et al. Electron wakefield experiments are now concentrating on control and optimisation of high-quality beams that can be used as drivers for novel radiation sources. Studies by Thomas et al show that filamentation has a deleterious effect on the production of high quality mono-energetic electron beams and is caused by non-optimal choice of focusing geometry and/or electron density. It is crucial to match the focusing with the right plasma parameters and new types of plasma channels are being developed, such as the magnetically controlled plasma waveguide reported by Froula et al. The magnetic field provides a pressure profile shaping the channel to match the guiding conditions of the incident laser, resulting in predicted electron energies of 3GeV. In the forced laser-wakefield experiment Fang et al show that pump depletion reduces or inhibits the acceleration of electrons. One of the earlier laser acceleration concepts known as the beat wave may be revived due to the work by Kalmykov et al who report on all-optical control of nonlinear focusing of laser beams, allowing for stable propagation over several Rayleigh lengths with pre-injected electrons accelerated beyond 100 MeV. With the increasing number of petawatt lasers, attention is being focused on different acceleration regimes such as stochastic acceleration by counterpropagating laser pulses, the relativistic mirror, or the snow-plough effect leading to single-step acceleration reported by Mendonca. During wakefield acceleration the leading edge of the pulse undergoes frequency downshifting and head erosion as the laser energy is transferred to the wake while the trailing edge of the laser pulse undergoes frequency up-shift. This is commonly known

Caveolae as plasma membrane sensors, protectors and organizers.

PubMed

Parton, Robert G; del Pozo, Miguel A

2013-02-01

Caveolae are submicroscopic, plasma membrane pits that are abundant in many mammalian cell types. The past few years have seen a quantum leap in our understanding of the formation, dynamics and functions of these enigmatic structures. Caveolae have now emerged as vital plasma membrane sensors that can respond to plasma membrane stresses and remodel the extracellular environment. Caveolae at the plasma membrane can be removed by endocytosis to regulate their surface density or can be disassembled and their structural components degraded. Coat proteins, called cavins, work together with caveolins to regulate the formation of caveolae but also have the potential to dynamically transmit signals that originate in caveolae to various cellular destinations. The importance of caveolae as protective elements in the plasma membrane, and as membrane organizers and sensors, is highlighted by links between caveolae dysfunction and human diseases, including muscular dystrophies and cancer.

Plasma waves near saturn: initial results from voyager 1.

PubMed

Gurnett, D A; Kurth, W S; Scarf, F L

1981-04-10

The Voyager 1 plasma wave instrument detected many familiar types of plasma waves during the encounter with Saturn, including ion-acoustic waves and electron plasma oscillations upstream of the bow shock, an intense burst of electrostatic noise at the shock, and chorus, hiss, electrostatic electron cyclotron waves, and upper hybrid resonance emissions in the inner magnetosphere. A clocklike Saturn rotational control of low-frequency radio emissions was observed, and evidence was obtained of possible control by the moon Dione. Strong plasma wave emissions were detected at the Titan encounter indicating the presence of a turbulent sheath extending around Titan, and upper hybrid resonance measurements of the electron density show the existence of a dense plume of plasma being carried downstream of Titan by the interaction with the rapidly rotating magnetosphere of Saturn.

High Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Normal Plasma Aminotransferase Levels.

PubMed

Portillo-Sanchez, Paola; Bril, Fernando; Maximos, Maryann; Lomonaco, Romina; Biernacki, Diane; Orsak, Beverly; Subbarayan, Sreevidya; Webb, Amy; Hecht, Joan; Cusi, Kenneth

2015-06-01

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its more severe form with steatohepatitis (NASH) are common in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, they are usually believed to largely affect those with elevated aminotransferases. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of NAFLD by the gold standard, liver magnetic resonance spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS) in patients with T2DM and normal aminotransferases, and to characterize their metabolic profile. We recruited 103 patients with T2DM and normal plasma aminotransferases (age, 60 ± 8 y; body mass index [BMI], 33 ± 5 kg/m(2); glycated hemoglobin [A1c], 7.6 ± 1.3%). We measured the following: 1) liver triglyceride content by (1)H-MRS; 2) systemic insulin sensitivity (homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance); and 3) adipose tissue insulin resistance, both fasting (as the adipose tissue insulin resistance index: fasting plasma free fatty acids [FFA] × insulin) and during an oral glucose tolerance test (as the suppression of FFA). The prevalence of NAFLD and NASH were much higher than expected (50% and 56% of NAFLD patients, respectively). The prevalence of NAFLD was higher in obese compared with nonobese patients as well as with increasing BMI (P = .001 for trend). Higher plasma A1c was associated with a greater prevalence of NAFLD and worse liver triglyceride accumulation (P = .01). Compared with nonobese patients without NAFLD, patients with NAFLD had severe systemic (liver/muscle) and, particularly, adipose tissue (fasting/postprandial) insulin resistance (all P < .01). The prevalence of NAFLD is much higher than previously believed in overweight/obese patients with T2DM and normal aminotransferases. Moreover, many are at increased risk of NASH. Physicians should have a lower threshold for screening patients with T2DM for NAFLD/NASH.

Quantification of scaling exponent with Crossover type phenomena for different types of forcing in DC glow discharge plasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saha, Debajyoti; Shaw, Pankaj Kumar; Ghosh, Sabuj; Janaki, M. S.; Sekar Iyengar, A. N.

