Light fluence dosimetry in lung-simulating cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Timothy C.; Kim, Michele M.; Padawer, Jonah; Dimofte, Andreea; Potasek, Mary; Beeson, Karl; Parilov, Evgueni

2018-02-01

Accurate light dosimery is critical to ensure consistent outcome for pleural photodynamic therapy (pPDT). Ellipsoid shaped cavities with different sizes surrounded by turbid medium are used to simulate the intracavity lung geometry. An isotropic light source is introduced and surrounded by turbid media. Direct measurements of light fluence rate were compared to Monte Carlo simulated values on the surface of the cavities for various optical properties. The primary component of the light was determined by measurements performed in air in the same geometry. The scattered component was found by submerging the air-filled cavity in scattering media (Intralipid) and absorbent media (ink). The light source was located centrally with the azimuthal angle, but placed in two locations (vertically centered and 2 cm below the center) for measurements. Light fluence rate was measured using isotropic detectors placed at various angles on the ellipsoid surface. The measurements and simulations show that the scattered dose is uniform along the surface of the intracavity ellipsoid geometries in turbid media. One can express the light fluence rate empirically as φ =4S/As*Rd/(1- Rd), where Rd is the diffuse reflectance, As is the surface area, and S is the source power. The measurements agree with this empirical formula to within an uncertainty of 10% for the range of optical properties studied. GPU voxel-based Monte-Carlo simulation is performed to compare with measured results. This empirical formula can be applied to arbitrary geometries, such as the pleural or intraperitoneal cavity.

Phototropin 1 and dim-blue light modulate the red light de-etiolation response.

PubMed

Wang, Yihai; M Folta, Kevin

2014-01-01

Light signals regulate seedling morphological changes during de-etiolation through the coordinated actions of multiple light-sensing pathways. Previously we have shown that red-light-induced hypocotyl growth inhibition can be reversed by addition of dim blue light through the action of phototropin 1 (phot1). Here we further examine the fluence-rate relationships of this blue light effect in short-term (hours) and long-term (days) hypocotyl growth assays. The red stem-growth inhibition and blue promotion is a low-fluence rate response, and blue light delays or attenuates both the red light and far-red light responses. These de-etiolation responses include blue light reversal of red or far-red induced apical hook opening. This response also requires phot1. Cryptochromes (cry1 and cry2) are activated by higher blue light fluence-rates and override phot1's influence on hypocotyl growth promotion. Exogenous application of auxin transport inhibitor naphthylphthalamic acid abolished the blue light stem growth promotion in both hypocotyl growth and hook opening. Results from the genetic tests of this blue light effect in auxin transporter mutants, as well as phytochrome kinase substrate mutants indicated that aux1 may play a role in blue light reversal of red light response. Together, the phot1-mediated adjustment of phytochrome-regulated photomorphogenic events is most robust in dim blue light conditions and is likely modulated by auxin transport through its transporters.

Temperature, illumination, and fluence dependence of current and voltage in electron irradiated solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Faith, T. J.; Obenschain, A. F.

1974-01-01

Empirical equations have been derived from measurements of solar cell photovoltaic characteristics relating light-generated current and open circuit voltage to cell temperature, intensity of illumination and 1-MeV electron fluence. Both 2-ohm-cm and 10-ohm-cm cells were tested over the temperature range from 120 to 470 K, the illumination intensity range from 5 to 1830 mW/sq cm, and the electron fluence range from 1 x 10 to the 13th to 1 x 10 to the 16th electrons/sq cm. The normalized temperature coefficient of the light generated current varies as the 0.18 power of the fluence for temperatures above approximately 273 K and is independent of fluence at lower temperatures. At 140 mW/sq cm, a power law expression was derived which shows that the light-generated current decreases at a rate proportional to the 0.153 power of the fluence for both resistivities. The coefficient of the expression is larger for 2-ohm-cm cells; consequently, the advantage for 10-ohm-cm cells increased with increasing fluence.

An improved analytic function for predicting light fluence rate in circular fields on a semi-infinite geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Timothy C.; Lu, Amy; Ong, Yi-Hong

2016-03-01

Accurate determination of in-vivo light fluence rate is critical for preclinical and clinical studies involving photodynamic therapy (PDT). This study compares the longitudinal light fluence distribution inside biological tissue in the central axis of a 1 cm diameter circular uniform light field for a range of in-vivo tissue optical properties (absorption coefficients (μa) between 0.01 and 1 cm-1 and reduced scattering coefficients (μs') between 2 and 40 cm-1). This was done using Monte-Carlo simulations for a semi-infinite turbid medium in an air-tissue interface. The end goal is to develop an analytical expression that would fit the results from the Monte Carlo simulation for both the 1 cm diameter circular beam and the broad beam. Each of these parameters is expressed as a function of tissue optical properties. These results can then be compared against the existing expressions in the literature for broad beam for analysis in both accuracy and applicable range. Using the 6-parameter model, the range and accuracy for light transport through biological tissue is improved and may be used in the future as a guide in PDT for light fluence distribution for known tissue optical properties.

Phototropin 1 and dim-blue light modulate the red light de-etiolation response

PubMed Central

Wang, Yihai; M Folta, Kevin

2014-01-01

Light signals regulate seedling morphological changes during de-etiolation through the coordinated actions of multiple light-sensing pathways. Previously we have shown that red-light-induced hypocotyl growth inhibition can be reversed by addition of dim blue light through the action of phototropin 1 (phot1). Here we further examine the fluence-rate relationships of this blue light effect in short-term (hours) and long-term (days) hypocotyl growth assays. The red stem-growth inhibition and blue promotion is a low-fluence rate response, and blue light delays or attenuates both the red light and far-red light responses. These de-etiolation responses include blue light reversal of red or far-red induced apical hook opening. This response also requires phot1. Cryptochromes (cry1 and cry2) are activated by higher blue light fluence-rates and override phot1's influence on hypocotyl growth promotion. Exogenous application of auxin transport inhibitor naphthylphthalamic acid abolished the blue light stem growth promotion in both hypocotyl growth and hook opening. Results from the genetic tests of this blue light effect in auxin transporter mutants, as well as phytochrome kinase substrate mutants indicated that aux1 may play a role in blue light reversal of red light response. Together, the phot1-mediated adjustment of phytochrome-regulated photomorphogenic events is most robust in dim blue light conditions and is likely modulated by auxin transport through its transporters. PMID:25482790

308-nm excimer laser ablation of human cartilage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prodoehl, John A.; Rhodes, Anthony L.; Meller, Menachem M.; Sherk, Henry H.

1993-07-01

The XeCl excimer laser was investigated as an ablating tool for human fibrocartilage and hyaline cartilage. Quantitative measurements were made of tissue ablation rates as a function of fluence in meniscal fibrocartilage and articular hyaline cartilage. A force of 1.47 Newtons was applied to an 800 micrometers fiber with the laser delivering a range of fluences (40 to 190 mj/mm2) firing at a frequency of 5 Hz. To assess the effect of repetition rate on ablation rate, a set of measurements was made at a constant fluence of 60 mj/mm2, with the repetition rate varying from 10 to 40 Hz. Histologic and morphometric analysis was performed using light microscopy. The results of these studies revealed that the ablation rate was directly proportional to fluence over the range tested. Fibrocartilage was ablated at a rate 2.56 times faster than hyaline cartilage at the maximum fluence tested. Repetition rate had no effect on the penetration per pulse. Adjacent tissue damage was noted to be minimal (10 - 70 micrometers ).

A common fluence threshold for first positive and second positive phototropism in Arabidopsis thaliana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janoudi, A.; Poff, K. L.

1990-01-01

The relationship between the amount of light and the amount of response for any photobiological process can be based on the number of incident quanta per unit time (fluence rate-response) or on the number of incident quanta during a given period of irradiation (fluence-response). Fluence-response and fluence rate-response relationships have been measured for second positive phototropism by seedlings of Arabidopsis thaliana. The fluence-response relationships exhibit a single limiting threshold at about 0.01 micromole per square meter when measured at fluence rates from 2.4 x 10(-5) to 6.5 x 10(-3) micromoles per square meter per second. The threshold values in the fluence rate-response curves decrease with increasing time of irradiation, but show a common fluence threshold at about 0.01 micromole per square meter. These thresholds are the same as the threshold of about 0.01 micromole per square meter measured for first positive phototropism. Based on these data, it is suggested that second positive curvature has a threshold in time of about 10 minutes. Moreover, if the times of irradiation exceed the time threshold, there is a single limiting fluence threshold at about 0.01 micromole per square meter. Thus, the limiting fluence threshold for second positive phototropism is the same as the fluence threshold for first positive phototropism. Based on these data, we suggest that this common fluence threshold for first positive and second positive phototropism is set by a single photoreceptor pigment system.

T-Opt: A 3D Monte Carlo simulation for light delivery design in photodynamic therapy (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Honda, Norihiro; Hazama, Hisanao; Awazu, Kunio

2017-02-01

The interstitial photodynamic therapy (iPDT) with 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a safe and feasible treatment modality of malignant glioblastoma. In order to cover the tumour volume, the exact position of the light diffusers within the lesion is needed to decide precisely. The aim of this study is the development of evaluation method of treatment volume with 3D Monte Carlo simulation for iPDT using 5-ALA. Monte Carlo simulations of fluence rate were performed using the optical properties of the brain tissue infiltrated by tumor cells and normal tissue. 3-D Monte Carlo simulation was used to calculate the position of the light diffusers within the lesion and light transport. The fluence rate near the diffuser was maximum and decreased exponentially with distance. The simulation can calculate the amount of singlet oxygen generated by PDT. In order to increase the accuracy of simulation results, the parameter for simulation includes the quantum yield of singlet oxygen generation, the accumulated concentration of photosensitizer within tissue, fluence rate, molar extinction coefficient at the wavelength of excitation light. The simulation is useful for evaluation of treatment region of iPDT with 5-ALA.

Role of root UV-B sensing in Arabidopsis early seedling development.

PubMed

Tong, Hongyun; Leasure, Colin D; Hou, Xuewen; Yuen, Gigi; Briggs, Winslow; He, Zheng-Hui

2008-12-30

All sun-exposed organisms are affected by UV-B [(UVB) 280-320 nm], an integral part of sunlight. UVB can cause stresses or act as a developmental signal depending on its fluence levels. In plants, the mechanism by which high-fluence-rate UVB causes damages and activates DNA-repair systems has been extensively studied. However, little is known about how nondamaging low-fluence-rate UVB is perceived to regulate plant morphogenesis and development. Here, we report the identification of an Arabidopsis mutant, root UVB sensitive 1 (rus1), whose primary root is hypersensitive to very low-fluence-rate (VLF) UVB. Under standard growth-chamber fluorescent white light, rus1 displays stunted root growth and fails to form postembryonic leaves. Experiments with different monochromatic light sources showed that rus1 phenotypes can be rescued if the seedlings are allowed to grow in light conditions with minimum UVB. We determined that roots, not other organs, perceive the UVB signal. Genetic and molecular analyses confirmed that the root light-sensitive phenotypes are independent of all other known plant photoreceptors. Three rus1 alleles have been identified and characterized. A map-based approach was used to identify the RUS1 locus. RUS1 encodes a protein that contains DUF647 (domain of unknown function 647), a domain highly conserved in eukaryotes. Our results demonstrate a root VLF UVB-sensing mechanism that is involved in Arabidopsis early seedling morphogenesis and development.

Low-level laser therapy on MCF-7 cells: a micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magrini, Taciana D.; dos Santos, Nathalia Villa; Milazzotto, Marcella Pecora; Cerchiaro, Giselle; da Silva Martinho, Herculano

2012-10-01

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an emerging therapeutic approach for several clinical conditions. The clinical effects induced by LLLT presumably scale from photobiostimulation/photobioinhibition at the cellular level to the molecular level. The detailed mechanism underlying this effect remains unknown. This study quantifies some relevant aspects of LLLT related to molecular and cellular variations. Malignant breast cells (MCF-7) were exposed to spatially filtered light from a He-Ne laser (633 nm) with fluences of 5, 28.8, and 1000 mJ/cm2. The cell viability was evaluated by optical microscopy using the Trypan Blue viability test. The micro-Fourier transform infrared technique was employed to obtain the vibrational spectra of each experimental group (control and irradiated) and identify the relevant biochemical alterations that occurred due to the process. It was observed that the red light influenced the RNA, phosphate, and serine/threonine/tyrosine bands. We found that light can influence cell metabolism depending on the laser fluence. For 5 mJ/cm2, MCF-7 cells suffer bioinhibition with decreased metabolic rates. In contrast, for the 1 J/cm2 laser fluence, cells present biostimulation accompanied by a metabolic rate elevation. Surprisingly, at the intermediate fluence, 28.8 mJ/cm2, the metabolic rate is increased despite the absence of proliferative results. The data were interpreted within the retrograde signaling pathway mechanism activated with light irradiation.

Large plasma-membrane depolarization precedes rapid blue-light-induced growth inhibition in cucumber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spalding, E. P.; Cosgrove, D. J.

1989-01-01

Blue-light (BL)-induced suppression of elongation of etiolated Cucumis sativus L. hypocotyls began after a 30-s lag time, which was halved by increasing the fluence rate from 10 to 100 micromoles m-2 s-1. Prior to the growth suppression, the plasma-membrane of the irradiated cells depolarized by as much as 100 mV, then returned within 2-3 min to near its initial value. The potential difference measured with surface electrodes changed with an identical time course but opposite polarity. The lag time for the change in surface potential showed an inverse dependence on fluence rate, similar to the lag for the growth inhibition. Green light and red light caused neither the electrical response nor the rapid inhibition of growth. The depolarization by BL did not propagate to nonirradiated regions and exhibited a refractory period of about 10 min following a BL pulse. Fluence-response relationships for the electrical and growth responses provide correlational evidence that the plasma-membrane depolarization reflects an event in the transduction chain of this light-growth response.

Blue light-induced phototropism of inflorescence stems and petioles is mediated by phototropin family members phot1 and phot2.

PubMed

Kagawa, Takatoshi; Kimura, Mitsuhiro; Wada, Masamitsu

2009-10-01

Phototropin family photoreceptors, phot1 and phot2, in Arabidopsis thaliana control the blue light (BL)-mediated phototropic responses of the hypocotyl, chloroplast relocation movement and stomatal opening. Phototropic responses in dark-grown tissues have been well studied but those in de-etiolated green plants are not well understood. Here, we analyzed phototropic responses of inflorescence stems and petioles of wild-type and phototropin mutant plants of A. thaliana. Similar to the results obtained from dark-grown seedlings, inflorescence stems and petioles in wild-type and phot2 mutant plants showed phototropic bending towards low fluence BL, while in phot1 mutant plants, a high fluence rate of BL was required. phot1 phot2 double mutant plants did not show any phototropic responses even under very high fluence rates of BL. We further studied the photoreceptive sites for phototropic responses of stems and petioles by partial tissue irradiation. The whole part of the inflorescence stem is sensitive to BL and shows phototropism, but in the petiole only the irradiated abaxial side is sensitive. Similar to dark-grown etiolated seedlings, phot1 plays a major role in phototropic responses under weak light, but phot2 functions under high fluence rate conditions in green plants.

Plotting Rates of Photosynthesis as a Function of Light Quantity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dean, Rob L.

1996-01-01

Discusses methods for plotting rates of photosynthesis as a function of light quantity. Presents evidence that suggests that empirically derived conversion factors, which are used to convert foot candles to photon fluence rates, should be used with extreme caution. Suggests how rate data are best plotted when any kind of light meter is not…

Low-level laser therapy on MCF-7 cells: a micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study.

PubMed

Magrini, Taciana D; dos Santos, Nathalia Villa; Milazzotto, Marcella Pecora; Cerchiaro, Giselle; da Silva Martinho, Herculano

2012-10-01

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an emerging therapeutic approach for several clinical conditions. The clinical effects induced by LLLT presumably scale from photobiostimulation/photobioinhibition at the cellular level to the molecular level. The detailed mechanism underlying this effect remains unknown. This study quantifies some relevant aspects of LLLT related to molecular and cellular variations. Malignant breast cells (MCF-7) were exposed to spatially filtered light from a He-Ne laser (633 nm) with fluences of 5, 28.8, and 1000  mJ/cm². The cell viability was evaluated by optical microscopy using the Trypan Blue viability test. The micro-Fourier transform infrared technique was employed to obtain the vibrational spectra of each experimental group (control and irradiated) and identify the relevant biochemical alterations that occurred due to the process. It was observed that the red light influenced the RNA, phosphate, and serine/threonine/tyrosine bands. We found that light can influence cell metabolism depending on the laser fluence. For 5  mJ/cm², MCF-7 cells suffer bioinhibition with decreased metabolic rates. In contrast, for the 1  J/cm² laser fluence, cells present biostimulation accompanied by a metabolic rate elevation. Surprisingly, at the intermediate fluence, 28.8  mJ/cm², the metabolic rate is increased despite the absence of proliferative results. The data were interpreted within the retrograde signaling pathway mechanism activated with light irradiation.

Transurethral illumination probe design for deep photoacoustic imaging of prostate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ai, Min; Salcudean, Tim; Rohling, Robert; Abolmaesumi, Purang; Tang, Shuo

2018-02-01

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging with internal light illumination through optical fiber could enable imaging of internal organs at deep penetration. We have developed a transurethral probe with a multimode fiber inserted in a rigid cystoscope sheath for illuminating the prostate. At the distal end, the fiber tip is processed to diffuse light circumferentially over 2 cm length. A parabolic cylinder mirror then reflects the light to form a rectangular-shaped parallel beam which has at least 1 cm2 at the probe surface. The relatively large rectangular beam size can reduce the laser fluence rate on the urethral wall and thus reduce the potential of tissue damage. A 3 cm optical penetration in chicken tissue is achieved at a fluence rate around 7 mJ/cm2 . For further validation, a prostate phantom was built with similar optical properties of the human prostate. A 1.5 cm penetration depth is achieved in the prostate mimicking phantom at 10 mJ/cm2 fluence rate. PA imaging of prostate can potentially be carried out in the future by combining a transrectal ultrasound transducer and the transurethral illumination.

Possibility for a full optical determination of photodynamic therapy outcome

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vollet-Filho, J. D.; Menezes, P. F. C.; Moriyama, L. T.; Grecco, C.; Sibata, C.; Allison, R. R.; Castro e Silva, O.; Bagnato, V. S.

2009-05-01

The efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) depends on a variety of parameters: concentration of the photosensitizer at the time of treatment, light wavelength, fluence, fluence rate, availability of oxygen within the illuminated volume, and light distribution in the tissue. Dosimetry in PDT requires the congregation of adequate amounts of light, drug, and tissue oxygen. The adequate dosimetry should be able to predict the extension of the tissue damage. Photosensitizer photobleaching rate depends on the availability of molecular oxygen in the tissue. Based on photosensitizers photobleaching models, high photobleaching has to be associated with high production of singlet oxygen and therefore with higher photodynamic action, resulting in a greater depth of necrosis. The purpose of this work is to show a possible correlation between depth of necrosis and the in vivo photosensitizer (in this case, Photogem®) photodegradation during PDT. Such correlation allows possibilities for the development of a real time evaluation of the photodynamic action during PDT application. Experiments were performed in a range of fluence (0-450 J/cm2) at a constant fluence rate of 250 mW/cm2 and applying different illumination times (0-1800 s) to achieve the desired fluence. A quantity was defined (ψ) as the product of fluorescence ratio (related to the photosensitizer degradation at the surface) and the observed depth of necrosis. The correlation between depth of necrosis and surface fluorescence signal is expressed in ψ and could allow, in principle, a noninvasive monitoring of PDT effects during treatment. High degree of correlation is observed and a simple mathematical model to justify the results is presented.

A Common Fluence Threshold for First Positive and Second Positive Phototropism in Arabidopsis thaliana1

PubMed Central

Janoudi, Abdul; Poff, Kenneth L.

1990-01-01

The relationship between the amount of light and the amount of response for any photobiological process can be based on the number of incident quanta per unit time (fluence rate-response) or on the number of incident quanta during a given period of irradiation (fluence-response). Fluence-response and fluence rate-response relationships have been measured for second positive phototropism by seedlings of Arabidopsis thaliana. The fluence-response relationships exhibit a single limiting threshold at about 0.01 micromole per square meter when measured at fluence rates from 2.4 × 10−5 to 6.5 × 10−3 micromoles per square meter per second. The threshold values in the fluence rateresponse curves decrease with increasing time of irradiation, but show a common fluence threshold at about 0.01 micromole per square meter. These thresholds are the same as the threshold of about 0.01 micromole per square meter measured for first positive phototropism. Based on these data, it is suggested that second positive curvature has a threshold in time of about 10 minutes. Moreover, if the times of irradiation exceed the time threshold, there is a single limiting fluence threshold at about 0.01 micromole per square meter. Thus, the limiting fluence threshold for second positive phototropism is the same as the fluence threshold for first positive phototropism. Based on these data, we suggest that this common fluence threshold for first positive and second positive phototropism is set by a single photoreceptor pigment system. PMID:11537470

Reactive oxygen species explicit dosimetry (ROSED) of a type 1 photosensitizer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Yi Hong; Kim, Michele M.; Huang, Zheng; Zhu, Timothy C.

2018-02-01

Type I photodynamic therapy (PDT) is based on the use of photochemical reactions mediated through an interaction between a tumor-selective photosensitizer, photoexcitation with a specific wavelength of light, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The goal of this study is to develop a model to calculate reactive oxygen species concentration ([ROS]rx) after Tookad®-mediated vascular PDT. Mice with radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors were treated with different light fluence and fluence rate conditions. Explicit measurements of photosensitizer drug concentration were made via diffuse reflective absorption spectrum using a contact probe before and after PDT. Blood flow and tissue oxygen concentration over time were measured during PDT as a mean to validate the photochemical parameters for the ROSED calculation. Cure index was computed from the rate of tumor regrowth after treatment and was compared against three calculated dose metrics: total light fluence, PDT dose, reacted [ROS]rx. The tumor growth study demonstrates that [ROS]rx serves as a better dosimetric quantity for predicting treatment outcome, as a clinically relevant tumor growth endpoint.

Photodynamic Therapy for Cancer Cells Using a Flash Wave Light Xenon Lamp

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kimura, Makoto; Kashikura, Kasumi; Yokoi, Satomi; Koiwa, Yumiko; Tokuoka, Yoshikazu; Kawashima, Norimichi

We determined photodynamic therapy (PDT) efficacy using a flash wave (FW) and a continuous wave (CW) light, of which the fluence rate was 70 W/cm2, for murine thymic lymphoma cells (EL-4) cultivated in vitro. The irradiation frequency and the pulse width of the FW light were in the range of 1-32 Hz and less than one millisecond, respectively. 5-Aminolevulinic acid-induced protoporphyrin IX (ALA-PpIX) was used as a photosensitizer. When EL-4 with ALA administration was irradiated by the light for 4 h (irradiation fluence: 1.0J/cm2), the survival rate of EL-4 by the FW light was lower than that by the CW light, except for the FW light with irradiation frequency of 32 Hz, and decreased gradually with decreasing irradiation frequency. Moreover, the FW light, especially at lower irradiation frequency, was superior to the CW light for the generation of singlet oxygen in an aqueous PpIX solution. Therefore, thehigher PDT efficacy for EL-4 of the FW light would be caused by the greater generation of singlet oxygen in the cells.

Singlet oxygen explicit dosimetry to predict long-term local tumor control for BPD-mediated photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Michele M.; Penjweini, Rozhin; Ong, Yi Hong; Zhu, Timothy C.

2017-02-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a well-established treatment modality for cancer and other malignant diseases; however, quantities such as light fluence, photosensitizer photobleaching rate, and PDT dose do not fully account for all of the dynamic interactions between the key components involved. In particular, fluence rate (Φ) effects are not accounted for, which has a large effect on the oxygen consumption rate. In this preclinical study, reacted singlet oxygen [1O2]rx was investigated as a dosimetric quantity for PDT outcome. The ability of [1O2]rx to predict the long-term local tumor control rate (LCR) for BPD-mediated PDT was examined. Mice bearing radioactivelyinduced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors were treated with different in-air fluences (250, 300, and 350 J/cm2) and in-air ϕ (75, 100, and150 mW/cm2) with a BPD dose of 1 mg/kg and a drug-light interval of 3 hours. Treatment was delivered with a collimated laser beam of 1 cm diameter at 690 nm. Explicit dosimetry of initial tissue oxygen concentration, tissue optical properties, and BPD concentration was used to calculate [1O2]rx. Φ was calculated for the treatment volume based on Monte-Carlo simulations and measured tissue optical properties. Kaplan-Meier analyses for LCR were done for an endpoint of tumor volume <= 100 mm3 using four dose metrics: light fluence, photosensitizer photobleaching rate, PDT dose, and [1O2]rx. PDT dose was defined as the product of the timeintegral of photosensitizer concentration and Φ at a 3 mm tumor depth. Preliminary studies show that [1O2]rx better correlates with LCR and is an effective dosimetric quantity that can predict treatment outcome.

Light quality modulates metabolic synchronization over the diel phases of crassulacean acid metabolism

PubMed Central

Ceusters, Johan; Borland, Anne M.; Taybi, Tahar; Frans, Mario; Godts, Christof; De Proft, Maurice P.

2014-01-01

Temporal compartmentation of carboxylation processes is a defining feature of crassulacean acid metabolism and involves circadian control of key metabolic and transport steps that regulate the supply and demand for carbon over a 24h cycle. Recent insights on the molecular workings of the circadian clock and its connection with environmental inputs raise new questions on the importance of light quality and, by analogy, certain photoreceptors for synchronizing the metabolic components of CAM. The present work tested the hypothesis that optimal coupling of stomatal conductance, net CO2 uptake, and the reciprocal turnover of carbohydrates and organic acids over the diel CAM cycle requires both blue and red light input signals. Contrasting monochromatic wavelengths of blue, green, and red light (i.e. 475, 530, 630nm) with low fluence rates (10 μmol m–2 s–1) were administered for 16 hours each diel cycle for a total treatment time of 48 hours to the obligate CAM bromeliad, Aechmea ‘Maya’. Of the light treatments imposed, low-fluence blue light was a key determinant in regulating stomatal responses, organic acid mobilization from the vacuole, and daytime decarboxylation. However, the reciprocal relationship between starch and organic acid turnover that is typical for CAM was uncoupled under low-fluence blue light. Under low-fluence red or green light, the diel turnover of storage carbohydrates was orchestrated in line with the requirements of CAM, but a consistent delay in acid consumption at dawn compared with plants under white or low-fluence blue light was noted. Consistent with the acknowledged influences of both red and blue light as input signals for the circadian clock, the data stress the importance of both red and blue-light signalling pathways for synchronizing the metabolic and physiological components of CAM over the day/night cycle. PMID:24803500

System and Method for Determining Fluence of a Substance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Banks, Bruce A. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A system and method for measuring a fluence of gas are disclosed. The system has a first light detector capable of outputting an electrical signal based on an amount of light received. A barrier is positionable adjacent the first light detector and is susceptible to a change in dimension from the fluence of the gas. The barrier permits a portion of light from being received by the first light detector. The change in the dimension of the barrier changes the electrical signal output from the first light detector. A second light detector is positionable to receive light representative of the first light detector without the barrier. The system and method have broad application to detect fluence of gas that may cause erosion chemical reaction causing erosive deterioration. One application is in low orbit Earth for detecting the fluence of atomic oxygen.

In vitro Cellular Uptake and Dimerization of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription-3 (STAT3) Identify the Photosensitizing and Imaging-Potential of Isomeric Photosensitizers Derived from Chlorophyll-a and Bacteriochlorophyll-a

PubMed Central

Srivatsan, Avinash; Wang, Yanfang; Joshi, Penny; Sajjad, Munawwar; Chen, Yihui; Liu, Chao; Thankppan, Krishnakumar; Missert, Joseph R.; Tracy, Erin; Morgan, Janet; Rigual, Nestor; Baumann, Heinz; Pandey, Ravindra K.

2011-01-01

Among the photosensitizers investigated, both ring-D and ring-B reduced chlorins containing the m-iodobenzyloxyethyl group at position-3 and a carboxylic acid functionality at position-172 showed highest uptake by tumor cells and light-dependent photo reaction that correlated with maximal tumor-imaging [positron emission tomography (PET) and fluorescence] and long-term photodynamic therapy (PDT) efficacy in BALB/c mice bearing Colon26 tumors. However, among the ring-D reduced compounds, the isomer containing 1′-m-iobenzyloxyethyl group at position-3 was more effective than the corresponding 8-(1′-m-iodobenzyloxyethyl) derivative. All photosensitizers showed maximum uptake by tumor tissue 24h after injection and the tumors exposed with light at low fluence and fluence rates (128 J/cm2, 14 mW/cm2) produced significantly enhanced tumor eradication than those exposed at higher fluence and fluence rate (135 J/cm,2 75mW/cm2). Interestingly, dose-dependent cellular uptake of the compounds and light-dependent STAT3 dimerization have emerged as sensitive rapid indicators for PDT efficacy in vitro and in vivo and could be used as in vitro/in vivo biomarkers for evaluating and optimizing the in vivo treatment parameters of the existing and new PDT candidates. PMID:21842893

New design of textile light diffusers for photodynamic therapy.

PubMed

Cochrane, Cédric; Mordon, Serge R; Lesage, Jean Claude; Koncar, Vladan

2013-04-01

A homogeneous and reproducible fluence delivery rate during clinical photodynamic therapy (PDT) plays a determinant role in preventing under- or overtreatment. PDT applied in dermatology has been carried out with a wide variety of light sources delivering a broad range of more or less adapted light doses. Due to the complexities of the human anatomy, these light sources do not in fact deliver a uniform light distribution to the skin. Therefore, the development of flexible light sources would considerably improve the homogeneity of light delivery. The integration of plastic optical fiber (POF) into textile structures could offer an interesting alternative. In this article, a textile light diffuser (TLD) has been developed using POF and Polyester yarns. Predetermined POF macrobending leads to side emission of light when the critical angle is exceeded. Therefore, a specific pattern based on different satin weaves has been developed in order to improve light emission homogeneity and to correct the decrease of side emitted radiation intensity along POF. The prototyped fabrics (approximately 100 cm(2): 5×20 cm) were woven using a hand loom, then both ends of the POF were coupled to a laser diode (5 W, 635 nm). The fluence rate (mW/ cm(2)) and the homogeneity of light delivery by the TLD were evaluated. Temperature evolution, as a function of time, was controlled with an infrared thermographic camera. When using a power source of 5 W, the fluence rate of the TLD was 18±2.5 mw/cm(2). Due to the high efficiency of the TLD, the optical losses were very low. The TLD temperature elevation was 0.6 °C after 10 min of illumination. Our TLD meets the basic requirements for PDT: homogeneous light distribution and flexibility. It also proves that large (500 cm(2)) textile light diffusers adapted to skin, but also to peritoneal or pleural cavity, PDTs can be easily produced by textile manufacturing processes. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Performance of a nonlaser light source for photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whitehurst, Colin; Byrne, Karen T.; Morton, Colin; Moore, James V.

1995-03-01

Advances in short arc technology and optical filter coatings led to the design and construction of a table-top light source in 1989; the first viable and cost-effective alternative to a laser. The device can deliver over 3 W within a 30 nm band centered at any wavelength from 200 nm to 1200 nm at fluence rates of over 1 W cm-2. Its relative biological effectiveness (RBE) in vitro has been proven alongside an argon pumped dye laser and a copper vapor pumped dye laser. These in vitro tests showed an efficiency of hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) induced cellular photoinactivation close to that of the argon/dye laser (RBE 100%), with a mean RBE for the lamp of 87 +/- 3% (p < 0.05). The lamp proved to be superior to that of the copper/dye laser system with an RBE of up to 150% at fluence rates above 50 mWcm-2. In vivo tests show that the extent and depth of tumor necrosis are comparable to that of an argon/dye laser. An in situ bioassay using tumor regrowth delay is currently underway. Early clinical trials show clearance of Bowen's disease and actinic keratosis using the same light fluences as costly PDT lasers.

Application of 3D printing to prototype and develop novel plant tissue culture systems.

PubMed

Shukla, Mukund R; Singh, Amritpal S; Piunno, Kevin; Saxena, Praveen K; Jones, A Maxwell P

2017-01-01

Due to the complex process of designing and manufacturing new plant tissue culture vessels through conventional means there have been limited efforts to innovate improved designs. Further, development and availability of low cost, energy efficient LEDs of various spectra has made it a promising light source for plant growth in controlled environments. However, direct replacement of conventional lighting sources with LEDs does not address problems with uniformity, spectral control, or the challenges in conducting statistically valid experiments to assess the effects of light. Prototyping using 3D printing and LED based light sources could help overcome these limitations and lead to improved culture systems. A modular culture vessel design in which the fluence rate and spectrum of light are independently controlled was designed, prototyped using 3D printing, and evaluated for plant growth. This design is compatible with semi-solid and liquid based culture systems. Observations on morphology, chlorophyll content, and chlorophyll fluorescence based stress parameters from in vitro plants cultured under different light spectra with similar overall fluence rate indicated different responses in Nicotiana tabacum and Artemisia annua plantlets. This experiment validates the utility of 3D printing to design and test functional vessels and demonstrated that optimal light spectra for in vitro plant growth is species-specific. 3D printing was successfully used to prototype novel culture vessels with independently controlled variable fluence rate/spectra LED lighting. This system addresses several limitations associated with current lighting systems, providing more uniform lighting and allowing proper replication/randomization for experimental plant biology while increasing energy efficiency. A complete procedure including the design and prototyping of a culture vessel using 3D printing, commercial scale injection molding of the prototype, and conducting a properly replicated experiment are discussed. This open source design has the scope for further improvement and adaptation and demonstrates the power of 3D printing to improve the design of culture systems.

Individual Members of the Cab Gene Family Differ Widely in Fluence Response.

PubMed Central

White, M. J.; Kaufman, L. S.; Horwitz, B. A.; Briggs, W. R.; Thompson, W. F.

1995-01-01

Chlorophyll a/b-binding protein genes (Cab genes) can be extremely sensitive to light. Transcript accumulation following a red light pulse increases with fluence over 8 orders of magnitude (L.S. Kaufman, W.F. Thompson, W.R. Briggs [1984] Science 226: 1447-1449). We have constructed fluence-response curves for individual Cab genes. At least two Cab genes (Cab-8 and AB96) show a very low fluence response to a single red light pulse. In contrast, two other Cab genes (AB80 and AB66) fail to produce detectable transcript following a single pulse of either red or blue light but are expressed in continuous red light. Thus, very low fluence responses and high irradiance responses occur in the same gene family. PMID:12228352

SU-G-JeP3-10: Update On a Real-Time Treatment Guidance System Using An IR Navigation System for Pleural PDT

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

Kim, M; Penjweini, R; Zhu, T

Purpose: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used in conjunction with surgical debulking of tumorous tissue during treatment for pleural mesothelioma. One of the key components of effective PDT is uniform light distribution. Currently, light is monitored with 8 isotropic light detectors that are placed at specific locations inside the pleural cavity. A tracking system with real-time feedback software can be utilized to improve the uniformity of light in addition to the existing detectors. Methods: An infrared (IR) tracking camera is used to monitor the movement of the light source. The same system determines the pleural geometry of the treatment area. Softwaremore » upgrades allow visualization of the pleural cavity as a two-dimensional volume. The treatment delivery wand was upgraded for ease of light delivery while incorporating the IR system. Isotropic detector locations are also displayed. Data from the tracking system is used to calculate the light fluence rate delivered. This data is also compared with in vivo data collected via the isotropic detectors. Furthermore, treatment volume information will be used to form light dose volume histograms of the pleural cavity. Results: In a phantom study, the light distribution was improved by using real-time guidance compared to the distribution when using detectors without guidance. With the tracking system, 2D data can be collected regarding light fluence rather than just the 8 discrete locations inside the pleural cavity. Light fluence distribution on the entire cavity can be calculated at every time in the treatment. Conclusion: The IR camera has been used successfully during pleural PDT patient treatment to track the motion of the light source and provide real-time display of 2D light fluence. It is possible to use the feedback system to deliver a more uniform dose of light throughout the pleural cavity.« less

Macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling for dosimetry of Photofrin-mediated photodynamic therapy: an in-vivo study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Haixia; Kim, Michele M.; Penjweini, Rozhin; Zhu, Timothy C.

2016-08-01

Although photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an established modality for cancer treatment, current dosimetric quantities, such as light fluence and PDT dose, do not account for the differences in PDT oxygen consumption for different fluence rates (φ). A macroscopic model was adopted to evaluate using calculated reacted singlet oxygen concentration ([) to predict Photofrin-PDT outcome in mice bearing radiation-induced fibrosarcoma tumors, as singlet oxygen is the primary cytotoxic species responsible for cell death in type II PDT. Using a combination of fluences (50, 135, 200, and 250 J/cm2) and φ (50, 75, and 150 mW/cm2), tumor regrowth rate, k, was determined for each condition. A tumor cure index, CI=1-k/k, was calculated based on the k between PDT-treated groups and that of the control, k. The measured Photofrin concentration and light dose for each mouse were used to calculate PDT dose and [, while mean optical properties (μa=0.9 cm-1, μs‧=8.4 cm-1) were used to calculate φ for all mice. CI was correlated to the fluence, PDT dose, and [ with R2=0.35, 0.79, and 0.93, respectively. These results suggest that [ serves as a better dosimetric quantity for predicting PDT outcome.

Light exaggerates apical hook curvature through phytochrome actions in tomato seedlings.

PubMed

Shichijo, Chizuko; Ohuchi, Hisako; Iwata, Naoko; Nagatoshi, Yukari; Takahashi, Miki; Nakatani, Eri; Inoue, Kentaroh; Tsurumi, Seiji; Tanaka, Osamu; Hashimoto, Tohru

2010-02-01

Contrary to the established notion that the apical hook of dark-grown dicotyledonous seedlings opens in response to light, we found in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) that the apical hook curvature is exaggerated by light. Experiments with several tomato cultivars and phytochrome mutants, irradiated with red and far-red light either as a brief pulse (Rp, FRp) or continuously (Rc, FRc), revealed: the hook-exaggeration response is maximal at the emergence of the hypocotyl from the seed; the effect of Rp is FRp-reversible; fluence-response curves to a single Rp or FRp show an involvement of low and very low fluence responses (LFR, VLFR); the effect of Rc is fluence-rate dependent, but that of FRc is not; the phyA mutant (phyA hp-1) failed to respond to an Rp of less than 10(-2) micromol m(-2) and to an FRp of all fluences tested as well as to FRc, thus indicating that the hook-exaggeration response involves phyA-mediated VLFR. The Rp fluence-response curve with the same mutant also confirmed the presence of an LFR mediated by phytochrome(s) other than phyA, although the phyB1 mutant (phyB1 hp-1) still showed full response probably due to other redundant phytochrome species (e.g., phyB2). Simulation experiments led to the possible significance of hook exaggeration in the field that the photoresponse may facilitate the release of seed coat when seeds germinate at some range of depth in soil. It was also observed that seed coat and/or endosperm are essential to the hook exaggeration.

Temperature, illumination and fluence dependence of current and voltage in electron irradiated solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obenschain, A. F.; Faith, T. J.

1973-01-01

Emperical equations have been derived from measurements of solar cell photovoltaic characteristics relating light generated current, IL, and open circuit voltage, VO, to cell temperature, T, intensity of illumination, W, and 1 Mev electron fluence, phi both 2 ohm-cm and 10 ohm-cm cells were tested. The temperature dependency of IL is similar for both resistivities at 140mw/sq cm; at high temperature the coefficient varies with fluence as phi 0.18, while at low temperatures the coefficient is relatively independent of fluence. Fluence dependent degration causes a decrease in IL at a rate proportional to phi 0.153 for both resistivities. At all intensities other than 560 mw/sq cm, a linear dependence of IL on illumination was found. The temperature coefficient of voltage was, to a good approximation, independent of both temperature and illumination for both resistivities. Illumination dependence of VOC was logarithmic, while the decrease with fluence of VOC varied as phi 0.25 for both resistivities.

Treatment of café-au-lait macules with a high-fluenced 1064-nm Q-switched neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser.

PubMed

Kim, Jiehoon; Hur, Hoon; Kim, Yu Ri; Cho, Sung Bin

2018-02-01

Café-au-lait macules (CALMs) are light to dark brown macules or patches of increased melanin concentration found along the dermoepidermal junction. Although many attempts to treat CALMs using various kinds of laser/light-based devices have been reported, CALMs remain refractory thereto with high recurrence rates. In this case series, we describe four patients with idiopathic CALMs that were effectively and safely treated with a non-ablative, high-fluenced, Q-switched (QS), 1064-nm neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser. The typical laser parameters for treating CALMs, including a spot size of 7-7.5 mm, a fluence of 2.4-2.5 J/cm 2 , and one to two passes until the appearance of mild erythema, but not petechiae, were utilized in this study over 12-24 treatment sessions at 2-week intervals. We suggest that high-fluenced QS 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser treatment can be used as an effective and alternative treatment modality for CALMs with minimal risk of side effects.

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

Persson, Mats, E-mail: mats.persson@mi.physics.kth

Purpose: The highest photon fluence rate that a computed tomography (CT) detector must be able to measure is an important parameter. The authors calculate the maximum transmitted fluence rate in a commercial CT scanner as a function of patient size for standard head, chest, and abdomen protocols. Methods: The authors scanned an anthropomorphic phantom (Kyoto Kagaku PBU-60) with the reference CT protocols provided by AAPM on a GE LightSpeed VCT scanner and noted the tube current applied with the tube current modulation (TCM) system. By rescaling this tube current using published measurements on the tube current modulation of a GEmore » scanner [N. Keat, “CT scanner automatic exposure control systems,” MHRA Evaluation Report 05016, ImPACT, London, UK, 2005], the authors could estimate the tube current that these protocols would have resulted in for other patient sizes. An ECG gated chest protocol was also simulated. Using measured dose rate profiles along the bowtie filters, the authors simulated imaging of anonymized patient images with a range of sizes on a GE VCT scanner and calculated the maximum transmitted fluence rate. In addition, the 99th and the 95th percentiles of the transmitted fluence rate distribution behind the patient are calculated and the effect of omitting projection lines passing just below the skin line is investigated. Results: The highest transmitted fluence rates on the detector for the AAPM reference protocols with centered patients are found for head images and for intermediate-sized chest images, both with a maximum of 3.4 ⋅ 10{sup 8} mm{sup −2} s{sup −1}, at 949 mm distance from the source. Miscentering the head by 50 mm downward increases the maximum transmitted fluence rate to 5.7 ⋅ 10{sup 8} mm{sup −2} s{sup −1}. The ECG gated chest protocol gives fluence rates up to 2.3 ⋅ 10{sup 8} − 3.6 ⋅ 10{sup 8} mm{sup −2} s{sup −1} depending on miscentering. Conclusions: The fluence rate on a CT detector reaches 3 ⋅ 10{sup 8} − 6 ⋅ 10{sup 8} mm{sup −2} s{sup −1} in standard imaging protocols, with the highest rates occurring for ECG gated chest and miscentered head scans. These results will be useful to developers of CT detectors, in particular photon counting detectors.« less

Multiple phytochromes are involved in red-light-induced enhancement of first-positive phototropism in arabidopsis thaliana

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

Janoudi, A.K.; Gordon, W.R.; Poff, K.L.

1997-03-01

The amplitude of phototropic curvature to blue light is enhanced by a prior exposure of seedlings to red light. This enhancement is mediated by phytochrome. Fluence-response relationships have been constructed for red-light-induced enhancement in the phytochrome A (phyA) null mutant, the phytochrome B- (phyB) deficient mutant, and in two transgenic lines of Arabidopsis thaliana that overexpress either phyA or phyB. These fluence-response relationships demonstrate the existence of two responses in enhancement, a response in the very-low-to-low-fluence range, and a response in the high-fluence range. Only the response in the high-fluence range is present in the phyA null mutant. In contrast,more » the phyB-deficient mutant is indistinguishable from the wild-type parent in red-light responsiveness. These data indicate that phyA is necessary for the very-low-to-low but not the high-fluence response, and that phyB is not necessary for either response range. Based on these results, the high-fluence response, if controlled by a single phytochrome, must be controlled by a phytochrome other than phyA or phyB. Overexpression of phyA has a negative effect and overexpression of phyB has an enhancing effect in the high fluence range. These results suggest that overexpression of either phytochrome perturbs the function of the endogenous photoreceptor system in unpreditable fashion. 25 refs., 3 figs.« less

Singlet oxygen explicit dosimetry to predict long-term local tumor control for Photofrin-mediated photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penjweini, Rozhin; Kim, Michele M.; Ong, Yi Hong; Zhu, Timothy C.

2017-02-01

Although photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an established modality for the treatment of cancer, current dosimetric quantities do not account for the variations in PDT oxygen consumption for different fluence rates (φ). In this study we examine the efficacy of reacted singlet oxygen concentration ([1O2]rx) to predict long-term local control rate (LCR) for Photofrin-mediated PDT. Radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors in the right shoulders of female C3H mice are treated with different in-air fluences of 225-540 J/cm2 and in-air fluence rate (φair) of 50 and 75 mW/cm2 at 5 mg/kg Photofrin and a drug-light interval of 24 hours using a 1 cm diameter collimated laser beam at 630 nm wavelength. [1O2]rx is calculated by using a macroscopic model based on explicit dosimetry of Photofrin concentration, tissue optical properties, tissue oxygenation and blood flow changes during PDT. The tumor volume of each mouse is tracked for 90 days after PDT and Kaplan-Meier analyses for LCR are performed based on a tumor volume <=100 mm3, for the four dose metrics light fluence, photosensitizer photobleaching rate, PDT dose and [1O2]rx. PDT dose is defined as a temporal integral of photosensitizer concentration and Φ at a 3 mm tumor depth. φ is calculated throughout the treatment volume based on Monte-Carlo simulation and measured tissue optical properties. Our preliminary studies show that [1O2]rx is the best dosimetric quantity that can predict tumor response and correlate with LCR. Moreover, [1O2]rx calculated using the blood flow changes was in agreement with [1O2]rx calculated based on the actual tissue oxygenation.

Characterization of measurement artefacts in fluoroptic temperature sensors: implications for laser thermal therapy at 810 nm.

PubMed

Davidson, Sean R H; Vitkin, I Alex; Sherar, Michael D; Whelan, William M

2005-04-01

Fluoroptic sensors are used to measure interstitial temperatures but their utility for monitoring laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is unclear because these sensors exhibit a measurement artefact when exposed to the near-infrared (NIR) treatment light. This study investigates the cause of the artefact to determine whether fluoroptic sensors can provide reliable temperature measurements during LITT. The temperature rise measured by a fluoroptic sensor irradiated in non-absorbing media (air and water) was considered an artefact. Temperature rise was measured as a function of distance from a laser source. Two different sensor designs and several laser powers were investigated. A relationship between fluence rate and measurement artefact in water was determined and coupled with a numerical simulation of LITT in liver to estimate the error in temperature measurements made by fluoroptic sensors in tissue in proximity to the laser source. The effect of ambient light on the performance of sensors capped with a transparent material ("clear-capped sensors") was also investigated. The temperature rise recorded in air by both clear- and black-capped fluoroptic sensors decreased with distance from a laser source in a manner similar to fluence rate. Sensor cap material, laser power, and the thermal properties of the surrounding medium affected the magnitude of the artefact. Numerical simulations indicated that the accuracy of a clear-capped fluoroptic sensor used to monitor a typical LITT treatment in liver is > 1 degrees C provided the sensor is further than approximately 3 mm from the source. It was also shown that clear-capped fluoroptic sensors are affected by ambient light. The measurement artefact experienced by both black-capped and clear-capped fluoroptic sensors irradiated by NIR light scales with fluence rate and is due to direct absorption of the laser light, which results in sensor self-heating. Clear-capped fluoroptic sensors can be used to accurately monitor LITT in tissue but should be shielded from ambient light. Copyright 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Hypocotyl growth orientation in blue light is determined by phytochrome A inhibition of gravitropism and phototropin promotion of phototropism.

PubMed

Lariguet, Patricia; Fankhauser, Christian

2004-12-01

How developing seedlings integrate gravitropic and phototropic stimuli to determine their direction of growth is poorly understood. In this study we tested whether blue light influences hypocotyl gravitropism in Arabidopsis. Phototropin1 (phot1) triggers phototropism under low fluence rates of blue light but, at least in the dark, has no effect on gravitropism. By analyzing the growth orientation of phototropism-deficient seedlings in response to gravitropic and phototropic stimulations we show that blue light not only triggers phototropism but also represses hypocotyl gravitropism. At low fluence rates of blue light phot1 mutants were agravitropic. In contrast, phyAphot1 double mutants grew exclusively according to gravity demonstrating that phytochrome A (phyA) is necessary to inhibit gravitropism. Analyses of phot1cry1cry2 triple mutants indicate that cryptochromes play a minor role in this response. Thus the optimal growth orientation of hypocotyls is determined by the action of phyA-suppressing gravitropism and the phototropin-triggering phototropism. It has long been known that phytochromes promote phototropism but the mechanism involved is still unknown. Our data show that by inhibiting gravitropism phyA acts as a positive regulator of phototropism.

Beam test evaluation of electromagnetic calorimeter modules made from proton-damaged PbWO4 crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adams, T.; Adzic, P.; Ahuja, S.; Anderson, D.; Andrews, M. B.; Antropov, I.; Antunovic, Z.; Arcidiacono, R.; Arenton, M. W.; Argirò, S.; Askew, A.; Attikis, A.; Auffray, E.; Baccaro, S.; Baffioni, S.; Bailleux, D.; Baillon, P.; Barney, D.; Barone, L.; Bartoloni, A.; Bartosik, N.; Becheva, E.; Bein, S.; Silva, C. Beirāo Da Cruz E.; Bell, K. W.; Benaglia, A.; Bendavid, J.; Berry, D.; Besancon, M.; Betev, B.; Bialas, W.; Bianchini, L.; Biino, C.; Bitioukov, S.; Bornheim, A.; Brianza, L.; Brinkerhoff, A.; Brown, R. M.; Brummitt, A.; Busson, P.; Candelise, V.; Carrillo Montoya, C. A.; Cartiglia, N.; Cavallari, F.; Chang, Y. W.; Chen, K. F.; Chevenier, G.; Chipaux, R.; Clement, E.; Cockerill, D. J. A.; Corpe, L.; Couderc, F.; Courbon, B.; Cox, B.; Cucciati, G.; Cussans, D.; D'imperio, G.; Da Silva Di Calafiori, D. R.; Dafinei, I.; Daguin, J.; Daskalakis, G.; Tinoco Mendes, A. D.; De Guio, F.; Degano, A.; Dejardin, M.; Del Re, D.; Della Ricca, G.; Denegri, D.; Depasse, P.; Dev, N.; Deyrail, D.; Di Marco, E.; Diamond, B.; Diemoz, M.; Dissertori, G.; Dittmar, M.; Djambazov, L.; Doan, T. H.; Dobrzynski, L.; Dolgopolov, A.; Donegà, M.; Dordevic, M.; Dröge, M.; Durkin, T.; Dutta, D.; El Mamouni, H.; Elliott-Peisert, A.; Elmalis, E.; Fabbro, B.; Fasanella, G.; Faure, J.; Fay, J.; Fedorov, A.; Ferri, F.; Francis, B.; Frank, N.; Franzoni, G.; Funk, W.; Ganjour, S.; Gascon, S.; Gastal, M.; Geerebaert, Y.; Gelli, S.; Gerosa, R.; Ghezzi, A.; Giakoumopoulou, V. A.; Givernaud, A.; Gninenko, S.; Godinovic, N.; Goeckner-Wald, N.; Golubev, N.; Govoni, P.; Gras, P.; Guilloux, F.; Haller, C.; Hamel de Monchenault, G.; Hansen, M.; Hansen, P.; Hardenbrook, J.; Heath, H. F.; Hill, J.; Hirosky, R.; Hobson, P. R.; Holme, O.; Honma, A.; Hou, W.-S.; Hsiung, Y.; Iiyama, Y.; Ille, B.; Ingram, Q.; Jain, S.; Jarry, P.; Jessop, C.; Jovanovic, D.; Kachanov, V.; Kalafut, S.; Kao, K. Y.; Kellams, N.; Kesisoglou, S.; Khatiwada, A.; Konoplyannikov, A.; Konstantinov, D.; Korzhik, M.; Kovac, M.; Kubota, Y.; Kucher, I.; Kumar, A.; Kumar, A.; Kuo, C.; Kyberd, P.; Kyriakis, A.; Latyshev, G.; Lecoq, P.; Ledovskoy, A.; Lei, Y. J.; Lelas, D.; Lethuillier, M.; Li, H.; Lin, W.; Liu, Y. F.; Locci, E.; Longo, E.; Loukas, D.; Lu, R.-S.; Lucchini, M. T.; Lustermann, W.; Mackay, C. K.; Magniette, F.; Malcles, J.; Malhotra, S.; Mandjavidze, I.; Maravin, Y.; Margaroli, F.; Marinelli, N.; Marini, A. C.; Martelli, A.; Marzocchi, B.; Massironi, A.; Matveev, V.; Mechinsky, V.; Meng, F.; Meridiani, P.; Micheli, F.; Milosevic, J.; Mousa, J.; Musella, P.; Nessi-Tedaldi, F.; Neu, C.; Newman, H.; Nicolaou, C.; Nourbakhsh, S.; Obertino, M. M.; Organtini, G.; Orimoto, T.; Paganini, P.; Paganis, E.; Paganoni, M.; Pandolfi, F.; Panov, V.; Paramatti, R.; Parracho, P.; Pastrone, N.; Paulini, M.; Pauss, F.; Pauwels, K.; Pellegrino, F.; Pena, C.; Perniè, L.; Peruzzi, M.; Petrakou, E.; Petyt, D.; Pigazzini, S.; Piroué, P.; Planer, M.; Plestina, R.; Polic, D.; Prosper, H.; Ptochos, F.; Puljak, I.; Quittnat, M.; Ragazzi, S.; Rahatlou, S.; Rander, J.; Ranjan, K.; Rasteiro Da Silva, J.; Razis, P. A.; Romanteau, T.; Rosowsky, A.; Rovelli, C.; Rusack, R.; Salerno, R.; Santanastasio, F.; Santra, A.; Schönenberger, M.; Seez, C.; Sharma, V.; Shepherd-Themistocleous, C.; Shiu, J. G.; Shivpuri, R. K.; Singovsky, A.; Sinthuprasith, T.; Sirois, Y.; Smiljkovic, N.; Soffi, L.; Sun, M.; Symonds, P.; Tabarelli de Fatis, T.; Tambe, N.; Tarasov, I.; Taroni, S.; Teixeira De Lima, R.; Thea, A.; Theofilatos, K.; Thiant, F.; Titov, M.; Torbet, M.; Trapani, P. P.; Tropea, P.; Tsai, J. f.; Tsirou, A.; Turkewitz, J.; Tyurin, N.; Tzeng, Y. M.; Uzunian, A.; Valls, N.; Varela, J.; Veeraraghavan, V.; Verdini, P. G.; Vichoudis, P.; Vlassov, E.; Wang, J.; Wang, T.; Weinberg, M.; Wolfe, E.; Wood, J.; Zabi, A.; Zahid, S.; Zelepoukine, S.; Zghiche, A.; Zhang, L.; Zhu, K.; Zhu, R.; Zuyeuski, R.

2016-04-01

The performance of electromagnetic calorimeter modules made of proton-irradiated PbWO4 crystals has been studied in beam tests. The modules, similar to those used in the Endcaps of the CMS electromagnetic calorimeter (ECAL), were formed from 5×5 matrices of PbWO4 crystals, which had previously been exposed to 24 GeV protons up to integrated fluences between 2.1× 1013 and 1.3× 1014 cm-2. These correspond to the predicted charged-hadron fluences in the ECAL Endcaps at pseudorapidity η = 2.6 after about 500 fb-1 and 3000 fb-1 respectively, corresponding to the end of the LHC and High Luminosity LHC operation periods. The irradiated crystals have a lower light transmission for wavelengths corresponding to the scintillation light, and a correspondingly reduced light output. A comparison with four crystals irradiated in situ in CMS showed no significant rate dependence of hadron-induced damage. A degradation of the energy resolution and a non-linear response to electron showers are observed in damaged crystals. Direct measurements of the light output from the crystals show the amplitude decreasing and pulse becoming faster as the fluence increases. The latter is interpreted, through comparison with simulation, as a side-effect of the degradation in light transmission. The experimental results obtained can be used to estimate the long term performance of the CMS ECAL.

Red light photodynamic therapy for actinic keratosis using 37 J/cm2 : Fractionated irradiation with 12.3 mW/cm2 after 30 minutes incubation time compared to standard continuous irradiation with 75 mW/cm2 after 3 hours incubation time using a mathematical modeling.

PubMed

Vignion-Dewalle, Anne-Sophie; Baert, Gregory; Devos, Laura; Thecua, Elise; Vicentini, Claire; Mortier, Laurent; Mordon, Serge

2017-09-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging treatment modality for various diseases, especially for dermatological conditions. Although, the standard PDT protocol for the treatment of actinic keratoses in Europe has shown to be effective, treatment-associated pain is often observed in patients. Different modifications to this protocol attempted to decrease pain have been investigated. The decrease in fluence rate seems to be a promising solution. Moreover, it has been suggested that light fractionation significantly increases the efficacy of PDT. Based on a flexible light-emitting textile, the FLEXITHERALIGHT device specifically provides a fractionated illumination at a fluence rate more than six times lower than that of the standard protocol. In a recently completed clinical trial of PDT for the treatment of actinic keratosis, the non-inferiority of a protocol involving illumination with the FLEXITHERALIGHT device after a short incubation time and referred to as the FLEXITHERALIGHT protocol has been assessed compared to the standard protocol. In this paper, we propose a comparison of the two above mentioned 635 nm red light protocols with 37 J/cm 2 in the PDT treatment of actinic keratosis: the standard protocol and the FLEXITHERALIGHT one through a mathematical modeling. This mathematical modeling, which slightly differs from the one we have already published, enables the local damage induced by the therapy to be estimated. The comparison performed in terms of the local damage induced by the therapy demonstrates that the FLEXITHERALIGHT protocol with lower fluence rate, light fractionation and shorter incubation time is somewhat less efficient than the standard protocol. Nevertheless, from the clinical trial results, the FLEXITHERALIGHT protocol results in non-inferior response rates compared to the standard protocol. This finding raises the question of whether the PDT local damage achieved by the FLEXITHERALIGHT protocol (respectively, the standard protocol) is sufficient (respectively, excessive) to destroy actinic keratosis cells. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:686-697, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Gravitropism and phototropism of oat coleoptiles: Post-tropic autostraightening and tissue shrinkage during tropism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarui, Y.; Iino, M.

1999-01-01

We measured changes in length on the two opposite sides of the red-light-grown oat (Avena sativa L.) coleoptiles subjected to either gravitropic or phototropic stimulation and subsequently rotated on a horizontal clinostat. The length measurement was conducted using three 5 mm-long zones delimited by ink markers from the tip. Curvature of each zone was analyzed from the length difference between the two sides. Gravitropism was induced by displacing the seedling from the vertical by 30° or 90° for 25 min. Phototropism was induced by exposing the coleoptile to unilateral blue light for 30 s, which provided a fluence (1.0 μmol m-2) optimal for the pulse-induced positive phototropism or a lower, suboptimal fluence (0.03 μmol m-2). After negatively gravitropic bending, the upper two zones straightened rapidly at either displacement angle. After positively phototropic bending, straightening occurred, but only in the top zone and at the lower fluence. The upper two zones straightened rapidly, however, when bilateral blue light (30 s; 15 μmol m-2 from either direction) was applied 25 min after unilateral stimulation at the higher fluence. Bilateral blue light alone induced no curvature. These results confirm that the straightening of gravitropically bent coleoptiles is autonomic, and suggest that a similar autonomic response participates in the straightening of phototropically bent coleoptiles. Suppression of elongation on the concave side of the coleoptile mainly accounted for gravitropic and phototropic curvatures. The concave side of the top zone shrank during both tropisms. This shrinkage progressed at a high rate from the beginning of curvature response, suggesting that a drop in turgor pressure is the main and direct cause of the shrinkage.

Gravitropism and phototropism of oat coleoptiles: post-tropic autostraightening and tissue shrinkage during tropism.

PubMed

Tarui, Y; Iino, M

1999-01-01

We measured changes in length on the two opposite sides of the red-light-grown oat (Avena sativa L.) coleoptiles subjected to either gravitropic or phototropic stimulation and subsequently rotated on a horizontal clinostat. The length measurement was conducted using three 5 mm-long zones delimited by ink markers from the tip. Curvature of each zone was analyzed from the length difference between the two sides. Gravitropism was induced by displacing the seedling from the vertical by 30 degrees or 90 degrees for 25 min. Phototropism was induced by exposing the coleoptile to unilateral blue light for 30 s, which provided a fluence (1.0 micromoles m-2) optimal for the pulse-induced positive phototropism or a lower, suboptimal fluence (0.03 micromoles m-2). After negatively gravitropic bending, the upper two zones straightened rapidly at either displacement angle. After positively phototropic bending, straightening occurred, but only in the top zone and at the lower fluence. The upper two zones straightened rapidly, however, when bilateral blue light (30 s; 15 micromoles m-2 from either direction) was applied 25 min after unilateral stimulation at the higher fluence. Bilateral blue light alone induced no curvature. These results confirm that the straightening of gravitropically bent coleoptiles is autonomic, and suggest that a similar autonomic response participates in the straightening of phototropically bent coleoptiles. Suppression of elongation on the concave side of the coleoptile mainly accounted for gravitropic and phototropic curvatures. The concave side of the top zone shrank during both tropisms. This shrinkage progressed at a high rate from the beginning of curvature response, suggesting that a drop in turgor pressure is the main and direct cause of the shrinkage.

Beam test evaluation of electromagnetic calorimeter modules made from proton-damaged PbWO 4 crystals

DOE PAGES

Adams, T.; Adzic, P.; Ahuja, S.; ...

2016-04-11

The performance of electromagnetic calorimeter modules made of proton-irradiated PbWO 4 crystals has been studied in beam tests. The modules, similar to those used in the Endcaps of the CMS electromagnetic calorimeter (ECAL), were formed from 5×5 matrices of PbWO 4 crystals, which had previously been exposed to 24 GeV protons up to integrated fluences between 2.1 × 10 13 and 1.3 × 10 14 cm –2. These correspond to the predicted charged-hadron fluences in the ECAL Endcaps at pseudorapidity η = 2.6 after about 500 fb –1 and 3000 fb –1 respectively, corresponding to the end of the LHCmore » and High Luminosity LHC operation periods. The irradiated crystals have a lower light transmission for wavelengths corresponding to the scintillation light, and a correspondingly reduced light output. A comparison with four crystals irradiated in situ in CMS showed no significant rate dependence of hadron-induced damage. A degradation of the energy resolution and a non-linear response to electron showers are observed in damaged crystals. Direct measurements of the light output from the crystals show the amplitude decreasing and pulse becoming faster as the fluence increases. The latter is interpreted, through comparison with simulation, as a side-effect of the degradation in light transmission. In conclusion, the experimental results obtained can be used to estimate the long term performance of the CMS ECAL.« less

Beam test evaluation of electromagnetic calorimeter modules made from proton-damaged PbWO 4 crystals

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

Adams, T.; Adzic, P.; Ahuja, S.

The performance of electromagnetic calorimeter modules made of proton-irradiated PbWO 4 crystals has been studied in beam tests. The modules, similar to those used in the Endcaps of the CMS electromagnetic calorimeter (ECAL), were formed from 5×5 matrices of PbWO 4 crystals, which had previously been exposed to 24 GeV protons up to integrated fluences between 2.1 × 10 13 and 1.3 × 10 14 cm –2. These correspond to the predicted charged-hadron fluences in the ECAL Endcaps at pseudorapidity η = 2.6 after about 500 fb –1 and 3000 fb –1 respectively, corresponding to the end of the LHCmore » and High Luminosity LHC operation periods. The irradiated crystals have a lower light transmission for wavelengths corresponding to the scintillation light, and a correspondingly reduced light output. A comparison with four crystals irradiated in situ in CMS showed no significant rate dependence of hadron-induced damage. A degradation of the energy resolution and a non-linear response to electron showers are observed in damaged crystals. Direct measurements of the light output from the crystals show the amplitude decreasing and pulse becoming faster as the fluence increases. The latter is interpreted, through comparison with simulation, as a side-effect of the degradation in light transmission. In conclusion, the experimental results obtained can be used to estimate the long term performance of the CMS ECAL.« less

UV-B induction of the E3 ligase ARIADNE12 depends on CONSTITUTIVELY PHOTOMORPHOGENIC 1

PubMed Central

Xie, Lisi; Lang-Mladek, Christina; Richter, Julia; Nigam, Neha; Hauser, Marie-Theres

2015-01-01

The UV-B inducible ARIADNE12 (ARI12) gene of Arabidopsis thaliana is a member of the RING-between-RING (RBR) family of E3 ubiquitin ligases for which a novel ubiquitination mechanism was identified in mammalian homologs. This RING-HECT hybrid mechanism needs a conserved cysteine which is replaced by serine in ARI12 and might affect the E3 ubiquitin ligase activity. We have shown that under photomorphogenic UV-B, ARI12 is a downstream target of the classical ultraviolet B (UV-B) UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8) pathway. However, under high fluence rate of UV-B ARI12 was induced independently of UVR8 and the UV-A/blue light and red/far-red photoreceptors. A key component of several light signaling pathways is CONSTITUTIVELY PHOTOMORPHOGENIC 1 (COP1). Upon UV-B COP1 is trapped in the nucleus through interaction with UVR8 permitting the activation of genes that regulate the biosynthesis of UV-B protective metabolites and growth adaptations. To clarify the role of COP1 in the regulation of ARI12 mRNA expression and ARI12 protein stability, localization and interaction with COP1 was assessed with and without UV-B. We found that COP1 controls ARI12 in white light, low and high fluence rate of UV-B. Furthermore we show that ARI12 is indeed an E3 ubiquitin ligase which is mono-ubiquitinated, a prerequisite for the RING-HECT hybrid mechanism. Finally, genetic analyses with transgenes expressing a genomic pmARI12:ARI12-GFP construct confirm the epistatic interaction between COP1 and ARI12 in growth responses to high fluence rate UV-B. PMID:25817546

Arabidopsis nph1 and npl1: blue light receptors that mediate both phototropism and chloroplast relocation.

PubMed

Sakai, T; Kagawa, T; Kasahara, M; Swartz, T E; Christie, J M; Briggs, W R; Wada, M; Okada, K

2001-06-05

UV-A/blue light acts to regulate a number of physiological processes in higher plants. These include light-driven chloroplast movement and phototropism. The NPH1 gene of Arabidopsis encodes an autophosphorylating protein kinase that functions as a photoreceptor for phototropism in response to low-intensity blue light. However, nph1 mutants have been reported to exhibit normal phototropic curvature under high-intensity blue light, indicating the presence of an additional phototropic receptor. A likely candidate is the nph1 homologue, npl1, which has recently been shown to mediate the avoidance response of chloroplasts to high-intensity blue light in Arabidopsis. Here we demonstrate that npl1, like nph1, noncovalently binds the chromophore flavin mononucleotide (FMN) within two specialized PAS domains, termed LOV domains. Furthermore, when expressed in insect cells, npl1, like nph1, undergoes light-dependent autophosphorylation, indicating that npl1 also functions as a light receptor kinase. Consistent with this conclusion, we show that a nph1 npl1 double mutant exhibits an impaired phototropic response under both low- and high-intensity blue light. Hence, npl1 functions as a second phototropic receptor under high fluence rate conditions and is, in part, functionally redundant to nph1. We also demonstrate that both chloroplast accumulation in response to low-intensity light and chloroplast avoidance movement in response to high-intensity light are lacking in the nph1 npl1 double mutant. Our findings therefore indicate that nph1 and npl1 show partially overlapping functions in two different responses, phototropism and chloroplast relocation, in a fluence rate-dependent manner.

Feasibility of interstitial diffuse optical tomography using cylindrical diffusing fiber for prostate PDT

PubMed Central

Liang, Xing; Wang, Ken Kang-Hsin; Zhu, Timothy C.

2013-01-01

Interstitial diffuse optical tomography (DOT) has been used to characterize spatial distribution of optical properties for prostate photodynamic therapy (PDT) dosimetry. We have developed an interstitial DOT method using cylindrical diffuse fibers (CDFs) as light sources, so that the same light sources can be used for both DOT measurement and PDT treatment. In this novel interstitial CDF-DOT method, absolute light fluence per source strength (in unit of 1/cm2) is used to separate absorption and scattering coefficients. A mathematical phantom and a solid prostate phantom including anomalies with known optical properties were used, respectively, to test the feasibility of reconstructing optical properties using interstitial CDF-DOT. Three dimension spatial distributions of the optical properties were reconstructed for both scenarios. Our studies show that absorption coefficient can be reliably extrapolated while there are some cross talks between absorption and scattering properties. Even with the suboptimal reduced scattering coefficients, the reconstructed light fluence rate agreed with the measured values to within ±10%, thus the proposed CDF-DOT allows greatly improved light dosimetry calculation for interstitial PDT. PMID:23629149

Monitoring and assessment of tumor hemodynamics during pleural PDT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Yi Hong; Kim, Michele M.; Penjweini, Rozhin; Rodriguez, Carmen E.; Dimofte, Andrea; Finlay, Jarod C.; Busch, Theresa M.; Yodh, Arjun G.; Cengel, Keith A.; Singhal, Sunil; Zhu, Timothy C.

2017-02-01

Intrapleural photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used in combination with lung sparing surgery to treat patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. The light, photosensitizers and tissue oxygen are the three most important factors required by type II PDT to produce singlet oxygen, 1O2, which is the main photocytotoxic agent that damages the tumor vasculature and stimulates the body's anti-tumor immune response. Although light fluence rate and photosensitizer concentrations are routinely monitored during clinical PDT, there is so far a lack of a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved non-invasive technique that can be employed clinically to monitor tissue oxygen in vivo. In this paper, we demonstrated that blood flow correlates well with tissue oxygen concentration during PDT and can be used in place of [3O2] to calculate reacted singlet oxygen concentration [1O2]rx using the macroscopic singlet oxygen model. Diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) was used to monitor the change in tissue blood flow non-invasively during pleural PDT. A contact probe with three source and detectors separations, 0.4, 0.7 and 1.0-cm, was sutured to the pleural cavity wall of the patients after surgical resection of the pleural mesothelioma tumor to monitor the tissue blood flow during intraoperative PDT treatment. The changes of blood flow during PDT of 2 patients are found to be in good correlation with the treatment light fluence rate recorded by the isotropic detector placed adjacent to the DCS probe. [1O2]rx calculated based on light fluence, mean photosensitizer concentration, and relative blood flow was found to be 32% higher in patient #4 (0.50mM) than that for patient #3 (0.38mM).

Algorithms for bioluminescence tomography incorporating anatomical information and reconstruction of tissue optical properties

PubMed Central

Naser, Mohamed A.; Patterson, Michael S.

2010-01-01

Reconstruction algorithms are presented for a two-step solution of the bioluminescence tomography (BLT) problem. In the first step, a priori anatomical information provided by x-ray computed tomography or by other methods is used to solve the continuous wave (cw) diffuse optical tomography (DOT) problem. A Taylor series expansion approximates the light fluence rate dependence on the optical properties of each region where first and second order direct derivatives of the light fluence rate with respect to scattering and absorption coefficients are obtained and used for the reconstruction. In the second step, the reconstructed optical properties at different wavelengths are used to calculate the Green’s function of the system. Then an iterative minimization solution based on the L1 norm shrinks the permissible regions where the sources are allowed by selecting points with higher probability to contribute to the source distribution. This provides an efficient BLT reconstruction algorithm with the ability to determine relative source magnitudes and positions in the presence of noise. PMID:21258486

Explicit macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling for benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A (BPD)-mediated photodynamic therapy.

PubMed

Kim, Michele M; Penjweini, Rozhin; Liang, Xing; Zhu, Timothy C

2016-11-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective non-ionizing treatment modality that is currently being used for various malignant and non-malignant diseases. In type II PDT with photosensitizers such as benzoporphyrin monoacid ring A (BPD), cell death is based on the creation of singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ). With a previously proposed empirical five-parameter macroscopic model, the threshold dose of singlet oxygen ([ 1 O 2 ] rx,sh ]) to cause tissue necrosis in tumors treated with PDT was determined along with a range of the magnitude of the relevant photochemical parameters: the photochemical oxygen consumption rate per light fluence rate and photosensitizer concentration (ξ), the probability ratio of 1 O 2 to react with ground state photosensitizer compared to a cellular target (σ), the ratio of the monomolecular decay rate of the triplet state photosensitizer (β), the low photosensitizer concentration correction factor (δ), and the macroscopic maximum oxygen supply rate (g). Mice bearing radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors were treated interstitially with a linear light source at 690nm with total energy released per unit length of 22.5-135J/cm and source power per unit length of 12-150mW/cm to induce different radii of necrosis. A fitting algorithm was developed to determine the photochemical parameters by minimizing the error function involving the range between the calculated reacted singlet oxygen ([ 1 O 2 ] rx ) at necrosis radius and the [ 1 O 2 ] rx,sh . [ 1 O 2 ] rx was calculated based on explicit dosimetry of the light fluence distribution, the tissue optical properties, and the BPD concentration. The initial ground state oxygen concentration ([ 3 O 2 ] 0 ) was set to be 40μM in this study. The photochemical parameters were found to be ξ=(55±40)×10 -3 cm 2 mW -1 s -1 , σ=(1.8±3)×10 -5 μM -1 , and g=1.7±0.7μMs -1 . We have taken the literature values for δ=33μM, and β=11.9μM. [ 1 O 2 ] rx has shown promise to be a more effective dosimetry quantity for predicting necrosis than either light dose or PDT dose, where the latter is simplistically a temporal integral of the products of the photosensitizer concentration and light fluence rate. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of the Casparian strip is delayed by blue light in pea stems.

PubMed

Karahara, Ichirou; Takaya, Eliko; Fujibayashi, Shigetaka; Inoue, Hiroshi; Weller, James L; Reid, James B; Sugai, Michizo

2011-11-01

To understand the regulatory mechanisms involved in tissue development by light, the kinetics of regulation of Casparian strip (CS) development in garden pea stems was studied. We found that short-term irradiation with white light delayed the development of the CS and used this delay to assess the quantitative effect of light on CS development. We examined the effect of the duration and fluence rates of white light treatment on CS development and observed a significant relationship between fluence and the delay in CS development indicating that the Bunsen-Roscoe law of reciprocity holds for this response. The effect of white light irradiation was not inhibited in the presence of a photosynthetic inhibitor, DCMU, or a carotenoid biosynthesis inhibitor, Norflurazon, indicating that the delay in CS development by light is a photomorphogenetic response rather than a subsidiary effect mediated by photosynthetic activity. An action spectrum for the response displayed a major peak in the blue-light region, suggesting a dominant role for blue-light receptors. A minor peak in the red-light region also suggested the possible involvement of phytochromes. Although phytochromes are known to contribute to blue-light responses, phytochrome-deficient mutants showed a normal delay of CS development in response to blue light, indicating that the response is not mediated by phytochrome and suggesting a role for one or more specific blue-light receptors.

Practical new method of measuring thermal-neutron fluence

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siebold, J. R.; Warman, E. A.

1967-01-01

Thermoluminescence dosimeter technique measures thermal-neutron fluence by encapsulating lithium flouride phosphor powder and exposing it to a neutron environment. The capsule is heated in a dosimeter reader, which results in light emission proportional to the neutron fluence.

Arabidopsis nph1 and npl1: Blue light receptors that mediate both phototropism and chloroplast relocation

PubMed Central

Sakai, Tatsuya; Kagawa, Takatoshi; Kasahara, Masahiro; Swartz, Trevor E.; Christie, John M.; Briggs, Winslow R.; Wada, Masamitsu; Okada, Kiyotaka

2001-01-01

UV-A/blue light acts to regulate a number of physiological processes in higher plants. These include light-driven chloroplast movement and phototropism. The NPH1 gene of Arabidopsis encodes an autophosphorylating protein kinase that functions as a photoreceptor for phototropism in response to low-intensity blue light. However, nph1 mutants have been reported to exhibit normal phototropic curvature under high-intensity blue light, indicating the presence of an additional phototropic receptor. A likely candidate is the nph1 homologue, npl1, which has recently been shown to mediate the avoidance response of chloroplasts to high-intensity blue light in Arabidopsis. Here we demonstrate that npl1, like nph1, noncovalently binds the chromophore flavin mononucleotide (FMN) within two specialized PAS domains, termed LOV domains. Furthermore, when expressed in insect cells, npl1, like nph1, undergoes light-dependent autophosphorylation, indicating that npl1 also functions as a light receptor kinase. Consistent with this conclusion, we show that a nph1npl1 double mutant exhibits an impaired phototropic response under both low- and high-intensity blue light. Hence, npl1 functions as a second phototropic receptor under high fluence rate conditions and is, in part, functionally redundant to nph1. We also demonstrate that both chloroplast accumulation in response to low-intensity light and chloroplast avoidance movement in response to high-intensity light are lacking in the nph1npl1 double mutant. Our findings therefore indicate that nph1 and npl1 show partially overlapping functions in two different responses, phototropism and chloroplast relocation, in a fluence rate-dependent manner. PMID:11371609

Light-regulated gravitropism in seedling roots of maize

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feldman, L. J.; Briggs, W. R.

1987-01-01

Red light-induced changes in the gravitropism of roots of Zea mays variety Merit is a very low fluence response with a threshold of 10(-9) moles per square meter and is not reversible by far red light. Blue light also affects root gravitropism but the sensitivity of roots to blue is 50 to 100 times less than to an equal fluence of red. In Z. mays Merit we conclude that phytochrome is the sole pigment associated with light-induced changes in root gravitropism.

Close correspondence between the action spectra for the blue light responses of the guard cell and coleoptile chloroplasts, and the spectra for blue light-dependent stomatal opening and coleoptile phototropism

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

Quinones, M.A.; Lu, Zhenmin; Zeiger, E.

1996-03-05

Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to characterize blue light responses from chloroplasts of adaxial guard cells from Pima cotton (Gossypium barbadense) and coleoptile tips from corn (Zea mays). The chloroplast response to blue light was quantified by measurements of the blue light-induced enhancement of a red light-stimulated quenching of chlorophyll a fluorescence. In adaxial (upper) guard cells, low fluence rates of blue light applied under saturating fluence rates of red light enhanced the red light-stimulated fluorescence quenching by up to 50%. In contrast, added blue light did not alter the red light-stimulated quenching from abaxial (lower) guard cells. This response patternmore » paralleled the blue light sensitivity of stomatal opening in the two leaf surfaces. An action spectrum for the blue light-induced enhancement of the red light-stimulated quenching showed a major peak at 450 nm and two minor peaks at 420 and 470 nm. This spectrum matched closely an action spectrum for blue light-stimulated stomatal opening. Coleoptile chloroplasts also showed an enhancement by blue light of red light-stimulated quenching. The action spectrum of this response, showing a major peak at 450 nm, a minor peak at 470 nm, and a shoulder at 430 nm, closely matched an action spectrum for blue light-stimulated coleoptile phototropism. Both action spectra match the absorption spectrum of zeaxanthin, a chloroplastic carotenoid recently implicated in blue light photoreception of both guard cells and coleoptiles. The remarkable similarity between the action spectra for the blue light responses of guard cells and coleoptile chloroplasts and the spectra for blue light-stimulated stomatal opening and phototropism, coupled to the recently reported evidence on a role of zeaxanthin in blue light photoreception, indicates that the guard cell and coleoptile chloroplasts specialize in sensory transduction. 28 refs. 4 figs.« less

Trapping in irradiated p +-n-n - silicon sensors at fluences anticipated at the HL-LHC outer tracker

DOE PAGES

Adam, W.

