Publications - GMC 414 | Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical

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DGGS GMC 414 Publication Details Title: Sensitive High Resolution Ion Micro Probe (SHRIMP) data of Gottlieb, E., 2012, Sensitive High Resolution Ion Micro Probe (SHRIMP) data of outcrop samples from the

Flexible probe for measuring local conductivity variations in Li-ion electrode films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardy, Emilee; Clement, Derek; Vogel, John; Wheeler, Dean; Mazzeo, Brian

2018-04-01

Li-ion battery performance is governed by electronic and ionic properties of the battery. A key metric that characterizes Li-ion battery cell performance is the electronic conductivity of the electrodes, which are metal foils with thin coatings of electrochemically active materials. To accurately measure the spatial variation of electronic conductivity of these electrodes, a micro-four-line probe (μ4LP) was designed and used to non-destructively measure the properties of commercial-quality Li-ion battery films. This previous research established that the electronic conductivity of film electrodes is not homogeneous throughout the entirety of the deposited film area. In this work, a micro-N-line probe (μNLP) and a flexible micro-flex-line probe (μFLP) were developed to improve the non-destructive micro-scale conductivity measurements that we can take. These devices were validated by comparing test results to that of the predecessor, the micro-four-line probe (μ4LP), on various commercial-quality Li-ion battery electrodes. Results show that there is significant variation in conductivity on a millimeter and even micrometer length scale through the electrode film. Compared to the μ4LP, the μNLP and μFLP also introduce additional measurement configuration possibilities, while providing a more robust design. Researchers and manufacturers can use these probes to identify heterogeneity in their electrodes during the fabrication process, which will lead to the development of better batteries.

Micro- and nanodevices integrated with biomolecular probes.

PubMed

Alapan, Yunus; Icoz, Kutay; Gurkan, Umut A

2015-12-01

Understanding how biomolecules, proteins and cells interact with their surroundings and other biological entities has become the fundamental design criterion for most biomedical micro- and nanodevices. Advances in biology, medicine, and nanofabrication technologies complement each other and allow us to engineer new tools based on biomolecules utilized as probes. Engineered micro/nanosystems and biomolecules in nature have remarkably robust compatibility in terms of function, size, and physical properties. This article presents the state of the art in micro- and nanoscale devices designed and fabricated with biomolecular probes as their vital constituents. General design and fabrication concepts are presented and three major platform technologies are highlighted: microcantilevers, micro/nanopillars, and microfluidics. Overview of each technology, typical fabrication details, and application areas are presented by emphasizing significant achievements, current challenges, and future opportunities. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

PZT Thin-Film Micro Probe Device with Dual Top Electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Chuan

Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin-film actuators have been studied intensively for years because of their potential applications in many fields. In this dissertation, a PZT thin-film micro probe device is designed, fabricated, studied, and proven to be acceptable as an intracochlear acoustic actuator. The micro probe device takes the form of a cantilever with a PZT thin-film diaphragm at the tip of the probe. The tip portion of the probe will be implanted in cochlea later in animal tests to prove its feasibility in hearing rehabilitation. The contribution of the dissertation is three-fold. First, a dual top electrodes design, consisting of a center electrode and an outer electrode, is developed to improve actuation displacement of the PZT thin-film diaphragm. The improvement by the dual top electrodes design is studied via a finite element model. When the dimensions of the dual electrodes are optimized, the displacement of the PZT thin-film diaphragm increases about 30%. A PZT thin-film diaphragm with dual top electrodes is fabricated to prove the concept, and experimental results confirm the predictions from the finite element analyses. Moreover, the dual electrode design can accommodate presence of significant residual stresses in the PZT thin-film diaphragm by changing the phase difference between the two electrodes. Second, a PZT thin-film micro probe device is fabricated and tested. The fabrication process consists of PZT thin-film deposition and deep reactive ion etching (DRIE). The uniqueness of the fabrication process is an automatic dicing mechanism that allows a large number of probes to be released easily from the wafer. Moreover, the fabrication is very efficient, because the DRIE process will form the PZT thin-film diaphragm and the special dicing mechanism simultaneously. After the probes are fabricated, they are tested with various possible implantation depths (i.e., boundary conditions). Experimental results show that future implantation depths should be less than 3 mm in order to guarantee the first resonant frequency above 60 kHz. Finally, a package for the PZT thin-film micro probe device is developed to ensure its proper function in an aqueous environment, such as inside of cochlea. The package is an insulation layer of parylene coating on the probe. A finite element analysis indicates that a coating thickness of less than 1 mum will reduce the PZT diaphragm displacement by less than 10%. A special fixture is designed to hold a large number of probes for parylene deposition of a thickness of 250 nm. A packaged probe is then submerged in deionized water and functions properly for at least 55 hours. Displacement and impedance of the probe are measured via a laser Doppler vibrometer and an impedance analyzer, respectively. Experimental results show that displacement of the PZT diaphragm increases about 30% in two hours, after the probe is submerged in the deionized water. The impedance measurement shows consistent trends. A hypothesis to explain this unusual phenomenon is diffusion of water molecules into the PZT thin film. High-resolution SEM images of the probe indicate presence of numerous nano-pores in the surface of the PZT thin film, indirectly confirming the hypothesis. Keywords: PZT, Thin-Film, Dual Electrodes, Parylene Coating, Aqueous Environment, Cochlear Implant

Non-contact multi-radar smart probing of body orientation based on micro-Doppler signatures.

PubMed

Li, Yiran; Pal, Ranadip; Li, Changzhi

2014-01-01

Micro-Doppler signatures carry useful information about body movements and have been widely applied to different applications such as human activity recognition and gait analysis. In this paper, micro-Doppler signatures are used to identify body orientation. Four AC-coupled continuous-wave (CW) smart radar sensors were used to form a multiple-radar network to carry out the experiments in this paper. 162 tests were performed in total. The experiment results showed a 100% accuracy in recognizing eight body orientations, i.e., facing north, northeast, east, southeast, south, southwest, west, and northwest.

Miniaturized CARS microendoscope probe design for label-free intraoperative imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xu; Wang, Xi; Xu, Xiaoyun; Cheng, Jie; Liu, Zhengfan; Weng, Sheng; Thrall, Michael J.; Goh, Alvin C.; McCormick, Daniel T.; Wong, Kelvin; Wong, Stephen T. C.

2014-03-01

A Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) microendoscope probe for early stage label-free prostate cancer diagnosis at single cell resolution is presented. The handheld CARS microendoscope probe includes a customized micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) scanning mirror as well as miniature optical and mechanical components. In our design, the excitation laser (pump and stokes beams) from the fiber is collimated, reflected by the reflecting mirror, and transmitted via a 2D MEMS scanning mirror and a micro-objective system onto the sample; emission in the epi-direction is returned through the micro-objective lens, MEMS and reflecting mirror, and collimation system, and finally the emission signal is collected by a photomultiplier tube (PMT). The exit pupil diameter of the collimator system is designed to match the diameter of the MEMS mirror and the entrance pupil diameter of the micro-objective system. The back aperture diameter of the micro-objective system is designed according to the largest MEMS scanning angle and the distance between the MEMS mirror and the back aperture. To increase the numerical aperture (NA) of the micro-objective system in order to enhance the signal collection efficiency, the back aperture diameter of the micro-objective system is enlarged with an upfront achromatic wide angle Keplerian telescope beam expander. The integration of a miniaturized micro-optics probe with optical fiber CARS microscopy opens up the possibility of in vivo molecular imaging for cancer diagnosis and surgical intervention.

Study of modification methods of probes for critical-dimension atomic-force microscopy by the deposition of carbon nanotubes

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

Ageev, O. A., E-mail: ageev@sfedu.ru; Bykov, Al. V.; Kolomiitsev, A. S.

2015-12-15

The results of an experimental study of the modification of probes for critical-dimension atomicforce microscopy (CD-AFM) by the deposition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to improve the accuracy with which the surface roughness of vertical walls is determined in submicrometer structures are presented. Methods of the deposition of an individual CNT onto the tip of an AFM probe via mechanical and electrostatic interaction between the probe and an array of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) are studied. It is shown that, when the distance between the AFM tip and a VACNT array is 1 nm and the applied voltage is withinmore » the range 20–30 V, an individual carbon nanotube is deposited onto the tip. On the basis of the results obtained in the study, a probe with a carbon nanotube on its tip (CNT probe) with a radius of 7 nm and an aspect ratio of 1:15 is formed. Analysis of the CNT probe demonstrates that its use improves the resolution and accuracy of AFM measurements, compared with the commercial probe, and also makes it possible to determine the roughness of the vertical walls of high-aspect structures by CD-AFM. The results obtained can be used to develop technological processes for the fabrication and reconditioning of special AFM probes, including those for CD-AFM, and procedures for the interoperational express monitoring of technological process parameters in the manufacturing of elements for micro- and nanoelectronics and micro- and nanosystem engineering.« less

[In vitro and in vivo recoveries of cutaneous micro-dialysis probe of paeonol, eugenol and piperine].

PubMed

Yang, Chang; Bai, Jie; Du, Shou-Ying; Cui, Ya-Hua; Zhang, Qin-Shuai; Ma, Jun-Ming

2016-11-01

To establish a method for detecting micro-dialysis recovery of paeonol, eugenol and piperine in Huoxue Zhitong patch, in order to provide the basis for further percutaneous pharmacokinetics studies. The concentrations of paeonol, eugenol and piperine in dialysates were determined by HPLC, and probe deliveries were calculated respectively. The effects of concentration and calibration approaches on the micro-dialysis probe deliveries of the three components were investigated, and their probe absorbability, in vitro and in vivo probe stability and repeatability were also studied.The results indicated that little paeonol, eugenol and piperine were observed in probes with 30% alcohol as the perfusate, and could be cleaned from probe in a short time. And the in vivo and in vitro probe deliveries of three components were stable within 8 h, drug-containing solution and blank perfusate were alternatively used for three times, and the in vivo and in vitro probe deliveries of three components were basically unchanged. The in vitro recoveries of paeonol, eugenol and piperine with a range of concentration were respectively (45.7±4.66)%, (27.82±2.95)%, (41.3±3.96)%, which indicated no concentration independent. Under the same conditions, the similar delivery was observed by dialysis, retrodialysis and no-net flux. Therefore, the concentrations of analyses of the collected fraction could be calibrated by in vitro or in vivo recoveries. Meanwhile, this also proved that the micro-dialysis method built by this study is applicable to the study on percutaneous pharmacokinetics of Huoxue Zhitong patch. Copyright© by the Chinese Pharmaceutical Association.

Liquid Microjunction Surface Sampling Probe Electrospray Mass Spectrometry for Detection of Drugs and Metabolites in Thin Tissue Sections

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

Van Berkel, Gary J; Kertesz, Vilmos; Koeplinger, Kenneth A.

2008-01-01

A self-aspirating, liquid micro-junction surface sampling probe/electrospray emitter mass spectrometry system was demonstrated for use in the direct analysis of spotted and dosed drugs and their metabolites in thin tissue sections. Proof-of-principle sampling and analysis directly from tissue without the need for sample preparation was demonstrated first by raster scanning a region on a section of rat liver onto which reserpine was spotted. The mass spectral signal from selected reaction monitoring was used to develop a chemical image of the spotted drug on the tissue. The probe was also used to selectively spot sample areas of sagittal whole mouse bodymore » tissue sections that had been dosed orally (90 mg/kg) with R,S-sulforaphane 3 hrs prior to sacrifice. Sulforaphane and its glutathione and N-acetyl cysteine conjugates were monitored with selected reaction monitoring and detected in the stomach and various other tissues from the dosed mouse. No signal for these species was observed in the tissue from a control mouse. The same dosed tissue section was used to illustrate the possibility of obtaining a line scan across the whole body section. In total these results illustrate the potential for rapid screening of the distribution of drugs and metabolites in tissue sections with the micro-liquid junction surface sampling probe/electrospray mass spectrometry approach.« less

Homogeneous real-time detection of single-nucleotide polymorphisms by strand displacement amplification on the BD ProbeTec ET system.

PubMed

Wang, Sha-Sha; Thornton, Keith; Kuhn, Andrew M; Nadeau, James G; Hellyer, Tobin J

2003-10-01

The BD ProbeTec ET System is based on isothermal strand displacement amplification (SDA) of target nucleic acid coupled with homogeneous real-time detection using fluorescent probes. We have developed a novel, rapid method using this platform that incorporates a universal detection format for identification of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and other genotypic variations. The system uses a common pair of fluorescent Detector Probes in conjunction with unlabeled allele-specific Adapter Primers and a universal buffer chemistry to permit analysis of multiple SNP loci under generic assay conditions. We used Detector Probes labeled with different dyes to facilitate differentiation of two alternative alleles in a single reaction with no postamplification manipulation. We analyzed six SNPs within the human beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR) gene, using whole blood, buccal swabs, and urine samples, and compared results with those obtained by DNA sequencing. Unprocessed whole blood was successfully genotyped with as little as 0.1-1 micro L of sample per reaction. All six beta(2)AR assays were able to accommodate >/==" BORDER="0">20 micro L of unprocessed whole blood. For the 14 individuals tested, genotypes determined with the six beta(2)AR assays agreed with DNA sequencing results. SDA-based allelic differentiation on the BD ProbeTec ET System can detect SNPs rapidly, using whole blood, buccal swabs, or urine.

A common anchor facilitated GO-DNA nano-system for multiplex microRNA analysis in live cells.

PubMed

Yu, Jiantao; He, Sihui; Shao, Chen; Zhao, Haoran; Li, Jing; Tian, Leilei

2018-04-19

The design of a nano-system for the detection of intracellular microRNAs is challenging as it must fulfill complex requirements, i.e., it must have a high sensitivity to determine the dynamic expression level, a good reliability for multiplex and simultaneous detection, and a satisfactory biostability to work in biological environments. Instead of employing a commonly used physisorption or a full-conjugation strategy, here, a GO-DNA nano-system was developed under graft/base-pairing construction. The common anchor sequence was chemically grafted to GO to base-pair with various microRNA probes; and the hybridization with miRNAs drives the dyes on the probes to leave away from GO, resulting in "turned-on" fluorescence. This strategy not only simplifies the synthesis but also efficiently balances the loading yields of different probes. Moreover, the conjugation yield of GO with a base-paired hybrid has been improved by more than two-fold compared to that of the conjugation with a single strand. We demonstrated that base-paired DNA probes could be efficiently delivered into cells along with GO and are properly stabilized by the conjugated anchor sequence. The resultant GO-DNA nano-system exhibited high stability in a complex biological environment and good resistance to nucleases, and was able to accurately discriminate various miRNAs without cross-reaction. With all of these positive features, the GO-DNA nano-system can simultaneously detect three miRNAs and monitor their dynamic expression levels.

Imaging demonstration of a flexible micro-OCT endobronchial probe (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Dongyao; Chu, Kengyeh K.; Ford, Timothy N.; Hyun, Daryl Chulho; Leung, Hui Min; Yin, Biwei; Birket, Susan E.; Solomon, George M.; Rowe, Steven M.; Tearney, Guillermo J.

2017-04-01

The human respiratory system is protected by a defense mechanism termed mucociliary clearance (MCC). Deficiency in MCC leads to respiratory obstruction and pulmonary infection, which often are the main causes of morbidity and mortality in diseases such as cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studying key parameters that govern MCC, including ciliary beat frequency, velocity and volume of airway mucus transport, as well as periciliary liquid layer thickness are therefore of great importance in understanding human respiratory health. However, direct, in vivo visualization of ciliary function and MCC has been challenging, hindering the diagnosis of disease pathogenesis and mechanistic evaluation of novel therapeutics. Our laboratory has previously developed a 1-µm resolution optical coherence tomography method, termed Micro-OCT, which is a unique tool for visualizing the spatiotemporal features of ciliary function and MCC. We have previously described the design of a flexible 2.5 mm Micro-OCT probe that is compatible with standard flexible bronchoscopes. This device utilizes a common-path interferometer and annular sample arm apodization to attain a sharply focused spot over an extended depth of focus. Here, we present the most recent iteration of this probe and demonstrate its imaging performance in a mouse trachea tissue culture model. In addition, we have developed an ergonomic assembly for attaching the probe to a standard bronchoscope. The ergonomic assembly fixes the Micro-OCT probe's within the bronchoscope and contains a means transducing linear motion through the sheath so that the Micro-OCT beam can be scanned along the trachea. We have tested the performance of these devices for Micro-OCT imaging in an anatomically correct model of the human airway. Future studies are planned to use this technology to conduct Micro-OCT in human trachea and bronchi in vivo.

Visualization of sporopollenin-containing pathogenic green micro-alga Prototheca wickerhamii by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH).

PubMed

Ueno, Ryohei

2009-04-01

Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) using taxon-specific, rRNA-targeted oligonucleotide probes is one of the most powerful tools for the rapid identification of harmful microorganisms. However, eukaryotic algal cells do not always allow FISH probes to permeate over their cell walls. Members of the pathogenic micro-algal genus Prototheca are characterized by their distinctive cell-wall component, sporopollenin, an extremely tough biopolymer that resists acid and alkaline hydrolysis, enzyme attack, and acetolysis. To our knowledge, there has been no report of the successful permeation by the oligonucleotide probes over the cell walls of unicellular green micro-algae, which contain sporopollenin. The DNA probes passed through the cell wall of Prototheca wickerhamii after treating the algal cells with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Most cells in the middle logarithmic growth phase culture fluoresced when hybridized with the rRNA-targeted universal probe for eukaryotes, though individual cells included in this culture differed in the level of cell-wall vulnerability to attack by the polysaccharide-degrading enzyme, thus reflecting the different stages of the life cycle. This is the first report regarding the visualization of sporopollenin-containing, green micro-algal cells by FISH.

Ultrasound-guided Subclavian Vein Cannulation Using a Micro-Convex Ultrasound Probe

PubMed Central

Fair, James; Hirshberg, Eliotte L.; Grissom, Colin K.; Brown, Samuel M.

2014-01-01

Background: The subclavian vein is the preferred site for central venous catheter placement due to infection risk and patient comfort. Ultrasound guidance is useful in cannulation of other veins, but for the subclavian vein, current ultrasound-guided techniques using high-frequency linear array probes are generally limited to axillary vein cannulation. Methods: We report a series of patients who underwent clinically indicated subclavian venous catheter placement using a micro-convex pediatric probe for real-time guidance in the vein’s longitudinal axis. We identified rates of successful placement and complications by chart review. Results: Twenty-four catheters were placed using the micro-convex pediatric probe with confirmation of placement of the needle medial to the lateral border of the first rib. Sixteen of the catheters were placed by trainee physicians. In 23 patients, the catheter was placed without complication (hematoma, pneumothorax, infection). In one patient, the vein could not be safely cannulated without risk of arterial puncture, so an alternative site was selected. Conclusions: Infraclavicular subclavian vein cannulation using real-time ultrasound with a micro-convex pediatric probe appears to be a safe and effective method of placing subclavian vascular catheters. This technique merits further study to confirm safety and efficacy. PMID:24611628

Scanning thermal microscopy based on a quartz tuning fork and a micro-thermocouple in active mode (2ω method).

PubMed

Bontempi, Alexia; Nguyen, Tran Phong; Salut, Roland; Thiery, Laurent; Teyssieux, Damien; Vairac, Pascal

2016-06-01

A novel probe for scanning thermal microscope using a micro-thermocouple probe placed on a Quartz Tuning Fork (QTF) is presented. Instead of using an external deflection with a cantilever beam for contact detection, an original combination of piezoelectric resonator and thermal probe is employed. Due to a non-contact photothermal excitation principle, the high quality factor of the QTF allows the probe-to-surface contact detection. Topographic and thermal scanning images obtained on a specific sample points out the interest of our system as an alternative to cantilevered resistive probe systems which are the most spread.

Scanning thermal microscopy based on a quartz tuning fork and a micro-thermocouple in active mode (2ω method)

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

Bontempi, Alexia; Nguyen, Tran Phong; Salut, Roland

A novel probe for scanning thermal microscope using a micro-thermocouple probe placed on a Quartz Tuning Fork (QTF) is presented. Instead of using an external deflection with a cantilever beam for contact detection, an original combination of piezoelectric resonator and thermal probe is employed. Due to a non-contact photothermal excitation principle, the high quality factor of the QTF allows the probe-to-surface contact detection. Topographic and thermal scanning images obtained on a specific sample points out the interest of our system as an alternative to cantilevered resistive probe systems which are the most spread.

Mössbauer study of Brazilian soapstone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gonçalves, M. A.; de Jesus Filho, M. F.; Garg, V. K.

1991-11-01

Steatite mineral rocks, soapstone, have been studied by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopic analysis (modal analysis), electron probe micro analysis and Mössbauer spectroscopy for characterization, mineral percentages and chemical composition. Mössbauer spectra show both, magnetic interactions corresponding to magnetite and doublets corresponding to talc. chlorite, dolomite and tremolite. The temperature dependence of the quadrupole splitting in dolomite has been explained in terms of crystal field interaction.

High quality-factor quartz tuning fork glass probe used in tapping mode atomic force microscopy for surface profile measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yuan-Liu; Xu, Yanhao; Shimizu, Yuki; Matsukuma, Hiraku; Gao, Wei

2018-06-01

This paper presents a high quality-factor (Q-factor) quartz tuning fork (QTF) with a glass probe attached, used in frequency modulation tapping mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) for the surface profile metrology of micro and nanostructures. Unlike conventionally used QTFs, which have tungsten or platinum probes for tapping mode AFM, and suffer from a low Q-factor influenced by the relatively large mass of the probe, the glass probe, which has a lower density, increases the Q-factor of the QTF probe unit allowing it to obtain better measurement sensitivity. In addition, the process of attaching the probe to the QTF with epoxy resin, which is necessary for tapping mode AFM, is also optimized to further improve the Q-factor of the QTF glass probe. The Q-factor of the optimized QTF glass probe unit is demonstrated to be very close to that of a bare QTF without a probe attached. To verify the effectiveness and the advantages of the optimized QTF glass probe unit, the probe unit is integrated into a home-built tapping mode AFM for conducting surface profile measurements of micro and nanostructures. A blazed grating with fine tool marks of 100 nm, a microprism sheet with a vertical amplitude of 25 µm and a Fresnel lens with a steep slope of 90 degrees are used as measurement specimens. From the measurement results, it is demonstrated that the optimized QTF glass probe unit can achieve higher sensitivity as well as better stability than conventional probes in the measurement of micro and nanostructures.

Micro-optical fiber probe for use in an intravascular Raman endoscope.

PubMed

Komachi, Yuichi; Sato, Hidetoshi; Aizawa, Katsuo; Tashiro, Hideo

2005-08-01

We believe that we have developed the narrowest optical-fiber Raman probe ever reported, 600 microm in total diameter, that can be inserted into coronary arteries. The selection of suitable optical fibers, filters, and a processing method is discussed. Custom-made filters attached to the front end of a probe eliminate the background Raman signals of the optical fiber itself. The experimental evaluation of various optical fibers is carried out for the selection of suitable fibers. Measurement of the Raman spectra of an atherosclerotic lesion of a rabbit artery in vitro demonstrates the excellent performance of the micro-Raman probe.

Viability of 3h grown bacterial micro-colonies after direct Raman identification.

PubMed

Mathey, R; Dupoy, M; Espagnon, I; Leroux, D; Mallard, F; Novelli-Rousseau, A

2015-02-01

Clinical diagnostics in routine microbiology still mostly relies on bacterial growth, a time-consuming process that prevents test results to be used directly as key decision-making elements for therapeutic decisions. There is some evidence that Raman micro-spectroscopy provides clinically relevant information from a limited amount of bacterial cells, thus holding the promise of reduced growth times and accelerated result delivery. Indeed, bacterial identification at the species level directly from micro-colonies at an early time of growth (6h) directly on their growth medium has been demonstrated. However, such analysis is suspected to be partly destructive and could prevent the further growth of the colony needed for other tests, e.g. antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST). In the present study, we evaluated the effect of the powerful laser excitation used for Raman identification on micro-colonies probed after very short growth times. We show here, using envelope integrity markers (Syto 9 and Propidium Iodide) directly on ultra-small micro-colonies of a few tens of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis cells (3h growth time), that only the cells that are directly impacted by the laser lose their membrane integrity. Growth kinetics experiments show that the non-probed surrounding cells are sometimes also affected but that the micro-colonies keep their ability to grow, resulting in normal aspect and size of colonies after 15h of growth. Thus, Raman spectroscopy could be used for very early (<3h) identification of grown micro-organisms without impairing further antibiotics susceptibility characterization steps. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fast probe of local electronic states in nanostructures utilizing a single-lead quantum dot

PubMed Central

Otsuka, Tomohiro; Amaha, Shinichi; Nakajima, Takashi; Delbecq, Matthieu R.; Yoneda, Jun; Takeda, Kenta; Sugawara, Retsu; Allison, Giles; Ludwig, Arne; Wieck, Andreas D.; Tarucha, Seigo

2015-01-01

Transport measurements are powerful tools to probe electronic properties of solid-state materials. To access properties of local electronic states in nanostructures, such as local density of states, electronic distribution and so on, micro-probes utilizing artificial nanostructures have been invented to perform measurements in addition to those with conventional macroscopic electronic reservoirs. Here we demonstrate a new kind of micro-probe: a fast single-lead quantum dot probe, which utilizes a quantum dot coupled only to the target structure through a tunneling barrier and fast charge readout by RF reflectometry. The probe can directly access the local electronic states with wide bandwidth. The probe can also access more electronic states, not just those around the Fermi level, and the operations are robust against bias voltages and temperatures. PMID:26416582

Nuclear micro-probe analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana leaves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ager, F. J.; Ynsa, M. D.; Domínguez-Solís, J. R.; López-Martín, M. C.; Gotor, C.; Romero, L. C.

2003-09-01

Phytoremediation is a cost-effective plant-based approach for remediation of soils and waters which takes advantage of the remarkable ability of some plants to concentrate elements and compounds from the environment and to metabolize various molecules in their tissues, such as toxic heavy metals and organic pollutants. Nowadays, phytoremediation technology is becoming of paramount importance when environmental decontamination is concerned, due to the emerging knowledge of its physiological and molecular mechanisms and the new biological and engineering strategies designed to optimize and improve it. In addition, the feasibility of using plants for environmental cleanup has been confirmed by many different trials around the world. Arabidopsis thaliana plants can be used for basic studies to improve the technology on phytoremediation. Making use of nuclear microscopy techniques, in this paper we study leaves of wild type and transgenic A. thaliana plants grown in a cadmium-rich environment under different conditions. Micro-PIXE, RBS and SEM analyses, performed on the scanning proton micro-probe at the CNA in Seville (Spain), prove that cadmium is preferentially sequestered in the central region of epidermal trichome and allow comparing the effects of genetic modifications.

Lateral-deflection-controlled friction force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukuzawa, Kenji; Hamaoka, Satoshi; Shikida, Mitsuhiro; Itoh, Shintaro; Zhang, Hedong

2014-08-01

Lateral-deflection-controlled dual-axis friction force microscopy (FFM) is presented. In this method, an electrostatic force generated with a probe-incorporated micro-actuator compensates for friction force in real time during probe scanning using feedback control. This equivalently large rigidity can eliminate apparent boundary width and lateral snap-in, which are caused by lateral probe deflection. The method can evolve FFM as a method for quantifying local frictional properties on the micro/nanometer-scale by overcoming essential problems to dual-axis FFM.

FEM and Multiphysics Applications at NASA/GSFC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loughlin, James

2004-01-01

FEM software available to the Mechanical Systems Analysis and Simulation Branch at Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) include: 1) MSC/Nastran; 2) Abaqus; 3) Ansys/Multiphysics; 4) COSMOS/M; 5) 'Home-grown' programs; 6) Pre/post processors such as Patran and FEMAP. This viewgraph presentation provides additional information on MSC/Nastran and Ansys/Multiphysics, and includes screen shots of analyzed equipment, including the Wilkinson Microwave Anistropy Probe, a micro-mirror, a MEMS tunable filter, and a micro-shutter array. The presentation also includes information on the verification of results.

Multiplex detection of microRNAs by combining molecular beacon probes with T7 exonuclease-assisted cyclic amplification reaction.

PubMed

Liu, Yacui; Zhang, Jiangyan; Tian, Jingxiao; Fan, Xiaofei; Geng, Hao; Cheng, Yongqiang

2017-01-01

A simple, highly sensitive, and specific assay was developed for the homogeneous and multiplex detection of microRNAs (miRNAs) by combining molecular beacon (MB) probes and T7 exonuclease-assisted cyclic amplification. An MB probe with five base pairs in the stem region without special modification can effectively prevent the digestion by T7 exonuclease. Only in the presence of target miRNA is the MB probe hybridized with the target miRNA, and then digested by T7 exonuclease in the 5' to 3' direction. At the same time, the target miRNA is released and subsequently initiates the nuclease-assisted cyclic digestion process, generating enhanced fluorescence signal significantly. The results show that the combination of T7 exonuclease-assisted cyclic amplification reaction and MB probe possesses higher sensitivity for miRNA detection. Moreover, multiplex detection of miRNAs was successfully achieved by designing two MB probes labeled with FAM and Cy3, respectively. As a result, the method opens a new pathway for the sensitive and multiplex detection of miRNAs as well as clinical diagnosis. Graphical Abstract A simple, highly sensitive, and specific assay was developed for the detection of microRNAs by combining molecular beacon probes with T7 exonuclease-assisted cyclic amplification reaction.

Micro sized implantable ball lens-based fiber optic probe design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cha, Jaepyeong; Kang, Jin U.

2014-02-01

A micro sized implantable ball lens-based fiber optic probe design is described for continuous monitoring of brain activity in freely behaving mice. A prototype uses a 500-micron ball lens and a highly flexible 350-micron-diameter fiber bundle, which are enclosed by a 21G stainless steel sheath. Several types and thickness of brain tissue, consisting of fluorescent probes such as GFP, GCaMP3 calcium indicator, are used to evaluate the performance of the imaging probe. Measured working distance is approximately 400-μm, but is long enough to detect neural activities from cortical and cerebellar tissues of mice brain.

Intravascular Raman spectroscopic catheter for molecular diagnosis of atherosclerotic coronary disease

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Komachi, Yuichi; Sato, Hidetoshi; Tashiro, Hideo

2006-10-01

An intravascular catheter for Raman spectroscopic detection and analysis of coronary atherosclerotic disease has been developed. The catheter, having an outer diameter of 2 mm, consisted of a side-view-type micro-Raman probe, an imaging fiber bundle, a working channel (injection drain), and a balloon. By inflating the balloon, the probe was brought close to the inner wall of a modeled blood flow system and detected a phantom target buried in the wall. Results obtained demonstrate the possibility of using the spectroscopic catheter for molecular diagnosis of coronary lesions.

Intra-Platform Repeatability and Inter-Platform Comparability of MicroRNA Microarray Technology

PubMed Central

Sato, Fumiaki; Tsuchiya, Soken; Terasawa, Kazuya; Tsujimoto, Gozoh

2009-01-01

Over the last decade, DNA microarray technology has provided a great contribution to the life sciences. The MicroArray Quality Control (MAQC) project demonstrated the way to analyze the expression microarray. Recently, microarray technology has been utilized to analyze a comprehensive microRNA expression profiling. Currently, several platforms of microRNA microarray chips are commercially available. Thus, we compared repeatability and comparability of five different microRNA microarray platforms (Agilent, Ambion, Exiqon, Invitrogen and Toray) using 309 microRNAs probes, and the Taqman microRNA system using 142 microRNA probes. This study demonstrated that microRNA microarray has high intra-platform repeatability and comparability to quantitative RT-PCR of microRNA. Among the five platforms, Agilent and Toray array showed relatively better performances than the others. However, the current lineup of commercially available microRNA microarray systems fails to show good inter-platform concordance, probably because of lack of an adequate normalization method and severe divergence in stringency of detection call criteria between different platforms. This study provided the basic information about the performance and the problems specific to the current microRNA microarray systems. PMID:19436744

Fabrication and surface-modification of implantable microprobes for neuroscience studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, H.; Nguyen, C. M.; Chiao, J. C.

2012-06-01

In this work implantable micro-probes for central nervous system (CNS) studies were developed on silicon and polyimide substrates. The probes which contained micro-electrode arrays with different surface modifications were designed for implantation in the CNS. The electrode surfaces were modified with nano-scale structures that could greatly increase the active surface area in order to enhance the electrochemical current outputs while maintaining micro-scale dimensions of the electrodes and probes. The electrodes were made of gold or platinum, and designed with different sizes. The silicon probes were modified by silicon nanowires fabricated with the vapor-liquid-solid mechanism at high temperatures. With polyimide substrates, the nanostructure modification was carried out by applying concentrated gold or silver colloid solutions onto the micro-electrodes at room temperature. The surfaces of electrodes before and after modification were observed by scanning electron microscopy. The silicon nanowire-modified surface was characterized by cyclic voltammetry. Experiments were carried out to investigate the improvement in sensing performance. The modified electrodes were tested with H2O2, electrochemical L-glutamate and dopamine. Comparisons between electrodes with and without nanostructure modification were conducted showing that the modifications have enhanced the signal outputs of the electrochemical neurotransmitter sensors.

Plasma properties and heating at the anode of a 1 kW arcjet using electrostatic probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiliakos, Nicholas

A 1 kW hydrazine arcjet thruster has been modified for internal probing of the near-anode boundary layer with an array of fourteen electrostatic micro-probes. The main objectives of this experimental investigation were to: (1) obtain axial and azimuthal distributions of floating potential phisbf, anode sheath potential phisbs, probe current density at zero volts jsba, electron number density nsbes, electron temperature Tsbes, and anode heating due to electrons qsbe for arc currents Isbarc, between 7.8 and 10.6 A, propellant flow rates m = 40-60 mg/s, and specific energies, 18.8 MJ/kg ≤ P/m ≤ 27.4 MJ/kg; (2) probe the anode boundary layer using flush-mounted and cylindrical micro-probes; (3) verify azimuthal current symmetry; (4) understand what affects anode heating, a critical thruster lifetime issue; and (5) provide experimental data for validation of the Megli-Krier-Burton (MKB) model. All of the above objectives were met through the design, fabrication and implementation of fourteen electrostatic micro-probes, of sizes ranging from 0.170 mm to 0.43 mm in diameter. A technique for cleaning and implementing these probes was developed. Two configurations were used: flush-mounted planar probes and cylindrical probes extended 0.10-0.30 mm into the plasma flow. The main results of this investigation are: (1) electrostatic micro-probes can successfully be used in the harsh environment of an arcjet; (2) under all conditions tested the plasma is highly non-equilibrium in the near-anode region; (3) azimuthal current symmetry exists for most operating conditions; (4) the propellant flow rate affects the location of maximum anode sheath potential, current density, and anode heating more than the arc current; (5) the weighted anode sheath potential is always positive and varies from 8-17 V depending on thruster operating conditions; (6) the fraction of anode heating varies from 18-24% of the total input power over the range of specific energies tested; and (7) based on an energy loss factor of delta = 1200, reasonable correlation between the experimental data and the MKB model was found.

Quantification of ionic transport within thermally-activated batteries using electron probe micro-analysis

DOE PAGES

Humplik, Thomas; Stirrup, Emily K.; Grillet, Anne M.; ...

2016-04-30

The transient transport of electrolytes in thermally-activated batteries is studied in this paper using electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA), demonstrating the robust capability of EPMA as a useful tool for studying and quantifying mass transport within porous materials, particularly in difficult environments where classical flow measurements are challenging. By tracking the mobility of bromine and potassium ions from the electrolyte stored within the separator into the lithium silicon anode and iron disulfide cathode, we are able to quantify the transport mechanisms and physical properties of the electrodes including permeability and tortuosity. Due to the micron to submicron scale porous structure ofmore » the initially dry anode, a fast capillary pressure driven flow is observed into the anode from which we are able to set a lower bound on the permeability of 10 -1 mDarcy. The transport into the cathode is diffusion-limited because the cathode originally contained some electrolyte before activation. Finally, using a transient one-dimensional diffusion model, we estimate the tortuosity of the cathode electrode to be 2.8 ± 0.8.« less

Nano Mechanical Machining Using AFM Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mostofa, Md. Golam

Complex miniaturized components with high form accuracy will play key roles in the future development of many products, as they provide portability, disposability, lower material consumption in production, low power consumption during operation, lower sample requirements for testing, and higher heat transfer due to their very high surface-to-volume ratio. Given the high market demand for such micro and nano featured components, different manufacturing methods have been developed for their fabrication. Some of the common technologies in micro/nano fabrication are photolithography, electron beam lithography, X-ray lithography and other semiconductor processing techniques. Although these methods are capable of fabricating micro/nano structures with a resolution of less than a few nanometers, some of the shortcomings associated with these methods, such as high production costs for customized products, limited material choices, necessitate the development of other fabricating techniques. Micro/nano mechanical machining, such an atomic force microscope (AFM) probe based nano fabrication, has, therefore, been used to overcome some the major restrictions of the traditional processes. This technique removes material from the workpiece by engaging micro/nano size cutting tool (i.e. AFM probe) and is applicable on a wider range of materials compared to the photolithographic process. In spite of the unique benefits of nano mechanical machining, there are also some challenges with this technique, since the scale is reduced, such as size effects, burr formations, chip adhesions, fragility of tools and tool wear. Moreover, AFM based machining does not have any rotational movement, which makes fabrication of 3D features more difficult. Thus, vibration-assisted machining is introduced into AFM probe based nano mechanical machining to overcome the limitations associated with the conventional AFM probe based scratching method. Vibration-assisted machining reduced the cutting forces and burr formations through intermittent cutting. Combining the AFM probe based machining with vibration-assisted machining enhanced nano mechanical machining processes by improving the accuracy, productivity and surface finishes. In this study, several scratching tests are performed with a single crystal diamond AFM probe to investigate the cutting characteristics and model the ploughing cutting forces. Calibration of the probe for lateral force measurements, which is essential, is also extended through the force balance method. Furthermore, vibration-assisted machining system is developed and applied to fabricate different materials to overcome some of the limitations of the AFM probe based single point nano mechanical machining. The novelty of this study includes the application of vibration-assisted AFM probe based nano scale machining to fabricate micro/nano scale features, calibration of an AFM by considering different factors, and the investigation of the nano scale material removal process from a different perspective.

Integration of silicon-based neural probes and micro-drive arrays for chronic recording of large populations of neurons in behaving animals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Michon, Frédéric; Aarts, Arno; Holzhammer, Tobias; Ruther, Patrick; Borghs, Gustaaf; McNaughton, Bruce; Kloosterman, Fabian

2016-08-01

Objective. Understanding how neuronal assemblies underlie cognitive function is a fundamental question in system neuroscience. It poses the technical challenge to monitor the activity of populations of neurons, potentially widely separated, in relation to behaviour. In this paper, we present a new system which aims at simultaneously recording from a large population of neurons from multiple separated brain regions in freely behaving animals. Approach. The concept of the new device is to combine the benefits of two existing electrophysiological techniques, i.e. the flexibility and modularity of micro-drive arrays and the high sampling ability of electrode-dense silicon probes. Main results. Newly engineered long bendable silicon probes were integrated into a micro-drive array. The resulting device can carry up to 16 independently movable silicon probes, each carrying 16 recording sites. Populations of neurons were recorded simultaneously in multiple cortical and/or hippocampal sites in two freely behaving implanted rats. Significance. Current approaches to monitor neuronal activity either allow to flexibly record from multiple widely separated brain regions (micro-drive arrays) but with a limited sampling density or to provide denser sampling at the expense of a flexible placement in multiple brain regions (neural probes). By combining these two approaches and their benefits, we present an alternative solution for flexible and simultaneous recordings from widely distributed populations of neurons in freely behaving rats.

