Rotation analysis on large complex superconducting cables based on numerical modeling and experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Jinggang; Yue, Donghua; Zhang, Xingyi; Wu, Yu; Liu, Xiaochuan; Liu, Huajun; Jin, Huan; Dai, Chao; Nijhuis, Arend; Zhou, Chao; Devred, Arnaud

2018-07-01

The conductors used in large fusion reactors, e.g. ITER, CFETR and DEMO, are made of cable-in-conduit conductor (CICC) with large diameters up to about 50 mm. The superconducting and copper strands are cabled around a central spiral and then wrapped with stainless-steel tape of 0.1 mm thickness. The cable is then inserted into a jacket under tensile force that increases with the length of insertion. Because the cables are long and with a large diameter, the insertion force could reach values of about 40 kN. The large tensile force could lead to significant rotation forces. This may lead to an increase of the twist pitch, especially for the final one. Understanding the twist pitch variation is very important; in particular, the twist pitch of a cable inside a CICC strongly affects its properties, especially for Nb3Sn conductors. In this paper, a simplified numerical model was used to analyze the cable rotation, including material properties, cabling tension as well as wrap tension. Several rotation experiments with tensile force have been performed to verify the numerical results for CFETR CSMC cables. The results show that the numerical analysis is consistent with the experiments and provides the optimal cabling conditions for large superconducting cables.

Primary Care Management of Plantar Fasciitis.

PubMed

Melvin, Thomas J; Tankersley, Zach J; Qazi, Zain N; Jasko, John J; Odono, Russell; Shuler, Franklin D

2015-01-01

Plantar fasciitis (PF) is present in 10% of the population and is the most common cause of plantar heel pain. PF is painful, can alter daily activities and presents as a sharp pain localized to the plantar foot and medial heel. The underlying etiology involves microtrauma to the plantar fascia, specifically at its insertion point on the calcaneus. Successful management of plantar fasciitis is typically achieved with the conservative therapy approaches discussed.

Quartz antenna with hollow conductor

DOEpatents

Leung, Ka-Ngo; Benabou, Elie

2002-01-01

A radio frequency (RF) antenna for plasma ion sources is formed of a hollow metal conductor tube disposed within a glass tube. The hollow metal tubular conductor has an internal flow channel so that there will be no coolant leakage if the outer glass tube of the antenna breaks. A portion of the RF antenna is formed into a coil; the antenna is used for inductively coupling RF power to a plasma in an ion source chamber. The antenna is made by first inserting the metal tube inside the glass tube, and then forming the glass/metal composite tube into the desired coil shape.

Experimental results of 40-kA Nb[sub 3]Al cable-in-conduit conductor for fusion machines

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

Takahashi, Y.; Sugimoto, M.; Isono, T.

1994-07-01

A 40-kA Nb[sub 3]Al cable-in-conduit conductor has been developed for the toroidal field coils of fusion reactors, because Nb[sub 3]Al has excellent mechanical performance. This conductor consists of 405 copper-stabilized multifilamentary strands inserted into a CuNi case circular conduit. The Nb[sub 3]Al strands are fabricated by the Jelly-roll process with a diameter of 1.22 mm. This conductor could be operated up to a current of 46 kA at an external field of 11.2 T. Accordingly, Nb[sub 3]Al promises to soon become a useful superconductor for large-scale high-field applications, such as fusion machines.

Characterization of the ITER CS conductor and projection to the ITER CS performance

DOE PAGES

Martovetsky, N.; Isono, T.; Bessette, D.; ...

2017-06-20

The ITER Central Solenoid (CS) is one of the critical elements of the machine. The CS conductor went through an intense optimization and qualification program, which included characterization of the strands, a conductor straight short sample testing in the SULTAN facility at the Swiss Plasma Center (SPC), Villigen, Switzerland, and a single-layer CS Insert coil recently tested in the Central Solenoid Model Coil (CSMC) facility in QST-Naka, Japan. In this paper, we obtained valuable data in a wide range of the parameters (current, magnetic field, temperature, and strain), which allowed a credible characterization of the CS conductor in different conditions.more » Finally, using this characterization, we will make a projection to the performance of the CS in the ITER reference scenario.« less

Characterization of the ITER CS conductor and projection to the ITER CS performance

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

Martovetsky, N.; Isono, T.; Bessette, D.

The ITER Central Solenoid (CS) is one of the critical elements of the machine. The CS conductor went through an intense optimization and qualification program, which included characterization of the strands, a conductor straight short sample testing in the SULTAN facility at the Swiss Plasma Center (SPC), Villigen, Switzerland, and a single-layer CS Insert coil recently tested in the Central Solenoid Model Coil (CSMC) facility in QST-Naka, Japan. In this paper, we obtained valuable data in a wide range of the parameters (current, magnetic field, temperature, and strain), which allowed a credible characterization of the CS conductor in different conditions.more » Finally, using this characterization, we will make a projection to the performance of the CS in the ITER reference scenario.« less

A subunit of the dynein regulatory complex in Chlamydomonas is a homologue of a growth arrest–specific gene product

PubMed Central

Rupp, Gerald; Porter, Mary E.

2003-01-01

The dynein regulatory complex (DRC) is an important intermediate in the pathway that regulates flagellar motility. To identify subunits of the DRC, we characterized a Chlamydomonas motility mutant obtained by insertional mutagenesis. The pf2-4 mutant displays an altered waveform that results in slow swimming cells. EM analysis reveals defects in DRC structure that can be rescued by reintroduction of the wild-type PF2 gene. Immunolocalization studies show that the PF2 protein is distributed along the length of the axoneme, where it is part of a discrete complex of polypeptides. PF2 is a coiled-coil protein that shares significant homology with a mammalian growth arrest–specific gene product (Gas11/Gas8) and a trypanosome protein known as trypanin. PF2 and its homologues appear to be universal components of motile axonemes that are required for DRC assembly and the regulation of flagellar motility. The expression of Gas8/Gas11 transcripts in a wide range of tissues may also indicate a potential role for PF2-related proteins in other microtubule-based structures. PMID:12847082

Health-Related Quality of Life and Associated Factors of Frontline Railway Workers: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the Ankang Area, Shaanxi Province, China

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiaona; Chen, Gang; Xu, Feng; Zhou, Kaina; Zhuang, Guihua

2016-01-01

After validation of the widely used health-related quality of life (HRQOL) generic measure, the Short Form 36 version 2 (SF-36v2), we investigated the HRQOL and associated factors of frontline railway workers in China. Ground workers, conductors, and train drivers were selected from Ankang Precinct by using a stratified cluster sampling technique. A total of 784 frontline railway workers participated in the survey. The reliability and validity of SF-36v2 was satisfactory. The physical component summary (PCS) scores of three subgroups attained the average range for the USA general population, whereas the mental component summary (MCS) scores were well below the range. Most domains scored below the norm, except for the physical functioning (PF) domain. Among three subgroups, train drivers reported significantly lower scores on MCS and six health domains (excluding PF and bodily pain (BP)). After controlled confounders, conductors had significantly higher PCS and MCS scores than ground workers. There is heterogeneity on risk factors among three subgroups, but having long or irregular working schedules was negatively associated with HRQOL in all subgroups. SF-36v2 is a reliable and valid HRQOL measurement in railway workers in China. The frontline railway workers’ physical health was comparative to American norms, whilst mental health was relatively worse. Long or irregular working schedules were the most important factors. PMID:27916919

Novel superconducting phenomena in quasi-one-dimensional Bechgaard salts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jerome, Denis; Yonezawa, Shingo

2016-03-01

It is the saturation of the transition temperature Tc in the range of 24 K for known materials in the late sixties that triggered the search for additional materials offering new coupling mechanisms leading in turn to higher Tc's. As a result of this stimulation, superconductivity in organic matter was discovered in tetramethyl-tetraselenafulvalene-hexafluorophosphate, (TMTSF)2PF6, in 1979, in the laboratory founded at Orsay by Professor Friedel and his colleagues in 1962. Although this conductor is a prototype example for low-dimensional physics, we mostly focus in this article on the superconducting phase of the ambient-pressure superconductor (TMTSF)2ClO4, which has been studied most intensively among the TMTSF salts. We shall present a series of experimental results supporting nodal d-wave symmetry for the superconducting gap in these prototypical quasi-one-dimensional conductors.

Practical fit functions for transport critical current versus field magnitude and angle data from (RE)BCO coated conductors at fixed low temperatures and in high magnetic fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hilton, D. K.; Gavrilin, A. V.; Trociewitz, U. P.

2015-07-01

Applications of (RE = Y, Gd)BCO coated conductors for the generation of high magnetic fields are increasing sharply, this while (RE)BCO coated conductors themselves are evolving rapidly. This article describes and demonstrates recently developed and applied mathematical models that systematically and comprehensively characterize the transport critical current angular dependence of a batch of (RE)BCO coated conductor in high magnetic fields at fixed temperatures with an uncertainty of 10% or better. The model development was based on analysis of experimental data sets from various published sources and coated conductors with different microstructures. These derivations directly are applicable to the accurate prediction of the performance in high magnetic fields of coils wound with (RE)BCO coated conductors. In particular, a nonlinear fit is discussed in this article of transport critical current at T = 4.2 K versus field and angle data. This fit was used to estimate the hysteresis losses of (RE)BCO coated conductors in high magnetic fields, and to design the inserts wound with such conductors of the all-superconducting 32 T magnet being constructed at the NHMFL. A series of such fits, recently developed at several fixed temperatures, continues to be used to simulate the quench behavior of that magnet.

Role of salt concentration in blend polymer for energy storage conversion devices

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

Arya, Anil; Sharma, A. L., E-mail: alsharmaiitkgp@gmail.com; Sadiq, M.

2016-05-06

Solid Polymer Electrolytes (SPE) are materials of considerable interest worldwide, which serves dual purpose of electrolyte and separator between electrode compartments in renewable energy conversion/storage devices such as; high energy density batteries, electrochromic display devices, and supercapacitors. Polymer blend electrolytes are prepared for various concentration of salt (Ö/Li) with the constant ratio (0.5 gm) of each PEO and PAN polymers (blend polymer) using solution casting technique. Solid polymeric ionic conductor as a separator is the ultimate substitute to eliminate the drawback related to liquid and gel polymer ionic conductors. In the present work, solid polymer electrolyte film consisting of PEO,more » PAN and LiPF{sub 6} are examined for various concentration of lithium salt by keeping PEO/PAN blend ratio as a constant with a view to optimize the dominant salt concentration which could give the maximum conductivity at ambient temperature.« less

Use of ion conductors in the pyrochemical reduction of oxides

DOEpatents

Miller, William E.; Tomczuk, Zygmunt

1994-01-01

An electrochemical process and electrochemical cell for reducing a metal oxide are provided. First the oxide is separated as oxygen gas using, for example, a ZrO.sub.2 oxygen ion conductor anode and the metal ions from the reduction salt are reduced and deposited on an ion conductor cathode, for example, sodium ion reduced on a .beta.-alumina sodium ion conductor cathode. The generation of and separation of oxygen gas avoids the problem with chemical back reaction of oxygen with active metals in the cell. The method also is characterized by a sequence of two steps where an inert cathode electrode is inserted into the electrochemical cell in the second step and the metallic component in the ion conductor is then used as the anode to cause electrochemical reduction of the metal ions formed in the first step from the metal oxide where oxygen gas formed at the anode. The use of ion conductors serves to isolate the active components from chemically reacting with certain chemicals in the cell. While applicable to a variety of metal oxides, the invention has special importance for reducing CaO to Ca.degree. used for reducing UO.sub.2 and PuO.sub.2 to U and Pu.

DESIGN STUDY OF 20 T, 15 CM BORE HYBRID MAGNET WITH RADIATION RESISTANT INSERT FOR PION CAPTURE.

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

WEGGEL,R.J.; PEARSON,C.E.; KING,B.J.

2001-06-18

To capture pions the Neutrino Factory and Muon Collider Collaboration needs a field of {approx}20 T throughout a cylinder 15 cm in diameter and 60 cm long, falling over the next 18 m to 1.25 T, while the bore increases fourfold inversely as the square root of the field. We propose a hybrid system. The superconducting magnet is of world-class parameters, storing 600 MJ and including a coil to generate 14 T in a bore of {approx}1.3 m. Intercoil forces reach 100 MN. For high radiation resistance, the insert coil is of mineral-insulated hollow conductor, as developed for the Japanmore » Hadron Facility; it would require 12 MW to generate 6 T. Needed is research to develop a more efficient hollow conductor or radiation-resistant insulator for a Bitter coil.« less

A Plasma Focus Device with a 2-MA Discharge Current as a Hard X-Ray Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yurkov, D. I.; Dulatov, A. K.; Lemeshko, B. D.; Andreev, D. A.; Golikov, A. V.; Mikhailov, Yu. V.; Prokuratov, I. A.; Selifanov, A. N.; Fatiev, T. S.

2018-04-01

A device based on a pulsed current generator with capacitive energy storage loaded on a plasma focus (PF) chamber is described. The device provides a discharge current amplitude of up to 2 MA in the PF chamber at a stored energy in the capacitor bank of up to 150 kJ. The PF chamber is designed to study hard X-ray (HXR) emission. It has windows for output of HXR emission in the cathode direction, as well as a special insert for output of HXR emission into the anode cavity. A study of operation of the chamber as a part of the setup with the use of various X-ray targets on the anode has been carried out. At a discharge current of 1.5MA, an HXR pulse with an average duration of 16 ns and energy spectrum from 10 to 200 keV, which provides an absorbed dose in the irradiated samples on the order of 1 Sv, is generated in the PF chamber.

A simple node and conductor data generator for SINDA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gottula, Ronald R.

1992-01-01

This paper presents a simple, automated method to generate NODE and CONDUCTOR DATA for thermal match modes. The method uses personal computer spreadsheets to create SINDA inputs. It was developed in order to make SINDA modeling less time consuming and serves as an alternative to graphical methods. Anyone having some experience using a personal computer can easily implement this process. The user develops spreadsheets to automatically calculate capacitances and conductances based on material properties and dimensional data. The necessary node and conductor information is then taken from the spreadsheets and automatically arranged into the proper format, ready for insertion directly into the SINDA model. This technique provides a number of benefits to the SINDA user such as a reduction in the number of hand calculations, and an ability to very quickly generate a parametric set of NODE and CONDUCTOR DATA blocks. It also provides advantages over graphical thermal modeling systems by retaining the analyst's complete visibility into the thermal network, and by permitting user comments anywhere within the DATA blocks.

Use of ion conductors in the pyrochemical reduction of oxides

DOEpatents

Miller, W.E.; Tomczuk, Z.

1994-02-01

An electrochemical process and electrochemical cell for reducing a metal oxide are provided. First the oxide is separated as oxygen gas using, for example, a ZrO[sub 2] oxygen ion conductor anode and the metal ions from the reduction salt are reduced and deposited on an ion conductor cathode, for example, sodium ion reduced on a [beta]-alumina sodium ion conductor cathode. The generation of and separation of oxygen gas avoids the problem with chemical back reaction of oxygen with active metals in the cell. The method also is characterized by a sequence of two steps where an inert cathode electrode is inserted into the electrochemical cell in the second step and the metallic component in the ion conductor is then used as the anode to cause electrochemical reduction of the metal ions formed in the first step from the metal oxide where oxygen gas formed at the anode. The use of ion conductors serves to isolate the active components from chemically reacting with certain chemicals in the cell. While applicable to a variety of metal oxides, the invention has special importance for reducing CaO to Ca[sup o] used for reducing UO[sub 2] and PuO[sub 2] to U and Pu. 2 figures.

Structure of salts of lithium chloride and lithium hexafluorophosphate as solvates with pyridine and vinylpyridine and structural comparisons: (C5H5N)LiPF6, [p-(CH2=CH)C5H4N]LiPF6, [(C5H5N)LiCl]n, and [p-(CH2=CH)C5H4N]2Li(μ-Cl)2Li[p-(CH2=CH)C5H4N]2.

PubMed

Jalil, AbdelAziz; Clymer, Rebecca N; Hamilton, Clifton R; Vaddypally, Shivaiah; Gau, Michael R; Zdilla, Michael J

2017-03-01

Due to the flammability of liquid electrolytes used in lithium ion batteries, solid lithium ion conductors are of interest to reduce danger and increase safety. The two dominating general classes of electrolytes under exploration as alternatives are ceramic and polymer electrolytes. Our group has been exploring the preparation of molecular solvates of lithium salts as alternatives. Dissolution of LiCl or LiPF 6 in pyridine (py) or vinylpyridine (VnPy) and slow vapor diffusion with diethyl ether gives solvates of the lithium salts coordinated by pyridine ligands. For LiPF 6 , the solvates formed in pyridine and vinylpyridine, namely tetrakis(pyridine-κN)lithium(I) hexafluorophosphate, [Li(C 5 H 5 N) 4 ]PF 6 , and tetrakis(4-ethenylpyridine-κN)lithium(I) hexafluorophosphate, [Li(C 7 H 7 N) 4 ]PF 6 , exhibit analogous structures involving tetracoordinated lithium ions with neighboring PF 6 - anions in the I-4 and Aea2 space groups, respectively. For LiCl solvates, two very different structures form. catena-Poly[[(pyridine-κN)lithium]-μ 3 -chlorido], [LiCl(C 5 H 5 N)] n , crystalizes in the P2 1 2 1 2 1 space group and contains channels of edge-fused LiCl rhombs templated by rows of π-stacked pyridine ligands, while the structure of the LiCl-VnPy solvate, namely di-μ-chlorido-bis[bis(4-ethenylpyridine-κN)lithium], [Li 2 Cl 2 (C 7 H 7 N) 4 ], is described in the P2 1 /n space group as dinuclear (VnPy) 2 Li(μ-Cl) 2 Li(VnPy) 2 units packed with neighbors via a dense array of π-π interactions.

Suprapatellar Versus Infrapatellar Tibial Nail Insertion: A Prospective Randomized Control Pilot Study.

PubMed

Chan, Daniel S; Serrano-Riera, Rafael; Griffing, Rebecca; Steverson, Barbara; Infante, Anthony; Watson, David; Sagi, H Claude; Sanders, Roy W

2016-03-01

The purpose of this OTA-approved pilot study was to compare the clinical and functional outcomes of the knee joint after infrapatellar (IP) versus suprapatellar (SP) tibial nail insertion. Prospective, randomized. Level I trauma center. After institutional review board approval, skeletally mature patients with OTA 42 tibial shaft fractures were randomized into either an IP or SP nail insertion group after informed consent was obtained. The SP also underwent prenail and postnail insertion patella-femoral (PF) joint arthroscopy. Patients underwent follow-up (6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months) with standard radiographs, as well as visual analog score and pain diagram documentation. At the 6-month and 12-month visits, knee function questionnaires (Lysholm knee scale and SF-36) were completed. Magnetic resonance imaging/image (MRI) of the affected knee was obtained at 12 months. Ten patients in each group were required for a power analysis for the anticipated larger randomized control trial, but enrollment in each arm was not limited because of known problems with patient follow-up over a 12-month period. A total of 41 patients/fractures were enrolled in this study. Of those, only 25 patients/fractures (14 IP, 11 SP) fully complied with and completed 12 months of follow-up. Six of 11 SP presented with articular changes (chondromalacia) in the PF joint during the preinsertion arthroscopy. Three patients displayed a change in the articular cartilage based on postnail insertion arthroscopy. At 12 months, all fractures in both groups had proceeded to union. There were no differences between the affected and unaffected knee with respect to range of motion. Functional visual analog score and Lysholm knee scores showed no significant differences between groups (P > 0.05). The SF-36v2 comparison also revealed no significant differences in the overall score, all 4 mental components, and 3/4 physical components (P > 0.05). The bodily pain component score was superior in the SP group (45 vs. 36, P = 0.035). All 11 SP patients obtained MRIs at 1 year. Five of these patients had evidence of chondromalacia on MRI. These findings did not correlate with either the prenail or postnail insertion arthroscopy. Importantly, no patient in the SP group with postnail insertion arthroscopic changes had PF joint pain at 1 year. Overall, there seemed to be no significant differences in pain, disability, or knee range of motion between these 2 tibial intramedullary nail insertion techniques after 12 months of follow-up. Based on this pilot study data, larger prospective trial with long-term follow-up is warranted. Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Classification of pregnancy and labor contractions using a graph theory based analysis.

PubMed

Nader, N; Hassan, M; Falou, W; Diab, A; Al-Omar, S; Khalil, M; Marque, C

2015-08-01

In this paper, we propose a new framework to characterize the electrohysterographic (EHG) signals recorded during pregnancy and labor. The approach is based on the analysis of the propagation of the uterine electrical activity. The processing pipeline includes i) the estimation of the statistical dependencies between the different recorded EHG signals, ii) the characterization of the obtained connectivity matrices using network measures and iii) the use of these measures in clinical application: the classification between pregnancy and labor. Due to its robustness to volume conductor, we used the imaginary part of coherence in order to produce the connectivity matrix which is then transformed into a graph. We evaluate the performance of several graph measures. We also compare the results with the parameter mostly used in the literature: the peak frequency combined with the propagation velocity (PV +PF). Our results show that the use of the network measures is a promising tool to classify labor and pregnancy contractions with a small superiority of the graph strength over PV+PF.

Shielded piezoresistive cantilever probes for nanoscale topography and electrical imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Yongliang; Ma, Eric Yue; Cui, Yong-Tao; Haemmerli, Alexandre; Lai, Keji; Kundhikanjana, Worasom; Harjee, Nahid; Pruitt, Beth L.; Kelly, Michael; Shen, Zhi-Xun

2014-04-01

This paper presents the design and fabrication of piezoresistive cantilever probes for microwave impedance microscopy (MIM) to enable simultaneous topographic and electrical imaging. Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposited Si3N4 cantilevers with a shielded center conductor line and nanoscale conductive tip apex are batch fabricated on silicon-on-insulator wafers. Doped silicon piezoresistors are integrated at the root of the cantilevers to sense their deformation. The piezoresistive sensitivity is 2 nm for a bandwidth of 10 kHz, enabling topographical imaging with reasonable speed. The aluminum center conductor has a low resistance (less than 5 Ω) and small capacitance (˜1.7 pF) to ground; these parameters are critical for high sensitivity MIM imaging. High quality piezoresistive topography and MIM images are simultaneously obtained with the fabricated probes at ambient and cryogenic temperatures. These new piezoresistive probes remarkably broaden the horizon of MIM for scientific applications by operating with an integrated feedback mechanism at low temperature and for photosensitive samples.

Identification of Plasmodium falciparum reticulocyte binding protein homologue 5-interacting protein, PfRipr, as a highly conserved blood-stage malaria vaccine candidate.

PubMed

Ntege, Edward H; Arisue, Nobuko; Ito, Daisuke; Hasegawa, Tomoyuki; Palacpac, Nirianne M Q; Egwang, Thomas G; Horii, Toshihiro; Takashima, Eizo; Tsuboi, Takafumi

2016-11-04

Genetic variability in Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites hampers current malaria vaccine development efforts. Here, we hypothesize that to address the impact of genetic variability on vaccine efficacy in clinical trials, conserved antigen targets should be selected to achieve robust host immunity across multiple falciparum strains. Therefore, suitable vaccine antigens should be assessed for levels of polymorphism and genetic diversity. Using a total of one hundred and two clinical isolates from a region of high malaria transmission in Uganda, we analyzed extent of polymorphism and genetic diversity in four recently reported novel blood-stage malaria vaccine candidate proteins: Rh5 interacting protein (PfRipr), GPI anchored micronemal antigen (PfGAMA), rhoptry-associated leucine zipper-like protein 1 (PfRALP1) and Duffy binding-like merozoite surface protein 1 (PfMSPDBL1). In addition, utilizing the wheat germ cell-free system, we expressed recombinant proteins for the four candidates based on P. falciparum laboratory strain 3D7 sequences, immunized rabbits to obtain specific antibodies (Abs) and performed functional growth inhibition assay (GIA). The GIA activity of the raised Abs was demonstrated using both homologous 3D7 and heterologous FVO strains in vitro. Both pfripr and pfralp1 are less polymorphic but the latter is comparatively more diverse, with varied number of regions having insertions and deletions, asparagine and 6-mer repeats in the coding sequences. Pfgama and pfmspdbl1 are polymorphic and genetically diverse among the isolates with antibodies against the 3D7-based recombinant PfGAMA and PfMSPDBL1 inhibiting merozoite invasion only in the 3D7 but not FVO strain. Moreover, although Abs against the 3D7-based recombinant PfRipr and PfRALP1 proteins potently inhibited merozoite invasion of both 3D7 and FVO, the GIA activity of anti-PfRipr was much higher than that of anti-PfRALP1. Thus, PfRipr is regarded as a promising blood-stage vaccine candidate for next-generation vaccines against P. falciparum. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Telomerase-mediated life-span extension of human primary fibroblasts by human artificial chromosome (HAC) vector

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

Shitara, Shingo; Kakeda, Minoru; Nagata, Keiko

2008-05-09

Telomerase-mediated life-span extension enables the expansion of normal cells without malignant transformation, and thus has been thought to be useful in cell therapies. Currently, integrating vectors including the retrovirus are used for human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)-mediated expansion of normal cells; however, the use of these vectors potentially causes unexpected insertional mutagenesis and/or activation of oncogenes. Here, we established normal human fibroblast (hPF) clones retaining non-integrating human artificial chromosome (HAC) vectors harboring the hTERT expression cassette. In hTERT-HAC/hPF clones, we observed the telomerase activity and the suppression of senescent-associated SA-{beta}-galactosidase activity. Furthermore, the hTERT-HAC/hPF clones continued growing beyond 120 daysmore » after cloning, whereas the hPF clones retaining the silent hTERT-HAC senesced within 70 days. Thus, hTERT-HAC-mediated episomal expression of hTERT allows the extension of the life-span of human primary cells, implying that gene delivery by non-integrating HAC vectors can be used to control cellular proliferative capacity of primary cultured cells.« less

24 CFR 3280.802 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... which, by insertion in a receptacle, establishes connection between the conductors of the attached... and the capacity to conduct safely any current likely to be imposed. (6) Branch circuit (i) means the... predetermined overload of current without injury to itself when properly applied within its rating. (9...

Mechanical Properties of High Manganese Austenitic Stainless Steel JK2LB for ITER Central Solenoid Jacket Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Toru; Kawano, Katsumi; Yamazaki, Toru; Ozeki, Hidemasa; Isono, Takaaki; Hamada, Kazuya; Devred, Arnaud; Vostner, Alexander

A suite of advanced austenitic stainless steels are used for the ITER TF, CS and PF coil systems.These materials will be exposed to cyclic-stress at cryogenic temperature. Therefore, high manganese austenitic stainless steel JK2LB, which has high tensile strength, high ductility and high resistance to fatigue at 4 K has been chosen for the CS conductor. The cryogenic temperature mechanical property data of this material are very important for the ITER magnet design. This study is focused on mechanical characteristics of JK2LB and its weld joint.

Overproduction, purification and crystallization of a chondroitin sulfate A-binding DBL domain from a Plasmodium falciparum var2csa-encoded PfEMP1 protein

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

Higgins, Matthew K., E-mail: mkh20@cam.ac.uk

A chondroitin sulfate A-binding DBL important in placental malaria has been overproduced, purified and crystallized. Diffraction data were collected to 1.9 Å resolution. The PfEMP1 proteins of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum are inserted into the membrane of infected red blood cells, where they mediate adhesion to a variety of human receptors. The DBL domains of the var2csa-encoded PfEMP1 protein play a critical role in malaria of pregnancy, tethering infected cells to the surface of the placenta through interactions with the glycosaminoglycan carbohydrate chondroitin sulfate A (CSA). A CSA-binding DBL domain has been overproduced in a bacterial expression system, purifiedmore » and crystallized. Native data sets extending to 1.9 Å resolution have been collected and phasing is under way.« less

Bioinformatics analysis for structure and function of CPR of Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Fan, Zhigang; Zhang, Lingmin; Yan, Guogang; Wu, Qiang; Gan, Xiufeng; Zhong, Saifeng; Lin, Guifen

2011-02-01

To analyse the structure and function of NADPH-cytochrome p450 reductase (CYPOR or CPR) from Plasmodium falciparum (Pf), and to predict its' drug target and vaccine target. The structure, function, drug target and vaccine target of CPR from Plasmodium falciparum were analyzed and predicted by bioinformatics methods. PfCPR, which was older CPR, had close relationship with the CPR from other Plasmodium species, but it was distant from its hosts, such as Homo sapiens and Anopheles. PfCPR was located in the cellular nucleus of Plasmodium falciparum. 335aa-352aa and 591aa - 608aa were inserted the interior side of the nuclear membrane, while 151aa-265aa was located in the nucleolus organizer regions. PfCPR had 40 function sites and 44 protein-protein binding sites in amino acid sequence. The teriary structure of 1aa-700aa was forcep-shaped with wings. 15 segments of PfCPR had no homology with Homo sapien CPR and most were exposed on the surface of the protein. These segments had 25 protein-protein binding sites. While 13 other segments all possessed function sites. The evolution or genesis of Plasmodium falciparum is earlier than those of Homo sapiens. PfCPR is a possible resistance site of antimalarial drug and may involve immune evasion, which is associated with parasite of sporozoite in hepatocytes. PfCPR is unsuitable as vaccine target, but it has at least 13 ideal drug targets. Copyright © 2011 Hainan Medical College. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Reliability of Various Measurement Stations for Determining Plantar Fascia Thickness and Echogenicity.

PubMed

Bisi-Balogun, Adebisi; Cassel, Michael; Mayer, Frank

2016-04-13

This study aimed to determine the relative and absolute reliability of ultrasound (US) measurements of the thickness and echogenicity of the plantar fascia (PF) at different measurement stations along its length using a standardized protocol. Twelve healthy subjects (24 feet) were enrolled. The PF was imaged in the longitudinal plane. Subjects were assessed twice to evaluate the intra-rater reliability. A quantitative evaluation of the thickness and echogenicity of the plantar fascia was performed using Image J, a digital image analysis and viewer software. A sonography evaluation of the thickness and echogenicity of the PF showed a high relative reliability with an Intra class correlation coefficient of ≥0.88 at all measurement stations. However, the measurement stations for both the PF thickness and echogenicity which showed the highest intraclass correlation coefficient (ICCs) did not have the highest absolute reliability. Compared to other measurement stations, measuring the PF thickness at 3 cm distal and the echogenicity at a region of interest 1 cm to 2 cm distal from its insertion at the medial calcaneal tubercle showed the highest absolute reliability with the least systematic bias and random error. Also, the reliability was higher using a mean of three measurements compared to one measurement. To reduce discrepancies in the interpretation of the thickness and echogenicity measurements of the PF, the absolute reliability of the different measurement stations should be considered in clinical practice and research rather than the relative reliability with the ICC.

Reliability of Various Measurement Stations for Determining Plantar Fascia Thickness and Echogenicity

PubMed Central

Bisi-Balogun, Adebisi; Cassel, Michael; Mayer, Frank

2016-01-01

This study aimed to determine the relative and absolute reliability of ultrasound (US) measurements of the thickness and echogenicity of the plantar fascia (PF) at different measurement stations along its length using a standardized protocol. Twelve healthy subjects (24 feet) were enrolled. The PF was imaged in the longitudinal plane. Subjects were assessed twice to evaluate the intra-rater reliability. A quantitative evaluation of the thickness and echogenicity of the plantar fascia was performed using Image J, a digital image analysis and viewer software. A sonography evaluation of the thickness and echogenicity of the PF showed a high relative reliability with an Intra class correlation coefficient of ≥0.88 at all measurement stations. However, the measurement stations for both the PF thickness and echogenicity which showed the highest intraclass correlation coefficient (ICCs) did not have the highest absolute reliability. Compared to other measurement stations, measuring the PF thickness at 3 cm distal and the echogenicity at a region of interest 1 cm to 2 cm distal from its insertion at the medial calcaneal tubercle showed the highest absolute reliability with the least systematic bias and random error. Also, the reliability was higher using a mean of three measurements compared to one measurement. To reduce discrepancies in the interpretation of the thickness and echogenicity measurements of the PF, the absolute reliability of the different measurement stations should be considered in clinical practice and research rather than the relative reliability with the ICC. PMID:27089369

Nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) in pearl oyster Pinctada fucata: molecular cloning and functional characterization.

PubMed

Huang, Xian-De; Wei, Guo-jian; Zhang, Hua; He, Mao-Xian

2015-01-01

Nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) plays an important role in nonimmune cells and also in T cells and many other cells of the immune system, by regulating the expression of a variety of genes involved in the immune response, organ development, developmental apoptosis and angiogenesis. In the present study, the NFAT homology gene, PfNFAT, from the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata was cloned and its genomic structure and promoter were analyzed. PfNFAT encodes a putative protein of 1226 amino acids, and contains a highly conserved Rel homology region (RHR) with DNA-binding specificity, and a regulatory domain (NFAT homology region, NHR) containing a potent transactivation domain (TAD). The PfNFAT gene consists of 12 exons and 11 introns, and its promoter contains potential binding sites for transcription factors such as NF-κB (Nuclear factor κB), STATx (signal transducer and activator of transcription), AP-1 (activator protein-1) and Sox-5/9 (SRY type HMG box-5/9), MyoD (Myogenic Differentiation Antigen) and IRF (Interferon regulatory factor). Comparison and phylogenetic analysis revealed that PfNFAT shows high identity with other invertebrate NFAT, and clusters with the NFAT5 subgroup. Furthermore, gene expression analysis revealed that PfNFAT is involved in the immune response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) stimulation and in the nucleus inserting operation. The study of PfNFAT may increase understanding of molluscan innate immunity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Fortran 77 computer code for damped least-squares inversion of Slingram electromagnetic anomalies over thin tabular conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dondurur, Derman; Sarı, Coşkun

2004-07-01

A FORTRAN 77 computer code is presented that permits the inversion of Slingram electromagnetic anomalies to an optimal conductor model. Damped least-squares inversion algorithm is used to estimate the anomalous body parameters, e.g. depth, dip and surface projection point of the target. Iteration progress is controlled by maximum relative error value and iteration continued until a tolerance value was satisfied, while the modification of Marquardt's parameter is controlled by sum of the squared errors value. In order to form the Jacobian matrix, the partial derivatives of theoretical anomaly expression with respect to the parameters being optimised are calculated by numerical differentiation by using first-order forward finite differences. A theoretical and two field anomalies are inserted to test the accuracy and applicability of the present inversion program. Inversion of the field data indicated that depth and the surface projection point parameters of the conductor are estimated correctly, however, considerable discrepancies appeared on the estimated dip angles. It is therefore concluded that the most important factor resulting in the misfit between observed and calculated data is due to the fact that the theory used for computing Slingram anomalies is valid for only thin conductors and this assumption might have caused incorrect dip estimates in the case of wide conductors.

Phenomenology of electromagnetic coupling: Conductors penetrating an aperture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, D. B.; King, R. J.

1987-06-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the coupling effects of penetrating conductors through free-standing apertures. This penetrating conductor and aperture arrangement are referred to as a modified aperture. A penetrating conductor is defined here to be a thin, single wire bent twice at 90 angles. The wire was inserted through a rectangular aperture in a metal wall. Vertical segments on both sides of the wall coupled energy from one region to the other. Energy was incident upon the modified aperture from what is referred to as the exterior region. The amount of coupling was measured by a D sensor on the other (interior) side of the wall. This configuration of an aperture in a metal wall was used as opposed to an aperture in a cavity in order to simplify the interpretation of resulting data. The added complexity of multiple cavity resonances was therefore eliminated. Determining the effects of penetrating conductors on aperture coupling is one of several topics being investigated as part of on-going research at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory on the phenomenology of electromagnetic coupling. These phenomenology studies are concerned with the vulnerability of electronic systems to high intensity electromagnetic fields. The investigation is relevant to high altitude EMP (HEMP), enhanced HEMP (EHEMP), and high power microwave (HPM) coupling.

The Chlamydomonas Dhc1 gene encodes a dynein heavy chain subunit required for assembly of the I1 inner arm complex.

PubMed Central

Myster, S H; Knott, J A; O'Toole, E; Porter, M E

1997-01-01

Multiple members of the dynein heavy chain (Dhc) gene family have been recovered in several organisms, but the relationships between these sequences and the Dhc isoforms that they encode are largely unknown. To identify Dhc loci and determine the specific functions of the individual Dhc isoforms, we have screened a collection of motility mutants generated by insertional mutagenesis in Chlamydomonas. In this report, we characterize one strain, pf9-3, in which the insertion event was accompanied by a deletion of approximately 13 kb of genomic DNA within the transcription unit of the Dhc1 gene. Northern blot analysis confirms that pf9-3 is a null mutation. Biochemical and structural studies of isolated axonemes demonstrate that the pf9-3 mutant fails to assemble the I1 inner arm complex, a two-headed dynein isoform composed of two Dhcs (1 alpha and 1 beta) and three intermediate chains. To determine if the Dhc1 gene product corresponds to one of the Dhcs of the I1 complex, antibodies were generated against a Dhc1-specific peptide sequence. Immunoblot analysis reveals that the Dhc1 gene encodes the 1 alpha Dhc subunit. These studies thus, identify the first inner arm Dhc locus to be described in any organism and further demonstrate that the 1 alpha Dhc subunit plays an essential role in the assembly of the I1 inner arm complex. Images PMID:9247642

Mechanical and electrical performance characterization of partial mock-up of the ITER PF6 coil tail

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Z.; Song, Y.; Wu, H.; Zhang, M.; Xie, Y.; Hu, B.; Liu, F.; Shen, G.; Wu, W.; Lu, K.; Wei, J.; Bilbao, M.; Peñate, J.; Readman, P.; Sborchia, C.; Valente, P.; Smith, K.

2017-12-01

International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is a full superconducting coil tokamak. The tail is an important component of Poloidal Field (PF) coil, of which the main functions are to provide the electrical isolation and transfer the longitudinal load from the last turn to the last-but-one turn. The paper focuses on an optimized mechanical structure of PF6 coil tail, which is made up of two main parts. One was welded to the last turn and the other was welded to the last-but-one turn. Both of them were connected by the mechanical coupling. The electrical isolation between the two parts was maintained by a strap made of insulating composite. In addition, as the PF6 coil is operated under the cyclic electromagnetic load during the tokamak operation, the fatigue property of the tail should be assessed and qualified at low temperature. Moreover, taking into consideration the complexity of the insulation winding process which is performed in a confined space, the wrapping process of the insulation needs to be established. Meanwhile, the high voltage (HV) tests of the tail insulation, including the direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) tests, need to be assessed before and after the fatigue test. In this paper, a fully bonded PF6 coil tail partial mock-up (not including the weld of the tail to the last conductor turn) was designed and manufactured by simulating the actual manufacturing processes. In addition, the fatigue tests on the sample were carried out at 77 K, and the results showed the sample had good and stable fatigue properties at cryogenic temperature. The HV tests before and after the fatigue test, also including the final 30 kV breakdown DC test after the fatigue test, were carried out. The test results satisfied the requirements of ITER and were discussed in depth. Finally, the sample was destructively inspected to validate the integrity of the insulation by mechanical cross sectioning, and no voids and cracks were observed. Therefore it can be verified from the test results that the designed PF6 coil tail has good comprehensive properties, which can be applied to the formal production of the PF6 coil.

Clinical Utility of Ultrasound Measurements of Plantar Fascia Width and Cross-Sectional AreaA Novel Technique.

PubMed

Bisi-Balogun, Adebisi; Rector, Michael

2017-09-01

We sought to develop a standardized protocol for ultrasound (US) measurements of plantar fascia (PF) width and cross-sectional area (CSA), which may serve as additional outcome variables during US examinations of both healthy asymptomatic PF and in plantar fasciopathy and determine its interrater and intrarater reliability. Ten healthy individuals (20 feet) were enrolled. Participants were assessed twice by two raters each to determine intrarater and interrater reliability. For each foot, three transverse scans of the central bundle of the PF were taken at its insertion at the medial calcaneal tubercle, identified in real time on the plantar surface of the foot, using a fine wire technique. Reliability was determined using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard errors of measurement (SEM), and limits of agreement (LOA) expressed as percentages of the mean. Reliability of PF width and CSA measurements was determined using PF width and CSA measurements from one sonogram measured once and the mean of three measurements from three sonograms each measured once. Ultrasound measurements of PF width and CSA showed a mean of 18.6 ± 2.0 mm and 69.20 ± 13.6 mm 2 respectively. Intra-reliability within both raters showed an ICC > 0.84 for width and ICC > 0.92 for CSA as well as a SEM% and LOA% < 10% for both width and CSA. Inter-rater reliability showed an ICC of 0.82 for width and 0.87 for CSA as well as a SEM% and LOA% < 10% for width and a SEM% < 10% and LOA% < 20% for CSA. Relative and absolute reliability within and between raters were higher when using the mean of three sonographs compared to one sonograph. Using this novel technique, PF CSA and width may be determined reliably using measurements from one sonogram or the mean of three sonograms. Measurement of PF CSA and width in addition to already established thickness and echogenicity measurements provides additional information on structural properties of the PF for clinicians and researchers in healthy and pathologic PF.

Arterial wall histology in chronic pulsatile-flow and continuous-flow device circulatory support.

PubMed

Potapov, Evgenij V; Dranishnikov, Nikolay; Morawietz, Lars; Stepanenko, Alexander; Rezai, Sajjad; Blechschmidt, Cristiane; Lehmkuhl, Hans B; Weng, Yuguo; Pasic, Miralem; Hübler, Michael; Hetzer, Roland; Krabatsch, Thomas

2012-11-01

Continuous-flow (CF) ventricular assist devices (VAD) are an established option for treatment of end-stage heart failure. However, the effect of long-term CF with lack of peripheral arterial wall motions on blood pressure regulation and end-organ arterial wall sclerosis, especially in the case of long-term support (> 3 years), remains unclear. Tissue samples obtained at autopsy from liver, kidney, coronary arteries, and brain from 27 VAD recipients supported for > 180 days between 2000 and 2010 were histologically examined to assess vascular alterations, including perivascular infiltrate, intravascular infiltrate, wall thickness, thrombosis, endothelial cell swelling, vessel wall necrosis, and peri-vascular fibrosis. Pulsatile-flow (PF) devices had been inserted in 9 patients and CF devices had been inserted in 16. The pathologist was blinded to the group distribution. Demographic, pharmacologic, and clinical data were retrospectively analyzed before surgery and during the follow-up period of up to 24 months. Median duration of support was 467 days (range, 235-1,588 days) in the PF group and 263 days (range, 182-942 days) in the CF group. Demographic and clinical data before and after surgery were similar. Amiodarone was more often used during follow-up in CF group than in the PF group (61% vs 10%, p = 0.009). Throughout the follow-up period, mean arterial pressure did not differ between recipients of the 2 pump types, nor did systolic and diastolic pressure, except at 2 weeks after VAD implantation, when systolic blood pressure was higher (p = 0.05) and diastolic lower (p = 0.03) in the PF group. Histologic studies did not identify any relevant differences in arterial wall characteristics between the 2 groups. Long-term mechanical circulatory support with CF devices does not adversely influence arterial wall properties of the end-organ vasculature. Copyright © 2012 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Ozeki, H.; Isono, T.; Uno, Y.

JAEA successfully completed the manufacture of the toroidal field (TF) insert coil (TFIC) for a performance test of the ITER TF conductor in the final design in cooperation with Hitachi, Ltd. The TFIC is a single-layer 8.875-turn solenoid coil with 1.44-m diameter. This will be tested for 68-kA current application in a 13-T external magnetic field. TFIC was manufactured in the following order: winding of the TF conductor, lead bending, fabrication of the electrical termination, heat treatment, turn insulation, installation of the coil into the support mandrel structure, vacuum pressure impregnation (VPI), structure assembly, and instrumentation. Here in this presentation,more » manufacture process and quality control status for the TFIC manufacturing are reported.« less

Improvement of the radiographic method for measurement of effective energy of pulsed X-ray emission from a PF device for different anode's insert materials.

PubMed

Miremad, Seyed Milad; Shirani, Babak

2018-06-01

In this paper, effective energy of pulsed X-Ray emitted from a Mather-type plasma focus device in stored energy of 2.5 kJ with six different anode's insert materials was measured using radiographic method with attenuation filters. Since intensity and energy of X-ray beam were considerably changed with changing the insert material, the method was improved by using different filters simultaneously in all the experiments and selection of the best filter in each experiment according to the appropriate criteria. Effective energy of pulsed X-ray beam was measured 16, 28, 50, 51, 34 and 44 keV when aluminum, copper, zinc, tin, tungsten and lead were used as insert materials, and aluminum, copper, silver, silver, copper and lead were used as filters, respectively. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Operating characteristics of HTS power supply for and improving temporal stability of coated conductor magnet in liquid helium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, D. K.; Kim, Y. J.; Yang, S. E.; Kwon, N. Y.; Lee, H. G.; Ko, T. K.

2009-10-01

High temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets have been studied for insert coils of high field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) magnets but the temporal stability required for NMR is hard to achieve due to low index value and high joint resistance. In this research, the HTS power supply with magnets using coated conductor (CC) was investigated and tested in helium cryogenic system. All joints were conducted by soldering after etching stabilizer of the CC to minimize joint resistance. The pumping rate was determined by current amplitude and timing sequential control of heaters and the electromagnet. Operating characteristics were analyzed to enhance charging efficiency and the feasibility of temporally stable CC magnet during persistent mode was studied.

Is 3-methyl-2-oxazolidinone a suitable solvent for lithium-ion batteries?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gzara, L.; Chagnes, A.; Carré, B.; Dhahbi, M.; Lemordant, D.

3-Methyl-2-oxazolidinone (MeOx) has been mixed to ethylene carbonate (EC) or dimethyl carbonate (DMC) in presence of lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF 4) or lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF 6) for use as electrolyte in lithium batteries. The optimized electrolytes in term of conductivity and viscosity are MeOx:EC, x(MeOx) = 0.5 and MeOx:DMC, x(MeOx) = 0.4 in presence of LiBF 4 (1 M) or LiPF 6 (1 M). MeOx:EC electrolytes have a better thermal stability than MeOx:DMC electrolytes but the low wettability of the Celgard separator by MeOx:EC prevents its use in lithium batteries. No lithium insertion-deinsertion occurs when LiPF 6 is used as salt in MeOx-based electrolytes. MeOx:DMC, x(MeOx) = 0.4 + LiBF 4 (1 M) exhibits a good cycling ability at a graphite electrode but all the investigated electrolytes containing MeOx have a low stability in oxidation at a lithium cobalt oxide electrode (Li xCoO 2).

Local structure of gallate proton conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giannici, F.; Messana, D.; Longo, A.; Sciortino, L.; Martorana, A.

2009-11-01

Lanthanum barium gallate proton conductors are based on disconnected GaO4 groups. The insertion of hydroxyls in the LaBaGaO4 network proceeds through self-doping with Ba2+, consequent O2- vacancy formation to fulfill charge neutrality. With a structural investigation on self-doped LaBaGaO4 oxides using synchrotron XRD and EXAFS on the Ga K-edge, we find that: (a) the GaO4 tetrahedra retain their size throughout the whole series; (b) the GaO4 tetrahedra rotate as rigid bodies on hydration, leading to the formation of a network of shorter O-O configurations that are stabilized by hydrogen bonds; (c) contraction of the lattice occurs along the a unit cell axis, as a consequence of an overall structural rearrangement of the hydrated solid.

Results of Buoyancy-gravity Effects in ITER Cable-in- Conduit Conductor with Dual Channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruzzone, P.; Stepanov, B.; Zanino, R.; Richard, L. Savoldi

2006-04-01

The coolant in the ITER cable-in-conduit conductors (CICC) flows at significant higher speed in the central channel than in the strand bundle region due to the large difference of hydraulic impedance. When energy is deposited in the bundle region, e.g. by ac loss or radiation, the heat removal in vertically oriented dual channel CICC with the coolant flowing downward is affected by the reduced density of helium (buoyancy) in the bundle region, which is arising from the temperature gradient due to poor heat exchange between the two channels. At large deposited power, flow stagnation and back-flow can cause in the strand bundle area a slow temperature runaway eventually leading to quench. A new test campaign of the thermal-hydraulic behavior was carried out in the SULTAN facility on an instrumented section of the ITER Poloidal Field Conductor Insert (PFIS). The buoyancy-gravity effect was investigated using ac loss heating, with ac loss in the cable calibrated in separate runs. The extent of upstream temperature increase was explored over a broad range of mass flow rate and deposited power. The experimental behavior is partly reproduced by numerical simulations. The results from the tests are extrapolated to the likely operating conditions of the ITER Toroidal Field conductor with the inboard leg cooled from top to bottom and heat deposited by nuclear radiation from the burning plasma.

A mutant (‘lab strain’) of the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus, lacking flagella, has unusual growth physiology

DOE PAGES

Lewis, Derrick L.; Notey, Jaspreet S.; Chandrayan, Sanjeev K.; ...

2014-12-04

In this paper, a mutant (‘lab strain’) of the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus DSM3638 exhibited an extended exponential phase and atypical cell aggregation behavior. Genomic DNA from the mutant culture was sequenced and compared to wild-type (WT) DSM3638, revealing 145 genes with one or more insertions, deletions, or substitutions (12 silent, 33 amino acid substitutions, and 100 frame shifts). Approximately, half of the mutated genes were transposases or hypothetical proteins. The WT transcriptome revealed numerous changes in amino acid and pyrimidine biosynthesis pathways coincidental with growth phase transitions, unlike the mutant whose transcriptome reflected the observed prolonged exponential phase. Targetedmore » gene deletions, based on frame-shifted ORFs in the mutant genome, in a genetically tractable strain of P. furiosus (COM1) could not generate the extended exponential phase behavior observed for the mutant. For example, a putative radical SAM family protein (PF2064) was the most highly up-regulated ORF (>25-fold) in the WT between exponential and stationary phase, although this ORF was unresponsive in the mutant; deletion of this gene in P. furiosus COM1 resulted in no apparent phenotype. On the other hand, frame-shifting mutations in the mutant genome negatively impacted transcription of a flagellar biosynthesis operon (PF0329-PF0338).Consequently, cells in the mutant culture lacked flagella and, unlike the WT, showed minimal evidence of exopolysaccharide-based cell aggregation in post-exponential phase. Finally, electron microscopy of PF0331-PF0337 deletions in P. furiosus COM1 showed that absence of flagella impacted normal cell aggregation behavior and, furthermore, indicated that flagella play a key role, beyond motility, in the growth physiology of P. furiosus.« less

A mutant (‘lab strain’) of the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus, lacking flagella, has unusual growth physiology

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

Lewis, Derrick L.; Notey, Jaspreet S.; Chandrayan, Sanjeev K.

In this paper, a mutant (‘lab strain’) of the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus DSM3638 exhibited an extended exponential phase and atypical cell aggregation behavior. Genomic DNA from the mutant culture was sequenced and compared to wild-type (WT) DSM3638, revealing 145 genes with one or more insertions, deletions, or substitutions (12 silent, 33 amino acid substitutions, and 100 frame shifts). Approximately, half of the mutated genes were transposases or hypothetical proteins. The WT transcriptome revealed numerous changes in amino acid and pyrimidine biosynthesis pathways coincidental with growth phase transitions, unlike the mutant whose transcriptome reflected the observed prolonged exponential phase. Targetedmore » gene deletions, based on frame-shifted ORFs in the mutant genome, in a genetically tractable strain of P. furiosus (COM1) could not generate the extended exponential phase behavior observed for the mutant. For example, a putative radical SAM family protein (PF2064) was the most highly up-regulated ORF (>25-fold) in the WT between exponential and stationary phase, although this ORF was unresponsive in the mutant; deletion of this gene in P. furiosus COM1 resulted in no apparent phenotype. On the other hand, frame-shifting mutations in the mutant genome negatively impacted transcription of a flagellar biosynthesis operon (PF0329-PF0338).Consequently, cells in the mutant culture lacked flagella and, unlike the WT, showed minimal evidence of exopolysaccharide-based cell aggregation in post-exponential phase. Finally, electron microscopy of PF0331-PF0337 deletions in P. furiosus COM1 showed that absence of flagella impacted normal cell aggregation behavior and, furthermore, indicated that flagella play a key role, beyond motility, in the growth physiology of P. furiosus.« less

Developmental regulation of vascular endothelial growth/permeability factor messenger ribonucleic acid levels in and vascularization of the villous placenta during baboon pregnancy.

PubMed

Hildebrandt, V A; Babischkin, J S; Koos, R D; Pepe, G J; Albrecht, E D

2001-05-01

Vascular endothelial growth/permeability factor (VEG/PF) has an important role in angiogenesis; however, very little is known about the developmental regulation of VEG/PF and the vascular system within the placenta during human pregnancy. In the present study, therefore, a developmental approach was used in the baboon to determine the placental source of VEG/PF and its fms-like tyrosine kinase (flt-1) and kinase-insert domain containing (KDR/flk-1) receptors, and whether the rise in estrogen with advancing pregnancy was associated with a corresponding increase in placental VEG/PF expression and vascularization. VEG/PF messenger RNA (mRNA) levels were determined by competitive RT-PCR in villous cell fractions isolated by Percoll gradient centrifugation from placentas obtained on days 45 and 54 (very early), 60 (early), 100 (mid), and 165-170 (late) of baboon pregnancy (term = 184 days). Maternal peripheral serum estradiol increased from very low concentrations early in gestation (0.15-0.20 ng/ml) to an early surge of over 2.5 ng/ml on days 60-85, and peak levels of 4-6 ng/ml late in baboon pregnancy. VEG/PF mRNA was expressed in low level in the syncytiotrophoblast (<2,000 attomol/microgram total RNA), and values in this fraction did not change significantly with advancing gestation. VEG/PF mRNA expression was slightly greater in the inner villous core cell fraction; however, levels decreased (P < 0.05) between early and late gestation. Cytotrophoblasts were a major source of VEG/PF mRNA and levels increased (P < 0.01) from 3,631 +/- 844 attomol/microgram total RNA on day 45 to 25,807 +/- 5,873 attomol/microgram total RNA on day 170. VEG/PF protein expression determined by immunocytochemistry was abundant in cytotrophoblasts and lower in the syncytiotrophoblast and inner villous core cells. The flt-1 and KDR/flk-1 receptors were expressed in the vascular endothelial cells of the baboon villous placenta. The percentage of villous placenta occupied by blood vessels and the number of vessels/mm(2) villous tissue, determined by image analysis, progressively increased (P < 0.001; r = 0.97) from 3.4 +/- 0.2% and 447 +/- 29, respectively, on day 54 to 15.9 +/- 0.9% and 1,375 +/- 71, respectively, on day 170. In summary, the present study shows that villous cytotrophoblasts were a major source of VEG/PF mRNA and protein in the baboon villous placenta, and that cytotrophoblast VEG/PF mRNA levels and vascularization of the villous placenta closely paralleled the increase in estradiol concentrations of advancing pregnancy. These results are consistent with the concept that estrogen has an important role in establishing the new vascular system within the developing placenta during primate pregnancy and that VEG/PF mediates this process.

Energetics of Na + Transport through the Electrode/Cathode Interface in Single Solvent Electrolytes

DOE PAGES

Browning, Katie L.; Sacci, Robert L.; Veith, Gabriel M.

2017-01-27

Here, the activation energy of desolvation for Na-ion electrolyte systems were studied using temperature dependent electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Propylene carbonate (PC) and tetraglyme were chosen as solvents in single solvent electrolyte solution coupled with NaClO 4, NaPF 6, NaAsF 6, NaBF 4, and NaOFt salts. The results demonstrate the insertion and desolvation processes are extremely fast at or above room temperature. The data shows under optimal salt chemistry the desolvation activation energy is less than 21 kJ/mole. This is in contrast to the ~50 kJ/mole measured for analogous Li systems. The dominant factor affecting performance was the anion. Indeed,more » anions with lower donor numbers (PF 6 –, AsF 6 –) had more than 30 kJ/mole lower desolvation energies than species like NaBF 4 and NaOFt.« less

PF-AR NW14, a new time-resolved diffraction/scattering beamline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nozawa, Shunsuke; Adachi, Shin-ichi; Tazaki, Ryoko; Takahashi, Jun-ichi; Itatani, Jiro; Daimon, Masahiro; Mori, Takeharu; Sawa, Hiroshi; Kawata, Hiroshi; Koshihara, Shin-ya

2005-01-01

NW14 is a new insertion device beamline at the Photon Factory Advanced Ring (PF-AR), which is a unique ring with full-time single-bunched operation, aiming for timeresolved x-ray diffraction/scattering and XAFS experiments. The primary scientific goal of this beamline is to observe the ultrafast dynamics of condensed matter systems such as organic and inorganic crystals, biological systems and liquids triggered by optical pulses. With the large photon fluxes derived from the undulator, it should become possible to take a snapshoot an atomic-scale image of the electron density distribution. By combining a series of images it is possible to produce a movie of the photo-induced dynamics with 50-ps resolution. The construction of the beamline is being funded by the ERATO Koshihara Non-equilibrium Dynamics Project of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), and the beamline will be operational from autumn 2005.

Influence of the magnetic field profile on ITER conductor testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nijhuis, A.; Ilyin, Y.; ten Kate, H. H. J.

2006-08-01

We performed simulations with the numerical CUDI-CICC code on a typical short ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) conductor test sample of dual leg configuration, as usually tested in the SULTAN test facility, and made a comparison with the new EFDA-Dipole test facility offering a larger applied DC field region. The new EFDA-Dipole test facility, designed for short sample testing of conductors for ITER, has a homogeneous high field region of 1.2 m, while in the SULTAN facility this region is three times shorter. The inevitable non-uniformity of the current distribution in the cable, introduced by the joints at both ends, has a degrading effect on voltage-current (VI) and voltage-temperature (VT) characteristics, particularly for these short samples. This can easily result in an underestimation or overestimation of the actual conductor performance. A longer applied DC high field region along a conductor suppresses the current non-uniformity by increasing the overall longitudinal cable electric field when reaching the current sharing mode. The numerical interpretation study presented here gives a quantitative analysis for a relevant practical case of a test of a short sample poloidal field coil insert (PFCI) conductor in SULTAN. The simulation includes the results of current distribution analysis from self-field measurements with Hall sensor arrays, current sharing measurements and inter-petal resistance measurements. The outcome of the simulations confirms that the current uniformity improves with a longer high field region but the 'measured' VI transition is barely affected, though the local peak voltages become somewhat suppressed. It appears that the location of the high field region and voltage taps has practically no influence on the VI curve as long as the transverse voltage components are adequately cancelled. In particular, for a thin conduit wall, the voltage taps should be connected to the conduit in the form of an (open) azimuthally soldered wire, averaging the transverse conduit surface potentials initiated in the joints.

A highly conducting organic metal derived from an organic-transistor material: benzothienobenzothiophene.

PubMed

Kadoya, Tomofumi; Ashizawa, Minoru; Higashino, Toshiki; Kawamoto, Tadashi; Kumeta, Shohei; Matsumoto, Hidetoshi; Mori, Takehiko

2013-11-07

BTBT ([1]benzothieno[3,2-b][1]benzothiophene) is an organic semiconductor that realizes high mobility in organic transistors. Here we report that the charge-transfer (CT) salt, (BTBT)2PF6, shows a high room-temperature conductivity of 1500 S cm(-1). This compound exhibits a resistivity jump around 150 K, but when it is covered with Apiezon N grease the resistivity jump is suppressed, and the metallic conductivity is maintained down to 60 K. Owing to the very high conductivity, the ESR signal shows a significantly asymmetric Dysonian lineshape (A/B ≅ 3) even at room temperature. Since most organic conductors are based on strong electron donors, it is remarkable that such a weak electron donor as BTBT realizes a stable and highly conducting organic metal.

Effect of gender, age and anthropometric variables on plantar fascia thickness at different locations in asymptomatic subjects.

PubMed

Pascual Huerta, Javier; Alarcón García, Juan María

2007-06-01

The study was aimed to investigate plantar fascia thickness at different locations in healthy asymptomatic subjects and its relationship to the following variables: weight, height, sex and age. The study evaluates 96 feet of healthy asymptomatic volunteers. The plantar fascia thickness was measured at four different locations: 1cm proximal to the insertion of the plantar fascia, at the insertion of the plantar fascia on the calcaneus and separate out 1 cm + 2 cm distal to the insertion. A 10 MHz linear-array transducer was used. There were statistically significant differences in plantar fascia thickness at the four different locations (p<0.001) although no differences in PF thickness were found between the two distal from insertion locations (1 and 2 cm). Multiple regression analysis showed sex as independent predictor of plantar fascia thickness at 1cm proximal to the insertion. At origin and 1cm distal to insertion weight was an independent predictor of plantar fascia thickness. There are differences of thickness at different locations of plantar fascia measured by ultrasonography. Thickness at 1cm proximal to the insertion is influenced by sex and thickness at origin and at 1cm distal to the insertion has a direct relationship with body weight. This could be attributed to the overloading effect that weight has on plantar fascia in healthy symptomatic subjects at these two locations. Height and age did not seem to influence as independent variables in plantar fascia thickness among non-painful subjects.

Battery with modular air cathode and anode cage

DOEpatents

Niksa, Marilyn J.; Pohto, Gerald R.; Lakatos, Leslie K.; Wheeler, Douglas J.; Niksa, Andrew J.; Schue, Thomas J.

1987-01-01

A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.

Battery with modular air cathode and anode cage

DOEpatents

Niksa, Marilyn J.; Pohto, Gerald R.; Lakatos, Leslie K.; Wheeler, Douglas J.; Niksa, Andrew J.; Schue, Thomas J.; Turk, Thomas R.

1988-01-01

A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.

Method of making a unitized electrode assembly

DOEpatents

Niksa, Marilyn J.; Pohto, Gerald R.; Lakatos, Leslie K.; Wheeler, Douglas J.; Solomon, Frank; Niksa, Andrew J.; Schue, Thomas J.; Genodman, Yury; Turk, Thomas R.; Hagel, Daniel P.

1988-01-01

A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom.

Method of making a unitized electrode assembly

DOEpatents

Niksa, M.J.; Pohto, G.R.; Lakatos, L.K.; Wheeler, D.J.; Solomon, F.; Niksa, A.J.; Schue, T.J.; Genodman, Y.; Turk, T.R.; Hagel, D.P.

1988-12-06

A battery assembly of the consumable metal anode type has now been constructed for ready assembly as well as disassembly. In a non-conductive and at least substantially inert cell body, space is provided for receiving an open-structured, non-consumable anode cage. The cage has an open top for facilitating insertion of an anode. A modular cathode is used, comprising a peripheral current conductor frame clamped about a grid reinforced air cathode in sheet form. The air cathode may be double gridded. The cathode frame can be sealed, during assembly, with electrolyte-resistant-sealant as well as with adhesive. The resulting cathode module can be assembled outside the cell body and readily inserted therein, or can later be easily removed therefrom. 6 figs.

Ion-solvation structure and battery electrode characteristics of nonflammable organic electrolytes based on tris(trifluoroethyl)phosphate dissolving lithium salts.

PubMed

Todorov, Yanko Marinov; Fujii, Kenta; Yoshimoto, Nobuko; Hirayama, Daisuke; Aoki, Masahiro; Mimura, Hideyuki; Morita, Masayuki

2017-11-29

The structure and properties of lithium salt solutions based on tris(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phosphate (TFEP) solvent have been studied to design a safer electrolyte system for large-sized lithium-ion battery applications. Influences of the ionic structure on the polarization behavior of the LiCoO 2 (LCO) positive electrode were investigated. The ionic conductivity and viscosity of the solution consisting of lithium salts dissolved in TFEP, LiX/TFEP (X = PF 6 , BF 4 and TFSA) (TFSA = (CF 3 SO 2 ) 2 N), were measured. The results suggest that the ion-solvation structure greatly depends on the anionic species in the salt. Spectroscopic measurements also support the conclusion that the Li + -solvation structure varies with the lithium salts. The differences in the ionic structure of LiX/TFEP influence the electrochemical oxidation potential of the solution and the polarization behavior of the LCO electrode. The overvoltage for Li-desertion/insertion from/into LCO in LiX/TFEP, being much higher than that observed in conventional LIB electrolyte solutions, shows the order of BF 4 < PF 6 < TFSA. The addition of ethylene carbonate (EC) to LiX/TFEP increases the ionic conductivity, which is probably caused by changes in the Li + -solvation structure in TFEP. The overvoltage for the Li-desertion/insertion of LCO is much lowered by the addition of EC to LiX/TFEP.

Development of remountable joints and heat removable techniques for high-temperature superconducting magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashizume, H.; Ito, S.; Yanagi, N.; Tamura, H.; Sagara, A.

2018-02-01

Segment fabrication is now a candidate for the design of superconducting helical magnets in the helical fusion reactor FFHR-d1, which adopts the joint winding of high-temperature superconducting (HTS) helical coils as a primary option and the ‘remountable’ HTS helical coil as an advanced option. This paper reports on recent progress in two key technologies: the mechanical joints (remountable joints) of the HTS conductors and the metal porous media inserted into the cooling channel for segment fabrication. Through our research activities it has been revealed that heat treatment during fabrication of the joint can reduce joint resistance and its dispersion, which can shorten the fabrication process and be applied to bent conductor joints. Also, heat transfer correlations of the cooling channel were established to evaluate heat transfer performance with various cryogenic coolants based on the correlations to analyze the thermal stability of the joint.