2016-04-22

The degradation of signal in silicon sensors is studied under conditions expected at the CERN High-Luminosity LHC. 200μm thick n-type silicon sensors are irradiated with protons of different energies to fluences of up to 3 x 10 15 neq/cm 2. Pulsed red laser light with a wavelength of 672 nm is used to generate electron-hole pairs in the sensors. The induced signals are used to determine the charge collection efficiencies separately for electrons and holes drifting through the sensor. The effective trapping rates are extracted by comparing the results to simulation. The electric field is simulated using Synopsys device simulationmore » assuming two effective defects. The generation and drift of charge carriers are simulated in an independent simulation based on PixelAV. The effective trapping rates are determined from the measured charge collection efficiencies and the simulated and measured time-resolved current pulses are compared. Furthermore, the effective trapping rates determined for both electrons and holes are about 50% smaller than those obtained using standard extrapolations of studies at low fluences and suggests an improved tracker performance over initial expectations.« less

Comparison of Blue and White Lamp Light with Sunlight for Daylight-Mediated, 5-ALA Photodynamic Therapy, in vivo.

PubMed

Marra, Kayla; LaRochelle, Ethan P; Chapman, M Shane; Hoopes, P Jack; Lukovits, Karina; Maytin, Edward V; Hasan, Tayyaba; Pogue, Brian W

2018-04-16

Daylight-mediated photodynamic therapy (d-PDT) as a treatment for actinic keratosis (AK) is an increasingly common technique due to a significant reduction in pain, leading to better patient tolerability. While past studies have looked at different light sources and delivery methods, this study strives to provide equivalent PpIX-weighted light doses with the hypothesis that artificial light sources could be equally as effective as natural sunlight if their PpIX-weighted fluences were equalized. Normal mouse skin was used as the model to compare blue LED light, metal halide white light and natural sunlight, with minimal incubation time between topical ALA application and the onset of light delivery. A total PpIX-weighted fluence of 20 J eff cm -2 was delivered over 2 h, and the efficacy of response was quantified using three acute bioassays for PDT damage: PpIX photobleaching, Stat3 crosslinking and quantitative histopathology. These bioassays indicated blue light was slightly inferior to both sunlight and white light, but that the latter two were not significantly different. The results suggest that metal halide white light could be a reasonable alternative to daylight PDT, which should allow a more controlled treatment that is independent of weather and yet should have similar response rates with limited pain during treatment. © 2018 The American Society of Photobiology.

ASSESSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF LOW PRESSURE ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT FOR INACTIVATING HELICOBACTER PYLORI

EPA Science Inventory

Three strains of Helicobacter pylori were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light from a low-pressure source to determine log inactivation versus applied fluence. Results indicate that H. pylori is readily inactivated at UV fluences typically used in water treatment r...

Hypericin-photodynamic therapy (PDT) using an alternative treatment regime suitable for multi-fraction PDT.

PubMed

Thong, Patricia Soo-Ping; Watt, Frank; Ren, Min Qin; Tan, Puay Hoon; Soo, Khee Chee; Olivo, Malini

2006-01-02

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) outcome depends on the conditions under which it is carried out. Maintaining the tumour tissue oxygen level is important for PDT efficacy and using a low fluence rate can improve outcome. In this work we studied the response of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma tumours in murine models to hypericin-PDT carried out under low fluence and fluence rate. A drug-light interval (DLI) of 1h or 6h was used for 1h-PDT and 6h-PDT, respectively. Evan's blue test was used to assess necrosis and TUNEL staining for apoptosis. Nuclear microscopy was used to quantify elemental concentrations in tumours. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were also determined. TUNEL results showed that 6h-PDT induced significantly more apoptosis compared to 1h-PDT (p<0.01). This was supported by nuclear microscopy showing an increase in calcium and a decrease in zinc levels (both known triggers of apoptosis) in 6h-PDT tumours compared to non-PDT tumours (p<0.05). These results further imply a zinc-mediated pathway in hypericin-PDT induced apoptosis. 6h-PDT also resulted in a significant increase in copper concentrations compared to non-PDT tumours (p<0.05). Serum VEGF levels measured after 6h-PDT were lower than those obtained after 1h-PDT. Overall tumour response to hypericin-PDT under low fluence and fluence rate and using a 6h DLI showed increased apoptosis and lower serum VEGF levels. This treatment regime is suitable for the alternative approach of multi-fraction PDT in which the tumour can be exposed to multiple PDT fractions for complete tumour response. This alternative approach might yield improved outcome.

Light-Regulated Gravitropism in Seedling Roots of Maize 1

PubMed Central

Feldman, Lewis J.; Briggs, Winslow R.

1987-01-01

Red light-induced changes in the gravitropism of roots of Zea mays variety Merit is a very low fluence response with a threshold of 10−9 moles per square meter and is not reversible by far red light. Blue light also affects root gravitropism but the sensitivity of roots to blue is 50 to 100 times less than to an equal fluence of red. In Z. mays Merit we conclude that phytochrome is the sole pigment associated with light-induced changes in root gravitropism. PMID:11539030

Role of the phytochrome and cryptochrome signaling pathways in hypocotyl phototropism.

PubMed

Tsuchida-Mayama, Tomoko; Sakai, Tatsuya; Hanada, Atsushi; Uehara, Yukiko; Asami, Tadao; Yamaguchi, Shinjiro

2010-05-01

Unilateral blue-light irradiation activates phototropin (phot) photoreceptors, resulting in asymmetric distribution of the phytohormone auxin and induction of a phototropic response in higher plants. Other photoreceptors, including phytochrome (phy) and cryptochrome (cry), have been proposed as modulators of phototropic responses. We show here that either phy or cry is required for hypocotyl phototropism in Arabidopsis thaliana under high fluence rates of blue light, and that constitutive expression of ROOT PHOTOTROPISM 2 (RPT2) and treatment with the phytohormone gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol partially and independently complement the non-phototropic hypocotyl phenotype of the phyA cry1 cry2 mutant under high fluence rates of blue light. Our results indicate that induction of RPT2 and reduction in the GA are crucial for hypocotyl phototropic regulation by phy and cry. We also show that GA suppresses hypocotyl bending via destabilization of DELLA transcriptional regulators under darkness, but does not suppress the phototropic response in the presence of either phyA or cryptochromes, suggesting that these photoreceptors control not only the GA content but also the GA sensing and/or signaling that affects hypocotyl phototropism. The metabolic and signaling regulation of not only auxin but also GA by photoreceptors therefore appears to determine the hypocotyl growth pattern, including phototropic and gravitropic responses and inhibition of hypocotyl elongation, for adaptation to various light environments.

Efficient in vitro photodynamic inactivation of Candida albicans by repetitive light doses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torres-Hurtado, S. A.; Ramírez Ramírez, J.; Ramos-García, R.; Ramírez-San-Juan, J. C.; Spezzia-Mazzocco, T.

2018-02-01

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of Rose Bengal (RB) and Methylene Blue (MB) as photosensitizers (PS) in Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) on planktonic cultures of Candida albicans, a well-known opportunistic pathogen. RB and MB at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 60 μM and fluences of 10, 30, 45 and 60 J/cm2 were tested. The light sources consist of an array of 12 led diodes with 30 mW of optical power each; 490-540 nm (green light) to activate RB and 600 -650 nm (red light) to activate MB. We first optimize the in vitro PDI technique using a single light dose and the optimum PS concentration. The novelty of our approach consist in reducing further the PS concentration than the optimum obtained with a single light exposure and using smaller light fluence doses by using repetitive light exposures (two to three times). MB and RB were tested for repetitive exposures at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 μM, with fluences of 3 to 20 J/cm2, doses well below than those reported previously. All experiments were done in triplicate with the corresponding controls; cells without treatment, light control and dark toxicity control. RB-PDI and MB-PDI significantly reduced the number of CFU/mL when compared to the control groups. The results showed that RB was more effective than MB for C. albicans inactivation. Thus, we show that is possible to reduce significantly the amount of PS and light fluence requirements using repetitive light doses of PDI in vitro.

High-Fluence Light-Emitting Diode-Generated Red Light Modulates the Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Pathway in Human Skin Fibroblasts.

PubMed

Mamalis, Andrew; Jagdeo, Jared

2018-05-24

Skin fibrosis is a significant medical problem with limited available treatment modalities. The key cellular characteristics include increased fibroblast proliferation, collagen production, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-B)/SMAD pathway signaling. The authors have previously shown that high-fluence light-emitting diode red light (HF-LED-RL) decreases cellular proliferation and collagen production. Herein, the authors investigate the ability of HF-LED-RL to modulate the TGF-B/SMAD pathway. Normal human dermal fibroblasts were cultured and irradiated with a commercially available hand-held LED array. After irradiation, cell lysates were collected and levels of pSMAD2, TGF-Beta 1, and TGF-Beta I receptor were measured using Western blot. High-fluence light-emitting diode red light decreased TGF-Beta 1 ligand (TGF-B1) levels after irradiation. 320 J/cm HF-LED-RL resulted in 59% TGF-B1 and 640 J/cm HF-LED-RL resulted in 54% TGF-B1, relative to controls. 640 J/cm HF-LED-RL resulted in 62% pSMAD2 0 hours after irradiation, 65% pSMAD2 2 hours after irradiation, and 95% 4 hours after irradiation, compared with matched controls. High-fluence light-emitting diode red light resulted in no significant difference in transforming growth factor-beta receptor I levels compared with matched controls. Skin fibrosis is a significant medical problem with limited available treatment modalities. Light-emitting diode-generated red light is a safe, economic, and noninvasive modality that has a body of in vitro evidence supporting the reduction of key cellular characteristics associated with skin fibrosis.

Light based technologies for microbial inactivation of liquids, bead surfaces and powdered infant formula.

PubMed

Arroyo, Cristina; Dorozko, Anna; Gaston, Edurne; O'Sullivan, Michael; Whyte, Paul; Lyng, James G

2017-10-01

This study evaluates the potential of continuous wave Ultraviolet C light (UV-C) and broad-spectrum intense pulsed light (in this study referred to as High Intensity Light Pulses, HILP) for the inactivation of pathogens of public concern in powdered infant formula (PIF) producers. To achieve this goal a sequential set of experiments were performed, firstly in clear liquid media, secondly on the surface of spherical beads under agitation and, finally in PIF. L. innocua was the most sensitive microorganism to both technologies under all conditions studied with reductions exceeding 4 log 10 cycles in PIF. In the clear liquid medium, the maximum tolerance to light was observed for C. sakazakii against UV-C light and for B. subtilis spores against HILP, with a fluence of approximately 17 mJ/cm 2 required for a 1 log 10 cycle inactivation (D value) of each species. In PIF it was possible to inactivate >99% of the vegetative cell populations by HILP with a fluence of 199 mJ/cm 2 and of B. subtilis spores by doubling the fluence. By contrast, for UV-C treatments a fluence of 2853 mJ/cm 2 was needed for 99.9% reduction of C. sakazakii, which was the most light-resistant microorganism to UV-C. Results here obtained clearly show the potential for light-based interventions to improve PIF microbiological safety. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fast determination of the spatially distributed photon fluence for light dose evaluation of PDT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Kuanxin; Chen, Weiting; Li, Tongxin; Yan, Panpan; Qin, Zhuanping; Zhao, Huijuan

2018-02-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has shown superiorities of noninvasiveness and high-efficiency in the treatment of early-stage skin cancer. Rapid and accurate determination of spatially distributed photon fluence in turbid tissue is essential for the dosimetry evaluation of PDT. It is generally known that photon fluence can be accurately obtained by Monte Carlo (MC) methods, while too much time would be consumed especially for complex light source mode or online real-time dosimetry evaluation of PDT. In this work, a method to rapidly calculate spatially distributed photon fluence in turbid medium is proposed implementing a classical perturbation and iteration theory on mesh Monte Carlo (MMC). In the proposed method, photon fluence can be obtained by superposing a perturbed and iterative solution caused by the defects in turbid medium to an unperturbed solution for the background medium and therefore repetitive MMC simulations can be avoided. To validate the method, a non-melanoma skin cancer model is carried out. The simulation results show the solution of photon fluence can be obtained quickly and correctly by perturbation algorithm.

Measured Thermal and Fast Neutron Fluence Rates for ATF-1 Holders During ATR Cycle 157D

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

Smith, Larry Don; Miller, David Torbet

This report contains the thermal (2200 m/s) and fast (E>1MeV) neutron fluence rate data for the ATF-1 holders located in core for ATR Cycle 157D which were measured by the Radiation Measurements Laboratory (RML) as requested by the Power Reactor Programs (ATR Experiments) Radiation Measurements Work Order. This report contains measurements of the fluence rates corresponding to the particular elevations relative to the 80-ft. core elevation. The data in this report consist of (1) a table of the ATR power history and distribution, (2) a hard copy listing of all thermal and fast neutron fluence rates, and (3) plots ofmore » both the thermal and fast neutron fluence rates. The fluence rates reported are for the average power levels given in the table of power history and distribution.« less

Visually augmented targeted combination light therapy for acne vulgaris: a case report.

PubMed

Yazdi, Alireza; Lyons, Colin-William; Roberts, Niamh

2017-10-31

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease. Pharmacological modalities for treatment are proven to be efficacious but have limitations. Light therapy for acne vulgaris has shown promise in previous studies. This case report and its accompanying images show how a novel approach of visually augmented high fluence light therapy has been used to good effect. A 26-year-old Caucasian woman with acne vulgaris resistant to treatment with topical therapy underwent three sessions of combination potassium titanyl phosphate laser (532 nm)/neodymium-doped: yttrium aluminum garnet laser (1064 nm) light therapy with visually augmented narrow spot size and high fluence. A 73% reduction in total inflammatory lesions was evident 6 months after the initial treatment. This case report illustrates that there may be utility in this novel approach of narrow spot size, magnification-assisted, high fluence targeted combination laser therapy for inflammatory acne.

Effects of 810 nm laser on mouse primary cortical neurons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kharkwal, Gitika B.; Sharma, Sulbha K.; Huang, Ying-Ying; De Taboada, Luis; McCarthy, Thomas; Hamblin, Michael R.

2011-03-01

In the past four decades numerous studies have reported the efficacy of low level light (laser) therapy (LLLT) as a treatment for diverse diseases and injuries. Recent studies have shown that LLLT can biomodulate processes in the central nervous system and has been extensively studied as a stroke treatment. However there is still a lack of knowledge on the effects of LLLT at the cellular level in neurons. The present study aimed to study the effect of 810 nm laser on several cellular processes in primary cortical neurons cultured from mouse embryonic brains. Neurons were irradiated with light dose of 0.03, 0.3, 3, 10 and 30 J/cm2 and intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide and calcium were measured. The changes in mitochondrial function in response to light were studied in terms of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Light induced a significant increase in calcium, ATP and MMP at lower fluences and a decrease at higher fluence. ROS was induced significantly by light at all light doses. Nitric oxide levels also showed an increase on treatment with light. The results of the present study suggest that LLLT at lower fluences is capable of inducing mediators of cell signaling process which in turn may be responsible for the biomodulatory effects of the low level laser. At higher fluences beneficial mediators are reduced but potentially harmful mediators are increased thus offering an explanation for the biphasic dose response.

Evaluation of the 2-(1-Hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide (HPPH) mediated photodynamic therapy by macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling.

PubMed

Penjweini, Rozhin; Kim, Michele M; Liu, Baochang; Zhu, Timothy C

2016-12-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is known as a non-invasive treatment modality that is based on photochemical reactions between oxygen, photosensitizer, and a special wavelength of light. However, a dosimetric predictor for PDT outcome is still elusive because current dosimetric quantities do not account for the differences in the PDT oxygen consumption rate for different fluence rates. In this study, we evaluate several dose metrics, total fluence, photobleaching ratio, PDT dose, and mean reacted singlet oxygen (mean [ 1 O 2 ] rx ) for predicting the PDT outcome and a clinically relevant tumor re-growth endpoint. For this reason, radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) mice tumors are treated with 2-(1-Hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide (HPPH) and different in-air fluences (30 J/cm 2 , 50 J/cm 2 , 135 J/cm 2 , 250 J/cm 2 , and 350 J/cm 2 ) and in-air fluence rates (20, 50, 75, 150 mW/cm 2 ). Explicit measurements of HPPH and oxygen concentration as well as tissue optical properties are performed pre- and post-treatment. Then, this information is incorporated into a macroscopic model to calculate the photobleaching, PDT dose, and mean [ 1 O 2 ] rx . Changes in tumor volume are tracked following the treatment and compared with the dose metrics. The correlation demonstrates that mean [ 1 O 2 ] rx  serves as a better dosimetric quantity for predicting treatment outcome and a clinically relevant tumor re-growth endpoint. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Temperature dependence of damage coefficient in electron irradiated solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Faith, T. J.

1973-01-01

Measurements of light-generated current vs cell temperature on electron-irradiated n/p silicon solar cells show the temperature coefficient of this current to increase with increasing fluence for both 10-ohm and 20-ohm cells. A relationship between minority-carrier diffusion length and light-generated current was derived by combining measurements of these two parameters: vs fluence at room temperature, and vs cell temperature in cells irradiated to a fluence of 1 x 10 to the 15th power e/sq cm. This relationship was used, together with the light-generated current data, to calculate the temperature dependence of the diffusion-length damage coefficient. The results show a strong decrease in the damage coefficient with increasing temperature in the range experienced by solar panels in synchronous earth orbit.

Fluence Rate Differences in Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy and Activation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor after Treatment of the Tumor-Involved Murine Thoracic Cavity

PubMed Central

Grossman, Craig E.; Carter, Shirron L.; Czupryna, Julie; Wang, Le; Putt, Mary E.; Busch, Theresa M.

2016-01-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) of the thoracic cavity can be performed in conjunction with surgery to treat cancers of the lung and its pleura. However, illumination of the cavity results in tissue exposure to a broad range of fluence rates. In a murine model of intrathoracic PDT, we studied the efficacy of 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH; Photochlor®)-mediated PDT in reducing the burden of non-small cell lung cancer for treatments performed at different incident fluence rates (75 versus 150 mW/cm). To better understand a role for growth factor signaling in disease progression after intrathoracic PDT, the expression and activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was evaluated in areas of post-treatment proliferation. The low fluence rate of 75 mW/cm produced the largest reductions in tumor burden. Bioluminescent imaging and histological staining for cell proliferation (anti-Ki-67) identified areas of disease progression at both fluence rates after PDT. However, increased EGFR activation in proliferative areas was detected only after treatment at the higher fluence rate of 150 mW/cm. These data suggest that fluence rate may affect the activation of survival factors, such as EGFR, and weaker activation at lower fluence rate could contribute to a smaller tumor burden after PDT at 75 mW/cm. PMID:26784170

Fluence Rate Differences in Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy and Activation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor after Treatment of the Tumor-Involved Murine Thoracic Cavity.

PubMed

Grossman, Craig E; Carter, Shirron L; Czupryna, Julie; Wang, Le; Putt, Mary E; Busch, Theresa M

2016-01-14

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) of the thoracic cavity can be performed in conjunction with surgery to treat cancers of the lung and its pleura. However, illumination of the cavity results in tissue exposure to a broad range of fluence rates. In a murine model of intrathoracic PDT, we studied the efficacy of 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH; Photochlor(®))-mediated PDT in reducing the burden of non-small cell lung cancer for treatments performed at different incident fluence rates (75 versus 150 mW/cm). To better understand a role for growth factor signaling in disease progression after intrathoracic PDT, the expression and activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was evaluated in areas of post-treatment proliferation. The low fluence rate of 75 mW/cm produced the largest reductions in tumor burden. Bioluminescent imaging and histological staining for cell proliferation (anti-Ki-67) identified areas of disease progression at both fluence rates after PDT. However, increased EGFR activation in proliferative areas was detected only after treatment at the higher fluence rate of 150 mW/cm. These data suggest that fluence rate may affect the activation of survival factors, such as EGFR, and weaker activation at lower fluence rate could contribute to a smaller tumor burden after PDT at 75 mW/cm.

Characterization of a Rapid, Blue Light-Mediated Change in Detectable Phosphorylation of a Plasma Membrane Protein from Etiolated Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Seedlings.

PubMed

Short, T W; Briggs, W R

1990-01-01

When crude microsomal membranes from apical stem segments of etiolated Pisum sativum L. cv Alaska are mixed in vitro with gamma-[(32)P]ATP, a phosphorylated band of apparent molecular mass 120 kilodaltons can be detected on autoradiographs of sodium dodecyl sulfate electrophoresis gels. If the stem sections are exposed to blue light immediately prior to membrane isolation, this band is not evident. The response is observed most strongly in membranes from the growing region of the stem, but no 120 kilodalton radiolabeled band is detected in membranes from the developing buds. Fluence-response curves for the reaction show that the system responds to blue light above about 0.3 micromole per square meter, and the visible phosphorylation completely disappears above 200 micromoles per square meter. Reciprocity is valid for the system, because varying illumination time or fluence rate give similar results. If the stem segments are left in the dark following a saturating blue irradiation, the radio-labeled band begins to return after about 10 minutes and is as intense as that from the dark controls within 45 to 60 minutes. A protein that comigrates with the phosphorylated protein on polyacrylamide gels is also undetectable after saturating blue light irradiations. The fluence range in which the protein band disappears is the same as that for the disappearance of the phosphorylation band. Its dark recovery kinetics and tissue distribution also parallel those for the phosphorylation. In vitro irradiation of the isolated membranes also results in a phosphorylation change at that molecular mass, but in the opposite direction. Comparisons of the kinetics, tissue distribution, and dark recovery of the phosphorylation response with those published for blue light-mediated phototropism or rapid growth inhibition indicate that the phosphorylation could be linked to one or both of those reactions. However, the fluence-response relationships for the change in detectable phosphorylation match quite closely those reported for phototropism but not those for growth inhibition. Blue light has also been found to regulate the capacity for in vitro phosphorylation of a second protein. It has an apparent molecular mass of 84 kilodaltons and is localized primarily in basal stem sections.

Optimization of light source parameters in the photodynamic therapy of heterogeneous prostate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jun; Altschuler, Martin D.; Hahn, Stephen M.; Zhu, Timothy C.

2008-08-01

The three-dimensional (3D) heterogeneous distributions of optical properties in a patient prostate can now be measured in vivo. Such data can be used to obtain a more accurate light-fluence kernel. (For specified sources and points, the kernel gives the fluence delivered to a point by a source of unit strength.) In turn, the kernel can be used to solve the inverse problem that determines the source strengths needed to deliver a prescribed photodynamic therapy (PDT) dose (or light-fluence) distribution within the prostate (assuming uniform drug concentration). We have developed and tested computational procedures to use the new heterogeneous data to optimize delivered light-fluence. New problems arise, however, in quickly obtaining an accurate kernel following the insertion of interstitial light sources and data acquisition. (1) The light-fluence kernel must be calculated in 3D and separately for each light source, which increases kernel size. (2) An accurate kernel for light scattering in a heterogeneous medium requires ray tracing and volume partitioning, thus significant calculation time. To address these problems, two different kernels were examined and compared for speed of creation and accuracy of dose. Kernels derived more quickly involve simpler algorithms. Our goal is to achieve optimal dose planning with patient-specific heterogeneous optical data applied through accurate kernels, all within clinical times. The optimization process is restricted to accepting the given (interstitially inserted) sources, and determining the best source strengths with which to obtain a prescribed dose. The Cimmino feasibility algorithm is used for this purpose. The dose distribution and source weights obtained for each kernel are analyzed. In clinical use, optimization will also be performed prior to source insertion to obtain initial source positions, source lengths and source weights, but with the assumption of homogeneous optical properties. For this reason, we compare the results from heterogeneous optical data with those obtained from average homogeneous optical properties. The optimized treatment plans are also compared with the reference clinical plan, defined as the plan with sources of equal strength, distributed regularly in space, which delivers a mean value of prescribed fluence at detector locations within the treatment region. The study suggests that comprehensive optimization of source parameters (i.e. strengths, lengths and locations) is feasible, thus allowing acceptable dose coverage in a heterogeneous prostate PDT within the time constraints of the PDT procedure.

Fabrication of naphthalocyanine nanoparticles by laser ablation in liquid and application to contrast agents for photoacoustic imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yanagihara, Ryuga; Asahi, Tsuyoshi; Ishibashi, Yukihide; Odawara, Osamu; Wada, Hiroyuki

2018-03-01

Naphthalocyanine nanoparticles were prepared by laser ablation in liquid using second-harmonics of nanosecond Nd:YAG laser as an excitation light sauce at various laser fluence, and the properties of naphthalocyanine nanoparticles, such as shape, size, zeta potential, chemical structure and optical absorption were examined. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements showed that the particle size of the nanoparticles could be controlled by the laser fluence. The IR spectra of the nanoparticles indicated the formation of carboxylate anion species at laser fluences above 100 mJ/cm2, which will result the zeta potential of the nanoparticles depending on the laser fluence. We also examined the potential application to contrast agents for photoacoustic, and confirmed that the naphthalocyanine nanoparticles generated a strong photoacoustic signal.

A discussion on validity of the diffusion theory by Monte Carlo method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Dong-qing; Li, Hui; Xie, Shusen

2008-12-01

Diffusion theory was widely used as a basis of the experiments and methods in determining the optical properties of biological tissues. A simple analytical solution could be obtained easily from the diffusion equation after a series of approximations. Thus, a misinterpret of analytical solution would be made: while the effective attenuation coefficient of several semi-infinite bio-tissues were the same, the distribution of light fluence in the tissues would be the same. In order to assess the validity of knowledge above, depth resolved internal fluence of several semi-infinite biological tissues which have the same effective attenuation coefficient were simulated with wide collimated beam in the paper by using Monte Carlo method in different condition. Also, the influence of bio-tissue refractive index on the distribution of light fluence was discussed in detail. Our results showed that, when the refractive index of several bio-tissues which had the same effective attenuation coefficient were the same, the depth resolved internal fluence would be the same; otherwise, the depth resolved internal fluence would be not the same. The change of refractive index of tissue would have affection on the light depth distribution in tissue. Therefore, the refractive index is an important optical property of tissue, and should be taken in account while using the diffusion approximation theory.

Beam tests of proton-irradiated PbWO4 crystals and evaluation of double-ended read-out technique for mitigation of radiation damage effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lucchini, Marco; CMS Collaboration

2017-11-01

The harsh radiation environment in which detectors will have to operate during the High Luminosity phase of LHC (HL-LHC) represents a crucial challenge for many calorimeter technologies. In the CMS forward calorimeters, ionizing doses and hadron fluences will reach up to 300 kGy (at a dose rate of 30 Gy/h) and 2 × 1014 cm-2, respectively, at the pseudo-rapidity region of |η| = 2.6. To evaluate the evolution of the CMS ECAL performance in such conditions, a set of PbWO4 crystals, exposed to 24 GeV protons up to integrated fluences between 2.1 × 1013 cm-2 and 1:3 × 1014 cm2, has been studied in beam tests. A degradation of the energy resolution and a non-linear response to electron showers are observed in damaged crystals. Direct measurements of the light output from the crystals show the amplitude decreasing and pulse becoming faster as the fluence increases. The evolution of the PbWO4 crystals calorimetric performance has been well understood and parameterized in terms of increasing light absorption inside the crystal volume. A double-ended read-out configuration, in which two identical photodetectors are coupled to the opposite ends of each crystal, has also been tested. The separate and simultaneous read out of the light from the two ends of the crystal allows to correct for longitudinal shower fluctuations and to mitigate the degradation of energy resolution in highly damaged crystals. The non-linear response to electromagnetic showers, arising from high non-uniformity of light collection efficiency along the longitudinal axis of irradiated crystals, can also be corrected by means of the double-ended read-out technique.

Hybrid diffusion-P3 equation in N-layered turbid media: steady-state domain.

PubMed

Shi, Zhenzhi; Zhao, Huijuan; Xu, Kexin

2011-10-01

This paper discusses light propagation in N-layered turbid media. The hybrid diffusion-P3 equation is solved for an N-layered finite or infinite turbid medium in the steady-state domain for one point source using the extrapolated boundary condition. The Fourier transform formalism is applied to derive the analytical solutions of the fluence rate in Fourier space. Two inverse Fourier transform methods are developed to calculate the fluence rate in real space. In addition, the solutions of the hybrid diffusion-P3 equation are compared to the solutions of the diffusion equation and the Monte Carlo simulation. For the case of small absorption coefficients, the solutions of the N-layered diffusion equation and hybrid diffusion-P3 equation are almost equivalent and are in agreement with the Monte Carlo simulation. For the case of large absorption coefficients, the model of the hybrid diffusion-P3 equation is more precise than that of the diffusion equation. In conclusion, the model of the hybrid diffusion-P3 equation can replace the diffusion equation for modeling light propagation in the N-layered turbid media for a wide range of absorption coefficients.

An 808-nm Diode Laser with a Flat-Top Handpiece Positively Photobiomodulates Mitochondria Activities.

PubMed

Amaroli, Andrea; Ravera, Silvia; Parker, Steven; Panfoli, Isabella; Benedicenti, Alberico; Benedicenti, Stefano

2016-11-01

Photobiomodulation is proposed as a non-linear process. Only the action of light at a low intensity and fluence is assumed to have stimulation on cells; whereas a higher light intensity and fluence generates negative effects, exhausting the cell's energy reserve as a consequence of a too strong stimulation. In our work, we detected the photobiomodulatory effect of an 808-nm higher-fluence diode laser [64 J/cm 2 -1 W, continuous wave (CW)] irradiated by a flat-top handpiece on mitochondria activities, such as oxygen consumption, activity of mitochondria complexes I, II, III, and IV, and cytochrome c as well as ATP synthesis. The experiments are performed by standard procedure on mitochondria purified from bovine liver. Our higher-fluence diode laser positively photobiomodulates the mitochondria oxygen consumption, the activity of the complexes III and IV, and the ATP production, with a P/O = 2.6. The other activities are not influenced. Our data show for the first time that even the higher fluences (64 J/cm 2 -1 W), similar to the low fluences, can photobiostimulate the mitochondria respiratory chain without uncoupling them and can induce an increment in the ATP production. These results suggest that the negative effects of higher fluences observed to date are not unequivocally due to higher fluence per se but might be a consequence of the irradiation carried by handpieces with a Gaussian profile.

SU-F-T-684: Analysis of Cherenkov Excitation in Tissue and the Feasibility of Cherenkov Excited Photodynamic Therapy

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

Saunders, Sara L; Andreozzi, Jacqueline M; Pogue, Brian W

Purpose: The irradiation of photodynamic agents with radiotherapy beams has been demonstrated to enhance tumor killing in various studies, and one proposed mechanism is the optical fluence of Cherenkov emission activating the photosensitizer. This mechanism is explored in Monte Carlo simulations of fluence as well as laboratory measurements of fluence and radical oxygen species. Methods: Simulations were completed using GAMOS/GEANT4 with a 6 MV photon beam in tissue. The effects of blood vessel diameter, blood oxygen saturation, and beam size were examined, recording spectral fluence. Experiments were carried out in solutions of photosensitizer and phantoms. Results: Cherenkov produced by amore » 100×100um{sup 2} 6 MV beam resulted in fluence of less than 1 nJ/cm{sup 2}/Gy per 1 nm wavelength. At this microscopic level, differences in absorption of blood and water in the tissue affected the fluence spectrum, but variation in blood oxygenation had little effect. Light in tissue resulting from larger (10mm ×10mm) 6 MV beams had greater fluence due to light transport and elastic scattering of optical photons, but this transport process also resulted in higher absorption shifts. Therefore, the spectrum produced by a microscopic beam was weighted more heavily in UV/blue wavelengths than the spectrum at the macroscopic level. At the macroscopic level, the total fluence available for absorption by Verteporfin (BPD) in tissue approached uJ/cm{sup 2} for a high radiation dose, indicating that photodynamic activation seems unlikely. Tissue phantom confirmation of these light levels supported this observation, and photosensitization measurements with a radical oxygen species reporter are ongoing. Conclusion: Simulations demonstrated that fluence produced by Cherenkov in tissue by 6 MV photon beams at typical radiotherapy doses appears insufficient to activate photosensitizers to the level required for threshold effects, yet this disagrees with published biological experiments. Experimental validation in tissue phantoms and cell studies are ongoing to clarify this discrepancy. Funding from NIH grant R01CA109558.« less

Resveratrol Prevents High Fluence Red Light-Emitting Diode Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Photoinhibition of Human Skin Fibroblast Migration.

PubMed

Mamalis, Andrew; Koo, Eugene; Isseroff, R Rivkah; Murphy, William; Jagdeo, Jared

2015-01-01

Skin fibrosis is a significant medical problem that leads to a functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial impact on quality-of-life. Light-emitting diode-generated 633-nm red light (LED-RL) is part of the visible light spectrum that is not known to cause DNA damage and is considered a safe, non-invasive, inexpensive, and portable potential alternative to ultraviolet phototherapy that may change the treatment paradigm of fibrotic skin disease. The goal of our study was to investigate the how reactive oxygen species (ROS) free radicals generated by high fluence LED-RL inhibit the migration of skin fibroblasts, the main cell type involved in skin fibrosis. Fibroblast migration speed is increased in skin fibrosis, and we studied cellular migration speed of cultured human skin fibroblasts as a surrogate measure of high fluence LED-RL effect on fibroblast function. To ascertain the inhibitory role of LED-RL generated ROS on migration speed, we hypothesized that resveratrol, a potent antioxidant, could prevent the photoinhibitory effects of high fluence LED-RL on fibroblast migration speed. High fluence LED-RL generated ROS were measured by flow cytometry analysis using dihydrorhodamine (DHR). For purposes of comparison, we assessed the effects of ROS generated by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on fibroblast migration speed and the ability of resveratrol, a well known antioxidant, to prevent LED-RL and H2O2 generated ROS-associated changes in fibroblast migration speed. To determine whether resveratrol could prevent the high fluence LED-RL ROS-mediated photoinhibition of human skin fibroblast migration, treated cells were incubated with resveratrol at concentrations of 0.0001% and 0.001% for 24 hours, irradiated with high fluences LED-RL of 480, 640, and 800 J/cm2. High fluence LED-RL increases intracellular fibroblast ROS and decreases fibroblast migration speed. LED-RL at 480, 640 and 800 J/cm2 increased ROS levels to 132.8%, 151.0%, and 158.4% relative to matched controls, respectively. These LED-RL associated increases in ROS were prevented by pretreating cells with 0.0001% or 0.001% resveratrol. Next, we quantified the effect of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-associated ROS on fibroblast migration speed, and found that while H2O2-associated ROS significantly decreased relative fibroblast migration speed, pretreatment with 0.0001% or 0.001% resveratrol significantly prevented the decreases in migration speed. Furthermore, we found that LED-RL at 480, 640 and 800 J/cm2 decreased fibroblast migration speed to 83.0%, 74.4%, and 68.6% relative to matched controls, respectively. We hypothesized that these decreases in fibroblast migration speed were due to associated increases in ROS generation. Pretreatment with 0.0001% and 0.001% resveratrol prevented the LED-RL associated decreases in migration speed. High fluence LED-RL increases ROS and is associated with decreased fibroblast migration speed. We provide mechanistic support that the decreased migration speed associated with high fluence LED-RL is mediated by ROS, by demonstrating that resveratrol prevents high fluence LED-RL associated migration speed change. These data lend support to an increasing scientific body of evidence that high fluence LED-RL has anti-fibrotic properties. We hypothesize that our findings may result in a greater understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underlying visible light interaction with skin and we anticipate clinicians and other researchers may utilize these pathways for patient benefit.

Soft x ray optics by pulsed laser deposition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fernandez, Felix E.

1994-01-01

A series of molybdenum thin film depositions by PLD (Pulsed Laser Deposition) have been carried out, seeking appropriate conditions for multilayer fabrication. Green (532 nm) and UV (355 nm) light pulses, in a wide range of fluences, were used. Relatively large fluences (in comparison with Si) are required to cause evaporation of molybdenum. The optical penetration depths and reflectivities for Mo at these two wavelengths are comparable, which means that results should be, and do appear to be similar for equal fluences. For all fluences above threshold used, a large number of incandescent particles is ejected by the target (either a standard Mo sputtering target or a Mo sheet were tried), together with the plasma plume. Most of these particles are clearly seen to bounce off the substrate. The films were observed with light microscopy using Nomarski and darkfield techniques. There is no evidence of large debris. Smooth films plus micron-sized droplets are usually seen. The concentration of these droplets embedded in the film appears not to vary strongly with the laser fluence employed. Additional characterization with SEM and XRD is under way.

Characterization of adaptation in phototropism of Arabidopsis thaliana

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

Janoudi, A.K.; Poff, K.L.

1991-02-01

Phototropic curvature has been measured for etiolated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings with and without a preirradiation. A bilateral preirradiation with 450-nm light at a fluence greater than about 0.1 micromole per square meter causes a rapid densensitization to a subsequent 450-nanometer unilateral irradiation at 0.5 micromole per square meter. Following a refractory period, the capacity to respond phototropically recovers to the predesensitization level, and the response is then enhanced. The length of the refractory period is between 10 and 20 minutes. Both the time needed for recovery and the extent of enhancement increase with increasing fluence of the bilateral preirradiation. Basedmore » on the relative spectral sensitivities of desensitization and enhancement, these responses can be separated. Desensitization is induced by blue light but not by red light. Enhancement, however, is induced by both blue and red light. Thus, enhancement can be induced without desensitization but only vice versa. Both desensitization and enhancement affect only the magnitude of the response and do not affect the fluence threshold.« less

Characterization of adaptation in phototropism of Arabidopsis thaliana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Poff, K. L.

1991-01-01

Phototropic curvature has been measured for etiolated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings with and without a preirradiation. A bilateral preirradiation with 450-nm light at a fluence greater than about 0.1 micromole per square meter causes a rapid desensitization to a subsequent 450-nanometer unilateral irradiation at 0.5 micromole per square meter. Following a refractory period, the capacity to respond phototropically recovers to the predesensitization level, and the response is then enhanced. The length of the refractory period is between 10 and 20 minutes. Both the time needed for recovery and the extent of enhancement increase with increasing fluence of the bilateral preirradiation. Based on the relative spectral sensitivities of desensitization and enhancement, these responses can be separated. Desensitization is induced by blue light but not by red light. Enhancement, however, is induced by both blue and red light. Thus, enhancement can be induced without desensitization but not vice versa. Both desensitization and enhancement affect only the magnitude of the response and do not affect the fluence threshold.

Photodynamic Therapy Using Intra-Articular Photofrin for Murine MRSA Arthritis: Biphasic Light Dose Response for Neutrophil-Mediated Antibacterial Effect

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Masamitsu; Kinoshita, Manabu; Yoshihara, Yasuo; Shinomiya, Nariyoshi; Seki, Shuhji; Nemoto, Koichi; Hamblin, Michael R.; Morimoto, Yuji

2011-01-01

Background and Objective Bacterial arthritis does not respond well to antibiotics and moreover multidrug resistance is spreading. We previously tested photodynamic therapy (PDT) mediated by systemic Photofrin® in a mouse model of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) arthritis, but found that neutrophils were killed by PDT and therefore the infection was potentiated. Study Design/Materials and Methods The present study used an intra-articular injection of Photofrin® and optimized the light dosimetry in order to maximize bacterial killing and minimize killing of host neutrophils. MRSA (5 × 107 CFU) was injected into the mouse knee followed 3 days later by 1 μg of Photofrin® and 635-nm diode laser illumination with a range of fluences within 5 minutes. Synovial fluid was sampled 6 hours or 1–3, 5, and 7 days after PDT to determine MRSA colony-forming units (CFU), neutrophil numbers, and levels of cytokines. Results A biphasic light dose response was observed with the greatest reduction of MRSA CFU seen with a fluence of 20 J cm−2, whereas lower antibacterial efficacy was observed with fluences that were either lower or higher. Consistent with these results, a significantly higher concentration of macrophage inflammatory protein-2, a CXC chemokine, and greater accumulation of neutrophils were seen in the infected knee joint after PDT with a fluence of 20 J cm−2 compared to fluences of 5 or 70 J cm−2. Conclusion PDT for murine MRSA arthritis requires appropriate light dosimetry to simultaneously maximize bacterial killing and neutrophil accumulation into the infected site, while too little light does not kill sufficient bacteria and too much light kills neutrophils and damages host tissue as well as bacteria and allows bacteria to grow unimpeded by host defense. PMID:21412806

Clinical application of intense pulsed light depilation technology in total auricular reconstruction.

PubMed

Guo, Ying; Shan, Jing; Zhang, Tianyu

2017-08-01

Although ear reconstruction technology has been highly developed in recent years, hair growth on the reconstructed ear has plagued both surgeons and patients. In this paper, the authors introduce a clinical application of intense pulsed light depilation in total auricular reconstruction. From August 2012 to August 2013, 27 patients (28 ears) suffering from congenital microtia were treated by intense pulsed light depilation (650-950-nm filter, initial fluence of 14-16 J/cm 2 and gradually increased, pulse width of 30-50 ms, spot size of 20 × 30 mm 2 , intervals of 6-8 weeks, a total of four sessions) either before or after auricular reconstruction. According to the treatment situation at diagnosis, the patients were divided into two groups: the preoperative group and the postoperative group. There were no differences between the two groups in terms of age or initial fluence for hair removal; however, there were less treatments in the former than in the latter group (preoperative group 4.1 ± 0.3, postoperative group 4.7 ± 0.7, F = 9.10, P = 0.006), and the maximum fluence used for hair removal was lower in the former than in the latter group (preoperative group 18-20 J/cm 2 , postoperative group 19-22 J/cm 2 , F = 22.31, P < 0.001). After follow-up for ≥4-6 months, the effective rate was 100% in the preoperative group, and the effective rate was 80% in the postoperative group. Intense pulsed light depilation technology is a reasonable complementary approach to total auricular reconstruction. And preoperative depilation is recommended over postoperative depilation. The non-invasive modern photonic technology can resolve the problem of postoperative residual hair on the reconstructed auricle, improving auricular shape and increasing patient satisfaction. In addition, an adequately set preoperative hair removal area can provide surface skin that is most similar to normal auricle skin for auricular reconstruction.

Investigation into the optimum beam shape and fluence for selective ablation of dental calculus at lambda = 400 nm.

PubMed

Schoenly, Joshua E; Seka, Wolf; Rechmann, Peter

2010-01-01

A frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser is shown to selectively ablate dental calculus. The optimal transverse shape of the laser beam, including its variability under water-cooling, is determined for selective ablation of dental calculus. Intensity profiles under various water-cooling conditions were optically observed. The 400-nm laser was coupled into a multimode optical fiber using an f = 2.5-cm lens and light-shaping diffuser. Water-cooling was supplied coaxially around the fiber. Five human tooth samples (four with calculus and one pristine) were irradiated perpendicular to the tooth surface while the tooth was moved back and forth at 0.3 mm/second, varying between 20 and 180 iterations. The teeth were imaged before and after irradiation using light microscopy with a flashing blue light-emitting diode (LED). An environmental scanning electron microscope imaged each tooth after irradiation. High-order super-Gaussian intensity profiles are observed at the output of a fiber coiled around a 4-in. diameter drum. Super-Gaussian beams have a more-homogenous fluence distribution than Gaussian beams and have a higher energy efficiency for selective ablation. Coaxial water-cooling does not noticeably distort the intensity distribution within 1 mm from the optical fiber. In contrast, lasers focused to a Gaussian cross section (< or =50-microm diameter) without fiber propagation and cooled by a water spray are heavily distorted and may lead to variable ablation. Calculus is preferentially ablated at high fluences (> or =2 J/cm(2)); below this fluence, stalling occurs because of photo-bleaching of the calculus. Healthy dental hard tissue is not removed at fluences < or =3 J/cm(2). Supplying laser light to a tooth using an optical fiber with coaxial water-cooling is determined to be the most appropriate method when selectively removing calculus with a frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser. Fluences over 2 J/cm(2) are required to remove calculus efficiently since photo-bleaching stalls calculus removal below that value.

Investigation Into the Optimum Beam Shape and Fluence for Selective Ablation of Dental Calculus at lambda = 400 nm

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

Schoenly, J.E.; Seka. W.; Rechmann, P.

A frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser is shown to selectively ablate dental calculus. The optimal transverse shape of the laser beam, including its variability under water-cooling, is determined for selective ablation of dental calculus. Intensity profiles under various water-cooling conditions were optically observed. The 400-nm laser was coupled into a multimode optical fiber using an f = 2.5-cm lens and light-shaping diffuser. Water-cooling was supplied coaxially around the fiber. Five human tooth samples (four with calculus and one pristine) were irradiated perpendicular to the tooth surface while the tooth was moved back and forth at 0.3 mm/second, varying between 20 and 180more » iterations. The teeth were imaged before and after irradiation using light microscopy with a flashing blue light-emitting diode (LED). An environmental scanning electron microscope imaged each tooth after irradiation. High-order super-Gaussian intensity profiles are observed at the output of a fiber coiled around a 4-in. diameter drum. Super-Gaussian beams have a morehomogenous fluence distribution than Gaussian beams and have a higher energy efficiency for selective ablation. Coaxial water-cooling does not noticeably distort the intensity distribution within 1 mm from the optical fiber. In contrast, lasers focused to a Gaussian cross section (<=50-mm diameter) without fiber propagation and cooled by a water spray are heavily distorted and may lead to variable ablation. Calculus is preferentially ablated at high fluences (>= 2 J/cm^2); below this fluence, stalling occurs because of photo-bleaching of the calculus. Healthy dental hard tissue is not removed at fluences <=3 J/cm^2. Supplying laser light to a tooth using an optical fiber with coaxial water-cooling is determined to be the most appropriate method when selectively removing calculus with a frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser. Fluences over 2 J/cm^2 are required to remove calculus efficiently since photo-bleaching stalls calculus removal below that value.« less

Safety and efficacy of low fluence, high repetition rate versus high fluence, low repetition rate 810-nm diode laser for axillary hair removal in Chinese women.

PubMed

Li, Wenhai; Liu, Chengyi; Chen, Zhou; Cai, Lin; Zhou, Cheng; Xu, Qianxi; Li, Houmin; Zhang, Jianzhong

2016-11-01

High-fluence diode lasers with contact cooling have emerged as the gold standard to remove unwanted hair. Lowering the energy should result in less pain and could theoretically affect the efficacy of the therapy. To compare the safety and efficacy of a low fluence high repetition rate 810-nm diode laser to those of a high fluence, low repetition rate diode laser for permanent axillary hair removal in Chinese women. Ninety-two Chinese women received four axillae laser hair removal treatments at 4-week intervals using the low fluence, high repetition rate 810-nm diode laser in super hair removal (SHR) mode on one side and the high fluence, low repetition rate diode laser in hair removal (HR) mode on the other side. Hair counts were done at each follow-up visit and 6-month follow-up after the final laser treatment using a "Hi Quality Hair Analysis Program System"; the immediate pain score after each treatment session was recorded by a visual analog scale. The overall median reduction of hair was 90.2% with the 810-nm diode laser in SHR mode and 87% with the same laser in HR mode at 6-month follow-up. The median pain scores in SHR mode and in HR mode were 2.75 and 6.75, respectively. Low fluence, high repetition rate diode laser can efficiently remove unwanted hair but also significantly improve tolerability and reduce adverse events during the course of treatment.

In situ study of in-beam cobalt suicide growth in silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruault, M.-O.; Fortuna, F.; Bernas, H.; Kaitasov, O.

1994-02-01

The control of buried suicide layer interfaces requires a systematic study of their formation conditions (implantation temperature, sample orientation, post-annealing conditions). At stoichiometric concentration, the layer roughness stems from the formation and overlap of B-type precipitates during implanted sample annealing. However, at such high concentrations several parameters interfere during suicide layer formation, particularly diffusion-limited precipitate growth and precipitate coalescence and Ostwald ripening. In order to analyze these factors separately, we have performed an in situ TEM study of the initial stages of CoSi 2 precipitate formation and growth in Si during 50 keV Co implantation to fluences between 10 15 and 1.5 × 10 16 Cocm -2, at temperatures between 350 and 650°C. At 350°C, the threshold fluence for suicide precipitate observation was 2 × 10 15 Cocm -2, and the size of the precipitates remained constant (about 4 nm) up to a fluence of 1.5 × 10 16 Cocm -2. At higher implantation temperatures, the average growth rate at 650°C is four times higher than at 500°C until the average size of the precipitates reaches ~ 8 nm. Then the growth rate is surprisingly independent of the implantation temperature. The results are discussed in the light of a recently developed precipitation kinetic analysis.

Protocol for Determining Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diode (UV-LED) Fluence for Microbial Inactivation Studies.

PubMed

Kheyrandish, Ataollah; Mohseni, Madjid; Taghipour, Fariborz

2018-06-15

Determining fluence is essential to derive the inactivation kinetics of microorganisms and to design ultraviolet (UV) reactors for water disinfection. UV light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) are emerging UV sources with various advantages compared to conventional UV lamps. Unlike conventional mercury lamps, no standard method is available to determine the average fluence of the UV-LEDs, and conventional methods used to determine the fluence for UV mercury lamps are not applicable to UV-LEDs due to the relatively low power output, polychromatic wavelength, and specific radiation profile of UV-LEDs. In this study, a method was developed to determine the average fluence inside a water suspension in a UV-LED experimental setup. In this method, the average fluence was estimated by measuring the irradiance at a few points for a collimated and uniform radiation on a Petri dish surface. New correction parameters were defined and proposed, and several of the existing parameters for determining the fluence of the UV mercury lamp apparatus were revised to measure and quantify the collimation and uniformity of the radiation. To study the effect of polychromatic output and radiation profile of the UV-LEDs, two UV-LEDs with peak wavelengths of 262 and 275 nm and different radiation profiles were selected as the representatives of typical UV-LEDs applied to microbial inactivation. The proper setup configuration for microorganism inactivation studies was also determined based on the defined correction factors.

Orientation of ripples induced by ultrafast laser pulses on copper in different liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maragkaki, Stella; Elkalash, Abdallah; Gurevich, Evgeny L.

2017-12-01

Formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS or ripples) was studied on a metallic surface of polished copper using irradiation with multiple femtosecond laser pulses in different environmental conditions (air, water, ethanol and methanol). Uniform LIPSS have been achieved by controlling the peak fluence and the overlapping rate. Ripples in both orientations, perpendicular and parallel to laser polarization, were observed in all liquids simultaneously. The orientation of these ripples in the center of the ablated line was changing with the incident light intensity. For low intensities the orientation of the ripples is perpendicular to the laser polarization, whereas for high intensities it turns parallel to it without considerable changes in the period. Multi-directional LIPSS formation was also observed for moderate peak fluence in liquid environments.

Sparing of normal urothelium in hexyl-aminolevulinate-mediated photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaucher, Laurent; Jichlinski, Patrice; Lange, Norbert; Ritter-Schenk, Celine; van den Bergh, Hubert; Kucera, Pavel

2005-04-01

This work determines on an in vitro porcine urothelium model the threshold values of different parameters such as photosensitizer concentration, irradiation parameters and production of reactive oxygen species in order to control the damage on normal urothelium and spare about 50% of normal mucosa. For a three hours HAL incubation time, these threshold values were with blue light (0.75J/cm at 75 mW/cm2 or 0.15J/cm2 at 30 mW/cm2) and with white light (0.55J/cm2, at 30 mW/cm2). This means that for identical fluence rates, the threshold value for white light irradiation may be 3 times higher than for blue light irradiation.

The Enhancement of Phototropin-Induced Phototropic Curvature in Arabidopsis Occurs via a Photoreversible Phytochrome A-Dependent Modulation of Auxin Responsiveness1

PubMed Central

Stowe-Evans, Emily L.; Luesse, Darron R.; Liscum, Emmanuel

2001-01-01

The induction of phototropism in etiolated (dark-grown) seedlings exposed to an unidirectional pulse or extended irradiation with low fluence rate blue light (BL) requires the action of the phototropin (nph1) BL receptor. Although cryptochromes and phytochromes are not required for phototropic induction, these photoreceptors do modulate the magnitude of curvature resulting from phototropin activation. Modulatory increases in the magnitude of phototropic curvature have been termed “enhancement.” Here, we show that phototropic enhancement is primarily a phytochrome A (phyA)-dependent red/far-red-reversible low fluence response. This phyA-dependent response is genetically separable from the basal phototropin-dependent response, as demonstrated by its retention under extended irradiation conditions in the nph4 mutant background, which normally lacks the basal BL-induced response. It is interesting that the nph4 mutants fail to exhibit the basal phototropin-dependent and phyA-dependent enhancement responses under limiting light conditions. Given that NPH4 encodes a transcriptional activator, auxin response factor 7 (ARF7), we hypothesize that the ultimate target(s) of phyA action during the phototropic enhancement response is a rate-limiting ARF-containing transcriptional complex in which the constituent ARFs can vary in identity or activity depending upon the irradiation condition. PMID:11402210

Biodistribution and photodynamic effects of polyvinylpyrrolidone-hypericin using multicellular spheroids composed of normal human urothelial and T24 transitional cell carcinoma cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vandepitte, Joachim; Roelants, Mieke; Cleynenbreugel, Ben Van; Hettinger, Klaudia; Lerut, Evelyne; van Poppel, Hendrik; de Witte, Peter A. M.

2011-01-01

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-hypericin is a potent photosensitizer that is used in the urological clinic to photodiagnose with high-sensitivity nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). We examined the differential accumulation and therapeutic effects of PVP-hypericin using spheroids composed of a human urothelial cell carcinoma cell line (T24) and normal human urothelial (NHU) cells. The in vitro biodistribution was assessed using fluorescence image analysis of 5-μm cryostat sections of spheroids that were incubated with PVP-hypericin. The results show that PVP-hypericin accumulated to a much higher extent in T24 spheroids as compared to NHU spheroids, thereby reproducing the clinical situation. Subsequently, spheroids were exposed to different PDT regimes with a light dose ranging from 0.3 to 18J/cm2. When using low fluence rates, only minor differences in cell survival were seen between normal and malignant spheroids. High light fluence rates induced a substantial difference in cell survival between the two spheroid types, killing ~80% of the cells present in the T24 spheroids. It was concluded that further in vivo experiments are required to fully evaluate the potential of PVP-hypericin as a phototherapeutic for NMIBC, focusing on the combination of the compound with methods that enhance the oxygenation of the urothelium.

Tailored laser beam shaping for efficient and accurate microstructuring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Häfner, T.; Strauß, J.; Roider, C.; Heberle, J.; Schmidt, M.

2018-02-01

Large-area processing with high material removal rates by ultrashort pulsed (USP) lasers is coming into focus by the development of high-power USP laser systems. However, currently the bottleneck for high-rate production is given by slow and inefficient beam manipulation. On the one hand, slow beam deflection with regard to high pulse repetition rates leads to heat accumulation and shielding effects, on the other hand, a conventional focus cannot provide the optimum fluence due to the Gaussian intensity profile. In this paper, we emphasize on two approaches of dynamic laser beam shaping with liquid crystal on silicon spatial light modulation and acousto-optic beam shaping. Advantages and limitations of dynamic laser beam shaping with regard to USP laser material processing and methods for reducing the influence of speckle are discussed. Additionally, the influence of optics induced aberrations on speckle characteristics is evaluated. Laser material processing results are presented correlating the achieved structure quality with the simulated and measured beam quality. Experimental and analytical investigations show a certain fluence dependence of the necessary number of alternative holograms to realize homogeneous microstructures.

Comparison of UV-C and Pulsed UV Light Treatments for Reduction of Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli on Eggs.

PubMed

Holck, Askild L; Liland, Kristian H; Drømtorp, Signe M; Carlehög, Mats; McLEOD, Anette

2018-01-01

Ten percent of all strong-evidence foodborne outbreaks in the European Union are caused by Salmonella related to eggs and egg products. UV light may be used to decontaminate egg surfaces and reduce the risk of human salmonellosis infections. The efficiency of continuous UV-C (254 nm) and pulsed UV light for reducing the viability of Salmonella Enteritidis, Listeria monocytogenes, and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli on eggs was thoroughly compared. Bacterial cells were exposed to UV-C light at fluences from 0.05 to 3.0 J/cm 2 (10 mW/cm 2 , for 5 to 300 s) and pulsed UV light at fluences from 1.25 to 18.0 J/cm 2 , resulting in reductions ranging from 1.6 to 3.8 log, depending on conditions used. Using UV-C light, it was possible to achieve higher reductions at lower fluences compared with pulsed UV light. When Salmonella was stacked on a small area or shielded in feces, the pulsed UV light seemed to have a higher penetration capacity and gave higher bacterial reductions. Microscopy imaging and attempts to contaminate the interior of the eggs with Salmonella through the eggshell demonstrated that the integrity of the eggshell was maintained after UV light treatments. Only minor sensory changes were reported by panelists when the highest UV doses were used. UV-C and pulsed UV light treatments appear to be useful decontamination technologies that can be implemented in continuous processing.

Tissue effects of Ho:YAG laser with varying fluences and pulse widths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vari, Sandor G.; van der Veen, Maurits J.; Pergadia, Vani R.; Shi, Wei-Qiang; Duffy, J. T.; Weiss, Andrew B.; Fishbein, Michael C.; Grundfest, Warren S.

1994-02-01

We investigated the effect of varying fluence and pulse width on the ablation rate and consequent thermal damage of the Ho:YAG (2.130 micrometers ) laser. The rate of ablation on fresh bovine knee joint tissues, fibrous cartilage, hyaline cartilage, and bone in saline was determined after varying the fluence (160 - 640 J/cm2) and pulse width (150, 250, 450 microsecond(s) ec, FWHM) at a repetition rate of 2 Hz. A 400/440 micrometers fiber was used. The ablation rate increased linearly with the fluence. In fibrocartilage, different pulse durations generated significant changes in the ablation rates, but showed minor effects on hyaline cartilage and bone. The heat of ablation for all three tissue types decreased after lengthening the pulse.

On-Site Determination and Monitoring of Real-Time Fluence Delivery for an Operating UV Reactor Based on a True Fluence Rate Detector.

PubMed

Li, Mengkai; Li, Wentao; Qiang, Zhimin; Blatchley, Ernest R

2017-07-18

At present, on-site fluence (distribution) determination and monitoring of an operating UV system represent a considerable challenge. The recently developed microfluorescent silica detector (MFSD) is able to measure the approximate true fluence rate (FR) at a fixed position in a UV reactor that can be compared with a FR model directly. Hence it has provided a connection between model calculation and real-time fluence determination. In this study, an on-site determination and monitoring method of fluence delivery for an operating UV reactor was developed. True FR detectors, a UV transmittance (UVT) meter, and a flow rate meter were used for fundamental measurements. The fluence distribution, as well as reduction equivalent fluence (REF), 10th percentile dose in the UV fluence distribution (F 10 ), minimum fluence (F min ), and mean fluence (F mean ) of a test reactor, was calculated in advance by the combined use of computational fluid dynamics and FR field modeling. A field test was carried out on the test reactor for disinfection of a secondary water supply. The estimated real-time REF, F 10 , F min , and F mean decreased 73.6%, 71.4%, 69.6%, and 72.9%, respectively, during a 6-month period, which was attributable to lamp output attenuation and sleeve fouling. The results were analyzed with synchronous data from a previously developed triparameter UV monitoring system and water temperature sensor. This study allowed demonstration of an accurate method for on-site, real-time fluence determination which could be used to enhance the security and public confidence of UV-based water treatment processes.

Explicit dosimetry for 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a-mediated photodynamic therapy: macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling.

PubMed

Penjweini, Rozhin; Liu, Baochang; Kim, Michele M; Zhu, Timothy C

2015-01-01

Type II photodynamic therapy (PDT) is based on the photochemical reactions mediated through an interaction between a photosensitizer, ground-state oxygen ([(3)O2]), and light excitation at an appropriate wavelength, which results in production of reactive singlet oxygen ([(1)O2]rx). We use an empirical macroscopic model based on four photochemical parameters for the calculation of [(1)O2]rx threshold concentration ([(1)O2]rx,sh) causing tissue necrosis in tumors after PDT. For this reason, 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH)-mediated PDT was performed interstitially on mice with radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors. A linear light source at 665 nm with total energy released per unit length of 12 to 100  J/cm and source power per unit length (LS) of 12 to 150  mW/cm was used to induce different radii of necrosis. Then the amount of [(1)O2]rx calculated by the macroscopic model incorporating explicit PDT dosimetry of light fluence distribution, tissue optical properties, and HPPH concentration was correlated to the necrotic radius to obtain the model parameters and [(1)O2]rx,sh. We provide evidence that [(1)O2]rx is a better dosimetric quantity for predicting the treatment outcome than PDT dose, which is proportional to the time integral of the products of the photosensitizer concentration and light fluence rate.

Explicit dosimetry for 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a-mediated photodynamic therapy: macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling

PubMed Central

Penjweini, Rozhin; Liu, Baochang; Kim, Michele M.; Zhu, Timothy C.

2015-01-01

Abstract. Type II photodynamic therapy (PDT) is based on the photochemical reactions mediated through an interaction between a photosensitizer, ground-state oxygen ([O32]), and light excitation at an appropriate wavelength, which results in production of reactive singlet oxygen ([O12]rx). We use an empirical macroscopic model based on four photochemical parameters for the calculation of [O12]rx threshold concentration ([O12]rx,sh) causing tissue necrosis in tumors after PDT. For this reason, 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH)-mediated PDT was performed interstitially on mice with radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors. A linear light source at 665 nm with total energy released per unit length of 12 to 100  J/cm and source power per unit length (LS) of 12 to 150  mW/cm was used to induce different radii of necrosis. Then the amount of [O12]rx calculated by the macroscopic model incorporating explicit PDT dosimetry of light fluence distribution, tissue optical properties, and HPPH concentration was correlated to the necrotic radius to obtain the model parameters and [O12]rx,sh. We provide evidence that [O12]rx is a better dosimetric quantity for predicting the treatment outcome than PDT dose, which is proportional to the time integral of the products of the photosensitizer concentration and light fluence rate. PMID:26720883

Explicit dosimetry for 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a-mediated photodynamic therapy: macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penjweini, Rozhin; Liu, Baochang; Kim, Michele M.; Zhu, Timothy C.

2015-12-01

Type II photodynamic therapy (PDT) is based on the photochemical reactions mediated through an interaction between a photosensitizer, ground-state oxygen ([O]), and light excitation at an appropriate wavelength, which results in production of reactive singlet oxygen ([]rx). We use an empirical macroscopic model based on four photochemical parameters for the calculation of []rx threshold concentration ([]rx,sh) causing tissue necrosis in tumors after PDT. For this reason, 2-(1-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH)-mediated PDT was performed interstitially on mice with radiation-induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors. A linear light source at 665 nm with total energy released per unit length of 12 to 100 J/cm and source power per unit length (LS) of 12 to 150 mW/cm was used to induce different radii of necrosis. Then the amount of []rx calculated by the macroscopic model incorporating explicit PDT dosimetry of light fluence distribution, tissue optical properties, and HPPH concentration was correlated to the necrotic radius to obtain the model parameters and []rx,sh. We provide evidence that []rx is a better dosimetric quantity for predicting the treatment outcome than PDT dose, which is proportional to the time integral of the products of the photosensitizer concentration and light fluence rate.

Genetic analysis of the roles of phytochromes A and B1 in the reversed gravitropic response of the lz-2 tomato mutant

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Behringer, F. J.; Lomax, T. L.

1999-01-01

The lz-2 mutation in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) causes conditional reversal of shoot gravitropism by light. This response is mediated by phytochrome. To further elicit the mechanism by which phytochrome regulates the lz-2 phenotype, phytochrome-deficient lz-2 plants were generated. Introduction of au alleles, which severely block chromophore biosynthesis, eliminated the reversal of hypocotyl gravitropism in continuous red and far-red light. The fri1 and tri1 alleles were introduced to specifically deplete phytochromes A and B1, respectively. In dark-grown seedlings, phytochrome A was necessary for response to high-irradiance far-red light, a complete response to low fluence red light, and also mediated the effects of blue light in a far-red reversible manner. Loss of phytochrome B1 alone did not significantly affect the behaviour of lz-2 plants under any light treatment tested. However, dark-grown lz-2 plants lacking both phytochrome A and B1 exhibited reduced responses to continuous red and were less responsive to low fluence red light and high fluence blue light than plants that were deficient for phytochrome A alone. In high light, full spectrum greenhouse conditions, lz-2 plants grew downward regardless of the phytochrome deficiency. These results indicate that phytochromes A and B1 play significant roles in mediating the lz-2 phenotype and that at least one additional phytochrome is involved in reversing shoot gravitropism in this mutant.

Low-intensity red and infrared lasers on XPA and XPC gene expression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fonseca, A. S.; Magalhães, L. A. G.; Mencalha, A. L.; Ferreira-Machado, S. C.; Geller, M.; Paoli, F.

2014-09-01

Laser devices emit monochromatic, coherent, and highly collimated intense beams of light that are useful for a number of biomedical applications. However, for low-intensity lasers, possible adverse effects of laser light on DNA are still controversial. In this work, the expression of XPA and XPC genes in skin and muscle tissue exposed to low-intensity red and infrared lasers was evaluated. Skin and muscle tissue of Wistar rats were exposed to low-intensity red and infrared lasers at different fluences in continuous mode emission. Skin and muscle tissue samples were withdrawn for total RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and evaluation of actin gene expression by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Data obtained show that laser radiation alters the expression of XPA and XPC mRNA differently in skin and muscle tissue of Wistar rats, depending on physical (fluence and wavelength) and biological (tissue) parameters. Laser light could modify expression of genes related to the nucleotide excision repair pathway at fluences and wavelengths used in clinical protocols.

Pulsed light treatment for the inactivation of selected pathogens and the shelf-life extension of beef and tuna carpaccio.

PubMed

Hierro, Eva; Ganan, Monica; Barroso, Elvira; Fernández, Manuela

2012-08-01

The efficacy of pulsed light to improve the safety of carpaccio has been investigated. Beef and tuna slices were superficially inoculated with approximately 3 log cfu/cm2 of Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhimurium and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Fluences of 0.7, 2.1, 4.2, 8.4 and 11.9 J/cm2 were assayed. Colour, sensory and shelf-life studies were carried out. Treatments at 8.4 and 11.9 J/cm2 inactivated the selected pathogens approximately by 1 log cfu/cm2, although they modified the colour parameters and had a negative effect on the sensory quality of the product. The raw attributes were not affected by fluences of 2.1 and 4.2J/cm2 immediately after the treatment, although changes were observed during storage. The inactivation obtained with these fluences was lower than 1 log cfu/cm2, which may not be negligible in case of cross-contamination at a food plant or at a food service facility. Pulsed light showed a greater impact on the sensory quality of tuna carpaccio compared to beef. None of the fluences assayed extended the shelf-life of either product. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Heavy Ion Irradiation Fluence Dependence for Single-Event Upsets of NAND Flash Memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Dakai; Wilcox, Edward; Ladbury, Raymond; Kim, Hak; Phan, Anthony; Seidleck, Christina; LaBel, Kenneth

2016-01-01

We investigated the single-event effect (SEE) susceptibility of the Micron 16 nm NAND flash, and found the single-event upset (SEU) cross section varied inversely with fluence. The SEU cross section decreased with increasing fluence. We attribute the effect to the variable upset sensitivities of the memory cells. The current test standards and procedures assume that SEU follow a Poisson process and do not take into account the variability in the error rate with fluence. Therefore, heavy ion irradiation of devices with variable upset sensitivity distribution using typical fluence levels may underestimate the cross section and on-orbit event rate.

Photodynamic actinometry using microencapsulates: concepts and developmental approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisland, Stuart K.; Austin, James; Wilson, Brian C.; Lilge, Lothar D.

2003-12-01

This study describes the development of novel, fluorescent-based actinometer encapsulates as a means of discerning volumetric Photodynamic therapy (PDT) dosimetry relative to the incident light and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. PDT relies on three main ingredients; oxygen, light and photo-activatable commpounds, although, the PDT response is definately contingent on the site and level of ROS generation. Providing a localized, in situ measurement of luminance and ROS generation is therefore critical when deciphering targetd photodynamci therapy (PDT) protocols in vivo. Toward this end, alginate-poly-L-lysine-alginate encapsulates were made using ionotropic gelation of sodium alginate droplets ranging from 75 to 200 μm in diameter. Two candidate dyes, ADS680WS (ADS) and R-phycoerythrin (RPE) were chosen based on photochemistry, chemical stabilty and sensitivity to changing pH and oxygen environments. Alginate beads were constructed with ADS conjugated to the inside and RPE attached to the outside layer. The production of ROS was initiated either chemically using increasing concentrations of potassium perchromate or photochemically using tetra-sulphonated aluminium phosphorescence (AlPcS4). The generation of singlet oxygen was confirmed by the presence of a phosphorescence peak at 1270 nm. The resulting photodegradation and subsequent decrease in fluorescence of RPE was found to correlate very closely (p<0.001) with increasing perchromate or fluence respectively. This effect was independent of pH (6.5-8) and could be inhibited using sodium azide. RPA was not susceptible to photobleaching with light alone (675 nm; 150 J/cm2). Meanwhile, ADS680WS, which absorbs light at 670-690 nm, showed a direct correlation between diminished fluorescence (photobleaching) and incident fluence (675 nm; 0-100 J/cm2). This effect was independent of fluence rate (10-40 mW/cm2). We propose that actinometer encapsulates may prove useful for implanting into potential target areas such as the brain in order to determine the delivered dose of PDT at specific sites within that target area.

Depth profiling of galvanoaluminium-nickel coatings on steel by UV- and VIS-LIBS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagy, T. O.; Pacher, U.; Giesriegl, A.; Weimerskirch, M. J. J.; Kautek, W.

2017-10-01

Laser-induced depth profiling was applied to the investigation of galvanised steel sheets as a typical modern multi-layer coating system for environmental corrosion protection. The samples were ablated stepwise by the use of two different wavelengths of a frequency-converted Nd:YAG-laser, 266 nm and 532 nm, with a pulse duration of τ = 4 ns at fluences ranging from F = 50 to 250 J cm-2. The emission light of the resulting plasma was analysed as a function of both penetration depth and elemental spectrum in terms of linear correlation analysis. Elemental depth profiles were calculated and compared to EDX-cross sections of the cut sample. A proven mathematical algorithm designed for the reconstruction of layer structures from distorted emission traces caused by the Gaussian ablation profile can even resolve thin intermediate layers in terms of depth and thickness. The obtained results were compared to a purely thermally controlled ablation model. Thereby light-plasma coupling is suggested to be a possible cause of deviations in the ablation behaviour of Al. The average ablation rate h as a function of fluence F for Ni ranges from 1 to 3.5 μm/pulse for λ = 266 nm as well as for λ = 532 nm. In contrast, the range of h for Al differs from 2 to 4 μm/pulse for λ = 532 nm and 4 to 8 μm/pulse for λ = 266 nm in the exact same fluence range on the exact same sample.

Neutrons Flux Distributions of the Pu-Be Source and its Simulation by the MCNP-4B Code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faghihi, F.; Mehdizadeh, S.; Hadad, K.

Neutron Fluence rate of a low intense Pu-Be source is measured by Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) of 197Au foils. Also, the neutron fluence rate distribution versus energy is calculated using the MCNP-4B code based on ENDF/B-V library. Theoretical simulation as well as our experimental performance are a new experience for Iranians to make reliability with the code for further researches. In our theoretical investigation, an isotropic Pu-Be source with cylindrical volume distribution is simulated and relative neutron fluence rate versus energy is calculated using MCNP-4B code. Variation of the fast and also thermal neutrons fluence rate, which are measured by NAA method and MCNP code, are compared.

Light emitting fabric technologies for photodynamic therapy.

PubMed

Mordon, Serge; Cochrane, Cédric; Tylcz, Jean Baptiste; Betrouni, Nacim; Mortier, Laurent; Koncar, Vladan

2015-03-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is considered to be a promising method for treating various types of cancer. A homogeneous and reproducible illumination during clinical PDT plays a determinant role in preventing under- or over-treatment. The development of flexible light sources would considerably improve the homogeneity of light delivery. The integration of optical fiber into flexible structures could offer an interesting alternative. This paper aims to describe different methods proposed to develop Side Emitting Optical Fibers (SEOF), and how these SEOF can be integrated in a flexible structure to improve light illumination of the skin during PDT. Four main techniques can be described: (i) light blanket integrating side-glowing optical fibers, (ii) light emitting panel composed of SEOF obtained by micro-perforations of the cladding, (iii) embroidery-based light emitting fabric, and (iv) woven-based light emitting fabric. Woven-based light emitting fabrics give the best performances: higher fluence rate, best homogeneity of light delivery, good flexibility. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Photoluminescence and reflectivity of polymethylmethacrylate implanted by low-energy carbon ions at high fluences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jun; Zhu, Fei; Zhang, Bei; Liu, Huixian; Jia, Guangyi; Liu, Changlong

2012-11-01

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) specimens were implanted with 30 keV carbon ions in a fluence range of 1 × 1016 to 2 × 1017 cm-2, and photoluminescence (PL) and reflectivity of the implanted samples were examined. A luminescent band with one peak was found in PL spectra excited by 480 nm line, but its intensity did not vary in parallel with ion fluence. The strongest PL occurred at the fluence of 5 × 1016 cm-2. Results from visible-light-excited micro-Raman spectra indicated that the formation of hydrogenated amorphous carbon structures in subsurface layer and their evolutions with ion fluence could be responsible for the observed PL responses. Measurements of the small-angle reflectance spectra from both the implanted and rear surfaces of samples in the ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) range demonstrated a kind of both fluence-dependent and wavelength-related reflectivity variations, which were attributed to the structural changes induced by ion implantation. A noticeable reflectivity modification, which may be practically used, could be found at the fluence of 1 × 1016 cm-2.

Effects of vegetation, a clay cap and environmental variables on 222Rn fluence rate from reclaimed U mill tailings.

PubMed

Morris, R C; Fraley, L

1989-04-01

We measured 222Rn fluence rate and several environmental variables on two plots with U mill tailings buried beneath 30 cm of overburden and 20 cm of topsoil. An additional 30 cm of clay covered the tailings on one plot and each plot was subdivided into bare soil and vegetated subplots. We used linear correlation, two-way ANOVA and stepwise multiple regression to analyze the effects of the plot characteristics and the environmental variables on 222Rn fluence rate. The most important effect on 222Rn fluence rates from these plots was the combination of a clay cap and a vegetated surface. The mean annual fluence rate from the plot having both of these characteristics (520 +/- 370 mBq m-2 s-1) was over three times that of the vegetated plot without a clay cap (170 +/- 130 mBq m-2 s-1) and 18 times that of the bare plot with a clay cap (29 +/- 13 mBq m-2 s-1). The interaction effect may have been due to the growth of roots in the moist clay and active transport of dissolved 222Rn to the surface in water. This speculation is supported by the observation that on vegetated plots with a clay cap, moisture in the clay enhanced the fluence rate.

A review of melasma treatment focusing on laser and light devices.

PubMed

Li, Janet Y; Geddes, Elizabeth Rc; Robinson, Deanne M; Friedman, Paul M

2016-12-01

Melasma is a pigmentary disorder of unclear etiology with numerous treatment options and high recurrence rates. Laser and light therapies may be utilized cautiously as second- or third-line options for recalcitrant melasma, but low-energy settings are preferred due to the risk of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma stimulation. Commonly used lasers include the low-fluence 1064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser, nonablative fractionated lasers, and intense pulsed light. Strict sun protection, concomitant use of bleaching agents, and maintenance treatments are necessary. A variety of other treatments that may also help to improve results are now being more widely adopted, including oral tranexamic acid, pulsed dye laser, antioxidants, and laser-assisted drug delivery. ©2016 Frontline Medical Communications.

Efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy in the Treatment of Facial Acne Vulgaris: Comparison of Two Different Fluences

PubMed Central

Patidar, Monika V; Deshmukh, Ashish Ramchandra; Khedkar, Maruti Yadav

2016-01-01

Background: Acne vulgaris is the most common disease of the skin affecting adolescents and young adults causing psychological distress. The combination of antibiotic resistance, adverse effects of topical and systemic anti acne medications and desire for high tech approaches have all led to new enthusiasm for light based acne treatment. Intense pulse light (IPL) therapy has three modes of action in acne vulgaris i.e., photochemical, photo thermal and photo immunological. Aims: (1) to study efficacy of IPL therapy in facial acne vulgaris. (2) To compare two fluences - one normal and other subnormal on right and left side of face respectively. Methods: (Including settings and design and statistical analysis used). Total 45 patients in age group 16 to 28 years with inflammatory facial acne vulgaris were included in prospective study. Baseline data for each patient was recorded. All patients were given 4 sittings of IPL at 2 weeks interval and were followed for 2 months every 2 weeks. Fluence used was 35J/cm2 on right and 20J/cm2 on left side. Percentage reduction in lesion count was calculated at each sitting and follow up and graded as mild (0-25%), moderate (26-50%), good (51-75%) and excellent (76-100%). Side effects were noted. The results were analysed using Mann-Whitney Test. Results: On right side, excellent results were achieved in 10(22%), good in 22(49%) and moderate in 13(29%) patients. On left side excellent were results achieved in 7(15%), good in 19(42%) and moderate in 16(43%) patients. There was no statically significant difference noted in efficacy of two fluences used in treatment of facial acne vulgaris. Conclusions: IPL is a effective and safe option for inflammatory acne vulgaris with minimal reversible side effects. Subnormal fluence is as effective as normal fluence in Indian skin. PMID:27688446

Characterization of an optimized light source and comparison to pulsed dye laser for superficial and deep vessel clearance.

PubMed

Weiss, Robert A; Ross, E Victor; Tanghetti, Emil A; Vasily, David B; Childs, James J; Smirnov, Mikhail Z; Altshuler, Gregory B

2011-02-01

An arc lamp-based device providing optimized spectrum and pulse shape was characterized and compared with two pulsed dye laser (PDL) systems using a vascular phantom. Safety and effectiveness for facial telangiectasia are presented in clinical case studies. An optimized pulsed light source's (OPL) spectral and power output were characterized and compared with two 595 nm PDL devices. Purpuric threshold fluences were determined for the OPL and PDLs on Fitzpatrick type II normal skin. A vascular phantom comprising blood-filled quartz capillaries beneath porcine skin was treated by the devices at their respective purpuric threshold fluences for 3 ms pulse widths, while vessel temperatures were monitored with an infrared (IR) camera. Patients with Fitzpatrick skin types II-III received a split-face treatment with the OPL and a 595 nm PDL. The OPL provided a dual-band output spectrum from 500 to 670 nm and 850-1,200 nm, pulse widths from 3 to 100 ms, and fluences to 80 J/cm(2). The smooth output power measured during all pulse widths provides unambiguous vessel size selectivity. Percent energy in the near infra-red increased with decreasing output power from 45% to 60% and contributed 15-26% to heating of deep vessels, respectively. At purpuric threshold fluences the ratio of OPL to PDL vessel temperature rise was 1.7-2.8. OPL treatments of facial telangiectasia were well-tolerated by patients demonstrating significant improvements comparable to PDL with no downtime. Intense pulsed light (IPL) and PDL output pulse and spectral profiles are important for selective treatment of vessels in vascular lesions. The OPL's margin between purpuric threshold fluence and treatment fluence for deeper, larger vessels was greater than the corresponding margin with PDLs. The results warrant further comparison studies with IPLs and other PDLs. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy in the Treatment of Facial Acne Vulgaris: Comparison of Two Different Fluences.