In Situ Detection of MicroRNA Expression with RNAscope Probes.

PubMed

Yin, Viravuth P

2018-01-01

Elucidating the spatial resolution of gene transcripts provides important insight into potential gene function. MicroRNAs are short, singled-stranded noncoding RNAs that control gene expression through base-pair complementarity with target mRNAs in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) and inhibiting protein expression. However, given their small size of ~22- to 24-nt and low expression levels, standard in situ hybridization detection methods are not amendable for microRNA spatial resolution. Here, I describe a technique that employs RNAscope probe design and propriety amplification technology that provides simultaneous single molecule detection of individual microRNA and its target gene. This method allows for rapid and sensitive detection of noncoding RNA transcripts in frozen tissue sections.

Research on the Sensing Performance of the Tuning Fork-Probe as a Micro Interaction Sensor

PubMed Central

Gao, Fengli; Li, Xide

2015-01-01

The shear force position system has been widely used in scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM) and recently extended into the force sensing area. The dynamic properties of a tuning fork (TF), the core component of this system, directly determine the sensing performance of the shear positioning system. Here, we combine experimental results and finite element method (FEM) analysis to investigate the dynamic behavior of the TF probe assembled structure (TF-probe). Results from experiments under varying atmospheric pressures illustrate that the oscillation amplitude of the TF-probe is linearly related to the quality factor, suggesting that decreasing the pressure will dramatically increase the quality factor. The results from FEM analysis reveal the influences of various parameters on the resonant performance of the TF-probe. We compared numerical results of the frequency spectrum with the experimental data collected by our recently developed laser Doppler vibrometer system. Then, we investigated the parameters affecting spatial resolution of the SNOM and the dynamic response of the TF-probe under longitudinal and transverse interactions. It is found that the interactions in transverse direction is much more sensitive than that in the longitudinal direction. Finally, the TF-probe was used to measure the friction coefficient of a silica–silica interface. PMID:26404310

Multicolor microRNA FISH effectively differentiates tumor types

PubMed Central

Renwick, Neil; Cekan, Pavol; Masry, Paul A.; McGeary, Sean E.; Miller, Jason B.; Hafner, Markus; Li, Zhen; Mihailovic, Aleksandra; Morozov, Pavel; Brown, Miguel; Gogakos, Tasos; Mobin, Mehrpouya B.; Snorrason, Einar L.; Feilotter, Harriet E.; Zhang, Xiao; Perlis, Clifford S.; Wu, Hong; Suárez-Fariñas, Mayte; Feng, Huichen; Shuda, Masahiro; Moore, Patrick S.; Tron, Victor A.; Chang, Yuan; Tuschl, Thomas

2013-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are excellent tumor biomarkers because of their cell-type specificity and abundance. However, many miRNA detection methods, such as real-time PCR, obliterate valuable visuospatial information in tissue samples. To enable miRNA visualization in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, we developed multicolor miRNA FISH. As a proof of concept, we used this method to differentiate two skin tumors, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), with overlapping histologic features but distinct cellular origins. Using sequencing-based miRNA profiling and discriminant analysis, we identified the tumor-specific miRNAs miR-205 and miR-375 in BCC and MCC, respectively. We addressed three major shortcomings in miRNA FISH, identifying optimal conditions for miRNA fixation and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) retention using model compounds and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses, enhancing signal amplification and detection by increasing probe-hapten linker lengths, and improving probe specificity using shortened probes with minimal rRNA sequence complementarity. We validated our method on 4 BCC and 12 MCC tumors. Amplified miR-205 and miR-375 signals were normalized against directly detectable reference rRNA signals. Tumors were classified using predefined cutoff values, and all were correctly identified in blinded analysis. Our study establishes a reliable miRNA FISH technique for parallel visualization of differentially expressed miRNAs in FFPE tumor tissues. PMID:23728175

Dynamics of one-state downhill protein folding.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Oliva, Fabiana Y; Naganathan, Athi N; Muñoz, Victor

2009-01-06

The small helical protein BBL has been shown to fold and unfold in the absence of a free energy barrier according to a battery of quantitative criteria in equilibrium experiments, including probe-dependent equilibrium unfolding, complex coupling between denaturing agents, characteristic DSC thermogram, gradual melting of secondary structure, and heterogeneous atom-by-atom unfolding behaviors spanning the entire unfolding process. Here, we present the results of nanosecond T-jump experiments probing backbone structure by IR and end-to-end distance by FRET. The folding dynamics observed with these two probes are both exponential with common relaxation times but have large differences in amplitude following their probe-dependent equilibrium unfolding. The quantitative analysis of amplitude and relaxation time data for both probes shows that BBL folding dynamics are fully consistent with the one-state folding scenario and incompatible with alternative models involving one or several barrier crossing events. At 333 K, the relaxation time for BBL is 1.3 micros, in agreement with previous folding speed limit estimates. However, late folding events at room temperature are an order of magnitude slower (20 micros), indicating a relatively rough underlying energy landscape. Our results in BBL expose the dynamic features of one-state folding and chart the intrinsic time-scales for conformational motions along the folding process. Interestingly, the simple self-averaging folding dynamics of BBL are the exact dynamic properties required in molecular rheostats, thus supporting a biological role for one-state folding.

Safety and efficiency of the new micro-multiplane transoesophageal probe in paediatric cardiology.

PubMed

Hascoët, Sébastien; Peyre, Marianne; Hadeed, Khaled; Alacoque, Xavier; Chausseray, Gérald; Fesseau, Rose; Amadieu, Romain; Léobon, Bertrand; Berthomieu, Lionel; Dulac, Yves; Acar, Philippe

2014-01-01

Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is feasible in neonates using a miniaturized probe, but is not widely used because of low imaging quality. To assess handling and imaging quality of a new release of a micro-TOE probe in children. Thirty-eight consecutive children, enrolled during February and May 2013, underwent TOE with the Philips S8-3t probe. Insertion, handling and image quality were assessed. The 38 children (aged 7days to 12years; weight 3.1-27kg) underwent 75 TOE (30 [40.0%] before cardiac surgery, 31 [41.3%] after cardiac surgery, 4 [5.3%] during a percutaneous procedure, 10 [13.3%] in the intensive care unit). Insertion of the micro-TOE probe was 'very easy' in 37/38 patients (97.4%). Handling was better in the lightest children (P=0.001). Image quality was mainly 'good' or 'very good', with no significant changes between preoperative and postoperative examinations or over time. Total scores (insertion, handling, image quality) were significantly better in the lightest children (P=0.02). Preoperative TOE did not provide additional information over transthoracic echocardiography. Postoperative TOE was useful to assess surgical results, but no residual lesions required extracorporeal circulation return. Micro-TOE was useful during the postoperative care of neonatal surgery with open breastbone to assess the surgical result and ventricular function. It was also useful to guide extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) indication and withdrawal; and was a useful guide for percutaneous procedures. Micro-multiplane TOE is safe and efficient for use in neonates and children. This minimally invasive tool increases the impact of TOE in paediatric cardiology. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

High Resolution Tissue Imaging Using the Single-probe Mass Spectrometry under Ambient Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Wei; Pan, Ning; Yang, Zhibo

2015-06-01

Ambient mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is an emerging field with great potential for the detailed spatial analysis of biological samples with minimal pretreatment. We have developed a miniaturized sampling and ionization device, the Single-probe, which uses in-situ surface micro-extraction to achieve high detection sensitivity and spatial resolution during MSI experiments. The Single-probe was coupled to a Thermo LTQ Orbitrap XL mass spectrometer and was able to create high spatial and high mass resolution MS images at 8 ± 2 and 8.5 μm on flat polycarbonate microscope slides and mouse kidney sections, respectively, which are among the highest resolutions available for ambient MSI techniques. Our proof-of-principle experiments indicate that the Single-probe MSI technique has the potential to obtain ambient MS images with very high spatial resolutions with minimal sample preparation, which opens the possibility for subcellular ambient tissue MSI to be performed in the future.

Effects of microdialyzed oxotremorine, carbachol, epibatidine, and scopolamine on intraspinal release of acetylcholine in the rat.

PubMed

Höglund, A U; Hamilton, C; Lindblom, L

2000-10-01

Intrathecally administered cholinergic agonists such as oxotremorine (muscarinic), carbachol (mixed nicotinic and muscarinic agonist), and epibatidine (nicotinic) have all been shown to reduce nociception in behavioral studies. Thus, there is substantial evidence for a role of acetylcholine (ACh) in the control of nociception in the spinal cord, but the mechanisms regulating ACh release are not known. The present study was initiated to establish a rat model to study which mechanisms are involved in the control of ACh release. Spinal microdialysis probes were inserted intraspinally at the C1-C5 spinal level in isoflurane-anesthetized rats. The probes were perfused with Ringer's solution containing 10 microM neostigmine to prevent degradation of ACh. Oxotremorine, carbachol, epibatidine, and scopolamine, dissolved in Ringer's solution, were administered intraspinally via dialysis and 30 microliter/10-min samples of dialysate were collected for HPLC analysis of ACh content. The release of ACh was found to be constant in the control (Ringer's only) situation during the experimental period of 150 min. Oxotremorine (100-1000 microM), carbachol (1 mM), and epibatidine (50-5000 microM) enhanced but scopolamine (50-200 nM) decreased the intraspinal release of ACh. Oxotremorine (ED(50) = 118 microM) and epibatidine (ED(50) = 175 microM) were found to produce a dose-dependent increase of ACh release. Cholinergic agonists caused an increase of intraspinal ACh and the antagonist scopolamine caused a decreased release of ACh. The data do not support an autoreceptor function of either nicotinic or muscarinic receptors in the spinal cord, contrary to what has been observed in the brain.

Probing electrokinetics in microchannels and nanochannels with electrochemical measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schiffbauer, Jarrod; Park, Sinwook; Yossifon, Gilad

2013-11-01

We present a brief review of recent experimental and theoretical results concerning the use of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), in conjunction with other electrochemical measurements (chronoamperometry, linear sweep voltammetry), to characterize the response of micro- and nanofluidic systems. Using these techniques, the interplay between conduction, diffusion, and convection are probed across a range of time- and length scales. The resulting information permits characterization of the respective roles of processes in both micro- and nanchannel regions of a fluidic device. Such techniques provide a useful probe of transient behavior at the micro-nanochannel interface, have great potential in biomolecular sensing applications, and may be useful in the study of surface properties at the fluid-solid interface. We wish to acknowledge Israel Science Foundation, grant number 2015240, the Technion Russel-Berrie Nanotechnology Institute (RBNI) and a fellowship grant from the Techion Faculty of Mechanical Engineering.

Correlation of oxygenation and perfusion sensitive MRI with invasive micro probe measurements in healthy mice brain.

PubMed

Sedlacik, Jan; Reitz, Matthias; Bolar, Divya S; Adalsteinsson, Elfar; Schmidt, Nils O; Fiehler, Jens

2015-03-01

The non-invasive assessment of (patho-)physiological parameters such as, perfusion and oxygenation, is of great importance for the characterization of pathologies e.g., tumors, which may be helpful to better predict treatment response and potential outcome. To better understand the influence of physiological parameters on the investigated oxygenation and perfusion sensitive MRI methods, MRI measurements were correlated with subsequent invasive micro probe measurements during free breathing conditions of air, air+10% CO2 and 100% O2 in healthy mice brain. MRI parameters were the irreversible (R2), reversible (R2') and effective (R2*) transverse relaxation rates, venous blood oxygenation level assessed by quantitative blood oxygenation level dependent (qBOLD) method and cerebral blood flow (CBF) assessed by arterial spin labeling (ASL) using a 7 T small animal MRI scanner. One to two days after MRI, tissue perfusion and pO2 were measured by Laser-Doppler flowmetry and fluorescence quenching micro probes, respectively. The tissue pO2 values were converted to blood oxygen saturation by using the Hill equation. The animals were anesthetized by intra peritoneal injection of ketamine-xylazine-acepromazine (10-2-0.3 mg/ml · kg). Results for normal/hypercapnia/hyperoxia conditions were: R2[s(∧)-1] = 20.7/20.4/20.1, R2*[s(∧)-1] = 31.6/29.6/25.9, R2'[s-(∧)1] = 10.9/9.2/5.7, qBOLD venous blood oxygenation level = 0.43/0.51/0.56, CBF[ml · min(∧)-1 · 100 g(∧)-1] = 70.6/105.5/81.8, Laser-Doppler flowmetry[a.u.] = 89.2/120.2/90.6 and pO2[mmHg] = 6.3/32.3/46.7. All parameters were statistically significantly different with P < 0.001 between all breathing conditions. All MRI and the corresponding micro probe measurements were also statistically significantly (P ≤ 0.03) correlated with each other. However, converting the tissue pO2 to blood oxygen saturation = 0.02/0.34/0.63, showed only very limited agreement with the qBOLD venous blood oxygenation level. We found good correlation between MRI and micro probe measurements. However, direct conversion of tissue pO2 to blood oxygen saturation by using the Hill equation is very limited. Furthermore, adverse effects of anesthesia and trauma due to micro probe insertion are strong confounding factors and need close attention for study planning and conduction of experiments. Investigation of the correlation of perfusion and oxygenation sensitive MRI methods with micro probe measurements in pathologic tissue such as tumors is now of compelling interest. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Tribological behavior of micro/nano-patterned surfaces in contact with AFM colloidal probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaoliang; Wang, Xiu; Kong, Wen; Yi, Gewen; Jia, Junhong

2011-10-01

In effort to investigate the influence of the micro/nano-patterning or surface texturing on the nanotribological properties of patterned surfaces, the patterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surfaces with pillars were fabricated by replica molding technique. The surface morphologies of patterned PDMS surfaces with varying pillar sizes and spacing between pillars were characterized by atomic force microscope (AFM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The AFM/FFM was used to acquire the friction force images of micro/nano-patterned surfaces using a colloidal probe. A difference in friction force produced a contrast on the friction force images when the colloidal probe slid over different regions of the patterned polymer surfaces. The average friction force of patterned surface was related to the spacing between the pillars and their size. It decreased with the decreasing of spacing between the pillars and the increasing of pillar size. A reduction in friction force was attributed to the reduced area of contact between patterned surface and colloidal probe. Additionally, the average friction force increased with increasing applied load and sliding velocity.

A Wirelessly Powered Micro-Spectrometer for Neural Probe-Pin Device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sang H.; Kim, Min Hyuck; Song, Kyo D.; Yoon, Hargsoon; Lee, Uhn

2015-01-01

Treatment of neurological anomalies, places stringent demands on device functionality and size. A micro-spectrometer has been developed for use as an implantable neural probe to monitor neuro-chemistry in synapses. The microspectrometer, based on a NASA-invented miniature Fresnel grating, is capable of differentiating the emission spectra from various brain tissues. The micro-spectrometer meets the size requirements, and is able to probe the neuro-chemistry and suppression voltage typically associated with a neural anomaly. This neural probe-pin device (PPD) is equipped with wireless power technology (WPT) enabling operation in a continuous manner without requiring an implanted battery. The implanted neural PPD, together with a neural electronics interface and WPT, allow real-time measurement and control/feedback for remediation of neural anomalies. The design and performance of the combined PPD/WPT device for monitoring dopamine in a rat brain will be presented to demonstrate the current level of development. Future work on this device will involve the addition of an embedded expert system capable of performing semi-autonomous management of neural functions through a routine of sensing, processing, and control.

A wirelessly powered microspectrometer for neural probe-pin device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Sang H.; Kim, Min H.; Song, Kyo D.; Yoon, Hargsoon; Lee, Uhn

2015-12-01

Treatment of neurological anomalies, whether done invasively or not, places stringent demands on device functionality and size. We have developed a micro-spectrometer for use as an implantable neural probe to monitor neuro-chemistry in synapses. The micro-spectrometer, based on a NASA-invented miniature Fresnel grating, is capable of differentiating the emission spectra from various brain tissues. The micro-spectrometer meets the size requirements, and is able to probe the neuro-chemistry and suppression voltage typically associated with a neural anomaly. This neural probe-pin device (PPD) is equipped with wireless power technology (WPT) to enable operation in a continuous manner without requiring an implanted battery. The implanted neural PPD, together with a neural electronics interface and WPT, enable real-time measurement and control/feedback for remediation of neural anomalies. The design and performance of the combined PPD/WPT device for monitoring dopamine in a rat brain will be presented to demonstrate the current level of development. Future work on this device will involve the addition of an embedded expert system capable of performing semi-autonomous management of neural functions through a routine of sensing, processing, and control.

Flexible micro-OCT endobronchial probe for imaging of mucociliary transport (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Dongyao; Chu, Kengyeh K.; Unglert, Carolin I.; Ford, Tim N.; Carruth, Robert W.; Hyun, Daryl; Singh, Kanwarpal; Birket, Susan E.; Solomon, George M.; Rowe, Steve M.; Tearney, Guillermo J.

2016-03-01

Mucociliary clearance (MCC) plays a significant role in maintaining the health of human respiratory system by eliminating foreign particles trapped within mucus. Failure of this mechanism in diseases such as cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) leads to airway blockage and lung infection, causing morbidity and mortality. The volume of airway mucus and the periciliary liquid encapsulating the cilia, in addition to ciliary beat frequency and velocity of mucociliary transport, are vital parameters of airway health. However, the diagnosis of disease pathogenesis and advances of novel therapeutics are hindered by the lack of tools for visualization of ciliary function in vivo. Our laboratory has previously developed a 1-µm resolution optical coherence tomography method, termed Micro-OCT, which is capable of visualizing mucociliary transport and quantitatively capturing epithelial functional metrics. We have also miniaturized Micro-OCT optics in a first-generation rigid 4mm Micro-OCT endoscope utilizing a common-path design and an apodizing prism configuration to produce an annular profile sample beam, and reported the first in vivo visualization of mucociliary transport in swine. We now demonstrate a flexible 2.5 mm Micro-OCT probe that can be inserted through the instrument channel of standard flexible bronchoscopes, allowing bronchoscopic navigation to smaller airways and greatly improving clinical utility. Longitudinal scanning over a field of view of more than 400 µm at a frame rate of 40 Hz was accomplished with a driveshaft transduced by a piezo-electric stack motor. We present characterization and imaging results from the flexible micro-OCT probe and progress towards clinical translation. The ability of the bronchoscope-compatible micro-OCT probe to image mucus clearance and epithelial function will enable studies of cystic fibrosis pathogenesis in small airways, provide diagnosis of mucociliary clearance disorders, and allow individual responses to treatments to be monitored.

A new multimodality system for quantitative in vivo studies in small animals: combination of nuclear magnetic resonance and the radiosensitive /spl beta/-MicroProbe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Desbree, A.; Pain, F.; Gurden, H.; Pinot, L.; Grenier, D.; Zimmer, L.; Mastrippolito, R.; Laniece, P.

2005-10-01

Elucidating complex physiological mechanisms in small animal in vivo requires the development of new investigatory techniques including imaging with multiple modalities. Combining exploratory techniques has the tremendous advantage to record simultaneously complementary parameters on the same animal. In this field, an exciting challenge remains in the combination of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and positron emission tomography (PET) since small animals studies are limited by strict technical constraints in vivo. Coupling NMR with a radiosensitive /spl beta/-MicroProbe offers therefore an interesting technical alternative. To assess the feasibility of this new dual-modality system, we designed theoretical and experimental approaches to test the ability of the /spl beta/-Microprobe to quantify radioactivity concentration in an intense magnetic field. In an initial step, simulations were carried out using Geant4. First, we evaluated the influence of a magnetic field on the probe detection volume. Then, the detection sensitivity and energy response of the probe were quantified. In a second step, experiments were run within a 7-T magnet to confirm our simulations results. We showed that using the probe in magnetic fields leads to a slight attenuation in sensitivity and an increase of the scintillation light yield. These data demonstrate the feasibility of combining NMR to the /spl beta/-MicroProbe.

A low power flash-FPGA based brain implant micro-system of PID control.

PubMed

Lijuan Xia; Fattah, Nabeel; Soltan, Ahmed; Jackson, Andrew; Chester, Graeme; Degenaar, Patrick

2017-07-01

In this paper, we demonstrate that a low power flash FPGA based micro-system can provide a low power programmable interface for closed-loop brain implant inter- faces. The proposed micro-system receives recording local field potential (LFP) signals from an implanted probe, performs closed-loop control using a first order control system, then converts the signal into an optogenetic control stimulus pattern. Stimulus can be implemented through optoelectronic probes. The long term target is for both fundamental neuroscience applications and for clinical use in treating epilepsy. Utilizing our device, closed-loop processing consumes only 14nJ of power per PID cycle compared to 1.52μJ per cycle for a micro-controller implementation. Compared to an application specific digital integrated circuit, flash FPGA's are inherently programmable.

Determination of muscle-specific glucose flux using radioactive stereoisomers and microdialysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

MacLean, D. A.; Ettinger, S. M.; Sinoway, L. I.; Lanoue, K. F.

2001-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate a novel approach for determining skeletal muscle-specific glucose flux using radioactive stereoisomers and the microdialysis technique. Microdialysis probes were inserted into the vastus lateralis muscle of human subjects and perfused (4 microl/min) with a Ringer solution containing small amounts of radioactive D- and L-glucose as the internal reference markers for determining probe recovery as well as varying concentrations of insulin (0-10 microM). The rationale behind this approach was that both stereoisomers would be equally affected by the factors that determine probe recovery, with the exception of L-glucose, which is nonmetabolizable and would not be influenced by tissue uptake. Therefore, any differences in the probe recovery ratios between the D- and L-stereoisomers represent changes in skeletal muscle glucose uptake directly at the tissue level. There were no differences in probe recovery between the D- (42.3 +/- 3.5%) and L- (41.2 +/- 3.5) stereoisomers during the control period (no insulin), which resulted in a D/L ratio of 1.04 +/- 0.03. However, during insulin perfusion (1 microM), The D/L ratio increased to 1.62 +/- 0.08 and 1.58 +/- 0.07 (P < 0.05) during the two collection (0-15 and 15-30 min) periods, respectively. This was accomplished solely by an increase (P < 0.05) in D-glucose probe recovery, as L-glucose probe recovery remained unchanged. In a second set of experiments, the perfusion of 10 microM insulin did not increase the D/L ratio (1.40 +/- 0.11) above that observed during 1.0 microM (1.41 +/- 0.07) insulin perfusion. These data suggest that this method is sufficiently sensitive to detect differences in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake; thus the use of radioactive stereoisomers in conjunction with the microdialysis technique provides a novel and useful technique for determining tissue-specific glucose flux and insulin sensitivity.

Nuclear nanoprobe development for visualization of three-dimensional nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takai, M.; Abo, S.; Wakaya, F.; Kikuchi, T.; Sawaragi, H.

2007-08-01

A nanoprobe system, having a liquid metal ion source with a compact electrostatic accelerating column with a maximum accelerating voltage of 200 kV and an ultra high vacuum chamber, giving rise to the enhanced sensitivity because of the large scattering cross-section, has been designed for analysis of nanostructures. The focusing performance of the probes down to 10 nm was measured and compared with the simulation. Time-of-flight (TOF) RBS using a micro channel plate (MCP) further increases the sensitivity because of the increase in acceptance angle, which realizes the visualization of nanostructures with a beam spot diameter less than 10 nm with less probe damage.

A bi-prism interferometer for hard x-ray photons

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

Isakovic, A.F.; Siddons, D.; Stein, A.

2010-04-06

Micro-fabricated bi-prisms have been used to create an interference pattern from an incident hard X-ray beam, and the intensity of the pattern probed with fluorescence from a 30 nm-thick metal film. Maximum fringe visibility exceeded 0.9 owing to the nano-sized probe and the choice of single-crystal prism material. A full near-field analysis is necessary to describe the fringe field intensities, and the transverse coherence lengths were extracted at APS beamline 8-ID-I. It is also shown that the maximum number of fringes is dependent only on the complex refractive index of the prism material.

A novel integrated multifunction micro-sensor for three-dimensional micro-force measurements.

PubMed

Wang, Weizhong; Zhao, Yulong; Qin, Yafei

2012-01-01

An integrated multifunction micro-sensor for three-dimensional micro-force precision measurement under different pressure and temperature conditions is introduced in this paper. The integrated sensor consists of three kinds of sensors: a three-dimensional micro-force sensor, an absolute pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. The integrated multifunction micro-sensor is fabricated on silicon wafers by micromachining technology. Different doping doses of boron ion, placement and structure of resistors are tested for the force sensor, pressure sensor and temperature sensor to minimize the cross interference and optimize the properties. A glass optical fiber, with a ladder structure and sharp tip etched by buffer oxide etch solution, is glued on the micro-force sensor chip as the tactile probe. Experimental results show that the minimum force that can be detected by the force sensor is 300 nN; the lateral sensitivity of the force sensor is 0.4582 mV/μN; the probe length is linearly proportional to sensitivity of the micro-force sensor in lateral; the sensitivity of the pressure sensor is 0.11 mv/KPa; the sensitivity of the temperature sensor is 5.836 × 10(-3) KΩ/°C. Thus it is a cost-effective method to fabricate integrated multifunction micro-sensors with different measurement ranges that could be used in many fields.

Spatial dispersion effects upon local excitation of extrinsic plasmons in a graphene micro-disk

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mencarelli, D.; Bellucci, S.; Sindona, A.; Pierantoni, L.

2015-11-01

Excitation of surface plasmon waves in extrinsic graphene is studied using a full-wave electromagnetic field solver as analysis engine. Particular emphasis is placed on the role played by spatial dispersion due to the finite size of the two-dimensional material at the micro-scale. A simple instructive set up is considered where the near field of a wire antenna is held at sub-micrometric distance from a disk-shaped graphene patch. The key-input of the simulation is the graphene conductivity tensor at terahertz frequencies, being modeled by the Boltzmann transport equation for the valence and conduction electrons at the Dirac points (where a linear wave-vector dependence of the band energies is assumed). The conductivity equation is worked out in different levels of approximations, based on the relaxation time ansatz with an additional constraint for particle number conservation. Both drift and diffusion currents are shown to significantly contribute to the spatially dispersive anisotropic features of micro-scale graphene. More generally, spatial dispersion effects are predicted to influence not only plasmon propagation free of external sources, but also typical scanning probe microscopy configurations. The paper sets the focus on plasmon excitation phenomena induced by near field probes, being a central issue for the design of optical devices and photonic circuits.

Direct fluorescence polarization assay for the detection of glycopeptide antibiotics.

PubMed

Yu, Linliang; Zhong, Meng; Wei, Yinan

2010-08-15

Glycopeptide antibiotics are widely used in the treatment of infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria. They inhibit the biosynthesis of the bacterial cell wall through binding to the D-alanyl-D-alanine (D-Ala-D-Ala) terminal peptide of the peptidoglycan precursor. Taking advantage of this highly specific interaction, we developed a direct fluorescence polarization based method for the detection of glycopeptide antibiotics. Briefly, we labeled the acetylated tripeptide Ac-L-Lys-D-Ala-D-Ala-OH with a fluorophore to create a peptide probe. Using three glycopeptide antibiotics, vancomycin, teicoplanin, and telavancin, as model compounds, we demonstrated that the fluorescence polarization of the peptide probe increased upon binding to antibiotics in a concentration dependent manner. The dissociation constants (K(d)) between the peptide probes and the antibiotics were consistent with those reported between free d-Ala-d-Ala and the antibiotics in the literature. The assay is highly reproducible and selective toward glycopeptide antibiotics. Its detection limit and work concentration range are 0.5 microM and 0.5-4 microM for vancomycin, 0.25 microM and 0.25-2 microM for teicoplanin, and 1 microM and 1-8 microM for telavancin. Furthermore, we compared our assay in parallel with a commercial fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) kit in detecting teicoplanin spiked in human blood samples. The accuracy and precision of the two methods are comparable. We expect our assay to be useful in both research and clinical laboratories.

A three-dimensional electrostatic particle-in-cell methodology on unstructured Delaunay-Voronoi grids

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

Gatsonis, Nikolaos A.; Spirkin, Anton

2009-06-01

The mathematical formulation and computational implementation of a three-dimensional particle-in-cell methodology on unstructured Delaunay-Voronoi tetrahedral grids is presented. The method allows simulation of plasmas in complex domains and incorporates the duality of the Delaunay-Voronoi in all aspects of the particle-in-cell cycle. Charge assignment and field interpolation weighting schemes of zero- and first-order are formulated based on the theory of long-range constraints. Electric potential and fields are derived from a finite-volume formulation of Gauss' law using the Voronoi-Delaunay dual. Boundary conditions and the algorithms for injection, particle loading, particle motion, and particle tracking are implemented for unstructured Delaunay grids. Error andmore » sensitivity analysis examines the effects of particles/cell, grid scaling, and timestep on the numerical heating, the slowing-down time, and the deflection times. The problem of current collection by cylindrical Langmuir probes in collisionless plasmas is used for validation. Numerical results compare favorably with previous numerical and analytical solutions for a wide range of probe radius to Debye length ratios, probe potentials, and electron to ion temperature ratios. The versatility of the methodology is demonstrated with the simulation of a complex plasma microsensor, a directional micro-retarding potential analyzer that includes a low transparency micro-grid.« less

Magnetic Nano- and Micro- Particles in Living Cells: Kinetics and Fluctuations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pease, C.; Chiang, N.; Pierce, C.; Muthusamy, N.; Sooryakumar, R.

2015-03-01

Functional nano and micro materials have recently been used not only as diagnostic tools for extracellular studies but also as intracellular drug delivery vehicles and as internal probes of the cell. To realize proper cellular applications, it is important not only to achieve efficient delivery of these materials to targeted cells, but also to control their movement and activity within the confines of the cell. In this presentation, superparamagnetic nano and micro particles are utilized as probes, with their responses to weak external magnetic fields enabling them to be maneuvered within a cell. In order to generate the required local magnetic fields needed for manipulation, the fields emanating from microscopic domain walls stabilized on patterned surface profiles are used in conjunction with weak external magnetic fields to create mobile traps that can localize and transport the internalized particle. Preliminary findings on creating the mobile traps suitable for applications to probe the interior of cells, and the responses, both Brownian fluctuations and directed motion, of particles ranging in size from 200 nm to 1 micron within HS-5 cells will be presented. Future applications to probe cellular behavior within the framework of emerging biomaterials will be discussed.

Sensitive electrochemical sensing platform for microRNAs detection based on shortened multi-walled carbon nanotubes with high-loaded thionin.

PubMed

Deng, Keqin; Liu, Xinyan; Li, Chunxiang; Huang, Haowen

2018-05-31

The loading capacity of thionin (Thi) on shortened multi-walled carbon nanotubes (S-MWCNTs) and acidified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (A-MWCNTs) was compared. Two DNA probe fragments were designed for hybridization with microRNA-21 (miR-21), the microRNAs (miRNAs) model analyte. DNA probe 1 (P1) was assembled on Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) modified electrode. MiR-21 was captured by the pre-immobilized P1. A signal nanoprobe was synthesized by loading large amount of Thi on S-MWCNTs with covalently bonded probe 2 (P2). Owing to the large effective surface area of MWCNTs, fast electron shuttle of MWCNTs, high-loaded Thi on S-MWCNTs, and the increased conductivity from AuNPs, after signal probe hybridized with miR-21, it gave rise to a magnified current response on electrode. The increased electrochemical current enabled us to quantitatively detect miR-21. Expensive bioreagents and labeled target/detection DNA or miRNAs were avoided in this strategy. The operation complexity and assay cost were also reduced. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Protein adsorption/desorption and antibody binding stoichiometry on silicon interferometric biosensors examined with TOF-SIMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gajos, Katarzyna; Budkowski, Andrzej; Petrou, Panagiota; Pagkali, Varvara; Awsiuk, Kamil; Rysz, Jakub; Bernasik, Andrzej; Misiakos, Konstantinos; Raptis, Ioannis; Kakabakos, Sotirios

2018-06-01

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry has been employed to examine, with biomolecular discrimination, sensing arm areas (20 μm × 600 μm) of integrated onto silicon chips Mach-Zehnder interferometers aiming to optimize their biofunctionalization with regard to indirect immunochemical (competitive) detection of ochratoxin A. Sensing areas are examined after: modification with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane, spotting of OTA-ovalbumin conjugate (probe) from solutions with different concentration, blocking with bovine serum albumin, reaction with OTA-specific mouse monoclonal antibody followed by goat anti-mouse IgG secondary antibody. Component mass loadings of all proteins involved in immunodetection are determined from TOF-SIMS micro-analysis combined with ellipsometry of planar surfaces. These data show that partial desorption of surface-bound probe and blocking protein takes place upon primary immunoreaction to a degree that depends on probe concentration in spotting solution. Taking into account this desorption, apparent binding stoichiometry of both antibodies in immune complexes formed onto chip surface is determined more accurately than the respective evaluation based on real-time sensor response. In addition, mass loadings for probe and secondary antibody is observed to saturate for optimum probe concentrations. Also, principal component analysis of TOF-SIMS data could resolve both immunoreactions and biofunctionalization and discriminate surfaces prepared with optimum probe concentrations from those prepared using suboptimum ones.

Analysis of ultradian heat production and aortic core temperature rhythms in the rat.

PubMed

Gómez-Sierra, J M; Canela, E I; Esteve, M; Rafecas, I; Closa, D; Remesar, X; Alemany, M

1993-01-01

The rhythms of aortic core temperature and overall heat production in Wistar rats was analyzed by using long series of recordings of temperature obtained from implanted thermocouple probes and heat release values from a chamber calorimeter. There was a very high degree of repetitiveness in the presentation of actual heat rhythms, with high cross-correlation values ascertained wit paired periodograms. No differences were observed between heat production between male and female adult rats. The cross-correlation for temperature gave similar figures. The cross-correlation study between heat production and aortic core temperature in the same animals was significant and showed a displacement of about 30 minutes between heat release and aortic core temperature. The analysis of heat production showed a strong predominance of rhythms with periods of 24 hours (frequencies < 11.6 microHz) or more; other rhythms detected (of roughly the same relative importance) had periods of 8 or 2.2 hours (35 or 126 microHz, respectively). The analysis of aortic core temperature showed a smaller quantitative contribution of the 8 or 2.2 hours (35 or 126 microHz) rhythms, with other harmonic rhythms interspersed (5.1 and 4.0 hours, i.e. 54 and 69 microHz). The proportion of 'noise' or cycles lower than 30 minutes (< 550 microHz) was higher in internal temperature than in the actual release of heat. The results are in agreement with the existence of a basic period of about 130 minutes (126 microHz) of warming/cooling of the blood, with a number of other harmonic rhythms superimposed upon the basic circadian rhythm.

Microscopy and microanalysis 1996

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

Bailey, G.W.; Corbett, J.M.; Dimlich, R.V.W.

1996-12-31

The Proceedings of this Annual Meeting contain paper of members from the three societies. These proceedings emphasizes the common research interests and attempts to eliminate some unwanted overlap. Topics covered are: microscopic analysis of animals with altered gene expression and in-situ gene and antibody localizations, high-resolution elemental mapping of nucleoprofein interactions, plant biology and pathology, quantitative HREM analysis of perfect and defected materials, computational methods for TEM image analysis, high-resolution FESM in materials research, frontiers in polymer microscopy and microanalysis, oxidation and corrosion, micro XRD and XRF, molecular microspectroscopy and spectral imaging, advances in confocal and multidimensional light microscopy, analyticalmore » electron microscopy in biology, correlative microscopy in biological sciences, grain-boundary microengineering, surfaces and interfaces, telepresence microscopy in education and research, MSA educational outreach, quantitative electron probe microanalysis, frontiers of analytical electron microscopy, critical issues in ceramic microstructures, dynamic organization of the cell, pathology, microbiology, high-resolution biological and cryo SEM, and scanning-probe microscopy.« less

Analysis of mutations in oral poliovirus vaccine by hybridization with generic oligonucleotide microchips.

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

Proudnikov, D.; Kirillov, E.; Chumakov, K.

2000-01-01

This paper describes use of a new technology of hybridization with a micro-array of immobilized oligonucleotides for detection and quantification of neurovirulent mutants in Oral Poliovirus Vaccine (OPV). We used a micro-array consisting of three-dimensional gel-elements containing all possible hexamers (total of 4096 probes). Hybridization of fluorescently labelled viral cDNA samples with such microchips resulted in a pattern of spots that was registered and quantified by a computer-linked CCD camera, so that the sequence of the original cDNA could be deduced. The method could reliably identify single point mutations, since each of them affected fluorescence intensity of 12 micro-array elements.more » Micro-array hybridization of DNA mixtures with varying contents of point mutants demonstrated that the method can detect as little as 10% of revertants in a population of vaccine virus. This new technology should be useful for quality control of live viral vaccines, as well as for other applications requiring identification and quantification of point mutations.« less

Laboratory-based micro-X-ray fluorescence setup using a von Hamos crystal spectrometer and a focused beam X-ray tube

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

Kayser, Y., E-mail: yves.kayser@psi.ch; Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232 Villigen-PSI; Błachucki, W.

2014-04-15

The high-resolution von Hamos bent crystal spectrometer of the University of Fribourg was upgraded with a focused X-ray beam source with the aim of performing micro-sized X-ray fluorescence (XRF) measurements in the laboratory. The focused X-ray beam source integrates a collimating optics mounted on a low-power micro-spot X-ray tube and a focusing polycapillary half-lens placed in front of the sample. The performances of the setup were probed in terms of spatial and energy resolution. In particular, the fluorescence intensity and energy resolution of the von Hamos spectrometer equipped with the novel micro-focused X-ray source and a standard high-power water-cooled X-raymore » tube were compared. The XRF analysis capability of the new setup was assessed by measuring the dopant distribution within the core of Er-doped SiO{sub 2} optical fibers.« less

Nanobits, Nembranes and Micro Four-Point Probes: Customizable Tools for insitu Manipulation and Characterisation of Nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boggild, Peter; Hjorth Petersen, Dirch; Sardan Sukas, Ozlem; Dam, Henrik Friis; Lei, Anders; Booth, Timothy; Molhave, Kristian; Eicchorn, Volkmar

2010-03-01

We present a range of highly adaptable microtools for direct interaction with nanoscale structures; (i) semiautomatic pick-and-place assembly of multiwalled carbon nanotubes onto cantilevers for high-aspect ratio scanning probe microscopy, using electrothermal microgrippers inside a SEM. Topology optimisation was used to calculate the optimal gripper shape defined by the boundary conditions, resulting in 10-100 times better performance. By instead pre-defining detachable tips using electron beam lithography, free-form scanning probe tips (Nanobits) can be mounted in virtually any position on a cantilever; (ii) scanning micro four point probes allow fast, non- destructive mapping of local electrical properties (sheet resistance and Hall mobility) and hysteresis effects of graphene sheets; (iii) sub 100 nm freestanding devices with wires, heaters, actuators, sensors, resonators and probes were defined in a 100 nm thin membrane with focused ion beam milling. By patterning generic membrane templates (Nembranes) the fabrication time of a TEM compatible NEMS device is effectively reduced to less around 20 minutes.