2018-01-01

We have carried out a detailed study of scaling region using detrended fractal analysis test by applying different forcing likewise noise, sinusoidal, square on the floating potential fluctuations acquired under different pressures in a DC glow discharge plasma. The transition in the dynamics is observed through recurrence plot techniques which is an efficient method to observe the critical regime transitions in dynamics. The complexity of the nonlinear fluctuation has been revealed with the help of recurrence quantification analysis which is a suitable tool for investigating recurrence, an ubiquitous feature providing a deep insight into the dynamics of real dynamical system. An informal test for stationarity which checks for the compatibility of nonlinear approximations to the dynamics made in different segments in a time series has been proposed. In case of sinusoidal, noise, square forcing applied on fluctuation acquired at P = 0.12 mbar only one dominant scaling region is observed whereas the forcing applied on fluctuation (P = 0.04 mbar) two prominent scaling regions have been explored reliably using different forcing amplitudes indicating the signature of crossover phenomena. Furthermore a persistence long range behavior has been observed in one of these scaling regions. A comprehensive study of the quantification of scaling exponents has been carried out with the increase in amplitude and frequency of sinusoidal, square type of forcings. The scalings exponent is envisaged to be the roughness of the time series. The method provides a single quantitative idea of the scaling exponent to quantify the correlation properties of a signal.

Plasma vitamin C level, fruit and vegetable consumption, and the risk of new-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus: the European prospective investigation of cancer--Norfolk prospective study.

PubMed

Harding, Anne-Helen; Wareham, Nicholas J; Bingham, Sheila A; Khaw, KayTee; Luben, Robert; Welch, Ailsa; Forouhi, Nita G

2008-07-28

Epidemiologic studies suggest that greater consumption of fruit and vegetables may decrease the risk of diabetes mellitus, but the evidence is limited and inconclusive. Plasma vitamin C level is a good biomarker of fruit and vegetable intake, but, to our knowledge, no prospective studies have examined its association with diabetes risk. This study aims to examine whether fruit and vegetable intake and plasma vitamin C level are associated with the risk of incident type 2 diabetes. We administered a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire to men and women from a population-based prospective cohort (European Prospective Investigation of Cancer-Norfolk) study who were aged 40 to 75 years at baseline (1993-1997) when plasma vitamin C level was determined and habitual intake of fruit and vegetables was assessed. During 12 years of follow-up between February 1993 and the end of December 2005, 735 clinically incident cases of diabetes were identified among 21 831 healthy individuals. We report the odds ratios of diabetes associated with sex-specific quintiles of fruit and vegetable intake and of plasma vitamin C levels. A strong inverse association was found between plasma vitamin C level and diabetes risk. The odds ratio of diabetes in the top quintile of plasma vitamin C was 0.38 (95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.52) in a model adjusted for demographic, lifestyle, and anthropometric variables. In a similarly adjusted model, the odds ratio of diabetes in the top quintile of fruit and vegetable consumption was 0.78 (95% confidence interval, 0.60-1.00). Higher plasma vitamin C level and, to a lesser degree, fruit and vegetable intake were associated with a substantially decreased risk of diabetes. Our findings highlight a potentially important public health message on the benefits of a diet rich in fruit and vegetables for the prevention of diabetes.

Bradykinin-forming components in Kuwaiti patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Sharma, J N; Al-Shoumer, K A S; Matar, K M; Al-Gharee, H Y; Madathil, N V

2013-01-01

Diabetes is the most common risk factor in inducing hypertension, nephropathy and retinopathy. The bradykinin (BK)-forming system has been proposed to protect cardiovascular and renal functions. We therefore evaluated urinary active and proactive kallikrein, total kininogen, plasma tissue kallikrein, plasma creatinine, plasma glucose and plasma HbA1c in newly diagnosed untreated type 2 diabetic patients and healthy subjects. In diabetic patients, urinary and plasma tissue kallikrein concentrations were significantly increased. In addition, plasma prekallikrein levels were also significantly higher. However, urinary kininogen values were significantly reduced in diabetic patients when compared with healthy subjects. This is the first investigation among Kuwaiti Arab patients with type 2 diabetes showing abnormal activities in the BK-forming system. High levels of plasma prekallikrein may be a risk factor for developing high blood pressure as well as nephropathy. The urinary and plasma tissue kallikrein concentrations were higher in diabetic patients, which could indicate the hyperactivities of these components, and may result in increased levels of plasma glucose to induce diabetes. Furthermore, the urinary kininogen levels were reduced in diabetic patients. These alterations might reflect the utilization of urinary kininogen to form BK, a potent inflammatory agent. However, this hypothesis needs further investigation.

Laser-Induced Plasma Chemistry of the Explosive RDX with Various Metals

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-18

U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command Laser-induced plasma chemistry of the explosive RDX with various metals Jennifer L...2011 2. REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED 00-00-2011 to 00-00-2011 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Laser-induced plasma chemistry of the explosive RDX with...followed by laser-induced plasma chemistry Time-resolved emission spectra Laser Parameters Laser pulse energy dependence Single vs. double pulse

Lightning and plasma wave observations from the galileo flyby of venus.

PubMed

Gurnett, D A; Kurth, W S; Roux, A; Gendrin, R; Kennel, C F; Bolton, S J

1991-09-27

During the Galileo flyby of Venus the plasma wave instrument was used to search for impulsive radio signals from lightning and to investigate locally generated plasma waves. A total of nine events were detected in the frequency range from 100 kilohertz to 5.6 megahertz. Although the signals are weak, lightning is the only known source of these signals. Near the bow shock two types of locally generated plasma waves were observed, low-frequency electromagnetic waves from about 5 to 50 hertz and electron plasma oscillation at about 45 kilohertz. The plasma oscillations have considerable fine structure, possibly because of the formation of soliton-like wave packets.

Lightning and plasma wave observations from the Galileo flyby of Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gurnett, D. A.; Kurth, W. S.; Roux, A.; Gendrin, R.; Kennel, C. F.; Bolton, S. J.

1991-01-01

Durig the Galileo flyby of Venus the plasma wave instrument was used to search for impulsive radio signals from lightning and to investigate locally generated plasma waves. A total of nine events were detected in the frequency range from 100 kilohertz to 5.6 megahertz. Although the signals are weak, lightning is the only known source of these signals. Near the bow shock two types of locally generated plasma waves were observed, low-frequency electromagnetic waves from about 5 to 50 hertz and electron plasma oscillation at about 45 kilohertz. The plasma oscillations have considerable fine structure, possibly because of the formation of soliton-like wave packets.