PubMed

Patidar, Monika V; Deshmukh, Ashish Ramchandra; Khedkar, Maruti Yadav

2016-01-01

Acne vulgaris is the most common disease of the skin affecting adolescents and young adults causing psychological distress. The combination of antibiotic resistance, adverse effects of topical and systemic anti acne medications and desire for high tech approaches have all led to new enthusiasm for light based acne treatment. Intense pulse light (IPL) therapy has three modes of action in acne vulgaris i.e., photochemical, photo thermal and photo immunological. (1) to study efficacy of IPL therapy in facial acne vulgaris. (2) To compare two fluences - one normal and other subnormal on right and left side of face respectively. (Including settings and design and statistical analysis used). Total 45 patients in age group 16 to 28 years with inflammatory facial acne vulgaris were included in prospective study. Baseline data for each patient was recorded. All patients were given 4 sittings of IPL at 2 weeks interval and were followed for 2 months every 2 weeks. Fluence used was 35J/cm(2) on right and 20J/cm(2) on left side. Percentage reduction in lesion count was calculated at each sitting and follow up and graded as mild (0-25%), moderate (26-50%), good (51-75%) and excellent (76-100%). Side effects were noted. The results were analysed using Mann-Whitney Test. On right side, excellent results were achieved in 10(22%), good in 22(49%) and moderate in 13(29%) patients. On left side excellent were results achieved in 7(15%), good in 19(42%) and moderate in 16(43%) patients. There was no statically significant difference noted in efficacy of two fluences used in treatment of facial acne vulgaris. IPL is a effective and safe option for inflammatory acne vulgaris with minimal reversible side effects. Subnormal fluence is as effective as normal fluence in Indian skin.

Heavy Ion Irradiation Fluence Dependence for Single-Event Upsets in a NAND Flash Memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chen, Dakai; Wilcox, Edward; Ladbury, Raymond L.; Kim, Hak; Phan, Anthony; Seidleck, Christina; Label, Kenneth

2016-01-01

We investigated the single-event effect (SEE) susceptibility of the Micron 16 nm NAND flash, and found that the single-event upset (SEU) cross section varied inversely with cumulative fluence. We attribute the effect to the variable upset sensitivities of the memory cells. Furthermore, the effect impacts only single cell upsets in general. The rate of multiple-bit upsets remained relatively constant with fluence. The current test standards and procedures assume that SEU follow a Poisson process and do not take into account the variability in the error rate with fluence. Therefore, traditional SEE testing techniques may underestimate the on-orbit event rate for a device with variable upset sensitivity.

Investigation of the Stability and 1.0 MeV Proton Radiation Resistance of Commercially Produced Hydrogenated Amorphous Silicon Alloy Solar Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lord, Kenneth R., II; Walters, Michael R.; Woodyard, James R.

1994-01-01

The radiation resistance of commercial solar cells fabricated from hydrogenated amorphous silicon alloys is reported. A number of different device structures were irradiated with 1.0 MeV protons. The cells were insensitive to proton fluences below 1E12 sq cm. The parameters of the irradiated cells were restored with annealing at 200 C. The annealing time was dependent on proton fluence. Annealing devices for one hour restores cell parameters for fluences below 1E14 sq cm fluences above 1E14 sq cm require longer annealing times. A parametric fitting model was used to characterize current mechanisms observed In dark I-V measurements. The current mechanism were explored with irradiation fluence, and voltage and light soaking times. The thermal generation current density and quality factor increased with proton fluence. Device simulation shows the degradation in cell characteristics may be explained by the reduction of the electric field in the intrinsic layer.

Biodistribution and photodynamic effects of polyvinylpyrrolidone-hypericin using multicellular spheroids composed of normal human urothelial and T24 transitional cell carcinoma cells.

PubMed

Vandepitte, Joachim; Roelants, Mieke; Van Cleynenbreugel, Ben; Hettinger, Klaudia; Lerut, Evelyne; Van Poppel, Hendrik; de Witte, Peter A M

2011-01-01

Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-hypericin is a potent photosensitizer that is used in the urological clinic to photodiagnose with high-sensitivity nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). We examined the differential accumulation and therapeutic effects of PVP-hypericin using spheroids composed of a human urothelial cell carcinoma cell line (T24) and normal human urothelial (NHU) cells. The in vitro biodistribution was assessed using fluorescence image analysis of 5-μm cryostat sections of spheroids that were incubated with PVP-hypericin. The results show that PVP-hypericin accumulated to a much higher extent in T24 spheroids as compared to NHU spheroids, thereby reproducing the clinical situation. Subsequently, spheroids were exposed to different PDT regimes with a light dose ranging from 0.3 to 18 J∕cm2. When using low fluence rates, only minor differences in cell survival were seen between normal and malignant spheroids. High light fluence rates induced a substantial difference in cell survival between the two spheroid types, killing ∼80% of the cells present in the T24 spheroids. It was concluded that further in vivo experiments are required to fully evaluate the potential of PVP-hypericin as a phototherapeutic for NMIBC, focusing on the combination of the compound with methods that enhance the oxygenation of the urothelium.

DOUBLE-EXPONENTIAL FITTING FUNCTION FOR EVALUATION OF COSMIC-RAY-INDUCED NEUTRON FLUENCE RATE IN ARBITRARY LOCATIONS.

PubMed

Li, Huailiang; Yang, Yigang; Wang, Qibiao; Tuo, Xianguo; Julian Henderson, Mark; Courtois, Jérémie

2017-12-01

The fluence rate of cosmic-ray-induced neutrons (CRINs) varies with many environmental factors. While many current simulation and experimental studies have focused mainly on the altitude variation, the specific rule that the CRINs vary with geomagnetic cutoff rigidity (which is related to latitude and longitude) was not well considered. In this article, a double-exponential fitting function F=(A1e-A2CR+A3)eB1Al, is proposed to evaluate the CRINs' fluence rate varying with geomagnetic cutoff rigidity and altitude. The fitting R2 can have a value up to 0.9954, and, moreover, the CRINs' fluence rate in an arbitrary location (latitude, longitude and altitude) can be easily evaluated by the proposed function. The field measurements of the CRINs' fluence rate and H*(10) rate in Mt. Emei and Mt. Bowa were carried out using a FHT-762 and LB 6411 neutron prober, respectively, and the evaluation results show that the fitting function agrees well with the measurement results. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Macroscopic singlet oxygen model incorporating photobleaching as an input parameter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Michele M.; Finlay, Jarod C.; Zhu, Timothy C.

2015-03-01

A macroscopic singlet oxygen model for photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used extensively to calculate the reacted singlet oxygen concentration for various photosensitizers. The four photophysical parameters (ξ, σ, β, δ) and threshold singlet oxygen dose ([1O2]r,sh) can be found for various drugs and drug-light intervals using a fitting algorithm. The input parameters for this model include the fluence, photosensitizer concentration, optical properties, and necrosis radius. An additional input variable of photobleaching was implemented in this study to optimize the results. Photobleaching was measured by using the pre-PDT and post-PDT sensitizer concentrations. Using the RIF model of murine fibrosarcoma, mice were treated with a linear source with fluence rates from 12 - 150 mW/cm and total fluences from 24 - 135 J/cm. The two main drugs investigated were benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A (BPD) and 2-[1-hexyloxyethyl]-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH). Previously published photophysical parameters were fine-tuned and verified using photobleaching as the additional fitting parameter. Furthermore, photobleaching can be used as an indicator of the robustness of the model for the particular mouse experiment by comparing the experimental and model-calculated photobleaching ratio.

Beyond the Barriers of Light Penetration: Strategies, Perspectives and Possibilities for Photodynamic Therapy

PubMed Central

Mallidi, Srivalleesha; Anbil, Sriram; Bulin, Anne-Laure; Obaid, Girgis; Ichikawa, Megumi; Hasan, Tayyaba

2016-01-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a photochemistry based treatment modality that involves the generation of cytotoxic species through the interactions of a photosensitizer molecule with light irradiation of an appropriate wavelength. PDT is an approved therapeutic modality for several cancers globally and in several cases has proved to be effective where traditional treatments have failed. The key parameters that determine PDT efficacy are 1. the photosensitizer (nature of the molecules, selectivity, and macroscopic and microscopic localization etc.), 2. light application (wavelength, fluence, fluence rate, irradiation regimes etc.) and 3. the microenvironment (vascularity, hypoxic regions, stromal tissue density, molecular heterogeneity etc.). Over the years, several groups aimed to monitor and manipulate the components of these critical parameters to improve the effectiveness of PDT treatments. However, PDT is still misconstrued to be a surface treatment primarily due to the limited depths of light penetration. In this review, we present the recent advances, strategies and perspectives in PDT approaches, particularly in cancer treatment, that focus on increasing the 'damage zone' beyond the reach of light in the body. This is enabled by a spectrum of approaches that range from innovative photosensitizer excitation strategies, increased specificity of phototoxicity, and biomodulatory approaches that amplify the biotherapeutic effects induced by photodynamic action. Along with the increasing depth of understanding of the underlying physical, chemical and physiological mechanisms, it is anticipated that with the convergence of these strategies, the clinical utility of PDT will be expanded to a powerful modality in the armamentarium for the management of cancer. PMID:27877247

Light irradiation induces fragmentation of the plasmodium, a novel photomorphogenesis in the true slime mold Physarum polycephalum: action spectra and evidence for involvement of the phytochrome.

PubMed

Kakiuchi, Y; Takahashi, T; Murakami, A; Ueda, T

2001-03-01

A new photomorphogenesis was found in the plasmodium of the true slime mold Physarum polycephalum: the plasmodium broke temporarily into equal-sized spherical pieces, each containing about eight nuclei, about 5 h after irradiation with light. Action spectroscopic study showed that UVA, blue and far-red lights were effective, while red light inhibited the far-red-induced fragmentation. Difference absorption spectra of both the living plasmodium and the plasmodial homogenate after alternate irradiation with far-red and red light gave two extremes at 750 and 680 nm, which agreed with those for the induction and inhibition of the fragmentation, respectively. A kinetic model similar to that of phytochrome action explained quantitatively the fluence rate-response curves of the fragmentation. Our results indicate that one of the photoreceptors for the plasmodial fragmentation is a phytochrome.

Radiation Resistance Studies of Amorphous Silicon Alloy Photovoltaic Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodyard, James R.

1994-01-01

The radiation resistance of commercial solar cells fabricated from hydrogenated amorphous silicon alloys was investigated. A number of different device structures were irradiated with 1.0 MeV protons. The cells were insensitive to proton fluences below 1E12 sq cm. The parameters of the irradiated cells were restored with annealing at 200 C. The annealing time was dependent on proton fluence. Annealing devices for one hour restores cell parameters for fluences below lE14 sq cm require longer annealing times. A parametric fitting model was used to characterize current mechanisms observed in dark I-V measurements. The current mechanisms were explored with irradiation fluence, and voltage and light soaking times. The thermal generation current density and quality factor increased with proton fluence. Device simulation shows the degradation in cell characteristics may be explained by the reduction of the electric field in the intrinsic layer.

Investigation of the stability and 1.0 MeV proton radiation resistance of commercially produced hydrogenated amorphous silicon alloy solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lord, Kenneth R., II; Walters, Michael R.; Woodyard, James R.

1994-01-01

The radiation resistance of commercial solar cells fabricated from hydrogenated amorphous silicon alloys is reported. A number of different device structures were irradiated with 1.0 MeV protons. The cells were annealing at 200 C. The annealing time was dependent on proton fluence. Annealing devices for one hour restores cell parameters or fluences below 1(exp 14) cm(exp -2); fluences above 1(exp 14) cm(exp -2) require longer annealing times. A parametric fitting model was used to characterize current mechanisms observed in dark I-V measurements. The current mechanisms were explored with irradiation fluence, and voltage and light soaking times. The thermal generation current density and quality factor increased with proton fluence. Device simulation shows the degradation in cell characteristics may be explained by the reduction of the electric field in the intrinsic layer.

Treatment of melasma with low fluence, large spot size, 1064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser for the treatment of melasma in Fitzpatrick skin types II-IV.

PubMed

Brown, Alia S; Hussain, Mussarat; Goldberg, David J

2011-12-01

Melasma is a common condition affecting over six million American women. Treatment of dermal or combined melasma is difficult and does not respond well to conventional topical therapies. Various light sources have been used recently in the treatment of melasma including fractionated ablative and non-ablative lasers as well as intense pulse light. We report the use of low fluence, large spot size Q-switched, Nd:Yag laser for the treatment of melasma in skin types II-IV.

Sequential light programs shape kale (Brassica napus) sprout appearance and alter metabolic and nutrient content

PubMed Central

Carvalho, Sofia D; Folta, Kevin M

2014-01-01

Different light wavelengths have specific effects on plant growth and development. Narrow-bandwidth light-emitting diode (LED) lighting may be used to directionally manipulate size, color and metabolites in high-value fruits and vegetables. In this report, Red Russian kale (Brassica napus) seedlings were grown under specific light conditions and analyzed for photomorphogenic responses, pigment accumulation and nutraceutical content. The results showed that this genotype responds predictably to darkness, blue and red light, with suppression of hypocotyl elongation, development of pigments and changes in specific metabolites. However, these seedlings were relatively hypersensitive to far-red light, leading to uncharacteristically short hypocotyls and high pigment accumulation, even after growth under very low fluence rates (<1 μmol m−2 s−1). General antioxidant levels and aliphatic glucosinolates are elevated by far-red light treatments. Sequential treatments of darkness, blue light, red light and far-red light were applied throughout sprout development to alter final product quality. These results indicate that sequential treatment with narrow-bandwidth light may be used to affect key economically important traits in high-value crops. PMID:26504531

WE-AB-209-10: Optimizing the Delivery of Sequential Fluence Maps for Efficient VMAT Delivery

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

Craft, D; Balvert, M

2016-06-15

Purpose: To develop an optimization model and solution approach for computing MLC leaf trajectories and dose rates for high quality matching of a set of optimized fluence maps to be delivered sequentially around a patient in a VMAT treatment. Methods: We formulate the fluence map matching problem as a nonlinear optimization problem where time is discretized but dose rates and leaf positions are continuous variables. For a given allotted time, which is allocated across the fluence maps based on the complexity of each fluence map, the optimization problem searches for the best leaf trajectories and dose rates such that themore » original fluence maps are closely recreated. Constraints include maximum leaf speed, maximum dose rate, and leaf collision avoidance, as well as the constraint that the ending leaf positions for one map are the starting leaf positions for the next map. The resulting model is non-convex but smooth, and therefore we solve it by local searches from a variety of starting positions. We improve solution time by a custom decomposition approach which allows us to decouple the rows of the fluence maps and solve each leaf pair individually. This decomposition also makes the problem easily parallelized. Results: We demonstrate method on a prostate case and a head-and-neck case and show that one can recreate fluence maps to high degree of fidelity in modest total delivery time (minutes). Conclusion: We present a VMAT sequencing method that reproduces optimal fluence maps by searching over a vast number of possible leaf trajectories. By varying the total allotted time given, this approach is the first of its kind to allow users to produce VMAT solutions that span the range of wide-field coarse VMAT deliveries to narrow-field high-MU sliding window-like approaches.« less

Phototargeting oral black-pigmented bacteria.

PubMed

Soukos, Nikolaos S; Som, Sovanda; Abernethy, Abraham D; Ruggiero, Karriann; Dunham, Joshua; Lee, Chul; Doukas, Apostolos G; Goodson, J Max

2005-04-01

We have found that broadband light (380 to 520 nm) rapidly and selectively kills oral black-pigmented bacteria (BPB) in pure cultures and in dental plaque samples obtained from human subjects with chronic periodontitis. We hypothesize that this killing effect is a result of light excitation of their endogenous porphyrins. Cultures of Prevotella intermedia and P. nigrescens were killed by 4.2 J/cm2, whereas P. melaninogenica required 21 J/cm2. Exposure to light with a fluence of 42 J/cm2 produced 99% killing of P. gingivalis. High-performance liquid chromatography demonstrated the presence of various amounts of different porphyrin molecules in BPB. The amounts of endogenous porphyrin in BPB were 267 (P. intermedia), 47 (P. nigrescens), 41 (P. melaninogenica), and 2.2 (P. gingivalis) ng/mg. Analysis of bacteria in dental plaque samples by DNA-DNA hybridization for 40 taxa before and after phototherapy showed that the growth of the four BPB was decreased by 2 and 3 times after irradiation at energy fluences of 4.2 and 21 J/cm2, respectively, whereas the growth of the remaining 36 microorganisms was decreased by 1.5 times at both energy fluences. The present study suggests that intraoral light exposure may be used to control BPB growth and possibly benefit patients with periodontal disease.

Phototargeting Oral Black-Pigmented Bacteria

PubMed Central

Soukos, Nikolaos S.; Som, Sovanda; Abernethy, Abraham D.; Ruggiero, Karriann; Dunham, Joshua; Lee, Chul; Doukas, Apostolos G.; Goodson, J. Max

2005-01-01

We have found that broadband light (380 to 520 nm) rapidly and selectively kills oral black-pigmented bacteria (BPB) in pure cultures and in dental plaque samples obtained from human subjects with chronic periodontitis. We hypothesize that this killing effect is a result of light excitation of their endogenous porphyrins. Cultures of Prevotella intermedia and P. nigrescens were killed by 4.2 J/cm2, whereas P. melaninogenica required 21 J/cm2. Exposure to light with a fluence of 42 J/cm2 produced 99% killing of P. gingivalis. High-performance liquid chromatography demonstrated the presence of various amounts of different porphyrin molecules in BPB. The amounts of endogenous porphyrin in BPB were 267 (P. intermedia), 47 (P. nigrescens), 41 (P. melaninogenica), and 2.2 (P. gingivalis) ng/mg. Analysis of bacteria in dental plaque samples by DNA-DNA hybridization for 40 taxa before and after phototherapy showed that the growth of the four BPB was decreased by 2 and 3 times after irradiation at energy fluences of 4.2 and 21 J/cm2, respectively, whereas the growth of the remaining 36 microorganisms was decreased by 1.5 times at both energy fluences. The present study suggests that intraoral light exposure may be used to control BPB growth and possibly benefit patients with periodontal disease. PMID:15793117

Transcriptomic Profiling of Soybean in Response to High-Intensity UV-B Irradiation Reveals Stress Defense Signaling

PubMed Central

Yoon, Min Young; Kim, Moon Young; Shim, Sangrae; Kim, Kyung Do; Ha, Jungmin; Shin, Jin Hee; Kang, Sungtaeg; Lee, Suk-Ha

2016-01-01

The depletion of the ozone layer in the stratosphere has led to a dramatic spike in ultraviolet B (UV-B) intensity and increased UV-B light levels. The direct absorption of high-intensity UV-B induces complex abiotic stresses in plants, including excessive light exposure, heat, and dehydration. However, UV-B stress signaling mechanisms in plants including soybean (Glycine max [L.]) remain poorly understood. Here, we surveyed the overall transcriptional responses of two soybean genotypes, UV-B-sensitive Cheongja 3 and UV-B-resistant Buseok, to continuous UV-B irradiation for 0 (control), 0.5, and 6 h using RNA-seq analysis. Homology analysis using UV-B-related genes from Arabidopsis thaliana revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) likely involved in UV-B stress responses. Functional classification of the DEGs showed that the categories of immune response, stress defense signaling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism were over-represented. UV-B-resistant Buseok utilized phosphatidic acid-dependent signaling pathways (based on subsequent reactions of phospholipase C and diacylglycerol kinase) rather than phospholipase D in response to UV-B exposure at high fluence rates, and genes involved in its downstream pathways, such as ABA signaling, mitogen-activated protein kinase cascades, and ROS overproduction, were upregulated in this genotype. In addition, the DEGs for TIR-NBS-LRR and heat shock proteins are positively activated. These results suggest that defense mechanisms against UV-B stress at high fluence rates are separate from the photomorphogenic responses utilized by plants to adapt to low-level UV light. Our study provides valuable information for deep understanding of UV-B stress defense mechanisms and for the development of resistant soybean genotypes that survive under high-intensity UV-B stress. PMID:28066473

Determination of optical properties in heterogeneous turbid media using a cylindrical diffusing fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dimofte, Andreea; Finlay, Jarod C.; Liang, Xing; Zhu, Timothy C.

2012-10-01

For interstitial photodynamic therapy (PDT), cylindrical diffusing fibers (CDFs) are often used to deliver light. This study examines the feasibility and accuracy of using CDFs to characterize the absorption (μa) and reduced scattering (μ‧s) coefficients of heterogeneous turbid media. Measurements were performed in tissue-simulating phantoms with μa between 0.1 and 1 cm-1 and μ‧s between 3 and 10 cm-1 with CDFs 2 to 4 cm in length. Optical properties were determined by fitting the measured light fluence rate profiles at a fixed distance from the CDF axis using a heterogeneous kernel model in which the cylindrical diffusing fiber is treated as a series of point sources. The resulting optical properties were compared with independent measurement using a point source method. In a homogenous medium, we are able to determine the absorption coefficient μa using a value of μ‧s determined a priori (uniform fit) or μ‧s obtained by fitting (variable fit) with standard (maximum) deviations of 6% (18%) and 18% (44%), respectively. However, the CDF method is found to be insensitive to variations in μ‧s, thus requiring a complementary method such as using a point source for determination of μ‧s. The error for determining μa decreases in very heterogeneous turbid media because of the local absorption extremes. The data acquisition time for obtaining the one-dimensional optical properties distribution is less than 8 s. This method can result in dramatically improved accuracy of light fluence rate calculation for CDFs for prostate PDT in vivo when the same model and geometry is used for forward calculations using the extrapolated tissue optical properties.

Blue light does not impair wound healing in vitro.

PubMed

Masson-Meyers, Daniela Santos; Bumah, Violet Vakunseh; Enwemeka, Chukuka Samuel

2016-07-01

Irradiation with red or near infrared light promotes tissue repair, while treatment with blue light is known to be antimicrobial. Consequently, it is thought that infected wounds could benefit more from combined blue and red/infrared light therapy; but there is a concern that blue light may slow healing. We investigated the effect of blue 470nm light on wound healing, in terms of wound closure, total protein and collagen synthesis, growth factor and cytokines expression, in an in vitro scratch wound model. Human dermal fibroblasts were cultured for 48h until confluent. Then a linear scratch wound was created and irradiated with 3, 5, 10 or 55J/cm(2). Control plates were not irradiated. Following 24h of incubation, cells were fixed and stained for migration and fluorescence analyses and the supernatant collected for quantification of total protein, hydroxyproline, bFGF, IL-6 and IL-10. The results showed that wound closure was similar for groups treated with 3, 5 and 10J/cm(2), with a slight improvement with the 5J/cm(2) dose, and slower closure with 55J/cm(2) p<0.001). Total protein concentration increased after irradiation with 3, 5 and 10J/cm(2), reaching statistical significance at 5J/cm(2) compared to control (p<0.0001). However, hydroxyproline levels did not differ between groups. Similarly, bFGF and IL-10 concentrations did not differ between groups, but IL-6 concentration decreased progressively as fluence increased (p<0.0001). Fluorescence analysis showed viable cells regardless of irradiation fluence. We conclude that irradiation with blue light at low fluence does not impair in vitro wound healing. The significant decrease in IL-6 suggests that 470nm light is anti-inflammatory. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fluence compensated photoacoustic tomography in small animals (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, Altaf; Pool, Martin; Daoudi, Khalid; de Vries, Liesbeth G.; Steenbergen, Wiendelt

2017-03-01

Light fluence inside turbid media can be experimentally mapped by measuring ultrasonically modulated light (Acousto-optics). To demonstrate the feasibility of fluence corrected Photoacoustic (PA) imaging, we have realized a tri-modality (i.e. photoacoustic, acousto-optic and ultrasound) tomographic small animal imaging system. Wherein PA imaging provides high resolution map of absorbed optical energy density, Acousto-optics yields the fluence distribution map in the corresponding PA imaging plane and Ultrasound provides morphological information. Further, normalization of the PA image with the acousto-optically measured fluence map results in an image that directly represents the optical absorption. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is commonly found overexpressed in human cancers, among which breast cancers, resulting in a more aggressive tumor phenotype. Identification of HER2-expression is clinically relevant, because cancers overexpressing this marker are amenable to HER2-directed therapies, among which antibodies trastuzumab and pertuzumab. Here, we investigate the feasibility and advantage of acousto-optically assisted fluence compensated PA imaging over PA imaging alone in visualizing and quantifying HER2 expression. For this experiment, nude mice were xenografted with human breast cancer cell lines SKBR3 and BT474 (both HER2 overexpressing), as well as HER2-negative MDA-MB-231. To visualize HER2 expression in these mice, HER2 monoclonal antibody pertuzumab (Perjeta®, Roche), was conjugated to near-infrared dye IRDye 800CW (800CW, LICOR Biosciences) at a ratio of 1∶2 antibody to 800CW. When xenograft tumors measured ≥ 100 mm3, mice received 100 µg 800CW-pertuzumab intravenously. Three days post injection, mice were scanned for fluorescence signal with an IVIS scanner. After fluorescence scans, mice were euthanized and imaged in our PA tomographic imaging system.

Photodynamic decontamination of blood for transfusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ben-Hur, Ehud; Margolis-Nunno, H.; Gottlieb, P.; Lustigman, S.; Horowitz, Bernard

1995-01-01

Currently transfused cellular components of blood are not available in a sterile form and carry a small risk of transmitting viral and parasite diseases. Using phthalocyanines and red light, lipid enveloped viruses, e.g., HIV-1, can be inactivated in red blood cell concentrates (RBCC). Under conditions leading to virus sterilization the blood borne parasites Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas disease) and Plasmodium falciparum (malaria) could be eliminated to undetectable levels (> 4 log10 kill). RBC damage during treatment could be avoided by increasing the light fluence rate to 80 mW/cm2, and by including the free radical scavenger glutathione and the vitamin E derivative Trolox during light exposure. Similar sterilization of platelet concentrates was achieved with the psoralen derivative AMT and UVA light. Platelet damage due to PUVA treatment was avoided by including the plant flavonoid rutin during irradiation. It is concluded that elimination of the risk of transmitting pathogens during blood transfusion is feasible with photochemical treatments.

An investigation on 800 nm femtosecond laser ablation of K9 glass in air and vacuum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Shi-zhen; Yao, Cai-zhen; Dou, Hong-qiang; Liao, Wei; Li, Xiao-yang; Ding, Ren-jie; Zhang, Li-juan; Liu, Hao; Yuan, Xiao-dong; Zu, Xiao-tao

2017-06-01

Ablation rates of K9 glass were studied as a function of femtosecond laser fluences. The central wavelength was 800 nm, and pulse durations of 35 fs and 500 fs in air and vacuum were employed. Ablation thresholds of 0.42 J/cm2 and 2.1 J/cm2 were obtained at 35 fs and 500 fs, respectively, which were independent with the ambient conditions and depend on the incident pulse numbers due to incubation effects. The ablation rate of 35 fs pulse laser increased with the increasing of laser fluence in vacuum, while in air condition, it slowly increased to a plateau at high fluence. The ablation rate of 500 fs pulse laser showed an increase at low fluence and a slow drop of ablation rate was observed at high fluence in air and vacuum, which may due to the strong defocusing effects associated with the non-equilibrium ionization of air, and/or the shielding effects of conduction band electrons (CBEs) produced by multi-photon ionization and impact ionization in K9 glass surface. The typical ablation morphologies, e.g. smooth zone and laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) were also presented and illustrated.

Modeling and experimental validation of angular radiance and distance-dependent radiance in a turbid medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lingling; Li, Chenxi; Zhao, Huijuan; Yi, Xi; Gao, Feng; Meng, Wei; Lu, Yiming

2014-03-01

Radiance is sensitive to the variations of tissue optical parameters, such as absorption coefficient μa, scattering coefficient μs, and anisotropy factor g. Therefore, similar to fluence, radiance can be used for tissue characterization. Compared with fluence, radiance has the advantage of offering the direction information of light intensity. Taking such advantage, the optical parameters can be determined by rotating the detector through 360 deg with only a single optode pair. Instead of the translation mode used in the fluence-based technologies, the Rotation mode has less invasiveness in the clinical diagnosis. This paper explores a new method to obtain the optical properties by measuring the distribution of light intensity in liquid phantom with only a single optode pair and the detector rotation through 360 deg. The angular radiance and distance-dependent radiance are verified by comparing experimental measurement data with Monte Carlo (MC) simulation for the short source-detector separations and diffusion approximation for the large source-detector separations. Detecting angular radiance with only a single optode pair under a certain source-detection separation will present a way for prostate diagnose and light dose calculation during the photon dynamic therapy (PDT).

Understanding possible underlying mechanism in declining germicidal efficiency of UV-LED reactor.

PubMed

Lee, Hyunkyung; Jin, Yongxun; Hong, Seungkwan

2018-06-07

Since ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) have emerged as an alternative light source for UV disinfection systems, enhancement of reactor performance is a demanding challenge to promote its practical application in water treatment process. This study explored the underlying mechanism of the inefficiency observed in flow-through mode UV disinfection tests to improve the light utilization of UV-LED applications. In particular, the disinfection performance of UV-LED reactors was evaluated using two different flow channel types, reservoir and pathway systems, in order to elucidate the impact of physical circumstances on germicidal efficiency as the light profile was adjusted. Overall, a significant reduction in germicidal efficiency was observed when exposure time was prolonged or a mixing chamber was integrated. Zeta analysis revealed that the repulsion rate between microorganisms decreased with UV fluence transfer, and that change might cause the shielding effect of UV delivery to target microorganisms. In line with the above findings, the reduction in efficiency intensified when opportunities for microbial collision increased. Thus, UV induced microbial aggregation was implicated as being a disinfection hindering factor, exerting its effect through uneven UV illumination. Ultimately, the results refuted the prevailing belief that UV has a cumulative effect. We found that the reservoir system achieved worse performance than the pathway system despite it providing 15 times higher UV fluence: the differences in germicidal efficiency were 1-log, 1.4-log and 1.7-log in the cases of P.aeruginosa, E.coli and S.aureus, respectively. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nd:YAG 1.44 laser ablation of human cartilage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cummings, Robert S.; Prodoehl, John A.; Rhodes, Anthony L.; Black, Johnathan D.; Sherk, Henry H.

1993-07-01

This study determined the effectiveness of a Neodymium:YAG 1.44 micrometers wavelength laser on human cartilage. This wavelength is strongly absorbed by water. Cadaveric meniscal fibrocartilage and articular hyaline cartilage were harvested and placed in normal saline during the study. A 600 micrometers quartz fiber was applied perpendicularly to the tissues with a force of 0.098 N. Quantitative measurements were then made of the ablation rate as a function of fluence. The laser energy was delivered at a constant repetition rate of 5 Hz., 650 microsecond(s) pulsewidth, and energy levels ranging from 0.5 joules to 2.0 joules. Following the ablation of the tissue, the specimens were fixed in formalin for histologic evaluation. The results of the study indicate that the ablation rate is 0.03 mm/mj/mm2 for hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage. Fibrocartilage was cut at approximately the same rate as hyaline cartilage. There was a threshold fluence projected to be 987 mj/mm2 for hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage. Our results indicate that the pulsed Nd:YAG laser operating at 1.44 micrometers has a threshold fluence above which it will ablate human cartilage, and that its ablation rate is directly proportional to fluence over the range of parameters tested. Fibrocartilage and hyaline cartilage demonstrated similar threshold fluence and ablation rates which is related to the high water content of these tissues.

Comprehensive studies of ultrashort laser pulse ablation of tin target at terawatt power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsied, Ahmed M.; Diwakar, Prasoon K.; Hassanein, Ahmed

2018-01-01

The fundamental properties of ultrashort laser interactions with metals using up to terawatt power were comprehensively studied, i.e., specifically mass ablation, nanoparticle formation, and ion dynamics using multitude of diagnostic techniques. Results of this study can be useful in many fields of research including spectroscopy, micromachining, thin film fabrication, particle acceleration, physics of warm dense matter, and equation-of-state determination. A Ti:Sapphire femtosecond laser system (110 mJ maximum energy, 40 fs, 800 nm, P-polarized, single pulse mode) was used, which delivered up to 3 terawatt laser power to ablate 1 mm tin film in vacuum. The experimental analysis includes the effect of the incident laser fluence on the ablated mass, size of the ablated area, and depth of ablation using white light profilometer. Atomic force microscope was used to measure the emitted particles size distribution at different laser fluence. Faraday cup (FC) detector was used to analyze the emitted ions flux by measuring the velocity, and the total charge of the emitted ions. The study shows that the size of emitted particles follows log-normal distribution with peak shifts depending on incident laser fluence. The size of the ablated particles ranges from 20 to 80 nm. The nanoparticles deposited on the wafer tend to aggregate and to be denser as the incident laser fluence increases as shown by AFM images. Laser ablation depth was found to increase logarithmically with laser fluence then leveling off at laser fluence > 400 J/cm2. The total ablated mass tends to increase logarithmically with laser fluence up to 60 J/cm2 while, increases gradually at higher fluence due to the increase in the ablated area. The measured ion emitted flux shows a linear dependence on laser fluence with two distinct regimes. Strong dependence on laser fluence was observed at fluences < 350 J/cm2. Also, a slight enhancement in ion velocity was observed with increasing laser fluence up to 350 J/cm2.

Effect analysis of material properties of picosecond laser ablation for ABS/PVC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsai, Y. H.; Ho, C. Y.; Chiou, Y. J.

2017-06-01

This paper analytically investigates the picosecond laser ablation of ABS/PVC. Laser-pulsed ablation is a wellestablished tool for polymer. However the ablation mechanism of laser processing for polymer has not been thoroughly understood yet. This study utilized a thermal transport model to analyze the relationship between the ablation rate and laser fluences. This model considered the energy balance at the decomposition interface and Arrhenius law as the ablation mechanisms. The calculated variation of the ablation rate with the logarithm of the laser fluence agrees with the measured data. It is also validated in this work that the variation of the ablation rate with the logarithm of the laser fluence obeys Beer's law for low laser fluences. The effects of material properties and processing parameters on the ablation depth per pulse are also discussed for picosecond laser processing of ABS/PVC.

Group III impurities Si interstitials interaction caused by ion irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romano, L.; Piro, A. M.; De Bastiani, R.; Grimaldi, M. G.; Rimini, E.

2006-01-01

The off-lattice displacement of substitutional impurities (B, Ga) in Si caused by irradiation with energetic light ion beams has been investigated. Samples have been prepared by solid phase epitaxy (SPE) of pre-amorphized Si subsequently implanted with B and Ga at a concentration of about 1 × 1020 at/cm3 confined in a 300 nm thick surface region. The off-lattice displacement of the impurities was induced at room temperature (RT) by irradiation with high energy (>600 keV) light ion beams (H, He) and detected by the channelling technique along different axes, using the 11B(p,α)8Be reaction and standard RBS, for B and Ga, respectively. The normalized channelling yield χ of the impurity signal increases with the ion fluence, indicating a progressive off-lattice displacement of the dopant during irradiation, until it saturates at χF < 1 suggesting a non-random displacement of the dopant. Although the precise value of χF depends on the channelling direction and dopant species, the off-lattice displacement rate, deduced from the χ versus interstitial fluence curve, only depends on the excess of Si self-interstitials (SiI) generated by the irradiating beam through a parameter σ that can be interpreted as an effective cross-section for the impurity-SiI interaction.

Photoaggregation of crystallins (main proteins of eye lens) under the effect of XeCl laser radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soustov, Lev V.; Chelnokov, Evgeny V.; Bityurin, Nikita M.; Kiselev, A. L.; Nemov, V. V.; Sergeev, Yu. V.; Ostrovsky, Michail A.

2004-07-01

UV light is one of primary factors associated with cataract formation in the eye lens. α-, β-, γ-Crystallins maintain lens transparency, and damage to these proteins plays a major role in cataract formation. The effect of XeCl laser radiation (308 nm) on βL-crystallin solution is studied. The strong dependence of protein aggregation kinetics on both laser fluence (w) and repetition rate (F) is investigated. The kinetics features are similar to those of carbonic anhydrase photoaggregation studied previously.

Measurement of the main and critical parameters for optimal laser treatment of heart disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabeya, FB; Abrahamse, H.; Karsten, AE

2017-10-01

Laser light is frequently used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. As in traditional treatments such as medication, bypass surgery, and minimally invasive ways, laser treatment can also fail and present serious side effects. The true reason for laser treatment failure or the side effects thereof, remains unknown. From the literature review conducted, and experimental results generated we conclude that an optimal laser treatment for coronary artery disease (named heart disease) can be obtained if certain critical parameters are correctly measured and understood. These parameters include the laser power, the laser beam profile, the fluence rate, the treatment time, as well as the absorption and scattering coefficients of the target treatment tissue. Therefore, this paper proposes different, accurate methods for the measurement of these critical parameters to determine the optimal laser treatment of heart disease with a minimal risk of side effects. The results from the measurement of absorption and scattering properties can be used in a computer simulation package to predict the fluence rate. The computing technique is a program based on the random number (Monte Carlo) process and probability statistics to track the propagation of photons through a biological tissue.

Light quality influences indigo precursors production and seed germination in Isatis tinctoria L. and Isatis indigotica Fort.

PubMed

Tozzi, Sabrina; Lercari, Bartolomeo; Angelini, Luciana G

2005-01-01

Isatis tinctoria L. and Isatis indigotica Fort. are biennial herbaceous plants belonging to the family of Cruciferae that are used as a source of natural indigo and show several morphological and genetic differences. Production of indigo (indigotin) precursors, indican (indoxyl beta-D glucoside) and isatan B (indoxyl ketogluconate), together with seed germination ability were compared in Isatis tinctoria and Isatis indigotica grown under six different light conditions (darkness, white, red, far red, blue, yellow light) at 25 degrees C. Light quality influenced both germination and production of indigo precursors in the two Isatis species. Different responsiveness to far red and blue light was observed. Indeed, a detrimental effect on germination by blue and far red light was found in I. tinctoria only. Different amounts of isatan B were produced under red and far red light in the two Isatis species. In I. tinctoria, the level of main indigo precursor isatan B was maximal under red light and minimal under far red light. Whereas in I. indigotica far red light promoted a large accumulation of isatan B. The photon fluence rate dependency for white and yellow light responses showed that the accumulation of indigo precursors was differently influenced in the two Isatis species. In particular, both white and yellow light enhanced above 40 micromol m(-2) s(-1) the production of isatan B in I. indigotica while only white light showed a photon fluence dependency in I. tinctoria. These results suggest a different role played by the labile and stable phytochrome species (phyA and phyB) in the isatan B production in I. tinctoria and I. indigotica. I. indigotica, whose germination percentage was not influenced by light quality, demonstrated higher germination capability compared with I. tinctoria. In fact, I. tinctoria showed high frequency of germination in darkness and under light sources that establish high phytochrome photoequilibrium (red, white and yellow light). Germination in I. tinctoria was negatively affected by far red and blue light. I. indigotica seeds appear to be indifferent to canopy-like light (far red). Our results provide further insights on the distinct behaviour of I. tinctoria and I. indigotica that belong to two different genetic clusters and different original environments.

Interaction of gravi- and phototropic stimulation in the response of maize (Zea mays L.) coleoptiles.

PubMed

Nick, P; Schafer, E

1988-02-01

The influence of gravitropic stimulation upon blue-light-induced first positive phototropism for stimulations in the same (light source and center of gravity opposite to each other) and in opposing directions was investigated in maize coleoptiles by measuring fluence-response patterns. As a result of gravitropic counterstimulation, phototropic bending was transient with maximum curvature occurring 100 min after stimulation. On a horizontal clinostat, however, the seedlings curved for 20 h. Gravistimulation in the opposite direction acted additively upon blue-light curvature. Gravistimulation in the same direction as phototropic stimulation produced a complex behaviour deviating from simple additivity. This pattern can be explained by a gravitropically mediated sensitization of the phototropic reaction, an optimal dependence of differential growth on the sum of photo- and gravistimulation, and blue-light-induced inhibition of gravitropic curvature at high fluences. These findings indicate that several steps of photo- and gravitransduction are separate. Preirradiation with red light desensitized the system independently of applied gravity-treatment, indicating that the site of red-light interaction is common to both transduction chains.

Laboratory model for the study and treatment of traumatic tattoos with the Q-switched ruby laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silverman, Richard T.; Lach, Elliot

1994-09-01

The outcome of laser tattoo removal is dependent on the type of laser and characteristics of the tattoo. A rabbit model was developed to study the Q-switched ruby laser in the treatment of traumatic tattooing. On the backs of white New Zealand rabbits, three 3 cm patches were dermabraded and dressed with carbon black and antibiotic ointment. After a healing period of eight weeks, pre-treatment biopsies were obtained, and the rabbits were treated with the Q- switched ruby laser at various fluence settings with a pulse width of 34 nsec. At set intervals, further biopsies were obtained and studied with light and electron microscopic analysis, and photodocumentation was performed. Grossly, clearance of the tattooed areas was noted in the laser treated specimens. More effective clearance was observed with higher fluence treatment. No infections occurred, and hair regrowth was noted in all cases, though the rate seemed to be altered by laser treatment.

Pulsed laser ablation of IC packages for device failure analyses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Ming Hui; Mai, ZhiHong; Chen, G. X.; Thiam, Thomas; Song, Wen D.; Lu, Yongfeng; Soh, Chye E.; Chong, Tow Chong

2002-06-01

Pulsed laser ablation of mold compounds for IC packaging in air and with steam assistance is investigated. It is applied to decap IC packages and expose computer CPU dies for the device failure analyses. Compared with chemical decapping, the laser ablation has advantages of being fast speed, non- contact and dry processing. Laser ablation with the steam assistance results in higher ablation rate and wider ablated crater with much smoother surface morphology. It implies that the steam assisted laser ablation can achieve a faster and better quality laser processing. Audible acoustic wave and plasma optical signal diagnostics are also carried out to have a better understanding of the mechanisms behind. Light wavelength and laser fluence applied in the decapping are two important parameters. The 532 nm Nd:YAG laser decapping at a low laser fluence can achieve a large decapping area with a fine ablation profile. IC packages decapped by the laser ablation show good quality for the device failure analyses.

Epidermal protection with cryogen spray cooling during high fluence pulsed dye laser irradiation: an ex vivo study.

PubMed

Tunnell, J W; Nelson, J S; Torres, J H; Anvari, B

2000-01-01

Higher laser fluences than currently used in therapy (5-10 J/cm(2)) are expected to result in more effective treatment of port wine stain (PWS) birthmarks. However, higher incident fluences increase the risk of epidermal damage caused by absorption of light by melanin. Cryogen spray cooling offers an effective method to reduce epidermal injury during laser irradiation. The objective of this study was to determine whether high laser incident fluences (15-30 J/cm(2)) could be used while still protecting the epidermis in ex vivo human skin samples. Non-PWS skin from a human cadaver was irradiated with a Candela ScleroPlus Laser (lambda = 585 nm; pulse duration = 1.5 msec) by using various incident fluences (8-30 J/cm(2)) without and with cryogen spray cooling (refrigerant R-134a; spurt durations: 40-250 msec). Assessment of epidermal damage was based on histologic analysis. Relatively short spurt durations (40-100 msec) protected the epidermis for laser incident fluences comparable to current therapeutic levels (8-10 J/cm(2)). However, longer spurt durations (100-250 msec) increased the fluence threshold for epidermal damage by a factor of three (up to 30 J/cm(2)) in these ex vivo samples. Results of this ex vivo study show that epidermal protection from high laser incident fluences can be achieved by increasing the cryogen spurt duration immediately before pulsed laser exposure. Copyright 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Increased brain edema following 5-aminolevulinic acid mediated photodynamic in normal and tumor bearing rats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirschberg, Henry; Angell-Petersen, Even; Spetalen, Signe; Mathews, Marlon; Madsen, Steen J.

2007-02-01

Introduction: Failure of treatment for high grade gliomas is usually due to local recurrence at the site of surgical resection indicating that a more aggressive form of local therapy, such as PDT, could be of benefit. PDT causes damage to both tumor cells as well as cerebral blood vessels leading to degradation of the blood brain barrier with subsequent increase of brain edema. The increase in brain edema following ALA-PDT was evaluated in terms of animal survival, histopatological changes in normal brain and tumor tissue and MRI scanning. The effect of steroid treatment, to reduce post-treatment PDT induced edema, was also examined. Methods:Tumors were established in the brains of inbred BD-IX and Fisher rats. At various times following tumor induction the animals were injected with ALA ip. and four hours later light treatment at escalating fluences and fluence rates were given. Nontumor bearing control animals were also exposed to ALA-PDT in a similar manner to evaluate damage to normal brain and degree of blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption. Results: Despite a very low level of PpIX production in normal brain, with a 200:1 tumor to normal tissue selectivity ratio measured at a distance of 2 mm from the tumor border, many animals succumbed shortly after treatment. A total radiant energy of 54 J to non-tumor bearing animals resulted in 50% mortality within 5 days of treatment. Treatment of tumor bearing animals with moderate fluence levels produced similar brain edema compared to higher fluence levels. ALA PDT in nontumor bearing animals produced edema that was light dose dependent. PDT appeared to open the BBB for a period of 24-48 hrs after which it was restored. The addition of post operative steroid treatment reduced the incident of post treatment morbidity and mortality. Conclusions: T2 and contrast enhanced T1 MRI scanning proved to be a highly effective and non-evasive modality in following the development of the edema reaction and the degree and time course of BBB dysfunction thus allowing the use of fewer animals.

Measured thermal and fast neutron fluence rates for ATF-1 holders during ATR cycle 160A

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

Walker, B. J.; Miller, D. T.

This report contains the thermal (2200 m/s) and fast (E>1MeV) neutron fluence rate data for the ATF-1 holders located in core for ATR Cycle 160A which were measured by the Radiation Measurements Laboratory (RML).

Enhanced electrochemical etching of ion irradiated silicon by localized amorphization

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

Dang, Z. Y.; Breese, M. B. H.; Lin, Y.

2014-05-12

A tailored distribution of ion induced defects in p-type silicon allows subsequent electrochemical anodization to be modified in various ways. Here we describe how a low level of lattice amorphization induced by ion irradiation influences anodization. First, it superposes a chemical etching effect, which is observable at high fluences as a reduced height of a micromachined component. Second, at lower fluences, it greatly enhances electrochemical anodization by allowing a hole diffusion current to flow to the exposed surface. We present an anodization model, which explains all observed effects produced by light ions such as helium and heavy ions such asmore » cesium over a wide range of fluences and irradiation geometries.« less

Blue-light regulation of ZmPHOT1 and ZmPHOT2 gene expression and the possible involvement of Zmphot1 in phototropism in maize coleoptiles.

PubMed

Suzuki, Hiromi; Okamoto, Ai; Kojima, Akane; Nishimura, Takeshi; Takano, Makoto; Kagawa, Takatoshi; Kadota, Akeo; Kanegae, Takeshi; Koshiba, Tomokazu

2014-08-01

ZmPHOT1 and ZmPHOT2 are expressed differentially in maize coleoptiles and leaves, with Zmphot1 possibly involved in first-positive phototropic curvature of red-light-adapted maize coleoptiles exposed to pulsed low-fluence blue light. Unilateral blue-light perception by phototropin(s) is the first event of phototropism, with the subsequent signal causing lateral transport of auxin at the coleoptile tip region of monocots. In this study, we analyzed the behavior of two maize phototropin genes: ZmPHOT1 and ZmPHOT2, the latter identified from the maize genome database and newly characterized. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that ZmPHOT1 was abundantly expressed in etiolated coleoptiles, while lower expressions of both ZmPHOT1 and ZmPHOT2 were observed in young leaves. Interestingly, these genes were not specifically expressed in the coleoptile tip region, a key position for photoperception in phototropism. Exposure to pulsed low-fluence blue light (LBL) (0.33 µmol m(-2) s(-1) × 8 s) and continuous high-fluence blue light (HBL) (10 µmol m(-2) s(-1)) rapidly decreased ZmPHOT1 gene expression in coleoptiles, with levels of ZmPHOT2 not significantly altered in that tissue. In young leaves, no drastic expression changes were induced in either ZmPHOT1 or ZmPHOT2 by LBL or HBL irradiation. The Zmphot1 protein was investigated by Western blot analysis with anti-Osphot1 antibodies. Zmphot1 was detected in microsomal fractions, with higher levels in coleoptiles than in leaves. HBL caused rapid phosphorylation of the protein, whereas no phot1 phosphorylation was induced by LBL. The involvement of Zmphot1 in LBL-induced phototropic curvature of maize coleoptiles is discussed.

Fluence plays a critical role on the subsequent distribution of chemotherapy and tumor growth delay in murine mesothelioma xenografts pre-treated by photodynamic therapy.

PubMed

Wang, Yabo; Wang, Xingyu; Le Bitoux, Marie-Aude; Wagnieres, Georges; Vandenbergh, Hubert; Gonzalez, Michel; Ris, Hans-Beat; Perentes, Jean Y; Krueger, Thorsten

2015-04-01

The pre-conditioning of tumor vessels by low-dose photodynamic therapy (L-PDT) was shown to enhance the distribution of chemotherapy in different tumor types. However, how light dose affects drug distribution and tumor response is unknown. Here we determined the effect of L-PDT fluence on vascular transport in human mesothelioma xenografts. The best L-PDT conditions regarding drug transport were then combined with Lipoplatin(®) to determine tumor response. Nude mice bearing dorsal skinfold chambers were implanted with H-Meso1 cells. Tumors were treated by Visudyne(®) -mediated photodynamic therapy with 100 mW/cm(2) fluence rate and a variable fluence (5, 10, 30, and 50 J/cm(2) ). FITC-Dextran (FITC-D) distribution was assessed in real time in tumor and normal tissues. Tumor response was then determined with best L-PDT conditions combined to Lipoplatin(®) and compared to controls in luciferase expressing H-Meso1 tumors by size and whole body bioluminescence assessment (n = 7/group). Tumor uptake of FITC-D following L-PDT was significantly enhanced by 10-fold in the 10 J/cm(2) but not in the 5, 30, and 50 J/cm(2) groups compared to controls. Normal surrounding tissue uptake of FITC-D following L-PDT was significantly enhanced in the 30 J/cm(2) and 50 J/cm(2) groups compared to controls. Altogether, the FITC-D tumor to normal tissue ratio was significantly higher in the 10 J/cm(2) group compared others. Tumor growth was significantly delayed in animals treated by 10 J/cm2-L-PDT combined to Lipoplatin(®) compared to controls. Fluence of L-PDT is critical for the optimal distribution and effect of subsequently administered chemotherapy. These findings have an importance for the clinical translation of the vascular L-PDT concept in the clinics. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Analyses of surface coloration on TiO 2 film irradiated with excimer laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, H. Y.; Qian, H. X.; Zhou, W.

2008-01-01

TiO 2 film of around 850 nm in thickness was deposited on a soda-lime glass by PVD sputtering and irradiated using one pulse of krypton-fluorine (KrF) excimer laser (wavelength of 248 nm and pulse duration of 25 ns) with varying fluence. The color of the irradiated area became darker with increasing laser fluence. Irradiated surfaces were characterized using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. Surface undergoes thermal annealing at low laser fluence of 400 and 590 mJ/cm 2. Microcracks at medium laser fluence of 1000 mJ/cm 2 are attributed to surface melting and solidification. Hydrodynamic ablation is proposed to explain the formation of micropores and networks at higher laser fluence of 1100 and 1200 mJ/cm 2. The darkening effect is explained in terms of trapping of light in the surface defects formed rather than anatase to rutile phase transformation as reported by others. Controlled darkening of TiO 2 film might be used for adjustable filters.

Measured thermal and fast neutron fluence rates for ATF-1 holders during ATR cycle 158B/159A

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

Smith, Larry Don; Miller, David Torbet; Walker, Billy Justin

2016-11-01

This report contains the thermal (2200 m/s) and fast (E>1MeV) neutron fluence rate data for the ATF-1 holders located in core for ATR Cycle 158B/159A which were measured by the Radiation Measurements Laboratory (RML).

Tropisms of Avena coleoptiles: sine law for gravitropism, exponential law for photogravitropic equilibrium.

PubMed

Galland, Paul

2002-09-01

The quantitative relation between gravitropism and phototropism was analyzed for light-grown coleoptiles of Avena sativa (L.). With respect to gravitropism the coleoptiles obeyed the sine law. To study the interaction between light and gravity, coleoptiles were inclined at variable angles and irradiated for 7 h with unilateral blue light (466 nm) impinging at right angles relative to the axis of the coleoptile. The phototropic stimulus was applied from the side opposite to the direction of gravitropic bending. The fluence rate that was required to counteract the negative gravitropism increased exponentially with the sine of the inclination angle. To achieve balance, a linear increase in the gravitropic stimulus required compensation by an exponential increase in the counteracting phototropic stimulus. The establishment of photogravitropic equilibrium during continuous unilateral irradiation is thus determined by two different laws: the well-known sine law for gravitropism and a novel exponential law for phototropism described in this work.

Radiation damage by light- and heavy-ion bombardment of single-crystal LiNbO₃

DOE PAGES

Huang, Hsu-Cheng; Zhang, Lihua; Malladi, Girish; ...

2015-04-14

In this work, a battery of analytical methods including in situ RBS/C, confocal micro-Raman, TEM/STEM, EDS, AFM, and optical microscopy were used to provide a comparative investigation of light- and heavy-ion radiation damage in single-crystal LiNbO₃. High (~MeV) and low (~100s keV) ion energies, corresponding to different stopping power mechanisms, were used and their associated damage events were observed. In addition, sequential irradiation of both ion species was also performed and their cumulative depth-dependent damage was determined. It was found that the contribution from electronic stopping by high-energy heavy ions gave rise to a lower critical fluence for damage formationmore » than for the case of low-energy irradiation. Such energy-dependent critical fluence of heavy-ion irradiation is two to three orders of magnitude smaller than that for the case of light-ion damage. In addition, materials amorphization and collision cascades were seen for heavy-ion irradiation, while for light ion, crystallinity remained at the highest fluence used in the experiment. The irradiation-induced damage is characterized by the formation of defect clusters, elastic strain, surface deformation, as well as change in elemental composition. In particular, the presence of nanometric-scale damage pockets results in increased RBS/C backscattered signal and the appearance of normally forbidden Raman phonon modes. The location of the highest density of damage is in good agreement with SRIM calculations. (author)« less

Radiation damage by light- and heavy-ion bombardment of single-crystal LiNbO₃

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

Huang, Hsu-Cheng; Zhang, Lihua; Malladi, Girish

In this work, a battery of analytical methods including in situ RBS/C, confocal micro-Raman, TEM/STEM, EDS, AFM, and optical microscopy were used to provide a comparative investigation of light- and heavy-ion radiation damage in single-crystal LiNbO₃. High (~MeV) and low (~100s keV) ion energies, corresponding to different stopping power mechanisms, were used and their associated damage events were observed. In addition, sequential irradiation of both ion species was also performed and their cumulative depth-dependent damage was determined. It was found that the contribution from electronic stopping by high-energy heavy ions gave rise to a lower critical fluence for damage formationmore » than for the case of low-energy irradiation. Such energy-dependent critical fluence of heavy-ion irradiation is two to three orders of magnitude smaller than that for the case of light-ion damage. In addition, materials amorphization and collision cascades were seen for heavy-ion irradiation, while for light ion, crystallinity remained at the highest fluence used in the experiment. The irradiation-induced damage is characterized by the formation of defect clusters, elastic strain, surface deformation, as well as change in elemental composition. In particular, the presence of nanometric-scale damage pockets results in increased RBS/C backscattered signal and the appearance of normally forbidden Raman phonon modes. The location of the highest density of damage is in good agreement with SRIM calculations. (author)« less

Light-emitting Si nanostructures formed by swift heavy ions in stoichiometric SiO2 layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kachurin, G. A.; Cherkova, S. G.; Marin, D. V.; Kesler, V. G.; Volodin, V. A.; Skuratov, V. A.

2012-07-01

Three hundred and twenty nanometer-thick SiO2 layers were thermally grown on the Si substrates. The layers were irradiated with 167 MeV Xe ions to the fluences ranging between 1012 cm-2 and 1014 cm-2, or with 700 MeV Bi ions in the fluence range of 3 × 1012-1 × 1013 cm-2. After irradiation the yellow-orange photoluminescence (PL) band appeared and grew with the ion fluences. In parallel optical absorption in the region of 950-1150 cm-1, Raman scattering and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy evidenced a decrease in the number of Si-O bonds and an increase in the number of Si-coordinated atoms. The results obtained are interpreted as the formation of the light-emitting Si-enriched nanostructures inside the tracks of swift heavy ions through the disproportionation of SiO2. Ionization losses of the ions are regarded as responsible for the processes observed. Difference between the dependences of the PL intensity on the fluences of Xe and Bi ions are ascribed to their different stopping energy, therewith the diameters of the tracks of Xe and Bi ions were assessed as <3 nm and ˜10 nm, respectively. The observed shift of the PL bands, induced by Xe and Bi ions, agrees with the predictions of the quantum confinement theory.

Integrating spheres for improved skin photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glennie, Diana L.; Farrell, Thomas J.; Hayward, Joseph E.; Patterson, Michael S.

2010-09-01

The prescribed radiant exposures for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of superficial skin cancers are chosen empirically to maximize the success of the treatment while minimizing adverse reactions for the majority of patients. They do not take into account the wide range of tissue optical properties for human skin, contributing to relatively low treatment success rates. Additionally, treatment times can be unnecessarily long for large treatment areas if the laser power is not sufficient. Both of these concerns can be addressed by the incorporation of an integrating sphere into the irradiation apparatus. The light fluence rate can be increased by as much as 100%, depending on the tissue optical properties. This improvement can be determined in advance of treatment by measuring the reflectance from the tissue through a side port on the integrating sphere, allowing for patient-specific treatment times. The sphere is also effective at improving beam flatness, and reducing the penumbra, creating a more uniform light field. The side port reflectance measurements are also related to the tissue transport albedo, enabling an approximation of the penetration depth, which is useful for real-time light dosimetry.

Inactivation credit of UV radiation for viruses, bacteria and protozoan (oo)cysts in water: a review.

PubMed

Hijnen, W A M; Beerendonk, E F; Medema, G J

2006-01-01

UV disinfection technology is of growing interest in the water industry since it was demonstrated that UV radiation is very effective against (oo)cysts of Cryptosporidium and Giardia, two pathogenic micro-organisms of major importance for the safety of drinking water. Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment, the new concept for microbial safety of drinking water and wastewater, requires quantitative data of the inactivation or removal of pathogenic micro-organisms by water treatment processes. The objective of this study was to review the literature on UV disinfection and extract quantitative information about the relation between the inactivation of micro-organisms and the applied UV fluence. The quality of the available studies was evaluated and only high-quality studies were incorporated in the analysis of the inactivation kinetics. The results show that UV is effective against all waterborne pathogens. The inactivation of micro-organisms by UV could be described with first-order kinetics using fluence-inactivation data from laboratory studies in collimated beam tests. No inactivation at low fluences (offset) and/or no further increase of inactivation at higher fluences (tailing) was observed for some micro-organisms. Where observed, these were included in the description of the inactivation kinetics, even though the cause of tailing is still a matter of debate. The parameters that were used to describe inactivation are the inactivation rate constant k (cm(2)/mJ), the maximum inactivation demonstrated and (only for bacterial spores and Acanthamoeba) the offset value. These parameters were the basis for the calculation of the microbial inactivation credit (MIC="log-credits") that can be assigned to a certain UV fluence. The most UV-resistant organisms are viruses, specifically Adenoviruses, and bacterial spores. The protozoon Acanthamoeba is also highly UV resistant. Bacteria and (oo)cysts of Cryptosporidium and Giardia are more susceptible with a fluence requirement of <20 mJ/cm(2) for an MIC of 3 log. Several studies have reported an increased UV resistance of environmental bacteria and bacterial spores, compared to lab-grown strains. This means that higher UV fluences are required to obtain the same level of inactivation. Hence, for bacteria and spores, a correction factor of 2 and 4 was included in the MIC calculation, respectively, whereas some wastewater studies suggest that a correction of a factor of 7 is needed under these conditions. For phages and viruses this phenomenon appears to be of little significance and for protozoan (oo)cysts this aspect needs further investigation. Correction of the required fluence for DNA repair is considered unnecessary under the conditions of drinking water practice (no photo-repair, dark repair insignificant, esp. at higher (60 mJ/cm(2)) fluences) and probably also wastewater practice (photo-repair limited by light absorption). To enable accurate assessment of the effective fluence in continuous flow UV systems in water treatment practice, biodosimetry is still essential, although the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) improves the description of reactor hydraulics and fluence distribution. For UV systems that are primarily dedicated to inactivate the more sensitive pathogens (Cryptosporidium, Giardia, pathogenic bacteria), additional model organisms are needed to serve as biodosimeter.

Inversion of gravitropism by symmetric blue light on the clinostat.

PubMed

Sailer, H; Nick, P; Schafer, E

1990-02-01

Gravitropic stimulation of maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings resulted in a continuous curvature of the coleoptiles in a direction opposing the vector of gravity when the seedlings were rotated on a horizontal clinostat. The orientation of this response, however, was reversed when the gravitropic stimulation was preceded by symmetric preirradiation with blue light (12.7 micromoles photons m-2). The fluence-response curve of this blue light exhibited a lower threshold at 0.5 micromole m-2, and could be separated into two parts: fluences exceeding 5 micromoles m-2 reversed the direction of the gravitropic response, whereas for a range between the threshold and 4 micromoles m-2 a split population was obtained. In all cases a very strong curvature resulted either in the direction of gravity or in the opposite orientation. A minor fraction of seedlings, however, curved towards the caryopsis. Furthermore, the capacity of blue light to reverse the direction of the gravitropic response disappeared with the duration of gravitropic stimulation and it depended on the delay time between both stimulations. This tonic blue-light influence appears to be transient, which is in contrast to the stability observed for tropistic blue-light effects.

Pulsed Tm:YAG laser ablation of knee joint tissues

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Wei-Qiang; Vari, Sandor G.; Duffy, J. T.; Miller, J. M.; Weiss, Andrew B.; Fishbein, Michael C.; Grundfest, Warren S.

1992-06-01

We investigated the effect of a free-running 2.01 micron pulsed Tm:YAG laser on bovine knee joint tissues. Ablation rates of fresh fibrocartilage, hyaline cartilage, and bone were measured in saline as a function of laser fluence (160 - 640 J/cm2) and fiber core size (400 and 600 microns). All tissues could be effectively ablated and the ablation rate increased linearly with the increasing fluence. Use of fibers of different core sizes, while maintaining constant energy fluence, did not result in significant difference in ablation rate. Histology analyses of the ablated tissue samples reveal average Tm:YAG radiation induced thermal damage (denatunalization) zones ranging between 130 and 540 microns, depending on the laser parameters and the tissue type.

Atomic oxygen effects on thin film space coatings studied by spectroscopic ellipsometry, atomic force microscopy, and laser light scattering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Synowicki, R. A.; Hale, Jeffrey S.; Woollam, John A.

1992-01-01

The University of Nebraska is currently evaluating Low Earth Orbit (LEO) simulation techniques as well as a variety of thin film protective coatings to withstand atomic oxygen (AO) degradation. Both oxygen plasma ashers and an electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) source are being used for LEO simulation. Thin film coatings are characterized by optical techniques including Variable Angle Spectroscopic Ellipsometry, Optical spectrophotometry, and laser light scatterometry. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is also used to characterize surface morphology. Results on diamondlike carbon (DLC) films show that DLC degrades with simulated AO exposure at a rate comparable to Kapton polyimide. Since DLC is not as susceptible to environmental factors such as moisture absorption, it could potentially provide more accurate measurements of AO fluence on short space flights.

Appropriate NH4+: NO3- ratio improves low light tolerance of mini Chinese cabbage seedlings.

PubMed

Hu, Linli; Liao, Weibiao; Dawuda, Mohammed Mujitaba; Yu, Jihua; Lv, Jian

2017-01-23

In northwest of China, mini Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensis) is highly valued by consumers, and is widely cultivated during winter in solar-greenhouses where low light (LL) fluence (between 85 and 150 μmol m -2 s -1 in day) is a major abiotic stress factor limiting plant growth and crop productivity. The mechanisms with which various NH 4 + : NO 3 - ratios affected growth and photosynthesis of mini Chinese cabbage under normal (200 μmol m -2 s -1 ) and low (100 μmol m -2 s -1 ) light conditions was investigated. The four solutions with different ratios of NH 4 + : NO 3 - applied were 0:100, 10:90, 15:85 and 25:75 with the set up in a glasshouse in hydroponic culture. The most appropriate NH 4 + : NO 3 - ratio that improved the tolerance of mini Chinese cabbage seedlings to LL was found in our current study. Under low light, the application of NH 4 + : NO 3 - (10:90) significantly stimulated growth compared to only NO 3 - by increasing leaf area, canopy spread, biomass accumulation, and net photosynthetic rate. The increase in net photosynthetic rate was associated with an increase in: 1) maximum and effective quantum yield of PSII; 2) activities of Calvin cycle enzymes; and 3) levels of mRNA relative expression of several genes involved in Calvin cycle. In addition, glucose, fructose, sucrose, starch and total carbohydrate, which are the products of CO 2 assimilation, accumulated most in the cabbage leaves that were supplied with NH 4 + : NO 3 - (10:90) under LL condition. Low light reduced the carbohydrate: nitrogen (C: N) ratio while the application of NH 4 + : NO 3 - (10:90) alleviated the negative effect of LL on C: N ratio mainly by increasing total carbohydrate contents. The application of NH 4 + :NO 3 - (10:90) increased rbcL, rbcS, FBA, FBPase and TK expression and/or activities, enhanced photosynthesis, carbohydrate accumulation and improved the tolerance of mini Chinese cabbage seedlings to LL. The results of this study would provide theoretical basis and technical guidance for mini Chinese cabbage production. In practical production, the ratio of NH 4 + :NO 3 - should be adjusted with respect to light fluence for successful growing of mini Chinese cabbage.

Simultaneous time-space resolved reflectivity and interferometric measurements of dielectrics excited with femtosecond laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Lechuga, M.; Haahr-Lillevang, L.; Siegel, J.; Balling, P.; Guizard, S.; Solis, J.

2017-06-01

Simultaneous time-and-space resolved reflectivity and interferometric measurements over a temporal span of 300 ps have been performed in fused silica and sapphire samples excited with 800 nm, 120 fs laser pulses at energies slightly and well above the ablation threshold. The experimental results have been simulated in the frame of a multiple-rate equation model including light propagation. The comparison of the temporal evolution of the reflectivity and the interferometric measurements at 400 nm clearly shows that the two techniques interrogate different material volumes during the course of the process. While the former is sensitive to the evolution of the plasma density in a very thin ablating layer at the surface, the second yields an averaged plasma density over a larger volume. It is shown that self-trapped excitons do not appreciably contribute to carrier relaxation in fused silica at fluences above the ablation threshold, most likely due to Coulomb screening effects at large excited carrier densities. For both materials, at fluences well above the ablation threshold, the maximum measured plasma reflectivity shows a saturation behavior consistent with a scattering rate proportional to the plasma density in this fluence regime. Moreover, for both materials and for pulse energies above the ablation threshold and delays in the few tens of picoseconds range, a simultaneous "low reflectivity" and "low transmission" behavior is observed. Although this behavior has been identified in the past as a signature of femtosecond laser-induced ablation, its origin is alternatively discussed in terms of the optical properties of a material undergoing strong isochoric heating, before having time to substantially expand or exchange energy with the surrounding media.

X-ray two-photon absorption with high fluence XFEL pulses

DOE PAGES

Hoszowska, Joanna; Szlachetko, J.; Dousse, J. -Cl.; ...

2015-09-07

Here, we report on nonlinear interaction of solid Fe with intense femtosecond hard x-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) pulses. The experiment was performed at the CXI end-station of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) by means of high- resolution x-ray emission spectroscopy. The focused x-ray beam provided extreme fluence of ~10 5 photons/Å 2. Two-photon absorption leading to K-shell hollow atom formation and to single K-shell ionization of solid Fe was investigated.

Inertial confinement fusion method producing line source radiation fluence

DOEpatents

Rose, Ronald P.

1984-01-01

An inertial confinement fusion method in which target pellets are imploded in sequence by laser light beams or other energy beams at an implosion site which is variable between pellet implosions along a line. The effect of the variability in position of the implosion site along a line is to distribute the radiation fluence in surrounding reactor components as a line source of radiation would do, thereby permitting the utilization of cylindrical geometry in the design of the reactor and internal components.

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

Gaubas, E., E-mail: eugenijus.gaubas@ff.vu.lt; Ceponis, T.; Jasiunas, A.

Evolution of the microwave-probed photoconductivity transients and of the proton induced luminescence has simultaneously been examined in polycrystalline CdS layers evaporated in vacuum during exposure to a 1.6 MeV proton beam. The decrease of the intensity of luminescence peaked at 510 and 709 nm wavelengths and of values of the effective carrier lifetime has been correlated in dependence of proton irradiation fluence. The defect introduction rate has been evaluated by the comparative analysis of the laser and proton beam induced luminescence. The difference of a carrier pair generation mechanism inherent for light and for a proton beam has been revealed.

Laser paper cleaning: the method of cleaning historical books

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zekou, Evangelini; Tsilikas, Ioannis; Chatzitheodoridis, Elias; Serafetinides, Alexander A.

2016-01-01

Conservation of cultural heritage treasures is the most important issue for transferring knowledge to the public through the next generation of students, academics, and researchers. Although this century is authenticating e-books and information by means of electronic text, still historical manuscripts as content as well as objects are the main original recourses of keeping a record of this transformation. The current work focuses on cleaning paper samples by the application of pulsed light, which is interventional. Experiments carried out using paper samples that are artificially colonized with Ulocladium chartarum. Paper is treated by Nd:YAG laser light. The available wavelength is 1064 nm, at various fluences, repetition rates and number of pulses. Two types of paper are stained with fungi colonies, which grow on substrates of clean paper, as well as on paper with ink text. The first type of paper is Whatman No.1056, which is closer to pure cellulose. The second type of paper is a page of a cultural heritage book published in 1926. Cleaning is performed using laser irradiation, thus defining the damage threshold of each sample. The treatment on paper Watman showed a yellowing, especially on areas with high concentration of fungi. The second sample was more durable to the exposure, performing the best results at higher fluences. Eventually, the paper samples are characterized, with optical microscopy and SEM/EDX analyses, prior to and after cleaning.

Photoacoustic-based sO2 estimation through excised bovine prostate tissue with interstitial light delivery.

PubMed

Mitcham, Trevor; Taghavi, Houra; Long, James; Wood, Cayla; Fuentes, David; Stefan, Wolfgang; Ward, John; Bouchard, Richard

2017-09-01

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is capable of probing blood oxygen saturation (sO 2 ), which has been shown to correlate with tissue hypoxia, a promising cancer biomarker. However, wavelength-dependent local fluence changes can compromise sO 2 estimation accuracy in tissue. This work investigates using PA imaging with interstitial irradiation and local fluence correction to assess precision and accuracy of sO 2 estimation of blood samples through ex vivo bovine prostate tissue ranging from 14% to 100% sO 2 . Study results for bovine blood samples at distances up to 20 mm from the irradiation source show that local fluence correction improved average sO 2 estimation error from 16.8% to 3.2% and maintained an average precision of 2.3% when compared to matched CO-oximeter sO 2 measurements. This work demonstrates the potential for future clinical translation of using fluence-corrected and interstitially driven PA imaging to accurately and precisely assess sO 2 at depth in tissue with high resolution.

Hypertrichosis in Becker's nevus: effective low-fluence laser hair removal.

PubMed

Lapidoth, M; Adatto, M; Cohen, S; Ben-Amitai, D; Halachmi, S

2014-01-01

Becker's nevus is cosmetically bothersome both due to the hyperpigmentation and due to the hypertrichosis which can accompany it, particularly in males. Laser hair removal can be considered, but the pigmented background of the Becker's nevus makes the treatment more challenging. Fifteen patients with Becker's nevus underwent eight sessions of hair removal with low-fluence high-repetition-rate diode lasers (808-810 nm). All participants experienced significant hair reduction at 6 and 12 months. No adverse events were reported. The study supports the use of low fluence with high-repetition-rate diode laser hair removal as a safe and effective method for the management of hypertrichosis in Becker's nevus.

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

Blaise Collin

The Idaho National Laboraroty (INL) PARFUME (particle fuel model) code was used to assess the overall fuel performance of uranium nitride (UN) tristructural isotropic (TRISO) ceramic fuel under irradiation conditions typical of a Light Water Reactor (LWR). The dimensional changes of the fuel particle layers and kernel were calculated, including the formation of an internal gap. The survivability of the UN TRISO particle was estimated depending on the strain behavior of the constituent materials at high fast fluence and burn up. For nominal cases, internal gas pressure and representative thermal profiles across the kernel and layers were determined along withmore » stress levels in the inner and outer pyrolytic carbon (IPyC/OPyC) and silicon carbide (SiC) layers. These parameters were then used to evaluate fuel particle failure probabilities. Results of the study show that the survivability of UN TRISO fuel under LWR irradiation conditions might only be guaranteed if the kernel and PyC swelling rates are limited at high fast fluence and burn up. These material properties have large uncertainties at the irradiation levels expected to be reached by UN TRISO fuel in LWRs. Therefore, a large experimental effort would be needed to establish material properties, including kernel and PyC swelling rates, under these conditions before definitive conclusions can be drawn on the behavior of UN TRISO fuel in LWRs.« less

Sensitivity of Polygonum aviculare Seeds to Light as Affected by Soil Moisture Conditions

PubMed Central

Batlla, Diego; Nicoletta, Marcelo; Benech-Arnold, Roberto

2007-01-01

Background and Aims It has been hypothesized that soil moisture conditions could affect the dormancy status of buried weed seeds, and, consequently, their sensitivity to light stimuli. In this study, an investigation is made of the effect of different soil moisture conditions during cold-induced dormancy loss on changes in the sensitivity of Polygonum aviculare seeds to light. Methods Seeds buried in pots were stored under different constant and fluctuating soil moisture environments at dormancy-releasing temperatures. Seeds were exhumed at regular intervals during storage and were exposed to different light treatments. Changes in the germination response of seeds to light treatments during storage under the different moisture environments were compared in order to determine the effect of soil moisture on the sensitivity to light of P. aviculare seeds. Key Results Seed acquisition of low-fluence responses during dormancy release was not affected by either soil moisture fluctuations or different constant soil moisture contents. On the contrary, different soil moisture environments affected seed acquisition of very low fluence responses and the capacity of seeds to germinate in the dark. Conclusions The results indicate that under field conditions, the sensitivity to light of buried weed seeds could be affected by the soil moisture environment experienced during the dormancy release season, and this could affect their emergence pattern. PMID:17430979

Low-Level Light Stimulates Excisional Wound Healing in Mice

PubMed Central

Demidova-Rice, Tatiana N.; Salomatina, Elena V.; Yaroslavsky, Anna N.; Herman, Ira M.; Hamblin, Michael R.

2010-01-01

Background Low levels of laser or non-coherent light, termed low-level light therapy (LLLT) have been reported to accelerate some phases of wound healing, but its clinical use remains controversial. Methods A full thickness dorsal excisional wound in mice was treated with a single exposure to light of various wavelengths and fluences 30 minutes after wounding. Wound areas were measured until complete healing and immunofluorescence staining of tissue samples was carried out. Results Wound healing was significantly stimulated in BALB/c and SKH1 hairless mice but not in C57BL/6 mice. Illuminated wounds started to contract while control wounds initially expanded for the first 24 hours. We found a biphasic dose–response curve for fluence of 635-nm light with a maximum positive effect at 2 J/cm2. Eight hundred twenty nanometer was found to be the best wavelength tested compared to 635, 670, and 720 nm. We found no difference between non-coherent 635 ± 15-nm light from a lamp and coherent 633-nm light from a He/Ne laser. LLLT increased the number of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA)-positive cells at the wound edge. Conclusion LLLT stimulates wound contraction in susceptible mouse strains but the mechanism remains uncertain. PMID:17960752

Spatial separation of light perception and growth response in maize root phototropism.

PubMed

Mullen, J L; Wolverton, C; Ishikawa, H; Hangarter, R P; Evans, M L

2002-09-01

Although the effects of gravity on root growth are well known and interactions between light and gravity have been reported, details of root phototropic responses are less documented. We used high-resolution image analysis to study phototropism in primary roots of Zea mays L. Similar to the location of perception in gravitropism, the perception of light was localized in the root cap. Phototropic curvature away from the light, on the other hand, developed in the central elongation zone, more basal than the site of initiation of gravitropic curvature. The phototropic curvature saturated at approximately 10 micromoles m-2 s-1 blue light with a peak curvature of 29 +/- 4 degrees, in part due to induction of positive gravitropism following displacement of the root tip from vertical during negative phototropism. However, at higher fluence rates, development of phototropic curvature is arrested even if gravitropism is avoided by maintaining the root cap vertically using a rotating feedback system. Thus continuous illumination can cause adaptation in the signalling pathway of the phototropic response in roots.

Spatial separation of light perception and growth response in maize root phototropism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mullen, J. L.; Wolverton, C.; Ishikawa, H.; Hangarter, R. P.; Evans, M. L.

2002-01-01

Although the effects of gravity on root growth are well known and interactions between light and gravity have been reported, details of root phototropic responses are less documented. We used high-resolution image analysis to study phototropism in primary roots of Zea mays L. Similar to the location of perception in gravitropism, the perception of light was localized in the root cap. Phototropic curvature away from the light, on the other hand, developed in the central elongation zone, more basal than the site of initiation of gravitropic curvature. The phototropic curvature saturated at approximately 10 micromoles m-2 s-1 blue light with a peak curvature of 29 +/- 4 degrees, in part due to induction of positive gravitropism following displacement of the root tip from vertical during negative phototropism. However, at higher fluence rates, development of phototropic curvature is arrested even if gravitropism is avoided by maintaining the root cap vertically using a rotating feedback system. Thus continuous illumination can cause adaptation in the signalling pathway of the phototropic response in roots.

Nanosecond laser-metal ablation at different ambient conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elsied, Ahmed M.; Dieffenbach, Payson C.; Diwakar, Prasoon K.; Hassanein, Ahmed

2018-05-01

Ablation of metals under different ambient conditions and laser fluences, was investigated through series of experiments. A 1064 nm, 6 ns Nd:YAG laser was used to ablate 1 mm thick metal targets with laser energy ranging from 2 mJ to 300 mJ. The experiments were designed to study the effect of material properties, laser fluence, ambient gas, and ambient pressure on laser-metal ablation. The first experiment was conducted under vacuum to study the effect of laser fluence and material properties on metal ablation, using a wide range of laser fluences (2 J/cm2 up to 300 J/cm2) and two different targets, Al and W. The second experiment was conducted at atmospheric pressure using two different ambient gases air and argon, to understand the effect of ambient gas on laser-metal ablation process. The third experiment was conducted at two different pressures (10 Torr and 760 Torr) using the same ambient gas to investigate the effect of ambient pressure on laser-metal ablation. To compare the different ablation processes, the amount of mass ablated, ablation depth, crater profile and melt formation were measured using White Light Profilometer (WLP). The experimental results show that at low laser fluence: the ablated mass, ablation depth, and height of molten layer follow a logarithmic function of the incident laser fluence. While, at high laser fluence they follow a linear function. This dependence on laser fluence was found to be independent on ambient conditions and irradiated material. The effect of ambient pressure was more pronounced than the effect of ambient gas type. Plasma shielding effect was found to be very pronounced in the presence of ambient gas and led to significant reduction in the total mass ablation.

A Method for Medical Diagnosis Based on Optical Fluence Rate Distribution at Tissue Surface

PubMed Central

Hamdy, Omnia; El-Azab, Jala; Al-Saeed, Tarek A.; Hassan, Mahmoud F.

2017-01-01

Optical differentiation is a promising tool in biomedical diagnosis mainly because of its safety. The optical parameters’ values of biological tissues differ according to the histopathology of the tissue and hence could be used for differentiation. The optical fluence rate distribution on tissue boundaries depends on the optical parameters. So, providing image displays of such distributions can provide a visual means of biomedical diagnosis. In this work, an experimental setup was implemented to measure the spatially-resolved steady state diffuse reflectance and transmittance of native and coagulated chicken liver and native and boiled breast chicken skin at 635 and 808 nm wavelengths laser irradiation. With the measured values, the optical parameters of the samples were calculated in vitro using a combination of modified Kubelka-Munk model and Bouguer-Beer-Lambert law. The estimated optical parameters values were substituted in the diffusion equation to simulate the fluence rate at the tissue surface using the finite element method. Results were verified with Monte-Carlo simulation. The results obtained showed that the diffuse reflectance curves and fluence rate distribution images can provide discrimination tools between different tissue types and hence can be used for biomedical diagnosis. PMID:28930158

A Method for Medical Diagnosis Based on Optical Fluence Rate Distribution at Tissue Surface.