Single cell adhesion force measurement for cell viability identification using an AFM cantilever-based micro putter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Yajing; Nakajima, Masahiro; Kojima, Seiji; Homma, Michio; Kojima, Masaru; Fukuda, Toshio

2011-11-01

Fast and sensitive cell viability identification is a key point for single cell analysis. To address this issue, this paper reports a novel single cell viability identification method based on the measurement of single cell shear adhesion force using an atomic force microscopy (AFM) cantilever-based micro putter. Viable and nonviable yeast cells are prepared and put onto three kinds of substrate surfaces, i.e. tungsten probe, gold and ITO substrate surfaces. A micro putter is fabricated from the AFM cantilever by focused ion beam etching technique. The spring constant of the micro putter is calibrated using the nanomanipulation approach. The shear adhesion force between the single viable or nonviable cell and each substrate is measured using the micro putter based on the nanorobotic manipulation system inside an environmental scanning electron microscope. The adhesion force is calculated based on the deflection of the micro putter beam. The results show that the adhesion force of the viable cell to the substrate is much larger than that of the nonviable cell. This identification method is label free, fast, sensitive and can give quantitative results at the single cell level.

In situ monitoring of cytoplasmic precursor and mature microRNA using gold nanoparticle and graphene oxide composite probes.

PubMed

Hong, Min; Sun, Hongxiao; Xu, Lidan; Yue, Qiaoli; Shen, Guodong; Li, Meifang; Tang, Bo; Li, Chen-Zhong

2018-08-27

This study strategically fabricates a nucleic acid functionalized gold nanoparticle and graphene oxide composite probe (AuNP/GO probe) to achieve both the recognition and in situ monitoring of cytoplasmic target precursor microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) and mature microRNAs (miRNAs) in living cells. The pre-miRNA-21 detection with AuNP probes has a good linear range of 0-300 nM and a limit of detection (LOD) of 4.5 nM, whereas the GO probe has a linear relationship with mature miRNA-21 from 0.1 to 10 nM with a LOD of 1.74 nM. This assay was utilized to directly visualize the relative expression levels of pre- and mature forms of miRNA-21 and let-7a. The results suggested that the expression levels of precursor miRNAs remain constant in cancer cells and normal cells. However, the expression levels of mature miRNAs vary widely, demonstrating the "up-regulation" of miRNA-21 and "down-regulation" of let-7a in cancer cells in contrast to that in normal cells. The practicality of this strategy was verified by in situ monitoring changes in cytoplasmic pre-miRNA-21 and mature miRNA-21 in response to small-molecule inhibitors of miRNA-21. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Capillary Optics Based X-Ray Micro-Imaging Elemental Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hampai, D.; Dabagov, S. B.; Cappuccio, G.; Longoni, A.; Frizzi, T.; Cibin, G.

2010-04-01

A rapidly developed during the last few years micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (μXRF) is a promising multi-elemental technique for non-destructive analysis. Typically it is rather hard to perform laboratory μXRF analysis because of the difficulty of producing an original small-size X-ray beam as well as its focusing. Recently developed for X-ray beam focusing polycapillary optics offers laboratory X-ray micro probes. The combination of polycapillary lens and fine-focused micro X-ray tube can provide high intensity radiation flux on a sample that is necessary in order to perform the elemental analysis. In comparison to a pinhole, an optimized "X-ray source-op tics" system can result in radiation density gain of more than 3 orders by the value. The most advanced way to get that result is to use the confocal configuration based on two X-ray lenses, one for the fluorescence excitation and the other for the detection of secondary emission from a sample studied. In case of X-ray capillary microfocusing a μXRF instrument designed in the confocal scheme allows us to obtain a 3D elemental mapping. In this work we will show preliminary results obtained with our prototype, a portable X-ray microscope for X-ray both imaging and fluorescence analysis; it enables μXRF elemental mapping simultaneously with X-ray imaging. A prototype of compact XRF spectrometer with a spatial resolution less than 100 μm has been designed.

Understanding non-equilibrium collisional and expansion effects in the solar wind with Parker Solar Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korreck, K. E.; Klein, K. G.; Maruca, B.; Alterman, B. L.

2017-12-01

The evolution of the solar wind from the corona to the Earth and throughout the heliosphere is a complex interplay between local micro kinetics and large scale expansion effects. These processes in the solar wind need to be separated in order to understand and distinguish the dominant mechanism for heating and acceleration of the solar wind. With the upcoming launch in 2018 of Parker Solar Probe and the launch of Solar Orbiter after, addressing the local and global phenomena will be enabled with in situ measurements. Parker Solar Probe will go closer to the Sun than any previous mission enabling the ability to examine the solar wind at an early expansion age. This work examines the predictions for what will be seen inside of the 0.25 AU (54 solar radii) where Parker Solar Probe will take measurements and lays the groundwork for disentangling the expansion and collisional effects. In addition, methods of thermal plasma data analysis to determine the stability of the plasma in the Parker Solar Probe measurements will be discussed.

Attachment of micro- and nano-particles on tipless cantilevers for colloidal probe microscopy.

PubMed

D'Sa, Dexter J; Chan, Hak-Kim; Chrzanowski, Wojciech

2014-07-15

Current colloidal probe preparation techniques face several challenges in the production of functional probes using particles ⩽5 μm. Challenges include: glue encapsulated particles, glue altered particle properties, improper particle or agglomerate attachment, and lengthy procedures. We present a method to rapidly and reproducibly produce functional micro and nano-colloidal probes. Using a six-step procedure, cantilevers mounted on a custom designed 45° holder were used to approach and obtain a minimal amount of epoxy resin (viscosity of ∼14,000 cP) followed by a single micron/nano particle on the apex of a tipless cantilever. The epoxy and particles were prepared on individual glass slides and subsequently affixed to a 10× or 40× optical microscope lens using another custom designed holder. Scanning electron microscopy and comparative glue-colloidal probe measurements were used to confirm colloidal probe functionality. The method presented allowed rapid and reproducible production of functional colloidal probes (80% success). Single nano-particles were prominently affixed to the apex of the cantilever, unaffected by the epoxy. Nano-colloidal probes were used to conduct topographical, instantaneous force, and adhesive force mapping measurements in dry and liquid media conveying their versatility and functionality in studying nano-colloidal systems. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electron-beam-induced topographical, chemical, and structural patterning of amorphous titanium oxide films.

PubMed

Kern, P; Müller, Y; Patscheider, J; Michler, J

2006-11-30

Electrolytically deposited amorphous TiO2 films on steel are remarkably sensitive to electron beam (e-beam) irradiation at moderate energies at 20 keV, resulting in controlled local oxide reduction and crystallization, opening the possibility for local topographical, chemical, and structural modifications within a biocompatible, amorphous, and semiconducting matrix. The sensitivity is shown to vary significantly with the annealing temperature of as-deposited films. Well-defined irradiation conditions in terms of probe current IP (5 microA) and beam size were achieved with an electron probe microanalyzer. As shown by atomic force and optical microscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, wavelength-dispersive X-ray (WDX), and Auger analyses, e-beam exposure below 1 Acm-2 immediately leads to electron-stimulated oxygen desorption, resulting in a well-defined volume loss primarily limited to the irradiated zone under the electron probe and in a blue color shift in this zone because of the presence of Ti2O3. Irradiation at 5 Acm(-2) (IP = 5 microA) results in local crystallization into anatase phase within 1 s of exposure and in reduction to TiO after an extended exposure of 60 s. Further reduction to the metallic state could be observed after 60 s of exposure at approximately 160 Acm(-2). The local reduction could be qualitatively sensed with WDX analysis and Auger line scans. An estimation of the film temperature in the beam center indicates that crystallization occurs at less than 150 degrees C, well below the atmospheric crystallization temperature of the present films. The high e-beam sensitivity in combination with the well-defined volume loss from oxygen desorption allows for precise electron lithographic topographical patterning of the present oxides. Irradiation effects leading to the observed reduction and crystallization phenomena under moderate electron energies are discussed.

High-throughput microcoil NMR of compound libraries using zero-dispersion segmented flow analysis.

PubMed

Kautz, Roger A; Goetzinger, Wolfgang K; Karger, Barry L

2005-01-01

An automated system for loading samples into a microcoil NMR probe has been developed using segmented flow analysis. This approach enhanced 2-fold the throughput of the published direct injection and flow injection methods, improved sample utilization 3-fold, and was applicable to high-field NMR facilities with long transfer lines between the sample handler and NMR magnet. Sample volumes of 2 microL (10-30 mM, approximately 10 microg) were drawn from a 96-well microtiter plate by a sample handler, then pumped to a 0.5-microL microcoil NMR probe as a queue of closely spaced "plugs" separated by an immiscible fluorocarbon fluid. Individual sample plugs were detected by their NMR signal and automatically positioned for stopped-flow data acquisition. The sample in the NMR coil could be changed within 35 s by advancing the queue. The fluorocarbon liquid wetted the wall of the Teflon transfer line, preventing the DMSO samples from contacting the capillary wall and thus reducing sample losses to below 5% after passage through the 3-m transfer line. With a wash plug of solvent between samples, sample-to-sample carryover was <1%. Significantly, the samples did not disperse into the carrier liquid during loading or during acquisitions of several days for trace analysis. For automated high-throughput analysis using a 16-second acquisition time, spectra were recorded at a rate of 1.5 min/sample and total deuterated solvent consumption was <0.5 mL (1 US dollar) per 96-well plate.

Talbot-Lau x-ray interferometry for high energy density plasma diagnostic.

PubMed

Stutman, D; Finkenthal, M

2011-11-01

High resolution density diagnostics are difficult in high energy density laboratory plasmas (HEDLP) experiments due to the scarcity of probes that can penetrate above solid density plasmas. Hard x-rays are one possible probe for such dense plasmas. We study the possibility of applying an x-ray method recently developed for medical imaging, differential phase-contrast with Talbot-Lau interferometers, for the diagnostic of electron density and small-scale hydrodynamic instabilities in HEDLP experiments. The Talbot method uses micro-periodic gratings to measure the refraction and ultra-small angle scatter of x-rays through an object and is attractive for HEDLP diagnostic due to its capability to work with incoherent and polychromatic x-ray sources such as the laser driven backlighters used for HEDLP radiography. Our paper studies the potential of the Talbot method for HEDLP diagnostic, its adaptation to the HEDLP environment, and its extension of high x-ray energy using micro-periodic mirrors. The analysis is illustrated with experimental results obtained using a laboratory Talbot interferometer. © 2011 American Institute of Physics

High affinity γPNA sandwich hybridization assay for rapid detection of short nucleic acid targets with single mismatch discrimination.

PubMed

Goldman, Johnathan M; Zhang, Li Ang; Manna, Arunava; Armitage, Bruce A; Ly, Danith H; Schneider, James W

2013-07-08

Hybridization analysis of short DNA and RNA targets presents many challenges for detection. The commonly employed sandwich hybridization approach cannot be implemented for these short targets due to insufficient probe-target binding strengths for unmodified DNA probes. Here, we present a method capable of rapid and stable sandwich hybridization detection for 22 nucleotide DNA and RNA targets. Stable hybridization is achieved using an n-alkylated, polyethylene glycol γ-carbon modified peptide nucleic acid (γPNA) amphiphile. The γPNA's exceptionally high affinity enables stable hybridization of a second DNA-based probe to the remaining bases of the short target. Upon hybridization of both probes, an electrophoretic mobility shift is measured via interaction of the n-alkane modification on the γPNA with capillary electrophoresis running buffer containing nonionic surfactant micelles. We find that sandwich hybridization of both probes is stable under multiple binding configurations and demonstrate single base mismatch discrimination. The binding strength of both probes is also stabilized via coaxial stacking on adjacent hybridization to targets. We conclude with a discussion on the implementation of the proposed sandwich hybridization assay as a high-throughput microRNA detection method.

Enzyme-free detection of sequence-specific microRNAs based on nanoparticle-assisted signal amplification strategy.

PubMed

Li, Ru-Dong; Wang, Qian; Yin, Bin-Cheng; Ye, Bang-Ce

2016-03-15

Developing direct and convenient methods for microRNAs (miRNAs) analysis is of great significance in understanding biological functions of miRNAs, and early diagnosis of cancers. We have developed a rapid, enzyme-free method for miRNA detection based on nanoparticle-assisted signal amplification coupling fluorescent metal nanoclusters as signal output. The proposed method involves two processes: target miRNA-mediated nanoparticle capture, which consists of magnetic microparticle (MMP) probe and CuO nanoparticle (NP) probe, and nanoparticle-mediated amplification for signal generation, which consists of fluorescent DNA-Cu/Ag nanocluster (NC) and 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA). In the presence of target miRNA, MMP probe and NP probe sandwich-capture the target miRNA via their respective complementary sequence. The resultant sandwich complex (MMP probe-miRNA-CuO NP probe) is separated using a magnetic field and further dissolved by acidolysis to turn CuO NP into a great amount of copper (II) ions (Cu(2+)). Cu(2+) could disrupt the interactions between thiol moiety of MPA and the fluorescent Cu/Ag NCs by preferentially reacting with MPA to form a disulfide compound as intermediate. By this way, the fluorescence emission of the DNA-Cu/Ag NCs in the presence of MPA increases upon the increasing concentration of Cu(2+), which is directly proportional to the amount of target miRNA. The proposed method allows quantitative detection of a liver-specific miR-221-5p in the range of 5 pM to 1000 pM with a detection limit of ~0.73 pM, and shows a good ability to discriminate single-base difference. Moreover, the detection assay can be applied to detect miRNA in cancerous cell lysates in excellent agreement with that from a commercial miRNA detection kit. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The analysis of novel microRNA mimic sequences in cancer cells reveals lack of specificity in stem-loop RT-qPCR-based microRNA detection.

PubMed

Winata, Patrick; Williams, Marissa; McGowan, Eileen; Nassif, Najah; van Zandwijk, Nico; Reid, Glen

2017-11-17

MicroRNAs are frequently downregulated in cancer, and restoring expression has tumour suppressive activity in tumour cells. Our recent phase I clinical trial investigated microRNA-based therapy in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. Treatment with TargomiRs, microRNA mimics with novel sequence packaged in EGFR antibody-targeted bacterial minicells, revealed clear signs of clinical activity. In order to detect delivery of microRNA mimics to tumour cells in future clinical trials, we tested hydrolysis probe-based assays specific for the sequence of the novel mimics in transfected mesothelioma cell lines using RT-qPCR. The custom assays efficiently and specifically amplified the consensus mimics. However, we found that these assays gave a signal when total RNA from untransfected and control mimic-transfected cells were used as templates. Further investigation revealed that the reverse transcription step using stem-loop primers appeared to introduce substantial non-specific amplification with either total RNA or synthetic RNA templates. This suggests that reverse transcription using stem-loop primers suffers from an intrinsic lack of specificity for the detection of highly similar microRNAs in the same family, especially when analysing total RNA. These results suggest that RT-qPCR is unlikely to be an effective means to detect delivery of microRNA mimic-based drugs to tumour cells in patients.

Signal-on electrochemiluminescence biosensor for microRNA-319a detection based on two-stage isothermal strand-displacement polymerase reaction.

PubMed

Wang, Minghui; Zhou, Yunlei; Yin, Huanshun; Jiang, Wenjing; Wang, Haiyan; Ai, Shiyun

2018-06-01

MicroRNAs play crucial role in regulating gene expression in organism, thus it is very necessary to exploit an efficient method for the sensitive and specific detection of microRNA. Herein, a signal-on electrochemiluminescence biosensor was fabricated for microRNA-319a detection based on two-stage isothermal strand-displacement polymerase reaction (ISDPR). In the presence of target microRNA, amounts of trigger DNA could be generated by the first ISDPR. Then, the trigger DNA and the primer hybridized simultaneously with the hairpin probe to open the stem of the probe, and then the ECL signal will be emitted. In the presence of phi29 DNA polymerase and dNTPs, the trigger DNA could be displaced to initiate a new cycle which was the second ISDPR. Due to the two-stage amplification, this method presented excellent detection sensitivity with a low detection limit of 0.14 fM. Moreover, the applicability of the developed method was demonstrated by detecting the change of microRNA-319a content in the leaves of rice seedlings after the rice seeds were incubated with chemical mutagen of ethyl methanesulfonate. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Autoradiographic labelling of P2 purinoceptors in the guinea-pig cochlea.

PubMed

Mockett, B G; Bo, X; Housley, G D; Thorne, P R; Burnstock, G

1995-04-01

Two different radioligands were used to identify extracellular ATP binding sites specific to P2 purinoceptors in guinea-pig cochlear tissue. Deoxyadenosine 5'-(alpha-[35S]thio)triphosphate ([35S]dATP alpha S; 10 nM) provided a high activity probe for the P2y purinoceptor subtype on the basis of selective block by 2-methylthio-ATP (2MeSATP; 100 microM). [3H]alpha, beta-methylene-ATP (10 nM), a high affinity probe for a P2x purinoceptor subtype was selectively blocked by inclusion of the related compound beta, gamma-methylene-ATP (100 microM). Both probes labelled the organ of Corti, stria vascularis and spiral prominence regions. The P2x purinoceptor probe also bound to lateral wall tissue below the spiral prominence and insertion point of the basilar membrane within the scala tympani compartment, a region which failed to show significant binding using [35S]dATP alpha S. Frozen sections of whole cochlea permitted analysis of radioligand binding to the cell body region (spiral ganglion in Rosenthal's canal) of the primary auditory afferents and the auditory nerve itself, which lies within the central region of the modiolus of the cochlea. Both these regions exhibited 2MeSATP blockable [35S]dATP alpha S binding whereas specific [3H]alpha, beta-methylene-ATP binding was absent from spiral ganglion and minimal in the auditory nerve region. These results demonstrate a mixed P2 purinoceptor distribution in cochlear tissues and suggest that complex purine-mediated neurohumoral mechanisms may influence cochlear function at a number of sites.

In Situ Hot-Spot Assembly as a General Strategy for Probing Single Biomolecules.

PubMed

Liu, Huiqiao; Li, Qiang; Li, Mingmin; Ma, Sisi; Liu, Dingbin

2017-05-02

Single-molecule detection using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has attracted increasing attention in chemical and biomedical analysis. However, it remains a major challenge to probe single biomolecules by means of SERS hot spots owing to the small volume of hot spots and their random distribution on substrates. We here report an in situ hot-spot assembly method as a general strategy for probing single biomolecules. As a proof-of-concept, this proposed strategy was successfully used for the detection of single microRNA-21 (miRNA-21, a potential cancer biomarker) at the single-cell level, showing great capability in differentiating the expression of miRNA-21 in single cancer cells from normal cells. This approach was further extended to single-protein detection. The versatility of the strategy opens an exciting avenue for single-molecule detection of biomarkers of interest and thus holds great promise in a variety of biological and biomedical applications.

Measuring Micro-Friction Torque in MEMS Gas Bearings

PubMed Central

Fang, Xudong; Liu, Huan

2016-01-01

An in situ measurement of micro-friction torque in MEMS gas bearings, which has been a challenging research topic for years, is realized by a system designed in this paper. In the system, a high accuracy micro-force sensor and an electronically-driven table are designed, fabricated and utilized. With appropriate installation of the sensor and bearings on the table, the engine rotor can be driven to rotate with the sensor using a silicon lever beam. One end of the beam is fixed to the shaft of the gas bearing, while the other end is free and in contact with the sensor probe tip. When the sensor begins to rotate with the table, the beam is pushed by the sensor probe to rotate in the same direction. For the beam, the friction torque from the gas bearing is balanced by the torque induced by pushing force from the sensor probe. Thus, the friction torque can be calculated as a product of the pushing force measured by the sensor and the lever arm, which is defined as the distance from the sensor probe tip to the centerline of the bearing. Experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of this system, with a sensitivity of 1.285 mV/μN·m in a range of 0 to 11.76 μN·m when the lever arm is 20 mm long. The measuring range can be modified by varying the length of the lever arm. Thus, this system has wide potential applications in measuring the micro-friction torque of gas bearings in rotating MEMS machines. PMID:27213377

Modified beacon probe assisted dual signal amplification for visual detection of microRNA.

PubMed

Sun, Xiuwei; Ying, Na; Ju, Chuanjing; Li, Zhongyi; Xu, Na; Qu, Guijuan; Liu, Wensen; Wan, Jiayu

2018-06-01

In a recent study, we reported a novel assay for the detection of microRNA-21 based on duplex-specific nuclease (DSN)-assisted isothermal cleavage and hybridization chain reaction (HCR) dual signal amplification. The Fam modified double-stranded DNA products were generated after the HCR, another biotin modified probe was digested by DSN and released from the magnetic beads after the addition of the target miRNA. The released sequence was then combined with HCR products to form a double-tagging dsDNA, which can be recognized by the lateral flow strips. In this study, we introduced a 2-OMethyl-RNA modified beacon probe (2-OMe-MB) to make some improvements based on the previous study. Firstly, the substitution of modified probe combined on magnetic beads avoids the fussy washing steps for the separation of un-reacted probes. Furthermore, the modification of 2-OMe on the stem of the probe avoided the unnecessary cleavage by DSN, which greatly reduce the background signal. Compared to the previous work, these improvements save us a lot of steps but possess the comparable sensitivity and selectivity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Non-invasive optoacoustic probing of the density and stiffness of single biological cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dehoux, T.; Audoin, B.

2012-12-01

Recently, the coherent generation of GHz acoustic waves using ultrashort laser pulses has demonstrated the ability to probe the sound velocity in vegetal cells and in cell-mimicking soft micro-objects with micrometer resolution, opening tremendous potentialities for single-cell biology. However, manipulating biological media in physiological conditions is often a technical challenge when using a laser-based setup. In this article, we present a new opto-acoustic bio-transducer composed of a thin metal film sputtered on a transparent heat sink that allows reducing importantly the laser-induced cellular stresses, and offers a wide variety of optical configurations. In particular, by exploiting the acoustic reflection coefficient at the sample-transducer interface and the photoacoustic interaction inside the transparent sample, the density and compressibility of the sample can be probed simultaneously. Using an ad hoc signal analysis based on Hilbert and wavelet transforms, these quantities are measured accurately for a reference fluid. Similar analysis performed in a single vegetal cell also suggests high sensitivity to the state of the transducer-cell interface, and notably to the presence of the plasma membrane that encloses the cell vacuole.

Touch Spray Mass Spectrometry for In Situ Analysis of Complex Samples

PubMed Central

Kerian, Kevin S.; Jarmusch, Alan K.; Cooks, R. Graham

2014-01-01

Touch spray, a spray-based ambient in-situ ionization method, uses a small probe, e.g. a teasing needle to pick up sample and the application of voltage and solvent to cause field-induced droplet emission. Compounds extracted from the microsample are incorporated into the sprayed micro droplets. Performance tests include disease state of tissue, microorganism identification, and therapeutic drug quantitation. Chemical derivatization is performed simultaneously with ionization. PMID:24756256

Dual inhibitory action of enadoline (CI977) on release of amino acids in the rat hippocampus.

PubMed

Millan, M H; Chapman, A G; Meldrum, B S

1995-06-06

The effect of the kappa-opioid receptor agonist enadoline (CI977, (5R)-(5 alpha,7 alpha,8 beta)-N-methyl-N-[7-(1-pyrrilidinyl)-1-oxaspiro [4,5]dec-8-yl-4-benzofuranacetamide monohydrochloride), on the release of amino acids was studied in the hippocampus of freely moving rats. K+, 100 mM, or veratrine, 100 microM, were applied for 10 min via the dialysis probe, either alone (control groups) or together with CI977 (after a 10 min pretreatment with CI977 in the perfusion medium). To test the specificity of the response to CI977, nor-binaltorphimine, a selective kappa-opioid receptor antagonist, was delivered together with CI977 in two groups of animals. To test the effect of systemic injection, CI977 was given subcutaneously 30 min prior to either stimulus. K(+)-induced release of glutamate and aspartate was significantly reduced by CI977, 2.5 mM; release of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) was reduced by 250 microM CI977 in the probe. The effect of CI977 on release of glutamate and aspartate, but not of GABA, was reversed by nor-binaltorphimine (45 microM). Systemic treatment with CI977, 1 or 10 mg/kg, did not reduce K(+)-induced release of glutamate. Veratrine-induced release of aspartate and glutamate was significantly inhibited by 25 microM and release of GABA by 250 microM CI977 in the probe, and this effect was not modified by nor-binaltorphimine (58 microM). Systemic injection of CI977 1 mg/kg significantly reduced veratrine-induced release of glutamate. These results indicate that CI977 regulates release of amino acids by two independent mechanisms.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Single electrode micro-stimulation of rat auditory cortex: an evaluation of behavioral performance.

PubMed

Rousche, Patrick J; Otto, Kevin J; Reilly, Mark P; Kipke, Daryl R

2003-05-01

A combination of electrophysiological mapping, behavioral analysis and cortical micro-stimulation was used to explore the interrelation between the auditory cortex and behavior in the adult rat. Auditory discriminations were evaluated in eight rats trained to discriminate the presence or absence of a 75 dB pure tone stimulus. A probe trial technique was used to obtain intensity generalization gradients that described response probabilities to mid-level tones between 0 and 75 dB. The same rats were then chronically implanted in the auditory cortex with a 16 or 32 channel tungsten microwire electrode array. Implanted animals were then trained to discriminate the presence of single electrode micro-stimulation of magnitude 90 microA (22.5 nC/phase). Intensity generalization gradients were created to obtain the response probabilities to mid-level current magnitudes ranging from 0 to 90 microA on 36 different electrodes in six of the eight rats. The 50% point (the current level resulting in 50% detections) varied from 16.7 to 69.2 microA, with an overall mean of 42.4 (+/-8.1) microA across all single electrodes. Cortical micro-stimulation induced sensory-evoked behavior with similar characteristics as normal auditory stimuli. The results highlight the importance of the auditory cortex in a discrimination task and suggest that micro-stimulation of the auditory cortex might be an effective means for a graded information transfer of auditory information directly to the brain as part of a cortical auditory prosthesis.

Hollow fiber-optic Raman probes for small experimental animals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katagiri, Takashi; Hattori, Yusuke; Suzuki, Toshiaki; Matsuura, Yuji; Sato, Hidetoshi

2007-02-01

Two types of hollow fiber-optic probes are developed to measure the in vivo Raman spectra of small animals. One is the minimized probe which is end-sealed with the micro-ball lens. The measured spectra reflect the information of the sample's sub-surface. This probe is used for the measurement of the esophagus and the stomach via an endoscope. The other probe is a confocal Raman probe which consists of a single fiber and a lens system. It is integrated into the handheld microscope. A simple and small multimodal probe is realized because the hollow optical fiber requires no optical filters. The performance of each probe is examined and the effectiveness of these probes for in vivo Raman spectroscopy is shown by animal tests.

A three-fingered, touch-sensitive, metrological micro-robotic assembly tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Torralba, Marta; Hastings, D. J.; Thousand, Jeffery D.; Nowakowski, Bartosz K.; Smith, Stuart T.

2015-12-01

This article describes a metrological, robotic hand to manipulate and measure micrometer size objects. The presented work demonstrates not only assembly operations, but also positioning control and metrology capability. Sample motion is achieved by a commercial positioning stage, which provides XYZ-displacements for assembly of components. A designed and manufactured gripper tool that incorporates 21 degrees-of-freedom for independent alignment of actuators, sensors, and the three fingers of this hand is presented. These fingers can be opened and closed by piezoelectric actuators through levered flexures providing an 80 μm displacement range measured with calibrated opto-interrupter based, knife-edge sensors. The operational ends of the fingers comprise of a quartz tuning fork with a 7 μm diameter 3.2 mm long carbon fiber extending from the end of one tuning fork tine. Finger-tip force-sensing is achieved by the monitoring of individual finger resonances typically at around 32 kHz. Experimental results included are focused on probe performance analysis. Pick and place operation using the three fingers is demonstrated with all fingers being continuously oscillated, a capability not possible with the previous single or two finger tweezer type designs. By monitoring electrical feedback during pick and place operations, changes in the response of the three probes demonstrate the ability to identify both grab and release operations. Component metrology has been assessed by contacting different micro-spheres of diameters 50(±7.5) μm, 135(±20) μm, and 140(±20) μm. These were measured by the micro robot to have diameters of 67, 133, and 126 μm respectively with corresponding deviations of 4.2, 4.9, and 4.3 μm. This deviation in the measured results was primarily due to the manual, joystick-based, contacting of the fingers, difficulties associated with centering the components to the axis of the hand, and lower contact sensitivity for the smallest sphere. Finally, assemblies of spheres onto the edge of a razor blade plus assembly of spherical contact probes for micro-meter scale coordinate measurement applications are presented.

Classification of the micro and nanoparticles and biological agents by neural network analysis of the parameters of optical resonance of whispering gallery mode in dielectric microspheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saetchnikov, Vladimir A.; Tcherniavskaia, Elina A.; Schweiger, Gustav; Ostendorf, Andreas

2011-07-01

A novel technique for the label-free analysis of micro and nanoparticles including biomolecules using optical micro cavity resonance of whispering-gallery-type modes is being developed. Various schemes of the method using both standard and specially produced microspheres have been investigated to make further development for microbial application. It was demonstrated that optical resonance under optimal geometry could be detected under the laser power of less 1 microwatt. The sensitivity of developed schemes has been tested by monitoring the spectral shift of the whispering gallery modes. Water solutions of ethanol, ascorbic acid, blood phantoms including albumin and HCl, glucose, biotin, biomarker like C reactive protein so as bacteria and virus phantoms (gels of silica micro and nanoparticles) have been used. Structure of resonance spectra of the solutions was a specific subject of investigation. Probabilistic neural network classifier for biological agents and micro/nano particles classification has been developed. Several parameters of resonance spectra as spectral shift, broadening, diffuseness and others have been used as input parameters to develop a network classifier for micro and nanoparticles and biological agents in solution. Classification probability of approximately 98% for probes under investigation have been achieved. Developed approach have been demonstrated to be a promising technology platform for sensitive, lab-on-chip type sensor which can be used for development of diagnostic tools for different biological molecules, e.g. proteins, oligonucleotides, oligosaccharides, lipids, small molecules, viral particles, cells as well as in different experimental contexts e.g. proteomics, genomics, drug discovery, and membrane studies.

Multiplex ligation-dependant probe amplification study of children with idiopathic mental retardation in South India

PubMed Central

John, Neetha; Rajasekhar, Moka; Girisha, Katta Mohan; Sharma, Podila Satya Venkata Narasimha; Gopinath, Puthiya Mundyat

2013-01-01

BACKGROUND: Mental retardation (MR) is a heterogeneous dysfunction of the central nervous system exhibiting complex phenotypes and has an estimated prevalence of 1-3% in the general population. However, in about 50% of the children diagnosed with any form of intellectual disability or developmental delay the cause goes undetected contributing to idiopathic intellectual disability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 122 children with developmental delay/MR were studied to identify the microscopic and submicroscopic chromosome rearrangements by using the conventional cytogenetics and multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis using SALSA MLPA kits from Microbiology Research Centre Holland [MRC] Holland. RESULTS: All the recruited children were selected for this study, after thorough clinical assessment and metaphases prepared were analyzed by using automated karyotyping system. None was found to have chromosomal abnormality; MLPA analysis was carried out in all subjects and identified in 11 (9%) patients. CONCLUSION: Karyotype analysis in combination with MLPA assays for submicroscopic micro-deletions may be recommended for children with idiopathic MR. PMID:24019617

Measurement of dissolved oxygen during red wines tank aging with chips and micro-oxygenation.

PubMed

Nevares, I; del Alamo, M

2008-07-21

Nowadays, micro-oxygenation is a very important technique used in aging wines in order to improve their characteristics. The techniques of wine tank aging imply the use of small doses of oxygen and the addition of wood pieces of oak to the wine. Considering the low dissolved oxygen (DO) levels used by micro-oxygenation technique it is necessary to choose the appropriate measurement principle to apply the precise oxygen dosage in wine at any time, in order to assure its correct assimilation. This knowledge will allow the oenologist to control and run the wine aging correctly. This work is a thorough revision of DO measurement main technologies applied to oenology. It describes the strengths and weaknesses of each of them, and draws a comparison of their workings in wine measurement. Both, the traditional systems by electrochemical probes, and the newest photoluminescence-based probes have been used. These probes adapted to red wines ageing study are then compared. This paper also details the first results of the dissolved oxygen content evolution in red wines during a traditional and alternative tank aging. Samples have been treated by three different ageing systems: oak barrels, stainless-steel tanks with small oak wood pieces (chips) and with bigger oak pieces (staves) with low micro-oxygenation levels. French and American oak barrels manufactured by the same cooperage have been used.

Development of a fluorescence in situ hybridization protocol for the identification of micro-organisms associated with wastewater particles and flocs.

PubMed

Ormeci, Banu; Linden, Karl G

2008-11-01

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) provides a unique tool to study micro-organisms associated with particles and flocs. FISH enables visual examination of micro-organisms while they are structurally intact and associated with particles. However, application of FISH to wastewater and sludge samples presents a specific set of problems. Wastewater samples generate high background fluorescence due to their organic and inorganic content making it difficult to differentiate a probe-conferred signal from naturally fluorescing particles with reasonable certainty. Furthermore, some of the FISH steps involve harsh treatment of samples, and are likely to disrupt the floc structure. This study developed a FISH protocol for studying micro-organisms that are associated with particles and flocs. The results indicate that choice of a proper fluorochrome and labeling technique is a key step in reducing the background fluorescence and non-specific binding, and increasing the intensity of the probe signal. Compared to other fluorochromes tested, CY3 worked very well and enabled the observation of particles and debris in red and probe signal from microbes in yellow. Fixation, hybridization, and washing steps disturbed the floc structure and particle-microbe association. Modifications to these steps were necessary, and were achieved by replacing centrifugation with filtration and employment of nylon filters. Microscope slides generated excellent quality images, but polycarbonate membrane filters performed better in preserving the floc structure.

Small Molecule Chemical Probes of MicroRNA Function

PubMed Central

Velagapudi, Sai Pradeep; Vummidi, Balayeshwanth R.; Disney, Matthew D.

2015-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that control protein expression. Aberrant miRNA expression has been linked to various human diseases, and thus miRNAs have been explored as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. Although it is challenging to target RNA with small molecules in general, there have been successful campaigns that have identified small molecule modulators of miRNA function by targeting various pathways. For example, small molecules that modulate transcription and target nuclease processing sites in miRNA precursors have been identified. Herein, we describe challenges in developing chemical probes that target miRNAs and highlight aspects of miRNA cellular biology elucidated by using small molecule chemical probes. We expect that this area will expand dramatically in the near future as strides are made to understand small molecule recognition of RNA from a fundamental perspective. PMID:25500006

Hot-phonon generation in THz quantum cascade lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spagnolo, V.; Vitiello, M. S.; Scamarcio, G.; Williams, B. S.; Kumar, S.; Hu, Q.; Reno, J. L.

2007-12-01

Observation of non-equilibrium optical phonons population associated with electron transport in THz quantum cascade lasers is reported. The phonon occupation number was measured by using a combination of micro-probe photoluminescence and Stokes/Anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy. Energy balance analysis allows us to estimate the phonon relaxation rate, that superlinearly increases with the electrical power in the range 1.5 W - 1.95 W, above laser threshold. This observation suggests the occurrence of stimulated emission of optical phonons.

Integration of CubeSat Systems with Europa Surface Exploration Missions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erdoǧan, Enes; Inalhan, Gokhan; Kemal Üre, Nazım

2016-07-01

Recent studies show that there is a high probability that a liquid ocean exists under thick icy surface of Jupiter's Moon Europa. The findings also show that Europa has features that are similar to Earth, such as geological activities. As a result of these studies, Europa has promising environment of being habitable and currently there are many missions in both planning and execution level that target Europa. However, these missions usually involve extremely high budgets over extended periods of time. The objective of this talk is to argue that the mission costs can be reduced significantly by integrating CubeSat systems within Europa exploration missions. In particular, we introduce an integrated CubeSat-micro probe system, which can be used for measuring the size and depth of the hypothetical liquid ocean under the icy surface of Europa. The systems consist of an entry module that houses a CubeSat combined with driller measurement probes. Driller measurement probes deploy before the system hits the surface and penetrate the surface layers of Europa. Moreover, a micro laser probe could be used to examine the layers. This process enables investigation of the properties of the icy layer and the environment beneath the surface. Through examination of different scenarios and cost analysis of the components, we show that the proposed CubeSat systems has a significant potential to reduce the cost of the overall mission. Both subsystem requirements and launch prices of CubeSats are dramatically cheaper than currently used satellites. In addition, multiple CubeSats may be used to dominate wider area in space and they are expandable in face of potential failures. In this talk we discuss both the mission design and cost reduction aspects.

Development of a micro hole measuring system based on the capacitance principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Ting-Yen; Liao, Yunn-Shiuan; Liu, Wei-Cheng

2009-10-01

A new 3D micro hole measuring system has been developed in this paper. The system is mainly composed of a probe, a rotary stage and a program which can convert data points to a 3D profile. The principle of capacitance is adopted and a device to sense the variation of capacitance when the probe touches the workpiece is designed and implemented. With the aid of rotation stage, positions around the contour are measured. The measured coordinates are calculated by an algorithm proposed in this paper. The developed system is capable of measuring the interior profile of a high aspect ratio micro hole and calculating its roundness. A grade A gauge block is used to verify the developed system. It is found that the repeatability error of the system is within ±0.78 µm. The linearity error can approach 1 µm and the maximum measuring depth is 15 mm. Finally, a micro hole of 1.0 mm in diameter and 10 mm in depth is successfully measured and the 3D profile is constructed accordingly. The roundness of each layer spacing 1 mm apart and the inclination of the axis of the micro hole are calculated as well.

Micro-Scale Genomic DNA Copy Number Aberrations as Another Means of Mutagenesis in Breast Cancer

PubMed Central

Chao, Hann-Hsiang; He, Xiaping; Parker, Joel S.; Zhao, Wei; Perou, Charles M.

2012-01-01

Introduction In breast cancer, the basal-like subtype has high levels of genomic instability relative to other breast cancer subtypes with many basal-like-specific regions of aberration. There is evidence that this genomic instability extends to smaller scale genomic aberrations, as shown by a previously described micro-deletion event in the PTEN gene in the Basal-like SUM149 breast cancer cell line. Methods We sought to identify if small regions of genomic DNA copy number changes exist by using a high density, gene-centric Comparative Genomic Hybridizations (CGH) array on cell lines and primary tumors. A custom tiling array for CGH (244,000 probes, 200 bp tiling resolution) was created to identify small regions of genomic change, which was focused on previously identified basal-like-specific, and general cancer genes. Tumor genomic DNA from 94 patients and 2 breast cancer cell lines was labeled and hybridized to these arrays. Aberrations were called using SWITCHdna and the smallest 25% of SWITCHdna-defined genomic segments were called micro-aberrations (<64 contiguous probes, ∼ 15 kb). Results Our data showed that primary tumor breast cancer genomes frequently contained many small-scale copy number gains and losses, termed micro-aberrations, most of which are undetectable using typical-density genome-wide aCGH arrays. The basal-like subtype exhibited the highest incidence of these events. These micro-aberrations sometimes altered expression of the involved gene. We confirmed the presence of the PTEN micro-amplification in SUM149 and by mRNA-seq showed that this resulted in loss of expression of all exons downstream of this event. Micro-aberrations disproportionately affected the 5′ regions of the affected genes, including the promoter region, and high frequency of micro-aberrations was associated with poor survival. Conclusion Using a high-probe-density, gene-centric aCGH microarray, we present evidence of small-scale genomic aberrations that can contribute to gene inactivation. These events may contribute to tumor formation through mechanisms not detected using conventional DNA copy number analyses. PMID:23284754

Looking into individual coffee beans during the roasting process: direct micro-probe sampling on-line photo-ionisation mass spectrometric analysis of coffee roasting gases.