Synthesis and investigation of proton conductivity for intercalated kaolinite with 4-amidinopyridinium chloride

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

Ren, Li-Te; College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 210009; Li, Xiao-Pei

2015-12-15

The proton-conducting materials have potential application in devices such as fuel cells. In this study, a mineral kaolinite-based proton conducting material, kaolinite-4-amidinopyridinium hydrochloride (K-4-APy–HCl), was synthesized by the intercalated compound kaolinite-4-amidinopyridine (K-4-APy) adsorbing volatilizing HCl. The thermogravimetric analysis (TG), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and IR spectrum confirmed the HCl successfully inserting into the interlayer space of kaolinite and the 4-aminopyridine being protonated. The intercalation efficiency is estimated to be ca. 85.6%. With respect to K-4-APy, the interlayer space expends by 1.53 Å. The thermal decomposition mechanism was studied by PXRD and TG techniques. The K-4-APy–HCl shows proton conductivity with σ=3.379×10{supmore » −8} S cm{sup −1} at 373 K and E{sub a}=1.159 eV in the anhydrous condition, which are comparable to MOFs-based proton conducting materials. - Graphical abstract: The intercalated hybrid of mineral kaolinite with 4-amidinopyridinium hydrochloride is prepared to use as proton conducting material. - Highlights: • A new strategy is proposed for preparation of kaolinite-based proton conductor. • Intercalatied hybrid was prepared by sequentially inserting 4-amidinopyridine and adsorbing HCl. • The proton conductivity of intercalated hybrid is comparable to MOFs-based proton-conductors.« less

Differential Editosome Protein Function between Life Cycle Stages of Trypanosoma brucei *

PubMed Central

McDermott, Suzanne M.; Guo, Xuemin; Carnes, Jason; Stuart, Kenneth

2015-01-01

Uridine insertion and deletion RNA editing generates functional mitochondrial mRNAs in Trypanosoma brucei. The mRNAs are differentially edited in bloodstream form (BF) and procyclic form (PF) life cycle stages, and this correlates with the differential utilization of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation between the stages. The mechanism that controls this differential editing is unknown. Editing is catalyzed by multiprotein ∼20S editosomes that contain endonuclease, 3′-terminal uridylyltransferase, exonuclease, and ligase activities. These editosomes also contain KREPB5 and KREPA3 proteins, which have no functional catalytic motifs, but they are essential for parasite viability, editing, and editosome integrity in BF cells. We show here that repression of KREPB5 or KREPA3 is also lethal in PF, but the effects on editosome structure differ from those in BF. In addition, we found that point mutations in KREPB5 or KREPA3 differentially affect cell growth, editosome integrity, and RNA editing between BF and PF stages. These results indicate that the functions of KREPB5 and KREPA3 editosome proteins are adjusted between the life cycle stages. This implies that these proteins are involved in the processes that control differential editing and that the 20S editosomes differ between the life cycle stages. PMID:26304125

Stimulation of ovarian stem cells by follicle stimulating hormone and basic fibroblast growth factor during cortical tissue culture.

PubMed

Parte, Seema; Bhartiya, Deepa; Manjramkar, Dhananjay D; Chauhan, Anahita; Joshi, Amita

2013-04-01

Cryopreserved ovarian cortical tissue acts as a source of primordial follicles (PF) which can either be auto-transplanted or cultured in vitro to obtain mature oocytes. This offers a good opportunity to attain biological parenthood to individuals with gonadal insufficiency including cancer survivors. However, role of various intra- and extra-ovarian factors during PF growth initiation still remain poorly understood. Ovarian biology has assumed a different dimension due to emerging data on presence of pluripotent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and ovarian germ stem cells (OGSCs) in ovary surface epithelium (OSE) and the concept of postnatal oogenesis. The present study was undertaken to decipher effect of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on the growth initiation of PF during organ culture with a focus on ovarian stem cells. Serum-free cultures of marmoset (n=3) and human (young and peri-menopausal) ovarian cortical tissue pieces were established. Cortical tissue pieces stimulated with FSH (0.5 IU/ml) or bFGF (100 ng/ml) were collected on Day 3 for histological and molecular studies. Gene transcripts specific for pluripotency (Oct-4A, Nanog), early germ cells (Oct-4, c-Kit, Vasa) and to reflect PF growth initiation (oocyte-specific Gdf-9 and Lhx8, and granulosa cells specific Amh) were studied by q-RTPCR. A prominent proliferation of OSE (which harbors stem cells) and transition of PF to primary follicles was observed after FSH and bFGF treatment. Ovarian stem cells were found to be released on the culture inserts and retained the potential to spontaneously differentiate into oocyte-like structures in extended cultures. q-RTPCR analysis revealed an increased expression of gene transcripts specific for VSELs, OGSCs and early germ cells suggestive of follicular transition. The present study shows that both FSH and bFGF stimulate stem cells present in OSE and also lead to PF growth initiation. Thus besides being a source of PF, cryopreserved ovarian cortical tissue could also be a source of stem cells which retain the ability to spontaneously differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro. Results provide a paradigm shift in the basic understanding of FSH action and also offer a new perspective to the field of oncofertility research.

Solution 1H NMR determination of secondary structure for the three-iron form of ferredoxin from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus.

PubMed

Teng, Q; Zhou, Z H; Smith, E T; Busse, S C; Howard, J B; Adams, M W; La Mar, G N

1994-05-24

Two-dimensional 1H NMR data have been used to make sequence-specific assignments and define the secondary structure of the three-iron form of the oxidized ferredoxin, Fd, from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus, Pf. Signals for at least some protons were located for 65 of the 66 amino acids in the sequence, in spite of the paramagnetic (S = 1/2) ground state, but not all could be assigned. Unassigned and missing signals could be qualitatively correlated with the expected proximity of the protons to the paramagnetic cluster. The secondary structure was deduced from qualitative analysis of the 2D nuclear Overhauser effect, which identified two antiparallel beta-sheets, one triple-stranded including Ala1-Ser5, Val39-Glu41, and Thr62-Ala66, and one double-stranded consisting of Glu26-Asn28 and Lys32-Glu34, as well as an alpha-helix involving Glu43-Glu54. Three tight type I turns are located at residues Asp7-Thr10, Pro22-Phe25, and Asp29-Gly31. Comparison with the crystal structure of Desulfovibrio gigas, Dg, Fd (Kissinger et al., 1991) reveals a very similar folding topology, although several secondary structural elements are extended in Pf relative to Dg Fd. Thus the beta-sheet involving the two termini is expanded to include the two terminal residues and incorporates a third strand from the internal loop that is lengthened by several insertions in Pf relative to Dg Fd. The double-stranded beta-sheet in the interior of Pf Fd is lengthened slightly due to a much tighter type I turn between the two strands. The helix near the C-terminus is three residues longer in Pf than in Dg Fd, as well as being shifted toward the N-terminus. The disulfide link between the two nonligating Cys residues (Cys21 and Cys48) is conserved in Pf Fd, but the link near the C-terminus is in the middle of the long alpha-helix in Pf Fd, instead of at the N-terminus of the helix as in Dg Fd. The extensions of the beta-sheets and alpha-helix increase the number of main-chain hydrogen bonds in Pf Fd by approximately 8 relative to those in Dg Fd and likely contribute to its remarkable thermostability (it is unaffected by anaerobic incubation at 95 degrees C for 24 h).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Structure and transport properties of a plastic crystal ion conductor: diethyl(methyl)(isobutyl)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate.

PubMed

Jin, Liyu; Nairn, Kate M; Forsyth, Craig M; Seeber, Aaron J; MacFarlane, Douglas R; Howlett, Patrick C; Forsyth, Maria; Pringle, Jennifer M

2012-06-13

Understanding the ion transport behavior of organic ionic plastic crystals (OIPCs) is crucial for their potential application as solid electrolytes in various electrochemical devices such as lithium batteries. In the present work, the ion transport mechanism is elucidated by analyzing experimental data (single-crystal XRD, multinuclear solid-state NMR, DSC, ionic conductivity, and SEM) as well as the theoretical simulations (second moment-based solid static NMR line width simulations) for the OIPC diethyl(methyl)(isobutyl)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate ([P(1,2,2,4)][PF(6)]). This material displays rich phase behavior and advantageous ionic conductivities, with three solid-solid phase transitions and a highly "plastic" and conductive final solid phase in which the conductivity reaches 10(-3) S cm(-1). The crystal structure shows unique channel-like packing of the cations, which may allow the anions to diffuse more easily than the cations at lower temperatures. The strongly phase-dependent static NMR line widths of the (1)H, (19)F, and (31)P nuclei in this material have been well simulated by different levels of molecular motions in different phases. Thus, drawing together of the analytical and computational techniques has allowed the construction of a transport mechanism for [P(1,2,2,4)][PF(6)]. It is also anticipated that utilization of these techniques will allow a more detailed understanding of the transport mechanisms of other plastic crystal electrolyte materials.

Services to Operate and Maintain Walter Reed Army Institute of Research’s (WRAIR) Microwave Facility.

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-20

Sixty-four day old rats were euthanized individually in a polycarbonate cage with carbon dioxide from a 100 % carbon dioxide cylinder. Eyes were removed...grams were used. Rats were euthanized with carbon dioxide . A thermistor based temperature probe (Yellow Spring Instruments, YSI 423) was inserted 5 cm...gals). This has been a necessary procedure which evacuates carbon from the oil which in turn will build-up on the HV components and conductors in the

Application and experimental validation of an integral method for simulation of gradient-induced eddy currents on conducting surfaces during magnetic resonance imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harris, C. T.; Haw, D. W.; Handler, W. B.; Chronik, B. A.

2013-06-01

The time-varying magnetic fields created by the gradient coils in magnetic resonance imaging can produce negative effects on image quality and the system itself. Additionally, they can be a limiting factor to the introduction of non-MR devices such as cardiac pacemakers, orthopedic implants, and surgical robotics. The ability to model the induced currents produced by the switching gradient fields is key to developing methods for reducing these unwanted interactions. In this work, a framework for the calculation of induced currents on conducting surface geometries is summarized. This procedure is then compared to two separate experiments: (1) the analysis of the decay of currents induced upon a conducting cylinder by an insert gradient set within a head only 7 T MR scanner; and (2) analysis of the heat deposited into a small conductor by a uniform switching magnetic field at multiple frequencies and two distinct conductor thicknesses. The method was shown to allow the accurate modeling of the induced time-varying field decay in the first case, and was able to provide accurate estimation of the rise in temperature in the second experiment to within 30% when the skin depth was greater than or equal to the thickness of the conductor.

Detailed design of the large-bore 8 T superconducting magnet for the NAFASSY test facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corato, V.; Affinito, L.; Anemona, A.; Besi Vetrella, U.; Di Zenobio, A.; Fiamozzi Zignani, C.; Freda, R.; Messina, G.; Muzzi, L.; Perrella, M.; Reccia, L.; Tomassetti, G.; Turtù, S.; della Corte, A.

2015-03-01

The ‘NAFASSY’ (NAtional FAcility for Superconducting SYstems) facility is designed to test wound conductor samples under high-field conditions at variable temperatures. Due to its unique features, it is reasonable to assume that in the near future NAFASSY will have a preeminent role at the international level in the qualification of long coiled cables in operative conditions. The magnetic system consists of a large warm bore background solenoid, made up of three series-connected grading sections obtained by winding three different Nb3Sn Cable-in-Conduit Conductors. Thanks to the financial support of the Italian Ministry for University and Research the low-field coil is currently under production. The design has been properly modified to allow the system to operate also as a stand-alone facility, with an inner bore diameter of 1144 mm. This magnet is able to provide about 7 T on its axis and about 8 T close to the insert inner radius, giving the possibility of performing a test relevant for large-sized NbTi or medium-field Nb3Sn conductors. The detailed design of the 8 T magnet, including the electro-magnetic, structural and thermo-hydraulic analysis, is here reported, as well as the production status.

Using the HELIOS facility for assessment of bundle-jacket thermal coupling in a CICC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacroix, B.; Rousset, B.; Cloez, H.; Decool, P.; Duchateau, J. L.; Hoa, C.; Luchier, N.; Nicollet, S.; Topin, F.

2016-12-01

In a Cable In Conduit Conductor (CICC) cooled by forced circulation of supercritical helium, the heat exchange in the bundle region can play a significant role for conductor safe operation, while remaining a quite uncertain parameter. Heat exchange between bundle and jacket depends on the relative contributions of convective heat transfer due to the helium flow inside the bundle and of thermal resistance due to the wrappings between the cable and the conduit. In order to qualify this thermal coupling at realistic operating conditions, a dedicated experiment on a 1.2 m sample of ITER Toroidal Field (TF) dummy conductor was designed and performed in the HELIOS test facility at CEA Grenoble. Several methods were envisaged, and the choice was made to assess bundle-jacket heat transfer coefficient by measuring the temperature of a solid copper cylinder inserted over the conductor jacket and submitted to heat deposition on its outer surface. The mock-up was manufactured and tested in spring 2015. Bundle-jacket heat transfer coefficient was found in the range 300-500 W m-2 K-1. Results analysis suggests that the order of magnitude of convective heat transfer coefficient inside bundle is closer to Colburn-Reynolds analogy than to Dittus-Boelter correlation, and that bundle-jacket thermal coupling is mainly limited by thermal resistance due to wrappings. A model based on an equivalent layer of stagnant helium between wraps and jacket was proposed and showed a good consistency with the experiment, with relevant values for the helium layer thickness.

Conceptual design of a 24-32 MW radially-cooled insert for a greater than or = 45 T hybrid system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weggel, Robert J.; Hake, Michael E.; Stejskal, Vladimir

1994-07-01

The FBNML is designing and will fabricate a radially-cooled insert magnet to generate 70% of the field of a system, Hybrid V, to surpass 45 T in a 32 mm bore. The insert is to have an overall diameter and a maximum active coil length of 610 mm. With a background field of 14 T the system should generate 47 T at 24 MW and nearly 49 T at 32 MW. The peak stress is extremely high, calling for conductors such as Be-Cu (UNS C17510) and 24% Ag-Cu with strengths up to 1100 MPa. The peak heat flux density also is high, nearly 12 W/mm(exp 2). Because the water is coldest and its velocity highest where the heat flux is highest, however, the peak temperature is only 80 C. The water flow is approximately = 200 l/s at 27 atm. The system is to be very user friendly. Access is completely unobstructed at the top. Insert removal leaves the plumbing and electrical connections intact. The massive and expensive outer coils should be long lived, the inner coil easily replaceable. During an inner coil burnout, a sleeve intercepts arcing from the inner coil to the middle one, reducing burnout severity and fault loads. The insert should be a worthy successor to those of the FBNML's world-record holding systems, Hybrids II and III.

Reactor vessel annealing system

DOEpatents

Miller, Phillip E.; Katz, Leonoard R.; Nath, Raymond J.; Blaushild, Ronald M.; Tatch, Michael D.; Kordalski, Frank J.; Wykstra, Donald T.; Kavalkovich, William M.

1991-01-01

A system for annealing a vessel (14) in situ by heating the vessel (14) to a defined temperature, composed of: an electrically operated heater assembly (10) insertable into the vessel (14) for heating the vessel (14) to the defined temperature; temperature monitoring components positioned relative to the heater assembly (10) for monitoring the temperature of the vessel (14); a controllable electric power supply unit (32-60) for supplying electric power required by the heater assembly (10); a control unit (80-86) for controlling the power supplied by the power supply unit (32-60); a first vehicle (2) containing the power supply unit (32-60); a second vehicle (4) containing the control unit (80-86); power conductors (18,22) connectable between the power supply unit (32-60) and the heater unit (10) for delivering the power supplied by the power supply unit (32-60) to the heater assembly (10); signal conductors (20,24) connectable between the temperature monitoring components and the control unit (80-86) for delivering temperature indicating signals from the temperature monitoring components to the control unit (80-86); and control conductors (8) connectable between the control unit (80-86) and the power supply unit (32-60) for delivering to the power supply unit (32-60) control signals for controlling the level of power supplied by the power supply unit (32-60) to the heater assembly (10).

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

Lin, Chun-Han; Su, Chia-Ying; Chen, Chung-Hui

Further reduction of the efficiency droop effect and further enhancements of internal quantum efficiency (IQE) and output intensity of a surface plasmon coupled, blue-emitting light-emitting diode (LED) by inserting a dielectric interlayer (DI) of a lower refractive index between p-GaN and surface Ag nanoparticles are demonstrated. The insertion of a DI leads to a blue shift of the localized surface plasmon (LSP) resonance spectrum and increases the LSP coupling strength at the quantum well emitting wavelength in the blue range. With SiO{sub 2} as the DI, a thinner DI leads to a stronger LSP coupling effect, when compared with themore » case of a thicker DI. By using GaZnO, which is a dielectric in the optical range and a good conductor under direct-current operation, as the DI, the LSP coupling results in the highest IQE, highest LED output intensity, and weakest droop effect.« less

Menstruum induces changes in mesothelial cell morphology.

PubMed

Koks, C A; Demir Weusten, A Y; Groothuis, P G; Dunselman, G A; de Goeij, A F; Evers, J L

2000-01-01

In previous studies, we have shown that menstrual endometrium preferentially adheres to the subepithelial lining of the peritoneum. It remains to be elucidated, however, whether this damage is preexisting or inflicted by the menstrual tissue itself. We hypothesized that the menstrual tissue itself damages the peritoneum. To investigate this, the viability of menstrual endometrial tissue in peritoneal fluid (PF) was evaluated and the morphologic changes in the mesothelial cells were studied by in vitro cocultures of menstruum with mesothelial cell monolayers. Menstruum was collected with a menstrual cup. Endometrial tissue was isolated from the menstruum, resuspended in culture medium or in the cell-free fraction of PF and cultured for 24, 48 or 72 h. A 3(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed to obtain a relative measure of viable adhered endometrial cells. Mesothelial cells isolated from human omental tissue were cultured on Matrigel or uncoated plastic. At confluence, overnight cocultures were performed and scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the morphologic changes. The viability of endometrial fragments was 84% (n = 36, p < 0.05), 82% (n = 27, not significant) and 104% (n = 14, not significant) when cultured in the cell-free fraction of PF for 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively, when compared to medium with 10% fetal calf serum. Menstrual endometrial fragments or menstrual serum added to and cocultured with mesothelial cells induced severe morphologic alterations of the latter, including retraction, shrinking and gap formation. Similar morphologic changes were observed when mesothelial cells were cocultured with menstrual endometrial fragments in PF or in culture inserts. Incubation with conditioned medium from cultured menstrual endometrium induced similar but less pronounced changes in morphology. In conclusion, menstrual endometrial fragments remain viable in PF in vitro for at least 72 h. Antegradely shed menstruum induces changes in mesothelial cell morphology, including retraction and shrinking with exposure of the underlying surface. These findings suggest that menstruum is harmful to the peritoneal lining. Therefore, by local destruction of the mesothelial layer, menstrual endometrium is able to create sites for adhesion. Copyright 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel

High-power, photofission-inducing bremsstrahlung source for intense pulsed active detection of fissile material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zier, J. C.; Mosher, D.; Allen, R. J.; Commisso, R. J.; Cooperstein, G.; Hinshelwood, D. D.; Jackson, S. L.; Murphy, D. P.; Ottinger, P. F.; Richardson, A. S.; Schumer, J. W.; Swanekamp, S. B.; Weber, B. V.

2014-06-01

Intense pulsed active detection (IPAD) is a promising technique for detecting fissile material to prevent the proliferation of special nuclear materials. With IPAD, fissions are induced in a brief, intense radiation burst and the resulting gamma ray or neutron signals are acquired during a short period of elevated signal-to-noise ratio. The 8 MV, 200 kA Mercury pulsed-power generator at the Naval Research Laboratory coupled to a high-power vacuum diode produces an intense 30 ns bremsstrahlung beam to study this approach. The work presented here reports on Mercury experiments designed to maximize the photofission yield in a depleted-uranium (DU) object in the bremsstrahlung far field by varying the anode-cathode (AK) diode gap spacing and by adding an inner-diameter-reducing insert in the outer conductor wall. An extensive suite of diagnostics was fielded to measure the bremsstrahlung beam and DU fission yield as functions of diode geometry. Delayed fission neutrons from the DU proved to be a valuable diagnostic for measuring bremsstrahlung photons above 5 MeV. The measurements are in broad agreement with particle-in-cell and Monte Carlo simulations of electron dynamics and radiation transport. These show that with increasing AK gap, electron losses to the insert and outer conductor wall increase and that the electron angles impacting the bremsstrahlung converter approach normal incidence. The diode conditions for maximum fission yield occur when the gap is large enough to produce electron angles close to normal, yet small enough to limit electron losses.

REBCO tape performance under high magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benkel, Tara; Miyoshi, Yasuyuki; Chaud, Xavier; Badel, Arnaud; Tixador, Pascal

2017-08-01

New improvements in high temperature superconductors (HTS) make them a promising candidate for building the next generation of high field magnets. As the conductors became recently available in long length, new projects such as NOUGAT (new magnet generation to generate Tesla at low cost) were started. This project aims at designing and building an HTS magnet prototype generating 10 T inside a 20 T resistive magnet. In this configuration, severe mechanical stress is applied on the insert and its extremities are subject to a high transverse component of the field. Because the conductor has anisotropic properties, it has to be studied carefully under similar conditions as the final prototype. First, this paper presents both the NOUGAT project and its context. Then, it shows the experimental results on short HTS tapes studied under high magnetic field up to 23 T with varying orientation. These results allow validating the current margin of the prototype. Finally, a first wound prototype is presented with experimental results up to 200 A under 16 T. Contribution to the topical issue "Electrical Engineering Symposium (SGE 2016)", edited by Adel Razek

Megagauss Fields during Milliseconds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Campbell, L. J.; Embury, D.; Han, K.; Parkin, D. M.; Baca, A. G.; Kihara, K. H.; Sims, J. R.; Boebinger, G.; Eyssa, Y.; Lesch, B.; Li, L.; Schillig, J.; Schneider-Muntau, H.; Walsh, R.

2004-11-01

A non-destructive, one megagauss magnet is now being designed in cooperation between the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL) through joint funding by the US Department of Energy and the US National Science Foundation. The design combines two types of pulsed magnet now in use at the NHMFL: a capacitor-driven `insert' magnet with a total pulse width of order 10 ms and a much larger `outsert' magnet with a total pulse width of order 2 seconds that is driven by a controlled power source. The insert and outsert produce approximately 1/2 megagauss each. Although the design uses CuAg as the principal conductor, further design efforts and materials development involve exploring CuNb and stainless steel-clad copper as possible future alternatives. A crucial innovation employed wound steel strip (sheet) as reinforcement in both insert and outsert coils. This gives extra strength due to the higher degree of cold-work possible in strip materials. A key role is played by materials development for this leading edge magnet. A major component, the 7-module, 560 MVA controlled dc power supply required for the outsert has been installed and commissioned.

Overexpression of biotin synthase and biotin ligase is required for efficient generation of sulfur-35 labeled biotin in E. coli.

PubMed

Delli-Bovi, Teegan A; Spalding, Maroya D; Prigge, Sean T

2010-10-11

Biotin is an essential enzyme cofactor that acts as a CO2 carrier in carboxylation and decarboxylation reactions. The E. coli genome encodes a biosynthetic pathway that produces biotin from pimeloyl-CoA in four enzymatic steps. The final step, insertion of sulfur into desthiobiotin to form biotin, is catalyzed by the biotin synthase, BioB. A dedicated biotin ligase (BirA) catalyzes the covalent attachment of biotin to biotin-dependent enzymes. Isotopic labeling has been a valuable tool for probing the details of the biosynthetic process and assaying the activity of biotin-dependent enzymes, however there is currently no established method for 35S labeling of biotin. In this study, we produced [35S]-biotin from Na35SO4 and desthiobiotin with a specific activity of 30.7 Ci/mmol, two orders of magnitude higher than previously published methods. The biotinylation domain (PfBCCP-79) from the Plasmodium falciparum acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) was expressed in E. coli as a biotinylation substrate. We found that overexpression of the E. coli biotin synthase, BioB, and biotin ligase, BirA, increased PfBCCP-79 biotinylation 160-fold over basal levels. Biotinylated PfBCCP-79 was purified by affinity chromatography, and free biotin was liberated using acid hydrolysis. We verified that we had produced radiolabeled biologically active [D]-biotin that specifically labels biotinylated proteins through reuptake in E. coli. The strategy described in our report provides a simple and effective method for the production of [35S]-biotin in E. coli based on affinity chromatography.

Discovery and Optimization of Imidazopyridine-Based Inhibitors of Diacylglycerol Acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2).

PubMed

Futatsugi, Kentaro; Kung, Daniel W; Orr, Suvi T M; Cabral, Shawn; Hepworth, David; Aspnes, Gary; Bader, Scott; Bian, Jianwei; Boehm, Markus; Carpino, Philip A; Coffey, Steven B; Dowling, Matthew S; Herr, Michael; Jiao, Wenhua; Lavergne, Sophie Y; Li, Qifang; Clark, Ronald W; Erion, Derek M; Kou, Kou; Lee, Kyuha; Pabst, Brandon A; Perez, Sylvie M; Purkal, Julie; Jorgensen, Csilla C; Goosen, Theunis C; Gosset, James R; Niosi, Mark; Pettersen, John C; Pfefferkorn, Jeffrey A; Ahn, Kay; Goodwin, Bryan

2015-09-24

The medicinal chemistry and preclinical biology of imidazopyridine-based inhibitors of diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2) is described. A screening hit 1 with low lipophilic efficiency (LipE) was optimized through two key structural modifications: (1) identification of the pyrrolidine amide group for a significant LipE improvement, and (2) insertion of a sp(3)-hybridized carbon center in the core of the molecule for simultaneous improvement of N-glucuronidation metabolic liability and off-target pharmacology. The preclinical candidate 9 (PF-06424439) demonstrated excellent ADMET properties and decreased circulating and hepatic lipids when orally administered to dyslipidemic rodent models.

Material and cooling requirements for poly-Bitter resistive magnets and hybrid inserts generating continuous fields up to 50 T

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

Gao, B.J.; Bird, M.D.; Eyssa, Y.M.

1994-07-01

The new National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL), equipped with a 40 MW DC power supply, will design and construct the next generation of high field resistive magnets and hybrid inserts generating DC fields up to 50 T. The authors present a study on the required materials and the necessary cooling characteristics, these magnets need. The configuration selected for this study consists of a combination of thin poly-Bitter and thick Bitter coils optimized in dimensions and power under constraint of maximum design stress and heat removal to obtain maximum field. The study shows that each design requires a different optimummore » ratio of conductor strength to electrical conductivity and that efficient cooling is only advantageous if strong copper alloys are used. For efficient use of the available power the development of new high strength, high conductivity materials will be necessary. Equally important are improvements in the heat transfer characteristics of these high power density magnets.« less

Applicability of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis.

PubMed

Broholm, R; Pingel, J; Simonsen, L; Bülow, J; Johannsen, F

2017-12-01

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is used to visualize the microvascularization in various tissues. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether CEUS could be used to visualize the microvascular volume (MV) in the plantar fascia, and to compare the method to clinical symptoms and B-mode ultrasound (US) in patients with plantar fasciitis (PF). Twenty patients with unilateral PF were included and were divided by US in insertional thickening (10), midsubstance thickening (5), and no US changes (5). The MV was measured simultaneously in both heels. Four areas in the plantar fascia and plantar fat pad were measured independently by two observers. Inter- and intra-observer correlation analyses were performed. The asymptomatic heels showed a constantly low MV, and for the whole group of patients, a significantly higher MV was found in the symptomatic plantar fascia and plantar fat pad. Inter-observer correlation as well as intra-observer agreement was excellent. The MV in the plantar fascia and plantar fat pad can be measured reliably using CEUS, suggesting that it is a reproducible method to examine patients with plantar fasciitis. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Coax-to-channelised coplanar waveguide in-phase N-way, radial power divider

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, R. N.; Ponchak, G. E.

1990-01-01

A novel nonplanar, wideband power divider which makes use of a coax-to-CCPW transition is demonstrated. The transition utilizes a coaxial transformer whose outer conductor is slotted along the length for RF power division and also for exciting the CCPWs in equal amplitude and phase at the radial junction. The measured (8-16 GHz) excess insertion loss at the output ports is 0.5 dB for a four-way divider. The amplitude and phase balance are within 0.5 dB and 5 deg, respectively. The power divider should find applications in the feed network of phased arrays.

A viable dipole magnet concept with REBCO CORC® wires and further development needs for high-field magnet applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiaorong; Caspi, Shlomo; Dietderich, Daniel R.; Ghiorso, William B.; Gourlay, Stephen A.; Higley, Hugh C.; Lin, Andy; Prestemon, Soren O.; van der Laan, Danko; Weiss, Jeremy D.

2018-04-01

REBCO coated conductors maintain a high engineering current density above 16 T at 4.2 K. That fact will significantly impact markets of various magnet applications including high-field magnets for high-energy physics and fusion reactors. One of the main challenges for the high-field accelerator magnet is the use of multi-tape REBCO cables with high engineering current density in magnet development. Several approaches developing high-field accelerator magnets using REBCO cables are demonstrated. In this paper, we introduce an alternative concept based on the canted cos θ (CCT) magnet design using conductor on round core (CORC®) wires that are wound from multiple REBCO tapes with a Cu core. We report the development and test of double-layer three-turn CCT dipole magnets using CORC® wires at 77 and 4.2 K. The scalability of the CCT design allowed us to effectively develop and demonstrate important magnet technology features such as coil design, winding, joints and testing with minimum conductor lengths. The test results showed that the CCT dipole magnet using CORC® wires was a viable option in developing a REBCO accelerator magnet. One of the critical development needs is to increase the engineering current density of the 3.7 mm diameter CORC® wire to 540 A mm-2 at 21 T, 4.2 K and to reduce the bending radius to 15 mm. This would enable a compact REBCO dipole insert magnet to generate a 5 T field in a background field of 16 T at 4.2 K.

Generation of 24 T at 4.2 K using a layer-wound GdBCO insert coil with Nb3Sn and Nb-Ti external magnetic field coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsumoto, S.; Kiyoshi, T.; Otsuka, A.; Hamada, M.; Maeda, H.; Yanagisawa, Y.; Nakagome, H.; Suematsu, H.

2012-02-01

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets are believed to be a practical option in the development of high field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) systems. The development of a 600 MHz NMR system that uses an HTS magnet and a probe with an HTS radio frequency coil is underway. The HTS NMR magnet is expected to reduce the volume occupied by the magnet and to encourage users to install higher field NMR systems. The tolerance to high tensile stress is expected for HTS conductors in order to reduce the magnet in volume. A layer-wound Gd-Ba-Cu-O (GdBCO) insert coil was fabricated in order to investigate its properties under a high electromagnetic force in a high magnetic field. The GdBCO insert coil was successfully operated at a current of up to 321 A and an electromagnetic force BJR of 408 MPa in an external magnetic field generated by Nb3Sn and Nb-Ti low-temperature superconducting coils. The GdBCO insert coil also managed to generate a magnetic field of 6.8 T at the center of the coil in an external magnetic field of 17.2 T. The superconducting magnet consisting of GdBCO, Nb3Sn and Nb-Ti coils successfully generated a magnetic field of 24.0 T at 4.2 K, which represents a new record for a superconducting magnet.

A secretory multifunctional serine protease, DegP of Plasmodium falciparum, plays an important role in thermo-oxidative stress, parasite growth and development.

PubMed

Sharma, Shweta; Jadli, Mohit; Singh, Anu; Arora, Kavita; Malhotra, Pawan

2014-03-01

Plasmodium falciparum heat shock proteins and proteases are known for their indispensable roles in parasite virulence and survival in the host cell. They neutralize various host-derived stress responses that are deleterious for parasite growth and invasion. We report identification and functional characterization of the first DegP from an apicomplexan (P. falciparum). To determine the molecular identity and functions of the parasite-encoded DegP, we complemented the Escherichia coli degP null mutant with a putative PfdegP gene, and the results showed that PfDegP complements the growth defect of the temperature sensitive DegP-deficient mutant and imparts resistance to non-permissive temperatures and oxidative stress. Molecular interaction studies showed that PfDegP exists as a complex with parasite-encoded heat shock protein 70, iron superoxide dismutase and enolase. DegP expression is significantly induced in parasite culture upon heat shock/oxidative stress. Our data suggest that the PfDegP protein may play a role in the growth and development of P. falciparum through its ability to confer protection against thermal/oxidative stress. Antibody against DegP showed anti-plasmodial activity against blood-stage parasites in vitro, suggesting that PfDegP and its associated complex may be a potential focus for new anti-malarial therapies. ●PfDegP physically interacts with PfHsp70 and PfEno by anti-bait co-immunoprecipitation (View interaction) ●PfDegP physically interacts with PfEno, PfSod, PfOat, PfHsp70, PfLDH and PfGpi by anti-bait co-immunoprecipitation (View interaction) ●PfHsp-70 and PfDegP co-localize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction) ●PfDegP physically interacts with PfOat, PfHsp70, PfEno, PfSod, PfGpi and PfLDH by surface plasmon resonance (View interaction) ●PfEno and PfDegP co-localize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction) ●PfDegP and PfHsp70 co-localize by co-sedimentation through density gradient (View interaction). © 2014 FEBS.

QSAR-Driven Design and Discovery of Novel Compounds With Antiplasmodial and Transmission Blocking Activities.

PubMed

Lima, Marilia N N; Melo-Filho, Cleber C; Cassiano, Gustavo C; Neves, Bruno J; Alves, Vinicius M; Braga, Rodolpho C; Cravo, Pedro V L; Muratov, Eugene N; Calit, Juliana; Bargieri, Daniel Y; Costa, Fabio T M; Andrade, Carolina H

2018-01-01

Malaria is a life-threatening infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium , affecting more than 200 million people worldwide every year and leading to about a half million deaths. Malaria parasites of humans have evolved resistance to all current antimalarial drugs, urging for the discovery of new effective compounds. Given that the inhibition of deoxyuridine triphosphatase of Plasmodium falciparum ( Pf dUTPase) induces wrong insertions in plasmodial DNA and consequently leading the parasite to death, this enzyme is considered an attractive antimalarial drug target. Using a combi-QSAR (quantitative structure-activity relationship) approach followed by virtual screening and in vitro experimental evaluation, we report herein the discovery of novel chemical scaffolds with in vitro potency against asexual blood stages of both P. falciparum multidrug-resistant and sensitive strains and against sporogonic development of P. berghei . We developed 2D- and 3D-QSAR models using a series of nucleosides reported in the literature as Pf dUTPase inhibitors. The best models were combined in a consensus approach and used for virtual screening of the ChemBridge database, leading to the identification of five new virtual Pf dUTPase inhibitors. Further in vitro testing on P. falciparum multidrug-resistant (W2) and sensitive (3D7) parasites showed that compounds LabMol-144 and LabMol-146 demonstrated fair activity against both strains and presented good selectivity versus mammalian cells. In addition, LabMol-144 showed good in vitro inhibition of P. berghei ookinete formation, demonstrating that hit-to-lead optimization based on this compound may also lead to new antimalarials with transmission blocking activity.

Activation patterns of Purkinje fibers during long-duration ventricular fibrillation in an isolated canine heart model.

PubMed

Tabereaux, Paul B; Walcott, Greg P; Rogers, Jack M; Kim, Jong; Dosdall, Derek J; Robertson, Peter G; Killingsworth, Cheryl R; Smith, William M; Ideker, Raymond E

2007-09-04

The roles of Purkinje fibers (PFs) and focal wave fronts, if any, in the maintenance of ventricular fibrillation (VF) are unknown. If PFs are involved in VF maintenance, it should be possible to map wave fronts propagating from PFs into the working ventricular myocardium during VF. If wave fronts ever arise focally during VF, it should be possible to map them appearing de novo. Six canine hearts were isolated, and the left main coronary artery was cannulated and perfused. The left ventricular cavity was exposed, which allowed direct endocardial mapping of the anterior papillary muscle insertion. Nonperfused VF was induced, and 6 segments of data, each 5 seconds long, were analyzed during 10 minutes of VF. During 36 segments of data that were analyzed, 1018 PF or focal wave fronts of activation were identified. In 534 wave fronts, activation was mapped propagating from working ventricular myocardium to PF. In 142 wave fronts, activation was mapped propagating from PF to working ventricular myocardium. In 342 wave fronts, activation was mapped arising focally. More than 1 of these 3 patterns could occur in the same wave front. PFs are highly active throughout the first 10 minutes of VF. In addition to retrograde propagation from the working ventricular myocardium to PFs, antegrade propagation occurs from PFs to working ventricular myocardium, which suggests PFs are important in VF maintenance. Prior plunge needle recordings in dogs indicate activation propagates from the endocardium toward the epicardium after 1 minute of VF, which suggests that focal sites on the endocardium may represent foci and not breakthrough. If so, in addition to reentry, abnormal automaticity or triggered activity may also occur during VF.

Functional characterization and molecular mechanism exploration of three granulin epithelin precursor splice variants in biomineralization of the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata.

PubMed

Zhao, Mi; He, Maoxian; Huang, Xiande; Wang, Qi; Shi, Yu

2016-02-01

The granulin/epithelin precursor (GEP) encodes a glycoprotein precursor which exhibits pleiotropic tissue growth factor activity with multiple functions. Here, GEP was isolated and its role in the shell biomineralization process of the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata was investigated. Three forms of GEP mRNA were isolated from the pearl oyster (designated PfGEP-1, PfGEP-2 and PfGEP-3). Genomic DNA flanking the splicing region of the PfGEP variants was sequenced and it was found that PfGEP-2 splices out Exon 4, whereas PfGEP-3 splices out Exon 3 compared to PfGEP-1. PfGEP-1 (1505 amino acids) consists of 18 granulin domains, whereas PfGEP-2 (1459 amino acids) and PfGEP-3 (1471 amino acids) consist of 17.5 granulin domains, respectively. Analyses of PfGEP-1 and PfGEP-3 mRNA showed differential patterns in the tissues and developmental stages. Western blotting results showed that the three splice variants can translate to proteins in HEK293T cells. A knockdown experiment using PfGEP dsRNA showed decreased PfGEP-1/PfGEP-3 and PfMSX mRNA, and irregular crystallization of the nacreous layer using scanning electron microscopy. In luciferase assays, co-transfection of PfGEP-1 could activate as well as repress luciferase expression of the reporter plasmid driven by the PfMSX promoter, whereas PfGEP-3 stimulated the expression, elucidating the molecular mechanisms involved in the correlation between PfGEP and PfMSX. These results suggested that GEP variants might function differently during the biomineralization process, which provides new knowledge on the mechanism regulating nacre formation.

Protein-protein interaction studies reveal the Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein-1 region involved in a complex formation that binds to human erythrocytes.

PubMed

Paul, Gourab; Deshmukh, Arunaditya; Kumar Chourasia, Bishwanath; Kalamuddin, Md; Panda, Ashutosh; Kumar Singh, Susheel; Gupta, Puneet K; Mohmmed, Asif; Chauhan, Virender S; Theisen, Michael; Malhotra, Pawan

2018-03-29

Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein (PfMSP) 1 has been studied extensively as a vaccine candidate antigen. PfMSP-1 undergoes proteolytic processing into four major products, such as p83, p30, p38, and p42, that are associated in the form of non-covalent complex(s) with other MSPs. To delineate MSP1 regions involved in the interaction with other MSPs, here we expressed recombinant proteins (PfMSP-1 65 ) encompassing part of p38 and p42 regions and PfMSP-1 19 PfMSP-1 65 interacted strongly with PfMSP-3, PfMSP-6, PfMSP-7, and PfMSP-9, whereas PfMSP-1 19 did not interact with any of these proteins. Since MSP-1 complex binds human erythrocytes, we examined the ability of these proteins to bind human erythrocyte. Among the proteins of MSP-1 complex, PfMSP-6 and PfMSP-9 bound to human erythrocytes. Serological studies showed that PfMSP-1 65 was frequently recognized by sera from malaria endemic regions, whereas this was not the case for PfMSP-1 19 In contrast, antibodies against PfMSP-1 19 showed much higher inhibition of merozoite invasion compared with antibodies against the larger PfMSP-1 65 fragment. Importantly, anti-PfMSP-1 19 antibodies recognized both recombinant proteins, PfMSP-1 19 and PfMSP-1 65 ; however, anti-PfMSP-1 65 antibody failed to recognize the PfMSP-1 19 protein. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PfMSP-1 sequences upstream of the 19 kDa C-terminal region are involved in molecular interactions with other MSPs, and these sequences may probably serve as a smoke screen to evade antibody response to the membrane-bound C-terminal 19 kDa region. © 2018 The Author(s). Published by Portland Press Limited on behalf of the Biochemical Society.

The Colletotrichum acutatum species complex

PubMed Central

Damm, U.; Cannon, P.F.; Woudenberg, J.H.C.; Crous, P.W.

2012-01-01

Colletotrichum acutatum is known as an important anthracnose pathogen of a wide range of host plants worldwide. Numerous studies have reported subgroups within the C. acutatum species complex. Multilocus molecular phylogenetic analysis (ITS, ACT, TUB2, CHS-1, GAPDH, HIS3) of 331 strains previously identified as C. acutatum and other related taxa, including strains from numerous hosts with wide geographic distributions, confirmed the molecular groups previously recognised and identified a series of novel taxa. Thirty-one species are accepted, of which 21 have not previously been recognised. Colletotrichum orchidophilum clusters basal to the C. acutatum species complex. There is a high phenotypic diversity within this complex, and some of the species appear to have preferences to specific hosts or geographical regions. Others appear to be plurivorous and are present in multiple regions. In this study, only C. salicis and C. rhombiforme formed sexual morphs in culture, although sexual morphs have been described from other taxa (especially as laboratory crosses), and there is evidence of hybridisation between different species. One species with similar morphology to C. acutatum but not belonging to this species complex was also described here as new, namely C. pseudoacutatum. Taxonomic novelties: New combinations - Colletotrichum limetticola (R.E. Clausen) Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. lupini (Bondar) Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. salicis (Fuckel) Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous. New species - C. acerbum Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. australe Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. brisbanense Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. cosmi Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. costaricense Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. cuscutae Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. guajavae Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. indonesiense Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. johnstonii Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. kinghornii Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. laticiphilum Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. melonis Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. orchidophilum Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. paxtonii Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. pseudoacutatum Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous C. pyricola Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. rhombiforme Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. scovillei Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. sloanei Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. tamarilloi Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. walleri Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous. Typifications: Epitypifications - C. acutatum J.H. Simmonds, C. limetticola (R.E. Clausen) Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. nymphaeae (Pass.) Aa, C. phormii (Henn.) D.F. Farr & Rossman, C. salicis (Fuckel) Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous. Lectotypifications - C. nymphaeae (Pass.) Aa, C. orchidearum Allesch. PMID:23136458

Correlation of Electric Field and Critical Design Parameters for Ferroelectric Tunable Microwave Filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Subramanyam, Guru; VanKeuls, Fred W.; Miranda, Felix A.; Canedy, Chadwick L.; Aggarwal, Sanjeev; Venkatesan, Thirumalai; Ramesh, Ramamoorthy

2000-01-01

The correlation of electric field and critical design parameters such as the insertion loss, frequency ability return loss, and bandwidth of conductor/ferroelectric/dielectric microstrip tunable K-band microwave filters is discussed in this work. This work is based primarily on barium strontium titanate (BSTO) ferroelectric thin film based tunable microstrip filters for room temperature applications. Two new parameters which we believe will simplify the evaluation of ferroelectric thin films for tunable microwave filters, are defined. The first of these, called the sensitivity parameter, is defined as the incremental change in center frequency with incremental change in maximum applied electric field (EPEAK) in the filter. The other, the loss parameter, is defined as the incremental or decremental change in insertion loss of the filter with incremental change in maximum applied electric field. At room temperature, the Au/BSTO/LAO microstrip filters exhibited a sensitivity parameter value between 15 and 5 MHz/cm/kV. The loss parameter varied for different bias configurations used for electrically tuning the filter. The loss parameter varied from 0.05 to 0.01 dB/cm/kV at room temperature.

Study on characteristics of PVDF/nano-clay composite polymer electrolyte using PVP as pore-forming agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dyartanti, Endah R.; Purwanto, Agus; Widiasa, I. Nyoman; Susanto, Heru

2016-02-01

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based polymer electrolytes have a high dielectric constant, which can assist in greater ionization of lithium salts. The main advantages of PVDF are its durability in long battery operation and its ability to be a good ion conductor. However, the limitation of this polymer is its crystalline molecular structure. Dispersing nano-particles in the polymer matrix may improve the characteristics of the PVDF polymer. This paper aims to investigate the impact of nano-clay addition on the characteristics of PVDF polymer to be used as a polymer electrolyte membrane. In addition, the effect of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) is also investigated. The membrane was prepared by phase separation method whereas the polymer electrolyte membranes was prepared by immersing into 1 M lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) in ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate (EC/DMC) electrolytes for 1 h. The membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), porosity and electrolyte uptake and performance in battery cell. The results showed that both nano-clay and PVP have significant impacts on the improvement of PVDF membranes to be used as polymer electrolyte.

A model for phase evolution and volume expansion in tube type Nb3Sn conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, X.; Sumption, M. D.; Collings, E. W.

2013-12-01

In this work, an analytic model for phase formation and volume expansion during heat treatment in tube type Nb3Sn strands is presented. Tube type Nb3Sn conductors consist of Nb or Nb-Ta alloy tube with a simple Cu/Sn binary metal insert to form the basic subelement (filament). A number of these elements, each with an outer Cu jacket, are restacked to form a multifilamentary strand. The present tube type conductors, with 4.2 K, 12 T non-Cu critical current density (Jc) in the 2000-2500 A mm-2 range and effective subelement diameters (deff) in the 12-36 μm range, are of interest for a number of applications. During the reaction of typical tube type strands, the Sn-Cu becomes molten and reacts with the Nb tube first to form NbSn2, then Nb6Sn5. At later times in the reaction sequence, all of the NbSn2 and Nb6Sn5 is converted to Nb3Sn. Some of the Nb3Sn is formed by a Nb-Sn reaction and has a fine grain (FG) structure, while some is converted from Nb6Sn5, which results in a coarse grain (CG) region. The fractions of FG and CG A15 are important in determining the final conductor properties. In this work we develop an analytic model to predict the radial extents of the various phases, and in particular the final FG and CG fractions based on the starting Nb, Cu, and Sn amounts in the subelements. The model is then compared to experimental results and seen to give reasonable agreement. By virtue of this model we outline an approach to minimize the CG regions in tube type and PIT strands and maximize the final FG area fractions. Furthermore, the volume change during the various reaction stages was also studied. It is proposed that the Sn content in the Cu-Sn alloy has a crucial influence on the radial expansion.

The Influence of Music Style and Conductor Race on Perceptions of Ensemble and Conductor Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vanweelden, Kimberly; McGee, Isaiah R.

2007-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine music style and conductor race on perceptions of ensemble and conductor performance. Results found that conductor race and music style significantly affected ratings of ensemble and conductor performance. Evaluators rated a white conductor group higher than a black conductor group conducting the same…

In vitro, ex vivo and in vivo characterization of PLGA nanoparticles loading pranoprofen for ocular administration.

PubMed

Cañadas, Cristina; Alvarado, Helen; Calpena, Ana C; Silva, Amélia M; Souto, Eliana B; García, Maria L; Abrego, Guadalupe

2016-09-25

Pranoprofen (PF) is a NSAID considered as a safe anti-inflammatory treatment for strabismus and/or cataract surgery. The drug has been formulated in poly (lactic/glycolic) acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (PF-F1NPs with cPF 1.5mg/mL, PF-F2NPs with cPF 1mg/mL) produced by solvent displacement technique and tested the in vitro cytotoxicity, ex vivo corneal permeation, in vivo ocular tolerance and in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy of PF-F1NPs, PF-F2NPs, in comparison to eye drops conventional dosage form (Oftalar(®), PF 1mg/mL) and free drug solution (PF dissolved in PBS, 1.5mg/mL). The mean particle size of both formulations was around 350nm, with polydispersity index below 0.1, and a net negative charge of -7.41mV and -8.5mV for PF-F1NPs and PF-F2NPs, respectively. Y-79 human retinoblastoma cell line was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of PF-F1NPs and PF-F2NPs, which were compared to blank NPs and free drug solution (PF dissolved in PBS, 1.5mg/mL). Concentrations up to 75μg/mL exhibited no toxicity to Y-79 cells, whereas at 150μg/mL a decrease of about 80% on the cell viability was observed after exposing the cells to PF-F1NPs. When treating the Y-79 cells with concentrations of PF-F2NPs between 1μg/mL to 100μg/mL, the cell viability was similar to control values after 24h and 48h of exposure. An ex vivo corneal permeation study was carried out in New Zealand rabbits. A very similar profile has been observed for the permeation of PF through the cornea when administered as eye drops and as free drug solution, which was kept much lower in comparison to PF-NPs formulations. The permeated amount of PF from the PF-F1NPs was slightly smaller than from PF-F2NPs, attributed to the increase of viscosity of the formulations with the increase of cPVA concentration. New Zealand white rabbits were also used to evaluate the irritancy of PF-F1NPs and PF-F2NPs, which demonstrated to be well-tolerated to the eye (i.e. the mean total score (MTS) was 0). PF-F2NPs exhibited the highest QP (amounts of PF permeated in the cornea) and significantly reduced the ocular edema compared to the tested formulations. The QR (amounts of PF retained in the cornea) of the PF-F1NPs was greater than that obtained for PF-F2NPs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Temperature limited heater utilizing non-ferromagnetic conductor

DOEpatents

Vinegar,; Harold J. , Harris; Kelvin, Christopher [Houston, TX

2012-07-17

A heater is described. The heater includes a ferromagnetic conductor and an electrical conductor electrically coupled to the ferromagnetic conductor. The ferromagnetic conductor is positioned relative to the electrical conductor such that an electromagnetic field produced by time-varying current flow in the ferromagnetic conductor confines a majority of the flow of the electrical current to the electrical conductor at temperatures below or near a selected temperature.

Plasmodium falciparum Hop (PfHop) Interacts with the Hsp70 Chaperone in a Nucleotide-Dependent Fashion and Exhibits Ligand Selectivity.

PubMed

Zininga, Tawanda; Makumire, Stanely; Gitau, Grace Wairimu; Njunge, James M; Pooe, Ofentse Jacob; Klimek, Hanna; Scheurr, Robina; Raifer, Hartmann; Prinsloo, Earl; Przyborski, Jude M; Hoppe, Heinrich; Shonhai, Addmore

2015-01-01

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) play an important role in the development and pathogenicity of malaria parasites. One of the most prominent functions of Hsps is to facilitate the folding of other proteins. Hsps are thought to play a crucial role when malaria parasites invade their host cells and during their subsequent development in hepatocytes and red blood cells. It is thought that Hsps maintain proteostasis under the unfavourable conditions that malaria parasites encounter in the host environment. Although heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) is capable of independent folding of some proteins, its functional cooperation with heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) facilitates folding of some proteins such as kinases and steroid hormone receptors into their fully functional forms. The cooperation of Hsp70 and Hsp90 occurs through an adaptor protein called Hsp70-Hsp90 organising protein (Hop). We previously characterised the Hop protein from Plasmodium falciparum (PfHop). We observed that the protein co-localised with the cytosol-localised chaperones, PfHsp70-1 and PfHsp90 at the blood stages of the malaria parasite. In the current study, we demonstrated that PfHop is a stress-inducible protein. We further explored the direct interaction between PfHop and PfHsp70-1 using far Western and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analyses. The interaction of the two proteins was further validated by co-immunoprecipitation studies. We observed that PfHop and PfHsp70-1 associate in the absence and presence of either ATP or ADP. However, ADP appears to promote the association of the two proteins better than ATP. In addition, we investigated the specific interaction between PfHop TPR subdomains and PfHsp70-1/ PfHsp90, using a split-GFP approach. This method allowed us to observe that TPR1 and TPR2B subdomains of PfHop bind preferentially to the C-terminus of PfHsp70-1 compared to PfHsp90. Conversely, the TPR2A motif preferentially interacted with the C-terminus of PfHsp90. Finally, we observed that recombinant PfHop occasionally eluted as a protein species of twice its predicted size, suggesting that it may occur as a dimer. We conducted SPR analysis which suggested that PfHop is capable of self-association in presence or absence of ATP/ADP. Overall, our findings suggest that PfHop is a stress-inducible protein that directly associates with PfHsp70-1 and PfHsp90. In addition, the protein is capable of self-association. The findings suggest that PfHop serves as a module that brings these two prominent chaperones (PfHsp70-1 and PfHsp90) into a functional complex. Since PfHsp70-1 and PfHsp90 are essential for parasite growth, findings from this study are important towards the development of possible antimalarial inhibitors targeting the cooperation of these two chaperones.

The effect of static and cyclic axial strain on I sub c of cable in conduit net subcables

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

Specking, W.; Klemm, M.; Flukiger, R.

1991-03-01

This paper reports on the effect of static and cyclic axial strain, {epsilon}{sub a}, on the critical current, l{sub c}, of Nb{sub 3}Sn Cable in Conduit (CIC) subconductors measured at l{sub c} {le} 10 kA and magnetic fields of B {le} 12.5 T. The conductors exhibit a maximum of l{sub c} at {epsilon}{sub a} {approx} 0.7% and a degradation of l{sub c} being about 50% at {epsilon}{sub a} = 0 and B = 12.5 T. As a major result, the l{sub c} vs {epsilon}{sub a} characteristic is unaffected up to 10{sup 3} strain cycles at {epsilon}{sub a} {le} 1%. Themore » subcables were fabricated by ABB within the frame of the European Fusion Technology Program designing a 40 kA/12.5 T CIC conductor for the NET OH coils following the wind and react technique. Two different types of cable were developed, based either on a braid or on a triplet cable, inserted in a stainless steel jacket with 44% void fraction. For both cables a modified jelly roll (MJR) processed basic Nb{sub 3}Sn wire was used.« less

1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments for the protein coded by gene locus BB0938 of Bordetella bronchiseptica

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

Rossi, Paolo; Ramelot, Theresa A.; Xiao, Rong

2005-11-01

The product of gene locus BB0938 from Bordetella bronchiseptica (Swiss-Prot ID: Q7WNU7-BORBR; NESG target ID: BoR11; Wunderlich et al., 2004; Pfam ID: PF03476) is a 128-residue protein of unknown function. This broadly conserved protein family is found in eubacteria and eukaryotes. Using triple resonance NMR techniques, we have determined 98% of backbone and 94% of side chain 1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments. The chemical shift and 3J(HN?Ha) scalar coupling data reveal a b topology with a seven-residue helical insert, ??????????. BMRB deposit with accession number 6693. Reference: Wunderlich et al. (2004) Proteins, 56, 181?187.

Lithium insertion in graphite from ternary ionic liquid-lithium salt electrolytes. I. Electrochemical characterization of the electrolytes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Appetecchi, Giovanni B.; Montanino, Maria; Balducci, Andrea; Lux, Simon F.; Winterb, Martin; Passerini, Stefano

In this paper we report the results of chemical-physical investigation performed on ternary room temperature ionic liquid-lithium salt mixtures as electrolytes for lithium-ion battery systems. The ternary electrolytes were made by mixing N-methyl- N-propyl pyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide (PYR 13FSI) and N-butyl- N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (PYR 14TFSI) ionic liquids with lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF 6) or lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI). The mixtures were developed based on preliminary results on the cyclability of graphite electrodes in the IL-LiX binary electrolytes. The results clearly show the beneficial synergic effect of the two ionic liquids on the electrochemical properties of the mixtures.

Population genetic structure and natural selection of Plasmodium falciparum apical membrane antigen-1 in Myanmar isolates.

PubMed

Kang, Jung-Mi; Lee, Jinyoung; Moe, Mya; Jun, Hojong; Lê, Hương Giang; Kim, Tae Im; Thái, Thị Lam; Sohn, Woon-Mok; Myint, Moe Kyaw; Lin, Khin; Shin, Ho-Joon; Kim, Tong-Soo; Na, Byoung-Kuk

2018-02-07

Plasmodium falciparum apical membrane antigen-1 (PfAMA-1) is one of leading blood stage malaria vaccine candidates. However, genetic variation and antigenic diversity identified in global PfAMA-1 are major hurdles in the development of an effective vaccine based on this antigen. In this study, genetic structure and the effect of natural selection of PfAMA-1 among Myanmar P. falciparum isolates were analysed. Blood samples were collected from 58 Myanmar patients with falciparum malaria. Full-length PfAMA-1 gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction and cloned into a TA cloning vector. PfAMA-1 sequence of each isolate was sequenced. Polymorphic characteristics and effect of natural selection were analysed with using DNASTAR, MEGA4, and DnaSP programs. Polymorphic nature and natural selection in 459 global PfAMA-1 were also analysed. Thirty-seven different haplotypes of PfAMA-1 were identified in 58 Myanmar P. falciparum isolates. Most amino acid changes identified in Myanmar PfAMA-1 were found in domains I and III. Overall patterns of amino acid changes in Myanmar PfAMA-1 were similar to those in global PfAMA-1. However, frequencies of amino acid changes differed by country. Novel amino acid changes in Myanmar PfAMA-1 were also identified. Evidences for natural selection and recombination event were observed in global PfAMA-1. Among 51 commonly identified amino acid changes in global PfAMA-1 sequences, 43 were found in predicted RBC-binding sites, B-cell epitopes, or IUR regions. Myanmar PfAMA-1 showed similar patterns of nucleotide diversity and amino acid polymorphisms compared to those of global PfAMA-1. Balancing natural selection and intragenic recombination across PfAMA-1 are likely to play major roles in generating genetic diversity in global PfAMA-1. Most common amino acid changes in global PfAMA-1 were located in predicted B-cell epitopes where high levels of nucleotide diversity and balancing natural selection were found. These results highlight the strong selective pressure of host immunity on the PfAMA-1 gene. These results have significant implications in understanding the nature of Myanmar PfAMA-1 along with global PfAMA-1. They also provide useful information for the development of effective malaria vaccine based on this antigen.

A Chimeric Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein Vaccine Induces High Titers of Parasite Growth Inhibitory Antibodies

PubMed Central

Alaro, James R.; Partridge, Andrea; Miura, Kazutoyo; Diouf, Ababacar; Lopez, Ana M.; Angov, Evelina; Long, Carole A.

2013-01-01

The C-terminal 19-kDa domain of Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 (PfMSP119) is an established target of protective antibodies. However, clinical trials of PfMSP142, a leading blood-stage vaccine candidate which contains the protective epitopes of PfMSP119, revealed suboptimal immunogenicity and efficacy. Based on proof-of-concept studies in the Plasmodium yoelii murine model, we produced a chimeric vaccine antigen containing recombinant PfMSP119 (rPfMSP119) fused to the N terminus of P. falciparum merozoite surface protein 8 that lacked its low-complexity Asn/Asp-rich domain, rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp). Immunization of mice with the chimeric rPfMSP1/8 vaccine elicited strong T cell responses to conserved epitopes associated with the rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp) fusion partner. While specific for PfMSP8, this T cell response was adequate to provide help for the production of high titers of antibodies to both PfMSP119 and rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp) components. This occurred with formulations adjuvanted with either Quil A or with Montanide ISA 720 plus CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) and was observed in both inbred and outbred strains of mice. PfMSP1/8-induced antibodies were highly reactive with two major alleles of PfMSP119 (FVO and 3D7). Of particular interest, immunization with PfMSP1/8 elicited higher titers of PfMSP119-specific antibodies than a combined formulation of rPfMSP142 and rPfMSP8 (ΔAsn/Asp). As a measure of functionality, PfMSP1/8-specific rabbit IgG was shown to potently inhibit the in vitro growth of blood-stage parasites of the FVO and 3D7 strains of P. falciparum. These data support the further testing and evaluation of this chimeric PfMSP1/8 antigen as a component of a multivalent vaccine for P. falciparum malaria. PMID:23897613

Interaction of apicoplast-encoded elongation factor (EF) EF-Tu with nuclear-encoded EF-Ts mediates translation in the Plasmodiumfalciparum plastid.

PubMed

Biswas, Subir; Lim, Erin E; Gupta, Ankit; Saqib, Uzma; Mir, Snober S; Siddiqi, Mohammad Imran; Ralph, Stuart A; Habib, Saman

2011-03-01

Protein translation in the plastid (apicoplast) of Plasmodium spp. is of immense interest as a target for potential anti-malarial drugs. However, the molecular data on apicoplast translation needed for optimisation and development of novel inhibitors is lacking. We report characterisation of two key translation elongation factors in Plasmodium falciparum, apicoplast-encoded elongation factor PfEF-Tu and nuclear-encoded PfEF-Ts. Recombinant PfEF-Tu hydrolysed GTP and interacted with its presumed nuclear-encoded partner PfEF-Ts. The EF-Tu inhibitor kirromycin affected PfEF-Tu activity in vitro, indicating that apicoplast EF-Tu is indeed the target of this drug. The predicted PfEF-Ts leader sequence targeted GFP to the apicoplast, confirming that PfEF-Ts functions in this organelle. Recombinant PfEF-Ts mediated nucleotide exchange on PfEF-Tu and homology modeling of the PfEF-Tu:PfEF-Ts complex revealed PfEF-Ts-induced structural alterations that would expedite GDP release from PfEF-Tu. Our results establish functional interaction between two apicoplast translation factors encoded by genes residing in different cellular compartments and highlight the significance of their sequence/structural differences from bacterial elongation factors in relation to inhibitor activity. These data provide an experimental system to study the effects of novel inhibitors targeting PfEF-Tu and PfEF-Tu.PfEF-Ts interaction. Our finding that apicoplast EF-Tu possesses chaperone-related disulphide reductase activity also provides a rationale for retention of the tufA gene on the plastid genome. Copyright © 2010 Australian Society for Parasitology Inc. All rights reserved.

Seeking and sharing: why the pulmonary fibrosis community engages the web 2.0 environment.

PubMed

Albright, Karen; Walker, Tarik; Baird, Susan; Eres, Linda; Farnsworth, Tara; Fier, Kaitlin; Kervitsky, Dolly; Korn, Marjorie; Lederer, David J; McCormick, Mark; Steiner, John F; Vierzba, Thomas; Wamboldt, Frederick S; Swigris, Jeffrey J

2016-01-12

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a rare, progressive disease that affects patients and their loved ones on many levels. We sought to better understand the needs and interests of PF patients and their loved ones (collectively "reader-participants") by systematically analyzing their engagement with the World Wide Web (the current version referred to as Web 2.0). Data were collected from three PF-focused, interactive websites hosted by physician-investigators with expertise in PF. All data generated by reader-participants for approximately 10 months were downloaded and then analyzed using qualitative content analysis methods. PF experts posted 38 blog entries and reader-participants posted 40 forum entries. Blogs received 363 responses, and forum entries received 108 responses from reader-participants. Reader-participants primarily used the three websites to seek information from or offer a contribution to the PF community. Information was sought about PF symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis, treatments, research, pathophysiology, and disease origin; reader-participants also made requests for new posts and pleas for research and sought clarification on existing content. Contributions included personal narratives about experiences with PF, descriptions of activities or behaviors found to be helpful with PF symptoms, resources or information about PF, and supportive comments to other PF sufferers. PF patients and their loved ones engage the Web 2.0 environment at these PF-focused sites to satisfy their needs to better understand PF and its impacts and to support others facing similar challenges. Clinicians may find it beneficial to encourage PF patients' involvement in internet forums that foster dynamic, bi-directional information sharing.

Democratization as a United States Strategy for Middle East Security

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-18

the Middle East presents a wide variety of governments across the region. Republics exists in Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon , Syria, Tunisia, and Yemen...PF 4 5 PF 4 5 PF 4 5 PF 4 5 PF Lebanon 6 5 NF 6 5 NF 6 5 NF 6 5 NF 6 5 NF Libya 7 7 NF 7 7 NF 7 7 NF 7 7 NF 7 7 NF Morocco 5 4 PF 5 5 PF 5 5 PF 5 5...more open discussion of previously taboo topics.17 Syria’s firm control continues to be the greatest impediment to freedom in Lebanon . The Lebanese

Conductor for a fluid-cooled winding

DOEpatents

Kenney, Walter J.

1983-01-01

A conductor and method of making the conductor are provided for use in winding electrical coils which are cooled by a fluid communicating with the conductor. The conductor is cold worked through twisting and reshaping steps to form a generally rectangular cross section conductor having a plurality of helical cooling grooves extending axially of the conductor. The conductor configuration makes it suitable for a wide variety of winding applications and permits the use of simple strip insulation between turns and perforated sheet insulation between layers of the winding.

Semi-flexible gas-insulated transmission line using sandwiched discs for intermittent flexing joints

DOEpatents

Kommineni, P.R.

1983-02-15

A gas-insulated transmission line includes an outer sheath, an inner conductor, an insulating gas electrically insulating the inner conductor from the outer sheath, and insulating supports insulatably supporting the inner conductor within the outer sheath. The inner conductor is provided with flexibility by the use of main conductor sections which are joined together through a conductor hub section and flexible flexing elements. Stress shields are provided to control the electric field at the locations of the conductor hub sections where the insulating supports are contacting the inner conductor. The flexing elements are formed by sandwiching together, by fusing, a pair of thin hollow discs which are fixedly secured to both the main conductor sections and the conductor hub section. 4 figs.

Risk factors and outcomes of postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreatico-duodenectomy: an audit of 532 consecutive cases.

PubMed

Fu, Shun-Jun; Shen, Shun-Li; Li, Shao-Qiang; Hu, Wen-Jie; Hua, Yun-Peng; Kuang, Ming; Liang, Li-Jian; Peng, Bao-Gang

2015-03-26

Pancreatic fistula (PF) remains the most challenging complication after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors of PF and delineate its impact on patient outcomes. We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of 532 patients who underwent PD and divided them into PF group and no PF group. Risk factors and outcomes of PF following PD were examined. PF was found in 65 (12.2%) cases, of whom 11 were classified into ISGPF grade A, 42 grade B, and 12 grade C. Clinically serious postoperative complications in the PF versus no PF group were mortality, abdominal bleeding, bile leak, intra-abdominal abscess and pneumonia. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that blood loss ≥ 500 ml, pancreatic duct diameter ≤ 3 mm and pancreaticojejunostomy type were independent risk factors of PF after PD. Blood loss ≥ 500 ml, pancreatic duct diameter ≤ 3 mm and pancreatico-jejunostomy type were independent risk factors of PF after PD. PF was related with higher mortality rate, longer hospital stay, and other complications.

Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Pueraria Flavones by a Novel Solid Self-microemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SMEDDS) Dropping Pills.