PubMed

Hamdy, Omnia; El-Azab, Jala; Al-Saeed, Tarek A; Hassan, Mahmoud F; Solouma, Nahed H

2017-09-20

Optical differentiation is a promising tool in biomedical diagnosis mainly because of its safety. The optical parameters' values of biological tissues differ according to the histopathology of the tissue and hence could be used for differentiation. The optical fluence rate distribution on tissue boundaries depends on the optical parameters. So, providing image displays of such distributions can provide a visual means of biomedical diagnosis. In this work, an experimental setup was implemented to measure the spatially-resolved steady state diffuse reflectance and transmittance of native and coagulated chicken liver and native and boiled breast chicken skin at 635 and 808 nm wavelengths laser irradiation. With the measured values, the optical parameters of the samples were calculated in vitro using a combination of modified Kubelka-Munk model and Bouguer-Beer-Lambert law. The estimated optical parameters values were substituted in the diffusion equation to simulate the fluence rate at the tissue surface using the finite element method. Results were verified with Monte-Carlo simulation. The results obtained showed that the diffuse reflectance curves and fluence rate distribution images can provide discrimination tools between different tissue types and hence can be used for biomedical diagnosis.

Investigation of the wavelength dependence of laser stratigraphy on Cu and Ni coatings using LIBS compared to a pure thermal ablation model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paulis, Evgeniya; Pacher, Ulrich; Weimerskirch, Morris J. J.; Nagy, Tristan O.; Kautek, Wolfgang

2017-12-01

In this study, galvanic coatings of Cu and Ni, typically applied in industrial standard routines, were investigated. Ablation experiments were carried out using the first two harmonic wavelengths of a pulsed Nd:YAG laser and the resulting plasma spectra were analysed using a linear Pearson correlation method. For both wavelengths the absorption/ablation behaviour as well as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) depth profiles were studied varying laser fluences between 4.3-17.2 J/cm^2 at 532 nm and 2.9-11.7 J/cm^2 at 1064 nm. The LIBS-stratigrams were compared with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy of cross-sections. The ablation rates were calculated and compared to theoretical values originating from a thermal ablation model. Generally, higher ablation rates were obtained with 532 nm light for both materials. The light-plasma interaction is suggested as possible cause of the lower ablation rates in the infrared regime. Neither clear evidence of the pure thermal ablation, nor correlation with optical properties of investigated materials was obtained.

Arabidopsis ROOT PHOTOTROPISM2 Contributes to the Adaptation to High-Intensity Light in Phototropic Responses

PubMed Central

Haga, Ken; Tsuchida-Mayama, Tomoko; Yamada, Mizuki; Sakai, Tatsuya

2015-01-01

Living organisms adapt to changing light environments via mechanisms that enhance photosensitivity under darkness and attenuate photosensitivity under bright light conditions. In hypocotyl phototropism, phototropin1 (phot1) blue light photoreceptors mediate both the pulse light-induced, first positive phototropism and the continuous light-induced, second positive phototropism, suggesting the existence of a mechanism that alters their photosensitivity. Here, we show that light induction of ROOT PHOTOTROPISM2 (RPT2) underlies photosensory adaptation in hypocotyl phototropism of Arabidopsis thaliana. rpt2 loss-of-function mutants exhibited increased photosensitivity to very low fluence blue light but were insensitive to low fluence blue light. Expression of RPT2 prior to phototropic stimulation in etiolated seedlings reduced photosensitivity during first positive phototropism and accelerated second positive phototropism. Our microscopy and biochemical analyses indicated that blue light irradiation causes dephosphorylation of NONPHOTOTROPIC HYPOCOTYL3 (NPH3) proteins and mediates their release from the plasma membrane. These phenomena correlate closely with the desensitization of phot1 signaling during the transition period from first positive phototropism to second positive phototropism. RPT2 modulated the phosphorylation of NPH3 and promoted reconstruction of the phot1-NPH3 complex on the plasma membrane. We conclude that photosensitivity is increased in the absence of RPT2 and that this results in the desensitization of phot1. Light-mediated induction of RPT2 then reduces the photosensitivity of phot1, which is required for second positive phototropism under bright light conditions. PMID:25873385

Skin photosensitivity as a model in photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richter, Anna M.; Jain, Ashok K.; Canaan, Alice J.; Meadows, Howard; Levy, Julia G.

1996-01-01

Skin photosensitivity is the most common side effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and in clinical situations needs to be avoided or at least minimized. However, because of the accessibility of skin tissue, skin photosensitivity represents a useful test system in vivo for evaluation of the pharmacokinetics of photosensitizers and light sources. Pig skin resembles in many aspects human skin and, therefore, is most suitable for these tests. Using pig skin photosensitivity as an end point, we evaluate the effect of cell loading with a photosensitizer, benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD verteporfin) following its intravenous administration either as a rapid bolus or slow infusion. Skin response to light activation indicated a very similar cell content of BPD. These results were in agrement with those obtained in an in vitro model. In addition, in the same pig skin photosensitivity model we compared the efficiency of activation of BPD with either laser (690 plus or minus 3 nm) or light-emitting diode (LED; 690 plus or minus 12 nm) light. Results indicated the equivalency of the two light sources in this test system, with LED light being slightly more efficient, due possibly to a fluence rate lower than laser light.

Radiation properties of two types of luminous textile devices containing plastic optical fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Selm, Bärbel; Rothmaier, Markus

2007-05-01

Luminous textiles have the potential to satisfy a need for thin and flexible light diffusers for treatment of intraoral cancerous tissue. Plastic optical fibers (POF) with diameters of 250 microns and smaller are used to make the textiles luminous. Usually light is supplied to the optical fiber at both ends. On the textile surface light emission occurs in a woven structure via damaged straight POFs, whereas the embroidered structure radiates the light out of macroscopically bent POFs. We compared the optical properties of these two types of textile diffusers using red light laser for the embroidery and light emitting diode (LED) for the woven structure as light sources, and found efficiencies for the luminous areas of the two samples of 19 % (woven) and 32 % (embroidery), respectively. It was shown that the efficiency can be greatly improved using an aluminium backing. Additional scattering layers lower the fluence rate by around 30 %. To analyse the homogeneity we took a photo of the illuminated surface using a 3CCD camera and found, for both textiles, a slightly skewed distribution of the dark and bright pixels. The interquartile range of brightness distribution of the embroidery is more than double as the woven structure.

Evaluation of corneal ablation by an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) at 2.94 μm and an Er:YAG laser and comparison to ablation by a 193-nm excimer laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Telfair, William B.; Hoffman, Hanna J.; Nordquist, Robert E.; Eiferman, Richard A.

1998-06-01

Purpose: This study first evaluated the corneal ablation characteristics of (1) an Nd:YAG pumped OPO (Optical Parametric Oscillator) at 2.94 microns and (2) a short pulse Er:YAG laser. Secondly, it compared the histopathology and surface quality of these ablations with (3) a 193 nm excimer laser. Finally, the healing characteristics over 4 months of cat eyes treated with the OPO were evaluated. Methods: Custom designed Nd:YAG/OPO and Er:YAG lasers were integrated with a new scanning delivery system to perform PRK myopic correction procedures. After initial ablation studies to determine ablation thresholds and rates, human cadaver eyes and in-vivo cat eyes were treated with (1) a 6.0 mm Dia, 30 micron deep PTK ablation and (2) a 6.0 mm Dia, -5.0 Diopter PRK ablation. Cadaver eyes were also treated with a 5.0 mm Dia, -5.0 Diopter LASIK ablation. Finally, cats were treated with the OPO in a 4 month healing study. Results: Ablation thresholds below 100 mJ/cm2 and ablation rates comparable to the excimer were demonstrated for both infrared systems. Light Microscopy (LM) showed no thermal damage for low fluence treatments, but noticeable thermal damage at higher fluences. SEM and TEM revealed morphologically similar surfaces for low fluence OPO and excimer samples with a smooth base and no evidence of collagen shrinkage. The Er:YAG and higher fluence OPO treated samples revealed more damage along with visible collagen coagulation and shrinkage in some cases. Healing was remarkably unremarkable. All eyes had a mild healing response with no stromal haze and showed topographic flattening. LM demonstrated nothing except a moderate increase in keratocyte activity in the upper third of the stroma. TEM confirmed this along with irregular basement membranes. Conclusions: A non- thermal ablation process called photospallation is demonstrated for the first time using short pulse infrared lasers yielding damage zones comparable to the excimer and healing which is also comparable to the excimer. Such Infrared sources are, therefore, potentially attractive competitors to the excimer to perform PRK and LASIK.

Effectiveness of low-fluence and short-pulse intense pulsed light in the treatment of melasma: A randomized study.

PubMed

Bae, Myong Il; Park, Jong Min; Jeong, Ki Heon; Lee, Mu Hyoung; Shin, Min Kyung

2015-01-01

Various treatment protocols for melasma have been suggested in the literature, but the efficacy and safety of treatment varies according to the report. To investigate the selective photothermolytic effect of fluence-dependent intense pulsed light (IPL) in the treatment of melasma. Twenty Korean adults with melasma were enrolled, randomly assigned to two groups and treated at fluences of 10 or 13 J/cm(2) of IPL weekly over 6 weeks. Subjects were evaluated at baseline and weekly during the 6 weeks of treatment and at 3 weeks following the final treatment. Melanin and erythema indices were scored using a spectrophotometer. The modified Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI) score of 20 patients at inclusion was 11.6 (± 0.9). Both 10J and 13J IPL treatment groups had decreased modified MASI scores from 2 weeks onward at statistically significant levels. Both 10J and 13J IPL treatment groups showed decreased melanin indices with statistically significant differences from 3 weeks onward. The effect of IPL on melasma was slightly greater in patients treated with 13J of IPL than in those treated with 10J over the entire duration of the study. The erythema index was transiently increased in weeks 1-3, but after 4 weeks it decreased to sub-baseline levels. We suggest that a low-fluence IPL protocol could provide more effective treatment for melasma with minimal side effects in Asian skin.

Effects of pulse durations and environments on femtosecond laser ablation of stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Shizhen; Ding, Renjie; Yao, Caizhen; Liu, Hao; Wan, Yi; Wang, Jingxuan; Ye, Yayun; Yuan, Xiaodong

2018-04-01

The influence of pulse durations (35fs and 260 fs) and environments (air and vacuum) on the laser-induced damage thresholds (LIDTs) and ablation rates of 304 stainless steel were studied. Two distinct ablation regimes were obtained from the ablation rate curves. At low fluence regime, the ablation rates were similar in spite of the differences of pulse durations and experiment environments. At high fluence regime, the ablation rates of 35 fs pulse duration in vacuum were obviously higher than others. The ablation craters showed smooth edges, moth-eye such as structures, and laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSSs). At a fixed fluence, the periods of LIPSSs decreased monotonously in their mean spatial period between 700 nm (5 pulses) and 540 nm (200 pulses) with the increase of pulse numbers in air with 35 fs pulse duration. The formation mechanisms of moth-eye like structures and LIPSSs were also discussed.

Photodynamic therapy: computer modeling of diffusion and reaction phenomena

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hampton, James A.; Mahama, Patricia A.; Fournier, Ronald L.; Henning, Jeffery P.

1996-04-01

We have developed a transient, one-dimensional mathematical model for the reaction and diffusion phenomena that occurs during photodynamic therapy (PDT). This model is referred to as the PDTmodem program. The model is solved by the Crank-Nicholson finite difference technique and can be used to predict the fates of important molecular species within the intercapillary tissue undergoing PDT. The following factors govern molecular oxygen consumption and singlet oxygen generation within a tumor: (1) photosensitizer concentration; (2) fluence rate; and (3) intercapillary spacing. In an effort to maximize direct tumor cell killing, the model allows educated decisions to be made to insure the uniform generation and exposure of singlet oxygen to tumor cells across the intercapillary space. Based on predictions made by the model, we have determined that the singlet oxygen concentration profile within the intercapillary space is controlled by the product of the drug concentration, and light fluence rate. The model predicts that at high levels of this product, within seconds singlet oxygen generation is limited to a small core of cells immediately surrounding the capillary. The remainder of the tumor tissue in the intercapillary space is anoxic and protected from the generation and toxic effects of singlet oxygen. However, at lower values of this product, the PDT-induced anoxic regions are not observed. An important finding is that an optimal value of this product can be defined that maintains the singlet oxygen concentration throughout the intercapillary space at a near constant level. Direct tumor cell killing is therefore postulated to depend on the singlet oxygen exposure, defined as the product of the uniform singlet oxygen concentration and the time of exposure, and not on the total light dose.

Mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana with altered phototropism

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khurana, J. P.; Poff, K. L.

1989-01-01

Thirty five strains of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. have been identified with altered phototropic responses to 450-nm light. Four of these mutants have been more thoroughly characterized. Strain JK224 shows normal gravitropism and "second positive" phototropism. However, while the amplitude for "first positive" phototropism is the same as that in the wild-type, the threshold and fluence for the maximum response in "first positive" phototropism are shifted to higher fluence by a factor of 20-30. This mutant may represent an alteration in the photoreceptor pigment for phototropism. Strain JK218 exhibits no curvature to light at any fluence from 1 micromole m-2 to 2700 micromoles m-2, but shows normal gravitropism. Strain JK345 shows no "first positive" phototropism, and reduced gravitropism and "second positive" phototropism. Strain JK229 shows no measurable "first positive" phototropism, but normal gravitropism and "second positive" phototropism. Based on these data, it is suggested that: 1. gravitropism and phototropism contain at least one common element; 2. "first positive" and "second positive" phototropism contain at least one common element; and 3. "first positive" phototropism can be substantially altered without any apparent alteration of "second positive" phototropism.

Kinetic separation of phototropism from blue-light inhibition of stem elongation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cosgrove, D. J.

1985-01-01

These experiments tested the hypothesis that phototropic bending arises when a light gradient across the stem differentially inhibits cell elongation because of direct inhibition of cell elongation by light (the Blaauw hypothesis). Continuous irradiation of dark-grown cucumber seedlings (Cucumis sativus L.) with unilateral blue light inhibited hypocotyl elongation within 30 s, but did not induce phototropic curvature until 4.5 h after the start of irradiation. Marking experiments showed that curvature began simultaneously at the top and bottom of the growing region. In situ measurements of the light gradient across the stem with a glass fiber optic indicated that a 5- to 6-fold difference in fluence rate was established on the two sides of the stem. The light gradient established at the start of irradiation was the same as that after 6 h of irradiation. Changes in gravitropic responsiveness during this period were also ruled out. Calculations show that the light gradient should have caused curvature which would be detectable within 30 to 60 min and which would extrapolate to the start of irradiation--if the Blaauw hypothesis were correct. The long lag for phototropism in this case indicates that rapid inhibition of cell elongation by blue light does not cause the asymmetrical growth of phototropism. Rather, phototropism is superimposed upon this separate light growth response.

Pump-probe STM light emission spectroscopy for detection of photo-induced semiconductor-metal phase transition of VO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakai, Joe; Katano, Satoshi; Kuwahara, Masashi; Uehara, Yoichi

2017-10-01

We attempted to observe pump-probe scanning tunneling microscopy (STM)-light emission (LE) from a VO2 thin film grown on a rutile TiO2(0 0 1) substrate, with an Ag tip fixed over a semiconducting domain. Laser pulses from a Ti:sapphire laser (wavelength 920 nm pulse width less than 1.5 ps) irradiated the tip-sample gap as pump and probe light sources. With a photon energy of 2.7 eV, suggesting phase transition from semiconducting monoclinic (M) to metallic rutile (R) phases in relation to the electronic band structure, faint LE was observed roughly 30 ps after the irradiation of the pump pulse, followed by retention for roughly 20 ps. The incident energy fluence of the pump pulse at the gap was five orders of magnitude lower than the threshold value for reported photo-induced M-R phase transition. The mechanism that makes it possible to reduce the threshold fluence is discussed.

Pump-probe STM light emission spectroscopy for detection of photo-induced semiconductor-metal phase transition of VO2.

PubMed

Sakai, Joe; Katano, Satoshi; Kuwahara, Masashi; Uehara, Yoichi

2017-10-11

We attempted to observe pump-probe scanning tunneling microscopy (STM)-light emission (LE) from a VO 2 thin film grown on a rutile TiO 2 (0 0 1) substrate, with an Ag tip fixed over a semiconducting domain. Laser pulses from a Ti:sapphire laser (wavelength 920 nm; pulse width less than 1.5 ps) irradiated the tip-sample gap as pump and probe light sources. With a photon energy of 2.7 eV, suggesting phase transition from semiconducting monoclinic (M) to metallic rutile (R) phases in relation to the electronic band structure, faint LE was observed roughly 30 ps after the irradiation of the pump pulse, followed by retention for roughly 20 ps. The incident energy fluence of the pump pulse at the gap was five orders of magnitude lower than the threshold value for reported photo-induced M-R phase transition. The mechanism that makes it possible to reduce the threshold fluence is discussed.

Light diffusion in N-layered turbid media: steady-state domain.

PubMed

Liemert, André; Kienle, Alwin

2010-01-01

We deal with light diffusion in N-layered turbid media. The steady-state diffusion equation is solved for N-layered turbid media having a finite or an infinitely thick N'th layer. Different refractive indices are considered in the layers. The Fourier transform formalism is applied to derive analytical solutions of the fluence rate in Fourier space. The inverse Fourier transform is calculated using four different methods to test their performance and accuracy. Further, to avoid numerical errors, approximate formulas in Fourier space are derived. Fast solutions for calculation of the spatially resolved reflectance and transmittance from the N-layered turbid media ( approximately 10 ms) with small relative differences (<10(-7)) are found. Additionally, the solutions of the diffusion equation are compared to Monte Carlo simulations for turbid media having up to 20 layers.

Regulation of phytochrome message abundance in root caps of maize

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, E. M.; Pao, L. I.; Feldman, L. J.

1991-01-01

In many cultivars of maize (Zea mays L.) red light affects root development via the photomorphogenetic pigment phytochrome. The site of perception for the light is the root cap. In the maize cultivar Merit, we investigated phytochrome-mediated events in the cap. We established that the message encoded by the phyA1 gene was most abundant in dark-grown tissue and was asymmetrically distributed in the root cap, with greatest expression in the cells which make up the central columella core of the cap. Phytochrome message was negatively autoregulated in a specific region within the root cap. This autoregulation was sensitive to very-low-fluence red light, and thus was characterized as a phytochrome-mediated, very-low-fluence event. The kinetics of message reaccumulation in the dark were also examined and compared to the kinetics of the light requirement for root gravitropism in this cultivar. Similarly, the degree of autoregulation present in two other maize cultivars with different light requirements for gravitropic sensitivity was investigated. It appears that the Merit cultivar expresses a condition of hypersensitivity to phytochrome-mediated light regulation in root tissues. We conclude that phytochrome regulates many activities within the cap, but the degree to which these activities share common phytochrome-mediated steps is not known.

SU-E-T-418: Explore the Sensitive of the Planar Quality Assurance to the MLC Error with Different Beam Complexity in Intensity-Modulate Radiation Therapy

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

Wang, J; Peng, J; Xie, J

2015-06-15

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the sensitivity of the planar quality assurance to MLC errors with different beam complexities in intensity-modulate radiation therapy. Methods: sixteen patients’ planar quality assurance (QA) plans in our institution were enrolled in this study, including 10 dynamic MLC (DMLC) IMRT plans measured by Portal Dosimetry and 6 static MLC (SMLC) IMRT plans measured by Mapcheck. The gamma pass rate was calculated using vender’s software. The field numbers were 74 and 40 for DMLC and SMLC, respectively. A random error was generated and introduced to these fields. The modified gamma pass ratemore » was calculated by comparing the original measured fluence and modified fields’ fluence. A decreasing gamma pass rate was acquired using the original gamma pass rate minus the modified gamma pass rate. Eight complexity scores were calculated in MATLAB based on the fluence and MLC sequence of these fields. The complexity scores include fractal dimension, monitor unit of field, modulation index, fluence map complexity, weighted average of field area, weighted average of field perimeter, and small aperture ratio ( <5cm{sup 2} and <50cm{sup 2}). The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was implemented to analyze the correlation between these scores and decreasing gamma rate. Results: The relation between the decreasing gamma pass rate and field complexity was insignificant for most complexity scores. The most significant complexity score was fluence map complexity for SMLC, which have ρ =0.4274 (p-value=0.0063). For DMLC, the most significant complex score was fractal dimension, which have ρ=−0.3068 (p-value=0.0081). Conclusions: According to the primarily Result of this study, the sensitivity gamma pass rate was not strongly relate to the field complexity.« less

Phototropins Function in High-Intensity Blue Light-Induced Hypocotyl Phototropism in Arabidopsis by Altering Cytosolic Calcium1[C][W][OA

PubMed Central

Zhao, Xiang; Wang, Yan-Liang; Qiao, Xin-Rong; Wang, Jin; Wang, Lin-Dan; Xu, Chang-Shui; Zhang, Xiao

2013-01-01

Phototropins (phot1 and phot2), the blue light receptors in plants, regulate hypocotyl phototropism in a fluence-dependent manner. Especially under high fluence rates of blue light (HBL), the redundant function mediated by both phot1 and phot2 drastically restricts the understanding of the roles of phot2. Here, systematic analysis of phototropin-related mutants and overexpression transgenic lines revealed that HBL specifically induced a transient increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) hypocotyls and that the increase in [Ca2+]cyt was primarily attributed to phot2. Pharmacological and genetic experiments illustrated that HBL-induced Ca2+ increases were modulated differently by phot1 and phot2. Phot2 mediated the HBL-induced increase in [Ca2+]cyt mainly by an inner store-dependent Ca2+-release pathway, not by activating plasma membrane Ca2+ channels. Further analysis showed that the increase in [Ca2+]cyt was possibly responsible for HBL-induced hypocotyl phototropism. An inhibitor of auxin efflux carrier exhibited significant inhibitions of both phototropism and increases in [Ca2+]cyt, which indicates that polar auxin transport is possibly involved in HBL-induced responses. Moreover, PHYTOCHROME KINASE SUBSTRATE1 (PKS1), the phototropin-related signaling element identified, interacted physically with phototropins, auxin efflux carrier PIN-FORMED1 and calcium-binding protein CALMODULIN4, in vitro and in vivo, respectively, and HBL-induced phototropism was impaired in pks multiple mutants, indicating the role of the PKS family in HBL-induced phototropism. Together, these results provide new insights into the functions of phototropins and highlight a potential integration point through which Ca2+ signaling-related HBL modulates hypocotyl phototropic responses. PMID:23674105

Phototropins function in high-intensity blue light-induced hypocotyl phototropism in Arabidopsis by altering cytosolic calcium.

PubMed

Zhao, Xiang; Wang, Yan-Liang; Qiao, Xin-Rong; Wang, Jin; Wang, Lin-Dan; Xu, Chang-Shui; Zhang, Xiao

2013-07-01

Phototropins (phot1 and phot2), the blue light receptors in plants, regulate hypocotyl phototropism in a fluence-dependent manner. Especially under high fluence rates of blue light (HBL), the redundant function mediated by both phot1 and phot2 drastically restricts the understanding of the roles of phot2. Here, systematic analysis of phototropin-related mutants and overexpression transgenic lines revealed that HBL specifically induced a transient increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]cyt) in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) hypocotyls and that the increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt was primarily attributed to phot2. Pharmacological and genetic experiments illustrated that HBL-induced Ca(2+) increases were modulated differently by phot1 and phot2. Phot2 mediated the HBL-induced increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt mainly by an inner store-dependent Ca(2+)-release pathway, not by activating plasma membrane Ca(2+) channels. Further analysis showed that the increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt was possibly responsible for HBL-induced hypocotyl phototropism. An inhibitor of auxin efflux carrier exhibited significant inhibitions of both phototropism and increases in [Ca(2+)]cyt, which indicates that polar auxin transport is possibly involved in HBL-induced responses. Moreover, PHYTOCHROME KINASE SUBSTRATE1 (PKS1), the phototropin-related signaling element identified, interacted physically with phototropins, auxin efflux carrier PIN-FORMED1 and calcium-binding protein CALMODULIN4, in vitro and in vivo, respectively, and HBL-induced phototropism was impaired in pks multiple mutants, indicating the role of the PKS family in HBL-induced phototropism. Together, these results provide new insights into the functions of phototropins and highlight a potential integration point through which Ca(2+) signaling-related HBL modulates hypocotyl phototropic responses.

In Vitro Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy Against Trichophyton mentagrophytes Using New Methylene Blue as the Photosensitizer.

PubMed

López-Chicón, P; Gulías, Ò; Nonell, S; Agut, M

2016-11-01

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy combines the use of a photosensitizing drug with light and oxygen to eradicate pathogens. Trichophyton mentagrophytes is a dermatophytic fungus able to invade the skin and keratinized tissues. We have investigated the use of new methylene blue as the photosensitizing agent for antimicrobial photodynamic therapy to produce the in vitro inactivation of T mentagrophytes. A full factorial design was employed to optimize the parameters for photoinactivation of the dermatophyte. The parameters studied were new methylene blue concentration, contact time between the photosensitizing agent and the fungus prior to light treatment, and the fluence of red light (wavelength, 620-645nm) applied. The minimum concentration of new methylene blue necessary to induce the death of all T. mentagrophytes cells in the initial suspension (approximate concentration, 10 6 colony forming units per milliliter) was 50μM for a fluence of 81J/cm 2 after a contact time of 10minutes with the photosensitizing-agent. Increasing the concentration to 100μM allowed the fluence to be decreased to 9J/cm 2 . Comparison of our data with other published data shows that the susceptibility of T. mentagrophytes to antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with new methylene blue is strain-dependent. New methylene blue is a photosensitizing agent that should be considered for the treatment of fungal skin infections caused by this dermatophyte. Copyright © 2016 AEDV. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Arabidopsis ROOT PHOTOTROPISM2 Contributes to the Adaptation to High-Intensity Light in Phototropic Responses.

PubMed

Haga, Ken; Tsuchida-Mayama, Tomoko; Yamada, Mizuki; Sakai, Tatsuya

2015-04-01

Living organisms adapt to changing light environments via mechanisms that enhance photosensitivity under darkness and attenuate photosensitivity under bright light conditions. In hypocotyl phototropism, phototropin1 (phot1) blue light photoreceptors mediate both the pulse light-induced, first positive phototropism and the continuous light-induced, second positive phototropism, suggesting the existence of a mechanism that alters their photosensitivity. Here, we show that light induction of ROOT PHOTOTROPISM2 (RPT2) underlies photosensory adaptation in hypocotyl phototropism of Arabidopsis thaliana. rpt2 loss-of-function mutants exhibited increased photosensitivity to very low fluence blue light but were insensitive to low fluence blue light. Expression of RPT2 prior to phototropic stimulation in etiolated seedlings reduced photosensitivity during first positive phototropism and accelerated second positive phototropism. Our microscopy and biochemical analyses indicated that blue light irradiation causes dephosphorylation of NONPHOTOTROPIC HYPOCOTYL3 (NPH3) proteins and mediates their release from the plasma membrane. These phenomena correlate closely with the desensitization of phot1 signaling during the transition period from first positive phototropism to second positive phototropism. RPT2 modulated the phosphorylation of NPH3 and promoted reconstruction of the phot1-NPH3 complex on the plasma membrane. We conclude that photosensitivity is increased in the absence of RPT2 and that this results in the desensitization of phot1. Light-mediated induction of RPT2 then reduces the photosensitivity of phot1, which is required for second positive phototropism under bright light conditions. © 2015 American Society of Plant Biologists. All rights reserved.

Comparison of three light doses in the photodynamic treatment of actinic keratosis using mathematical modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vignion-Dewalle, Anne-Sophie; Betrouni, Nacim; Tylcz, Jean-Baptiste; Vermandel, Maximilien; Mortier, Laurent; Mordon, Serge

2015-05-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging treatment modality for various diseases, especially for cancer therapy. Although high efficacy is demonstrated for PDT using standardized protocols in nonhyperkeratotic actinic keratoses, alternative light doses expected to increase efficiency, to reduce adverse effects or to expand the use of PDT, are still being evaluated and refined. We propose a comparison of the three most common light doses in the treatment of actinic keratosis with 5-aminolevulinic acid PDT through mathematical modeling. The proposed model is based on an iterative procedure that involves determination of the local fluence rate, updating of the local optical properties, and estimation of the local damage induced by the therapy. This model was applied on a simplified skin sample model including an actinic keratosis lesion, with three different light doses (red light dose, 37 J/cm2, 75 mW/cm2, 500 s blue light dose, 10 J/cm2, 10 mW/cm2, 1000 s and daylight dose, 9000 s). Results analysis shows that the three studied light doses, although all efficient, lead to variable local damage. Defining reference damage enables the nonoptimal parameters for the current light doses to be refined and the treatment to be more suitable.

Implicit dosimetry of microorganism photodynamic inactivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamošiūnas, Mindaugas; Kuliešienė, Neringa; Daugelavičius, Rimantas

2017-12-01

Photosensitization based antibacterial treatment is efficient against a broad range of pathogens but it utilizes suboptimal dosimetry with an explicit (and very broad range) determination of sensitizer concentration, light dose and fluence rates. In this study we verified the implicit dosimetry approach for pathogen photodynamic treatment, employing protoporphyrin IX (ppIX) photobleaching to assess the killing efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans cells. The results show that there was an increased kill of S. aureus and C. albicans at higher degree of ppIX fluorescence decay. Therefore ppIX photobleaching can be incorporated into the PDI dose metric offering to predict the pathogen killing efficacy during photodynamic treatment.

A Dynamic Model for Prediction of Psoriasis Management by Blue Light Irradiation

PubMed Central

Félix Garza, Zandra C.; Liebmann, Joerg; Born, Matthias; Hilbers, Peter A. J.; van Riel, Natal A. W.

2017-01-01

Clinical investigations prove that blue light irradiation reduces the severity of psoriasis vulgaris. Nevertheless, the mechanisms involved in the management of this condition remain poorly defined. Despite the encouraging results of the clinical studies, no clear guidelines are specified in the literature for the irradiation scheme regime of blue light-based therapy for psoriasis. We investigated the underlying mechanism of blue light irradiation of psoriatic skin, and tested the hypothesis that regulation of proliferation is a key process. We implemented a mechanistic model of cellular epidermal dynamics to analyze whether a temporary decrease of keratinocytes hyper-proliferation can explain the outcome of phototherapy with blue light. Our results suggest that the main effect of blue light on keratinocytes impacts the proliferative cells. They show that the decrease in the keratinocytes proliferative capacity is sufficient to induce a transient decrease in the severity of psoriasis. To study the impact of the therapeutic regime on the efficacy of psoriasis treatment, we performed simulations for different combinations of the treatment parameters, i.e., length of treatment, fluence (also referred to as dose), and intensity. These simulations indicate that high efficacy is achieved by regimes with long duration and high fluence levels, regardless of the chosen intensity. Our modeling approach constitutes a framework for testing diverse hypotheses on the underlying mechanism of blue light-based phototherapy, and for designing effective strategies for the treatment of psoriasis. PMID:28184200

Description of Light Ion Production Cross Sections and Fluxes on the Mars Surface using the QMSFRG Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cucinotta, Francis A.; Kim, Myung-Hee; Schneider, Irene; Hassler, Donald M.

2006-01-01

The atmosphere of Mars significantly attenuates the heavy ion component of the primary galactic cosmic rays (GCR), however increases the fluence of secondary light ions (neutrons, and hydrogen and helium isotopes) because of particle production processes. We describe results of the quantum multiple scattering fragmentation (QMSFRG) model for the production of light nuclei through the distinct mechanisms of nuclear abrasion and ablation, coalescence, and cluster knockout. The QMSFRG model is shown to be in excellent agreement with available experimental data for nuclear fragmentation cross sections. We use the QMSFRG model and the space radiation transport code, HZETRN to make predictions of the light particle environment on the Martian surface at solar minimum and maximum. The radiation assessment detector (RAD) experiment will be launched in 2009 as part of the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL). We make predictions of the expected results for time dependent count-rates to be observed by RAD experiment. Finally, we consider sensitivity assessments of the impact of the Martian atmospheric composition on particle fluxes at the surface.

Laser plasma interaction at an early stage of laser ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Y. F.; Hong, M. H.; Low, T. S.

1999-03-01

Laser scattering and its interaction with plasma during KrF excimer laser ablation of silicon are investigated by ultrafast phototube detection. There are two peaks in an optical signal with the first peak attributed to laser scattering and the second one to plasma generation. For laser fluence above 5.8 J/cm2, the second peak rises earlier to overlap with the first one. The optical signal is fitted by a pulse distribution for the scattered laser light and a drifted Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution with a center-of-mass velocity for the plasma. Peak amplitude and its arrival time, full width at half maximum (FWHM), starting time, and termination time of the profiles are studied for different laser fluences and detection angles. Laser pulse is scattered from both the substrate and the plasma with the latter part as a dominant factor during the laser ablation. Peak amplitude of the scattered laser signal increases but its FWHM decreases with the laser fluence. Angular distribution of the peak amplitude can be fitted with cosn θ(n=4) while the detection angle has no obvious influence on the FWHM. In addition, FWHM and peak amplitude of plasma signal increase with the laser fluence. However, starting time and peak arrival time of plasma signal reduce with the laser fluence. The time interval between plasma starting and scattered laser pulse termination is proposed as a quantitative parameter to characterize laser plasma interaction. Threshold fluence for the interaction is estimated to be 3.5 J/cm2. For laser fluence above 12.6 J/cm2, the plasma and scattered laser pulse distributions tend to saturate.

Experimental Evaluation of Turbidity Impact on the Fluence Rate Distribution in a UV Reactor Using a Microfluorescent Silica Detector.

PubMed

Li, Mengkai; Li, Wentao; Wen, Dong; Qiang, Zhimin; Blatchley, Ernest R

2017-11-21

Turbidity is a common parameter used to assess particle concentration in water using visible light. However, the fact that particles play multiple roles (e.g., scattering, refraction, and reflection) in influencing the optical properties of aqueous suspensions complicates examinations of their effects on ultraviolet (UV) photoreactor performance. To address this issue, UV fluence rate (FR) distributions in a photoreactor containing various particle suspensions (SiO 2 , MgO, and TiO 2 ) were measured using a microfluorescent silica detector (MFSD). Reflectance of solid particles, as well as transmittance and scattering properties of the suspensions were characterized at UV, visible, and infrared (IR) wavelengths. The results of these measurements indicated that the optical properties of all three particle types were similar at visible and IR wavelengths, but obvious differences were evident in the UV range. The FR results indicated that for turbidity associated with SiO 2 and MgO suspensions, the weighted average FR (WAFR) increased relative to deionized water. These increases were attributed to low particle photon absorption and strong scattering. In contrast, the WAFR values decreased with increasing turbidity for TiO 2 suspensions because of their high particle photon absorption and low scattering potential. The findings also indicate that measurements of scattering and transmittance at UV wavelengths can be used to quantify the effects of turbidity on UV FR distributions.

Modeling and analysis of UN TRISO fuel for LWR application using the PARFUME code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Collin, Blaise P.

2014-08-01

The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) PARFUME (PARticle FUel ModEl) code was used to assess the overall fuel performance of uranium nitride (UN) tristructural isotropic (TRISO) ceramic fuel under irradiation conditions typical of a Light Water Reactor (LWR). The dimensional changes of the fuel particle layers and kernel were calculated, including the formation of an internal gap. The survivability of the UN TRISO particle was estimated depending on the strain behavior of the constituent materials at high fast fluence and burn-up. For nominal cases, internal gas pressure and representative thermal profiles across the kernel and layers were determined along with stress levels in the inner and outer pyrolytic carbon (IPyC/OPyC) and silicon carbide (SiC) layers. These parameters were then used to evaluate fuel particle failure probabilities. Results of the study show that the survivability of UN TRISO fuel under LWR irradiation conditions might only be guaranteed if the kernel and PyC swelling rates are limited at high fast fluence and burn-up. These material properties have large uncertainties at the irradiation levels expected to be reached by UN TRISO fuel in LWRs. Therefore, a large experimental effort would be needed to establish material properties, including kernel and PyC swelling rates, under these conditions before definitive conclusions can be drawn on the behavior of UN TRISO fuel in LWRs.

Physical model for the photo-induced toxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

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

Greenburg, B.M.; Krylov, S.N.; Huang, H.D.

1994-12-31

A model for photo-induced toxicity of PAHs to duckweed was developed. Growth inhibition was described by photochemical reactions between PAHs and a hypothetical group of biomolecules (given the notation G) which are required for growth of the plants. Light activation of PAHs was considered in a two compartment system (water and leaves). The reaction scheme includes: photooxidation of PAHs, partitioning of PAHs into leaves, triplet formation of intact PAHs, photosensitization reactions that consume G, and reaction between photooxidized PAHs and G. The assumptions used in the model are: the rate of PAH photooxidation is slower than the rate of assimilation,more » PAH content in solution is approximately constant over the length of the toxicity test, the fluence rate of actinic radiation is lower in the leaves than in solution, the toxicity of intact PAHs with G in the absence of light is negligible, and the reaction of photooxidized PAHs with G does not require light. The authors then analyzed a series of differential equations that described toxicity. The result was an expression for growth inhibition as a function of the initial concentration of the PAH, the spectral distribution of the light source, the absorption spectrum of the PAH, the quantum yield for formation of triplet state PAH, and the rate of photo-oxidation of the PAH. The expression also includes two complex constants that can be solved by a least squares analysis of the empirical data for growth inhibition. Thus, the model allows a prediction of PAH photo-induced toxicity using only physical parameters of PAHs.« less

Photophysics of C60 Colloids

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-11-28

boiling of the liquid or vaporization of the particle). Light scatters out of the propagation path. • Enhanced absorption from nanoplasmas . 8 I...and thus, nanoplasmas that absorb and scatter the light • NLO behavior is fluence dependent • Uncalibrated measurements of transmitted, absorbed...after the first 1-2 ns • Proposed mechanism: Initial scattering by nanoplasmas followed by additional scattering from bubble growth in the

Successful and safe treatment of hypertrichosis by high-intensity pulses of noncoherent light in a patient with hepatoerythropoietic porphyria.

PubMed

García-Bravo, María; López-Gómez, Sara; Segurado-Rodríguez, María-Agustina; Morán-Jiménez, María-José; Méndez, Manuel; de Salamanca, Rafael Enríquez; Fontanellas, Antonio

2004-08-01

Hypertrichosis is a common feature in cutaneous porphyrias, characterized by high accumulation of photoreactive porphyrins. Photothermolysis induced by noncoherent light (755-1200 nm) and energy fluence of 42 J/cm(2) was applied to a patient with hepatoerythropoietic porphyria. Hypertrichosis was almost completely removed after seven sessions without development of skin lesions.

Laser-induced Hertzian fractures in silica initiated by metal micro-particles on the exit surface

DOE PAGES

Feigenbaum, Eyal; Raman, Rajesh N.; Cross, David; ...

2016-05-16

Laser-induced Hertzian fractures on the exit surface of silica glass are found to result from metal surface-bound micro particles. Two types of metal micro-spheres are studied (stainless-steel and Al) using ultraviolet laser light. The fracture initiation probability curve as a function of fluence is obtained, resulting in an initiation threshold fluence of 11.1 ± 4.7 J/cm 2 and 16.5 ± 4.5 J/cm 2 for the SS and Al particles, accordingly. The modified damage density curve is calculated based on the fracture probability. Here, the calculated momentum coupling coefficient linking incident laser fluence to the resulting plasma pressure is found tomore » be similar for both particles: 32.6 ± 15.4 KN/J and 28.1 ± 10.4 KN/J for the SS and Al cases accordingly.« less

Mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana with decreased amplitude in their phototropic response

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khurana, J. P.; Ren, Z.; Steinitz, B.; Parks, B.; Best, T. R.; Poff, K. L.

1989-01-01

Two mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana have been identified with decreased phototropism to 450-nanometer light. Fluence-response relationships for these strains (ZR8 and ZR19) to single and multiple flashes of light show thresholds, curve shapes, and fluence for maximum curvature in first positive' phototropism which are the same as those of the wild type. Similarly, there is no alteration from the wild type in the kinetics of curvature or in the optimum dark period separating sequential flashes in a multiple flash regimen. In addition, in both strains, gravitropism is decreased compared to the wild type by an amount which is comparable to the decrease in phototropism. Based on reciprocal backcrosses, it appears that the alteration is due to a recessive nuclear mutation. It is suggested that ZR8 and ZR19 represent alterations in some step analogous to an amplifier, downstream of the photoreceptor pigment, and common to both phototropism and gravitropism.

Acclimations to light quality on plant and leaf level affect the vulnerability of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) to water deficit.

PubMed

Hoffmann, Anna M; Noga, Georg; Hunsche, Mauricio

2015-03-01

We investigated the influence of light quality on the vulnerability of pepper plants to water deficit. For this purpose plants were cultivated either under compact fluorescence lamps (CFL) or light-emitting diodes (LED) providing similar photon fluence rates (95 µmol m(-2) s(-1)) but distinct light quality. CFL emit a wide-band spectrum with dominant peaks in the green and red spectral region, whereas LEDs offer narrow band spectra with dominant peaks at blue (445 nm) and red (665 nm) regions. After one-week acclimation to light conditions plants were exposed to water deficit by withholding irrigation; this period was followed by a one-week regeneration period and a second water deficit cycle. In general, plants grown under CFL suffered more from water deficit than plants grown under LED modules, as indicated by the impairment of the photosynthetic efficiency of PSII, resulting in less biomass accumulation compared to respective control plants. As affected by water shortage, plants grown under CFL had a stronger decrease in the electron transport rate (ETR) and more pronounced increase in heat dissipation (NPQ). The higher amount of blue light suppressed plant growth and biomass formation, and consequently reduced the water demand of plants grown under LEDs. Moreover, pepper plants exposed to high blue light underwent adjustments at chloroplast level (e.g., higher Chl a/Chl b ratio), increasing the photosynthetic performance under the LED spectrum. Differently than expected, stomatal conductance was comparable for water-deficit and control plants in both light conditions during the stress and recovery phases, indicating only minor adjustments at the stomatal level. Our results highlight the potential of the target-use of light quality to induce structural and functional acclimations improving plant performance under stress situations.

A Comparison of Low-Fluence 1064-nm Q-Switched Nd: YAG Laser with Topical 20% Azelaic Acid Cream and their Combination in Melasma in Indian Patients.

PubMed

Bansal, Charu; Naik, Hira; Kar, Hemanta K; Chauhan, Amrita

2012-10-01

Melasma is an acquired symmetric hypermelanosis characterised by irregular light to gray-brown macules on sun-exposed skin with a predilection for the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose and chin. The management of melasma is challenging and requires meticulous use of available therapeutic options. To compare the therapeutic efficacy of low-fluence Q-switched Nd: YAG laser (QSNYL) with topical 20% azelaic acid cream and their combination in melasma in three study groups of 20 patients each. Sixty Indian patients diagnosed as melasma were included. These patients were randomly divided in three groups (group A = 20 patients of melasma treated with low-fluence QSNYL at weekly intervals, group B = 20 patients of melasma treated with twice daily application of 20% azelaic acid cream and group C = 20 patients of melasma treated with combination of both). Study period was of 12 weeks each. Response to treatment was assessed using melasma area and severity index score. The statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test, paired and unpaired student t-test. Significant improvement was recorded in all the three groups. The improvement was statistically highly significant in Group C as compared to group A (P < 0.001) and group B (P < 0.001). This study shows the efficacy of low-fluence QSNYL, topical 20% azelaic acid cream and their combination in melasma. The combination of low-fluence QSNYL and topical 20% azelaic acid cream yields better results as compared to low-fluence QSNYL and azelaic acid alone.

Non-contacting Measurement of Oil Film Thickness Between Loaded Metallic Gear Teeth

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cox, Daniel B.; Ceccio, Steven L.; Dowling, David R.

2013-11-01

The mechanical power transmission efficiency of gears is depends on the lubrication condition between gear teeth. While the lubrication levels can be generally predicted, an effective in-situ non-contacting measurement of oil film thicknesses between loaded metallic gear teeth has proved elusive. This study explores a novel oil film thickness measurement technique based on optical fluence, the light energy transmitted between loaded gear teeth. A gear testing apparatus that allowed independent control of gear rotation rate, load torque, and oil flow was designed and built. Film thickness measurements made with 5-inch-pitch-diameter 60-tooth spur gears ranged from 0.3 to 10.2 mil. These results are compared with film thickness measurements made in an earlier investigation (MacConochie and Cameron, 1960), as well as with predictions from two film thickness models: a simple two-dimensional squeezed oil film and the industry-accepted model as described by the American Gear Manufacturers Association (AGMA 925, 2003). In each case, the measured film thicknesses were larger than the predicted thicknesses, though these discrepancies might be attributed to the specifics the experiments and to challenges associated with calibrating the fluence measurements. [Sponsored by General Electric].

Propagation of ultrashort laser pulses in water: linear absorption and onset of nonlinear spectral transformation.

PubMed

Sokolov, Alexei V; Naveira, Lucas M; Poudel, Milan P; Strohaber, James; Trendafilova, Cynthia S; Buck, William C; Wang, Jieyu; Strycker, Benjamin D; Wang, Chao; Schuessler, Hans; Kolomenskii, Alexandre; Kattawar, George W

2010-01-20

We study propagation of short laser pulses through water and use a spectral hole filling technique to essentially perform a sensitive balanced comparison of absorption coefficients for pulses of different duration. This study is motivated by an alleged violation of the Bouguer-Lambert-Beer law at low light intensities, where the pulse propagation is expected to be linear, and by a possible observation of femtosecond optical precursors in water. We find that at low intensities, absorption of laser light is determined solely by its spectrum and does not directly depend on the pulse duration, in agreement with our earlier work and in contradiction to some work of others. However, as the laser fluence is increased, interaction of light with water becomes nonlinear, causing energy exchange among the pulse's spectral components and resulting in peak-intensity dependent (and therefore pulse-duration dependent) transmission. For 30 fs pulses at 800 nm center wavelength, we determine the onset of nonlinear propagation effects to occur at a peak value of about 0.12 mJ/cm(2) of input laser energy fluence.

Survival of endospores of Bacillus subtilis on spacecraft surfaces under simulated martian environments: implications for the forward contamination of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schuerger, Andrew C.; Mancinelli, Rocco L.; Kern, Roger G.; Rothschild, Lynn J.; McKay, Christopher P.

2003-01-01

Experiments were conducted in a Mars simulation chamber (MSC) to characterize the survival of endospores of Bacillus subtilis under high UV irradiation and simulated martian conditions. The MSC was used to create Mars surface environments in which pressure (8.5 mb), temperature (-80, -40, -10, or +23 degrees C), gas composition (Earth-normal N2/O2 mix, pure N2, pure CO2, or a Mars gas mix), and UV-VIS-NIR fluence rates (200-1200 nm) were maintained within tight limits. The Mars gas mix was composed of CO2 (95.3%), N2 (2.7%), Ar (1.7%), O2 (0.2%), and water vapor (0.03%). Experiments were conducted to measure the effects of pressure, gas composition, and temperature alone or in combination with Mars-normal UV-VIS-NIR light environments. Endospores of B. subtilis, were deposited on aluminum coupons as monolayers in which the average density applied to coupons was 2.47 x 10(6) bacteria per sample. Populations of B. subtilis placed on aluminum coupons and subjected to an Earth-normal temperature (23 degrees C), pressure (1013 mb), and gas mix (normal N2/O2 ratio) but illuminated with a Mars-normal UV-VIS-NIR spectrum were reduced by over 99.9% after 30 sec exposure to Mars-normal UV fluence rates. However, it required at least 15 min of Mars-normal UV exposure to reduce bacterial populations on aluminum coupons to non-recoverable levels. These results were duplicated when bacteria were exposed to Mars-normal environments of temperature (-10 degrees C), pressure (8.5 mb), gas composition (pure CO2), and UV fluence rates. In other experiments, results indicated that the gas composition of the atmosphere and the temperature of the bacterial monolayers at the time of Mars UV exposure had no effects on the survival of bacterial endospores. But Mars-normal pressures (8.5 mb) were found to reduce survival by approximately 20-35% compared to Earth-normal pressures (1013 mb). The primary implications of these results are (a) that greater than 99.9% of bacterial populations on sun-exposed surfaces of spacecraft are likely to be inactivated within a few tens of seconds to a few minutes on the surface of Mars, and (b) that within a single Mars day under clear-sky conditions bacterial populations on sun-exposed surfaces of spacecraft will be sterilized. Furthermore, these results suggest that the high UV fluence rates on the martian surface can be an important resource in minimizing the forward contamination of Mars. c2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Estimation of ultrashort laser irradiation effect over thin transparent biopolymer films morphology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daskalova, A.; Nathala, C.; Bliznakova, I.; Slavov, D.; Husinsky, W.

2015-01-01

The collagen - elastin biopolymer thin films treated by CPA Ti:Sapphire laser (Femtopower - Compact Pro) at 800nm central wavelength with 30fs and 1kHz repetition rate are investigated. A process of surface modifications and microporous scaffold creation after ultrashort laser irradiation has been observed. The single-shot (N=1) and multi-shot (N<1) ablation threshold values were estimated by studying the linear relationship between the square of the crater diameter D2 and the logarithm of the laser fluence F for determination of the threshold fluences for N=1, 2, 5, 10, 15 and 30 number of laser pulses. The incubation analysis by calculation of the incubation coefficient ξ for multi - shot fluence threshold for selected materials by power - law relationship form Fth(N)=Fth(1)Nξ-1 was also obtained. In this paper, we have also shown another consideration of the multi - shot ablation threshold calculation by logarithmic dependence of the ablation rate d on the laser fluence. The morphological surface changes of the modified regions were characterized by scanning electron microscopy to estimate the generated variations after the laser treatment.

Experimental characterization of HOTNES: A new thermal neutron facility with large homogeneity area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bedogni, R.; Sperduti, A.; Pietropaolo, A.; Pillon, M.; Pola, A.; Gómez-Ros, J. M.

2017-01-01

A new thermal neutron irradiation facility, called HOTNES (HOmogeneous Thermal NEutron Source), was established in the framework of a collaboration between INFN-LNF and ENEA-Frascati. HOTNES is a polyethylene assembly, with about 70 cmx70 cm square section and 100 cm height, including a large, cylindrical cavity with diameter 30 cm and height 70 cm. The facility is supplied by a 241Am-B source located at the bottom of this cavity. The facility was designed in such a way that the iso-thermal-fluence surfaces, characterizing the irradiation volume, coincide with planes parallel to the cavity bottom. The thermal fluence rate across a given isofluence plane is as uniform as 1% on a disk with 30 cm diameter. Thermal fluence rate values from about 700 cm-2 s-1 to 1000 cm-2 s-1 can be achieved. The facility design, previously optimized by Monte Carlo simulation, was experimentally verified. The following techniques were used: gold activation foils to assess the thermal fluence rate, semiconductor-based active detector for mapping the irradiation volume, and Bonner Sphere Spectrometer to determine the complete neutron spectrum. HOTNES is expected to be attractive for the scientific community involved in neutron metrology, neutron dosimetry and neutron detector testing.

Photodiode radiation hardness, lyman-alpha emitting galaxies and photon detection in liquid argon neutrino detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baptista, Brian

2013-12-01

My dissertation is comprised of three projects: 1) studies of Lyman-alpha Emitting galaxies (LAEs), 2) radiation hardness studies of InGaAs photodiodes (PDs), and 3) scintillation photon detection in liquid argon (LAr) neutrino detectors. I began work on the project that has now become WFIRST, developing a science case that would use WFIRST after launch for the observation of LAEs. The radiation hardness of PDs was as an effort to support the WFIRST calibration team. When WFIRST was significantly delayed, I joined an R&D effort that applied my skills to work on photon detection in LAr neutrino detectors. I report results on a broadband selection method developed to detect high equivalent width (EW) LAEs. Using photometry from the CFHT-Legacy Survey Deep 2 and 3 fields, I have spectroscopically confirmed 63 z=2.5-3.5 LAEs using the WIYN/Hydra spectrograph. Using UV continuum-fitting techniques I computed properties such as EWs, internal reddening and star formation rates. 62 of my LAEs show evidence to be normal dust-free LAEs. Second, I present an investigation into the effects of ionizing proton radiation on commercial off-the-shelf InGaAs PDs. I developed a monochromator-based test apparatus that utilized NIST-calibrated reference PDs. I tested the PDs for changes to their dark current, relative responsivity as a function of wavelength, and absolute responsivity. I irradiated the test PDs using 30, 52, and 98 MeV protons at the IU Cyclotron Facility. I found the InGaAs PDs showed increased dark current as the fluence increased with no evidence of broadband response degradation at the fluences expected at an L2 orbit and a 10-year mission lifetime. Finally, I detail my efforts on technology development of both optical detector technologies and waveshifting light guide construction for LAr vacuum UV scintillation light. Cryogenic neutrino detectors use photon detection for both accelerator based science and for SNe neutrino detection and proton decay. I have developed waveshifter doped cast acrylic light guides that convert scintillation light and guide the waveshifted light to SiPMs detectors.

LAF1, a MYB transcription activator for phytochrome A signaling

PubMed Central

Ballesteros, María L.; Bolle, Cordelia; Lois, Luisa M.; Moore, James M.; Vielle-Calzada, Jean-Philippe; Grossniklaus, Ueli; Chua, Nam-Hai

2001-01-01

The photoreceptor phytochrome (phy) A has a well-defined role in regulating gene expression in response to specific light signals. Here, we describe a new Arabidopsis mutant, laf1 (long after far-red light 1) that has an elongated hypocotyl specifically under far-red light. Gene expression studies showed that laf1 has reduced responsiveness to continuous far-red light but retains wild-type responses to other light wavelengths. As far-red light is only perceived by phyA, our results suggest that LAF1 is specifically involved in phyA signal transduction. Further analyses revealed that laf1 is affected in a subset of phyA-dependent responses and the phenotype is more severe at low far-red fluence rates. LAF1 encodes a nuclear protein with strong homology with the R2R3–MYB family of DNA-binding proteins. Experiments using yeast cells identified a transactivation domain in the C-terminal portion of the protein. LAF1 is constitutively targeted to the nucleus by signals in its N-terminal portion, and the full-length protein accumulates in distinct nuclear speckles. This accumulation in speckles is abolished by a point mutation in a lysine residue (K258R), which might serve as a modification site by a small ubiquitin-like protein (SUMO). PMID:11581165

Monte Carlo and analytical calculations for characterization of gas bremsstrahlung in ILSF insertion devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salimi, E.; Rahighi, J.; Sardari, D.; Mahdavi, S. R.; Lamehi Rachti, M.

2014-12-01

Gas bremsstrahlung is generated in high energy electron storage rings through interaction of the electron beam with the residual gas molecules in vacuum chamber. In this paper, Monte Carlo calculation has been performed to evaluate radiation hazard due to gas bremsstrahlung in the Iranian Light Source Facility (ILSF) insertion devices. Shutter/stopper dimensions is determined and dose rate from the photoneutrons via the giant resonance photonuclear reaction which takes place inside the shutter/stopper is also obtained. Some other characteristics of gas bremsstrahlung such as photon fluence, energy spectrum, angular distribution and equivalent dose in tissue equivalent phantom have also been investigated by FLUKA Monte Carlo code.

Development of the mare regolith: some model considerations

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

Quaide, W.; Oberbeck, V.

1975-05-01

Mare regolith is fragmental debris of variable thickness that lies upon fractured bedrock. Its origin by impact comminution of primarily local basaltic rocks is widely accepted, but the consequences of such an origin are not appreciated fully. This investigation uses results obtained in an earlier Monte Carlo study by Oberbeck et al. (1973) to shed light on those consequences by evaluating regolith growth and mixing as a function of time. Results reported are for average cases and must be used with caution. The study demonstrates that regolith growth is self regulated and has the same trend and nearly the samemore » terminal growth rates whatever the history of bombardment: rapid initial accumulation followed by diminishing rates of growth. Mixing and all other processes investigated are growth regulated. Mixing increases as growth slows, but never to the extent that the regolith is homogenized. Because the average regolith is never homogenized, products of growth regulated processes are preserved in the stratigraphy. Differences in material properties are to be expected in vertical sections of the regolith, therefore, this model is not sufficiently refined to permit prediction of all possible trends. It does indicate, however, that deeper levels contain thinner depositional units, lesser quantities of meteoritic and exotic components, and more debris derived from shallow levels in the mare basalts than material in near surface layers. Additionally, neutron fluence production is regulated by the growth process, but because rates of growth do not differ much over the last aeon, whatever the total age or early bombardment history, values of surface fluence may be similar in many areas whatever their age. (NL)« less

1.55 µm InAs/GaAs Quantum Dots and High Repetition Rate Quantum Dot SESAM Mode-locked Laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Z. Y.; Oehler, A. E. H.; Resan, B.; Kurmulis, S.; Zhou, K. J.; Wang, Q.; Mangold, M.; Süedmeyer, T.; Keller, U.; Weingarten, K. J.; Hogg, R. A.

2012-06-01

High pulse repetition rate (>=10 GHz) diode-pumped solid-state lasers, modelocked using semiconductor saturable absorber mirrors (SESAMs) are emerging as an enabling technology for high data rate coherent communication systems owing to their low noise and pulse-to-pulse optical phase-coherence. Quantum dot (QD) based SESAMs offer potential advantages to such laser systems in terms of reduced saturation fluence, broader bandwidth, and wavelength flexibility. Here, we describe the development of an epitaxial process for the realization of high optical quality 1.55 µm In(Ga)As QDs on GaAs substrates, their incorporation into a SESAM, and the realization of the first 10 GHz repetition rate QD-SESAM modelocked laser at 1.55 µm, exhibiting ~2 ps pulse width from an Er-doped glass oscillator (ERGO). With a high areal dot density and strong light emission, this QD structure is a very promising candidate for many other applications, such as laser diodes, optical amplifiers, non-linear and photonic crystal based devices.

Geant4 simulation of the CERN-EU high-energy reference field (CERF) facility.

PubMed

Prokopovich, D A; Reinhard, M I; Cornelius, I M; Rosenfeld, A B

2010-09-01

The CERN-EU high-energy reference field facility is used for testing and calibrating both active and passive radiation dosemeters for radiation protection applications in space and aviation. Through a combination of a primary particle beam, target and a suitable designed shielding configuration, the facility is able to reproduce the neutron component of the high altitude radiation field relevant to the jet aviation industry. Simulations of the facility using the GEANT4 (GEometry ANd Tracking) toolkit provide an improved understanding of the neutron particle fluence as well as the particle fluence of other radiation components present. The secondary particle fluence as a function of the primary particle fluence incident on the target and the associated dose equivalent rates were determined at the 20 designated irradiation positions available at the facility. Comparisons of the simulated results with previously published simulations obtained using the FLUKA Monte Carlo code, as well as with experimental results of the neutron fluence obtained with a Bonner sphere spectrometer, are made.

Visualizing and quantifying dose distribution in a UV reactor using three-dimensional laser-induced fluorescence.

PubMed

Gandhi, Varun N; Roberts, Philip J W; Kim, Jae-Hong

2012-12-18

Evaluating the performance of typical water treatment UV reactors is challenging due to the complexity in assessing spatial and temporal variation of UV fluence, resulting from highly unsteady, turbulent nature of flow and variation in UV intensity. In this study, three-dimensional laser-induced fluorescence (3DLIF) was applied to visualize and quantitatively analyze a lab-scale UV reactor consisting of one lamp sleeve placed perpendicular to flow. Mapping the spatial and temporal fluence delivery and MS2 inactivation revealed the highest local fluence in the wake zone due to longer residence time and higher UV exposure, while the lowest local fluence occurred in a region near the walls due to short-circuiting flow and lower UV fluence rate. Comparing the tracer based decomposition between hydrodynamics and IT revealed similar coherent structures showing the dependency of fluence delivery on the reactor flow. The location of tracer injection, varying the height and upstream distance from the lamp center, was found to significantly affect the UV fluence received by the tracer. A Lagrangian-based analysis was also employed to predict the fluence along specific paths of travel, which agreed with the experiments. The 3DLIF technique developed in this study provides new insight on dose delivery that fluctuates both spatially and temporally and is expected to aid design and optimization of UV reactors as well as validate computational fluid dynamics models that are widely used to simulate UV reactor performances.

Combined reactor neutron beam and {sup 60}Co γ-ray radiation effects on CMOS APS image sensors

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

Wang, Zujun, E-mail: wangzujun@nint.ac.cn; Chen, Wei; Sheng, Jiangkun

The combined reactor neutron beam and {sup 60}Co γ-ray radiation effects on complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) active pixel sensors (APS) have been discussed and some new experimental phenomena are presented. The samples are manufactured in the standard 0.35-μm CMOS technology. Two samples were first exposed to {sup 60}Co γ-rays up to the total ionizing dose (TID) level of 200 krad(Si) at the dose rates of 50.0 and 0.2 rad(Si)/s, and then exposed to neutron fluence up to 1 × 10{sup 11} n/cm{sup 2} (1-MeV equivalent neutron fluence). One sample was first exposed to neutron fluence up to 1 × 10{supmore » 11} n/cm{sup 2} (1-MeV equivalent neutron fluence), and then exposed to {sup 60}Co γ-rays up to the TID level of 200 krad(Si) at the dose rate of 0.2 rad(Si)/s. The mean dark signal (K{sub D}), the dark signal non-uniformity (DSNU), and the noise (V{sub N}) versus the total dose and neutron fluence has been investigated. The degradation mechanisms of CMOS APS image sensors have been analyzed, especially for the interaction induced by neutron displacement damage and TID damage.« less

A TLD-based few-channel spectrometer for mixed photon, electron, and ion fields with high fluence rates.

PubMed

Behrens, R; Ambrosi, P

2002-01-01

A few-channel spectrometer for mixed photon, electron and ion radiation fields has been developed. It consists of a front layer of an etched-track detector foil for detecting protons and ions, a stack of PMMA with thermoluminescent detectors at different depths for gaining spectral information about electrons, and a stack of metallic filters with increasing cut-off photon energies, interspersed with thermoluminescent detectors for gaining spectral information about photons. From the reading of the TL detectors the spectral fluence of the electrons (400 keV to 9 MeV) and photons (20 keV to 2 MeV) can be determined by an unfolding procedure. The spectrometer can be used in pulsed radiation fields with extremely high momentary values of the fluence rate. Design and calibration of the spectrometer are described.

Dose distributions in phantoms irradiated in thermal columns of two different nuclear reactors.

PubMed

Gambarini, G; Agosteo, S; Altieri, S; Bortolussi, S; Carrara, M; Gay, S; Nava, E; Petrovich, C; Rosi, G; Valente, M

2007-01-01

In-phantom dosimetry studies have been carried out at the thermal columns of a thermal- and a fast-nuclear reactor for investigating: (a) the spatial distribution of the gamma dose and the thermal neutron fluence and (b) the accuracy at which the boron concentration should be estimated in an explanted organ of a boron neutron capture therapy patient. The phantom was a cylinder (11 cm in diameter and 12 cm in height) of tissue-equivalent gel. Dose images were acquired with gel dosemeters across the axial section of the phantom. The thermal neutron fluence rate was measured with activation foils in a few positions of this phantom. Dose and fluence rate profiles were also calculated with Monte Carlo simulations. The trend of these profiles do not show significant differences for the thermal columns considered in this work.

Diffusion length variation in 0.5- and 3-MeV-proton-irradiated, heteroepitaxial indium phosphide solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jain, Raj K.; Weinberg, Irving; Flood, Dennis J.

1993-01-01

Indium phosphide (InP) solar cells are more radiation resistant than gallium arsenide (GaAs) and silicon (Si) solar cells, and their growth by heteroepitaxy offers additional advantages leading to the development of light weight, mechanically strong, and cost-effective cells. Changes in heteroepitaxial InP cell efficiency under 0.5- and 3-MeV proton irradiations have been explained by the variation in the minority-carrier diffusion length. The base diffusion length versus proton fluence was calculated by simulating the cell performance. The diffusion length damage coefficient, K(sub L), was also plotted as a function of proton fluence.

Metal-like self-organization of periodic nanostructures on silicon and silicon carbide under femtosecond laser pulses

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

Gemini, Laura; Department of Physics, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, 606-85802 Kyoto; FNSPE, Czech Technical University in Prague, 11519 Prague

Periodic structures were generated on Si and SiC surfaces by irradiation with femtosecond laser pulses. Self-organized structures with spatial periodicity of approximately 600 nm appear on silicon and silicon carbide in the laser fluence range just above the ablation threshold and upon irradiation with a large number of pulses. As in the case of metals, the dependence of the spatial periodicity on laser fluence can be explained by the parametric decay of laser light into surface plasma waves. The results show that the proposed model might be universally applicable to any solid state material.

Fast approximate delivery of fluence maps for IMRT and VMAT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balvert, Marleen; Craft, David

2017-02-01

In this article we provide a method to generate the trade-off between delivery time and fluence map matching quality for dynamically delivered fluence maps. At the heart of our method lies a mathematical programming model that, for a given duration of delivery, optimizes leaf trajectories and dose rates such that the desired fluence map is reproduced as well as possible. We begin with the single fluence map case and then generalize the model and the solution technique to the delivery of sequential fluence maps. The resulting large-scale, non-convex optimization problem was solved using a heuristic approach. We test our method using a prostate case and a head and neck case, and present the resulting trade-off curves. Analysis of the leaf trajectories reveals that short time plans have larger leaf openings in general than longer delivery time plans. Our method allows one to explore the continuum of possibilities between coarse, large segment plans characteristic of direct aperture approaches and narrow field plans produced by sliding window approaches. Exposing this trade-off will allow for an informed choice between plan quality and solution time. Further research is required to speed up the optimization process to make this method clinically implementable.

Applicability of self-activation of an NaI scintillator for measurement of photo-neutrons around a high-energy X-ray radiotherapy machine.

PubMed

Wakabayashi, Genichiro; Nohtomi, Akihiro; Yahiro, Eriko; Fujibuchi, Toshioh; Fukunaga, Junichi; Umezu, Yoshiyuki; Nakamura, Yasuhiko; Nakamura, Katsumasa; Hosono, Makoto; Itoh, Tetsuo

2015-01-01

The applicability of the activation of an NaI scintillator for neutron monitoring at a clinical linac was investigated experimentally. Thermal neutron fluence rates are derived by measurement of the I-128 activity generated in an NaI scintillator irradiated by neutrons; β-rays from I-128 are detected efficiently by the NaI scintillator. In order to verify the validity of this method for neutron measurement, we irradiated an NaI scintillator at a research reactor, and the neutron fluence rate was estimated. The method was then applied to neutron measurement at a 10-MV linac (Varian Clinac 21EX), and the neutron fluence rate was estimated at the isocenter and at 30 cm from the isocenter. When the scintillator was irradiated directly by high-energy X-rays, the production of I-126 was observed due to photo-nuclear reactions, in addition to the generation of I-128 and Na-24. From the results obtained by these measurements, it was found that the neutron measurement by activation of an NaI scintillator has a great advantage in estimates of a low neutron fluence rate by use of a quick measurement following a short-time irradiation. Also, the future application of this method to quasi real-time monitoring of neutrons during patient treatments at a radiotherapy facility is discussed, as well as the method of evaluation of the neutron dose.

Low-level light therapy for zymosan-induced arthritis in rats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castano, Ana P.; Dai, Tianhong; Demidova-Rice, Tatiana N.; Salomatina, Elena V.; Yaroslavsky, Anna N.; Yaroslavsky, Ilya; Cohen, Richard; Apruzzese, William A.; Smotrich, Michael H.; Hamblin, Michael R.

2007-02-01

It has been known for many years that low level laser (or light) therapy (LLLT) can ameliorate the pain, swelling and inflammation associated with various forms of arthritis. Light is absorbed by mitochondrial chromophores leading to an increase in ATP, reactive oxygen species and/or cyclic AMP production and consequent gene transcription via activation of transcription factors. However, despite many reports about the positive effects of LLLT in medicine, its use remains controversial. Our laboratory has developed animal models designed to objectively quantify response to LLLT and compare different light delivery regimens. In the arthritis model we inject zymosan into rat knee joints to induce inflammatory arthritis. We have compared illumination regimens consisting of a high and low fluence (3 J/cm2 and 30 J/cm2), delivered at a high and low irradiance (5 mW/cm2 and 50 mW/cm2) using 810-nm laser light daily for 5 days, with the effect of conventional corticosteroid (dexamethasone) therapy. Results indicated that illumination with 810-nm laser is highly effective (almost as good as dexamethasone) at reducing swelling and that longer illumination time was more important in determining effectiveness than either total fluence delivered or irradiance. Experiments carried out using 810-nm LLLT on excisional wound healing in mice also confirmed the importance of longer illumination times. These data will be of value in designing clinical trials of LLLT.

The effect of standard and high-fluence corneal cross-linking (CXL) on cornea and limbus.

PubMed

Richoz, Olivier; Tabibian, David; Hammer, Arthur; Majo, François; Nicolas, Michael; Hafezi, Farhad

2014-07-22

When treating peripheral ectatic disease-like pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD), corneal cross-linking with UV-A and riboflavin (CXL) must be applied eccentrically to the periphery of the lower cornea, partly irradiating the corneal limbus. Here, we investigated the effect of standard and double-standard fluence corneal cross-linking with riboflavin and UV-A (CXL) on cornea and corneal limbus in the rabbit eye in vivo. Epithelium-off CXL was performed in male New Zealand White rabbits with two irradiation diameters (7 mm central cornea, 13 mm cornea and limbus), using standard fluence (5.4 J/cm(2)) and double-standard fluence (10.8 J/cm(2)) settings. Controls were subjected to epithelial removal and riboflavin instillation, but were not irradiated with UV-A. Following CXL, animals were examined daily until complete closure of the epithelium, and at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. Animals were killed and a corneoscleral button was excised and processed for light microscopy and immunohistochemistry. For both irradiation diameters and fluences tested, no signs of endothelial damage or limbal vessel thrombosis were observed, and time to re-epithelialization was similar to untreated controls. Histological and immunohistochemical analysis revealed no differences in the p63 putative stem cell marker expression pattern. Even when using fluence twice as high as the one used in current clinical CXL settings, circumferential UV-A irradiation of the corneal limbus does not alter the regenerative capacity of the limbal epithelial cells, and the expression pattern of the putative stem cell marker p63 remains unchanged. This suggests that eccentric CXL may be performed safely in PMD. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

A Comparison of Low-Fluence 1064-nm Q-Switched Nd: YAG Laser with Topical 20% Azelaic Acid Cream and their Combination in Melasma in Indian Patients

PubMed Central

Bansal, Charu; Naik, Hira; Kar, Hemanta K; Chauhan, Amrita

2012-01-01

Background: Melasma is an acquired symmetric hypermelanosis characterised by irregular light to gray-brown macules on sun-exposed skin with a predilection for the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose and chin. The management of melasma is challenging and requires meticulous use of available therapeutic options. Aims: To compare the therapeutic efficacy of low-fluence Q-switched Nd: YAG laser (QSNYL) with topical 20% azelaic acid cream and their combination in melasma in three study groups of 20 patients each. Materials and Methods: Sixty Indian patients diagnosed as melasma were included. These patients were randomly divided in three groups (group A = 20 patients of melasma treated with low-fluence QSNYL at weekly intervals, group B = 20 patients of melasma treated with twice daily application of 20% azelaic acid cream and group C = 20 patients of melasma treated with combination of both). Study period was of 12 weeks each. Response to treatment was assessed using melasma area and severity index score. Statistical Analysis: The statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test, paired and unpaired student t-test. Results: Significant improvement was recorded in all the three groups. The improvement was statistically highly significant in Group C as compared to group A (P < 0.001) and group B (P < 0.001). Conclusions: This study shows the efficacy of low-fluence QSNYL, topical 20% azelaic acid cream and their combination in melasma. The combination of low-fluence QSNYL and topical 20% azelaic acid cream yields better results as compared to low-fluence QSNYL and azelaic acid alone. PMID:23378709

Wavelength and pulselength dependence of laser conditioning and bulk damage in doubler-cut KH2PO4

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

Adams, J J; Bruere, J R; Bolourchi, M

2005-10-28

An experimental technique has been utilized to measure the variation of bulk damage scatter with damaging fluence in plates of KH{sub 2}PO{sub 4} (KDP) crystals. Bulk damage in unconditioned and laser-conditioned doubler-cut KDP crystals has been studied using 527 nm (2{omega}) light at pulselengths of 0.3-10 ns. It is found that there is less scatter due to damage at fixed fluence for longer pulselengths. In particular, there is {approx}4X increase in fluence for equivalent scatter for damage at 2{omega}, 10 ns as compared to 0.30 ns in unconditioned KDP. The results for the unconditioned and conditioned KDP show that formore » all the pulselengths the scatter due to the bulk damage is a strong function of the damaging fluence ({phi}{sup -5}). It is determined that the 2{omega} fluence pulselength-scaling for equivalent bulk damage scatter in unconditioned KDP varies as {tau}{sup 0.30{+-}0.11} and in 3{omega}, 3ns ramp-conditioned KDP varies as {tau}{sup 0.27{+-}0.14}. The effectiveness of 2{omega} and 3{omega} laser conditioning at pulselengths in the range of 0.30-23 ns for damage induced 2{omega}, 3 ns is analyzed in terms of scatter. For the protocols tested (i.e. peak conditioning irradiance, etc.), the 3{omega}, 300 ps conditioning to a peak fluence of 3 J/cm{sup 2} had the best performance under 2{omega}, 3 ns testing. The general trend in the performance of the conditioning protocols was shorter wavelength and shorter pulselength appear to produce better conditioning for testing at 2{omega}, 3 ns.« less

Role of Beam Spot Size in Heating Targets at Depth.

PubMed

Ross, E Victor; Childs, James

2015-12-01

Wavelength, fluence and pulse width are primary device parameters for the treatment of skin and hair conditions. Wavelength selection is based on tissue scatter and target chromophores. Pulse width is chosen to optimize target heating. Energy absorbed by a target is determined by fluence and spot size of the light source as well as the depth of the target. We conducted an in vitro skin study and simulations to compare heating of a target at a particular depth versus spot size. Porcine skin and fat tissue were prepared and separated to form a 2mm skin layer above a 1 cm thick fat layer. A 50 μm thermocouple was placed between the layers and centered beneath a 23 x 38 mm treatment window of an 805 nm diode laser device (Vectus, Cynosure, Westford, MA). Apertures provided various incident beam spot sizes and the temperature rise of the thermocouple was measured for a fixed fluence. The 2mm deep target's temperature rise versus treatment area showed two regimes with different positive slopes. The first regime up to approximately 1 cm(2) area has a greater temperature rise versus area than that for the regime greater than 1 cm(2). The slope in the second regime is nonetheless appreciable and provides a fluence reduction factor for skin safety. The same temperature rise in a target at 2 mm depth (typical hair bulb depth in some areas) is realized by increasing the area from 1 to 4 cm(2) while reducing the fluence by half. The role of spot size and in situ beam divergence is an important consideration to determine optimum fluence settings that increase skin safety when treating deeper targets.

Femtosecond laser fluence based nanostructuring of W and Mo in ethanol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bashir, Shazia; Rafique, Muhammad Shahid; Nathala, Chandra Sekher; Ajami, Ali Asghar; Husinsky, Wolfgang

2017-05-01

The effect of femtosecond laser fluence on nanostructuring of Tungsten (W) and Molybdenum (Mo) has been investigated after ablation in ethanol environment. A Ti: Sapphire laser (800 nm, 30 fs) at fluences ranging from 0.6 to 5.7 J cm-2 was employed to ablate targets. The growth of structures on the surface of irradiated targets is investigated by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) analysis. The SEM was performed for both central as well as the peripheral ablated regions. It is observed that both the development and shape of nanoscale features is dependent upon deposited energies to the target surface as well as nature of material. Nanostructures grown on Mo are more distinct and well defined as compared to W. At central ablated areas of W, unorganized Laser Induced Periodic Surface Structures (LIPSS) are grown at low fluences, whereas, nonuniform melting along with cracking is observed at higher fluences. In case of Mo, well-defined and organized LIPSS are observed for low fluences. With increasing fluence, LIPSS become unorganized and broken with an appearance of cracks and are completely vanished with the formation of nanoscale cavities and conical structures. In case of peripheral ablated areas broken and bifurcated LIPSS are grown for all fluences for both materials. The, ablated diameter, ablation depth, ablation rate and the dependence of periodicity of LIPSS on the laser fluence are also estimated for both W and Mo. Parametric instabilities of laser-induced plasma along with generation and scattering of surface plasmons is considered as a possible cause for the formation of LIPSS. For ethanol assisted ablation, the role of bubble cavitation, precipitation, confinement and the convective flow is considered to be responsible for inducing increased hydrodynamic instabilities at the liquid-solid interface.

Optimizing light delivery for a photoacoustic surgical system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eddins, Blackberrie; Lediju Bell, Muyinatu A.

2017-03-01

This work explores light delivery optimization for a photoacoustic surgical system previously proposed to provide real-time, intraoperative visualization of the internal carotid arteries hidden by bone during minimally invasive neurosurgeries. Monte Carlo simulations were employed to study 3D light propagation in tissue. For a 2.4 mm diameter drill shaft and 2.9 mm spherical drill tip, the optimal fiber distance from the drill shaft was 2 mm, determined from the maximum normalized fluence seen by the artery. A single fiber was insufficient to deliver light to arteries separated by a minimum of 8 mm. Using similar drill geometry and the optimal 2 mm fiber-to-drill shaft distance, Zemax ray tracing simulations were employed to propagate a 950 nm wavelength Gaussian beam through one or more 600 μm core diameter optical fibers, and the resulting optical beam profile was detected on the representative bone surface. For equally spaced fibers, a single merged optical profile formed with 7 or more fibers, determined by thresholding the resulting light profile images at 1/e times the maximum intensity. The corresponding spot size was larger than that of a single fiber transmitting the same input energy, thus reducing the fluence delivered to the sphenoid bone and enabling higher energies within safety limits. A prototype was designed and built based on these optimization parameters. The methodology we used to optimize our light delivery system to surround surgical tools is generalizable to multiple interventional photoacoustic applications.

Ultrafast modulation of the plasma frequency of vertically aligned indium tin oxide rods.

PubMed

Tice, Daniel B; Li, Shi-Qiang; Tagliazucchi, Mario; Buchholz, D Bruce; Weiss, Emily A; Chang, Robert P H

2014-03-12

Light-matter interaction at the nanoscale is of particular interest for future photonic integrated circuits and devices with applications ranging from communication to sensing and imaging. In this Letter a combination of transient absorption (TA) and the use of third harmonic generation as a probe (THG-probe) has been adopted to investigate the response of the localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) of vertically aligned indium tin oxide rods (ITORs) upon ultraviolet light (UV) excitation. TA experiments, which are sensitive to the extinction of the LSPR, show a fluence-dependent increase in the frequency and intensity of the LSPR. The THG-probe experiments show a fluence-dependent decrease of the LSPR-enhanced local electric field intensity within the rod, consistent with a shift of the LSPR to higher frequency. The kinetics from both TA and THG-probe experiments are found to be independent of the fluence of the pump. These results indicate that UV excitation modulates the plasma frequency of ITO on the ultrafast time scale by the injection of electrons into, and their subsequent decay from, the conduction band of the rods. Increases to the electron concentration in the conduction band of ∼13% were achieved in these experiments. Computer simulation and modeling have been used throughout the investigation to guide the design of the experiments and to map the electric field distribution around the rods for interpreting far-field measurement results.