PubMed

Hertz-Schünemann, Romy; Streibel, Thorsten; Ehlert, Sven; Zimmermann, Ralf

2013-09-01

A micro-probe (μ-probe) gas sampling device for on-line analysis of gases evolving in confined, small objects by single-photon ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SPI-TOFMS) was developed. The technique is applied for the first time in a feasibility study to record the formation of volatile and flavour compounds during the roasting process within (inside) or in the direct vicinity (outside) of individual coffee beans. A real-time on-line analysis of evolving volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOC and SVOC) as they are formed under the mild pyrolytic conditions of the roasting process was performed. The soft-ionisation mass spectra depict a molecular ion signature, which is well corresponding with the existing knowledge of coffee roasting and evolving compounds. Additionally, thereby it is possible to discriminate between Coffea arabica (Arabica) and Coffea canephora (Robusta). The recognized differences in the roasting gas profiles reflect the differences in the precursor composition of the coffee cultivars very well. Furthermore, a well-known set of marker compounds for Arabica and Robusta, namely the lipids kahweol and cafestol (detected in their dehydrated form at m/z 296 and m/z 298, respectively) were observed. If the variation in time of different compounds is observed, distinctly different evolution behaviours were detected. Here, phenol (m/z 94) and caffeine (m/z 194) are exemplary chosen, whereas phenol shows very sharp emission peaks, caffeine do not have this highly transient behaviour. Finally, the changes of the chemical signature as a function of the roasting time, the influence of sampling position (inside, outside) and cultivar (Arabica, Robusta) is investigated by multivariate statistics (PCA). In summary, this pilot study demonstrates the high potential of the measurement technique to enhance the fundamental knowledge of the formation processes of volatile and semi-volatile flavour compounds inside the individual coffee bean.

CCR5 RNA Pseudoknots: Residue and Site-Specific Labeling correlate Internal Motions with microRNA Binding.

PubMed

Chen, Bin; Longhini, Andrew P; Nußbaumer, Felix; Kreutz, Christoph; Dinman, Jonathan D; Dayie, T Kwaku

2018-04-11

Conformational dynamics of RNA molecules play a critical role in governing their biological functions. Measurements of RNA dynamic behavior sheds important light on sites that interact with their binding partners or cellular stimulators. However, such measurements using solution-state NMR are difficult for large RNA molecules (>70 nt; nt=nucleotides) owing to severe spectral overlap, homonuclear 13 C scalar couplings, and line broadening. Herein, a strategic combination of solid-phase synthesis, site-specific isotopic labeled phosphoramidites, and enzymatic ligation is introduced. This approach allowed the position-specific insertion of isotopic probes into a 96 nt CCR5 RNA fragment. Accurate measurements of functional dynamics using the Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill (CPMG) relaxation dispersion (RD) experiments enabled extraction of the exchange rates and populations of this RNA. NMR chemical shift perturbation analysis of the RNA/microRNA-1224 complex indicated that A90-C1' of the pseudoknot exhibits similar changes in chemical shift observed in the excited state. This work demonstrates the general applicability of a NMR-labeling strategy to probe functional RNA structural dynamics. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Dynamic characterization of small fibers based on the flexural vibrations of a piezoelectric cantilever probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Xiaofei; Ye, Xuan; Li, Xide

2016-08-01

In this paper, we present a cantilever-probe system excited by a piezoelectric actuator, and use it to measure the dynamic mechanical properties of a micro- and nanoscale fiber. Coupling the fiber to the free end of the cantilever probe, we found the dynamic stiffness and damping coefficient of the fiber from the resonance frequency and the quality factor of the fiber-cantilever-probe system. The properties of Bacillus subtilis fibers measured using our proposed system agreed with tensile measurements, validating our method. Our measurements show that the piezoelectric actuator coupled to cantilever probe can be made equivalent to a clamped cantilever with an effective length, and calculated results show that the errors of measured natural frequency of the system can be ignored if the coupled fiber has an inclination angle of alignment of less than 10°. A sensitivity analysis indicates that the first or second resonant mode is the sensitive mode to test the sample’s dynamic stiffness, while the damping property has different sensitivities for the first four modes. Our theoretical analysis demonstrates that the double-cantilever probe is also an effective sensitive structure that can be used to perform dynamic loading and characterize dynamic response. Our method has the advantage of using amplitude-frequency curves to obtain the dynamic mechanical properties without directly measuring displacements and forces as in tensile tests, and it also avoids the effects of the complex surface structure and deformation presenting in contact resonance method. Our method is effective for measuring the dynamic mechanical properties of fiber-like one-dimensional (1D) materials.

Frequency domain phosphorescence lifetime Imaging measurements and applications by ISS FastFLIM and multi pulse excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coskun, Ulas C.; Lam, Sandra; Sun, Yuansheng; Liao, Shih-Chu Jeff; George, Steven C.; Barbieri, Beniamino

2017-02-01

Phosphorescence probes can have significantly long lifetimes, on the order of micro- to milli-seconds or longer. In addition, environmental changes can affect the lifetimes of these phosphorescence probes. Thus, Phosphorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (PLIM) is a very useful tool to localize the phosphorescence probes based on their lifetimes to study the variance in the lifetimes due to the micro environmental changes. Since the probes respond to the biologically relevant parameters like oxygen concentration, they can be used to study various biologically relevant processes like cellular metabolism, protein interaction etc. In this case, we study the effects of oxygen on Oxyphor G4 with PLIM. Since The Oxyphor G4 can be quenched by O2, it is a good example of such a probe and has a lifetime around 250us. Here we present the digital frequency domain PLIM technique and study the lifetime of the Oxyphor G4 as a function of the O2 concentration. The lifetime data are successfully presented in a phasor plot for various O2 concentrations and are consistent with the time domain data. Overall, we can analyze the oxygen consumption of varying cells using this technique.

Signal-off Electrochemiluminescence Biosensor Based on Phi29 DNA Polymerase Mediated Strand Displacement Amplification for MicroRNA Detection.

PubMed

Chen, Anyi; Gui, Guo-Feng; Zhuo, Ying; Chai, Ya-Qin; Xiang, Yun; Yuan, Ruo

2015-06-16

A target induced cycling strand displacement amplification (SDA) mediated by phi29 DNA polymerase (phi29) was first investigated and applied in a signal-off electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensor for microRNA (miRNA) detection. Herein, the target miRNA triggered the phi29-mediated SDA which could produce amounts of single-stranded DNA (assistant probe) with accurate and comprehensive nucleotide sequence. Then, the assistant probe hybridized with the capture probe and the ferrocene-labeled probe (Fc-probe) to form a ternary "Y" structure for ECL signal quenching by ferrocene. Therefore, the ECL intensity would decrease with increasing concentration of the target miRNA, and the sensitivity of biosensor would be promoted on account of the efficient signal amplification of the target induced cycling reaction. Besides, a self-enhanced Ru(II) ECL system was designed to obtain a stable and strong initial signal to further improve the sensitivity. The ECL assay for miRNA-21 detection is developed with excellent sensitivity of a concentration variation from 10 aM to 1.0 pM and limit of detection down to 3.3 aM.

Global Environmental Micro Sensors Test Operations in the Natural Environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, Mark L.; Buza, Matthew; Manobianco, John; Merceret, Francis J.

2007-01-01

ENSCO, Inc. is developing an innovative atmospheric observing system known as Global Environmental Micro Sensors (GEMS). The GEMS concept features an integrated system of miniaturized in situ, airborne probes measuring temperature, relative humidity, pressure, and vector wind velocity. In order for the probes to remain airborne for long periods of time, their design is based on a helium-filled super-pressure balloon. The GEMS probes are neutrally buoyant and carried passively by the wind at predetermined levels. Each probe contains onboard satellite communication, power generation, processing, and geolocation capabilities. ENSCO has partnered with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) for a project called GEMS Test Operations in the Natural Environment (GEMSTONE) that will culminate with limited prototype flights of the system in spring 2007. By leveraging current advances in micro and nanotechnology, the probe mass, size, cost, and complexity can be reduced substantially so that large numbers of probes could be deployed routinely to support ground, launch, and landing operations at KSC and other locations. A full-scale system will improve the data density for the local initialization of high-resolution numerical weather prediction systems by at least an order of magnitude and provide a significantly expanded in situ data base to evaluate launch commit criteria and flight rules. When applied to launch or landing sites, this capability will reduce both weather hazards and weather-related scrubs, thus enhancing both safety and cost-avoidance for vehicles processed by the Shuttle, Launch Services Program, and Constellation Directorates. The GEMSTONE project will conclude with a field experiment in which 10 to 15 probes are released over KSC in east central Florida. The probes will be neutrally buoyant at different altitudes from 500 to 3000 meters and will report their position, speed, heading, temperature, humidity, and pressure via satellite. The GEMS data will be validated against reference observations provided by current weather instrumentation located at KSC. This paper will report on the results of the GEMSTONE project and discuss the challenges encountered in developing an airborne sensor system.

Surface plasmon resonance imaging system with Mach-Zehnder phase-shift interferometry for DNA micro-array hybridization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsiu, Feng-Ming; Chen, Shean-Jen; Tsai, Chien-Hung; Tsou, Chia-Yuan; Su, Y.-D.; Lin, G.-Y.; Huang, K.-T.; Chyou, Jin-Jung; Ku, Wei-Chih; Chiu, S.-K.; Tzeng, C.-M.

2002-09-01

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) imaging system is presented as a novel technique based on modified Mach-Zehnder phase-shifting interferometry (PSI) for biomolecular interaction analysis (BIA), which measures the spatial phase variation of a resonantly reflected light in biomolecular interaction. In this technique, the micro-array SPR biosensors with over a thousand probe NDA spots can be detected simultaneously. Owing to the feasible and swift measurements, the micro-array SPR biosensors can be extensively applied to the nonspecific adsorption of protein, the membrane/protein interactions, and DNA hybridization. The detection sensitivity of the SPR PSI imaging system is improved to about 1 pg/mm2 for each spot over the conventional SPR imaging systems. The SPR PSI imaging system and its SPR sensors have been successfully used to observe slightly index change in consequence of argon gas flow through the nitrogen in real time, with high sensitivity, and at high-throughout screening rates.

Local coexistence of VO 2 phases revealed by deep data analysis

DOE PAGES

Strelcov, Evgheni; Ievlev, Anton; Tselev, Alexander; ...

2016-07-07

We report a synergistic approach of micro-Raman spectroscopic mapping and deep data analysis to study the distribution of crystallographic phases and ferroelastic domains in a defected Al-doped VO 2 microcrystal. Bayesian linear unmixing revealed an uneven distribution of the T phase, which is stabilized by the surface defects and uneven local doping that went undetectable by other classical analysis techniques such as PCA and SIMPLISMA. This work demonstrates the impact of information recovery via statistical analysis and full mapping in spectroscopic studies of vanadium dioxide systems, which is commonly substituted by averaging or single point-probing approaches, both of which suffermore » from information misinterpretation due to low resolving power.« less

Nanomechanical testing system

DOEpatents

Vodnick, David James; Dwivedi, Arpit; Keranen, Lucas Paul; Okerlund, Michael David; Schmitz, Roger William; Warren, Oden Lee; Young, Christopher David

2014-07-08

An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

Nanomechanical testing system

DOEpatents

Vodnick, David James; Dwivedi, Arpit; Keranen, Lucas Paul; Okerlund, Michael David; Schmitz, Roger William; Warren, Oden Lee; Young, Christopher David

2015-01-27

An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

Nanomechanical testing system

DOEpatents

Vodnick, David James; Dwivedi, Arpit; Keranen, Lucas Paul; Okerlund, Michael David; Schmitz, Roger William; Warren, Oden Lee; Young, Christopher David

2015-02-24

An automated testing system includes systems and methods to facilitate inline production testing of samples at a micro (multiple microns) or less scale with a mechanical testing instrument. In an example, the system includes a probe changing assembly for coupling and decoupling a probe of the instrument. The probe changing assembly includes a probe change unit configured to grasp one of a plurality of probes in a probe magazine and couple one of the probes with an instrument probe receptacle. An actuator is coupled with the probe change unit, and the actuator is configured to move and align the probe change unit with the probe magazine and the instrument probe receptacle. In another example, the automated testing system includes a multiple degree of freedom stage for aligning a sample testing location with the instrument. The stage includes a sample stage and a stage actuator assembly including translational and rotational actuators.

Micro- and nano-technologies to probe the mechano-biology of the brain.

PubMed

Tay, Andy; Schweizer, Felix E; Di Carlo, Dino

2016-05-24

Biomechanical forces have been demonstrated to influence a plethora of neuronal functions across scales including gene expression, mechano-sensitive ion channels, neurite outgrowth and folding of the cortices in the brain. However, the detailed roles biomechanical forces may play in brain development and disorders has seen limited study, partly due to a lack of effective methods to probe the mechano-biology of the brain. Current techniques to apply biomechanical forces on neurons often suffer from low throughput and poor spatiotemporal resolution. On the other hand, newly developed micro- and nano-technologies can overcome these aforementioned limitations and offer advantages such as lower cost and possibility of non-invasive control of neuronal circuits. This review compares the range of conventional, micro- and nano-technological techniques that have been developed and how they have been or can be used to understand the effect of biomechanical forces on neuronal development and homeostasis.

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

Pal, Sambit Bikas; Haldar, Arijit; Roy, Basudev

A photonic force microscope comprises of an optically trapped micro-probe and a position detection system to track the motion of the probe. Signal collection for motion detection is often carried out using the backscattered light off the probe-however, this mode has problems of low S/N due to the small backscattering cross sections of the micro-probes typically used. The position sensors often used in these cases are quadrant photodetectors. To ensure maximum sensitivity of such detectors, it would help if the detector size matched with the detection beam radius after the condenser lens (which for backscattered detection would be the trappingmore » objective itself). To suit this condition, we have used a miniature displacement sensor whose dimensions makes it ideal to work with 1:1 images of micrometer-sized trapped probes in the backscattering detection mode. The detector is based on the quadrant photo-integrated chip in the optical pick-up head of a compact disc player. Using this detector, we measured absolute displacements of an optically trapped 1.1 {mu}m probe with a resolution of {approx}10 nm for a bandwidth of 10 Hz at 95% significance without any sample or laser stabilization. We characterized our optical trap for different sized probes by measuring the power spectrum for each probe to 1% accuracy, and found that for 1.1 {mu}m diameter probes, the noise in our position measurement matched the thermal resolution limit for averaging times up to 10 ms. We also achieved a linear response range of around 385 nm with cross talk between axes {approx_equal}4% for 1.1 {mu}m diameter probes. The detector has extremely high bandwidth (few MHz) and low optical power threshold-other factors that can lead to its widespread use in photonic force microscopy.« less

Small molecule chemical probes of microRNA function.

PubMed

Velagapudi, Sai Pradeep; Vummidi, Balayeshwanth R; Disney, Matthew D

2015-02-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that control protein expression. Aberrant miRNA expression has been linked to various human diseases, and thus miRNAs have been explored as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. Although it is challenging to target RNA with small molecules in general, there have been successful campaigns that have identified small molecule modulators of miRNA function by targeting various pathways. For example, small molecules that modulate transcription and target nuclease processing sites in miRNA precursors have been identified. Herein, we describe challenges in developing chemical probes that target miRNAs and highlight aspects of miRNA cellular biology elucidated by using small molecule chemical probes. We expect that this area will expand dramatically in the near future as progress is made in understanding small molecule recognition of RNA. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Characteristics for electrochemical machining with nanoscale voltage pulses.

PubMed

Lee, E S; Back, S Y; Lee, J T

2009-06-01

Electrochemical machining has traditionally been used in highly specialized fields, such as those of the aerospace and defense industries. It is now increasingly being applied in other industries, where parts with difficult-to-cut material, complex geometry and tribology, and devices of nanoscale and microscale are required. Electric characteristic plays a principal function role in and chemical characteristic plays an assistant function role in electrochemical machining. Therefore, essential parameters in electrochemical machining can be described current density, machining time, inter-electrode gap size, electrolyte, electrode shape etc. Electrochemical machining provides an economical and effective method for machining high strength, high tension and heat-resistant materials into complex shapes such as turbine blades of titanium and aluminum alloys. The application of nanoscale voltage pulses between a tool electrode and a workpiece in an electrochemical environment allows the three-dimensional machining of conducting materials with sub-micrometer precision. In this study, micro probe are developed by electrochemical etching and micro holes are manufactured using these micro probe as tool electrodes. Micro holes and microgroove can be accurately achieved by using nanoscale voltages pulses.

Real-time monitoring of lactate extrusion and glucose consumption of cultured cells using a lab-on-valve system.

PubMed

Schulz, Craig M; Scampavia, Louis; Ruzicka, Jaromir

2002-12-01

Microsequential injection (microST) provides microfluidic operations that are ideally suited for cellular function studies and as a means of validating targets for drug discovery. MicroSI carried out within the lab-on-valve (LOV) manifold, is an ideal platform for spectroscopic studies on living cells that are grown on microcarrier beads and kept thermostated while their metabolism is probed in real-time. In this paper a microbioreactor is integrated into the LOV manifold allowing measurement of cellular lactate extrusion and glucose consumption rates of a cell culture that is automatically renewed prior to each measurement. Glucose consumption and lactate extrusion are monitored using NAD-linked enzymatic assays. The microSI-LOV setup has demonstrated a linear analysis range of 0.05-1.00 mM for lactate and 0.1-5.6 mM for glucose. These assays were conducted in a serial fashion requiring 3 microL of cellular perfusate and 10 s for glucose determination and 30 s for the lactate assay. Overall waste generated per lactate/glucose assay is < 200 microL. This work was performed using two different transfected hepatocyte cell lines, which adhere to Cytopore microcarrier beads. This novel approach to metabolic screening allows for the rapid evaluation of the effects of dosing cells with chemical agents.

Bio-analytical applications of mid-infrared spectroscopy using silver halide fiber-optic probes1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heise, H. M.; Küpper, L.; Butvina, L. N.

2002-10-01

Infrared-spectroscopy has proved to be a powerful method for the study of various biomedical samples, in particular for in-vitro analysis in the clinical laboratory and for non-invasive diagnostics. In general, the analysis of biofluids such as whole blood, urine, microdialysates and bioreactor broth media takes advantage of the fact that a multitude of analytes can be quantified simultaneously and rapidly without the need for reagents. Progress in the quality of infrared silver halide fibers enabled us to construct several flexible fiber-optic probes of different geometries, which are particularly suitable for the measurement of small biosamples. Recent trends show that dry film measurements by mid-infrared spectroscopy could revolutionize analytical tools in the clinical chemistry laboratory, and an example is given. Infrared diagnostic tools show a promising potential for patients, and minimal-invasive blood glucose assays or skin tissue pathology in particular cannot be left out using mid-infrared fiber-based probes. Other applications include the measurement of skin samples including penetration studies of vitamins and constituents of cosmetic cream formulations. A further field is the micro-domain analysis of biopsy samples from bog mummified corpses, and recent results on the chemistry of dermis and hair samples are reported. Another field of application, for which results are reported, is food analysis and bio-reactor monitoring.

Smart detection of microRNAs through fluorescence enhancement on a photonic crystal.

PubMed

Pasquardini, L; Potrich, C; Vaghi, V; Lunelli, L; Frascella, F; Descrovi, E; Pirri, C F; Pederzolli, C

2016-04-01

The detection of low abundant biomarkers, such as circulating microRNAs, demands innovative detection methods with increased resolution, sensitivity and specificity. Here, a biofunctional surface was implemented for the selective capture of microRNAs, which were detected through fluorescence enhancement directly on a photonic crystal. To set up the optimal biofunctional surface, epoxy-coated commercially available microscope slides were spotted with specific anti-microRNA probes. The optimal concentration of probe as well as of passivating agent were selected and employed for titrating the microRNA hybridization. Cross-hybridization of different microRNAs was also tested, resulting negligible. Once optimized, the protocol was adapted to the photonic crystal surface, where fluorescent synthetic miR-16 was hybridized and imaged with a dedicated equipment. The photonic crystal consists of a dielectric multilayer patterned with a grating structure. In this way, it is possible to take advantage from both a resonant excitation of fluorophores and an angularly redirection of the emitted radiation. As a result, a significant fluorescence enhancement due to the resonant structure is collected from the patterned photonic crystal with respect to the outer non-structured surface. The dedicated read-out system is compact and based on a wide-field imaging detection, with little or no optical alignment issues, which makes this approach particularly interesting for further development such as for example in microarray-type bioassays. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Identification of triclosan-degrading bacteria using stable isotope probing, fluorescence in situ hybridization and microautoradiography.

PubMed

Lolas, Ihab Bishara; Chen, Xijuan; Bester, Kai; Nielsen, Jeppe Lund

2012-11-01

Triclosan is considered a ubiquitous pollutant and can be detected in a wide range of environmental samples. Triclosan removal by wastewater treatment plants has been largely attributed to biodegradation processes; however, very little is known about the micro-organisms involved. In this study, DNA-based stable isotope probing (DNA-SIP) combined with microautoradiography-fluorescence in situ hybridization (MAR-FISH) was applied to identify active triclosan degraders in an enrichment culture inoculated with activated sludge. Clone library sequences of 16S rRNA genes derived from the heavy DNA fractions of enrichment culture incubated with (13)C-labelled triclosan showed a predominant enrichment of a single bacterial clade most closely related to the betaproteobacterial genus Methylobacillus. To verify that members of the genus Methylobacillus were actively utilizing triclosan, a specific probe targeting the Methylobacillus group was designed and applied to the enrichment culture incubated with (14)C-labelled triclosan for MAR-FISH. The MAR-FISH results confirmed a positive uptake of carbon from (14)C-labelled triclosan by the Methylobacillus. The high representation of Methylobacillus in the (13)C-labelled DNA clone library and its observed utilization of (14)C-labelled triclosan by MAR-FISH reveal that these micro-organisms are the primary consumers of triclosan in the enrichment culture. The results from this study show that the combination of SIP and MAR-FISH can shed light on the networks of uncultured micro-organisms involved in degradation of organic micro-pollutants.

Design of planar microcoil-based NMR probe ensuring high SNR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Zishan; Poenar, D. P.; Aditya, Sheel

2017-09-01

A microNMR probe for ex vivo applications may consist of at least one microcoil, which can be used as the oscillating magnetic field (MF) generator as well as receiver coil, and a sample holder, with a volume in the range of nanoliters to micro-liters, placed near the microcoil. The Signal-to-Noise ratio (SNR) of such a probe is, however, dependent not only on its design but also on the measurement setup, and the measured sample. This paper introduces a performance factor P independent of both the proton spin density in the sample and the external DC magnetic field, and which can thus assess the performance of the probe alone. First, two of the components of the P factor (inhomogeneity factor K and filling factor η ) are defined and an approach to calculate their values for different probe variants from electromagnetic simulations is devised. A criterion based on dominant component of the magnetic field is then formulated to help designers optimize the sample volume which also affects the performance of the probe, in order to obtain the best SNR for a given planar microcoil. Finally, the P factor values are compared between different planar microcoils with different number of turns and conductor aspect ratios, and planar microcoils are also compared with conventional solenoids. These comparisons highlight which microcoil geometry-sample volume combination will ensure a high SNR under any external setup.

A microRNA detection system based on padlock probes and rolling circle amplification

PubMed Central

Jonstrup, Søren Peter; Koch, Jørn; Kjems, Jørgen

2006-01-01

The differential expression and the regulatory roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) are being studied intensively these years. Their minute size of only 19–24 nucleotides and strong sequence similarity among related species call for enhanced methods for reliable detection and quantification. Moreover, miRNA expression is generally restricted to a limited number of specific cells within an organism and therefore requires highly sensitive detection methods. Here we present a simple and reliable miRNA detection protocol based on padlock probes and rolling circle amplification. It can be performed without specialized equipment and is capable of measuring the content of specific miRNAs in a few nanograms of total RNA. PMID:16888321

A microRNA detection system based on padlock probes and rolling circle amplification.

PubMed

Jonstrup, Søren Peter; Koch, Jørn; Kjems, Jørgen

2006-09-01

The differential expression and the regulatory roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) are being studied intensively these years. Their minute size of only 19-24 nucleotides and strong sequence similarity among related species call for enhanced methods for reliable detection and quantification. Moreover, miRNA expression is generally restricted to a limited number of specific cells within an organism and therefore requires highly sensitive detection methods. Here we present a simple and reliable miRNA detection protocol based on padlock probes and rolling circle amplification. It can be performed without specialized equipment and is capable of measuring the content of specific miRNAs in a few nanograms of total RNA.

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

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

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

2014-12-01

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

Theoretical and experimental study of the dynamic response of absorber-based, micro-scale, oscillatory probes for contact sensing applications

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

Kafashi, Sajad, E-mail: skafashi@uncc.edu; Strayhorn, Ralph; Smith, Stuart T.

2016-06-15

This paper presents two models for predicting the frequency response of micro-scale oscillatory probes. These probes are manufactured by attaching a thin fiber to the free end of one tine of a quartz tuning fork oscillator. In these studies, the attached fibers were either 75 μm diameter tungsten or 7 μm diameter carbon with lengths ranging from around 1 to 15 mm. The oscillators used in these studies were commercial 32.7 kHz quartz tuning forks. The first theoretical model considers lateral vibration of two beams serially connected and provides a characteristic equation from which the roots (eigenvalues) are extracted tomore » determine the natural frequencies of the probe. A second, lumped model approximation is used to derive an approximate frequency response function for prediction of tine displacements as a function of a modal force excitation corresponding to the first mode of the tine in the absence of a fiber. These models are used to evaluate the effect of changes in both length and diameter of the attached fibers. Theoretical values of the natural frequencies of different modes show an asymptotic relationship with the length and a linear relationship with the diameter of the attached fiber. Similar results are observed from experiment, one with a tungsten probe having an initial fiber length of 14.11 mm incrementally etched down to 0.83 mm, and another tungsten probe of length 8.16 mm incrementally etched in diameter, in both cases using chronocoulometry to determine incremental volumetric material removal. The lumped model is used to provide a frequency response again reveals poles and zeros that are consistent with experimental measurements. Finite element analysis shows mode shapes similar to experimental microscope observations of the resonating carbon probes. This model provides a means of interpreting measured responses in terms of the relative motion of the tine and attached fibers. Of particular relevance is that, when a “zero” is observed in the response of the tine, one mode of the fiber is matched to the tine frequency and is acting as an absorber. This represents an optimal condition for contact sensing and for transferring energy to the fiber for fluid mixing, touch sensing, and surface modification applications.« less

Theoretical and experimental study of the dynamic response of absorber-based, micro-scale, oscillatory probes for contact sensing applications.

PubMed

Kafashi, Sajad; Strayhorn, Ralph; Eldredge, Jeff D; Kelly, Scott D; Woody, Shane C; Smith, Stuart T

2016-06-01

This paper presents two models for predicting the frequency response of micro-scale oscillatory probes. These probes are manufactured by attaching a thin fiber to the free end of one tine of a quartz tuning fork oscillator. In these studies, the attached fibers were either 75 μm diameter tungsten or 7 μm diameter carbon with lengths ranging from around 1 to 15 mm. The oscillators used in these studies were commercial 32.7 kHz quartz tuning forks. The first theoretical model considers lateral vibration of two beams serially connected and provides a characteristic equation from which the roots (eigenvalues) are extracted to determine the natural frequencies of the probe. A second, lumped model approximation is used to derive an approximate frequency response function for prediction of tine displacements as a function of a modal force excitation corresponding to the first mode of the tine in the absence of a fiber. These models are used to evaluate the effect of changes in both length and diameter of the attached fibers. Theoretical values of the natural frequencies of different modes show an asymptotic relationship with the length and a linear relationship with the diameter of the attached fiber. Similar results are observed from experiment, one with a tungsten probe having an initial fiber length of 14.11 mm incrementally etched down to 0.83 mm, and another tungsten probe of length 8.16 mm incrementally etched in diameter, in both cases using chronocoulometry to determine incremental volumetric material removal. The lumped model is used to provide a frequency response again reveals poles and zeros that are consistent with experimental measurements. Finite element analysis shows mode shapes similar to experimental microscope observations of the resonating carbon probes. This model provides a means of interpreting measured responses in terms of the relative motion of the tine and attached fibers. Of particular relevance is that, when a "zero" is observed in the response of the tine, one mode of the fiber is matched to the tine frequency and is acting as an absorber. This represents an optimal condition for contact sensing and for transferring energy to the fiber for fluid mixing, touch sensing, and surface modification applications.

Measurement of Microscale Bio-Thermal Responses by Means of a Micro-Thermocouple Probe

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-10-25

3) A silane coupler (VM-652, HD MicroSystems) was applied as a primer for good adhesion of the polyimide coating (Pyralin® PI2556, HD...MicroSystems), which was used as an insulating layer. We also used SiO2 instead of polyimide . (4) A gold (Au) thin film was deposited by means of the ion...sputtering technique. (5) A coating of polyimide /SiO2 was applied. (6) Finally, a coating of MPC (2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) copolymers

Identification of rat lung-specific microRNAs by micoRNA microarray: valuable discoveries for the facilitation of lung research.

PubMed

Wang, Yang; Weng, Tingting; Gou, Deming; Chen, Zhongming; Chintagari, Narendranath Reddy; Liu, Lin

2007-01-24

An important mechanism for gene regulation utilizes small non-coding RNAs called microRNAs (miRNAs). These small RNAs play important roles in tissue development, cell differentiation and proliferation, lipid and fat metabolism, stem cells, exocytosis, diseases and cancers. To date, relatively little is known about functions of miRNAs in the lung except lung cancer. In this study, we utilized a rat miRNA microarray containing 216 miRNA probes, printed in-house, to detect the expression of miRNAs in the rat lung compared to the rat heart, brain, liver, kidney and spleen. Statistical analysis using Significant Analysis of Microarray (SAM) and Tukey Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) revealed 2 miRNAs (miR-195 and miR-200c) expressed specifically in the lung and 9 miRNAs co-expressed in the lung and another organ. 12 selected miRNAs were verified by Northern blot analysis. The identified lung-specific miRNAs from this work will facilitate functional studies of miRNAs during normal physiological and pathophysiological processes of the lung.

Waveguide-loaded silica fibers for coupling to high-index micro-resonators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Latawiec, P.; Burek, M. J.; Venkataraman, V.; Lončar, M.

2016-01-01

Tapered silica fibers are often used to rapidly probe the optical properties of micro-resonators. However, their low refractive index precludes phase-matching when coupling to high-index micro-resonators, reducing efficiency. Here, we demonstrate efficient optical coupling from tapered fibers to high-index micro-resonators by loading the fibers with an ancillary adiabatic waveguide-coupler fabricated via angled-etching. We demonstrate greatly enhanced coupling to a silicon multimode micro-resonator when compared to coupling via the bare fiber only. Signatures of resonator optical bistability are observed at high powers. This scheme can be applied to resonators of any size and material, increasing the functional scope of fiber coupling.

Digital quantitative analysis of microRNA in single cell based on ligation-depended polymerase colony (Polony).

PubMed

Wang, Hui; Wang, Honghong; Duan, Xinrui; Liu, Chenghui; Li, Zhengping

2017-09-15

The ability to dissect cell-to-cell variations of microRNA (miRNA) expression with single-cell resolution has become a powerful tool to investigate the regulatory function of miRNAs in biological processes and the pathogenesis of miRNA-related diseases. Herein, we have developed a novel scheme for digital detection of miRNA in single cell by using the ligation-depended DNA polymerase colony (polony). Firstly, two simply designed target-specific DNA probes were ligated by using individual miRNA as the template. Then the ligated DNA probe acted as polony template that was amplified by PCR process in the thin polyacrylamide hydrogel. Due to the covalent attachment of a PCR primer on polyacrylamide matrix and the retarding effect of the polyacrylamide hydrogel matrix itself, as the polony reaction proceeds, the PCR products diffused radially near individual template molecule to form a bacteria colony-like spots of DNA molecules. The spots can be counted after staining the polyacrylamide gel with SYBR Green I and imaging with a microarray scanner. Our polony-based method is sensitive enough to detect 60 copies of miRNA molecules. Meanwhile, the new strategy has the capability of distinguishing singe-base difference. Due to its high sensitivity and specificity, the proposed method has been successfully applied to analysis of the expression profiling of miRNA in single cell. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous measurement of liquid absorbance and refractive index using a compact optofluidic probe.

PubMed

Malak, Maurine; Marty, Frédéric; Bourouina, Tarik; Angelescu, Dan

2013-07-21

We present a novel optical technique for simultaneously measuring the absorbance and the refractive index of a thin film using an infrared optofluidic probe. Experiments were carried on two different liquids and the results agree with the bibliographical data. The ultimate goal is to achieve a multi-functional micro-optical device for analytical applications.

Pump-probe micro-spectroscopy by means of an ultra-fast acousto-optics delay line.

PubMed

Audier, Xavier; Balla, Naveen; Rigneault, Hervé

2017-01-15

We demonstrate femtosecond pump-probe transient absorption spectroscopy using a programmable dispersive filter as an ultra-fast delay line. Combined with fast synchronous detection, this delay line allows for recording of 6 ps decay traces at 34 kHz. With such acquisition speed, we perform single point pump-probe spectroscopy on bulk samples in 80 μs and hyperspectral pump-probe imaging over a field of view of 100 μm in less than a second. The usability of the method is illustrated in a showcase experiment to image and discriminate between two pigments in a mixture.

Laser milling of martensitic stainless steels using spiral trajectories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romoli, L.; Tantussi, F.; Fuso, F.

2017-04-01

A laser beam with sub-picosecond pulse duration was driven in spiral trajectories to perform micro-milling of martensitic stainless steel. The geometry of the machined micro-grooves channels was investigated by a specifically conceived Scanning Probe Microscopy instrument and linked to laser parameters by using an experimental approach combining the beam energy distribution profile and the absorption phenomena in the material. Preliminary analysis shows that, despite the numerous parameters involved in the process, layer removal obtained by spiral trajectories, varying the radial overlap, allows for a controllable depth of cut combined to a flattening effect of surface roughness. Combining the developed machining strategy to a feed motion of the work stage, could represent a method to obtain three-dimensional structures with a resolution of few microns, with an areal roughness Sa below 100 nm.

Lateral flow nucleic acid biosensor for sensitive detection of microRNAs based on the dual amplification strategy of duplex-specific nuclease and hybridization chain reaction.

PubMed

Ying, Na; Ju, Chuanjing; Sun, Xiuwei; Li, Letian; Chang, Hongbiao; Song, Guangping; Li, Zhongyi; Wan, Jiayu; Dai, Enyong

2017-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute novel biomarkers for various diseases. Accurate and quantitative analysis of miRNA expression is critical for biomedical research and clinical theranostics. In this study, a method was developed for sensitive and specific detection of miRNAs via dual signal amplification based on duplex specific nuclease (DSN) and hybridization chain reaction (HCR). A reporter probe (RP), comprising recognition sequence (3' end modified with biotin) for a target miRNA of miR-21 and capture sequence (5' end modified with Fam) for HCR product, was designed and synthesized. HCR was initiated by partial sequence of initiator probe (IP), the other part of which can hybridize with capture sequence of RP, and was assembled by hairpin probes modified with biotin (H1-bio and H2-bio). A miR-21 triggered cyclical DSN cleavage of RP, which was immobilized to a streptavidin (SA) coated magnetic bead (MB). The released Fam labeled capture sequence then hybridized with the HCR product to generate a detectable dsDNA. This polymer was then dropped on lateral flow strip and positive result was observed. The proposed method allowed quantitative sequence-specific detection of miR-21 (with a detection limit of 2.1 fM, S/N = 3) in a dynamic range from 100 fM to 100 pM, with an excellent ability to discriminate differences in miRNAs. The method showed acceptable testing recoveries for the determination of miRNAs in serum.

Determination of electrostatic force and its characteristics based on phase difference by amplitude modulation atomic force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Kesheng; Cheng, Jia; Yao, Shiji; Lu, Yijia; Ji, Linhong; Xu, Dengfeng

2016-12-01

Electrostatic force measurement at the micro/nano scale is of great significance in science and engineering. In this paper, a reasonable way of applying voltage is put forward by taking an electrostatic chuck in a real integrated circuit manufacturing process as a sample, applying voltage in the probe and the sample electrode, respectively, and comparing the measurement effect of the probe oscillation phase difference by amplitude modulation atomic force microscopy. Based on the phase difference obtained from the experiment, the quantitative dependence of the absolute magnitude of the electrostatic force on the tip-sample distance and applied voltage is established by means of theoretical analysis and numerical simulation. The results show that the varying characteristics of the electrostatic force with the distance and voltage at the micro/nano scale are similar to those at the macroscopic scale. Electrostatic force gradually decays with increasing distance. Electrostatic force is basically proportional to the square of applied voltage. Meanwhile, the applicable conditions of the above laws are discussed. In addition, a comparison of the results in this paper with the results of the energy dissipation method shows the two are consistent in general. The error decreases with increasing distance, and the effect of voltage on the error is small.

Chemical State Mapping of Degraded B4C Control Rod Investigated with Soft X-ray Emission Spectrometer in Electron Probe Micro-analysis.

PubMed

Kasada, R; Ha, Y; Higuchi, T; Sakamoto, K

2016-05-10

B4C is widely used as control rods in light water reactors, such as the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, because it shows excellent neutron absorption and has a high melting point. However, B4C can melt at lower temperatures owing to eutectic interactions with stainless steel and can even evaporate by reacting with high-temperature steam under severe accident conditions. To reduce the risk of recriticality, a precise understanding of the location and chemical state of B in the melt core is necessary. Here we show that a novel soft X-ray emission spectrometer in electron probe microanalysis can help to obtain a chemical state map of B in a modeled control rod after a high-temperature steam oxidation test.

TargetLink, a new method for identifying the endogenous target set of a specific microRNA in intact living cells.

PubMed

Xu, Yan; Chen, Yan; Li, Daliang; Liu, Qing; Xuan, Zhenyu; Li, Wen-Hong

2017-02-01

MicroRNAs are small non-coding RNAs acting as posttranscriptional repressors of gene expression. Identifying mRNA targets of a given miRNA remains an outstanding challenge in the field. We have developed a new experimental approach, TargetLink, that applied locked nucleic acid (LNA) as the affinity probe to enrich target genes of a specific microRNA in intact cells. TargetLink also consists a rigorous and systematic data analysis pipeline to identify target genes by comparing LNA-enriched sequences between experimental and control samples. Using miR-21 as a test microRNA, we identified 12 target genes of miR-21 in a human colorectal cancer cell by this approach. The majority of the identified targets interacted with miR-21 via imperfect seed pairing. Target validation confirmed that miR-21 repressed the expression of the identified targets. The cellular abundance of the identified miR-21 target transcripts varied over a wide range, with some targets expressed at a rather low level, confirming that both abundant and rare transcripts are susceptible to regulation by microRNAs, and that TargetLink is an efficient approach for identifying the target set of a specific microRNA in intact cells. C20orf111, one of the novel targets identified by TargetLink, was found to reside in the nuclear speckle and to be reliably repressed by miR-21 through the interaction at its coding sequence.

Invoking Direct Exciton-Plasmon Interactions by Catalytic Ag Deposition on Au Nanoparticles: Photoelectrochemical Bioanalysis with High Efficiency.