Atmospheric-Pressure Plasma Jet Surface Treatment for Use in Improving Adhesion

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

Kuettner, Lindsey Ann

Atmospheric-pressure plasma jets (APPJs) are a method of plasma treatment that plays an important role in material processing and modifying surface properties of materials, especially polymers. Gas plasmas react with polymer surfaces in numerous ways such as oxidation, radical formation, degradation, and promotion of cross-linking. Because of this, gas and plasma conditions can be explored for chosen processes to maximize desired properties. The purpose of this study is to investigate plasma parameters in order to modify surface properties for improved adhesion between aluminum and epoxy substrates using two types of adhesives. The background, results to date, and future work willmore » be discussed.« less

Near Discharge Cathode Assembly Plasma Potential Measurements in a 30-cm NSTAR Type Ion Engine During Beam Extraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herman, Daniel A.; Gallimore, Alec D.

2006-01-01

Floating emissive probe plasma potential data are presented over a two-dimensional array of locations in the near Discharge Cathode Assembly (DCA) region of a 30-cm diameter ring-cusp ion thruster. Discharge plasma data are presented with beam extraction at throttling conditions comparable to the NASA TH Levels 8, 12, and 15. The operating conditions of the Extended Life Test (ELT) of the Deep Space One (DS1) flight spare ion engine, where anomalous discharge keeper erosion occurred, were TH 8 and TH 12 consequently they are of specific interest in investigating discharge keeper erosion phenomena. The data do not validate the presence of a potential hill plasma structure downstream of the DCA, which has been proposed as a possible erosion mechanism. The data are comparable in magnitude to data taken by other researchers in ring-cusp electron-bombardment ion thrusters. The plasma potential structures are insensitive to thruster throttling level with a minimum as low as 14 V measured at the DCA exit plane and increasing gradually in the axial direction. A sharp increase in plasma potential to the bulk discharge value of 26 to 28 volts, roughly 10 mm radially from DCA centerline, was observed. Plasma potential measurements indicate a low-potential plume structure that is roughly 20 mm in diameter emanating from the discharge cathode that may be attributed to a free-standing plasma double layer.

Mass- and energy-analyses of ions from plasma by means of a miniature Thomson spectrometer.

PubMed

Sadowski, M J; Czaus, K; Malinowski, K; Skladnik-Sadowska, E; Zebrowski, J

2009-05-01

The paper presents an improved version of a miniature mass-spectrometer of the Thomson-type, which has been adopted for ion analysis near the dense plasma region inside a vacuum chamber. Problems connected with the separation of ions from plasma streams are considered. Input diaphragms and pumping systems, needed to ensure good vacuum inside the analyzing region, are described. The application of the miniature Thomson-type analyzer is illustrated by ion parabolas recorded in plasma-focus facility and rod plasma injector experiment. A quantitative analysis of the recorded ion parabolas is presented. Factors influencing accuracy of the ion analysis are discussed and methods of the spectrometer calibration are described.

Plasma surface cleaning using microwave plasmas

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

Tsai, C.C.; Haselton, H.H.; Nelson, W.D.

1993-11-01

In a microwave electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma source, reactive plasmas of oxygen and its mixture with argon are used for plasma-cleaning experiments. Aluminum test samples (0.95 {times} 1.9 cm) were coated with thin films ({le} 20 {mu}m in thickness) of Shell Vitrea oil and cleaned by using such reactive plasmas. The plasma cleaning was done in various discharge conditions with fixed microwave power, rf power, biased potential, gas pressures (0.5 and 5 mtorr), and operating time up to 35 min. The status of plasma cleaning has been monitored by using mass spectroscopy. Mass loss of the samples after plasmamore » cleaning was measured to estimate cleaning rates. Measured clean rates of low pressure (0.5 mtorr) argon/oxygen plasmas were as high as 2.7 {mu}/min. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to determine cleanliness of the sample surfaces and confirm the effectiveness of plasma cleaning in achieving atomic levels of surface cleanliness. In this paper, significant results are reported and discussed.« less

A review on plasma-etch-process induced damage of HgCdTe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lingfeng; Chen, Yiyu; Ye, Zhenhua; Ding, Ruijun

2018-05-01

Dry etching techniques with minimal etch induced damage are required to develop highly anisotropic etch for pixel delineation of HgCdTe infrared focal plane arrays (IRFPAs). High density plasma process has become the main etching technique for HgCdTe in the past twenty years, In this paper, high density plasma electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching of HgCdTe are summarized. Common plasma-etch-process induced type conversion and related mechanisms are reviewed particularly.

Cold atmospheric-pressure plasma induces DNA-protein crosslinks through protein oxidation.

PubMed

Guo, Li; Zhao, Yiming; Liu, Dingxin; Liu, Zhichao; Chen, Chen; Xu, Ruobing; Tian, Miao; Wang, Xiaohua; Chen, Hailan; Kong, Michael G

2018-05-03

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) generated by cold atmospheric-pressure plasma could damage genomic DNA, although the precise type of these DNA damage induced by plasma are poorly characterized. Understanding plasma-induced DNA damage will help to elucidate the biological effect of plasma and guide the application of plasma in ROS-based therapy. In this study, it was shown that ROS and RNS generated by physical plasma could efficiently induce DNA-protein crosslinks (DPCs) in bacteria, yeast, and human cells. An in vitro assay showed that plasma treatment resulted in the formation of covalent DPCs by activating proteins to crosslink with DNA. Mass spectrometry and hydroperoxide analysis detected oxidation products induced by plasma. DPC formation were alleviated by singlet oxygen scavenger, demonstrating the importance of singlet oxygen in this process. These results suggested the roles of DPC formation in DNA damage induced by plasma, which could improve the understanding of the biological effect of plasma and help to develop a new strategy in plasma-based therapy including infection and cancer therapy.