Bubble formation during pulsed laser ablation: mechanism and implications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Leeuwen, Ton G. J. M.; Jansen, E. Duco; Motamedi, Massoud; Welch, Ashley J.; Borst, Cornelius

1993-07-01

Holmium ((lambda) equals 2.09 micrometers ) and excimer ((lambda) equals 308 nm) lasers are used for ablation of tissue. In a previous study it was demonstrated that both excimer and holmium laser pulses produce fast expanding and collapsing vapor bubbles. To investigate whether the excimer induced bubble is caused by vaporization of water, the threshold fluence for bubble formation at a bare fiber tip in water was compared between the excimer laser (pulse length 115 ns) and the Q-switched and free-running holmium lasers (pulse length 1 microsecond(s) to 250 microsecond(s) , respectively). To induce bubble formation by excimer laser light in water, the absorber oxybuprocaine-hydrochloride (OBP-HCl) was added to the water. Fast flash photography was used to measure the threshold fluence as a function of the water temperature (6 - 90 degree(s)C) at environmental pressure. The ultraviolet excimer laser light is strongly absorbed by blood. Therefore, to document the implications of bubble formation at fluences above the tissue ablation threshold, excimer laser pulses were delivered in vitro in hemoglobin solution and in vivo in the femoral artery of the rabbit. We conclude that the principal content of the fast bubble induced by a 308 nm excimer laser pulse is water vapor. Therefore, delivery of excimer laser pulses in a water or blood environment will cause fast expanding water vapor bubbles, which may induce mechanical damage to adjacent tissue.

LONG-TERM EVOLUTION OF THE MAIN-ON STATES IN HERCULES X-1

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

Šimon, Vojtech, E-mail: simon@asu.cas.cz

2015-07-15

Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer All-sky Monitor (RXTE ASM) observations and American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) optical data were used for a time-series analysis of the long-term activity of Her X-1. The problem of measuring the long-term evolution of the X-ray intensity in the light curve which consists only of separated intense spikes was addressed. For this purpose, the fluence of each Main-On state was determined. The fluences vary generally (not only in the transitions into/from anomalous low states (ALSs)) by tens of percent on timescales of at least several epochs of the cycle length of the superorbital cyclemore » (but without any stable cycle) while irradiation of the donor producing the optical modulation remains considerably more stable. ALS1 and ALS2 are extensions of the tail in the statistical distribution of these fluences. In this interpretation, the variations of the fluences are caused by the changes of the structure of the inner disk region, which produces variable obscuration of the beams (emitting in the ASM band) at the neutron star. A small change of obscuration of these beams by the inner disk region suffices to change the fluences largely. However, the irradiation of the donor is changed significantly less because this inner disk region (which emits beyond the ASM band and acts as the occulting region of the beams) also irradiates the donor.« less

Low-Level Laser Therapy for Zymosan-Induced Arthritis in Rats: Importance of Illumination Time

PubMed Central

Castano, Ana P.; Dai, Tianhong; Yaroslavsky, Ilya; Cohen, Richard; Apruzzese, William A.; Smotrich, Michael H.; Hamblin, Michael R.

2010-01-01

Background It has been proposed for many years that low-level laser (or light) therapy (LLLT) can ameliorate the pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with various forms of arthritis. Light is thought to be absorbed by mitochondrial chromophores leading to an increase in adenosine triphosphate (ATP), reactive oxygen species and/or cyclic AMP production and consequent gene transcription via activation of transcription factors. However, despite many reports about the positive effects of LLLT in arthritis and in medicine in general, its use remains controversial. For all indications (including arthritis) the optimum optical parameters have been difficult to establish and so far are unknown. Methods We tested LLLT on rats that had zymosan injected into their knee joints to induce inflammatory arthritis. We compared illumination regimens consisting of a high and low fluence (3 and 30 J/cm2), delivered at high and low irradiance (5 and 50 mW/cm2) using 810-nm laser light daily for 5 days, with the positive control of conventional corticosteroid (dexamethasone) therapy. Results Illumination with 810-nm laser was highly effective (almost as good as dexamethasone) at reducing swelling and a longer illumination time (10 or 100 minutes compared to 1 minute) was more important in determining effectiveness than either the total fluence delivered or the irradiance. LLLT induced reduction of joint swelling correlated with reduction in the inflammatory marker serum prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Conclusion LLLT with 810-nm laser is highly effective in treating inflammatory arthritis in this model. Longer illumination times were more effective than short times regardless of total fluence or irradiance. These data will be of value in designing clinical trials of LLLT for various arthritides. PMID:17659584

Shielding Requirements for Particle Bed Propulsion Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-06-01

Heating Rates Rates Rates [W/cc] [W/cc] [W/cc] Hydrogen 11.5 0.09 0.38 Carbon 48 2.2 8.3 Aluminum 80 3.6 14.5 Titanium 335 4.8 36 Stainless Steel 500...12.4 31 Stainless Steel 320 21.5 80 Dose [Rad] Dose [Rad] Dose [Rad] Silicon 4.9e+9 1.36e+5 3.6e 5 The plenum region for these measurements can be...Aluminum (TPA) 0.32 Titanium (TPA) 0.41 Stainless Steel (TPA) 2.3 Dose/Fluence [Rad] / [n/c. 2 ] _ Silicon (TPA/void) 2.4e+4/2.2e+13 The neutron fluence

Clinical and Histopathologic Assessment of Facial Melasma After Low-Fluence Q-Switched Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet Laser.

PubMed

Hofbauer Parra, Camila Anna; Careta, Mariana Figueroa; Valente, Neusa Yuriko Sakai; de Sanches Osório, Nuno Eduardo Guimaraes; Torezan, Luis Antonio Ribeiro

2016-04-01

Melasma is a frequent and difficult to treat skin disorder. Results of laser therapy are inconsistent. To determine the safety and efficacy of low-fluence Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS Nd:YAG) laser for melasma treatment and assess recurrence rates and histopathologic findings before and after treatment. Twenty patients were treated with 10 weekly sessions of low-fluence 1064-nm QS Nd:YAG laser at 1-week intervals. The modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) score was evaluated at baseline; 1 week; and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Epidermal melanin quantification was performed on 10 biopsy samples and compared before and after treatment. All patients showed improvement by mMASI scores, range (21%-75%) compared with that at baseline. No permanent side effects occurred. The recurrence rate was 81%. By histopathology, a slight, nonsignificant (p = .305) decrease in melanin deposition was seen in all layers of the epidermis 1 week after the laser treatments ended. The results confirm the safety and effectiveness of low-fluence QS Nd:YAG laser for treating melasma; however, the high recurrence suggests poor long-term results when the laser is used as a monotherapy.

PHYTOCHROME KINASE SUBSTRATE 1 is a phototropin 1 binding protein required for phototropism

PubMed Central

Lariguet, Patricia; Schepens, Isabelle; Hodgson, Daniel; Pedmale, Ullas V.; Trevisan, Martine; Kami, Chitose; de Carbonnel, Matthieu; Alonso, José M.; Ecker, Joseph R.; Liscum, Emmanuel; Fankhauser, Christian

2006-01-01

Phototropism, or plant growth in response to unidirectional light, is an adaptive response of crucial importance. Lateral differences in low fluence rates of blue light are detected by phototropin 1 (phot1) in Arabidopsis. Only NONPHOTOTROPIC HYPOCOTYL 3 (NPH3) and root phototropism 2, both belonging to the same family of proteins, have been previously identified as phototropin-interacting signal transducers involved in phototropism. PHYTOCHROME KINASE SUBSTRATE (PKS) 1 and PKS2 are two phytochrome signaling components belonging to a small gene family in Arabidopsis (PKS1–PKS4). The strong enhancement of PKS1 expression by blue light and its light induction in the elongation zone of the hypocotyl prompted us to study the function of this gene family during phototropism. Photobiological experiments show that the PKS proteins are critical for hypocotyl phototropism. Furthermore, PKS1 interacts with phot1 and NPH3 in vivo at the plasma membrane and in vitro, indicating that the PKS proteins may function directly with phot1 and NPH3 to mediate phototropism. The phytochromes are known to influence phototropism but the mechanism involved is still unclear. We show that PKS1 induction by a pulse of blue light is phytochrome A-dependent, suggesting that the PKS proteins may provide a molecular link between these two photoreceptor families. PMID:16777956

PHYTOCHROME KINASE SUBSTRATE 1 is a phototropin 1 binding protein required for phototropism.

PubMed

Lariguet, Patricia; Schepens, Isabelle; Hodgson, Daniel; Pedmale, Ullas V; Trevisan, Martine; Kami, Chitose; de Carbonnel, Matthieu; Alonso, José M; Ecker, Joseph R; Liscum, Emmanuel; Fankhauser, Christian

2006-06-27

Phototropism, or plant growth in response to unidirectional light, is an adaptive response of crucial importance. Lateral differences in low fluence rates of blue light are detected by phototropin 1 (phot1) in Arabidopsis. Only NONPHOTOTROPIC HYPOCOTYL 3 (NPH3) and root phototropism 2, both belonging to the same family of proteins, have been previously identified as phototropin-interacting signal transducers involved in phototropism. PHYTOCHROME KINASE SUBSTRATE (PKS) 1 and PKS2 are two phytochrome signaling components belonging to a small gene family in Arabidopsis (PKS1-PKS4). The strong enhancement of PKS1 expression by blue light and its light induction in the elongation zone of the hypocotyl prompted us to study the function of this gene family during phototropism. Photobiological experiments show that the PKS proteins are critical for hypocotyl phototropism. Furthermore, PKS1 interacts with phot1 and NPH3 in vivo at the plasma membrane and in vitro, indicating that the PKS proteins may function directly with phot1 and NPH3 to mediate phototropism. The phytochromes are known to influence phototropism but the mechanism involved is still unclear. We show that PKS1 induction by a pulse of blue light is phytochrome A-dependent, suggesting that the PKS proteins may provide a molecular link between these two photoreceptor families.

Effect of UVC light on growth, incorporation of thymidine, and DNA chain elongation in cells derived from the Indian meal moth and the cabbage looper.

PubMed

Styer, S C; Griffiths, T D

1992-04-01

After exposure to 10 or 20 J/m2 UVC light, cells of the UMN-PIE-1181 line, an embryonic cell line derived from the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella, exhibited a rapid and prolonged depression in the rate of incorporation of [3H]thymidine, whereas cells of the TN-368 line, an ovarian cell line derived from Trichoplusia ni, the cabbage looper, showed only a slight drop in incorporation and a rapid recovery after exposure to 10 or 40 J/m2 UVC light. The extent of this depression was not correlated to the amount of cell killing by UVC light in these cell lines or in IAL-PID2 cells. Blockage of fork progression was correlated to the depression in thymidine incorporation. TN-368 cells exhibited little blockage after exposure to 10 or 20 J/m2 UVC light, whereas UMN-PIE-1181 cells exhibited significant blockage at these fluences. Photoreactivation did not entirely relieve blockage, depression in thymidine incorporation, or cell killing, indicating that, although the (5-6) dimer appears to be the major lesion responsible for these effects, other lesions such as the (6-4) photoproduct may play a role.

Investigation of the radiation resistance of triple-junction a-Si:H alloy solar cells irradiated with 1.00 MeV protons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lord, Kenneth R., II; Walters, Michael R.; Woodyard, James R.

1993-01-01

The effect of 1.00 MeV proton irradiation on hydrogenated amorphous silicon alloy triple-junction solar cells is reported for the first time. The cells were designed for radiation resistance studies and included 0.35 cm(sup 2) active areas on 1.0 by 2.0 cm(sup 2) glass superstrates. Three cells were irradiated through the bottom contact at each of six fluences between 5.10E12 and 1.46E15 cm(sup -2). The effect of the irradiations was determined with light current-voltage measurements. Proton irradiation degraded the cell power densities from 8.0 to 98 percent for the fluences investigated. Annealing irradiated cells at 200 C for two hours restored the power densities to better than 90 percent. The cells exhibited radiation resistances which are superior to cells reported in the literature for fluences less than 1E14 cm(sup -2).

Calibration-free quantification of absolute oxygen saturation based on the dynamics of photoacoustic signals

PubMed Central

Xia, Jun; Danielli, Amos; Liu, Yan; Wang, Lidai; Maslov, Konstantin; Wang, Lihong V.

2014-01-01

Photoacoustic tomography (PAT) is a hybrid imaging technique that has broad preclinical and clinical applications. Based on the photoacoustic effect, PAT directly measures specific optical absorption, which is the product of the tissue-intrinsic optical absorption coefficient and the local optical fluence. Therefore, quantitative PAT, such as absolute oxygen saturation (sO2) quantification, requires knowledge of the local optical fluence, which can be estimated only through invasive measurements or sophisticated modeling of light transportation. In this work, we circumvent this requirement by taking advantage of the dynamics in sO2. The new method works when the sO2 transition can be simultaneously monitored with multiple wavelengths. For each wavelength, the ratio of photoacoustic amplitudes measured at different sO2 states is utilized. Using the ratio cancels the contribution from optical fluence and allows calibration-free quantification of absolute sO2. The new method was validated through both phantom and in vivo experiments. PMID:23903146

Mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana with decreased amplitude in their phototropic response

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

Khurana, J.P.; Ren, Zhangling; Steinitz, B.

1989-10-01

Two mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana have been identified with decreased phototropism to 450-nanometer light. Fluence-response relationships for these strains (ZR8 and ZR19) to single and multiple flashes of light show thresholds, curve shapes, and fluence for maximum curvature in first positive phototropism which are the same as those of the wild type. Similarly, there is no alteration from the wild type in the kinetics of curvature or in the optimum dark period separating sequential flashes in a multiple flash regimen. In addition, in both strains, gravitropism is decreased compared to the wild type by an amount which is comparable tomore » the decrease in phototropism. Based on reciprocal backcrosses, it appears that the alteration is due to a recessive nuclear mutation. It is suggested that ZR8 and ZR19 represent alterations in some step analogous to an amplifier, downstream of the photoreceptor pigment, and common to both phototropism and gravitropism.« less

Laser induced disruption of bacterial spores on a microchip.

PubMed

Hofmann, Oliver; Murray, Kirk; Wilkinson, Alan-Shaun; Cox, Timothy; Manz, Andreas

2005-04-01

We report on the development of a laser based spore disruption method. Bacillus globigii spores were mixed with a laser light absorbing matrix and co-crystallized into 200-microm-wide and 20-microm-deep nanovials formed in a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) target plate. Surface tension effects were exploited to effect up to 125-fold spore enrichment. When the target zones were illuminated at atmospheric pressure with pulsed UV-laser light at fluences below 20 mJ cm(-2) a change in spore morphology was observed within seconds. Post illumination PCR analysis suggests the release of endogenous DNA indicative of spore disruption. For laser fluences above 20 mJ cm(-2), desorption of spores and fragments was also observed even without a matrix being employed. Desorbed material was collected in a PDMS flowcell attached to the target plate during laser illumination. This opens up a route towards the direct extraction of released DNA in an integrated spore disruption-PCR amplification microchip device.

Mechanisms of electrical isolation in O+ -irradiated ZnO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zubiaga, A.; Tuomisto, F.; Coleman, V. A.; Tan, H. H.; Jagadish, C.; Koike, K.; Sasa, S.; Inoue, M.; Yano, M.

2008-07-01

We have applied positron annihilation spectroscopy combined with sheet resistance measurements to study the electrical isolation of thin ZnO layers irradiated with 2 MeV O+ ions at various fluences. Our results indicate that Zn vacancies, the dominant defects detected by positrons, are produced in the irradiation at a relatively low rate of about 2000cm-1 when the ion fluence is at most 1015cm-2 and that vacancy clusters are created at higher fluences. The Zn vacancies introduced in the irradiation act as dominant compensating centers and cause the electrical isolation, while the results suggest that the vacancy clusters are electrically inactive.

The spectra and light curves of two gamma-ray bursts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, F. K.; Matteson, J. L.; Peterson, L. E.

1981-01-01

Observations made by the Hard X-ray and Low Energy Gamma-Ray Experiment on board HEAO-1 of the spectra and light curves of two gamma-ray bursts for which localized arrival directions will become available are presented. The burst of October 20, 1977 is found to exhibit a fluence of 0.000031 + or - 0.000005 erg/sq cm over the energy range 0.135-2.05 MeV and a duration of 38.7 sec, while that of November 10, 1977 is found to have a fluence of 0.000021 + or - 0.000008 erg/sq cm between 0.125 and 3 MeV over 2.8 sec. The light curves of both bursts exhibit time fluctuations down to the limiting time resolution of the detectors. The spectrum of the October burst can be fit by a power law of index -1.93 + or -0.16, which is harder than any other gamma-burst spectrum yet reported. The spectrum of the second burst is softer (index -2.4 + or - 0.7), and is consistent with the upper index in the double power law fit to the burst of April 27, 1972.

Looking for Dust-Scattering Light Echoes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mills, Brianna; Heinz, Sebastian; Corrales, Lia

2018-01-01

Galactic X-ray transient sources such as neutron stars or black holes sometimes undergo an outburst in X-rays. Ring structures have been observed around three such sources, produced by the X-ray photons being scattered by interstellar dust grains along our line of sight. These dust-scattering light echoes have proven to be a useful tool for measuring and constraining Galactic distances, mapping the dust structure of the Milky Way, and determining the dust composition in the clouds producing the echo. Detectable light echoes require a sufficient quantity of dust along our line of sight, as well as bright, short-lived Galactic X-ray flares. Using data from the Monitor of All-Sky X-ray Image (MAXI) on-board the International Space Station, we ran a peak finding algorithm in Python to look for characteristic flare events. Each flare was characterized by its fluence, the integrated flux of the flare over time. We measured the distribution of flare fluences to show how many observably bright flares were recorded by MAXI. This work provides a parent set for dust echo searches in archival X-ray data and will inform observing strategies with current and future X-ray missions such as Athena and Lynx.

Near-infrared continuous-wave light driving a two-photon photochromic reaction with the assistance of localized surface plasmon.

PubMed

Tsuboi, Yasuyuki; Shimizu, Ryosuke; Shoji, Tatsuya; Kitamura, Noboru

2009-09-09

We demonstrate that a photochromic reaction can be driven by irradiation from a weak, near-infrared continuous-wave (NIR-CW) laser light. A two-photon ring-opening photochromic reaction of a diarylethene (DE) derivative can be induced by irradiation with a NIR-CW laser light (lambda = 808 nm). An ultrathin polymer film doped with DE in its closed form was coated onto a gold-nanoparticle-integrated glass substrate. Upon irradiation of the sample with a CW laser at low fluence (0.1-4.0 W/cm(2)), we could clearly observe bleaching of the DE (ring-opening reaction). Following the IR irradiation, the bleached absorption could be reversibly recovered by applying UV irradiation (ring-closing reaction). We verified that the yield of the photochromic ring-opening reaction of the DE was proportional to the square of the irradiation fluence. The origin of this NIR-CW-induced two-photon photochromic reaction is an "enhancing effect" that acts on the electromagnetic field (localized surface plasmon) of the gold nanoparticles. The DE interacts with the surface plasmon and receives energy from two photons, which excites it to a state from which the ring-opening reaction can be initiated.

Long-term results in low-fluence 1064-nm Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser for melasma: Is it effective?

PubMed

Gokalp, Hilal; Akkaya, Ayse Deniz; Oram, Yasemin

2016-12-01

This study assessed the safety and clinical efficacy of a low-fluence 1064-nm Q-switched neodymium-doped:yttrium aluminum garnet (QS-Nd:YAG) laser in the treatment of patients with melasma. The study evaluated 34 melasma patients treated at a single institution using a 1064-nm QS-Nd:YAG laser. The laser parameters were 6 mm spot size and 2.5 J/cm 2 fluence with multiple passes for 6-10 (median 8) sessions at 2-week intervals. Outcomes were evaluated using photography, the modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) score, and patient satisfaction interviews after the last treatment and 1 year after the last treatment. After the low-fluence 1064-nm QS-Nd:YAG laser treatments, the mean mMASI score decreased from 6.7 ± 3.3 to 3.2 ± 1.6 (P < 0.01). After treatment completion, 20 of 34 patients (58.8%) rated themselves as having at least a 50% reduction in melasma severity. One year after the last treatment, recurrence was observed in 20 patients (58.8%) and the mean mMASI score increased from 3.2 ± 1.6 to 5.8 ± 1.9 in all patients. The recurrence of low-fluence 1064-nm QS-Nd:YAG laser rates in melasma was high when the long-term results were considered. This result may be attributed to certain patient and treatment-related factors. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Light and ultrasound activated microbubbles around gold nanorods for photoacoustic microsurgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cavigli, Lucia; Centi, Sonia; Lai, Sarah; Borri, Claudia; Micheletti, Filippo; Tortoli, Paolo; Panettieri, Ilaria; Streit, Ingolf; Rossi, Francesca; Ratto, Fulvio; Pini, Roberto

2017-07-01

Photoacoustic imaging and microsurgery have recently attracted attention for applications in oncology. Here, we present a versatile set-up to trigger vapor microbubbles around plasmonic nanoparticles by a combined light-ultrasound excitation. This system enables the detection and parametrization of bubbles as a function of several variables, such us optical fluence, ultrasound intensity, nanoparticles concentration, thus providing useful directions to the development of new strategies for treatments based on optical cavitation.

The electronically excited states of LH2 complexes from Rhodopseudomonas acidophila strain 10050 studied by time-resolved spectroscopy and dynamic Monte Carlo simulations. I. Isolated, non-interacting LH2 complexes.

PubMed

Pflock, Tobias J; Oellerich, Silke; Southall, June; Cogdell, Richard J; Ullmann, G Matthias; Köhler, Jürgen

2011-07-21

We have employed time-resolved spectroscopy on the picosecond time scale in combination with dynamic Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the photophysical properties of light-harvesting 2 (LH2) complexes from the purple photosynthetic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas acidophila. The variations of the fluorescence transients were studied as a function of the excitation fluence, the repetition rate of the excitation and the sample preparation conditions. Here we present the results obtained on detergent solubilized LH2 complexes, i.e., avoiding intercomplex interactions, and show that a simple four-state model is sufficient to grasp the experimental observations quantitatively without the need for any free parameters. This approach allows us to obtain a quantitative measure for the singlet-triplet annihilation rate in isolated, noninteracting LH2 complexes.

Paramecium: a promising non-animal bioassay to study the effect of 808 nm infrared diode laser photobiomodulation.

PubMed

Amaroli, Andrea; Parker, Steven; Dorigo, Gianluca; Benedicenti, Alberico; Benedicenti, Stefano

2015-01-01

Photobiostimulation and photobiomodulation (PBM) are terms applied to the manipulation of cellular behavior using low intensity light sources, which works on the principle of inducing a biological response through energy transfer. The aim of this investigation was to identify a laboratory assay to test the effect of an infrared diode laser light (808 nm) on cell fission rate. Sixty cells of Paramecium primaurelia were divided in two groups of 30. The first group (test group) was irradiated, at a temperature of 24°C, for 50 sec by a 808 nm diode laser with a flat top handpiece [1 cm of spot diameter, 1 W in continuous wave (CW), 50 sec irradiation time, 64 J/cm(2) of fluence]. The second group (control group) received no laser irradiation. All cells were transferred onto a depression slide, fed, and incubated in a moist chamber at a temperature of 24°C. The cells were exposed and monitored for 10 consecutive fission rates. Changes in temperature and pH were also evaluated. The exposed cells had a fission rate rhythm faster than the control cells, showing a binary fission significantly (p<0.05) shorter than unexposed cells. No significant effects of laser irradiation on pH and temperature of Paramecium's lettuce infusion medium were observed. The 808 nm infrared diode laser light, at the irradiation parameters used in our work, results in a precocious fission rate in P. primaurelia cells, probably through an increase in metabolic activity, secondary to an energy transfer.

Effect of spot size and fluence on Q-switched alexandrite laser treatment for pigmentation in Asians: a randomized, double-blinded, split-face comparative trial.

PubMed

Wang, Chia-Chen; Chen, Chih-Kang

2012-10-01

Q-switched laser treatment for pigment disorders commonly leads to postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Asians. To evaluate the effect of spot size and fluence on Q-switched alexandrite laser (QSAL) treatment for pigmentation in Asians. Ten patients with freckles, 18 with lentigines, and 8 with acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM) received 1 session of QSAL treatment for a 3-mm spot on one cheek and a 4-mm spot on the other cheek. The lowest fluences to achieve a visible biologic effect were chosen. The patients with freckles experienced the highest improvement rate (83-84%), followed by those with lentigines (52%) and ABNOM (35%). Similar efficacy was observed for both cheeks (p > 0.05). PIH developed in 10% (1/10), 44% (8/18), and 75% (6/8) of the patients with freckles, lentigines, and ABNOM, respectively. The severity of PIH was lower in the 4-mm spot with a lower fluence than in the 3-mm spot with a higher fluence in patients with lentigines (p = 0.03), but not in those with freckles or ABNOM. Using a larger spot to achieve the same biologic effect at a lower fluence is associated with equal efficacy and less-severe PIH in patients with lentigines.

Fast radio burst event rate counts - I. Interpreting the observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macquart, J.-P.; Ekers, R. D.

2018-02-01

The fluence distribution of the fast radio burst (FRB) population (the `source count' distribution, N (>F) ∝Fα), is a crucial diagnostic of its distance distribution, and hence the progenitor evolutionary history. We critically reanalyse current estimates of the FRB source count distribution. We demonstrate that the Lorimer burst (FRB 010724) is subject to discovery bias, and should be excluded from all statistical studies of the population. We re-examine the evidence for flat, α > -1, source count estimates based on the ratio of single-beam to multiple-beam detections with the Parkes multibeam receiver, and show that current data imply only a very weak constraint of α ≲ -1.3. A maximum-likelihood analysis applied to the portion of the Parkes FRB population detected above the observational completeness fluence of 2 Jy ms yields α = -2.6_{-1.3}^{+0.7 }. Uncertainties in the location of each FRB within the Parkes beam render estimates of the Parkes event rate uncertain in both normalizing survey area and the estimated post-beam-corrected completeness fluence; this uncertainty needs to be accounted for when comparing the event rate against event rates measured at other telescopes.

Controlled nanopatterning & modifications of materials by energetic ions

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

Sinha, O. P.

Compound semiconductors (InP, InAs and GaSb) has been exposed to energetic 3 keV Ar{sup +} ions for a varying fluence range of 10{sup 13} ions/cm{sup 2} to 10{sup 18} ions/cm{sup 2} at room temperature. Morphological modifications of the irradiated surfaces have been investigated by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) in UHV conditions. It is observed that InP and GaSb have fluence dependent nanopattering e.g. nanoneedle, aligned nanodots, superimposed nanodots ripple like structures while InAs has little fluence dependent behaviour indicating materials dependent growth of features on irradiated surfaces. Moreover, surface roughness and wavelength of the features are also depending on themore » materials and fluences. The RMS surface roughness has been found to be increased rapidly in the early stage of irradiation followed by slower escalate rate and later tends to saturate indicating influence of the nonlinear processes.« less

Multiphoton manipulations of enzymatic photoactivity in aspartate aminotransferase.

PubMed

Hill, Melissa P; Freer, Lucy H; Vang, Mai C; Carroll, Elizabeth C; Larsen, Delmar S

2011-04-21

The aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) enzyme utilizes the chromophoric pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP) cofactor to facilitate the transamination of amino acids. Recently, we demonstrated that, upon exposure to blue light, PLP forms a reactive triplet state that rapidly (in microseconds) generates the high-energy quinonoid intermediate when bound to PLP-dependent enzymes [J. Am. Chem. Soc.2010, 132 (47), 16953-16961]. This increases the net catalytic activity (k(cat)) of AAT, since formation of the quinonoid is partially rate limiting via the thermally activated enzymatic pathway. The magnitude of observed photoenhancement initially scales linearly with pump fluence; however when a critical threshold is exceeded, the photoactivity saturates and is even suppressed at greater excitation fluences. The photodynamic mechanisms associated with this suppression behavior are characterized with the use of ultrafast multipulse pump-dump-probe and pump-repump-probe transient absorption techniques in combination with complementary two-color, steady-state excitation assays. Via multistate kinetic modeling of the transient ultrafast data and the steady-state assay data, the nonmonotonic incident power dependence of the photoactivty in AAT is decomposed into contributions from high-intensity dumping of the excited singlet state and repumping of the excited triplet state with induces the repopulation of the ground state via rapid intersystem crossing in the higher-lying triplet electronic manifold.

Efficacy and Mechanisms of Murine Norovirus Inhibition by Pulsed-Light Technology

PubMed Central

Vimont, Allison; Fliss, Ismaïl

2015-01-01

Pulsed light is a nonthermal processing technology recognized by the FDA for killing microorganisms on food surfaces, with cumulative fluences up to 12 J cm−2. In this study, we investigated its efficacy for inactivating murine norovirus 1 (MNV-1) as a human norovirus surrogate in phosphate-buffered saline, hard water, mineral water, turbid water, and sewage treatment effluent and on food contact surfaces, including high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, and stainless steel, free or in an alginate matrix. The pulsed-light device emitted a broadband spectrum (200 to 1,000 nm) at a fluence of 0.67 J cm−2 per pulse, with 2% UV at 8 cm beneath the lamp. Reductions in viral infectivity exceeded 3 log10 in less than 3 s (5 pulses; 3.45 J cm−2) in clear suspensions and on clean surfaces, even in the presence of alginate, and in 6 s (11 pulses; 7.60 J cm−2) on fouled surfaces except for stainless steel (2.6 log10). The presence of protein or bentonite interfered with viral inactivation. Analysis of the morphology, the viral proteins, and the RNA integrity of treated MNV-1 allowed us to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the antiviral activity of pulsed light. Pulsed light appeared to disrupt MNV-1 structure and degrade viral protein and RNA. The results suggest that pulsed-light technology could provide an effective alternative means of inactivating noroviruses in wastewaters, in clear beverages, in drinking water, or on food-handling surfaces in the presence or absence of biofilms. PMID:25681193

Test measurements on a secco white-lead containing model samples to assess the effects of exposure to low-fluence UV laser radiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raimondi, Valentina; Andreotti, Alessia; Colombini, Maria Perla; Cucci, Costanza; Cuzman, Oana; Galeotti, Monica; Lognoli, David; Palombi, Lorenzo; Picollo, Marcello; Tiano, Piero

2015-05-01

Laser-induced fluorescence technique is widely used for diagnostic purposes in several applications and its use could be of advantage for non-invasive on-site characterisation of pigments or other compounds in wall paintings. However, it is well known that long-time exposure to UV and VIS radiation can cause damage to wall paintings. Several studies have investigated the effects of lighting, e.g., in museums: however, the effects of low-fluence laser radiation have not been studied much so far. This paper investigates the effects of UV laser radiation using fluences in the range of 0.1 mJ/cm2-1 mJ/cm2 on a set of a secco model samples prepared with lead white and different type of binders (animal glue and whole egg, whole egg, skimmed milk, egg-oil tempera). The samples were irradiated using a Nd:YAG laser (emission wavelength at 355 nm; pulse width: 5 ns) by applying laser fluences between 0.1 mJ/cm2 and 1 mJ/cm2 and a number of laser pulses between 1 and 500. The samples were characterised before and after laser irradiation by using several techniques (colorimetry, optical microscopy, fibre optical reflectance spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy Attenuated Total Reflectance microscopy and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry), to detect variations in the morphological and physico-chemical properties. The results did not point out significant changes in the sample properties after irradiation in the proposed range of laser fluences.

Microbial UV fluence-response assessment using a novel UV-LED collimated beam system.

PubMed

Bowker, Colleen; Sain, Amanda; Shatalov, Max; Ducoste, Joel

2011-02-01

A research study has been performed to determine the ultraviolet (UV) fluence-response of several target non-pathogenic microorganisms to UV light emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) by performing collimated beam tests. UV-LEDs do not contain toxic mercury, offer design flexibility due to their small size, and have a longer operational life than mercury lamps. Comsol Multiphysics was utilized to create an optimal UV-LED collimated beam design based on number and spacing of UV-LEDs and distance of the sample from the light source while minimizing the overall cost. The optimized UV-LED collimated beam apparatus and a low-pressure mercury lamp collimated beam apparatus were used to determine the UV fluence-response of three surrogate microorganisms (Escherichia coli, MS-2, T7) to 255 nm UV-LEDs, 275 nm UV-LEDs, and 254 nm low-pressure mercury lamps. Irradiation by low-pressure mercury lamps produced greater E. coli and MS-2 inactivation than 255 nm and 275 nm UV-LEDs and similar T7 inactivation to irradiation by 275 nm UV-LEDs. The 275 nm UV-LEDs produced more efficient T7 and E. coli inactivation than 255 nm UV-LEDs while both 255 nm and 275 nm UV-LEDs produced comparable microbial inactivation for MS-2. Differences may have been caused by a departure from the time-dose reciprocity law due to microbial repair mechanisms. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Excimer Laser Curing Of Polymer Coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klick, David; Akerman, M. Alfred; Paul, George L.; Supurovic, Darko; Tsuda, Haruki

1988-12-01

The use of the excimer laser as a source of energy for photo-assisted curing of industrial polymeric coatings was investigated. Presently, UV lamps are sometimes used to excite a photoinitiating molecule mixed with the starting monomers and oligomers of a coating. The resulting polymeric chain reaction multiplies the effect of the initial photons, making economical use of the light source. The high cost of laser photons may thus be justifiable if lasers provide advantages over lamps. A series of visibly transparent 7 μm coatings (a typical thickness for 'slick' magazine coatings) with various photoinitiators, monomers, and oligomers was illuminated with excimer laser light of various wavelengths, fluences, and pulse repetition rates. For the optimum parameters, it was found that the laser had large advantages in curing speed over existing UV lamp processes, due to its monochromaticity. Pigmented coatings (20 μm TiO2 mixtures typical of appliance or automotive finishes) are not easily cured with UV lamps due to the inability of light to penetrate the absorbing and scattering pigmented layer. However, economically-viable cure rates were achieved with certain photoinitiators using a tunable excimer-pumped dye laser. A prototype of such a laser suitable for factory use was built and used to cure these coatings. Results are scaled to a factory situation, and costs are calculated to show the advantages of the laser method over currently used processes.

Impact of environmental factors on efficacy of upper-room air ultraviolet germicidal irradiation for inactivating airborne mycobacteria.

PubMed

Xu, Peng; Kujundzic, Elmira; Peccia, Jordan; Schafer, Millie P; Moss, Gene; Hernandez, Mark; Miller, Shelly L

2005-12-15

This study evaluated the efficacy of an upper-room air ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) system for inactivating airborne bacteria, which irradiates the upper part of a room while minimizing radiation exposure to persons in the lower part of the room. A full-scale test room (87 m3), fitted with a UVGI system consisting of 9 louvered wall and ceiling fixtures (504 W all lamps operating) was operated at 24 and 34 degrees C, between 25 and 90% relative humidity, and at three ventilation rates. Mycobacterium parafortuitum cells were aerosolized into the room such that their numbers and physiologic state were comparable both with and without the UVGI system operating. Airborne bacteria were collected in duplicate using liquid impingers and quantified with direct epifluorescent microscopy and standard culturing assay. Performance of the UVGI system degraded significantly when the relative humidity was increased from 50% to 75-90% RH, the horizontal UV fluence rate distribution was skewed to one side compared to being evenly dispersed, and the room air temperature was stratified from hot at the ceiling to cold at the floor. The inactivation rate increased linearly with effective UV fluence rate up to 5 microW cm(-2); an increase in the fluence rate above this level did not yield a proportional increase in inactivation rate.

Effect of W self-implantation and He plasma exposure on early-stage defect and bubble formation in tungsten

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, M.; Drummond, D.; Sullivan, J.; Elliman, R.; Kluth, P.; Kirby, N.; Riley, D.; Corr, C. S.

2018-06-01

To determine the effect of pre-existing defects on helium-vacancy cluster nucleation and growth, tungsten samples were self-implanted with 1 MeV tungsten ions at varying fluences to induce radiation damage, then subsequently exposed to helium plasma in the MAGPIE linear plasma device. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was performed both immediately after self-implantation, and again after plasma exposure. After self-implantation vacancies clusters were not observed near the sample surface (<30 nm). At greater depths (30–150 nm) vacancy clusters formed, and were found to increase in size with increasing W-ion fluence. After helium plasma exposure in the MAGPIE linear plasma device at ~300 K with a fluence of 1023 He-m‑2, deep (30–150 nm) vacancy clusters showed similar positron lifetimes, while shallow (<30 nm) clusters were not observed. The intensity of positron lifetime signals fell for most samples after plasma exposure, indicating that defects were filling with helium. The absence of shallow clusters indicates that helium requires pre-existing defects in order to drive vacancy cluster growth at 300 K. Further samples that had not been pre-damaged with W-ions were also exposed to helium plasma in MAGPIE across fluences from 1  ×  1022 to 1.2  ×  1024 He-m‑2. Samples exposed to fluences up to 1  ×  1023 He-m‑2 showed no signs of damage. Fluences of 5  ×  1023 He-m‑2 and higher showed significant helium-cluster formation within the first 30 nm, with positron lifetimes in the vicinity 0.5–0.6 ns. The sample temperature was significantly higher for these higher fluence exposures (~400 K) due to plasma heating. This higher temperature likely enhanced bubble formation by significantly increasing the rate interstitial helium clusters generate vacancies, which is we suspect is the rate-limiting step for helium-vacancy cluster/bubble nucleation in the absence of pre-existing defects.

Treating metabolic syndrome's metaflammation with low level light therapy: preliminary results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshimura, Tania M.; Kato, Ilka T.; Deana, Alessandro M.; Ribeiro, Martha S.

2014-02-01

Metabolic syndrome comprises a constellation of morbidities such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, atherogenic dyslipidemia, dysglycemia and obesity (especially abdominal). Metabolic alterations are observed in major insulin target organs, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type-2 diabetes and therefore mortality. Tissue alterations are characterized by immune cells infiltrates (especially activated macrophages). Released inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α induce chronic inflammation in subjects with metabolic syndrome, since inflammatory pathways are activated in the neighboring cells. The intra-abdominal adipose tissue appears to be of particular importance in the onset of the inflammatory state, and strategies contributing to modulate the inflammatory process within this adipose tissue can mitigate the metabolic syndrome consequences. Considering the low level light therapy (LLLT) recognized benefits in inflammatory conditions, we hypothesized this therapeutic approach could promote positive effects in modulating the inflammatory state of metabolic syndrome. That being the scope of this study, male C57BL/6 mice were submitted to a high-fat/high-fructose diet among 8 weeks to induce metabolic syndrome. Animals were then irradiated on the abdominal region during 21 days using an 850 nm LED (6 sessions, 300 seconds per session, 60 mW output power, ~6 J/cm2 fluence, ~19 mW/cm2 fluence rate). Before and during treatment, blood was sampled either from the retroorbital plexus or from tail puncture for glucose, total cholesterol and triglycerides analysis. So far our results indicate no alterations on these metabolic parameters after LLLT. For further investigations, blood was collected for plasma inflammatory cytokine quantification and fresh ex vivo samples of liver and intra-abdominal adipose tissue were harvested for immunohistochemistry purposes.

Phototropic solar tracking in sunflower plants: an integrative perspective.

PubMed

Kutschera, Ulrich; Briggs, Winslow R

2016-01-01

One of the best-known plant movements, phototropic solar tracking in sunflower (Helianthus annuus), has not yet been fully characterized. Two questions are still a matter of debate. (1) Is the adaptive significance solely an optimization of photosynthesis via the exposure of the leaves to the sun? (2) Is shade avoidance involved in this process? In this study, these concepts are discussed from a historical perspective and novel insights are provided. Results from the primary literature on heliotropic growth movements led to the conclusion that these responses cease before anthesis, so that the flowering heads point to the East. Based on observations on 10-week-old plants, the diurnal East-West oscillations of the upper fifth of the growing stem and leaves in relation to the position of the sun (inclusive of nocturnal re-orientation) were documented, and photon fluence rates on the leaf surfaces on clear, cloudy and rainy days were determined. In addition, the light-response curve of net CO2 assimilation was determined on the upper leaves of the same batch of plants, and evidence for the occurrence of shade-avoidance responses in growing sunflower plants is summarized. Only elongating, vegetative sunflower shoots and the upper leaves perform phototropic solar tracking. Photon fluence response and CO2 assimilation measurements cast doubt on the 'photosynthesis-optimization hypothesis' as the sole explanation for the evolution of these plant movements. We suggest that the shade-avoidance response, which maximizes light-driven CO2 assimilation, plays a major role in solar tracking populations of competing sunflower plants, and an integrative scheme of these growth movements is provided. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Annals of Botany Company. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Quantitative assessment of growing hair counts, thickness and colour during and after treatments with a low-fluence, home-device laser: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Thaysen-Petersen, D; Barbet-Pfeilsticker, M; Beerwerth, F; Nash, J F; Philipsen, P A; Staubach, P; Haedersdal, M

2015-01-01

At-home laser and intense pulsed-light hair removal continues to grow in popularity and availability. A relatively limited body of evidence is available on the course of hair growth during and after low-fluence laser usage. To assess growing hair counts, thickness and colour quantitatively during and after cessation of low-fluence laser treatment. Thirty-six women with skin phototypes I-IV and light to dark-brown axillary hairs were included. Entire axillary regions were randomized to zero or eight self-administered weekly treatments with an 810-nm home-use laser at 5·0-6·4 J cm(-2). Standardized clinical photographs were taken before each treatment and up to 3 months after the final treatment for computer-aided quantification of growing hair counts, thickness and colour. Thirty-two women completed the study protocol. During sustained treatment, there was a reduction in growing hair that reached a plateau of up to 59%, while remaining hairs became up to 38% thinner and 5% lighter (P < 0·001). The majority of subjects (77%) reported 'moderately' to 'much less hair' in treated than untreated axilla, and assessed remaining hairs as thinner and lighter (≥ 60%). After treatment cessation, hair growth gradually returned to baseline levels, and 3 months after the final treatment the count and thickness of actively growing hair exceeded pretreatment values by 29% and 7%, respectively (P ≤ 0·04). Sustained usage of low-fluence laser induced a stable reduction of growing hair counts, thickness and colour. The reduction was reversible and hairs regrew beyond baseline values after cessation of usage. Computer-aided image analysis was qualified for quantification of hair counts, thickness and colour after laser epilation. © 2014 British Association of Dermatologists.

Topography evolution of 500 keV Ar(4+) ion beam irradiated InP(100) surfaces - formation of self-organized In-rich nano-dots and scaling laws.

PubMed

Sulania, Indra; Agarwal, Dinesh C; Kumar, Manish; Kumar, Sunil; Kumar, Pravin

2016-07-27

We report the formation of self-organized nano-dots on the surface of InP(100) upon irradiating it with a 500 keV Ar(4+) ion beam. The irradiation was carried out at an angle of 25° with respect to the normal at the surface with 5 different fluences ranging from 1.0 × 10(15) to 1.0 × 10(17) ions per cm(2). The morphology of the ion-irradiated surfaces was examined by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and the formation of the nano-dots on the irradiated surfaces was confirmed. The average size of the nano-dots varied from 44 ± 14 nm to 94 ± 26 nm with increasing ion fluence. As a function of the ion fluence, the variation in the average size of the nano-dots has a great correlation with the surface roughness, which changes drastically up to the ion fluence of 1.0 × 10(16) ions per cm(2) and attains almost a saturation level for further irradiation. The roughness and the growth exponent values deduced from the scaling laws suggest that the kinetic sputtering and the large surface diffusion steps of the atoms are the primary reasons for the formation of the self-organized nanodots on the surface. X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS) studies show that the surface stoichiometry changes with the ion fluence. With irradiation, the surface becomes more indium (In)-rich owing to the preferential sputtering of the phosphorus atoms (P) and the pure metallic In nano-dots evolve at the highest ion fluence. The cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the sample irradiated with the highest fluence showed the absence of the nanostructuring beneath the surface. The surface morphological changes at this medium energy ion irradiation are discussed in correlation with the low and high energy experiments to shed more light on the mechanism of the well separated nano-dot formation.

207-nm UV Light-A Promising Tool for Safe Low-Cost Reduction of Surgical Site Infections. II: In-Vivo Safety Studies.

PubMed

Buonanno, Manuela; Stanislauskas, Milda; Ponnaiya, Brian; Bigelow, Alan W; Randers-Pehrson, Gerhard; Xu, Yanping; Shuryak, Igor; Smilenov, Lubomir; Owens, David M; Brenner, David J

2016-01-01

UVC light generated by conventional germicidal lamps is a well-established anti-microbial modality, effective against both bacteria and viruses. However, it is a human health hazard, being both carcinogenic and cataractogenic. Earlier studies showed that single-wavelength far-UVC light (207 nm) generated by excimer lamps kills bacteria without apparent harm to human skin tissue in vitro. The biophysical explanation is that, due to its extremely short range in biological material, 207 nm UV light cannot penetrate the human stratum corneum (the outer dead-cell skin layer, thickness 5-20 μm) nor even the cytoplasm of individual human cells. By contrast, 207 nm UV light can penetrate bacteria and viruses because these cells are physically much smaller. To test the biophysically-based hypothesis that 207 nm UV light is not cytotoxic to exposed mammalian skin in vivo. Hairless mice were exposed to a bactericidal UV fluence of 157 mJ/cm2 delivered by a filtered Kr-Br excimer lamp producing monoenergetic 207-nm UV light, or delivered by a conventional 254-nm UV germicidal lamp. Sham irradiations constituted the negative control. Eight relevant cellular and molecular damage endpoints including epidermal hyperplasia, pre-mutagenic UV-associated DNA lesions, skin inflammation, and normal cell proliferation and differentiation were evaluated in mice dorsal skin harvested 48 h after UV exposure. While conventional germicidal UV (254 nm) exposure produced significant effects for all the studied skin damage endpoints, the same fluence of 207 nm UV light produced results that were not statistically distinguishable from the zero exposure controls. As predicted by biophysical considerations and in agreement with earlier in vitro studies, 207-nm light does not appear to be significantly cytotoxic to mouse skin. These results suggest that excimer-based far-UVC light could potentially be used for its anti-microbial properties, but without the associated hazards to skin of conventional germicidal UV lamps.

Coupling Light Emitting Diodes with Photocatalyst-Coated Optical Fibers Improves Quantum Yield of Pollutant Oxidation.

PubMed

Ling, Li; Tugaoen, Heather; Brame, Jonathon; Sinha, Shahnawaz; Li, Chuanhao; Schoepf, Jared; Hristovski, Kiril; Kim, Jae-Hong; Shang, Chii; Westerhoff, Paul

2017-11-21

A photocatalyst-coated optical fiber was coupled with a 318 nm ultraviolet-A light emitting diode, which activated the photocatalysts by interfacial photon-electron excitation while minimizing photonic energy losses due to conventional photocatalytic barriers. The light delivery mechanism was explored via modeling of evanescent wave energy produced upon total internal reflection and photon refraction into the TiO 2 surface coating. This work explores aqueous phase LED-irradiated optical fibers for treating organic pollutants and for the first time proposes a dual-mechanistic approach to light delivery and photocatalytic performance. Degradation of a probe organic pollutant was evaluated as a function of optical fiber coating thickness, fiber length, and photocatalyst attachment method and compared against the performance of an equivalent catalyst mass in a completely mixed slurry reactor. Measured and simulated photon fluence through the optical fibers decreased as a function of fiber length, coating thickness, or TiO 2 mass externally coated on the fiber. Thinner TiO 2 coatings achieved faster pollutant removal rates from solution, and dip coating performed better than sol-gel attachment methods. TiO 2 attached to optical fibers achieved a 5-fold higher quantum yield compared against an equivalent mass of TiO 2 suspended in a slurry solution.

Formation of 100-nm periodic structures on a titanium surface by exploiting the oxidation and third harmonic generation induced by femtosecond laser pulses.

PubMed

Li, Xian-Feng; Zhang, Cheng-Yun; Li, Hui; Dai, Qiao-Feng; Lan, Sheng; Tie, Shao-Long

2014-11-17

Periodic surface structures with periods as small as about one-tenth of the irradiating femtosecond (fs) laser light wavelength were created on the surface of a titanium (Ti) foil by exploiting laser-induced oxidation and third harmonic generation (THG). They were achieved by using 100-fs laser pulses with a repetition rate of 1 kHz and a wavelength ranging from 1.4 to 2.2 μm. It was revealed that an extremely thin TixOy layer was formed on the surface of the Ti foil after irradiating fs laser light with a fluence smaller than the ablation threshold of Ti, leading to a significant enhancement in THG which may exceed the ablation threshold of TixOy. As compared with Ti, the maximum efficacy factor for TixOy appears at a larger normalized wavevector in the direction perpendicular to the polarization of the fs laser light. As a result, the THG-dominated laser ablation of TixOy induces 100-nm periodic structures parallel to the polarization of the fs laser light. The depth of the periodic structures was found to be ~10 nm by atomic force microscopy and the formation of the thin TixOy layer was verified by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.

Effects of laser fluence and liquid media on preparation of small Ag nanoparticles by laser ablation in liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moura, Caroline Gomes; Pereira, Rafael Santiago Floriani; Andritschky, Martin; Lopes, Augusto Luís Barros; Grilo, João Paulo de Freitas; Nascimento, Rubens Maribondo do; Silva, Filipe Samuel

2017-12-01

This study aims to assess a method for preparation of small and highly stable Ag nanoparticles by nanosecond laser ablation in liquid. Effect of liquid medium and laser fluence on the size, morphology and structure of produced nanoparticles has been studied experimentally. Pulses of a Nd:YAG laser of 1064 nm wavelength at 35 ns pulse width at different fluences were employed to irradiate the silver target in different environments (water, ethanol and acetone). The UV-Visible absorption spectra of nanoparticles exhibit surface plasmon resonance absorption peak in the UV region. STEM and TEM micrographs were used to evaluate the size and shape of nanoparticles. The stability of silver colloids in terms of oxidation at different liquid media was analyzed by SAED patterns. The results showed that characteristics of Ag nanoparticles and their production rate were strongly influenced by varying laser fluence and liquid medium. Particles from 2 to 80 nm of diameter were produced using different conditions and no oxidation was found in ethanol and acetone media. This work puts in evidence a promising approach to produce small nanoparticles by using high laser fluence energy.

Ablation and cone formation mechanism on CR-39 by ArF laser irradiation

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

Shakeri Jooybari, B., E-mail: baninshakery@gmail.com, E-mail: hafarideh@aut.ac.ir; Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute NSRT, Tehran; Afarideh, H., E-mail: baninshakery@gmail.com, E-mail: hafarideh@aut.ac.ir

In this work, chemical properties, surface modification, and micro structures formation on ablated polyallyl di-glycol carbonate (CR-39) polymer by ArF laser irradiation (λ = 193 nm) at various fluences and pulse number were investigated. CR-39 samples have been irradiated with an ArF laser (193 nm) at a repetition rate of 1 Hz. Threshold fluence of ablation and effective absorption coefficient of CR-39 were determined. Conical microstructures (Taylor cone) formed on laser-ablated CR-39 exhibit: smooth, Taylor cone shape walls and sharp tips together with interference and well defined fringe-structure with a period of 230 nm, around cone base. Mechanism of cone formation and cone evolution of CR-39more » ablated surface were investigated by change of fluences (at a given pulse number) and pulse number (at a given fluence). Cone height, cone base, and region of interface were increased in micrometer steps by increasing the total fluence. Depression on the base of the cone and the circular fringe were simulated. FTIR spectra were measured and energy dispersive x-ray analysis of irradiated and un-irradiated samples was performed.« less

Measurement of light transmission and fluence rate in mouse brain in vivo(Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macklin, John J.; Graves, Austin R.; Stujenske, Joseph M.; Hantman, Adam W.; Bittner, Katie C.

2017-02-01

Optogenetic experiments require light delivery, typically using fiber optics, to light-gated ion channels genetically targeted to specific brain regions. Understanding where light is—and isn't—in an illuminated brain can be a confounding factor in designing experiments and interpreting results. While the transmission of light, i.e. survival of forward-directed and forward-scattered light, has been extensively measured in vitro, light scattering can be significantly different in vivo due to blood flow and other factors. To measure irradiance in vivo, we constructed a pipette photodetector tipped with fluorescent quantum dots that function as a light transducer. The quantum dot fluorescence is collected by a waveguide and sent to a fiber-coupled spectrometer. The device has a small photo-responsive area ( 10 um x 15 um), enabling collection of micron-resolution irradiance profiles, and can be calibrated to determine irradiance with detection limits of 0.001 mW/mm2. The photodetector has the footprint of a micro-injection pipette, so can be inserted into almost any brain region with minimal invasiveness. With this detector, we determined transverse and axial irradiance profiles in mice across multiple brain regions at 5 source wavelengths spanning the visible spectrum. This profile data is compared to in vitro measurements obtained on tissue slices, and provides a means to derive scattering coefficients for specific brain regions in vivo. The detector is straightforward to fabricate and calibrate, is stable in air storage > 9 months, and can be easily installed in an electrophysiology setup, thereby enabling direct measurement of light spread under conditions used in optogenetics experiments.

A simple low-cost microcontroller-based photometric instrument for monitoring chloroplast movement.

PubMed

Berg, Robert; Königer, Martina; Schjeide, Brit-Maren; Dikmak, George; Kohler, Susan; Harris, Gary C

2006-03-01

A new microcontroller-based photometric instrument for monitoring blue light dependent changes in leaf transmission (chloroplast movement) was developed based on a modification of the double-beam technique developed by Walzcak and Gabrys [(1980) Photosynthetica 14: 65-72]. A blue and red bicolor light emitting diode (LED) provided both a variable intensity blue actinic light and a low intensity red measuring beam. A phototransistor detected the intensity of the transmitted measuring light. An inexpensive microcontroller independently and precisely controlled the light emission of the bicolor LED. A typical measurement event involved turning off the blue actinic light for 100 mus to create a narrow temporal window for turning on and measuring the transmittance of the red light. The microcontroller was programmed using LogoChip Logo (http://www.wellesley.edu/Physics/Rberg/logochip/) to record fluence rate response curves. Laser scanning confocal microscopy was utilized to correlate the changes in leaf transmission with intercellular chloroplast position. In the dark, the chloroplasts in the spongy mesophyll exhibited no evident asymmetries in their distribution, however, in the palisade layer the cell surface in contact with the overlying epidermis was devoid of chloroplasts. The low light dependent decrease in leaf transmittance in dark acclimated leaves was correlated with the movement of chloroplasts within the palisade layer into the regions previously devoid of chloroplasts. Changes in leaf transmittance were evident within one minute following the onset of illumination. Minimal leaf transmittance was correlated with chloroplasts having retreated from cell surfaces perpendicular to the incident light (avoidance reaction) in both spongy and palisade layers.

Electrical and optical properties of nitrile rubber modified by ion implantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

S, Najidha; Predeep, P.

2014-10-01

Implantation of N+ ion beams are performed on to a non-conjugated elastomer, acrylonirtle butadiene rubber (NBR) with energy 60 keV in the fluence range of 1014 to 1016 ions/cm2. A decrease in the resistivity of the sample by about eight orders of magnitude is observed in the implanted samples along with color changes. The ion exposed specimens were characterized by means of UV/Vis spectroscopy which shows a shift in the absorption edge value for the as deposited polymer towards higher wavelengths. The band gap is evaluated from the absorption spectra and is found to decrease with increasing fluence. This study can possibly throw light on ion induced changes in the polymer surface.

Characterization of the influence of polarization orientation on bulk damage in KDP crystals at different wavelengths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, YinBo; Ding, Lei; Zhou, XinDa; Ba, RongSheng; Yuan, Jing; Xu, HongLei; Na, Jin; Li, YaJun; Yang, XiaoYu; Chai, Liqun; Chen, Bo; Zheng, WanGuo

2016-08-01

The investigation of polarization orientation on damage performance of type I doubler KDP crystals under different wavelengths pulses irradiation is presented in this work. Pinpoints densities (PPD) and the size distribution of pinpoints are extracted through light scattering pictures captured by microscope. The obtained results indicate that the measured PPD as a function of the fluence is both wavelength and polarization dependent, although neither fluence nor polarization have impact on the size distribution of pinpoints. We also find that the damage performances can separate into three groups depending on the wavelength, which suggests the existence of different categories of precursors and different mechanisms responsible for bulk damage initiation in SHG KDP crystals.

Calculation and benchmarking of an azimuthal pressure vessel neutron fluence distribution using the BOXER code and scraping experiments

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

Holzgrewe, F.; Hegedues, F.; Paratte, J.M.

1995-03-01

The light water reactor BOXER code was used to determine the fast azimuthal neutron fluence distribution at the inner surface of the reactor pressure vessel after the tenth cycle of a pressurized water reactor (PWR). Using a cross-section library in 45 groups, fixed-source calculations in transport theory and x-y geometry were carried out to determine the fast azimuthal neutron flux distribution at the inner surface of the pressure vessel for four different cycles. From these results, the fast azimuthal neutron fluence after the tenth cycle was estimated and compared with the results obtained from scraping test experiments. In these experiments,more » small samples of material were taken from the inner surface of the pressure vessel. The fast neutron fluence was then determined form the measured activity of the samples. Comparing the BOXER and scraping test results have maximal differences of 15%, which is very good, considering the factor of 10{sup 3} neutron attenuation between the reactor core and the pressure vessel. To compare the BOXER results with an independent code, the 21st cycle of the PWR was also calculated with the TWODANT two-dimensional transport code, using the same group structure and cross-section library. Deviations in the fast azimuthal flux distribution were found to be <3%, which verifies the accuracy of the BOXER results.« less

Treatment of Melasma with the Photoacoustic Twin Pulse Mode of Low-Fluence 1,064 nm Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser.

PubMed

Kim, Jee Young; Choi, Misoo; Nam, Chan Hee; Kim, Ji Seok; Kim, Myung Hwa; Park, Byung Cheol; Hong, Seung Phil

2016-06-01

Low-fluence 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser has been widely used for the treatment of melasma. Although new Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers with photoacoustic twin pulse (PTP) mode have been recently developed for high-efficiency, there is limited information available for the new technique. This study was designed to investigate the efficacy and adverse effects after few sessions of repeated low fluence 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment with PTP mode in Asian women with melasma. Twenty-two Korean women were treated with a total of five sessions of low-fluence PTP mode Nd:YAG laser treatment (Pastelle®) at 2 weeks interval. Responses to treatments were evaluated by using Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scoring, colorimeter measurement, and the investigators' and patients' overall assessments. Adverse events were recorded at each visit. Investigators' and patients' overall assessment showed that 'significantly improved' was assessed by 13 (59.1%) and 19 of 22 patients (86.4%), respectively. MASI scores were significantly reduced by 20.4%. The lightness, measured by using a colorimeter, was significantly increased by 1.3 point. Notable adverse events were not observed. After 5 sessions of laser therapy alone, about 60% of the subjects showed significant improvement. Few sessions of repeated laser toning treatment using the PTP mode is a safe and effective way to treat facial melasma.

A study on 100 MeV O7+ irradiated SnO2/Ag/SnO2 multilayer as transparent electrode for flat panel display application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Vikas; Singh, Satyavir; Asokan, K.; Sachdev, Kanupriya

2016-07-01

The multilayer thin films of SnO2/Ag/SnO2 were deposited using electron-beam and thermal evaporation for flat panel display application. The as-prepared SnO2/Ag/SnO2 specimen was irradiated with 100 MeV O7+ ions by varying the fluences 1 × 1012 and 5 × 1012 ions/cm2. The pristine and irradiated films were investigated using XRD, SEM, AFM and Raman to find out modification in the structure and surface morphology of the films. UV-Vis and Hall measurement techniques were used to investigate the optical and electrical properties respectively. It was observed that the roughness of the film after irradiation (for the fluence of 1 × 1012 ions/cm2) ​ decreased to 0.68 nm from 1.6 nm and showed an increase in roughness to 1.35 nm on increasing the fluence to 5 × 1012 ions/cm2. This oxide/metal/oxide structure fulfills the basic requirements of a TCE, like high-transmittance >75% for pristine and >80% for the fluence of 1 × 1012 ions/cm2 over a broad spectrum of visible light for practical applications. The multilayer structure shows change in the electrical resistivity from 1.6 × 10-3 Ω cm to 6.3 × 10-3 Ω cm after irradiation.

Femtosecond laser-induced periodic surface structure on the Ti-based nanolayered thin films

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

Petrović, Suzana M.; Gaković, B.; Peruško, D.

2013-12-21

Laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSSs) and chemical composition changes of Ti-based nanolayered thin films (Al/Ti, Ni/Ti) after femtosecond (fs) laser pulses action were studied. Irradiation is performed using linearly polarized Ti:Sapphire fs laser pulses of 40 fs pulse duration and 800 nm wavelength. The low spatial frequency LIPSS (LSFL), oriented perpendicular to the laser polarization with periods slightly lower than the irradiation wavelength, was typically formed at elevated laser fluences. On the contrary, high spatial frequency LIPSS (HSFL) with uniform period of 155 nm, parallel to the laser light polarization, appeared at low laser fluences, as well as in themore » wings of the Gaussian laser beam distribution for higher used fluence. LSFL formation was associated with the material ablation process and accompanied by the intense formation of nanoparticles, especially in the Ni/Ti system. The composition changes at the surface of both multilayer systems in the LSFL area indicated the intermixing between layers and the substrate. Concentration and distribution of all constitutive elements in the irradiated area with formed HSFLs were almost unchanged.« less

Red and NIR light dosimetry in the human deep brain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pitzschke, A.; Lovisa, B.; Seydoux, O.; Zellweger, M.; Pfleiderer, M.; Tardy, Y.; Wagnières, G.

2015-04-01

Photobiomodulation (PBM) appears promising to treat the hallmarks of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) in cellular or animal models. We measured light propagation in different areas of PD-relevant deep brain tissue during transcranial, transsphenoidal illumination (at 671 and 808 nm) of a cadaver head and modeled optical parameters of human brain tissue using Monte-Carlo simulations. Gray matter, white matter, cerebrospinal fluid, ventricles, thalamus, pons, cerebellum and skull bone were processed into a mesh of the skull (158 × 201 × 211 voxels; voxel side length: 1 mm). Optical parameters were optimized from simulated and measured fluence rate distributions. The estimated μeff for the different tissues was in all cases larger at 671 than at 808 nm, making latter a better choice for light delivery in the deep brain. Absolute values were comparable to those found in the literature or slightly smaller. The effective attenuation in the ventricles was considerably larger than literature values. Optimization yields a new set of optical parameters better reproducing the experimental data. A combination of PBM via the sphenoid sinus and oral cavity could be beneficial. A 20-fold higher efficiency of light delivery to the deep brain was achieved with ventricular instead of transcranial illumination. Our study demonstrates that it is possible to illuminate deep brain tissues transcranially, transsphenoidally and via different application routes. This opens therapeutic options for sufferers of PD or other cerebral diseases necessitating light therapy.

207-nm UV light - a promising tool for safe low-cost reduction of surgical site infections. I: in vitro studies.

PubMed

Buonanno, Manuela; Randers-Pehrson, Gerhard; Bigelow, Alan W; Trivedi, Sheetal; Lowy, Franklin D; Spotnitz, Henry M; Hammer, Scott M; Brenner, David J

2013-01-01

0.5% to 10% of clean surgeries result in surgical-site infections, and attempts to reduce this rate have had limited success. Germicidal UV lamps, with a broad wavelength spectrum from 200 to 400 nm are an effective bactericidal option against drug-resistant and drug-sensitive bacteria, but represent a health hazard to patient and staff. By contrast, because of its limited penetration, ~200 nm far-UVC light is predicted to be effective in killing bacteria, but without the human health hazards to skin and eyes associated with conventional germicidal UV exposure. The aim of this work was to test the biophysically-based hypothesis that ~200 nm UV light is significantly cytotoxic to bacteria, but minimally cytotoxic or mutagenic to human cells either isolated or within tissues. A Kr-Br excimer lamp was used, which produces 207-nm UV light, with a filter to remove higher-wavelength components. Comparisons were made with results from a conventional broad spectrum 254-nm UV germicidal lamp. First, cell inactivation vs. UV fluence data were generated for methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteria and also for normal human fibroblasts. Second, yields of the main UV-associated pre-mutagenic DNA lesions (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and 6-4 photoproducts) were measured, for both UV radiations incident on 3-D human skin tissue. We found that 207-nm UV light kills MRSA efficiently but, unlike conventional germicidal UV lamps, produces little cell killing in human cells. In a 3-D human skin model, 207-nm UV light produced almost no pre-mutagenic UV-associated DNA lesions, in contrast to significant yields induced by a conventional germicidal UV lamp. As predicted based on biophysical considerations, 207-nm light kills bacteria efficiently but does not appear to be significantly cytotoxic or mutagenic to human cells. Used appropriately, 207-nm light may have the potential for safely and inexpensively reducing surgical-site infection rates, including those of drug-resistant origin.

DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH-EFFICIENCY PROTON RECOIL TELESCOPE FOR D-T NEUTRON FLUENCE MEASUREMENT.

PubMed

Tanimura, Y; Yoshizawa, M

2017-12-22

A high-efficiency proton recoil telescope was developed to determine neutron fluences in neutron fields using the 3H(d,n)4He reaction. A 2-mm thick plastic scintillation detector was employed as a radiator to increase the detection efficiency and compensate for the energy loss of the recoil proton within. Two silicon detectors were employed as the ΔE and E detectors. The distance between the radiator and the E detector was varied between 50 and 150 mm. The telescope had detection efficiencies of 3.5 × 10-3 and 7.1 × 10-4 cm2 for distances of 50 and 100 mm, respectively, which were high enough to determine the neutron fluence in 14.8-MeV neutron fields, with a few thousand cm-2 s-1 fluence rate, within a few hours. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

207-nm UV Light—A Promising Tool for Safe Low-Cost Reduction of Surgical Site Infections. II: In-Vivo Safety Studies

PubMed Central

Buonanno, Manuela; Stanislauskas, Milda; Ponnaiya, Brian; Bigelow, Alan W.; Randers-Pehrson, Gerhard; Xu, Yanping; Shuryak, Igor; Smilenov, Lubomir; Owens, David M.; Brenner, David J.

2016-01-01

Background UVC light generated by conventional germicidal lamps is a well-established anti-microbial modality, effective against both bacteria and viruses. However, it is a human health hazard, being both carcinogenic and cataractogenic. Earlier studies showed that single-wavelength far-UVC light (207 nm) generated by excimer lamps kills bacteria without apparent harm to human skin tissue in vitro. The biophysical explanation is that, due to its extremely short range in biological material, 207 nm UV light cannot penetrate the human stratum corneum (the outer dead-cell skin layer, thickness 5–20 μm) nor even the cytoplasm of individual human cells. By contrast, 207 nm UV light can penetrate bacteria and viruses because these cells are physically much smaller. Aims To test the biophysically-based hypothesis that 207 nm UV light is not cytotoxic to exposed mammalian skin in vivo. Methods Hairless mice were exposed to a bactericidal UV fluence of 157 mJ/cm2 delivered by a filtered Kr-Br excimer lamp producing monoenergetic 207-nm UV light, or delivered by a conventional 254-nm UV germicidal lamp. Sham irradiations constituted the negative control. Eight relevant cellular and molecular damage endpoints including epidermal hyperplasia, pre-mutagenic UV-associated DNA lesions, skin inflammation, and normal cell proliferation and differentiation were evaluated in mice dorsal skin harvested 48 h after UV exposure. Results While conventional germicidal UV (254 nm) exposure produced significant effects for all the studied skin damage endpoints, the same fluence of 207 nm UV light produced results that were not statistically distinguishable from the zero exposure controls. Conclusions As predicted by biophysical considerations and in agreement with earlier in vitro studies, 207-nm light does not appear to be significantly cytotoxic to mouse skin. These results suggest that excimer-based far-UVC light could potentially be used for its anti-microbial properties, but without the associated hazards to skin of conventional germicidal UV lamps. PMID:27275949

Laser ablation of dental calculus at 400 nm using a Ti:sapphire laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schoenly, Joshua E.; Seka, Wolf; Rechmann, Peter

2009-02-01

A Nd:YAG laser-pumped, frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser is used for selective ablation of calculus. The laser provides <=25 mJ at 400 nm (60-ns pulse width, 10-Hz repetition rate). The laser is coupled into an optical multimode fiber coiled around a 4-in.-diam drum to generate a top-hat output intensity profile. With coaxial water cooling, this is ideal for efficient, selective calculus removal. This is in stark contrast with tightly focused Gaussian beams that are energetically inefficient and lead to irreproducible results. Calculus is well ablated at high fluences >=2J/cm2 stalling occurs below this fluence because of photobleaching. Healthy hard tissue is not removed at fluences <=3 J/cm2.

Step edge sputtering yield at grazing incidence ion bombardment.

PubMed

Hansen, Henri; Polop, Celia; Michely, Thomas; Friedrich, Andreas; Urbassek, Herbert M

2004-06-18

The surface morphology of Pt(111) was investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy after 5 keV Ar+ ion bombardment at grazing incidence in dependence of the ion fluence and in the temperature range between 625 and 720 K. The average erosion rate was found to be strongly dependent on the ion fluence and the substrate temperature during bombardment. This dependence is traced back to the variation of step concentration with temperature and fluence. We develop a simple model allowing us to determine separately the constant sputtering yields for terraces and for impact area stripes in front of ascending steps. The experimentally determined yield of these stripes--the step-edge sputtering yield--is in excellent agreement with our molecular dynamics simulations performed for the experimental situation.

Using radiance predicted by the P3 approximation in a spherical geometry to predict tissue optical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dickey, Dwayne J.; Moore, Ronald B.; Tulip, John

2001-01-01

For photodynamic therapy of solid tumors, such as prostatic carcinoma, to be achieved, an accurate model to predict tissue parameters and light dose must be found. Presently, most analytical light dosimetry models are fluence based and are not clinically viable for tissue characterization. Other methods of predicting optical properties, such as Monet Carlo, are accurate but far too time consuming for clinical application. However, radiance predicted by the P3-Approximation, an anaylitical solution to the transport equation, may be a viable and accurate alternative. The P3-Approximation accurately predicts optical parameters in intralipid/methylene blue based phantoms in a spherical geometry. The optical parameters furnished by the radiance, when introduced into fluence predicted by both P3- Approximation and Grosjean Theory, correlate well with experimental data. The P3-Approximation also predicts the optical properties of prostate tissue, agreeing with documented optical parameters. The P3-Approximation could be the clinical tool necessary to facilitate PDT of solid tumors because of the limited number of invasive measurements required and the speed in which accurate calculations can be performed.

The influence of neutron radiation damage on the optical properties of plastic scintillator UPS 923A

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mthembu, Skhathisomusa; Davydov, Yuri; Baranov, Vladimir; Mellado Garcia, Bruce; Mdhluli, Joyful; Sideras-Haddad, Elias

2017-09-01

Plastic scintillators are vital in the reconstruction of hadronic particle energy and tracks resulting from the collision of high energy particles in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN. These plastic scintillators are exposed to harsh radiation environments and are susceptible to radiation damage. The effects of radiation damage on the transmittance, luminescence and light yield of Ukraine polystyrene-based scintillator UPS 923A were studied. Samples were irradiated with fast neutrons, of varying energies and fluences, using the IBR-2 reactor FLNP (Frank Laboratory for Nuclear Problems) at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research. Results show a small change in the transmittance of the higher energy visible spectrum, and a noticeable change in the light yield of the samples as a result of the damage. There is no change observed on the luminescence as a result of radiation damage at studied fluences. The doses and uences of the neutrons shall be increased and changes in optical properties as a result of the radiation shall be further studied.

Cracks growth behaviors of commercial pure titanium under nanosecond laser irradiation for formation of nanostructure-covered microstructures (with sub-5-μm)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, A. F.; Wang, W. J.; Mei, X. S.; Zheng, B. X.; Yan, Z. X.

2016-11-01

This study reported on the formation of sub-5-μm microstructures covered on titanium by cracks growth under 10-ns laser radiation at the wavelength of 532 nm and its induced light modification for production of nanostructures. The electric field intensity and laser power density absorbed by commercial pure titanium were computed to investigate the self-trapping introduced by cracks and the effect of surface morphology on laser propagation characteristics. It is found that nanostructures can form at the surface with the curvature radius below 20 μm. Meanwhile, variable laser fluences were applied to explore the evolution of cracks on commercial pure titanium with or without melt as spot overlap number increased. Experimental study was first performed at the peak laser fluence of 1.063 J/cm2 to investigate the microstructures induced only by cracks growth. The results demonstrated that angular microstructures with size between 1.68 μm and 4.74 μm was obtained and no nanostructure covered. Then, at the peak laser fluence of 2.126 J/cm2, there were some nanostructures covered on the melt-induced curved microstructured surface. However, surface molten material submerged in the most of cracks at the spot overlap number of 744, where the old cracks disappeared. The results indicated that there was too much molten material and melting time at the peak laser fluence of 2.126 J/cm2, which was not suitable for obtainment of perfect micro-nano structures. On this basis, peak laser fluence was reduced down to 1.595 J/cm2 and the sharp sub-5 μm microstructures with nanostructures covered was obtained at spot overlap number of 3720.

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

Thiyagarajan, Rajesh; Karrthick, KP; Kataria, Tejinder

Purpose: Performing DQA for Bilateral (B-L) breast tomotherapy is a challenging task due to the limitation of any commercially available detector array or film. Aim of this study is to perform DQA for B-L breast tomotherapy plan using MLC fluence sinogram. Methods: Treatment plan was generated on Tomotherapy system for B-L breast tumour. B-L breast targets were given 50.4 Gy prescribed over 28 fractions. Plan is generated with 6 MV photon beam & pitch was set to 0.3. As the width of the total target is 39 cm (left & right) length is 20 cm. DQA plan delivered without anymore » phantom on the mega voltage computed tomography (MCVT) detector system. The pulses recorded by MVCT system were exported to the delivery analysis software (Tomotherapy Inc.) for reconstruction. The detector signals are reconstructed to a sonogram and converted to MLC fluence sonogram. The MLC fluence sinogram compared with the planned fluence sinogram. Also point dose measured with cheese phantom and ionization chamber to verify the absolute dose component Results: Planned fluence sinogram and reconstructed MLC fluence sinogram were compared using Gamma metric. MLC positional difference and intensity of the beamlet were used as parameters to evaluate gamma. 3 mm positional difference and 3% beamlet intensity difference were used set for gamma calculation. A total of 26784 non-zero beamlets were included in the analysis out of which 161 beamlets had gamma more than 1. The gamma passing rate found to be 99.4%. Point dose measurements were within 1.3% of the calculated dose. Conclusion: MLC fluence sinogram based delivery quality assurance performed for bilateral breast irradiation. This would be a suitable alternate for large volume targets like bilateral breast, Total body irradiation etc. However conventional method of DQA should be used to validate this method periodically.« less

Using luminescent materials as the active element for radiation sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hollerman, William A.; Fontenot, Ross S.; Williams, Stephen; Miller, John

2016-05-01

Ionizing radiation poses a significant challenge for Earth-based defense applications as well as human and/or robotic space missions. Practical sensors based on luminescence will depend heavily upon research investigating the resistance of these materials to ionizing radiation and the ability to anneal or self-heal from damage caused by such radiation. In 1951, Birks and Black showed experimentally that the luminescent efficiency of anthracene bombarded by alphas varies with total fluence (N) as (I/I0) = 1/(1 + AN), where I is the luminescence yield, I0 is the initial yield, and A is a constant. The half brightness (N1/2) is defined as the fluence that reduce the emission light yield to half and is equal to is the inverse of A. Broser and Kallmann developed a similar relationship to the Birks and Black equation for inorganic phosphors irradiated using alpha particles. From 1990 to the present, we found that the Birks and Black relation describes the reduction in light emission yield for every tested luminescent material except lead phosphate glass due to proton irradiation. These results indicate that radiation produced quenching centers compete with emission for absorbed energy. The purpose of this paper is to present results from research completed in this area over the last few years. Particular emphasis will be placed on recent measurements made on new materials such as europium tetrakis dibenzoylmethide triethylammonium (EuD4TEA). Results have shown that EuD4TEA with its relatively small N1/2 might be a good candidate for use as a personal proton fluence sensor.

Space Radiation Risk Assessment for Future Lunar Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Myung-Hee Y.; Ponomarev, Artem; Atwell, Bill; Cucinotta, Francis A.

2007-01-01

For lunar exploration mission design, radiation risk assessments require the understanding of future space radiation environments in support of resource management decisions, operational planning, and a go/no-go decision. The future GCR flux was estimated as a function of interplanetary deceleration potential, which was coupled with the estimated neutron monitor rate from the Climax monitor using a statistical model. A probability distribution function for solar particle event (SPE) occurrence was formed from proton fluence measurements of SPEs occurred during the past 5 solar cycles (19-23). Large proton SPEs identified from impulsive nitrate enhancements in polar ice for which the fluences are greater than 2 10(exp 9) protons/sq cm for energies greater than 30 MeV, were also combined to extend the probability calculation for high level of proton fluences. The probability with which any given proton fluence level of a SPE will be exceeded during a space mission of defined duration was then calculated. Analytic energy spectra of SPEs at different ranks of the integral fluences were constructed over broad energy ranges extending out to GeV, and representative exposure levels were analyzed at those fluences. For the development of an integrated strategy for radiation protection on lunar exploration missions, effective doses at various points inside a spacecraft were calculated with detailed geometry models representing proposed transfer vehicle and habitat concepts. Preliminary radiation risk assessments from SPE and GCR were compared for various configuration concepts of radiation shelter in exploratory-class spacecrafts.

Energetic properties' investigation of removing flattening filter at phantom surface: Monte Carlo study using BEAMnrc code, DOSXYZnrc code and BEAMDP code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bencheikh, Mohamed; Maghnouj, Abdelmajid; Tajmouati, Jaouad

2017-11-01

The Monte Carlo calculation method is considered to be the most accurate method for dose calculation in radiotherapy and beam characterization investigation, in this study, the Varian Clinac 2100 medical linear accelerator with and without flattening filter (FF) was modelled. The objective of this study was to determine flattening filter impact on particles' energy properties at phantom surface in terms of energy fluence, mean energy, and energy fluence distribution. The Monte Carlo codes used in this study were BEAMnrc code for simulating linac head, DOSXYZnrc code for simulating the absorbed dose in a water phantom, and BEAMDP for extracting energy properties. Field size was 10 × 10 cm2, simulated photon beam energy was 6 MV and SSD was 100 cm. The Monte Carlo geometry was validated by a gamma index acceptance rate of 99% in PDD and 98% in dose profiles, gamma criteria was 3% for dose difference and 3mm for distance to agreement. In without-FF, the energetic properties was as following: electron contribution was increased by more than 300% in energy fluence, almost 14% in mean energy and 1900% in energy fluence distribution, however, photon contribution was increased 50% in energy fluence, and almost 18% in mean energy and almost 35% in energy fluence distribution. The removing flattening filter promotes the increasing of electron contamination energy versus photon energy; our study can contribute in the evolution of removing flattening filter configuration in future linac.

Constraints on the Early Terrestrial Surface UV Environment Relevant to Prebiotic Chemistry.