PubMed

Ma, Zheng-Yuan; Xu, Fei; Qin, Yu; Zhao, Wei-Wei; Xu, Jing-Juan; Chen, Hong-Yuan

2016-04-19

In this work, direct exciton-plasmon interactions (EPI) between CdS quantum dots (QDs) and Ag nanoparticles (NPs) were invoked ingeniously by catalytic Ag deposition on Au NPs for the stimulation of high efficient damping effect toward the excitonic responses in CdS QDs, on the basis of which a novel photoelectrochemical (PEC) bioanalytical format was achieved for sensitive microRNA detection. Specifically, upon the configurational change from the hairpin probe DNA to the "Y"-shaped ternary conjugate consisting of the original probe DNA, assistant DNA, and the target microRNA, the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) catalytic chemistry would then trigger the transition of the interparticle interplay from the CdS QDs-Au NPs to the CdS QDs-Ag NPs systems for the microRNA detection due to the dependence of the photocurrent quenching on the target concentration. This work not only provided a unique method for EPI generation among the PEC nanosystems but also offered a versatile and general protocol for future PEC bioanalysis development.

Characterization of micro-contact resistance between a gold nanocrystalline line and a tungsten electrode probe in interconnect fatigue testing.

PubMed

Ling, Xue; Wang, Yusheng; Li, Xide

2014-10-01

An electromechanically-coupled micro-contact resistance measurement system is built to mimic the contact process during fatigue testing of nanoscale-thickness interconnects using multiple probe methods. The design combines an optical microscope, high-resolution electronic balance, and micromanipulator-controlled electric probe, and is coupled with electrical measurements to investigate microscale contact physics. Experimental measurements are performed to characterize the contact resistance response of the gold nanocrystalline pad of a 35-nm-thick interconnect under mechanical force applied by a tungsten electrode probe. Location of a stable region for the contact resistance and the critical contact force provides better understanding of micro-contact behavior relative to the effects of the contact force and the nature of the contact surface. Increasing contact temperature leads to reduced contact resistance, softens the pad material, and modifies the contact surface. The stability of both contact resistance and interconnect resistance is studied under increasing contact force. Major fluctuations emerge when the contact force is less than the critical contact force, which shows that temporal contact resistance will affect interconnect resistance measurement accuracy, even when using the four-wire method. This performance is demonstrated experimentally by heating the Au line locally with a laser beam. Finally, the contact resistances are calculated using the LET (Li-Etsion-Talke) model together with combined Holm and Sharvin theory under various contact forces. Good agreement between the results is obtained. This research provides a way to measure change in interconnect line resistance directly under a stable contact resistance regime with a two-wire method that will greatly reduce the experimental costs.

Characterization of micro-contact resistance between a gold nanocrystalline line and a tungsten electrode probe in interconnect fatigue testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ling, Xue; Wang, Yusheng; Li, Xide

2014-10-01

An electromechanically-coupled micro-contact resistance measurement system is built to mimic the contact process during fatigue testing of nanoscale-thickness interconnects using multiple probe methods. The design combines an optical microscope, high-resolution electronic balance, and micromanipulator-controlled electric probe, and is coupled with electrical measurements to investigate microscale contact physics. Experimental measurements are performed to characterize the contact resistance response of the gold nanocrystalline pad of a 35-nm-thick interconnect under mechanical force applied by a tungsten electrode probe. Location of a stable region for the contact resistance and the critical contact force provides better understanding of micro-contact behavior relative to the effects of the contact force and the nature of the contact surface. Increasing contact temperature leads to reduced contact resistance, softens the pad material, and modifies the contact surface. The stability of both contact resistance and interconnect resistance is studied under increasing contact force. Major fluctuations emerge when the contact force is less than the critical contact force, which shows that temporal contact resistance will affect interconnect resistance measurement accuracy, even when using the four-wire method. This performance is demonstrated experimentally by heating the Au line locally with a laser beam. Finally, the contact resistances are calculated using the LET (Li-Etsion-Talke) model together with combined Holm and Sharvin theory under various contact forces. Good agreement between the results is obtained. This research provides a way to measure change in interconnect line resistance directly under a stable contact resistance regime with a two-wire method that will greatly reduce the experimental costs.

Investigation of SP94 Peptide as a Specific Probe for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Imaging and Therapy

PubMed Central

Li, Yanli; Hu, Yan; Xiao, Jie; Liu, Guobing; Li, Xiao; Zhao, Yanzhao; Tan, Hui; Shi, Hongcheng; Cheng, Dengfeng

2016-01-01

SP94 (SFSIIHTPILPL), a novel peptide, has shown specific binding to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. We aimed to investigate the capability of SP94 as a targeting probe for HCC imaging and therapy following labeling with technetium-99m (99mTc) and rhenium-188 (188Re). HYNIC-SP94 was prepared by solid phase synthesis and then labeled with 99mTc. Cell competitive binding, internalization assay, in vitro and in vivo stability, biodistribution and micro-single photon emission computed tomography /computed tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging studies were performed to investigate the capability of 99mTc tricine-EDDA/HYNIC-SP94 as a specific HCC imaging probe. Initial promising targeting results inspired evaluation of its therapeutic effect when labeled by 188Re. HYNIC-SP94 was then labeled again with 188Re to perform cell apoptosis, microSPECT/CT imaging evaluation and immunohistochemistry. Huh-7 cells exhibited typical apoptotic changes after 188Re irradiation. According to 99mTc tricine-EDDA/HYNIC-SP94 microSPECT/CT imaging, tumor uptake was significantly decreased compared with that of pre-treatment with 188Re-HYNIC-SP94. The immunohistochemistry also displayed obvious necrosis and apoptosis as well as inhibition of proliferation in the 188Re-HYNIC-SP94 treatment group. The results supported that 99mTc tricine-EDDA/HYNIC-SP94 is able to target HCC cells and 188Re-HYNIC- SP94 holds potential as a therapeutic agent for HCC, making 99mTc/188Re-HYNIC-SP94 a promising targeting probe for HCC imaging and therapy. PMID:27649935

New insights on the Dronino iron meteorite by double-pulse micro-Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tempesta, Gioacchino; Senesi, Giorgio S.; Manzari, Paola; Agrosì, Giovanna

2018-06-01

Two fragments of an iron meteorite shower named Dronino were characterized by a novel technique, i.e. Double-Pulse micro-Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (DP-μLIBS) combined with optical microscope. This technique allowed to perform a fast and detailed analysis of the chemical composition of the fragments and permitted to determine their composition, the alteration state differences and the cooling rate of the meteorite. Qualitative analysis indicated the presence of Fe, Ni and Co in both fragments, whereas the elements Al, Ca, Mg, Si and, for the first time Li, were detected only in one fragment and were related to its post-falling alteration and contamination by weathering processes. Quantitative analysis data obtained using the calibration-free (CF) - LIBS method showed a good agreement with those obtained by traditional methods generally applied to meteorite analysis, i.e. Electron Dispersion Spectroscopy - Scanning Electron Microscopy (EDS-SEM), also performed in this study, and Electron Probe Microanalysis (EMPA) (literature data). The local and coupled variability of Ni and Co (increase of Ni and decrease of Co) determined for the unaltered portions exhibiting plessite texture, suggested the occurrence of solid state diffusion processes under a slow cooling rate for the Dronino meteorite.

TLD assessment of mouse dosimetry during microCT imaging

PubMed Central

Figueroa, Said Daibes; Winkelmann, Christopher T.; Miller, William H.; Volkert, Wynn A.; Hoffman, Timothy J.

2008-01-01

Advances in laboratory animal imaging have provided new resources for noninvasive biomedical research. Among these technologies is microcomputed tomography (microCT) which is widely used to obtain high resolution anatomic images of small animals. Because microCT utilizes ionizing radiation for image formation, radiation exposure during imaging is a concern. The objective of this study was to quantify the radiation dose delivered during a standard microCT scan. Radiation dose was measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), which were irradiated employing an 80 kVp x-ray source, with 0.5 mm Al filtration and a total of 54 mA s for a full 360 deg rotation of the unit. The TLD data were validated using a 3.2 cm3 CT ion chamber probe. TLD results showed a single microCT scan air kerma of 78.0±5.0 mGy when using a poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) anesthesia support module and an air kerma of 92.0±6.0 mGy without the use of the anesthesia module. The validation CT ion chamber study provided a measured radiation air kerma of 81.0±4.0 mGy and 97.0±5.0 mGy with and without the PMMA anesthesia module, respectively. Internal TLD analysis demonstrated an average mouse organ radiation absorbed dose of 76.0±5.0 mGy. The author’s results have defined x-ray exposure for a routine microCT study which must be taken into consideration when performing serial molecular imaging studies involving the microCT imaging modality. PMID:18841837

Micro-mirror arrays for Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duncan, W. M.

2015-03-01

In this research we study Raman and fluorescence spectroscopies as non-destructive and noninvasive methods for probing biological material and "living systems." Particularly for a living material any probe need be non-destructive and non-invasive, as well as provide real time measurement information and be cost effective to be generally useful. Over the past few years the components needed to measure weak and complex processes such as Raman scattering have evolved substantially with the ready availability of lasers, dichroic filters, low noise and sensitive detectors, digitizers and signal processors. A Raman spectrum consists of a wavelength or frequency spectrum that corresponds to the inelastic (Raman) photon signal that results from irradiating a "Raman active" material. Raman irradiation of a material usually and generally uses a single frequency laser. The Raman fingerprint spectrum that results from a Raman interaction can be determined from the frequencies scattered and received by an appropriate detector. Spectra are usually "digitized" and numerically matched to a reference sample or reference material spectra in performing an analysis. Fortunately today with the many "commercial off-the-shelf" components that are available, weak intensity effects such as Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy can be used for a number of analysis applications. One of the experimental limitations in Raman measurement is the spectrometer itself. The spectrometer is the section of the system that either by interference plus detection or by dispersion plus detection that "signal" amplitude versus energy/frequency signals are measured. Particularly in Raman spectroscopy, optical signals carrying desired "information" about the analyte are extraordinarily weak and require special considerations when measuring. We will discuss here the use of compact spectrometers and a micro-mirror array system (used is the digital micro-mirror device (DMD) supplied by the DLP® Products group of Texas Instruments Incorporated) for analyzing dispersed light as needed in Raman and fluorescent applications.

Nano-Localized Thermal Analysis and Mapping of Surface and Sub-Surface Thermal Properties Using Scanning Thermal Microscopy (SThM).

PubMed

Pereira, Maria J; Amaral, Joao S; Silva, Nuno J O; Amaral, Vitor S

2016-12-01

Determining and acting on thermo-physical properties at the nanoscale is essential for understanding/managing heat distribution in micro/nanostructured materials and miniaturized devices. Adequate thermal nano-characterization techniques are required to address thermal issues compromising device performance. Scanning thermal microscopy (SThM) is a probing and acting technique based on atomic force microscopy using a nano-probe designed to act as a thermometer and resistive heater, achieving high spatial resolution. Enabling direct observation and mapping of thermal properties such as thermal conductivity, SThM is becoming a powerful tool with a critical role in several fields, from material science to device thermal management. We present an overview of the different thermal probes, followed by the contribution of SThM in three currently significant research topics. First, in thermal conductivity contrast studies of graphene monolayers deposited on different substrates, SThM proves itself a reliable technique to clarify the intriguing thermal properties of graphene, which is considered an important contributor to improve the performance of downscaled devices and materials. Second, SThM's ability to perform sub-surface imaging is highlighted by thermal conductivity contrast analysis of polymeric composites. Finally, an approach to induce and study local structural transitions in ferromagnetic shape memory alloy Ni-Mn-Ga thin films using localized nano-thermal analysis is presented.

Study of Heterogeneous Structure in Diesel Fuel Spray by Using Micro-Probe L2F

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakaguchi, Daisaku; Yamamoto, Shohei; Ueki, Hironobu; Ishdia, Masahiro

A L2F (Laser 2-Focus velocimeter) was applied for the measurements of the velocity and size of droplets in diesel fuel sprays. The micro-scale probe of the L2F has an advantage in avoiding the multiple scattering from droplets in a dense region of fuel sprays. A data sampling rate of 15MHz has been achieved in the L2F system for detecting almost all of the droplets which passed through the measurement probe. Diesel fuel was injected into the atmosphere by using a common rail injector. Measurement positions were located along the spray axis at 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 mm from the nozzle exit. Measurement result showed that the velocity and size of droplets decreased and the number density of droplets increased along the spray axis. It was clearly shown that the mass flow rate in the spray was highest near the spray tip and was lower inside the spray.

Detection of miRNA using a double-strand displacement biosensor with a self-complementary fluorescent reporter.

PubMed

Larkey, Nicholas E; Almlie, C Kyle; Tran, Victoria; Egan, Marianne; Burrows, Sean M

2014-02-04

Design of rapid, selective, and sensitive DNA and ribonucleic acid (RNA) biosensors capable of minimizing false positives from nuclease degradation is crucial for translational research and clinical diagnostics. We present proof-of-principle studies of an innovative micro-ribonucleic acid (miRNA) reporter-probe biosensor that displaces a self-complementary reporter, while target miRNA binds to the probe. The freed reporter folds into a hairpin structure to induce a decrease in the fluorescent signal. The self-complementarity of the reporter facilitates the reduction of false positives from nuclease degradation. Nanomolar limits of detection and quantitation were capable with this proof-of-principle design. Detection of miRNA occurs within 10 min and does not require any additional hybridization, labeling, or rinsing steps. The potential for medical applications of the reporter-probe biosensor is demonstrated by selective detection of a cancer regulating microRNA, Lethal-7 (Let-7a). Mechanisms for transporting the biosensor across the cell membrane will be the focus of future work.

[Detection of transgenic crop with gene chip].

PubMed

Huang, Ying-Chun; Sun, Chun-Yun; Feng, Hong; Hu, Xiao-Dong; Yin, Hai-Bin

2003-05-01

Some selected available sequences of reporter genes,resistant genes, promoters and terminators are amplified by PCR for the probes of transgenic crop detection gene chip. These probes are arrayed at definite density and printed on the surface of amino-slides by bioRobot MicroGrid II. Results showed that gene chip worked quickly and correctly, when transgenic rice, pawpaw,maize and soybean were applied.

An affordable and accurate conductivity probe for density measurements in stratified flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carminati, Marco; Luzzatto-Fegiz, Paolo

2015-11-01

In stratified flow experiments, conductivity (combined with temperature) is often used to measure density. The probes typically used can provide very fine spatial scales, but can be fragile, expensive to replace, and sensitive to environmental noise. A complementary instrument, comprising a low-cost conductivity probe, would prove valuable in a wide range of applications where resolving extremely small spatial scales is not needed. We propose using micro-USB cables as the actual conductivity sensors. By removing the metallic shield from a micro-B connector, 5 gold-plated microelectrodes are exposed and available for 4-wire measurements. These have a cell constant ~550m-1, an intrinsic thermal noise of at most 30pA/Hz1/2, as well as sub-millisecond time response, making them highly suitable for many stratified flow measurements. In addition, we present the design of a custom electronic board (Arduino-based and Matlab-controlled) for simultaneous acquisition from 4 sensors, with resolution (in conductivity, and resulting density) exceeding the performance of typical existing probes. We illustrate the use of our conductivity-measuring system through stratified flow experiments, and describe plans to release simple instructions to construct our complete system for around 200.

Scanning micro-Hall probe mapping of magnetic flux distributions and current densities in YBa2Cu3O7 thin films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xing, W.; Heinrich, B.; Zhou, HU; Fife, A. A.; Cragg, A. R.; Grant, P. D.

1995-01-01

Mapping of the magnetic flux density B(sub z) (perpendicular to the film plane) for a YBa2Cu3O7 thin-film sample was carried out using a scanning micro-Hall probe. The sheet magnetization and sheet current densities were calculated from the B(sub z) distributions. From the known sheet magnetization, the tangential (B(sub x,y)) and normal components of the flux density B were calculated in the vicinity of the film. It was found that the sheet current density was mostly determined by 2B(sub x,y)/d, where d is the film thickness. The evolution of flux penetration as a function of applied field will be shown.

Development of micro-four-point probe in a scanning tunneling microscope for in situ electrical transport measurement.

PubMed

Ge, Jian-Feng; Liu, Zhi-Long; Gao, Chun-Lei; Qian, Dong; Liu, Canhua; Jia, Jin-Feng

2015-05-01

Electrons at surface may behave differently from those in bulk of a material. Multi-functional tools are essential in comprehensive studies on a crystal surface. Here, we developed an in situ microscopic four-point probe (4PP) transport measurement system on the basis of a scanning tunneling microscope (STM). In particular, convenient replacement between STM tips and micro-4PPs enables systematic investigations of surface morphology, electronic structure, and electrical transport property of a same sample surface. Performances of the instrument are demonstrated with high-quality STM images, tunneling spectra, and low-noise electrical I-V characteristic curves of a single-layer FeSe film grown on a conductive SrTiO3 surface.

Ionic calcium determination in skim milk with molecular probes and front-face fluorescence spectroscopy: simple linear regression.

PubMed

Gangidi, R R; Metzger, L E

2006-11-01

The purpose of this study was to determine if the ionic calcium content of skim milk could be determined using molecular probes and front-face fluorescence spectroscopy. Current methods for determining ionic calcium are not sensitive, overestimate ionic calcium, or require complex procedures. Molecular probes designed specifically for measuring ionic calcium could potentially be used to determine the ionic calcium content of skim milk. The goal of the current study was to develop foundation methods for future studies to determine ionic calcium directly in skim milk and other dairy products with molecular probes and fluorescence spectroscopy. In this study, the effect of pH on calcium-sensitive fluorescent probe (Rhod-5N and Fluo-5N) performance using various concentrations of skim milk was determined. The pH of diluted skim milk (1.9 to 8.9% skim milk), was adjusted to either 6.2 or 7.0, after which the samples were analyzed with fluorescent probes (1 microM) and front-face fluorescence spectroscopy. The ionic calcium content of each sample was also determined using a calcium ion-selective electrode. The results demonstrated that the ionic calcium content of each sample was highly correlated (R2 > 0.989) with the fluorescence intensities of the probe-calcium adduct using simple linear regression. Higher than suggested ionic calcium contents of 1,207 and 1,973 microM were determined with the probes (Fluo-5N and Rhod-5N) in diluted skim milk with pH 7.0 and 6.2, respectively. The fluorescence intensity of the probe-calcium adduct decreased with a decrease in pH for the same ionic calcium concentration. This study demonstrates that Fluo-5N and Rhod-5N can be used to determine the ionic-calcium content of diluted milk with front-face fluorescence spectroscopy. Furthermore, these probes may also have the potential to determine the ionic calcium content of undiluted skim milk.

Gamma-ray blind beta particle probe

DOEpatents

Weisenberger, Andrew G.

2001-01-01

An intra-operative beta particle probe is provided by placing a suitable photomultiplier tube (PMT), micro channel plate (MCP) or other electron multiplier device within a vacuum housing equipped with: 1) an appropriate beta particle permeable window; and 2) electron detection circuitry. Beta particles emitted in the immediate vicinity of the probe window will be received by the electron multiplier device and amplified to produce a detectable signal. Such a device is useful as a gamma insensitive, intra-operative, beta particle probe in surgeries where the patient has been injected with a beta emitting radiopharmaceutical. The method of use of such a device is also described, as is a position sensitive such device.

Synthesis and evaluation of sensitizer drug photorelease chemistry: Micro-optic method applied to singlet oxygen generation and drug delivery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Goutam

This thesis summarizes a new micro-optic method for singlet oxygen generation and sensitizer drug delivery, which include i) synthesis and evaluation of a first generation device for drug delivery from native and fluorinated silica probe tips, ii) synthesis of PEG conjugated sensitizers to study phototoxicity in ovarian cancer cells, and iii) synthesis and evaluation of tris-PEGylated chlorin conjugated fluorinated silica for its future integration into the device to use as a 2nd generation device. A first generation micro-optic device was developed that works by sparging O2 gas and light generating cytotoxic singlet oxygen that cleaves the covalently attached drug (sensitizer) from the probe tip at the distal end of the fiber. The aim is to develop a 1st and 2nd generation device for site specific delivery of photosensitizer and singlet oxygen to overcome the challenges involved in systemic administration of the sensitizer. Synthesis and evaluation of drug (pheophorbide-a) delivery applying micro-optic method from native and fluorinated silica probe tip was achieved. The amount of sensitizer photocleavage depends on the loading level of sensitizer onto the probe tips. We also found that photorelease efficiency depends on the nature of the solvents where sensitizer is photocleaved. For example, no photorelease was observed in an aqueous solvent where sensitizer remained adsorbed to the native silica probe-tip. But, 90% photocleavage was obtained in octanol. A significant amount of photosensitizer (formate ester of pyropheophorbide- a) diffused into the liposome when photocleavage study was carried out in liposome. Substantial increase of photorelease was observed in organic solvent when pyropheophorbide-a (PPa) sensitizer was attached to the partially fluorinated porous Vycor glass. We also explored sensitizer photorelease from the fluorinated silica surface at various temperatures and we found that autocatalytic photorelease happened at room temperature and above. No photorelease was observed at low temperature. Chlorin e6 and its one, two and three short chain methoxy triethylene glycol (PEG) conjugated derivatives were synthesized. A comparative study of photocytotoxicity and cellular uptake between each showed that 17 3,152,131- chlorin e6 methoxy triethylene glycol triester has the highest photocytotoxic activity and uptake by ovarian OVCAR-5 cancer cells. Therefore, we decided to load three short chain PEG conjugated chlorin e6 onto the silica surface through spacer alkene for delivery via a fiber-optic probe tip. In order to load chlorin e6-triPEG ester conjugate, in chapter 4, we explored different synthetic strategies. We have been successful in synthesizing spacer alkene succinate linker conjugated chlorin e6 -tri PEG ester, which was attached to the fiber-optic probe tip. Reactions were carried out in mild conditions to avoid detachment of the PEG ester from the carboxylic acid sites of chlorin. Photocleavage of the triPEG modified fluorinated probe tip system was studied in n-butanol.

SU-E-J-197: A Novel Optical Interstitial Fiber Spectroscopic System for Real-Time Tissue Micro-Vascular Hemodynamics Monitoring.

PubMed

Zhao, D; Campos, D; Yan, Y; Kimple, R; Jacques, S; van der Kogel, A; Kissick, M

2012-06-01

To demonstrate a novel interstitial optical fiber spectroscopic system, based on diffuse optical spectroscopies with spectral fitting, for the simultaneous monitoring of tumor blood volume and oxygen tension. The technique provides real-time, minimally-invasive and quantification of tissue micro-vascular hemodynamics. An optical fiber prototype probe characterizesthe optical transport in tissue between two large Numerical Aperture (NA) fibers of 200μm core diameter (BFH37-200, ThorLabs) spaced 3-mm apart. Two 21-Ga medical needles are used to protect fiber ends and to facilitate tissue penetration with minimum local blunt trauma in nude mice with xenografts. A 20W white light source (HL-2000-HP, Ocean Optics) is coupled to one fiber with SMA adapter. The other fiber is used to collect light, which is coupled into the spectrometer (QE65000 with Spectrasuite Operating software and OmniDriver, Ocean Optics). The wavelength response of the probe depends on the wavelength dependence of the light source, and of the light signal collection that includes considerable scatter, modeled with Monte-Carlo techniques (S. Jacques 2010 J. of Innov. Opt. Health Sci. 2 123-9). Measured spectra of tissue are normalized by a measured spectrum of a white standard, yielding the transmission spectrum. A head-and-neck xenograft on the flank of a live mouse is used for development. The optical fiber probe delivers and collects light at an arbitrary depth in the tumor. By spectral fitting of the measured transmission spectrum, an analysis of blood volume and oxygen tension is obtained from the fitting parameters in real time. A newly developed optical fiber spectroscopic system with an optical fiber probe takes spectroscopic techniques to a much deeper level in a tumor, which has potential applications for real-time monitoring hypoxic cell population dynamics for an eventual adaptive therapy metric of particular use in hypofractionated radiotherapy. © 2012 American Association of Physicists in Medicine.

Sensitive detection of microRNAs based on the conversion of colorimetric assay into electrochemical analysis with duplex-specific nuclease-assisted signal amplification

PubMed Central

Xia, Ning; Liu, Ke; Zhou, Yingying; Li, Yuanyuan; Yi, Xinyao

2017-01-01

miRNAs have emerged as new biomarkers for the detection of a wide variety of cancers. By employing duplex-specific nuclease for signal amplification and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as the carriers of detection probes, a novel electrochemical assay of miRNAs was performed. The method is based on conversion of the well-known colorimetric assay into electrochemical analysis with enhanced sensitivity. DNA capture probes immobilized on the electrode surface and ferrocene (Fc)-labeled DNA detection probes (denoted “Fc-DNA-Fc”) presented in the solution induced the assembly of positively charged AuNPs on the electrode surface through the electrostatic interaction. As a result, a large number of Fc-DNA-Fc molecules were attached on the electrode surface, thus amplifying the electrochemical signal. When duplex-specific nuclease was added to recycle the process of miRNA-initiated digestion of the immobilized DNA probes, Fc-DNA-Fc-induced assembly of AuNPs on the electrode surface could not occur. This resulted in a significant fall in the oxidation current of Fc. The current was found to be inversely proportional to the concentration of miRNAs in the range of 0–25 fM, and a detection limit of 0.1 fM was achieved. Moreover, this work presents a new method for converting colorimetric assays into sensitive electrochemical analyses, and thus would be valuable for design of novel chemical/biosensors. PMID:28761341

A new evaluation method of electron optical performance of high beam current probe forming systems.

PubMed

Fujita, Shin; Shimoyama, Hiroshi

2005-10-01

A new numerical simulation method is presented for the electron optical property analysis of probe forming systems with point cathode guns such as cold field emitters and the Schottky emitters. It has long been recognized that the gun aberrations are important parameters to be considered since the intrinsically high brightness of the point cathode gun is reduced due to its spherical aberration. The simulation method can evaluate the 'threshold beam current I(th)' above which the apparent brightness starts to decrease from the intrinsic value. It is found that the threshold depends on the 'electron gun focal length' as well as on the spherical aberration of the gun. Formulas are presented to estimate the brightness reduction as a function of the beam current. The gun brightness reduction must be included when the probe property (the relation between the beam current l(b) and the probe size on the sample, d) of the entire electron optical column is evaluated. Formulas that explicitly consider the gun aberrations into account are presented. It is shown that the probe property curve consists of three segments in the order of increasing beam current: (i) the constant probe size region, (ii) the brightness limited region where the probe size increases as d approximately I(b)(3/8), and (iii) the angular current intensity limited region in which the beam size increases rapidly as d approximately I(b)(3/2). Some strategies are suggested to increase the threshold beam current and to extend the effective beam current range of the point cathode gun into micro ampere regime.

Excitation and emission wavelength ratiometric cyanide-sensitive probes for physiological sensing.

PubMed

Badugu, Ramachandram; Lakowicz, Joseph R; Geddes, Chris D

2004-04-01

We characterize three new fluorescent probes that show both spectral shifts and intensity changes in the presence of aqueous cyanide, allowing for both excitation and fluorescence emission wavelength ratiometric and colorimetric sensing. The relatively high binding constants of the probes for cyanide enables a distinct colorimetric change to be visually observed with as little as 10 microM cyanide. The response of the new probes is based on the ability of the boronic acid group to interact with the CN(-) anion, changing from the neutral form of the boronic acid group R-B(OH)(2) to the anionic R-B(-)(OH)3 form, which is an electron-donating group. The presence of an electron-deficient quaternary heterocyclic nitrogen center and a strong electron-donating amino group in the 6 position on the quinolinium backbone provides for the spectral changes observed upon CN(-) complexation. We have determined the binding constants for the ortho-, meta-, and para-boronic acid probes to be 0.12, 0.17, and 0.14 microM(-3). In addition we have synthesized a control compound that does not contain the boronic acid moiety, allowing for structural comparisons and a rationale for the sensing mechanism to be made. Finally we show that the affinity for monosaccharides, such as glucose or fructose, is relatively low as compared to that for cyanide, enabling the potential detection of cyanide in physiologies up to lethal levels.

Simple and Sensitive Quantification of MicroRNAs via PS@Au Microspheres-Based DNA Probes and DSN-Assisted Signal Amplification Platform.

PubMed

Zhao, Qian; Piao, Jiafang; Peng, Weipan; Wang, Yang; Zhang, Bo; Gong, Xiaoqun; Chang, Jin

2018-01-31

Identifying the microRNA (miRNA) expression level can provide critical information for early diagnosis of cancers or monitoring the cancer therapeutic efficacy. This paper focused on a kind of gold-nanoparticle-coated polystyrene microbeads (PS@Au microspheres)-based DNA probe as miRNA capture and duplex-specific nuclease (DSN) signal amplification platform based on an RGB value readout for detection of miRNAs. In virtue of the outstanding selectivity and simple experimental operation, 5'-fluorochrome-labeled molecular beacons (MBs) were immobilized on PS@Au microspheres via their 3'-thiol, in the wake of the fluorescence quenching by nanoparticle surface energy transfer (NSET). Target miRNAs were captured by the PS@Au microspheres-based DNA probe through DNA/RNA hybridization. DSN enzyme subsequently selectively cleaved the DNA to recycle the target miRNA and release of fluorophores, thereby triggering the signal amplification with more free fluorophores. The RGB value measurement enabled a detection limit of 50 fM, almost 4 orders of magnitude lower than PS@Au microspheres-based DNA probe detection without DSN. Meanwhile, by different encoding of dyes, miRNA-21 and miRNA-10b were simultaneously detected in the same sample. Considering the ability for quantitation, high sensitivity, and convenient merits, the PS@Au microspheres-based DNA probe and DSN signal amplification platform supplied valuable information for early diagnosis of cancers.

A Micro-Force Sensor with Slotted-Quad-Beam Structure for Measuring the Friction in MEMS Bearings

PubMed Central

Liu, Huan; Yang, Shuming; Zhao, Yulong; Jiang, Zhuangde; Liu, Yan; Tian, Bian

2013-01-01

Presented here is a slotted-quad-beam structure sensor for the measurement of friction in micro bearings. Stress concentration slots are incorporated into a conventional quad-beam structure to improve the sensitivity of force measurements. The performance comparison between the quad-beam structure sensor and the slotted-quad-beam structure sensor are performed by theoretical modeling and finite element (FE) analysis. A hollow stainless steel probe is attached to the mesa of the sensor chip by a tailor-made organic glass fixture. Concerning the overload protection of the fragile beams, a glass wafer is bonded onto the bottom of sensor chip to limit the displacement of the mesa. The calibration of the packaged device is experimentally performed by a tri-dimensional positioning stage, a precision piezoelectric ceramic and an electronic analytical balance, which indicates its favorable sensitivity and overload protection. To verify the potential of the proposed sensor being applied in micro friction measurement, a measurement platform is established. The output of the sensor reflects the friction of bearing resulting from dry friction and solid lubrication. The results accord with the theoretical modeling and demonstrate that the sensor has the potential application in measuring the micro friction force under stable stage in MEMS machines. PMID:24084112

Protective effects of anethole dithiolethione against oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity in human Jurkat T cells.

PubMed

Khanna, S; Sen, C K; Roy, S; Christen, M O; Packer, L

1998-07-01

The protective effects of anethole dithiolethione (ADT) against H2O2- or 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE)-induced cytotoxicity in human Jurkat T cells were investigated. Jurkat T cells were pretreated with ADT (10-50 microM) for 18 hr and then challenged with H202 or HNE for up to 4 hr. Cytotoxicity was assessed by measuring: 1) leakage of lactate dehydrogenase from cells to medium; and 2) exclusion of the DNA intercalating fluorescent probe propidium iodide by viable cells. Pretreatment of cells with ADT (10 or 25 microM) for 18 hr significantly protected cells against H202- or HNE-induced cytotoxicity. Treatment of cells with ADT (10-50 microM) for 72 hr significantly increased the activities of catalase and glutathione reductase. The maximum effect of ADT treatment on the activity of these enzymes was observed when cells were treated with 25 microM of ADT for 72 hr. A significant increase in cellular GSH was observed in cells that were treated with ADT for 72 hr. Using monobromobimane as a thiol probe, we consistently observed that cells pretreated for 18 hr with ADT (25 or 50 microM) had also increased total thiol content. Exposure of Jurkat T cells to H202 or HNE resulted in a time-dependent decrease in cellular GSH. ADT (10-50 microM, 18 hr) pretreatment circumvented H202-dependent lowering of cellular GSH. In conclusion, ADT proved to be a potent cytoprotective thiol antioxidant with multifaceted mechanisms of action, suggesting that the drug has a remarkable therapeutic potential.

Characterization of micro-contact resistance between a gold nanocrystalline line and a tungsten electrode probe in interconnect fatigue testing

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

Ling, Xue; Wang, Yusheng; Li, Xide, E-mail: lixide@tsinghua.edu.cn

An electromechanically-coupled micro-contact resistance measurement system is built to mimic the contact process during fatigue testing of nanoscale-thickness interconnects using multiple probe methods. The design combines an optical microscope, high-resolution electronic balance, and micromanipulator-controlled electric probe, and is coupled with electrical measurements to investigate microscale contact physics. Experimental measurements are performed to characterize the contact resistance response of the gold nanocrystalline pad of a 35-nm-thick interconnect under mechanical force applied by a tungsten electrode probe. Location of a stable region for the contact resistance and the critical contact force provides better understanding of micro-contact behavior relative to the effects ofmore » the contact force and the nature of the contact surface. Increasing contact temperature leads to reduced contact resistance, softens the pad material, and modifies the contact surface. The stability of both contact resistance and interconnect resistance is studied under increasing contact force. Major fluctuations emerge when the contact force is less than the critical contact force, which shows that temporal contact resistance will affect interconnect resistance measurement accuracy, even when using the four-wire method. This performance is demonstrated experimentally by heating the Au line locally with a laser beam. Finally, the contact resistances are calculated using the LET (Li–Etsion–Talke) model together with combined Holm and Sharvin theory under various contact forces. Good agreement between the results is obtained. This research provides a way to measure change in interconnect line resistance directly under a stable contact resistance regime with a two-wire method that will greatly reduce the experimental costs.« less

Atomic force microscope based on vertical silicon probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walter, Benjamin; Mairiaux, Estelle; Faucher, Marc

2017-06-01

A family of silicon micro-sensors for Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) is presented that allows to operate with integrated transducers from medium to high frequencies together with moderate stiffness constants. The sensors are based on Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems technology. The vertical design specifically enables a long tip to oscillate perpendicularly to the surface to be imaged. The tip is part of a resonator including quasi-flexural composite beams, and symmetrical transducers that can be used as piezoresistive detector and/or electro-thermal actuator. Two vertical probes (Vprobes) were operated up to 4.3 MHz with stiffness constants 150 N/m to 500 N/m and the capability to oscillate from 10 pm to 90 nm. AFM images of several samples both in amplitude modulation (tapping-mode) and in frequency modulation were obtained.

Recent advances in high-performance fluorescent and bioluminescent RNA imaging probes.

PubMed

Xia, Yuqiong; Zhang, Ruili; Wang, Zhongliang; Tian, Jie; Chen, Xiaoyuan

2017-05-22

RNA plays an important role in life processes. Imaging of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and micro-RNAs (miRNAs) not only allows us to learn the formation and transcription of mRNAs and the biogenesis of miRNAs involved in various life processes, but also helps in detecting cancer. High-performance RNA imaging probes greatly expand our view of life processes and enhance the cancer detection accuracy. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art high-performance RNA imaging probes, including exogenous probes that can image RNA sequences with special modification and endogeneous probes that can directly image endogenous RNAs without special treatment. For each probe, we review its structure and imaging principle in detail. Finally, we summarize the application of mRNA and miRNA imaging probes in studying life processes as well as in detecting cancer. By correlating the structures and principles of various probes with their practical uses, we compare different RNA imaging probes and offer guidance for better utilization of the current imaging probes and the future design of higher-performance RNA imaging probes.

An "off-on" electrochemiluminescent biosensor based on DNAzyme-assisted target recycling and rolling circle amplifications for ultrasensitive detection of microRNA.

PubMed

Zhang, Pu; Wu, Xiaoyan; Yuan, Ruo; Chai, Yaqin

2015-03-17

In this study, an off-on switching of a dual amplified electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensor based on Pb(2+)-induced DNAzyme-assisted target recycling and rolling circle amplification (RCA) was constructed for microRNA (miRNA) detection. First, the primer probe with assistant probe and miRNA formed Y junction which was cleaved with the addition of Pb(2+) to release miRNA. Subsequently, the released miRNA could initiate the next recycling process, leading to the generation of numerous intermediate DNA sequences (S2). Afterward, bare glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was immersed into HAuCl4 solution to electrodeposit a Au nanoparticle layer (depAu), followed by the assembly of a hairpin probe (HP). Then, dopamine (DA)-modified DNA sequence (S1) was employed to hybridize with HP, which switching off the sensing system. This is the first work that employs DA to quench luminol ECL signal, possessing the biosensor ultralow background signal. Afterward, S2 produced by the target recycling process was loaded onto the prepared electrode to displace S1 and served as an initiator for RCA. With rational design, numerous repeated DNA sequences coupling with hemin to form hemin/G-quadruplex were generated, which could exhibit strongly catalytic toward H2O2, thus amplified the ECL signal and switched the ON state of the sensing system. The liner range for miRNA detection was from 1.0 fM to 100 pM with a low detection limit down to 0.3 fM. Moreover, with the high sensitivity and specificity induced by the dual signal amplification, the proposed miRNA biosensor holds great potential for analysis of other interesting tumor markers.

Bio-Fluid Transport Models Through Nano and Micro-Fluidic Components

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-08-01

nm of the wall in steady electroosmotic flow with good accuracy. The nPIV data were in excellent agreement with the model predictions for monovalent...first experimental probe inside the electric double layer in electroosmotic flow of an aqueous electrolyte solution. 15. NUMBER OF PAGES 225 14...SUBJECT TERMS Micro And Nanofluidics, Electroosmotic Flow, Nano Particle Image Velocimetry 16. PRICE CODE 17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF REPORT

Silicon technology-based micro-systems for atomic force microscopy/photon scanning tunnelling microscopy.

PubMed

Gall-Borrut, P; Belier, B; Falgayrettes, P; Castagne, M; Bergaud, C; Temple-Boyer, P

2001-04-01

We developed silicon nitride cantilevers integrating a probe tip and a wave guide that is prolonged on the silicon holder with one or two guides. A micro-system is bonded to a photodetector. The resulting hybrid system enables us to obtain simultaneously topographic and optical near-field images. Examples of images obtained on a longitudinal cross-section of an optical fibre are shown.

Uniform enhancement of optical micro-angiography images using Rayleigh contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization.

PubMed

Yousefi, Siavash; Qin, Jia; Zhi, Zhongwei; Wang, Ruikang K

2013-02-01

Optical microangiography is an imaging technology that is capable of providing detailed functional blood flow maps within microcirculatory tissue beds in vivo. Some practical issues however exist when displaying and quantifying the microcirculation that perfuses the scanned tissue volume. These issues include: (I) Probing light is subject to specular reflection when it shines onto sample. The unevenness of the tissue surface makes the light energy entering the tissue not uniform over the entire scanned tissue volume. (II) The biological tissue is heterogeneous in nature, meaning the scattering and absorption properties of tissue would attenuate the probe beam. These physical limitations can result in local contrast degradation and non-uniform micro-angiogram images. In this paper, we propose a post-processing method that uses Rayleigh contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization to increase the contrast and improve the overall appearance and uniformity of optical micro-angiograms without saturating the vessel intensity and changing the physical meaning of the micro-angiograms. The qualitative and quantitative performance of the proposed method is compared with those of common histogram equalization and contrast enhancement methods. We demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms other existing approaches. The proposed method is not limited to optical microangiography and can be used in other image modalities such as photo-acoustic tomography and scanning laser confocal microscopy.