PubMed

Guan, Qingxiang; Zhang, Guangyuan; Sun, Shilin; Fan, Hongbo; Sun, Cheng; Zhang, Shaoyuan

2016-05-01

To improve bioavailability of pueraria flavones (PF), a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) dropping pills composed of PF, Crodamol GTCC, Maisine 35-1, Cremophor RH 40, 1,2-propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG6000) was developed. Particle size, zeta potential, morphology and in vitro drug release were investigated, respectively. Pharmacokinetics, bioavailability of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills and commercial Yufengningxin dropping pills were also evaluated and compared in rats. Puerarin treated as the representative component of PF was analyzed. Dynamic light scattering showed the ability of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills to form a nanoemulsion droplet size in aqueous media. The type of media showed no significant effects on the release rate of PF. PF-SMEDDS dropping pills were able to improve the in vitro release rate of PF, and the in vitro release of these dropping pills was significantly faster than that of Yufengningxin dropping pills. There was a dramatic difference between the mean value of t1/2, peak concentration (Cmax), the area of concentration-time curve from 0 to 6 h (AUC0-6 h) of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills and that of commercial Yufengningxin dropping pills. A pharmacokinetic study showed that the bioavailability of PF was greatly enhanced by PF-SMEDDS dropping pills. The value of Cmax and relative bioavailability of PF-SMEDDS dropping pills were dramatically improved by an average of 1.69- and 2.36-fold compared with that of Yufengningxin dropping pills after gavage administration, respectively. It was concluded that bioavailability of PF was greatly improved and that PF-SMEDDS dropping pills might be an encouraging strategy to enhance the oral bioavailability of PF.

46 CFR 111.05-33 - Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. 111.05... § 111.05-33 Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. (a) Each equipment-grounding conductor must... 110.10-1). (b) Each equipment-grounding conductor (other than a system-grounding conductor) of a cable...

46 CFR 111.05-33 - Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. 111.05... § 111.05-33 Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. (a) Each equipment-grounding conductor must... 110.10-1). (b) Each equipment-grounding conductor (other than a system-grounding conductor) of a cable...

Semi-flexible gas-insulated transmission line using protection tube in conductor plug-in joint

DOEpatents

Kommineni, P.R.

1983-01-25

A gas-insulated transmission line includes an outer sheath, an inner conductor, an insulating gas electrically insulating the inner conductor from the outer sheath, and insulating supports insulatably supporting the inner conductor within the outer sheath. The inner conductor is provided with flexibility by main conductor sections which are joined together through a conductor hub section and flexible flexing elements. Stress shields are provided to control the electric field at the locations of the conductor hub sections where the insulating supports are contacting the inner conductor. A plug and socket arrangement is utilized for joining adjacent sections of the inner conductor, and a protection tube is utilized inside the hollow plug to maintain proper alignment of the joint when the transmission line is bent. 3 figs.

Semi-flexible gas-insulated transmission line using protection tube in conductor plug-in joint

DOEpatents

Kommineni, Prasad R.

1983-01-25

A gas-insulated transmission line includes an outer sheath, an inner conductor, an insulating gas electrically insulating the inner conductor from the outer sheath, and insulating supports insulatably supporting the inner conductor within the outer sheath. The inner conductor is provided with flexibility by main conductor sections which are joined together through a conductor hub section and flexible flexing elements. Stress shields are provided to control the electric field at the locations of the conductor hub sections where the insulating supports are contacting the inner conductor. A plug and socket arrangement is utilized for joining adjacent sections of the inner conductor, and a protection tube is utilized inside the hollow plug to maintain proper alignment of the joint when the transmission line is bent.

Terminal structure

DOEpatents

Schmidt, Frank [Langenhagen, DE; Allais, Arnaud [Hannover, DE; Mirebeau, Pierre [Villebon sur Yvette, FR; Ganhungu, Francois [Vieux-Reng, FR; Lallouet, Nicolas [Saint Martin Boulogne, FR

2009-10-20

A terminal structure (2) for a superconducting cable (1) is described. It consists of a conductor (2a) and an insulator (2b) that surrounds the conductor (2a), wherein the superconducting cable (1) has a core with a superconducting conductor (5) and a layer of insulation that surrounds the conductor (5), and wherein the core is arranged in such a way that it can move longitudinally in a cryostat. The conductor (2a) of the terminal structure (2) is electrically connected with the superconducting conductor (5) or with a normal conductor (6) that is connected with the superconducting conductor (5) by means of a tubular part (7) made of an electrically conductive material, wherein the superconducting conductor (5) or the normal conductor (6) can slide in the part (7) in the direction of the superconductor.

High mobility group box (HMGB) proteins of Plasmodium falciparum: DNA binding proteins with pro-inflammatory activity.

PubMed

Kumar, Krishan; Singal, Ankita; Rizvi, M Moshahid A; Chauhan, Virander S

2008-06-01

High mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (HMGB1), known as an abundant, non-histone architectural chromosomal protein, is highly conserved across different species. Homologues of HMGB1 were identified and cloned from malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. Sequence analyses showed that the P. falciparum HMGB1 (PfHMGB1) exhibits 45, 23 and 18%, while PfHMGB2 shares 42, 21 and 17% homology with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, human and mouse HMG box proteins respectively. Parasite PfHMGB1and PfHMGB2 proteins contain one HMG Box domain similar to B-Box of mammalian HMGB1. Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay (EMSA) showed that recombinant PfHMGB1 and PfHMGB2 bind to DNA. Immunofluorescence Assay using specific antibodies revealed that these proteins are expressed abundantly in the ring stage nuclei. Significant levels of PfHMGB1 and PfHMGB2 were also present in the parasite cytosol at trophozoite and schizont stages. Both, PfHMGB1 and PfHMGB2 were found to be potent inducers of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNFalpha from mouse peritoneal macrophages as analyzed by both reverse transcription PCR and by ELISA. These results suggest that secreted PfHMGB1 and PfHMGB2 may be responsible for eliciting/ triggering host inflammatory immune responses associated with malaria infection.

Sterile protection against human malaria by chemoattenuated PfSPZ vaccine.

PubMed

Mordmüller, Benjamin; Surat, Güzin; Lagler, Heimo; Chakravarty, Sumana; Ishizuka, Andrew S; Lalremruata, Albert; Gmeiner, Markus; Campo, Joseph J; Esen, Meral; Ruben, Adam J; Held, Jana; Calle, Carlos Lamsfus; Mengue, Juliana B; Gebru, Tamirat; Ibáñez, Javier; Sulyok, Mihály; James, Eric R; Billingsley, Peter F; Natasha, K C; Manoj, Anita; Murshedkar, Tooba; Gunasekera, Anusha; Eappen, Abraham G; Li, Tao; Stafford, Richard E; Li, Minglin; Felgner, Phil L; Seder, Robert A; Richie, Thomas L; Sim, B Kim Lee; Hoffman, Stephen L; Kremsner, Peter G

2017-02-23

A highly protective malaria vaccine would greatly facilitate the prevention and elimination of malaria and containment of drug-resistant parasites. A high level (more than 90%) of protection against malaria in humans has previously been achieved only by immunization with radiation-attenuated Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites (PfSPZ) inoculated by mosquitoes; by intravenous injection of aseptic, purified, radiation-attenuated, cryopreserved PfSPZ ('PfSPZ Vaccine'); or by infectious PfSPZ inoculated by mosquitoes to volunteers taking chloroquine or mefloquine (chemoprophylaxis with sporozoites). We assessed immunization by direct venous inoculation of aseptic, purified, cryopreserved, non-irradiated PfSPZ ('PfSPZ Challenge') to malaria-naive, healthy adult volunteers taking chloroquine for antimalarial chemoprophylaxis (vaccine approach denoted as PfSPZ-CVac). Three doses of 5.12 × 10 4 PfSPZ of PfSPZ Challenge at 28-day intervals were well tolerated and safe, and prevented infection in 9 out of 9 (100%) volunteers who underwent controlled human malaria infection ten weeks after the last dose (group III). Protective efficacy was dependent on dose and regimen. Immunization with 3.2 × 10 3 (group I) or 1.28 × 10 4 (group II) PfSPZ protected 3 out of 9 (33%) or 6 out of 9 (67%) volunteers, respectively. Three doses of 5.12 × 10 4 PfSPZ at five-day intervals protected 5 out of 8 (63%) volunteers. The frequency of Pf-specific polyfunctional CD4 memory T cells was associated with protection. On a 7,455 peptide Pf proteome array, immune sera from at least 5 out of 9 group III vaccinees recognized each of 22 proteins. PfSPZ-CVac is a highly efficacious vaccine candidate; when we are able to optimize the immunization regimen (dose, interval between doses, and drug partner), this vaccine could be used for combination mass drug administration and a mass vaccination program approach to eliminate malaria from geographically defined areas.

Effects of 17β-estradiol on the release of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 and MAPK activity in monocytes stimulated with peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients.

PubMed

Lee, Dong-Hyung; Kim, Seung-Chul; Joo, Jong-Kil; Kim, Hwi-Gon; Na, Young-Jin; Kwak, Jong-Young; Lee, Kyu-Sup

2012-03-01

Hormones and inflammation have been implicated in the pathological process of endometriosis; therefore, we investigated the combined effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) and peritoneal fluid obtained from patients with endometriosis (ePF) or a control peritoneal fluid (cPF) obtained from patients without endometriosis on the release of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) by monocytes and the role of signaling pathways. Monocytes were cultured with ePF and cPF in the presence of E2; the MCP-1 levels in the supernatants were then measured by ELISA. In addition, mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation was measured by Western blotting of phosphorylated proteins. E2 down-regulated MCP-1 release by lipopolysaccharide- or cPF-treated monocytes, but failed to suppress its release by ePF-treated monocytes. The release of MCP-1 by ePF- and cPF-treated monocytes was efficiently abrogated by p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors; however, the MCP-1 release by cPF-treated monocytes, but not by ePF-treated monocytes, was blocked by a MAPK kinase inhibitor. In addition, ePF and cPF induced the phosphorylation of extracellular stress regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, p38 MAPK and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). E2 decreased the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, but not ERK1/2 in ePF-treated monocytes; however, E2 decreased the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, ERK1/2 and JNK in cPF-treated monocytes. The ability of E2 to modulate MCP-1 production is impaired in ePF-treated monocytes, which may be related to regulation of MAPK activity. These findings suggest that the failure of E2 to suppress ePF-treated production of MCP-1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research © 2012 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The Pavlovian power of palatable food: lessons for weight-loss adherence from a new rodent model of cue-induced overeating

PubMed Central

Boggiano, M M; Dorsey, J R; Thomas, J M; Murdaugh, D L

2009-01-01

Objective Relapsing to overeating is a stubborn problem in obesity treatment. We tested the hypothesis that context cues surrounding palatable food (PF) intake have the power to disrupt caloric regulation even of less PF. Context cues are non-food cues that are in the environment where PF is habitually eaten. Design Rats were conditioned to associate intake of Oreo cookies as the PF to cages with distinct context cues that differed from cues in cages were they were only given chow. PF naturally stimulated greater caloric intake. The rats were then tested in the PF cage with only chow available to determine if the PF-paired cues, alone, could elicit overeating of plain chow. Subjects Non food-deprived female Sprague-Dawley rats. Measurements Intake of plain chow under PF-paired cues vs. chow-paired cues was compared. This was also measured in tests that included a morsel of PF as a priming stimulus. We also controlled for any effect of binge-prone vs. binge–resistant status to predict cued-overeating. Results Rats consumed significantly more chow when exposed to context cues previously paired with PF than with chow (p<0.01). This effect occurred using various cues (e.g., different types of bedding or wallpaper). The effect was strengthened by priming with a morsel of PF (p<0.001) and was unaffected by baseline differences in propensity to binge on PF. Conclusion Context-cues associated with PF intake can drive overeating even of a less PF and abolish the ability of rats to compensate for the calories of a PF primer. Just as drug-associated context cues can reinstate drug-addiction relapse, PF-paired cues may trigger overeating relapses linked to weight regain and obesity. This model should help identify the reflex-like biology that sabotages attempts to adhere to healthy reduced calorie regimens and call greater attention to the cue-factor in the treatment of binge-eating and obesity. PMID:19350040

Physalis floridana Cell Number Regulator1 encodes a cell membrane-anchored modulator of cell cycle and negatively controls fruit size

PubMed Central

Li, Zhichao; He, Chaoying

2015-01-01

Physalis species show a significant variation in berry size; however, the underlying molecular basis is unknown. In this work, we showed that cell division difference in the ovaries might contribute to the ultimate berry size variation within Physalis species, and that mRNA abundance of Physalis floridana Cell Number Regulator1 (PfCNR1), the putative orthologue of the tomato fruit weight 2.2 (FW2.2), was negatively correlated with cell division in the ovaries. Moreover, heterochronic expression variation of the PfCNR1 genes in the ovaries concomitantly correlated with berry weight variation within Physalis species. In transgenic Physalis, multiple organ sizes could be negatively controlled by altering PfCNR1 levels, and cell division instead of cell expansion was primarily affected. PfCNR1 was shown to be anchored in the plasma membrane and to interact with PfAG2 (an AGAMOUS-like protein determining ovary identity). The expression of PfCYCD2;1, a putative orthologue of the mitosis-specific gene CyclinD2;1 in the cell cycle was negatively correlated with the PfCNR1 mRNA levels. PfAG2 was found to selectively bind to the CArG-box in the PfCYCD2;1 promoter and to repress PfCYCD2;1 expression, thus suggesting a PfAG2-mediated pathway for PfCNR1 to regulate cell division. The interaction of PfCNR1 with PfAG2 enhanced the repression of PfCYCD2;1 expression. The nuclear import of PfAG2 was essential in the proposed pathway. Our data provide new insights into the developmental pathways of a cell membrane-anchored protein that modulates cell division and governs organ size determination. This study also sheds light on the link between organ identity and organ growth in plants. PMID:25305759

Semi-flexible gas-insulated transmission line using electric field stress shields

DOEpatents

Cookson, Alan H.; Dale, Steinar J.; Bolin, Philip C.

1982-12-28

A gas-insulated transmission line includes an outer sheath, an inner conductor, an insulating gas electrically insulating the inner conductor from the outer sheath, and insulating supports insulatably supporting the inner conductor within the outer sheath. The inner conductor is provided with flexibility by use of main conductor sections which are joined together through a conductor hub section and flexible flexing elements. Stress shields are provided to control the electric field at the locations of the conductor hub sections where the insulating supports are contacting the inner conductor. The flexing elements and the stress shields may also be utilized in connection with a plug and socket arrangement for providing electrical connection between main conductor sections.

Baking loss of bread with special emphasis on increasing water holding capacity.

PubMed

Kotoki, D; Deka, S C

2010-01-01

Potato flour (PF), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and honey were used as baking agents and their effects on baking loss and sensory quality were studied. PF at 1, 2 and 4% levels decreased baking loss followed by HPMC and honey. Water absorption was substantially high with the HPMC (70.8-80.8%) and PF (61.7-71.7%) compared to honey and normal standard bread. PF incorporation increased shelf-life (6-7 days) as compared to HPMC and honey. HPMC incorporated bread had higher moisture content (36.8-38.0%) followed by PF (34.5-35.8%) and honey (34.7%). The ash content was in the order of PF (1%) > honey (4%) > PF (2%) > normal bread > HPMC (0.5 g) > PF (4%) > HPMC (1 g) > HPMC (1.5 g). PF incorporated bread had sensorily highest acceptance followed by HPMC and honey.

Unpacking personalized feedback: an exploratory study of the impact of its components and the reactions it elicits among problem drinking men who have sex with men.

PubMed

Kuerbis, Alexis Noel; Schaumberg, Katherine; Davis, Christine M; Hail, Lisa; Morgenstern, Jon

2014-03-01

Personalized feedback (PF) has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing drinking. Few studies have examined its effectiveness with adult problem drinkers or its potential mediators or moderators, including developing discrepancy. This study aimed to identify potential mediators and moderators of PF provided to adult problem drinking men who have sex with men (PDMSM). An exploratory analysis of PF provided to PDMSM in the context of modified behavioral self-control therapy (N = 90). The association of individual items of PF, severity of PF, and independently rated, in-session participant reactions to PF with drinking outcomes (mean drinks per drinking day, MDDD) were examined using correlations and logistic and linear regression. Significant pre-post differences in MDDD emerged. Other drug risk, family risk, and having an abnormal liver enzyme test result were significantly associated with proxies for developed discrepancy in expected directions; however, no PF item or reaction to PF predicted drinking outcomes. Severity of PF was not associated with participant reactions or drinking outcome. PF may be an effective intervention for PDMSM. Further research is needed to identify potential mediators and moderators of PF among adults.

Multiple Drugs Compete for Transport via the Plasmodium falciparum Chloroquine Resistance Transporter at Distinct but Interdependent Sites*

PubMed Central

Bellanca, Sebastiano; Summers, Robert L.; Meyrath, Max; Dave, Anurag; Nash, Megan N.; Dittmer, Martin; Sanchez, Cecilia P.; Stein, Wilfred D.; Martin, Rowena E.; Lanzer, Michael

2014-01-01

Mutations in the “chloroquine resistance transporter” (PfCRT) are a major determinant of drug resistance in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We have previously shown that mutant PfCRT transports the antimalarial drug chloroquine away from its target, whereas the wild-type form of PfCRT does not. However, little is understood about the transport of other drugs via PfCRT or the mechanism by which PfCRT recognizes different substrates. Here we show that mutant PfCRT also transports quinine, quinidine, and verapamil, indicating that the protein behaves as a multidrug resistance carrier. Detailed kinetic analyses revealed that chloroquine and quinine compete for transport via PfCRT in a manner that is consistent with mixed-type inhibition. Moreover, our analyses suggest that PfCRT accepts chloroquine and quinine at distinct but antagonistically interacting sites. We also found verapamil to be a partial mixed-type inhibitor of chloroquine transport via PfCRT, further supporting the idea that PfCRT possesses multiple substrate-binding sites. Our findings provide new mechanistic insights into the workings of PfCRT, which could be exploited to design potent inhibitors of this key mediator of drug resistance. PMID:25378409

Conductor and joint test results of JT-60SA CS and EF coils using the NIFS test facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Obana, Tetsuhiro; Takahata, Kazuya; Hamaguchi, Shinji; Kizu, Kaname; Murakami, Haruyuki; Chikaraishi, Hirotaka; Noguchi, Hiroki; Kobuchi, Takashi; Moriuchi, Sadatomo; Imagawa, Shinsaku; Mito, Toshiyuki; Tsuchiya, Katsuhiko; Natsume, Kyohei; Yoshida, Kiyoshi; Nomoto, Kazuhiro; Kim, Tae-hyun

2016-01-01

In 2007, JAEA and NIFS launched the test project to evaluate the performance of cable-in-conduit (CIC) conductors and conductor joints for the JT-60SA CS and EF coils. In this project, conductor tests for four types of coil conductor and joint tests for seven types of conductor joint have been conducted for the past eight years using the NIFS test facility. As a result, the test project indicated that the CIC conductors and conductor joints fulfill the design requirement for the CS and EF coils. In addition, the NIFS test facility is expected to be utilized as the test facility for the development of a conductor and conductor joint for the purpose of the DEMO nuclear fusion power plant, provided that the required magnetic field strength is within 9 T.

Evaluation of a Plasmodium-Specific Carrier Protein To Enhance Production of Recombinant Pfs25, a Leading Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Candidate.

PubMed

Parzych, Elizabeth M; Miura, Kazutoyo; Ramanathan, Aarti; Long, Carole A; Burns, James M

2018-01-01

Challenges with the production and suboptimal immunogenicity of malaria vaccine candidates have slowed the development of a Plasmodium falciparum multiantigen vaccine. Attempting to resolve these issues, we focused on the use of highly immunogenic merozoite surface protein 8 (MSP8) as a vaccine carrier protein. Previously, we showed that a genetic fusion of the C-terminal 19-kDa fragment of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1 19 ) to P. falciparum MSP8 ( Pf MSP8) facilitated antigen production and folding and the induction of neutralizing antibodies to conformational B cell epitopes of MSP1 19 Here, using the Pf MSP1/8 construct, we further optimized the recombinant Pf MSP8 (r Pf MSP8) carrier by the introduction of two cysteine-to-serine substitutions (CΔS) to improve the yield of the monomeric product. We then sought to test the broad applicability of this approach using the transmission-blocking vaccine candidate Pf s25. The production of r Pf s25-based vaccines has presented challenges. Antibodies directed against the four highly constrained epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains of Pf s25 block sexual-stage development in mosquitoes. The sequence encoding mature Pf s25 was codon harmonized for expression in Escherichia coli We produced a r Pf s25- Pf MSP8 fusion protein [r Pf s25/8(CΔS)] as well as unfused, mature r Pf s25. r Pf s25 was purified with a modest yield but required the incorporation of refolding protocols to obtain a proper conformation. In comparison, chimeric r Pf s25/8(CΔS) was expressed and easily purified, with the Pf s25 domain bearing the proper conformation without renaturation. Both antigens were immunogenic in rabbits, inducing IgG that bound native Pf s25 and exhibited potent transmission-reducing activity. These data further demonstrate the utility of Pf MSP8 as a parasite-specific carrier protein to enhance the production of complex malaria vaccine targets. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

The COOH-terminal peptide of platelet factor-4 variant (CXCL4L1/PF-4var47-70) strongly inhibits angiogenesis and suppresses B16 melanoma growth in vivo.

PubMed

Vandercappellen, Jo; Liekens, Sandra; Bronckaers, Annelies; Noppen, Samuel; Ronsse, Isabelle; Dillen, Chris; Belleri, Mirella; Mitola, Stefania; Proost, Paul; Presta, Marco; Struyf, Sofie; Van Damme, Jo

2010-03-01

Chemokines influence tumor growth directly or indirectly via both angiogenesis and tumor-leukocyte interactions. Platelet factor-4 (CXCL4/PF-4), which is released from alpha-granules of activated platelets, is the first described angiostatic chemokine. Recently, it was found that the variant of CXCL4/PF-4 (CXCL4L1/PF-4var) could exert a more pronounced angiostatic and antitumoral effect than CXCL4/PF-4. However, the molecular mechanisms of the angiostatic activities of the PF-4 forms remain partially elusive. Here, we studied the biological properties of the chemically synthesized COOH-terminal peptides of CXCL4/PF-4 (CXCL4/PF-4(47-70)) and CXCL4L1/PF-4var (CXCL4L1/PF-4var(47-70)). Both PF-4 peptides lacked monocyte and lymphocyte chemotactic activity but equally well inhibited (25 nmol/L) endothelial cell motility and proliferation in the presence of a single stimulus (i.e., exogenous recombinant fibroblast growth factor-2). In contrast, when assayed in more complex angiogenesis test systems characterized by the presence of multiple mediators, including in vitro wound-healing (2.5 nmol/L versus 12.5 nmol/L), Matrigel (60 nmol/L versus 300 nmol/L), and chorioallantoic membrane assays, CXCL4L1/PF-4var(47-70) was found to be significantly (5-fold) more angiostatic than CXCL4/PF-4(47-70). In addition, low (7 microg total) doses of intratumoral CXCL4L1/PF-4var(47-70) inhibited B16 melanoma growth in mice more extensively than CXCL4/PF-4(47-70). This antitumoral activity was predominantly mediated through inhibition of angiogenesis (without affecting blood vessel stability) and induction of apoptosis, as evidenced by immunohistochemical and fluorescent staining of B16 tumor tissue. In conclusion, CXCL4L1/PF-4var(47-70) is a potent antitumoral and antiangiogenic peptide. These results may represent the basis for the design of CXCL4L1/PF-4var COOH-terminal-derived peptidomimetic anticancer drugs.

Characterization and dioxygen reactivity of a new series of coordinatively unsaturated thiolate-ligated manganese(II) complexes.

PubMed

Coggins, Michael K; Toledo, Santiago; Shaffer, Erika; Kaminsky, Werner; Shearer, Jason; Kovacs, Julie A

2012-06-18

The synthesis, structural, and spectroscopic characterization of four new coordinatively unsaturated mononuclear thiolate-ligated manganese(II) complexes ([Mn(II)(S(Me2)N(4)(6-Me-DPEN))](BF(4)) (1), [Mn(II)(S(Me2)N(4)(6-Me-DPPN))](BPh(4))·MeCN (3), [Mn(II)(S(Me2)N(4)(2-QuinoPN))](PF(6))·MeCN·Et(2)O (4), and [Mn(II)(S(Me2)N(4)(6-H-DPEN)(MeOH)](BPh(4)) (5)) is described, along with their magnetic, redox, and reactivity properties. These complexes are structurally related to recently reported [Mn(II)(S(Me2)N(4)(2-QuinoEN))](PF(6)) (2) (Coggins, M. K.; Kovacs, J. A. J. Am. Chem. Soc.2011, 133, 12470). Dioxygen addition to complexes 1-5 is shown to result in the formation of five new rare examples of Mn(III) dimers containing a single, unsupported oxo bridge: [Mn(III)(S(Me2)N(4)(6-Me-DPEN)](2)-(μ-O)(BF(4))(2)·2MeOH (6), [Mn(III)(S(Me2)N(4)(QuinoEN)](2)-(μ-O)(PF(6))(2)·Et(2)O (7), [Mn(III)(S(Me2)N(4)(6-Me-DPPN)](2)-(μ-O)(BPh(4))(2) (8), [Mn(III)(S(Me2)N(4)(QuinoPN)](2)-(μ-O)(BPh(4))(2) (9), and [Mn(III)(S(Me2)N(4)(6-H-DPEN)](2)-(μ-O)(PF(6))(2)·2MeCN (10). Labeling studies show that the oxo atom is derived from (18)O(2). Ligand modifications, involving either the insertion of a methylene into the backbone or the placement of an ortho substituent on the N-heterocyclic amine, are shown to noticeably modulate the magnetic and reactivity properties. Fits to solid-state magnetic susceptibility data show that the Mn(III) ions of μ-oxo dimers 6-10 are moderately antiferromagnetically coupled, with coupling constants (2J) that fall within the expected range. Metastable intermediates, which ultimately convert to μ-oxo bridged 6 and 7, are observed in low-temperature reactions between 1 and 2 and dioxygen. Complexes 3-5, on the other hand, do not form observable intermediates, thus illustrating the effect that relatively minor ligand modifications have upon the stability of metastable dioxygen-derived species.

Thermal conductor for high-energy electrochemical cells

DOEpatents

Hoffman, Joseph A.; Domroese, Michael K.; Lindeman, David D.; Radewald, Vern E.; Rouillard, Roger; Trice, Jennifer L.

2000-01-01

A thermal conductor for use with an electrochemical energy storage device is disclosed. The thermal conductor is attached to one or both of the anode and cathode contacts of an electrochemical cell. A resilient portion of the conductor varies in height or position to maintain contact between the conductor and an adjacent wall structure of a containment vessel in response to relative movement between the conductor and the wall structure. The thermal conductor conducts current into and out of the electrochemical cell and conducts thermal energy between the electrochemical cell and thermally conductive and electrically resistive material disposed between the conductor and the wall structure. The thermal conductor may be fabricated to include a resilient portion having one of a substantially C-shaped, double C-shaped, Z-shaped, V-shaped, O-shaped, S-shaped, or finger-shaped cross-section. An elastomeric spring element may be configured so as to be captured by the resilient conductor for purposes of enhancing the functionality of the thermal conductor. The spring element may include a protrusion that provides electrical insulation between the spring conductor and a spring conductor of an adjacently disposed electrochemical cell in the presence of relative movement between the cells and the wall structure. The thermal conductor may also be fabricated from a sheet of electrically conductive material and affixed to the contacts of a number of electrochemical cells.

A critical period for functional vestibular development in zebrafish

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moorman, Stephen J.; Cordova, Rodolfo; Davies, Sarah A.

2002-01-01

We have determined a critical period for vestibular development in zebrafish by using a bioreactor designed by NASA to simulate microgravity for cells in culture. A critical period is defined as the briefest period of time during development when stimulus deprivation results in long lasting or permanent sensory deficits. Zebrafish eggs were collected within 3 hours of being laid and fertilized. In experiment 1, eggs were placed in the bioreactor at 3, 24, 30, 36, 48, or 72 hours postfertilization (hPF) and maintained in the bioreactor until 96 hPF. In experiment 2, eggs were placed in the bioreactor immediately after they were collected and maintained in the bioreactor until 24, 36, 48, 60, 66, 72, or 96 hPF. Beginning at 96 hPF, all larvae had their vestibulo-ocular reflexes (VOR) evaluated once each day for 5 days. Only larvae that hatched from eggs that were placed in the bioreactor before 30 hPF in experiment 1 or removed from the bioreactor later than 66 hPF in experiment 2 had VOR deficits that persisted for at least 5 days. These data suggest a critical period for vestibular development in the zebrafish that begins before 30 hPF and ends after 66 hPF. To confirm this, zebrafish eggs were placed in the bioreactor at 24 hPF and removed at 72 hPF. VORs were evaluated in these larvae once each day for 5 days beginning at 96 hPF. These larvae had VOR deficits that persisted for at least 5 days. In addition, larvae that had been maintained in the bioreactor from 24 to 66 hPF or from 30 to 72 hPF, had only temporary VOR deficits. In a final experiment, zebrafish eggs were placed in the bioreactor at 3 hPF and removed at 96 hPF but the bioreactor was turned off from 24 hPF to 72 hPF. These larvae had normal VORs when they were removed from the bioreactor at 96 hPF. Taken as a whole, these data support the idea that there is a critical period for functional maturation of the zebrafish vestibular system. The developmental period identified includes the timeframe during which the vestibular primary afferent neurons are born, innervate their central and peripheral targets, and remodel their central projections. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

46 CFR 111.05-31 - Grounding conductors for systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Grounding conductors for systems. 111.05-31 Section 111... Grounding conductors for systems. (a) A conductor for grounding a direct-current system must be the larger of: (1) The largest conductor supplying the system; or (2) No. 8 AWG (8.4mm2). (b) A conductor for...

46 CFR 111.05-31 - Grounding conductors for systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Grounding conductors for systems. 111.05-31 Section 111... Grounding conductors for systems. (a) A conductor for grounding a direct-current system must be the larger of: (1) The largest conductor supplying the system; or (2) No. 8 AWG (8.4mm2). (b) A conductor for...

Semi-flexible gas-insulated transmission line using electric field stress shields

DOEpatents

Cookson, A.H.; Dale, S.J.; Bolin, P.C.

1982-12-28

A gas-insulated transmission line includes an outer sheath, an inner conductor, an insulating gas electrically insulating the inner conductor from the outer sheath, and insulating supports insulatably supporting the inner conductor within the outer sheath. The inner conductor is provided with flexibility by use of main conductor sections which are joined together through a conductor hub section and flexible flexing elements. Stress shields are provided to control the electric field at the locations of the conductor hub sections where the insulating supports are contacting the inner conductor. The flexing elements and the stress shields may also be utilized in connection with a plug and socket arrangement for providing electrical connection between main conductor sections. 10 figs.

Effects of peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients on the release of monocyte-specific chemokines by leukocytes.

PubMed

Na, Yong-Jin; Lee, Dong-Hyung; Kim, Seung-Chul; Joo, Jong-Kil; Wang, Ji-Won; Jin, Jun-O; Kwak, Jong-Young; Lee, Kyu-Sup

2011-06-01

Chemokines have been implicated in the pathological process of endometriosis. We compared the effects of peritoneal fluid obtained from patients with endometriosis (ePF) and controls without endometriosis (cPF) on the release of monocyte-specific CC chemokines such as monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), regulated upon activation normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES), and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α) by neutrophils, monocytes, and T cells. Moreover, we evaluated the correlation between the levels of chemokines in ePF and their release by these cells. Cells were obtained from healthy young volunteers and cultured with ePF (n = 12) or cPF (n = 8). The chemokine levels in the ePF and the supernatants of cultured cells with ePF were then measured by ELISA. There was a positive correlation between the levels of MCP-1 and MIP-1α in ePF. The addition of ePF to the cell cultures failed to increase the release of MCP-1, RANTES, and MIP-1α when compared to cPF, but the levels of RANTES in ePF were positively correlated with the release of RANTES by ePF-treated monocytes and T cells. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between the levels of RANTES and MIP-1α released by neutrophils and between the levels of MCP-1 and MIP-1α released by T cells. Finally, the levels of RANTES released by monocyte-derived macrophages and monocytes cultured with ePF were positively correlated. These findings suggest that monocytes, neutrophils, and T cells release differential levels of MCP-1, RANTES, and MIP-1α in response to stimulation with ePF.

Implications of Parasites Lacking Plasmodium falciparum Histidine-Rich Protein 2 on Malaria Morbidity and Control When Rapid Diagnostic Tests Are Used for Diagnosis.

PubMed

Gatton, Michelle L; Dunn, Jessica; Chaudhry, Alisha; Ciketic, Sadmir; Cunningham, Jane; Cheng, Qin

2017-04-01

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are an important tool for malaria diagnosis, with most using antibodies against Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2). Reports of P. falciparum lacking this protein are increasing, creating a problem for diagnosis of falciparum malaria in locations without quality-assured microscopy. An agent-based stochastic simulation model of P. falciparum transmission was used to investigate the selective pressure exerted on parasite populations by use of RDTs for diagnosis of symptomatic cases. The model considered parasites with normal, reduced, or no PfHRP2, and diagnosis using PfHRP2-only or combination RDTs. Use of PfHRP2-only RDTs in communities where a PfHRP2-negative parasite was introduced during the simulation resulted in transmission of the parasite in >80% of cases, compared with <30% for normal or PfHRP2-reduced parasites. Using PfHRP2-only RDTs in the presence of PfHRP2-negative parasites caused an increase in prevalence, reduced RDT positivity within symptomatic patients but no change in the number of antimalarial treatments due to false-negative RDT results. Diagnosis with PfHRP2/Pf-Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase combination RDTs did not select for PfHRP2-negative parasites. The use of PfHRP2-only RDTs is sufficient to select P. falciparum parasites lacking this protein, thus posing a significant public health problem, which could be moderated by using PfHRP2/Pf-Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase combination RDTs. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press for the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, e-mail journals.permissions@oup.com.

Expansion of a physical function item bank and development of an abbreviated form for clinical research.

PubMed

Bode, Rita K; Lai, Jin-shei; Dineen, Kelly; Heinemann, Allen W; Shevrin, Daniel; Von Roenn, Jamie; Cella, David

2006-01-01

We expanded an existing 33-item physical function (PF) item bank with a sufficient number of items to enable computerized adaptive testing (CAT). Ten items were written to expand the bank and the new item pool was administered to 295 people with cancer. For this analysis of the new pool, seven poorly performing items were identified for further examination. This resulted in a bank with items that define an essentially unidimensional PF construct, cover a wide range of that construct, reliably measure the PF of persons with cancer, and distinguish differences in self-reported functional performance levels. We also developed a 5-item (static) assessment form ("BriefPF") that can be used in clinical research to express scores on the same metric as the overall bank. The BriefPF was compared to the PF-10 from the Medical Outcomes Study SF-36. Both short forms significantly differentiated persons across functional performance levels. While the entire bank was more precise across the PF continuum than either short form, there were differences in the area of the continuum in which each short form was more precise: the BriefPF was more precise than the PF-10 at the lower functional levels and the PF-10 was more precise than the BriefPF at the higher levels. Future research on this bank will include the development of a CAT version, the PF-CAT.

Characterization of a Chlamydomonas Insertional Mutant that Disrupts Flagellar Central Pair Microtubule-associated Structures

PubMed Central

Mitchell, David R.; Sale, Winfield S.

1999-01-01

Two alleles at a new locus, central pair–associated complex 1 (CPC1), were selected in a screen for Chlamydomonas flagellar motility mutations. These mutations disrupt structures associated with central pair microtubules and reduce flagellar beat frequency, but do not prevent changes in flagellar activity associated with either photophobic responses or phototactic accumulation of live cells. Comparison of cpc1 and pf6 axonemes shows that cpc1 affects a row of projections along C1 microtubules distinct from those missing in pf6, and a row of thin fibers that form an arc between the two central pair microtubules. Electron microscopic images of the central pair in axonemes from radial spoke–defective strains reveal previously undescribed central pair structures, including projections extending laterally toward radial spoke heads, and a diagonal link between the C2 microtubule and the cpc1 projection. By SDS-PAGE, cpc1 axonemes show reductions of 350-, 265-, and 79-kD proteins. When extracted from wild-type axonemes, these three proteins cosediment on sucrose gradients with three other central pair proteins (135, 125, and 56 kD) in a 16S complex. Characterization of cpc1 provides new insights into the structure and biochemistry of the central pair apparatus, and into its function as a regulator of dynein-based motility. PMID:9922455

Cleavage of precursors by the mitochondrial processing peptidase requires a compatible mature protein or an intermediate octapeptide

PubMed Central

1991-01-01

Many precursors of mitochondrial proteins are processed in two successive steps by independent matrix peptidases (MPP and MIP), whereas others are cleaved in a single step by MPP alone. To explain this dichotomy, we have constructed deletions of all or part of the octapeptide characteristic of a twice cleaved precursor (human ornithine transcarbamylase [pOTC]), have exchanged leader peptide sequences between once-cleaved (human methylmalonyl-CoA mutase [pMUT]; yeast F1ATPase beta-subunit [pF1 beta]) and twice-cleaved (pOTC; rat malate dehydrogenase (pMDH); Neurospora ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase iron-sulfur subunit [pFe/S]) precursors, and have incubated these proteins with purified MPP and MIP. When the octapeptide of pOTC was deleted, or when the entire leader peptide of a once-cleaved precursor (pMUT or pF1 beta) was joined to the mature amino terminus of a twice-cleaved precursor (pOTC or pFe/S), no cleavage was produced by either protease. Cleavage of these constructs by MPP was restored by re- inserting as few as two amino-terminal residues of the octapeptide or of the mature amino terminus of a once-cleaved precursor. We conclude that the mature amino terminus of a twice-cleaved precursor is structurally incompatible with cleavage by MPP; such proteins have evolved octapeptides cleaved by MIP to overcome this incompatibility. PMID:1672532

Molecular cloning, characterization and comparison of bile salt hydrolases from Lactobacillus johnsonii PF01.

PubMed

Chae, J P; Valeriano, V D; Kim, G-B; Kang, D-K

2013-01-01

To clone, characterize and compare the bile salt hydrolase (BSH) genes of Lactobacillus johnsonii PF01. The BSH genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific oligonucleotide primers, and the products were inserted into the pET21b expression vector. Escherichia coli BLR (DE3) cells were transformed with pET21b vectors containing the BSH genes and induced using 0·1 mmol l(-1) isopropylthiolgalactopyranoside. The overexpressed BSH enzymes were purified using a nickel-nitrilotriacetic acid (Ni(2+) -NTA) agarose column and their activities characterized. BSH A hydrolysed tauro-conjugated bile salts optimally at pH 5·0 and 55°C, whereas BSH C hydrolysed glyco-conjugated bile salts optimally at pH 5·0 and 70°C. The enzymes had no preferential activities towards a specific cholyl moiety. BSH enzymes vary in their substrate specificities and characteristics to broaden its activity. Despite the lack of conservation in their putative substrate-binding sites, these remain functional through motif conservation. This is to our knowledge the first report of isolation of BSH enzymes from a single strain, showing hydrolase activity towards either glyco-conjugated or tauro-conjugated bile salts. Future structural homology studies and site-directed mutagenesis of sites associated with substrate specificity may elucidate specificities of BSH enzymes. © 2012 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Pf155/RESA protein influences the dynamic microcirculatory behavior of ring-stage Plasmodium falciparum infected red blood cells

PubMed Central

Diez-Silva, Monica; Park, YongKeun; Huang, Sha; Bow, Hansen; Mercereau-Puijalon, Odile; Deplaine, Guillaume; Lavazec, Catherine; Perrot, Sylvie; Bonnefoy, Serge; Feld, Michael S.; Han, Jongyoon; Dao, Ming; Suresh, Subra

2012-01-01

Proteins exported by Plasmodium falciparum to the red blood cell (RBC) membrane modify the structural properties of the parasitized RBC (Pf-RBC). Although quasi-static single cell assays show reduced ring-stage Pf-RBCs deformability, the parameters influencing their microcirculatory behavior remain unexplored. Here, we study the dynamic properties of ring-stage Pf-RBCs and the role of the parasite protein Pf155/Ring-Infected Erythrocyte Surface Antigen (RESA). Diffraction phase microscopy revealed RESA-driven decreased Pf-RBCs membrane fluctuations. Microfluidic experiments showed a RESA-dependent reduction in the Pf-RBCs transit velocity, which was potentiated at febrile temperature. In a microspheres filtration system, incubation at febrile temperature impaired traversal of RESA-expressing Pf-RBCs. These results show that RESA influences ring-stage Pf-RBCs microcirculation, an effect that is fever-enhanced. This is the first identification of a parasite factor influencing the dynamic circulation of young asexual Pf-RBCs in physiologically relevant conditions, offering novel possibilities for interventions to reduce parasite survival and pathogenesis in its human host. PMID:22937223

Pf155/RESA protein influences the dynamic microcirculatory behavior of ring-stage Plasmodium falciparum infected red blood cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diez-Silva, Monica; Park, Yongkeun; Huang, Sha; Bow, Hansen; Mercereau-Puijalon, Odile; Deplaine, Guillaume; Lavazec, Catherine; Perrot, Sylvie; Bonnefoy, Serge; Feld, Michael S.; Han, Jongyoon; Dao, Ming; Suresh, Subra

2012-08-01

Proteins exported by Plasmodium falciparum to the red blood cell (RBC) membrane modify the structural properties of the parasitized RBC (Pf-RBC). Although quasi-static single cell assays show reduced ring-stage Pf-RBCs deformability, the parameters influencing their microcirculatory behavior remain unexplored. Here, we study the dynamic properties of ring-stage Pf-RBCs and the role of the parasite protein Pf155/Ring-Infected Erythrocyte Surface Antigen (RESA). Diffraction phase microscopy revealed RESA-driven decreased Pf-RBCs membrane fluctuations. Microfluidic experiments showed a RESA-dependent reduction in the Pf-RBCs transit velocity, which was potentiated at febrile temperature. In a microspheres filtration system, incubation at febrile temperature impaired traversal of RESA-expressing Pf-RBCs. These results show that RESA influences ring-stage Pf-RBCs microcirculation, an effect that is fever-enhanced. This is the first identification of a parasite factor influencing the dynamic circulation of young asexual Pf-RBCs in physiologically relevant conditions, offering novel possibilities for interventions to reduce parasite survival and pathogenesis in its human host.

The role of the CXC chemokines platelet factor-4 (CXCL4/PF-4) and its variant (CXCL4L1/PF-4var) in inflammation, angiogenesis and cancer.

PubMed

Vandercappellen, Jo; Van Damme, Jo; Struyf, Sofie

2011-02-01

Chemokines are chemotactic cytokines which recruit leukocytes to inflammatory sites. They also affect tumor development and metastasis by acting as growth factor, by attracting pro- or anti-tumoral leukocytes or by influencing angiogenesis. Platelet factor-4 (CXCL4/PF-4) was the first chemokine shown to inhibit angiogenesis. CXCL4L1/PF-4var, recently isolated from thrombin-stimulated platelets, differing from authentic CXCL4/PF-4 in three carboxy-terminally located amino acids, was found to be more potent than CXCL4/PF-4 in inhibiting angiogenesis and tumor growth. Both glycosaminoglycans (GAG) and CXCR3 are implicated in the activities of the PF-4 variants. This report reviews the current knowledge on the role of CXCL4/PF-4 and CXCL4L1/PF-4var in physiological and pathological processes. In particular, the role of CXCL4/PF-4 in cancer, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and atherosclerosis is described. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Controlled Human Malaria Infection of Tanzanians by Intradermal Injection of Aseptic, Purified, Cryopreserved Plasmodium falciparum Sporozoites

PubMed Central

Shekalaghe, Seif; Rutaihwa, Mastidia; Billingsley, Peter F.; Chemba, Mwajuma; Daubenberger, Claudia A.; James, Eric R.; Mpina, Maximillian; Ali Juma, Omar; Schindler, Tobias; Huber, Eric; Gunasekera, Anusha; Manoj, Anita; Simon, Beatus; Saverino, Elizabeth; Church, L. W. Preston; Hermsen, Cornelus C.; Sauerwein, Robert W.; Plowe, Christopher; Venkatesan, Meera; Sasi, Philip; Lweno, Omar; Mutani, Paul; Hamad, Ali; Mohammed, Ali; Urassa, Alwisa; Mzee, Tutu; Padilla, Debbie; Ruben, Adam; Lee Sim, B. Kim; Tanner, Marcel; Abdulla, Salim; Hoffman, Stephen L.

2014-01-01

Controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) by mosquito bite has been used to assess anti-malaria interventions in > 1,500 volunteers since development of methods for infecting mosquitoes by feeding on Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) gametocyte cultures. Such CHMIs have never been used in Africa. Aseptic, purified, cryopreserved Pf sporozoites, PfSPZ Challenge, were used to infect Dutch volunteers by intradermal injection. We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess safety and infectivity of PfSPZ Challenge in adult male Tanzanians. Volunteers were injected intradermally with 10,000 (N = 12) or 25,000 (N = 12) PfSPZ or normal saline (N = 6). PfSPZ Challenge was well tolerated and safe. Eleven of 12 and 10 of 11 subjects, who received 10,000 and 25,000 PfSPZ respectively, developed parasitemia. In 10,000 versus 25,000 PfSPZ groups geometric mean days from injection to Pf positivity by thick blood film was 15.4 versus 13.5 (P = 0.023). Alpha-thalassemia heterozygosity had no apparent effect on infectivity. PfSPZ Challenge was safe, well tolerated, and infectious. PMID:25070995

Anti-Plasmodium falciparum invasion ligand antibodies in a low malaria transmission region, Loreto, Peru

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Erythrocyte invasion by Plasmodium falciparum is a complex process that involves two families; Erythrocyte Binding-Like (EBL) and the Reticulocyte Binding-Like (PfRh) proteins. Antibodies that inhibit merozoite attachment and invasion are believed to be important in mediating naturally acquired immunity and immunity generated by parasite blood stage vaccine candidates. The hypotheses tested in this study were 1) that antibody responses against specific P. falciparum invasion ligands (EBL and PfRh) differ between symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals living in the low-transmission region of the Peruvian Amazon and 2), such antibody responses might have an association, either direct or indirect, with clinical immunity observed in asymptomatically parasitaemic individuals. Methods ELISA was used to assess antibody responses (IgG, IgG1 and IgG3) against recombinant P. falciparum invasion ligands of the EBL (EBA-175, EBA-181, EBA-140) and PfRh families (PfRh1, PfRh2a, PfRh2b, PfRh4 and PfRh5) in 45 individuals infected with P. falciparum from Peruvian Amazon. Individuals were classified as having symptomatic malaria (N=37) or asymptomatic infection (N=8). Results Antibody responses against both EBL and PfRh family proteins were significantly higher in asymptomatic compared to symptomatic individuals, demonstrating an association with clinical immunity. Significant differences in the total IgG responses were observed with EBA-175, EBA-181, PfRh2b, and MSP119 (as a control). IgG1 responses against EBA-181, PfRh2a and PfRh2b were significantly higher in the asymptomatic individuals. Total IgG antibody responses against PfRh1, PfRh2a, PfRh2b, PfRh5, EBA-175, EBA-181 and MSP119 proteins were negatively correlated with level of parasitaemia. IgG1 responses against EBA-181, PfRh2a and PfRh2b and IgG3 response for PfRh2a were also negatively correlated with parasitaemia. Conclusions These data suggest that falciparum malaria patients who develop clinical immunity (asymptomatic parasitaemia) in a low transmission setting such as the Peruvian Amazon have antibody responses to defined P. falciparum invasion ligand proteins higher than those found in symptomatic (non-immune) patients. While these findings will have to be confirmed by larger studies, these results are consistent with a potential role for one or more of these invasion ligands as a component of an anti-P. falciparum vaccine in low-transmission malaria-endemic regions. PMID:23110555

Induction heaters used to heat subsurface formations

DOEpatents

Nguyen, Scott Vinh [Houston, TX; Bass, Ronald M [Houston, TX

2012-04-24

A heating system for a subsurface formation includes an elongated electrical conductor located in the subsurface formation. The electrical conductor extends between at least a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. A ferromagnetic conductor at least partially surrounds and at least partially extends lengthwise around the electrical conductor. The electrical conductor, when energized with time-varying electrical current, induces sufficient electrical current flow in the ferromagnetic conductor such that the ferromagnetic conductor resistively heats to a temperature of at least about 300.degree. C.

Development of fisetin-loaded folate functionalized pluronic micelles for breast cancer targeting.

PubMed

Pawar, Atmaram; Singh, Srishti; Rajalakshmi, S; Shaikh, Karimunnisa; Bothiraja, C

2018-01-15

The natural flavonoid fisetin (FS) has shown anticancer properties but its in-vivo administration remains challenging due to its poor aqueous solubility. The aim of the study was to develop FS loaded pluronic127 (PF)-folic acid (FA) conjugated micelles (FS-PF-FA) by the way of increasing solubility, bioavailability and active targetability of FS shall increase its therapeutic efficacy. FA-conjugated PF was prepared by carbodiimide crosslinker chemistry. FS-PF-FA micelles were prepared by thin-film hydration method and evaluated in comparison with free FS and FS loaded PF micelles (FS-PF). The smooth surfaces with spherical in shape of FS-PF-PF micelles displayed smaller in size (103.2 ± 6.1 nm), good encapsulation efficiency (82.50 ± 1.78%), zeta potential (-26.7 ± 0.44 mV) and sustained FS release. Bioavailability of FS from FS-PF-PF micelles was increased by 6-fold with long circulation time, slower plasma elimination and no sign of tissue toxicity as compared to free FS. Further, the FS-PF-FA micelles demonstrated active targeting effect on folate overexpressed human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. The concentration of the drug needed for growth inhibition of 50% of cells in a designed time period (GI50) was 14.3 ± 1.2 µg/ml for FS while it was greatly decreased to 9.8 ± 0.78 µg/ml, i.e. a 31.46% decrease for the FS-PF. Furthermore, the GI50 value for FS-PF-FA was 4.9 ± 0.4 µg/ml, i.e. a 65.737% decrease compared to FS and 50% decrease compare to FS-PF. The results indicate that the FS-PF-FA micelles have the potential to be applied for targeting anticancer drug delivery.

Targeting colorectal cancer cells by a novel sphingosine kinase 1 inhibitor PF-543

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

Ju, TongFa; Gao, DaQuan; Fang, Zheng-yu, E-mail: fangzhengyu158@sina.com

In this study, we showed that PF-543, a novel sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) inhibitor, exerted potent anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects against a panel of established (HCT-116, HT-29 and DLD-1) and primary human colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Its sensitivity was negatively associated with SphK1 expression level in the CRC cells. Surprisingly, PF-543 mainly induced programmed necrosis, but not apoptosis, in the CRC cells. CRC cell necrotic death was detected by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) collapse and mitochondrial P53-cyclophilin-D (Cyp-D) complexation. Correspondingly, the necrosis inhibitor necrostatin-1 largely attenuated PF-543-induced cytotoxicity against CRC cells. Meanwhile, the Cyp-D inhibitors (sanglifehrinmore » A and cyclosporin A), or shRNA-mediated knockdown of Cyp-D, remarkably alleviated PF-543-induced CRC cell necrotic death. Reversely, over-expression of wild-type Cyp-D in HCT-116 cells significantly increased PF-543's sensitivity. In vivo, PF-543 intravenous injection significantly suppressed HCT-116 xenograft growth in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice, whiling remarkably improving the mice survival. The in vivo activity by PF-543 was largely attenuated when combined with the Cyp-D inhibitor cyclosporin A. Collectively, our results demonstrate that PF-543 exerts potent anti-CRC activity in vitro and in vivo. Mitochondrial programmed necrosis pathway is likely the key mechanism responsible for PF-543's actions in CRC cells. - Highlights: • PF-543 is anti-proliferative and cytotoxic to established and primary CRC cells. • PF-543 induces programmed necrosis, but not apoptosis, in CRC cells. • Modulation of mitochondrial protein cyclophilin-D alters PF-543's sensitivity. • PF-543 inhibits HCT-116 xenograft growth in SCID mice, improving mice survival. • Co-administration of cyclophilin-D inhibitor CsA inhibits PF-543's activity in vivo.« less

Pelvis width associated with bone mass distribution at the proximal femur in children 10–11 years old

PubMed Central

Cardadeiro, Graça; Baptista, Fátima; Janz, Kathleen F.; Rodrigues, Luís A.; Sardinha, Luís B.

2015-01-01

Differences in skeletal geometry may generate different patterns of mechanical loading to bone. Impact and muscle loading during physical activity have been shown to influence skeletal geometry. The purpose of this study was to compare geometric measures of the pelvis and proximal femur (PF) of young children and to analyze the contribution and potential interaction of these geometric measures with physical activity on PF bone mass distribution. Participants were 149 girls and 145 boys, aged 10–11 years. Total body and left hip DXA scans were used to derive pelvic and PF geometric measures and PF bone mineral density (BMD) at the femoral neck (FN), trochanter (TR), and intertrochanter (IT). These subregions were used to represent bone mass distribution via three BMD ratios: FN:PF, TR:PF, and IT:PF. Physical activity was objectively measured using accelerometry, and maturity was estimated as the years of distance from peak height velocity. When compared to boys, girls had a wider pelvic diameter and greater interacetabular distances (p < 0.001), lower BMD at FN, TR, and IT (p < 0.05), and higher TR:PF (p < 0.001). After controlling for maturity, body height, and lean body mass, the interacetabular distance in girls explained 21.1 % (β = 0.713, p < 0.001) in TR:PF and 2.9 % (β = −0.179, p = 0.031) in the IT:PF. Neck–shaft angle explained 5.6 % (β = −0.265, p = 0.001) of the IT:PF and 3.1 % (β = 0.194, p = 0.018) of the FN:PF. In boys, FN axis length explained 2.9 % (β = 0.195, p = 0.040) of TR:PF. There was no main effect of physical activity or interaction effect with pelvic geometry in explaining BMD differences among the subregions of the PF. Even before sexual dimorphism, girls have a wider pelvis than boys, which accounted for proportionally greater BMD of the TR than other subregions of the PF. PMID:23744478

Method for making conductors for ferrite memory arrays. [from pre-formed metal conductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heckler, C. H.; Baba, P. D.; Bhiwandker, N. C. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

The ferrite memory arrays are made from pre-formed metal conductors for the ferrite arrays. The conductors are made by forming a thin sheet of a metallizing paste of metal alloy powder, drying the paste layer, bisque firing the dried sheet at a first temperature, and then punching the conductors from the fired sheet. During the bisque firing, the conductor sheet shrinks to 58 percent of its pre-fired volume and the alloy particles sinter together. The conductors are embedded in ferrite sheet material and finally fired at a second higher temperature during which firing the conductors shrink approximately the same degree as the ferrite material.

Clinical characteristics of fulminant type 1 diabetes associated with pregnancy in China.

PubMed

Liu, Lan; Mao, Jiping; Lu, Zeyuan; Yan, Xiaojie; Bai, Xiaosu; Ye, Yiyi; Zou, Gang

2011-12-01

To report 12 cases of pregnancy-associated fulminant type 1 diabetes mellitus (PF) found in China from 2003 to 2010. The clinical and biochemical characteristics of these cases with PF were compared with a group of cases of child-bearing age with fulminant type 1 diabetes that was not associated with pregnancy (NPF). The clinical and biochemical characteristics of 12 PF cases were analyzed retrospectively and then compared with those characteristics of 20 NPF cases in China. The difference between Chinese and Japanese PF cases was investigated. The mean values of the characteristics from PF and NPF cases in China, including postprandial serum C-peptide concentration, plasma glucose concentration, and serum chloride were different. Compared to the 22 PF cases in Japan, the mean age of these 12 PF cases was much younger. The mean fasting and postprandial serum C-peptide concentration level were lower, and the mean HbA1c levels was higher in 12 PF cases in China. Eight of 12 PF cases in China developed the disease during pregnancy. Other four PF case developed the disease within 2 weeks after delivery. 12 PF cases in China showed more severe beta-cell destruction, the prognosis of their fetuses was extremely poor.

AC loss, interstrand resistance and mechanical properties of prototype EU DEMO TF conductors up to 30 000 load cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yagotintsev, K.; Nijhuis, A.

2018-07-01

Two prototype Nb3Sn cable-in-conduit conductors conductors were designed and manufactured for the toroidal field (TF) magnet system of the envisaged European DEMO fusion reactor. The AC loss, contact resistance and mechanical properties of two sample conductors were tested in the Twente Cryogenic Cable Press under cyclic load up to 30 000 cycles. Though both conductors were designed to operate at 82 kA in a background magnetic field of 13.6 T, they reflect different approaches with respect to the magnet winding pack assembly. The first approach is based on react and wind technology while the second is the more common wind and react technology. Each conductor was tested first for AC loss in virgin condition without handling. The impact of Lorentz load during magnet operation was simulated using the cable press. In the press each conductor specimen was subjected to transverse cyclic load up to 30 000 cycles in liquid helium bath at 4.2 K. Here a summary of results for AC loss, contact resistance, conductor deformation, mechanical heat production and conductor stiffness evolution during cycling of the load is presented. Both conductors showed similar mechanical behaviour but quite different AC loss. In comparison with previously tested ITER TF conductors, both DEMO TF conductors possess very low contact resistance resulting in high coupling loss. At the same time, load cycling has limited impact on properties of DEMO TF conductors in comparison with ITER TF conductors.

Organic solvents, electrolytes, and lithium ion cells with good low temperature performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, Chen-Kuo (Inventor); Smart, Marshall C. (Inventor); Surampudi, Subbarao (Inventor); Bugga, Ratnakumar V. (Inventor)

2002-01-01

Multi-component organic solvent systems, electrolytes and electrochemical cells characterized by good low temperature performance are provided. In one embodiment, an improved organic solvent system contains a ternary mixture of ethylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate. In other embodiments, quaternary systems include a fourth component, i.e, an aliphatic ester, an asymmetric alkyl carbonate or a compound of the formula LiOX, where X is R, COOR, or COR, where R is alkyl or fluoroalkyl. Electrolytes based on such organic solvent systems are also provided and contain therein a lithium salt of high ionic mobility, such as LiPF.sub.6. Reversible electrochemical cells, particularly lithium ion cells, are constructed with the improved electrolytes, and preferably include a carbonaceous anode, an insertion type cathode, and an electrolyte interspersed therebetween.

Testing of the 3M Company Composite Conductor

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

Stovall, John P; Rizy, D Tom; Kisner, Roger A

2010-10-01

The 3M Company has developed a high-temperature low-sag conductor referred to as Aluminum-Conductor Composite-Reinforced or ACCR. The conductor uses an aluminum metal matrix material to replace the steel in conventional conductors. The objective of this work is to accelerate the commercial acceptance by electric utilities of this new conductor design by testing four representative conductor classes in controlled conditions. A unique facility called the Powerline Conductor Accelerated Testing (PCAT) Facility was built at ORNL for testing overhead conductors. The PCAT has been uniquely designed for testing overhead bare transmission line conductors at high currents and temperatures after they have beenmore » installed and tensioned to the manufacturer's specifications. The ability to operate a transmission line conductor in this manner does not exist elsewhere in the United States. Four classes of ACCR cable designed by the 3M Company have been successfully test at ORNL small, medium, large and small/compact. Based on these and other manufacturer tests, the 3M Company has successfully introduced the ACCR into the commercial market and has completed over twenty installations for utility companies.« less

Atomic description of the immune complex involved in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

DOE PAGES

Cai, Zheng; Yarovoi, Serge V.; Zhu, Zhiqiang; ...

2015-09-22

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an autoimmune thrombotic disorder caused by immune complexes containing platelet factor 4 (PF4), antibodies to PF4 and heparin or cellular glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Here we solve the crystal structures of the: (1) PF4 tetramer/fondaparinux complex, (2) PF4 tetramer/KKO-Fab complex (a murine monoclonal HIT-like antibody) and (3) PF4 monomer/RTO-Fab complex (a non-HIT anti-PF4 monoclonal antibody). Fondaparinux binds to the ‘closed’ end of the PF4 tetramer and stabilizes its conformation. This interaction in turn stabilizes the epitope for KKO on the ‘open’ end of the tetramer. Fondaparinux and KKO thereby collaborate to ‘stabilize’ the ternary pathogenic immune complex. Bindingmore » of RTO to PF4 monomers prevents PF4 tetramerization and inhibits KKO and human HIT IgG-induced platelet activation and platelet aggregation in vitro, and thrombus progression in vivo. Lastly, the atomic structures provide a basis to develop new diagnostics and non-anticoagulant therapeutics for HIT.« less

Solvate Structures and Computational/Spectroscopic Characterization of LiPF6 Electrolytes

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

Han, Sang D.; Yun, Sung-Hyun; Borodin, Oleg

2015-04-23

Raman spectroscopy is a powerful method for identifying ion-ion interactions, but only if the vibrational band signature for the anion coordination modes can be accurately deciphered. The present study characterizes the PF6- anion P-F Raman symmetric stretching vibrational band for evaluating the PF6-...Li+ cation interactions within LiPF6 crystalline solvates to create a characterization tool for liquid electrolytes. To facilitate this, the crystal structures for two new solvates—(G3)1:LiPF6 and (DEC)2:LiPF6 with triglyme and diethyl carbonate, respectively—are reported. The information obtained from this analysis provides key guidance about the ionic association information which may be obtained from a Raman spectroscopic evaluation ofmore » electrolytes containing the LiPF6 salt and aprotic solvents. Of particular note is the overlap of the Raman bands for both solvent-separated ion pair (SSIP) and contact ion pair (CIP) coordination in which the PF6- anions are uncoordinated or coordinated to a single Li+ cation, respectively.« less

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

Cai, Zheng; Yarovoi, Serge V.; Zhu, Zhiqiang

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an autoimmune thrombotic disorder caused by immune complexes containing platelet factor 4 (PF4), antibodies to PF4 and heparin or cellular glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Here we solve the crystal structures of the: (1) PF4 tetramer/fondaparinux complex, (2) PF4 tetramer/KKO-Fab complex (a murine monoclonal HIT-like antibody) and (3) PF4 monomer/RTO-Fab complex (a non-HIT anti-PF4 monoclonal antibody). Fondaparinux binds to the ‘closed’ end of the PF4 tetramer and stabilizes its conformation. This interaction in turn stabilizes the epitope for KKO on the ‘open’ end of the tetramer. Fondaparinux and KKO thereby collaborate to ‘stabilize’ the ternary pathogenic immune complex. Bindingmore » of RTO to PF4 monomers prevents PF4 tetramerization and inhibits KKO and human HIT IgG-induced platelet activation and platelet aggregation in vitro, and thrombus progression in vivo. Lastly, the atomic structures provide a basis to develop new diagnostics and non-anticoagulant therapeutics for HIT.« less

30 CFR Appendix I to Subpart D of... - Appendix I to Subpart D of Part 18

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... diameter of three-conductor portable power cables with tolerances in inches—601 to 5,000 volts. 8 Fuse... diameters. Table 1—Portable Power Cable Ampacities—600 Volts (Amperes Per Conductor Based on 60 °C. Copper Temperature—40 °C. Ambient) Conductor size—AWG or MCM Single conductor 2-conductor, round or flat 3-conductor...

30 CFR Appendix I to Subpart D of... - Appendix I to Subpart D of Part 18

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... diameter of three-conductor portable power cables with tolerances in inches—601 to 5,000 volts. 8 Fuse... diameters. Table 1—Portable Power Cable Ampacities—600 Volts (Amperes Per Conductor Based on 60 °C. Copper Temperature—40 °C. Ambient) Conductor size—AWG or MCM Single conductor 2-conductor, round or flat 3-conductor...

Plasmodium falciparum signal peptide peptidase cleaves malaria heat shock protein 101 (HSP101). Implications for gametocytogenesis

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

Baldwin, Michael; Russo, Crystal; Li, Xuerong

Highlights: • PfSPP is an ER resident protease. • PfSPP is expressed both as a monomer and dimer. • The signal peptide of HSP101 is the first known substrate of PfSPP. • Reduced PfSPP activity may significantly affect ER homeostasis. - Abstract: Previously we described the identification of a Plasmodium falciparum signal peptide peptidase (PfSPP) functioning at the blood stage of malaria infection. Our studies also demonstrated that mammalian SPP inhibitors prevent malaria parasite growth at the late-ring/early trophozoite stage of intra-erythrocytic development. Consistent with its role in development, we tested the hypothesis that PfSPP functions at the endoplasmic reticulummore » of P.falciparum where it cleaves membrane-bound signal peptides generated following the enzyme activity of signal peptidase. The localization of PfSPP to the endoplasmic reticulum was confirmed by immunofluorescence microscopy and immunogold electron microscopy. Biochemical analysis indicated the existence of monomer and dimer forms of PfSPP in the parasite lysate. A comprehensive bioinformatics screen identified several candidate PfSPP substrates in the parasite genome. Using an established transfection based in vivo luminescence assay, malaria heat shock protein 101 (HSP101) was identified as a substrate of PfSPP, and partial inhibition of PfSPP correlated with the emergence of gametocytes. This finding unveils the first known substrate of PfSPP, and provides new perspectives for the function of intra-membrane proteolysis at the erythrocyte stage of malaria parasite life cycle.« less

Molecular identification of lipase LipA from Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5 and characterization of two whole-cell biocatalysts Pf-5 and Top10lipA.

PubMed

Zha, Daiming; Xu, Li; Zhang, Houjin; Yan, Yunjun

2014-05-01

To identify lipase LipA (PFL_0617) from Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5, a lipA deletion mutant (Pf0617) and a complementary strain (Pf0617lipA) were constructed, and their effects on the lipase production were examined. Pf0617 remarkably decreased its whole-cell lipase activity, whereas Pf0617lipA made its whole-cell lipase activity not only restore to wild-type level but also get a further increment. However, the deletion and overexpression of lipA did not affect the extracellular lipase activity. In addition, the unbroken whole cells of these strains were able to catalyze the hydrolysis of membrane-permeable p-nitrophenyl esters, but could not hydrolyze the membrane-impermeable olive oil. These results confirmed that LipA was an intracellular lipase and Pf-5 could also be used as a natural whole-cell biocatalyst. To evaluate the potential of Pf-5 as a whole-cell biocatalyst and separately characterize the whole-cell LipA, the properties of the whole-cell lipases from Pf-5 and Top10lipA were characterized. The results demonstrated that both Pf-5 and Top10lipA exhibited high tolerance to alkaline condition, high temperature, heavy metal ions, surfactants, and organic solvents. Taken together, lipA can realize functional expression in E. coli Top10, and Pf-5 and Top10lipA as whole-cell biocatalysts may have enormous potential in applications.

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full cyclic testing in SULTAN: III. The importance of strand surface roughness in long twist pitch conductors

DOE PAGES

Sanabria, Charlie; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William; ...