PubMed

Ranjan, Sukrit; Sasselov, Dimitar D

2017-03-01

The UV environment is a key boundary condition to abiogenesis. However, considerable uncertainty exists as to planetary conditions and hence surface UV at abiogenesis. Here, we present two-stream multilayer clear-sky calculations of the UV surface radiance on Earth at 3.9 Ga to constrain the UV surface fluence as a function of albedo, solar zenith angle (SZA), and atmospheric composition. Variation in albedo and latitude (through SZA) can affect maximum photoreaction rates by a factor of >10.4; for the same atmosphere, photoreactions can proceed an order of magnitude faster at the equator of a snowball Earth than at the poles of a warmer world. Hence, surface conditions are important considerations when computing prebiotic UV fluences. For climatically reasonable levels of CO 2 , fluence shortward of 189 nm is screened out, meaning that prebiotic chemistry is robustly shielded from variations in UV fluence due to solar flares or variability. Strong shielding from CO 2 also means that the UV surface fluence is insensitive to plausible levels of CH 4 , O 2 , and O 3 . At scattering wavelengths, UV fluence drops off comparatively slowly with increasing CO 2 levels. However, if SO 2 and/or H 2 S can build up to the ≥1-100 ppm level as hypothesized by some workers, then they can dramatically suppress surface fluence and hence prebiotic photoprocesses. H 2 O is a robust UV shield for λ < 198 nm. This means that regardless of the levels of other atmospheric gases, fluence ≲198 nm is only available for cold, dry atmospheres, meaning sources with emission ≲198 (e.g., ArF excimer lasers) can only be used in simulations of cold environments with low abundance of volcanogenic gases. On the other hand, fluence at 254 nm is unshielded by H 2 O and is available across a broad range of [Formula: see text], meaning that mercury lamps are suitable for initial studies regardless of the uncertainty in primordial H 2 O and CO 2 levels. Key Words: Radiative transfer-Origin of life-Planetary environments-UV radiation-Prebiotic chemistry. Astrobiology 17, 169-204.

Constraints on the Early Terrestrial Surface UV Environment Relevant to Prebiotic Chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ranjan, Sukrit; Sasselov, Dimitar D.

2017-03-01

The UV environment is a key boundary condition to abiogenesis. However, considerable uncertainty exists as to planetary conditions and hence surface UV at abiogenesis. Here, we present two-stream multilayer clear-sky calculations of the UV surface radiance on Earth at 3.9 Ga to constrain the UV surface fluence as a function of albedo, solar zenith angle (SZA), and atmospheric composition. Variation in albedo and latitude (through SZA) can affect maximum photoreaction rates by a factor of >10.4; for the same atmosphere, photoreactions can proceed an order of magnitude faster at the equator of a snowball Earth than at the poles of a warmer world. Hence, surface conditions are important considerations when computing prebiotic UV fluences. For climatically reasonable levels of CO2, fluence shortward of 189 nm is screened out, meaning that prebiotic chemistry is robustly shielded from variations in UV fluence due to solar flares or variability. Strong shielding from CO2 also means that the UV surface fluence is insensitive to plausible levels of CH4, O2, and O3. At scattering wavelengths, UV fluence drops off comparatively slowly with increasing CO2 levels. However, if SO2 and/or H2S can build up to the ≥1-100 ppm level as hypothesized by some workers, then they can dramatically suppress surface fluence and hence prebiotic photoprocesses. H2O is a robust UV shield for λ < 198 nm. This means that regardless of the levels of other atmospheric gases, fluence ≲198 nm is only available for cold, dry atmospheres, meaning sources with emission ≲198 (e.g., ArF excimer lasers) can only be used in simulations of cold environments with low abundance of volcanogenic gases. On the other hand, fluence at 254 nm is unshielded by H2O and is available across a broad range of NCO2, meaning that mercury lamps are suitable for initial studies regardless of the uncertainty in primordial H2O and CO2 levels.

Effects of very low fluences of high-energy protons or iron ions on irradiated and bystander cells.

PubMed

Yang, H; Magpayo, N; Rusek, A; Chiang, I-H; Sivertz, M; Held, K D

2011-12-01

In space, astronauts are exposed to radiation fields consisting of energetic protons and high atomic number, high-energy (HZE) particles at very low dose rates or fluences. Under these conditions, it is likely that, in addition to cells in an astronaut's body being traversed by ionizing radiation particles, unirradiated cells can also receive intercellular bystander signals from irradiated cells. Thus this study was designed to determine the dependence of DNA damage induction on dose at very low fluences of charged particles. Novel techniques to quantify particle fluence have been developed at the NASA Space Radiation Biology Laboratory (NSRL) at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL). The approach uses a large ionization chamber to visualize the radiation beam coupled with a scintillation counter to measure fluence. This development has allowed us to irradiate cells with 1 GeV/nucleon protons and iron ions at particle fluences as low as 200 particles/cm(2) and quantify biological responses. Our results show an increased fraction of cells with DNA damage in both the irradiated population and bystander cells sharing medium with irradiated cells after low fluences. The fraction of cells with damage, manifest as micronucleus formation and 53BP1 focus induction, is about 2-fold higher than background at doses as low as ∼0.47 mGy iron ions (∼0.02 iron ions/cell) or ∼70 μGy protons (∼2 protons/cell). In the irradiated population, irrespective of radiation type, the fraction of damaged cells is constant from the lowest damaging fluence to about 1 cGy, above which the fraction of damaged cells increases with dose. In the bystander population, the level of damage is the same as in the irradiated population up to 1 cGy, but it does not increase above that plateau level with increasing dose. The data suggest that at fluences of high-energy protons or iron ions less than about 5 cGy, the response in irradiated cell populations may be dominated by the bystander response.

Evidence from Studies with Acifluorfen for Participation of a Flavin-Cytochrome Complex in Blue Light Photoreception for Phototropism of Oat Coleoptiles 12

PubMed Central

Leong, Ta-Yan; Briggs, Winslow R.

1982-01-01

The diphenyl ether acifluorfen enhances the blue light-induced absorbance change in Triton X100-solubilized crude membrane preparations from etiolated oat (Avena sativa L. cv. Lodi) coleoptiles. Enhancement of the spectral change is correlated with a change in rate of dark reoxidation of a b-type cytochrome. Similar, although smaller, enhancement was obtained with oxyfluorfen, nitrofen, and bifenox. Light-minus-dark difference spectra in the presence and absence of acifluorfen, and the dithionite-reduced-minus oxidized difference spectrum indicate that acifluorfen is acting specifically at a blue light-sensitive cytochrome-flavin complex. Sodium azide, a flavin inhibitor, decreases the light-induced absorbance change significantly, but does not affect the dark reoxidation of the cytochrome. Hence, it is acting on the light reaction, suggesting that the photoreceptor itself is a flavin. Acifluorfen sensitizes phototropism in dark-grown oat seedlings such that the first positive response occurs with blue light fluences as little as one-third of those required to elicit the same response in seedlings grown in the absence of the herbicide. Both this increase in sensitivity to light and the enhancement of the light-induced cytochrome reduction vary with the applied acifluorfen concentration in a similar manner. The herbicide is without effect either on elongation or on the geotropic response of dark-grown oat seedlings, indicating that acifluorfen is acting specifically close to, or at the photoreceptor end of, the stimulus-response chain. It seems likely that the flavin-cytochrome complex serves to transduce the light signal into curvature in phototropism in oats, with the flavin moiety itself serving as the photoreceptor. PMID:16662593

Low-intensity red and infrared laser effects at high fluences on Escherichia coli cultures

PubMed Central

Barboza, L.L.; Campos, V.M.A.; Magalhães, L.A.G.; Paoli, F.; Fonseca, A.S.

2015-01-01

Semiconductor laser devices are readily available and practical radiation sources providing wavelength tenability and high monochromaticity. Low-intensity red and near-infrared lasers are considered safe for use in clinical applications. However, adverse effects can occur via free radical generation, and the biological effects of these lasers from unusually high fluences or high doses have not yet been evaluated. Here, we evaluated the survival, filamentation induction and morphology of Escherichia coli cells deficient in repair of oxidative DNA lesions when exposed to low-intensity red and infrared lasers at unusually high fluences. Cultures of wild-type (AB1157), endonuclease III-deficient (JW1625-1), and endonuclease IV-deficient (JW2146-1) E. coli, in exponential and stationary growth phases, were exposed to red and infrared lasers (0, 250, 500, and 1000 J/cm2) to evaluate their survival rates, filamentation phenotype induction and cell morphologies. The results showed that low-intensity red and infrared lasers at high fluences are lethal, induce a filamentation phenotype, and alter the morphology of the E. coli cells. Low-intensity red and infrared lasers have potential to induce adverse effects on cells, whether used at unusually high fluences, or at high doses. Hence, there is a need to reinforce the importance of accurate dosimetry in therapeutic protocols. PMID:26445339

Benchmarking the MCNP code for Monte Carlo modelling of an in vivo neutron activation analysis system.

PubMed

Natto, S A; Lewis, D G; Ryde, S J

1998-01-01

The Monte Carlo computer code MCNP (version 4A) has been used to develop a personal computer-based model of the Swansea in vivo neutron activation analysis (IVNAA) system. The model included specification of the neutron source (252Cf), collimators, reflectors and shielding. The MCNP model was 'benchmarked' against fast neutron and thermal neutron fluence data obtained experimentally from the IVNAA system. The Swansea system allows two irradiation geometries using 'short' and 'long' collimators, which provide alternative dose rates for IVNAA. The data presented here relate to the short collimator, although results of similar accuracy were obtained using the long collimator. The fast neutron fluence was measured in air at a series of depths inside the collimator. The measurements agreed with the MCNP simulation within the statistical uncertainty (5-10%) of the calculations. The thermal neutron fluence was measured and calculated inside the cuboidal water phantom. The depth of maximum thermal fluence was 3.2 cm (measured) and 3.0 cm (calculated). The width of the 50% thermal fluence level across the phantom at its mid-depth was found to be the same by both MCNP and experiment. This benchmarking exercise has given us a high degree of confidence in MCNP as a tool for the design of IVNAA systems.

ZnO synthesized in air by fs laser irradiation on metallic Zn thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Esqueda-Barrón, Y.; Herrera, M.; Camacho-López, S.

2018-05-01

We present results on rapid femtosecond laser synthesis of nanostructured ZnO. We used metallic Zn thin films to laser scan along straight tracks, until forming nanostructured ZnO. The synthesis dependence on laser irradiation parameters such as the per pulse fluence, integrated fluence, laser scan speed, and number of scans were explored carefully. SEM characterization showed that the morphology of the obtained ZnO is dictated by the integrated fluence and the laser scan speed; micro Raman and XRD results allowed to identify optimal laser processing conditions for getting good quality ZnO; and cathodoluminescence measurements demonstrated that a single laser scan at high per pulse laser fluence, but a medium integrated laser fluence and a medium laser scan speed favors a low density of point-defects in the lattice. Electrical measurements showed a correlation between resistivity of the laser produced ZnO and point-defects created during the synthesis. Transmittance measurements showed that, the synthesized ZnO can reach down to the supporting fused silica substrate under the right laser irradiation conditions. The physical mechanism for the formation of ZnO, under ultrashort pulse laser irradiation, is discussed in view of the distinct times scales given by the laser pulse duration and the laser pulse repetition rate.

Optical profiles of cathode ray tube and liquid crystal display monitors: implication in cutaneous phototoxicity in photodynamic therapy

PubMed Central

Lei, Tim C.; Pendyala, Srinivas; Scherrer, Larry; Li, Buhong; Glazner, Gregory F.; Huang, Zheng

2016-01-01

Recent clinical reports suggest that overexposure to light emissions generated from cathode ray tube (CRT) and liquid crystal display (LCD) color monitors after topical or systemic administration of a photosensitizer could cause noticeable skin phototoxicity. In this study, we examined the light emission profiles (optical irradiance, spectral irradiance) of CRT and LCD monitors under simulated movie and video game modes. Results suggest that peak emissions and integrated fluence generated from monitors are clinically relevant and therefore prolonged exposure to these light sources at a close distance should be avoided after the administration of a photosensitizer or phototoxic drug. PMID:23669681

Electrical and optical properties of nitrile rubber modified by ion implantation

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

S, Najidha; Predeep, P.

2014-10-15

Implantation of N{sup +} ion beams are performed on to a non-conjugated elastomer, acrylonirtle butadiene rubber (NBR) with energy 60 keV in the fluence range of 10{sup 14} to 10{sup 16} ions/cm{sup 2}. A decrease in the resistivity of the sample by about eight orders of magnitude is observed in the implanted samples along with color changes. The ion exposed specimens were characterized by means of UV/Vis spectroscopy which shows a shift in the absorption edge value for the as deposited polymer towards higher wavelengths. The band gap is evaluated from the absorption spectra and is found to decrease withmore » increasing fluence. This study can possibly throw light on ion induced changes in the polymer surface.« less

Modulations of anisotropic optical transmission on alumina-doped zinc oxide surface by femtosecond laser induced ripples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Yanhui; Jiang, Lan; Sun, Jingya; Cao, Qiang; Wang, Qingsong; Han, Weina; Lu, Yongfeng

2018-04-01

This study demonstrated that femtosecond-laser-induced ripples on an alumina-doped zinc oxide (AZO) film with space intervals of approximately 340 and 660 nm exhibit modulations of anisotropic optical transmission. At low laser fluence, ripples can not affect the original absorption peak of AZO film, but at higher laser fluence, the absorption peak of AZO film is disappeared due to the modulation by femtosecond laser induced ripples. Moreover, the relationship between the anisotropic optical transmission and the features of nanostructures is discussed. Ripples with a space interval of approximately 660 nm have a higher ability to block light than nanostructures with a space interval of approximately 340 nm. These observations indicate that anisotropic optical transmission has potential applications in the field of optoelectronics.

Laser Ablation of Dental Calculus Around 400 nm Using a Ti:Sapphire Laser

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

Schoenly, J.; Seka, W.; Rechmann, P.

2009-10-19

A Nd:YAG laser-pumped, frequency-doubled Ti:sapphire laser is used for selective ablation of calculus. The laser provides ≤25 mJ at 400 nm (60-ns pulse width, 10-Hz repetition rate). The laser is coupled into an optical multimode fiber coiled around a 4-in.-diam drum to generate a top-hat output intensity profile. With coaxial water cooling, this is ideal for efficient, selective calculus removal. This is in stark contrast with tightly focused Gaussian beams that are energetically inefficient and lead to irreproducible results. Calculus is well ablated at high fluences ≥2 J/cm^2; stalling occurs below this fluence because of photobleaching. Healthy hard tissue ismore » not removed at fluences ≤3 J/cm^2.« less

Space radiation dose analysis for solar flare of August 1989

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nealy, John E.; Simonsen, Lisa C.; Sauer, Herbert H.; Wilson, John W.; Townsend, Lawrence W.

1990-01-01

Potential dose and dose rate levels to astronauts in deep space are predicted for the solar flare event which occurred during the week of August 13, 1989. The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES-7) monitored the temporal development and energy characteristics of the protons emitted during this event. From these data, differential fluence as a function of energy was obtained in order to analyze the flare using the Langley baryon transport code, BRYNTRN, which describes the interactions of incident protons in matter. Dose equivalent estimates for the skin, ocular lens, and vital organs for 0.5 to 20 g/sq cm of aluminum shielding were predicted. For relatively light shielding (less than 2 g/sq cm), the skin and ocular lens 30-day exposure limits are exceeded within several hours of flare onset. The vital organ (5 cm depth) dose equivalent is exceeded only for the thinnest shield (0.5 g/sq cm). Dose rates (rem/hr) for the skin, ocular lens, and vital organs are also computed.

Space radiation dose analysis for solar flare of August 1989

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nealy, John E.; Simonsen, Lisa C.; Sauer, Herbert H.; Wilson, John W.; Townsend, Lawrence W.

1990-12-01

Potential dose and dose rate levels to astronauts in deep space are predicted for the solar flare event which occurred during the week of August 13, 1989. The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES-7) monitored the temporal development and energy characteristics of the protons emitted during this event. From these data, differential fluence as a function of energy was obtained in order to analyze the flare using the Langley baryon transport code, BRYNTRN, which describes the interactions of incident protons in matter. Dose equivalent estimates for the skin, ocular lens, and vital organs for 0.5 to 20 g/sq cm of aluminum shielding were predicted. For relatively light shielding (less than 2 g/sq cm), the skin and ocular lens 30-day exposure limits are exceeded within several hours of flare onset. The vital organ (5 cm depth) dose equivalent is exceeded only for the thinnest shield (0.5 g/sq cm). Dose rates (rem/hr) for the skin, ocular lens, and vital organs are also computed.

Pulsed laser ablation of dental calculus in the near ultraviolet.

PubMed

Schoenly, Joshua E; Seka, Wolf; Rechmann, Peter

2014-02-01

Pulsed lasers emitting wavelengths near 400 nm can selectively ablate dental calculus without damaging underlying and surrounding sound dental hard tissue. Our results indicate that calculus ablation at this wavelength relies on the absorption of porphyrins endogenous to oral bacteria commonly found in calculus. Sub- and supragingival calculus on extracted human teeth, irradiated with 400-nm, 60-ns laser pulses at ≤8  J/cm2, exhibits a photobleached surface layer. Blue-light microscopy indicates this layer highly scatters 400-nm photons, whereas fluorescence spectroscopy indicates that bacterial porphyrins are permanently photobleached. A modified blow-off model for ablation is proposed that is based upon these observations and also reproduces our calculus ablation rates measured from laser profilometry. Tissue scattering and a stratified layering of absorbers within the calculus medium explain the gradual decrease in ablation rate from successive pulses. Depending on the calculus thickness, ablation stalling may occur at <5  J/cm2 but has not been observed above this fluence.

Electron and photon degradation in aluminum, gallium and boron doped float zone silicon solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rahilly, W. P.; Scott-Monck, J.; Anspaugh, B.; Locker, D.

1976-01-01

Solar cells fabricated from Al, Ga and B doped Lopex silicon over a range of resistivities were tested under varying conditions of 1 MeV electron fluence, light exposures and thermal cycling. Results indicate that Al and Ga can replace B as a P type dopant to yield improved solar cell performance.

Photosynthesis Is Not Involved in the Mechanism of Action of Acifluorfen in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)

PubMed Central

Duke, Stephen O.; Kenyon, William H.

1986-01-01

The possible role of photosynthesis in the mechanism of action of the herbicide acifluorfen (2-chloro-4-(trifluoromethyl)phenoxy-2-nitrobenzoate; AF) was examined. The sensitivity to AF of cotyledons of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) which had been grown under far red light (FR) and white light were compared. FR grown tissues which were photosynthetically imcompetent were hypersensitive to AF under white light and had approximately the same relative response to AF under blue and red light as green, white-light-grown tissues. Ultrastructural damage was apparent in FR-grown, AF-treated tissues within an hour after exposure to white light, with cytoplasmic and plastidic disorganization occurring simultaneously. In cucumber cotyledon tissue which had been greening for various time periods, there was no correlation between photosynthetic capacity and herbicidal efficacy of AF. PSII inhibitors (atrazine and DCMU) and the photophosphorylation inhibitor, tentoxin, had no effect on AF activity. Atrazine did not reduce AF activity at any concentration or light intensity tested, indicating that there is no second, photosynthetic-dependent mechanism of action operating at low AF concentrations or low fluence rates. Carbon dioxide-dependent O2 evolution of intact chloroplasts of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) had an AF I50 of 125 micromolar compared to 1000 micromolar for cucumber, whereas AF was much more herbicidally active in tissues of cucumber than of spinach. Differences in activity could not be accounted for by differences in uptake of AF. Our results indicate that there is no photosynthetic involvement in the mechanism of action of AF in cucumber. Images Fig. 2 PMID:16664919

A visible Chinese human-combined Monte Carlo simulation study on low-level light therapy of stroke

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Pengbo; Pan, Boan; Zhong, Fulin; Li, Ting

2017-02-01

Stroke is a devastating disease, which is the third leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Although the incidence of stroke increases progressively with age, morbidity among young and middle-aged adults is increasing annually. Medications nevertheless remain the bulwarks of stroke. The treatment is ineffective, speculative and has a long treatment cycle. The function of acupuncture and moxibustion, which are potential therapeutic tools for stroke, is still controversial. Recently, Low-level light therapy (LLLT) has been demonstrated potent in vivo efficacy for treatment of ischemic conditions of acute myocardial infraction and stroke in multiple validated animal models. Optimum LLLT treatment has a dominant influence on therapy of stroke. While more than a thousand clinical trials have been halted, only a few trials on animals have been reported. We addressed this issue by simulating near-infrared light propagation with accurate visible Chinese human head by Monte Carlo modeling. The visible human head embody region of atherosclerotic plaques in head. Through comparing the light propagation of different light illumination, we can get a precise, optimized and straightforward treatment. Here, we developed a LLLT helmet for treating stroke depend on near-infrared light. There are more than 30 LED arrays in in multi-layered 3D printed helmet. Each LED array has independent water-cooling module and can be adjusted to touch the head of different subjects based on Electro pneumatic module. Moreover, the software provides the setup of illumination parameters and 3D distribution of light fluence rate distribution in human brain.

Neutron Exposure Parameters for the Dosimetry Capsule in the Heavy-Section Steel Irradiation Program Tenth Irradiation Series

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

C.A. Baldwin; F.B.K. Kam; I. Remec

1998-10-01

This report describes the computational methodology for the least-squares adjustment of the dosimetry data from the HSSI 10.OD dosimetry capsule with neutronics calculations. It presents exposure rates at each dosimetry location for the neutron fluence greater than 1.0 MeV, fluence greater than 0.1 MeV, and displacements per atom. Exposure parameter distributions are also described in terms of three- dimensional fitting functions. When fitting functions are used it is suggested that an uncertainty of 6% (1 o) should be associated with the exposure rate values. The specific activity of each dosimeter at the end of irradiation is listed in the Appendix.

Results of dosimetric measurements in space missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reitz, G.; Beaujean, R.; Heilmann, C.; Kopp, J.; Leicher, M.; Strauch, K.

Detector packages consisting of plastic nuclear track detectors, nuclear emulsions, and thermoluminescence detectors were exposed at different locations inside the space laboratory Spacelab and at the astronauts' body and in different sections of the MIR space station. Total dose, particle fluence rate and linear energy transfer (LET) spectra of heavy ions, number of nuclear disintegrations and fast neutron fluence rates were determined of each exposure. The dose equivalent received by the Payload specialists (PSs) were calculated from the measurements, they range from 190 muSv d^-1 to 770 muSv d^-1. Finally, a preliminary investigation of results from a particle telescope of two silicon detectors, first used in the last BIORACK mission on STS 76, is reported.

On the use of quality factors and fluence to dose rate conversion in human radiation exposures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sondhaus, C. A.

1972-01-01

It is shown that various combinations of numbers and factors arrive at estimates of dose and dose effectiveness from values of fluence; but as yet it has not been possible to use biological data with the same degree of precision to estimate the physical data. It would seem that the most reasonable way to use the human data that exist is to apply them as far as possible to the human animal as a whole.

Frequency domain photothermoacoustic signal amplitude dependence on the optical properties of water: turbid polyvinyl chloride-plastisol system.

PubMed

Spirou, Gloria M; Mandelis, Andreas; Vitkin, I Alex; Whelan, William M

2008-05-10

Photoacoustic (more precisely, photothermoacoustic) signals generated by the absorption of photons can be related to the incident laser fluence rate. The dependence of frequency domain photoacoustic (FD-PA) signals on the optical absorption coefficient (micro(a)) and the effective attenuation coefficient (micro(eff)) of a turbid medium [polyvinyl chloride-plastisol (PVCP)] with tissuelike optical properties was measured, and empirical relationships between these optical properties and the photoacoustic (PA) signal amplitude and the laser fluence rate were derived for the water (PVCP system with and without optical scatterers). The measured relationships between these sample optical properties and the PA signal amplitude were found to be linear, consistent with FD-PA theory: micro(a)=a(A/Phi)-b and micro(eff)=c(A/Phi)+d, where Phi is the laser fluence, A is the FD-PA amplitude, and a, ...,d are empirical coefficients determined from the experiment using linear frequency-swept modulation and a lock-in heterodyne detection technique. This quantitative technique can easily be used to measure the optical properties of general turbid media using FD-PAs.

Laser heating and ablation at high repetition rate in thermal confinement regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brygo, François; Semerok, A.; Oltra, R.; Weulersse, J.-M.; Fomichev, S.

2006-09-01

Laser heating and ablation of materials with low absorption and thermal conductivity (paint and cement) were under experimental and theoretical investigations. The experiments were made with a high repetition rate Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (10 kHz, 90 ns pulse duration and λ = 532 nm). High repetition rate laser heating resulted in pulse per pulse heat accumulation. A theoretical model of laser heating was developed and demonstrated a good agreement between the experimental temperatures measured with the infrared pyrometer and the calculated ones. With the fixed wavelength and laser pulse duration, the ablation threshold fluence of paint was found to depend on the repetition rate and the number of applied pulses. With a high repetition rate, the threshold fluence decreased significantly when the number of applied pulses was increasing. The experimentally obtained thresholds were well described by the developed theoretical model. Some specific features of paint heating and ablation with high repetition rate lasers are discussed.

Precision Laser Annealing of Focal Plane Arrays

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

Bender, Daniel A.; DeRose, Christopher; Starbuck, Andrew Lea

2015-09-01

We present results from laser annealing experiments in Si using a passively Q-switched Nd:YAG microlaser. Exposure with laser at fluence values above the damage threshold of commercially available photodiodes results in electrical damage (as measured by an increase in photodiode dark current). We show that increasing the laser fluence to values in excess of the damage threshold can result in annealing of a damage site and a reduction in detector dark current by as much as 100x in some cases. A still further increase in fluence results in irreparable damage. Thus we demonstrate the presence of a laser annealing windowmore » over which performance of damaged detectors can be at least partially reconstituted. Moreover dark current reduction is observed over the entire operating range of the diode indicating that device performance has been improved for all values of reverse bias voltage. Additionally, we will present results of laser annealing in Si waveguides. By exposing a small (<10 um) length of a Si waveguide to an annealing laser pulse, the longitudinal phase of light acquired in propagating through the waveguide can be modified with high precision, <15 milliradian per laser pulse. Phase tuning by 180 degrees is exhibited with multiple exposures to one arm of a Mach-Zehnder interferometer at fluence values below the morphological damage threshold of an etched Si waveguide. No reduction in optical transmission at 1550 nm was found after 220 annealing laser shots. Modeling results for laser annealing in Si are also presented.« less

Treatment of Melasma with the Photoacoustic Twin Pulse Mode of Low-Fluence 1,064 nm Q-Switched Nd:YAG Laser

PubMed Central

Kim, Jee Young; Choi, Misoo; Nam, Chan Hee; Kim, Ji Seok; Kim, Myung Hwa; Park, Byung Cheol

2016-01-01

Background Low-fluence 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser has been widely used for the treatment of melasma. Although new Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers with photoacoustic twin pulse (PTP) mode have been recently developed for high-efficiency, there is limited information available for the new technique. Objective This study was designed to investigate the efficacy and adverse effects after few sessions of repeated low fluence 1,064 nm Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment with PTP mode in Asian women with melasma. Methods Twenty-two Korean women were treated with a total of five sessions of low-fluence PTP mode Nd:YAG laser treatment (Pastelle®) at 2 weeks interval. Responses to treatments were evaluated by using Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scoring, colorimeter measurement, and the investigators' and patients' overall assessments. Adverse events were recorded at each visit. Results Investigators' and patients' overall assessment showed that 'significantly improved' was assessed by 13 (59.1%) and 19 of 22 patients (86.4%), respectively. MASI scores were significantly reduced by 20.4%. The lightness, measured by using a colorimeter, was significantly increased by 1.3 point. Notable adverse events were not observed. Conclusion After 5 sessions of laser therapy alone, about 60% of the subjects showed significant improvement. Few sessions of repeated laser toning treatment using the PTP mode is a safe and effective way to treat facial melasma. PMID:27274626

Matrix Optical Absorption in UV-MALDI MS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Robinson, Kenneth N.; Steven, Rory T.; Bunch, Josephine

2018-03-01

In ultraviolet matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (UV-MALDI MS) matrix compound optical absorption governs the uptake of laser energy, which in turn has a strong influence on experimental results. Despite this, quantitative absorption measurements are lacking for most matrix compounds. Furthermore, despite the use of UV-MALDI MS to detect a vast range of compounds, investigations into the effects of laser energy have been primarily restricted to single classes of analytes. We report the absolute solid state absorption spectra of the matrix compounds α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA), para-nitroaniline (PNA), 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHB), and 2,4,6-trihydroxyacetophenone (THAP). The desorption/ionization characteristics of these matrix compounds with respect to laser fluence was investigated using mixed systems of matrix with either angiotensin II, PC(34:1) lipid standard, or haloperidol, acting as representatives for typical classes of analyte encountered in UV-MALDI MS. The first absolute solid phase spectra for PNA, MBT, and THAP are reported; additionally, inconsistencies between previously published spectra for CHCA are resolved. In light of these findings, suggestions are made for experimental optimization with regards to matrix and laser wavelength selection. The relationship between matrix optical cross-section and wavelength-dependant threshold fluence, fluence of maximum ion yield, and R, a new descriptor for the change in ion intensity with fluence, are described. A matrix cross-section of 1.3 × 10-17 cm-2 was identified as a potential minimum for desorption/ionization of analytes.

Matrix Optical Absorption in UV-MALDI MS.

PubMed

Robinson, Kenneth N; Steven, Rory T; Bunch, Josephine

2018-03-01

In ultraviolet matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (UV-MALDI MS) matrix compound optical absorption governs the uptake of laser energy, which in turn has a strong influence on experimental results. Despite this, quantitative absorption measurements are lacking for most matrix compounds. Furthermore, despite the use of UV-MALDI MS to detect a vast range of compounds, investigations into the effects of laser energy have been primarily restricted to single classes of analytes. We report the absolute solid state absorption spectra of the matrix compounds α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA), para-nitroaniline (PNA), 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHB), and 2,4,6-trihydroxyacetophenone (THAP). The desorption/ionization characteristics of these matrix compounds with respect to laser fluence was investigated using mixed systems of matrix with either angiotensin II, PC(34:1) lipid standard, or haloperidol, acting as representatives for typical classes of analyte encountered in UV-MALDI MS. The first absolute solid phase spectra for PNA, MBT, and THAP are reported; additionally, inconsistencies between previously published spectra for CHCA are resolved. In light of these findings, suggestions are made for experimental optimization with regards to matrix and laser wavelength selection. The relationship between matrix optical cross-section and wavelength-dependant threshold fluence, fluence of maximum ion yield, and R, a new descriptor for the change in ion intensity with fluence, are described. A matrix cross-section of 1.3 × 10 -17 cm -2 was identified as a potential minimum for desorption/ionization of analytes. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Genetic separation of phototropism from blue light inhibition of hypocotyl elongation on Arabidopsis

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

Liscum, E.; Young, J.C.; Hangarter, R.P.

1991-05-01

Phototropism and inhibition of stem elongation occur in response to blue light-induced inhibition of cell elongation. However, phototropism is a low fluence response and inhibition of hypocotyl elongation is a high irradiance response. The authors have isolated several mutant lines of Arabidopsis which lack blue light-induced inhibition of hypocotyl elongation but retain normal phototropic functions. In addition, a mutant line which completely lacks the phototropic response retains normal blue light-induced inhibition of hypocotyl elongation. F1 progeny of crosses between these two mutant classes exhibited wild-type phototropism and inhibition of hypocotyl elongation in response to blue light stimuli. In the F2more » generation, one in sixteen seedlings were double mutants lacking both phototropism and blue light-induced hypocotyl growth inhibition. These studies conclusively show that blue light-induced phototropism and hypocotyl growth inhibition function through genetically distinct signal transduction or response systems.« less

Side effects from intense pulsed light: Importance of skin pigmentation, fluence level and ultraviolet radiation-A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Thaysen-Petersen, Daniel; Erlendsson, Andres M; Nash, J F; Beerwerth, Frank; Philipsen, Peter A; Wulf, Hans C; Paasch, Uwe; Haedersdal, Merete

2017-01-01

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a mainstream treatment for hair removal. Side effects after IPL are known, but risk factors remain to be investigated. The objective of this study was to assess the contribution of skin pigmentation, fluence level, and ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on IPL-induced side effects. The study was a blinded, randomized intra-individual controlled trial including 16 healthy subjects with Fitzpatrick Skin Types (FST) II-V. Three test areas were each divided into four sites, randomized to a single IPL exposure of 22, 34, 46 J/cm 2 or triple stacking of 46 J/cm 2 . Areas were subsequently randomized to no UVR or single solar-simulated UVR exposure of 3 Standard Erythema Dose at 30 minutes or 24 hours after IPL. Each area had a corresponding control, resulting in 15 treatment sites. Follow-up visits were scheduled up to 4 weeks after IPL. Outcome measures were: (i) blinded clinical skin reactions; (ii) objectively measured erythema and pigmentation; (iii) pain measured by visual analog scale (VAS); (iv) histology (H&E, Fontana-Masson); and (v) mRNA-expression of p53. Fifteen subjects with FST II-IV completed the protocol. IPL induced a wide range of skin reactions, including erythema (87% of subjects), purpura (27%), blisters (20%), edema (13%), crusting (13%), hyper- (60%), and hypopigmentation (20%). Darker skin pigmentation and increasing IPL fluence were determinants for IPL-induced side effects (P ≤ 0.002), while a single exposure of UVR did not exacerbate side effects (P ≥ 0.180). Clinical findings were confirmed objectively by reflectance spectrometry and qualitatively by histological changes in skin architecture, inflammatory infiltration, and pigmentation. Marker of cellular DNA damage, that is, p53, did not increase after IPL (P ≥ 0.24). Skin pigmentation and IPL fluence are major determinants of side effects after IPL exposure, while a single exposure to three SED of UVR at 30 minutes or 24 hours after IPL, does not amplify such side effects. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:88-96, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Effectiveness of Photogem® activated by LED on the decontamination of artificial carious bovine dentin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giusti, J. S. M.; Santos-Pinto, L.; Pizzolitto, A. C.; Kurachi, C.; Bagnato, V. S.

2006-05-01

The aim of this study was the evaluation of the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy on the decontamination of artificially induced carious bovine dentin, using Photogem® as the photosensitizer agent and an LED device as a light source. Dentin samples obtained from bovine incisors were immersed in sterile broth supplemented by Lactobacillus acidophillus 108 colony formation units (CFU) and Streptococcus mutans 108 CFU. Different concentrations of photosensitizer, PA = 1 mg/ml, PB = 2 mg/ml, and PC = 3 mg/ml, and two fluences, D = 24 J/cm2 and D = 48 J/cm2, were investigated. After CFU counting per milligram of carious dentin and statistical analysis, we observed that the photodynamic therapy (PDT) parameters used were effective for bacterial reduction in the in vitro model under study. The best result was achieved with the application of Photogem® at 2 mg/ml and photoactivated under 24 J/cm2 showing a survival factor of 0.14. At higher photosensitizer concentrations, a higher dark toxicity was observed. We propose a simple mathematical expression for the determination of PDT parameters of photosensitizer concentration and light fluence for different survival factor values. Since LED devices are simpler and cheaper compared to laser systems, it would be interesting to verify their efficacy as a light source in photodynamic therapy for the decontamination of carious dentin.

Five years experience of photodynamic therapy with new chlorin photosensitizer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Privalov, Valery A.; Lappa, Alexander V.; Kochneva, Elena V.

2005-08-01

Clinical results of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with a novel natural second generation chlorin-type photosensitizer "Radachlorin", mainly consisting of sodium chlorine e6, are presented. This sensitizer possesses a number of advantages over sensitizers of hematoporphyrin and phthalocyanine types. In particular, Radachlorin is excreted from organism much faster (in 1-2 days), as a result the problem of patient light hypersensitivity for a few months is non-actual for Radachlorin. As light source there was used a 662 nm diode laser specially designed for PDT with Radachlorin. The 5 year clinical results of PDT application to 89 patients with different malignant tumors are summarized and analysed. It is shown in particular that PDT with Radachlorin is a radical high efficient method for treatment of basal cell carcinoma of skin. At intravenous introduction in drug dose 0.5 mg/kg with light fluence 300-350 J/cm2 or in dose 1 mg/kg with fluence 200-250 J/cm2 the method gives full recovery in almost 100% cases with excellent cosmetic effect. The method was successfully combined with surgical operations, laser ablations, radio- and chemotherapy. Preoperative and intraoperative PDT favors improvement of results in complex treatment of malignant tumors. The method has a potential as palliative measure; in a number of incurable cases it allowed us to achieve recanalization of obturated hollow organs, eliminate the inflammatory complications, and as a result to improve life quality.

Low pressure ultraviolet studies for inactivation of Giardia muris cysts.

PubMed

Hayes, S L; Rice, E W; Ware, M W; Schaefer, F W

2003-01-01

The research was initiated to confirm earlier ultraviolet (u.v.) light inactivation studies performed on Giardia cysts using excystation as the viability indicator. Following this, a comparison of in vitro excystation and animal infectivity was performed for assessing cyst viability after exposure to low-pressure u.v. irradiation. Cysts of Giardia muris were inactivated using a low-pressure u.v. light source. Giardia muris was employed as a surrogate for the human pathogen Giardia lamblia. Cyst viability was determined by both in vitro excystation and animal infectivity. Cyst doses were counted using a flow cytometer for the animal infectivity experiments. Using in vitro excystation as the viability indicator, fluences as high as approximately 200 mJ cm(-2) did not prevent some cysts from excysting, thus verifying earlier work. Using animal infectivity, u.v. fluences of 1.4, 1.9 and 2.3 mJ cm(-2) yielded log10 reductions ranging from 0.3 to >or= 4.4. Results indicate that in vitro excystation is not a reliable indicator of G. muris cyst viability after u.v. disinfection. Very low doses of u.v. light rendered G. muris cysts non-infective in the mouse model employed. Data presented represent the only complete u.v. inactivation curve for G. muris. This research provides evidence that u.v. can be an effective barrier against Giardia spp. in the treatment of drinking water supplies.

The sensitivity of normal brain and intracranially implanted VX2 tumour to interstitial photodynamic therapy.

PubMed Central

Lilge, L.; Olivo, M. C.; Schatz, S. W.; MaGuire, J. A.; Patterson, M. S.; Wilson, B. C.

1996-01-01

The applicability and limitations of a photodynamic threshold model, used to describe quantitatively the in vivo response of tissues to photodynamic therapy, are currently being investigated in a variety of normal and malignant tumour tissues. The model states that tissue necrosis occurs when the number of photons absorbed by the photosensitiser per unit tissue volume exceeds a threshold. New Zealand White rabbits were sensitised with porphyrin-based photosensitisers. Normal brain or intracranially implanted VX2 tumours were illuminated via an optical fibre placed into the tissue at craniotomy. The light fluence distribution in the tissue was measured by multiple interstitial optical fibre detectors. The tissue concentration of the photosensitiser was determined post mortem by absorption spectroscopy. The derived photodynamic threshold values for normal brain are significantly lower than for VX2 tumour for all photosensitisers examined. Neuronal damage is evident beyond the zone of frank necrosis. For Photofrin the threshold decreases with time delay between photosensitiser administration and light treatment. No significant difference in threshold is found between Photofrin and haematoporphyrin derivative. The threshold in normal brain (grey matter) is lowest for sensitisation by 5 delta-aminolaevulinic acid. The results confirm the very high sensitivity of normal brain to porphyrin photodynamic therapy and show the importance of in situ light fluence monitoring during photodynamic irradiation. Images Figure 1 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 PMID:8562339

Structural and optical properties improvements of PVP/gelatin blends induced by neutron irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basha, Mohammad Ahmad-Fouad; Hassan, Mohamed Ahmed

2018-05-01

Blends of polyvinylpyrrolidone and gelatin were prepared in three different concentrations to study the modifications in their structural and optical properties induced by neutron irradiations with different neutron fluence values from 108 up to 1011 neutron/cm2. X-ray spectroscopy revealed that the irradiation has induced a recrystallization phenomenon in the studied blends and the crystallinity index increased by increasing the neutron fluence due to the breaking of the crystallites. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy came to confirm the existence of interactions between interchain groups and a higher compatibility for the irradiated blends. The irradiation induced defects inside the material were responsible for the change in their optical and structural properties. The creation of free radicals or ions inside the conduction bands has led to the increase in the number of carriers on localized states; this has caused the increase in optical conductivity of the irradiated blends as a result of decreasing the energy gaps by increasing the neutron fluence. Results may widen the applications of the gelatin based blends to include optoelectronic devices, organic light emitting devices, solar selective and anti-reflectance bio-coatings, optical organic glass and lenses.

Radiation effects in concrete for nuclear power plants Part I: Quantification of radiation exposure and radiation effects

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

Field, Kevin G; Pape, Yann Le; Remec, Igor

A large fraction of light water reactor (LWR) construction utilizes concrete, including safety-related structures such as the biological shielding and containment building. Concrete is an inherently complex material, with the properties of concrete structures changing over their lifetime due to the intrinsic nature of concrete and influences from local environment. As concrete structures within LWRs age, the total neutron fluence exposure of the components, in particular the biological shield, can increase to levels where deleterious effects are introduced as a result of neutron irradiation. This work summarizes the current state of the art on irradiated concrete, including a review ofmore » the current literature and estimates the total neutron fluence expected in biological shields in typical LWR configurations. It was found a first-order mechanism for loss of mechanical properties of irradiated concrete is due to radiation-induced swelling of aggregates, which leads to volumetric expansion of the concrete. This phenomena is estimated to occur near the end of life of biological shield components in LWRs based on calculations of estimated peak neutron fluence in the shield after 80 years of operation.« less

Photothermal and photochemical effects of laser light absorption by indocyanine green (ICG)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yaseen, Mohammad A.; Diagaradjane, Parmeswaran; Pikkula, Brian M.; Yu, Jie; Wong, Michael S.; Anvari, Bahman

2005-04-01

Indocyanine Green (ICG) is clinically used as a fluorescent dye for imaging purposes. Its rapid circulation kinetics and minimal toxicity has prompted investigation into ICG's utility as a photosentitizer for therapeutic applications. Traditionally, optically mediated tumor therapy has focused on photodynamic therapy, which employs a photochemical mechanism resulting from the absorption of low intensity CW laser light by localized photosensitizers such as Photofrin II, Benzoporphyrin Derivative (BPD), ICG. Treatment of cutaneous vascular malformations such as port-wine stains, on the other hand, is based on a photothermal mechanism resulting from the absorption of high intensity pulsed laser light by hemoglobin. In this study, we compared the effectiveness of combining photochemical and photothermal mechanisms during application of ICG in conjunction with laser irradiation with the intention that the combined approach may lead to a reduction in the threshold dose of pulsed laser light required to treat hypervascular malformations. The blood vessels in rabbit ears were used as an in vivo model for targeted vasculature. Irradiation of the ears with IR light (λ=785 nm, Δτ = 3 min, Io = 120 mW) was used to elicit photochemical damage, while photothermal damage was brought about using pulses from a ruby laser (λ=694 nm, τ = 3 ms) with different fluences. For the combined modality, photochemical damage was induced first and followed by photothermal irradiation. This modality was compared with photothermal irradiation alone. The effectiveness of each irradiation scheme was assessed using histopathological analysis. We present preliminary data that suggests that pretreatment with photodynamic therapy before photothermal coagulation results in more severe vascular damage with lower photothermal fluence levels. The results of this study provide the foundation work for further exploration of the therapeutic potentials of photochemical and photothermal effects during application of ICG in conjunction with laser irradiation.

Monte Carlo modeling of fluorescence in semi-infinite turbid media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Yi Hong; Finlay, Jarod C.; Zhu, Timothy C.

2018-02-01

The incident field size and the interplay of absorption and scattering can influence the in-vivo light fluence rate distribution and complicate the absolute quantification of fluorophore concentration in-vivo. In this study, we use Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the effect of incident beam radius and optical properties to the fluorescence signal collected by isotropic detector placed on the tissue surface. The optical properties at the excitation and emission wavelengths are assumed to be identical. We compute correction factors to correct the fluorescence intensity for variations due to incident field size and optical properties. The correction factors are fitted to a 4-parameters empirical correction function and the changes in each parameter are compared for various beam radius over a range of physiologically relevant tissue optical properties (μa = 0.1 - 1 cm-1 , μs'= 5 - 40 cm-1 ).

Neutron Fluence And DPA Rate Analysis In Pebble-Bed HTR Reactor Vessel Using MCNP

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamzah, Amir; Suwoto; Rohanda, Anis; Adrial, Hery; Bakhri, Syaiful; Sunaryo, Geni Rina

2018-02-01

In the Pebble-bed HTR reactor, the distance between the core and the reactor vessel is very close and the media inside are carbon and He gas. Neutron moderation capability of graphite material is theoretically lower than that of water-moderated reactors. Thus, it is estimated much more the fast neutrons will reach the reactor vessel. The fast neutron collisions with the atoms in the reactor vessel will result in radiation damage and could be reducing the vessel life. The purpose of this study was to obtain the magnitude of neutron fluence in the Pebble-bed HTR reactor vessel. Neutron fluence calculations in the pebble-bed HTR reactor vessel were performed using the MCNP computer program. By determining the tally position, it can be calculated flux, spectrum and neutron fluence in the position of Pebble-bed HTR reactor vessel. The calculations results of total neutron flux and fast neutron flux in the reactor vessel of 1.82x108 n/cm2/s and 1.79x108 n/cm2/s respectively. The fast neutron fluence in the reactor vessel is 3.4x1017 n/cm2 for 60 years reactor operation. Radiation damage in stainless steel material caused by high-energy neutrons (> 1.0 MeV) will occur when it has reached the neutron flux level of 1.0x1024 n/cm2. The neutron fluence results show that there is no radiation damage in the Pebble-bed HTR reactor vessel, so it is predicted that it will be safe to operate at least for 60 years.

Laser-driven hydrothermal process studied with excimer laser pulses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mariella, Raymond; Rubenchik, Alexander; Fong, Erika; Norton, Mary; Hollingsworth, William; Clarkson, James; Johnsen, Howard; Osborn, David L.

2017-08-01

Previously, we discovered [Mariella et al., J. Appl. Phys. 114, 014904 (2013)] that modest-fluence/modest-intensity 351-nm laser pulses, with insufficient fluence/intensity to ablate rock, mineral, or concrete samples via surface vaporization, still removed the surface material from water-submerged target samples with confinement of the removed material, and then dispersed at least some of the removed material into the water as a long-lived suspension of nanoparticles. We called this new process, which appears to include the generation of larger colorless particles, "laser-driven hydrothermal processing" (LDHP) [Mariella et al., J. Appl. Phys. 114, 014904 (2013)]. We, now, report that we have studied this process using 248-nm and 193-nm laser light on submerged concrete, quartzite, and obsidian, and, even though light at these wavelengths is more strongly absorbed than at 351 nm, we found that the overall efficiency of LDHP, in terms of the mass of the target removed per Joule of laser-pulse energy, is lower with 248-nm and 193-nm laser pulses than with 351-nm laser pulses. Given that stronger absorption creates higher peak surface temperatures for comparable laser fluence and intensity, it was surprising to observe reduced efficiencies for material removal. We also measured the nascent particle-size distributions that LDHP creates in the submerging water and found that they do not display the long tail towards larger particle sizes that we had observed when there had been a multi-week delay between experiments and the date of measuring the size distributions. This is consistent with transient dissolution of the solid surface, followed by diffusion-limited kinetics of nucleation and growth of particles from the resulting thin layer of supersaturated solution at the sample surface.

The optimisation of the laser-induced forward transfer process for fabrication of polyfluorene-based organic light-emitting diode pixels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shaw-Stewart, James; Mattle, Thomas; Lippert, Thomas; Nagel, Matthias; Nüesch, Frank; Wokaun, Alexander

2013-08-01

Laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) has already been used to fabricate various types of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), and the process itself has been optimised and refined considerably since OLED pixels were first demonstrated. In particular, a dynamic release layer (DRL) of triazene polymer has been used, the environmental pressure has been reduced down to a medium vacuum, and the donor receiver gap has been controlled with the use of spacers. Insight into the LIFT process's effect upon OLED pixel performance is presented here, obtained through optimisation of three-colour polyfluorene-based OLEDs. A marked dependence of the pixel morphology quality on the cathode metal is observed, and the laser transfer fluence dependence is also analysed. The pixel device performances are compared to conventionally fabricated devices, and cathode effects have been looked at in detail. The silver cathode pixels show more heterogeneous pixel morphologies, and a correspondingly poorer efficiency characteristics. The aluminium cathode pixels have greater green electroluminescent emission than both the silver cathode pixels and the conventionally fabricated aluminium devices, and the green emission has a fluence dependence for silver cathode pixels.

Handheld dual fluorescence and reflection spectroscopy system for monitoring topical low dose ALA-PDT of actinic keratoses (AK)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charamisinau, Ivan; Keymel, Kenneth; Potter, William; Oseroff, Allan R.

2006-02-01

Photodynamic therapy is an effective, minimally invasive skin cancer treatment modality with few side effects. Improved therapeutic selectivity and efficacy is expected if treatment is optimized individually for each patient based on detailed measurements prior and during the treatment. The handheld system presented allows measuring optical properties of the skin, the rate of photosensitizer photobleaching during the ALA PDT and oxygen saturation in the tissue. The photobleaching rate is monitored using fluorescence spectroscopy, where protoporphyrin IX in tissue is exited by 410 nm (blue) or 532 nm (green) laser light, and fluorescence in the 580-800 nm range is monitored. The photobleaching rate is calculated by correlating the measured spectrum with known protoporphyrin IX, photoproduct and nonspecific tissue autofluorescence spectra using correlation analysis. Double-wavelength excitation allows a rough estimation of the depth of the fluorescence source due to the significant difference in penetration depth for blue and green light. Blood concentration and oxygenation in the tissue are found from the white light reflectance spectrum in the 460-800 nm range. Known spectra for the oxy- and deoxyhemoglobin, melanin, and tissue baseline absorption and tissue scattering are substituted in nonlinear equations to find the penetration depth and diffuse reflectance coefficient. The nonlinear equation for the diffuse reflectance coefficient is solved for blood and melanin concentrations and blood oxygenation values that provide the best fit to the measured spectrum. The optical properties of the tissue obtained from the reflectance spectroscopy are used to correct the fluorescence data. A noncontact probe with 5 fibers (3 excitation and 2 detection) focused to the same 5 mm diameter spot: 2 excitation lasers, a white light lamp and a two-channel spectrometer are used. A LabView program with custom nonlinear equation solvers written in C++ automatically performs the measurements and calculations, and writes data to a database. The system is currently used in a clinical trial to find the relationship between skin pigmentation, oxygen saturation in blood, photobleaching rate and optimal fluence rate for skin cancer treatment of actinic keratoses.

Optimization of physiological parameter for macroscopic modeling of reacted singlet oxygen concentration in an in-vivo model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ken Kang-Hsin; Busch, Theresa M.; Finlay, Jarod C.; Zhu, Timothy C.

2009-02-01

Singlet oxygen (1O2) is generally believed to be the major cytotoxic agent during photodynamic therapy (PDT), and the reaction between 1O2 and tumor cells define the treatment efficacy. From a complete set of the macroscopic kinetic equations which describe the photochemical processes of PDT, we can express the reacted 1O2 concentration, [1O2]rx, in a form related to time integration of the product of 1O2 quantum yield and the PDT dose rate. The production of [1O2]rx involves physiological and photophysical parameters which need to be determined explicitly for the photosensitizer of interest. Once these parameters are determined, we expect the computed [1O2]rx to be an explicit dosimetric indicator for clinical PDT. Incorporating the diffusion equation governing the light transport in turbid medium, the spatially and temporally-resolved [1O2]rx described by the macroscopic kinetic equations can be numerically calculated. A sudden drop of the calculated [1O2]rx along with the distance following the decrease of light fluence rate is observed. This suggests that a possible correlation between [1O2]rx and necrosis boundary may occur in the tumor subject to PDT irradiation. In this study, we have theoretically examined the sensitivity of the physiological parameter from two clinical related conditions: (1) collimated light source on semi-infinite turbid medium and (2) linear light source in turbid medium. In order to accurately determine the parameter in a clinical relevant environment, the results of the computed [1O2]rx are expected to be used to fit the experimentally-measured necrosis data obtained from an in vivo animal model.

Optimization of low-level light therapy's illumination parameters for spinal cord injury in a rat model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shuaib, Ali; Bourisly, Ali

2018-02-01

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can result in complete or partial loss of sensation and motor function due to interruption along the severed axonal tract(s). SCI can result in tetraplegia or paraplegia, which can have prohibitive lifetime medical costs and result in shorter life expectancy. A promising therapeutic technique that is currently in experimental phase and that has the potential to be used to treat SCI is Low-level light therapy (LLLT). Preclinical studies have shown that LLLT has reparative and regenerative capabilities on transected spinal cords, and that LLLT can enhance axonal sprouting in animal models. However, despite the promising effects of LLLT as a therapy for SCI, it remains difficult to compare published results due to the use of a wide range of illumination parameters (i.e. different wavelengths, fluences, beam types, and beam diameter), and due to the lack of a standardized experimental protocol(s). Before any clinical applications of LLLT for SCI treatment, it is crucial to standardize illumination parameters and efficacy of light delivery. Therefore, in this study we aim to evaluate the light fluence distribution on a 3D voxelated SCI rat model with different illumination parameters (wavelengths: 660, 810, and 980 nm; beam types: Gaussian and Flat; and beam diameters: 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 cm) for LLLT using Monte Carlo simulation. This study provides an efficient approach to guide researchers in optimizing the illumination parameters for LLLT spinal cord injury in an experimental model and will aid in quantitative and qualitative standardization of LLLT-SCI treatment.

The Clinical and Histological Effect of a Low-Fluence Q-Switched 1,064-nm Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet Laser for the Treatment of Melasma and Solar Lentigenes in Asians: Prospective, Randomized, and Split-Face Comparative Study.

PubMed

Kaminaka, Chikako; Furukawa, Fukumi; Yamamoto, Yuki

2017-09-01

The low-fluence Q-switched 1,064-nm neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser (QSNYL) is popular for melasma treatment among Asians. This study was to evaluate the clinical and histological effects of the low-fluence QSNYL for treatment of melasma and solar lentigenes. In this randomized split-face clinical study, 22 patients with melasma or solar lentigo received low-fluence QSNYL weekly for 10 sessions on one cheek. The treatment efficacy was determined by Mexameter skin colorimetry, physician and patient assessment, and by evaluating histological changes. The treated sides had statistically significant reductions in the melanin and erythema indices (EI); 50.0% of melasma and 62.5% of solar lentigo patients had >50% clearance after the final treatment. The increased EI, vascularity, and mast cell activity in patients with melasma and large-sized solar lentigo showed no improvement. The recurrence rates were 16.7% and 12.7% for melasma and solar lentigo, respectively. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation developed in 1 patient, but no serious side effects were noted. Low-fluence QSNYL is effective in treating melasma and small type solar lentigo in Asians. The authors' study also demonstrated that lesion thickness, vascularity, and mast cell activity can be used to predict the efficacy of the treatment of these lesions.

RELATIVE DISTRIBUTIONS OF FLUENCES OF {sup 3}He AND {sup 4}He IN SOLAR ENERGETIC PARTICLES

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

Petrosian, Vahe; Jiang Yanwei; Liu Siming

2009-08-10

Solar energetic particles show a rich variety of spectra and relative abundances of many ionic species and their isotopes. A long-standing puzzle has been the extreme enrichments of {sup 3}He ions. The most extreme enrichments are observed in low-fluence, the so-called impulsive, events which are believed to be produced at the flare site in the solar corona with little scattering and acceleration during transport to the Earth. In such events, {sup 3}He ions show a characteristic concave curved spectra in a log-log plot. In two earlier papers of Liu et al., we showed how such extreme enrichments and spectra canmore » result in the model developed by Petrosian and Liu, where ions are accelerated stochastically by plasma waves or turbulence. In this paper, we address the relative distributions of the fluences of {sup 3}He and {sup 4}He ions presented by Ho et al., which show that while the distribution of {sup 4}He fluence (which we believe is a good measure of the flare strength) like many other extensive characteristics of solar flare is fairly broad, the {sup 3}He fluence is limited to a narrow range. These characteristics introduce a strong anticorrelation between the ratio of the fluences and the {sup 4}He fluence. One of the predictions of our model presented in the 2006 paper was the presence of steep variation of the fluence ratio with the level of turbulence or the rate of acceleration. We show here that this feature of the model can reproduce the observed distribution of the fluences with very few free parameters. The primary reason for the success of the model in both fronts is because fully ionized {sup 3}He ion, with its unique charge-to-mass ratio, can resonantly interact with plasma modes not accessible to {sup 4}He and be accelerated more readily than {sup 4}He. Essentially in most flares, all background {sup 3}He ions are accelerated to few MeV/nucleon range, while this happens for {sup 4}He ions only in very strong events. A much smaller fraction of {sup 4}He ions reach such energies in weaker events.« less

Radiation damage of gallium arsenide production cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mardesich, N.; Garlick, G. F. J.

1987-01-01

High-efficiency gallium arsenide cells, made by the liquid epitaxy method (LPE), have been irradiated with 1-MeV electrons up to fluences of 10 to the 16th e/sq cm. Measurements have been made of cell spectral response and dark and light-excited current-voltage characteristics and analyzed using computer-based models to determine underlying parameters such as damage coefficients. It is possible to use spectral response to sort out damage effects in the different cell component layers. Damage coefficients are similar to other reported in the literature for the emitter and buffer (base). However, there is also a damage effect in the window layer and possibly at the window emitter interface similar to that found for proton-irradiated liquid-phase epitaxy-grown cells. Depletion layer recombination is found to be less than theoretically expected at high fluence.

Noncoherent-intense-pulsed light for the treatment of relapsing hairy intradermal melanocytic nevus after shave excision.

PubMed

Moreno-Arias, G A; Ferrando, J

2001-01-01

Few reports about melanocytic lesions treatment by means of noncoherent-intense-pulsed light (NCIPL) have been published. Here we evaluate the clinical results of a relapsing hairy intradermal melanocytic nevus treated with a noncoherent-intense-pulsed light source. A facial repigmented hairy intradermal melanocytic nevus that relapsed after shave excision, received four treatment sessions of a noncoherent-intense-pulsed light source (EpiLight, ESC Medical Systems Ltd, Israel) with the following parameters: 755 nm, a fluence energy of 40-42.5 J/cm(2), triple mode, a pulse width of 3.8 ms, and a delay of 20 ms, at 4-week intervals. Complete pigment clearance and hair removal was obtained. We have neither observed repigmentation nor hair regrowth after a 6 month-follow-up. No side effects were documented. Noncoherent-intense-pulse light is an effective treatment for hairy-pigmented melanocytic nevus. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

A stochastic framework for spot-scanning particle therapy.

PubMed

Robini, Marc; Yuemin Zhu; Wanyu Liu; Magnin, Isabelle

2016-08-01

In spot-scanning particle therapy, inverse treatment planning is usually limited to finding the optimal beam fluences given the beam trajectories and energies. We address the much more challenging problem of jointly optimizing the beam fluences, trajectories and energies. For this purpose, we design a simulated annealing algorithm with an exploration mechanism that balances the conflicting demands of a small mixing time at high temperatures and a reasonable acceptance rate at low temperatures. Numerical experiments substantiate the relevance of our approach and open new horizons to spot-scanning particle therapy.

A high-speed scintillation-based electronic portal imaging device to quantitatively characterize IMRT delivery.

PubMed

Ranade, Manisha K; Lynch, Bart D; Li, Jonathan G; Dempsey, James F

2006-01-01

We have developed an electronic portal imaging device (EPID) employing a fast scintillator and a high-speed camera. The device is designed to accurately and independently characterize the fluence delivered by a linear accelerator during intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with either step-and-shoot or dynamic multileaf collimator (MLC) delivery. Our aim is to accurately obtain the beam shape and fluence of all segments delivered during IMRT, in order to study the nature of discrepancies between the plan and the delivered doses. A commercial high-speed camera was combined with a terbium-doped gadolinium-oxy-sulfide (Gd2O2S:Tb) scintillator to form an EPID for the unaliased capture of two-dimensional fluence distributions of each beam in an IMRT delivery. The high speed EPID was synchronized to the accelerator pulse-forming network and gated to capture every possible pulse emitted from the accelerator, with an approximate frame rate of 360 frames-per-second (fps). A 62-segment beam from a head-and-neck IMRT treatment plan requiring 68 s to deliver was recorded with our high speed EPID producing approximately 6 Gbytes of imaging data. The EPID data were compared with the MLC instruction files and the MLC controller log files. The frames were binned to provide a frame rate of 72 fps with a signal-to-noise ratio that was sufficient to resolve leaf positions and segment fluence. The fractional fluence from the log files and EPID data agreed well. An ambiguity in the motion of the MLC during beam on was resolved. The log files reported leaf motions at the end of 33 of the 42 segments, while the EPID observed leaf motions in only 7 of the 42 segments. The static IMRT segment shapes observed by the high speed EPID were in good agreement with the shapes reported in the log files. The leaf motions observed during beam-on for step-and-shoot delivery were not temporally resolved by the log files.

Revealing ionization-induced dynamic recovery in ion-irradiated SrTiO 3

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

Velisa, Gihan; Wendler, Elke; Xue, Haizhou

The lack of fundamental understanding on the coupled effects of energy deposition to electrons and atomic nuclei on defect processes and irradiation response poses a significant roadblock for the design and control of material properties. In this work, SrTiO 3 has been irradiated with various ion species over a wide range of ion fluences at room temperature with a goal to deposit different amounts of energy to target electrons and atomic nuclei by varying the ratio of electronic to nuclear energy loss. Here, the results unambiguously show a dramatic difference in behavior of SrTiO 3 irradiated with light ions (Ne,more » O) compared to heavy ions (Ar). While the damage accumulation and amorphization under Ar ion irradiation are consistent with previous observations and existing models, the damage accumulation under Ne irradiation reveals a quasi-saturation state at a fractional disorder of 0.54 at the damage peak for an ion fluence corresponding to a dose of 0.5 dpa; this is followed by further increases in disorder with increasing ion fluence. In the case of O ion irradiation, the damage accumulation at the damage peak closely follows that for Ne ion irradiation up to a fluence corresponding to a dose of 0.5 dpa, where a quasi-saturation of fractional disorder level occurs at about 0.48; however, in this case, the disorder at the damage peak decreases slightly with further increases in fluence. This behavior is associated with changes in kinetics due to irradiation-enhanced diffusional processes that are dependent on electronic energy loss and the ratio of electronic to nuclear energy dissipation. Lastly, these findings are critical for advancing the fundamental understanding of ion-solid interactions and for a large number of applications in oxide electronics where SrTiO 3 is a foundational material.« less

Excore Modeling with VERAShift

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

Pandya, Tara M.; Evans, Thomas M.

It is important to be able to accurately predict the neutron flux outside the immediate reactor core for a variety of safety and material analyses. Monte Carlo radiation transport calculations are required to produce the high fidelity excore responses. Under this milestone VERA (specifically the VERAShift package) has been extended to perform excore calculations by running radiation transport calculations with Shift. This package couples VERA-CS with Shift to perform excore tallies for multiple state points concurrently, with each component capable of parallel execution on independent domains. Specifically, this package performs fluence calculations in the core barrel and vessel, or, performsmore » the requested tallies in any user-defined excore regions. VERAShift takes advantage of the general geometry package in Shift. This gives VERAShift the flexibility to explicitly model features outside the core barrel, including detailed vessel models, detectors, and power plant details. A very limited set of experimental and numerical benchmarks is available for excore simulation comparison. The Consortium for the Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) has developed a set of excore benchmark problems to include as part of the VERA-CS verification and validation (V&V) problems. The excore capability in VERAShift has been tested on small representative assembly problems, multiassembly problems, and quarter-core problems. VERAView has also been extended to visualize these vessel fluence results from VERAShift. Preliminary vessel fluence results for quarter-core multistate calculations look very promising. Further development is needed to determine the details relevant to excore simulations. Validation of VERA for fluence and excore detectors still needs to be performed against experimental and numerical results.« less

207-nm UV Light - A Promising Tool for Safe Low-Cost Reduction of Surgical Site Infections. I: In Vitro Studies

PubMed Central

Buonanno, Manuela; Randers-Pehrson, Gerhard; Bigelow, Alan W.; Trivedi, Sheetal; Lowy, Franklin D.; Spotnitz, Henry M.; Hammer, Scott M.; Brenner, David J.

2013-01-01

Background 0.5% to 10% of clean surgeries result in surgical-site infections, and attempts to reduce this rate have had limited success. Germicidal UV lamps, with a broad wavelength spectrum from 200 to 400 nm are an effective bactericidal option against drug-resistant and drug-sensitive bacteria, but represent a health hazard to patient and staff. By contrast, because of its limited penetration, ∼200 nm far-UVC light is predicted to be effective in killing bacteria, but without the human health hazards to skin and eyes associated with conventional germicidal UV exposure. Aims The aim of this work was to test the biophysically-based hypothesis that ∼200 nm UV light is significantly cytotoxic to bacteria, but minimally cytotoxic or mutagenic to human cells either isolated or within tissues. Methods A Kr-Br excimer lamp was used, which produces 207-nm UV light, with a filter to remove higher-wavelength components. Comparisons were made with results from a conventional broad spectrum 254-nm UV germicidal lamp. First, cell inactivation vs. UV fluence data were generated for methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteria and also for normal human fibroblasts. Second, yields of the main UV-associated pre-mutagenic DNA lesions (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and 6-4 photoproducts) were measured, for both UV radiations incident on 3-D human skin tissue. Results We found that 207-nm UV light kills MRSA efficiently but, unlike conventional germicidal UV lamps, produces little cell killing in human cells. In a 3-D human skin model, 207-nm UV light produced almost no pre-mutagenic UV-associated DNA lesions, in contrast to significant yields induced by a conventional germicidal UV lamp. Conclusions As predicted based on biophysical considerations, 207-nm light kills bacteria efficiently but does not appear to be significantly cytotoxic or mutagenic to human cells. Used appropriately, 207-nm light may have the potential for safely and inexpensively reducing surgical-site infection rates, including those of drug-resistant origin. PMID:24146947

Radiation Embrittlement Archive Project

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

Klasky, Hilda B; Bass, Bennett Richard; Williams, Paul T

2013-01-01

The Radiation Embrittlement Archive Project (REAP), which is being conducted by the Probabilistic Integrity Safety Assessment (PISA) Program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory under funding from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission s (NRC) Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research, aims to provide an archival source of information about the effect of neutron radiation on the properties of reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels. Specifically, this project is an effort to create an Internet-accessible RPV steel embrittlement database. The project s website, https://reap.ornl.gov, provides information in two forms: (1) a document archive with surveillance capsule(s) reports and related technical reports, in PDF format,more » for the 104 commercial nuclear power plants (NPPs) in the United States, with similar reports from other countries; and (2) a relational database archive with detailed information extracted from the reports. The REAP project focuses on data collected from surveillance capsule programs for light-water moderated, nuclear power reactor vessels operated in the United States, including data on Charpy V-notch energy testing results, tensile properties, composition, exposure temperatures, neutron flux (rate of irradiation damage), and fluence, (Fast Neutron Fluence a cumulative measure of irradiation for E>1 MeV). Additionally, REAP contains data from surveillance programs conducted in other countries. REAP is presently being extended to focus on embrittlement data analysis, as well. This paper summarizes the current status of the REAP database and highlights opportunities to access the data and to participate in the project.« less

Selective ablation of sub- and supragingival calculus with a frequency-doubled Alexandrite laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rechmann, Peter; Hennig, Thomas

1995-05-01

In a preceding trial the absorption characteristics of subgingival calculus were calculated using fluorescence emission spectroscopy (excitation laser: N2-laser, wavelength 337 nm, pulse duration 4 ns). Subgingival calculus seems to contain chromophores absorbing in the ultraviolet spectral region up to 420 nm. The aim of the actual study was the ablation of sub- and supragingival calculus using a frequency doubled Alexandrite-laser (wavelength 377 nm, pulse duration 100 ns, repetition rate 110 Hz). Extracted human teeth presenting sub- and supragingival calculus were irradiated perpendicular to their axis with a laser fluence of 1 Jcm-2. Using a standard application protocol calculus was irradiated at the enamel surface, at the junction between enamel and root, and at the root surface (located on dentin or on cementum). During the irradiation procedure an effective water cooling-system was engaged. For light microscopical investigations undecalcified histological sections were prepared after treatment. The histological sections revealed that a selective and total removal of calculus is possible at all locations without ablation of healthy enamel, dentin or cementum. Even low fluences provide us with a high effectiveness for the ablation of calculus. Thus, based on different absorption characteristics and ablation thresholds, engaging a frequency doubled Alexandrite-laser a fast and, even more, a selective ablation of sub- and supragingival calculus is possible without adverse side effects to the surrounding tissues. Even more, microbial dental plaque can be perfectly removed.

Modeling and Analysis of FCM UN TRISO Fuel Using the PARFUME Code

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

Blaise Collin

2013-09-01

The PARFUME (PARticle Fuel ModEl) modeling code was used to assess the overall fuel performance of uranium nitride (UN) tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) ceramic fuel in the frame of the design and development of Fully Ceramic Matrix (FCM) fuel. A specific modeling of a TRISO particle with UN kernel was developed with PARFUME, and its behavior was assessed in irradiation conditions typical of a Light Water Reactor (LWR). The calculations were used to access the dimensional changes of the fuel particle layers and kernel, including the formation of an internal gap. The survivability of the UN TRISO particle was estimated dependingmore » on the strain behavior of the constituent materials at high fast fluence and burn-up. For nominal cases, internal gas pressure and representative thermal profiles across the kernel and layers were determined along with stress levels in the pyrolytic carbon (PyC) and silicon carbide (SiC) layers. These parameters were then used to evaluate fuel particle failure probabilities. Results of the study show that the survivability of UN TRISO fuel under LWR irradiation conditions might only be guaranteed if the kernel and PyC swelling rates are limited at high fast fluence and burn-up. These material properties are unknown at the irradiation levels expected to be reached by UN TRISO fuel in LWRs. Therefore, more effort is needed to determine them and positively conclude on the applicability of FCM fuel to LWRs.« less

Developing a treatment planning process and software for improved translation of photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cassidy, J.; Zheng, Z.; Xu, Y.; Betz, V.; Lilge, L.

2017-04-01

Background: The majority of de novo cancers are diagnosed in low and middle-income countries, which often lack the resources to provide adequate therapeutic options. None or minimally invasive therapies such as Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) or photothermal therapies could become part of the overall treatment options in these countries. However, widespread acceptance is hindered by the current empirical training of surgeons in these optical techniques and a lack of easily usable treatment optimizing tools. Methods: Based on image processing programs, ITK-SNAP, and the publicly available FullMonte light propagation software, a work plan is proposed that allows for personalized PDT treatment planning. Starting with, contoured clinical CT or MRI images, the generation of 3D tetrahedral models in silico, execution of the Monte Carlo simulation and presentation of the 3D fluence rate, Φ, [mWcm-2] distribution a treatment plan optimizing photon source placement is developed. Results: Permitting 1-2 days for the installation of the required programs, novices can generate their first fluence, H [Jcm-2] or Φ distribution in a matter of hours. This is reduced to 10th of minutes with some training. Executing the photon simulation calculations is rapid and not the performance limiting process. Largest sources of errors are uncertainties in the contouring and unknown tissue optical properties. Conclusions: The presented FullMonte simulation is the fastest tetrahedral based photon propagation program and provides the basis for PDT treatment planning processes, enabling a faster proliferation of low cost, minimal invasive personalized cancer therapies.

Photoacoustic design parameter optimization for deep tissue imaging by numerical simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhaohui; Ha, Seunghan; Kim, Kang

2012-02-01

A new design of light illumination scheme for deep tissue photoacoustic (PA) imaging, a light catcher, is proposed and evaluated by in silico simulation. Finite element (FE)-based numerical simulation model was developed for photoacoustic (PA) imaging in soft tissues. In this in silico simulation using a commercially available FE simulation package (COMSOL MultiphysicsTM, COMSOL Inc., USA), a short-pulsed laser point source (pulse length of 5 ns) was placed in water on the tissue surface. Overall, four sets of simulation models were integrated together to describe the physical principles of PA imaging. Light energy transmission through background tissues from the laser source to the target tissue or contrast agent was described by diffusion equation. The absorption of light energy and its conversion to heat by target tissue or contrast agent was modeled using bio-heat equation. The heat then causes the stress and strain change, and the resulting displacement of the target surface produces acoustic pressure. The created wide-band acoustic pressure will propagate through background tissues to the ultrasound detector, which is governed by acoustic wave equation. Both optical and acoustical parameters in soft tissues such as scattering, absorption, and attenuation are incorporated in tissue models. PA imaging performance with different design parameters of the laser source and energy delivery scheme was investigated. The laser light illumination into the deep tissues can be significantly improved by up to 134.8% increase of fluence rate by introducing a designed compact light catcher with highly reflecting inner surface surrounding the light source. The optimized parameters through this simulation will guide the design of PA system for deep tissue imaging, and help to form the base protocols of experimental evaluations in vitro and in vivo.

Heterogeneous nucleation and growth dynamics in the light-induced phase transition in vanadium dioxide

DOE PAGES

Brady, Nathaniel F.; Appavoo, Kannatassen; Seo, Minah; ...

2016-03-02

Here we report on ultrafast optical investigations of the light-induced insulator-to-metal phase transition in vanadium dioxide with controlled disorder generated by substrate mismatch. These results reveal common dynamics of this optically-induced phase transition that are independent of this disorder. Lastly, above the fluence threshold for completing the transition to the rutile crystalline phase, we find a common time scale, independent of sample morphology, of 40.5 ± 2 ps that is consistent with nucleation and growth dynamics of the R phase from the parent M1 ground state.

Experimental study of fs-laser induced sub-100-nm periodic surface structures on titanium.

PubMed

Nathala, Chandra S R; Ajami, Ali; Ionin, Andrey A; Kudryashov, Sergey I; Makarov, Sergey V; Ganz, Thomas; Assion, Andreas; Husinsky, Wolfgang

2015-03-09

In this work the formation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) on a titanium surface upon irradiation by linearly polarized femtosecond (fs) laser pulses with a repetition rate of 1 kHz in air environment was studied experimentally. In particular, the dependence of high-spatial-frequency-LIPSS (HSFL) characteristics on various laser parameters: fluence, pulse number, wavelength (800 nm and 400 nm), pulse duration (10 fs - 550 fs), and polarization was studied in detail. In comparison with low-spatial-frequency-LIPSS (LSFL), the HSFL emerge at a much lower fluence with orientation perpendicular to the ridges of the LSFL. It was observed that these two types of LIPSS demonstrate different fluence, shot number and wavelength dependencies, which suggest their origin is different. Therefore, the HSFL formation mechanism cannot be described by the widely accepted interference model developed for describing LSFL formation.

Measurements and Monte Carlo simulations of the spectral variations of the cosmic-ray-induced neutrons at the Pic du Midi over a 2-y period.

PubMed

Cheminet, A; Hubert, G; Lacoste, V; Boscher, D

2014-10-01

In this paper, a Bonner Sphere Spectrometer extended to high energies (HERMEIS) was employed to measure continuously the cosmic-ray-induced neutron spectra over a long-term period (2 y) at mountain altitude and medium geomagnetic latitude (Pic du Midi de Bigorre in the French Pyrenees, +2885 m, 5.6 GV). The results showed 1-y sinusoidal oscillations in the integrated fluence rates. The amplitude of these oscillations depends on the neutron energetic domain. The fluence rate of thermal neutrons was 53 % higher in August than that in February. Those of epithermal neutrons with energies between 0.4 eV and 0.1 MeV and evaporation neutrons (from 0.1 to 20 MeV) were ∼25 % higher in the summer than those in the winter. Finally, the cascade neutron fluence rate (>20 MeV) remained quite the same (<10 % variation). To understand the effects of local and seasonal changes in the measurement environment, GEANT4 simulations were performed. The nature of rock and thickness of the snow cover during the winter period (given by meteorological data) were investigated. A reasonable agreement between experiments and calculations was found. © The Author 2013. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Study of titania nanorod films deposited by matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation as a function of laser fluence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caricato, A. P.; Belviso, M. R.; Catalano, M.; Cesaria, M.; Cozzoli, P. D.; Luches, A.; Manera, M. G.; Martino, M.; Rella, R.; Taurino, A.

2011-11-01

Chemically synthesized brookite titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanorods with average diameter and length dimensions of 3-4 nm and 35-50 nm, respectively, were deposited by the matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation technique. A toluene nanorod solution was frozen at the liquid-nitrogen temperature and irradiated with a KrF excimer laser ( λ=248 nm, τ=20 ns) at the repetition rate of 10 Hz, at different fluences (25 to 350 mJ/cm2). The deposited films were structurally characterized by high-resolution scanning and transmission electron microscopy. <100> single-crystal Si wafers and carbon-coated Cu grids were used as substrates. Structural analyses evidenced the occurrence of brookite-phase crystalline nanospheres coexisting with individually distinguishable TiO2 nanorods in the films deposited at fluences varying from 50 to 350 mJ/cm2. Nanostructured TiO2 films comprising only nanorods were deposited by lowering the laser fluence to 25 mJ/cm2. The observed shape and phase transitions of the nanorods are discussed taking into account the laser-induced heating effects, reduced melting temperature and size-dependent thermodynamic stability of nanoscale TiO2.

Fast Radio Bursts’ Recipes for the Distributions of Dispersion Measures, Flux Densities, and Fluences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niino, Yuu

2018-05-01

We investigate how the statistical properties of dispersion measure (DM) and apparent flux density/fluence of (nonrepeating) fast radio bursts (FRBs) are determined by unknown cosmic rate density history [ρ FRB(z)] and luminosity function (LF) of the transient events. We predict the distributions of DMs, flux densities, and fluences of FRBs taking account of the variation of the receiver efficiency within its beam, using analytical models of ρ FRB(z) and LF. Comparing the predictions with the observations, we show that the cumulative distribution of apparent fluences suggests that FRBs originate at cosmological distances and ρ FRB increases with redshift resembling the cosmic star formation history (CSFH). We also show that an LF model with a bright-end cutoff at log10 L ν (erg s‑1 Hz‑1) ∼ 34 are favored to reproduce the observed DM distribution if ρ FRB(z) ∝ CSFH, although the statistical significance of the constraints obtained with the current size of the observed sample is not high. Finally, we find that the correlation between DM and flux density of FRBs is potentially a powerful tool to distinguish whether FRBs are at cosmological distances or in the local universe more robustly with future observations.

Comments on a Method to Measure Sucralose Using UV Photodegradation Followed by UV Spectrophotometry.

PubMed

Fang, Te; Andrews, Susan A; Hofmann, Ron

2017-05-01

A simple and quick method to measure sucralose in aqueous solution at concentrations in the order of 0.1-1.2 g·L-1 proposed by Idris et al. uses UV irradiation prior to UV spectrophotometry. The photolysis of sucralose forms a photoactive compound characterized by maximum absorbance at approximately 270 nm. The conditions required for sucralose photolysis, however, had not been completely reported. In this work, the procedure described by Idris et al. was replicated using a low-pressure UV lamp to irradiate sucralose samples with a wider range of initial concentrations (0.04-10 g·L-1) with known fluences. It was determined that care must be taken to ensure that the same fluence is applied for both calibration and measurement steps because the absorbance of the sucralose photolysis product is a function of the applied fluence. The way the samples are irradiated also has an impact on the results in that the method exhibits a greater linear range if an apparatus is used that maximizes the fluence rate (e.g., by placing samples closer to the UV source or using a higher-intensity lamp).

Femtosecond laser ablation and nanoparticle formation in intermetallic NiAl

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jorgensen, David J.; Titus, Michael S.; Pollock, Tresa M.

2015-10-01

The ablation behavior of a stoichiometric intermetallic compound β-NiAl subjected to femtosecond laser pulsing in air has been investigated. The single-pulse ablation threshold for NiAl was determined to be 83 ± 4 mJ/cm2 and the transition to the high-fluence ablation regime occurred at 2.8 ± 0.3 J/cm2. Two sizes of nanoparticles consisting of Al, NiAl, Ni3Al and NiO were formed and ejected from the target during high-fluence ablation. Chemical analysis revealed that smaller nanoparticles (1-30 nm) tended to be rich in Al while larger nanoparticles (>100 nm) were lean in Al. Ablation in the low-fluence regime maintained this trend. Redeposited material and nanoparticles remaining on the surface after a single 3.7 J/cm2 pulse, one hundred 1.7 J/cm2 pulses, or one thousand 250 mJ/cm2 pulses were enriched in Al relative to the bulk target composition. Further, the surface of the irradiated high-fluence region was depleted in Al indicating that the fs laser ablation removal rate of the intermetallic constituents in this regime does not scale with the individual pure element ablation thresholds.