[The project and simulation of a compositive miniature spectrum instrument based on the array of Fabry-Perot cavity].

PubMed

Wen, Zhi-yu; Chen, Gang; Wang, Jian-guo

2006-10-01

This paper advances a kind of micro-spectrometer based on Fabry-Perot cavity's character of filtering the waves. The basic structure of the micro-spectrometer is the array of Fabry-Perot cavity which contains many different lengths of cavity on the substrate of silicon, consequently the authors can achieve the detection at several wavelengths simultaneously. The unit of probing is a Fabry-Perot cavity made up of the substrate of silicon-metal film-silicon dioxide layer-metal film. The authors carried out the corresponding simulation. In the basic structure of aluminum film(14 nm)-silicon dioxide layer-silver film(39 nm), the resolution can reach 15 nm. When the area of a unit of probing is 0.14 mm x 0.14 mm only, it can reach the luminous flux of miniature grating spectrum instrument (the minimum volume in the order of cm), but the volume of the part of spectrum detection is only of the order of mm. The design size of the micro-spectrometer is a few millimeters. Furthermore it has no movable parts and could detect several wavelengths at the same time. It is possible to fabricate such micro-spectrometer through existing processing methods of IC technology.

TEMORA 1: A new zircon standard for Phanerozoic U-Pb geochronology

USGS Publications Warehouse

Black, L.P.; Kamo, S.L.; Allen, C.M.; Aleinikoff, J.N.; Davis, D.W.; Korsch, R.J.; Foudoulis, C.

2003-01-01

The role of the standard is critical to the derivation of reliable U-Pb zircon ages by micro-beam analysis. For maximum reliability, it is critically important that the utilised standard be homogeneous at all scales of analysis. It is equally important that the standard has been precisely and accurately dated by an independent technique. This study reports the emergence of a new zircon standard that meets those criteria, as demonstrated by Sensitive High Resolution Ion MicroProbe (SHRIMP), isotope dilution thermal ionisation mass-spectrometry (IDTIMS) and excimer laser ablation- inductively coupled plasma-mass-spectrometry (ELA-ICP-MS) documentation. The TEMORA 1 zircon standard derives from the Middledale Gabbroic Diorite, a high-level mafic stock within the Palaeozoic Lachlan Orogen of eastern Australia. Its 206Pb/238U IDTIMS age has been determined to be 416.75??0.24 Ma (95% confidence limits), based on measurement errors alone. Spike-calibration uncertainty limits the accuracy to 416.8??1.1 Ma for U-Pb intercomparisons between different laboratories that do not use a common spike. ?? 2003 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Determination of thickness of thin turbid painted over-layers using micro-scale spatially offset Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Conti, Claudia; Realini, Marco; Colombo, Chiara; Botteon, Alessandra; Bertasa, Moira; Striova, Jana; Barucci, Marco; Matousek, Pavel

2016-12-01

We present a method for estimating the thickness of thin turbid layers using defocusing micro-spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (micro-SORS). The approach, applicable to highly turbid systems, enables one to predict depths in excess of those accessible with conventional Raman microscopy. The technique can be used, for example, to establish the paint layer thickness on cultural heritage objects, such as panel canvases, mural paintings, painted statues and decorated objects. Other applications include analysis in polymer, biological and biomedical disciplines, catalytic and forensics sciences where highly turbid overlayers are often present and where invasive probing may not be possible or is undesirable. The method comprises two stages: (i) a calibration step for training the method on a well characterized sample set with a known thickness, and (ii) a prediction step where the prediction of layer thickness is carried out non-invasively on samples of unknown thickness of the same chemical and physical make up as the calibration set. An illustrative example of a practical deployment of this method is the analysis of larger areas of paintings. In this case, first, a calibration would be performed on a fragment of painting of a known thickness (e.g. derived from cross-sectional analysis) and subsequently the analysis of thickness across larger areas of painting could then be carried out non-invasively. The performance of the method is compared with that of the more established optical coherence tomography (OCT) technique on identical sample set. This article is part of the themed issue "Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology".

Development and calibration of a compact self-sensing atomic force microscope head for micro-nano characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Tong; Wang, Siming; Zhao, Jian; Chen, Jinping; Fu, Xing; Hu, Xiaotang

2011-12-01

A compact self-sensing atomic force microscope (AFM) head is developed for the micro-nano dimensional measurement. This AFM head works in tapping mode equipped with a commercial self-sensing probe. This kind of probe can benefit not only from the tuning fork's stable resonant frequency and high quality factor but also from the silicon cantilever's reasonable spring constant. The head is convenient to operate by its simplicity of structure, since it does not need any optical detector to measure the bending of the cantilever. The compact structure makes the head ease to combine with other measuring methods. According to the probe"s characteristics, a method is proposed to quickly calculate the cantilever"s resonance amplitude through measuring its electro-mechanical coupling factor. An experiment system is established based on the nano-measuring machine (NMM) as a high precision positioning stage. Using this system, the approach/retract test is carried out for calibrating the head. The tests can be traced to the meter definition by interferometers in NMM. Experimental results show that the non-linearity error of this AFM head is smaller than 1%, the sensitivity reaches 0.47nm/mV and the measurement stroke is several hundreds of nanometers.

Correlated Raman micro-spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses of flame retardants in environmental samples: a micro-analytical tool for probing chemical composition, origin and spatial distribution.

PubMed

Ghosal, Sutapa; Wagner, Jeff

2013-07-07

We present correlated application of two micro-analytical techniques: scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) and Raman micro-spectroscopy (RMS) for the non-invasive characterization and molecular identification of flame retardants (FRs) in environmental dusts and consumer products. The SEM/EDS-RMS technique offers correlated, morphological, molecular, spatial distribution and semi-quantitative elemental concentration information at the individual particle level with micrometer spatial resolution and minimal sample preparation. The presented methodology uses SEM/EDS analyses for rapid detection of particles containing FR specific elements as potential indicators of FR presence in a sample followed by correlated RMS analyses of the same particles for characterization of the FR sub-regions and surrounding matrices. The spatially resolved characterization enabled by this approach provides insights into the distributional heterogeneity as well as potential transfer and exposure mechanisms for FRs in the environment that is typically not available through traditional FR analysis. We have used this methodology to reveal a heterogeneous distribution of highly concentrated deca-BDE particles in environmental dust, sometimes in association with identifiable consumer materials. The observed coexistence of deca-BDE with consumer material in dust is strongly indicative of its release into the environment via weathering/abrasion of consumer products. Ingestion of such enriched FR particles in dust represents a potential for instantaneous exposure to high FR concentrations. Therefore, correlated SEM/RMS analysis offers a novel investigative tool for addressing an area of important environmental concern.

Multifunctional semiconductor micro-Hall devices for magnetic, electric, and photo-detection

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

Gilbertson, A. M.; Cohen, L. F.; Sadeghi, Hatef

2015-12-07

We report the real-space voltage response of InSb/AlInSb micro-Hall devices to local photo-excitation, electric, and magnetic fields at room temperature using scanning probe microscopy. We show that the ultrafast generation of localised photocarriers results in conductance perturbations analogous to those produced by local electric fields. Experimental results are in good agreement with tight-binding transport calculations in the diffusive regime. The magnetic, photo, and charge sensitivity of a 2 μm wide probe are evaluated at a 10 μA bias current in the Johnson noise limit (valid at measurement frequencies > 10 kHz) to be, respectively, 500 nT/√Hz; 20 pW/√Hz (λ = 635 nm) comparable to commercial photoconductive detectors;more » and 0.05 e/√Hz comparable to that of single electron transistors. These results demonstrate the remarkably versatile sensing attributes of simple semiconductor micro-Hall devices that can be applied to a host of imaging and sensing applications.« less

Si-rich SiNx based Kerr switch enables optical data conversion up to 12 Gbit/s

PubMed Central

Lin, Gong-Ru; Su, Sheng-Pin; Wu, Chung-Lun; Lin, Yung-Hsiang; Huang, Bo-Ji; Wang, Huai-Yung; Tsai, Cheng-Ting; Wu, Chih-I; Chi, Yu-Chieh

2015-01-01

Silicon photonic interconnection on chip is the emerging issue for next-generation integrated circuits. With the Si-rich SiNx micro-ring based optical Kerr switch, we demonstrate for the first time the wavelength and format conversion of optical on-off-keying data with a bit-rate of 12 Gbit/s. The field-resonant nonlinear Kerr effect enhances the transient refractive index change when coupling the optical data-stream into the micro-ring through the bus waveguide. This effectively red-shifts the notched dip wavelength to cause the format preserved or inversed conversion of data carried by the on-resonant or off-resonant probe, respectively. The Si quantum dots doped Si-rich SiNx strengthens its nonlinear Kerr coefficient by two-orders of magnitude higher than that of bulk Si or Si3N4. The wavelength-converted and cross-amplitude-modulated probe data-stream at up to 12-Gbit/s through the Si-rich SiNx micro-ring with penalty of −7 dB on transmission has shown very promising applicability to all-optical communication networks. PMID:25923653

Si-rich SiNx based Kerr switch enables optical data conversion up to 12 Gbit/s.

PubMed

Lin, Gong-Ru; Su, Sheng-Pin; Wu, Chung-Lun; Lin, Yung-Hsiang; Huang, Bo-Ji; Wang, Huai-Yung; Tsai, Cheng-Ting; Wu, Chih-I; Chi, Yu-Chieh

2015-04-29

Silicon photonic interconnection on chip is the emerging issue for next-generation integrated circuits. With the Si-rich SiNx micro-ring based optical Kerr switch, we demonstrate for the first time the wavelength and format conversion of optical on-off-keying data with a bit-rate of 12 Gbit/s. The field-resonant nonlinear Kerr effect enhances the transient refractive index change when coupling the optical data-stream into the micro-ring through the bus waveguide. This effectively red-shifts the notched dip wavelength to cause the format preserved or inversed conversion of data carried by the on-resonant or off-resonant probe, respectively. The Si quantum dots doped Si-rich SiNx strengthens its nonlinear Kerr coefficient by two-orders of magnitude higher than that of bulk Si or Si3N4. The wavelength-converted and cross-amplitude-modulated probe data-stream at up to 12-Gbit/s through the Si-rich SiNx micro-ring with penalty of -7 dB on transmission has shown very promising applicability to all-optical communication networks.

Evaluation of 18F-labeled targeted perfluorocarbon-filled albumin microbubbles as a probe for microUS and microPET in tumor-bearing mice.

PubMed

Liao, Ai-Ho; Wu, Shih-Yen; Wang, Hsin-Ell; Weng, Chien-Hsiu; Wu, Ming-Fang; Li, Pai-Chi

2013-02-01

In this study, albumin-shelled, targeted MBs (tMBs) were first demonstrated with the expectation of visualization of biodistribution of albumin-shelled tMBs. The actual biodistribution of albumin-shelled tMBs is of vital importance either for molecular imaging or for drug delivery. Recently, albumin microbubbles (MBs) have been studied for drug and gene delivery in vitro and in vivo through cavitation. Targeted lipid-shelled MBs have been applied for ultrasound molecular imaging and conjugated with radiolabeled antibodies for whole-body biodistribution evaluations. The novelty of the work is that, in addition to the lipid tMBs, the albumin tMBs was also applied in biodistribution detection. Multimodality albumin-shelled, (18)F-SFB-labeled VEGFR2 tMBs were synthesized, and their characteristics in mice bearing MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer were investigated with micro-positron-emission tomography (microPET) and high-frequency ultrasound (microUS). Albumin-shelled MBs can be labeled with (18)F-SFB directly and conjugated with antibodies for dual molecular imaging. The albumin-shelled tMBs show a lifetime in 30min in the blood pool and a highly specific adherence to tumor vessels in mice bearing human breast cancer. From the evaluations of whole-body biodistribution, the potential of the dual molecular imaging probe for drug or gene delivery in animal experiments with albumin shelled MBs has been investigated. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

GMAG PhD Dissertation Research Award Talk: Dynamic Magnetic Traps for Particle Self-Assembly and Lab-on-Chip Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Aaron

2013-03-01

Micro-patterned Permalloy thin films serve as an excellent means to architect the spatial profile of magnetic fields with the tunable, high gradients required to manipulate objects with weak induced magnetic moments. In this presentation, I will highlight two projects carried out during my PhD studies. These findings demonstrate the functionalities achieved through carefully designed patterns of different sizes and shapes (e.g. circular, triangular, octagonal profiles): (i) By tuning a precessing magnetic field in conjunction with such Permalloy patterns, microsphere (i.e. dipole) cluster structures ranging from closely packed to frustrated and to plum-pudding-like planar lattices are stabilized. Such self-assembly of components at the micro to nanometer range not only support a rich variety of physical phenomena, but also have applications, for example, as filters or force probes and field-tunable photonic crystals. (ii) Mobile magnetic trap arrays consisting of Permalloy disks have enabled rapid transport of magnetic beads or immunomagnetically labeled cells across surfaces. Integration of these arrays with microfluidic droplet technology allows separation of labeled cells and their subsequent encapsulation into picoliter-sized droplets. The droplets serve as isolated containers for individual cells to be probed without cross-contamination. The separation-encapsulation function could become a critical component in point-of-care single-cell analysis platforms.

Use of terbium as a probe of tRNA tertiary structure and folding.

PubMed Central

Hargittai, M R; Musier-Forsyth, K

2000-01-01

Lanthanide metals such as terbium have previously been shown to be useful for mapping metal-binding sites in RNA. Terbium binds to the same sites on RNA as magnesium, however, with a much higher affinity. Thus, low concentrations of terbium ions can easily displace magnesium and promote phosphodiester backbone scission. At higher concentrations, terbium cleaves RNA in a sequence-independent manner, with a preference for single-stranded, non-Watson-Crick base-paired regions. Here, we show that terbium is a sensitive probe of human tRNALys,3 tertiary structure and folding. When 1 microM tRNA is used, the optimal terbium ion concentration for detecting Mg2+-induced tertiary structural changes is 50-60 microM. Using these concentrations of RNA and terbium, a magnesium-dependent folding transition with a midpoint (KMg) of 2.6 mM is observed for unmodified human tRNALys,3. At lower Tb3+ concentrations, cleavage is restricted to nucleotides that constitute specific metal-binding pockets. This small chemical probe should also be useful for detecting protein induced structural changes in RNA. PMID:11105765

Leaving out control groups: an internal contrast analysis of gene expression profiles in atrial fibrillation patients--a systems biology approach to clinical categorization.

PubMed

Vanhoutte, Kurt; de Asmundis, Carlo; Francesconi, Anna; Figysl, Jurgen; Steurs, Griet; Boussy, Tim; Roos, Markus; Mueller, Andreas; Massimo, Lucio; Paparella, Gaetano; Van Caelenberg, Kristien; Chierchia, Gian Battista; Sarkozy, Andrea; Terradellas, Pedro Brugada Y; Zizi, Martin

2009-01-01

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a frequent chronic dysrythmia with an incidence that increases with age (>40). Because of its medical and socio-economic impacts it is expected to become an increasing burden on most health care systems. AF is a multi-factorial disease for which the identification of subtypes is warranted. Novel approaches based on the broad concepts of systems biology may overcome the blurred notion of normal and pathological phenotype, which is inherent to high throughput molecular arrays analysis. Here we apply an internal contrast algorithm on AF patient data with an analytical focus on potential entry pathways into the disease. We used a RMA (Robust Multichip Average) normalized Affymetrix micro-array data set from 10 AF patients (geo_accession #GSE2240). Four series of probes were selected based on physiopathogenic links with AF entryways: apoptosis (remodeling), MAP kinase (cell remodeling), OXPHOS (ability to sustain hemodynamic workload) and glycolysis (ischemia). Annotated probe lists were polled with Bioconductor packages in R (version 2.7.1). Genetic profile contrasts were analysed with hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis. The analysis revealed distinct patient groups for all probe sets. A substantial part (54% till 67%) of the variance is explained in the first 2 principal components. Genes in PC1/2 with high discriminatory value were selected and analyzed in detail. We aim for reliable molecular stratification of AF. We show that stratification is possible based on physiologically relevant gene sets. Genes with high contrast value are likely to give pathophysiological insight into permanent AF subtypes.

The fluorescently responsive 3-(naphthalen-1-ylethynyl)-3-deaza-2'-deoxyguanosine discriminates cytidine via the DNA minor groove.

PubMed

Suzuki, Azusa; Yanagi, Masaki; Takeda, Takuya; Hudson, Robert H E; Saito, Yoshio

2017-09-26

A new environmentally responsive fluorescent nucleoside, 3-(naphthalen-1-ylethynyl)-3-deaza-2'-deoxyguanosine ( 3nz G), has been synthesized. The nucleoside, 3nz G, exhibited solvatochromic properties and when introduced into ODN probes it was able to recognize 2'-deoxycytidine in target strands by a distinct change in its emission wavelength through probing microenvironmental changes in the DNA minor groove. Thus, 3nz G has the potential for use as a fluorescent probe molecule for micro-structural studies of nucleic acids including the detection of single-base alterations in target DNA sequences.

Integration of Ion Implantation with Scanning ProbeAlignment

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

Persaud, A.; Rangelow, I.W.; Schenkel, T.

We describe a scanning probe instrument which integrates ion beams with imaging and alignment functions of a piezo resistive scanning probe in high vacuum. Energetic ions (1 to a few hundred keV) are transported through holes in scanning probe tips [1]. Holes and imaging tips are formed by Focused Ion Beam (FIB) drilling and ion beam assisted thin film deposition. Transport of single ions can be monitored through detection of secondary electrons from highly charged dopant ions (e. g., Bi{sup 45+}) enabling single atom device formation. Fig. 1 shows SEM images of a scanning probe tip formed by ion beammore » assisted Pt deposition in a dual beam FIB. Ion beam collimating apertures are drilled through the silicon cantilever with a thickness of 5 {micro}m. Aspect ratio limitations preclude the direct drilling of holes with diameters well below 1 {micro}m, and smaller hole diameters are achieved through local thin film deposition [2]. The hole in Fig. 1 was reduced from 2 {micro}m to a residual opening of about 300 nm. Fig. 2 shows an in situ scanning probe image of an alignment dot pattern taken with the tip from Fig. 1. Transport of energetic ions through the aperture in the scanning probe tip allows formation of arbitrary implant patterns. In the example shown in Fig. 2 (right), a 30 nm thick PMMA resist layer on silicon was exposed to 7 keV Ar{sup 2+} ions with an equivalent dose of 10{sup 14} ions/cm{sup 2} to form the LBL logo. An exciting goal of this approach is the placement of single dopant ions into precise locations for integration of single atom devices, such as donor spin based quantum computers [3, 4]. In Fig. 3, we show a section of a micron size dot area exposed to a low dose (10{sup 11}/cm{sup 2}) of high charge state dopant ions. The Bi{sup 45+} ions (200 keV) were extracted from a low emittance highly charged ions source [5]. The potential energy of B{sup 45+}, i. e., the sum of the binding energies required to remove the electrons, amounts to 36 keV. This energy is deposited within {approx}10 fs when an ion impinges on a target. The highly localized energy deposition results in efficient resist exposure, and is associated with strongly enhanced secondary electron emission, which allows monitoring of single ion impacts [4]. The ex situ scanning probe image with line scan in Fig. 3 shows a single ion impact site in PMMA (after standard development). In our presentation, we will discuss resolution requirements for ion placement in prototype quantum computer structures [3] with respect to resolution limiting factors in ion implantation with scanning probe alignment.« less

Molecular Imaging Probe Development using Microfluidics

PubMed Central

Liu, Kan; Wang, Ming-Wei; Lin, Wei-Yu; Phung, Duy Linh; Girgis, Mark D.; Wu, Anna M.; Tomlinson, James S.; Shen, Clifton K.-F.

2012-01-01

In this manuscript, we review the latest advancement of microfluidics in molecular imaging probe development. Due to increasing needs for medical imaging, high demand for many types of molecular imaging probes will have to be met by exploiting novel chemistry/radiochemistry and engineering technologies to improve the production and development of suitable probes. The microfluidic-based probe synthesis is currently attracting a great deal of interest because of their potential to deliver many advantages over conventional systems. Numerous chemical reactions have been successfully performed in micro-reactors and the results convincingly demonstrate with great benefits to aid synthetic procedures, such as purer products, higher yields, shorter reaction times compared to the corresponding batch/macroscale reactions, and more benign reaction conditions. Several ‘proof-of-principle’ examples of molecular imaging probe syntheses using microfluidics, along with basics of device architecture and operation, and their potential limitations are discussed here. PMID:22977436

Quantum-dot-based quantitative identification of pathogens in complex mixture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Sun Hee; Bestwater, Felix; Buchy, Philippe; Mardy, Sek; Yu, Alexey Dan Chin

2010-02-01

In the present study we describe sandwich design hybridization probes consisting of magnetic particles (MP) and quantum dots (QD) with target DNA, and their application in the detection of avian influenza virus (H5N1) sequences. Hybridization of 25-, 40-, and 100-mer target DNA with both probes was analyzed and quantified by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy on the scale of single particles. The following steps were used in the assay: (i) target selection by MP probes and (ii) target detection by QD probes. Hybridization efficiency between MP conjugated probes and target DNA hybrids was controlled by a fluorescent dye specific for nucleic acids. Fluorescence was detected by flow cytometry to distinguish differences in oligo sequences as short as 25-mer capturing in target DNA and by gel-electrophoresis in the case of QD probes. This report shows that effective manipulation and control of micro- and nanoparticles in hybridization assays is possible.

Application of focused ion beam for the fabrication of AFM probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolomiytsev, A. S.; Lisitsyn, S. A.; Smirnov, V. A.; Fedotov, A. A.; Varzarev, Yu N.

2017-10-01

The results of an experimental study of the probe tips fabrication for critical-dimension atomic force microscopy (CD-AFM) using the focused ion beam (FIB) induced deposition are presented. Methods of the FIB-induced deposition of tungsten and carbon onto the tip of an AFM probe are studied. Based on the results obtained in the study, probes for the CD-AFM technique with a tip height about 1 μm and radius of 20 nm were created. The formation of CD-AFM probes by FIB-induced deposition allows creating a high efficiency tool for nanotechnology and nanodiagnostics. The use of modified cantilevers allows minimizing the artefacts of AFM images and increasing the accuracy of the relief measurement. The obtained results can be used for fabrication of AFM probes for express monitoring of the technological process in the manufacturing of the elements for micro- and nanoelectronics.

Plasma Assisted Combustion: Flame Regimes and Kinetic Studies

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-05

Kinetic model Fuel: Dimethyl ether Oxidizer= (1-x)O2 + xO3, x=0 - 0.1, p=1 atm Ozone chemistry & Dimethyl ether model ...diffusional cool flames • A heated counterflow burner integrated with vaporization system1 • n-heptane/nitrogen vs. oxygen/ ozone • Ozone generator...micro-DBD) produces 2- 5 % of ozone in oxygen stream, depending on oxygen flow rate • Speciation profiles by using a micro-probe sampling with a

A hot-spot-active magnetic graphene oxide substrate for microRNA detection based on cascaded chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bi, Sai; Chen, Min; Jia, Xiaoqiang; Dong, Ying

2015-02-01

Herein, a cascaded chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (C-CRET) process was demonstrated from horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mimicking DNAzyme-catalyzed luminol-H2O2 to fluorescein and further to graphene oxide (GO) when HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein was in close proximity to the GO surface. The proposed C-CRET system was successfully implemented to construct three modes of C-CRET hot-spot-active substrates (modes I, II and III) by covalently immobilizing HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein-labeled hairpin DNAs (hot-spot-generation probes) on magnetic GO (MGO), resulting in a signal ``off'' state due to the quenching of the luminol/H2O2/HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein CRET system by GO. Upon the introduction of microRNA-122 (miRNA-122), the targets (mode I) or the new triggers that were generated through a strand displacement reaction (SDR) initiated by miRNA-122 (modes II and III) hybridized with the loop domains of hairpin probes on MGO to form double-stranded (modes I and II) or triplex-stem structures (mode III), causing an ``open'' configuration of the hairpin probe and a CRET signal ``on'' state, thus achieving sensitive and selective detection of miRNA-122. More importantly, the substrate exhibited excellent controllability, reversibility and reproducibility through SDR and magnetic separation (modes II and III), especially sequence-independence for hairpin probes in mode III, holding great potential for the development of a versatile platform for optical biosensing.Herein, a cascaded chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (C-CRET) process was demonstrated from horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mimicking DNAzyme-catalyzed luminol-H2O2 to fluorescein and further to graphene oxide (GO) when HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein was in close proximity to the GO surface. The proposed C-CRET system was successfully implemented to construct three modes of C-CRET hot-spot-active substrates (modes I, II and III) by covalently immobilizing HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein-labeled hairpin DNAs (hot-spot-generation probes) on magnetic GO (MGO), resulting in a signal ``off'' state due to the quenching of the luminol/H2O2/HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein CRET system by GO. Upon the introduction of microRNA-122 (miRNA-122), the targets (mode I) or the new triggers that were generated through a strand displacement reaction (SDR) initiated by miRNA-122 (modes II and III) hybridized with the loop domains of hairpin probes on MGO to form double-stranded (modes I and II) or triplex-stem structures (mode III), causing an ``open'' configuration of the hairpin probe and a CRET signal ``on'' state, thus achieving sensitive and selective detection of miRNA-122. More importantly, the substrate exhibited excellent controllability, reversibility and reproducibility through SDR and magnetic separation (modes II and III), especially sequence-independence for hairpin probes in mode III, holding great potential for the development of a versatile platform for optical biosensing. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Sequences of RNA and DNA used in this study, relationship of the proposed three modes, CRET mechanism of the luminol/H2O2/HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein system, calculation of the surface coverage of hairpin probe I-1 on MGO, control experiment, comparison between different modes for microRNA detection, and advantages of the proposed strategy. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06603k

Scanning micro-Hall probe mapping of magnetic flux distributions and current densities in YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7}

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

Xing, W.; Heinrich, B.; Zhou, H.

1994-12-31

Mapping of the magnetic flux density B{sub z} (perpendicular to the film plane) for a YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub 7} thin-film sample was carried out using a scanning micro-Hall probe. The sheet magnetization and sheet current densities were calculated from the B{sub z} distributions. From the known sheet magnetization, the tangential (B{sub x,y}) and normal components of the flux density B were calculated in the vicinity of the film. It was found that the sheet current density was mostly determined by 2B{sub x,y}/d, where d is the film thickness. The evolution of flux penetration as a function of applied field willmore » be shown.« less

Raman acoustic levitation spectroscopy of red blood cells and Plasmodium falciparum trophozoites.

PubMed

Puskar, Ljiljana; Tuckermann, Rudolf; Frosch, Torsten; Popp, Jürgen; Ly, Vanalysa; McNaughton, Don; Wood, Bayden R

2007-09-01

Methods to probe the molecular structure of living cells are of paramount importance in understanding drug interactions and environmental influences in these complex dynamical systems. The coupling of an acoustic levitation device with a micro-Raman spectrometer provides a direct molecular probe of cellular chemistry in a containerless environment minimizing signal attenuation and eliminating the affects of adhesion to walls and interfaces. We show that the Raman acoustic levitation spectroscopic (RALS) approach can be used to monitor the heme dynamics of a levitated 5 microL suspension of red blood cells and to detect hemozoin in malaria infected cells. The spectra obtained have an excellent signal-to-noise ratio and demonstrate for the first time the utility of the technique as a diagnostic and monitoring tool for minute sample volumes of living animal cells.

Spectrometric microbiological analyzer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlager, Kenneth J.; Meissner, Ken E.

1996-04-01

Currently, there are four general approaches to microbiological analysis, i.e., the detection, identification and quantification of micro-organisms: (1) Traditional culturing and staining procedures, metabolic fermentations and visual morphological characteristics; (2) Immunological approaches employing microbe-specific antibodies; (3) Biotechnical techniques employing DNA probes and related genetic engineering methods; and (4) Physical measurement techniques based on the biophysical properties of micro-organisms. This paper describes an instrumentation development in the fourth of the above categories, physical measurement, that uses a combination of fluorometric and light scatter spectra to detect and identify micro-organisms at the species level. A major advantage of this approach is the rapid turnaround possible in medical diagnostic or water testing applications. Fluorometric spectra serve to define the biochemical characteristics of the microbe, and light scatter spectra the size and shape morphology. Together, the two spectra define a 'fingerprint' for each species of microbe for detection, identification and quantification purposes. A prototype instrument has been developed and tested under NASA sponsorship based on fluorometric spectra alone. This instrument demonstrated identification and quantification capabilities at the species level. The paper reports on test results using this instrument, and the benefits of employing a combination of fluorometric and light scatter spectra.

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

Göring, Gerald; Dietrich, Philipp-Immanuel; Blaicher, Matthias

3D direct laser writing based on two-photon polymerization is considered as a tool to fabricate tailored probes for atomic force microscopy. Tips with radii of 25 nm and arbitrary shape are attached to conventionally shaped micro-machined cantilevers. Long-term scanning measurements reveal low wear rates and demonstrate the reliability of such tips. Furthermore, we show that the resonance spectrum of the probe can be tuned for multi-frequency applications by adding rebar structures to the cantilever.

Development of a fiber based Raman probe compatible with interventional magnetic resonance imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashok, Praveen C.; Praveen, Bavishna B.; Rube, Martin; Cox, Benjamin; Melzer, Andreas; Dholakia, Kishan

2014-02-01

Raman spectroscopy has proven to be a powerful tool for discriminating between normal and abnormal tissue types. Fiber based Raman probes have demonstrated its potential for in vivo disease diagnostics. Combining Raman spectroscopy with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) opens up new avenues for MR guided minimally invasive optical biopsy. Although Raman probes are commercially available, they are not compatible with a MRI environment due to the metallic components which are used to align the micro-optic components such as filters and lenses at the probe head. Additionally they are not mechanically compatible with a typical surgical environment as factors such as sterility and length of the probe are not addressed in those designs. We have developed an MRI compatible fiber Raman probe with a disposable probe head hence maintaining sterility. The probe head was specially designed to avoid any material that would cause MR imaging artefacts. The probe head that goes into patient's body had a diameter <1.5 mm so that it is compatible with biopsy needles and catheters. The probe has been tested in MR environment and has been proven to be capable of obtaining Raman signal while the probe is under real-time MR guidance.

Probe-pin device for optical neurotransmitter sensing in the brain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Min Hyuck; Song, Kyo D.; Yoon, Hargsoon; Park, Yeonjoon; Choi, Sang H.; Lee, Dae-Sung; Shin, Kyu-Sik; Hwang, Hak-In; Lee, Uhn

2015-04-01

Development of an optical neurotransmitter sensing device using nano-plasmonic probes and a micro-spectrometer for real time monitoring of neural signals in the brain is underway. Clinical application of this device technology is to provide autonomous closed-loop feedback control to a deep brain stimulation (DBS) system and enhance the accuracy and efficacy of DBS treatment. By far, we have developed an implantable probe-pin device based on localized field enhancement of surface plasmonic resonance on a nanostructured sensing domain which can amplify neurochemical signals from evoked neural activity in the brain. In this paper, we will introduce the details of design and sensing performance of a proto-typed microspectrometer and nanostructured probing devices for real time measurement of neurotransmitter concentrations.

Local pH Monitoring of Small Cluster of Cells using a Fiber-Optic Dual-Core Micro-Probe.

PubMed

Chen, Sisi; Yang, Qingbo; Xiao, Hai; Shi, Honglan; Ma, Yinfa

2017-03-31

Biological studies of tissues and cells have enabled numerous discoveries, but these studies still bear potential risks of invalidation because of cell heterogeneity. Through high-accuracy techniques, recent studies have demonstrated that discrepancies do exist between the results from low-number-cell studies and cell-population-based results. Thus the urgent need to re-evaluate key principles on limited number of cells has been provoked. In this study, a novel designed dual-core fiber-optic pH micro-probe was fabricated and demonstrated for niche environment pH sensing with high spatial resolution. An organic-modified silicate (OrMoSils) sol-gel thin layer was functionalized by entrapping a pH indicator, 2', 7'-Bis (2-carbonylethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF), on a ~70 μm sized probe tip. Good linear correlation between fluorescence ratio of I 560 nm /I 640 nm and intercellular pH values was obtained within a biological-relevant pH range from 6.20 to 7.92 (R 2 = 0.9834), and with a pH resolution of 0.035 ± 0.005 pH units. The probe's horizontal spatial resolution was demonstrated to be less than 2mm. Moreover, the probe was evaluated by measuring the localized extracellular pH changes of cultured human lung cancer cells (A549) when exposed to titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs). Results showed that the probe has superior capability for fast, local, and continual monitoring of a small cluster of cells, which provides researchers a fast and accurate technique to conduct local pH measurements for cell heterogeneity-related studies.

Ultrasensitive and Multiple Disease-Related MicroRNA Detection Based on Tetrahedral DNA Nanostructures and Duplex-Specific Nuclease-Assisted Signal Amplification.

PubMed

Xu, Fang; Dong, Haifeng; Cao, Yu; Lu, Huiting; Meng, Xiangdan; Dai, Wenhao; Zhang, Xueji; Al-Ghanim, Khalid Abdullah; Mahboob, Shahid

2016-12-14

A highly sensitive and multiple microRNA (miRNA) detection method by combining three-dimensional (3D) DNA tetrahedron-structured probes (TSPs) to increase the probe reactivity and accessibility with duplex-specific nuclease (DSN) for signal amplification for sensitive miRNA detection was proposed. Briefly, 3D DNA TSPs labeled with different fluorescent dyes for specific target miRNA recognition were modified on a gold nanoparticle (GNP) surface to increase the reactivity and accessibility. Upon hybridization with a specific target, the TSPs immobilized on the GNP surface hybridized with the corresponding target miRNA to form DNA-RNA heteroduplexes, and the DSN can recognize the formed DNA-RNA heteroduplexes to hydrolyze the DNA in the heteroduplexes to produce a specific fluorescent signal corresponding to a specific miRNA, while the released target miRNA strands can initiate another cycle, resulting in a significant signal amplification for sensitive miRNA detection. Different targets can produce different fluorescent signals, leading to the development of a sensitive detection for multiple miRNAs in a homogeneous solution. Under optimized conditions, the proposed assay can simultaneously detect three different miRNAs in a homogeneous solution with a logarithmic linear range spanning 5 magnitudes (10 -12 -10 -16 ) and achieving a limit of detection down to attomolar concentrations. Meanwhile, the proposed miRNA assay exhibited the capability of discriminating single bases (three bases mismatched miRNAs) and showed good eligibility in the analysis of miRNAs extracted from cell lysates and miRNAs in cell incubation media, which indicates its potential use in biomedical research and clinical analysis.

Polymer microfiber bridging Bi-tapered refractive index sensor based on evanescent field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Ri-Qing; Wang, Qi; Wang, Bo-Tao; Liu, Yu; Kong, Lingxin

2018-05-01

A PDMS/graphene enhanced PMMA micro optical waveguide sensor is reported in terms of fabrication method and optical characteristics. The micro optical waveguide with a diameter of 6 μm and a length of 800 μm is used as the sensing probe to realize refractive index (RI) measurement suspended in NaCl solutions with different concentrations. Experimental results show that the refractive index sensing sensitivity can reach 2027.97 nm/RIU within the refractive index ranging from 1.3333-1.3426. Research results show that PMMA/graphene micro optical waveguide doped with PDMS is an excellent high sensitive sensing technology in refractive index detection field.

High-energy transmission Laue micro-beam X-ray diffraction: a probe for intra-granular lattice orientation and elastic strain in thicker samples.

PubMed

Hofmann, Felix; Song, Xu; Abbey, Brian; Jun, Tea-Sung; Korsunsky, Alexander M

2012-05-01

An understanding of the mechanical response of modern engineering alloys to complex loading conditions is essential for the design of load-bearing components in high-performance safety-critical aerospace applications. A detailed knowledge of how material behaviour is modified by fatigue and the ability to predict failure reliably are vital for enhanced component performance. Unlike macroscopic bulk properties (e.g. stiffness, yield stress, etc.) that depend on the average behaviour of many grains, material failure is governed by `weakest link'-type mechanisms. It is strongly dependent on the anisotropic single-crystal elastic-plastic behaviour, local morphology and microstructure, and grain-to-grain interactions. For the development and validation of models that capture these complex phenomena, the ability to probe deformation behaviour at the micro-scale is key. The diffraction of highly penetrating synchrotron X-rays is well suited to this purpose and micro-beam Laue diffraction is a particularly powerful tool that has emerged in recent years. Typically it uses photon energies of 5-25 keV, limiting penetration into the material, so that only thin samples or near-surface regions can be studied. In this paper the development of high-energy transmission Laue (HETL) micro-beam X-ray diffraction is described, extending the micro-beam Laue technique to significantly higher photon energies (50-150 keV). It allows the probing of thicker sample sections, with the potential for grain-level characterization of real engineering components. The new HETL technique is used to study the deformation behaviour of individual grains in a large-grained polycrystalline nickel sample during in situ tensile loading. Refinement of the Laue diffraction patterns yields lattice orientations and qualitative information about elastic strains. After deformation, bands of high lattice misorientation can be identified in the sample. Orientation spread within individual scattering volumes is studied using a pattern-matching approach. The results highlight the inability of a simple Schmid-factor model to capture the behaviour of individual grains and illustrate the need for complementary mechanical modelling.

Real-Time 3D Ultrasound for Physiological Monitoring 22258.

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-10-01

their software to acquire positioning information using a high precision mechanical arm ( MicroScribe arm from Immersion Corp., San Jose, CA) instead of...mechanical arm (Immersion MicroScribe ™) for 3D data acquisition, also adopted by EchoTech for 3D FreeScan. • Medical quality video capture by a...MHz Dell Dimen- sion XPS computer9 (under desk), MUSTPAC-2 Vir- tual Ultrasound Probe based on the Microscribe 3D articulated arm10 (on table

In vitro metabolism and interaction of cilostazol with human hepatic cytochrome P450 isoforms.

PubMed

Abbas, R; Chow, C P; Browder, N J; Thacker, D; Bramer, S L; Fu, C J; Forbes, W; Odomi, M; Flockhart, D A

2000-03-01

1. Cilostazol (OPC-13013) undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism. The hydroxylation of the quinone moiety of cilostazol to OPC-13326 was the predominant route in all the liver preparations studies. The hydroxylation of the hexane moiety to OPC-13217 was the second most predominant route in vitro. 2. Ketoconazole (1 microM) was the most potent inhibitor of both quinone and hexane hydroxylation. Both the CYP2D6 inhibitor quinidine (0.1 microM) and the CYP2C19 inhibitor omeprazole (10 microM) failed to consistently inhibit metabolism of cilostazol via either of these two predominant routes. 3. Data obtained from a bank of pre-characterized human liver microsomes demonstrated a stronger correlation (r2=0.68, P < 0.01) between metabolism of cilostazol to OPC-13326 and metabolism of felodipine, a CYP3A probe, that with probes for any other isoform. Cimetidine demonstrated concentration-dependent competitive inhibition of the metabolism of cilostazol by both routes. 4. Kinetic data demonstrated a Km value of 101 microM for cilostazol, suggesting a relatively low affinity of cilostazol for CYP3A. While recombinant CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 were also able to catalyze formation of specific cilostazol metabolites, they did not appear to contribute significantly to cilostazol metabolism in whole human liver microsomes.