2016-05-31

As part of the ITER conductor qualification process, 3 m long Cable-in-Conduit Conductors (CICCs) were tested at the SULTAN facility under conditions simulating ITER operation so as to establish the current sharing temperature, T cs, as a function of multiple full Lorentz force loading cycles. After a comprehensive evaluation of both the Toroidal Field (TF) and the Central Solenoid (CS) conductors, it was found that T cs degradation was common in long twist pitch TF conductors while short twist pitch CS conductors showed some T cs increase. However, one kind of TF conductors containing superconducting strand fabricated by the Bochvarmore » Institute of Inorganic Materials (VNIINM) avoided T cs degradation despite having long twist pitch. In our earlier metallographic autopsies of long and short twist pitch CS conductors, we observed a substantially greater transverse strand movement under Lorentz force loading for long twist pitch conductors, while short twist pitch conductors had negligible transverse movement. With help from the literature, we concluded that the transverse movement was not the source of T cs degradation but rather an increase of the compressive strain in the Nb 3Sn filaments possibly induced by longitudinal movement of the wires. Like all TF conductors this TF VNIINM conductor showed large transverse motions under Lorentz force loading, but Tcs actually increased, as in all short twist pitch CS conductors. We here propose that the high surface roughness of the VNIINM strand may be responsible for the suppression of the compressive strain enhancement (characteristic of long twist pitch conductors). Furthermore, it appears that increasing strand surface roughness could improve the performance of long twist pitch CICCs.« less

Metallographic autopsies of full-scale ITER prototype cable-in-conduit conductors after full cyclic testing in SULTAN: III. The importance of strand surface roughness in long twist pitch conductors

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

Sanabria, Charlie; Lee, Peter J.; Starch, William

As part of the ITER conductor qualification process, 3 m long Cable-in-Conduit Conductors (CICCs) were tested at the SULTAN facility under conditions simulating ITER operation so as to establish the current sharing temperature, T cs, as a function of multiple full Lorentz force loading cycles. After a comprehensive evaluation of both the Toroidal Field (TF) and the Central Solenoid (CS) conductors, it was found that T cs degradation was common in long twist pitch TF conductors while short twist pitch CS conductors showed some T cs increase. However, one kind of TF conductors containing superconducting strand fabricated by the Bochvarmore » Institute of Inorganic Materials (VNIINM) avoided T cs degradation despite having long twist pitch. In our earlier metallographic autopsies of long and short twist pitch CS conductors, we observed a substantially greater transverse strand movement under Lorentz force loading for long twist pitch conductors, while short twist pitch conductors had negligible transverse movement. With help from the literature, we concluded that the transverse movement was not the source of T cs degradation but rather an increase of the compressive strain in the Nb 3Sn filaments possibly induced by longitudinal movement of the wires. Like all TF conductors this TF VNIINM conductor showed large transverse motions under Lorentz force loading, but Tcs actually increased, as in all short twist pitch CS conductors. We here propose that the high surface roughness of the VNIINM strand may be responsible for the suppression of the compressive strain enhancement (characteristic of long twist pitch conductors). Furthermore, it appears that increasing strand surface roughness could improve the performance of long twist pitch CICCs.« less

Design of a Wireless Sensor Module for Monitoring Conductor Galloping of Transmission Lines.

PubMed

Huang, Xinbo; Zhao, Long; Chen, Guimin

2016-10-09

Conductor galloping may cause flashovers and even tower collapses. The available conductor galloping monitoring methods often employ acceleration sensors to measure the conductor translations without considering the conductor twist. In this paper, a new sensor for monitoring conductor galloping of transmission lines based on an inertial measurement unit and wireless communication is proposed. An inertial measurement unit is used for collecting the accelerations and angular rates of a conductor, which are further transformed into the corresponding geographic coordinate frame using a quaternion transformation to reconstruct the galloping of the conductor. Both the hardware design and the software design are described in details. The corresponding test platforms are established, and the experiments show the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed monitoring sensor. The field operation of the proposed sensor in a conductor spanning 734 m also shows its effectiveness.

Paeoniflorin inhibits cell growth and induces cell cycle arrest through inhibition of FoxM1 in colorectal cancer cells.

PubMed

Yue, Meng; Li, Shiquan; Yan, Guoqiang; Li, Chenyao; Kang, Zhenhua

2018-01-01

Paeoniflorin (PF) exhibits tumor suppressive functions in a variety of human cancers. However, the function of PF and molecular mechanism in colorectal cancer are elusive. In the present study, we investigated whether PF could exert its antiproliferative activity, anti-migration, and anti-invasive function in colorectal cancer cells. We found that PF inhibited cell growth and induced apoptosis and blocked cell cycle progression in the G0/G1 phase in colorectal cancer cells. Moreover, we found that PF suppressed cell migration and invasion in colorectal cancer cells. FoxM1 has been reported to play an important oncogenic role in human cancers. We also determine whether PF inhibited the expression of FoxM1, leading to its anti-cancer activity. We found that PF treatment in colorectal cancer cells resulted in down-regulation of FoxM1. The rescue experiments showed that overexpression of FoxM1 abrogated the tumor suppressive function induced by PF treatment. Notably, depletion of FoxM1 promoted the anti-tumor activity of PF in colorectal cancer cells. Therefore, inhibition of FoxM1 could participate in the anti-tumor activity of PF in colorectal cancer cells.

30 CFR 57.12011 - High-potential electrical conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false High-potential electrical conductors. 57.12011... Electricity Surface and Underground § 57.12011 High-potential electrical conductors. High-potential electrical conductors shall be covered, insulated, or placed to prevent contact with low potential conductors. ...

33 CFR 183.445 - Conductors: Protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Conductors: Protection. 183.445 Section 183.445 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED... Conductors: Protection. (a) Each conductor or group of conductors that passes through a bulkhead, structural...

33 CFR 183.445 - Conductors: Protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Conductors: Protection. 183.445 Section 183.445 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED... Conductors: Protection. (a) Each conductor or group of conductors that passes through a bulkhead, structural...

33 CFR 159.71 - Electrical controls and conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... conductors. 159.71 Section 159.71 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Electrical controls and conductors. Electrical controls and conductors must be installed in accordance with good marine practice. Wire must be copper and must be stranded. Electrical controls and conductors must...

30 CFR 57.12004 - Electrical conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Electrical conductors. 57.12004 Section 57... Surface and Underground § 57.12004 Electrical conductors. Electrical conductors shall be of a sufficient... operations will not damage the insulating materials. Electrical conductors exposed to mechanical damage shall...

33 CFR 159.71 - Electrical controls and conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conductors. 159.71 Section 159.71 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Electrical controls and conductors. Electrical controls and conductors must be installed in accordance with good marine practice. Wire must be copper and must be stranded. Electrical controls and conductors must...

30 CFR 57.12011 - High-potential electrical conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false High-potential electrical conductors. 57.12011... Electricity Surface and Underground § 57.12011 High-potential electrical conductors. High-potential electrical conductors shall be covered, insulated, or placed to prevent contact with low potential conductors. ...

30 CFR 57.12004 - Electrical conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Electrical conductors. 57.12004 Section 57... Surface and Underground § 57.12004 Electrical conductors. Electrical conductors shall be of a sufficient... operations will not damage the insulating materials. Electrical conductors exposed to mechanical damage shall...

30 CFR 57.12004 - Electrical conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Electrical conductors. 57.12004 Section 57... Surface and Underground § 57.12004 Electrical conductors. Electrical conductors shall be of a sufficient... operations will not damage the insulating materials. Electrical conductors exposed to mechanical damage shall...

PfSMAD4 plays a role in biomineralization and can transduce bone morphogenetic protein-2 signals in the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata.

PubMed

Zhao, Mi; Shi, Yu; He, Maoxian; Huang, Xiande; Wang, Qi

2016-04-26

Mollusca is the second largest phylum in nature. The shell of molluscs is a remarkable example of a natural composite biomaterial. Biomineralization and how it affects mollusks is a popular research topic. The BMP-2 signaling pathway plays a canonical role in biomineralization. SMAD4 is an intracellular transmitter in the BMP signaling pathway in mammals, and some genomic data show SMAD4's involvement in BMP signaling in invertebrates, but whether SMAD4 plays a conservative role in pearl oyster, Pinctada fucata, still need to be tested. In this study, we identified a SMAD4 gene (hereafter designated PfSMAD4) in pearl oyster Pinctada fucata. Bioinformatics analysis of PfSMAD4 showed high identity with its orthologs. PfSMAD4 was located in the cytoplasm in immunofluorescence assays and analyses of PfSMAD4 mRNA in tissues and developmental stages showed high expression in ovaries and D-shaped larvae. An RNA interference experiment, performed by PfSMAD4 double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) injection, demonstrated inhibition not only of nacre growth but also organic sheet formation with a decrease in PfSMAD4 expression. A knockdown experiment using PfBMP2 dsRNA showed decreased PfBMP2 and PfSMAD4 mRNA and irregular crystallization of the nacreous layer using scanning electron microscopy. In co-transfection experiments, PfBMP2-transactivated reporter constructs contained PfSMAD4 promoter sequences. Our results suggest that PfSMAD4 plays a role in biomineralization and can transduce BMP signals in P. fucata. Our data provides important clues about the molecular mechanisms that regulate biomineralization in pearl oyster.

Preference for Solitude, Social Isolation, Suicidal Ideation, and Self-Harm in Adolescents.

PubMed

Endo, Kaori; Ando, Shuntaro; Shimodera, Shinji; Yamasaki, Syudo; Usami, Satoshi; Okazaki, Yuji; Sasaki, Tsukasa; Richards, Marcus; Hatch, Stephani; Nishida, Atsushi

2017-08-01

Social isolation is associated with suicidal ideation (SI) and self-harm (SH) among adolescents. However, the association between preference for solitude (PfS), SI, and SH is unknown. The prevalence of adolescents who have both of PfS and social isolation and the risks for SI and SH among them are also unknown. Information on PfS, social isolation, SI, and SH was collected in a large-scale school-based survey on adolescents, using a self-report questionnaire. Associations between PfS, SI, and SH were examined by logistic regression analysis. The interactions between PfS and social isolation on SI and SH were also investigated. The odds of SI and SH were examined for groups defined by presence of PfS and social isolation. Responses from 17,437 students (89.3% of relevant classes) were available. After adjusting for demographic characteristics and social isolation, PfS was associated with increased odds of SI (odds ratio [OR] = 3.1) and SH (OR = 1.9). There was no interaction between PfS and social isolation on SI and SH. After adjusting for demographic characteristics, the odds for SI (OR = 8.6) and SH (OR = 3.8) were highest among adolescents with both PfS and social isolation (8.4% of all respondents). PfS was associated with increased odds of SI and SH in adolescents. No interaction effect between PfS and social isolation on SI and SH was found, but adolescents with PfS and social isolation had the highest risk for SI and SH. Parents and professionals should pay attention to suicide risk in adolescents with PfS. Copyright © 2017 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Progress with Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite (PfSPZ)-based malaria vaccines.

PubMed

Richie, Thomas L; Billingsley, Peter F; Sim, B Kim Lee; James, Eric R; Chakravarty, Sumana; Epstein, Judith E; Lyke, Kirsten E; Mordmüller, Benjamin; Alonso, Pedro; Duffy, Patrick E; Doumbo, Ogobara K; Sauerwein, Robert W; Tanner, Marcel; Abdulla, Salim; Kremsner, Peter G; Seder, Robert A; Hoffman, Stephen L

2015-12-22

Sanaria Inc. has developed methods to manufacture, purify and cryopreserve aseptic Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites (SPZ), and is using this platform technology to develop an injectable PfSPZ-based vaccine that provides high-grade, durable protection against infection with Pf malaria. Several candidate vaccines are being developed and tested, including PfSPZ Vaccine, in which the PfSPZ are attenuated by irradiation, PfSPZ-CVac, in which fully infectious PfSPZ are attenuated in vivo by concomitant administration of an anti-malarial drug, and PfSPZ-GA1, in which the PfSPZ are attenuated by gene knockout. Forty-three research groups in 15 countries, organized as the International PfSPZ Consortium (I-PfSPZ-C), are collaborating to advance this program by providing intellectual, clinical, and financial support. Fourteen clinical trials of these products have been completed in the USA, Europe and Africa, two are underway and at least 12 more are planned for 2015-2016 in the US (four trials), Germany (2 trials), Tanzania, Kenya, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Equatorial Guinea. Sanaria anticipates application to license a first generation product as early as late 2017, initially to protect adults, and a year later to protect all persons >6 months of age for at least six months. Improved vaccine candidates will be advanced as needed until the following requirements have been met: long-term protection against natural transmission, excellent safety and tolerability, and operational feasibility for population-wide administration. Here we describe the three most developed whole PfSPZ vaccine candidates, associated clinical trials, initial plans for licensure and deployment, and long-term objectives for a final product suitable for mass administration to achieve regional malaria elimination and eventual global eradication. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Attenuated PfSPZ Vaccine induces strain-transcending T cells and durable protection against heterologous controlled human malaria infection.

PubMed

Lyke, Kirsten E; Ishizuka, Andrew S; Berry, Andrea A; Chakravarty, Sumana; DeZure, Adam; Enama, Mary E; James, Eric R; Billingsley, Peter F; Gunasekera, Anusha; Manoj, Anita; Li, Minglin; Ruben, Adam J; Li, Tao; Eappen, Abraham G; Stafford, Richard E; Kc, Natasha; Murshedkar, Tooba; Mendoza, Floreliz H; Gordon, Ingelise J; Zephir, Kathryn L; Holman, LaSonji A; Plummer, Sarah H; Hendel, Cynthia S; Novik, Laura; Costner, Pamela J M; Saunders, Jamie G; Berkowitz, Nina M; Flynn, Barbara J; Nason, Martha C; Garver, Lindsay S; Laurens, Matthew B; Plowe, Christopher V; Richie, Thomas L; Graham, Barney S; Roederer, Mario; Sim, B Kim Lee; Ledgerwood, Julie E; Hoffman, Stephen L; Seder, Robert A

2017-03-07

A live-attenuated malaria vaccine, Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite vaccine (PfSPZ Vaccine), confers sterile protection against controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) with Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) parasites homologous to the vaccine strain up to 14 mo after final vaccination. No injectable malaria vaccine has demonstrated long-term protection against CHMI using Pf parasites heterologous to the vaccine strain. Here, we conducted an open-label trial with PfSPZ Vaccine at a dose of 9.0 × 10 5 PfSPZ administered i.v. three times at 8-wk intervals to 15 malaria-naive adults. After CHMI with homologous Pf parasites 19 wk after final immunization, nine (64%) of 14 (95% CI, 35-87%) vaccinated volunteers remained without parasitemia compared with none of six nonvaccinated controls ( P = 0.012). Of the nine nonparasitemic subjects, six underwent repeat CHMI with heterologous Pf7G8 parasites 33 wk after final immunization. Five (83%) of six (95% CI, 36-99%) remained without parasitemia compared with none of six nonvaccinated controls. PfSPZ-specific T-cell and antibody responses were detected in all vaccine recipients. Cytokine production by T cells from vaccinated subjects after in vitro stimulation with homologous (NF54) or heterologous (7G8) PfSPZ were highly correlated. Interestingly, PfSPZ-specific T-cell responses in the blood peaked after the first immunization and were not enhanced by subsequent immunizations. Collectively, these data suggest durable protection against homologous and heterologous Pf parasites can be achieved with PfSPZ Vaccine. Ongoing studies will determine whether protective efficacy can be enhanced by additional alterations in the vaccine dose and number of immunizations.

Progress with Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite (PfSPZ)-based malaria vaccines

PubMed Central

Richie, Thomas L.; Billingsley, Peter F.; Sim, B. Kim Lee; James, Eric R.; Chakravarty, Sumana; Epstein, Judith E.; Lyke, Kirsten E.; Mordmüller, Benjamin; Alonso, Pedro; Duffy, Patrick E.; Doumbo, Ogobara K.; Sauerwein, Robert W.; Tanner, Marcel; Abdulla, Salim; Kremsner, Peter G.; Seder, Robert A.; Hoffman, Stephen L.

2016-01-01

Sanaria Inc. has developed methods to manufacture, purify and cryopreserve aseptic Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites (SPZ), and is using this platform technology to develop an injectable PfSPZ-based vaccine that provides high-grade, durable protection against infection with Pf malaria. Several candidate vaccines are being developed and tested, including PfSPZ Vaccine, in which the PfSPZ are attenuated by irradiation, PfSPZ-CVac, in which fully infectious PfSPZ are attenuated in vivo by concomitant administration of an anti-malarial drug, and PfSPZ-GA1, in which the PfSPZ are attenuated by gene knockout. Forty-three research groups in 15 countries, organized as the International PfSPZ Consortium (I-PfSPZ-C), are collaborating to advance this program by providing intellectual, clinical, and financial support. Fourteen clinical trials of these products have been completed in the USA, Europe and Africa, two are underway and at least 12 more are planned for 2015–2016 in the US (four trials), Germany (2 trials), Tanzania, Kenya, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Equatorial Guinea. Sanaria anticipates application to license a first generation product as early as late 2017, initially to protect adults, and a year later to protect all persons >6 months of age for at least six months. Improved vaccine candidates will be advanced as needed until the following requirements have been met: long-term protection against natural transmission, excellent safety and tolerability, and operational feasibility for population-wide administration. Here we describe the three most developed whole PfSPZ vaccine candidates, associated clinical trials, initial plans for licensure and deployment, and long-term objectives for a final product suitable for mass administration to achieve regional malaria elimination and eventual global eradication. PMID:26469720

Peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients switches differentiation of monocytes from dendritic cells to macrophages.

PubMed

Na, Yong-Jin; Jin, Jun-O; Lee, Mi-Sook; Song, Min-Gyu; Lee, Kyu-Sup; Kwak, Jong-Young

2008-01-01

Immunological abnormalities of cell-mediated and humoral immunity might be associated with the pathogenesis of endometriosis. This study has examined the effects of peritoneal fluid obtained from patients with endometriosis (ePF) on the phenotypic characteristics of macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) derived from monocytes. Monocytes were obtained from healthy young volunteers and cultured with ePF (n=12) or a control PF (cPF) (n=5) in the presence or absence of macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) or IL-4 plus granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The ePF was demonstrated to increase expression levels of CD14 and CD64 on isolated monocytes in the presence or absence of M-CSF. Compared with cPF, addition of 10% ePF to GM-CSF plus IL-4-treated monocytes significantly down-regulated CD1a expression and up-regulated CD64 expression, but did not enhance expression levels of class II MHC. ePF had no effect, however, on tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced maturation of DC. Levels of IL-6, IL-10 and M-CSF production were higher in ePF-treated than cPF-treated monocytes for both cell culture conditions with GM-CSF plus IL-4 and M-CSF. A neutralizing IL-6 antibody, but not an IL-10 antibody, abrogated the ePF-induced down-regulation of CD1a, up-regulation of CD64 and secretion of M-CSF. These results suggest that ePF favorably induces monocyte differentiation toward macrophages rather than DCs, and that this effect is mediated by IL-6. A reciprocal mode of cell differentiation between macrophages and DCs in response to ePF may be related to the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

The antigenic complex in HIT binds to B cells via complement and complement receptor 2 (CD21)

PubMed Central

Khandelwal, Sanjay; Lee, Grace M.; Hester, C. Garren; Poncz, Mortimer; McKenzie, Steven E.; Sachais, Bruce S.; Rauova, Lubica; Kelsoe, Garnett; Cines, Douglas B.; Frank, Michael

2016-01-01

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a prothrombotic disorder caused by antibodies to platelet factor 4 (PF4)/heparin complexes. The mechanism that incites such prevalent anti-PF4/heparin antibody production in more than 50% of patients exposed to heparin in some clinical settings is poorly understood. To investigate early events associated with antigen exposure, we first examined the interaction of PF4/heparin complexes with cells circulating in whole blood. In healthy donors, PF4/heparin complexes bind preferentially to B cells (>90% of B cells bind to PF4/heparin in vitro) relative to neutrophils, monocytes, or T cells. Binding of PF4 to B cells is heparin dependent, and PF4/heparin complexes are found on circulating B cells from some, but not all, patients receiving heparin. Given the high proportion of B cells that bind PF4/heparin, we investigated complement as a mechanism for noncognate antigen recognition. Complement is activated by PF4/heparin complexes, co-localizes with antigen on B cells from healthy donors, and is present on antigen-positive B cells in patients receiving heparin. Binding of PF4/heparin complexes to B cells is mediated through the interaction between complement and complement receptor 2 (CR2 [CD21]). To the best of our knowledge, these are the first studies to demonstrate complement activation by PF4/heparin complexes, opsonization of PF4/heparin to B cells via CD21, and the presence of complement activation fragments on circulating B cells in some patients receiving heparin. Given the critical contribution of complement to humoral immunity, our observations provide new mechanistic insights into the immunogenicity of PF4/heparin complexes. PMID:27412887

The Malaria Parasite Cyclin H Homolog PfCyc1 Is Required for Efficient Cytokinesis in Blood-Stage Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Robbins, Jonathan A; Absalon, Sabrina; Streva, Vincent A; Dvorin, Jeffrey D

2017-06-13

All well-studied eukaryotic cell cycles are driven by cyclins, which activate cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), and these protein kinase complexes are viable drug targets. The regulatory control of the Plasmodium falciparum cell division cycle remains poorly understood, and the roles of the various CDKs and cyclins remain unclear. The P. falciparum genome contains multiple CDKs, but surprisingly, it does not contain any sequence-identifiable G 1 -, S-, or M-phase cyclins. We demonstrate that P. falciparum Cyc1 (PfCyc1) complements a G 1 cyclin-depleted Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain and confirm that other identified malaria parasite cyclins do not complement this strain. PfCyc1, which has the highest sequence similarity to the conserved cyclin H, cannot complement a temperature-sensitive yeast cyclin H mutant. Coimmunoprecipitation of PfCyc1 from P. falciparum parasites identifies PfMAT1 and PfMRK as specific interaction partners and does not identify PfPK5 or other CDKs. We then generate an endogenous conditional allele of PfCyc1 in blood-stage P. falciparum using a destabilization domain (DD) approach and find that PfCyc1 is essential for blood-stage proliferation. PfCyc1 knockdown does not impede nuclear division, but it prevents proper cytokinesis. Thus, we demonstrate that PfCyc1 has a functional divergence from bioinformatic predictions, suggesting that the malaria parasite cell division cycle has evolved to use evolutionarily conserved proteins in functionally novel ways. IMPORTANCE Human infection by the eukaryotic parasite Plasmodium falciparum causes malaria. Most well-studied eukaryotic cell cycles are driven by cyclins, which activate cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) to promote essential cell division processes. Remarkably, there are no identifiable cyclins that are predicted to control the cell cycle in the malaria parasite genome. Thus, our knowledge regarding the basic mechanisms of the malaria parasite cell cycle remains unsatisfactory. We demonstrate that P. falciparum Cyc1 (PfCyc1), a transcriptional cyclin homolog, complements a cell cycle cyclin-deficient yeast strain but not a transcriptional cyclin-deficient strain. We show that PfCyc1 forms a complex in the parasite with PfMRK and the P. falciparum MAT1 homolog. PfCyc1 is essential and nonredundant in blood-stage P. falciparum PfCyc1 knockdown causes a stage-specific arrest after nuclear division, demonstrating morphologically aberrant cytokinesis. This work demonstrates a conserved PfCyc1/PfMAT1/PfMRK complex in malaria and suggests that it functions as a schizont stage-specific regulator of the P. falciparum life cycle. Copyright © 2017 Robbins et al.

Design, development, fabrication and testing of high temperature Flat Conductor Cable (FCC)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rigling, W. S.

1974-01-01

The results are presented of a development program for a flat, 25-conductor signal cable and a flat, 3-conductor power cable. Flat cables employ conductors made of strips or flattened round copper conductors insulated with polyimide films. It is shown that conductor thickness ranges from 0.003 to 0.010 inch, and begins to soften and loose mechanical strength at temperatures above 200 C.

Electrical structure of the central Cascadia subduction zone: The EMSLAB Lincoln Line revisited

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Evans, Rob L.; Wannamaker, Philip E.; McGary, R. Shane; Elsenbeck, Jimmy

2014-09-01

The EMSLAB experiment was an ambitious onshore-offshore magnetotelluric (MT) transect of the Cascadia subduction zone. When completed (1985-1988), it was the largest experiment of its kind. Modeling and inversion capabilities at the time were, however, not sufficiently sophisticated to handle a fully regularized inversion of the data, including the seafloor data and bathymetric constraints, with the main final model presented based on trial and error forward modeling of the responses. Moreover, new data collected as part of the Earthscope USArray program are of higher quality due to improvements in instrument technology, and augment the original EMSLAB data set, presenting an opportunity to revisit the structure in this part of the subduction system. We have integrated the original wide-band MT data as well as several long-period stations from the original EMSLAB data set and invert these in conjunction with EMSLAB seafloor responses and new Earthscope data on land. This new composite data set has been analyzed in several ways, within a two-dimensional geometry in which conductivity is assumed to be invariant along a strike direction roughly coincident with that of the subduction zone. We have solved for fully smooth regularized models, as well as solutions that allow discontinuities in conductivity along the top surface of the descending slab. Finally, we have tested specific features in the EMSLAB model, notably a moderately shallow ( 30 km depth) forearc conductor. A feature similar to this shallow conductor is a consistent and required feature in our new inversion models, but the new models highlight the connection between the slab and what is interpreted to be an accumulation of aqueous fluids in the deep crust. The depth ( 40 km) at which the conductor intersects the slab suggests that the fluids are released by the transition of hydrous basalt to eclogite at upper greenschist facies and higher metamorphic grade. The nose of the mantle wedge has a conductivity consistent with a dry peridotite composition and thermal models of the system. At a depth of around 80 km the mantle intersecting the slab shows a slight increase in conductivity. This increase is not sufficient to require the presence of melt, but a conductor indicative of melt can be inserted into the model at this depth without compromising the fit.

Electrically heated particulate filter using catalyst striping

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V; Paratore, Jr., Michael J; Ament, Frank

2013-07-16

An exhaust system that processes exhaust generated by an engine is provided. The system generally includes a particulate filter (PF) that filters particulates from the exhaust wherein an upstream end of the PF receives exhaust from the engine. A grid of electrically resistive material is applied to an exterior upstream surface of the PF and selectively heats exhaust passing through the grid to initiate combustion of particulates within the PF. A catalyst coating is applied to the PF that increases a temperature of the combustion of the particulates within the PF.

Application of the parametric proper generalized decomposition to the frequency-dependent calculation of the impedance of an AC line with rectangular conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sancarlos-González, Abel; Pineda-Sanchez, Manuel; Puche-Panadero, Ruben; Sapena-Bano, Angel; Riera-Guasp, Martin; Martinez-Roman, Javier; Perez-Cruz, Juan; Roger-Folch, Jose

2017-12-01

AC lines of industrial busbar systems are usually built using conductors with rectangular cross sections, where each phase can have several parallel conductors to carry high currents. The current density in a rectangular conductor, under sinusoidal conditions, is not uniform. It depends on the frequency, on the conductor shape, and on the distance between conductors, due to the skin effect and to proximity effects. Contrary to circular conductors, there are not closed analytical formulas for obtaining the frequency-dependent impedance of conductors with rectangular cross-section. It is necessary to resort to numerical simulations to obtain the resistance and the inductance of the phases, one for each desired frequency and also for each distance between the phases' conductors. On the contrary, the use of the parametric proper generalized decomposition (PGD) allows to obtain the frequency-dependent impedance of an AC line for a wide range of frequencies and distances between the phases' conductors by solving a single simulation in a 4D domain (spatial coordinates x and y, the frequency and the separation between conductors). In this way, a general "virtual chart" solution is obtained, which contains the solution for any frequency and for any separation of the conductors, and stores it in a compact separated representations form, which can be easily embedded on a more general software for the design of electrical installations. The approach presented in this work for rectangular conductors can be easily extended to conductors with an arbitrary shape.

24 CFR 3280.815 - Polarization.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

...) The identified (white) conductor shall be employed for grounding circuit conductors only and shall be... unswitched wire in switched circuits, except that a cable containing an identified conductor (white) shall be... unidentified conductor is the return conductor from the switch to the outlet. Painting of the terminal end of...

46 CFR 169.683 - Overcurrent protection, general.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... provided for each ungrounded conductor for the purpose of opening the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or conductor insulation... ungrounded conductors of the circuit simultaneously. (c) Each conductor, including a generator lead and shore...

24 CFR 3280.815 - Polarization.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...) The identified (white) conductor shall be employed for grounding circuit conductors only and shall be... unswitched wire in switched circuits, except that a cable containing an identified conductor (white) shall be... unidentified conductor is the return conductor from the switch to the outlet. Painting of the terminal end of...

The characterization of obese polycystic ovary syndrome rat model suitable for exercise intervention.

PubMed

Wu, Chuyan; Lin, Feng; Qiu, Shuwei; Jiang, Zhongli

2014-01-01

To develop a new polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rat model suitable for exercise intervention. Thirty six rats were randomly divided into three experimental groups: PCOS rats with high-fat diet (PF, n = 24), PCOS rats with ordinary diet (PO, n = 6), and control rats with ordinary diet (CO, n = 6). Two kinds of PCOS rat model were made by adjustment diet structure and testosterone injection for 28 days. After a successful animal model, PF model rats were randomly assigned to three groups: exercise with a continuation of high-fat diet (PF-EF, n = 6), sedentary with a continuation of high-fat diet (PF-SF, n = 6), exercise with an ordinary diet (PF-EO, n = 6). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin (FINS), estrogen (E2), progesterone (P), and testosterone (T) in serum were determined by RIA, and ovarian morphology was evaluated by Image-Pro plus 6.0. Body weight, Lee index, FINS increased significantly in PF rat model. Serum levels of E2 and T were significantly higher in PF and PO than in CO. Ovary organ index and ovarian areas were significant lower in PF than in CO. After intervention for 2 weeks, the levels of 1 h postprandial blood glucose (PBG1), 2 h postprandial blood glucose (PBG2), FINS and the serum levels of T decreased significantly in PF-EF rats and PF-EO rats. The ratio of FBG/FINS was significant higher in PF-EO rats than in PF-SF rats. Ovarian morphology showed that the numbers of preantral follicles and atretic follicles decreased significantly, and the numbers of antral follicles and corpora lutea increased significantly in the rats of PF-EF and PF-EO. By combination of high-fat diet and testosterone injection, the obese PCOS rat model is conformable with the lifestyle habits of fatty foods and insufficient exercise, and has metabolic and reproductive characteristics of human PCOS. This model can be applied to study exercise intervention.

ITER Side Correction Coil Quench model and analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicollet, S.; Bessette, D.; Ciazynski, D.; Duchateau, J. L.; Gauthier, F.; Lacroix, B.

2016-12-01

Previous thermohydraulic studies performed for the ITER TF, CS and PF magnet systems have brought some important information on the detection and consequences of a quench as a function of the initial conditions (deposited energy, heated length). Even if the temperature margin of the Correction Coils is high, their behavior during a quench should also be studied since a quench is likely to be triggered by potential anomalies in joints, ground fault on the instrumentation wires, etc. A model has been developed with the SuperMagnet Code (Bagnasco et al., 2010) for a Side Correction Coil (SCC2) with four pancakes cooled in parallel, each of them represented by a Thea module (with the proper Cable In Conduit Conductor characteristics). All the other coils of the PF cooling loop are hydraulically connected in parallel (top/bottom correction coils and six Poloidal Field Coils) are modeled by Flower modules with equivalent hydraulics properties. The model and the analysis results are presented for five quench initiation cases with/without fast discharge: two quenches initiated by a heat input to the innermost turn of one pancake (case 1 and case 2) and two other quenches initiated at the innermost turns of four pancakes (case 3 and case 4). In the 5th case, the quench is initiated at the middle turn of one pancake. The impact on the cooling circuit, e.g. the exceedance of the opening pressure of the quench relief valves, is detailed in case of an undetected quench (i.e. no discharge of the magnet). Particular attention is also paid to a possible secondary quench detection system based on measured thermohydraulic signals (pressure, temperature and/or helium mass flow rate). The maximum cable temperature achieved in case of a fast current discharge (primary detection by voltage) is compared to the design hot spot criterion of 150 K, which includes the contribution of helium and jacket.

Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) isoforms PH1 and PH2 perturb vacuolar physiology.

PubMed

Callaghan, Paul S; Siriwardana, Amila; Hassett, Matthew R; Roepe, Paul D

2016-03-31

Recent work has perfected yeast-based methods for measuring drug transport by the Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine (CQ) resistance transporter (PfCRT). The approach relies on inducible heterologous expression of PfCRT in Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. In these experiments selecting drug concentrations are not toxic to the yeast, nor is expression of PfCRT alone toxic. Only when PfCRT is expressed in the presence of CQ is the growth of yeast impaired, due to inward transport of chloroquine (CQ) via the transporter. During analysis of all 53 known naturally occurring PfCRT isoforms, two isoforms (PH1 and PH2 PfCRT) were found to be intrinsically toxic to yeast, even in the absence of CQ. Additional analysis of six very recently identified PfCRT isoforms from Malaysia also showed some toxicity. In this paper the nature of this yeast toxicity is examined. Data also show that PH1 and PH2 isoforms of PfCRT transport CQ with an efficiency intermediate to that catalyzed by previously studied CQR conferring isoforms. Mutation of PfCRT at position 160 is found to perturb vacuolar physiology, suggesting a fitness cost to position 160 amino acid substitutions. These data further define the wide range of activities that exist for PfCRT isoforms found in P. falciparum isolates from around the globe.

Modification of the lipid moiety of the enterobacterial common antigen by the "Pseudomonas factor".

PubMed Central

Kuhn, H M; Neter, E; Mayer, H

1983-01-01

Pseudomonas aeruginosa produces a factor (PF) which affects the enterobacterial common antigen (ECA); resulting in failure of the antigen to modify erythrocytes for hemagglutination by ECA antibodies. In the present study the nature of PF was determined. Pronase treatment abolished its activity, indicating the protein nature of PF. PF-treated ECA no longer coated erythrocytes but still reacted with ECA antibodies in immunoelectrophoresis tests with monospecific antiserum to ECA, although differences were noted between the precipitation patterns of PF-treated and untreated ECA. Therefore, PF does not significantly affect the antigenic determinant of ECA but rather affects its lipid carrier, an L-glycerophosphatide. Accordingly, differences in the sugar chain could not be detected by high-voltage paper electrophoretic examinations of partial hydrolysates of PF-treated and untreated ECA. PF liberates all fatty acids from ECA, similarly to commercial lipases, as evidenced by the liberation of unsubstituted glycerol upon HF degradation at 0 degrees C of PF-treated ECA. The lipase activity of PF is indicated also by the observation that a strain of P. aeruginosa with reduced lipase production and an exolipase-negative strain affect ECA either less or not at all. We conclude that PF is a lipase acting on the lipid moiety of ECA, which is responsible for the coating of erythrocytes, but not significantly on the serological determinant, the amino sugar chain. Images PMID:6404831

PROMIS Physical Function Computer Adaptive Test Compared With Other Upper Extremity Outcome Measures in the Evaluation of Proximal Humerus Fractures in Patients Older Than 60 Years.

PubMed

Morgan, Jordan H; Kallen, Michael A; Okike, Kanu; Lee, Olivia C; Vrahas, Mark S

2015-06-01

To compare the PROMIS Physical Function Computer Adaptive Test (PROMIS PF CAT) to commonly used traditional PF measures for the evaluation of patients with proximal humerus fractures. Prospective. Two Level I trauma centers. Forty-seven patients older than 60 years with displaced proximal humerus fractures treated between 2006 and 2009. Evaluation included completion of the PROMIS PF CAT, the Constant Shoulder Score, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and the Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment (SMFA). Observed correlations among the administered PF outcome measures. On average, patients responded to 86 outcome-related items for this study: 4 for the PROMIS PF CAT (range: 4-8 items), 6 for the Constant Shoulder Score, 30 for the DASH, and 46 for the SMFA. Time to complete the PROMIS PF CAT (median completion time = 98 seconds) was significantly less than that for the DASH (median completion time = 336 seconds, P < 0.001) and for the SMFA (median completion time = 482 seconds, P < 0.001). PROMIS PF CAT scores correlated statistically significantly and were of moderate-to-high magnitude with all other PF outcome measure scores administered. This study suggests using the PROMIS PF CAT as a sole PF outcome measure can yield an assessment of upper extremity function similar to those provided by traditional PF measures, while substantially reducing patient assessment time.

Stability of the solid electrolyte Li{sub 3}OBr to common battery solvents

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

Schroeder, D.J.; Hubaud, A.A.; Vaughey, J.T., E-mail: vaughey@anl.gov

2014-01-01

Graphical abstract: The stability of the anti-perovskite phase Li{sub 3}OBr has been assessed in a variety of battery solvents. - Highlights: • Lithium stable solid electrolyte Li{sub 3}OBr unstable to polar organic solvents. • Solvation with no dissolution destroys long-range structure. • Ion exchange with protons observed. - Abstract: Recently a new class of solid lithium ion conductors was reported based on the anti-perovskite structure, notably Li{sub 3}OCl and Li{sub 3}OBr. For many beyond lithium-ion battery uses, the solid electrolyte is envisioned to be in direct contact with liquid electrolytes and lithium metal. In this study we evaluated the stabilitymore » of the Li{sub 3}OBr phase against common battery solvents electrolytes, including diethylcarbonate (DEC) and dimethylcarbonate (DMC), as well as a LiPF{sub 6} containing commercial electrolyte. In contact with battery-grade organic solvents, Li{sub 3}OBr was typically found to be insoluble but lost its crystallinity and reacted with available protons and in some cases with the solvent. A low temperature heat treatment was able to restore crystallinity of the samples; however evidence of proton ion exchange was conserved.« less

Study on characteristics of PVDF/nano-clay composite polymer electrolyte using PVP as pore-forming agent

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

Dyartanti, Endah R., E-mail: heru.susanto@undip.ac.id, E-mail: endah-rd@uns.ac.id; Department of Chemical Engineering, Diponegoro University, Semarang; Purwanto, Agus

2016-02-08

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) based polymer electrolytes have a high dielectric constant, which can assist in greater ionization of lithium salts. The main advantages of PVDF are its durability in long battery operation and its ability to be a good ion conductor. However, the limitation of this polymer is its crystalline molecular structure. Dispersing nano-particles in the polymer matrix may improve the characteristics of the PVDF polymer. This paper aims to investigate the impact of nano-clay addition on the characteristics of PVDF polymer to be used as a polymer electrolyte membrane. In addition, the effect of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) is alsomore » investigated. The membrane was prepared by phase separation method whereas the polymer electrolyte membranes was prepared by immersing into 1 M lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF{sub 6}) in ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate (EC/DMC) electrolytes for 1 h. The membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), porosity and electrolyte uptake and performance in battery cell. The results showed that both nano-clay and PVP have significant impacts on the improvement of PVDF membranes to be used as polymer electrolyte.« less

30 CFR 56.12005 - Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Protection of power conductors from mobile... MINES Electricity § 56.12005 Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment. Mobile equipment shall not run over power conductors, nor shall loads be dragged over power conductors, unless the...

An Exploratory Comparison of Novice, Intermediate, and Expert Orchestral Conductors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bergee, Martin J.

2005-01-01

This study compared novice, "intermediate" (graduate student), and expert orchestral conductors. Two novice conductors, one graduate student in orchestral conducting, and one expert conductor led a university symphony orchestra in part of the first movement of Brahms's Symphony No. 2. Wired for sound, conductors attempted to verbalize their…

30 CFR 56.12005 - Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Protection of power conductors from mobile... MINES Electricity § 56.12005 Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment. Mobile equipment shall not run over power conductors, nor shall loads be dragged over power conductors, unless the...

Electro-expulsive separation system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haslim, Leonard A. (Inventor); Lee, Robert D. (Inventor)

1987-01-01

An electro-expulsive system has one or more overlapped conductors, each comprising a flexible ribbon conductor, which is folded back on itself. The conductors are embedded in an elastomeric material. Large current pulses are fed to the conductors from power storage units. As a result of the antiparallel currents, the opposed segments of a conductor are forcefully separated and the elastomeric material is distended. Voids in the elastomer aid the separation of the conductor segments. The distention is almost instantaneous when a current pulse reaches the conductor and the distention tends to remove any solid body on the surface of the elastomeric material.

Multifilamentary niobium tin magnet conductors

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

Larbalestier, D.C.; Madsen, P.E.; Lee, J.A.

1975-03-01

Practical magnet conductors of multifilamentary Nb$sub 3$Sn have been produced. Evaluation of these bronze route conductors is described. Conductors studied range from a 1369 filament all-bronze matrix conductor to 5143 and approximately 42,000 filament conductors, containing internal high purity copper protected by diffusion barriers. Filament sizes vary from approximately 3 to 8 $mu$m diameter. The effect of heat treatment conditions on critical current and transition temperature is presented and it is shown that overall critical current densities greater than those available in niobium titanium can now be produced in multifilamentary Nb$sub 3$Sn magnet conductor.

Diamagnetic composite material structure for reducing undesired electromagnetic interference and eddy currents in dielectric wall accelerators and other devices

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

Caporaso, George J.; Poole, Brian R.; Hawkins, Steven A.

2015-06-30

The devices, systems and techniques disclosed here can be used to reduce undesired effects by magnetic field induced eddy currents based on a diamagnetic composite material structure including diamagnetic composite sheets that are separated from one another to provide a high impedance composite material structure. In some implementations, each diamagnetic composite sheet includes patterned conductor layers are separated by a dielectric material and each patterned conductor layer includes voids and conductor areas. The voids in the patterned conductor layers of each diamagnetic composite sheet are arranged to be displaced in position from one patterned conductor layer to an adjacent patternedmore » conductor layer while conductor areas of the patterned conductor layers collectively form a contiguous conductor structure in each diamagnetic composite sheet to prevent penetration by a magnetic field.« less

Coupling time constants of striated and copper-plated coated conductors and the potential of striation to reduce shielding-current-induced fields in pancake coils

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amemiya, Naoyuki; Tominaga, Naoki; Toyomoto, Ryuki; Nishimoto, Takuma; Sogabe, Yusuke; Yamano, Satoshi; Sakamoto, Hisaki

2018-07-01

The shielding-current-induced field is a serious concern for the applications of coated conductors to magnets. The striation of the coated conductor is one of the countermeasures, but it is effective only after the decay of the coupling current, which is characterised with the coupling time constant. In a non-twisted striated coated conductor, the coupling time constant is determined primarily by its length and the transverse resistance between superconductor filaments, because the coupling current could flow along its entire length. We measured and numerically calculated the frequency dependences of magnetisation losses in striated and copper-plated coated conductors with various lengths and their stacks at 77 K and determined their coupling time constants. Stacked conductors simulate the turns of a conductor wound into a pancake coil. Coupling time constants are proportional to the square of the conductor length. Stacking striated coated conductors increases the coupling time constants because the coupling currents in stacked conductors are coupled to one another magnetically to increase the mutual inductances for the coupling current paths. We carried out the numerical electromagnetic field analysis of conductors wound into pancake coils and determined their coupling time constants. They can be explained by the length dependence and mutual coupling effect observed in stacked straight conductors. Even in pancake coils with practical numbers of turns, i.e. conductor lengths, the striation is effective to reduce the shielding-current-induced fields for some dc applications.

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

Stovall, J.P.; RIzy, D.T.; Kisner, R.A.

The 3M Company has developed a high-temperature low-sag conductor referred to as Aluminum- Conductor Composite-Reinforced or ACCR. The conductor uses an aluminum metal matrix material to replace the steel in conventional conductors so the core has a lower density and higher conductivity. The objective of this work is to accelerate the commercial acceptance by electric utilities of these new conductor designs by testing four representative conductor classes in controlled conditions. Overhead transmission lines use bare aluminum conductor strands wrapped around a steel core strands to transmit electricity. The typical cable is referred to as aluminum-conductor steel-reinforced (ACSR). The outer strandsmore » are aluminum, chosen for its conductivity, low weight, and low cost. The center strand is of steel for the strength required to support the weight without stretching the aluminum due to its ductility. The power density of a transmission corridor has been directly increased by increasing the voltage level. Transmission voltages have increased from 115-kV to 765- kV over the past 80 years. In the United States, further increasing the voltage level is not feasible at this point in time, so in order to further increase the power density of a transmission corridor, conductor designs that increase the current carrying capability have been examined. One of the key limiting factors in the design of a transmission line is the conductor sag which determines the clearance of the conductor above ground or underlying structures needed for electrical safety. Increasing the current carrying capability of a conductor increases the joule heating in the conductor which increases the conductor sag. A conductor designed for high-temperature and lowsag operation requires an engineered modification of the conductor materials. To make an advanced cable, the 3M Company solution has been the development of a composite conductor consisting of Nextel ceramic fibers to replace the steel core and an aluminum-zirconium alloy to improve the outer strands. The result is a cable that can carry more current than steelaluminum lines without sagging as much at higher temperatures. A unique facility called the Powerline Conductor Accelerated Testing (PCAT) Facility was built at ORNL for testing overhead conductors. The PCAT has been uniquely designed for testing overhead bare transmission line conductors at high currents and temperatures after they have been installed and tensioned to the manufacturer's specifications. The ability to operate a transmission line conductor in this manner does not exist elsewhere in the United States. Four classes of ACCR cable designed by 3M have been successfully test at ORNL – small, medium, large and small/compact. Based on these and other manufacturer tests, the 3M Company has successfully introduced the ACCR into the commercial market and has completed over twenty installations for utility companies.« less

Performance of Paracheck™-Pf, SD Bioline malaria Ag-Pf and SD Bioline malaria Ag-Pf/pan for diagnosis of falciparum malaria in the Central African Republic

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are the current complement to microscopy for ensuring prompt malaria treatment. We determined the performance of three candidate RDTs (Paracheck™-Pf, SD Bioline malaria Ag-Pf and SD Bioline malaria Ag-Pf/pan) for rapid diagnosis of malaria in the Central African Republic. Methods Blood samples from consecutive febrile patients who attended for laboratory analysis of malaria at the three main health centres of Bangui were screened by microscopy and the RDTs. Two reference standards were used to assess the performance of the RDTs: microscopy and, a combination of microscopy plus nested PCR for slides reported as negative, on the assumption that negative results by microscopy were due to sub-patent parasitaemia. Results We analysed 436 samples. Using the combined reference standard of microscopy + PCR, the sensitivity of Paracheck™-Pf was 85.7% (95% CI, 80.8–89.8%), that of SD Bioline Ag-Pf was 85.4% (95% CI, 80.5–90.7%), and that of SD Bioline Ag-Pf/pan was 88.2% (95% CI, 83.2–92.0%). The tests performed less well in cases of low parasitaemia; however, the sensitivity was > 95% at > 500 parasites/μl. Conclusions Overall, SD Bioline malaria Ag-Pf and SD Bioline malaria Ag-Pf/pan performed slightly better than Paracheck™-Pf. Use of RDTs with reinforced microscopy practice and laboratory quality assurance should improve malaria treatment in the Central African Republic. PMID:24568311

Imaging of plantar fascia disorders: findings on plain radiography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Draghi, Ferdinando; Gitto, Salvatore; Bortolotto, Chandra; Draghi, Anna Guja; Ori Belometti, Gioia

2017-02-01

Plantar fascia (PF) disorders commonly cause heel pain and disability in the general population. Imaging is often required to confirm diagnosis. This review article aims to provide simple and systematic guidelines for imaging assessment of PF disease, focussing on key findings detectable on plain radiography, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Sonographic characteristics of plantar fasciitis include PF thickening, loss of fibrillar structure, perifascial collections, calcifications and hyperaemia on Doppler imaging. Thickening and signal changes in the PF as well as oedema of adjacent soft tissues and bone marrow can be assessed on MRI. Radiographic findings of plantar fasciitis include PF thickening, cortical irregularities and abnormalities in the fat pad located deep below the PF. Plantar fibromatosis appears as well-demarcated, nodular thickenings that are iso-hypoechoic on ultrasound and show low-signal intensity on MRI. PF tears present with partial or complete fibre interruption on both ultrasound and MRI. Imaging description of further PF disorders, including xanthoma, diabetic fascial disease, foreign-body reactions and plantar infections, is detailed in the main text. Ultrasound and MRI should be considered as first- and second-line modalities for assessment of PF disorders, respectively. Indirect findings of PF disease can be ruled out on plain radiography. Teaching Points • PF disorders commonly cause heel pain and disability in the general population.• Imaging is often required to confirm diagnosis or reveal concomitant injuries.• Ultrasound and MRI respectively represent the first- and second-line modalities for diagnosis.• Indirect findings of PF disease can be ruled out on plain radiography.

Broadband notch filter design for millimeter-wave plasma diagnostics.

PubMed

Furtula, V; Michelsen, P K; Leipold, F; Salewski, M; Korsholm, S B; Meo, F; Nielsen, S K; Stejner, M; Moseev, D; Johansen, T

2010-10-01

Notch filters are integrated in plasma diagnostic systems to protect millimeter-wave receivers from intensive stray radiation. Here we present a design of a notch filter with a center frequency of 140 GHz, a rejection bandwidth of ∼900 MHz, and a typical insertion loss below 2 dB in the passband of ±9 GHz. The design is based on a fundamental rectangular waveguide with eight cylindrical cavities coupled by T-junction apertures formed as thin slits. Parameters that affect the notch performance such as physical lengths and conductor materials are discussed. The excited resonance mode in the cylindrical cavities is the fundamental TE(11). The performance of the constructed filter is measured using a vector network analyzer monitoring a total bandwidth of 30 GHz. We compare the measurements with numerical simulations.

Differential mesocorticolimbic responses to palatable food in binge eating prone and binge eating resistant female rats.

PubMed

Sinclair, Elaine B; Culbert, Kristen M; Gradl, Dana R; Richardson, Kimberlei A; Klump, Kelly L; Sisk, Cheryl L

2015-12-01

Binge eating is a key symptom of many eating disorders (e.g. binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa binge/purge type), yet the neurobiological underpinnings of binge eating are poorly understood. The mesocorticolimbic reward circuit, including the nucleus accumbens and the medial prefrontal cortex, is likely involved because this circuit mediates the hedonic value and incentive salience of palatable foods (PF). Here we tested the hypothesis that higher propensity for binge eating is associated with a heightened response (i.e., Fos induction) of the nucleus accumbens and medial prefrontal cortex to PF, using an animal model that identifies binge eating prone (BEP) and binge eating resistant (BER) rats. Forty adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were given intermittent access to PF (high fat pellets) 3×/week for 3 weeks. Based on a pattern of either consistently high or consistently low PF consumption across these feeding tests, 8 rats met criteria for categorization as BEP, and 11 rats met criteria for categorization as BER. One week after the final feeding test, BEP and BER rats were either exposed to PF in their home cages or were given no PF in their home cages for 1h prior to perfusion, leading to three experimental groups for the Fos analysis: BEPs given PF, BERs given PF, and a No PF control group. The total number of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-ir) cells in the nucleus accumbens core and shell, and the cingulate, prelimbic, and infralimbic regions of the medial prefrontal cortex was estimated by stereological analysis. PF induced higher Fos expression in the nucleus accumbens shell and core and in the prelimbic and infralimbic cortex of BEP rats compared to No PF controls. Throughout the nucleus accumbens and medial prefrontal cortex, PF induced higher Fos expression in BEP than in BER rats, even after adjusting for differences in PF intake. Differences in the neural activation pattern between BEP and BER rats were more robust in prefrontal cortex than in nucleus accumbens. These data confirm that PF activates brain regions responsible for encoding the incentive salience and hedonic properties of PF, and suggest that binge eating proneness is associated with enhanced responses to PF in brain regions that exert executive control over food reward. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Differential mesocorticolimbic responses to palatable food in binge eating prone and binge eating resistant female rats

PubMed Central

Sinclair, Elaine B.; Culbert, Kristen M.; Gradl, Dana R.; Richardson, Kimberlei A.; Klump, Kelly L.; Sisk, Cheryl L.

2017-01-01

Binge eating is a key symptom of many eating disorders (e.g. binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa binge/purge type), yet the neurobiological underpinnings of binge eating are poorly understood. The mesocorticolimbic reward circuit, including the nucleus accumbens and the medial prefrontal cortex, is likely involved because this circuit mediates the hedonic value and incentive salience of palatable foods (PF). Here we tested the hypothesis that higher propensity for binge eating is associated with a heightened response (i.e., Fos induction) of the nucleus accumbens and medial prefrontal cortex to PF, using an animal model that identifies binge eating prone (BEP) and binge eating resistant (BER) rats. Forty adult female Sprague–Dawley rats were given intermittent access to PF (high fat pellets) 3×/week for 3 weeks. Based on a pattern of either consistently high or consistently low PF consumption across these feeding tests, 8 rats met criteria for categorization as BEP, and 11 rats met criteria for categorization as BER. One week after the final feeding test, BEP and BER rats were either exposed to PF in their home cages or were given no PF in their home cages for 1 h prior to perfusion, leading to three experimental groups for the Fos analysis: BEPs given PF, BERs given PF, and a No PF control group. The total number of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-ir) cells in the nucleus accumbens core and shell, and the cingulate, prelimbic, and infralimbic regions of the medial prefrontal cortex was estimated by stereological analysis. PF induced higher Fos expression in the nucleus accumbens shell and core and in the prelimbic and infralimbic cortex of BEP rats compared to No PF controls. Throughout the nucleus accumbens and medial pre-frontal cortex, PF induced higher Fos expression in BEP than in BER rats, even after adjusting for differences in PF intake. Differences in the neural activation pattern between BEP and BER rats were more robust in prefrontal cortex than in nucleus accumbens. These data confirm that PF activates brain regions responsible for encoding the incentive salience and hedonic properties of PF, and suggest that binge eating proneness is associated with enhanced responses to PF in brain regions that exert executive control over food reward. PMID:26459117

Comparative study of flexural strength test methods on CAD/CAM Y-TZP dental ceramics

PubMed Central

Xu, Yongxiang; Han, Jianmin; Lin, Hong; An, Linan

2015-01-01

Clinically, fractures are the main cause of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) 3 mol%-yttria-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP) all-ceramic dental restorations failure because of repetitive occlusal loading. The goal of this work is to study the effect of test methods and specimen’s size on the flexural strength of five ceramic products. Both bi-axial flexure test (BI) and uni-axial flexure tests (UNI), including three-point flexure test (3PF) and four-point flexure test (4PF), are used in this study. For all five products, the flexural strength is as follows: BI > 3PF > 4PF. Furthermore, specimens with smaller size (3PF-s) have higher values than the bigger ones (3PF). The difference between BI and UNI resulted from the edge flaws in ceramic specimens. The relationship between different UNI (including 3PF-s, 3PF and 4PF) can be explained according to Weibull statistical fracture theory. BI is recommended to evaluate the flexural strength of CAD/CAM Y-TZP dental ceramics. PMID:26816646

A Weighted Measurement Fusion Particle Filter for Nonlinear Multisensory Systems Based on Gauss–Hermite Approximation

PubMed Central

Li, Yun

2017-01-01

We addressed the fusion estimation problem for nonlinear multisensory systems. Based on the Gauss–Hermite approximation and weighted least square criterion, an augmented high-dimension measurement from all sensors was compressed into a lower dimension. By combining the low-dimension measurement function with the particle filter (PF), a weighted measurement fusion PF (WMF-PF) is presented. The accuracy of WMF-PF appears good and has a lower computational cost when compared to centralized fusion PF (CF-PF). An example is given to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms. PMID:28956862

Clinical impact of culture-positive preservation fluid on solid organ transplantation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Oriol, Isabel; Sabé, N; Tebé, C; Veroux, M; Boin, I F S F; Carratalà, J

2018-04-01

Contamination of the preservation fluid (PF) used for donated organs is a potential source of post-transplant infection. However, the information on this issue is scarce. We therefore conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the incidence of culture-positive PF and its impact on solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. Seventeen studies were identified and included. The overall incidence of culture-positive PF was 37% (95% CI: 27% to 49%), and the incidence of PF-related infections among SOT recipients with PF cultures that grew pathogenic microorganisms was 10% (95% CI: 7% to 15%). There were differences in the rates of infections due to pathogenic microorganisms between SOT recipients who received pre-emptive treatment and those who did not, but without statistical significance. The mortality rate among SOT recipients with PF-related infection was 35% (95% CI: 21% to 53%). In conclusion, although contamination of the PF of donated organs is frequent, the incidence of PF-related infection is relatively low. A closely clinical and microbiologic monitoring of the SOT recipient in case of culture-positive PF, regardless of the type of microorganism isolated might be do in order to establish a prompt diagnosis of PF-related infection. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Neural activation during imitation with or without performance feedback: An fMRI study.

PubMed

Zhang, Kaihua; Wang, Hui; Dong, Guangheng; Wang, Mengxing; Zhang, Jilei; Zhang, Hui; Meng, Weixia; Du, Xiaoxia

2016-08-26

In our daily lives, we often receive performance feedback (PF) during imitative learning, and we adjust our behaviors accordingly to improve performance. However, little is known regarding the neural mechanisms underlying this learning process. We hypothesized that appropriate PF would enhance neural activation or recruit additional brain areas during subsequent action imitation. Pictures of 20 different finger gestures without any social meaning were shown to participants from the first-person perspective. Imitation with or without PF was investigated by functional magnetic resonance imaging in 30 healthy subjects. The PF was given by a real person or by a computer. PF from a real person induced hyperactivation of the parietal lobe (precuneus and cuneus), cingulate cortex (posterior and anterior), temporal lobe (superior and transverse temporal gyri), and cerebellum (posterior and anterior lobes) during subsequent imitation. The positive PF and negative PF from a real person, induced the activation of more brain areas during the following imitation. The hyperactivation of the cerebellum, posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and cuneus suggests that the subjects exhibited enhanced motor control and visual attention during imitation after PF. Additionally, random PF from a computer had a small effect on the next imitation. We suggest that positive and accurate PF may be helpful for imitation learning. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Magnetic nanoparticles and thermally responsive polymer for targeted hyperthermia and sustained anti-cancer drug delivery.

PubMed

Wang, Sarah Y; Liu, Michelle C; Kang, Kyung A

2013-01-01

A novel cancer treatment method is being designed using a combination of iron oxide (Fe(3)O(4)) nanoparticles (IONPs) and Pluronic F-127 (PF127). IONPs have been used for heating tumors via an alternating electromagnetic (AEM) field. PF127 is a polymer possessing thermo-reversible and concentration-dependent gelation properties in aqueous solutions. PF127, as a gel, is an attractive drug delivery vehicle due to its zero-order drug release property. The combination of IONPs and PF127 would allow both short-term, tumor-specific, hyperthermic treatment, and long-term sustained drug delivery. As a preliminary study, the gelling and heating properties of IONPs/PF127 mixtures were investigated: 18% (w/w) PF127 was found to be ideal for our purpose because it gels at 28.0°C, i.e., it would be injectable at room temperature (20-25°C) and forms gel upon injection into the body (37°C). IONPs in PF127 showed little effect on gelation temperatures. The heating performance of IONPs in PF127 slightly, but linearly decreased with PF127. In the IONP concentration range of 0.01-0.05% (w/v) mixed with PF127 at 18% (w/w), the heating performance increased linearly with the increase in IONP concentration.

30 CFR 57.12080 - Bare conductor guards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Bare conductor guards. 57.12080 Section 57... Underground Only § 57.12080 Bare conductor guards. Trolley wires and bare power conductors shall be guarded at... conductors are less than 7 feet above the rail, they shall be guarded at all points where persons work or...

30 CFR 77.804 - High-voltage trailing cables; minimum design requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... equipped with metallic shields around each power conductor with one or more ground conductors having a total cross-sectional area of not less than one-half the power conductor, and with an insulated conductor for the ground continuity check circuit. External ground check conductors may be used if they are...

30 CFR 57.12080 - Bare conductor guards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Bare conductor guards. 57.12080 Section 57... Underground Only § 57.12080 Bare conductor guards. Trolley wires and bare power conductors shall be guarded at... conductors are less than 7 feet above the rail, they shall be guarded at all points where persons work or...

Conductor load bearing roller for a gas-insulated transmission line having a corrugated outer conductor

DOEpatents

Fischer, William H.; Yoon, Kue H.

1984-04-10

A gas-insulated transmission line includes a corrugated outer conductor, an inner conductor disposed within and insulated from the outer conductor by means of support insulators and an insulating gas, and a transport device for supporting and permitting movement of the inner conductor/insulating support assembly axially along the corrugated outer conductor without radial displacement. The transport device includes two movable contacts, such as skids or rollers, supported on a common pivot lever, the pivot lever being rotatably disposed about a pivot lever axis, which pivot lever axis is in turn disposed on the periphery of a support insulator or particle trap if one is used. The movable contacts are separated axially a distance equal to the axial distance between the peaks and valleys of the corrugations of the outer conductor and separated radially a distance equal to the radial distance between the peaks and valleys of the corrugations of the outer conductor. The transport device has the pivot lever axis disposed perpendicular to the direction of travel of the inner conductor/insulating support assembly.

Lithium ion insertion and extraction reactions with Hollandite-type manganese dioxide free from any stabilizing cations in its tunnel cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kijima, Norihito; Takahashi, Yasuhiko; Akimoto, Junji; Awaka, Junji

2005-09-01

Lithium ion insertion and extraction reactions with a hollandite-type α-MnO 2 specimen free from any stabilizing cations in its tunnel cavity were investigated, and the crystal structure of a Li+-inserted α-MnO 2 specimen was analyzed by Rietveld refinement and whole-pattern fitting based on the maximum-entropy method (MEM). The pH titration curve of the α-MnO 2 specimen displayed a monobasic acid behavior toward Li+, and an ion-exchange capacity of 3.25 meq/g was achieved at pH>11. The Li/Mn molar ratio of the Li+-inserted α-MnO 2 specimen showed that about two Li+ ions can be chemically inserted into one unit cell of the hollandite-type structure. As the amount of Li content was increased, the lattice parameter a increased while c hardly changed. On the other hand, the mean oxidation number of Mn decreased slightly regardless of Li content whenever ions were exchanged. The Li+-inserted α-MnO 2 specimen reduced topotactically in one phase when it was used as an active cathode material in a liquid organic electrolyte (1:1 EC:DMC, 1 mol/dm 3 LiPF 6) lithium cell. An initial discharge with a capacity of approximately 230 mAh/g was achieved, and the reaction was reversible, whereas the capacity fell steadily upon cycling. About six Li+ ions could be electrochemically inserted into one unit cell of the hollandite-type structure. By contrast, the parent α-MnO 2 specimen showed a poor discharge property although no cationic residues or residual H 2O molecules remained in the tunnel space. Rietveld refinement from X-ray powder diffraction data for a Li+-inserted specimen of (Li 2O) 0.12MnO 2 showed it to have the hollandite-type structure (tetragonal; space group I4/m; a=9.993(11) and c=2.853(3) Å; Z=8; Rwp=6.12%, Rp=4.51%, RB=1.41%, and RF=0.79%; S=1.69). The electron-density distribution images in (Li 2O) 0.12MnO 2 showed that Li 2O molecules almost fill the tunnel space. These findings suggest that the presence of stabilizing atoms or molecules within the tunnel of a hollandite-type structure is necessary to facilitate the diffusion of Li+ ions during cycling.

Nanoscale electromechanical parametric amplifier

DOEpatents

Aleman, Benjamin Jose; Zettl, Alexander

2016-09-20

This disclosure provides systems, methods, and apparatus related to a parametric amplifier. In one aspect, a device includes an electron source electrode, a counter electrode, and a pumping electrode. The electron source electrode may include a conductive base and a flexible conductor. The flexible conductor may have a first end and a second end, with the second end of the flexible conductor being coupled to the conductive base. A cross-sectional dimension of the flexible conductor may be less than about 100 nanometers. The counter electrode may be disposed proximate the first end of the flexible conductor and spaced a first distance from the first end of the flexible conductor. The pumping electrode may be disposed proximate a length of the flexible conductor and spaced a second distance from the flexible conductor.

A Testing Platform for Validation of Overhead Conductor Aging Models and Understanding Thermal Limits

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

Irminger, Philip; Starke, Michael R; Dimitrovski, Aleksandar D

2014-01-01

Power system equipment manufacturers and researchers continue to experiment with novel overhead electric conductor designs that support better conductor performance and address congestion issues. To address the technology gap in testing these novel designs, Oak Ridge National Laboratory constructed the Powerline Conductor Accelerated Testing (PCAT) facility to evaluate the performance of novel overhead conductors in an accelerated fashion in a field environment. Additionally, PCAT has the capability to test advanced sensors and measurement methods for accessing overhead conductor performance and condition. Equipped with extensive measurement and monitoring devices, PCAT provides a platform to improve/validate conductor computer models and assess themore » performance of novel conductors. The PCAT facility and its testing capabilities are described in this paper.« less

Comparing Universal Lynch Syndrome Tumor Screening Programs to Evaluate Associations Between Implementation Strategies and Patient Follow-through

PubMed Central

Cragun, Deborah; DeBate, Rita D.; Vadaparampil, Susan T.; Baldwin, Julie; Hampel, Heather; Pal, Tuya

2014-01-01

Purpose Universal tumor screening (UTS) for all colorectal cancer (CRC) patients can improve the identification of Lynch syndrome, the most common cause of hereditary CRC. This multiple-case study explored how variability in UTS procedures influence patient follow-through (PF) with germline testing after a screen-positive result. Methods Data were obtained through web-based surveys and telephone interviews with institutional informants. Institutions were categorized as Low-PF (≤10% underwent germline testing), Medium-PF (11–40%), or High-PF (>40%). To identify implementation procedures (i.e., conditions) unique High-PF institutions, qualitative comparative analysis was performed. Results Twenty-one informants from fifteen institutions completed surveys and/or interviews. Conditions present among all five High-PF institutions included: 1) disclosure of screen-positive results to patients by genetic counselors (GCs); and 2) GCs either facilitate physician referrals to genetics or eliminated the need for referrals. Although both of these High-PF conditions were present among two Medium-PF institutions, automatic reflex testing was lacking and difficulty contacting screen-positive patients was a barrier. The three remaining Medium-PF and five Low-PF institutions lacked High-PF conditions. Conclusion Methods for streamlining UTS procedures, incorporating a high level of involvement of GCs in results tracking and communication, and reducing barriers to patient contact are reviewed within a broader discussion on maximizing the effectiveness and public health impact of UTS. PMID:24651603

Wireless tamper detection sensor and sensing system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodard, Stanley E. (Inventor); Taylor, Bryant D. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

A wireless tamper detection sensor is defined by a perforated electrical conductor. The conductor is shaped to form a geometric pattern between first and second ends thereof such that the conductor defines an open-circuit that can store and transfer electrical and magnetic energy. The conductor resonates in the presence of a time-varying magnetic field to generate a harmonic response. The harmonic response changes when the conductor experiences a change in its geometric pattern due to severing of the conductor along at least a portion of the perforations. A magnetic field response recorder is used to wirelessly transmit the time-varying magnetic field and wirelessly detecting the conductor's harmonic response.