Experimental and computational results on exciton/free-carrier ratio, hot/thermalized carrier diffusion, and linear/nonlinear rate constants affecting scintillator proportionality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, R. T.; Grim, Joel Q.; Li, Qi; Ucer, K. B.; Bizarri, G. A.; Kerisit, S.; Gao, Fei; Bhattacharya, P.; Tupitsyn, E.; Rowe, E.; Buliga, V. M.; Burger, A.

2013-09-01

Models of nonproportional response in scintillators have highlighted the importance of parameters such as branching ratios, carrier thermalization times, diffusion, kinetic order of quenching, associated rate constants, and radius of the electron track. For example, the fraction ηeh of excitations that are free carriers versus excitons was shown by Payne and coworkers to have strong correlation with the shape of electron energy response curves from Compton-coincidence studies. Rate constants for nonlinear quenching are implicit in almost all models of nonproportionality, and some assumption about track radius must invariably be made if one is to relate linear energy deposition dE/dx to volume-based excitation density n (eh/cm3) in terms of which the rates are defined. Diffusion, affecting time-dependent track radius and thus density of excitations, has been implicated as an important factor in nonlinear light yield. Several groups have recently highlighted diffusion of hot electrons in addition to thermalized carriers and excitons in scintillators. However, experimental determination of many of these parameters in the insulating crystals used as scintillators has seemed difficult. Subpicosecond laser techniques including interband z scan light yield, fluence-dependent decay time, and transient optical absorption are now yielding experimental values for some of the missing rates and ratios needed for modeling scintillator response. First principles calculations and Monte Carlo simulations can fill in additional parameters still unavailable from experiment. As a result, quantitative modeling of scintillator electron energy response from independently determined material parameters is becoming possible on an increasingly firmer data base. This paper describes recent laser experiments, calculations, and numerical modeling of scintillator response.

Experimental and computational results on exciton/free-carrier ratio, hot/thermalized carrier diffusion, and linear/nonlinear rate constants affecting scintillator proportionality

DOE PAGES

Williams, R. T.; Grim, Joel Q.; Li, Qi; ...

2013-09-26

Models of nonproportional response in scintillators have highlighted the importance of parameters such as branching ratios, carrier thermalization times, diffusion, kinetic order of quenching, associated rate constants, and radius of the electron track. For example, the fraction ηeh of excitations that are free carriers versus excitons was shown by Payne and coworkers to have strong correlation with the shape of electron energy response curves from Compton-coincidence studies. Rate constants for nonlinear quenching are implicit in almost all models of nonproportionality, and some assumption about track radius must invariably be made if one is to relate linear energy deposition dE/dx tomore » volume-based excitation density n (eh/cm 3) in terms of which the rates are defined. Diffusion, affecting time-dependent track radius and thus density of excitations, has been implicated as an important factor in nonlinear light yield. Several groups have recently highlighted diffusion of hot electrons in addition to thermalized carriers and excitons in scintillators. However, experimental determination of many of these parameters in the insulating crystals used as scintillators has seemed difficult. Subpicosecond laser techniques including interband z scan light yield, fluence-dependent decay time, and transient optical absorption are now yielding experimental values for some of the missing rates and ratios needed for modeling scintillator response. First principles calculations and Monte Carlo simulations can fill in additional parameters still unavailable from experiment. As a result, quantitative modeling of scintillator electron energy response from independently determined material parameters is becoming possible on an increasingly firmer data base. This study describes recent laser experiments, calculations, and numerical modeling of scintillator response.« less

Dose-Rate Effects in Breaking DNA Strands by Short Pulses of Extreme Ultraviolet Radiation.

PubMed

Vyšín, Luděk; Burian, Tomáš; Ukraintsev, Egor; Davídková, Marie; Grisham, Michael E; Heinbuch, Scott; Rocca, Jorge J; Juha, Libor

2018-05-01

In this study, we examined dose-rate effects on strand break formation in plasmid DNA induced by pulsed extreme ultraviolet (XUV) radiation. Dose delivered to the target molecule was controlled by attenuating the incident photon flux using aluminum filters as well as by changing the DNA/buffer-salt ratio in the irradiated sample. Irradiated samples were examined using agarose gel electrophoresis. Yields of single- and double-strand breaks (SSBs and DSBs) were determined as a function of the incident photon fluence. In addition, electrophoresis also revealed DNA cross-linking. Damaged DNA was inspected by means of atomic force microscopy (AFM). Both SSB and DSB yields decreased with dose rate increase. Quantum yields of SSBs at the highest photon fluence were comparable to yields of DSBs found after synchrotron irradiation. The average SSB/DSB ratio decreased only slightly at elevated dose rates. In conclusion, complex and/or clustered damages other than cross-links do not appear to be induced under the radiation conditions applied in this study.

Controlling Fluences of Reactive Species Produced by Multipulse DBDs onto Wet Tissue: Frequency and Liquid Thickness

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Wei; Kushner, Mark J.

2015-09-01

Tissue covered by a thin liquid layer treated by atmospheric pressure plasmas for biomedical applications ultimately requires a reproducible protocol for human healthcare. The outcomes of wet tissue treatment by dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) depend on the plasma dose which determines the integral fluences of radicals and ions onto the tissue. These fluences are controlled in part by frequency and liquid thickness. In this paper, we report on results from a computational investigation of multipulse DBDs interacting with wet tissue. The DBDs were simulated for 100 stationary or random streamers at different repetition rates and liquid thicknesses followed by 10 s to 2 min of afterglow. At 100 Hz, NOaq and OHaq are mixed by randomly striking streamers, although they have different rates of solvation. NOaq is nearly completely consumed by reactions with OHaq at the liquid surface. Only H2O2aq, produced through OHaq mutual reactions, survives to reach the tissue. After 100 pulses, the liquid becomes ozone-rich, in which the nitrous ion, NO2-aq, is converted to the nitric ion, NO3-aq. Reducing the pulse frequency to 10 Hz results in significant fluence of NOaq to the tissue as NOaq can escape during the interpulse period from the liquid surface where OHaq is formed. For the same reason, NO2-aq can also reach deeper into the liquid at lower frequency. Frequency and thickness of the liquid are methods to control the plasma produced aqueous species to the underlying tissue. Work supported by DOE (DE-SC0001319) and NSF (CHE-1124724).

Crack growth rates and fracture toughness of irradiated austenitic stainless steels in BWR environments.

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

Chopra, O. K.; Shack, W. J.

2008-01-21

In light water reactors, austenitic stainless steels (SSs) are used extensively as structural alloys in reactor core internal components because of their high strength, ductility, and fracture toughness. However, exposure to high levels of neutron irradiation for extended periods degrades the fracture properties of these steels by changing the material microstructure (e.g., radiation hardening) and microchemistry (e.g., radiation-induced segregation). Experimental data are presented on the fracture toughness and crack growth rates (CGRs) of wrought and cast austenitic SSs, including weld heat-affected-zone materials, that were irradiated to fluence levels as high as {approx} 2x 10{sup 21} n/cm{sup 2} (E > 1more » MeV) ({approx} 3 dpa) in a light water reactor at 288-300 C. The results are compared with the data available in the literature. The effects of material composition, irradiation dose, and water chemistry on CGRs under cyclic and stress corrosion cracking conditions were determined. A superposition model was used to represent the cyclic CGRs of austenitic SSs. The effects of neutron irradiation on the fracture toughness of these steels, as well as the effects of material and irradiation conditions and test temperature, have been evaluated. A fracture toughness trend curve that bounds the existing data has been defined. The synergistic effects of thermal and radiation embrittlement of cast austenitic SS internal components have also been evaluated.« less

First-principles calculation of the polarization-dependent force driving the Eg mode in bismuth under optical excitation.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murray, Eamonn; Fahy, Stephen

2014-03-01

Using first principles electronic structure methods, we calculate the induced force on the Eg (zone centre transverse optical) phonon mode in bismuth immediately after absorption of polarized light. When radiation with polarization perpendicular to the c-axis is absorbed in bismuth, the distribution of excited electrons and holes breaks the three-fold rotational symmetry and leads to a net force on the atoms in the direction perpendicular to the axis. We calculate the initial excited electronic distribution as a function of photon energy and polarization and find the resulting transverse and longitudinal forces experienced by the atoms. Using the measured, temperature-dependent rate of decay of the transverse force[2], we predict the approximate amplitude of induced atomic motion in the Eg mode as a function of temperature and optical fluence. This work is supported by Science Foundation Ireland and a Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowship.

SEM investigations of the cementum surface after irradiation with a frequency-doubled Alexandrite laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rechmann, Peter; Hennig, Thomas

1996-04-01

During prior studies it could be demonstrated while engaging a frequency doubled Alexandrite-laser (wavelength 380 nm, pulse duration 100 ns, fluence 1 J/cm2, pulse repetition rate 110 Hz) a fast and strictly selective ablation of supra- and subgingival calculus is possible. Even the removal of unstained microbial plaque was observed. First conclusions were drawn after light microscopical investigations on undecalcified sections of irradiated teeth. In the present study the cementum surface after irradiation with a frequency doubled Alexandrite-laser was observed by means of a Scanning Electron Microscope. After irradiation sections of teeth were dried in alcohol and sputtered with gold. In comparison irradiated cementum surfaces of unerupted operatively removed wisdom teeth and tooth surfaces after the selective removal of calculus were investigated. A complete removal of calculus was observed as well as a remaining smooth surface of irradiated cementum.

Polymer-Immobilized Photosensitizers for Continuous Eradication of Bacteria

PubMed Central

Valkov, Anton; Nakonechny, Faina; Nisnevitch, Marina

2014-01-01

The photosensitizers Rose Bengal (RB) and methylene blue (MB), when immobilized in polystyrene, were found to exhibit high antibacterial activity in a continuous regime. The photosensitizers were immobilized by dissolution in chloroform, together with polystyrene, with further evaporation of the solvent, yielding thin polymeric films. Shallow reservoirs, bottom-covered with these films, were used for constructing continuous-flow photoreactors for the eradication of Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative Escherichia coli and wastewater bacteria under illumination with visible white light using a luminescent lamp at a 1.8 mW·cm−2 fluence rate. The bacterial concentration decreased by two to five orders of magnitude in separate reactors with either immobilized RB or MB, as well as in three reactors connected in series, which contained one of the photosensitizers. Bacterial eradication reached more than five orders of magnitude in two reactors connected in series, where the first reactor contained immobilized RB and the second contained immobilized MB. PMID:25158236

UV laser-assisted wire stripping and micro-machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martyniuk, Jerry

1994-02-01

Results are reported for the use of a 266 nm frequency quadrupled Nd:YAG ultraviolet laser in the areas of wire stripping of small coaxial type transmission lines and for micro-machining of various materials including copper, glass, polyimide and DuPont TEFLONTM. This new laser is typically run with a 2 KHz repetition rate, 40 ns FWHM pulse and a fluence of about 50 joules/cm2 which makes it possible to micro-machine metals, polymers, glasses and ceramics. The high fluence of this laser allows shielding structures such as Al-MylarTM, Al-KaptonTM or the plated copper used in small coaxial cables to be precisely cut. Cut rates are reported for the above materials as well as results and photos of wire stripping and micro- machining.

Role of carotenoids in first positive phototropism of etiolated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings

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

Orbovic, V.; Poff, K.L.

1991-05-01

A mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana, chosen for is pale cotyledon phenotype in dark grown material, has been obtained from Klaus Apel (ETH-Zentrum, Zurich, Switzerland). Fluence response curves for this putative carotenoidless mutant and its wild-type parent have been measured. The shape of the fluence response curve for the pale mutant is similar to that of its wild-type parent. However, the amplitude of curvature by the mutant is considerably lower than curvature of the wild-type. If the amplitude of the curvature is enhanced with a red light pre-irradiation, peaks of the two photoreceptor pigments, P{sub I} and P{sub II} can bemore » seen in both the pale mutant and its wild-type parent. Based on these data, the authors conclude that neither photoreceptor pigment is altered in the pale mutant.« less

Effect of He implantation on the microstructure of zircaloy-4 studied using in situ TEM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tunes, M. A.; Harrison, R. W.; Greaves, G.; Hinks, J. A.; Donnelly, S. E.

2017-09-01

Zirconium alloys are of great importance to the nuclear industry as they have been widely used as cladding materials in light-water reactors since the 1960s. This work examines the behaviour of these alloys under He ion implantation for the purposes of developing understanding of the fundamental processes behind their response to irradiation. Characterization of zircaloy-4 samples using TEM with in situ 6 keV He irradiation up to a fluence of 2.7 ×1017ions ·cm-2 in the temperature range of 298 to 1148 K has been performed. Ordered arrays of He bubbles were observed at 473 and 1148 K at a fluence of 1.7 ×1017ions ·cm-2 in αZr, the hexagonal compact (HCP) and in βZr, the body centred cubic (BCC) phases, respectively. In addition, the dissolution behaviour of cubic Zr hydrides under He irradiation has been investigated.

Neutron dose per fluence and weighting factors for use at high energy accelerators

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

Cossairt, J.Donald; Vaziri, Kamran; /Fermilab

2008-07-01

In June 2007, the United States Department of Energy incorporated revised values of neutron weighting factors into its occupational radiation protection Regulation 10 CFR Part 835 as part of updating its radiation dosimetry system. This has led to a reassessment of neutron radiation fields at high energy proton accelerators such as those at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab). Values of dose per fluence factors appropriate for accelerator radiation fields calculated elsewhere are collated and radiation weighting factors compared. The results of this revision to the dosimetric system are applied to americium-beryllium neutron energy spectra commonly used for instrument calibrations.more » A set of typical accelerator neutron energy spectra previously measured at Fermilab are reassessed in light of the new dosimetry system. The implications of this revision are found to be of moderate significance.« less

Laser-enhanced high-intensity focused ultrasound heating in an in vivo small animal model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jo, Janggun; Yang, Xinmai

2016-11-01

The enhanced heating effect during the combination of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and low-optical-fluence laser illumination was investigated by using an in vivo murine animal model. The thighs of murine animals were synergistically irradiated by HIFU and pulsed nano-second laser light. The temperature increases in the target region were measured by a thermocouple under different HIFU pressures, which were 6.2, 7.9, and 9.8 MPa, in combination with 20 mJ/cm2 laser exposures at 532 nm wavelength. In comparison with conventional laser therapies, the laser fluence used here is at least one order of magnitude lower. The results showed that laser illumination could enhance temperature during HIFU applications. Additionally, cavitation activity was enhanced when laser and HIFU irradiation were concurrently used. Further, a theoretical simulation showed that the inertial cavitation threshold was indeed decreased when laser and HIFU irradiation were utilized concurrently.

LWR pressure vessel surveillance dosimetry improvement program: LWR power reactor surveillance physics-dosimetry data base compendium

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

McElroy, W.N.

1985-08-01

This NRC physics-dosimetry compendium is a collation of information and data developed from available research and commercial light water reactor vessel surveillance program (RVSP) documents and related surveillance capsule reports. The data represents the results of the HEDL least-squares FERRET-SAND II Code re-evaluation of exposure units and values for 47 PWR and BWR surveillance capsules for W, B and W, CE, and GE power plants. Using a consistent set of auxiliary data and dosimetry-adjusted reactor physics results, the revised fluence values for E > 1 MeV averaged 25% higher than the originally reported values. The range of fluence values (new/old)more » was from a low of 0.80 to a high of 2.38. These HEDL-derived FERRET-SAND II exposure parameter values are being used for NRC-supported HEDL and other PWR and BWR trend curve data development and testing studies. These studies are providing results to support Revision 2 of Regulatory Guide 1.99. As stated by Randall (Ra84), the Guide is being updated to reflect recent studies of the physical basis for neutron radiation damage and efforts to correlate damage to chemical composition and fluence.« less

Genetic separation of phototropism and blue light inhibition of stem elongation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liscum, E.; Young, J. C.; Poff, K. L.; Hangarter, R. P.

1992-01-01

Blue light-induced regulation of cell elongation is a component of the signal response pathway for both phototropic curvature and inhibition of stem elongation in higher plants. To determine if blue light regulates cell elongation in these responses through shared or discrete pathways, phototropism and hypocotyl elongation were investigated in several blue light response mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana. Specifically, the blu mutants that lack blue light-dependent inhibition of hypocotyl elongation were found to exhibit a normal phototropic response. In contrast, a phototropic null mutant (JK218) and a mutant that has a 20- to 30-fold shift in the fluence dependence for first positive phototropism (JK224) showed normal inhibition of hypocotyl elongation in blue light. F1 progeny of crosses between the blu mutants and JK218 showed normal phototropism and inhibition of hypocotyl elongation, and approximately 1 in 16 F2 progeny were double mutants lacking both responses. Thus, blue light-dependent inhibition of hypocotyl elongation and phototropism operate through at least some genetically distinct components.

Phase-controllable spin wave generation in iron garnet by linearly polarized light pulses

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

Yoshimine, Isao; Iida, Ryugo; Shimura, Tsutomu

A phase-controlled spin wave was non-thermally generated in bismuth-doped rare-earth iron garnet by linearly polarized light pulses. We controlled the initial phase of the spin wave continuously within a range of 180° by changing the polarization azimuth of the excitation light. The azimuth dependences of the initial phase and amplitude of the spin wave were attributed to a combination of the inverse Cotton-Mouton effect and photoinduced magnetic anisotropy. Temporally and spatially resolved spin wave propagation was observed with a CCD camera, and the waveform was in good agreement with calculations. A nonlinear effect of the spin excitation was observed formore » excitation fluences higher than 100 mJ/cm{sup 2}.« less

Light-stimulated cell expansion in bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) leaves. II. Quantity and quality of light required

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Van Volkenburgh, E.; Cleland, R. E.; Watanabe, M.

1990-01-01

The quantity and quality of light required for light-stimulated cell expansion in leaves of Phaseolus vulgaris L. have been determined. Seedlings were grown in dim red light (RL; 4 micromoles photons m-2 s-1) until cell division in the primary leaves was completed, then excised discs were incubated in 10 mM sucrose plus 10 mM KCl in a variety of light treatments. The growth response of discs exposed to continuous white light (WL) for 16 h was saturated at 100 micromoles m-2 s-1, and did not show reciprocity. Extensive, but not continuous, illumination was needed for maximal growth. The wavelength dependence of disc expansion was determined from fluence-response curves obtained from 380 to 730 nm provided by the Okazaki Large Spectrograph. Blue (BL; 460 nm) and red light (RL; 660 nm) were most effective in promoting leaf cell growth, both in photosynthetically active and inhibited leaf discs. Far-red light (FR; 730 nm) reduced the effectiveness of RL, but not BL, indicating that phytochrome and a separate blue-light receptor mediate expansion of leaf cells.

Transurethral light delivery for prostate photoacoustic imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lediju Bell, Muyinatu A.; Guo, Xiaoyu; Song, Danny Y.; Boctor, Emad M.

2015-03-01

Photoacoustic imaging has broad clinical potential to enhance prostate cancer detection and treatment, yet it is challenged by the lack of minimally invasive, deeply penetrating light delivery methods that provide sufficient visualization of targets (e.g., tumors, contrast agents, brachytherapy seeds). We constructed a side-firing fiber prototype for transurethral photoacoustic imaging of prostates with a dual-array (linear and curvilinear) transrectal ultrasound probe. A method to calculate the surface area and, thereby, estimate the laser fluence at this fiber tip was derived, validated, applied to various design parameters, and used as an input to three-dimensional Monte Carlo simulations. Brachytherapy seeds implanted in phantom, ex vivo, and in vivo canine prostates at radial distances of 5 to 30 mm from the urethra were imaged with the fiber prototype transmitting 1064 nm wavelength light with 2 to 8 mJ pulse energy. Prebeamformed images were displayed in real time at a rate of 3 to 5 frames per second to guide fiber placement and beamformed offline. A conventional delay-and-sum beamformer provided decreasing seed contrast (23 to 9 dB) with increasing urethra-to-target distance, while the short-lag spatial coherence beamformer provided improved and relatively constant seed contrast (28 to 32 dB) regardless of distance, thus improving multitarget visualization in single and combined curvilinear images acquired with the fiber rotating and the probe fixed. The proposed light delivery and beamforming methods promise to improve key prostate cancer detection and treatment strategies.

CO 2 laser treatment system of tinea pedis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueda, Masahiro

The CO 2 laser treatment system 'Melase 1000' has been developed for the treatment of Tinea pedis and the efficacy of the treatment using the system and its optimum irradiation condition are studied. The present system enables us to make the healing time of Tinea pedis treatment far shorter than conventional pharmaceuticals. This is in spite of using heat levels low enough for patients not to feel discomfort. Features offered by the system are a safe-and-easy operation and a stable laser power for a prolonged use. The efficacy of the present therapy is excellent; only two treatments a week for three weeks, i.e. six consecutive treatments, attained an improvement rate of 71.8% in the skin findings and a 'usefulness' of 66.2% determined from cases rated as 'useful' or 'better'. The optimum laser irradiation condition for a single treatment found in this experiment is a light fluence of about 3 J/cm 2 and four laser pulses with a time interval between pulses of 1 s for a typical horny layer thinner than 0.5 mm.

Effects of excimer laser illumination on microdrilling into an oblique polymer surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Chih-Yang; Shu, Chun-Wei; Yeh, Zhi-Chang

2006-08-01

In this work, we present the experimental results of micromachining into polymethy-methacrylate exposed to oblique KrF excimer laser beams. The results of low-aspect-ratio ablations show that the ablation rate decreases monotonously with the increase of incident angle for various fluences. The ablation rate of high-aspect-ratio drilling with opening center on the focal plane is almost independent of incident angles and is less than that of low-aspect-ratio ablation. The results of high-aspect-ratio ablations show that the openings of the holes at a distance from the focal plane are enlarged and their edges are blurred. Besides, the depth of a hole in the samples oblique to the laser beam at a distance from the focal plane decreases with the increase of the distance from the focal plane. The number of deep holes generated by oblique laser beams through a matrix of apertures decreases with the increase of incident angle. Those phenomena reveal the influence of the local light intensity on microdrilling into an oblique surface.

Ultrashort pulse laser ablation of dielectrics: Thresholds, mechanisms, role of breakdown

PubMed Central

Mirza, Inam; Bulgakova, Nadezhda M.; Tomáštík, Jan; Michálek, Václav; Haderka, Ondřej; Fekete, Ladislav; Mocek, Tomáš

2016-01-01

In this paper, we establish connections between the thresholds and mechanisms of the damage and white-light generation upon femtosecond laser irradiation of wide-bandgap transparent materials. On the example of Corning Willow glass, evolution of ablation craters, their quality, and white-light emission were studied experimentally for 130-fs, 800-nm laser pulses. The experimental results indicate co-existence of several ablation mechanisms which can be separated in time. Suppression of the phase explosion mechanism of ablation was revealed at the middle of the irradiation spots. At high laser fluences, air ionization was found to strongly influence ablation rate and quality and the main mechanisms of the influence are analysed. To gain insight into the processes triggered by laser radiation in glass, numerical simulations have been performed with accounting for the balance of laser energy absorption and its distribution/redistribution in the sample, including bremsstrahlung emission from excited free-electron plasma. The simulations have shown an insignificant role of avalanche ionization at such short durations of laser pulses while pointing to high average energy of electrons up to several dozens of eV. At multi-pulse ablation regimes, improvement of crater quality was found as compared to single/few pulses. PMID:27991543

Ultrashort pulse laser ablation of dielectrics: Thresholds, mechanisms, role of breakdown

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirza, Inam; Bulgakova, Nadezhda M.; Tomáštík, Jan; Michálek, Václav; Haderka, Ondřej; Fekete, Ladislav; Mocek, Tomáš

2016-12-01

In this paper, we establish connections between the thresholds and mechanisms of the damage and white-light generation upon femtosecond laser irradiation of wide-bandgap transparent materials. On the example of Corning Willow glass, evolution of ablation craters, their quality, and white-light emission were studied experimentally for 130-fs, 800-nm laser pulses. The experimental results indicate co-existence of several ablation mechanisms which can be separated in time. Suppression of the phase explosion mechanism of ablation was revealed at the middle of the irradiation spots. At high laser fluences, air ionization was found to strongly influence ablation rate and quality and the main mechanisms of the influence are analysed. To gain insight into the processes triggered by laser radiation in glass, numerical simulations have been performed with accounting for the balance of laser energy absorption and its distribution/redistribution in the sample, including bremsstrahlung emission from excited free-electron plasma. The simulations have shown an insignificant role of avalanche ionization at such short durations of laser pulses while pointing to high average energy of electrons up to several dozens of eV. At multi-pulse ablation regimes, improvement of crater quality was found as compared to single/few pulses.

Ultrashort pulse laser ablation of dielectrics: Thresholds, mechanisms, role of breakdown.

PubMed

Mirza, Inam; Bulgakova, Nadezhda M; Tomáštík, Jan; Michálek, Václav; Haderka, Ondřej; Fekete, Ladislav; Mocek, Tomáš

2016-12-19

In this paper, we establish connections between the thresholds and mechanisms of the damage and white-light generation upon femtosecond laser irradiation of wide-bandgap transparent materials. On the example of Corning Willow glass, evolution of ablation craters, their quality, and white-light emission were studied experimentally for 130-fs, 800-nm laser pulses. The experimental results indicate co-existence of several ablation mechanisms which can be separated in time. Suppression of the phase explosion mechanism of ablation was revealed at the middle of the irradiation spots. At high laser fluences, air ionization was found to strongly influence ablation rate and quality and the main mechanisms of the influence are analysed. To gain insight into the processes triggered by laser radiation in glass, numerical simulations have been performed with accounting for the balance of laser energy absorption and its distribution/redistribution in the sample, including bremsstrahlung emission from excited free-electron plasma. The simulations have shown an insignificant role of avalanche ionization at such short durations of laser pulses while pointing to high average energy of electrons up to several dozens of eV. At multi-pulse ablation regimes, improvement of crater quality was found as compared to single/few pulses.

A robotic multi-channel platform for interstitial photodynamic therapy

PubMed Central

Sharikova, Anna V.; Finlay, Jarod C.; Dimofte, Andreea; Zhu, Timothy C.

2015-01-01

A custom-made robotic multichannel platform for interstitial photodynamic therapy (PDT) and diffuse optical tomography (DOT) was developed and tested in a phantom experiment. The system, which was compatible with the operating room (OR) environment, had 16 channels for independent positioning of light sources and/or isotropic detectors in separate catheters. Each channel’s motor had an optical encoder for position feedback, with resolution of 1.5 mm, and a maximum speed of 5 cm/s. Automatic calibration of detector positions was implemented using an optical diode beam that defined the starting position of each motor, and by means of feedback algorithms controlling individual channels. As a result, the accuracy of zero position of 0.1 mm for all channels was achieved. We have also employed scanning procedures where detectors automatically covered the appropriate range around source positions. Thus, total scan time for a typical optical properties (OP) measurement throughout the phantom was about 1.5 minutes with point sources. The OP were determined based on the measured light fluence rates. These enhancements allow a tremendous improvement of treatment quality for a bulk tumor compared to the systems employed in previous clinical trials. PMID:25914794

Cavitation and shock waves emission on the rigid boundary of water under mid-IR nanosecond laser pulse excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pushkin, A. V.; Bychkov, A. S.; Karabutov, A. A.; Potemkin, F. V.

2018-06-01

The processes of conversion of light energy into mechanical energy under mid-IR nanosecond laser excitation on a rigid boundary of water are investigated. Strong water absorption of Q-switched Cr:Yb:Ho:YSGG (2.85 µm, 6 mJ, 45 ns) laser radiation provides rapid energy deposition of ~8 kJ cm‑3 accompanied with strong mechanical transients. The evolution of shock waves and cavitation bubbles is studied using the technique of shadowgraphy and acoustic measurements, and the conversion efficiency into these energy channels for various laser fluence (0.75–2.0 J cm‑2) is calculated. For 6 mJ laser pulse with fluence of 2.0 J cm‑2, the conversion into shock wave energy reaches 67%. The major part of the shock wave energy (92%) is dissipated when the shock front travels the first 250 µm, and the remaining 8% is transferred to the acoustic far field. The calculated pressure in the vicinity of water-silicon interface is 0.9 GPa. Cavitation efficiency is significantly less and reaches up to 5% of the light energy. The results of the current study could be used in laser parameters optimization for micromachining and biological tissue ablation.

Polarization and fluence effects in femtosecond laser induced micro/nano structures on stainless steel with antireflection property

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Caizhen; Ye, Yayun; Jia, Baoshen; Li, Yuan; Ding, Renjie; Jiang, Yong; Wang, Yuxin; Yuan, Xiaodong

2017-12-01

In this paper, micro/nano structures on stainless steel were prepared in single spot irradiation mode and scan mode by using femtosecond laser technique. The influence of polarization and fluence on the formation of micro/nano structures were explored. Surface morphology, microstructure, roughness and composition of prepared samples were characterized. The antireflection property and wettability of laser treated samples were also tested and compared with that of original stainless steel.Results showed that the laser-induced spot consists of two distinct regions due to the Gaussian beam profile: a core region of moth-eye-like structure and a peripheral region of nanoparticles-covered laser-induced periodic surface structure (NC-LIPSS). The proportion of the core region and dimension of micro/nano structure increase with increasing laser fluence. Polarization can be used to tune the direction of NC-LIPSS. Atomic ratios of Cr and Mn increase and atomic ratio of Ni decreases after laser irradiation. Oxygen is not detected on laser irradiated samples, indicating that oxidation reactions are not significant during the interaction process between femtosecond laser and 304 stainless steel. These are good for the application of stainless steel as its physical properties would not change or even enhanced. The overlaps between two laser scan lines significantly influence the surface roughness and should be controlled carefully during the preparation process. The laser irradiated surface has a better antireflection property in comparison with that of original stainless steel, which may due to the scattering and absorption of micro/nano structures. Contact angle of micro/nano structured stainless steel decreases with the increase of laser fluence. The hydrophilic property can be explained by Wenzel's model. The interference between the surface plasmon wave and the incident light wave leads to the formation of NC-LIPSS.

Protective Effect of 940 nm Laser on Gamma-Irradiated Mice

PubMed Central

Efremova, Yulia; Navratil, Leos

2015-01-01

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the radioprotective features of 940 nm laser on the life span of mice, and absolute counts of blood cells and their proportions in gamma-irradiated mice. Background data: An important feature of laser light is activation of mitotic division and differentiation of cells, which may be useful in activation of hematopoiesis in gamma-irradiated organisms. Materials and methods: Mice were randomly assigned to 11 groups according to the type(s) of influence. Generally, mice were irradiated in three different ways: with laser at different fluences, with gamma irradiation, or by combination of laser at different fluences and gamma irradiation in a different order. Mice were treated with 940 nm laser at 3, 12, or 18 J/cm2 and/or a lethal dose of gamma irradiation (8.7 Gy). Each group was randomly subdivided into two subgroups, in which the life span of the mice and blood cell counts (on 12th and 45th day after gamma irradiation) were analyzed. Results: Laser (940 nm) at a fluence of 3 J/cm2 significantly prolonged the life span of gamma-irradiated mice (p<0.05). In the same group, counts of white blood cells, lymphocytes, and neutrophils were higher on day 12 than in the gamma group. On day 45 after gamma irradiation, some signs of hematopoiesis repair were found in blood. There were no significant differences in counts of erythrocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, or the proportion of neutrophils between this group and the control group. Conclusions: In summary, 940 nm laser at a fluence of 3 J/cm2 demonstrates radioprotective features in an experiment with lethally irradiated mice. Mechanisms responsible for this effect will be investigated in further studies. PMID:25654740

Neutron activation measurements over an extremely wide dynamic range (invited) (abstract)

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

Barnes, C.W.

1997-01-01

The DT program at the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR) created requirements on 14 MeV neutron measurements to measure from 10{sup 6} n/cm{sup 2} (for triton burnup and Ohmic tritium plasmas) to {gt}10{sup 12} n/cm{sup 2} (characteristic of {gt}10 MW DT plasmas) with an accuracy of 7% (one-sigma).1 To maintain an absolute calibration over this dynamic range with active neutron detectors required one to go from some absolute standard at one fluence level to a measurement at a much higher fluence. Maintaining accuracy requires an extremely linear set of measurements not systematically affected over this dynamic range. Neutron activation canmore » provide such linearity when care is taken with a number of effects such as gamma-ray detection efficiency and sample contamination.2 Absolutely calibrated neutron yield measurements using dosimetric (well-known cross section) reactions with thin (low-mass) elemental foils is be described. This technique makes the detector comparison to an absolute standard of gamma-ray activity correspond to all neutron fluences by reducing the sample mass while keeping the activation detectors operating in a linear counting mode; i.e., low count rates which minimize pileup effects. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor is projected to have 1000 s burn durations at fluxes of few 10{sup 13} n/cm{sup 2}s, or more neutron fluence {ital per second} than entire TFTR discharges. Extrapolating neutron activation to these higher fluences will require yet more care. Some of the issues at such high fluences will be discussed.3 The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is projected to yield 10 MJ of fusion energy, or up to 10{sup 12} n/cm{sup 2} at the vacuum vessel wall, similar to TFTR DT conditions. It is expected that much interesting physics will be performed at yields far less than those from ignition, covering an even greater dynamic range than needed on TFTR. Thin foil techniques do not have the sensitivity required at low fluences.« less

Studies of vascular acting photosensitizer Tookad for the photodynamic therapy of prostate cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Zheng; Chen, Qun; Blanc, Dominique; Hetzel, Fred W.

2005-01-01

In this pre-clinical study, photodynamic therapy (PDT) mediated with a vascular acting photosensitizer Tookad (palladium-bacteriopheophorbide) is investigated as an alternative treatment modality for the ablation of prostate cancer. Canine prostate was used as the animal model. PDT was performed by interstitially irradiating the surgically exposed prostates with a diode laser (763 nm) to activate the IV infused photosensitizer. The effects of drug dose, drug-light interval, and light fluence rate on PDT efficacy were evaluated. The prostates and adjacent tissues were harvested at one-week post PDT and subjected to histopathological examination. The dogs recovered well with little or no urethral complications. Urinalysis showed trace blood. Histological examination showed minimal damage to the prostatic urethra. These indicated that the urethra was well preserved. PDT induced prostate lesions were characterized by marked hemorrhagic necrosis with a clear demarcation. Maximum lesion volume of ~3 cm3 could be achieved with a single 1-cm diffuser fiber at a dose level of 1 mg/kg and 200 J/cm, suggesting the therapy is very effective in ablating prostatic tissue. PDT induced lesion could reach the capsule layers but adjacent tissues were well preserved. The novel photosensitizer is a vascular drug and cleared rapidly from the circulation. Light irradiation can be performed during drug infusion thereby eliminating waiting time. The novel vascular acting photosensitizer Tookad-mediated PDT could provide an effective alternative to treat prostate cancer.

An assessment of a 3D EPID-based dosimetry system using conventional two- and three-dimensional detectors for VMAT.

PubMed

Stevens, S; Dvorak, P; Spevacek, V; Pilarova, K; Bray-Parry, M; Gesner, J; Richmond, A

2018-01-01

To provide a 3D dosimetric evaluation of a commercial portal dosimetry system using 2D/3D detectors under ideal conditions using VMAT. A 2D ion chamber array, radiochromic film and gel dosimeter were utilised to provide a dosimetric evaluation of transit phantom and pre-treatment 'fluence' EPID back-projected dose distributions for a standard VMAT plan. In-house 2D and 3D gamma methods compared pass statistics relative to each dosimeter and TPS dose distributions. Fluence mode and transit EPID dose distributions back-projected onto phantom geometry produced 2D gamma pass rates in excess of 97% relative to other tested detectors and exported TPS dose planes when a 3%, 3 mm global gamma criterion was applied. Use of a gel dosimeter within a glass vial allowed comparison of measured 3D dose distributions versus EPID 3D dose and TPS calculated distributions. 3D gamma comparisons between modalities at 3%, 3 mm gave pass rates in excess of 92%. Use of fluence mode was indicative of transit results under ideal conditions with slightly reduced dose definition. 3D EPID back projected dose distributions were validated against detectors in both 2D and 3D. Cross validation of transit dose delivered to a patient is limited due to reasons of practicality and the tests presented are recommended as a guideline for 3D EPID dosimetry commissioning; allowing direct comparison between detector, TPS, fluence and transit modes. The results indicate achievable gamma scores for a complex VMAT plan in a homogenous phantom geometry and contributes to growing experience of 3D EPID dosimetry. Copyright © 2017 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Measurements of the reverse current of highly irradiated silicon sensors to determine the effective energy and current related damage rate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiehe, Moritz; Wonsak, S.; Kuehn, S.; Parzefall, U.; Casse, G.

2018-01-01

The reverse current of irradiated silicon sensors leads to self heating of the sensor and degrades the signal to noise ratio of a detector. Precise knowledge of the expected reverse current during detector operation is crucial for planning and running experiments in High Energy Physics. The dependence of the reverse current on sensor temperature and irradiation fluence is parametrized by the effective energy and the current related damage rate, respectively. In this study 18 n-in-p mini silicon strip sensors from companies Hamamatsu Photonics and Micron Semiconductor Ltd. were deployed. Measurements of the reverse current for different bias voltages were performed at temperatures of -32 ° C, -27 ° C and -23 ° C. The sensors were irradiated with reactor neutrons in Ljubljana to fluences ranging from 2 × 1014neq /cm2 to 2 × 1016neq /cm2. The measurements were performed directly after irradiation and after 10 and 30 days of room temperature annealing. The aim of the study presented in this paper is to investigate the reverse current of silicon sensors for high fluences of up to 2 × 1016neq /cm2 and compare the measurements to the parametrization models.

Characterization of the graphite pile as a source of thermal neutrons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vykydal, Zdenek; Králík, Miloslav; Jančář, Aleš; Kopecký, Zdeněk; Dressler, Jan; Veškrna, Martin

2015-11-01

A new graphite pile designed to serve as a standard source of thermal neutrons has been built at the Czech Metrology Institute. Actual dimensions of the pile are 1.95 m (W)×1.95 m (L)×2.0 m (H). At its center, there is a measurement channel whose dimensions are 0.4 m×0.4 m×1.25 m (depth). The channel is equipped with a calibration bench, which allows reproducible placement of the tested/calibrated device. At a distance of 80 cm from the channel axis, six holes are symmetrically located allowing the placement of radionuclide neutron sources of Pu-Be and/or Am-Be type. Spatial distribution of thermal neutron fluence in the cavity was calculated in detail with the MCNP neutron transport code. Experimentally, it was measured with two active detectors: a small 3He proportional detector by the French company LMT, type 0.5 NH 1/1 KF, and a silicon pixel detector Timepix with 10B converter foil. The relative values of thermal neutron fluence rate obtained with active detectors were converted to absolute ones using thermal neutron fluence rates measured by means of gold foil activation. The quality of thermal neutron field was characterized by the cadmium ratio.

Optimization of irradiation conditions for {sup 177}Lu production at the LVR-15 research reactor

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

Lahodova, Z.; Viererbl, L.; Klupak, V.

2012-07-01

The use of lutetium in medicine has been increasing over the last few years. The {sup 177}Lu radionuclide is commercially available for research and test purposes as a diagnostic and radiotherapy agent in the treatment of several malignant tumours. The yield of {sup 177}Lu from the {sup 176}Lu(n,{gamma}){sup 177}Lu nuclear reaction depends significantly on the thermal neutron fluence rate. The capture cross-sections of both reaction {sup 176}Lu(n,{gamma}){sup 177}Lu and reaction {sup 177}Lu(n,{gamma}){sup 178}Lu are very high. Therefore a burn-up of target and product nuclides should be taken into account when calculating {sup 177}Lu activity. The maximum irradiation time, when themore » activity of the {sup 177}Lu radionuclide begins to decline, was found for different fluence rates. Two vertical irradiation channels at the LVR-15 nuclear research reactor were compared in order to choose the channel with better irradiation conditions, such as a higher thermal neutron fluence rate in the irradiation volume. In this experiment, lutetium was irradiated in a titanium capsule. The influence of the Ti capsule on the neutron spectrum was monitored using activation detectors. The choice of detectors was based on requirements for irradiation time and accurate determination of thermal neutrons. The following activation detectors were selected for measurement of the neutron spectrum: Ti, Fe, Ni, Co, Ag and W. (authors)« less

A temporal forecast of radiation environments for future space exploration missions.

PubMed

Kim, Myung-Hee Y; Cucinotta, Francis A; Wilson, John W

2007-06-01

The understanding of future space radiation environments is an important goal for space mission operations, design, and risk assessment. We have developed a solar cycle statistical model in which sunspot number is coupled to space-related quantities, such as the galactic cosmic radiation (GCR) deceleration potential (phi) and the mean occurrence frequency of solar particle events (SPEs). Future GCR fluxes were derived from a predictive model, in which the temporal dependence represented by phi was derived from GCR flux and ground-based Climax neutron monitor rate measurements over the last four decades. These results showed that the point dose equivalent inside a typical spacecraft in interplanetary space was influenced by solar modulation by up to a factor of three. It also has been shown that a strong relationship exists between large SPE occurrences and phi. For future space exploration missions, cumulative probabilities of SPEs at various integral fluence levels during short-period missions were defined using a database of proton fluences of past SPEs. Analytic energy spectra of SPEs at different ranks of the integral fluences for energies greater than 30 MeV were constructed over broad energy ranges extending out to GeV for the analysis of representative exposure levels at those fluences. Results will guide the design of protection systems for astronauts during future space exploration missions.

Retrospective analysis of melasma treatment using a dual mode of low-fluence Q-switched and long-pulse Nd:YAG laser vs. low-fluence Q-switched Nd:YAG laser monotherapy.

PubMed

Choi, Chun Pil; Yim, Seon Mi; Seo, Soo Hong; Ahn, Hyo Hyun; Kye, Young Chul; Choi, Jae Eun

2015-02-01

Despite the effectiveness of low-fluence Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (QSNY) treatment in melasma, adverse events, including mottled hypopigmentation (MH) and rebound hyperpigmentation (RH) have been reported. To compare the effectiveness and safety of combination therapy using low-fluence QSNY and long-pulse Nd:YAG laser (LPNY) (Dual toning), with low-fluence QSNY monotherapy (QS toning), in Asian melasma patients. Patients were treated for 10 sessions at 1-week intervals with QSNY (6 mm spot); 2.5-3.0 J/cm(2) for QS toning (n = 177) or 2.1-2.5 J/cm(2) for dual toning (n = 183). The dual toning group was immediately treated with LPNY (7 mm spot, 15-17 J/cm(2)). The results were evaluated using the modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) score and the physician's global assessment. MH or RH were significantly lower (1.1% vs. 14.1%) and the treatment efficacy was improved (median decrease of mMASI, 3.6 vs. 3.0) in the dual toning group compared with the QS toning group. Periorbital melasma showed distinctively high rates of adverse events in the QS toning group (23.9% vs. 5.7%), which were significantly reduced in the dual toning group (2.9%). Dual toning could represent a safe and effective treatment for Asian melasma patients, as it is associated with minimal adverse events and improved treatment efficacy compared with QS toning monotherapy.

Statistical Prediction of Solar Particle Event Frequency based on the Measurements of Recent Solar Cycles for Acute Radiation Risk Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, M. Y.; Hu, S.; Cucinotta, F. A.

2009-12-01

Large solar particle events (SPEs) present significant acute radiation risks to the crew members during extra-vehicular activities (EVAs) or in lightly shielded space vehicles for space missions beyond the protection of the Earth’s magnetic field. Acute radiation sickness (ARS) can impair performance and result in failure of the mission. Improved forecasting capability and/or early-warning systems and proper shielding solutions are required to stay within NASA’s short-term dose limits. Exactly how to make use of observations of SPEs for predicting occurrence and size is a great challenge, because SPE occurrences themselves are random in nature even though the expected frequency of SPEs is strongly influenced by the time position within the solar activity cycle. Therefore, we developed a probabilistic model approach, where a cumulative expected occurrence curve of SPEs for a typical solar cycle was formed from a non-homogeneous Poisson process model fitted to a database of proton fluence measurements of SPEs that occurred during the past 5 solar cycles (19 -23) and those of large SPEs identified from impulsive nitrate enhancements in polar ice. From the fitted model, the expected frequency of SPEs was estimated at any given proton fluence threshold (ΦE) with energy (E) >30 MeV during a defined space mission period. Corresponding ΦE (E=30, 60, and 100 MeV) fluence distributions were simulated with a random draw from a gamma distribution, and applied for SPE ARS risk analysis for a specific mission period. It has been found that the accurate prediction of deep-seated organ doses was more precisely predicted at high energies, Φ100, than at lower energies such as Φ30 or Φ60, because of the high penetration depth of high energy protons. Estimates of ARS are then described for 90th and 95th percentile events for several mission lengths and for several likely organ dose-rates. The ability to accurately measure high energy protons (50-300 MeV) in real-time is shown to be a crucial issue for crew protection.

Statistical Prediction of Solar Particle Event Frequency Based on the Measurements of Recent Solar Cycles for Acute Radiation Risk Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myung-Hee, Y. Kim; Shaowen, Hu; Cucinotta, Francis A.

2009-01-01

Large solar particle events (SPEs) present significant acute radiation risks to the crew members during extra-vehicular activities (EVAs) or in lightly shielded space vehicles for space missions beyond the protection of the Earth's magnetic field. Acute radiation sickness (ARS) can impair performance and result in failure of the mission. Improved forecasting capability and/or early-warning systems and proper shielding solutions are required to stay within NASA's short-term dose limits. Exactly how to make use of observations of SPEs for predicting occurrence and size is a great challenge, because SPE occurrences themselves are random in nature even though the expected frequency of SPEs is strongly influenced by the time position within the solar activity cycle. Therefore, we developed a probabilistic model approach, where a cumulative expected occurrence curve of SPEs for a typical solar cycle was formed from a non-homogeneous Poisson process model fitted to a database of proton fluence measurements of SPEs that occurred during the past 5 solar cycles (19 - 23) and those of large SPEs identified from impulsive nitrate enhancements in polar ice. From the fitted model, the expected frequency of SPEs was estimated at any given proton fluence threshold (Phi(sub E)) with energy (E) >30 MeV during a defined space mission period. Corresponding Phi(sub E) (E=30, 60, and 100 MeV) fluence distributions were simulated with a random draw from a gamma distribution, and applied for SPE ARS risk analysis for a specific mission period. It has been found that the accurate prediction of deep-seated organ doses was more precisely predicted at high energies, Phi(sub 100), than at lower energies such as Phi(sub 30) or Phi(sub 60), because of the high penetration depth of high energy protons. Estimates of ARS are then described for 90th and 95th percentile events for several mission lengths and for several likely organ dose-rates. The ability to accurately measure high energy protons (50-300 MeV) in real-time is shown to be a crucial issue for crew protection.

Quantitative fluorescence measurements performed on typical matrix molecules in matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allwood, D. A.; Dyer, P. E.

2000-11-01

Fundamental photophysical parameters have been determined for several molecules that are commonly used as matrices, e.g. ferulic acid, within matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. Fluorescence quantum efficiencies ( φqe), singlet decay rates ( kl), vibrationless ground-singlet transition energies and average fluorescence wavelengths have been obtained from solid and solution samples by quantitative optical measurements. This new data will assist in modelling calculations of MALDI processes and in highlighting desirable characteristics of MALDI matrices. φqe may be as high as 0.59 whilst the radiative decay rate ( kf) appears to be within the (0.8-4)×10 8 s -1 range. Interestingly, α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid (α-CHC) has a very low φqe and fast non-radiative decay rate which would imply a rapid and efficient thermalisation of electronic excitation. This is in keeping with observations that α-CHC exhibits low threshold fluences for ion detection and the low fluences at which α-CHC tends to fragment.

SiC vs. Si for High Radiation Environments: NASA Electronic Parts and Packaging (NEPP) Program Office of Safety and Mission Assurance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harris, Richard D.

2008-01-01

Commercial silicon carbide and silicon Schottky barrier power diodes have been subjected to 203 MeV proton irradiation and the effects of the resultant displacement damage on the I-V characteristics have been observed. Changes in forward bias I-V characteristics are reported for fluences up to 4 x 10(exp 14) p/cm2. For devices of both material types, the series resistance is observed to increase as the fluence increases. The changes in series resistance result from changes in the free carrier concentration due to carrier removal by the defects produced. A simple model is presented that allows calculation of the series resistance of the device and then relates the carrier removal rate to the changes in series resistance. Using this model to calculate the carrier removal rate in both materials reveals that the carrier removal rate in silicon is less than that in silicon carbide, indicating that silicon is the more radiation tolerant material.

Measurement of X-ray intensity in mammography by a ferroelectric dosimeter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alter, Albert J.

2005-07-01

Each year in the US over 20 million women undergo mammography, a relatively high dose x-ray examination of the breast, which is relatively sensitive to the carcinogenic effect of ionizing radiation. The radiation risk from mammography is usually expressed in terms of mean glandular dose (MGD) which is calculated as the product of measured entrance exposure (ESE) and a dose conversion factor which is a function of anode material, peak tube voltage (23 to 35 kVp), half-value layer, filtration, compressed breast thickness and breast composition. Mammographic units may have anodes made of molybdenum, rhodium or tungsten and filters of molybdenum, rhodium, or aluminum. In order to accommodate all these parameters, multiple extensive tables of conversion factors are required to cover the range of possibilities. Energy fluence and energy imparted are alternative measures of radiation hazard, which have been used in situations where geometry or filtration is unconventional such as computed tomography or fluoroscopy. Unfortunately, at the present there is no way to directly measure these quantities clinically. In radiation therapy applications, calorimetry has been used to measure energy absorbed. A ferroelectric-based detector has been described that measures energy fluence rate (x-ray intensity) for diagnostic x-ray, 50 to 140 kVp, aluminum filtered tungsten spectrum [Carvalho & Alter: IEEE Transactions 44(6) 1997]. This work explores use of ferroelectric detectors to measure energy fluence, energy fluence rate and energy imparted in mammography. A detector interfaced with a laptop computer was developed to allow measurements on clinical units of five different manufactures having targets of molybdenum, rhodium and tungsten and filters of molybdenum, rhodium, and aluminum of various thicknesses. The measurements provide the first values of energy fluence and energy imparted in mammography. These measurements are compared with conventional parameters such as entrance exposure and mean glandular dose as well as published values of energy imparted for other types of x-ray examinations. Advantage of measuring dose in terms of energy imparted in mammography are simplicity of comparison with other sources of radiation exposure and potential (relative ease) of measurement across a variety of anode and filter combinations.

Validation of a method for in vivo 3D dose reconstruction for IMRT and VMAT treatments using on-treatment EPID images and a model-based forward-calculation algorithm

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

Van Uytven, Eric, E-mail: eric.vanuytven@cancercare.mb.ca; Van Beek, Timothy; McCowan, Peter M.

2015-12-15

Purpose: Radiation treatments are trending toward delivering higher doses per fraction under stereotactic radiosurgery and hypofractionated treatment regimens. There is a need for accurate 3D in vivo patient dose verification using electronic portal imaging device (EPID) measurements. This work presents a model-based technique to compute full three-dimensional patient dose reconstructed from on-treatment EPID portal images (i.e., transmission images). Methods: EPID dose is converted to incident fluence entering the patient using a series of steps which include converting measured EPID dose to fluence at the detector plane and then back-projecting the primary source component of the EPID fluence upstream of themore » patient. Incident fluence is then recombined with predicted extra-focal fluence and used to calculate 3D patient dose via a collapsed-cone convolution method. This method is implemented in an iterative manner, although in practice it provides accurate results in a single iteration. The robustness of the dose reconstruction technique is demonstrated with several simple slab phantom and nine anthropomorphic phantom cases. Prostate, head and neck, and lung treatments are all included as well as a range of delivery techniques including VMAT and dynamic intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Results: Results indicate that the patient dose reconstruction algorithm compares well with treatment planning system computed doses for controlled test situations. For simple phantom and square field tests, agreement was excellent with a 2%/2 mm 3D chi pass rate ≥98.9%. On anthropomorphic phantoms, the 2%/2 mm 3D chi pass rates ranged from 79.9% to 99.9% in the planning target volume (PTV) region and 96.5% to 100% in the low dose region (>20% of prescription, excluding PTV and skin build-up region). Conclusions: An algorithm to reconstruct delivered patient 3D doses from EPID exit dosimetry measurements was presented. The method was applied to phantom and patient data sets, as well as for dynamic IMRT and VMAT delivery techniques. Results indicate that the EPID dose reconstruction algorithm presented in this work is suitable for clinical implementation.« less

Construction of monoenergetic neutron calibration fields using 45Sc(p, n)45Ti reaction at JAEA.

PubMed

Tanimura, Y; Saegusa, J; Shikaze, Y; Tsutsumi, M; Shimizu, S; Yoshizawa, M

2007-01-01

The 8 and 27 keV monoenergetic neutron calibration fields have been developed by using (45)Sc(p, n)(45)Ti reaction. Protons from a 4-MV Pelletron accelerator are used to bombard a thin scandium target evaporated onto a platinum disc. The proton energies are finely adjusted to the resonance to generate the 8 and 27 keV neutrons by applying a high voltage to the target assemblies. The neutron energies were measured using the time-of-flight method with a lithium glass scintillation detector. The neutron fluences at a calibration point located at 50 cm from the target were evaluated using Bonner spheres. A long counter was placed at 2.2 m from the target and at 60 degrees to the direction of the proton beam in order to monitor the fluence at the calibration point. Fluence and dose equivalent rates at the calibration point are sufficient to calibrate many types of the neutron survey metres.

Fricke-gel dosimetry in epithermal or thermal neutron beams of a research reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gambarini, G.; Artuso, E.; Giove, D.; Volpe, L.; Agosteo, S.; Barcaglioni, L.; Campi, F.; Garlati, L.; Pola, A.; Durisi, E.; Borroni, M.; Carrara, M.; Klupak, V.; Marek, M.; Viererbl, L.; Vins, M.; d'Errico, F.

2015-11-01

Fricke-xylenol-orange gel has shown noticeable potentiality for in-phantom dosimetry in epithermal or thermal neutron fields with very high fluence rate, as those characteristic of nuclear research reactors. Fricke gels in form of layers give the possibility of achieving spatial distribution of gamma dose, fast neutron dose and dose due to charged particles generated by thermal neutron reactions. The thermal neutron fluence has been deduced from the dose coming from the charge particles emitted by neutron reactions with the isotope 10B. Some measurements have been performed for improving the information on the relative sensitivity of Fricke gel dosimeters to the particles produced by 10B reactions, because at present the precision of dose evaluations is limited by the scanty knowledge about the dependence of the dosimeter sensitivity on the radiation LET. For in-air measurements, the dosimeter material can produce an enhancement of thermal neutron fluence. Measurements and Monte Carlo calculations have been developed to investigate the importance of this effect.

Fundamental studies of MALDI with an orthogonal TOF mass spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiao, Hui

The interaction between the matrix and analyte molecules are studied with a high resolution MALDI imaging technique in an orthogonal-injection time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometer. The analyte incorporation and distribution patterns have been clearly demonstrated. Purified protein analytes were found to be homogeneously incorporated in large single crystals of DHB and sinapinic acid matrices, with no evidence for preferred crystal faces. Segregation of some species was observed and appeared to correlate with analyte hydrophobicity, and to a lesser extent analyte mass or mobility. Similar segregation phenomena were observed with confocal laser scanning microscopy of the same analytes labeled with fluorescent dyes in 2,5-DHB single crystals. The above investigations may shed some light on optimizing sample preparation with different matrices. The influence of incident laser parameters on sensitivity in MALDI has been investigated using orthogonal-injection TOF instruments. A qualitative comparison was first made between the beam profiles obtained with a N 2 laser and a Nd:YAG laser using 2-m long optical fibers. The N 2 laser gives better sensitivity, consistent with a more uniform fluence distribution and therefore better coverage of the N2 laser profile. Most of the difference disappears when a 30-m long fiber is used or when the fibers are twisted during irradiation to smooth out the fluence distribution. In more systematic measurements, the total integrated ion yield from a single spot (a measure of sensitivity) was found to increase rapidly with fluence to a maximum, and then saturate or decrease slightly. Thus, the optimum sensitivity is achieved at high fluence. For a fluence near threshold, the integrated yield has a steep (cubic) dependence on the spot size, but the yield saturates at higher fluence for smaller spots. The area dependence is much weaker (close to linear) for fluence values above saturation, with the result that the highest integrated yields per unit area are obtained with the smallest spot sizes. The results have particular relevance for imaging MALDI, where sensitivity and spatial resolution are important figures of merit. Finally the detection properties of the MCP detector were studied with a hybrid MCP and CuBe venetian blind converter detector. The measurements show that the detection efficiency of the MCP drops with the increasing of ion mass and the decreasing of the ion energy. For transferrin (79,500 Da), the relative detection efficiency of the MCP is about 40% at 10.6 keV and it decreases to about 5% at 4.6 keV. The secondary electron emission coefficient of the MCP shows a linear dependence on mass and a power law dependence on velocity (˜3.2). No clear velocity threshold is observed for secondary electron emission.

Role of cloned carotenoid genes expressed in Escherichia coli in protecting against inactivation by near-UV light and specific phototoxic molecules

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

Tuveson, R.W.; Larson, R.A.; Kagan, J.

1988-10-01

Genes controlling carotenoid synthesis were cloned from Erwinia herbicola and expressed in an Escherichia coli strain. Carotenoids protect against high fluences of near-UV (NUV; 320 to 400 nm) but not against far-UV (200-300 nm). Protection of E. coli cells was not observed following treatment with either psoralen or 8-methoxypsoralen plus NUV. However, significant protection of cells producing carotenoids was observed with three photosensitizing molecules activated by NUV (alpha-terthienyl, harmine, and phenylheptatriyne) which are thought to have the membrane as an important lethal target. Protection of carotenoid-producing cells against inactivation was not observed with acridine orange plus visible light but wasmore » seen with toluidine blue O plus visible light.« less

Role of cloned carotenoid genes expressed in Escherichia coli in protecting against inactivation by near-UV light and specific phototoxic molecules.

PubMed Central

Tuveson, R W; Larson, R A; Kagan, J

1988-01-01

Genes controlling carotenoid synthesis were cloned from Erwinia herbicola and expressed in an Escherichia coli strain. Carotenoids protect against high fluences of near-UV (NUV; 320 to 400 nm) but not against far-UV (200-300 nm). Protection of E. coli cells was not observed following treatment with either psoralen or 8-methoxypsoralen plus NUV. However, significant protection of cells producing carotenoids was observed with three photosensitizing molecules activated by NUV (alpha-terthienyl, harmine, and phenylheptatriyne) which are thought to have the membrane as an important lethal target. Protection of carotenoid-producing cells against inactivation was not observed with acridine orange plus visible light but was seen with toluidine blue O plus visible light. PMID:3049544

An investigation into the inhibitory effect of ultraviolet radiation on Trichophyton rubrum.

PubMed

Cronin, Leah J; Mildren, Richard P; Moffitt, Michelle; Lauto, Antonio; Morton, C Oliver; Stack, Colin M

2014-01-01

Fungal infection of nails, onychomycosis, is predominantly caused by Trichophyton rubrum. This infection is an important public health concern due to its persistent nature and high recurrence rates. Alternative treatments are urgently required. One such alternative is phototherapy involving the action of photothermal or photochemical processes. The aim of this novel study was to assess which wavelengths within the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum were inhibitory and equally important nail transmissible. Initial irradiations of T. rubrum spore suspensions were carried out using a tunable wavelength lamp system (fluence ≤3.1 J/cm(2)) at wavelengths between 280 and 400 nm (UVC to UVA) to evaluate which wavelengths prevented fungal growth. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) of defined wavelengths were subsequently chosen with a view to evaluate and potentially implement this technology as a low-cost "in-home" treatment. Our experiments demonstrated that exposure at 280 nm using an LED with a fluence as low as 0.5 J/cm(2) was inhibitory, i.e., no growth following a 2-week incubation (p < 0.05; one-way ANOVA), while exposure to longer wavelengths was not. A key requirement for the use of phototherapy in the treatment of onychomycosis is that it must be nail transmissible. Our results indicate that the treatment with UVC is not feasible given that there is no overlap between the antifungal activity observed at 280 nm and transmission through the nail plate. However, a potential indirect application of this technology could be the decontamination of reservoirs of infection such as the shoes of infected individuals, thus preventing reinfection.

Treatment of port-wine stains with a noncoherent pulsed light source: a retrospective study.

PubMed

Raulin, C; Schroeter, C A; Weiss, R A; Keiner, M; Werner, S

1999-06-01

We investigated whether a noncoherent intense pulsed light source (IPLS) would be effective in therapy of port-wine stains (PWSs). To evaluate the efficacy in treatment of PWSs with IPLS, a retrospective study was initiated. The data were collected by physicians working in private practices and departments of university hospitals and medical centers, respectively. A total of 37 randomly selected patients with a total of 40 PWSs were included in the study. Clinical PWS characteristics recorded were color and location of the PWS. All patients were treated with IPLS. Data collected included treatment parameter (filters, pulse duration, fluence, and pulse sequencing), percentage of clearance, and side effects (purpura, blisters, crusting, altered pigmentation, and scarring). Good and complete (70%-100%) clearance was achieved in 28 of 40 PWSs treated with IPLS. The average number of treatment sessions in PWSs reaching 100% clearance included 4.0 for pink PWSs and 1.5 for red PWSs. The average number of sessions for purple PWSs reaching good clearance (70%-99%) was 4.2 sessions. Parameters used most frequently were 515- and 550-nm cut-off filters, pulse duration of 2.5 to 5.0 milliseconds, and fluences of 24 to 60 J/cm2. Side effects included purpura in 133 (76%), superficial blisters in 14 (8%), and crusting in 35 (20%). Transient pigmentation changes were seen in 10.8% of patients (hypopigmentation in 3 [8.1%], hyperpigmentation in 1 [2.7%]). No scarring was observed. Intense pulsed light source presents an effective and safe method for treating PWSs, especially purple PWSs.

Comparative effects of exposure to different light sources (He-Ne laser, InGaAl diode laser, a specific type of noncoherent LED) on skin blood flow for the head.

PubMed

Pöntinen, P J; Aaltokallio, T; Kolari, P J

1996-01-01

This study assessed the effects of optic stimuli emitted by three different light sources on head skin blood flow. The irradiation effects of the He-Ne laser (632.8 nm, 10 mW, total energy appr. 9.4 J), the InGaAl diode laser (670 nm, 60 mW, appr. 108 J) and monochromatic light (635 nm, 112.5 mW, appr. 202.5 J) were measured using laser Doppler technology. The corresponding fluences (energy densities) varied from 0.01 J/cm2 (He-Ne) to a range of 0.12-0.72 J/cm2 (InGaAl) and 0.22-1.36 J/cm2 (LED). The investigation was completed under single-blind, placebo-controlled conditions where the subjects (10 male healthy volunteers) were exposed on two occasions to the placebo (LED)-device against the laser (He-Ne or InGaAl). A short lasting vasodilation, a 54 per cent increase (p < 0.05) in skin blood flow was seen after the InGaAl irradiation (fluences between 0.12-0.36 J/cm2) whereas the non-coherent monochromatic irradiation (0.68-1.36 J/cm2) used in this particular study decreased blood flow by 36 per cent (p < 0.05). The He-Ne irradiation (0.01 J/cm2) had no effect. Skin temperature changes were insignificant. Skin blood flow changes seemed to be related more on radiant exposures then coherency.

Saturable Absorption in 2D Ti3 C2 MXene Thin Films for Passive Photonic Diodes.

PubMed

Dong, Yongchang; Chertopalov, Sergii; Maleski, Kathleen; Anasori, Babak; Hu, Longyu; Bhattacharya, Sriparna; Rao, Apparao M; Gogotsi, Yury; Mochalin, Vadym N; Podila, Ramakrishna

2018-03-01

MXenes comprise a new class of 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides that exhibit unique light-matter interactions. Recently, 2D Ti 3 CNT x (T x represents functional groups such as OH and F) was found to exhibit nonlinear saturable absorption (SA) or increased transmittance at higher light fluences, which is useful for mode locking in fiber-based femtosecond lasers. However, the fundamental origin and thickness dependence of SA behavior in MXenes remain to be understood. 2D Ti 3 C 2 T x thin films of different thicknesses are fabricated using an interfacial film formation technique to systematically study their nonlinear optical properties. Using the open aperture Z-scan method, it is found that the SA behavior in Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene arises from plasmon-induced increase in the ground state absorption at photon energies above the threshold for free carrier oscillations. The saturation fluence and modulation depth of Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene is observed to be dependent on the film thickness. Unlike other 2D materials, Ti 3 C 2 T x is found to show higher threshold for light-induced damage with up to 50% increase in nonlinear transmittance. Lastly, building on the SA behavior of Ti 3 C 2 T x MXenes, a Ti 3 C 2 T x MXene-based photonic diode that breaks time-reversal symmetry to achieve nonreciprocal transmission of nanosecond laser pulses is demonstrated. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Estimated Environmental Exposures for MISSE-7B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Finckenor, Miria M.; Moore, Chip; Norwood, Joseph K.; Henrie, Ben; DeGroh, Kim

2012-01-01

This paper details the 18-month environmental exposure for Materials International Space Station Experiment 7B (MISSE-7B) ram and wake sides. This includes atomic oxygen, ultraviolet radiation, particulate radiation, thermal cycling, meteoroid/space debris impacts, and observed contamination. Atomic oxygen fluence was determined by measured mass and thickness loss of polymers of known reactivity. Diodes sensitive to ultraviolet light actively measured solar radiation incident on the experiment. Comparisons to earlier MISSE flights are discussed.

Mutation and repair in an ultraviolet-sensitive Chinese hamster ovary cell line

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

Wood, R.D.

1981-11-01

An ultraviolet (UV) light-sensitive mutant of Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO) has been isolated and characterized with respect to a number of post-irradiation responses. The UV-sensitive mutant, termed 43-3B, has the same growth rate and chromosome number as the wild-type CHO-9. 43-3B is hypersensitive to the lethal effects of UV light (D/sub 0/ of 0.3 J/m/sup 2/ as compared to 3.2 J/m/sup 2/ for the wild-type). A marked UV-hypermutability is observed in 43-3B as compared to the wild-type, as measured with markers for induced resistance to 6-thioguanine, ouabain, and diphtheria toxin. A factor of 38 to 65 more mutations aremore » induced per unit fluence in 43-3B than in CHO-9. The UV-sensitive mutant is also sensitive to killing by simulated solar light, although the D/sub 0/ ratio is not as great as for germicidal UV. 43-3B exhibits only about 17% of the wild-type level of UV-stimulated DNA repair synthesis, as measured by autoradiography of G/sub 1/ phase cells. A much reduced ability to recover control rates of semiconservative DNA synthesis after UV irradiation was observed in the repair-deficient 43-3B cell line. Recovery of colony-forming ability between fractionated UV exposures was observed in the wild-type CHO-9, but little recovery was seen in 43-3B. The present investigation demonstrates that a sensitive/wild-type pair of CHO cell lines can be used in comparative studies to determine the involvement of repair in a wide range of post-irradiation phenomena.« less

Topical chlorophyll-pheophytin derivative-mediated photodynamic therapy for DMBA-induced hamster buccal pouch premaligant lesions: an in vivo study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Yih-Chih; Chiang, Chung-Pin; Chen, Jian Wen; Lee, Jeng-Woei; How, Mon-Hsin

2010-02-01

In Taiwan, oral cancer has become a prominent cancer because of its highest annual increase rate among all cancer diseases. Betel quid chewing habit is a major risk factor for oral precancerous and cancerous lesions and there are more than two million people who have this habit in Taiwan. Our previous studies showed that chlorophyll-pheophytin derivative (CPD)-mediated PDT is very effective for killing of SCC-4 cell lines in vitro. In order to decrease the systemic phototoxic effect of CPD, this study was designed to use a topical CPD-mediated PDT for treatment of DMBA-induced hamster buccal pouch precancerous lesions. DMBA was applied to one of the buccal pouches of hamsters thrice a week for 8 to 10 weeks. Precancerous lesions of moderate to severe dysplasia were induced and proven by histological examination. These induced precancerous lesions were used for testing the efficacy of topical CPD-mediated PDT. Before PDT, fluorescence spectroscopy was used to determine when CPD reached its peak level in the lesional epithelial cells after topical application of CPD gel. We found that CPD reached its peak level in precancerous lesions about 1 hour (range, 0 to 30 hours) after topical application of CPD gel. The precancerous lesions in hamsters were then treated with topical CPD-mediated PDT (fluence rate: 200 mW/cm2; light exposure dose 100 J/cm2) using the portable WonderLight LED 635 nm fiber-guided light device once or twice a week. Visual and histological examination demonstrated that topical CPD-mediated PDT was partially effective treatment modality for DMBA-induced hamster buccal pouch precancerous lesions.

Experimental and Monte Carlo studies of fluence corrections for graphite calorimetry in low- and high-energy clinical proton beams.

PubMed

Lourenço, Ana; Thomas, Russell; Bouchard, Hugo; Kacperek, Andrzej; Vondracek, Vladimir; Royle, Gary; Palmans, Hugo

2016-07-01

The aim of this study was to determine fluence corrections necessary to convert absorbed dose to graphite, measured by graphite calorimetry, to absorbed dose to water. Fluence corrections were obtained from experiments and Monte Carlo simulations in low- and high-energy proton beams. Fluence corrections were calculated to account for the difference in fluence between water and graphite at equivalent depths. Measurements were performed with narrow proton beams. Plane-parallel-plate ionization chambers with a large collecting area compared to the beam diameter were used to intercept the whole beam. High- and low-energy proton beams were provided by a scanning and double scattering delivery system, respectively. A mathematical formalism was established to relate fluence corrections derived from Monte Carlo simulations, using the fluka code [A. Ferrari et al., "fluka: A multi-particle transport code," in CERN 2005-10, INFN/TC 05/11, SLAC-R-773 (2005) and T. T. Böhlen et al., "The fluka Code: Developments and challenges for high energy and medical applications," Nucl. Data Sheets 120, 211-214 (2014)], to partial fluence corrections measured experimentally. A good agreement was found between the partial fluence corrections derived by Monte Carlo simulations and those determined experimentally. For a high-energy beam of 180 MeV, the fluence corrections from Monte Carlo simulations were found to increase from 0.99 to 1.04 with depth. In the case of a low-energy beam of 60 MeV, the magnitude of fluence corrections was approximately 0.99 at all depths when calculated in the sensitive area of the chamber used in the experiments. Fluence correction calculations were also performed for a larger area and found to increase from 0.99 at the surface to 1.01 at greater depths. Fluence corrections obtained experimentally are partial fluence corrections because they account for differences in the primary and part of the secondary particle fluence. A correction factor, F(d), has been established to relate fluence corrections defined theoretically to partial fluence corrections derived experimentally. The findings presented here are also relevant to water and tissue-equivalent-plastic materials given their carbon content.

Excitonic lasing in solution-processed subwavelength nanosphere assemblies

DOE PAGES

Appavoo, Kannatassen; Liu, Xiaoze; Menon, Vinod; ...

2016-02-03

Lasing in solution-processed nanomaterials has gained significant interest because of the potential for low-cost integrated photonic devices. Still, a key challenge is to utilize a comprehensive knowledge of the system’s spectral and temporal dynamics to design low-threshold lasing devices. Here, we demonstrate intrinsic lasing (without external cavity) at low-threshold in an ultrathin film of coupled, highly crystalline nanospheres with overall thickness on the order of ~λ/4. The cavity-free geometry consists of ~35 nm zinc oxide nanospheres that collectively localize the in-plane emissive light fields while minimizing scattering losses, resulting in excitonic lasing with fluence thresholds at least an order ofmore » magnitude lower than previous UV-blue random and quantum-dot lasers (<75 μJ/cm 2). Fluence-dependent effects, as quantified by subpicosecond transient spectroscopy, highlight the role of phonon-mediated processes in excitonic lasing. Subpicosecond evolution of distinct lasing modes, together with three-dimensional electromagnetic simulations, indicate a random lasing process, which is in violation of the commonly cited criteria of strong scattering from individual nanostructures and an optically thick sample. Subsequently, an electron–hole plasma mechanism is observed with increased fluence. Furthermore, these results suggest that coupled nanostructures with high crystallinity, fabricated by low-cost solution-processing methods, can function as viable building blocks for high-performance optoelectronics devices.« less

Virus Sensitivity Index of UV disinfection.

PubMed

Tang, Walter Z; Sillanpää, Mika

2015-01-01

A new concept of Virus Sensitivity Index (VSI) is defined as the ratio between the first-order inactivation rate constant of a virus, ki, and that of MS2-phage during UV disinfection, kr. MS2-phage is chosen as the reference virus because it is recommended as a virus indicator during UV reactor design and validation by the US Environmental Protection Agency. VSI has wide applications in research, design, and validation of UV disinfection systems. For example, it can be used to rank the UV disinfection sensitivity of viruses in reference to MS2-phage. There are four major steps in deriving the equation between Hi/Hr and 1/VSI. First, the first-order inactivation rate constants are determined by regression analysis between Log I and fluence required. Second, the inactivation rate constants of MS2-phage are statistically analysed at 3, 4, 5, and 6 Log I levels. Third, different VSI values are obtained from the ki of different viruses dividing by the kr of MS2-phage. Fourth, correlation between Hi/Hr and 1/VSI is analysed by using linear, quadratic, and cubic models. As expected from the theoretical analysis, a linear relationship adequately correlates Hi/Hr and 1/VSI without an intercept. VSI is used to quantitatively predict the UV fluence required for any virus at any log inactivation (Log I). Four equations were developed at 3, 4, 5, and 6 Log I. These equations have been validated using external data which are not used for the virus development. At Log I less than 3, the equation tends to under-predict the required fluence at both low Log I such as 1 and 2 Log I. At Log I greater than 3 Log I, the equation tends to over-predict the fluence required. The reasons for these may very likely be due to the shoulder at the beginning and the tailing at the end of the collimated beam test experiments. At 3 Log I, the error percentage is less than 6%. The VSI is also used to predict inactivation rate constants under two different UV disinfection scenarios such as under sunlight and different virus aggregates. The correlation analysis shows that viruses will be about 40% more sensitive to sunlight than to UV254. On the other hand, virus size of 500 nm will reduce their VSI by 10%. This is the first attempt to use VSI to predict the required fluence at any given Log I. The equation can be used to quantitatively evaluate other parameters influencing UV disinfection. These factors include environmental species, antibiotic-resistant bacteria or genes, photo and dark repair, water quality such as suspended solids, and UV transmittance.

Effect of UV irradiation on aflatoxin reduction: a cytotoxicity evaluation study using human hepatoma cell line.

PubMed

Patras, Ankit; Julakanti, Sharath; Yannam, Sudheer; Bansode, Rishipal R; Burns, Mallory; Vergne, Matthew J

2017-11-01

In this proof-of-concept study, the efficacy of a medium-pressure UV (MPUV) lamp source to reduce the concentrations of aflatoxin B 1 , aflatoxin B 2 , and aflatoxin G 1 (AFB 1, AFB 2 , and AFG 1 ) in pure water is investigated. Irradiation experiments were conducted using a collimated beam system operating between 200 to 360 nm. The optical absorbance of the solution and the irradiance of the lamp are considered in calculating the average fluence rate. Based on these factors, the UV dose was quantified as a product of average fluence rate and treatment time. Known concentrations of aflatoxins were spiked in water and irradiated at UV doses ranging from 0, 1.22, 2.44, 3.66, and 4.88 J cm -2 . The concentration of aflatoxins was determined by HPLC with fluorescence detection. LC-MS/MS product ion scans were used to identify and semi-quantify degraded products of AFB 1 , AFB 2 , and AFG 1 . It was observed that UV irradiation significantly reduced aflatoxins in pure water (p < 0.05). Irradiation doses of 4.88 J cm -2 reduced concentrations 67.22% for AFG 1 , 29.77% for AFB 2 , and 98.25% for AFB 1 (p < 0.05). Using this technique, an overall reduction of total aflatoxin content of ≈95% (p < 0.05) was achieved. We hypothesize that the formation of ˙OH radicals initiated by UV light may have caused photolysis of AFB 1 , AFB 2 , and AFG 1 molecules. In cell culture studies, our results demonstrated that the increase of UV dosage decreased the aflatoxin-induced cytotoxicity in HepG 2 cells. Therefore, our research finding suggests that UV irradiation can be used as an effective technique for the reduction of aflatoxins.

ALA-PDT of the normal rat esophagus: efficiency and safety largely depends on the timing of illumination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van den Boogert, Jolanda; de Bruin, Ron W. F.; van Staveren, Hugo J.; Siersema, Peter D.; van Hillegersberg, Richard

1999-02-01

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an experimental treatment modality for (pre)malignant oesophageal lesions. 5- Aminolevulinic acid (ALA)-induced, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX)- mediated photo-sensitization could be very useful as ALA- induced porphrin accumulation selectively occurs in the oesophageal epithelium. The present study aimed to optimize the time between illumination and the administration of ALA. 200 mg/kg ALA was given orally to 24 rats (allocated to 6 groups of 4 animals each). Four animals served as controls and received phosphate buffered saline orally. The animals were illuminated at various time-points (either 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, or 12 hours) after ALA administration. Illumination was performed with a cylindrical diffuser placed in a balloon catheter. The device was originally made for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and consisted of a semi-flexible catheter and an inflatable cylindric optically clear balloon. The diffuser was placed centrally in the catheter. The same illumination parameters (633 nm, 25 J radiant energy/cm diffuser, power output 100 mW/cm diffuser) were used for each animal. During illumination, fluorescence measurements and light dosimetry were performed. The animals were sacrificed at 48 hours after PDT for histological assessment. Highest PpIX fluorescence was found at 2, 3, and 4 hours after ALA administration. Dosimetric measurements showed a 2 - 3 times higher in vivo fluence rate compared to the estimated fluence rate. Histology at 48 hours after PDT showed diffuse epithelial damage at the laser site only in rats illuminated at 2 hours after ALA administration. Illumination at 3, 4, and 6 hours after ALA administration resulted in diffuse epithelial damage in only one of four rats. In none of the rats illuminated at 1 and 12 hours after administration of ALA epithelial damage was found. These results show that illumination at 2 hours after oral ALA administration provides an efficient and safe scheme for ALA-PDT in the normal rat oesophagus. Illumination at other time points results in incomplete epithelial damage.

Estimation of biomedical optical properties by simultaneous use of diffuse reflectometry and photothermal radiometry: investigation of light propagation models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fonseca, E. S. R.; de Jesus, M. E. P.

2007-07-01

The estimation of optical properties of highly turbid and opaque biological tissue is a difficult task since conventional purely optical methods rapidly loose sensitivity as the mean photon path length decreases. Photothermal methods, such as pulsed or frequency domain photothermal radiometry (FD-PTR), on the other hand, show remarkable sensitivity in experimental conditions that produce very feeble optical signals. Photothermal Radiometry is primarily sensitive to absorption coefficient yielding considerably higher estimation errors on scattering coefficients. Conversely, purely optical methods such as Local Diffuse Reflectance (LDR) depend mainly on the scattering coefficient and yield much better estimates of this parameter. Therefore, at moderate transport albedos, the combination of photothermal and reflectance methods can improve considerably the sensitivity of detection of tissue optical properties. The authors have recently proposed a novel method that combines FD-PTR with LDR, aimed at improving sensitivity on the determination of both optical properties. Signal analysis was performed by global fitting the experimental data to forward models based on Monte-Carlo simulations. Although this approach is accurate, the associated computational burden often limits its use as a forward model. Therefore, the application of analytical models based on the diffusion approximation offers a faster alternative. In this work, we propose the calculation of the diffuse reflectance and the fluence rate profiles under the δ-P I approximation. This approach is known to approximate fluence rate expressions better close to collimated sources and boundaries than the standard diffusion approximation (SDA). We extend this study to the calculation of the diffuse reflectance profiles. The ability of the δ-P I based model to provide good estimates of the absorption, scattering and anisotropy coefficients is tested against Monte-Carlo simulations over a wide range of scattering to absorption ratios. Experimental validation of the proposed method is accomplished by a set of measurements on solid absorbing and scattering phantoms.