Observations of dusty plasmas with magnetized dust grains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Q.-Z.; D'Angelo, N.

2000-11-01

We report a newly observed phenomenon in a dusty plasma device of the \\mbox{Q-machine} type. At low plasma densities the time required by the plasma to return to its no-dust conditions, after the dust dispenser is turned off, can be as long as many tens of seconds or longer. A tentative interpretation of this observation in terms of magnetized dust grains is advanced. It appears that an important loss mechanism of fine dust grains is by ion drag along the magnetic field lines. The effect of ion drag is somewhat counteracted by the -µ∇B force present when the magnetic field has a mirror geometry.

Study of cavity type antenna structure of large-area 915 MHz ultra-high frequency wave plasma device based on three-dimensional finite difference time-domain analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Xijiang; Kunii, Kazuki; Liang, Rongqing; Nagatsu, Masaaki

2013-11-01

A large-area planar plasma source with a resonant cavity type launcher driven by a 915 MHz ultra-high frequency wave was developed. Theoretical analysis with the three-dimensional finite difference time-domain simulation was carried out to determine the optimized launcher structure by analyzing the resonant transverse magnetic mode in the resonant cavity. Numerical result expects that the resonant electric field distribution inside the cavity dominantly consists of the TM410 mode. The resonant cavity type launcher having 8 holes in an octagonal geometry was designed to fit the resonant transverse magnetic mode. Adjusting 8 hole positions of the launcher to the field pattern of the resonant TM410 mode, we found that the plasma density increased about 40%˜50% from 1.0˜1.1 × 1011 cm-3 to ˜1.5 × 1011 cm-3 at the same incident power of 2.5 kW, compared with the previous results with the launcher having 6 holes in the hexagonal geometry. It is also noted that the electron density changes almost linearly with the incident wave power without any mode jumps.

Sensitivity of RF-driven Plasma Filaments to Trace Gases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burin, M. J.; Czarnocki, C. J.; Czarnocki, K.; Zweben, S. J.; Zwicker, A.

2011-10-01

Filamentary structures have been observed in many types of plasma discharges in both natural (e.g. lightning) and industrial systems (e.g. dielectric barrier discharges). Recent progress has been made in characterizing these structures, though various aspects of their essential physics remain unclear. A common example of this phenomenon can be found within a toy plasma globe (or plasma ball), wherein a primarily neon gas mixture near atmospheric pressure clearly and aesthetically displays filamentation. Recent work has provided the first characterization of these plasma globe filaments [Campanell et al., Physics of Plasmas 2010], where it was noticed that discharges of pure gases tend not to produce filaments. We have extended this initial work to investigate in greater detail the dependence of trace gases on filamentation within a primarily Neon discharge. Our preliminary results using a custom globe apparatus will be presented, along with some discussion of voltage dependencies. Newly supported by the NSF/DOE Partnership in Basic Plasma Science and Engineering.

Effects of a Western-type diet on plasma lipids and other cardiometabolic risk factors in African green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus).

PubMed

Jorgensen, Matthew J; Aycock, S Tyler; Clarkson, Thomas B; Kaplan, Jay R

2013-07-01

Our goal was to assess a nonhuman primate diet that mimicked the Western-type diet of humans with regard to palatability and the diet's effects on plasma lipid concentrations and other cardiometabolic risk factors. We evaluated male (n = 8) and female (n = 11) African green monkeys (vervets; Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) that initially were fed a standard diet. Each cohort then was divided into 2 groups, which received either standard chow or the Western diet. Food consumption and fecal quality were measured weekly. Body weight, waist circumference, and body-mass index were measured every 2 wk. CBC and clinical chemistry analyses were performed at baseline and 4 wk after the diet change. Plasma lipid concentrations, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, insulin, and fructosamine were measured at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 wk after the diet change. Isoflavones were measured in the male monkeys at 6 wk after diet change, and lipid particle size was measured in the female monkeys at the 12-wk point. Green monkeys readily ate the Western diet and maintained baseline body weight and morphometric measures, with no adverse effects on fecal quality or clinical measures. Total plasma cholesterol was higher in monkeys fed the Western diet compared with standard chow. Isoflavones were higher in male monkeys fed standard chow compared with the Western diet, but lipid particle size did not differ by diet in female monkeys. Our data indicate that the Western diet led to changes in various biomedical risk factors of green monkeys to become similar to those of humans in the United States.

Simulations of plasma dynamo in cylindrical and spherical geometries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalzov, Ivan; Forest, Cary; Schnack, Dalton; Ebrahimi, Fatima

2010-11-01

We have performed the numerical investigation of plasma flow and possibility of dynamo effect in Madison Plasma Couette Experiment (MPCX) and Madison Plasma Dynamo Experiment (MPDX), which are being installed at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. Using the extended MHD code, NIMROD, we have studied several types of plasma flows appropriate for dynamo excitation. Calculations are done for isothermal compressible plasma model including two-fluid effects (Hall term), which is beyond the standard incompressible MHD picture. It is found that for magnetic Reynolds numbers exceeding the critical one the counter-rotating Von Karman flow (in cylinder) and Dudley- James flow (in sphere) result in self-generation of magnetic field. Depending on geometry and plasma parameters this field can either saturate at certain amplitude corresponding to a new stable equilibrium (laminar dynamo) or lead to turbulent dynamo. It is shown that plasma compressibility results in increase of the critical magnetic Reynolds number while two- fluid effects change the level of saturated dynamo field. The work is supported by NSF.