Plasma Generator Using Spiral Conductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Szatkowski, George N. (Inventor); Dudley, Kenneth L. (Inventor); Ticatch, Larry A. (Inventor); Smith, Laura J. (Inventor); Koppen, Sandra V. (Inventor); Nguyen, Truong X. (Inventor); Ely, Jay J. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A plasma generator includes a pair of identical spiraled electrical conductors separated by dielectric material. Both spiraled conductors have inductance and capacitance wherein, in the presence of a time-varying electromagnetic field, the spiraled conductors resonate to generate a harmonic electromagnetic field response. The spiraled conductors lie in parallel planes and partially overlap one another in a direction perpendicular to the parallel planes. The geometric centers of the spiraled conductors define endpoints of a line that is non-perpendicular with respect to the parallel planes. A voltage source coupled across the spiraled conductors applies a voltage sufficient to generate a plasma in at least a portion of the dielectric material.

Size-Dependent Rupture Strain of Elastically Stretchable Metal Conductors

PubMed Central

Graudejus, O.; Jia, Z.; Li, T.; Wagner, S.

2012-01-01

Experiments show that the rupture strain of gold conductors on elastomers decreases as the conductors are made long and narrow. Rupture is caused by the irreversible coalescence of microcracks into one long crack. A mechanics model identifies a critical crack length ℓcr, above which the long crack propagates across the entire conductor width. ℓcr depends on the fracture toughness of the gold film and the width of the conductor. The model provides guidance for the design of highly stretchable conductors. PMID:22773917

Deciphering the key residues in Plasmodium falciparum beta-ketoacyl acyl carrier protein reductase responsible for interactions with Plasmodium falciparum acyl carrier protein.

PubMed

Karmodiya, Krishanpal; Modak, Rahul; Sahoo, Nirakar; Sajad, Syed; Surolia, Namita

2008-10-01

The type II fatty acid synthase (FAS) pathway of Plasmodium falciparum is a validated unique target for developing novel antimalarials, due to its intrinsic differences from the typeI pathway operating in humans. beta-Ketoacyl acyl carrier protein (ACP) reductase (FabG) performs the NADPH-dependent reduction of beta-ketoacyl-ACP to beta-hydroxyacyl-ACP, the first reductive step in the elongation cycle of fatty acid biosynthesis. In this article, we report intensive studies on the direct interactions of Plasmodium FabG and Plasmodium ACP in solution, in the presence and absence of its cofactor, NADPH, by monitoring the change in intrinsic fluorescence of P.falciparum FabG (PfFabG) and by surface plasmon resonance. To address the issue of the importance of the residues involved in strong, specific and stoichiometric binding of PfFabG to P.falciparum ACP (PfACP), we mutated Arg187, Arg190 and Arg230 of PfFabG. The activities of the mutants were assessed using both an ACP-dependent and an ACP-independent assay. The affinities of all the PfFabG mutants for acetoacetyl-ACP (the physiological substrate) were reduced to different extents as compared to wild-type PfFabG, but were equally active in biochemical assays with the substrate analog acetoacetyl-CoA. Kinetic analysis and studies of direct binding between PfFabG and PfACP confirmed the identification of Arg187 and Arg230 as critical residues for the PfFabG-PfACP interactions. Our studies thus reveal the significance of the positively charged/hydrophobic patch located adjacent to the active site cavities of PfFabG for interactions with PfACP.

Advancing nutritional therapy: A novel polymeric formulation attenuates intestinal inflammation in a murine colitis model and suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokine production in ex-vivo cultured inflamed colonic biopsies.

PubMed

Alhagamhmad, Moftah H; Lemberg, Daniel A; Day, Andrew S; Tan, Li-Zsa; Ooi, Chee Y; Krishnan, Usha; Gupta, Nitin; Munday, John S; Leach, Steven T

2017-04-01

Nutritional therapy is a viable therapeutic option for the treatment of Crohn disease (CD). Therefore improving nutritional therapy would greatly benefit CD patients. The aim of this study was to define the anti-inflammatory properties of a novel nutritional polymeric formula (PF) in comparison to a currently available standard PF. Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) was utilized to induce colitis in C57BL/6 mice with mice randomized to receive either standard PF or novel PF in addition to control groups. Changes in body weight were recorded and colonic damage was assessed histologically and biochemically. Additional experiments were also included where the cytokine response of colonic biopsies from pediatric CD patients was measured following exposure to standard PF or novel PF. DSS induced significant body weight loss, morphological changes in the colon, increased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and up-regulated colonic mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, as well as associated histological changes. Other than histological damage, these inflammatory changes were reversed by both novel and standard PF. However, the novel PF, but not standard PF, completely suppressed TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 levels from cultured biopsies. Newly developed nutritional formula reproducibly ameliorated DSS-induced colitis in a murine model, although this response was not measurably different to standard PF. However, the novel PF was significantly superior in suppressing inflammatory cytokine release from cultured colonic biopsies. Collectively, these findings support a possible role for novel PF in advancing nutritional therapy for CD patients. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deep brain stimulation of the center median-parafascicular complex of the thalamus has efficient anti-parkinsonian action associated with widespread cellular responses in the basal ganglia network in a rat model of Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Jouve, Loréline; Salin, Pascal; Melon, Christophe; Kerkerian-Le Goff, Lydia

2010-07-21

The thalamic centromedian-parafascicular (CM/Pf) complex, mainly represented by Pf in rodents, is proposed as an interesting target for the neurosurgical treatment of movement disorders, including Parkinson's disease. In this study, we examined the functional impact of subchronic high-frequency stimulation (HFS) of Pf in the 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned hemiparkinsonian rat model. Pf-HFS had significant anti-akinetic action, evidenced by alleviation of limb use asymmetry (cylinder test). Whereas this anti-akinetic action was moderate, Pf-HFS totally reversed lateralized neglect (corridor task), suggesting potent action on sensorimotor integration. At the cellular level, Pf-HFS partially reversed the dopamine denervation-induced increase in striatal preproenkephalin A mRNA levels, a marker of the neurons of the indirect pathway, without interfering with the markers of the direct pathway (preprotachykinin and preprodynorphin). Pf-HFS totally reversed the lesion-induced changes in the gene expression of cytochrome oxidase subunit I in the subthalamic nucleus, the globus pallidus, and the substantia nigra pars reticulata, and partially in the entopeduncular nucleus. Unlike HFS of the subthalamic nucleus, Pf-HFS did not induce per se dyskinesias and directly, although partially, alleviated L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA)-induced forelimb dyskinesia. Conversely, L-DOPA treatment negatively interfered with the anti-parkinsonian effect of Pf-HFS. Altogether, these data show that Pf-DBS, by recruiting a large basal ganglia circuitry, provides moderate to strong anti-parkinsonian benefits that might, however, be affected by L-DOPA. The widespread behavioral and cellular outcomes of Pf-HFS evidenced here demonstrate that CM/Pf is an important node for modulating the pathophysiological functioning of basal ganglia and related disorders.

Long-term clinical and radiographic outcome of patello-femoral realignment procedures: a minimum of 15-year follow-up.

PubMed

Vivod, Gregor; Verdonk, Peter; Drobnič, Matej

2014-11-01

A retrospective single-centre study was focused on the long-term outcome after different patello-femoral (PF) realignment procedures. Thirty-nine patients treated for recurrent PF instability were examined after a mean post-operative time of 22.5 years. Their 78 knees were divided into: non-operated knees (NON-OPERATED)-N = 24, isolated proximal procedures (PROXIMAL)-N = 22, isolated distal procedures (DISTAL)-N = 10, and combined procedures (COMBINED)-N = 22. PF-related medical history together with clinical, subjective (KOOS and Kujala scores), and radiographic (Caton-Deschamps PF height index, Kellgren-Lawrence scale for tibio-femoral OA, and Iwano classification for PF OA) evaluation was conducted. PF re-dislocation rate was comparable between PROXIMAL (36%), DISTAL (20%), and COMBINED (32%). Isolated proximal procedures revealed less central patella positions (PROXIMAL 64%; DISTAL 90%; COMBINED 95%) and more frequent PF apprehension test (PROXIMAL 82%; DISTAL 40%, COMBINED 50%). KOOS and Kujala scores were similar in all three surgical subgroups, but significantly lower than in NON-OPERATED. Patellas were positioned lower after DISTAL, 0.8 (0.5-1.0) or COMBINED, 0.9 (0.4-1.3). Kellgren-Lawrence scores ≥2 were found in 42% NON-OPERATED, 37% PROXIMAL, 70% DISTAL, and 59% COMBINED, whereas Iwano classification ≥2 was confirmed in 46% NON-OPERATED, 64% PROXIMAL, 80% DISTAL, and 86% COMBINED. High PF re-dislocation rates together with a very high incidence of PF OA indicate that PF realignment strategies used traditionally had failed to reach their long-term expectations. The transfer of tibial tuberosity resulted in more constrained PF joints than isolated proximal procedures which allowed for more residual PF instability. Distal procedures additionally increased the likelihood for tibio-femoral OA. III.

Platelet factor 4/CXCL4 induces phagocytosis and the generation of reactive oxygen metabolites in mononuclear phagocytes independently of Gi protein activation or intracellular calcium transients.

PubMed

Pervushina, Olga; Scheuerer, Barbara; Reiling, Norbert; Behnke, Lars; Schröder, Jens-M; Kasper, Brigitte; Brandt, Ernst; Bulfone-Paus, Silvia; Petersen, Frank

2004-08-01

Platelet factor 4 (PF-4), a platelet-derived CXC chemokine, is known to prevent human monocytes from apoptosis and to promote differentiation of these cells into HLA-DR(-) macrophages. In this study, we investigated the role of PF-4 in the control of acute monocyte proinflammatory responses involved in the direct combat of microbial invaders. We show that PF-4 increases monocyte phagocytosis and provokes a strong formation of oxygen radicals but lacks a chemotactic activity in these cells. Compared with FMLP, PF-4-induced oxidative burst was later in its onset but was remarkably longer in its duration (lasting for up to 60 min). Furthermore, in PF-4-prestimulated cells, FMLP- as well as RANTES-induced burst responses became synergistically enhanced. As we could show, PF-4-mediated oxidative burst in monocytes does not involve Gi proteins, elevation of intracellular free calcium concentrations, or binding to CXCR3B, a novel PF-4 receptor recently discovered on endothelial cells. Moreover, we found that PF-4 acts on macrophages in a dual manner. On the one hand, very similar to GM-CSF or M-CSF, PF-4 treatment of monocytes generates macrophages with a high capacity for unspecific phagocytosis. On the other hand, short term priming of GM-CSF-induced human macrophages with PF-4 substantially increases their capability for particle ingestion and oxidative burst. A comparable effect was also observed in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages, indicating cross-reactivity of human PF-4 between both species. Taken together, PF-4 may play a crucial role in the induction and maintenance of an unspecific immune response.

Physical Activity, Physical Fitness and Leukocyte Telomere Length: the Cardiovascular Health Study.

PubMed Central

Soares-Miranda, Luisa; Imamura, Fumiaki; Siscovick, David; Jenny, Nancy Swords; Fitzpatrick, Annette L; Mozaffarian, Dariush

2015-01-01

Introduction The influence of physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF) at older ages on changes in telomere length (TL), repetitive DNA sequences that may mark biologic aging, is not well-established. Few prior studies have been conducted in older adults, these were mainly cross-sectional, and few evaluated PF. Methods We investigated cross-sectional and prospective associations of PA and PF with leukocyte TL among 582 older adults (age 73±5 y at baseline) in the Cardiovascular Health Study, having serial TL measures and PA and PF assessed multiple times. Cross-sectional associations were assessed using multivariable repeated-measures regression, in which cumulatively averaged PA and PF measures were related to TL. Longitudinal analyses assessed cumulatively averaged PA and PF against later changes in TL; and changes in cumulatively averaged PA and PF against changes in TL. Results Cross-sectionally, greater walking distance and chair test performance, but not other PA and PF measures, were each associated with longer TL (p-trend=0.007, 0.04 respectively). In longitudinal analyses, no significant associations of baseline PA and PF with change in TL were observed. In contrast, changes in leisure-time activity and chair test performance were each inversely associated with changes in TL. Conclusions Cross-sectional analyses suggest that greater PA and PF are associated with longer TL. Prospective analyses show that changes in PA and PF are associated with differences in changes in TL. Even later in life, changes in certain PA and PF measures are associated with changes in TL, suggesting that leisure-time activity and fitness could reduce leukocyte telomere attrition among older adults. PMID:26083773

46 CFR 111.60-4 - Minimum cable conductor size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Minimum cable conductor size. 111.60-4 Section 111.60-4...-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Wiring Materials and Methods § 111.60-4 Minimum cable conductor size. Each cable conductor must be #18 AWG (0.82 mm2) or larger except— (a) Each power and lighting cable conductor must be...

46 CFR 111.60-4 - Minimum cable conductor size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Minimum cable conductor size. 111.60-4 Section 111.60-4...-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Wiring Materials and Methods § 111.60-4 Minimum cable conductor size. Each cable conductor must be #18 AWG (0.82 mm2) or larger except— (a) Each power and lighting cable conductor must be...

Bilateral comparison of 10 pF and 100 pF standards (ongoing BIPM key comparisons BIPM.EM-K14.a and 14.b) between the NIS (Egypt) and the BIPM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gournay, Pierre; Helmy, M.; Raouf, A.; Hamed, Heba A. M.; Eliwa Gad, A.

2017-01-01

This report presents the results of a bilateral comparison of 10 pF and 100 pF capacitance standards between the NIS (Egypt) and the BIPM carried out in 2016. The comparison at 10 pF forms part of the ongoing BIPM key comparison BIPM.EM-K14.a and that at 100 pF of the ongoing BIPM key comparison BIPM.EM-K14.b. The BIPM is the pilot laboratory for both of these comparisons. Two 10 pF and 100 pF travelling standards belonging to the BIPM were used in this comparison carried out with an 'A-B-A' pattern of measurements. The standards were measured first at the BIPM for a period of about one month, then for a similar period at the NIS, and finally again at the BIPM. The measurand was the two terminal-pair capacitance at a frequency of either 1000 Hz or 1592 Hz, for a measuring rms voltage of 15 V at 10 pF and 10 V at 100 pF. One of the 10 pF travelling standards had to be eliminated from the comparison due to a bistable behaviour, possibly due to transportation. The results from the NIS and the BIPM at both 1000 Hz and 1592 Hz were found to be in good agreement, with a difference smaller than the relative expanded uncertainty (95 % confidence, k = 2) of about 0.72 × 10-6 at 10 pF and about 0.65 × 10-6 at 100 pF. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCEM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

DPF heater attachment mechanisms

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V [Pinckney, MI; Ament, Frank [Troy, MI

2011-04-26

An exhaust filter system includes a particulate filter (PF) that is disposed downstream from an engine. The PF filters particulates within an exhaust from the engine. A heating element heats particulate matter in the PF. A fastener limits expansion movement of the heating element relative to the PF.

Physics First: Impact on SAT Math Scores

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouma, Craig E.

Improving science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education has become a national priority and the call to modernize secondary science has been heard. A Physics First (PF) program with the curriculum sequence of physics, chemistry, and biology (PCB) driven by inquiry- and project-based learning offers a viable alternative to the traditional curricular sequence (BCP) and methods of teaching, but requires more empirical evidence. This study determined impact of a PF program (PF-PCB) on math achievement (SAT math scores) after the first two cohorts of students completed the PF-PCB program at Matteo Ricci High School (MRHS) and provided more quantitative data to inform the PF debate and advance secondary science education. Statistical analysis (ANCOVA) determined the influence of covariates and revealed that PF-PCB program had a significant (p < .05) impact on SAT math scores in the second cohort at MRHS. Statistically adjusted, the SAT math means for PF students were 21.4 points higher than their non-PF counterparts when controlling for prior math achievement (HSTP math), socioeconomic status (SES), and ethnicity/race.

Wiring assembly and method of forming a channel in a wiring assembly for receiving conductor and providing separate regions of conductor contact with the channel

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

Stelzer, Gerald; Meinke, Rainer; Senti, Mark

A conductor assembly and method for constructing an assembly of the type which, when conducting current, generates a magnetic field or which, in the presence of a changing magnetic field, induces a voltage. In one embodiment the method provides a first insulative layer tubular in shape and including a surface along which a conductor segment may be positioned. A channel formed in the surface of the insulative layer defines a first conductor path and includes a surface of first contour in cross section along a first plane transverse to the conductor path. A segment of conductor having a surface ofmore » second contour in cross section is positioned at least partly in the channel and extends along the conductor path. Along the first plane, contact between the conductor surface of second contour and the channel surface of first contour includes at least two separate regions of contact.« less

System providing limit switch function with simultaneous absolute position output

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alhorn, Dean C. (Inventor); Howard, David E. (Inventor); Smith, Dennis A. (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A limit and position sensing system includes a sensor assembly and an emitter. The sensor assembly includes first and second electrical conductors arranged in opposing parallel planes. The first electrical conductor is coiled outwardly from either end thereof in a clockwise fashion to form a first coil region and a second coil region. The second electrical conductor forms a single coil with portions of the single coil's rings lying between the first end and second end of the first electrical conductor being parallel to an axis of the first electrical conductor's plane. Ferromagnetic material is aligned with the first and second electrical conductors and spans beyond (a) the first and second ends of the first electrical conductor, and (b) the portions of the rings of the second electrical conductor's single coil that lie between the first end and second end of the first electrical conductor. The emitter is spaced apart from the sensor assembly and transmits a periodic electromagnetic wave towards the sensor assembly.

Bipolar pulse forming line

DOEpatents

Rhodes, Mark A.

2008-10-21

A bipolar pulse forming transmission line module for linear induction accelerators having first, second, third, fourth, and fifth planar conductors which form an interleaved stack with dielectric layers between the conductors. Each conductor has a first end, and a second end adjacent an acceleration axis. The first and second planar conductors are connected to each other at the second ends, the fourth and fifth planar conductors are connected to each other at the second ends, and the first and fifth planar conductors are connected to each other at the first ends via a shorting plate adjacent the first ends. The third planar conductor is electrically connectable to a high voltage source, and an internal switch functions to short a high voltage from the first end of the third planar conductor to the first end of the fourth planar conductor to produce a bipolar pulse at the acceleration axis with a zero net time integral. Improved access to the switch is enabled by an aperture through the shorting plate and the proximity of the aperture to the switch.

Unique Cardiac Purkinje Fiber Transient Outward Current β-Subunit Composition

PubMed Central

Xiao, Ling; Koopmann, Tamara T.; Ördög, Balázs; Postema, Pieter G.; Verkerk, Arie O.; Iyer, Vivek; Sampson, Kevin J.; Boink, Gerard J.J.; Mamarbachi, Maya A.; Varro, Andras; Jordaens, Luc; Res, Jan; Kass, Robert S.; Wilde, Arthur A.; Bezzina, C.R.; Nattel, Stanley

2015-01-01

Rationale A chromosomal haplotype producing cardiac overexpression of dipeptidyl peptidase-like protein-6 (DPP6) causes familial idiopathic ventricular fibrillation. The molecular basis of transient outward current (Ito) in Purkinje fibers (PFs) is poorly understood. We hypothesized that DPP6 contributes to PF Ito and that its overexpression might specifically alter PF Ito properties and repolarization. Objective To assess the potential role of DPP6 in PF Ito. Methods and Results Clinical data in 5 idiopathic ventricular fibrillation patients suggested arrhythmia origin in the PF-conducting system. PF and ventricular muscle Ito had similar density, but PF Ito differed from ventricular muscle in having tetraethylammonium sensitivity and slower recovery. DPP6 overexpression significantly increased, whereas DPP6 knockdown reduced, Ito density and tetraethylammonium sensitivity in canine PF but not in ventricular muscle cells. The K+-channel interacting β-subunit K+-channel interacting protein type-2, essential for normal expression of Ito in ventricular muscle, was weakly expressed in human PFs, whereas DPP6 and frequenin (neuronal calcium sensor-1) were enriched. Heterologous expression of Kv4.3 in Chinese hamster ovary cells produced small Ito; Ito amplitude was greatly enhanced by coexpression with K+-channel interacting protein type-2 or DPP6. Coexpression of DPP6 with Kv4.3 and K+-channel interacting protein type-2 failed to alter Ito compared with Kv4.3/K+-channel interacting protein type-2 alone, but DPP6 expression with Kv4.3 and neuronal calcium sensor-1 (to mimic PF Ito composition) greatly enhanced Ito compared with Kv4.3/neuronal calcium sensor-1 and recapitulated characteristic PF kinetic/pharmacological properties. A mathematical model of cardiac PF action potentials showed that Ito enhancement can greatly accelerate PF repolarization. Conclusions These results point to a previously unknown central role of DPP6 in PF Ito, with DPP6 gain of function selectively enhancing PF current, and suggest that a DPP6-mediated PF early-repolarization syndrome might be a novel molecular paradigm for some forms of idiopathic ventricular fibrillation. PMID:23532596

The Characterization of Obese Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Rat Model Suitable for Exercise Intervention

PubMed Central

Qiu, Shuwei; Jiang, Zhongli

2014-01-01

Objective To develop a new polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rat model suitable for exercise intervention. Method Thirty six rats were randomly divided into three experimental groups: PCOS rats with high-fat diet (PF, n = 24), PCOS rats with ordinary diet (PO, n = 6), and control rats with ordinary diet (CO, n = 6). Two kinds of PCOS rat model were made by adjustment diet structure and testosterone injection for 28 days. After a successful animal model, PF model rats were randomly assigned to three groups: exercise with a continuation of high-fat diet (PF-EF, n = 6), sedentary with a continuation of high-fat diet (PF-SF, n = 6), exercise with an ordinary diet (PF-EO, n = 6). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin (FINS), estrogen (E2), progesterone (P), and testosterone (T) in serum were determined by RIA, and ovarian morphology was evaluated by Image-Pro plus 6.0. Results Body weight, Lee index, FINS increased significantly in PF rat model. Serum levels of E2 and T were significantly higher in PF and PO than in CO. Ovary organ index and ovarian areas were significant lower in PF than in CO. After intervention for 2 weeks, the levels of 1 h postprandial blood glucose (PBG1), 2 h postprandial blood glucose (PBG2), FINS and the serum levels of T decreased significantly in PF-EF rats and PF-EO rats. The ratio of FBG/FINS was significant higher in PF-EO rats than in PF-SF rats. Ovarian morphology showed that the numbers of preantral follicles and atretic follicles decreased significantly, and the numbers of antral follicles and corpora lutea increased significantly in the rats of PF-EF and PF-EO. Conclusion By combination of high-fat diet and testosterone injection, the obese PCOS rat model is conformable with the lifestyle habits of fatty foods and insufficient exercise, and has metabolic and reproductive characteristics of human PCOS. This model can be applied to study exercise intervention. PMID:24905232

Push-pull radio frequency circuit with integral transistion to waveguide output

DOEpatents

Bennett, Wilfred P.

1987-01-01

A radio frequency circuit for ICRF heating includes a resonant push-pull circuit, a double ridged rectangular waveguide, and a coupling transition which joins the waveguide to the resonant circuit. The resonant circuit includes two cylindrical conductors mounted side by side and two power vacuum tubes attached to respective ends of a cylindrical conductor. A conductive yoke is located at the other end of the cylindrical conductors to short circuit the two cylindrical conductors. The coupling transition includes two relatively flat rectangular conductors extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of a respective cylindrical conductor to which the flat conductor is attached intermediate the ends thereof. Conductive side covers and end covers are also provided for forming pockets in the waveguide into which the flat conductors extend when the waveguide is attached to a shielding enclosure surrounding the resonant circuit.

Low levels of circulating platelet factor 4 (PF4, CXCL4) in subclinically hypothyroid autoimmune thyroiditis.

PubMed

Görar, S; Ademoğlu, E; Çarlıoğlu, A; Alioğlu, B; Bekdemir, H; Sağlam, B; Candan, Z; Üçler, R; Culha, C; Aral, Y

2016-02-01

Chemokines play an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune thyroid diseases. Platelet factor 4 (PF4, CXCL4) released from activated platelets is a chemokine. However, its clinical importance in autoimmune thyroiditis remains unknown. This study is intended to determine circulating levels of PF4 levels in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Circulating levels of PF4 were measured in 34 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed AIT and 18 euthyroid controls. Among AIT group, 16 patients were euthyroid and 18 had subclinic hypothyroidism. Controls and individuals with AIT were similar in terms of age. Serum levels of PF4 were comparable in patients with AIT and in controls. Among patients with AIT, PF4 was significantly lower in those with subclinical hypothyroidism than in euthyroid individuals (p = 0.001). In correlation analysis, PF4 was negatively correlated with TSH (r = -0.663, p = 0.000) and positively correlated with free T4 (r = 0.428, p = 0.012). There was not any significant correlation between PF4 and AbTPO, AbTg. The present study demonstrated for the first time that circulating PF4 levels are decreased in subclinically hypothyroid AIT. This result draws attention to the circulating PF4 levels in subclinically hypothyroid AIT and may shed light on further researches at this topic.

The Clp Chaperones and Proteases of the Human Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum

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

M El Bakkouri; A Pow; A Mulichak

The Clpchaperones and proteases play an important role in protein homeostasis in the cell. They are highly conserved across prokaryotes and found also in the mitochondria of eukaryotes and the chloroplasts of plants. They function mainly in the disaggregation, unfolding and degradation of native as well as misfolded proteins. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the Clpchaperones and proteases in the humanmalariaparasitePlasmodiumfalciparum. The parasite contains four Clp ATPases, which we term PfClpB1, PfClpB2, PfClpC and PfClpM. One PfClpP, the proteolytic subunit, and one PfClpR, which is an inactive version of the protease, were also identified. Expression of all Clpchaperonesmore » and proteases was confirmed in blood-stage parasites. The proteins were localized to the apicoplast, a non-photosynthetic organelle that accommodates several important metabolic pathways in P. falciparum, with the exception of PfClpB2 (also known as Hsp101), which was found in the parasitophorous vacuole. Both PfClpP and PfClpR form mostly homoheptameric rings as observed by size-exclusion chromatography, analytical ultracentrifugation and electron microscopy. The X-ray structure of PfClpP showed the protein as a compacted tetradecamer similar to that observed for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpPs. Our data suggest the presence of a ClpCRP complex in the apicoplast of P. falciparum.« less

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

Park, Jeong Su; Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-752; Kang, Dong Hoon

p70 ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) is an important serine/threonine kinase and downstream target of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway. PF-4708671 is a specific inhibitor of S6K1, and prevents S6K1-mediated phosphorylation of the S6 protein. PF-4708671 treatment often leads to apoptotic cell death. However, the protective mechanism against PF-4708671-induced cell death has not been elucidated. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) pathway is essential for protecting cells against oxidative stress. p62, an adaptor protein in the autophagic process, enhances Nrf2 activation through the impairment of Keap1 activity. In thismore » study, we showed that PF-4708671 induces autophagic Keap1 degradation-mediated Nrf2 activation in p62-dependent manner. Furthermore, p62-dependent Nrf2 activation plays a crucial role in protecting cells from PF-4708671-mediated apoptosis. - Highlights: • PF-4708671, a S6K1-specific inhibitor, prevents S6K1-mediated S6 phosphorylation. • However, PF-4708671 treatment often leads to apoptotic cell death. • Protective mechanism against PF-4708671-induced cell death remains to be elucidated. • PF-4708671 induced p62-dependent, autophagic Keap1 degradation-mediated Nrf2 activation. • p62-dependent Nrf2 activation protects cells from PF-4708671-mediated apoptosis.« less

Determination of PF-04928473 in human plasma using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry

PubMed Central

Jain, Lokesh; Gardner, Erin R.; Venitz, Jürgen; Giaccone, Giuseppe; Houk, Brett E.; Figg, William D.

2010-01-01

A simple, rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric (LC/MS/MS) analytical method was developed for quantification of Hsp90 inhibitor PF-04928473 in human plasma, following administration of its prodrug, PF-04929113. Sample processing involved protein precipitation by addition of 0.4 mL of methanol containing internal standard (PF-04972487) to 50 μL volume of plasma sample. Chromatographic separation of PF-04928473 and PF-04972487 was achieved on a Phenomenex® Luna C18(2) (2.0×50 mm, 5 μm) column using a gradient elution method with mobile phase solvents: methanol containing 0.1% formic acid and 0.1% formic acid at a flow rate of 0.25 mL/min. Detection was performed in electrospray positive ionization mode, monitoring the ion transitions from m/z 465.1→350.1 (PF-04928473) and m/z 447.0→329.1 (PF-04972487). The retention times for PF-04928473 and PF-04972487 were 1.86 and 2.85 minutes, respectively. Calibration curves were generated in the range of 2–2000 ng/mL. The accuracy and precision ranged from 94.1–99.0% and 86.7–97.6%, respectively, which were calculated using quality control samples of three different concentrations analyzed in quintuplicate on four different days. PMID:20951100

33 CFR 183.435 - Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of 50... Requirements § 183.435 Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... nominal circuit voltage of each of three or more current carrying conductors in a duct, bundle, or cable...

33 CFR 183.435 - Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of 50... Requirements § 183.435 Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... nominal circuit voltage of each of three or more current carrying conductors in a duct, bundle, or cable...

33 CFR 183.435 - Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of 50... Requirements § 183.435 Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... nominal circuit voltage of each of three or more current carrying conductors in a duct, bundle, or cable...

33 CFR 183.435 - Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of 50... Requirements § 183.435 Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... nominal circuit voltage of each of three or more current carrying conductors in a duct, bundle, or cable...

33 CFR 183.435 - Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of 50... Requirements § 183.435 Conductors in circuits of 50 volts or more. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... nominal circuit voltage of each of three or more current carrying conductors in a duct, bundle, or cable...

Non-binding conductor load bearing roller for a gas-insulated transmission line having a corrugated outer conductor

DOEpatents

Fischer, William H.

1984-01-01

A gas-insulated transmission line includes a corrugated outer conductor, an inner conductor disposed within and insulated from the outer conductor by means of support insulators and an insulating gas, and a non-binding transport device for supporting and permitting movement of the inner conductor/insulating support assembly axially along the corrugated outer conductor without radial displacement and for moving without binding along corrugations of any slope less than vertical. The transport device includes two movable contacts, such as skids or rollers, supported on a common pivot lever, the pivot lever being rotatably disposed about a pivot lever axis, which pivot lever axis is in turn disposed on the periphery of a support insulator or particle trap if one is used. The movable contacts are separated axially a distance equal to the axial distance between the peaks and valleys of the corrugations of the outer conductor and separated radially a distance equal to the radial distance between the peaks and valleys of the corrugations of the outer conductor. The transport device has the pivot lever axis disposed parallel to the motion of travel of the inner conductor/insulating support assembly.

Electric generator

DOEpatents

Foster, Jr., John S.; Wilson, James R.; McDonald, Jr., Charles A.

1983-01-01

1. In an electrical energy generator, the combination comprising a first elongated annular electrical current conductor having at least one bare surface extending longitudinally and facing radially inwards therein, a second elongated annular electrical current conductor disposed coaxially within said first conductor and having an outer bare surface area extending longitudinally and facing said bare surface of said first conductor, the contiguous coaxial areas of said first and second conductors defining an inductive element, means for applying an electrical current to at least one of said conductors for generating a magnetic field encompassing said inductive element, and explosive charge means disposed concentrically with respect to said conductors including at least the area of said inductive element, said explosive charge means including means disposed to initiate an explosive wave front in said explosive advancing longitudinally along said inductive element, said wave front being effective to progressively deform at least one of said conductors to bring said bare surfaces thereof into electrically conductive contact to progressively reduce the inductance of the inductive element defined by said conductors and transferring explosive energy to said magnetic field effective to generate an electrical potential between undeformed portions of said conductors ahead of said explosive wave front.

Keeping an eye on the conductor: neural correlates of visuo-motor synchronization and musical experience.

PubMed

Ono, Kentaro; Nakamura, Akinori; Maess, Burkhard

2015-01-01

For orchestra musicians, synchronized playing under a conductor's direction is necessary to achieve optimal performance. Previous studies using simple auditory/visual stimuli have reported cortico-subcortical networks underlying synchronization and that training improves the accuracy of synchronization. However, it is unclear whether people who played regularly under a conductor and non-musicians activate the same networks when synchronizing with a conductor's gestures. We conducted a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiment testing nonmusicians and musicians who regularly play music under a conductor. Participants were required to tap the rhythm they perceived from silent movies displaying either conductor's gestures or a swinging metronome. Musicians performed tapping under a conductor with more precision than nonmusicians. Results from fMRI measurement showed greater activity in the anterior part of the left superior frontal gyrus (SFG) in musicians with more frequent practice under a conductor. Conversely, tapping with the metronome did not show any difference between musicians and nonmusicians, indicating that the expertize effect in tapping under the conductor does not result in a general increase in tapping performance for musicians. These results suggest that orchestra musicians have developed an advanced ability to predict conductor's next action from the gestures.

The mechanical and thermal characteristics of phenolic foam reinforced with kaolin powder and glass fiber fabric

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Wenya; Huang, Zhixiong; Ding, Jie

2017-12-01

In this work, kaolin powder and glass fiber fabric were added to PF in order to improve its thermal stability and mechanical property. Micro-structures of carbonized PF with kaolin powder were inspected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to demonstrate the filler’s pinning effect. SEM results illustrated modified PF had well morphology after high-temperature heat treatment. The Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) test was carried out and found that kaolin powder only physically dispersed in PF. The compression test and thermal weight loss test were done on two groups of modified PF (Group A: add powder and fabric; Group B: add powder only). Results showed that all modified PF were better than pure PF, while foams with powder and fabric showed better mechanical characteristic and thermal stability compared with foams with powder only.

Beneficial influence of topical extra virgin olive oil application on an experimental model of penile fracture in rats.

PubMed

Gunes, Mustafa; Ozkol, Halil; Pirincci, Necip; Gecit, Ilhan; Bilici, Salim; Yildirim, Serkan

2015-08-01

Penile fracture (PF) is known as a traumatic rupture of the tunica albuginea of corpus cavernosum. In this study, we aimed to investigate the healing influence of topical extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on PF through evaluating levels of some oxidative stress biomarkers for the first time. Histopathological evaluation was also realized. A total of 18 male Sprague-Dawley albino rats were divided into three groups of six rats each as control group, in PF (alone) group, and PF + EVOO group. Experimental PF was formed via incising from the proximal dorsal side of the penis in the rats of all groups except control. While in PF (alone) group, fracture was formed and the incision was primarily closed, in PF + EVOO group in addition to foregoing processes, EVOO was also administrated topically twice a day for 3 weeks. At the end of the experiment, all rats were killed and penectomy was carried out. While malondialdehyde, myeloperoxidase, lipid hyroperoxide, and total oxidant status significantly (p < 0.05) increased, reduced glutathione and total free sulfhydryl groups markedly (p < 0.05) decreased in PF (alone) group when compared with PF + EVOO group. Levels of these parameters were reversed to nearly normal values by topical EVOO application. Protection by EVOO is further substantiated via the improved histological findings in PF + EVOO group as against degenerative changes in the rats of PF (alone) group. Our data revealed that EVOO has protective effect in penile cavernosal tissue through probably its antioxidant, free radical defusing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. © The Author(s) 2013.

Pleural effusion levels of DJ-1 are increased in elderly lung cancer patients with malignant pleural effusions.

PubMed

Vavougios, George; Kerenidi, Theodora; Tsilioni, Irene; Zarogiannis, Sotirios G; Gourgoulianis, Konstantinos I

2015-01-01

DJ-1 is a multifunctional protein implicated in redox dependent cell fate decisions. The aim of our study was to determine the pleural fluid (PF) levels of DJ-1 in malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) secondary to lung cancer. Additionally, we opted to assess potential correlations of DJ-1 PF levels with the PF levels of superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1) and 8-isoprostane that are known antioxidant enzymes and have been previously reported in MPEs. Forty lung cancer patients with cytological proof of MPE were enrolled in this study. The PF levels of DJ-1, SOD1, and 8-isoprostane were measured by means of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The median PF levels of DJ-1 were 826 ng/mL (interquartile range, IQR: 482-1010 ng/mL). DJ-1 PF levels significantly correlated with PF Cu/Zn-SOD1 and PF 8-isoprostane levels (Spearman's rho, r; r = -0.476, P = 0.002 and r = -0.264, P = 0.033, respectively), PF lactate dehydrogenase (r = -0.497, P = 0.001) and total PF cell counts (r = -0.325, P = 0.041). Finally, in patients aged over 65 the PF DJ-1 levels were significantly higher than patients aged less than 65 (875 ng/mL vs. 607 ng/mL, respectively, P = 0.037). To our knowledge, this is the first report to determine DJ-1's levels in MPEs due to lung cancer. The negative correlations between DJ-1, SOD1, and 8-isorpostane warrant further investigation regarding the altered redox regulation associated with MPEs.

Electric/magnetic field sensor

DOEpatents

Schill, Jr., Robert A.; Popek, Marc [Las Vegas, NV

2009-01-27

A UNLV novel electric/magnetic dot sensor includes a loop of conductor having two ends to the loop, a first end and a second end; the first end of the conductor seamlessly secured to a first conductor within a first sheath; the second end of the conductor seamlessly secured to a second conductor within a second sheath; and the first sheath and the second sheath positioned adjacent each other. The UNLV novel sensor can be made by removing outer layers in a segment of coaxial cable, leaving a continuous link of essentially uncovered conductor between two coaxial cable legs.

Conductor-polymer composite electrode materials

DOEpatents

Ginley, D.S.; Kurtz, S.R.; Smyrl, W.H.; Zeigler, J.M.

1984-06-13

A conductive composite material useful as an electrode, comprises a conductor and an organic polymer which is reversibly electrochemically dopable to change its electrical conductivity. Said polymer continuously surrounds the conductor in intimate electrical contact therewith and is prepared by electrochemical growth on said conductor or by reaction of its corresponding monomer(s) on said conductor which has been pre-impregnated or pre-coated with an activator for said polymerization. Amount of the conductor is sufficient to render the resultant composite electrically conductive even when the polymer is in an undoped insulating state.

Flat conductor cable design, manufacture, and installation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Angele, W.; Hankins, J. D.

1973-01-01

Pertinent information for hardware selection, design, manufacture, and quality control necessary for flat conductor cable interconnecting harness application is presented. Comparisons are made between round wire cable and flat conductor cable. The flat conductor cable interconnecting harness systems show major cost, weight, and space savings, plus increased system performance and reliability. The design application section includes electrical characteristics, harness design and development, and a full treatise on EMC considerations. Manufacturing and quality control sections pertain primarily to the developed conductor-contact connector system and special flat conductor cable to round wire cable transitions.

Conductors for commercial MRI magnets beyond NbTi: requirements and challenges.

PubMed

Parizh, Michael; Lvovsky, Yuri; Sumption, Michael

2017-01-01

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), a powerful medical diagnostic tool, is the largest commercial application of superconductivity. The superconducting magnet is the largest and most expensive component of an MRI system. The magnet configuration is determined by competing requirements including optimized functional performance, patient comfort, ease of siting in a hospital environment, minimum acquisition and lifecycle cost including service. In this paper, we analyze conductor requirements for commercial MRI magnets beyond traditional NbTi conductors, while avoiding links to a particular magnet configuration or design decisions. Potential conductor candidates include MgB 2 , ReBCO and BSCCO options. The analysis shows that no MRI-ready non-NbTi conductor is commercially available at the moment. For some conductors, MRI specifications will be difficult to achieve in principle. For others, cost is a key barrier. In some cases, the prospects for developing an MRI-ready conductor are more favorable, but significant developments are still needed. The key needs include the development of, or significant improvements in: (a) conductors specifically designed for MRI applications, with form-fit-and-function readily integratable into the present MRI magnet technology with minimum modifications. Preferably, similar conductors should be available from multiple vendors; (b) conductors with improved quench characteristics, i.e. the ability to carry significant current without damage while in the resistive state; (c) insulation which is compatible with manufacturing and refrigeration technologies; (d) dramatic increases in production and long-length quality control, including large-volume conductor manufacturing technology. In-situ MgB 2 is, perhaps, the closest to meeting commercial and technical requirements to become suitable for commercial MRI. Conductor technology is an important, but not the only, issue in introduction of HTS / MgB 2 conductor into commercial MRI magnets. These new conductors, even when they meet the above requirements, will likely require numerous modifications and developments in the associated magnet technology.

Conductors for commercial MRI magnets beyond NbTi: requirements and challenges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parizh, Michael; Lvovsky, Yuri; Sumption, Michael

2017-01-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a powerful medical diagnostic tool, is the largest commercial application of superconductivity. The superconducting magnet is the largest and most expensive component of an MRI system. The magnet configuration is determined by competing requirements including optimized functional performance, patient comfort, ease of siting in a hospital environment, minimum acquisition and lifecycle cost including service. In this paper, we analyze conductor requirements for commercial MRI magnets beyond traditional NbTi conductors, while avoiding links to a particular magnet configuration or design decisions. Potential conductor candidates include MgB2, ReBCO and BSCCO options. The analysis shows that no MRI-ready non-NbTi conductor is commercially available at the moment. For some conductors, MRI specifications will be difficult to achieve in principle. For others, cost is a key barrier. In some cases, the prospects for developing an MRI-ready conductor are more favorable, but significant developments are still needed. The key needs include the development of, or significant improvements in: (a) conductors specifically designed for MRI applications, with form-fit-and-function readily integratable into the present MRI magnet technology with minimum modifications. Preferably, similar conductors should be available from multiple vendors; (b) conductors with improved quench characteristics, i.e. the ability to carry significant current without damage while in the resistive state; (c) insulation which is compatible with manufacturing and refrigeration technologies; (d) dramatic increases in production and long-length quality control, including large-volume conductor manufacturing technology. In-situ MgB2 is, perhaps, the closest to meeting commercial and technical requirements to become suitable for commercial MRI. Conductor technology is an important, but not the only, issue in introduction of HTS/MgB2 conductor into commercial MRI magnets. These new conductors, even when they meet the above requirements, will likely require numerous modifications and developments in the associated magnet technology.

Conductors for commercial MRI magnets beyond NbTi: requirements and challenges

PubMed Central

Parizh, Michael; Lvovsky, Yuri; Sumption, Michael

2016-01-01

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), a powerful medical diagnostic tool, is the largest commercial application of superconductivity. The superconducting magnet is the largest and most expensive component of an MRI system. The magnet configuration is determined by competing requirements including optimized functional performance, patient comfort, ease of siting in a hospital environment, minimum acquisition and lifecycle cost including service. In this paper, we analyze conductor requirements for commercial MRI magnets beyond traditional NbTi conductors, while avoiding links to a particular magnet configuration or design decisions. Potential conductor candidates include MgB2, ReBCO and BSCCO options. The analysis shows that no MRI-ready non-NbTi conductor is commercially available at the moment. For some conductors, MRI specifications will be difficult to achieve in principle. For others, cost is a key barrier. In some cases, the prospects for developing an MRI-ready conductor are more favorable, but significant developments are still needed. The key needs include the development of, or significant improvements in: (a) conductors specifically designed for MRI applications, with form-fit-and-function readily integratable into the present MRI magnet technology with minimum modifications. Preferably, similar conductors should be available from multiple vendors; (b) conductors with improved quench characteristics, i.e. the ability to carry significant current without damage while in the resistive state; (c) insulation which is compatible with manufacturing and refrigeration technologies; (d) dramatic increases in production and long-length quality control, including large-volume conductor manufacturing technology. In-situ MgB2 is, perhaps, the closest to meeting commercial and technical requirements to become suitable for commercial MRI. Conductor technology is an important, but not the only, issue in introduction of HTS / MgB2 conductor into commercial MRI magnets. These new conductors, even when they meet the above requirements, will likely require numerous modifications and developments in the associated magnet technology. PMID:28626340

Lithium insertion in graphite from ternary ionic liquid-lithium salt electrolytes: II. Evaluation of specific capacity and cycling efficiency and stability at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lux, Simon F.; Schmuck, Martin; Appetecchi, Giovanni B.; Passerini, Stefano; Winter, Martin; Balducci, Andrea

In this paper we report the results about the use of ternary room temperature ionic liquid-lithium salt mixtures as electrolytes for lithium-ion battery systems. Mixtures of N-methyl- N-propyl pyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide, PYR 13FSI, and N-butyl- N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethansulfonyl) imide, PYR 14TFSI, with lithium hexafluorophosphate, LiPF 6 and lithium bis(trifluoromethansulfonyl) imide, LiTFSI, containing 5 wt.% of vinylene carbonate (VC) as additive, have been used in combination with a commercial graphite, KS6 TIMCAL. The performance of the graphite electrodes has been considered in term of specific capacity, cycling efficiency and cycling stability. The results clearly show the advantage of the use of ternary mixtures on the performance of the graphite electrode.

Miniature intermittent contact switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sword, A.

1972-01-01

Design of electric switch for providing intermittent contact is presented. Switch consists of flexible conductor surrounding, but separated from, fixed conductor. Flexing of outside conductor to contact fixed conductor completes circuit. Advantage is small size of switch compared to standard switches.

Reactive conductors for increased efficiency of exploding foil initiators and other detonators

DOEpatents

Morris, Christopher J.; Wilkins, Paul; May, Chadd; Zakar, Eugene

2015-05-05

Provided among other things are reactive energetic material systems used for conductors in detonators for increased efficiencies. According to an embodiment, a detonator may include: a conductor including at least two constituents including (i) an electrically conductive constituent, and (ii) an electrically non-conductive constituent, that when subjected to sufficient electrical energy, result in an exothermic reaction; and a flyer plate having a non-conductive surface in contact with said conductor. When the sufficient electrical energy is supplied to said conductor, rapid heating and vaporization of at least a portion of the conductor occurs so as to explosively drive at least a portion of the flyer plate away from said conductor. In an embodiment, a multilayer conductor may be formed of alternating layers of at least one electrically conductive layer, and at least one electrically non-conductive layer, that when subjected to sufficient electrical energy, result in an exothermic reaction.

Electrically heated particulate filter regeneration using hydrocarbon adsorbents

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V [Pinckney, MI; Ament, Frank [Troy, MI

2011-02-01

An exhaust system that processes exhaust generated by an engine is provided. The system generally includes a particulate filter (PF) that filters particulates from the exhaust wherein an upstream end of the PF receives exhaust from the engine. A grid of electrically resistive material selectively heats exhaust passing through the upstream end to initiate combustion of particulates within the PF. A hydrocarbon adsorbent coating applied to the PF releases hydrocarbons into the exhaust to increase a temperature of the combustion of the particulates within the PF.

Application of thermogravimetric studies for optimization of lithium hexafluorophosphate production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smagin, A. A.; Matyukha, V. A.; Korobtsev, V. P.

Lithium hexafluorophosphate, isolated from hydrogen fluoride solution (anhydrous) by decanting and filtering, is an adduct of composition LiPF 6*HF. By thermogravimetric investigations the dynamics of HF removal from LiPF 6 by LiPF 6*HF thermal decomposition was studied. Based on the experimental data the constants entering into the equations as C = C0*exp( t*K0* exp(- E/RT)) were calculated, explaining the thermal decomposition processes of LiPF 6*HF and LiPF 6.

High-field double-pancake superconducting coils and a method of winding

DOEpatents

Materna, P.A.

1984-01-31

A double-pancake coil having first and second pancakes may comprise a plurality of conductor means, each conductor means having a different grade and having one or more conductors, wherein each pancake of said double-pancake coil is comprised of inner and outer turns; wherein said inner turns are comprised of at least one of said conductor means wound about an axis and nested within one another; wherein said outer turns are comprised of said inner conductor means and at least one other conductor means co-wound about said inner turns and nested within one another; wherein each of said conductor means is wound along said axis from said first pancake to said second pancake at a different turn.

High-field double-pancake superconducting coils and a method of winding

DOEpatents

Materna, Peter A.

1985-01-01

A double-pancake coil having first and second pancakes may comprise a plurality of conductor means, each conductor means having a different grade and having one or more conductors, wherein each pancake of said double-pancake coil is comprised of inner and outer turns; wherein said inner turns are comprised of at least one of said conductor means wound about an axis and nested within one another; wherein said outer turns are comprised of said inner conductor means and at least one other conductor means co-wound about said inner turns and nested within one another; wherein each of said conductor means is wound along said axis from said first pancake to said second pancake at a different turn.

10 years of protein crystallography at AR-NW12A beamline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chavas, L. M. G.; Yamada, Y.; Hiraki, M.; Igarashi, N.; Matsugaki, N.; Wakatsuki, S.

2013-03-01

The exponential growth of protein crystallography can be observed in the continuously increasing demand for synchrotron beam time, both from academic and industrial users. Nowadays, the screening of a profusion of sample crystals for more and more projects is being implemented by taking advantage of fully automated procedures at every level of the experiments. The insertion device AR-NW12A beamline is one of the five macromolecular crystallography (MX) beamlines at the Photon Factory (PF). Currently the oldest MX beamline operational at the High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK), the end-station was launched in 2001 as part of an upgrade of the PF Advanced Ring. Since its commissioning, AR-NW12A has been operating as a high-throughput beamline, slowly evolving to a multipurpose end-station for MX experiments. The development of the beamline took place about a decade ago, in parallel with a drastic development of protein crystallography and more general synchrotron technology. To keep the beamline up-to-date and competitive with other MX stations in Japan and worldwide, new features have been constantly added, with the goal of user friendliness of the various beamline optics and other instruments. Here we describe the evolution of AR-NW12A for its tenth anniversary. We also discuss the plans for upgrades for AR-NW12A, the future objectives in terms of the beamline developments, and especially the strong desire to open the beamline to a larger user community.

30 CFR 56.12010 - Isolation or insulation of communication conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conductors. 56.12010 Section 56.12010 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF... MINES Electricity § 56.12010 Isolation or insulation of communication conductors. Telephone and low... energized power conductors or any other power source. ...

30 CFR 56.12010 - Isolation or insulation of communication conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... conductors. 56.12010 Section 56.12010 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF... MINES Electricity § 56.12010 Isolation or insulation of communication conductors. Telephone and low... energized power conductors or any other power source. ...

Study of soft X-ray emission during wire array implosion under plasma focus conditions at the PF-3 facility

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

Dan’ko, S. A.; Mitrofanov, K. N., E-mail: mitrofan@triniti.ru; Krauz, V. I.

2015-11-15

Results of measurements of soft X-ray emission with photon energies of <1 keV under conditions of a plasma focus (PF) experiment are presented. The experiments were carried out at the world’s largest PF device—the PF-3 Filippov-type facility (I ⩽ 3 MA, T/4 ≈ 15–20 µs, W{sub 0} ⩽ 3 MJ). X-ray emission from both a discharge in pure neon and with a tungsten wire array placed on the axis of the discharge chamber was detected. The wire array imploded under the action of the electric current intercepted from the plasma current sheath of the PF discharge in neon. The measuredmore » soft X-ray powers from a conventional PF discharge in gas and a PF discharge in the presence of a wire array were compared for the first time.« less

Treasure Na-ion anode from trash coke by adept electrolyte selection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cabello, Marta; Chyrka, Taras; Klee, Rafael; Aragón, María J.; Bai, Xue; Lavela, Pedro; Vasylchenko, Gennadiy M.; Alcántara, Ricardo; Tirado, José L.; Ortiz, Gregorio F.

2017-04-01

Converting 'trash' waste residua to active functional materials 'treasure' with high added value is being regarded as a promising way to achieve the sustainable energy demands. Carbonaceous materials cannot insert sodium except when graphite co-intercalates solvents such as diglyme. Here, we show that petroleum coke and shale coke annealed at different temperatures can also insert sodium by reversible intercalation phenomena in a diglyme-based electrolyte. The structural and morphological studies will reveal significant differences justifying their distinct electrochemical behavior. Galvanostatic tests exhibit a flat plateau at about 0.7 V ascribable to the reversible reaction. At the end of the discharge, a Stage-I ternary intercalation compound is detected. Two diglyme molecules are co-intercalated per alkali ion, as evidenced by 1-D Patterson diagrams, FTIR and TGA analyses. The full sodium-ion cell made with P-2500/NaPF6(diglyme)/Na3V2(PO4)3 delivered an initial reversible capacity of 75 mA h g-1 at C rate and an average potential of 2.7 V. Thus, the full cell provides an energy density of 202 W h kg-1. This sodium-ion system can be considered a promising power source that encourages the potential use of low-cost energy storage systems.

The 16PF Tradition in Contemporary Personality Assessment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krug, Samuel E.

The 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire (16PF), which is reviewed historically in this essay, represents a unique and significant chapter in the history of personality assessment. During the first 20 years of its existence, the 16PF underwent numerous revisions and restandardizations. During that period, R. B. Cattell, the creator of the 16PF,…

A sugar phosphatase regulates the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway in malaria parasites

PubMed Central

Edwards, Rachel L.; Kelly, Megan L.; Hodge, Dana M.; Tolia, Niraj H.; Odom, Audrey R.

2014-01-01

Isoprenoid biosynthesis through the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway generates commercially important products and is a target for antimicrobial drug development. MEP pathway regulation is poorly understood in microorganisms. We employ a forward genetics approach to understand MEP pathway regulation in the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. The antimalarial fosmidomycin inhibits the MEP pathway enzyme deoxyxylulose 5-phosphate reductoisomerase (DXR). Fosmidomycin-resistant P. falciparum are enriched for changes in the PF3D7_1033400 locus (hereafter referred to as PfHAD1), encoding a homologue of haloacid dehalogenase (HAD)-like sugar phosphatases. We describe the structural basis for loss-of-function PfHAD1 alleles and find that PfHAD1 dephosphorylates a variety of sugar phosphates, including glycolytic intermediates. Loss of PfHAD1 is required for fosmidomycin resistance. Parasites lacking PfHAD1 have increased MEP pathway metabolites, particularly the DXR substrate, deoxyxylulose 5-phosphate. PfHAD1 therefore controls substrate availability to the MEP pathway. Because PfHAD1 has homologs in plants and bacteria, other HAD proteins may be MEP pathway regulators. PMID:25058848

Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein-1 specifically suppresses early production of host interferon-gamma.

PubMed

D'Ombrain, Marthe C; Voss, Till S; Maier, Alexander G; Pearce, J Andrew; Hansen, Diana S; Cowman, Alan F; Schofield, Louis

2007-08-16

Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein-1 (PfEMP-1) is a variable antigen expressed by P. falciparum, the malarial parasite. PfEMP-1, present on the surface of infected host erythrocytes, mediates erythrocyte binding to vascular endothelium, enabling the parasite to avoid splenic clearance. In addition, PfEMP-1 is proposed to regulate host immune responses via interactions with the CD36 receptor on antigen-presenting cells. We investigated the immunoregulatory function of PfEMP-1 by comparing host cell responses to erythrocytes infected with either wild-type parasites or transgenic parasites lacking PfEMP-1. We showed that PfEMP-1 suppresses the production of the cytokine interferon-gamma by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells early after exposure to P. falciparum. Suppression of this rapid proinflammatory response was CD36 independent and specific to interferon-gamma production by gammadelta-T, NK, and alphabeta-T cells. These data demonstrate a parasite strategy for downregulating the proinflammatory interferon-gamma response and further establish transgenic parasites lacking PfEMP-1 as powerful tools for elucidating PfEMP-1 functions.

Investigation on Polylactide (PLA)/Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/Bark Flour of Plane Tree (PF) Eco-Composites

PubMed Central

Dou, Qiang; Cai, Jun

2016-01-01

Polylactide (PLA)/poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT)/bark flour of plane tree (PF) eco-composites were prepared via melt blending. The morphologies, mechanical properties, crystal structures and melting and crystallization behaviors of the eco-composites were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical tests, polarized light microscopy (PLM), wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), respectively. It is shown that the interfacial adhesion between PLA matrix and PF is weak and the mechanical properties of PLA/PF eco-composites are poor. The titanate treatment improves the adhesion between the matrix and the filler and enhances the stiffness of the eco-composites. The toughness is improved by PBAT and ductile fractured surfaces can be found. The spherulitic size of PLA is decreased by the addition of PF. The α crystalline form of PLA remains in the composites. Compared with PF, T-PF (PF treated by a titanate coupling agent) and PBAT have negative effects on the crystallization of PLA. PMID:28773515

Interaction of PF4 (CXCL4) with the vasculature: a role in atherosclerosis and angiogenesis.

PubMed

Aidoudi, Sallouha; Bikfalvi, Andreas

2010-11-01

Platelet factor-4 (PF4), a platelet-derived chemokine, has two important functions in the vasculature. It has a pro-atherogenic role while also having anti-angiogenic effects. The activity of platelet factor-4 (PF4), unlike other chemokines that bind to specific receptors, depends on its unusually high affinity for proteoglycans and other negatively charged molecules. High affinity for heparan sulfates was thought to be central to all of PF4's biological functions. However, other mechanisms have been described such as direct growth factor binding, activation of the CXCR3B chemokine receptor isoform that is present in some vascular cells or binding to lipoprotein-related protein-1 (LRP1). Furthermore, PF4 also binds to integrins with affinities similar to matrix molecules. These interactions may explain the effects of PF4 in healthy and pathological tissues. However, the mechanisms involved in PF4's activity are complex and may depend on a given tissue or localisation. Overall, while much is already known about PF4, its specific role in atherosclerosis and angiogenesis remains still to be clarified.

A homeodomain transcription factor gene, PfMSX, activates expression of Pif gene in the pearl oyster Pinctada fucata.

PubMed

Zhao, Mi; He, Maoxian; Huang, Xiande; Wang, Qi

2014-01-01

We reported pearl oyster Pinctada fucata cDNA and genomic characterization of a new homeobox-containing protein, PfMSX. The PfMSX gene encodes a transcription factor that was localized to the nucleus. Analyses of PfMSX mRNA in tissues and developmental stages showed high expressions in mantle or D-shaped larvae. In electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) PfMSX binded to MSX consensus binding sites in the 5' flanking region of the Pif promoter. In co-transfection experiment PfMSX transactivated reporter constructs containing Pif promoter sequences, and mutation of the MSX-binding sites attenuated transactivation. A knockdown experiment using PfMSX dsRNA showed decreased Pif mRNA and unregular crystallization of the nacreous layer using scanning electron microscopy. Our results suggested that PfMSX was a conserved homeodomain transcription factor gene, which can activate Pif gene expression through MSX binding site, and was then involved in the mineralization process in pearl oyster Pinctada fucata. Our data provided important clues about mechanisms regulating biomineralization in pearl oyster.

Characterization and Structural Studies of the Plasmodium falciparum Ubiquitin and Nedd8 Hydrolase UCHL3

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

Artavanis-Tsakonas, Katerina; Weihofen, Wilhelm A.; Antos, John M.

Like their human hosts, Plasmodium falciparum parasites rely on the ubiquitin-proteasome system for survival. We previously identified PfUCHL3, a deubiquitinating enzyme, and here we characterize its activity and changes in active site architecture upon binding to ubiquitin. We find strong evidence that PfUCHL3 is essential to parasite survival. The crystal structures of both PfUCHL3 alone and in complex with the ubiquitin-based suicide substrate UbVME suggest a rather rigid active site crossover loop that likely plays a role in restricting the size of ubiquitin adduct substrates. Molecular dynamics simulations of the structures and a model of the PfUCHL3-PfNedd8 complex allowed themore » identification of shared key interactions of ubiquitin and PfNedd8 with PfUCHL3, explaining the dual specificity of this enzyme. Distinct differences observed in ubiquitin binding between PfUCHL3 and its human counterpart make it likely that the parasitic DUB can be selectively targeted while leaving the human enzyme unaffected.« less

A Homeodomain Transcription Factor Gene, PfMSX, Activates Expression of Pif Gene in the Pearl Oyster Pinctada fucata

PubMed Central

Zhao, Mi; He, Maoxian; Huang, Xiande; Wang, Qi

2014-01-01

We reported pearl oyster Pinctada fucata cDNA and genomic characterization of a new homeobox-containing protein, PfMSX. The PfMSX gene encodes a transcription factor that was localized to the nucleus. Analyses of PfMSX mRNA in tissues and developmental stages showed high expressions in mantle or D-shaped larvae. In electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) PfMSX binded to MSX consensus binding sites in the 5′ flanking region of the Pif promoter. In co-transfection experiment PfMSX transactivated reporter constructs containing Pif promoter sequences, and mutation of the MSX-binding sites attenuated transactivation. A knockdown experiment using PfMSX dsRNA showed decreased Pif mRNA and unregular crystallization of the nacreous layer using scanning electron microscopy. Our results suggested that PfMSX was a conserved homeodomain transcription factor gene, which can activate Pif gene expression through MSX binding site, and was then involved in the mineralization process in pearl oyster Pinctada fucata. Our data provided important clues about mechanisms regulating biomineralization in pearl oyster. PMID:25099698

Iron stores of breastfed infants during the first year of life.

PubMed

Ziegler, Ekhard E; Nelson, Steven E; Jeter, Janice M

2014-05-21

The birth iron endowment provides iron for growth in the first months of life. We describe the iron endowment under conditions of low dietary iron supply. Subjects were infants participating in a trial of Vitamin D supplementation from 1 to 9 months. Infants were exclusively breastfed at enrollment but could receive complementary foods from 4 months but not formula. Plasma ferritin (PF) and transferrin receptor (TfR) were determined at 1, 2, 4, 5.5, 7.5, 9 and 12 months. At 1 month PF ranged from 38 to 752 µg/L and was only weakly related to maternal PF. PF declined subsequently and flattened out at 5.5 months. PF of females was significantly higher than PF of males except at 12 months. TfR increased with age and was inversely correlated with PF. PF and TfR tracked strongly until 9 months. Iron deficiency (PF < 10 µg/L) began to appear at 4 months and increased in frequency until 9 months. Infants with ID were born with low iron endowment. We concluded that the birth iron endowment is highly variable in size and a small endowment places infants at risk of iron deficiency before 6 months. Boys have smaller iron endowments and are at greater risk of iron deficiency than girls.

Photoaffinity Labeling of the Plasmodium falciparum Chloroquine Resistance Transporter with a Novel Perfluorophenylazido Chloroquine†

PubMed Central

Lekostaj, Jacqueline K.; Natarajan, Jayakumar K.; Paguio, Michelle F.; Wolf, Christian; Roepe, Paul D.

2009-01-01

Several models describing how amino acid substitutions in the Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) confer resistance to chloroquine (CQ) and other antimalarial drugs have been proposed. Further progress requires molecular analysis of interactions between purified reconstituted PfCRT protein and these drugs. We have thus designed and synthesized several perfluorophenyl azido (pfpa) CQ analogues for PfCRT photolabeling studies. One particularly useful probe (AzBCQ) places the pfpa group at the terminal aliphatic N of CQ via a flexible four-carbon ester linker and includes a convenient biotin tag. This probe photolabels PfCRT in situ with high specificity. Using reconstituted proteoliposomes harboring partially purified recombinant PfCRT, we analyze AzBCQ photolabeling versus competition with CQ and other drugs to probe the nature of the CQ binding site. We also inspect how pH, the chemoreversal agent verapamil (VPL), and various amino acid mutations in PfCRT that cause CQ resistance (CQR) affect the efficiency of AzBCQ photolabeling. Upon gel isolation of AzBCQ-labeled PfCRT followed by trypsin digestion and mass spectrometry analysis, we are able to define a single AzBCQ covalent attachment site lying within the digestive vacuolar-disposed loop between putative helices 9 and 10 of PfCRT. Taken together, the data provide important new insight into PfCRT function and, along with previous results, allow us to propose a model for a single CQ binding site in the PfCRT protein. PMID:18767816

Photoaffinity labeling of the Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter with a novel perfluorophenylazido chloroquine.

PubMed

Lekostaj, Jacqueline K; Natarajan, Jayakumar K; Paguio, Michelle F; Wolf, Christian; Roepe, Paul D

2008-09-30

Several models describing how amino acid substitutions in the Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) confer resistance to chloroquine (CQ) and other antimalarial drugs have been proposed. Further progress requires molecular analysis of interactions between purified reconstituted PfCRT protein and these drugs. We have thus designed and synthesized several perfluorophenyl azido (pfpa) CQ analogues for PfCRT photolabeling studies. One particularly useful probe (AzBCQ) places the pfpa group at the terminal aliphatic N of CQ via a flexible four-carbon ester linker and includes a convenient biotin tag. This probe photolabels PfCRT in situ with high specificity. Using reconstituted proteoliposomes harboring partially purified recombinant PfCRT, we analyze AzBCQ photolabeling versus competition with CQ and other drugs to probe the nature of the CQ binding site. We also inspect how pH, the chemoreversal agent verapamil (VPL), and various amino acid mutations in PfCRT that cause CQ resistance (CQR) affect the efficiency of AzBCQ photolabeling. Upon gel isolation of AzBCQ-labeled PfCRT followed by trypsin digestion and mass spectrometry analysis, we are able to define a single AzBCQ covalent attachment site lying within the digestive vacuolar-disposed loop between putative helices 9 and 10 of PfCRT. Taken together, the data provide important new insight into PfCRT function and, along with previous results, allow us to propose a model for a single CQ binding site in the PfCRT protein.