Uniform enhancement of optical micro-angiography images using Rayleigh contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization

PubMed Central

Yousefi, Siavash; Qin, Jia; Zhi, Zhongwei

2013-01-01

Optical microangiography is an imaging technology that is capable of providing detailed functional blood flow maps within microcirculatory tissue beds in vivo. Some practical issues however exist when displaying and quantifying the microcirculation that perfuses the scanned tissue volume. These issues include: (I) Probing light is subject to specular reflection when it shines onto sample. The unevenness of the tissue surface makes the light energy entering the tissue not uniform over the entire scanned tissue volume. (II) The biological tissue is heterogeneous in nature, meaning the scattering and absorption properties of tissue would attenuate the probe beam. These physical limitations can result in local contrast degradation and non-uniform micro-angiogram images. In this paper, we propose a post-processing method that uses Rayleigh contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization to increase the contrast and improve the overall appearance and uniformity of optical micro-angiograms without saturating the vessel intensity and changing the physical meaning of the micro-angiograms. The qualitative and quantitative performance of the proposed method is compared with those of common histogram equalization and contrast enhancement methods. We demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms other existing approaches. The proposed method is not limited to optical microangiography and can be used in other image modalities such as photo-acoustic tomography and scanning laser confocal microscopy. PMID:23482880

Sequence-based design of bioactive small molecules that target precursor microRNAs.

PubMed

Velagapudi, Sai Pradeep; Gallo, Steven M; Disney, Matthew D

2014-04-01

Oligonucleotides are designed to target RNA using base pairing rules, but they can be hampered by poor cellular delivery and nonspecific stimulation of the immune system. Small molecules are preferred as lead drugs or probes but cannot be designed from sequence. Herein, we describe an approach termed Inforna that designs lead small molecules for RNA from solely sequence. Inforna was applied to all human microRNA hairpin precursors, and it identified bioactive small molecules that inhibit biogenesis by binding nuclease-processing sites (44% hit rate). Among 27 lead interactions, the most avid interaction is between a benzimidazole (1) and precursor microRNA-96. Compound 1 selectively inhibits biogenesis of microRNA-96, upregulating a protein target (FOXO1) and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Apoptosis is ablated when FOXO1 mRNA expression is knocked down by an siRNA, validating compound selectivity. Markedly, microRNA profiling shows that 1 only affects microRNA-96 biogenesis and is at least as selective as an oligonucleotide.

Sequence-based design of bioactive small molecules that target precursor microRNAs

PubMed Central

Velagapudi, Sai Pradeep; Gallo, Steven M.; Disney, Matthew D.

2014-01-01

Oligonucleotides are designed to target RNA using base pairing rules, however, they are hampered by poor cellular delivery and non-specific stimulation of the immune system. Small molecules are preferred as lead drugs or probes, but cannot be designed from sequence. Herein, we describe an approach termed Inforna that designs lead small molecules for RNA from solely sequence. Inforna was applied to all human microRNA precursors and identified bioactive small molecules that inhibit biogenesis by binding to nuclease processing sites (41% hit rate). Amongst 29 lead interactions, the most avid interaction is between a benzimidazole (1) and precursor microRNA-96. Compound 1 selectively inhibits biogenesis of microRNA-96, upregulating a protein target (FOXO1) and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Apoptosis is ablated when FOXO1 mRNA expression is knocked down by an siRNA, validating compound selectivity. Importantly, microRNA profiling shows that 1 only significantly effects microRNA-96 biogenesis and is more selective than an oligonucleotide. PMID:24509821

Thermo-optical dynamics in an optically pumped Photonic Crystal nano-cavity.

PubMed

Brunstein, M; Braive, R; Hostein, R; Beveratos, A; Rober-Philip, I; Sagnes, I; Karle, T J; Yacomotti, A M; Levenson, J A; Moreau, V; Tessier, G; De Wilde, Y

2009-09-14

Linear and non-linear thermo-optical dynamical regimes were investigated in a photonic crystal cavity. First, we have measured the thermal relaxation time in an InP-based nano-cavity with quantum dots in the presence of optical pumping. The experimental method presented here allows one to obtain the dynamics of temperature in a nanocavity based on reflectivity measurements of a cw probe beam coupled through an adiabatically tapered fiber. Characteristic times of 1.0+/-0.2 micros and 0.9+/-0.2 micros for the heating and the cooling processes were obtained. Finally, thermal dynamics were also investigated in a thermo-optical bistable regime. Switch-on/off times of 2 micros and 4 micros respectively were measured, which could be explained in terms of a simple non-linear dynamical representation.

A micro-CMM with metrology frame for low uncertainty measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brand, Uwe; Kirchhoff, Juergen

2005-12-01

A conventional bridge-type coordinate measuring machine (CMM) with an opto-tactile fibre probe for the measurement of microstructures has been equipped with a metrology frame in order to reduce its measurement uncertainty. The frame contains six laser interferometers for high-precision position and guiding deviation measurements, a Zerodur cuboid with three measuring surfaces for the laser interferometers to which the fibre probe is fixed, and an invar frame which supports the measuring objects and to which the reference mirrors of the interferometers are fixed. The orthogonality and flatness deviations of the Zerodur measuring surfaces have been measured and taken into account in the equation of motion of the probing sphere. As a first performance test, the flatness of an optical flat has been measured with the fibre probe. Measuring-depth-dependent and probing-force-dependent shifts of the probing position were observed. In order to reduce the scattering of the probing points, 77 measurements were averaged for one coordinate point to be measured. This has led to measuring times of several hours for one plane and strong thermal drifts of the measured probing points.

A versatile rotary-stage high frequency probe station for studying magnetic films and devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Shikun; Meng, Zhaoliang; Huang, Lisen; Yap, Lee Koon; Zhou, Tiejun; Panagopoulos, Christos

2016-07-01

We present a rotary-stage microwave probe station suitable for magnetic films and spintronic devices. Two stages, one for field rotation from parallel to perpendicular to the sample plane (out-of-plane) and the other intended for field rotation within the sample plane (in-plane) have been designed. The sample probes and micro-positioners are rotated simultaneously with the stages, which allows the field orientation to cover θ from 0∘ to 90∘ and φ from 0∘ to 360∘. θ and φ being the angle between the direction of current flow and field in a out-of-plane and an in-plane rotation, respectively. The operation frequency is up to 40 GHz and the magnetic field up to 1 T. The sample holder vision system and probe assembly are compactly designed for the probes to land on a wafer with diameter up to 3 cm. Using homemade multi-pin probes and commercially available high frequency probes, several applications including 4-probe DC measurements, the determination of domain wall velocity, and spin transfer torque ferromagnetic resonance are demonstrated.

Identification of transcribed sequences in Arabidopsis thaliana by using high-resolution genome tiling arrays

PubMed Central

Stolc, Viktor; Samanta, Manoj Pratim; Tongprasit, Waraporn; Sethi, Himanshu; Liang, Shoudan; Nelson, David C.; Hegeman, Adrian; Nelson, Clark; Rancour, David; Bednarek, Sebastian; Ulrich, Eldon L.; Zhao, Qin; Wrobel, Russell L.; Newman, Craig S.; Fox, Brian G.; Phillips, George N.; Markley, John L.; Sussman, Michael R.

2005-01-01

Using a maskless photolithography method, we produced DNA oligonucleotide microarrays with probe sequences tiled throughout the genome of the plant Arabidopsis thaliana. RNA expression was determined for the complete nuclear, mitochondrial, and chloroplast genomes by tiling 5 million 36-mer probes. These probes were hybridized to labeled mRNA isolated from liquid grown T87 cells, an undifferentiated Arabidopsis cell culture line. Transcripts were detected from at least 60% of the nearly 26,330 annotated genes, which included 151 predicted genes that were not identified previously by a similar genome-wide hybridization study on four different cell lines. In comparison with previously published results with 25-mer tiling arrays produced by chromium masking-based photolithography technique, 36-mer oligonucleotide probes were found to be more useful in identifying intron–exon boundaries. Using two-dimensional HPLC tandem mass spectrometry, a small-scale proteomic analysis was performed with the same cells. A large amount of strongly hybridizing RNA was found in regions “antisense” to known genes. Similarity of antisense activities between the 25-mer and 36-mer data sets suggests that it is a reproducible and inherent property of the experiments. Transcription activities were also detected for many of the intergenic regions and the small RNAs, including tRNA, small nuclear RNA, small nucleolar RNA, and microRNA. Expression of tRNAs correlates with genome-wide amino acid usage. PMID:15755812

Identification of transcribed sequences in Arabidopsis thaliana by using high-resolution genome tiling arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stolc, Viktor; Samanta, Manoj Pratim; Tongprasit, Waraporn; Sethi, Himanshu; Liang, Shoudan; Nelson, David C.; Hegeman, Adrian; Nelson, Clark; Rancour, David; Bednarek, Sebastian;

Long-range nanopositioning and nanomeasuring machine for application to micro- and nanotechnology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jäger, Gerd; Hausotte, Tino; Büchner, Hans-Joachim; Manske, Eberhard; Schmidt, Ingomar; Mastylo, Rostyslav

2006-03-01

The paper describes the operation of a high-precision long range three-dimensional nanopositioning and nanomeasuring machine (NPM-Machine). The NPM-Machine has been developed by the Institute of Process Measurement and Sensor Technology of the Technische Universität Ilmenau. The machine was successfully tested and continually improved in the last few years. The machines are operating successfully in several German and foreign research institutes including the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB). Three plane mirror miniature interferometers are installed into the NPM-machine having a resolution of less than 0,1 nm over the entire positioning and measuring range of 25 mm x 25 mm x 5 mm. An Abbe offset-free design of the three miniature plane mirror interferometers and applying a new concept for compensating systematic errors resulting from mechanical guide systems provide extraordinary accuracy with an expanded uncertainty of only 5 - 10 nm. The integration of several, optical and tactile probe systems and nanotools makes the NPM-Machine suitable for various tasks, such as large-area scanning probe microscopy, mask and wafer inspection, nanostructuring, biotechnology and genetic engineering as well as measuring mechanical precision workpieces, precision treatment and for engineering new material. Various developed probe systems have been integrated into the NPM-Machine. The measurement results of a focus sensor, metrological AFM, white light sensor, tactile stylus probe and of a 3D-micro-touch-probe are presented. Single beam-, double beam- and triple beam interferometers built in the NPM-Machine for six degrees of freedom measurements are described.

Study of atmospheric plasma spray process with the emphasis on gas-shrouded nozzles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jankovic, Miodrag M.

An atmospheric plasma spraying process is investigated in this work by using experimental approach and mathematical modelling. Emphasis was put on the gas shrouded nozzles, their design, and the protection against the mixing with the surrounding air, which they give to the plasma jet. First part of the thesis is dedicated to the analysis of enthalpy probe method, as a major diagnostic tool in this work. Systematic error in measuring the stagnation pressure, due to a big temperature difference between the plasma and the water-cooled probe, is investigated here. Parallel measurements with the enthalpy probe and an uncooled ceramic probe were performed. Also, numerical experiments were conducted, using the k-ɛ model of turbulence. Based on the obtained results, a compensating algorithm for the above error is suggested. Major objective of the thesis was to study the plasma spraying process, and potential benefits from using the gas shrouded nozzles. Mathematical modelling was used to perform the parametric study on the flow pattern inside these nozzles. Two nozzles were used: a commercial conical nozzle, and a custom-made curvilinear nozzle. The later is aimed towards elimination of the cold air entrainment, recorded for the conical nozzle. Also, parametric study on the shrouding gas and its interaction with the plasma jet was carried out. Two modes of the shrouding gas injection were tested: through sixteen injection ports, and through a continuous slot, surrounding the plasma jet. Both nozzles and both injection modes were thoroughly tested, experimentally and numerically. The curvilinear nozzle completely eliminates the cold air entrainment and yields significantly higher plasma temperature. Also, injection through the continuous slot resulted in a much better protection of the plasma jet. Both nozzles were used to perform the spraying tests. Obtained coatings were tested on porosity, adhesion strength, and micro- structure. These tests indicated better micro-structure of the coatings sprayed by the curvilinear nozzle. Also, their porosity was significantly lower, and the adhesion strength was higher for more than 25%. The overall results suggest that the curvilinear nozzles represent a much better solution for the gas shrouded plasma spraying.

miRNA detection at single-cell resolution using microfluidic LNA flow-FISH

DOE PAGES

Wu, Meiye; Piccini, Matthew Ernest; Koh, Chung -Yan; ...

2014-08-20

Flow cytometry in combination with fluorescent in situ hybridization (flow-FISH) is a powerful technique that can be utilized to rapidly detect nucleic acids at single-cell resolution without the need for homogenization or nucleic acid extraction. Here, we describe a microfluidic-based method which enables the detection of microRNAs or miRNAs in single intact cells by flow-FISH using locked nucleic acid (LNA)-containing probes. Our method can be applied to all RNA species including mRNA and small noncoding RNA and is suitable for multiplexing with protein immunostaining in the same cell. For demonstration of our method, this chapter details the detection of miR155more » and CD69 protein in PMA and ionomycin-stimulated Jurkat cells. Here, we also include instructions on how to set up a microfluidic chip sample preparation station to prepare cells for imaging and analysis on a commercial flow cytometer or a custom-built micro-flow cytometer.« less

The MicroArray Quality Control (MAQC) project shows inter- and intraplatform reproducibility of gene expression measurements

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Over the last decade, the introduction of microarray technology has had a profound impact on gene expression research. The publication of studies with dissimilar or altogether contradictory results, obtained using different microarray platforms to analyze identical RNA samples, has raised concerns about the reliability of this technology. The MicroArray Quality Control (MAQC) project was initiated to address these concerns, as well as other performance and data analysis issues. Expression data on four titration pools from two distinct reference RNA samples were generated at multiple test sites using a variety of microarray-based and alternative technology platforms. Here we describe the experimental design and probe mapping efforts behind the MAQC project. We show intraplatform consistency across test sites as well as a high level of interplatform concordance in terms of genes identified as differentially expressed. This study provides a resource that represents an important first step toward establishing a framework for the use of microarrays in clinical and regulatory settings. PMID:16964229

Reconsideration on Hydration of Sodium Ion: From Micro-Hydration to Bulk Hydration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yongquan, Zhou; Chunhui, Fang; Yan, Fang; Fayan, Zhu; Haiwen, Ge; Hongyan, Liu

2017-12-01

Micro hydration structures of the sodium ion, [Na(H2O) n ]+, n = 1-12, were probed by density functional theory (DFT) at B3LYP/aug-cc-pVDZ level in both gaseous and aqueous phase. The predicted equilibrium sodium-oxygen distance of 0.240 nm at the present level of theory. The four-, five- and six-coordinated cluster can transform from each other at the ambient condition. The analysis of the successive water binding energy and natural charge population (NBO) on Na+ clearly shows that the influence of Na+ on the surrounding water molecules goes beyond the first hydration shell with the hydration number of 6. The Car-Parrinello molecular dynamic simulation shows that only the first hydration sphere can be found, and the hydration number of Na+ is 5.2 and the hydration distance ( r Na-O) is 0.235 nm. All our simulations mentioned in the present paper show an excellent agreement with the diffraction result from X-ray scattering study.

GaN-based micro-LED arrays on flexible substrates for optical cochlear implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goßler, Christian; Bierbrauer, Colin; Moser, Rüdiger; Kunzer, Michael; Holc, Katarzyna; Pletschen, Wilfried; Köhler, Klaus; Wagner, Joachim; Schwaerzle, Michael; Ruther, Patrick; Paul, Oliver; Neef, Jakob; Keppeler, Daniel; Hoch, Gerhard; Moser, Tobias; Schwarz, Ulrich T.

2014-05-01

Currently available cochlear implants are based on electrical stimulation of the spiral ganglion neurons. Optical stimulation with arrays of micro-sized light-emitting diodes (µLEDs) promises to increase the number of distinguishable frequencies. Here, the development of a flexible GaN-based micro-LED array as an optical cochlear implant is reported for application in a mouse model. The fabrication of 15 µm thin and highly flexible devices is enabled by a laser-based layer transfer process of the GaN-LEDs from sapphire to a polyimide-on-silicon carrier wafer. The fabricated 50 × 50 µm2 LEDs are contacted via conducting paths on both p- and n-sides of the LEDs. Up to three separate channels could be addressed. The probes, composed of a linear array of the said µLEDs bonded to the flexible polyimide substrate, are peeled off the carrier wafer and attached to flexible printed circuit boards. Probes with four µLEDs and a width of 230 µm are successfully implanted in the mouse cochlea both in vitro and in vivo. The LEDs emit 60 µW at 1 mA after peel-off, corresponding to a radiant emittance of 6 mW mm-2.

Cubesat Application for Planetary Entry (CAPE) Missions: Micro-Return Capsule (MIRCA)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Esper, Jaime

2016-01-01

The Cubesat Application for Planetary Entry Missions (CAPE) concept describes a high-performing Cubesat system which includes a propulsion module and miniaturized technologies capable of surviving atmospheric entry heating, while reliably transmitting scientific and engineering data. The Micro Return Capsule (MIRCA) is CAPE's first planetary entry probe flight prototype. Within this context, this paper briefly describes CAPE's configuration and typical operational scenario, and summarizes ongoing work on the design and basic aerodynamic characteristics of the prototype MIRCA vehicle. CAPE not only opens the door to new planetary mission capabilities, it also offers relatively low-cost opportunities especially suitable to university participation. In broad terms, CAPE consists of two main functional components: the "service module" (SM), and "CAPE's entry probe" (CEP). The SM contains the subsystems necessary to support vehicle targeting (propulsion, ACS, computer, power) and the communications capability to relay data from the CEP probe to an orbiting "mother-ship". The CEP itself carries the scientific instrumentation capable of measuring atmospheric properties (such as density, temperature, composition), and embedded engineering sensors for Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL). The first flight of MIRCA was successfully completed on 10 October 2015 as a "piggy-back" payload onboard a NASA stratospheric balloon launched from Ft. Sumner, NM.

Probing the onset of structural instabilities as a tool for detection of staling of dairy milk: A permittivity and conductivity study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madhurima, V.; Harindran, Aswini

2018-05-01

Dairy milk is a worldwide drink and a versatile raw material for food industries too. The major issue regarding dairy milk is their contamination by micro-organisms and subsequent spoiling. Pasteurization and sealed packing are used to minimize this contamination. The presence of pathogenic micro-organisms like psychrotrophs, reduces the pH of fresh milk by fermenting the lactose into lactic acid leading to the spoiling of milk. While there are various tests to check the spoilage of milk, there is no unique test to detect the onset of the complex dynamics of spoilage. There have been some studies on the dielectric properties of dairy milk but the primary method of identification of freshness of milk is through the measurement of pH. In this study, broadband dielectric spectroscopy is used as a tool to probe the spoiling of milk and that provides the information about the structural changes of milk during spoilage. The gamma dispersion explains the influence of free water content which is found to be a sensitive tool to probe the onset of milk spoilage process. The observations here are further backed by studies on the particle size and zeta potential.

DNA-Encoded Raman-Active Anisotropic Nanoparticles for microRNA Detection.

PubMed

Qi, Lin; Xiao, Mingshu; Wang, Xiwei; Wang, Cheng; Wang, Lihua; Song, Shiping; Qu, Xiangmeng; Li, Li; Shi, Jiye; Pei, Hao

2017-09-19

The development of highly sensitive and selective methods for the detection of microRNA (miRNA) has attracted tremendous attention because of its importance in fundamental biological studies and diagnostic applications. In this work, we develop DNA-encoded Raman-active anisotropic nanoparticles modified origami paper analytical devices (oPADs) for rapid, highly sensitive, and specific miRNA detection. The Raman-active anisotropic nanoparticles were prepared using 10-mer oligo-A, -T, -C, and -G to mediate the growth of Ag cubic seeds into Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) with different morphologies. The resulting AgNPs were further encoded with DNA probes to serve as effective surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probes. The analytical device was then fabricated on a single piece of SERS probes loaded paper-based substrate and assembled based on the principles of origami. The addition of the target analyte amplifies the Raman signals on DNA-encoded AgNPs through a target-dependent, sequence specific DNA hybridization assembly. This simple and low-cost analytical device is generic and applicable to a variety of miRNAs, allowing detection sensitivity down to 1 pM and assay time within 15 min, and therefore holds promising applications in point-of-care diagnostics.

MicroRNA-33 promotes the replicative senescence of mouse embryonic fibroblasts by suppressing CDK6

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

Xu, Shun; Huang, Haijiao; Li, Nanhong

2016-05-13

MicroRNAs are a large class of tiny noncoding RNAs, which have emerged as critical regulators of gene expression, and thus are involved in multiple cellular processes, including cellular senescence. MicroRNA-33 has previously been established to exert crucial effect on cell proliferation, lipid metabolism and cholesterol metabolism. Nonetheless, the association between microRNA-33 and cellular senescence and its underlying molecular mechanism are far to be elucidated. The present study has attempted to probe into the effect of microRNA-33 on MEFs senescence. Our data unveiled that microRNA-33 was dramatically down-regulated in senescent MEFs compared to the young MEFs, and ectopic expression of microRNA-33more » promoted MEFs senescence, while knock-down of microRNA-33 exhibited a protective effect against senescence phenotype. Moreover, we verified CDK6 as a direct target of microRNA-33 in mouse. Silencing of CDK6 induced the premature senescence phenotype of MEFs similarly as microRNA-33, while enforced expression of CDK6 significantly reverse the senescence-induction effect of microRNA-33. Taken together, our results suggested that microRNA-33 enhanced the replicative senescence of MEFs potentially by suppressing CDK6 expression. -- Highlights: •MicroRNA-33 was dramatically down-regulated in senescent MEF cells. •Altered expression of microRNA-33 exerted a critical role in MEFs senescence. •MicroRNA-33 promoted the replicative senescence of MEFs via targeting of CDK6.« less

Leaving out control groups: an internal contrast analysis of gene expression profiles in atrial fibrillation patients ‐ A systems biology approach to clinical categorization

PubMed Central

Vanhoutte, Kurt; de Asmundis, Carlo; Francesconi, Anna; Figys1, Jurgen; Steurs, Griet; Boussy, Tim; Roos, Markus; Mueller, Andreas; Massimo, Lucio; Paparella, Gaetano; Van Caelenberg, Kristien; Chierchia, Gian Battista; Sarkozy, Andrea; Y Terradellas, Pedro Brugada; Zizi, Martin

2009-01-01

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a frequent chronic dysrythmia with an incidence that increases with age (>40). Because of its medical and socio-economic impacts it is expected to become an increasing burden on most health care systems. AF is a multi-factorial disease for which the identification of subtypes is warranted. Novel approaches based on the broad concepts of systems biology may overcome the blurred notion of normal and pathological phenotype, which is inherent to high throughput molecular arrays analysis. Here we apply an internal contrast algorithm on AF patient data with an analytical focus on potential entry pathways into the disease. We used a RMA (Robust Multichip Average) normalized Affymetrix micro-array data set from 10 AF patients (geo_accession #GSE2240). Four series of probes were selected based on physiopathogenic links with AF entryways: apoptosis (remodeling), MAP kinase (cell remodeling), OXPHOS (ability to sustain hemodynamic workload) and glycolysis (ischemia). Annotated probe lists were polled with Bioconductor packages in R (version 2.7.1). Genetic profile contrasts were analysed with hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis. The analysis revealed distinct patient groups for all probe sets. A substantial part (54% till 67%) of the variance is explained in the first 2 principal components. Genes in PC1/2 with high discriminatory value were selected and analyzed in detail. We aim for reliable molecular stratification of AF. We show that stratification is possible based on physiologically relevant gene sets. Genes with high contrast value are likely to give pathophysiological insight into permanent AF subtypes. PMID:19255648

Design Tools for Zero-Net Mass-Flux Separation Control Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-12-01

experimental data. Most of the experimental studies employed either Hot Wire Anemometry (HWA), Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) or Laser Doppler...To61 View traverse Y Z z to procdspor X * ’ probe I,it, I from laser Sbellows synthetic PMTs extender jet,,, olor i 200 mm 2 ", separator micro...measured using a laser displacement sensor Micro-Epsilon Model ILD2000-10. The sensitivity is 1 V/mm, with a full-scale range of 10 mm and a resolution of

Direct observation of the leakage current in epitaxial diamond Schottky barrier devices by conductive-probe atomic force microscopy and Raman imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alvarez, J.; Boutchich, M.; Kleider, J. P.; Teraji, T.; Koide, Y.

2014-09-01

The origin of the high leakage current measured in several vertical-type diamond Schottky devices is conjointly investigated by conducting probe atomic force microscopy and confocal micro-Raman/photoluminescence imaging analysis. Local areas characterized by a strong decrease of the local resistance (5-6 orders of magnitude drop) with respect to their close surrounding have been identified in several different regions of the sample surface. The same local areas, also referenced as electrical hot-spots, reveal a slightly constrained diamond lattice and three dominant Raman bands in the low-wavenumber region (590, 914 and 1040 cm-1). These latter bands are usually assigned to the vibrational modes involving boron impurities and its possible complexes that can electrically act as traps for charge carriers. Local current-voltage measurements performed at the hot-spots point out a trap-filled-limited current as the main conduction mechanism favouring the leakage current in the Schottky devices.

Capacitance Probe for Fluid Flow and Volume Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arndt, G. Dickey (Inventor); Nguyen, Thanh X. (Inventor); Carl, James R. (Inventor)

1997-01-01

Method and apparatus for making measurements on fluids are disclosed, including the use of a capacitive probe for measuring the flow volume of a material within a flow stream. The capacitance probe has at least two elongate electrodes and, in a specific embodiment of the invention, has three parallel elongate electrodes with the center electrode being an extension of the center conductor of a co-axial cable. A conductance probe is also provided to provide more accurate flow volume data in response to conductivity of the material within the flow stream. A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for a gas flow stream through a micro-gravity environment that allows for monitoring a flow volume of a fluid sample, such as a urine sample, that is entrained within the gas flow stream.

High temporal resolution coupling of low-flow push-pull perfusion to capillary electrophoresis for ascorbate analysis at the rat vitreoretinal interface.

PubMed

Patterson, Eric E; Pritchett, Jeanita S; Shippy, Scott A

2009-02-01

A system is presented demonstrating the high-temporal resolution coupling of low-flow push-pull perfusion sampling (LFPS) to capillary electrophoresis for the absorbance measurement of ascorbate at the rat vitreoretinal interface. This system holds all separation components at a low pressure as the means for withdrawing sample during LFPS. The system uses a flow-gated interface to directly couple the withdrawal capillary from the LFPS probe to a separation capillary and eliminates the need for any offline sample handling. The temporal resolution of the system was limited by injection time and is less than 16 s. This high temporal resolution was applied to the monitoring of in vivo ascorbate levels at the rat vitreoretinal interface. Baseline concentrations of ascorbate were found to be 86 microM +/- 18 microM at the vitreoretinal interface. Baseline concentrations matched well with those obtained for the postmortem bulk vitreous analysis. Upon stimulation with 145 mM K(+), a maximum increase in baseline values between 32-107% for n = 3 was observed. This system demonstrates the first in vivo temporal study of ascorbate at the rat vitreoretinal interface.

Functionalization of SBA-15 mesoporous silica by Cu-phosphonate units: Probing of synthesis route

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

Laskowski, Lukasz, E-mail: lukasz.laskowski@kik.pcz.pl; Czestochowa University of Technology, Institute of Physics, Al. Armii Krajowej 19, 42-201 Czestochowa; Laskowska, Magdalena, E-mail: magdalena.laskowska@onet.pl

2014-12-15

Mesoporous silica SBA-15 containing propyl-copper phosphonate units was investigated. The structure of mesoporous samples was tested by N{sub 2} isothermal sorption (BET and BHJ analysis), TEM microscopy and X-Ray scattering. Quantitative analysis EDX has given information about proportions between component atoms in the sample. Quantitative elemental analysis has been carried out to support EDX. To examine bounding between copper atoms and phosphonic units the Raman spectroscopy was carried out. As a support of Raman scattering, the theoretical calculations were made based on density functional theory, with the B3LYP method. By comparison of the calculated vibrational spectra of the molecule withmore » experimental results, distribution of the active units inside silica matrix has been determined. - Graphical abstract: The present study is devoted to mesoporous silica SBA-15 containing propyl-copper phosphonate units. The species were investigated to confirm of synthesis procedure correctness by the micro-Raman technique combined with DFT numerical simulations. Complementary research was carried out to test the structure of mesoporous samples. - Highlights: • SBA-15 silica functionalized with propyl-copper phosphonate units was synthesized. • Synthesis efficiency probed by Raman study supported with DFT simulations. • Homogenous distribution of active units was proved. • Synthesis route enables precise control of distance between copper ions.« less

A method for the direct injection and analysis of small volume human blood spots and plasma extracts containing high concentrations of organic solvents using revered-phase 2D UPLC/MS.

PubMed

Rainville, Paul D; Simeone, Jennifer L; Root, Dan S; Mallet, Claude R; Wilson, Ian D; Plumb, Robert S

2015-03-21

The emergence of micro sampling techniques holds great potential to improve pharmacokinetic data quality, reduce animal usage, and save costs in safety assessment studies. The analysis of these samples presents new challenges for bioanalytical scientists, both in terms of sample processing and analytical sensitivity. The use of two dimensional LC/MS with, at-column-dilution for the direct analysis of highly organic extracts prepared from biological fluids such as dried blood spots and plasma is demonstrated. This technique negated the need to dry down and reconstitute, or dilute samples with water/aqueous buffer solutions, prior to injection onto a reversed-phase LC system. A mixture of model drugs, including bromhexine, triprolidine, enrofloxacin, and procaine were used to test the feasibility of the method. Finally an LC/MS assay for the probe pharmaceutical rosuvastatin was developed from dried blood spots and protein-precipitated plasma. The assays showed acceptable recovery, accuracy and precision according to US FDA guidelines. The resulting analytical method showed an increase in assay sensitivity of up to forty fold as compared to conventional methods by maximizing the amount loaded onto the system and the MS response for the probe pharmaceutical rosuvastatin from small volume samples.

A versatile technique for fabrication of SiC SPM probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Therrien, Joel; Schmidt, Daniel; Barrot, Sheetal; Patel, Bhavin

2008-03-01

To date SPM probes have largely been fabricated via methods borrowed from the semiconductor industry for fabricating Micro Electro Mechanical Systems. Although these techniques have enabled SPM to see widespread use, the processes put significant limitations on what structures can be made. We report our progress on fabricating SPM cantilevers composed of Silicon Carbide using polymer molding techniques. A pre-ceramic polymer is molded into the desired probe shape and then converted to SiC via pyrolisys. We will also report on progress in using photo-sterolithography for fabrication of even more complex geometries. In addition to opening up a much larger set of probe structures, the use of SiC leads to improved wear resistance of the resulting probes. Among the potential applications, this method enables the fabrication of low spring constant, high resonant frequency cantilevers via cross sectional geometries not accessible to standard fabrication techniques. Such probes are required for high speed tapping and non-contact imaging.

Instrumentation, Techniques, and Evaluation of ePTV for Particle Manipulation Studies Using Micro-Scale Oscillators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kafashi, Sajad

A need for dynamic micro-particle manipulation is the ability to position fragile particles without damaging them, for instance biological particles like blood cells, stem cells, neurons, pancreatic ? cells, DNA, chromosomes, for repeated measurement without altering their behavior. An oscillating fiber will induce vortices in a slurry of particles, subsequently the vortex force created by this oscillation attracts and traps the particles located at steady streaming micro-eddies. If multiple oscillatory fibers are placed inside the slurry, depending on frequency and timing of oscillation this method can be used for contact-free particle shepherding and sorting and for transporting particles from one location to another. Due to the complicated dynamics of particles traveling in the fluid and the presence of noise, and significant number of particles, attempts to use commercial PIV softwares to track individual particle paths could not discriminate real particles from noise interference. To enhance identification and tracking of individual particles a novel encoded-particle tracking velocimetry (ePTV) technique is developed in this dissertation work and used in the experiments to track the particle trajectories. An analytic model is developed to determine the number of lost particles due to the finite image size based on a calculation of the probability that imaged particles of a specific mean velocity or having a uniform velocity distribution and encoding pattern will exit the field of view. The encoded pulse technique has been implemented in experiments for which images containing 100-200 objects including encoded trajectories have been measured. Using the developed ePTV algorithm approximately 30 % of the identified objects were classified as an encoded particle trajectory. Two types of oscillation mechanism are used in the experimental component of this study, a PZT flexure-based macro-probe driven at frequencies around 250 Hz and higher frequency dynamic-absorber, quartz-based, micro-probes driven at frequencies around 32 kHz. Two models for predicting the frequency response of micro-scale oscillatory probes are developed in this dissertation. In these studies, the attached fibers were either 75 mum diameter tungsten or 7 mum diameter carbon with lengths ranging from around 1 to 15 mm. The oscillators used in these experiments were commercial 32.768 kHz quartz tuning forks. Theoretical predictions of the values of the natural frequencies for different vibration modes show an asymptotic relationship with the length and a linear relationship with the diameter of the attached fiber. Similar results are observed from experiment, one with a tungsten probe having an initial fiber length of 14.11 mm incrementally etched down to 0.83 mm, and another tungsten probe of length 8.16 mm incrementally etched in diameter, in both cases using chronocoulometry to determine incremental volumetric material removal. Of particular relevance is that, when a 'zero' is observed in the response of the tine, one mode of the fiber is matched to the tine frequency and is acting as an absorber. This represents an optimal condition for contact sensing and for transferring energy to the fiber for fluid mixing, touch sensing and surface modification applications. Consequently the parametric models developed in this dissertation can be utilized for designing probes of arbitrary sizes thereby eliminating the empirical trial and error previously used.

Micro/nano electro mechanical systems for practical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Esashi, Masayoshi

2009-09-01

Silicon MEMS as electrostatically levitated rotational gyroscope, 2D optical scanner and wafer level packaged devices as integrated capacitive pressure sensor and MEMS switch are described. MEMS which use non-silicon materials as diamond, PZT, conductive polymer, CNT (carbon nano tube), LTCC with electrical feedthrough, SiC (silicon carbide) and LiNbO3 for multi-probe data storage, multi-column electron beam lithography system, probe card for wafer-level burn-in test, mould for glass press moulding and SAW wireless passive sensor respectively are also described.

Mass Spectrometry for Planetary Probes: Past, Present and Future

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Niemann, Hasso B.; Harpold, Dan N.; Jamieson, Brian G.; Mahaffy, Paul R.

2005-01-01

Atmospheric entry probes present a unique opportunity for performing quantitative analysis of extra-terrestrial atmospheres in cases where remote sensing alone may not be sufficient and measurements with balloons or aircraft is not practical. An entry probe can provide a complete vertical profile of atmospheric parameters including chemical composition, which cannot be obtained with most other techniques. There are, however, unique challenges associated with building instruments for an entry probe, as compared to orbiters, landers, or rovers. Conditions during atmospheric entry are extreme, there are inherent time constraints due to the short duration of the experiment, and the instrument experiences rapid environmental changes in temperature and pressure as it descends. In addition, there are resource limitations, i.e. mass, power, size and bandwidth. Finally, the demands on the instrument design are determined in large part by conditions (pressure, temperature, composition) unique to the particular body under study, and as a result there is no one-size-fits-all instrument for an atmospheric probe. Many of these requirements can be more easily met by miniaturizing the probe instrument. Our experience building mass spectrometers for atmospheric entry probes leads us to believe that the time is right for a fundamental change in the way spaceflight mass spectrometers are built. The emergence over the past twenty years of Micro-electro- mechanical Systems (MEMS), utilizing lithographic semiconductor fabrication techniques to produce instrument systems in miniature, holds great promise for application to spaceflight mass spectrometry. A highly miniaturized, high performance and low-power mass spectrometer would be an enormous benefit to future entry probe missions, allowing, for example, parallel measurements (e.g., multiple simultaneous gas chromatographic analyses and direct atmospheric leaks.) Such an instrument would also enable mass spectrometry on board small multiple entry probes. In the development of a MEMS Mass Spectrometer, the challenge facing us is to move beyond the proof-of-concept, where research dollars tend to focus, and carry out the detailed work of developing a high performance mass spectrometer system on a chip which meets the unique technical requirements for an atmospheric entry probe described above.

Advanced electrical current measurements of microdischarges: evidence of sub-critical pulses and ion currents in barrier discharge in air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Synek, Petr; Zemánek, Miroslav; Kudrle, Vít; Hoder, Tomáš

2018-04-01

Electrical current measurements in corona or barrier microdischarges are a challenge as they require both high temporal resolution and a large dynamic range of the current probe used. In this article, we apply a simple self-assembled current probe and compare it to commercial ones. An analysis in the time and frequency domain is carried out. Moreover, an improved methodology is presented, enabling both temporal resolution in sub-nanosecond times and current sensitivity in the order of tens of micro-amperes. Combining this methodology with a high-tech oscilloscope and self-developed software, a unique statistical analysis of currents in volume barrier discharge driven in atmospheric-pressure air is made for over 80 consecutive periods of a 15 kHz applied voltage. We reveal the presence of repetitive sub-critical current pulses and conclude that these can be identified with the discharging of surface charge microdomains. Moreover, extremely low, long-lasting microsecond currents were detected which are caused by ion flow, and are analysed in detail. The statistical behaviour presented gives deeper insight into the discharge physics of these usually undetectable current signals.

Micro and nanotechnology for biological and biomedical applications.

PubMed

Lim, Chwee Teck; Han, Jongyoon; Guck, Jochen; Espinosa, Horacio

2010-10-01

This special issue contains some of the current state-of-the-art development and use of micro and nanotechnological tools, devices and techniques for both biological and biomedical research and applications. These include nanoparticles for bioimaging and biosensing, optical and biophotonic techniques for probing diseases at the nanoscale, micro and nano-fabricated tools for elucidating molecular mechanisms of mechanotransduction in cell and molecular biology and cell separation microdevices and techniques for isolating and enriching targeted cells for disease detection and diagnosis. Although some of these works are still at the research stage, there is no doubt that some of the important outcomes will eventually see actual biomedical applications in the not too distant future.

Micro-structured femtosecond laser assisted FBG hydrogen sensor.

PubMed

Karanja, Joseph Muna; Dai, Yutang; Zhou, Xian; Liu, Bin; Yang, Minghong

2015-11-30

We discuss hydrogen sensors based on fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) micro-machined by femtosecond laser to form microgrooves and sputtered with Pd/Ag composite film. The atomic ratio of the two metals is controlled at Pd:Ag = 3:1. At room temperature, the hydrogen sensitivity of the sensor probe micro-machined by 75 mW laser power and sputtered with 520 nm of Pd/Ag film is 16.5 pm/%H. Comparably, the standard FBG hydrogen sensitivity becomes 2.5 pm/%H towards the same 4% hydrogen concentration. At an ambient temperature of 35°C, the processed sensor head has a dramatic rise in hydrogen sensitivity. Besides, the sensor shows good response and repeatability during hydrogen concentration test.

Note: A portable Raman analyzer for microfluidic chips based on a dichroic beam splitter for integration of imaging and signal collection light paths

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

Geng, Yijia; Xu, Shuping; Xu, Weiqing, E-mail: xuwq@jlu.edu.cn

An integrated and portable Raman analyzer featuring an inverted probe fixed on a motor-driving adjustable optical module was designed for the combination of a microfluidic system. It possesses a micro-imaging function. The inverted configuration is advantageous to locate and focus microfluidic channels. Different from commercial micro-imaging Raman spectrometers using manual switchable light path, this analyzer adopts a dichroic beam splitter for both imaging and signal collection light paths, which avoids movable parts and improves the integration and stability of optics. Combined with surface-enhanced Raman scattering technique, this portable Raman micro-analyzer is promising as a powerful tool for microfluidic analytics.