NOx formation in apokamp-type atmospheric pressure plasma jets in air initiated by a pulse-repetitive discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sosnin, Eduard A.; Didenko, Maria V.; Panarin, Victor A.; Skakun, Victor S.; Tarasenko, Victor F.; Liu, Dongping P.; Song, Ying

2018-04-01

The decomposition products of atmospheric pressure plasma of repetitive pulsed discharge in apokamp and corona modes were determined by optical and chemical methods. It is shown, that the decomposition products contain mainly nitrogen oxides NOx. A brief review of the plasma- and thermochemical reactions in the pulsed discharges was made. The review and experimental data allow us to explain the reactive oxygen species formation mechanisms in a potential discharge channel with apokamp. The possible applications of this plasma source for treatment of seeds of agricultural crops are discussed.

Plasma waves near the magnetopause

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

Anderson, R.R.; Haravey, C.C.; Hoppe, M.M.

1982-04-01

Plasma waves associated with the magnetopause, from the magnetosheath to the outer magnetosphere, are examined with an emphasis on high time resolution data and the comparison between measurements by using different antenna systems. An early ISEE crossing of the magnetopause region, including passage through two well-defined flux transfer events, the magentopause current layer, and boundary plasma, is studied in detail. The waves in these regions are compared and contrasted with the waves in the adjoining magnetosheath and outer magnetosphere. Four types of plamsa wave emissions are characteristic of the nominal magnetosheat: (1) a very low frequency continuum, (2) short wavelengthmore » spikes, (3) 'festoon-shaped' emissions below about 2 kHz, and (4) 'lion roars'. The latter two emissions are well correlated with ultra-low frequency magnetic field fluctuations. The dominant plasma wave features during flux transfer events are (1) an intense low-frequency continuum, which includes a substantial electromagnetic component, (2) a dramatic increase in the frequency of occurrence of the spikes, (3) quasi-periodic electron cyclotron harmonics correlated with approx.1-Hz magnetic field fluctuations, and (4) enhanced electron plasma oscillations. The plasma wave characteristics in the current layer and in the boundary layer are quite similar to the features in the flux transfer events. Upon entry into the outer magnetosphere, the plasma wave spectra are dominated by intense electromagnetic chorus bursts and electrosatic (n+1/2)f/sup -//sub g/ emissions. Wavelength determinations made by comparing the various antenna responses and polarization measurements for the different waves are also presented.« less

Clinical and Prognostic Effect of Plasma Fibrinogen in Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Tian, Yuejun; Hong, Mei; Jing, Suoshi; Liu, Xingchen; Wang, Hanzhang; Wang, Xinping; Kaushik, Dharam; Rodriguez, Ronald; Wang, Zhiping

2017-01-01

Background . Although numerous studies have shown that plasma fibrinogen is linked to renal cell carcinoma (RCC) risk, the consistency and magnitude of the effect of plasma fibrinogen are unclear. The aim of the study was to explore the association between plasma fibrinogen and RCC prognosis. Methods . An electronic search of Embase, PubMed/MEDLINE, and the Cochrane databases was performed to identify relevant studies published prior to June 1, 2016. Results . A total of 3744 patients with RCC from 7 published studies were included in the meta-analysis. The prognostic and clinical relevance of plasma fibrinogen are evaluated in RCC patients. Statistical significance of the combined hazard ratio (HR) was detected for overall survival, cancer-specific survival, and disease-free survival. Our pooled results showed that elevated plasma fibrinogen was significantly associated with clinical stage and Fuhrman grading. The level of plasma fibrinogen was not found to be associated with tumor type and gender. Conclusions . Elevated plasma fibrinogen is a strong indicator of poorer prognosis of patients with RCC, whereas the plasma fibrinogen is not significantly associated with tumor type. Therefore, plasma fibrinogen could be used in patients with RCC for risk stratification and decision providing a proper therapeutic strategy.

In–Depth Characterization of Viral Isolates from Plasma and Cells Compared with Plasma Circulating Quasispecies in Early HIV-1 Infection

PubMed Central

Erkizia, Itziar; Pino, Maria; Pou, Christian; Paredes, Roger; Clotet, Bonaventura; Martinez-Picado, Javier; Prado, Julia G.

2012-01-01

Background The use of in vitro models to unravel the phenotypic characteristics of circulating viral variants is key to understanding HIV-1 pathogenesis but limited by the availability of primary viral isolates from biological samples. However, overall in vivo genetic variability of HIV-1 within a subject may not be reflected in the viable viral population obtained after isolation. Although several studies have tried to determine whether viral populations expanded in vitro are representative of in vivo findings, the answer remains unclear due to the reduced number of clonal sequences analyzed or samples compared. In order to overcome previous experimental limitations, here we applied Deep Pyrosequencing (DPS) technology in combination with phenotypic experiments to analyze and compare with unprecedented detail the composition of viral isolates and in vivo quasispecies. Methodology/Principal Findings We amplified by DPS HIV-1 genomic regions covering gag, protease, integrase and env-V3 to characterize paired isolates from plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells and compare them with total plasma viral RNA in four recently HIV-1 infected subjects. Our study demonstrated the presence of unique haplotypes scattered between sample types with conservation of major variants. In addition, no differences in intra- and inter-population encoded protein variability were found between the different types of isolates or when these were compared to plasma viral RNA within subjects. Additionally, in vitro experiments demonstrated phenotypic similarities in terms of replicative capacity and co-receptor usage between viral isolates and plasma viral RNA. Conclusion This study is the first in-depth comparison and characterization of viral isolates from different sources and plasma circulating quasispecies using DPS in recently HIV-1 infected subjects. Our data supports the use of primary isolates regardless of their plasma or cellular origin to define genetic variability and

Association of plasma fetuin-a levels with peripheral arterial disease and lower extremity arterial calcification in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Eleftheriadou, Ioanna; Grigoropoulou, Pinelopi; Kokkinos, Alexander; Mourouzis, Iordanis; Perrea, Despoina; Katsilambros, Nicholas; Sfikakis, Petros P; Tentolouris, Nikolaos