The Clp Chaperones and Proteases of the Human Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum

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

Bakkouri, Majida El; Pow, Andre; Mulichak, Anne

The Clp chaperones and proteases play an important role in protein homeostasis in the cell. They are highly conserved across prokaryotes and found also in the mitochondria of eukaryotes and the chloroplasts of plants. They function mainly in the disaggregation, unfolding and degradation of native as well as misfolded proteins. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the Clp chaperones and proteases in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The parasite contains four Clp ATPases, which we term PfClpB1, PfClpB2, PfClpC and PfClpM. One PfClpP, the proteolytic subunit, and one PfClpR, which is an inactive version of the protease, weremore » also identified. Expression of all Clp chaperones and proteases was confirmed in blood-stage parasites. The proteins were localized to the apicoplast, a non-photosynthetic organelle that accommodates several important metabolic pathways in P. falciparum, with the exception of PfClpB2 (also known as Hsp101), which was found in the parasitophorous vacuole. Both PfClpP and PfClpR form mostly homoheptameric rings as observed by size-exclusion chromatography, analytical ultracentrifugation and electron microscopy. The X-ray structure of PfClpP showed the protein as a compacted tetradecamer similar to that observed for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpPs. Our data suggest the presence of a ClpCRP complex in the apicoplast of P. falciparum.« less

Nematicidal protease genes screened from a soil metagenomic library to control Radopholus similis mediated by Pseudomonas fluorescens pf36.

PubMed

Chen, Deqiang; Wang, Dongwei; Xu, Chunling; Chen, Chun; Li, Junyi; Wu, Wenjia; Huang, Xin; Xie, Hui

2018-04-01

Controlling Radopholus similis, an important phytopathogenic nematode, is a challenge worldwide. Herein, we constructed a metagenomic fosmid library from the rhizosphere soil of banana plants, and six clones with protease activity were obtained by functionally screening the library. Furthermore, subclones were constructed using the six clones, and three protease genes with nematicidal activity were identified: pase1, pase4, and pase6. The pase4 gene was successfully cloned and expressed, demonstrating that the protease PASE4 could effectively degrade R. similis tissues and result in nematode death. Additionally, we isolated a predominant R. similis-associated bacterium, Pseudomonas fluorescens (pf36), from 10 R. similis populations with different hosts. The pase4 gene was successfully introduced into the pf36 strain by vector transformation and conjugative transposition, and two genetically modified strains were obtained: p4MCS-pf36 and p4Tn5-pf36. p4MCS-pf36 had significantly higher protease expression and nematicidal activity (p < 0.05) than p4Tn5-pf36 in a microtiter plate assay, whereas p4Tn5-pf36 was superior to p4MCS-pf36 in terms of genetic stability and controlling R. similis in growth pot tests. This study confirmed that R. similis is inhibited by the associated bacterium pf36-mediated expression of nematicidal proteases. Herein, a novel approach is provided for the study and development of efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable biocontrol techniques against phytonematodes.

Triazole-functionalized N-heterocyclic carbene complexes of palladium and platinum and efficient aqueous Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction.

PubMed

Gu, Shaojin; Xu, Hui; Zhang, Na; Chen, Wanzhi

2010-07-05

Imidazolium salts bearing triazole groups are synthesized via a copper catalyzed click reaction, and the silver, palladium, and platinum complexes of their N-heterocyclic carbenes are studied. [Ag(4)(L1)(4)](PF(6))(4), [Pd(L1)Cl](PF(6)), [Pt(L1)Cl](PF(6)) (L1=3-((1-benzyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)-1-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-1H-imidazolylidene), [Pd(2)(L2)(2)Cl(2)](PF(6))(2), and [Pd(L2)(2)](PF(6))(2) (L2=1-butyl-3-((1-(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)imidazolylidene) have been synthesized and fully characterized by NMR, elemental analysis, and X-ray crystallography. The silver complex [Ag(4)(L1)(4)](PF(6))(4) consists of a Ag(4) zigzag chain. The complexes [Pd(L1)Cl](PF(6)) and [Pt(L1)Cl](PF(6)), containing a nonsymmetrical NCN' pincer ligand, are square planar with a chloride trans to the carbene donor. [Pd(2)(L2)(2)Cl(2)](PF(6))(2) consists of two palladium centers with CN(2)Cl coordination mode, whereas the palladium in [Pd(L2)(2)](PF(6))(2) is surrounded by two carbene and two triazole groups with two uncoordinated pyridines. The palladium compounds are highly active for Suzuki-Miyaura cross coupling reactions of aryl bromides and 1,1-dibromo-1-alkenes in neat water under an air atmosphere.

Immune complexes formed following the binding of anti-platelet factor 4 (CXCL4) antibodies to CXCL4 stimulate human neutrophil activation and cell adhesion.

PubMed

Xiao, Zhihua; Visentin, Gian P; Dayananda, Kannayakanahalli M; Neelamegham, Sriram

2008-08-15

We tested the possibility that immune complexes formed following platelet factor 4 (PF4/CXCL4) binding to anti-PF4 antibody can stimulate neutrophil activation, similar to previous reports with platelets. Monoclonal Abs against PF4 and IgG from a heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) patient were applied. We observed that although PF4 or anti-PF4 antibody alone did not alter neutrophil function, costimulation with both reagents resulted in approximately 3-fold increase in cell surface Mac-1 expression, enhanced cell adhesion via L-selectin and CD18 integrins, and degranulation of secondary and tertiary granules. The level of Mac-1 up-regulation peaked at an intermediate PF4 dose, suggesting that functional response varies with antigen-antibody stoichiometry. PF4 binding to neutrophils was blocked by chondroitinase ABC. Cell activation was inhibited by both chondroitinase ABC and anti-CD32/FcgammaRII blocking mAb, IV.3. Confocal microscopy demonstrated that immune complexes colocalize with CD32a. Studies with HIT IgG demonstrated that neutrophils could be activated in the absence of exogenous heparin. These data, together, show that leukocyte surface chondroitin sulfates promote neutrophil activation by enhancing immune-complex binding to CD32a. Studies with recombinant PF4 suggest a role for arginine 49 in stabilizing PF4-chondroitin binding. Neutrophils activated via this mechanism may contribute to thrombosis and inflammation in patients mounting an immune response to PF4-heparin.

Paeoniflorin, a Monoterpene Glycoside, Protects the Brain from Cerebral Ischemic Injury via Inhibition of Apoptosis.

PubMed

Zhang, Yuqin; Li, Huang; Huang, Mingqing; Huang, Mei; Chu, Kedan; Xu, Wei; Zhang, Shengnan; Que, Jinhua; Chen, Lidian

2015-01-01

Paeoniflorin (PF) is a principal bioactive component, which exhibits many pharmacological effects, including protection against ischemic injury. This paper aimed to investigate the protective effect of PF both in vivo and in vitro. Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed on male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat for 2 h, and different doses of PF or vehicle were administered 2 h after reperfusion. Rats were sacrificed after 7 days treatment of PF/vehicle. PF treatment for 7 days ameliorated MCAO-induced neurological deficit and decreased the infarct area. Further study demonstrated that PF inhibited the over-activation of astrocytes and apoptosis of neurons, and PF promoted up-regulation of neuronal specific marker neuron-specific nuclear (NeuN) and microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP-2) in brain. Moreover, NMDA-induced neuron apoptosis was employed. The in vitro study revealed that PF treatment protected against NMDA-induced cell apoptosis and neuronal loss via up-regulation of neuronal specific marker NeuN, MAP-2 and Bcl-2 and the down-regulation Bax. Taken together, the present study demonstrates that PF produces its protective effect by inhibiting the over-activation of astrocytes, apoptosis of neurons and up-regulation of neuronal specific marker NeuN, MAP-2, and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), and down-regulation Bax. Our study reveals that PF may be a potential neuroprotective agent for stroke and can provide basic data for clinical use.

Investigation of a Potential Protective Mechanism Against Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia in Patients on Chronic Intermittent Hemodialysis

PubMed Central

Tanhehco, Yvette C.; Cuker, Adam; Rudnick, Michael; Sachais, Bruce S.

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) develops as a result of platelet (PLT) activation by anti-platelet factor 4 (PF4)/heparin complex antibodies. Despite repeated exposure to heparin, patients undergoing chronic intermittent hemodialysis (HD) rarely develop HIT. We investigated the possibility that HD decreases/removes PF4 from PLT surfaces and/or plasma, thereby disfavoring immune complex formation as a mechanism of protection against HIT. MATERIALS AND METHODS We enrolled 20 patients undergoing chronic HD at the Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. Blood samples were drawn before, during and after treatment in the presence and absence of heparin. PF4, PF4/heparin antibody, heparin, and P-selectin levels were measured. RESULTS No patients demonstrated clinical symptoms of HIT. PLT surface PF4 levels decreased and plasma PF4 levels increased concurrently with increase in plasma heparin concentration. In the absence of heparin, PLT surface and plasma PF4 levels were unchanged. Anti-PF4/heparin antibodies, which were non-functional by the serotonin release assay, were detectable in 8 patients. PLT surface P-selectin levels did not change during treatment. CONCLUSIONS Removal of PLT surface and/or plasma PF4 as a mechanism of protection against HIT in patients undergoing HD is not supported by the results of our study, although the transient decrease in PLT surface PF4 in the presence of large amounts of heparin remains a candidate mechanism. The small sample size, single type of dialyzer membrane, and early sampling time points may have led to the inability to detect changes in PF4 levels. Future studies should explore other potential protective mechanisms. PMID:23305841

The influence of transection site on the development of pancreatic fistula in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy: A review of 294 consecutive cases.

PubMed

Sell, Naomi M; Pucci, Michael J; Gabale, Salil; Leiby, Benjamin E; Rosato, Ernest L; Winter, Jordan M; Yeo, Charles J; Lavu, Harish

2015-06-01

Pancreatic fistula (PF) is a significant cause of morbidity in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy (DP), with an incidence of 15-40%. It remains unclear if the location of pancreatic transection affects the rate of PF occurrence. This study examines the correlation between the transection site of the pancreas during DP and the incidence of PF. All cases of DP from October 2005 to January 2012 were reviewed retrospectively from an institutional review board-approved database at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Patient demographics and perioperative outcomes were analyzed. The pancreatic transection location was determined by review of operative reports, and then dichotomized into 2 groups: neck/body or tail. PF were graded following the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula guidelines. During the study period, 294 DP were performed with 244 pancreas transections at the neck/body and 50 at the tail. Of the 294 patients, 52 (17.7%) developed a postoperative PF. The incidence of PF after transection at the tail of the pancreas was higher (28%) when compared with transection at the neck/body (15.6%; P = .04). When stratified by PF grade, grade A PF occurred more commonly when transection of the gland was at the tail (22% tail vs 8.2% neck/body; P = .007); however, no difference was found for grade B/C PF (6% tail vs 7.4% neck/body; P = 1). Our data suggest that PF occurs more often when the tail is transected during DP, although the majority are low grade and of minimal clinical significance. More severe PF occurred equally between the transection sites. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Metabolic programming effects initiated in the suckling period predisposing for adult-onset obesity cannot be reversed by calorie restriction.

PubMed

Srinivasan, Malathi; Mahmood, Saleh; Patel, Mulchand S

2013-03-01

Neonatal rats reared on high-carbohydrate (HC) milk formula developed chronic hyperinsulinemia and adult-onset obesity due to programming of islets and the hypothalamic energy circuitry. In this study, calorie restriction by pair-feeding was imposed on HC male rats (HC/PF) to normalize food intake similar to that of mother-fed (MF) rats from weaning until postnatal day 140. A group of HC/PF rats was switched over to ad libitum feeding (HC/PF/AL) from days 90 to 140. Pair-feeding reduced body weight gains and serum insulin and leptin levels in HC/PF rats compared with HC rats, but these parameters were restored to HC levels in the HC/PF/AL rats after ad libitum feeding. Interestingly, the heightened insulin secretory response of isolated islets from adult HC/PF and HC/PF/ AL rats to glucose, acetylcholine, and oxymetazoline were not significantly different from the responses of islets from HC rats. Similarly, the expression of neuropeptide Y and proopiomelanocortin in the hypothalamus was not significantly different among HC, HC/PF, and HC/PF/AL rats. Expression of the leptin receptor in the hypothalami from the HC, HC/PF, and HC/PF/AL rats mirrored that of serum leptin, whereas suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (Socs3) expression remained high in these three groups. The results indicate that, although calorie restriction resulted in reduction in body weight gain and normalized the serum hormonal pattern, the programed predisposition for the hypersecretory capacity of islets and the hypothalamic hyperphagic response in the HC rats could not be permanently overcome by the pair-feeding imposed on HC rats.

Effects of peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients on interferon-gamma-induced protein-10 (CXCL10) and interleukin-8 (CXCL8) released by neutrophils and CD4+ T cells.

PubMed

Kim, Ji-Yeon; Lee, Dong-Hyung; Joo, Jong-Kil; Jin, Jun-O; Wang, Ji-Won; Hong, Young-Seoub; Kwak, Jong-Young; Lee, Kyu-Sup

2009-09-01

Intraperitoneal immuno-inflammatory changes may be associated with the pathogenesis of endometriosis. We evaluated the effects of peritoneal fluid obtained from patients with endometriosis (ePF) on the release of interferon-gamma-induced protein-10 (IP-10/CXCL10) and interleukin-8 (IL-8/CXCL8) by neutrophils, CD4(+) T cells, and monocytes. Neutrophils, CD4(+) T cells, and monocytes were cultured with ePF and the chemokine levels in the supernatants were then measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The addition of ePF to cultures of CD4(+) T cells led to a significant increase in the release of IP-10 when compared with control PF without endometriosis (cPF). There was a positive correlation between the levels of IL-8 and IP-10 in ePF (R = 0.89, P = 0.041), but not between the levels of IP-10 and IL-8 released by neutrophils, CD4(+) T cells, and monocytes. The levels of IP-10 in ePF were positively correlated with the release of IP-10 by ePF-treated neutrophils (R = 0.89, P < 0.001), CD4(+) T cells (R = 0.93, P < 0.001), and monocytes (R = 0.70, P = 0.01). Moreover, the addition of ePF significantly enhanced the interferon-gamma-induced release of IP-10 by nuetrophils and CD4(+) T cells. These findings suggest that neutrophils and T cells release differential levels of IP-10 and IL-8 in response to stimulation with ePF, and that these cells are a major source of IP-10 in the PF of endometriosis patients.

The effects of 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid and glycyrrhizin on intestinal absorption of paeoniflorin using the everted rat gut sac model.

PubMed

He, Rui; Xu, Yongsong; Peng, Jingjing; Ma, Tingting; Li, Jing; Gong, Muxin

2017-01-01

Paeoniflorin (PF), the main active component of Shaoyao-Gancao-tang, possesses significantly antinociceptive effects and many other pharmacological activities. However, its poor intestinal absorption results in low bioavailability. Therefore, enhancing PF absorption plays a vital role in exerting its therapeutic effect. Shaoyao combined with Gancao exhibited a synergistic effect. The enhancement of PF absorption through the interaction of its constituents in intestinal absorption would be greatly implicated. The present study aimed at investigating the effects of glycyrrhizin, the main constituent of Gancao, and its main metabolite, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid (18β-GA), on the intestinal absorptive behavior of PF, and the role of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) in PF absorption using the in vitro everted rat gut sac model. The results demonstrated that 1 mM of 18β-GA significantly increased PF absorption in both the jejunum and the ileum, while 100 μM of 18β-GA only promoted the ileum absorption and had no obvious effect on the jejunum absorption. The effect of glycyrrhizin on intestinal PF absorption was related to concentrations. One mM of glycyrrhizin significantly increased PF absorption in the jejunum after 45 min and in the ileum after 90 min. But 100 μM of glycyrrhizin had an inhibitory effect in the jejunum and no effect in the ileum before 60 min. Moreover, verapamil, the well-known P-gp inhibitor, could significantly enhance the PF absorption. In conclusion, the influence of 18β-GA and glycyrrhizin on the PF absorption was related to concentrations and intestinal segments. This might be involved in the intervention of efflux transport of PF mediated by intestinal P-gp.

Human autoantibodies against a desmosomal core protein in pemphigus foliaceus

PubMed Central

1984-01-01

Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is a human autoimmune disease in which antibodies are directed against the cell surface of epidermal cells with resultant blister formation. The histopathology of these blisters indicates that cells have detached from each other, and electron microscopy of early blisters shows diminished numbers, to complete loss, of desmosomes as well as abnormalities of the tonofilament- desmosome complex. In this study we demonstrate that autoantibodies from certain PF patients bind to a desmosomal core glycoprotein called desmoglein (DG) I. Proteins in extracts of normal human epidermis were separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), then transferred to nitrocellulose or 2- aminophenylthioether paper for immunoperoxidase staining. Results of these immunoblots indicated that sera from 6 of 13 PF patients specifically and intensely stained an approximately 160,000 mol wt polypeptide, "PF antigen". Such staining was not seen with normal human sera or sera from patients with pemphigus vulgaris or bullous pemphigoid, two autoimmune blistering skin diseases that are clinically, histologically, and immunochemically distinct from PF. However, rabbit antiserum directed against DGI, that was isolated from bovine muzzle desmosomes, stained a polypeptide band which co-migrated with PF antigen. Furthermore, when proteins from extracts of normal human epidermis were electrophoresed in two dimensions (isoelectric focusing, then SDS-PAGE) before transfer to nitrocellulose for immunoperoxidase staining, PF antibodies and antibodies to DGI stained identical spots. Finally, PF sera as well as PF IgG that was affinity purified with PF antigen from normal human epidermis, both selectively bound to DGI extracted from bovine muzzle desmosomes. These studies demonstrate that the human autoantibodies from certain patients with PF, a disease of epidermal cell adhesion, are directed against a desmosomal core protein. PMID:6491602

Somatic cells initiate primordial follicle activation and govern the development of dormant oocytes in mice.

PubMed

Zhang, Hua; Risal, Sanjiv; Gorre, Nagaraju; Busayavalasa, Kiran; Li, Xin; Shen, Yan; Bosbach, Benedikt; Brännström, Mats; Liu, Kui

2014-11-03

The majority of oocytes in the mammalian ovary are dormant oocytes that are enclosed in primordial follicles by several somatic cells, which we refer to as primordial follicle granulosa cells (pfGCs). Very little is known, however, about how the pfGCs control the activation of primordial follicles and the developmental fates of dormant oocytes. By targeting molecules in pfGCs with several mutant mouse models, we demonstrate that the somatic pfGCs initiate the activation of primordial follicles and govern the quiescence or awakening of dormant oocytes. Inhibition of mTORC1 signaling in pfGCs prevents the differentiation of pfGCs into granulosa cells, and this arrests the dormant oocytes in their quiescent states, leading to oocyte death. Overactivation of mTORC1 signaling in pfGCs accelerates the differentiation of pfGCs into granulosa cells and causes premature activation of all dormant oocytes and primordial follicles. We further show that pfGCs trigger the awakening of dormant oocytes through KIT ligand (KITL), and we present an essential communication network between the somatic cells and germ cells that is based on signaling between the mTORC1-KITL cascade in pfGCs and KIT-PI3K signaling in oocytes. Our findings provide a relatively complete picture of how mammalian primordial follicles are activated. The microenvironment surrounding primordial follicles can activate mTORC1-KITL signaling in pfGCs, and these cells trigger the awakening of dormant oocytes and complete the process of follicular activation. Such communication between the microenvironment, somatic cells, and germ cells is essential to maintaining the proper reproductive lifespan in mammals. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

30 CFR Appendix I to Subpart D of... - Appendix I to Subpart D of Part 18

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 60 °C. copper temperature (40 °C. ambient) Resistance at 60 °C. copper temperature (ohms) 6 550 50 0... Temperature—40 °C. Ambient) Conductor size—AWG or MCM Single conductor 2-conductor, round or flat 3-conductor... 2—Portable Cord Ampacities—600 Volts (Amperes Per Conductor Based on 60 °C. Copper Temperature—40 °C...

Superconducting magnet cooling system

DOEpatents

Vander Arend, Peter C.; Fowler, William B.

1977-01-01

A device is provided for cooling a conductor to the superconducting state. The conductor is positioned within an inner conduit through which is flowing a supercooled liquid coolant in physical contact with the conductor. The inner conduit is positioned within an outer conduit so that an annular open space is formed therebetween. Through the annular space is flowing coolant in the boiling liquid state. Heat generated by the conductor is transferred by convection within the supercooled liquid coolant to the inner wall of the inner conduit and then is removed by the boiling liquid coolant, making the heat removal from the conductor relatively independent of conductor length.

Assessment of the Plasmodium falciparum Preerythrocytic Antigen UIS3 as a Potential Candidate for a Malaria Vaccine.

PubMed

Longley, Rhea J; Halbroth, Benedict R; Salman, Ahmed M; Ewer, Katie J; Hodgson, Susanne H; Janse, Chris J; Khan, Shahid M; Hill, Adrian V S; Spencer, Alexandra J

2017-03-01

Efforts are under way to improve the efficacy of subunit malaria vaccines through assessments of new adjuvants, vaccination platforms, and antigens. In this study, we further assessed the Plasmodium falciparum antigen upregulated in infective sporozoites 3 (PfUIS3) as a vaccine candidate. PfUIS3 was expressed in the viral vectors chimpanzee adenovirus 63 (ChAd63) and modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) and used to immunize mice in a prime-boost regimen. We previously demonstrated that this regimen could provide partial protection against challenge with chimeric P. berghei parasites expressing PfUIS3. We now show that ChAd63-MVA PfUIS3 can also provide partial cross-species protection against challenge with wild-type P. berghei parasites. We also show that PfUIS3-specific cellular memory responses could be recalled in human volunteers exposed to P. falciparum parasites in a controlled human malaria infection study. When ChAd63-MVA PfUIS3 was coadministered with the vaccine candidate P. falciparum thrombospondin-related adhesion protein (PfTRAP) expressed in the ChAd63-MVA system, there was no significant change in immunogenicity to either vaccine. However, when mice were challenged with double chimeric P. berghei - P. falciparum parasites expressing both PfUIS3 and PfTRAP, vaccine efficacy was improved to 100% sterile protection. This synergistic effect was evident only when the two vaccines were mixed and administered at the same site. We have therefore demonstrated that vaccination with PfUIS3 can induce a consistent delay in patent parasitemia across mouse strains and against chimeric parasites expressing PfUIS3 as well as wild-type P. berghei ; when this vaccine is combined with another partially protective regimen (ChAd63-MVA PfTRAP), complete protection is induced. Copyright © 2017 Longley et al.

Advancing Global Health through Development and Clinical Trials Partnerships: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Assessment of Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of PfSPZ Vaccine for Malaria in Healthy Equatoguinean Men

PubMed Central

Olotu, Ally; Urbano, Vicente; Hamad, Ali; Eka, Martin; Chemba, Mwajuma; Nyakarungu, Elizabeth; Raso, Jose; Eburi, Esther; Mandumbi, Dolores O.; Hergott, Dianna; Maas, Carl D.; Ayekaba, Mitoha O.; Milang, Diosdado N.; Rivas, Matilde R.; Schindler, Tobias; Embon, Oscar M.; Ruben, Adam J.; Saverino, Elizabeth; Abebe, Yonas; KC, Natasha; James, Eric R.; Murshedkar, Tooba; Manoj, Anita; Chakravarty, Sumana; Li, Minglin; Adams, Matthew; Schwabe, Christopher; Segura, J. Luis; Daubenberger, Claudia; Tanner, Marcel; Richie, Thomas L.; Billingsley, Peter F.; Lee Sim, B. Kim; Abdulla, Salim; Hoffman, Stephen L.

2018-01-01

Abstract. Equatorial Guinea (EG) has implemented a successful malaria control program on Bioko Island. A highly effective vaccine would be an ideal complement to this effort and could lead to halting transmission and eliminating malaria. Sanaria® PfSPZ Vaccine (Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite Vaccine) is being developed for this purpose. To begin the process of establishing the efficacy of and implementing a PfSPZ Vaccine mass vaccination program in EG, we decided to conduct a series of clinical trials of PfSPZ Vaccine on Bioko Island. Because no clinical trial had ever been conducted in EG, we first successfully established the ethical, regulatory, quality, and clinical foundation for conducting trials. We now report the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity results of the first clinical trial in the history of the country. Thirty adult males were randomized in the ratio 2:1 to receive three doses of 2.7 × 105 PfSPZ of PfSPZ Vaccine (N = 20) or normal saline placebo (N = 10) by direct venous inoculation at 8-week intervals. The vaccine was safe and well tolerated. Seventy percent, 65%, and 45% of vaccinees developed antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, PfSPZ by automated immunofluorescence assay, and PfSPZ by inhibition of sporozoite invasion assay, respectively. Antibody responses were significantly lower than responses in U.S. adults who received the same dosage regimen, but not significantly different than responses in young adult Malians. Based on these results, a clinical trial enrolling 135 subjects aged 6 months to 65 years has been initiated in EG; it includes PfSPZ Vaccine and first assessment in Africa of PfSPZ-CVac. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02418962. PMID:29141739

Dose-Related Target Occupancy and Effects on Circuitry, Behavior, and Neuroplasticity of the Glycine Transporter-1 Inhibitor PF-03463275 in Healthy and Schizophrenia Subjects.

PubMed

D'Souza, Deepak Cyril; Carson, Richard E; Driesen, Naomi; Johannesen, Jason; Ranganathan, Mohini; Krystal, John H

2018-01-31

Glycine transporter-1 (GlyT1) inhibitors may ameliorate cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia. The dose-related occupancy and target engagement of the GlyT1 inhibitor PF-03463275 were studied to inform optimal dose selection for a clinical trial for cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia. In substudy 1, the effects of PF-03463275 (10, 20, and 40 mg twice a day) on occupancy of GlyT1 were tested using positron emission tomography and 18 F-MK-6577, and visual long-term potentiation (LTP) in schizophrenia patients (SZs) and healthy control subjects. Furthermore, the capacity of PF-03463275 to attenuate ketamine-induced disruption of working memory-related activation of a "working memory" circuit was tested only in healthy control subjects using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Subsequently, the effects of PF-03463275 (60 mg twice a day) on occupancy of GlyT1 and long-term potentiation were examined only in SZs (substudy 2). PF-03463275 at 10, 20, 40, and 60 mg twice a day produced ∼44%, 61%, 76%, and 83% GlyT1 occupancy, respectively, in SZs with higher ligand binding to GlyT1 in subcortical versus cortical regions. PF-03463275 did not attenuate any ketamine-induced effects but did improve working memory accuracy in healthy control subjects. PF-03463275 increased long-term potentiation only in SZs with peak effects at 40 mg twice a day (∼75% GlyT1 occupancy) and with a profile suggestive of an inverted U dose response. PF-03463275 was well-tolerated. The dose-related GlyT1 occupancy of PF-03463275 is linear. While PF-03463275 did not show evidence of facilitating N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor function in the ketamine assay, it enhanced neuroplasticity in SZs. These findings provide support for a clinical trial to test the ability of PF-03463275 to enhance cognitive remediation toward addressing cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Elucidation of Transport Mechanism of Paeoniflorin and the Influence of Ligustilide, Senkyunolide I and Senkyunolide A on Paeoniflorin Transport through Mdck-Mdr1 Cells as Blood-Brain Barrier in Vitro Model.

PubMed

Hu, Peng-Yi; Liu, Dan; Zheng, Qin; Wu, Qing; Tang, Yu; Yang, Ming

2016-03-02

The objectives of the present investigation were to: (1) elucidate the transport mechanism of paeoniflorin (PF) across MDCK-MDR1 monolayers; and (2) evaluate the effect of ligustilide (LIG), senkyunolide I (SENI) and senkyunolide A (SENA) on the transport of PF through blood-brain barrier so as to explore the enhancement mechanism. Transport studies of PF were performed in both directions, from apical to basolateral side (A→B) and from basolateral to apical sides (B→A). Drug concentrations were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. PF showed relatively poor absorption in MDCK-MDR1 cells, apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) ranging from 0.587 × 10(-6) to 0.705 × 10(-6) cm/s. In vitro experiments showed that the transport of PF in both directions was concentration dependent and not saturable. The B→A/A→B permeability ER of PF was more than 2 in the MDCK-MDR1 cells, which indicated that the transport mechanism of PF might be passive diffusion as the dominating process with the active transportation mediated mechanism involved. The increased Papp of PF in A→B direction by EDTA-Na₂ suggested that PF was absorbed via the paracellular route. The P-gp inhibitor verapamil could significantly increase the transport of PF in A→B direction, and ER decreased from 2.210 to 0.690, which indicated that PF was P-gp substance. The transport of PF in A→B direction significantly increased when co-administrated with increasing concentrations of LIG, SENI and SENA. An increased cellular accumulation of Rho 123 and Western blot analysis indicated that LIG, SENI and SENA had increased the transport of PF in the BBB models attribute to down-regulate P-gp expression. A decrease in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) during the permeation experiment can be explained by the modulation and opening of the tight junctions caused by the permeation enhancer LIG, SENI and SENA.

Moxifloxacin pharmacokinetics and pleural fluid penetration in patients with pleural effusion.

PubMed

Chatzika, Kalliopi; Manika, Katerina; Kontou, Paschalina; Pitsiou, Georgia; Papakosta, Despina; Zarogoulidis, Konstantinos; Kioumis, Ioannis

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and penetration of moxifloxacin (MXF) in patients with various types of pleural effusion. Twelve patients with empyema/parapneumonic effusion (PPE) and 12 patients with malignant pleural effusion were enrolled in the study. A single-dose pharmacokinetic study was performed after intravenous administration of 400 mg MXF. Serial plasma (PL) and pleural fluid (PF) samples were collected during a 24-h time interval after drug administration. The MXF concentration in PL and PF was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography, and main pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated. Penetration of MXF in PF was determined by the ratio of the area under the concentration-time curve from time zero to 24 h (AUC24) in PF (AUC24PF) to the AUC24 in PL. No statistically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics in PL were observed between the two groups, despite the large interindividual variability in the volume of distribution, clearance, and elimination half-life. The maximum concentration in PF (CmaxPF) in patients with empyema/PPE was 2.23±1.31 mg/liter, and it was detected 7.50±2.39 h after the initiation of the infusion. In patients with malignant effusion, CmaxPF was 2.96±1.45 mg/liter, but it was observed significantly earlier, at 3.58±1.38 h (P<0.001). Both groups revealed similar values of AUC24PF (31.83±23.52 versus 32.81±12.66 mg·h/liter). Penetration of MXF into PF was similarly good in both patient groups (1.11±0.74 versus 1.17±0.39). Despite similar plasma pharmacokinetics, patients with empyema/parapneumonic effusion showed a significant delay in achievement of PF maximum MXF levels compared to those with malignant effusion. However, in both groups, the degree of MXF PF penetration and the on-site drug exposure, expressed by AUC24PF, did not differ according to the type of pleural effusion.

Bilateral comparison of 10 pF and 100 pF standards (ongoing BIPM key comparisons BIPM.EM-K14.a and 14.b) between the NMISA (South Africa) and the BIPM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gournay, Pierre; Khoza, Michael

2017-01-01

This report presents the results of a bilateral comparison of 10 pF and 100 pF capacitance standards between the NMISA (South Africa) and the BIPM carried out in 2016. The comparison at 10 pF forms part of the ongoing BIPM key comparison BIPM.EM-K14.a and that at 100 pF of the ongoing BIPM key comparison BIPM.EM-K14.b. The BIPM is the pilot laboratory for both of these comparisons. Two 10 pF and 100 pF travelling standards belonging to the BIPM were used in this comparison carried out with an 'A-B-A' pattern of measurements. The standards were measured first at the BIPM for a period of about one month, then for a similar period at the NMISA, and finally again at the BIPM. The measurand was the two terminal-pair capacitance at a frequency of either 1000 Hz or 1592 Hz, for a measuring rms voltage of 15 V at 10 pF and 10 V at 100 pF. One of the 10 pF travelling standards had to be eliminated from the comparison due to a bistable behaviour, possibly due to transportation. The results from the NMISA and the BIPM at both 1000 Hz and 1592 Hz were found to be in good agreement, with a difference smaller than the relative expanded uncertainty (95 % confidence, k = 2) of maximum value 0.33 × 10-6 at 10 pF and 0.24 × 10-6 at 100 pF (and 1000 Hz in both cases). Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCEM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

A new world malaria map: Plasmodium falciparum endemicity in 2010.

PubMed

Gething, Peter W; Patil, Anand P; Smith, David L; Guerra, Carlos A; Elyazar, Iqbal R F; Johnston, Geoffrey L; Tatem, Andrew J; Hay, Simon I

2011-12-20

Transmission intensity affects almost all aspects of malaria epidemiology and the impact of malaria on human populations. Maps of transmission intensity are necessary to identify populations at different levels of risk and to evaluate objectively options for disease control. To remain relevant operationally, such maps must be updated frequently. Following the first global effort to map Plasmodium falciparum malaria endemicity in 2007, this paper describes the generation of a new world map for the year 2010. This analysis is extended to provide the first global estimates of two other metrics of transmission intensity for P. falciparum that underpin contemporary questions in malaria control: the entomological inoculation rate (PfEIR) and the basic reproductive number (PfR). Annual parasite incidence data for 13,449 administrative units in 43 endemic countries were sourced to define the spatial limits of P. falciparum transmission in 2010 and 22,212 P. falciparum parasite rate (PfPR) surveys were used in a model-based geostatistical (MBG) prediction to create a continuous contemporary surface of malaria endemicity within these limits. A suite of transmission models were developed that link PfPR to PfEIR and PfR and these were fitted to field data. These models were combined with the PfPR map to create new global predictions of PfEIR and PfR. All output maps included measured uncertainty. An estimated 1.13 and 1.44 billion people worldwide were at risk of unstable and stable P. falciparum malaria, respectively. The majority of the endemic world was predicted with a median PfEIR of less than one and a median PfRc of less than two. Values of either metric exceeding 10 were almost exclusive to Africa. The uncertainty described in both PfEIR and PfR was substantial in regions of intense transmission. The year 2010 has a particular significance as an evaluation milestone for malaria global health policy. The maps presented here contribute to a rational basis for control and elimination decisions and can serve as a baseline assessment as the global health community looks ahead to the next series of milestones targeted at 2015.

The Colletotrichum boninense species complex

PubMed Central

Damm, U.; Cannon, P.F.; Woudenberg, J.H.C.; Johnston, P.R.; Weir, B.S.; Tan, Y.P.; Shivas, R.G.; Crous, P.W.

2012-01-01

Although only recently described, Colletotrichum boninense is well established in literature as an anthracnose pathogen or endophyte of a diverse range of host plants worldwide. It is especially prominent on members of Amaryllidaceae, Orchidaceae, Proteaceae and Solanaceae. Reports from literature and preliminary studies using ITS sequence data indicated that C. boninense represents a species complex. A multilocus molecular phylogenetic analysis (ITS, ACT, TUB2, CHS-1, GAPDH, HIS3, CAL) of 86 strains previously identified as C. boninense and other related strains revealed 18 clades. These clades are recognised here as separate species, including C. boninense s. str., C. hippeastri, C. karstii and 12 previously undescribed species, C. annellatum, C. beeveri, C. brassicicola, C. brasiliense, C. colombiense, C. constrictum, C. cymbidiicola, C. dacrycarpi, C. novae-zelandiae, C. oncidii, C. parsonsiae and C. torulosum. Seven of the new species are only known from New Zealand, perhaps reflecting a sampling bias. The new combination C. phyllanthi was made, and C. dracaenae Petch was epitypified and the name replaced with C. petchii. Typical for species of the C. boninense species complex are the conidiogenous cells with rather prominent periclinal thickening that also sometimes extend to form a new conidiogenous locus or annellations as well as conidia that have a prominent basal scar. Many species in the C. boninense complex form teleomorphs in culture. Taxonomic novelties: New combination - Colletotrichum phyllanthi (H. Surendranath Pai) Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous. Name replacement - C. petchii Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous. New species - C. annellatum Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. beeveri Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir, C. brassicicola Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. brasiliense Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous & Massola, C. colombiense Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, C. constrictum Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir, C. cymbidiicola Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir, C. dacrycarpi Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir, C. novae-zelandiae Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir, C. oncidii Damm, P.F. Cannon & Crous, C. parsonsiae Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir, C. torulosum Damm, P.F. Cannon, Crous, P.R. Johnst. & B. Weir. Typifications: Epitypifications - C. dracaenae Petch. PMID:23136457

Bipyrimidine ruthenium(II) arene complexes: structure, reactivity and cytotoxicity.

PubMed

Betanzos-Lara, Soledad; Novakova, Olga; Deeth, Robert J; Pizarro, Ana M; Clarkson, Guy J; Liskova, Barbora; Brabec, Viktor; Sadler, Peter J; Habtemariam, Abraha

2012-10-01

The synthesis and characterization of complexes [(η(6)-arene)Ru(N,N')X][PF(6)], where arene is para-cymene (p-cym), biphenyl (bip), ethyl benzoate (etb), hexamethylbenzene (hmb), indane (ind) or 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene (thn), N,N' is 2,2'-bipyrimidine (bpm) and X is Cl, Br or I, are reported, including the X-ray crystal structures of [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)I][PF(6)], [(η(6)-bip)Ru(bpm)Cl][PF(6)], [(η(6)-bip)Ru(bpm)I][PF(6)] and [(η(6)-etb)Ru(bpm)Cl][PF(6)]. Complexes in which N,N' is 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione or 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (bathophen) were studied for comparison. The Ru(II) arene complexes undergo ligand-exchange reactions in aqueous solution at 310 K; their half-lives for hydrolysis range from 14 to 715 min. Density functional theory calculations on [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)Cl][PF(6)], [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)Br][PF(6)], [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)I][PF(6)], [(η(6)-bip)Ru(bpm)Cl][PF(6)], [(η(6)-bip)Ru(bpm)Br][PF(6)] and [(η(6)-bip)Ru(bpm)I][PF(6)] suggest that aquation occurs via an associative pathway and that the reaction is thermodynamically favourable when the leaving ligand is I > Br ≈ Cl. pK (a)* values for the aqua adducts of the complexes range from 6.9 to 7.32. A binding preference for 9-ethylguanine (9-EtG) compared with 9-ethyladenine (9-EtA) was observed for [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)Cl][PF(6)], [(η(6)-hmb)Ru(bpm)Cl](+), [(η(6)-ind)Ru(bpm)Cl](+), [(η(6)-thn)Ru(bpm)Cl](+), [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(phen)Cl](+) and [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bathophen)Cl](+) in aqueous solution at 310 K. The X-ray crystal structure of the guanine complex [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)(9-EtG-N7)][PF(6)](2) shows multiple hydrogen bonding. Density functional theory calculations show that the 9-EtG adducts of all complexes are thermodynamically preferred compared with those of 9-EtA. However, the bmp complexes are inactive towards A2780 human ovarian cancer cells. Calf thymus DNA interactions for [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(bpm)Cl][PF(6)] and [(η(6)-p-cym)Ru(phen)Cl][PF(6)] consist of weak coordinative, intercalative and monofunctional coordination. Binding to biomolecules such as glutathione may play a role in deactivating the bpm complexes.

Inhibition of human megakaryocytopoiesis in vitro by platelet factor 4 (PF4) and a synthetic COOH-terminal PF4 peptide.

PubMed Central

Gewirtz, A M; Calabretta, B; Rucinski, B; Niewiarowski, S; Xu, W Y

1989-01-01

We report that highly purified human platelet factor 4 (PF4) inhibits human megakaryocytopoiesis in vitro. At greater than or equal to 25 micrograms/ml, PF4 inhibited megakaryocyte colony formation approximately 80% in unstimulated cultures, and approximately 58% in cultures containing recombinant human IL 3 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Because PF4 (25 micrograms/ml) had no effect on either myeloid or erythroid colony formation lineage specificity of this effect was suggested. A synthetic COOH-terminal PF4 peptide of 24, but not 13 residues, also inhibited megakaryocyte colony formation, whereas a synthetic 18-residue beta-thromboglobulin (beta-TG) peptide and native beta-TG had no such effect when assayed at similar concentrations. The mechanism of PF4-mediated inhibition was investigated. First, we enumerated total cell number, and examined cell maturation in control colonies (n = 200) and colonies (n = 100) that arose in PF4-containing cultures. Total cells per colony did not differ dramatically in the two groups (6.1 +/- 3.0 vs. 4.2 +/- 1.6, respectively), but the numbers of mature large cells per colony was significantly decreased in the presence of PF4 when compared with controls (1.6 +/- 1.5 vs. 3.9 +/- 2.3; P less than 0.001). Second, by using the human leukemia cell line HEL as a model for primitive megakaryocytic cells, we studied the effect of PF4 on cell doubling time, on the expression of both growth-regulated (H3, p53, c-myc,and c-myb), and non-growth-regulated (beta 2-microglobulin) genes. At high concentrations of native PF4 (50 micrograms/ml), no effect on cell doubling time, or H3 or p53 expression was discerned. In contrast, c-myc and c-myb were both upregulated. These results suggested the PF4 inhibited colony formation by impeding cell maturation, as opposed to cell proliferation, perhaps by inducing expression of c-myc and c-myb. The ability of PF4 to inhibit a normal cell maturation function was then tested. Megakaryocytes were incubated in synthetic PF4, or beta-TG peptides for 18 h and effect on Factor V steady-state mRNA levels was determined in 600 individual cells by in situ hybridization. beta-TG peptide had no effect on FV mRNA levels, whereas a approximately 60% decrease in expression of Factor V mRNA was found in megakaryocytes exposed to greater than or equal 100 ng/ml synthetic COOH-terminal PF4 peptide. Accordingly, PF4 modulates megakaryocyte maturation in vitro, and may function as a negative autocrine regulator of human megakaryocytopoiesis. Images PMID:2523411

Correlation of Resistance to Proflavine and Penicillin in Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

McKellar, Robin C.; McKenzie, Colin N.; Kushner, Donn J.

1976-01-01

A number of proflavine (PF)-resistant mutants of Escherichia coli B were also resistant to penicillin and cephalothin. Mutants resistant to 1.0 mM PF were 10 times more penicillin resistant than were the PF-susceptible, wild-type cells. Single-step mutants selected for resistance to either PF or penicillin were also resistant to the other drug. None of the resistant mutants tested possessed β-lactamase activity. These results suggest that resistance to PF and penicillin in E. coli B may be due to permeability changes in the cell envelope. PMID:791110

Hematological and biochemical features of postpartum fever in the heavy draft mare.

PubMed

Aoki, Takahiro; Kimura, Yuki; Oya, Anna; Chiba, Akiko; Ishii, Mitsuo; Nambo, Yasuo

2016-01-01

Heavy draft mares potentially have a higher risk of suffering from postpartum fever (PF) than light breed mares. The purpose of this study was to compare hematological and biochemical features between clinically healthy mares (n=40) and PF-affected mares (n=16). Mares were classified as having PF when their rectal temperature rose to >38.5°C within 96 hr of foaling. The numbers of leukocytes, lymphocytes, and neutrophils and the serum magnesium level were significantly lower in PF-affected mares. The serum SAA and NEFA levels were significantly higher in PF-affected mares. Strong inflammation responses, fat mobilization associated with negative energy balance and possibly endotoxin participate in hematological and biochemical features of PF in heavy draft mares.

Method and apparatus for preparing multiconductor cable with flat conductors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marcell, G. V. (Inventor)

1969-01-01

A method and apparatus for preparing flat conductor cable having a plurality of ribbon-like conductors disposed upon and adhesively bonded to the surface of a substrate is described. The conductors are brought into contact with the substrate surface, and while maintained in axial tension on said substrate, the combination is seated on a yieldably compressible layer to permit the conductor to become embedded into the surface of the substrate film.

33 CFR 159.73 - Conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Conductors. 159.73 Section 159.73 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) POLLUTION MARINE SANITATION DEVICES Design, Construction, and Testing § 159.73 Conductors. Current carrying conductors must be...

30 CFR 7.403 - Application requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

..., round or flat). (iii) Number and size (gauge) of each conductor. (iv) Voltage rating for all cables containing electric conductors. (v) For electric cables, current-carrying capacity of each conductor, with corresponding ambient temperature upon which the current rating (ampacity) is based, of each power conductor. (2...

33 CFR 159.73 - Conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Conductors. 159.73 Section 159.73 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) POLLUTION MARINE SANITATION DEVICES Design, Construction, and Testing § 159.73 Conductors. Current carrying conductors must be...

30 CFR 57.12010 - Isolation or insulation of communication conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... conductors. 57.12010 Section 57.12010 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF... conductors. Telephone and low-potential signal wire shall be protected, by isolation or suitable insulation, or both, from contacting energized power conductors or any other power source. ...

30 CFR 57.12010 - Isolation or insulation of communication conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conductors. 57.12010 Section 57.12010 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF... conductors. Telephone and low-potential signal wire shall be protected, by isolation or suitable insulation, or both, from contacting energized power conductors or any other power source. ...

Electrostatic separation for recycling conductors, semiconductors, and nonconductors from electronic waste.

PubMed

Xue, Mianqiang; Yan, Guoqing; Li, Jia; Xu, Zhenming

2012-10-02

Electrostatic separation has been widely used to separate conductors and nonconductors for recycling e-waste. However, the components of e-waste are complex, which can be classified as conductors, semiconductors, and nonconductors according to their conducting properties. In this work, we made a novel attempt to recover the mixtures containing conductors (copper), semiconductors (extrinsic silicon), and nonconductors (woven glass reinforced resin) by electrostatic separation. The results of binary mixtures separation show that the separation of conductor and nonconductor, semiconductor and nonconductor need a higher voltage level while the separation of conductor and semiconductor needs a higher roll speed. Furthermore, the semiconductor separation efficiency is more sensitive to the high voltage level and the roll speed than the conductor separation efficiency. An integrated process was proposed for the multiple mixtures separation. The separation efficiency of conductors and semiconductors can reach 82.5% and 88%, respectively. This study contributes to the efficient recycling of valuable resources from e-waste.

A computer program to perform dynamic thermal analysis for bare overhead conductors during short-time overload conditions

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

Shrestha, P.; Pham, K.

1995-12-31

Under emergency conditions, a bare overhead conductor can carry an increased amount of current that is well in excess of its normal rating. When there is this increase in current flow on a bare overhead conductor, the temperature does not rise instantaneously. but increases along a curve determined by the current, the conductor properties and the ambient conditions. The conductor temperature at the end of a short-time overload period must be restricted to its maximum design value. This paper presents a simplified approach in analyzing the dynamic performance for bare overhead conductors during short-time overload condition. A computer program wasmore » developed to calculate the short-time ratings for bare overhead conductors. The following parameters: current induced heating. solar load, convective/conductive cooling, radiative cooling, altitude, wind velocity and ampacity of the bare conductor were considered. Several sample graphical output lots are included with the paper.« less

Structure for monolithic optical circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evanchuk, Vincent L. (Inventor)

1984-01-01

A method for making monolithic optical circuits, with related optical devices as required or desired, on a supporting surface (10) consists of coating the supporting surface with reflecting metal or cladding resin, spreading a layer of liquid radiation sensitive plastic (12) on the surface, exposing the liquid plastic with a mask (14) to cure it in a desired pattern of light conductors (16, 18, 20), washing away the unexposed liquid plastic, and coating the conductors thus formed with reflective metal or cladding resin. The index of refraction for the cladding (22) is selected to be lower than for the conductors so that light in the conductors will be reflected by the interface with the cladding. For multiple level conductors, as where one conductor must cross over another, the process may be repeated to fabricate a bridge with columns (24, 26) of conductors to the next level, and conductor (28) between the columns. For more efficient transfer of energy over the bridge, faces at 45.degree. may be formed to reflect light up and across the bridge.

Wafer-fused semiconductor radiation detector

DOEpatents

Lee, Edwin Y.; James, Ralph B.

2002-01-01

Wafer-fused semiconductor radiation detector useful for gamma-ray and x-ray spectrometers and imaging systems. The detector is fabricated using wafer fusion to insert an electrically conductive grid, typically comprising a metal, between two solid semiconductor pieces, one having a cathode (negative electrode) and the other having an anode (positive electrode). The wafer fused semiconductor radiation detector functions like the commonly used Frisch grid radiation detector, in which an electrically conductive grid is inserted in high vacuum between the cathode and the anode. The wafer-fused semiconductor radiation detector can be fabricated using the same or two different semiconductor materials of different sizes and of the same or different thicknesses; and it may utilize a wide range of metals, or other electrically conducting materials, to form the grid, to optimize the detector performance, without being constrained by structural dissimilarity of the individual parts. The wafer-fused detector is basically formed, for example, by etching spaced grooves across one end of one of two pieces of semiconductor materials, partially filling the grooves with a selected electrical conductor which forms a grid electrode, and then fusing the grooved end of the one semiconductor piece to an end of the other semiconductor piece with a cathode and an anode being formed on opposite ends of the semiconductor pieces.

Downhole transmission system

DOEpatents

Hall, David R [Provo, UT; Fox, Joe [Spanish Fork, UT

2008-01-15

A transmission system in a downhole component comprises a data transmission element in both ends of the downhole component. Each data transmission element houses an electrically conducting coil in a MCEI circular trough. An electrical conductor connects both the transmission elements. The electrical conductor comprises at least three electrically conductive elements insulated from each other. In the preferred embodiment the electrical conductor comprises an electrically conducting outer shield, an electrically conducting inner shield and an electrical conducting core. In some embodiments of the present invention, the electrical conductor comprises an electrically insulating jacket. In other embodiments, the electrical conductor comprises a pair of twisted wires. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor comprises semi-conductive material.

Cluster-inspired Superionic Conductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, Hong; Jena, Puru

Superionic conductors with desirable properties hold the key to the development of next generation of rechargeable metal-ion batteries. In this study, we report a new family of superionic conductors composed by clusters based on the antiperovskite fast-ion conductors. The new lightweight conductor shows larger electrochemical stability window and favorable thermal and mechanical properties, while maintain a high Li+-ionconductivity at room temperature and a low activation energy. We reveal the conduction mechanism of the material by identifying the relation between the orientational symmetry of the cluster rotors and the potential surface felt by the lithium ion. We also find that the mixed phase of the new conductors show further enhanced conductivity.

Multiwire conductor having greatly increased interwire resistance and method for making same

DOEpatents

Luhman, Thomas; Suenaga, Masaki

1984-01-17

An improved multiwire conductor of the type which is mechanically stabilized by a tin based solder filler. A solder filled conductor is heated to a temperature above its melting point for a period long enough to allow a substantial amount of copper to be dissolved from the wires comprising the conductor. The copper forms the brittle intermetallic compound Cu.sub.5 Sn.sub.6 with tin in the solder. After cooling the conductor is flexed causing a random cracking of the solder, and thereby increasing the interwire resistance of the conductor. The subject invention is particularly adapted for use with braided, ribbon-type solder filled superconductors.

Multiwire conductor having increased interwire resistance and good mechanical stability and method for making same

DOEpatents

Luhman, Thomas; Klamut, Carl

1984-02-14

An improved multiwire conductor of the type which is mechanically stabilized by a solder filler. A solder filled conductor is heated to a temperature sufficient to make the solder brittle, but below the melting point of the solder. While still hot, the conductor is flexed, causing the solder to separate from the wires comprising the conductor, thereby increasing the interwire resistance. In one embodiment the conductor may be heated to a temperature above the eutectic temperature of the solder so that a controlled amount of solder is removed. The subject invention is particularly suited for use with braided, ribbon-type, solder filled superconductors.

Multiwire conductor having increased interwire resistance and good mechanical stability and method for making same

DOEpatents

Luhman, T.; Klamut, C.

1982-03-15

An improved multiwire conductor of the type which is mechanically stabilized by a solder filler. A solder filled conductor is heated to a temperature sufficient to make the solder brittle, but below the melting point of the solder. While still hot, the conductor is flexed, causing the solder to separate from the wires comprising the conductor, thereby increasing the interwire resistance. In one embodiment the conductor may be heated to a temperature above the eutectic temperature of the solder so that a controlled amount of solder is removed. The subject invention is particularly suited for use with braided, ribbon-type, solder filled superconductors.

Patellar maltracking is prevalent among patellofemoral pain subjects with patella alta: an upright, weightbearing MRI study

PubMed Central

Pal, Saikat; Besier, Thor F.; Beaupre, Gary S.; Fredericson, Michael; Delp, Scott L.; Gold, Garry E.

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study is to determine if patellar maltracking is more prevalent among patellofemoral (PF) pain subjects with patella alta compared to subjects with normal patella height. We imaged 37 PF pain and 15 pain free subjects in an open-configuration magnetic resonance imaging scanner while they stood in a weightbearing posture. We measured patella height using the Caton-Deschamps, Blackburne-Peel, Insall-Salvati, Modified Insall-Salvati, and Patellotrochlear indices, and classified the subjects into patella alta and normal patella height groups. We measured patella tilt and bisect offset from oblique-axial plane images, and classified the subjects into maltracking and normal tracking groups. Patellar maltracking was more prevalent among PF pain subjects with patella alta compared to PF pain subjects with normal patella height (two-tailed Fisher’s exact test, p < 0.050). Using the Caton-Deschamps index, 67% (8/12) of PF pain subjects with patella alta were maltrackers, whereas only 16% (4/25) of PF pain subjects with normal patella height were maltrackers. Patellofemoral pain subjects classified as maltrackers displayed a greater patella height compared to the pain free and PF pain subjects classified as normal trackers (two-tailed unpaired t-tests with Bonferroni correction, p < 0.017). This study adds to our understanding of PF pain in two ways - 1) we demonstrate that patellar maltracking is more prevalent in PF pain subjects with patella alta compared to subjects with normal patella height; and 2) we show greater patella height in PF pain subjects compared to pain free subjects using four indices commonly used in clinics. PMID:23165335

The Crystal Structure of PF-8, the DNA Polymerase Accessory Subunit from Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus

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

Baltz, Jennifer L.; Filman, David J.; Ciustea, Mihai

2009-12-01

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus is an emerging pathogen whose mechanism of replication is poorly understood. PF-8, the presumed processivity factor of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus DNA polymerase, acts in combination with the catalytic subunit, Pol-8, to synthesize viral DNA. We have solved the crystal structure of residues 1 to 304 of PF-8 at a resolution of 2.8 {angstrom}. This structure reveals that each monomer of PF-8 shares a fold common to processivity factors. Like human cytomegalovirus UL44, PF-8 forms a head-to-head dimer in the form of a C clamp, with its concave face containing a number of basic residues that are predictedmore » to be important for DNA binding. However, there are several differences with related proteins, especially in loops that extend from each monomer into the center of the C clamp and in the loops that connect the two subdomains of each protein, which may be important for determining PF-8's mode of binding to DNA and to Pol-8. Using the crystal structures of PF-8, the herpes simplex virus catalytic subunit, and RB69 bacteriophage DNA polymerase in complex with DNA and initial experiments testing the effects of inhibition of PF-8-stimulated DNA synthesis by peptides derived from Pol-8, we suggest a model for how PF-8 might form a ternary complex with Pol-8 and DNA. The structure and the model suggest interesting similarities and differences in how PF-8 functions relative to structurally similar proteins.« less

Immune complexes formed following the binding of anti–platelet factor 4 (CXCL4) antibodies to CXCL4 stimulate human neutrophil activation and cell adhesion

PubMed Central

Xiao, Zhihua; Visentin, Gian P.; Dayananda, Kannayakanahalli M.

2008-01-01

We tested the possibility that immune complexes formed following platelet factor 4 (PF4/CXCL4) binding to anti-PF4 antibody can stimulate neutrophil activation, similar to previous reports with platelets. Monoclonal Abs against PF4 and IgG from a heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) patient were applied. We observed that although PF4 or anti-PF4 antibody alone did not alter neutrophil function, costimulation with both reagents resulted in approximately 3-fold increase in cell surface Mac-1 expression, enhanced cell adhesion via L-selectin and CD18 integrins, and degranulation of secondary and tertiary granules. The level of Mac-1 up-regulation peaked at an intermediate PF4 dose, suggesting that functional response varies with antigen-antibody stoichiometry. PF4 binding to neutrophils was blocked by chondroitinase ABC. Cell activation was inhibited by both chondroitinase ABC and anti-CD32/FcγRII blocking mAb, IV.3. Confocal microscopy demonstrated that immune complexes colocalize with CD32a. Studies with HIT IgG demonstrated that neutrophils could be activated in the absence of exogenous heparin. These data, together, show that leukocyte surface chondroitin sulfates promote neutrophil activation by enhancing immune-complex binding to CD32a. Studies with recombinant PF4 suggest a role for arginine 49 in stabilizing PF4-chondroitin binding. Neutrophils activated via this mechanism may contribute to thrombosis and inflammation in patients mounting an immune response to PF4-heparin. PMID:18539895

The impact of combined pulmonary fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on long-term survival after lung cancer surgery.

PubMed

Sekine, Yasuo; Sakairi, Yuichi; Yoshino, Mitsuru; Koh, Eitetsu; Hata, Atsushi; Suzuki, Hidemi; Yoshino, Ichiro

2014-06-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) on postoperative complications and on long-term survival after surgical resection in lung cancer patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A retrospective chart review was conducted of 380 patients with COPD who had undergone pulmonary resection for lung cancer at the University Hospital between 1990 and 2005. The definition of COPD was a preoperative forced expiratory volume in 1 second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) ratio of less than 70%; PF was defined as obvious bilateral fibrous change in the lower lung fields, confirmed by computed tomography. PF was present in 41 patients (10.8%) with COPD; the remaining 339 patients (89.2%) did not have PF. The preoperative FVC/FEV1 was significantly lower in the group of patients with PF than in the group without (p < 0.05). Acute lung injury and home oxygen therapy were significantly more common in the PF group; however, the 30-day mortality was similar between the groups. The cumulative survival at 3 and 5 years was 53.6 and 36.9%, respectively, in the PF group and 71.4 and 66.1%, respectively, in the non-PF group (p = 0.0009). Increased age, decreased body mass index, advanced pathologic stage, and the existence of PF were identified as independent risk factors for decreased survival. PF is a risk factor for decreased survival after surgical treatment in lung cancer patients with COPD. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

30 CFR 75.1002 - Installation of electric equipment and conductors; permissibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... conductors; permissibility. 75.1002 Section 75.1002 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION... Wires and Trolley Feeder Wires § 75.1002 Installation of electric equipment and conductors... equipment is located within 150 feet of pillar workings or longwall faces. (b) Electric conductors and...

30 CFR 75.513 - Electric conductor; capacity and insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Electric conductor; capacity and insulation. 75.513 Section 75.513 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR COAL... § 75.513 Electric conductor; capacity and insulation. [Statutory Provision] All electric conductors...

30 CFR 75.700 - Grounding metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... conduits enclosing power conductors. 75.700 Section 75.700 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH... Grounding § 75.700 Grounding metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors. [Statutory Provisions] All metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors shall be electrically...

30 CFR 77.700 - Grounding metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... conduits enclosing power conductors. 77.700 Section 77.700 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH..., and conduits enclosing power conductors. Metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors shall be electrically continuous throughout and shall be grounded by methods approved by an...

30 CFR 75.700 - Grounding metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conduits enclosing power conductors. 75.700 Section 75.700 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH... Grounding § 75.700 Grounding metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors. [Statutory Provisions] All metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors shall be electrically...

46 CFR 129.380 - Overcurrent protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... protection must be provided for each ungrounded conductor, to open the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or its insulation. (b) Each conductor of a control, interlock, or indicator circuit, such as a conductor for an instrument...

46 CFR 120.380 - Overcurrent protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... for each ungrounded conductor for the purpose of opening the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or conductor insulation. (b) The grounded conductor of a circuit must not be disconnected by a switch or circuit breaker, unless...

46 CFR 120.380 - Overcurrent protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... for each ungrounded conductor for the purpose of opening the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or conductor insulation. (b) The grounded conductor of a circuit must not be disconnected by a switch or circuit breaker, unless...

30 CFR 77.700 - Grounding metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conduits enclosing power conductors. 77.700 Section 77.700 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH..., and conduits enclosing power conductors. Metallic sheaths, armors, and conduits enclosing power conductors shall be electrically continuous throughout and shall be grounded by methods approved by an...

30 CFR 75.1002 - Installation of electric equipment and conductors; permissibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... conductors; permissibility. 75.1002 Section 75.1002 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION... Wires and Trolley Feeder Wires § 75.1002 Installation of electric equipment and conductors... equipment is located within 150 feet of pillar workings or longwall faces. (b) Electric conductors and...

30 CFR 75.513 - Electric conductor; capacity and insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Electric conductor; capacity and insulation. 75.513 Section 75.513 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR COAL... § 75.513 Electric conductor; capacity and insulation. [Statutory Provision] All electric conductors...

46 CFR 111.05-33 - Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. 111.05... ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Equipment Ground, Ground Detection, and Grounded Systems § 111.05-33 Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. (a) Each equipment-grounding conductor must...

46 CFR 111.05-33 - Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. 111.05... ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Equipment Ground, Ground Detection, and Grounded Systems § 111.05-33 Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. (a) Each equipment-grounding conductor must...

46 CFR 111.05-33 - Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. 111.05... ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Equipment Ground, Ground Detection, and Grounded Systems § 111.05-33 Equipment safety grounding (bonding) conductors. (a) Each equipment-grounding conductor must...

33 CFR 159.71 - Electrical controls and conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Electrical controls and... Electrical controls and conductors. Electrical controls and conductors must be installed in accordance with good marine practice. Wire must be copper and must be stranded. Electrical controls and conductors must...

33 CFR 159.71 - Electrical controls and conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Electrical controls and... Electrical controls and conductors. Electrical controls and conductors must be installed in accordance with good marine practice. Wire must be copper and must be stranded. Electrical controls and conductors must...

33 CFR 159.71 - Electrical controls and conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Electrical controls and... Electrical controls and conductors. Electrical controls and conductors must be installed in accordance with good marine practice. Wire must be copper and must be stranded. Electrical controls and conductors must...

Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5 causes discoloration and pitting of mushroom caps due to the production of antifungal metabolites.

PubMed

Henkels, Marcella D; Kidarsa, Teresa A; Shaffer, Brenda T; Goebel, Neal C; Burlinson, Peter; Mavrodi, Dmitri V; Bentley, Michael A; Rangel, Lorena I; Davis, Edward W; Thomashow, Linda S; Zabriskie, T Mark; Preston, Gail M; Loper, Joyce E

2014-07-01

Bacteria in the diverse Pseudomonas fluorescens group include rhizosphere inhabitants known for their antifungal metabolite production and biological control of plant disease, such as Pseudomonas protegens Pf-5, and mushroom pathogens, such as Pseudomonas tolaasii. Here, we report that strain Pf-5 causes brown, sunken lesions on peeled caps of the button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) that resemble brown blotch symptoms caused by P. tolaasii. Strain Pf-5 produces six known antifungal metabolites under the control of the GacS/GacA signal transduction system. A gacA mutant produces none of these metabolites and did not cause lesions on mushroom caps. Mutants deficient in the biosynthesis of the antifungal metabolites 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol and pyoluteorin caused less-severe symptoms than wild-type Pf-5 on peeled mushroom caps, whereas mutants deficient in the production of lipopeptide orfamide A caused similar symptoms to wild-type Pf-5. Purified pyoluteorin and 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol mimicked the symptoms caused by Pf-5. Both compounds were isolated from mushroom tissue inoculated with Pf-5, providing direct evidence for their in situ production by the bacterium. Although the lipopeptide tolaasin is responsible for brown blotch of mushroom caused by P. tolaasii, P. protegens Pf-5 caused brown blotch-like symptoms on peeled mushroom caps through a lipopeptide-independent mechanism involving the production of 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol and pyoluteorin.

Novel mucus-penetrating liposomes as a potential oral drug delivery system: preparation, in vitro characterization, and enhanced cellular uptake

PubMed Central

Li, Xiuying; Chen, Dan; Le, Chaoyi; Zhu, Chunliu; Gan, Yong; Hovgaard, Lars; Yang, Mingshi

2011-01-01

Background The aim of this study was to investigate the intestinal mucus-penetrating properties and intestinal cellular uptake of two types of liposomes modified by Pluronic F127 (PF127). Methods The two types of liposomes, ie, PF127-inlaid liposomes and PF127-adsorbed liposomes, were prepared by a thin-film hydration method followed by extrusion, in which coumarin 6 was loaded as a fluorescence marker. A modified Franz diffusion cell mounted with the intestinal mucus of rats was used to study the diffusion characteristics of the two types of PF127 liposomes. Cell uptake studies were conducted in Caco-2 cells and analyzed using confocal laser scanning microcopy as well as flow cytometry. Results The diffusion efficiency of the two types of PF127-modified liposomes through intestinal rat mucus was 5–7-fold higher than that of unmodified liposomes. Compared with unmodified liposomes, PF127-inlaid liposomes showed significantly higher cellular uptake of courmarin 6. PF127-adsorbed liposomes showed a lower cellular uptake. Moreover, and interestingly, the two types of PF127-modified liposomes showed different cellular uptake mechanisms in Caco-2 cells. Conclusion PF127-inlaid liposomes with improved intestinal mucus-penetrating ability and enhanced cellular uptake might be a potential carrier candidate for oral drug delivery. PMID:22163166

Multi-omics Based Identification of Specific Biochemical Changes Associated With PfKelch13-Mutant Artemisinin-Resistant Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Siddiqui, Ghizal; Srivastava, Anubhav; Russell, Adrian S; Creek, Darren J

2017-05-01

The emergence of artemisinin resistance in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum poses a major threat to the control and elimination of malaria. Certain point mutations in the propeller domain of PfKelch13 are associated with resistance, but PfKelch13 mutations do not always result in clinical resistance. The underlying mechanisms associated with artemisinin resistance are poorly understood, and the impact of PfKelch13 mutations on cellular biochemistry is not defined. This study aimed to identify global biochemical differences between PfKelch13-mutant artemisinin-resistant and -sensitive strains of P. falciparum by combining liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS)-based proteomics, peptidomics, and metabolomics. Proteomics analysis found both PfKelch13 mutations examined to be specifically associated with decreased abundance of PfKelch13 protein. Metabolomics analysis demonstrated accumulation of glutathione and its precursor, gamma-glutamylcysteine, and significant depletion of 1 other putative metabolite in resistant strains. Peptidomics analysis revealed lower abundance of several endogenous peptides derived from hemoglobin (HBα and HBβ) in the artemisinin-resistant strains. PfKelch13 mutations associated with artemisinin resistance lead to decreased abundance of PfKelch13 protein, decreased hemoglobin digestion, and enhanced glutathione production. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press for the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For permissions, e-mail journals.permissions@oup.com.

Dynamometer-based measure of spasticity confirms limited association between plantarflexor spasticity and walking function in persons with multiple sclerosis

PubMed Central

Kremer, Theodore R.; Van Dillen, Linda R.; Wagner, Joanne M.