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

Fairchild, R.G.; Kalef-Ezra, J.; Saraf, S.K.

Various calculations indicate that an optimized epithermal neutron beam can be produced by moderating fission neutrons either with a combination of Al and D{sub 2}O, or with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. We have designed, installed and tested an Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} moderated epithermal neutron beam at the Brookhaven Medical Research Reactor (BMRR). The epithermal neutron fluence rate of 1.8 {times} 10{sup 9} n/cm{sup 2}-sec produces a peak thermal neutron fluence rate of 1.9 to 2.8 {times} 10{sup 9} n/cm{sup 2}-sec in a tissue equivalent (TE) phantom head, depending on the configuration. Thus a single therapy treatment of 5 {times} 10{sup 12}more » n/cm{sup 2} can be delivered in 30--45 minutes. All irradiation times are given for a BMRR power of 3 MW, which is the highest power which can be delivered continuously. 18 refs., 8 figs., 4 tabs.« less

Radiocarbon Production by Thunderstorms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babich, L. P.

2017-11-01

In view of the neutron flux enhancements observed in thunderstorms, a contribution of thunderstorm neutrons to atmospheric radiocarbon (isotope 614C) production is analyzed in connection with the archaeometry. Herein, estimates of neutron fluence per lightning electromagnetic pulse in regions with severe thunderstorm activity, at which a local rate of the 614C production is comparable to the observed rates, are shown to be consistent with the measured magnitudes of thunderstorm neutron fluence. At present, available observations of atmospheric neutron and parent gamma ray flashes correlated with thunderstorms do not allow making final conclusions about thunderstorm contributions to 614C production. For this, numerous studies of high-energy phenomena in thunderstorms are required, especially in the tropical belt where the thunderstorm activity is especially severe and where the 614C production by galactic cosmic rays is almost independent of the solar activity disturbing the Earth's magnetic field shielding the Earth from cosmic rays.

Solid-state track recorder dosimetry device to measure absolute reaction rates and neutron fluence as a function of time

DOEpatents

Gold, Raymond; Roberts, James H.

1989-01-01

A solid state track recording type dosimeter is disclosed to measure the time dependence of the absolute fission rates of nuclides or neutron fluence over a period of time. In a primary species an inner recording drum is rotatably contained within an exterior housing drum that defines a series of collimating slit apertures overlying windows defined in the stationary drum through which radiation can enter. Film type solid state track recorders are positioned circumferentially about the surface of the internal recording drum to record such radiation or its secondary products during relative rotation of the two elements. In another species both the recording element and the aperture element assume the configuration of adjacent disks. Based on slit size of apertures and relative rotational velocity of the inner drum, radiation parameters within a test area may be measured as a function of time and spectra deduced therefrom.

Neutron-capture Cl-36, Ca-41, Ar-36, and Sm-150 in large chondrites: Evidence for high fluences of thermalized neutrons

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bogard, D. D.; Nyquist, L. E.; Bansal, B. M.; Garrison, D. H.; Wiesmann, H.; Herzog, G. F.; Albrecht, A. A.; Vogt, S.; Klein, J.

1995-01-01

We have measured significant concentrations of Cl-36, Ca-41, Ar-36 from decay of Cl-36, and Sm-150 produced from the capture of thermalized neutrons in the large Chico L6 chondrite. Activities of Cl-36 and Ca-41, corrected for a high-energy spallogenic component and a terrestrial age of approximately 50 ka, give average neutron-capture production rates of 208 atoms/min/g-Cl and 1525 atoms/min/kg-Ca, which correspond to thermal neutron (n) fluxes of 6.2 n/sq cm/s and 4.3 n/sq cm/s, respectively. If sustained for the approximately 65 Ma single-stage, cosmic ray exposure age of Chico, these values correspond to thermal neutron fluences of approximately 1.3 x 10(exp 16) and 0.8 x 10(exp 16) n/sq cm for Cl-36 and Ca-41, respectively. Stepwise temperature extraction of Ar in Chico impact melt shows Ar-36/Ar-38 ratios as large as approximately 9. The correlation of high Ar-36/Ar-38 with high Cl/Ca phases in neutron-irradiated Chico indicates that the excess Ar-36 above that expected from spallation is due to decay of neutron-produced Cl-36. Excess Ar-36 in Chico requires a thermal neutron fluence of 0.9-1.7 x 10(exp 16) n/sq cm. Decreases in Sm-149/Sm-152 due to neutron-capture by Sm-149 correlate with increases in Sm-150/Sm-152 for three samples of Chico, and one of the Torino H-chondrite. The 0.08% decrease in Sm-149 shown by Chico corresponds to a neutron fluence of 1.23 x 10(exp 16) n/sq cm. This fluence derived from Sm considers capture of epithermal neutrons and effects of chemical composition on the neutron energy distribution. Excess Ar-36 identified in the Arapahoe, Bruderheim, and Torino chondrites and the Shallowater aubrite suggest exposure to neutron fluences of approximately 0.2-0.2 x 10(exp 16) n/sq cm. Depletion of Sm-149 in Torino and the LEW86010 angrite suggest neutron fluences of 0.8 x 10(exp 16) n/sq cm and 0.25 x 10(exp 16) n/sq cm, respectively. Neutron fluences of approximately 10(exp 16) n/sq cm in Chico are almost as large as those previously observed for some lunar soils. Consideration of exposure ages suggests that the neutron flux in Chico may have been greater than that in many lunar soils.

Potential of systemic photosensitizers for PDT of skin malignancies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Philipp, Carsten M.; Müller, Ute; Urban, Peter; Berlien, H.-Peter

2008-04-01

Usually systemic photosensitizers (PS) require a long period of incubation (48-96h) after systemic admission. On the other hand clearing from healthy skin needs weeks or months. Severe side effects on skin are possible in case of uncontrolled light exposure. Topical PDT may solve this problem, but deep portions may not be sufficiently sensitized, resulting in a survival of some tumor cell population after PDT and recurrence. The same problem counts for actinic keratosis and Bowen's disease, but with even worse consequences as a resulting infiltrating growing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is likely to produce metastatic lesions. Light dosimetry is crucial also. Wavelenght, fluence and total energy may influence outcome of any PDT substantially. 17 patients with Bowen's disease or BCC where treated using a novel systemic PS (Fotolon ®) and 665nm light from a diode laser. Follow up time ranges between 2.5 and 1 years after treatment. 2 patients received a second PDT, in 15 patients one treatment was efficient. We found a remissions in 1, local control in 2 and no evidence of disease in 14 patients. Significant fluorescence was noted in all lesions. With a light protection protocol for only 48 hours no severe side effects where seen. One patient developed mild redness of sunlight exposed skin sites 24h after being discharged from light protection protocol. In comparison with currently available topical PS Fotolon ® offers some important advantages as secure photosenzitation of deep portions, single treatment, high selectivity combined with a high cure rate. In comparison with currently available systemic PS Fotolon ® offers short incubation time, high selectivity and short time of elimination, while efficiency was comparable to HPD (hematoporphyrin-derivate) PDT combined with ALA-5 PDT and without need for additional local PS-application for PDD.

Reduced phototropism in pks mutants may be due to altered auxin-regulated gene expression or reduced lateral auxin transport.

PubMed

Kami, Chitose; Allenbach, Laure; Zourelidou, Melina; Ljung, Karin; Schütz, Frédéric; Isono, Erika; Watahiki, Masaaki K; Yamamoto, Kotaro T; Schwechheimer, Claus; Fankhauser, Christian

2014-02-01

Phototropism allows plants to orient their photosynthetic organs towards the light. In Arabidopsis, phototropins 1 and 2 sense directional blue light such that phot1 triggers phototropism in response to low fluence rates, while both phot1 and phot2 mediate this response under higher light conditions. Phototropism results from asymmetric growth in the hypocotyl elongation zone that depends on an auxin gradient across the embryonic stem. How phototropin activation leads to this growth response is still poorly understood. Members of the phytochrome kinase substrate (PKS) family may act early in this pathway, because PKS1, PKS2 and PKS4 are needed for a normal phototropic response and they associate with phot1 in vivo. Here we show that PKS proteins are needed both for phot1- and phot2-mediated phototropism. The phototropic response is conditioned by the developmental asymmetry of dicotyledonous seedlings, such that there is a faster growth reorientation when cotyledons face away from the light compared with seedlings whose cotyledons face the light. The molecular basis for this developmental effect on phototropism is unknown; here we show that PKS proteins play a role at the interface between development and phototropism. Moreover, we present evidence for a role of PKS genes in hypocotyl gravi-reorientation that is independent of photoreceptors. pks mutants have normal levels of auxin and normal polar auxin transport, however they show altered expression patterns of auxin marker genes. This situation suggests that PKS proteins are involved in auxin signaling and/or lateral auxin redistribution. © 2013 The Authors The Plant Journal © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Treatment of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis with light-emitting diode.

PubMed

Corti, Luigi; Chiarion-Sileni, Vanna; Aversa, Savina; Ponzoni, Alberto; D'Arcais, Raimondo; Pagnutti, Stefano; Fiore, Davide; Sotti, Guido

2006-04-01

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of phototherapy with noncoherent light in the alleviation of chemotherapy-induced mucositis in patients with metastatic cancer. Mucositis occurs in more than 40% of chemotherapy-treated patients, significantly reducing the quality of their lives. Many different interventions have been evaluated to reduce oral mucositis. Recently, good results have been achieved by phototherapy with photoradiation, a technique which has virtually no side effects. Some clinical results seem to indicate that also phototherapy through noncoherent light emissions which can be produced by less expensive light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) may be effective. However, until now, no studies have been available on this subject. Twelve patients, aged from 34 to 82, selected on the basis of a diagnosis of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis, were treated intra-orally through a noncoherent LED emission, wavelength 645 +/- 15 nm, 7.8 mW, fluence 0.99 J/cm(2), three times a day for 1 week. Mucositis was scored daily using the Daily Mucositis Index (DMI), a scale that evaluates the disease evolution through 16 different items. The primary end-point assessed was the time to recovery, from the start of LED treatment, compared to a nonrandomized control group of 12 patients with comparable stomatitis. The median healing time, expressed as the DMI decrease, was 1.7 (range 1-2.8) and, in seven LED-treated patients, was shorter than in the control group. The healing rate (measured as the ratio of the DMIs) increased from 117% to 164%. This pilot study shows that LED treatment is safe and capable of reducing the duration of chemotherapy-induced mucositis. This result needs to be confirmed in an adequate phase III study.

The effect of blue light on periodontal biofilm growth in vitro.

PubMed

Fontana, Carla R; Song, Xiaoqing; Polymeri, Angeliki; Goodson, J Max; Wang, Xiaoshan; Soukos, Nikolaos S

2015-11-01

We have previously shown that blue light eliminates the black-pigmented oral bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella nigrescens, and Prevotella melaninogenica. In the present study, the in vitro photosensitivity of the above black-pigmented microorganisms and four Fusobacteria species (Fusobacterium nucleatum ss. nucleatum, F. nucleatum ss. vincentii, F. nucleatum ss. polymorphum, Fusobacterium periodonticum) was investigated in pure cultures and human dental plaque suspensions. We also tested the hypothesis that phototargeting the above eight key periodontopathogens in plaque-derived biofilms in vitro would control growth within the dental biofilm environment. Cultures of the eight bacteria were exposed to blue light at 455 nm with power density of 80 mW/cm2 and energy fluence of 4.8 J/cm2. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of bacteria was performed to demonstrate the presence and amounts of porphyrin molecules within microorganisms. Suspensions of human dental plaque bacteria were also exposed once to blue light at 455 nm with power density of 50 mW/cm2 and energy fluence of 12 J/cm2. Microbial biofilms developed from the same plaque were exposed to 455 nm blue light at 50 mW/cm2 once daily for 4 min (12 J/cm2) over a period of 3 days (4 exposures) in order to investigate the cumulative action of phototherapy on the eight photosensitive pathogens as well as on biofilm growth. Bacterial growth was evaluated using the colony-forming unit (CFU) assay. The selective phototargeting of pathogens was studied using whole genomic probes in the checkerboard DNA-DNA format. In cultures, all eight species showed significant growth reduction (p < 0.05). HPLC demonstrated various porphyrin patterns and amounts of porphyrins in bacteria. Following phototherapy, the mean survival fractions were reduced by 28.5 and 48.2% in plaque suspensions and biofilms, respectively, (p < 0.05). DNA probe analysis showed significant reduction in relative abundances of the eight bacteria as a group in plaque suspensions and biofilms. The cumulative blue light treatment suppressed biofilm growth in vitro. This may introduce a new avenue of prophylactic treatment for periodontal diseases.

Proton NMR spectral study of UV treated live Escherichia coli Bacteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sorokopud, Michael

The lethal effects of ultraviolet radiation on microorganisms have been known and utilized for many years. In sufficiently high photon fluences, light and in particular, UV light, is an effective and subtle means of killing or at least immobilizing most, if not all cells and micro-organisms. Because of their small size, light can penetrate the enclosing protective walls and enter the inner volumes where it can break organic bonds in components that are vital to cell function. Despite the fact that a very low dose of UV light (1-9 mJ/cm2) has been shown to inactivate many micro-organisms, there remains a dearth of biological information about light induced effects in molecules and their interactions within living microbial systems. The use of 1H NMR as a spectroscopic tool was chosen to undertake an examination of the possible effects resulting from exposing E. coli to lethal fluencies of UV radiation. Once sample preparation, treatment, and NMR mounting methods were optimized, the high sensitivity and high resolution capabilities of the method produced reproducible results for a series of experiments. These results reveal significant changes in the ratio of the 1H NMR spectra of the treated to untreated E.coli samples when the treated sample was exposed to a lethal fluence of 275nm light. Photons at the 275nm wavelength, used in this study, have enough energy to break all of the principle bonds in an organic molecule. The difference spectrum between treated to untreated samples appears to be fitted well using specific component spectra from these groups of compounds. Increases in NMR peak amplitudes are observed and appear to be correlated with the spectral locations of several amino acids, membrane components and several sugars/saccharides. Increases in peak intensities of 4-8% were observed in the 0.8-1.1 ppm chemical shift region, characteristic of lipid and amino acid groups. A 3.5-4% increase was observed in the 2 ppm and 3.4-4 ppm region characteristic of various sugars and possibly amino acid components.

Effects of laser fluence non-uniformity on ambient-temperature soot measurements using the auto-compensating laser-induced incandescence technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Fengshan; Rogak, Steven; Snelling, David R.; Saffaripour, Meghdad; Thomson, Kevin A.; Smallwood, Gregory J.

2016-11-01

Multimode pulsed Nd:YAG lasers are commonly used in auto-compensating laser-induced incandescence (AC-LII) measurements of soot in flames and engine exhaust as well as black carbon in the atmosphere. Such lasers possess a certain degree of fluence non-uniformity across the laser beam even with the use of beam shaping optics. Recent research showed that the measured volume fraction of ambient-temperature soot using AC-LII increases significantly, by about a factor of 5-8, with increasing the laser fluence in the low-fluence regime from a very low fluence to a relatively high fluence of near sublimation. The causes of this so-called soot volume fraction anomaly are currently not understood. The effects of laser fluence non-uniformity on the measured soot volume fraction using AC-LII were investigated. Three sets of LII experiments were conducted in the exhaust of a MiniCAST soot generator under conditions of high elemental carbon using Nd:YAG lasers operated at 1064 nm. The laser beams were shaped and relay imaged to achieve a relatively uniform fluence distribution in the measurement volume. To further homogenize the laser fluence, one set of LII experiments was conducted by using a diffractive optical element. The measured soot volume fractions in all three sets of LII experiments increase strongly with increasing the laser fluence before a peak value is reached and then start to decrease at higher fluences. Numerical calculations were conducted using the experimental laser fluence histograms. Laser fluence non-uniformity is found partially responsible for the soot volume fraction anomaly, but is insufficient to explain the degree of soot volume fraction anomaly observed experimentally. Representing the laser fluence variations by a histogram derived from high-resolution images of the laser beam energy profile gives a more accurate definition of inhomogeneity than a simple averaged linear profile across the laser beam.

The effect of fluence on the magnetic properties of superparamagnetic iron-nickel nanoparticles in SiO2 made by dual Ni and Fe low energy ion implantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, G. V. M.; Prakash, T.; Kennedy, J.

2017-10-01

Superparamagnetic Ni1-yFey nanoparticles were made in a SiO2 film by 10 keV ion beam implantation of Ni followed by Fe with a Ni fluence of 4 × 1016 at.cm-2 and a Fe fluence fraction of 0.47. Nearly all of the moments magnetically ordered, which was not reported for an implanted film made with a Fe fluence fraction of 0.56 and half the Ni fluence. The temperature dependence of the saturation moment is remarkably similar for low and high Ni fluences where there is also the presence of very thin spin-disordered shells. The higher Ni fluence leads to a significant enhancement of the susceptibility by a factor of 9 when compared with the lower fluence sample. This enhancement is likely to be due to a larger magnetically ordered volume fraction.

A review of colour center and nanostructure creation in LiF under heavy ion irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwartz, K.; Maniks, J.; Manika, I.

2015-09-01

A study of radiation damage in LiF crystals under irradiation with MeV-GeV energy ions, from 12C to 238U, at temperatures varying from 8 to 300 K, depending on the ion energy, energy loss and irradiation temperature, is presented. For light ions (12C, 14N) at low fluences, it is mainly color centers that are created. Increasing the fluence leads to the overlapping of tracks and the creation of more complex color centers, defect aggregates and dislocations. For ions with an energy loss above a threshold value (dE/dx = 10 keV nm-1) the tracks exhibit a central core damage region with a radius of 1-2 nm, surrounded by an extended halo which mainly contains single color centers. In this case, ion-induced nanostructuring is observed. Novel effects of radiation damage creation under ion irradiation at 8 K are observed. The role of energy loss and irradiation temperature in damage creation is discussed.

Internal Charging Design Environments for the Earths Radiation Belts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Minow, Joseph I.; Edwards, David L.

2009-01-01

Relativistic electrons in the Earth's radiation belts are a widely recognized threat to spacecraft because they penetrate lightly shielded vehicle hulls and deep into insulating materials where they accumulate to sufficient levels to produce electrostatic discharges. Strategies for evaluating the magnitude of the relativistic electron flux environment and its potential for producing ESD events are varied. Simple "rule of thumb" estimates such as the widely used 10(exp 10) e-/sq cm fluence within 10 hour threshold for the onset of pulsing in dielectric materials provide a quick estimate of when to expect charging issues. More sophisticated strategies based on models of the trapped electron flux within the Earth s magnetic field provide time dependent estimates of electron flux along spacecraft orbits and orbit integrate electron flux. Finally, measurements of electron flux can be used to demonstrate mean and extreme relativistic electron environments. This presentation will evaluate strategies used to specify energetic electron flux and fluence environments along spacecraft trajectories in the Earth s radiation belts.

ON THE FERMI -GBM EVENT 0.4 s AFTER GW150914

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

Greiner, J.; Yu, H.-F.; Burgess, J. M.

In view of the recent report by Connaughton et al., we analyze continuous time-tagged event (TTE) data of Fermi -gamma-ray burst monitor (GBM) around the time of the gravitational-wave event GW 150914. We find that after proper accounting for low-count statistics, the GBM transient event at 0.4 s after GW 150914 is likely not due to an astrophysical source, but consistent with a background fluctuation, removing the tension between the INTEGRAL /ACS non-detection and GBM. Additionally, reanalysis of other short GRBs shows that without proper statistical modeling the fluence of faint events is over-predicted, as verified for some joint GBM–ACSmore » detections of short GRBs. We detail the statistical procedure to correct these biases. As a result, faint short GRBs, verified by ACS detections, with significances in the broadband light curve even smaller than that of the GBM–GW150914 event are recovered as proper non-zero source, while the GBM–GW150914 event is consistent with zero fluence.« less

Pollutant tracking for 3 Western North Atlantic sea grasses by remote sensing: Preliminary diminishing white light responses of Thalassia testudinum, Halodule wrightii, and Zostera marina.

PubMed

Thorhaug, Anitra; Berlyn, Graeme P; Poulos, Helen M; Goodale, Uromi M

2015-08-15

Sea grasses are foundation species for estuarine ecosystems. The available light for sea grasses diminishes rapidly during pollutant spills, effluent releases, disturbances such as intense riverine input, and tidal changes. We studied how sea grasses' remote-sensing signatures and light-capturing ability respond to short term light alterations. In vivo responses were measured over the entire visible-light spectra to diminishing white-light on whole-living-plants' spectral reflectance, including 6h of full oceanic-light fluences from 10% to 100%. We analyzed differences by various reflectance indices. We compared the sea grasses species responses of tropical vs. temperate and intertidals (Halodule wrightii, and Zostera marina) vs. subtidal (Thalassia testudinum). Reflectance diminished with decreasing light intensity that coincided with greater accessory pigment stimulation (anthocyanin, carotenoids, xanthins). Chlorophyll a and Chlorophyll b differed significantly among species (Thalassia vs. Halodule). Photosynthetic efficiency diminished at high light intensities. The NDVI index was inadequate to perceive these differences. Our results demonstrate the leaf-level utility of data to remote sensing for mapping sea grass and sea grass stress. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A correction scheme for a simplified analytical random walk model algorithm of proton dose calculation in distal Bragg peak regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Weiguang; Merchant, Thomas E.; Farr, Jonathan B.

2016-10-01

The lateral homogeneity assumption is used in most analytical algorithms for proton dose, such as the pencil-beam algorithms and our simplified analytical random walk model. To improve the dose calculation in the distal fall-off region in heterogeneous media, we analyzed primary proton fluence near heterogeneous media and propose to calculate the lateral fluence with voxel-specific Gaussian distributions. The lateral fluence from a beamlet is no longer expressed by a single Gaussian for all the lateral voxels, but by a specific Gaussian for each lateral voxel. The voxel-specific Gaussian for the beamlet of interest is calculated by re-initializing the fluence deviation on an effective surface where the proton energies of the beamlet of interest and the beamlet passing the voxel are the same. The dose improvement from the correction scheme was demonstrated by the dose distributions in two sets of heterogeneous phantoms consisting of cortical bone, lung, and water and by evaluating distributions in example patients with a head-and-neck tumor and metal spinal implants. The dose distributions from Monte Carlo simulations were used as the reference. The correction scheme effectively improved the dose calculation accuracy in the distal fall-off region and increased the gamma test pass rate. The extra computation for the correction was about 20% of that for the original algorithm but is dependent upon patient geometry.

Effects of laser fluence on silicon modification by four-beam laser interference

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

Zhao, Le; Li, Dayou; JR3CN and IRAC, University of Bedfordshire, Luton LU1 3JU

2015-12-21

This paper discusses the effects of laser fluence on silicon modification by four-beam laser interference. In this work, four-beam laser interference was used to pattern single crystal silicon wafers for the fabrication of surface structures, and the number of laser pulses was applied to the process in air. By controlling the parameters of laser irradiation, different shapes of silicon structures were fabricated. The results were obtained with the single laser fluence of 354 mJ/cm{sup 2}, 495 mJ/cm{sup 2}, and 637 mJ/cm{sup 2}, the pulse repetition rate of 10 Hz, the laser exposure pulses of 30, 100, and 300, the laser wavelength of 1064 nm, andmore » the pulse duration of 7–9 ns. The effects of the heat transfer and the radiation of laser interference plasma on silicon wafer surfaces were investigated. The equations of heat flow and radiation effects of laser plasma of interfering patterns in a four-beam laser interference distribution were proposed to describe their impacts on silicon wafer surfaces. The experimental results have shown that the laser fluence has to be properly selected for the fabrication of well-defined surface structures in a four-beam laser interference process. Laser interference patterns can directly fabricate different shape structures for their corresponding applications.« less

Effect of parameters on picosecond laser ablation of Cr12MoV cold work mold steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Baoye; Liu, Peng; Zhang, Fei; Duan, Jun; Wang, Xizhao; Zeng, Xiaoyan

2018-01-01

Cr12MoV cold work mold steel, which is a difficult-to-machining material, is widely used in the mold and dye industry. A picosecond pulse Nd:YVO4 laser at 1064 nm was used to conduct the study. Effects of operation parameters (i.e., laser fluence, scanning speed, hatched space and number of scans) were studied on ablation depth and quality of Cr12MoV at the repetition rate of 20 MHz. The experimental results reveal that all the four parameters affect the ablation depth significantly. While the surface roughness depends mainly on laser fluence or scanning speed and secondarily on hatched space or number of scans. For laser fluence and scanning speed, three distinct surface morphologies were observed experiencing transition from flat (Ra < 1.40 μm) to bumpy (Ra = 1.40 - 2.40 μm) eventually to rough (Ra > 2.40 μm). However, for hatched space and number of scan, there is a small bumpy and rough zone or even no rough zone. Mechanisms including heat accumulation, plasma shielding and combustion reaction effects are proposed based on the ablation depth and processing morphology. By appropriate management of the laser fluence and scanning speed, high ablation depth with low surface roughness can be obtained at small hatched space and high number of scans.

Space-and-time resolved spectroscopy of single GaN nanowires

DOE PAGES

Upadhya, Prashanth C.; Martinez, Julio A.; Li, Qiming; ...

2015-06-30

Gallium nitridenanowires have garnered much attention in recent years due to their attractive optical and electrical properties. An understanding of carrier transport, relaxation, and recombination in these quasi-one-dimensional nanosystems is therefore important in optimizing them for various applications. We present ultrafast optical microscopic measurements on single GaNnanowires. Furthermore, our experiments, performed while varying the light polarization,excitation fluence, and position, give insight into the mechanisms governing carrier dynamics in these nanosystems.

WIDE-BAND SPECTRA OF GIANT RADIO PULSES FROM THE CRAB PULSAR

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

Mikami, Ryo; Asano, Katsuaki; Tanaka, Shuta J.

2016-12-01

We present the results of the simultaneous observation of giant radio pulses (GRPs) from the Crab pulsar at 0.3, 1.6, 2.2, 6.7, and 8.4 GHz with four telescopes in Japan. We obtain 3194 and 272 GRPs occurring at the main pulse and the interpulse phases, respectively. A few GRPs detected at both 0.3 and 8.4 GHz are the most wide-band samples ever reported. In the frequency range from 0.3 to 2.2 GHz, we find that about 70% or more of the GRP spectra are consistent with single power laws and their spectral indices are distributed from −4 to −1. Wemore » also find that a significant number of GRPs have such a hard spectral index (approximately −1) that the fluence at 0.3 GHz is below the detection limit (“dim-hard” GRPs). Stacking light curves of such dim-hard GRPs at 0.3 GHz, we detect consistent enhancement compared to the off-GRP light curve. Our samples show apparent correlations between the fluences and the spectral hardness, which indicates that more energetic GRPs tend to show softer spectra. Our comprehensive studies on the GRP spectra are useful materials to verify the GRP model of fast radio bursts in future observations.« less

Irradiation-induced defect formation and damage accumulation in single crystal CeO 2

DOE PAGES

Graham, Joseph T.; Zhang, Yanwen; Weber, William J.

2017-11-15

Here, the accumulation of irradiation-induced disorder in single crystal CeO 2 has been investigated over a wide range of ion fluences. Room temperature irradiations of epitaxial CeO 2 thin films using 2 MeV Au 2+ ions were carried out up to a total fluence of 1.3 x 10 16 cm –2 Post-irradiation disorder was characterized using ion channeling Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS/C) and confocal Raman spectroscopy. The Raman measurements were interpreted by means of a phonon confinement model, which employed rigid ion calculations to determine the phonon correlation length in the irradiated material. Comparison between the dose dependent changes inmore » correlation length of the Raman measurements and the Ce disorder fraction from RBS/C provides complementary quantitative details on the rate of point and extended defect formation on the Ce and O sub-lattices over a broad range of ion fluences. Raman measurements, which are significantly more sensitive than RBS/C at low doses, reveal that the nucleation rate of defects is highest below 0.1 displacements per atom (dpa). Comparison between Raman and RBS/C measurements suggests that between 0.1 and 10 dpa the damage evolution is characterized by modest growth of point defects and/or small clusters, while above 10 dpa the preexisting defects rapidly grow into extended clusters and/or loops.« less

Irradiation-induced defect formation and damage accumulation in single crystal CeO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Graham, Joseph T.; Zhang, Yanwen; Weber, William J.

2018-01-01

The accumulation of irradiation-induced disorder in single crystal CeO2 has been investigated over a wide range of ion fluences. Room temperature irradiations of epitaxial CeO2 thin films using 2 MeV Au2+ ions were carried out up to a total fluence of 1.3 ×1016 cm-2 Post-irradiation disorder was characterized using ion channeling Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS/C) and confocal Raman spectroscopy. The Raman measurements were interpreted by means of a phonon confinement model, which employed rigid ion calculations to determine the phonon correlation length in the irradiated material. Comparison between the dose dependent changes in correlation length of the Raman measurements and the Ce disorder fraction from RBS/C provides complementary quantitative details on the rate of point and extended defect formation on the Ce and O sub-lattices over a broad range of ion fluences. Raman measurements, which are significantly more sensitive than RBS/C at low doses, reveal that the nucleation rate of defects is highest below 0.1 displacements per atom (dpa). Comparison between Raman and RBS/C measurements suggests that between 0.1 and 10 dpa the damage evolution is characterized by modest growth of point defects and/or small clusters, while above 10 dpa the preexisting defects rapidly grow into extended clusters and/or loops.

Radiation-induced swelling of stainless steel.

PubMed

Shewmon, P G

1971-09-10

Significant swelling (1 to 10 percent due to small voids have been found in stainless steel when it is exposed to fast neutron doses less than expected in commercial fast breeder reactors. The main features of this new effect are: (i) the voids are formed by the precipitation of a small fraction of the radiation-produced vacancies; (ii) the voids form primarily in the temperature range 400 degrees to 600 degrees C (750 degrees to 1100 degrees F); and (iii) the volume increases with dose (fluence) at a rate between linear and parabolic. The limited temperature range of void formation can be explained, but the effects of fluence, microstructure, and composition are determined by a competition between several kinetic processes that are not well understood. This swelling does not affect the feasibility or safety of the breeder reactor,but will have a significant impact on the core design and economics of the breeder.Preliminary results indicate that one cannot eliminate the effect,but cold-working,heat treatment, or small changes in composition can reduce the swelling by a factor of 2 or more. Testing is hampered by the fact that several years in EBR-II are required to accumulate the fluence expected in demonstration plants. Heavyion accelerators,which allow damage rates corresponding to much higher fluxes than those found in EBR-II,hold great promise for short-term tests that will indicate the relative effect of the important variables.

Irradiation-induced defect formation and damage accumulation in single crystal CeO 2

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

Graham, Joseph T.; Zhang, Yanwen; Weber, William J.

Here, the accumulation of irradiation-induced disorder in single crystal CeO 2 has been investigated over a wide range of ion fluences. Room temperature irradiations of epitaxial CeO 2 thin films using 2 MeV Au 2+ ions were carried out up to a total fluence of 1.3 x 10 16 cm –2 Post-irradiation disorder was characterized using ion channeling Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS/C) and confocal Raman spectroscopy. The Raman measurements were interpreted by means of a phonon confinement model, which employed rigid ion calculations to determine the phonon correlation length in the irradiated material. Comparison between the dose dependent changes inmore » correlation length of the Raman measurements and the Ce disorder fraction from RBS/C provides complementary quantitative details on the rate of point and extended defect formation on the Ce and O sub-lattices over a broad range of ion fluences. Raman measurements, which are significantly more sensitive than RBS/C at low doses, reveal that the nucleation rate of defects is highest below 0.1 displacements per atom (dpa). Comparison between Raman and RBS/C measurements suggests that between 0.1 and 10 dpa the damage evolution is characterized by modest growth of point defects and/or small clusters, while above 10 dpa the preexisting defects rapidly grow into extended clusters and/or loops.« less

Is energy pooling necessary in ultraviolet matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization?

PubMed

Lin, Hou-Yu; Song, Botao; Lu, I-Chung; Hsu, Kuo-Tung; Liao, Chih-Yu; Lee, Yin-Yu; Tseng, Chien-Ming; Lee, Yuan-Tseh; Ni, Chi-Kung

2014-01-15

Energy pooling has been suggested as the key process for generating the primary ions during ultraviolet matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (UV-MALDI). In previous studies, decreases in fluorescence quantum yields as laser fluence increased for 2-aminobenzoic acid, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5-DHB), and 3-hydroxypicolinic acid were used as evidence of energy pooling. This work extends the research to other matrices and addresses whether energy pooling is a universal property in UV-MALDI. Energy pooling was investigated in a time-resolved fluorescence experiment by using a short laser pulse (355 nm, 20 ps pulse width) for excitation and a streak camera (1 ps time resolution) for fluorescence detection. The excited-state lifetime of 2,5-DHB decreased with increases in laser fluence. This suggests that a reaction occurs between two excited molecules, and that energy pooling may be one of the possible reactions. However, the excited-state lifetime of 2,4,6-trihydroxyacetophenone (THAP) did not change with increases in laser fluence. The upper limit of the energy pooling rate constant for THAP is estimated to be approximately 100-500 times smaller than that of 2,5-DHB. The small energy pooling rate constant for THAP indicates that the potential contribution of the energy pooling mechanism to the generation of THAP matrix primary ions should be reconsidered. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Energy-based dosimetry of low-energy, photon-emitting brachytherapy sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malin, Martha J.

Model-based dose calculation algorithms (MBDCAs) for low-energy, photon-emitting brachytherapy sources have advanced to the point where the algorithms may be used in clinical practice. Before these algorithms can be used, a methodology must be established to verify the accuracy of the source models used by the algorithms. Additionally, the source strength metric for these algorithms must be established. This work explored the feasibility of verifying the source models used by MBDCAs by measuring the differential photon fluence emitted from the encapsulation of the source. The measured fluence could be compared to that modeled by the algorithm to validate the source model. This work examined how the differential photon fluence varied with position and angle of emission from the source, and the resolution that these measurements would require for dose computations to be accurate to within 1.5%. Both the spatial and angular resolution requirements were determined. The techniques used to determine the resolution required for measurements of the differential photon fluence were applied to determine why dose-rate constants determined using a spectroscopic technique disagreed with those computed using Monte Carlo techniques. The discrepancy between the two techniques had been previously published, but the cause of the discrepancy was not known. This work determined the impact that some of the assumptions used by the spectroscopic technique had on the accuracy of the calculation. The assumption of isotropic emission was found to cause the largest discrepancy in the spectroscopic dose-rate constant. Finally, this work improved the instrumentation used to measure the rate at which energy leaves the encapsulation of a brachytherapy source. This quantity is called emitted power (EP), and is presented as a possible source strength metric for MBDCAs. A calorimeter that measured EP was designed and built. The theoretical framework that the calorimeter relied upon to measure EP was established. Four clinically relevant 125I brachytherapy sources were measured with the instrument. The accuracy of the measured EP was compared to an air-kerma strength-derived EP to test the accuracy of the instrument. The instrument was accurate to within 10%, with three out of the four source measurements accurate to within 4%.

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

Liu, S; Mazur, T; Li, H

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to demonstrate the feasibility and creditability of computing and verifying 3D fluencies to assure IMRT and VMAT treatment deliveries, by correlating the passing rates of the 3D fluence-based QA (P(ά)) to the passing rates of 2D dose measurementbased QA (P(Dm)). Methods: 3D volumetric primary fluencies are calculated by forward-projecting the beam apertures and modulated by beam MU values at all gantry angles. We first introduce simulated machine parameter errors (MU, MLC positions, jaw, gantry and collimator) to the plan. Using passing rates of voxel intensity differences (P(Ir)) and 3D gamma analysis (P(γ)), calculatedmore » 3D fluencies, calculated 3D delivered dose, and measured 2D planar dose in phantom from the original plan are then compared with those from corresponding plans with errors, respectively. The correlations of these three groups of resultant passing rates, i.e. 3D fluence-based QA (P(ά,Ir) and P(ά,γ)), calculated 3D dose (P(Dc,Ir) and P(Dc,γ)), and 2D dose measurement-based QA (P(Dm,Ir) and P(Dm,γ)), will be investigated. Results: 20 treatment plans with 5 different types of errors were tested. Spearman’s correlations were found between P(ά,Ir) and P(Dc,Ir), and also between P(ά,γ) and P(Dc,γ), with averaged p-value 0.037, 0.065, and averaged correlation coefficient ρ-value 0.942, 0.871 respectively. Using Matrixx QA for IMRT plans, Spearman’s correlations were also obtained between P(ά,Ir) and P(Dm,Ir) and also between P(ά,γ) and P(Dm,γ), with p-value being 0.048, 0.071 and ρ-value being 0.897, 0.779 respectively. Conclusion: The demonstrated correlations improve the creditability of using 3D fluence-based QA for assuring treatment deliveries for IMRT/VMAT plans. Together with advantages of high detection sensitivity and better visualization of machine parameter errors, this study further demonstrates the accuracy and feasibility of 3D fluence based-QA in pre-treatment QA and daily QA. Research reported in this study is supported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) under award 1R01HS0222888. The senior author received research grants from ViewRay Inc. and Varian Medical System.« less

Inactivation kinetics and efficiencies of UV-LEDs against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Legionella pneumophila, and surrogate microorganisms.

PubMed

Rattanakul, Surapong; Oguma, Kumiko

2018-03-01

To demonstrate the effectiveness of UV light-emitting diodes (UV-LEDs) to disinfect water, UV-LEDs at peak emission wavelengths of 265, 280, and 300 nm were adopted to inactivate pathogenic species, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Legionella pneumophila, and surrogate species, including Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis spores, and bacteriophage Qβ in water, compared to conventional low-pressure UV lamp emitting at 254 nm. The inactivation profiles of each species showed either a linear or sigmoidal survival curve, which both fit well with the Geeraerd's model. Based on the inactivation rate constant, the 265-nm UV-LED showed most effective fluence, except for with E. coli which showed similar inactivation rates at 265 and 254 nm. Electrical energy consumption required for 3-log 10 inactivation (E E,3 ) was lowest for the 280-nm UV-LED for all microbial species tested. Taken together, the findings of this study determined the inactivation profiles and kinetics of both pathogenic bacteria and surrogate species under UV-LED exposure at different wavelengths. We also demonstrated that not only inactivation rate constants, but also energy efficiency should be considered when selecting an emission wavelength for UV-LEDs. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ultrafast all-optical tuning of direct-gap semiconductor metasurfaces

DOE PAGES

Shcherbakov, Maxim R.; Liu, Sheng; Zubyuk, Varvara V.; ...

2017-05-12

Optical metasurfaces are regular quasi-planar nanopatterns that can apply diverse spatial and spectral transformations to light waves. But, metasurfaces are no longer adjustable after fabrication, and a critical challenge is to realise a technique of tuning their optical properties that is both fast and efficient. Here, we experimentally realise an ultrafast tunable metasurface consisting of subwavelength gallium arsenide nanoparticles supporting Mie-type resonances in the near infrared. In using transient reflectance spectroscopy, we demonstrate a picosecond-scale absolute reflectance modulation of up to 0.35 at the magnetic dipole resonance of the metasurfaces and a spectral shift of the resonance by 30 nm,more » both achieved at unprecedentedly low pump fluences of less than 400 μJ cm –2. Our findings thereby enable a versatile tool for ultrafast and efficient control of light using light.« less

Ultrafast all-optical tuning of direct-gap semiconductor metasurfaces

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

Shcherbakov, Maxim R.; Liu, Sheng; Zubyuk, Varvara V.

Optical metasurfaces are regular quasi-planar nanopatterns that can apply diverse spatial and spectral transformations to light waves. But, metasurfaces are no longer adjustable after fabrication, and a critical challenge is to realise a technique of tuning their optical properties that is both fast and efficient. Here, we experimentally realise an ultrafast tunable metasurface consisting of subwavelength gallium arsenide nanoparticles supporting Mie-type resonances in the near infrared. In using transient reflectance spectroscopy, we demonstrate a picosecond-scale absolute reflectance modulation of up to 0.35 at the magnetic dipole resonance of the metasurfaces and a spectral shift of the resonance by 30 nm,more » both achieved at unprecedentedly low pump fluences of less than 400 μJ cm –2. Our findings thereby enable a versatile tool for ultrafast and efficient control of light using light.« less

Deep nets vs expert designed features in medical physics: An IMRT QA case study.

PubMed

Interian, Yannet; Rideout, Vincent; Kearney, Vasant P; Gennatas, Efstathios; Morin, Olivier; Cheung, Joey; Solberg, Timothy; Valdes, Gilmer

2018-03-30

The purpose of this study was to compare the performance of Deep Neural Networks against a technique designed by domain experts in the prediction of gamma passing rates for Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy Quality Assurance (IMRT QA). A total of 498 IMRT plans across all treatment sites were planned in Eclipse version 11 and delivered using a dynamic sliding window technique on Clinac iX or TrueBeam Linacs. Measurements were performed using a commercial 2D diode array, and passing rates for 3%/3 mm local dose/distance-to-agreement (DTA) were recorded. Separately, fluence maps calculated for each plan were used as inputs to a convolution neural network (CNN). The CNNs were trained to predict IMRT QA gamma passing rates using TensorFlow and Keras. A set of model architectures, inspired by the convolutional blocks of the VGG-16 ImageNet model, were constructed and implemented. Synthetic data, created by rotating and translating the fluence maps during training, was created to boost the performance of the CNNs. Dropout, batch normalization, and data augmentation were utilized to help train the model. The performance of the CNNs was compared to a generalized Poisson regression model, previously developed for this application, which used 78 expert designed features. Deep Neural Networks without domain knowledge achieved comparable performance to a baseline system designed by domain experts in the prediction of 3%/3 mm Local gamma passing rates. An ensemble of neural nets resulted in a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.70 ± 0.05 and the domain expert model resulted in a 0.74 ± 0.06. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with transfer learning can predict IMRT QA passing rates by automatically designing features from the fluence maps without human expert supervision. Predictions from CNNs are comparable to a system carefully designed by physicist experts. © 2018 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Research of ALA combined with HpD-PDT which induced s180 ascitic tumor cells, death or apoptosis on cytology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jing; Yan, Min; Zhang, Hui-Guo; Li, Enling; Luo, Hongyu

2005-07-01

To ascertain the adequate dosage of ALA combined with HpD-PDT which induced tumor cell death or apoptosis on cytology. And to study the different effect of ALA-PDT and HPD-PDT used only. Rat ascitic tumor cells(S180) were randomly divided into several groups and incubated with ALA（20μg/ml 、40μg/ml、80μg/ml 、160μg/ml）、HPD（2.5μg/ml、5μg/ml、10μg/ml）and their combination dosages. 630nm light (total output 2W) was delivered to tumor cells at a constant fluence rate: 200mw/cm2 and a constant irradiated time period: 20 minutes. We set 3 groups (no photosensitizers or no irradiation or neither) to be the control groups. We used inversion microscopy to observe the morphological change of tumor cells and flow cytometry technology to detect the death or apoptosis of tumor cells during the experiment. ..

193 nm ArF laser ablation and patterning of chitosan thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aesa, A. A.; Walton, C. D.

2018-06-01

This paper reports laser ablation studies on spin-coated biopolymer chitosan films, β-l,4-1inked 2-amino-2-deoxy- d-glucopyranose. Chitosan has been irradiated using an ArF laser emitting at 193 nm. An ablation threshold of F T = 85±8 mJ cm-2 has been determined from etch rate measurements. Laser-ablated chitosan is characterised using white light interferometry, scanning electron microscopy, and thermo-gravimetric analysis. Laser ablation of chitosan is discussed in terms of thermal and photoacoustic mechanisms. Heat transfer is simulated to assist in the understanding of laser-irradiated chitosan using a finite-element method and the software package COMSOL Multi-Physics™. As a demonstrator, a micro-array of square structures in the form of a crossed grating has been fabricated by laser ablation using a mask projection scanning method. The initial investigations show no evidence of thermal damage occurring to the adjacent chitosan when operating at a moderately low laser fluence of 110 mJ cm-2.

Optical properties of tissue, experimental results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beek, Johan F.

1993-08-01

The effective attenuation coefficient of piglet lung was measured in vitro at 632.8 nm. Interstial fibres with isotropic tips were used to measure the fluence rate as a function of the distance from an isotropic light source. In vitro measurements at 632.8 nm on a lung that was insufflated with oxygen from 50 to 150 ml showed that the effective attenuation coefficient decreases as a function of the volume of air in the lung (at 50 ml /Jeff = 0.297 + 0.011 mnf1, at 100 ml lice 0.150 ± 0.007 mm-1, and at 150 ml /Jeff= 0.1136 + 0.015 mm-1). A single in vitro measurement at 790 nm at an insufflated lung volume of 100 ml gave a comparable result (ii ie = 0.175 + 0.004 mm-1). A ff decrease in effective attenuation coefficient with an ncrease in lung volume was explained by Mie-theory. The effective attenuation coefficient, calculated with 11, and g from Mie-theory, showed a deviation < 22% from the measured in vitro values.

Noninvasive detection of intimal xanthoma using combined ultrasound, strain rate and photoacoustic imaging.

PubMed

Graf, Iulia M; Kim, Seungsoo; Wang, Bo; Smalling, Richard; Emelianov, Stanislav

2012-03-01

The structure, composition and mechanics of carotid artery are good indicators of early progressive atherosclerotic lesions. The combination of three imaging modalities (ultrasound, strain rate and photoacoustic imaging) which could provide corroborative information about the named arterial properties could enhance the characterization of intimal xanthoma. The experiments were performed using a New Zealand white rabbit model of atherosclerosis. The aorta excised from an atherosclerotic rabbit was scanned ex vivo using the three imaging techniques: (1) ultrasound imaging of the longitudinal section: standard ultrasound B-mode (74Hz frame rate); (2) strain rate imaging: the artery was flushed with blood and a 1.5Hz physiologic pulsation was induced, while the ultrasound data were recorded at higher frame rate (296Hz); (3) photoacoustic imaging: the artery was irradiated with nanosecond pulsed laser light of low fluence in the 1210-1230nm wavelength range and the photoacoustic data was recorded at 10Hz frame rate. Post processing algorithms based on cross-correlation and optical absorption variation were implemented to derive strain rate and spectroscopic photoacoustic images, respectively. Based on the spatio-temporal variation in displacement of different regions within the arterial wall, strain rate imaging reveals differences in tissue mechanical properties. Additionally, spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging can spatially resolve the optical absorption properties of arterial tissue and identify the location of lipid pools. The study demonstrates that ultrasound, strain rate and photoacoustic imaging can be used to simultaneously evaluate the structure, the mechanics and the composition of atherosclerotic lesions to improve the assessment of plaque vulnerability. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polycrystalline scintillators for large area detectors in HEP experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dosovitskiy, G.; Fedorov, A.; Karpyuk, P.; Kuznetsova, D.; Mikhlin, A.; Kozlov, D.; Dosovitskiy, A.; Korjik, M.

2017-06-01

After significant increase of the accelerator luminosity throughout the High Luminosity phase of LHC, charged hadrons and neutrons with fluences higher than 1014 p/cm2 per year in the largest pseudo-rapidity regions of the detectors will cause increased radiation damage of materials. Increasing activation of the experimental equipment will make periodical maintenance and replacement of detector components difficult. Therefore, the selected materials for new detectors should be tolerant to radiation damage. Y3Al5O12:Ce (YAG:Ce) crystal was found to be one of the most radiation hard scintillation materials. However, production of YAG:Ce in a single crystalline form is costly, because crystal growth is performed at temperature near 1900°C with a very low rate of transformation of a raw material into a crystal. We propose translucent YAG:Ce ceramics as an alternative cheaper solution. Ceramic samples were sintered up to density ~98% of the theoretical value and were translucent. The samples have demonstrated light yield of 2200 phot./MeV under 662 keV γ-quanta, which gives the expected response to minimum ionizing particle around 3000 phot. for 2 mm thick plate. Scintillation light yield, registered under surface layer excitation with α-particles, was 50-70% higher than for the reference single crystal YAG:Ce.

Optical-thermal light-tissue interactions during photoacoustic imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gould, Taylor; Wang, Quanzeng; Pfefer, T. Joshua

2014-03-01

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) has grown rapidly as a biomedical imaging technique in recent years, with key applications in cancer diagnosis and oximetry. In spite of these advances, the literature provides little insight into thermal tissue interactions involved in PAI. To elucidate these basic phenomena, we have developed, validated, and implemented a three-dimensional numerical model of tissue photothermal (PT) response to repetitive laser pulses. The model calculates energy deposition, fluence distributions, transient temperature and damage profiles in breast tissue with blood vessels and generalized perfusion. A parametric evaluation of these outputs vs. vessel diameter and depth, optical beam diameter, wavelength, and irradiance, was performed. For a constant radiant exposure level, increasing beam diameter led to a significant increase in subsurface heat generation rate. Increasing vessel diameter resulted in two competing effects - reduced mean energy deposition in the vessel due to light attenuation and greater thermal superpositioning due to reduced thermal relaxation. Maximum temperatures occurred either at the surface or in subsurface regions of the dermis, depending on vessel geometry and position. Results are discussed in terms of established exposure limits and levels used in prior studies. While additional experimental and numerical study is needed, numerical modeling represents a powerful tool for elucidating the effect of PA imaging devices on biological tissue.

Measurement of light penetration of near-infrared laser at the lumbosacral nerves in rats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishibashi, Naoya; Shimoyama, Hiroshi; Kawase, Yuki; Motohara, Shosaku; Okayama, Takamitsu; Niwa, Daisuke; Koyama, Jun

2018-02-01

Photobiomodulation or low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been utilized in various areas of medical practice including pain relief, wound healing, and inflammation treatment. Some recent animal studies have reported that near-infrared laser irradiation to the lumbosacral nerves transcutateously relieves neuropathic pain by controlling activity of lumbosacral nerves. However, transcutaneous laser penetration to the nerves has not yet been fully elucidated. Our aim is to determine the light penetration to lumbosacral nerves when near-infrared laser was irradiated transcutateously to lumbosacral nerves. We implanted photodiodes near the lumbosacral nerves of rats and connected the photodiodes to an oscilloscope through an amplifier. Near-infrared lasers (wavelengths: 808 nm and 830 nm) were irradiated through the skin at 2, 5 and 10 W pulses (Duty 10%, 5 Hz) and outputs of photodiodes were collected. After irradiation, the depth of the photodiodes and the nerves from the skin surface were determined by micro-CT device. The result showed that the fluence rate at the lumbosacral nerves was 179+/-19.2 mW/cm2 and 232+/-20.7 mW/cm2 when the 808-nm and 830-nm laser was irradiated at 10 W respectively. These findings would be beneficial for following study of photobiomodulation.

Studying intense pulsed light method along with corticosteroid injection in treating keloid scars.

PubMed

Shamsi Meymandi, Simin; Rezazadeh, Azadeh; Ekhlasi, Ali

2014-02-01

Results of various studies suggest that the hypertrophic and keloid scars are highly prevalent in the general population and are irritating both physically and mentally. Considering the variety of existing therapies, intense pulsed light (IPL) method along with corticosteroid injection was evaluated in treating these scars. 86 subjects were included in this clinical trial. Eight sessions of therapeutic intervention were done with IPL along with corticosteroid intralesional injection using 450 to 1200 NM filter, Fluence 30-40 J/cm2, pulse duration of 2.1-10 ms and palsed delay 10-40 ms with an interval of three weeks. To specify the recovery consequences and complication rate and to determine features of the lesion, the criteria specified in the study of Eroll and Vancouver scar scale were used. The level of clinical improvement, color improvement and scar height was 89.1%, 88.8% and 89.1% respectively. The incidence of complications (1 telangiectasia case, 7 hyperpigmentation cases and 2 atrophy cases) following treatment with IPL was 11.6%. Moreover, the participants' satisfaction with IPL method was 88.8%. This study revealed that a combined therapy (intralesional corticosteroid injection + IPL) increases the recovery level of hypertrophic and keloid scars. It was also demonstrated that this method had no significant side effect and patients were highly satisfied with this method.

Elimination of single-beam substitution error in diffuse reflectance measurements using an integrating sphere.

PubMed

Vidovic, Luka; Majaron, Boris

2014-02-01

Diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) of biological samples are commonly measured using an integrating sphere (IS). To account for the incident light spectrum, measurement begins by placing a highly reflective white standard against the IS sample opening and collecting the reflected light. After replacing the white standard with the test sample of interest, DRS of the latter is determined as the ratio of the two values at each involved wavelength. However, such a substitution may alter the fluence rate inside the IS. This leads to distortion of measured DRS, which is known as single-beam substitution error (SBSE). Barring the use of more complex experimental setups, the literature states that only approximate corrections of the SBSE are possible, e.g., by using look-up tables generated with calibrated low-reflectivity standards. We present a practical method for elimination of SBSE when using IS equipped with an additional reference port. Two additional measurements performed at this port enable a rigorous elimination of SBSE. Our experimental characterization of SBSE is replicated by theoretical derivation. This offers an alternative possibility of computational removal of SBSE based on advance characterization of a specific DRS setup. The influence of SBSE on quantitative analysis of DRS is illustrated in one application example.

Study of tissue oxygen supply rate in a macroscopic photodynamic therapy singlet oxygen model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Timothy C.; Liu, Baochang; Penjweini, Rozhin

2015-03-01

An appropriate expression for the oxygen supply rate (Γs) is required for the macroscopic modeling of the complex mechanisms of photodynamic therapy (PDT). It is unrealistic to model the actual heterogeneous tumor microvascular networks coupled with the PDT processes because of the large computational requirement. In this study, a theoretical microscopic model based on uniformly distributed Krogh cylinders is used to calculate Γs=g (1-[O]/[]0) that can replace the complex modeling of blood vasculature while maintaining a reasonable resemblance to reality; g is the maximum oxygen supply rate and [O]/[]0 is the volume-average tissue oxygen concentration normalized to its value prior to PDT. The model incorporates kinetic equations of oxygen diffusion and convection within capillaries and oxygen saturation from oxyhemoglobin. Oxygen supply to the tissue is via diffusion from the uniformly distributed blood vessels. Oxygen can also diffuse along the radius and the longitudinal axis of the cylinder within tissue. The relations of Γs to [3O2]/] are examined for a biologically reasonable range of the physiological parameters for the microvasculature and several light fluence rates (ϕ). The results show a linear relationship between Γs and [3O2]/], independent of ϕ and photochemical parameters; the obtained g ranges from 0.4 to 1390 μM/s.

Long-term Optical Observations of Two LMXBS: UW CrB (=MS 1603+260) and V1408 Aql (=4U 1957+115)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mason, Paul A.; Robinson, Edward L.; Bayless, Amanda J.; Hakala, Pasi J.

2012-10-01

We present new optical photometry of two low-mass X-ray binary stars, UW CrB (MS 1603+260) and V1408 Aql (4U 1957+115). UW CrB is an eclipsing binary and we refine its eclipse ephemeris and measure an upper limit to the rate of change of its orbital period, |\\dot{P}| < 4.2 \\times 10^{-11} (unitless). The light curve of UW CrB shows optical counterparts of type I X-ray bursts. We tabulate the times, orbital phases, and fluences of 33 bursts and show that the optical flux in the bursts comes primarily from the accretion disk, not from the secondary star. The new observations are consistent with a model in which the accretion disk in UW CrB is asymmetric and precesses in the prograde direction with a period of ~5.5 days. The light curve of V1408 Aql has a low-amplitude modulation at its 9.33 hr orbital period. The modulation remained a nearly pure sine curve in the new data as it was in 1984 and 2008, but its mean amplitude was lower, 18% against 23% in the earlier data. A model in which the orbital modulation is caused by the varying aspect of the heated face of the secondary star continues to give an excellent fit to the light curve. We derive a much improved orbital ephemeris for the system.

LONG-TERM OPTICAL OBSERVATIONS OF TWO LMXBs: UW CrB (=MS 1603+260) AND V1408 Aql (=4U 1957+115)

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

Mason, Paul A.; Robinson, Edward L.; Bayless, Amanda J.

We present new optical photometry of two low-mass X-ray binary stars, UW CrB (MS 1603+260) and V1408 Aql (4U 1957+115). UW CrB is an eclipsing binary and we refine its eclipse ephemeris and measure an upper limit to the rate of change of its orbital period, | P-dot | < 4.2 Multiplication-Sign 10{sup -11} (unitless). The light curve of UW CrB shows optical counterparts of type I X-ray bursts. We tabulate the times, orbital phases, and fluences of 33 bursts and show that the optical flux in the bursts comes primarily from the accretion disk, not from the secondary star.more » The new observations are consistent with a model in which the accretion disk in UW CrB is asymmetric and precesses in the prograde direction with a period of {approx}5.5 days. The light curve of V1408 Aql has a low-amplitude modulation at its 9.33 hr orbital period. The modulation remained a nearly pure sine curve in the new data as it was in 1984 and 2008, but its mean amplitude was lower, 18% against 23% in the earlier data. A model in which the orbital modulation is caused by the varying aspect of the heated face of the secondary star continues to give an excellent fit to the light curve. We derive a much improved orbital ephemeris for the system.« less

Lifetime Neutron Fluence Analysis of the Ringhals Unit 1 Boiling Water Reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulesza, Joel A.; Roudén, Jenny; Green, Eva-Lena

2016-02-01

This paper describes a neutron fluence assessment considering the entire commercial operating history (35 cycles or ˜ 25 effective full power years) of the Ringhals Unit 1 reactor pressure vessel beltline region. In this assessment, neutron (E >1.0 MeV) fluence and iron atom displacement distributions were calculated on the moderator tank and reactor pressure vessel structures. To validate those calculations, five in-vessel surveillance chain dosimetry sets were evaluated as well as material samples taken from the upper core grid and wide range neutron monitor tubes to act as a form of retrospective dosimetry. During the analysis, it was recognized that delays in characterizing the retrospective dosimetry samples reduced the amount of reactions available to be counted and complicated the material composition determination. However, the comparisons between the surveillance chain dosimetry measurements (M) and calculated (C) results show similar and consistent results with the linear average M/C ratio of 1.13 which is in good agreement with the resultant least squares best estimate (BE)/C ratios of 1.10 for both neutron (E >1.0 MeV) flux and iron atom displacement rate.

Preliminary results with a strip ionization chamber used as beam monitor for hadrontherapy treatments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boriano, A.; Bourhaleb, F.; Cirio, R.; Cirrone, G. A. P.; Cuttone, G.; Donetti, M.; Garelli, E.; Giordanengo, S.; Luparia, A.; Marchette, F.; Peroni, C.; Raffaele, L.; Sabini, M. G.; Valastro, L.

2006-01-01

Preliminary results are presented from a test of a parallel plate ionization chamber with the anode segmented in strips (MOPI) to be used as a beam monitor for therapeutical treatments on the 62 MeV proton beam line of the INFN-LNS Superconducting Cyclotron. Ocular pathologies have been treated at the Catana facility since March 2002. The detector, placed downstream of the patient collimator, will allow the measurement of the relevant beam diagnostic parameters during treatment such as integrated beam fluence, for dose determination; the beam baricentre, width and asymmetry will be obtained from the fluence profile sampled with a resolution of about 100 Urn at a rate up to 1 kHz with no dead time. In this test, carried out at LNS, the detector has been exposed to different beam shapes and the integrated fluence derived by the measured beam profiles has been compared with that obtained with other dosimeters normally used for treatment. The skewness of the beam profile has been measured and shown to be suitable to on-line check variations of the beam shape.

Formation of polymer nanoparticles by UV pulsed laser ablation of poly (bisphenol A carbonate) in liquid environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Tong, Daniel E.; Sanz, Mikel; Ezquerra, Tiberio A.; Nogales, Aurora; Marco, José F.; Castillejo, Marta; Rebollar, Esther

2017-10-01

Suspensions of poly(bisphenol A carbonate) (PBAC) nanoparticles of varying size and shape have been produced by ablation of a PBAC target in liquid media with the fourth harmonic of a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (wavelength 266 nm, full width at half maximum 4 ns, repetition rate 10 Hz). The polymer target was placed at the bottom of a rotating glass vessel filled with around a 10 mm column of liquid. Laser ablation in water leads to spherical nanoparticles with diameters of several tens of nanometers for fluences close to 1 J/cm2. Ablation at lower fluences, around 0.1 J/cm2, results in the production of nanoparticles of smaller diameters and also of non-spherical nanoparticles. Additional irradiations at the fluence of 0.1 J/cm2 were performed in several liquid media with different properties, in terms of density, viscosity, thermal conductivity, boiling temperature, isothermal compressibility and polarity. The different size distributions observed were related to the thermal conductivity of the systems, while their viscosity seems to be responsible for the development of nanostructures with different morphologies.

Arabidopsis fhl/fhy1 double mutant reveals a distinct cytoplasmic action of phytochrome A

PubMed Central

Rösler, Jutta; Klein, Ilse; Zeidler, Mathias

2007-01-01

Phytochrome A (phyA) plays an important role during germination and early seedling development. Because phyA is the primary photoreceptor for the high-irradiance response and the very-low-fluence response, it can trigger development not only in red and far-red (FR) light but also in a wider range of light qualities. Although phyA action is generally associated with translocation to the nucleus and regulation of transcription, there is evidence for additional cytoplasmic functions. Because nuclear accumulation of phyA has been shown to depend on far-red-elongated hypocotyl 1 (FHY1) and FHL (FHY1-like), investigation of phyA function in a double fhl/fhy1 mutant might be valuable in revealing the mechanism of phyA translocation and possible cytoplasmic functions. In fhl/fhy1, the FR-triggered nuclear translocation of phyA could no longer be detected but could be restored by transgenic expression of CFP:FHY1. Whereas the fhl/fhy1 mutant showed a phyA phenotype in respect to hypocotyl elongation and cotyledon opening under high-irradiance response conditions as well as a typical phyA germination phenotype under very-low-fluence response conditions, fhl/fhy1 showed no phenotype with respect to the phyA-dependent abrogation of negative gravitropism in blue light and in red-enhanced phototropism, demonstrating clear cytoplasmic functions of phyA. Disturbance of phyA nuclear import in fhl/fhy1 led to formation of FR-induced phyA:GFP cytoplasmic foci resembling the sequestered areas of phytochrome. FHY1 and FHL play crucial roles in phyA nuclear translocation and signaling. Thus the double-mutant fhl/fhy1 allows nuclear and cytoplasmic phyA functions to be separated, leading to the novel identification of cytoplasmic phyA responses. PMID:17566111

Low-fluence Q-switched Nd: YAG 1064-nm laser and intense pulsed light for the treatment of melasma.

PubMed

Vachiramon, V; Sirithanabadeekul, P; Sahawatwong, S

2015-07-01

Low-fluence Q-switched Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser (LFQS) and intense pulsed light (IPL) have been shown to be effective in the treatment of melasma. LFQS can target deeper pigment, while IPL can target a wide range of cutaneous structures. However, there is limited information on efficacy and side-effects of the combined treatment. To compare the efficacy and safety of combined LFQS and IPL therapy with LFQS monotherapy in the treatment of melasma. Twenty female patients with mixed-type melasma on both cheeks were treated with LFQS on full face for five sessions at 1-week intervals. One side of the face was randomly assigned to receive additional three sessions of IPL treatments at 2-week intervals. Patients were evaluated 12 weeks after the last treatment. Outcome measures include the assessment by colorimeter and calculated as relative lightness index (R*LI), modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI), patient satisfaction and adverse effects. Eighteen patients completed the study. Both sides of the face showed significant improvement of R*LI and mMASI. A more rapid improvement of R*LI and mMASI was observed on combined side. At the end of treatment, 55% improvement and 37% improvement of R*LI was observed on combined side and monotherapy side respectively. The overall patients' satisfaction was in favour of the combined side. Recurrence occurred on both sides but there was still a significant decrease compared to baseline. No serious side effect was noted. The combination of LFQS and IPL results in faster clearance of melasma and is more effective than LFQS alone for melasma treatment. However, recurrence is still inevitable. © 2014 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Positive and negative tropic curvature induced by microbeam irradiation of protonemal tip cells of the moss Ceratodon purpureus.

PubMed

Lamparter, T; Kagawa, T; Brücker, G; Wada, M

2004-01-01

The photoreceptor phytochrome mediates tropic responses in protonemata of the moss Ceratodon purpureus. Under standard conditions the tip cells grow towards unilateral red light, or perpendicular to the electrical vector of polarized light. In this study the response of tip cells to partial irradiation of the apical region was analysed using a microbeam apparatus. The fluence response curve gave an unexpected pattern: whereas a 15-min microbeam with light intensities around 3 micro mol m (-2) s (-1) induced a growth curvature towards the irradiated side, higher light intensities around 100 micro mol m (-2) s (-1) caused a negative response, the cells grew away from the irradiated side. This avoidance response is explained by two effects: the light intensity is high enough to induce photoconversion into the active Pfr form of phytochrome, not only on the irradiated but also on the non-irradiated side by stray light. At the same time, the strong light on the irradiated side acts antagonistically to Pfr. As a result of this inhibition, the growth direction is moved to the light-avoiding side. Such a Pfr-independent mechanism might be important for the phototropic response to distinguish between the light-directed and light-avoiding side under unilateral light.

Effect of incubation temperature and pH on the recovery of Bacillus weihenstephanensis spores after exposure to a peracetic acid-based disinfectant or to pulsed light.

PubMed

Trunet, C; Mtimet, N; Mathot, A-G; Postollec, F; Leguérinel, I; Couvert, O; Carlin, F; Coroller, L

2018-04-12

The recovery at a range of incubation temperatures and pH of spores of Bacillus weihenstephanensis KBAB4 exposed to a peracetic acid-based disinfectant (PABD) or to pulsed light was estimated. Spores of B. weihenstephanensis were produced at 30 °C and pH 7.00, at 30 °C and pH 5.50, or at 12 °C and pH 7.00. The spores were treated with a commercial peracetic acid-based disinfectant at 80 mg·mL -1 for 0 to 200 min at 18 °C or by pulsed light at fluences ranging between 0.4 and 2.3 J·cm -2 for pulsed light treatment. After each treatment, the spores were incubated on nutrient agar at 12 °C, 30 °C or 37 °C, or at pH 5.10, 6.00 or 7.40. Incubation temperature during recovery had a significant impact only near the recovery limits, beyond which surviving spores previously exposed to a PABD or to pulsed light were not able to form colonies. In contrast, a decrease in pH of the recovery nutrient agar had a progressive impact on the ability of spores to form colonies. The time to first log reduction after PABD treatment was 29.5 ± 0.7 min with recovery at pH 7.40, and was tremendously shortened 5.1 ± 0.2 min with recovery at pH 5.10. Concerning the fluence necessary for the first log reduction, it was 1.5 times higher when the spores were recovered at pH 6.00 compared to a recovery at pH 5.10. The impact of recovery temperature and pH can be described with a mathematical model using cardinal temperature and pH as parameters. These effects of temperature and pH on recovery of Bacillus weihenstephanensis spores exposed to a disinfectant combining peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, or pulsed light are similar, although these treatments are of different natures. Sporulation temperature or pH did not impact resistance to the peracetic acid-based disinfectant or pulsed light. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparative survival analysis of Deinococcus radiodurans and the haloarchaea Natrialba magadii and Haloferax volcanii exposed to vacuum ultraviolet irradiation.

PubMed

Abrevaya, Ximena C; Paulino-Lima, Ivan G; Galante, Douglas; Rodrigues, Fabio; Mauas, Pablo J D; Cortón, Eduardo; Lage, Claudia de Alencar Santos

2011-12-01

The haloarchaea Natrialba magadii and Haloferax volcanii, as well as the radiation-resistant bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans, were exposed to vacuum UV (VUV) radiation at the Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory. Cell monolayers (containing 10(5) to 10(6) cells per sample) were prepared over polycarbonate filters and irradiated under high vacuum (10(-5) Pa) with polychromatic synchrotron radiation. N. magadii was remarkably resistant to high vacuum with a survival fraction of (3.77±0.76)×10(-2), which was larger than that of D. radiodurans (1.13±0.23)×10(-2). The survival fraction of the haloarchaea H. volcanii, of (3.60±1.80)×10(-4), was much smaller. Radiation resistance profiles were similar between the haloarchaea and D. radiodurans for fluences up to 150 J m(-2). For fluences larger than 150 J m(-2), there was a significant decrease in the survival of haloarchaea, and in particular H. volcanii did not survive. Survival for D. radiodurans was 1% after exposure to the higher VUV fluence (1350 J m(-2)), while N. magadii had a survival lower than 0.1%. Such survival fractions are discussed regarding the possibility of interplanetary transfer of viable microorganisms and the possible existence of microbial life in extraterrestrial salty environments such as the planet Mars and Jupiter's moon Europa. This is the first work to report survival of haloarchaea under simulated interplanetary conditions.

High Fluency Low Flux Embrittlement Models of LWR Reactor Pressure Vessel Embrittlement and a Supporting Database from the UCSB ATR-2 Irradiation Experiment

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

Odette, G. Robert

Reactor pressure vessel embrittlement may limit the lifetime of light water reactors (LWR). Embrittlement is primarily caused by formation of nano-scale precipitates, which cause hardening and a subsequent increase in the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature of the steel. While the effect of Cu has historically been the largest research focus of RPV embrittlement, there is increasing evidence that Mn, Ni and Si are likely to have a large effect at higher fluence, where Mn-Ni-Si precipitates can form, even in the absence of Cu. Therefore, extending RPV lifetimes will require a thorough understanding of both precipitation and embrittlement at higher fluences thanmore » have ever been observed in a power reactor. To address this issue, test reactors that irradiate materials at higher neutron fluxes than power reactors are used. These experiments at high neutron flux can reach extended life neutron fluences in only months or several years. The drawback of these test irradiations is that they add additional complexity to interpreting the data, as the irradiation flux also plays a role into both precipitate formation and irradiation hardening and embrittlement. This report focuses on developing a database of both microstructure and mechanical property data to better understand the effect of flux. In addition, a previously developed model that enables the comparison of data taken over a range of neutron flux is discussed.« less

Formation of inorganic electride thin films via site-selective extrusion by energetic inert gas ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyakawa, Masashi; Toda, Yoshitake; Hayashi, Katsuro; Hirano, Masahiro; Kamiya, Toshio; Matsunami, Noriaki; Hosono, Hideo

2005-01-01

Inert gas ion implantation (acceleration voltage 300kV) into polycrystalline 12CaO.7Al2O3 (C12A7) films was investigated with fluences from 1×1016 to 1×1017cm-2 at elevated temperatures. Upon hot implantation at 600°C with fluences greater than 1×1017cm-2, the obtained films were colored and exhibited high electrical conductivity in the as-implanted state. The extrusion of O2- ions encaged in the crystallographic cages of C12A7 crystal, which leaves electrons in the cages at concentrations up to ˜1.4×1021cm-3, may cause the high electrical conductivity. On the other hand, when the fluence is less than 1×1017cm-2, the as-implanted films are optically transparent and electrically insulating. The conductivity is enhanced and the films become colored by irradiating with ultraviolet light due to the formation of F +-like centers. The electrons forming the F+-like centers are photo released from the encaged H- ions, which are presumably derived from the preexisting OH- groups. The induced electron concentration is proportional to the calculated displacements per atom, which suggests that nuclear collision effects of the implanted ions play a dominant role in forming the electron and H- ion in the films. The hot ion implantation technique provides a nonchemical process for preparing electronic conductive C12A7 films.

Pulsed photoinitiated fabrication of inkjet printed titanium dioxide/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite thin films.

PubMed

Bourgeois, Briley; Luo, Sijun; Riggs, Brian; Ji, Yaping; Adireddy, Shiva; Schroder, Kurt; Farnsworth, Stan; Chrisey, Douglas; Escarra, Matthew

2018-08-03

This work reports a new technique for scalable and low-temperature processing of nanostructured TiO 2 thin films, allowing for practical manufacturing of TiO 2 -based devices such as perovskite solar cells at low-temperature or on flexible substrates. Dual layers of dense and mesoporous TiO 2 /graphitic oxide nanocomposite films are synthesized simultaneously using inkjet printing and pulsed photonic irradiation. Investigation of process parameters including precursor concentration (10-20 wt%) and exposure fluence (4.5-8.5 J cm -2 ) reveals control over crystalline quality, graphitic oxide phase, film thickness, dendrite density, and optical properties. Raman spectroscopy shows the E g peak, characteristic of anatase phase titania, increases in intensity with higher photonic irradiation fluence, suggesting increased crystallinity through higher fluence processing. Film thickness and dendrite density is shown to increase with precursor concentration in the printed ink. The dense base layer thickness was controlled between 20 and 80 nm. The refractive index of the films is determined by ellipsometry to be 1.92 ± 0.08 at 650 nm. Films exhibit an energy weighted optical transparency of 91.1%, in comparison to 91.3% of a thermally processed film, when in situ carbon materials were removed. Transmission and diffuse reflectance are used to determine optical band gaps of the films ranging from 2.98 to 3.38 eV in accordance with the photonic irradiation fluence and suggests tunability of TiO 2 phase composition. The sheet resistance of the synthesized films is measured to be 14.54 ± 1.11 Ω/□ and 28.90 ± 2.24 Ω/□ for films as-processed and after carbon removal, respectively, which is comparable to high temperature processed TiO 2 thin films. The studied electrical and optical properties of the light processed films show comparable results to traditionally processed TiO 2 while offering the distinct advantages of scalable manufacturing, low-temperature processing, simultaneous bilayer fabrication, and in situ formation of removable carbon nanocomposites.

Phototropic solar tracking in sunflower plants: an integrative perspective

PubMed Central

Kutschera, Ulrich; Briggs, Winslow R.

2016-01-01

Background One of the best-known plant movements, phototropic solar tracking in sunflower (Helianthus annuus), has not yet been fully characterized. Two questions are still a matter of debate. (1) Is the adaptive significance solely an optimization of photosynthesis via the exposure of the leaves to the sun? (2) Is shade avoidance involved in this process? In this study, these concepts are discussed from a historical perspective and novel insights are provided. Scope and Methods Results from the primary literature on heliotropic growth movements led to the conclusion that these responses cease before anthesis, so that the flowering heads point to the East. Based on observations on 10-week-old plants, the diurnal East–West oscillations of the upper fifth of the growing stem and leaves in relation to the position of the sun (inclusive of nocturnal re-orientation) were documented, and photon fluence rates on the leaf surfaces on clear, cloudy and rainy days were determined. In addition, the light–response curve of net CO2 assimilation was determined on the upper leaves of the same batch of plants, and evidence for the occurrence of shade-avoidance responses in growing sunflower plants is summarized. Conclusions. Only elongating, vegetative sunflower shoots and the upper leaves perform phototropic solar tracking. Photon fluence response and CO2 assimilation measurements cast doubt on the ‘photosynthesis-optimization hypothesis’ as the sole explanation for the evolution of these plant movements. We suggest that the shade-avoidance response, which maximizes light-driven CO2 assimilation, plays a major role in solar tracking populations of competing sunflower plants, and an integrative scheme of these growth movements is provided. PMID:26420201

Parallel processing of embossing dies with ultrafast lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jarczynski, Manfred; Mitra, Thomas; Brüning, Stephan; Du, Keming; Jenke, Gerald

2018-02-01

Functionalization of surfaces equips products and components with new features like hydrophilic behavior, adjustable gloss level, light management properties, etc. Small feature sizes demand diffraction-limited spots and adapted fluence for different materials. Through the availability of high power fast repeating ultrashort pulsed lasers and efficient optical processing heads delivering diffraction-limited small spot size of around 10μm it is feasible to achieve fluences higher than an adequate patterning requires. Hence, parallel processing is becoming of interest to increase the throughput and allow mass production of micro machined surfaces. The first step on the roadmap of parallel processing for cylinder embossing dies was realized with an eight- spot processing head based on ns-fiber laser with passive optical beam splitting, individual spot switching by acousto optical modulation and an advanced imaging. Patterning of cylindrical embossing dies shows a high efficiency of nearby 80%, diffraction-limited and equally spaced spots with pitches down to 25μm achieved by a compression using cascaded prism arrays. Due to the nanoseconds laser pulses the ablation shows the typical surrounding material deposition of a hot process. In the next step the processing head was adapted to a picosecond-laser source and the 500W fiber laser was replaced by an ultrashort pulsed laser with 300W, 12ps and a repetition frequency of up to 6MHz. This paper presents details about the processing head design and the analysis of ablation rates and patterns on steel, copper and brass dies. Furthermore, it gives an outlook on scaling the parallel processing head from eight to 16 individually switched beamlets to increase processing throughput and optimized utilization of the available ultrashort pulsed laser energy.

Radiation-quality dependent cellular response in mutation induction in normal human cells.

PubMed

Suzuki, Masao; Tsuruoka, Chizuru; Uchihori, Yukio; Kitamura, Hisashi; Liu, Cui Hua

2009-09-01

We studied cellular responses in normal human fibroblasts induced with low-dose (rate) or low-fluence irradiations of different radiation types, such as gamma rays, neutrons and high linear energy transfer (LET) heavy ions. The cells were pretreated with low-dose (rate) or low-fluence irradiations (approximately 1 mGy/7-8 h) of 137Cs gamma rays, 241Am-Be neutrons, helium, carbon and iron ions before irradiations with an X-ray challenging dose (1.5 Gy). Helium (LET = 2.3 keV/microm), carbon (LET = 13.3 keV/microm) and iron (LET = 200 keV/microm) ions were produced by the Heavy Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba (HIMAC), Japan. No difference in cell-killing effect, measured by a colony forming assay, was observed among the pretreatment with different radiation types. In mutation induction, which was detected in the hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (hprt) locus to measure 6-thioguanine resistant clones, there was no difference in mutation frequency induced by the X-ray challenging dose between unpretreated and gamma-ray pretreated cells. In the case of the pretreatment of heavy ions, X-ray-induced mutation was around 1.8 times higher in helium-ion pretreated and 4.0 times higher in carbon-ion pretreated cells than in unpretreated cells (X-ray challenging dose alone). However, the mutation frequency in cells pretreated with iron ions was the same level as either unpretreated or gamma-ray pretreated cells. In contrast, it was reduced at 0.15 times in cells pretreated with neutrons when compared to unpretreated cells. The results show that cellular responses caused by the influence of hprt mutation induced in cells pretreated with low-dose-rate or low-fluence irradiations of different radiation types were radiation-quality dependent manner.

Understanding heterogeneity in Genesis diamond-like carbon film using SIMS analysis of implants

DOE PAGES

Jurewicz, Amy J. G.; Burnett, Don S.; Rieck, Karen D.; ...

2017-07-05

An amorphous diamond-like carbon film deposited on silicon made at Sandia National Laboratory by pulsed laser deposition was one of several solar wind (SW) collectors used by the Genesis Mission (NASA Discovery Class Mission #5). The film was ~1 μm thick, amorphous, anhydrous, and had a high ratio of sp 3–sp 2 bonds (>50%). For 27 months of exposure to space at the first We passively irradiated lagrange point, the collectors, with SW (H fluence ~2 × 10 16 ions cm -2; He fluence ~8 × 10 14 ions cm -2). The radiation damage caused by the implanted H ionsmore » peaked at 12–14 nm below the surface of the film and that of He about 20–23 nm. To enable quantitative measurement of the SW fluences by secondary ion mass spectroscopy, minor isotopes of Mg ( 25Mg and 26Mg) were commercially implanted into flight-spare collectors at 75 keV and a fluence of 1 × 10 14 ions cm -2. Furthermore, the shapes of analytical depth profiles, the rate at which the profiles were sputtered by a given beam current, and the intensity of ion yields are used to characterize the structure of the material in small areas (~200 × 200 ± 50 μm). Data were consistent with the hypothesis that minor structural changes in the film were induced by SW exposure.« less