2017-03-01

Fetuin-A is a hepatic glycoprotein that is involved in insulin resistance and atherosclerosis. Herein we examined the association of plasma fetuin-A levels with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 71 patients with T2DM and 57 non-diabetic individuals were recruited. Diagnosis of PAD was based on the absence of triphasic waveform at pedal arteries, while ankle-brachial index (ABI) was calculated. Radiographs of both feet and ankles were taken for the assessment of lower extremity arterial calcification (LEAC). Plasma fetuin-A levels were measured using ELISA. Patients with T2DM had higher fetuin-A levels than non-diabetic participants. Participants with diabetes and PAD had lower fetuin-A levels than non-PAD diabetic patients. In subjects with T2DM fetuin-A levels were associated with ABI. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that in patients with T2DM the odds of PAD increased with long diabetes duration, smoking, presence of arterial hypertension and dyslipidemia, as well as with lower fetuin-A levels. A trend towards higher fetuin-A levels in subjects with less severe LEAC was found. Plasma fetuin-A levels are lower in patients with T2DM and PAD and are associated with PAD, irrespective of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Moreover, fetuin-A may be involved in arterial calcification. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Discharge Characteristics of DC Arc Water Plasma for Environmental Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Tianming; Sooseok, Choi; Takayuki, Watanabe

2012-12-01

A water plasma was generated by DC arc discharge with a hafnium embedded rod-type cathode and a nozzle-type anode. The discharge characteristics were examined by changing the operation parameter of the arc current. The dynamic behavior of the arc discharge led to significant fluctuations in the arc voltage and its frequency. Analyses of the high speed image and the arc voltage waveform showed that the arc discharge was in the restrike mode and its frequency varied within several tens of kilohertz according to the operating conditions. The larger thermal plasma volume was generated by the higher flow from the forming steam with a higher restrike frequency in the higher arc current conditions. In addition, the characteristics of the water plasma jet were investigated by means of optical emission spectroscopy to identify the abundant radicals required in an efficient waste treatment process.

Synthetic peptides and fluorogenic substrates related to the reactive site sequence of Kunitz-type inhibitors isolated from Bauhinia: interaction with human plasma kallikrein.

PubMed

Oliva, M L; Santomauro-Vaz, E M; Andrade, S A; Juliano, M A; Pott, V J; Sampaio, M U; Sampaio, C A

2001-01-01

We have previously described Kunitz-type serine proteinase inhibitors purified from Bauhinia seeds. Human plasma kallikrein shows different susceptibility to those inhibitors. In this communication, we describe the interaction of human plasma kallikrein with fluorogenic and non-fluorogenic peptides based on the Bauhinia inhibitors' reactive site. The hydrolysis of the substrate based on the B. variegata inhibitor reactive site sequence, Abz-VVISALPRSVFIQ-EDDnp (Km 1.42 microM, kcat 0.06 s(-1), and kcat/Km 4.23 x 10(4) M(-1) s(-1)), is more favorable than that of Abz-VMIAALPRTMFIQ-EDDnp, related to the B. ungulata sequence (Km 0.43 microM, kcat 0.00017 s(-1), and kcat/Km 3.9 x 10(2) M(-1) s(-1)). Human plasma kallikrein does not hydrolyze the substrates Abz-RPGLPVRFESPL-EDDnp and Abz-FESPLRINIIKE-EDDnp based on the B. bauhinioides inhibitor reactive site sequence, the most effective inhibitor of the enzyme. These peptides are competitive inhibitors with Ki values in the nM range. The synthetic peptide containing 19 amino acids based on the B. bauhinioides inhibitor reactive site (RPGLPVRFESPL) is poorly cleaved by kallikrein. The given substrates are highly specific for trypsin and chymotrypsin hydrolysis. Other serine proteinases such as factor Xa, factor XII, thrombin and plasmin do not hydrolyze B. bauhinioides inhibitor related substrates.

Luminescent characteristics study of Mather-type dense plasma focus and applications to short-wavelength optical pumping. Final technical report, 1 May 1984-30 September 1985

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

Kim, K.K.

A Mather-type dense plasma focus (MDPF) system was designed, built, and tested specifically to study its luminescent characteristics and to assess its potential as a new light source of high-energy, short-wavelength lasers. The luminescence study of MDPF showed that the conversion efficiency from the electrical input to the optical output energies is at least 50%, up to the time the plasma compression is complete. Using the system, for the first time as an optical pump, laser activities were successfully obtained from a variety of liquid organic dyes. Diagnostic capabilities included an optical multichannel analyzer system complete with a computer control,more » a nitrogen-pumped tunable dye-laser system, a high-speed streak/framing camera, a digital laser energy meter, voltage and current probes, and a computer-based data-acquisition system.« less

Fluorophore-based sensor for oxygen radicals in processing plasmas

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

Choudhury, Faraz A.; Shohet, J. Leon, E-mail: shohet@engr.wisc.edu; Sabat, Grzegorz

2015-11-15

A high concentration of radicals is present in many processing plasmas, which affects the processing conditions and the properties of materials exposed to the plasma. Determining the types and concentrations of free radicals present in the plasma is critical in order to determine their effects on the materials being processed. Current methods for detecting free radicals in a plasma require multiple expensive and bulky instruments, complex setups, and often, modifications to the plasma reactor. This work presents a simple technique that detects reactive-oxygen radicals incident on a surface from a plasma. The measurements are made using a fluorophore dye thatmore » is commonly used in biological and cellular systems for assay labeling in liquids. Using fluorometric analysis, it was found that the fluorophore reacts with oxygen radicals incident from the plasma, which is indicated by degradation of its fluorescence. As plasma power was increased, the quenching of the fluorescence significantly increased. Both immobilized and nonimmobilized fluorophore dyes were used and the results indicate that both states function effectively under vacuum conditions. The reaction mechanism is very similar to that of the liquid dye.« less