2017-01-01

The literature shows inconsistent evidence regarding the association between clinically assessed plantarflexor (PF) spasticity and walking function in ambulatory persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). The use of a dynamometer-based spasticity measure (DSM) may help to clarify this association. Our cohort included 42 pwMS (27 female, 15 male; age: 42.9 +/− 10.2 yr) with mild clinical disability (Expanded Disability Status Scale score: 3.6 +/− 1.6). PF spasticity was assessed using a clinical measure, the modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and an instrumented measure, the DSM. Walking function was assessed by the timed 25-foot walk test (T25FWT), the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and the 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12). Spearman rho correlations were used to evaluate relationships between spasticity measures, measures of walking speed and endurance, and self-perceived limitations in walking. The correlation was small between PF spasticity and the T25FWT (PF maximum [Max] MAS rho = 0.27, PF Max DSM rho = 0.26), the 6MWT (PF Max MAS rho = −0.20, PF Max DSM rho = −0.21), and the MSWS-12 (PF Max MAS rho = 0.11, PF Max DSM rho = 0.26). Our results are similar to reports in other neurologic clinical populations, wherein spasticity has a limited association with walking dysfunction. PMID:25356797

Development of a copula-based particle filter (CopPF) approach for hydrologic data assimilation under consideration of parameter interdependence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Y. R.; Huang, G. H.; Baetz, B. W.; Li, Y. P.; Huang, K.

2017-06-01

In this study, a copula-based particle filter (CopPF) approach was developed for sequential hydrological data assimilation by considering parameter correlation structures. In CopPF, multivariate copulas are proposed to reflect parameter interdependence before the resampling procedure with new particles then being sampled from the obtained copulas. Such a process can overcome both particle degeneration and sample impoverishment. The applicability of CopPF is illustrated with three case studies using a two-parameter simplified model and two conceptual hydrologic models. The results for the simplified model indicate that model parameters are highly correlated in the data assimilation process, suggesting a demand for full description of their dependence structure. Synthetic experiments on hydrologic data assimilation indicate that CopPF can rejuvenate particle evolution in large spaces and thus achieve good performances with low sample size scenarios. The applicability of CopPF is further illustrated through two real-case studies. It is shown that, compared with traditional particle filter (PF) and particle Markov chain Monte Carlo (PMCMC) approaches, the proposed method can provide more accurate results for both deterministic and probabilistic prediction with a sample size of 100. Furthermore, the sample size would not significantly influence the performance of CopPF. Also, the copula resampling approach dominates parameter evolution in CopPF, with more than 50% of particles sampled by copulas in most sample size scenarios.

Antibodies associated with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) inhibit activated protein C generation: new insights into the prothrombotic nature of HIT.

PubMed

Kowalska, M Anna; Krishnaswamy, Sriram; Rauova, Lubica; Zhai, Li; Hayes, Vincent; Amirikian, Karine; Esko, Jeffrey D; Bougie, Daniel W; Aster, Richard H; Cines, Douglas B; Poncz, Mortimer

2011-09-08

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is caused by antibodies that recognize complexes between platelet factor 4 (PF4) and heparin or glycosaminoglycan side chains. These antibodies can lead to a limb- and life-threatening prothrombotic state. We now show that HIT antibodies are able to inhibit generation of activated protein C (aPC) by thrombin/thrombomodulin (IIa/TM) in the presence of PF4. Tetrameric PF4 potentiates aPC generation by formation of complexes with chondroitin sulfate (CS) on TM. Formation of these complexes occurs at a specific molar ratio of PF4 to glycosaminoglycan. This observation and the finding that the effect of heparin on aPC generation depends on the concentration of PF4 suggest similarity between PF4/CS complexes and those that bind HIT antibodies. HIT antibodies reduced the ability of PF4 to augment aPC formation. Cationic protamine sulfate, which forms similar complexes with heparin, also enhanced aPC generation, but its activity was not blocked by HIT antibodies. Our studies provide evidence that complexes formed between PF4 and TM's CS may play a physiologic role in potentiating aPC generation. Recognition of these complexes by HIT antibodies reverses the PF4-dependent enhancement in aPC generation and may contribute to the prothrombotic nature of HIT.

Neutralization of Plasmodium falciparum merozoites by antibodies against PfRH5

PubMed Central

Douglas, Alexander D.; Williams, Andrew R.; Knuepfer, Ellen; Illingworth, Joseph J.; Furze, Julie M.; Crosnier, Cécile; Choudhary, Prateek; Bustamante, Leyla Y.; Zakutansky, Sara E.; Awuah, Dennis K.; Alanine, Daniel G. W.; Theron, Michel; Worth, Andrew; Shimkets, Richard; Rayner, Julian C.; Holder, Anthony A.; Wright, Gavin J.; Draper, Simon J.

2013-01-01

There is intense interest in induction and characterization of strain-transcending neutralizing antibody against antigenically variable human pathogens. We have recently identified the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum reticulocyte-binding protein homologue 5 (PfRH5) as a target of broadly-neutralizing antibodies, but there is little information regarding the functional mechanism(s) of antibody-mediated neutralization. Here, we report that vaccine-induced polyclonal anti-PfRH5 antibodies inhibit the tight attachment of merozoites to erythrocytes, and are capable of blocking the interaction of PfRH5 with its receptor basigin. Furthermore, by developing anti-PfRH5 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), we provide evidence that i) the ability to block the PfRH5-basigin interaction in vitro is predictive of functional activity, but absence of blockade does not predict absence of functional activity; ii) neutralizing mAbs bind spatially-related epitopes on the folded protein, involving at least two defined regions of the PfRH5 primary sequence; iii) a brief exposure window of PfRH5 is likely to necessitate rapid binding of antibody to neutralize parasites; and iv) intact bivalent IgG contributes to but is not necessary for parasite neutralization. These data provide important insight into the mechanisms of broadly-neutralizing anti-malaria antibodies and further encourage anti-PfRH5 based malaria prevention efforts. PMID:24293631

Resistive coating for current conductors in cryogenic applications

DOEpatents

Hirayama, Chikara; Wagner, George R.

1982-05-18

This invention relates to a resistive or semiconducting coating for use on current conductors in cryogenic applications. This includes copper-clad superconductor wire, copper wire used for stabilizing superconductor magnets, and for hyperconductors. The coating is a film of cuprous sulfide (Cu.sub.2 S) that has been found not to degrade the properties of the conductors. It is very adherent to the respective conductors and satisfies the mechanical, thermal and electrical requirements of coatings for the conductors.

Study on galloping behavior of iced eight bundle conductor transmission lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Linshu; Yan, Bo; Zhang, Liang; Zhou, Song

2016-02-01

Wind tunnel test was carried out to obtain the aerodynamic coefficients of an eight bundle conductor accreted with crescent-shaped ice. A user-defined cable element with torsional degree of freedom is developed in ABAQUS software to capture the torsional deformation of the iced conductors during galloping. By means of the user-defined cable element, different damping ratios in in-plane, out-of-plane and torsional directions of the conductors can be defined and the aerodynamic forces varying with their motion status can be exerted on the conductors conveniently when ABAQUS is used to simulate galloping of transmission lines. A wind tunnel test to model galloping of an iced eight bundle conductor segment was carried out, and the validity of the numerical simulation method is demonstrated by the agreement of the galloping orbit of the bundle conductor segment model recorded in the test and that by the numerical simulation. Furthermore, galloping behavior, including dynamic responses, galloping orbits, frequencies, vibration modes and amplitudes, of typical iced eight bundle conductor transmission lines in the cases of different span lengths, initial tensions in sub-conductors, wind velocities, angles of wind attack and damping ratios is studied, and the galloping behavior of the lines with internal resonance conditions is discussed. The obtained results may provide a fundamental tool for the development of anti-galloping techniques of eight bundle conductor transmission lines.

Automated 3D Damaged Cavity Model Builder for Lower Surface Acreage Tile on Orbiter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Belknap, Shannon; Zhang, Michael

2013-01-01

The 3D Automated Thermal Tool for Damaged Acreage Tile Math Model builder was developed to perform quickly and accurately 3D thermal analyses on damaged lower surface acreage tiles and structures beneath the damaged locations on a Space Shuttle Orbiter. The 3D model builder created both TRASYS geometric math models (GMMs) and SINDA thermal math models (TMMs) to simulate an idealized damaged cavity in the damaged tile(s). The GMMs are processed in TRASYS to generate radiation conductors between the surfaces in the cavity. The radiation conductors are inserted into the TMMs, which are processed in SINDA to generate temperature histories for all of the nodes on each layer of the TMM. The invention allows a thermal analyst to create quickly and accurately a 3D model of a damaged lower surface tile on the orbiter. The 3D model builder can generate a GMM and the correspond ing TMM in one or two minutes, with the damaged cavity included in the tile material. A separate program creates a configuration file, which would take a couple of minutes to edit. This configuration file is read by the model builder program to determine the location of the damage, the correct tile type, tile thickness, structure thickness, and SIP thickness of the damage, so that the model builder program can build an accurate model at the specified location. Once the models are built, they are processed by the TRASYS and SINDA.

Structure and anticoagulant property of a sulfated polysaccharide isolated from the green seaweed Monostroma angicava.

PubMed

Li, Na; Liu, Xue; He, Xiaoxi; Wang, Shuyao; Cao, Sujian; Xia, Zheng; Xian, Huali; Qin, Ling; Mao, Wenjun

2017-03-01

An anticoagulant-active polysaccharide PF2 was extracted with boiling water from the green seaweed Monostroma angicava, further purified by anion-exchange and size-exclusion chromatography. PF2 was a rhamnan-type sulfated polysaccharide with molecular weight of about 88.1kDa. Results of chemical and spectroscopic analyses demonstrated that PF2 consisted of→3)-α-l-Rhap-(1→ and →2)-α-l-Rhap-(1→residues, with partially branches at C-2 of→3)-α-l-Rhap-(1→residues. Sulfate groups were substituted at C-3 of →2)-α-l-Rhap-(1→ residues. The sulfated polysaccharide PF2 had a high anticoagulant action, and the mechanism of anticoagulant activity mediated by PF2 was mainly attributed to strong potentiation thrombin by heparin cofactor II. PF2 also exhibited weak effect on antithrombin-dependent thrombin or factor Xa inhibition. The fibrin(ogen)olytic activity and thrombolytic activity of PF2 were also evaluated. The investigation revealed that PF2 was a novel sulfated rhamnan differing from previously described sulfated polysaccharides from green seaweed and could be a potential anticoagulant polysaccharide. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Paeoniflorin protects against ischemia-induced brain damages in rats via inhibiting MAPKs/NF-κB-mediated inflammatory responses.

PubMed

Guo, Ruo-Bing; Wang, Guo-Feng; Zhao, An-Peng; Gu, Jun; Sun, Xiu-Lan; Hu, Gang

2012-01-01

Paeoniflorin (PF), the principal component of Paeoniae Radix prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine, has been reported to exhibit many pharmacological effects including protection against ischemic injury. However, the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of PF on cerebral ischemia are still under investigation. The present study showed that PF treatment for 14 days could significantly inhibit transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced over-activation of astrocytes and microglia, and prevented up-regulations of pro-inflamamtory mediators (TNFα, IL-1β, iNOS, COX(2) and 5-LOX) in plasma and brain. Further study demonstrated that chronic treatment with PF suppressed the activations of JNK and p38 MAPK, but enhanced ERK activation. And PF could reverse ischemia-induced activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, our in vitro study revealed that PF treatment protected against TNFα-induced cell apoptosis and neuronal loss. Taken together, the present study demonstrates that PF produces a delayed protection in the ischemia-injured rats via inhibiting MAPKs/NF-κB mediated peripheral and cerebral inflammatory response. Our study reveals that PF might be a potential neuroprotective agent for stroke.

High pressure, high current, low inductance, high reliability sealed terminals

DOEpatents

Hsu, John S [Oak Ridge, TN; McKeever, John W [Oak Ridge, TN

2010-03-23

The invention is a terminal assembly having a casing with at least one delivery tapered-cone conductor and at least one return tapered-cone conductor routed there-through. The delivery and return tapered-cone conductors are electrically isolated from each other and positioned in the annuluses of ordered concentric cones at an off-normal angle. The tapered cone conductor service can be AC phase conductors and DC link conductors. The center core has at least one service conduit of gate signal leads, diagnostic signal wires, and refrigerant tubing routed there-through. A seal material is in direct contact with the casing inner surface, the tapered-cone conductors, and the service conduits thereby hermetically filling the interstitial space in the casing interior core and center core. The assembly provides simultaneous high-current, high-pressure, low-inductance, and high-reliability service.

Fabrication and modeling of stretchable conductors for traumatic brain injury research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Wenzhe

Stretchable electronics are an emergent class of electronics that can retain their electric functionality under large mechanical deformation, such as stretching, bending and compression. Like traditional electric circuits, stretchable electronics rely on electrical conductors, but in this specific instance the conductors must also be stretchable. This thesis research had three goals: (1) fabricate elastically stretchable conductors that retain their electrical conductance when stretched by tens of percent of strain; (2) understand the underlying stretching mechanism of gold conductors on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates; (3) produce a special device---a stretchable microelectrode array, which contains a matrix of stretchable conductors that enables a new approach to studying traumatic brain injury. We first developed and optimized the micro-fabrication process to make elastically stretchable thin gold film conductors on PDMS substrates. The conductors can retain electrical conduction while being stretched reversibly to 140% uniaxially and 16% radially. We further developed a fabrication process to encapsulate the conductors with either a commercially available photopatternable silicone (PPS) or with PDMS. 100 microm by 100 microm vias were patterned in the encapsulation layer to expose electrical contacts. PPS encapsulated conductors can be stretched uniaxially to 80%, and the PDMS encapsulated conductor can be stretched to ˜15%, without losing electrical conduction. We also introduced acrylate-based shape memory polymers (SMPs) as a new type of substrate for stretchable conductors. Their stiffness can be tuned by varying the monomer composition or by changing the ambient temperature. Thin gold film conductors deposited on pre-strained SMPs remain conductive when first stretched and then relaxed to their pre-strain value. Moreover, an SMP can also serve as a stretchable carrier to make pre-strained conductors on an overlying PDMS membrane. The resistance of gold conductors made on pre-strained PDMS changes less during stretching than that made on non-pre-strained PDMS substrate. We built a model of the electrical resistance in function of strain. The model is based on the topography of the thin gold film on PDMS. This model is a first attempt at predicting electrical resistance of stretchable thin gold film conductors. Lastly, we fabricated stretchable microelectrode arrays (SMEAs). They were utilized at Columbia University to study traumatic brain injury (TBI). Tissues cultured on SMEA remained viable for 19 days, and the electrodes were able to both stimulate and record neural tissue activity before, during and after stretching. Therefore SMEAs are able to bring together mechanical injury, electrophysiological recording and pharmacological studies. The SMEAs could serve as in vitro platforms for high throughput therapeutic screening and discovery for traumatic injury. The ability to reproducibly fabricate stretchable conductors using micro-fabrication technology will facilitate adoption by industry. The ability to understand the stretching mechanism will enable us to design more robust material systems. The SMEA prototypes demonstrate that stretchable conductors are practical, and their mechanical compatibility with biological systems also makes them candidates for use in biomedical devices.

Massive remobilization of permafrost carbon during post-glacial warming

PubMed Central

Tesi, T.; Muschitiello, F.; Smittenberg, R. H.; Jakobsson, M.; Vonk, J. E.; Hill, P.; Andersson, A.; Kirchner, N.; Noormets, R.; Dudarev, O.; Semiletov, I.; Gustafsson, Ö

2016-01-01

Recent hypotheses, based on atmospheric records and models, suggest that permafrost carbon (PF-C) accumulated during the last glaciation may have been an important source for the atmospheric CO2 rise during post-glacial warming. However, direct physical indications for such PF-C release have so far been absent. Here we use the Laptev Sea (Arctic Ocean) as an archive to investigate PF-C destabilization during the last glacial–interglacial period. Our results show evidence for massive supply of PF-C from Siberian soils as a result of severe active layer deepening in response to the warming. Thawing of PF-C must also have brought about an enhanced organic matter respiration and, thus, these findings suggest that PF-C may indeed have been an important source of CO2 across the extensive permafrost domain. The results challenge current paradigms on the post-glacial CO2 rise and, at the same time, serve as a harbinger for possible consequences of the present-day warming of PF-C soils. PMID:27897191

Massive remobilization of permafrost carbon during post-glacial warming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tesi, T.; Muschitiello, F.; Smittenberg, R. H.; Jakobsson, M.; Vonk, J. E.; Hill, P.; Andersson, A.; Kirchner, N.; Noormets, R.; Dudarev, O.; Semiletov, I.; Gustafsson, Ö.

2016-11-01

Recent hypotheses, based on atmospheric records and models, suggest that permafrost carbon (PF-C) accumulated during the last glaciation may have been an important source for the atmospheric CO2 rise during post-glacial warming. However, direct physical indications for such PF-C release have so far been absent. Here we use the Laptev Sea (Arctic Ocean) as an archive to investigate PF-C destabilization during the last glacial-interglacial period. Our results show evidence for massive supply of PF-C from Siberian soils as a result of severe active layer deepening in response to the warming. Thawing of PF-C must also have brought about an enhanced organic matter respiration and, thus, these findings suggest that PF-C may indeed have been an important source of CO2 across the extensive permafrost domain. The results challenge current paradigms on the post-glacial CO2 rise and, at the same time, serve as a harbinger for possible consequences of the present-day warming of PF-C soils.

Evidence of C-F-P and aromatic π-F-P weak interactions in imidazolium ionic liquids and its consequences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panja, Sumit Kumar; Srivastava, Nitin; Srivastava, Jyoti; Prasad, Namburi Eswara; Noothalapati, Hemanth; Shigeto, Shinsuke; Saha, Satyen

2018-04-01

A simple change from alkyl group to alkene in side chain of imidazolium cation with same anion resulted in a drastic impact on physical properties (e.g., melting point) from bmimPF6 IL to cmimPF6 IL. The underlying reasons have been elucidated by structural and interaction studies with the help of DSC, SCXRD, vibrational and multi-nuclear NMR spectroscopic techniques. Experiments reveal existence of new weak interactions involving the carbon and π cloud of the imidazolium aromatic ring with fluoride of PF6 anion (i.e., C2-F-P and π-F-P) in cmimPF6 but are absent in structurally similar prototype IL, bmimPF6. Though weak, these interactions helped to form ladder type supramolecular arrangement, resulting in quite high melting point for cmimPF6 IL compared to bmimPF6 IL. These findings emphasize that an IL system can behave uniquely because of the existence of uncommon weak interactions.

About PF

MedlinePlus

... vapors that can cause PF (such as asbestos, coal, silica, and others) Some MEDICATIONS can cause PF. ... wide variety of inorganic dusts, including asbestos, silica, coal dust, beryllium, and hard metal dusts. Are there ...

30 CFR 57.12048 - Communication conductors on power poles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Communication conductors on power poles. 57... MINES Electricity Surface and Underground § 57.12048 Communication conductors on power poles. Telegraph, telephone, or signal wires shall not be installed on the same crossarm with power conductors. When carried...

46 CFR 183.372 - Equipment and conductor grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Equipment and conductor grounding. 183.372 Section 183... conductor grounding. (a) All metallic enclosures and frames of electrical equipment must be permanently... equipment must be bonded together to a common ground by a normally non-current carrying conductor. Metallic...

30 CFR 57.12005 - Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Protection of power conductors from mobile... NONMETAL MINES Electricity Surface and Underground § 57.12005 Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment. Mobile equipment shall not run over power conductors, nor shall loads be dragged over power...

33 CFR 183.455 - Overcurrent protection: General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

....455 Overcurrent protection: General. (a) Each ungrounded current-carrying conductor must be protected... breaker or fuse must be placed at the source of power for each circuit or conductor except: (1) If it is... seven inches of the source of power for each circuit or conductor measured along the conductor. (2) If...

46 CFR 120.372 - Equipment and conductor grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Equipment and conductor grounding. 120.372 Section 120... INSTALLATION Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 120.372 Equipment and conductor grounding. (a) All... together to a common ground by a normally non-current carrying conductor. Metallic cases of instruments and...

46 CFR 183.380 - Overcurrent protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) Overcurrent protection must be provided for each ungrounded conductor for the purpose of opening the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or conductor insulation. (b) The grounded conductor of a circuit must not be disconnected by a switch...

46 CFR 183.372 - Equipment and conductor grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Equipment and conductor grounding. 183.372 Section 183... conductor grounding. (a) All metallic enclosures and frames of electrical equipment must be permanently... equipment must be bonded together to a common ground by a normally non-current carrying conductor. Metallic...

46 CFR 183.380 - Overcurrent protection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) Overcurrent protection must be provided for each ungrounded conductor for the purpose of opening the electric circuit if the current reaches a value that causes an excessive or dangerous temperature in the conductor or conductor insulation. (b) The grounded conductor of a circuit must not be disconnected by a switch...

30 CFR 77.503 - Electric conductors; capacity and insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Electric conductors; capacity and insulation... UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 77.503 Electric conductors; capacity and insulation. Electric conductors shall be sufficient in size and have adequate current carrying capacity and be of such...

30 CFR 57.12048 - Communication conductors on power poles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Communication conductors on power poles. 57... MINES Electricity Surface and Underground § 57.12048 Communication conductors on power poles. Telegraph, telephone, or signal wires shall not be installed on the same crossarm with power conductors. When carried...

30 CFR 75.513-1 - Electric conductor; size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Electric conductor; size. 75.513-1 Section 75.513-1 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR COAL MINE SAFETY... Electric conductor; size. An electric conductor is not of sufficient size to have adequate carrying...

30 CFR 56.12048 - Communication conductors on power poles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Communication conductors on power poles. 56... Electricity § 56.12048 Communication conductors on power poles. Telegraph, telephone, or signal wires shall not be installed on the same crossarm with power conductors. When carried on poles supporting...

30 CFR 77.503 - Electric conductors; capacity and insulation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Electric conductors; capacity and insulation... UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 77.503 Electric conductors; capacity and insulation. Electric conductors shall be sufficient in size and have adequate current carrying capacity and be of such...

30 CFR 56.12048 - Communication conductors on power poles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Communication conductors on power poles. 56... Electricity § 56.12048 Communication conductors on power poles. Telegraph, telephone, or signal wires shall not be installed on the same crossarm with power conductors. When carried on poles supporting...

46 CFR 120.372 - Equipment and conductor grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Equipment and conductor grounding. 120.372 Section 120... INSTALLATION Power Sources and Distribution Systems § 120.372 Equipment and conductor grounding. (a) All... together to a common ground by a normally non-current carrying conductor. Metallic cases of instruments and...

33 CFR 183.455 - Overcurrent protection: General.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

....455 Overcurrent protection: General. (a) Each ungrounded current-carrying conductor must be protected... breaker or fuse must be placed at the source of power for each circuit or conductor except: (1) If it is... seven inches of the source of power for each circuit or conductor measured along the conductor. (2) If...

30 CFR 57.12005 - Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Protection of power conductors from mobile... NONMETAL MINES Electricity Surface and Underground § 57.12005 Protection of power conductors from mobile equipment. Mobile equipment shall not run over power conductors, nor shall loads be dragged over power...

30 CFR 75.513-1 - Electric conductor; size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Electric conductor; size. 75.513-1 Section 75.513-1 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF LABOR COAL MINE SAFETY... Electric conductor; size. An electric conductor is not of sufficient size to have adequate carrying...

29 CFR 1910.305 - Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... distribution center. (B) Conductors shall be run as multiconductor cord or cable assemblies. However, if... persons, feeders may be run as single insulated conductors. (v) The following requirements apply to branch... shall be multiconductor cord or cable assemblies or open conductors. If run as open conductors, they...

29 CFR 1910.305 - Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... distribution center. (B) Conductors shall be run as multiconductor cord or cable assemblies. However, if... persons, feeders may be run as single insulated conductors. (v) The following requirements apply to branch... shall be multiconductor cord or cable assemblies or open conductors. If run as open conductors, they...

29 CFR 1910.305 - Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... distribution center. (B) Conductors shall be run as multiconductor cord or cable assemblies. However, if... persons, feeders may be run as single insulated conductors. (v) The following requirements apply to branch... shall be multiconductor cord or cable assemblies or open conductors. If run as open conductors, they...

29 CFR 1910.305 - Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... distribution center. (B) Conductors shall be run as multiconductor cord or cable assemblies. However, if... persons, feeders may be run as single insulated conductors. (v) The following requirements apply to branch... shall be multiconductor cord or cable assemblies or open conductors. If run as open conductors, they...

29 CFR 1910.305 - Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... distribution center. (B) Conductors shall be run as multiconductor cord or cable assemblies. However, if... persons, feeders may be run as single insulated conductors. (v) The following requirements apply to branch... shall be multiconductor cord or cable assemblies or open conductors. If run as open conductors, they...

30 CFR 75.513-1 - Electric conductor; size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Electric conductor; size. 75.513-1 Section 75... AND HEALTH MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 75.513-1 Electric conductor; size. An electric conductor is not of sufficient size to have adequate carrying...

30 CFR 75.513-1 - Electric conductor; size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Electric conductor; size. 75.513-1 Section 75... AND HEALTH MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 75.513-1 Electric conductor; size. An electric conductor is not of sufficient size to have adequate carrying...

30 CFR 75.513-1 - Electric conductor; size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Electric conductor; size. 75.513-1 Section 75... AND HEALTH MANDATORY SAFETY STANDARDS-UNDERGROUND COAL MINES Electrical Equipment-General § 75.513-1 Electric conductor; size. An electric conductor is not of sufficient size to have adequate carrying...

30 CFR 77.508 - Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... power conductors and telephone wires. 77.508 Section 77.508 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH... arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires. All ungrounded, exposed power conductors and telephone wires shall be equipped with suitable lightning arresters which are adequately...

30 CFR 77.508 - Lightning arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... power conductors and telephone wires. 77.508 Section 77.508 Mineral Resources MINE SAFETY AND HEALTH... arresters, ungrounded and exposed power conductors and telephone wires. All ungrounded, exposed power conductors and telephone wires shall be equipped with suitable lightning arresters which are adequately...

Conditioning flat conductors for flat conductor cable production

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1968-01-01

Apparatus can straighten, anneal, clean, and a tension to stretch a cable one percent to assure uniform cross-sectional area. A conductor passes through temperature controlled distilled water and through a toroid coil. As The conductor enters the water, steam performs the cleaning action. Quenching and annealing also take place.

46 CFR 111.50-3 - Protection of conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Protection of conductors. 111.50-3 Section 111.50-3...-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Overcurrent Protection § 111.50-3 Protection of conductors. (a) Purpose. The purpose of overcurrent protection for conductors is to open the electric circuit if the current reaches a...

46 CFR 111.50-3 - Protection of conductors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Protection of conductors. 111.50-3 Section 111.50-3...-GENERAL REQUIREMENTS Overcurrent Protection § 111.50-3 Protection of conductors. (a) Purpose. The purpose of overcurrent protection for conductors is to open the electric circuit if the current reaches a...

30 CFR 77.700-1 - Approved methods of grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... in resistance grounded systems, where the enclosed conductors are a part of the system, will be approved if a solid connection is made to the neutral conductor; in all other systems, the following... earth; (b) A solid connection to a grounding conductor, other than the neutral conductor of a resistance...

30 CFR 77.700-1 - Approved methods of grounding.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... in resistance grounded systems, where the enclosed conductors are a part of the system, will be approved if a solid connection is made to the neutral conductor; in all other systems, the following... earth; (b) A solid connection to a grounding conductor, other than the neutral conductor of a resistance...

Hollow Cathode and Keeper-region Plasma Measurements Using Ultra-fast Miniature Scanning Probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goebel, Dan M.; Jameson, Kristina K.; Watkins, Ron M.; Katz, Ira

2004-01-01

In order to support the development of comprehensive performance and life models for future deep space missions that will utilize ion thrusters, we have undertaken a study of the plasma structure in hollow cathodes using an new pneumatic scanning probe diagnostic. This device is designed to insert a miniature probe directly into the hollow cathode orifice from either the upstream insert region in the interior of the hollow cathode, or from the downstream keeper-plasma region at the exit of the hollow cathode, to provide complete axial profiles of the discharge plasma parameters. Previous attempts to diagnose this region with probes was Limited by the melting of small probes in the intense discharge near the orifice, or caused significant perturbation of the plasma by probes large enough to survive. Our new probe is extremely compact, and when configured as a single Langmuir probe, the ceramic tube insulator is only 0.5mm in diameter and the current collecting conductor has a total area of 0.002 cm2. A series of current-voltage characteristics are obtained by applying a rapid sawtooth voltage waveform to the probe as it is scanned by the pneumatic actuator into and out of the plasma region, The bellow-sealed pneumatic drive scans the probe 4 cm in the cathode insert region and 10 cm in the anode/keeper plasmas region at average speeds of about 1 mm/msec, and the residence time at the end of the insertion stroke in the densest part of the plasma near the orifice is measured to be only 10 msec. Since the voltage sweep time is fast compared to the motion of the probe, axial profiles of the plasma density, temperature and potential with reasonable spatial resolution are obtained. Measurements of the internal cathode pressures and the axial plasma-parameter profiles for a hollow cathode operating at discharge currents of up to 35 A in xenon will be presented.

Pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 polymorphisms in Plasmodium falciparum isolates from Dakar, Senegal: impact on rapid malaria diagnostic tests

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background An accurate diagnosis is essential for the rapid and appropriate treatment of malaria. The accuracy of the histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2)-based rapid diagnostic test (RDT) Palutop+4® was assessed here. One possible factor contributing to the failure to detect malaria by this test is the diversity of the parasite PfHRP2 antigens. Methods PfHRP2 detection with the Palutop+4® RDT was carried out. The pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 genes were amplified and sequenced from 136 isolates of Plasmodium falciparum that were collected in Dakar, Senegal from 2009 to 2011. The DNA sequences were determined and statistical analyses of the variation observed between these two genes were conducted. The potential impact of PfHRP2 and PfHRP3 sequence variation on malaria diagnosis was examined. Results Seven P. falciparum isolates (5.9% of the total isolates, regardless of the parasitaemia; 10.7% of the isolates with parasitaemia ≤0.005% or ≤250 parasites/μl) were undetected by the PfHRP2 Palutop+4® RDT. Low parasite density is not sufficient to explain the PfHRP2 detection failure. Three of these seven samples showed pfhrp2 deletion (2.4%). The pfhrp3 gene was deleted in 12.8%. Of the 122 PfHRP2 sequences, 120 unique sequences were identified. Of the 109 PfHRP3 sequences, 64 unique sequences were identified. Using the Baker’s regression model, at least 7.4% of the P. falciparum isolates in Dakar were likely to be undetected by PfHRP2 at a parasite density of ≤250 parasites/μl (slightly lower than the evaluated prevalence of 10.7%). This predictive prevalence increased significantly between 2009 and 2011 (P = 0.0046). Conclusion In the present work, 10.7% of the isolates with a parasitaemia ≤0.005% (≤250 parasites/μl) were undetected by the PfHRP2 Palutop+4® RDT (7.4% by the predictive Baker’model). In addition, all of the parasites with pfhrp2 deletion (2.4% of the total samples) and 2.1% of the parasites with parasitaemia >0.005% and presence of pfhrp2 were not detected by PfHRP2 RDT. PfHRP2 is highly polymorphic in Senegal. Efforts should be made to more accurately determine the prevalence of non-sensitive parasites to pfHRP2. PMID:23347727

Temporal and Spatial Patterns of Preferential Flow Occurrence in the Shale Hills Catchment: From the Hillslope to the Catchment Scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, H.; Lin, H.

2013-12-01

Understanding temporal and spatial patterns of preferential flow (PF) occurrence is important in revealing hillslope and catchment hydrologic and biogeochemical processes. Quantitative assessment of the frequency and control of PF occurrence in the field, however, has been limited, especially at the landscape scale of hillslope and catchment. By using 5.5-years' (2007-2012) real-time soil moisture at 10 sites response to 323 precipitation events, we tested the temporal consistency of PF occurrence at the hillslope scale in the forested Shale Hills Catchment; and by using 25 additional sites with at least 1-year data (2011-2012), we evaluated the spatial patterns of PF occurrence across the catchment. To explore the potential effects of PF occurrence on catchment hydrology, wavelet analysis was performed on the recorded time series of hydrological signals (i.e., precipitation, soil moisture, catchment discharge). Considerable temporal consistence was observed in both the frequency and the main controls of PF occurrence at the hillslope scale, which was attributed largely to the statistical stability of precipitation pattern over the monitoring period and the relatively stable subsurface preferential pathways. Preferential flow tended to occur more often in response to intense rainfall events, and favored the conditions at dry hilltop or wet valley floor sites. When upscaling to the entire catchment, topographic control on the PF occurrence was amplified remarkably, leading to the identification of a subsurface PF network in the catchment. Higher frequency of PF occurrence was observed at the valley floor (average 48%), hilltop (average 46%), and swales/hillslopes near the stream (average 40%), while the hillslopes in the eastern part of the catchment were least likely to experience PF (0-20%). No clear relationship, however, was observed between terrain attributes and PF occurrence, because the initiation and persistency of PF in this catchment was controlled jointly by complex interactions among landform units, soil types, initial soil moisture, precipitation features, and season. Through the wavelet method (coherence spectrum and phase differences), dual-pore filtering effects of soil system were proven, rendering it possible to further infer characteristic properties of the underlying hydrological processes in the subsurface. We found that preferential flow dominates the catchment discharge response at short-time periods (< 3 days), while the matrix flow may dominate the discharge response at the time scales of around 10-12 days. The temporal and spatial patterns of PF occurrence revealed in this study can help advance the modeling and prediction of complex PF dynamics in this and other similar landscapes.

The effect of conductor permeability on electric current transducers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mirzaei, M.; Ripka, P.; Chirtsov, A.; Kaspar, P.; Vyhnanek, J.

2018-04-01

In this paper, experimental works and theoretical analysis are presented to analyze the influence of the conductor permeability on the precision of yokeless current sensors. The results of finite-element method (FEM) fit well the measured field values around the conductor. Finally we evaluate the difference in magnetic fields distribution around non-magnetic and magnetic conductor. The calculated values show that the permeability of the ferromagnetic conductor significally affects the reading of the electric current sensors even at DC.

Cable for prospecting

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

Lebouc, L.; Marmignon, J.

1983-03-29

A cable for prospecting, said cable including a core of conductor wires surrounded by insulating material and by armour formed by at least one layer of helically wound steel wires. It includes, from its center to its periphery, inside the armour, an axial monofilament made of a polymer that withstands high temperatures, said monofilament forming the insulation of an inner conductor, an outer conductor and a sheath made of a thermoplastic substance that withstands high temperatures, said inner conductor serving a different electrical function than said core of conductor wires.

Metal complexes of fluorophosphines. 13. Reaction of fac-(CH/sub 3/CN)/sub 3/Mo(CO)/sub 3/ with (methylamino)bis(difluorophosphine). X-ray crystal structure analysis of a novel binuclear molybdenum fluorophosphine carbonyl complex with a bridging chlorine atom: (CO)/sub 2/Mo(/sup +/-CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/)/sub 2/(. mu. -PF/sub 2/)(. mu. -Cl)Mo(CO)(PF/sub 2/NHCH/sub 3/)

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

King, R.B.; Shimura, M.; Brown, G.M.

1984-01-01

Reaction of fac-(CH/sub 3/CN)/sub 3/Mo(CO)/sub 3/ with CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/ in acetonitrile solution at room temperature gives white, volatile, crystalline fac-(CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/)/sub 2/Mo(CO)/sub 3/, containing one monodentate and one bidentate CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/ ligand. The same reactants in boiling acetonitrile give yellow (CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/)/sub 4/Mo/sub 2/(CO)/sub 3/ in considerably better yield than the previously reported preparation of this binuclear complex from the cycloheptatriene complex C/sub 7/H/sub 8/Mo(CO)/sub 3/ and CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/ in boiling methylcyclohexane. Reaction in acetonitrile solution of fac-(CH/sub 3/CN)/sub 3/Mo(CO)/sub 3/ with CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/ containing about 0.2% HClmore » gives brown-red, volatile (CO)/sub 2/Mo(/sup +/-CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/)/sub 2/(..mu..-PF/sub 2/)(..mu..-Cl)-Mo(CO)(PF/sub 2/NHCH/sub 3/), whose composition and structure were established by single-crystal X-ray structure analysis. This novel quadruply bridged binuclear complex is obtained in considerably better yield from the reaction of (CH/sub 3/N(PF/sub 2/)/sub 2/)/sub 3/Mo/sub 2/(CO)/sub 5/ with ((C/sub 2/H/sub 5/)/sub 3/NH)Cl in acetonitirle solution. The complex has a Mo-Mo bond 2.975 A in length. Crystal data: monoclinic, space group P2/sub 1//c, a = 17.546 (4) A, b = 9.725 (2) A, c = 14.558 (3), ..beta.. = 107.20 (2)/sup 0/, Z = 4. 30 references, 2 figures, 3 tables.« less

Resting State and Elementary Steps of the Coupling of Aryl Halides with Thiols Catalyzed by Alkylbisphosphine Complexes of Palladium

PubMed Central

Alvaro, Elsa

2010-01-01

Detailed mechanistic studies on the coupling of aryl halides with thiols catalyzed by palladium complexes of the alkylbisphosphine ligand CyPF-tBu (1-dicyclohexylphosphino-2-di-tert-butylphosphinoethylferrocene) are reported. The elementary steps that constitute the catalytic cycle, i.e. oxidative addition, transmetalation and reductive elimination, have been studied, and their relative rates are reported. Each of the steps of the catalytic process occurs at temperatures that are much lower than those required for the reactions catalyzed by a combination of palladium precursors and CyPF-tBu. To explain these differences in rates between the catalytic and stoichiometric reactions, studies were conducted to identify the resting state of the catalyst of the reactions catalyzed by a combination of Pd(OAc)2 and CyPF-tBu, a combination of Pd(dba)2 and CyPF-tBu, or the likely intermediate Pd(CyPF-tBu)(Ar)(Br). These show that the major palladium complex in each case lies off of the catalytic cycle. The resting state of the reactions catalyzed by Pd(OAc)2 and CyPF-tBu was the palladium bis-thiolate complex [Pd(CyPF-tBu)(SR)2] (R = alkyl or aryl). The resting state in reactions catalyzed by Pd2(dba)3 and CyPF-tBu was the binuclear complex [Pd(CyPF-tBu)]2(μ2, η2-dba) (9). The resting state of reactions of both aromatic and aliphatic thiols catalyzed by [Pd(CyPF-tBu)(p-tolyl)(Br)] (3a) was the hydridopalladium thiolate complex [Pd(CyPF-tBu)(H)(SR)] (R= alkyl and aryl). All these palladium species have been prepared independently, and the mechanisms by which they enter the catalytic cycle have been examined in detail. These features of the reaction catalyzed by palladium and CyPF-tBu have been compared with those of reactions catalyzed by the alkylbisphosphine DiPPF and Pd(OAc)2 or Pd(dba)2. Our data indicate that the resting states of these reactions are similar to each other and that our mechanistic conclusions about reactions catalyzed by palladium and CyPF-tBu can be extrapolated to reactions catalyzed by complexes of other electron-rich bisphosphines. PMID:19453106

Temperature profile detector

DOEpatents

Tokarz, Richard D.

1983-01-01

A temperature profile detector shown as a tubular enclosure surrounding an elongated electrical conductor having a plurality of meltable conductive segments surrounding it. Duplicative meltable segments are spaced apart from one another along the length of the enclosure. Electrical insulators surround these elements to confine molten material from the segments in bridging contact between the conductor and a second electrical conductor, which might be the confining tube. The location and rate of growth of the resulting short circuits between the two conductors can be monitored by measuring changes in electrical resistance between terminals at both ends of the two conductors. Additional conductors and separate sets of meltable segments operational at differing temperatures can be monitored simultaneously for measuring different temperature profiles.

Multiwire conductor having greatly increased interwire resistance and method for making same

DOEpatents

Luhman, T.; Suenaga, M.

1982-03-15

An improved multiwire conductor of the type which is mechanically stabilized by a tin based solder filler is described. A solder filled conductor is heated to a temperature above its melting point for a period long enough to allow a substantial amount of copper to be dissolved from the wires comprising the conductor. The copper forms the brittle intermetallic compound Cu/sub 5/Sn/sub 6/ with tin in the solder. After cooling the conductor is flexed causing a random cracking of the solder, and thereby increasing the interwire resistance of the conductor. The subject invention is particularly adapted for use with braided, ribbon-type solder filled superconductors.

Electron launching voltage monitor

DOEpatents

Mendel, Clifford W.; Savage, Mark E.

1992-01-01

An electron launching voltage monitor measures MITL voltage using a relationship between anode electric field and electron current launched from a cathode-mounted perturbation. An electron launching probe extends through and is spaced from the edge of an opening in a first MITL conductor, one end of the launching probe being in the gap between the MITL conductor, the other end being adjacent a first side of the first conductor away from the second conductor. A housing surrounds the launching probe and electrically connects the first side of the first conductor to the other end of the launching probe. A detector detects the current passing through the housing to the launching probe, the detected current being representative of the voltage between the conductors.

Influence of central metalloligand geometry on electronic communication between metals: syntheses, crystal structures, MMCT properties of isomeric cyanido-bridged Fe2Ru complexes, and TDDFT calculations.

PubMed

Ma, Xiao; Lin, Chen-Sheng; Hu, Sheng-Min; Tan, Chun-Hong; Wen, Yue-Hong; Sheng, Tian-Lu; Wu, Xin-Tao

2014-06-02

To investigate how the central metalloligand geometry influences distant or vicinal metal-to-metal charge-transfer (MMCT) properties of polynuclear complexes, cis- and trans-isomeric heterotrimetallic complexes, and their one- and two-electron oxidation products, cis/trans-[Cp(dppe)Fe(II)NCRu(II)(phen)2CN-Fe(II)(dppe)Cp][PF6]2 (cis/trans-1[PF6]2), cis/trans-[Cp(dppe)Fe(II)NCRu(II)(phen)2CNFe(III)-(dppe)Cp][PF6]3 (cis/trans-1[PF6]3) and cis/trans-[Cp(dppe)Fe(III)NCRu(II)(phen)2CN-Fe(III)(dppe)Cp][PF6]4 (cis/trans-1[PF6]4) have been synthesized and characterized. Electrochemical measurements show the presence of electronic interactions between the two external Fe(II) atoms of the cis- and trans-isomeric complexes cis/trans-1[PF6]2. The electronic properties of all these complexes were studied and compared by spectroscopic techniques and TDDFT//DFT calculations. As expected, both mixed valence complexes cis/trans-1[PF6]3 exhibited different strong absorption signals in the NIR region, which should mainly be attributed to a transition from an MO that is delocalized over the Ru(II)-CN-Fe(II) subunit to a Fe(III) d orbital with some contributions from the co-ligands. Moreover, the NIR transition energy in trans-1[PF6]3 is lower than that in cis-1[PF6]3, which is related to the symmetry of their molecular orbitals on the basis of the molecular orbital analysis. Also, the electronic spectra of the two-electron oxidized complexes show that trans-1[PF6]4 possesses lower vicinal Ru(II) → Fe(III) MMCT transition energy than cis-1[PF6]4. Moreover, the assignment of MMCT transition of the oxidized products and the differences of the electronic properties between the cis and trans complexes can be well rationalized using TDDFT//DFT calculations. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Phosphorylation Determines the Calmodulin-mediated Ca2+ Response and Water Permeability of AQP0*

PubMed Central

Kalman, Katalin; Németh-Cahalan, Karin L.; Froger, Alexandrine; Hall, James E.

2008-01-01

In Xenopus oocytes, the water permeability of AQP0 (Pf) increases with removal of external calcium, an effect that is mediated by cytoplasmic calmodulin (CaM) bound to the C terminus of AQP0. To investigate the effects of serine phosphorylation on CaM-mediated Ca2+ regulation of Pf, we tested the effects of kinase activation, CaM inhibition, and a series of mutations in the C terminus CaM binding site. Calcium regulation of AQP0 Pf manifests four distinct phenotypes: Group 1, with high Pf upon removal of external Ca2+ (wild-type, S229N, R233A, S235A, S235K, K238A, and R241E); Group 2, with high Pf in elevated (5 mm) external Ca2+ (S235D and R241A); Group 3, with high Pf and no Ca2+ regulation (S229D, S231N, S231D, S235N, and S235N/I236S); and Group 4, with low Pf and no Ca2+ regulation (protein kinase A and protein kinase C activators, S229D/S235D and S235N/I236S). Within each group, we tested whether CaM binding mediates the phenotype, as shown previously for wild-type AQP0. In the presence of calmidazolium, a CaM inhibitor, S235D showed high Pf and no Ca2+ regulation, suggesting that S235D still binds CaM. Contrarily, S229D showed a decrease in recruitment of CaM, suggesting that S229D is unable to bind CaM. Taken together, our results suggest a model in which CaM acts as an inhibitor of AQP0 Pf. CaM binding is associated with a low Pf state, and a lack of CaM binding is associated with a high Pf state. Pathological conditions of inappropriate phosphorylation or calcium/CaM regulation could induce Pf changes contributing to the development of a cataract. PMID:18508773

Effect of Opalescence(®) bleaching gels on the elution of bulk-fill composite components.

PubMed

Schuster, Lena; Reichl, Franz-Xaver; Rothmund, Lena; He, Xiuli; Yang, Yang; Van Landuyt, Kirsten L; Kehe, Kai; Polydorou, Olga; Hickel, Reinhard; Högg, Christof

2016-02-01

Bleaching treatments can affect release of components from conventional composites. In this continuing study the influence of two different bleaching gels on the elution of bulk-fill composite components was investigated. The composites Tetric EvoCeram(®) Bulk Fill, QuiXFil™ and X-tra fil were treated with the bleaching gels Opalescence PF 15% (PF 15%) for 5 h and PF 35% (PF 35%) for 30 min and then stored in methanol and water for 24 h and 7 d. The eluates were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Unbleached specimens were used as control group. A total of 7 different elutable substances have been identified from the investigated composites after bleaching-treatment. Three of them were methacrylates: 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA). Compared to the unbleached controls an increase in elution after PF 15%-treatment of following compounds was found: HEMA (Tetric EvoCeram(®) Bulk Fill), TEGDMA (QuiXFil™, X-tra fil) and 4-N,N-dimethylaminobenzoic acid butyl ethoxy ester (DMABEE) (Tetric EvoCeram(®) Bulk Fill, QuiXFil™, X-tra fil). Following compounds showed a reduction in elution after PF 35%-treatment compared to controls: TEGDMA (QuiXFil™) and DMABEE (Tetric EvoCeram(®) Bulk Fill). The highest concentration of HEMA was 0.22 mmol/l (Tetric EvoCeram(®) Bulk Fill, methanol, 7 d, PF 15%), the highest concentration of TEGDMA was 0.3 mmol/l (X-tra fil, water, 7 d, PF 15%) and the highest concentration of DMABEE was 0.05 mmol/l (QuiXFil™, water, 7 d, PF 35%). PF 15% and PF 35% can lead to reduced and/or increased elution of some bulk-fill components, compared to unbleached bulk-fill composites. Copyright © 2015 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An infrared and Raman study of the reorientational motions and phase transition in and structure of CsPF6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heyns, Anton M.; de Waal, Danita

1992-12-01

CsPF6I is face-centered cubic and the PF6- ions are randomly distributed among the six equivalent orientations in the crystal. The ions librate in equilibrium positions for an average time τ, and also jump from one orientation to another in a time which is much shorter than τ. The six different orientations in CsPF6I are of much lower symmetry than the full molecular one. The full vibrational spectra of CsPF6 are reported over the temperature range of 300-4 K and can be analyzed in Phase I in terms of (Oh,C¯4v) where C¯4v denotes the symmetry of the ion and Oh that of the site symmetry S. The polarized Raman spectra of single crystals of CsPF6I are interpreted in terms of all the different orientations of the PF6- ions and excellent agreement is obtained between predicted and experimental results. At 90 K CsPF6 undergoes a phase transition and a crystal structure of P4/nmm-D4h7 is assigned to Phase II. This transition is of the second order and shows behavior which corresponds to those of critical phenomena. An order parameter ξ is defined and a critical constant β is calculated to be equal to 0.3. In CsPF6II two orientations of the PF6- ions exist, both conforming to 4mm-C4v symmetry and the disorder persisting in this phase causes the splitting of the vibrational bands to be fully resolved below 60 K only. An activation energy of ˜3.0 kJ/mol is calculated for the motions of the PF6- ions between 90 and 60 K from the variation of the linewidths and intensities of vibrational bands.

Insights into the epidemiological link between biting flies and pemphigus foliaceus in southeastern Brazil.

PubMed

Vernal, Sebastian; Pepinelli, Mateus; Casanova, Claudio; Goulart, Thais M; Kim, Olivia; De Paula, Natalia A; Pinto, Mara C; Sá-Nunes, Anderson; Roselino, Ana Maria

2017-12-01

Black fly and sandfly bites are related to the endemicity of pemphigus foliaceus (PF); however, an immune reaction against the salivary proteins from these flies still requires confirmation in the case of PF patients living in southeastern Brazil. To georeference the distribution of Simuliidae (Diptera: Simuliidae) and Phlebotominae (Diptera: Psychodidae) and of PF cases in the northeastern region of São Paulo State, and to assess the humoral immune response against salivary gland extracts (SGEs) from biting flies in PF patients, relatives, and neighbours. PF patients' medical information recorded between 1965 and 2014 were obtained from the database of the University Hospital. Data on the distribution of fly species were collected from scientific reports and epidemiological databases. Spatial maps relating the distribution of biting flies with PF cases were plotted. Serum IgG antibodies against the SGEs from Simulium nigrimanum, Nyssomyia neivai, and Aedes aegypti (as control) were determined by ELISA. Two hundred and eighty-five PF cases were distributed in 60 municipalities with a prevalence of 57.5 per million inhabitants, revealing well-defined geographical clusters. S. nigrimanum and N. neivai specimens were registered in eight (13.3%) and 26 (43.3%) of these municipalities, respectively. PF patients, and their relatives presented higher levels of IgG against the SGEs of S. nigrimanum and N. neivai (P<0.001 for both), but not against the SGE from A. aegypti (P=0.115 and P=0.552, respectively), as compared to controls. IgG against the SGEs from S. nigrimanum and N. neivai but not against the SGE from A. aegypti correlated with levels of anti-Desmoglein 1 in PF patients (r=0.3848, P=0.039; and r=0.416, P=0.022, respectively). An epidemiological link between biting flies and PF in southeastern Brazil is proposed, implying a possible role of the salivary proteins from these flies in PF etiopathogenesis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Elevated Peak Postoperative B-type Natriuretic Peptide Predicts Decreased Longer-Term Physical Function after Primary Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

PubMed Central

Fox, Amanda A.; Marcantonio, Edward R.; Collard, Charles D.; Thoma, Mathis; Perry, Tjorvi E.; Shernan, Stanton K.; Muehlschlegel, Jochen D.; Body, Simon C.

2011-01-01

Background Elevated peak postoperative B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is associated with increased major adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Whether elevated postoperative BNP predicts worse post-discharge physical function (PF) is unknown. We hypothesized that peak postoperative BNP associates with PF assessed up to 2 years after CABG surgery, even after adjusting for clinical risk factors including preoperative PF. Methods This two institution prospective cohort study included patients undergoing primary CABG surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Short Form-36 questionnaires were administered to subjects preoperatively and 6 months, 1 and 2 years postoperatively. Short Form-36 PF domain scores were calculated using the Short Form-36 norm based scoring algorithm. Plasma BNP concentrations measured preoperatively and on postoperative days 1–5 were log10 transformed before analysis. To determine whether peak postoperative BNP independently predicts PF scores 6 months through 2 years after CABG surgery, multivariable longitudinal regression analysis of the postoperative PF scores was performed, adjusting for important clinical risk factors. Results 845 subjects (mean age±SD: 65±10 years) were analyzed. Peak postoperative BNP was significantly associated with postoperative PF (effect estimate for log10 peak BNP = −7.66 PF score points; 95% CI = −9.68, −5.64; P=<0.0001). After multivariable adjustments, peak postoperative BNP remained independently associated with postoperative PF (effect estimate for log10 peak BNP =−3.06 PF score points; 95% CI = −5.15, −0.97; P=0.004). Conclusions Elevated peak postoperative BNP independently associates with worse longer-term physical function after primary CABG surgery. Future studies are needed to determine whether medical management targeted towards reducing elevated postoperative BNP can improve PF after CABG surgery. PMID:21427536

Modifications of Geometric Truncation of the Scattering Phase Function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radkevich, A.

2017-12-01

Phase function (PF) of light scattering on large atmospheric particles has very strong peak in forward direction constituting a challenge for accurate numerical calculations of radiance. Such accurate (and fast) evaluations are important in the problems of remote sensing of the atmosphere. Scaling transformation replaces original PF with a sum of the delta function and a new regular smooth PF. A number of methods to construct such a PF were suggested. Delta-M and delta-fit methods require evaluation of the PF moments which imposes a numerical problem if strongly anisotropic PF is given as a function of angle. Geometric truncation keeps the original PF unchanged outside the forward peak cone replacing it with a constant within the cone. This approach is designed to preserve the asymmetry parameter. It has two disadvantages: 1) PF has discontinuity at the cone; 2) the choice of the cone is subjective, no recommendations were provided on the choice of the truncation angle. This choice affects both truncation fraction and the value of the phase function within the forward cone. Both issues are addressed in this study. A simple functional form of the replacement PF is suggested. This functional form allows for a number of modifications. This study consider 3 versions providing continuous PF. The considered modifications also bear either of three properties: preserve asymmetry parameter, provide continuity of the 1st derivative of the PF, and preserve mean scattering angle. The second problem mentioned above is addressed with a heuristic approach providing unambiguous criterion of selection of the truncation angle. The approach showed good performance on liquid water and ice clouds with different particle size distributions. Suggested modifications were tested on different cloud PFs using both discrete ordinates and Monte Carlo methods. It was showed that the modifications provide better accuracy of the radiance computation compare to the original geometric truncation.

Unsplit bipolar pulse forming line

DOEpatents

Rhodes, Mark A [Pleasanton, CA

2011-05-24

A bipolar pulse forming transmission line module and system for linear induction accelerators having first, second, third, and fourth planar conductors which form a sequentially arranged interleaved stack having opposing first and second ends, with dielectric layers between the conductors. The first and second planar conductors are connected to each other at the first end, and the first and fourth planar conductors are connected to each other at the second end via a shorting plate. The third planar conductor is electrically connectable to a high voltage source, and an internal switch functions to short at the first end a high voltage from the third planar conductor to the fourth planar conductor to produce a bipolar pulse at the acceleration axis with a zero net time integral. Improved access to the switch is enabled by an aperture through the shorting plate and the proximity of the aperture to the switch.

30 CFR 75.804 - Underground high-voltage cables.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... grounded systems shall be equipped with metallic shields around each power conductor with one or more ground conductors having a total cross sectional area of not less than one-half the power conductor, and with an insulated external conductor not smaller than No. 8 (A.W.G.) or an insulated internal ground...

30 CFR 75.804 - Underground high-voltage cables.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... grounded systems shall be equipped with metallic shields around each power conductor with one or more ground conductors having a total cross sectional area of not less than one-half the power conductor, and with an insulated external conductor not smaller than No. 8 (A.W.G.) or an insulated internal ground...

Current sensor

DOEpatents

Yakymyshyn, Christopher Paul; Brubaker, Michael Allen; Yakymyshyn, Pamela Jane

2007-01-16

A current sensor is described that uses a plurality of magnetic field sensors positioned around a current carrying conductor. The sensor can be hinged to allow clamping to a conductor. The current sensor provides high measurement accuracy for both DC and AC currents, and is substantially immune to the effects of temperature, conductor position, nearby current carrying conductors and aging.

46 CFR 111.60-4 - Minimum cable conductor size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Minimum cable conductor size. 111.60-4 Section 111.60-4 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS... conductor must be #18 AWG (0.82 mm2) or larger except— (a) Each power and lighting cable conductor must be...

46 CFR 111.60-4 - Minimum cable conductor size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Minimum cable conductor size. 111.60-4 Section 111.60-4 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS... conductor must be #18 AWG (0.82 mm2) or larger except— (a) Each power and lighting cable conductor must be...

46 CFR 111.60-4 - Minimum cable conductor size.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Minimum cable conductor size. 111.60-4 Section 111.60-4 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING ELECTRIC SYSTEMS... conductor must be #18 AWG (0.82 mm2) or larger except— (a) Each power and lighting cable conductor must be...

Electromagnetic wrap

DOEpatents

Tremblay, Paul L [Idaho Falls, ID; Scott, Jill R [Idaho Falls, ID

2010-09-28

A device and method for altering the line reactance of a transmission line having a transmission line, a first floating conductor and a grounding (shielding) conductor. The first floating conductor is positioned between and electrically insulated from the transmission line and the grounding conductor. A source and a load are connected at opposite ends of the transmission line.

66. DETAIL OF LAUNCH CONDUCTOR AND ASSISTANT LAUNCH CONDUCTOR PANELS ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

66. DETAIL OF LAUNCH CONDUCTOR AND ASSISTANT LAUNCH CONDUCTOR PANELS IN CONSOLE LOCATED CENTRALLY IN SLC-3E CONTROL ROOM. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT IN BACKGROUND: LAUNCH OPERATOR, LAUNCH ANALYST, AND FACILITIES PANELS. - Vandenberg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 3, Launch Operations Building, Napa & Alden Roads, Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, CA

Method of making and structure for monolithic optical circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evanchuk, Vincent L. (Inventor)

1983-01-01

A method for making monolithic optical circuits, with related optical devices as required or desired, on a supporting surface (10) consists of coating the supporting surface with reflecting metal or cladding resin, spreading a layer of liquid radiation senstivie plastic (12) on the surface, exposing the liquid plastic with a mask (14) to cure it in a desired pattern of light conductors (16, 18, 20), washing away the unexposed liquid plastic, and coating the conductors thus formed with reflective metal or cladding resin. The index of refraction for the cladding (22) is selected to be lower than for the conductors so that light in the conductors will be reflected by the interface with the cladding. For multiple level conductors, as where one conductor must cross over another, the process may be repeated to fabricate a bridge with columns (24, 26) of conductors to the next level, and conductor (28) between the columns. For more efficient transfer of energy over the bridge, faces at 45.degree. may be formed to reflect light up and across the bridge.

Penile fracture epidemiology, diagnosis and management in Iran: a narrative review

PubMed Central

Mirzazadeh, Majid; Fallahkarkan, Morteza

2017-01-01

Penile fracture (PF) is considered an emergency in urology. In the literature there are some case series reporting considerable incidence of PF in some parts of Iran. There are no accurate data about the incidence of PF all around Iran. Although it may be uncommon in other parts of the country and in the other countries, it can also be underreported. There are some challenges in diagnosis, management, and also reporting of these cases. In this review of Iranian medical literature, we searched for penile fracture and penile injury keywords in Medline, Scopus, SID, Google and Persian medical journals. We reviewed the status of epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, management and complications of PF in different parts of Iran in the published literature. To collect more accurate data, we also performed a questionnaire-based study with sending questionnaires by emails to 700 urologists throughout the country with 14% response rate. Incidence of PF varies significantly in different parts of Iran. Western province of Kermanshah has a significantly higher rate of PF. Adding data from different regions of Iran, we calculated that incidence of PF in Iran can be estimated between 1.14 to 10.48 per 100,000 of male populations, most probably closer to lower end. Although the incidence of PF varies significantly in different geographical areas, urologists practicing in Iran on average may encounter a PF patient every 3.5 months. To diagnose PF, majority of reviewed studies relied on history and clinical examination and did not recommend imaging except in patients with possible urethral injuries. Immediate surgical intervention can make good functional results with low morbidity and short hospital stay. Delayed surgical intervention and observational management approaches need large population studies with long term follow up. PMID:28540222

Penile fracture epidemiology, diagnosis and management in Iran: a narrative review.

PubMed

Mirzazadeh, Majid; Fallahkarkan, Morteza; Hosseini, Jalil

2017-04-01

Penile fracture (PF) is considered an emergency in urology. In the literature there are some case series reporting considerable incidence of PF in some parts of Iran. There are no accurate data about the incidence of PF all around Iran. Although it may be uncommon in other parts of the country and in the other countries, it can also be underreported. There are some challenges in diagnosis, management, and also reporting of these cases. In this review of Iranian medical literature, we searched for penile fracture and penile injury keywords in Medline, Scopus, SID, Google and Persian medical journals. We reviewed the status of epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, management and complications of PF in different parts of Iran in the published literature. To collect more accurate data, we also performed a questionnaire-based study with sending questionnaires by emails to 700 urologists throughout the country with 14% response rate. Incidence of PF varies significantly in different parts of Iran. Western province of Kermanshah has a significantly higher rate of PF. Adding data from different regions of Iran, we calculated that incidence of PF in Iran can be estimated between 1.14 to 10.48 per 100,000 of male populations, most probably closer to lower end. Although the incidence of PF varies significantly in different geographical areas, urologists practicing in Iran on average may encounter a PF patient every 3.5 months. To diagnose PF, majority of reviewed studies relied on history and clinical examination and did not recommend imaging except in patients with possible urethral injuries. Immediate surgical intervention can make good functional results with low morbidity and short hospital stay. Delayed surgical intervention and observational management approaches need large population studies with long term follow up.

A molecular mechanism of artemisinin resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria

PubMed Central

Mbengue, Alassane; Bhattacharjee, Souvik; Pandharkar, Trupti; Liu, Haining; Estiu, Guillermina; Stahelin, Robert V.; Rizk, Shahir; Njimoh, Dieudonne L.; Ryan, Yana; Chotivanich, Kesinee; Nguon, Chea; Ghorbal, Mehdi; Lopez-Rubio, Jose-Juan; Pfrender, Michael; Emrich, Scott; Mohandas, Narla; Dondorp, Arjen M.; Wiest, Olaf; Haldar, Kasturi

2015-01-01

Artemisinins are the corner stone of anti-malarial drugs1. Emergence and spread of resistance to them2–4 raises risk of wiping out recent gains achieved in reducing world-wide malaria burden and threatens future malaria control and elimination on a global level. Genome wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed parasite genetic loci associated with artemisinin resistance5–10. However, there is no consensus on biochemical targets of artemisinin. Whether and how these targets interact with genes identified by GWAS, remains unknown. Here we provide biochemical and cellular evidence that artemisinins are potent inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PfPI3K), revealing an unexpected mechanism of action. In resistant clinical strains, increased PfPI3K was associated with the C580Y mutation in P. falciparum Kelch13 (PfKelch13), a primary marker of artemisinin resistance. Polyubiquitination of PfPI3K and its binding to PfKelch13 were reduced by PfKelch13 mutation, which limited proteolysis of PfPI3K and thus increased levels of the kinase as well as its lipid product phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate (PI3P). We find PI3P levels to be predictive of artemisinin resistance in both clinical and engineered laboratory parasites as well as across non-isogenic strains. Elevated PI3P induced artemisinin resistance in absence of PfKelch13 mutations, but remained responsive to regulation by PfKelch13. Evidence is presented for PI3P-dependent signaling, where transgenic expression of an additional kinase confers resistance. Together these data present PI3P as the key mediator of artemisinin resistance and the sole PfPI3K as an important target for malaria elimination. PMID:25874676

A molecular mechanism of artemisinin resistance in Plasmodium falciparum malaria.

PubMed

Mbengue, Alassane; Bhattacharjee, Souvik; Pandharkar, Trupti; Liu, Haining; Estiu, Guillermina; Stahelin, Robert V; Rizk, Shahir S; Njimoh, Dieudonne L; Ryan, Yana; Chotivanich, Kesinee; Nguon, Chea; Ghorbal, Mehdi; Lopez-Rubio, Jose-Juan; Pfrender, Michael; Emrich, Scott; Mohandas, Narla; Dondorp, Arjen M; Wiest, Olaf; Haldar, Kasturi

2015-04-30

Artemisinins are the cornerstone of anti-malarial drugs. Emergence and spread of resistance to them raises risk of wiping out recent gains achieved in reducing worldwide malaria burden and threatens future malaria control and elimination on a global level. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed parasite genetic loci associated with artemisinin resistance. However, there is no consensus on biochemical targets of artemisinin. Whether and how these targets interact with genes identified by GWAS, remains unknown. Here we provide biochemical and cellular evidence that artemisinins are potent inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PfPI3K), revealing an unexpected mechanism of action. In resistant clinical strains, increased PfPI3K was associated with the C580Y mutation in P. falciparum Kelch13 (PfKelch13), a primary marker of artemisinin resistance. Polyubiquitination of PfPI3K and its binding to PfKelch13 were reduced by the PfKelch13 mutation, which limited proteolysis of PfPI3K and thus increased levels of the kinase, as well as its lipid product phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PI3P). We find PI3P levels to be predictive of artemisinin resistance in both clinical and engineered laboratory parasites as well as across non-isogenic strains. Elevated PI3P induced artemisinin resistance in absence of PfKelch13 mutations, but remained responsive to regulation by PfKelch13. Evidence is presented for PI3P-dependent signalling in which transgenic expression of an additional kinase confers resistance. Together these data present PI3P as the key mediator of artemisinin resistance and the sole PfPI3K as an important target for malaria elimination.