Gas plasma sterilization of microorganisms and mechanisms of action

PubMed Central

SHINTANI, HIDEHARU; SAKUDO, AKIKAZU; BURKE, PETER; McDONNELL, GERALD

2010-01-01

The use of true gas plasmas for the inactivation of microorganisms is an area of dynamic research. Many types of gases are used as a source of plasma, and different plasma production methods have been applied. The antimicrobial mechanisms of oxygen-based gas plasmas may be due to an etching effect on microbial structures, particularly bacterial endospores resulting in shrinkage. By contrast, the definite mechanisms of actions of other gas plasma sources, such as N2, He, Ne, Ar and Xe gases, have not been clearly defined and indeed may be distinct. The speculated mechanisms of these gas plasmas involve the direct attack of metastable (excited molecular), UV and/or VUV to microbial structures, specifically the inner membrane and DNA in the core of bacterial endospores. According to this speculation, sterilized spore figures would remain unchanged. However, these mechanisms remain to be clarified. Future perspectives on the use of gas plasma for sterilization are of interest, as it is possible that appropriate sterility assurance levels can be obtained in parallel with material and functional compatibility. Traditional sterilization methods are often limited in these requirements. Therefore, gas plasma sterilization may prove to be an appropriate alternative sterilization procedure. PMID:22993596

Comparison of bacterial attachment to platelet bags with and without preconditioning with plasma.

PubMed

Loza-Correa, M; Kalab, M; Yi, Q-L; Eltringham-Smith, L J; Sheffield, W P; Ramirez-Arcos, S

2017-07-01

Canadian Blood Services produces apheresis and buffy coat pooled platelet concentrates (PCs) stored in bags produced by two different manufacturers (A and B, respectively), both made of polyvinyl chloride-butyryl trihexyl citrate. This study was aimed at comparing Staphylococcus epidermidis adhesion to the inner surface of both bag types in the presence or absence of plasma factors. Sets (N = 2-6) of bags type A and B were left non-coated (control) or preconditioned with platelet-rich, platelet-poor or defibrinated plasma (PRP, PPP and DefibPPP, respectively). Each bag was inoculated with a 200-ml S. epidermidis culture adjusted to 0·5 colony-forming units/ml. Bags were incubated under platelet storage conditions for 7 days. After culture removal, bacteria attached to the plastic surface were either dislodged by sonication for bacterial quantification or examined in situ by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Higher bacterial adhesion was observed to preconditioned PC bags than control containers for both bag types (P < 0·0001). Bacterial attachment to preconditioned bags was confirmed by SEM. Bacteria adhered equally to both types of containers in the presence of PRP, PPP and DefibPPP residues (P > 0·05). By contrast, a significant increase in bacterial adherence was observed to type A bags compared with type B bags in the absence of plasma (P < 0·05) [Correction added on 16 June 2017, after first online publication: this sentence has been corrected]. The ability of S. epidermidis to adhere to preconditioned platelet collection bags depends on the presence of plasma factors. Future efforts should be focused on reducing plasma proteins' attachment to platelet storage containers to decrease subsequent bacterial adhesion. © 2017 International Society of Blood Transfusion.

Numerical Studies of Impurities in Fusion Plasmas

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Hulse, R. A.

1982-09-01

The coupled partial differential equations used to describe the behavior of impurity ions in magnetically confined controlled fusion plasmas require numerical solution for cases of practical interest. Computer codes developed for impurity modeling at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory are used as examples of the types of codes employed for this purpose. These codes solve for the impurity ionization state densities and associated radiation rates using atomic physics appropriate for these low-density, high-temperature plasmas. The simpler codes solve local equations in zero spatial dimensions while more complex cases require codes which explicitly include transport of the impurity ions simultaneously with the atomic processes of ionization and recombination. Typical applications are discussed and computational results are presented for selected cases of interest.

Filamentation due to the Weibel instability in two counterstreaming laser ablated plasmas

DOE PAGES

Dong, Quan -Li; Yuan, Dawei; Gao, Lan; ...

2016-05-01

Weibel-type filamentation instability was observed in the interaction of two counter streaming laser ablated plasma flows, which were supersonic, collisionless, and closely relevant to astrophysical conditions. The plasma flows were created by irradiating a pair of oppositely standing plastic (CH) foils with 1ns-pulsed laser beams of total energy of 1.7 kJ in two laser spots. Finally, with characteristics diagnosed in experiments, the calculated features of Weibel-type filaments are in good agreement with measurements.

A solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance study of post-plasma reactions in organosilicone microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) coatings.

PubMed

Hall, Colin J; Ponnusamy, Thirunavukkarasu; Murphy, Peter J; Lindberg, Mats; Antzutkin, Oleg N; Griesser, Hans J

2014-06-11

Plasma-polymerized organosilicone coatings can be used to impart abrasion resistance and barrier properties to plastic substrates such as polycarbonate. Coating rates suitable for industrial-scale deposition, up to 100 nm/s, can be achieved through the use of microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), with optimal process vapors such as tetramethyldisiloxane (TMDSO) and oxygen. However, it has been found that under certain deposition conditions, such coatings are subject to post-plasma changes; crazing or cracking can occur anytime from days to months after deposition. To understand the cause of the crazing and its dependence on processing plasma parameters, the effects of post-plasma reactions on the chemical bonding structure of coatings deposited with varying TMDSO-to-O2 ratios was studied with (29)Si and (13)C solid-state magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) using both single-pulse and cross-polarization techniques. The coatings showed complex chemical compositions significantly altered from the parent monomer. (29)Si MAS NMR spectra revealed four main groups of resonance lines, which correspond to four siloxane moieties (i.e., mono (M), di (D), tri (T), and quaternary (Q)) and how they are bound to oxygen. Quantitative measurements showed that the ratio of TMDSO to oxygen could shift the chemical structure of the coating from 39% to 55% in Q-type bonds and from 28% to 16% for D-type bonds. Post-plasma reactions were found to produce changes in relative intensities of (29)Si resonance lines. The NMR data were complemented by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Together, these techniques have shown that the bonding environment of Si is drastically altered by varying the TMDSO-to-O2 ratio during PECVD, and that post-plasma reactions increase the cross-link density of the silicon-oxygen network. It appears that Si-H and Si-OH chemical groups are the most susceptible to post-plasma reactions. Coatings produced at a