Malaria Parasite-Infected Erythrocytes Secrete PfCK1, the Plasmodium Homologue of the Pleiotropic Protein Kinase Casein Kinase 1

PubMed Central

Dorin-Semblat, Dominique; Demarta-Gatsi, Claudia; Hamelin, Romain; Armand, Florence; Carvalho, Teresa Gil; Moniatte, Marc; Doerig, Christian

2015-01-01

Casein kinase 1 (CK1) is a pleiotropic protein kinase implicated in several fundamental processes of eukaryotic cell biology. Plasmodium falciparum encodes a single CK1 isoform, PfCK1, that is expressed at all stages of the parasite’s life cycle. We have previously shown that the pfck1 gene cannot be disrupted, but that the locus can be modified if no loss-of-function is incurred, suggesting an important role for this kinase in intra-erythrocytic asexual proliferation. Here, we report on the use of parasite lines expressing GFP- or His-tagged PfCK1 from the endogenous locus to investigate (i) the dynamics of PfCK1 localisation during the asexual cycle in red blood cells, and (ii) potential interactors of PfCK1, so as to gain insight into the involvement of the enzyme in specific cellular processes. Immunofluorescence analysis reveals a dynamic localisation of PfCK1, with evidence for a pool of the enzyme being directed to the membrane of the host erythrocyte in the early stages of infection, followed by a predominantly intra-parasite localisation in trophozoites and schizonts and association with micronemes in merozoites. Furthermore, we present strong evidence that a pool of enzymatically active PfCK1 is secreted into the culture supernatant, demonstrating that PfCK1 is an ectokinase. Our interactome experiments and ensuing kinase assays using recombinant PfCK1 to phosphorylate putative interactors in vitro suggest an involvement of PfCK1 in many cellular processes such as mRNA splicing, protein trafficking, ribosomal, and host cell invasion. PMID:26629826

Plantarflexor weakness negatively impacts walking in persons with multiple sclerosis more than plantarflexor spasticity

PubMed Central

Wagner, Joanne M.; Kremer, Theodore R.; Van Dillen, Linda R.; Naismith, Robert T.

2014-01-01

Objective To determine if plantarflexor (PF) spasticity or ankle strength best predicts variance in walking capacity or self-perceived limitations in walking in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), and if pwMS with PF spasticity are weaker and have greater walking dysfunction than pwMS without PF spasticity. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting University research laboratory. Participants Forty-two pwMS (age: 42.9 ± 10.1 years; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS): median = 3.0, range = 0–6) and 14 adults without disability (WD) (age: 41.9 ± 10.1 years). Intervention Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures PF spasticity and dorsiflexion (DF) and PF maximum voluntary isometric torque (MVIT) were assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and a computerized dynamometer, respectively. The Timed 25-Foot Walk Test (T25FWT) was the primary outcome measure of walking capacity. Secondary measures included the Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12). Results PF strength was the most consistent predictor of the variance in walking capacity (T25FWT: R2 change = 0.23 to 0.29, p ≤ 0.001; 6MWT: R2 change = 0.12 to 0.29, p ≤ 0.012), and self-perceived limitations of walking (MSWS-12: R2 change = 0.04 to 0.14, p < 0.18). There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the pwMS with PF spasticity and pwMS without PF spasticity for any of the outcome measures. Conclusions Our study suggests a unique contribution of PF weakness to walking dysfunction in pwMS, and highlights the importance of evaluating PF strength in this clinical population. PMID:24582617

PHISTc protein family members localize to different subcellular organelles and bind Plasmodium falciparum major virulence factor PfEMP-1.

PubMed

Kumar, Vikash; Kaur, Jasweer; Singh, Amrit P; Singh, Vineeta; Bisht, Anjali; Panda, Jiban J; Mishra, Prakash C; Hora, Rachna

2018-01-01

Plasmodium falciparum encodes a novel repertoire of the Plasmodium helical interspersed subtelomeric (PHIST) family of exported proteins, which play diverse roles in infected red blood cells, contributing to malaria pathogenesis. PHIST proteins are central to parasite biology and modify human erythrocytes by interacting with parasite and host proteins. Here, we have attempted to understand the localization and function of two unexplored proteins of the PHISTc subfamily, PFD1140w and PF11_0503, and compared these with a well-characterized member, PFI1780w. We demonstrate that Phist domains assume different oligomeric states owing to a distinct array of subunit interface residues. Colocalization of a Maurer's cleft signature protein, P. falciparum skeleton-binding protein-1 (PfSBP-1), and P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein-1 (PfEMP-1) revealed different subcellular destinations for these PHIST members. We further show the binding of recombinant PHIST proteins to the cytoplasmic tail of PfEMP-1 and a novel interaction with PfSBP-1. Interestingly, PFD1140w interacts with PfEMP-1 and PfSBP-1 simultaneously in vitro leading to formation of a complex. These two distant PHISTc members also bind PfEMP-1 on distinct sites, despite sharing the Phist domain. Our data re-emphasize a supportive role for PHIST proteins in cytoadhesion, and identify a new binding partner, PfSBP-1, for members of this family. This information therefore adds another chapter to the understanding of P. falciparum biology and highlights the significance of the unexplored PHIST family. © 2017 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.

Plantar fascia segmentation and thickness estimation in ultrasound images.

PubMed

Boussouar, Abdelhafid; Meziane, Farid; Crofts, Gillian

2017-03-01

Ultrasound (US) imaging offers significant potential in diagnosis of plantar fascia (PF) injury and monitoring treatment. In particular US imaging has been shown to be reliable in foot and ankle assessment and offers a real-time effective imaging technique that is able to reliably confirm structural changes, such as thickening, and identify changes in the internal echo structure associated with diseased or damaged tissue. Despite the advantages of US imaging, images are difficult to interpret during medical assessment. This is partly due to the size and position of the PF in relation to the adjacent tissues. It is therefore a requirement to devise a system that allows better and easier interpretation of PF ultrasound images during diagnosis. This study proposes an automatic segmentation approach which for the first time extracts ultrasound data to estimate size across three sections of the PF (rearfoot, midfoot and forefoot). This segmentation method uses artificial neural network module (ANN) in order to classify small overlapping patches as belonging or not-belonging to the region of interest (ROI) of the PF tissue. Features ranking and selection techniques were performed as a post-processing step for features extraction to reduce the dimension and number of the extracted features. The trained ANN classifies the image overlapping patches into PF and non-PF tissue, and then it is used to segment the desired PF region. The PF thickness was calculated using two different methods: distance transformation and area-length calculation algorithms. This new approach is capable of accurately segmenting the PF region, differentiating it from surrounding tissues and estimating its thickness. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Determinant Factors of the Squat Jump in Sprinting and Jumping Athletes

PubMed Central

González-Badillo, Juan José; Jiménez-Reyes, Pedro; Ramírez-Lechuga, Jorge

2017-01-01

Abstract The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between strength variables and maximum velocity (Vmax) in the squat jump (SJ) in sprinting and jumping athletes. Thirty-two sprinting and jumping athletes of national level (25.4 ± 4.5 years; 79.4 ± 6.9 kg and 180.4 ± 6.0 cm) participated in the study. Vmax in the SJ showed significant relationships with peak force 1 (PF1) (r = 0.82, p ≤ 0.001), peak force 2 (PF2) (r = 0.68, p ≤ 0.001), PF2 by controlling for PF1 (r = 0.30, non-significant), the maximum rate of force development at peak force 1 (RFDmax1) (r = 0.62, p ≤ 0.001), mean RFD 1 (RFDmean1) (r = 0.48, p ≤ 0.01), mean RFD 2 (RFDmean2) (r = 0.70, p ≤ 0.001), force at RFDmax1 (r = 0.36, p ≤ 0.05), force at RFDmax2 (r = 0.83, p ≤ 0.001) and force at RFDmax2 by controlling for PF1 (r = 0.40, p ≤ 0.05). However, Vmax in the SJ was associated negatively with the ratio PF2/PF1 (r = -0.54, p ≤ 0.01), time at peak force 2 (Tp2) (r = -0.64, p ≤ 0.001) and maximum rate of force development at peak force 2 (RFDmax2) (r = -0.71, p ≤ 0.001). These findings indicate that the peak force achieved at the beginning of the movement (PF1) is the main predictor of performance in jumping, although the RFDmax values and the ratio PF2/PF1 are also variables to be taken into account when analyzing the determinant factors of vertical jumping. PMID:28828074

A retrospective study of antihypertensives in pemphigus: a still unchartered odyssey particularly between thiols, amides and phenols

PubMed Central

Gornowicz-Porowska, Justyna; Bowszyc-Dmochowska, Monika; Dmochowski, Marian

2015-01-01

Introduction Autoimmune pemphigus diseases comprise several entities with serious prognoses, including the pemphigus vulgaris (PV) group and pemphigus foliaceus (PF) group. Antihypertensives are suspected to be one of the factors triggering/sustaining pemphigus. Here, the data of pemphigus patients regarding arterial hypertension (AH) and taking potentially noxious drugs were statistically analyzed in a setting of a Polish university dermatology department. Material and methods Medical histories of pemphigus patients (40 admissions of 24 female patients – 13 PV, 11 PF; and 102 admissions of 38 male patients – 24 PV, 14 PF), diagnosed at both immunopathological and biochemical-molecular levels, were studied. Results Ten of 16 (62.50%) AH-positive PV patients received known PV triggers/sustainers 11 times (1–3 per patient). Fourteen of 15 (93.33%) AH-positive PF patients received known PF triggers/sustainers 21 times (1–3 per patient). No differences in numbers of patients taking potentially culprit drugs were shown between PV and PF (Fisher's exact test: p = 0.0829; Yates’ χ2 test: p = 0.1048). The most frequently used culprit drugs were ramipril in PV and enalapril in PF. On average, each PV/PF AH-positive patient received 3.161 different antihypertensives in his/her history of admissions (2.155 antihypertensives per admission). Conclusions Drug triggering should be suspected in every case of newly diagnosed or exacerbated pemphigus, as eliminating possible PV/PF triggers/sustainers may alleviate the clinical symptoms and enable the decrease of dose/range of immunosuppressants regardless of pemphigus form. Eliminating possible drug PV/PF triggers/sustainers may alleviate the clinical symptoms and enable the decrease of dose/range of immunosuppressants regardless of pemphigus form. PMID:26528346

Preferential flows and soil moistures on a Benggang slope: Determined by the water and temperature co-monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Yu; He, Yangbo; Duan, Xiaoqian; Zou, Ziqiang; Lin, Lirong; Chen, Jiazhou

2017-10-01

Soil preferential flow (PF) has important effects on rainfall infiltration, moisture distribution, and hydrological and ecological process; but it is very difficult to monitor and characterize on a slope. In this paper, soil water and soil temperature at 20, 40, 60, 80 cm depths in six positions were simultaneously monitored at high frequency to confirm the occurrence of PF at a typical Benggang slope underlain granite residual deposits, and to determine the interaction of soil moisture distribution and Benggang erosion. In the presence of PF, the soil temperature was first (half to one hour) governed by the rainwater temperature, then (more than one hour) governed by the upper soil temperature; in the absence of PF (only matrix flow, MF), the soil temperature was initially governed by the upper soil temperature, then by the rainwater temperature. The results confirmed the water replacement phenomenon in MF, thus it can be distinguished from PF by additional temperature monitoring. It indicates that high frequency moisture and temperature monitoring can determine the occurrence of PF and reveal the soil water movement. The distribution of soil water content and PF on the different positions of the slope showed that a higher frequency of PF resulted in a higher variation of average of water content. The frequency of PF at the lower position can be three times as that of the upper position, therefore, the variation coefficient of soil water content increased from 4.67% to 12.68% at the upper position to 8.18%-33.12% at the lower position, where the Benggang erosion (soil collapse) was more possible. The results suggest strong relationships between PF, soil water variation, and collapse activation near the Benggang wall.

Sulfur mobilization for Fe-S cluster assembly by the essential SUF pathway in the Plasmodium falciparum apicoplast and its inhibition.

PubMed

Charan, Manish; Singh, Nidhi; Kumar, Bijay; Srivastava, Kumkum; Siddiqi, Mohammad Imran; Habib, Saman

2014-06-01

The plastid of the malaria parasite, the apicoplast, is essential for parasite survival. It houses several pathways of bacterial origin that are considered attractive sites for drug intervention. Among these is the sulfur mobilization (SUF) pathway of Fe-S cluster biogenesis. Although the SUF pathway is essential for apicoplast maintenance and parasite survival, there has been limited biochemical investigation of its components and inhibitors of Plasmodium SUFs have not been identified. We report the characterization of two proteins, Plasmodium falciparum SufS (PfSufS) and PfSufE, that mobilize sulfur in the first step of Fe-S cluster assembly and confirm their exclusive localization to the apicoplast. The cysteine desulfurase activity of PfSufS is greatly enhanced by PfSufE, and the PfSufS-PfSufE complex is detected in vivo. Structural modeling of the complex reveals proximal positioning of conserved cysteine residues of the two proteins that would allow sulfide transfer from the PLP (pyridoxal phosphate) cofactor-bound active site of PfSufS. Sulfide release from the l-cysteine substrate catalyzed by PfSufS is inhibited by the PLP inhibitor d-cycloserine, which forms an adduct with PfSufS-bound PLP. d-Cycloserine is also inimical to parasite growth, with a 50% inhibitory concentration close to that reported for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, against which the drug is in clinical use. Our results establish the function of two proteins that mediate sulfur mobilization, the first step in the apicoplast SUF pathway, and provide a rationale for drug design based on inactivation of the PLP cofactor of PfSufS. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

An initial psychometric evaluation of the German PROMIS v1.2 Physical Function item bank in patients with a wide range of health conditions.

PubMed

Liegl, Gregor; Rose, Matthias; Correia, Helena; Fischer, H Felix; Kanlidere, Sibel; Mierke, Annett; Obbarius, Alexander; Nolte, Sandra

2018-01-01

To translate the PROMIS Physical Function (PF) item bank version 1.2 into German and to investigate psychometric properties of resulting full bank and seven derived short forms. Cross-sectional psychometric study. Inpatient and outpatient clinics of the Department of Psychosomatic Medicine at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany. A total of 10 adult patients with various chronic diseases participated in cognitive debriefing interviews. The final item bank was administered to n = 266 adult patients with a broad range of medical conditions. Patient-reported outcome assessment as part of routine care. PROMIS v1.2 PF bank; MOS SF-36 PF scale (PF-10). Cross-cultural adaptation of the item bank followed established guidelines. For the final German translation, the corrected item-total correlations ranged from 0.44 to 0.84. Cronbach's alpha was high for each PROMIS PF short form ( α = 0.88-0.96). The full PROMIS PF bank and most short forms correlated highly with the SF-36 PF-10 ( r = 0.85-0.90), with the exception of PROMIS Upper Extremity ( r = 0.64). PROMIS Upper Extremity showed ceiling effects and lower agreement with the full bank than other short forms. Unidimensionality was supported for all PROMIS PF measures using traditional factor analysis and nonparametric item response theory. The German PROMIS PF bank was found to be conceptually equivalent to the English version and fulfilled the psychometric requirements for use of short forms in clinical practice. Future studies should pay particular attention to samples with upper extremity functional limitations to further investigate the dimensional structure of PF as conceptualized according to PROMIS.

A Phase 1 study of PF-04929113 (SNX-5422), an orally bioavailable heat shock protein 90 inhibitor in patients with refractory solid tumor malignancies and lymphomas

PubMed Central

Rajan, Arun; Kelly, Ronan J.; Trepel, Jane B.; Kim, Yeong Sang; Alarcon, Sylvia V.; Kummar, Shivaani; Gutierrez, Martin; Crandon, Sonja; Zein, Wadih M.; Jain, Lokesh; Mannargudi, Baskar; Figg, William D.; Houk, Brett E.; Shnaidman, Michael; Brega, Nicoletta; Giaccone, Giuseppe

2011-01-01

Purpose To determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), toxicities, and pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic profile of the heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitor PF-04929113 (SNX-5422) in patients with advanced solid tumors and lymphomas. Methods This was a single institution, phase I, dose-escalation study of PF-04929113 dosed twice-weekly. Endpoints included determination of dose-limiting toxicities (DLT), MTD, the safety profile of PF-04929113, pharmacodynamic assessment of PF-04929113 on Hsp70 induction, pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis of PF 04928473 (SNX-2112) and its prodrug PF-04929113 and assessment of response. Results Thirty three patients with advanced malignancies were treated. Dose escalation was continued up to 177 mg/m2 administered orally twice a week. One DLT (non-septic arthritis) was noted. No grade 4 adverse events (AEs) were seen; grade 3 AEs included diarrhea (9%), non-septic arthritis (3%), AST elevation (3%) and thrombocytopenia (3%). No objective responses were seen in 32 evaluable patients. Fifteen patients (47%) had stable disease; 17 patients (53%) had progressive disease. PK data revealed rapid absorption, hepatic and extra-hepatic clearance, extensive tissue binding and almost linear pharmacokinetics of the active drug PF 04928473. PD studies confirmed inhibition of Hsp90 and a linear correlation between PK parameters and Hsp70 induction. Conclusions PF-04929113 administered orally twice weekly is well tolerated and inhibits its intended target Hsp90. No objective responses were seen but long lasting stabilizations were obtained. Although no clinically significant drug-related ocular toxicity was seen in this study the development of PF-04929113 has been discontinued due to ocular toxicity seen in animal models and in a separate phase I study. PMID:21908572

Progressing in cable-in-conduit for fusion magnets: from ITER to low cost, high performance DEMO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uglietti, D.; Sedlak, K.; Wesche, R.; Bruzzone, P.; Muzzi, L.; della Corte, A.

2018-05-01

The performance of ITER toroidal field (TF) conductors still have a significant margin for improvement because the effective strain between ‑0.62% and ‑0.95% limits the strands’ critical current between 15% and 45% of the maximum achievable. Prototype Nb3Sn cable-in-conduit conductors have been designed, manufactured and tested in the frame of the EUROfusion DEMO activities. In these conductors the effective strain has shown a clear improvement with respect to the ITER conductors, reaching values between ‑0.55% and ‑0.28%, resulting in a strand critical current which is two to three times higher than in ITER conductors. In terms of the amount of Nb3Sn strand required for the construction of the DEMO TF magnet system, such improvement may lead to a reduction of at least a factor of two with respect to a similar magnet built with ITER type conductors; a further saving of Nb3Sn is possible if graded conductors/windings are employed. In the best case the DEMO TF magnet could require fewer Nb3Sn strands than the ITER one, despite the larger size of DEMO. Moreover high performance conductors could be operated at higher fields than ITER TF conductors, enabling the construction of low cost, compact, high field tokamaks.

Centromedian-parafascicular deep brain stimulation induces differential functional inhibition of the motor, associative, and limbic circuits in large animals.

PubMed

Kim, Joo Pyung; Min, Hoon-Ki; Knight, Emily J; Duffy, Penelope S; Abulseoud, Osama A; Marsh, Michael P; Kelsey, Katherine; Blaha, Charles D; Bennet, Kevin E; Frye, Mark A; Lee, Kendall H

2013-12-15

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the centromedian-parafascicular (CM-Pf) thalamic nuclei has been considered an option for treating Tourette syndrome. Using a large animal DBS model, this study was designed to explore the network effects of CM-Pf DBS. The combination of DBS and functional magnetic resonance imaging is a powerful means of tracing brain circuitry and testing the modulatory effects of electrical stimulation on a neuronal network in vivo. With a within-subjects design, we tested the proportional effects of CM and Pf DBS by manipulating current spread and varying stimulation contacts in healthy pigs (n = 5). Our results suggests that CM-Pf DBS has an inhibitory modulating effect in areas that have been suggested as contributing to impaired sensory-motor and emotional processing. The results also help to define the differential neural circuitry effects of the CM and Pf with evidence of prominent sensorimotor/associative effects for CM DBS and prominent limbic/associative effects for Pf DBS. Our results support the notion that stimulation of deep brain structures, such as the CM-Pf, modulates multiple networks with cortical effects. The networks affected by CM-Pf stimulation in this study reinforce the conceptualization of Tourette syndrome as a condition with psychiatric and motor symptoms and of CM-Pf DBS as a potentially effective tool for treating both types of symptoms. Copyright © 2013 Society of Biological Psychiatry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Inhibition of protein synthesis and malaria parasite development by drug targeting of methionyl-tRNA synthetases.

PubMed

Hussain, Tahir; Yogavel, Manickam; Sharma, Amit

2015-04-01

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) are housekeeping enzymes that couple cognate tRNAs with amino acids to transmit genomic information for protein translation. The Plasmodium falciparum nuclear genome encodes two P. falciparum methionyl-tRNA synthetases (PfMRS), termed PfMRS(cyt) and PfMRS(api). Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the two proteins are of primitive origin and are related to heterokonts (PfMRS(cyt)) or proteobacteria/primitive bacteria (PfMRS(api)). We show that PfMRS(cyt) localizes in parasite cytoplasm, while PfMRS(api) localizes to apicoplasts in asexual stages of malaria parasites. Two known bacterial MRS inhibitors, REP3123 and REP8839, hampered Plasmodium growth very effectively in the early and late stages of parasite development. Small-molecule drug-like libraries were screened against modeled PfMRS structures, and several "hit" compounds showed significant effects on parasite growth. We then tested the effects of the hit compounds on protein translation by labeling nascent proteins with (35)S-labeled cysteine and methionine. Three of the tested compounds reduced protein synthesis and also blocked parasite growth progression from the ring stage to the trophozoite stage. Drug docking studies suggested distinct modes of binding for the three compounds, compared with the enzyme product methionyl adenylate. Therefore, this study provides new targets (PfMRSs) and hit compounds that can be explored for development as antimalarial drugs. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Tracking Glideosome-associated protein 50 reveals the development and organization of the inner membrane complex of Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Yeoman, Jeffrey A; Hanssen, Eric; Maier, Alexander G; Klonis, Nectarios; Maco, Bohumil; Baum, Jake; Turnbull, Lynne; Whitchurch, Cynthia B; Dixon, Matthew W A; Tilley, Leann

2011-04-01

The most deadly of the human malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum, has different stages specialized for invasion of hepatocytes, erythrocytes, and the mosquito gut wall. In each case, host cell invasion is powered by an actin-myosin motor complex that is linked to an inner membrane complex (IMC) via a membrane anchor called the glideosome-associated protein 50 (PfGAP50). We generated P. falciparum transfectants expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) chimeras of PfGAP50 (PfGAP50-GFP). Using immunoprecipitation and fluorescence photobleaching, we show that C-terminally tagged PfGAP50-GFP can form a complex with endogenous copies of the linker protein PfGAP45 and the myosin A tail domain-interacting protein (MTIP). Full-length PfGAP50-GFP is located in the endoplasmic reticulum in early-stage parasites and then redistributes to apical caps during the formation of daughter merozoites. In the final stage of schizogony, the PfGAP50-GFP profile extends further around the merozoite surface. Three-dimensional (3D) structured illumination microscopy reveals the early-stage IMC as a doubly punctured flat ellipsoid that separates to form claw-shaped apposed structures. A GFP fusion of PfGAP50 lacking the C-terminal membrane anchor is misdirected to the parasitophorous vacuole. Replacement of the acid phosphatase homology domain of PfGAP50 with GFP appears to allow correct trafficking of the chimera but confers a growth disadvantage.

Thermal stability of LiPF 6 salt and Li-ion battery electrolytes containing LiPF 6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hui; Zhuang, Guorong V.; Ross, Philip N.

The thermal stability of the neat lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF 6) salt and of 1 molal (m) solutions of LiPF 6 in prototypical Li-ion battery solvents was studied with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and on-line Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). Pure LiPF 6 salt is thermally stable up to 107 °C in a dry inert atmosphere, and its decomposition path is a simple dissociation producing lithium fluoride (LiF) as solid and PF 5 as gaseous products. In the presence of water (300 ppm) in the carrier gas, its decomposition onset temperature is lowered as a result of direct thermal reaction between LiPF 6 and water vapor to form phosphorous oxyfluoride (POF 3) and hydrofluoric acid (HF). No new products were observed in 1 m solutions of LiPF 6 in ethylene carbonate (EC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC) and ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) by on-line TGA-FTIR analysis. The storage of the same solutions in sealed containers at 85 °C for 300-420 h did not produce any significant quantity of new products as well. In particular, no alkylflurophosphates were found in the solutions after storage at elevated temperature. In the absence of either an impurity like alcohol or cathode active material that may (or may not) act as a catalyst, there is no evidence of thermally induced reaction between LiPF 6 and the prototypical Li-ion battery solvents EC, PC, DMC or EMC.

Cloning, sequence determination, and regulation of the ribonucleotide reductase subunits from Plasmodium falciparum: a target for antimalarial therapy.

PubMed Central

Rubin, H; Salem, J S; Li, L S; Yang, F D; Mama, S; Wang, Z M; Fisher, A; Hamann, C S; Cooperman, B S

1993-01-01

Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for more than one million deaths annually. We have focused on the reduction of ribonucleotides to 2'-deoxyribonucleotides, catalyzed by ribonucleotide reductase, which represents the rate-determining step in DNA replication as a target for antimalarial agents. We report the full-length DNA sequence corresponding to the large (PfR1) and small (PfR2) subunits of Plasmodium falciparum ribonucleotide reductase. The small subunit (PfR2) contains the major catalytic motif consisting of a tyrosyl radical and a dinuclear Fe site. Whereas PfR2 shares 59% amino acid identity with human R2, a striking sequence divergence between human R2 and PfR2 at the C terminus may provide a selective target for inhibition of the malarial enzyme. A synthetic oligopeptide corresponding to the C-terminal 7 residues of PfR2 inhibits mammalian ribonucleotide reductase at concentrations approximately 10-fold higher than that predicted to inhibit malarial R2. The gene encoding the large subunit (PfR1) contains a single intron. The cysteines thought to be involved in the reduction mechanism are conserved. In contrast to mammalian ribonucleotide reductase, the genes for PfR1 and PfR2 are located on the same chromosome and the accumulation of mRNAs for the two subunits follow different temporal patterns during the cell cycle. Images Fig. 2 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 PMID:8415692

Validation of the Spanish Version of the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire-Parent Form (S-FAQLQ-PF).

PubMed

Manso, L; Pineda, R; Huertas, B; Fernández-Rivas, M; Diéguez, M C; Cerecedo, I; Muriel, A; Fernández, F B; DunnGalvin, A; Antolín-Amérigo, D; De la Hoz, B

2017-01-01

Food allergy is an emerging health problem. Several questionnaires can be used to establish health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in food allergy patients. Current questionnaires should be translated in such a way that they take account of the culture of the country in which they are to be used. Objective: To translate and perform a cross-sectional validation of the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire-Parent Form (FAQLQ-PF). The parents of 54 children diagnosed with food allergy were recruited to assess the Spanish version of the FAQLQ-PF (S-FQLQ-PF). The S-FQLQ-PF was translated into Spanish according to WHO guidelines (including a forward-backward translation). The statistical analysis showed that feasibility, reliability, and internal consistency were very good for the global S-FAQLQ-PF score and for the different domains. Assessment of construct validity indicated that S-FAQLQ-PF has reduced capacity for measurement of HRQOL in younger children. Cross-sectional validation of the S-FAQLQ-PF demonstrated that HRQOL of a Spanish pediatric population was affected by patient age, severity of symptoms, and number of reactions. HRQOL was not affected by sex, food implicated, number of foods implicated, ingestion of the implicated food, or presence of anaphylaxis. Translation into Spanish and cultural validation of the FAQLQ-PF demonstrated the influence of factors, such as patient age, severity of symptoms, and number of reactions on the HRQOL of a pediatric Spanish population.

Genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein 2 (PfHRP2) and its effect on the performance of PfHRP2-based rapid diagnostic tests.

PubMed

Baker, Joanne; McCarthy, James; Gatton, Michelle; Kyle, Dennis E; Belizario, Vicente; Luchavez, Jennifer; Bell, David; Cheng, Qin

2005-09-01

Rising costs of antimalarial agents are increasing the demand for accurate diagnosis of malaria. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) offer great potential to improve the diagnosis of malaria, particularly in remote areas. Many RDTs are based on the detection of Plasmodium falciparum histidine-rich protein (PfHRP) 2, but reports from field tests have questioned their sensitivity and reliability. We hypothesize that the variability in the results of PfHRP2-based RDTs is related to the variability in the target antigen. We tested this hypothesis by examining the genetic diversity of PfHRP2, which includes numerous amino acid repeats, in 75 P. falciparum lines and isolates originating from 19 countries and testing a subset of parasites by use of 2 PfHRP2-based RDTs. We observed extensive diversity in PfHRP2 sequences, both within and between countries. Logistic regression analysis indicated that 2 types of repeats were predictive of RDT detection sensitivity (87.5% accuracy), with predictions suggesting that only 84% of P. falciparum parasites in the Asia-Pacific region are likely to be detected at densities < or = 250 parasites/microL. Our data also indicated that PfHRP3 may play a role in the performance of PfHRP2-based RDTs. These findings provide an alternative explanation for the variable sensitivity in field tests of malaria RDTs that is not due to the quality of the RDTs.

A Plasmodium falciparum strain expressing GFP throughout the parasite's life-cycle.

PubMed

Talman, Arthur M; Blagborough, Andrew M; Sinden, Robert E

2010-02-10

The human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is responsible for the majority of malaria-related deaths. Tools allowing the study of the basic biology of P. falciparum throughout the life cycle are critical to the development of new strategies to target the parasite within both human and mosquito hosts. We here present 3D7HT-GFP, a strain of P. falciparum constitutively expressing the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) throughout the life cycle, which has retained its capacity to complete sporogonic development. The GFP expressing cassette was inserted in the Pf47 locus. Using this transgenic strain, parasite tracking and population dynamics studies in mosquito stages and exo-erythrocytic schizogony is greatly facilitated. The development of 3D7HT-GFP will permit a deeper understanding of the biology of parasite-host vector interactions, and facilitate the development of high-throughput malaria transmission assays and thus aid development of new intervention strategies against both parasite and mosquito.

Renal targeted delivery of triptolide by conjugation to the fragment peptide of human serum albumin.

PubMed

Yuan, Zhi-xiang; Wu, Xiao-juan; Mo, Jingxin; Wang, Yan-li; Xu, Chao-qun; Lim, Lee Yong

2015-08-01

We have previously demonstrated that peptide fragments (PFs) of the human serum albumin could be developed as potential renal targeting carriers, in particular, the peptide fragment, PF-A299-585 (A299-585 representing the amino acid sequence of the human serum albumin). In this paper, we conjugated triptolide (TP), the anti-inflammatory Chinese traditional medicine, to PF-A299-585 via a succinic acid spacer to give TPS-PF-A299-585 (TP loading 2.2% w/w). Compared with the free TP, TPS-PF-A299-585 exhibited comparable anti-inflammatory activity in the lipopolysaccharide stimulated MDCK cells, but was significantly less cytotoxic than the free drug. Accumulation of TPS-PF-A299-585 in the MDCK cells in vitro and in rodent kidneys in vivo was demonstrated using FITC-labeled TPS-PF-A299-585. Renal targeting was confirmed in vivo in a membranous nephropathic (MN) rodent model, where optical imaging and analyses of biochemical markers were combined to show that TPS-PF-A299-585 was capable of alleviating the characteristic symptoms of MN. The collective data affirm PF-A299-585 to be a useful carrier for targeting TP to the kidney. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Platelet factor 4 (CXCL4) seals blood clots by altering the structure of fibrin.

PubMed

Amelot, Aymeric A; Tagzirt, Madjid; Ducouret, Guylaine; Kuen, René Lai; Le Bonniec, Bernard F

2007-01-05

Platelet factor-4 (PF4/CXCL4) is an orphan chemokine released in large quantities in the vicinity of growing blood clots. Coagulation of plasma supplemented with a matching amount of PF4 results in a translucent jelly-like clot. Saturating amounts of PF4 reduce the porosity of the fibrin network 4.4-fold and decrease the values of the elastic and loss moduli by 31- and 59-fold, respectively. PF4 alters neither the cleavage of fibrinogen by thrombin nor the cross-linking of protofibrils by activated factor XIII but binds to fibrin and dramatically transforms the structure of the ensuing network. Scanning electron microscopy showed that PF4 gives rise to a previously unreported pattern of polymerization where fibrin assembles to form a sealed network. The subunits constituting PF4 form a tetrahedron having at its corners a RPRH motif that mimics (in reverse orientation) the Gly-His-Arg-Pro-amide peptides that co-crystallize with fibrin. Molecular modeling showed that PF4 could be docked to fibrin with remarkable complementarities and absence of steric clashes, allowing the assembly of irregular polymers. Consistent with this hypothesis, as little as 50 microm the QVRPRHIT peptide derived from PF4 affects the polymerization of fibrin.

Focus is key: Panic-focused interpretations are associated with symptomatic improvement in panic-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy.

PubMed

Keefe, John R; Solomonov, Nili; Derubeis, Robert J; Phillips, Alexander C; Busch, Fredric N; Barber, Jacques P; Chambless, Dianne L; Milrod, Barbara L

2018-04-18

This study examines whether, in panic-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy (PFPP), interpretations of conflicts that underlie anxiety (panic-focused or PF-interpretations) are specifically associated with subsequent panic disorder (PD) symptom improvement, over and above the provision of non-symptom-focused interpretations. Technique use in Sessions 2 and 10 of a 24-session PFPP protocol was assessed for the 65 patients with complete outcome data randomized to PFPP in a two-site trial of psychotherapies for PD. Sessions were rated in 15-min segments for therapists' use of PF-interpretations, non-PF-interpretations, and PF-clarifications. Robust regressions were conducted to examine the relationship between these interventions and symptom change subsequent to the sampled session. Interpersonal problems were examined as a moderator of the relationship of PF-interpretations to symptom change. At Session 10, but not at Session 2, patients who received a higher degree of PF-interpretations experienced greater subsequent improvement in panic symptoms. Non-PF-interpretations were not predictive. Patients with more interpersonal distress benefitted particularly from the use of PF-interpretations at Session 10. By the middle phase of PFPP, panic-focused interpretations may drive subsequent improvements in panic symptoms, especially among patients with higher interpersonal distress. Interpretations of conflict absent a panic focus may not be especially helpful.

Electrically heated particulate filter enhanced ignition strategy

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V; Paratore, Jr., Michael J

2012-10-23

An exhaust system that processes exhaust generated by an engine is provided. The system generally includes a particulate filter (PF) that filters particulates from the exhaust wherein an upstream end of the PF receives exhaust from the engine. A grid of electrically resistive material is applied to an exterior upstream surface of the PF and selectively heats exhaust passing through the grid to initiate combustion of particulates within the PF. A catalyst coating applied to at least one of the PF and the grid. A control module estimates a temperature of the grid and controls the engine to produce a desired exhaust product to increase the temperature of the grid.

Electrostatic MEMS devices with high reliability

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

Goldsmith, Charles L; Auciello, Orlando H; Sumant, Anirudha V

The present invention provides for an electrostatic microelectromechanical (MEMS) device comprising a dielectric layer separating a first conductor and a second conductor. The first conductor is moveable towards the second conductor, when a voltage is applied to the MEMS device. The dielectric layer recovers from dielectric charging failure almost immediately upon removal of the voltage from the MEMS device.

33 CFR 183.430 - Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of less... Requirements § 183.430 Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... Standard 1128. (b) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment...

33 CFR 183.430 - Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of less... Requirements § 183.430 Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... Standard 1128. (b) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment...

33 CFR 183.430 - Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of less... Requirements § 183.430 Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... Standard 1128. (b) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment...

33 CFR 183.430 - Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of less... Requirements § 183.430 Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... Standard 1128. (b) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment...

33 CFR 183.430 - Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Conductors in circuits of less... Requirements § 183.430 Conductors in circuits of less than 50 volts. (a) Each conductor in a circuit that has a... Standard 1128. (b) This section does not apply to communication systems; electronic navigation equipment...

Convectively cooled electrical grid structure

DOEpatents

Paterson, J.A.; Koehler, G.W.

1980-11-10

Undesirable distortions of electrical grid conductors from thermal cycling are minimized and related problems such as unwanted thermionic emission and structural failure from overheating are avoided by providing for a flow of fluid coolant within each conductor. The conductors are secured at each end to separate flexible support elements which accommodate to individual longitudinal expansion and contraction of each conductor while resisting lateral displacements, the coolant flow preferably being directed into and out of each conductor through passages in the flexible support elements. The grid may have a modular or divided construction which facilitates manufacture and repairs.

Temperature limited heaters using phase transformation of ferromagnetic material

DOEpatents

Vitek, John Michael [Oak Ridge, TN; Brady, Michael Patrick [Oak Ridge, TN

2009-10-06

Systems, methods, and heaters for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. Systems and methods for making heaters are described herein. At least one heater includes a ferromagnetic conductor and an electrical conductor. The electrical conductor is electrically coupled to the ferromagnetic conductor. The heater provides a first amount of heat at a lower temperature. The heater may provide a second reduced amount of heat when the heater reaches a selected temperature, or enters a selected temperature range, at which the ferromagnetic conductor undergoes a phase transformation.

Liquid level detector

DOEpatents

Tokarz, Richard D.

1982-01-01

A liquid level sensor having a pair of upright conductors spaced by an insulator defining a first high resistance path between the conductors. An electrically conductive path is interposed between the upright conductors at a discrete location at which liquid level is to be measured. It includes a liquid accessible gap of a dimension such that the electrical resistance across the conductor when the gap is filled with the liquid is detectably less than when the gap is emptied. The conductor might also be physically altered by temperature changes to serve also as an indicator of elevated temperature.

High temperature superconducting composite conductor and method for manufacturing the same

DOEpatents

Holesinger, Terry G.; Bingert, John F.

2002-01-01

A high temperature superconducting composite conductor is provided including a high temperature superconducting material surrounded by a noble metal layer, the high temperature superconducting composite conductor characterized as having a fill factor of greater than about 40. Additionally, the conductor can be further characterized as containing multiple cores of high temperature superconducting material surrounded by a noble metal layer, said multiple cores characterized as having substantially uniform geometry in the cross-sectional dimensions. Processes of forming such a high temperature superconducting composite conductor are also provided.

Liquid-level detector

DOEpatents

Not Available

1981-01-29

Aliquid level sensor is described which has a pair of upright conductors spaced by an insulator defining a first high resistance path between the conductors. An electrically conductive path is interposed between the upright conductors at a discrete location at which liquid level is to be measured. It includes a liquid accessible gap of a dimension such that the electrical resistance across the conductor when the gap is filled with the liquid is detectably less than when the gap is emptied. The conductor might also be physically altered by temperature changes to serve also as an indicator of elevated temperature.

Electron launching voltage monitor

DOEpatents

Mendel, C.W.; Savage, M.E.

1992-03-17

An electron launching voltage monitor measures MITL voltage using a relationship between anode electric field and electron current launched from a cathode-mounted perturbation. An electron launching probe extends through and is spaced from the edge of an opening in a first MITL conductor, one end of the launching probe being in the gap between the MITL conductor, the other end being adjacent a first side of the first conductor away from the second conductor. A housing surrounds the launching probe and electrically connects the first side of the first conductor to the other end of the launching probe. A detector detects the current passing through the housing to the launching probe, the detected current being representative of the voltage between the conductors. 5 figs.

75 FR 69165 - Conductor Certification

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-10

...FRA proposes to prescribe regulations for certification of conductors, as required by the Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008. The proposed rule would require railroads to have a formal program for certifying conductors. As part of that program, railroads would be required to have a formal process for training prospective conductors and determining that all persons are competent before permitting them to serve as a conductor. FRA is proposing this regulation to ensure that only those persons who meet minimum Federal safety standards serve as conductors, to reduce the rate and number of accidents and incidents, and to improve railroad safety. Although this NPRM does not propose any specific amendments to the regulation governing locomotive engineer certification, it does highlight areas in that regulation that may require conforming changes.

Recognition and Binding of the PF2 Lectin to α-Amylase From Zabrotes subfasciatus (Coleoptera:Bruchidae) Larval Midgut

PubMed Central

Lagarda-Diaz, I.; Geiser, D.; Guzman-Partida, A.M.; Winzerling, J.; Vazquez-Moreno, L.

2014-01-01

Abstract Amylases are an important family of enzymes involved in insect carbohydrate metabolism that are required for the survival of insect larvae. For this reason, enzymes from starch-dependent insects are targets for insecticidal control. PF2 ( Olneya tesota ) is a lectin that is toxic to Zabrotes subfasciatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) larvae. In this study, we evaluated recognition of the PF2 lectin to α-amylases from Z. subfasciatus midgut and the effect of PF2 on α-amylase activity. PF2 caused a decrease of total amylase activity in vitro. Subsequently, several α-amylase isoforms were isolated from insect midgut tissues using ion exchange chromatography. Three enzyme isoforms were verified by an in-gel assay for amylase activity; however, only one isoform was recognized by antiamylase serum and PF2. The identity of this Z. subfasciatus α-amylase was confirmed by liquid chromatography−tandem mass spectrometry. The findings strongly suggest that a glycosylated α-amylase isoform from larval Z. subfasciatus midgut interacts with PF2, which interferes with starch digestion. PMID:25528751

Harmonics analysis of the ITER poloidal field converter based on a piecewise method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xudong, WANG; Liuwei, XU; Peng, FU; Ji, LI; Yanan, WU

2017-12-01

Poloidal field (PF) converters provide controlled DC voltage and current to PF coils. The many harmonics generated by the PF converter flow into the power grid and seriously affect power systems and electric equipment. Due to the complexity of the system, the traditional integral operation in Fourier analysis is complicated and inaccurate. This paper presents a piecewise method to calculate the harmonics of the ITER PF converter. The relationship between the grid input current and the DC output current of the ITER PF converter is deduced. The grid current is decomposed into the sum of some simple functions. By calculating simple function harmonics based on the piecewise method, the harmonics of the PF converter under different operation modes are obtained. In order to examine the validity of the method, a simulation model is established based on Matlab/Simulink and a relevant experiment is implemented in the ITER PF integration test platform. Comparative results are given. The calculated results are found to be consistent with simulation and experiment. The piecewise method is proved correct and valid for calculating the system harmonics.

A Structural Model for the Single-Stranded DNA Genome of Filamentous Bacteriophage Pf1†

PubMed Central

Tsuboi, Masamichi; Tsunoda, Masaru; Overman, Stacy A.; Benevides, James M.; Thomas, George J.

2010-01-01

The filamentous bacteriophage Pf1, which infects strain PAK of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is a flexible filament (~2000 × 6.5 nm) consisting of a covalently closed DNA loop of 7349 nucleotides sheathed by 7350 copies of a 46-residue α-helical subunit. The subunit α-helices, which are inclined at a small average angle (~16°) from the virion axis, are arranged compactly around the DNA core. Orientations of the Pf1 DNA nucleotides with respect to the filament axis are not known. In this work we report and interpret the polarized Raman spectra of oriented Pf1 filaments. We demonstrate that the polarizations of DNA Raman band intensities establish that the nucleotide bases of packaged Pf1 DNA are well ordered within the virion and that the base planes are positioned close to parallel to the filament axis. The present results are combined with a previously proposed projection of the intraviral path of Pf1 DNA (1) to develop a novel molecular model for the Pf1 assembly. PMID:20078135

Structure-property relation and relevance of beam theories for microtubules: a coupled molecular and continuum mechanics study.

PubMed

Li, Si; Wang, Chengyuan; Nithiarasu, Perumal

2018-04-01

Quasi-one-dimensional microtubules (MTs) in cells enjoy high axial rigidity but large transverse flexibility due to the inter-protofilament (PF) sliding. This study aims to explore the structure-property relation for MTs and examine the relevance of the beam theories to their unique features. A molecular structural mechanics (MSM) model was used to identify the origin of the inter-PF sliding and its role in bending and vibration of MTs. The beam models were then fitted to the MSM to reveal how they cope with the distinct mechanical responses induced by the inter-PF sliding. Clear evidence showed that the inter-PF sliding is due to the soft inter-PF bonds and leads to the length-dependent bending stiffness. The Euler beam theory is found to adequately describe MT deformation when the inter-PF sliding is largely prohibited. Nevertheless, neither shear deformation nor the nonlocal effect considered in the 'more accurate' beam theories can fully capture the effect of the inter-PF sliding. This reflects the distinct deformation mechanisms between an MT and its equivalent continuous body.

SAM domain-dependent activity of PfTKL3, an essential tyrosine kinase-like kinase of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Abdi, Abdirahman; Eschenlauer, Sylvain; Reininger, Luc; Doerig, Christian

2010-10-01

Over the last decade, several protein kinases inhibitors have reached the market for cancer chemotherapy. The kinomes of pathogens represent potentially attractive targets in infectious diseases. The functions of the majority of protein kinases of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasitic protist responsible for the most virulent form of human malaria, remain unknown. Here we present a thorough characterisation of PfTKL3 (PF13_0258), an enzyme that belongs to the tyrosine kinase-like kinase (TKL) group. We demonstrate by reverse genetics that PfTKL3 is essential for asexual parasite proliferation in human erythrocytes. PfTKL3 is expressed in both asexual and gametocytes stages, and in the latter the protein co-localises with cytoskeleton microtubules. Recombinant PfTKL3 displays in vitro autophosphorylation activity and is able to phosphorylate exogenous substrates, and both activities are dramatically dependent on the presence of an N-terminal "sterile alpha-motif" domain. This study identifies PfTKL3 as a validated drug target amenable to high-throughput screening.

Improving sound absorption property of polyurethane foams doped with natural fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azahari, M. Shafiq M.; Rus, Anika Zafiah M.; Taufiq Zaliran, M.; Kormin, Shaharuddin

2017-08-01

This study investigates the acoustics behavior of wood fibre filler of Red Meranti - filled polyurethane foam as a sound absorbing material. Three different thicknesses have been selected which is 10 mm, 20 mm and 30 mm. By choosing percentage loading of Red Meranti (RM) wood fibre of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% added with polymer foam is namely as polymer foam (PF) composites of PF5%, PF10%, PF15% and PF20%. The sound absorption coefficient (α) and pore structure of the foam samples have been examined by using Impedance Tube test and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that the highest thickness of highest filler loading (PF20%) gives higher sound absorption coefficient (α). The absorption frequency level is observed at 0.9922 and 0.99889 which contributed from low and high frequency absorption level respectively. The smallest pores size structure was observed with highest filler loading of PF. The higher the thickness and the higher the percentage loading of wood filler gives smaller pore structure, consequently, increased the sound absorption coefficient level.

Mutations in the P-Type Cation-Transporter ATPase 4, PfATP4, Mediate Resistance to Both Aminopyrazole and Spiroindolone Antimalarials

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

Aminopyrazoles are a new class of antimalarial compounds identified in a cellular antiparasitic screen with potent activity against Plasmodium falciparum asexual and sexual stage parasites. To investigate their unknown mechanism of action and thus identify their target, we cultured parasites in the presence of a representative member of the aminopyrazole series, GNF-Pf4492, to select for resistance. Whole genome sequencing of three resistant lines showed that each had acquired independent mutations in a P-type cation-transporter ATPase, PfATP4 (PF3D7_1211900), a protein implicated as the novel Plasmodium spp. target of another, structurally unrelated, class of antimalarials called the spiroindolones and characterized as an important sodium transporter of the cell. Similarly to the spiroindolones, GNF-Pf4492 blocks parasite transmission to mosquitoes and disrupts intracellular sodium homeostasis. Our data demonstrate that PfATP4 plays a critical role in cellular processes, can be inhibited by two distinct antimalarial pharmacophores, and supports the recent observations that PfATP4 is a critical antimalarial target. PMID:25322084

Sir2a regulates rDNA transcription and multiplication rate in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum

PubMed Central

Mancio-Silva, Liliana; Lopez-Rubio, Jose Juan; Claes, Aurélie; Scherf, Artur

2013-01-01

The Plasmodium falciparum histone deacetylase Sir2a localizes at telomeric regions where it contributes to epigenetic silencing of clonally variant virulence genes. Apart from telomeres, PfSir2a also accumulates in the nucleolus, which harbours the developmentally regulated ribosomal RNA genes. Here we investigate the nucleolar function of PfSir2a and demonstrate that PfSir2a fine-tunes ribosomal RNA gene transcription. Using a parasite line in which PfSir2a has been disrupted, we observe that histones near the transcription start sites of all ribosomal RNA genes are hyperacetylated and that transcription of ribosomal RNA genes is upregulated. Complementation of the PfSir2a-disrupted parasites restores the ribosomal RNA levels, whereas PfSir2a overexpression in wild-type parasites decreases ribosomal RNA synthesis. Furthermore, we observe that PfSir2a modulation of ribosomal RNA synthesis is linked to an altered number of daughter merozoites and the parasite multiplication rate. These findings provide new insights into an epigenetic mechanism that controls malaria parasite proliferation and virulence. PMID:23443558

Study of the interrelation between the electrotechnical parameters of the plasma focus discharge circuit and the plasma compression dynamics on the PF-3 and PF-1000 facilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitrofanov, K. N.; Krauz, V. I.; Grabovski, E. V.; Myalton, V. V.; Vinogradov, V. P.; Paduch, M.; Scholz, M.; Karpiński, L.

2015-05-01

The main stages of the plasma current sheath (PCS) dynamics on two plasma focus (PF) facilities with different geometries of the electrode system, PF-3 (Filippov type) and PF-1000 (Mather type), were studied by analyzing the results of the current and voltage measurements. Some dynamic characteristics, such as the PCS velocity in the acceleration phase in the Mather-type facility (PF-1000), the moment at which the PCS reaches the anode end, and the plasma velocity in the radial stage of plasma compression in the PF-3 Filippov-type facility, were determined from the time dependence of the inductance of the discharge circuit with a dynamic plasma load. The energy characteristics of the discharge circuit of the compressing PCS were studied for different working gases (deuterium, argon, and neon) at initial pressures of 1.5-3 Torr in discharges with energies of 0.3-0.6 MJ. In experiments with deuterium, correlation between the neutron yield and the electromagnetic energy deposited directly in the compressed PCS was investigated.

Plantar fascia anatomy and its relationship with Achilles tendon and paratenon

PubMed Central

Stecco, Carla; Corradin, Marco; Macchi, Veronica; Morra, Aldo; Porzionato, Andrea; Biz, Carlo; De Caro, Raffaele

2013-01-01

Although the plantar fascia (PF) has been studied quite well from a biomechanical viewpoint, its microscopic properties have been overlooked: nothing is known about its content of elastic fibers, the features of the extracellular matrix or the extent of innervation. From a functional and clinical standpoint, the PF is often correlated with the triceps surae muscle, but the anatomical grounds for this link are not clear. The aim of this work was to focus on the PF macroscopic and microscopic properties and study how Achilles tendon diseases might affect it. Twelve feet from unembalmed human cadavers were dissected to isolate the PF. Specimens from each PF were tested with various histological and immunohistochemical stains. In a second stage, 52 magnetic resonance images (MRI) obtained from patients complaining of aspecific ankle or foot pain were analyzed, dividing the cases into two groups based on the presence or absence of signs of degeneration and/or inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The thickness of PF and paratenon was assessed in the two groups and statistical analyses were conducted. The PF is a tissue firmly joined to plantar muscles and skin. Analyzing its possible connections to the sural structures showed that this fascia is more closely connected to the paratenon of Achilles tendon than to the Achilles tendon, through the periosteum of the heel. The PF extended medially and laterally, continuing into the deep fasciae enveloping the abductor hallucis and abductor digiti minimi muscles, respectively. The PF was rich in hyaluronan, probably produced by fibroblastic-like cells described as ‘fasciacytes’. Nerve endings and Pacini and Ruffini corpuscles were present, particularly in the medial and lateral portions, and on the surface of the muscles, suggesting a role for the PF in the proprioception of foot. In the radiological study, 27 of the 52 MRI showed signs of Achilles tendon inflammation and/or degeneration, and the PF was 3.43 ± 0.48 mm thick (99%CI and SD = 0.95), as opposed to 2.09 ± 0.24 mm (99%CI, SD = 0.47) in the patients in which the MRI revealed no Achilles tendon diseases; this difference in thickness of 1.29 ± 0.57 mm (99%CI) was statistically significant (P < 0.001). In the group of 27/52 patients with tendinopathies, the PF was more than 4.5 mm thick in 5, i.e. they exceeded the threshold for a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis. None of the other 25/52 paitents had a PF more than 4 mm thick. There was a statistically significant correlation between the thicknesses of the PF and the paratenon. These findings suggest that the plantar fascia has a role not only in supporting the longitudinal arch of the foot, but also in its proprioception and peripheral motor coordination. Its relationship with the paratenon of the Achilles tendon is consistent with the idea of triceps surae structures being involved in the PF pathology, so their rehabilitation can be considered appropriate. Finally, the high concentration of hyaluronan in the PF points to the feasibility of using hyaluronan injections in the fascia to treat plantar fasciitis. PMID:24028383

Diesel particulate filter regeneration via resistive surface heating

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V; Ament, Frank

2013-10-08

An exhaust system that processes exhaust generated by an engine is provided. The system includes: a particulate filter (PF) that filters particulates from the exhaust wherein an upstream end of the PF receives exhaust from the engine; and a grid of electrically resistive material that is applied to an exterior upstream surface of the PF and that selectively heats exhaust passing through the grid to initiate combustion of particulates within the PF.

Enhanced Andreev reflection in gapped graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majidi, Leyla; Zareyan, Malek

2012-08-01

We theoretically demonstrate unusual features of superconducting proximity effect in gapped graphene that presents a pseudospin symmetry-broken ferromagnet with a net pseudomagnetization. We find that the presence of a band gap makes the Andreev conductance of graphene superconductor/pseudoferromagnet (S/PF) junction to behave similar to that of a graphene ferromagnet-superconductor junction. The energy gap ΔN can enhance the pseudospin inverted Andreev conductance of S/PF junction to reach a limiting maximum value for ΔN≫μ, which depending on the bias voltage can be larger than the value for the corresponding junction with no energy gap. We further demonstrate a damped-oscillatory behavior for the local density of states of the PF region of S/PF junction and a long-range crossed Andreev reflection process in PF/S/PF structure with antiparallel alignment of pseudomagnetizations of PFs, which confirm that, in this respect, the gapped normal graphene behaves like a ferromagnetic graphene.

Role of Chromatin assembly factor 1 in DNA replication of Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Gupta, Mohit Kumar; Agarawal, Meetu; Banu, Khadija; Reddy, K Sony; Gaur, Deepak; Dhar, Suman Kumar

2018-01-01

Nucleosome assembly in P. falciparum could be the key process in maintaining its genomic integrity as DNA replicates more than once per cell cycle during several stages of its life cycle. Here, we report the functional characterization of P. falciparum chromatin assembly factor 1 (CAF1), which interacts with several proteins namely PfCAF2, Histones, PfHP1 and others. Consistent with the above findings, we demonstrate the presence of PfCAF1 at the telomeric repeat regions, central and subtelomeric var genes of multiple var gene family along with PfHP1. Further, we report the upregulation of PfCAF1 after treatment with genotoxic agents like MMS and HU. Together, these findings establish role of PfCAF1 in heterochromatin maintenance and as histone chaperone in nucleosome assembly and DNA damage repair. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Platelet factor-4 (CXCL4/PF-4): an angiostatic chemokine for cancer therapy.

PubMed

Wang, Zhe; Huang, He

2013-05-01

Platelet factor-4 (CXCL4/PF-4) is the first chemokine identified to have several biological functions. Notably, CXCL4/PF-4 inhibits endothelial cell proliferation and migration, leading to suppression of angiogenesis. Since angiogenesis is essential for the growth of most primary tumors and their subsequent metastases, it is a target for cancer therapy; due to its multiple functions, CXCL4/PF-4 is a potential clinical anti-tumor agent. This report reviews the mechanisms of CXCL4/PF-4 angiostatic activity, including interference with angiogenic growth factors bFGF-2 and VEGF165, activation of CXCR3B, interactions with integrins, interference with cell cycle, interactions with factors such as VEGF121 and CXCL8/IL-8, and derived molecules of CXCL4/PF-4 with angiostatic and anti-tumoral activities in different models in vivo or in vitro. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Body composition, muscle capacity, and physical function in older adults: an integrated conceptual model.

PubMed

Brady, Anne O; Straight, Chad R; Evans, Ellen M

2014-07-01

The aging process leads to adverse changes in body composition (increases in fat mass and decreases in skeletal muscle mass), declines in physical function (PF), and ultimately increased risk for disability and loss of independence. Specific components of body composition or muscle capacity (strength and power) may be useful in predicting PF; however, findings have been mixed regarding the most salient predictor of PF. The development of a conceptual model potentially aids in understanding the interrelated factors contributing to PF with the factors of interest being physical activity, body composition, and muscle capacity. This article also highlights sex differences in these domains. Finally, factors known to affect PF, such as sleep, depression, fatigue, and self-efficacy, are discussed. Development of a comprehensive conceptual model is needed to better characterize the most salient factors contributing to PF and to subsequently inform the development of interventions to reduce physical disability in older adults.

Research on the Test of Transmission Line Galloping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lichun; Li, Qing; lv, Zhongbin; Ji, Kunpeng; Liu, Bin

2018-03-01

The load of iced transmission line and the load generated by galloping after the conductor are covered by ice all may cause severe circuit faults, such as tripping, conductor breaking, armor clamp damage and even tower collapse, thus severely threatening running safety of power system. The generation and development processes of galloping of power transmission line is very complicated, and numerous factors may influence the galloping excitation, such as environmental factors, terrain factors and structural parameters of power transmission line; in which, the ice covering of conductor is one of necessary factors causing galloping. Therefore, researches on ice covering increasing test of different types of conductors under different meteorological conditions have been conducted in large-sized multi-functional phytotron, thus obtaining the relation curve of ice covering increasing of conductor along with time under different conditions, and analyzing factors influencing increasing of ice covering. The research result shows that under the same ice covering conditions, the increasing of ice covering of conductor with small diameter is relatively rapid; both environmental temperature and wind speed have obvious influence on increasing of ice covering of conductor, and the environmental temperature will decide the type of ice covering of conductor surface. Meanwhile, after wind tunnel tests targeting conductors with different ice covering shapes, pneumatic stability loss characteristics of conductors with different ice shapes have been obtained. Research results have important scientific reference value for revealing the mechanism of galloping of iced power transmission line, and have relatively high engineering practicability value for promoting realization of early warning system for galloping of iced power transmission line.

Assessment of the noise annoyance among subway train conductors in Tehran, Iran.

PubMed

Hamidi, Mansoureh; Kavousi, Amir; Zaheri, Somayeh; Hamadani, Abolfazl; Mirkazemi, Roksana

2014-01-01

Subway transportation system is a new phenomenon in Iran. Noise annoyance interferes with the individual's task performance, and the required alertness in the driving of subway trains. This is the first study conducted to measure the level of noise and noise annoyance among conductors of subway organization in Tehran, Iran. This cross sectional study was conducted among 167 randomly selected train conductors. Information related to noise annoyance was collected by using a self-administered questionnaire. The dosimetry and sound metering was done for the conductors and inside the cabins. There were 41 sound metering measuring samples inside the conductors' cabin, and there were 12 samples of conductors' noise exposure. The results of sound level meter showed that the mean Leq was 73.0 dBA ± 8.7 dBA and the dosimetry mean measured Leq was 82.1 dBA ± 6.8 dBA. 80% of conductors were very annoyed/annoyed by noise in their work place. 53.9% of conductors reported that noise affected their work performance and 63.5% reported that noise causes that they lose their concentration. The noise related to movement of train wheels on rail was reported as the worst by 83.2% followed by the noise of brakes (74.3%) and the ventilation noise (71.9%). 56.9% of conductors reported that they are suffering from sleeplessness, 40.1% from tinnitus and 80.2% feeling fatigue and sleepy. The study results showed the high level of noise and noise annoyance among train conductors and the poor health outcome of their exposure to this level of noise.

ELECTRON DISCHARGE DEVICE

DOEpatents

Graham, M.H.

1962-09-18

A barrier-grid storage tube and an improved means for writing and reading of information in such a tube are described. A triax cable is provided in the reading and writing circuit and includes a coiled portion. The inner conductor of the cable is connected to the back plate of the barrier grid target assembly of the storage tube, the middle conductor of the cable is connected to a shielding member encompassing the target assembly and this member supports the barrier grid of the assembly, and the outer conductor of the cable is connected to an external shreld surrounding the target assembly. A source of writing sr- gnals is connected between the rnner conductor and middle conductor of said cable. Both the middle and outer conductors are connected to ground at the source end, and a small trimmer condenser is connected between the external shield and the source end of the inner conductor of the cable to compensate for the direct back plate-to-ground capacity due to the imperfect shielding of the barrier grid. The coiled portion of the cable provides for an output signal to a secondary corl coupled thereto. The grounded outer conductor serves as a means for preventing an output signal being applied to the coiled portion of the cable on application of writing signals to the inner and middle conductors of the cable. (AEC)

A 2-amino quinoline, 5-(3-(2-(7-chloroquinolin-2-yl)ethenyl)phenyl)-8-dimethylcarbamyl-4,6-dithiaoctanoic acid, interacts with PfMDR1 and inhibits its drug transport in Plasmodium falciparum.

PubMed

Edaye, Sonia; Reiling, Sarah J; Leimanis, Mara L; Wunderlich, Juliane; Rohrbach, Petra; Georges, Elias

2014-06-01

Malaria is a major disease in the tropics where chemotherapy remains the main mode of treatment and as such the rise and spread of drug-resistant malaria can lead to human tragedy. Two membrane transport proteins, PfMDR1 (Plasmodium falciparum multidrug resistance protein 1) and PfCRT (P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter), have been shown to cause resistance to several antimalarials. Both PfMDR1 and PfCRT are localized to the digestive vacuolar membrane and appear to regulate the transport of drugs and physiological metabolites. In this study we have used MK571, a 2-amino quinoline, to explore its interaction with PfMDR1 and PfCRT in chloroquine-sensitive and -resistant strains of P. falciparum. Our results show that chloroquine-resistant strains (e.g., K1, Dd2, and 7G8) are consistently more sensitive to MK571 than chloroquine-sensitive strains (e.g., 3D7, 106/1 and D10). This association, however, was not maintained with the chloroquine-resistant strain FCB which IC50 value was similar to chloroquine-sensitive strains. Moreover, the susceptibility of chloroquine-sensitive and -resistant strains to MK571 does not correlate with mutated PfCRT, nor is it reversible with verapamil; but correlates with mutations in PfMDR1. Furthermore, MK571 appears to target the parasite's digestive vacuole (DV), as demonstrated by the ability of MK571 to: (1) block the accumulation of the fluorescent dye Fluo-4 AM, a PfMDR1 substrate, into the digestive vacuole; (2) reduce the transvacuolar pH gradient; and (3) inhibit the formation of β-hematin in vitro. Moreover, the presence of non-toxic concentrations of MK571 sensitized both chloroquine-sensitive and -resistant parasites to mefloquine and halofantrine, likely by competing against PfMDR1-mediated sequestering of the drugs into the DV compartment and away from the drugs' cytosolic targets. Our data, nevertheless, found only a minimal decrease in MK571 IC50 value in FCB parasite which second pfmdr1 copy was inactivated via gene disruption. Taken together, the findings of this study suggest that MK571 interacts with native and mutant PfMDR1 and modulates the import of drugs or solutes into the parasite's DV and, as such, MK571 may be a useful tool in the characterization of PfMDR1 drug interactions and substrate specificity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Controlled human malaria infection by intramuscular and direct venous inoculation of cryopreserved Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites in malaria-naïve volunteers: effect of injection volume and dose on infectivity rates.

PubMed

Gómez-Pérez, Gloria P; Legarda, Almudena; Muñoz, Jose; Sim, B Kim Lee; Ballester, María Rosa; Dobaño, Carlota; Moncunill, Gemma; Campo, Joseph J; Cisteró, Pau; Jimenez, Alfons; Barrios, Diana; Mordmüller, Benjamin; Pardos, Josefina; Navarro, Mireia; Zita, Cecilia Justino; Nhamuave, Carlos Arlindo; García-Basteiro, Alberto L; Sanz, Ariadna; Aldea, Marta; Manoj, Anita; Gunasekera, Anusha; Billingsley, Peter F; Aponte, John J; James, Eric R; Guinovart, Caterina; Antonijoan, Rosa M; Kremsner, Peter G; Hoffman, Stephen L; Alonso, Pedro L

2015-08-07

Controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) by mosquito bite is a powerful tool for evaluation of vaccines and drugs against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. However, only a small number of research centres have the facilities required to perform such studies. CHMI by needle and syringe could help to accelerate the development of anti-malaria interventions by enabling centres worldwide to employ CHMI. An open-label CHMI study was performed with aseptic, purified, cryopreserved P. falciparum sporozoites (PfSPZ Challenge) in 36 malaria naïve volunteers. In part A, the effect of the inoculation volume was assessed: 18 participants were injected intramuscularly (IM) with a dose of 2,500 PfSPZ divided into two injections of 10 µL (n = 6), 50 µL (n = 6) or 250 µL (n = 6), respectively. In part B, the injection volume that resulted in highest infectivity rates in part A (10 µL) was used to formulate IM doses of 25,000 PfSPZ (n = 6) and 75,000 PfSPZ (n = 6) divided into two 10-µL injections. Results from a parallel trial led to the decision to add a positive control group (n = 6), each volunteer receiving 3,200 PfSPZ in a single 500-µL injection by direct venous inoculation (DVI). Four/six participants in the 10-µL group, 1/6 in the 50-µL group and 2/6 in the 250-µL group developed parasitaemia. Geometric mean (GM) pre-patent periods were 13.9, 14.0 and 15.0 days, respectively. Six/six (100%) participants developed parasitaemia in the 25,000 and 75,000 PfSPZ IM and 3,200 PfSPZ DVI groups. GM pre-patent periods were 12.2, 11.4 and 11.4 days, respectively. Injection of PfSPZ Challenge was well tolerated and safe in all groups. IM injection of 75,000 PfSPZ and DVI injection of 3,200 PfSPZ resulted in infection rates and pre-patent periods comparable to the bite of five PfSPZ-infected mosquitoes. Remarkably, it required 23.4-fold more PfSPZ administered IM than DVI to achieve the same parasite kinetics. These results allow for translation of CHMI from research to routine use, and inoculation of PfSPZ by IM and DVI regimens. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01771848.

Effects of Conductor Baton Use on Band and Choral Musicians' Perceptions of Conductor Expressivity and Clarity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nápoles, Jessica; Silvey, Brian A.

2017-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine participants' (college band and choral musicians, N = 143) perceptions of conductor clarity and expressivity after viewing band and choral directors conducting with or without a baton. One band and one choral conductor each prepared and conducted two excerpts of Guy Forbes's "O Nata Lux", a piece…

High conductivity composite metal

DOEpatents

Zhou, Ruoyi; Smith, James L.; Embury, John David

1998-01-01

Electrical conductors and methods of producing them, where the conductors possess both high strength and high conductivity. Conductors are comprised of carbon steel and a material chosen from a group consisting of copper, nickel, silver, and gold. Diffusion barriers are placed between these two materials. The components of a conductor are assembled and then the assembly is subjected to heat treating and mechanical deformation steps.