Lower Plasma Creatinine and Urine Albumin in Individuals at Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes with Factor V Leiden Mutation

PubMed Central

Fritsche, Andreas; Machicao, Fausto; Nawroth, Peter P.; Häring, Hans-Ulrich; Isermann, Berend

2014-01-01

The factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation is the most frequent genetic cause of venous thrombosis in Caucasians. However, protective effects have been suggested to balance the disadvantages. We have recently observed protective effects of FVL mutation on experimental diabetic nephropathy in mice as well as an association with reduced albuminuria in two human cohorts of diabetic patients. In the present study we aimed to reevaluate these findings in an independent, larger cohort of 1905 Caucasians at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and extend possible associations to earlier disease stages of nephropathy. Carriers of FVL mutation had a significantly lower urine albumin excretion (P = 0.03) and tended to have lower plasma creatinine concentrations (P = 0.07). The difference in plasma creatinine concentrations was significant after adjustment for the influencing factors: age, gender, and lean body mass (P = 0.048). These observations at a very early “disease” stage are an important extension of previous findings and suggest that modification of glomerular dysfunction by FVL mutation is relevant during very early stages of diabetic nephropathy. This makes the underlying mechanism an interesting therapeutic target and raises the question whether FVL mutation may also exert protective effects in other glomerulopathies. PMID:24729885

Study on the role of active radicals on plasma sterilization inside small diameter flexible polymeric tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mstsuura, Hiroto; Fujiyama, Takatomo; Okuno, Yasuki; Furuta, Masakazu; Okuda, Shuichi; Takemura, Yuichiro

2015-09-01

Recently, atmospheric pressure discharge plasma has gathered attention in various fields. Among them, plasma sterilization with many types of plasma source has studied for decades and its mechanism is still an open question. If active radicals produced in plasma has main contribution of killing bacterias, direct contact of the so-called plasma flame might not be necessary. To confirm this, sterilization inside small diameter flexible polymeric tubes is studied in present work. DBD type plasma jet is produce by flowing helium gas in a glass tube. A long polymeric tube is connected and plasma jet is introduced into it. Plasma flame length depends on helium gas flow rate, but limited to about 10 cm in our experimental condition. E.colis set at the exit plasma source is easily killed during 10 min irradiation. At the tube end (about 20 cm away from plasma source exit), sterilization is possible with 30 min operation. This result shows that active radical is produced with helium plasma and mist contained in sample, and it can be transferred more than 20 cm during it life time. More plasma diagnostic data will also be shown at the conference. This work was partially supported by the ''ZE Research Program, IAE(ZE27B-4).

Geospace Plasma Dynamics

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-22

DOCUMENTATION PAGE Form Approved OMB No. 0704-0188 Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response...control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1 . REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YYYY) 22-05-2013 2. REPORT TYPE Final Report 3. DATES...COVERED (From - To) 1 Oct 2007 to 30 Sep 2012 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Geospace Plasma Dynamics 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c

Elevated plasma creatinine due to creatine ethyl ester use.

PubMed

Velema, M S; de Ronde, W

2011-02-01

Creatine is a nutritional supplement widely used in sport, physical fitness training and bodybuilding. It is claimed to enhance performance. We describe a case in which serum creatinine is elevated due to the use of creatine ethyl esther. One week after withdrawal, the plasma creatinine had normalised. There are two types of creatine products available: creatine ethyl esther (CEE) and creatine monohydrate (CM). Plasma creatinine is not elevated in all creatine-using subjects. CEE , but not CM, is converted into creatinine in the gastrointestinal tract. As a result the use of CEE may be associated with elevated plasma creatinine levels. Since plasma creatinine is a widely used marker for renal function, the use of CEE may lead to a false assumption of renal failure.

Plasma jet takes off.

PubMed Central

Frazer, L

1999-01-01

Thanks to a series of joint research projects by Los Alamos National Laboratory, Beta Squared of Allen, Texas, and the University of California at Los Angeles, there is now a more environmentally sound method for cleaning semiconductor chips that may also be effective in cleaning up chemical, bacterial, and nuclear contaminants. The Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet uses a type of ionized gas called plasma to clean up contaminants by binding to them and lifting them away. In contrast to the corrosive acids and chemical solvents traditionally used to clean semiconductor chips, the jet oxidizes contaminants, producing only benign gaseous by-products such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. The new technology is also easy to transport, cleans thoroughly and quickly, and presents no hazards to its operators. PMID:10417375

Titan's highly variable plasma environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolf, D. A.; Neubauer, F. M.

1982-02-01

It is noted that Titan's plasma environment is variable for two reasons. The variability of the solar wind is such that Titan may be located in the outer magnetosphere, the magnetosheath, or the interplanetary medium around noon Saturnian local time. What is more, there are local time variations in Saturn's magnetosphere. The location of the stagnation point of Saturn's magnetosphere is calculated, assuming a terrestrial type magnetosphere. Characteristic plasma parameters along the orbit of Titan are shown for high solar wind pressure. During crossings of the Saturnian magnetopause or bow shock by Titan, abrupt changes in the flow direction and stagnation pressure are expected, as are rapid associated changes in Titan's uppermost atmosphere.

Solar Physics - Plasma Physics Workshop