Indentation-Enabled In Situ Mechanical Characterization of Micro/Nanopillars in Electron Microscopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Qiang; Fu, Xidan; Guo, Xiaolei; Liu, Zhiying; Shi, Yan; Zhang, Di

2018-04-01

Indentation-enabled micro/nanomechanical characterization of small-scale specimens provides powerful new tools for probing materials properties that were once unattainable by conventional experimental methods. Recent advancement in instrumentation further allows mechanical testing to be carried out in situ in electron microscopes, with high spatial and temporal resolution. This review discusses the recent development of nanoindentation-enabled in situ mechanical testing in electron microscopes, with an emphasis on the study of micro/nanopillars. Focus is given to novel applications beyond simple compressive and tensile testing that have been developed in the past few years, and limitations and possible future research directions in this field are proposed and discussed.

Micro Electron MicroProbe and Sample Analyzer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manohara, Harish; Bearman, Gregory; Douglas, Susanne; Bronikowski, Michael; Urgiles, Eduardo; Kowalczyk, Robert; Bryson, Charles

2009-01-01

A proposed, low-power, backpack-sized instrument, denoted the micro electron microprobe and sample analyzer (MEMSA), would serve as a means of rapidly performing high-resolution microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX) of soil, dust, and rock particles in the field. The MEMSA would be similar to an environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM) but would be much smaller and designed specifically for field use in studying effects of geological alteration at the micrometer scale. Like an ESEM, the MEMSA could be used to examine uncoated, electrically nonconductive specimens. In addition to the difference in size, other significant differences between the MEMSA and an ESEM lie in the mode of scanning and the nature of the electron source.

A high sensitivity MEA probe for measuring real time rat brain glucose flux.

PubMed

Wei, Wenjing; Song, Yilin; Shi, Wentao; Lin, Nansen; Jiang, Tingjun; Cai, Xinxia

2014-05-15

The mammalian central nervous system (CNS) relies on a constant supply of external glucose for its undisturbed operation. This article presents an implantable Multi-Electrode Array (MEA) probe for brain glucose measurement. The MEA was implemented on Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) wafer using Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems (MEMS) methods. There were 16 platinum recording sites on the probe and enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx) was immobilized on them. The glucose sensitivity of the MEA probe was as high as 489 µA mM(-1) cm(-2). 1,3-Phenylenediamine (mPD) was electropolymerized onto the Pt recording surfaces to prevent larger molecules such as ascorbic acid (AA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), serotonin (5-HT), and dopamine (DA) from reaching the recording sites surface. The MEA probe was implanted in the anesthetized rat striatum and responded to glucose levels which were altered by intraperitoneal injection of glucose and insulin. After the in vivo experiment, the MEA probe still kept sensitivity to glucose, these suggested that the MEA probe was reliable for glucose monitoring in brain extracellular fluid (ECF). © 2013 Published by Elsevier B.V.

Electrostatic forward-viewing scanning probe for Doppler optical coherence tomography using a dissipative polymer catheter.

PubMed

Munce, Nigel R; Mariampillai, Adrian; Standish, Beau A; Pop, Mihaela; Anderson, Kevan J; Liu, George Y; Luk, Tim; Courtney, Brian K; Wright, Graham A; Vitkin, I Alex; Yang, Victor X D

2008-04-01

A novel flexible scanning optical probe is constructed with a finely etched optical fiber strung through a platinum coil in the lumen of a dissipative polymer. The packaged probe is 2.2 mm in diameter with a rigid length of 6mm when using a ball lens or 12 mm when scanning the fiber proximal to a gradient-index (GRIN) lens. Driven by constant high voltage (1-3 kV) at low current (< 5 microA), the probe oscillates to provide wide forward-viewing angle (13 degrees and 33 degrees with ball and GRIN lens designs, respectively) and high-frame-rate (10-140 fps) operation. Motion of the probe tip is observed with a high-speed camera and compared with theory. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging with the probe is demonstrated with a wavelength-swept source laser. Images of an IR card as well as in vivo Doppler OCT images of a tadpole heart are presented. This optomechanical design offers a simple, inexpensive method to obtain a high-frame-rate forward-viewing scanning probe.

Splitting of magnetic dipole modes in anisotropic TiO 2 micro-spheres: Splitting of magnetic dipole modes in anisotropic TiO 2 micro-spheres

DOE PAGES

Khromova, Irina; Kužel, Petr; Brener, Igal; ...

2016-06-27

Monocrystalline titanium dioxide (TiO 2) micro-spheres support two orthogonal magnetic dipole modes at terahertz (THz) frequencies due to strong dielectric anisotropy. For the first time, we experimentally detected the splitting of the first Mie mode in spheres of radii inline imagem through near-field time-domain THz spectroscopy. By fitting the Fano lineshape model to the experimentally obtained spectra of the electric field detected by the sub-wavelength aperture probe, we found that the magnetic dipole resonances in TiO 2 spheres have narrow linewidths of only tens of gigahertz. Lastly, anisotropic TiO 2 micro-resonators can be used to enhance the interplay of magneticmore » and electric dipole resonances in the emerging THz all-dielectric metamaterial technology.« less

Molecular Imaging of Kerogen and Minerals in Shale Rocks across Micro- and Nano- Scales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hao, Z.; Bechtel, H.; Sannibale, F.; Kneafsey, T. J.; Gilbert, B.; Nico, P. S.

2016-12-01

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is a reliable and non-destructive quantitative method to evaluate mineralogy and kerogen content / maturity of shale rocks, although it is traditionally difficult to assess the organic and mineralogical heterogeneity at micrometer and nanometer scales due to the diffraction limit of the infrared light. However, it is truly at these scales that the kerogen and mineral content and their formation in share rocks determines the quality of shale gas reserve, the gas flow mechanisms and the gas production. Therefore, it's necessary to develop new approaches which can image across both micro- and nano- scales. In this presentation, we will describe two new molecular imaging approaches to obtain kerogen and mineral information in shale rocks at the unprecedented high spatial resolution, and a cross-scale quantitative multivariate analysis method to provide rapid geochemical characterization of large size samples. The two imaging approaches are enhanced at nearfield respectively by a Ge-hemisphere (GE) and by a metallic scanning probe (SINS). The GE method is a modified microscopic attenuated total reflectance (ATR) method which rapidly captures a chemical image of the shale rock surface at 1 to 5 micrometer resolution with a large field of view of 600 X 600 micrometer, while the SINS probes the surface at 20 nm resolution which provides a chemically "deconvoluted" map at the nano-pore level. The detailed geochemical distribution at nanoscale is then used to build a machine learning model to generate self-calibrated chemical distribution map at micrometer scale with the input of the GE images. A number of geochemical contents across these two important scales are observed and analyzed, including the minerals (oxides, carbonates, sulphides), the organics (carbohydrates, aromatics), and the absorbed gases. These approaches are self-calibrated, optics friendly and non-destructive, so they hold the potential to monitor shale gas flow at real time inside the micro- or nano- pore network, which is of great interest for optimizing the shale gas extraction.

MicroRNA networks in mouse lung organogenesis.

PubMed

Dong, Jie; Jiang, Guoqian; Asmann, Yan W; Tomaszek, Sandra; Jen, Jin; Kislinger, Thomas; Wigle, Dennis A

2010-05-26

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known to be important regulators of both organ development and tumorigenesis. MiRNA networks and their regulation of messenger RNA (mRNA) translation and protein expression in specific biological processes are poorly understood. We explored the dynamic regulation of miRNAs in mouse lung organogenesis. Comprehensive miRNA and mRNA profiling was performed encompassing all recognized stages of lung development beginning at embryonic day 12 and continuing to adulthood. We analyzed the expression patterns of dynamically regulated miRNAs and mRNAs using a number of statistical and computational approaches, and in an integrated manner with protein levels from an existing mass-spectrometry derived protein database for lung development. In total, 117 statistically significant miRNAs were dynamically regulated during mouse lung organogenesis and clustered into distinct temporal expression patterns. 11,220 mRNA probes were also shown to be dynamically regulated and clustered into distinct temporal expression patterns, with 3 major patterns accounting for 75% of all probes. 3,067 direct miRNA-mRNA correlation pairs were identified involving 37 miRNAs. Two defined correlation patterns were observed upon integration with protein data: 1) increased levels of specific miRNAs directly correlating with downregulation of predicted mRNA targets; and 2) increased levels of specific miRNAs directly correlating with downregulation of translated target proteins without detectable changes in mRNA levels. Of 1345 proteins analyzed, 55% appeared to be regulated in this manner with a direct correlation between miRNA and protein level, but without detectable change in mRNA levels. Systematic analysis of microRNA, mRNA, and protein levels over the time course of lung organogenesis demonstrates dynamic regulation and reveals 2 distinct patterns of miRNA-mRNA interaction. The translation of target proteins affected by miRNAs independent of changes in mRNA level appears to be a prominent mechanism of developmental regulation in lung organogenesis.

Recent advancements in nanoelectrodes and nanopipettes used in combined scanning electrochemical microscopy techniques.

PubMed

Kranz, Christine

2014-01-21

In recent years, major developments in scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) have significantly broadened the application range of this electroanalytical technique from high-resolution electrochemical imaging via nanoscale probes to large scale mapping using arrays of microelectrodes. A major driving force in advancing the SECM methodology is based on developing more sophisticated probes beyond conventional micro-disc electrodes usually based on noble metals or carbon microwires. This critical review focuses on the design and development of advanced electrochemical probes particularly enabling combinations of SECM with other analytical measurement techniques to provide information beyond exclusively measuring electrochemical sample properties. Consequently, this critical review will focus on recent progress and new developments towards multifunctional imaging.

Mace-like gold hollow hierarchical micro/nanostructures fabricated by co-effect of catalytic etching and electrodeposition and their SERS performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Haibao; Wang, Jingjing; Wang, Hua; Tian, Xingyou

2017-09-01

In this paper, we presented the fabrication of mace-like gold hollow hierarchical micro/nanostructures (HMNs) grafted on ZnO nanorods array by using an electrochemical deposition in chloroauric acid solution on gold layer pre-coated ZnO nanorods array. Different from general electrochemical deposition process, the catalytic etching to ZnO and electrodeposition of gold are co-existed in our case, which lead to an inner hollow structure and an outer gold shell. Due to the appropriate electrodeposition conditions, the outer gold shell was built of many wimble-like nanoparticles, and the hierarchical micro/nanostructures were thus formed. In addition, because of the deposition rate is decreased gradually away from the top of ZnO nanorods, the final structures show mace-like appearance. The surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect of the as-prepared gold hollow HMNs was further studied by using rhodamine 6G as probe molecule. It is demonstrated that these structures show ultrahigh SERS activity, and the detecting low limit of R6G solution can be to 10-10 M on single mace-like gold HMNs, which is quite important for their potential application in SERS-based surface analysis and sensors.

Characterization of microcracks by application of digital image correlation to SPM images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keller, Juergen; Gollhardt, Astrid; Vogel, Dietmar; Michel, Bernd

2004-07-01

With the development of micro- and nanotechnological products such as sensors, MEMS/NEMS and their broad application in a variety of market segments new reliability issues will arise. The increasing interface-to-volume ratio in highly integrated systems and nanoparticle filled materials and unsolved questions of size effect of nanomaterials are challenges for experimental reliability evaluation. To fulfill this needs the authors developed the nanoDAC method (nano Deformation Analysis by Correlation), which allows the determination and evaluation of 2D displacement fields based on scanning probe microscopy (SPM) data. In-situ SPM scans of the analyzed object are carried out at different thermo-mechanical load states. The obtained topography-, phase- or error-images are compared utilizing grayscale cross correlation algorithms. This allows the tracking of local image patterns of the analyzed surface structure. The measurement results of the nanoDAC method are full-field displacement and strain fields. Due to the application of SPM equipment deformations in the micro-, nanometer range can be easily detected. The method can be performed on bulk materials, thin films and on devices i.e microelectronic components, sensors or MEMS/NEMS. Furthermore, the characterization and evaluation of micro- and nanocracks or defects in bulk materials, thin layers and at material interfaces can be carried out.

Mitochondrial deenergization underlies neuronal calcium overload following a prolonged glutamate challenge.

PubMed

Khodorov, B; Pinelis, V; Vergun, O; Storozhevykh, T; Vinskaya, N

1996-11-18

The purpose of our work was to study the relationship between glutamate (GLU)-induced mitochondrial depolarization and deterioration of neuronal Ca2+ homeostasis following a prolonged GLU challenge. The experiments were performed on cultured rat cerebellar granule cells using the fluorescent probes, rhodamine 123 and fura-2. All the cells, in which 100 microM GLU (10 microM glycine, 0 Mg2+) induced only relatively slight mitochondrial depolarization (1.1-1.3-fold increase in rhodamine 123 fluorescence), retained their ability to recover [Ca2+]i following a prolonged GLU challenge. In contrast, the cells in which GLU treatment induced pronounced mitochondrial depolarization (2-4-fold increase in rhodamine 123 fluorescence), exhibited a high Ca2+ plateau in the post-glutamate period. Application of 3-5 mM NaCN or 0.25-1 microM FCCP during this Ca2+ plateau phase usually failed to produce a further noticeable increase in [Ca2+]i. Regression analysis revealed a good correlation (r2 = 0.88 +/- 0.03, n = 19) between the increase in the percentage of rhodamine 123 fluorescence and the post-glutamate [Ca2+]i. Collectively, the results obtained led us to conclude that the GLU-induced neuronal Ca2+ overload was due to the collapse of the mitochondrial potential and subsequent ATP depletion.

A hot-spot-active magnetic graphene oxide substrate for microRNA detection based on cascaded chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer.

PubMed

Bi, Sai; Chen, Min; Jia, Xiaoqiang; Dong, Ying

2015-02-28

Herein, a cascaded chemiluminescence resonance energy transfer (C-CRET) process was demonstrated from horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mimicking DNAzyme-catalyzed luminol-H2O2 to fluorescein and further to graphene oxide (GO) when HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein was in close proximity to the GO surface. The proposed C-CRET system was successfully implemented to construct three modes of C-CRET hot-spot-active substrates (modes I, II and III) by covalently immobilizing HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein-labeled hairpin DNAs (hot-spot-generation probes) on magnetic GO (MGO), resulting in a signal "off" state due to the quenching of the luminol/H2O2/HRP-mimicking DNAzyme/fluorescein CRET system by GO. Upon the introduction of microRNA-122 (miRNA-122), the targets (mode I) or the new triggers that were generated through a strand displacement reaction (SDR) initiated by miRNA-122 (modes II and III) hybridized with the loop domains of hairpin probes on MGO to form double-stranded (modes I and II) or triplex-stem structures (mode III), causing an "open" configuration of the hairpin probe and a CRET signal "on" state, thus achieving sensitive and selective detection of miRNA-122. More importantly, the substrate exhibited excellent controllability, reversibility and reproducibility through SDR and magnetic separation (modes II and III), especially sequence-independence for hairpin probes in mode III, holding great potential for the development of a versatile platform for optical biosensing.

Characterizing the performance of an affordable, multichannel conductivity probe for density measurements in stratified flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Subramanian, Balaji; Carminati, Marco; Luzzatto-Fegiz, Paolo

2017-11-01

In stratified flows, conductivity (combined with temperature) is often used to measure density. The conductivity probes typically used can resolve very fine spatial scales, but on the downside they are fragile, expensive, sensitive to environmental noise and have only single channel capability. Recently a low-cost, robust, arduino-based probe called Conduino was developed, which can be valuable in a wide range of applications where resolving extremely small spatial scales is not needed. This probe uses micro-USB connectors as actual conductivity sensors with a custom designed electronic board for simultaneous acquisition from multiple probes, with conductivity resolution comparable to commercially available PME conductivity probe. A detailed assessment of performance of this Conduino probe is described here. To establish time response and sensitivity as a function of electrode geometry, we build a variety of shapes for different kinds of applications, with tip spacing ranging from 0.5-2.5 mm, and with electrode length ranging from 2.3-6 mm. We set up a two-layer density profile and traverse it rapidly, yielding a time response comparable to PME. The Conduino's multi-channel capability is used to operate probe arrays, which helps to construct density fields in stratified flows.

A versatile rotary-stage high frequency probe station for studying magnetic films and devices

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

He, Shikun; Division of Physics and Applied Physics, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637371; Meng, Zhaoliang

We present a rotary-stage microwave probe station suitable for magnetic films and spintronic devices. Two stages, one for field rotation from parallel to perpendicular to the sample plane (out-of-plane) and the other intended for field rotation within the sample plane (in-plane) have been designed. The sample probes and micro-positioners are rotated simultaneously with the stages, which allows the field orientation to cover θ from 0{sup ∘} to 90{sup ∘} and φ from 0{sup ∘} to 360{sup ∘}. θ and φ being the angle between the direction of current flow and field in a out-of-plane and an in-plane rotation, respectively. Themore » operation frequency is up to 40 GHz and the magnetic field up to 1 T. The sample holder vision system and probe assembly are compactly designed for the probes to land on a wafer with diameter up to 3 cm. Using homemade multi-pin probes and commercially available high frequency probes, several applications including 4-probe DC measurements, the determination of domain wall velocity, and spin transfer torque ferromagnetic resonance are demonstrated.« less

Characterization of dopamine release in the substantia nigra by in vivo microdialysis in freely moving rats.

PubMed

Robertson, G S; Damsma, G; Fibiger, H C

1991-07-01

Dopamine (DA) is released not only from the terminals of the nigrostriatal projection, but also from the dendrites of these neurons, which arborize in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNR). Although striatal DA release has been extensively studied by in vivo microdialysis, dendritic DA release in the SNR has not been characterized by this technique. Extracellular DA was monitored simultaneously in the ipsilateral striatum and SNR. The nigral probe was implanted at a 50 degree angle, permitting 2.5 mm of SNR to be dialyzed. Delivery of the tracer Fluoro-Gold into the striatal probe retrogradely labeled tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cell bodies and dendrites in the vicinity of the nigral probe. Hence, it could be demonstrated that dopaminergic neurons near the nigral probe projected to the vicinity of the striatal probe. Addition of 50 mM KCl to the SNR perfusion solution produced a 3.5-fold increase in DA and a 50% reduction in dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) in the SNR; in contrast, this manipulation in the SNR caused DA release in the striatum to be decreased by 20%, while striatal DOPAC was increased by 50%. Local administration of nomifensine (10 microM) in the SNR produced a sevenfold increase in SNR DA but had no effect on striatal DA. Systemic injection of d-amphetamine (2 mg/kg, s.c.) elevated DA in the SNR and striatum five- to sevenfold, while DOPAC was decreased in both structures by at least 40%. To determine the effect of tetrodotoxin (TTX), basal concentrations of DA in the SNR were first elevated threefold by including nomifensine (1 microM) in the nigral perfusion solution.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Secure communications using nonlinear silicon photonic keys.

PubMed

Grubel, Brian C; Bosworth, Bryan T; Kossey, Michael R; Cooper, A Brinton; Foster, Mark A; Foster, Amy C

2018-02-19

We present a secure communication system constructed using pairs of nonlinear photonic physical unclonable functions (PUFs) that harness physical chaos in integrated silicon micro-cavities. Compared to a large, electronically stored one-time pad, our method provisions large amounts of information within the intrinsically complex nanostructure of the micro-cavities. By probing a micro-cavity with a rapid sequence of spectrally-encoded ultrafast optical pulses and measuring the lightwave responses, we experimentally demonstrate the ability to extract 2.4 Gb of key material from a single micro-cavity device. Subsequently, in a secure communication experiment with pairs of devices, we achieve bit error rates below 10 -5 at code rates of up to 0.1. The PUFs' responses are never transmitted over the channel or stored in digital memory, thus enhancing the security of the system. Additionally, the micro-cavity PUFs are extremely small, inexpensive, robust, and fully compatible with telecommunications infrastructure, components, and electronic fabrication. This approach can serve one-time pad or public key exchange applications where high security is required.

Materials and Manufacturing Technology Directorate Thermal Sciences and Materials Branch (Overview)

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

Molecular Mechanics for thermo-mechanical response Materials Characterization • CNT modified durable thermal interface ( DTI ) • MEMS-based RTD micro...stabilization. Surface Characterization by Atomic Force Microscopy: Probing Thermal, Electrical, and Mechanical Properties Heater Current Path Anchor Leg 50 µm

Real-time PCR based on SYBR-Green I fluorescence: an alternative to the TaqMan assay for a relative quantification of gene rearrangements, gene amplifications and micro gene deletions.

PubMed

Ponchel, Frederique; Toomes, Carmel; Bransfield, Kieran; Leong, Fong T; Douglas, Susan H; Field, Sarah L; Bell, Sandra M; Combaret, Valerie; Puisieux, Alain; Mighell, Alan J; Robinson, Philip A; Inglehearn, Chris F; Isaacs, John D; Markham, Alex F

2003-10-13

Real-time PCR is increasingly being adopted for RNA quantification and genetic analysis. At present the most popular real-time PCR assay is based on the hybridisation of a dual-labelled probe to the PCR product, and the development of a signal by loss of fluorescence quenching as PCR degrades the probe. Though this so-called 'TaqMan' approach has proved easy to optimise in practice, the dual-labelled probes are relatively expensive. We have designed a new assay based on SYBR-Green I binding that is quick, reliable, easily optimised and compares well with the published assay. Here we demonstrate its general applicability by measuring copy number in three different genetic contexts; the quantification of a gene rearrangement (T-cell receptor excision circles (TREC) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells); the detection and quantification of GLI, MYC-C and MYC-N gene amplification in cell lines and cancer biopsies; and detection of deletions in the OPA1 gene in dominant optic atrophy. Our assay has important clinical applications, providing accurate diagnostic results in less time, from less biopsy material and at less cost than assays currently employed such as FISH or Southern blotting.

Control of Metastatic Progression by microRNA Regulatory Networks

PubMed Central

Pencheva, Nora; Tavazoie, Sohail F.

2015-01-01

Aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expression is a defining feature of human malignancy. Specific miRNAs have been identified as promoters or suppressors of metastatic progression. These miRNAs control metastasis through divergent or convergent regulation of metastatic gene pathways. Some miRNA regulatory networks govern cell-autonomous cancer phenotypes, while others modulate the cell-extrinsic composition of the metastatic microenvironment. The use of small RNAs as probes into the molecular and cellular underpinnings of metastasis holds promise for the identification of candidate genes for potential therapeutic intervention. PMID:23728460

Measurement of pH micro-heterogeneity in natural cheese matrices by fluorescence lifetime imaging

PubMed Central

Burdikova, Zuzana; Svindrych, Zdenek; Pala, Jan; Hickey, Cian D.; Wilkinson, Martin G.; Panek, Jiri; Auty, Mark A. E.; Periasamy, Ammasi; Sheehan, Jeremiah J.

2015-01-01

Cheese, a product of microbial fermentation may be defined as a protein matrix entrapping fat, moisture, minerals and solutes as well as dispersed bacterial colonies. The growth and physiology of bacterial cells in these colonies may be influenced by the microenvironment around the colony, or alternatively the cells within the colony may modify the microenvironment (e.g., pH, redox potential) due to their metabolic activity. While cheese pH may be measured at macro level there remains a significant knowledge gap relating to the degree of micro-heterogeneity of pH within the cheese matrix and its relationship with microbial, enzymatic and physiochemical parameters and ultimately with cheese quality, consistency and ripening patterns. The pH of cheese samples was monitored both at macroscopic scale and at microscopic scale, using a non-destructive microscopic technique employing C-SNARF-4 and Oregon Green 488 fluorescent probes. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the suitability of these dyes for microscale pH measurements in natural cheese matrices and to enhance the sensitivity and extend the useful pH range of these probes using fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM). In particular, fluorescence lifetime of Oregon Green 488 proved to be sensitive probe to map pH micro heterogeneity within cheese matrices. Good agreement was observed between macroscopic scale pH measurement by FLIM and by traditional pH methods, but in addition considerable localized microheterogeneity in pH was evident within the curd matrix with pH range between 4.0 and 5.5. This technique provides significant potential to further investigate the relationship between cheese matrix physico-chemistry and bacterial metabolism during cheese manufacture and ripening. PMID:25798136

Measurement of pH micro-heterogeneity in natural cheese matrices by fluorescence lifetime imaging.

PubMed

Burdikova, Zuzana; Svindrych, Zdenek; Pala, Jan; Hickey, Cian D; Wilkinson, Martin G; Panek, Jiri; Auty, Mark A E; Periasamy, Ammasi; Sheehan, Jeremiah J

2015-01-01

Cheese, a product of microbial fermentation may be defined as a protein matrix entrapping fat, moisture, minerals and solutes as well as dispersed bacterial colonies. The growth and physiology of bacterial cells in these colonies may be influenced by the microenvironment around the colony, or alternatively the cells within the colony may modify the microenvironment (e.g., pH, redox potential) due to their metabolic activity. While cheese pH may be measured at macro level there remains a significant knowledge gap relating to the degree of micro-heterogeneity of pH within the cheese matrix and its relationship with microbial, enzymatic and physiochemical parameters and ultimately with cheese quality, consistency and ripening patterns. The pH of cheese samples was monitored both at macroscopic scale and at microscopic scale, using a non-destructive microscopic technique employing C-SNARF-4 and Oregon Green 488 fluorescent probes. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the suitability of these dyes for microscale pH measurements in natural cheese matrices and to enhance the sensitivity and extend the useful pH range of these probes using fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM). In particular, fluorescence lifetime of Oregon Green 488 proved to be sensitive probe to map pH micro heterogeneity within cheese matrices. Good agreement was observed between macroscopic scale pH measurement by FLIM and by traditional pH methods, but in addition considerable localized microheterogeneity in pH was evident within the curd matrix with pH range between 4.0 and 5.5. This technique provides significant potential to further investigate the relationship between cheese matrix physico-chemistry and bacterial metabolism during cheese manufacture and ripening.

Response properties of the refractory auditory nerve fiber.

PubMed

Miller, C A; Abbas, P J; Robinson, B K

2001-09-01

The refractory characteristics of auditory nerve fibers limit their ability to accurately encode temporal information. Therefore, they are relevant to the design of cochlear prostheses. It is also possible that the refractory property could be exploited by prosthetic devices to improve information transfer, as refractoriness may enhance the nerve's stochastic properties. Furthermore, refractory data are needed for the development of accurate computational models of auditory nerve fibers. We applied a two-pulse forward-masking paradigm to a feline model of the human auditory nerve to assess refractory properties of single fibers. Each fiber was driven to refractoriness by a single (masker) current pulse delivered intracochlearly. Properties of firing efficiency, latency, jitter, spike amplitude, and relative spread (a measure of dynamic range and stochasticity) were examined by exciting fibers with a second (probe) pulse and systematically varying the masker-probe interval (MPI). Responses to monophasic cathodic current pulses were analyzed. We estimated the mean absolute refractory period to be about 330 micros and the mean recovery time constant to be about 410 micros. A significant proportion of fibers (13 of 34) responded to the probe pulse with MPIs as short as 500 micros. Spike amplitude decreased with decreasing MPI, a finding relevant to the development of computational nerve-fiber models, interpretation of gross evoked potentials, and models of more central neural processing. A small mean decrement in spike jitter was noted at small MPI values. Some trends (such as spike latency-vs-MPI) varied across fibers, suggesting that sites of excitation varied across fibers. Relative spread was found to increase with decreasing MPI values, providing direct evidence that stochastic properties of fibers are altered under conditions of refractoriness.

Quasi-static incremental behavior of granular materials: Elastic-plastic coupling and micro-scale dissipation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuhn, Matthew R.; Daouadji, Ali

2018-05-01

The paper addresses a common assumption of elastoplastic modeling: that the recoverable, elastic strain increment is unaffected by alterations of the elastic moduli that accompany loading. This assumption is found to be false for a granular material, and discrete element (DEM) simulations demonstrate that granular materials are coupled materials at both micro- and macro-scales. Elasto-plastic coupling at the macro-scale is placed in the context of thermomechanics framework of Tomasz Hueckel and Hans Ziegler, in which the elastic moduli are altered by irreversible processes during loading. This complex behavior is explored for multi-directional loading probes that follow an initial monotonic loading. An advanced DEM model is used in the study, with non-convex non-spherical particles and two different contact models: a conventional linear-frictional model and an exact implementation of the Hertz-like Cattaneo-Mindlin model. Orthotropic true-triaxial probes were used in the study (i.e., no direct shear strain), with tiny strain increments of 2 ×10-6 . At the micro-scale, contact movements were monitored during small increments of loading and load-reversal, and results show that these movements are not reversed by a reversal of strain direction, and some contacts that were sliding during a loading increment continue to slide during reversal. The probes show that the coupled part of a strain increment, the difference between the recoverable (elastic) increment and its reversible part, must be considered when partitioning strain increments into elastic and plastic parts. Small increments of irreversible (and plastic) strain and contact slipping and frictional dissipation occur for all directions of loading, and an elastic domain, if it exists at all, is smaller than the strain increment used in the simulations.

Micro-Electromechanical Affinity Sensor for the Monitoring of Glucose in Bioprocess Media

PubMed Central

Theuer, Lorenz; Lehmann, Micha; Junne, Stefan; Neubauer, Peter; Birkholz, Mario

2017-01-01

An affinity-viscometry-based micro-sensor probe for continuous glucose monitoring was investigated with respect to its suitability for bioprocesses. The sensor operates with glucose and dextran competing as binding partner for concanavalin A, while the viscosity of the assay scales with glucose concentration. Changes in viscosity are determined with a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) in the measurement cavity of the sensor probe. The study aimed to elucidate the interactions between the assay and a typical phosphate buffered bacterial cultivation medium. It turned out that contact with the medium resulted in a significant long-lasting drift of the assay’s viscosity at zero glucose concentration. Adding glucose to the medium lowers the drift by a factor of eight. The cglc values measured off-line with the glucose sensor for monitoring of a bacterial cultivation were similar to the measurements with an enzymatic assay with a difference of less than ±0.15 g·L−1. We propose that lectin agglomeration, the electro-viscous effect, and constitutional changes of concanavalin A due to exchanges of the incorporated metal ions may account for the observed viscosity increase. The study has demonstrated the potential of the MEMS sensor to determine sensitive viscosity changes within very small sample volumes, which could be of interest for various biotechnological applications. PMID:28594350

Ultra-bright γ-ray flashes and dense attosecond positron bunches from two counter-propagating laser pulses irradiating a micro-wire target.

PubMed

Li, Han-Zhen; Yu, Tong-Pu; Hu, Li-Xiang; Yin, Yan; Zou, De-Bin; Liu, Jian-Xun; Wang, Wei-Quan; Hu, Shun; Shao, Fu-Qiu

2017-09-04

We propose a novel scheme to generate ultra-bright ultra-short γ-ray flashes and high-energy-density attosecond positron bunches by using multi-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations with quantum electrodynamics effects incorporated. By irradiating a 10 PW laser pulse with an intensity of 10 23 W/cm 2 onto a micro-wire target, surface electrons are dragged-out of the micro-wire and are effectively accelerated to several GeV energies by the laser ponderomotive force, forming relativistic attosecond electron bunches. When these electrons interact with the probe pulse from the other side, ultra-short γ-ray flashes are emitted with an ultra-high peak brightness of 1.8 × 10 24 photons s -1 mm -2 mrad -2 per 0.1%BW at 24 MeV. These photons propagate with a low divergence and collide with the probe pulse, triggering the Breit-Wheeler process. Dense attosecond e - e + pair bunches are produced with the positron energy density as high as 10 17 J/m 3 and number of 10 9 . Such ultra-bright ultra-short γ-ray flashes and secondary positron beams may have potential applications in fundamental physics, high-energy-density physics, applied science and laboratory astrophysics.

Autonomous assembly of ordered metastable DNA nanoarchitecture and in situ visualizing of intracellular microRNAs.

PubMed

Xu, Jianguo; Wu, Zai-Sheng; Wang, Zhenmeng; Le, Jingqing; Zheng, Tingting; Jia, Lee

2017-03-01

Facile assembly of intelligent DNA nanoobjects with the ability to exert in situ visualization of intracellular microRNAs (miRNAs) has long been concerned in the fields of DNA nanotechnology and basic medical study. Here, we present a driving primer (DP)-triggered polymerization-mediated metastable assembly (PMA) strategy to prepare a well-ordered metastable DNA nanoarchitecture composed of only two hairpin probes (HAPs), which has never been explored by assembly methods. Its structural features and functions are characterized by atomic force microscope (AFM) and gel electrophoresis. Even if with a metastable molecular structure, this nanoarchitecture is relatively stable at physiological temperature. The assembly strategy can be expanded to execute microRNA-21 (miRNA-21) in situ imaging inside cancer cells by labelling one of the HAPs with fluorophore and quencher. Compared with the conventional fluorescence probe-based in situ hybridization (FISH) technique, confocal images revealed that the proposed DNA nanoassembly can not only achieve greatly enhanced imaging effect within cancer cells, but also reflect the miRNA-21 expression level sensitively. We believe that the easily constructed DNA nanoarchitecture and in situ profiling strategy are significant progresses in DNA assembly and molecule imaging in cells. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nanoscale elasticity mappings of micro-constituents of abalone shell by band excitation-contact resonance force microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Tao; Zeng, Kaiyang

2014-01-01

The macroscopic mechanical properties of the abalone shell have been studied extensively in the literature, but the in situ nanoscale elasticity of various micro-constituents in the shell have not been characterized and reported yet. In this study, the nanoscale elasticity mappings including different micro-constituents in abalone shell were observed by using the Contact Resonance Force Microscopy (CR-FM) technique. CR-FM is one of the advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques that is able to quantify the local elastic moduli of various materials in a non-destructive manner. Instead of an average value, an elasticity mapping that reveals the nanoscale variations of elastic moduli with location can be extracted and correlated with the topography of the structure. Therefore in this study, by adopting the CR-FM technique that is incorporated with the band excitation technique, the elasticity variations of the abalone shell caused by different micro-constituents and crystal orientations are reported, and the elasticity values of the aragonite and calcite nanograins are quantified.The macroscopic mechanical properties of the abalone shell have been studied extensively in the literature, but the in situ nanoscale elasticity of various micro-constituents in the shell have not been characterized and reported yet. In this study, the nanoscale elasticity mappings including different micro-constituents in abalone shell were observed by using the Contact Resonance Force Microscopy (CR-FM) technique. CR-FM is one of the advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques that is able to quantify the local elastic moduli of various materials in a non-destructive manner. Instead of an average value, an elasticity mapping that reveals the nanoscale variations of elastic moduli with location can be extracted and correlated with the topography of the structure. Therefore in this study, by adopting the CR-FM technique that is incorporated with the band excitation technique, the elasticity variations of the abalone shell caused by different micro-constituents and crystal orientations are reported, and the elasticity values of the aragonite and calcite nanograins are quantified. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c3nr05292c

Pressure sensing of Fabry-Perot interferometer with a microchannel demodulated by a FBG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Yongqin; Chen, Xue; Huang, Quandong; Du, Chenlin; Ruan, Shuangchen

2015-07-01

A novel and compact fiber-probe pressure sensor was demonstrated based on micro Fabry-Perot interferometer (FPI). The device was fabricated by splicing both ends of a short section simplified hollow-core photonic crystal fiber (SHCPCF) with single mode fibers (SMFs), and then a micro channel was drilled by femtosecond laser micromachining in the SHC-PCF to significantly enhance the pressure sensitivity. The pressure sensing characteristics based on micro-FPI have been investigated by measuring the signals through the demodulation of phase since the external signal imposing on the interferometer will induce the phase change of interference signal. Then a FBG was cascaded to demodulate the signal. A micro FPI demonstrates a maximum pressure sensitivity of 32 dB/MPa, while a low temperature cross-sensitivity of 0.27 KPa/°C. Hence it may have potential for pressure applications in harsh environment.

Probing dynamics of micro-magnets with multi-mode superconducting resonator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golovchanskiy, I. A.; Abramov, N. N.; Stolyarov, V. S.; Shchetinin, I. V.; Dzhumaev, P. S.; Averkin, A. S.; Kozlov, S. N.; Golubov, A. A.; Ryazanov, V. V.; Ustinov, A. V.

2018-05-01

In this work, we propose and explore a sensitive technique for investigation of ferromagnetic resonance and corresponding magnetic properties of individual micro-scaled and/or weak ferromagnetic samples. The technique is based on coupling the investigated sample to a high-Q transmission line superconducting resonator, where the response of the sample is studied at eigen frequencies of the resonator. The high quality factor of the resonator enables sensitive detection of weak absorption losses at multiple frequencies of the ferromagnetic resonance. Studying the microwave response of individual micro-scaled permalloy rectangles, we have confirmed the superiority of fluxometric demagnetizing factor over the commonly accepted magnetometric one and have depicted the demagnetization of the sample, as well as magnetostatic standing wave resonance.

Reflection-mode micro-spherical fiber-optic probes for in vitro real-time and single-cell level pH sensing.

PubMed

Yang, Qingbo; Wang, Hanzheng; Lan, Xinwei; Cheng, Baokai; Chen, Sisi; Shi, Honglan; Xiao, Hai; Ma, Yinfa

2015-02-01

pH sensing at the single-cell level without negatively affecting living cells is very important but still a remaining issue in the biomedical studies. A 70 μm reflection-mode fiber-optic micro-pH sensor was designed and fabricated by dip-coating thin layer of organically modified aerogel onto a tapered spherical probe head. A pH sensitive fluorescent dye 2', 7'-Bis (2-carbonylethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) was employed and covalently bonded within the aerogel networks. By tuning the alkoxide mixing ratio and adjusting hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) priming procedure, the sensor can be optimized to have high stability and pH sensing ability. The in vitro real-time sensing capability was then demonstrated in a simple spectroscopic way, and showed linear measurement responses with a pH resolution up to an average of 0.049 pH unit within a narrow, but biological meaningful pH range of 6.12-7.81. Its novel characterizations of high spatial resolution, reflection mode operation, fast response and high stability, great linear response within biological meaningful pH range and high pH resolutions, make this novel pH probe a very cost-effective tool for chemical/biological sensing, especially within the single cell level research field.

Micro-drive and headgear for chronic implant and recovery of optoelectronic probes.

PubMed

Chung, Jinho; Sharif, Farnaz; Jung, Dajung; Kim, Soyoun; Royer, Sebastien

2017-06-05

Silicon probes are multisite electrodes used for the electrophysiological recording of large neuronal ensembles. Optoelectronic probes (OEPs) are recent upgrades that allow, in parallel, the delivery of local optical stimuli. The procedures to use these delicate electrodes for chronic experiments in mice are still underdeveloped and typically assume one-time uses. Here, we developed a micro-drive, a support for OEPs optical fibers, and a hat enclosure, which fabrications consist in fitting and fastening together plastic parts made with 3D printers. Excluding two parts, all components and electrodes are relatively simple to recover after the experiments, via the loosening of screws. To prevent the plugging of OEPs laser sources from altering the stability of recordings, the OEPs fibers can be transiently anchored to the hat via the tightening of screws. We test the stability of recordings in the mouse hippocampus under three different conditions: acute head-fixed, chronic head-fixed, and chronic freely moving. Drift in spike waveforms is significantly smaller in chronic compared to acute conditions, with the plugging/unplugging of head-stage and fiber connectors not affecting much the recording stability. Overall, these tools generate stable recordings of place cell in chronic conditions, and make the recovery and reuse of electrode packages relatively simple.

Reflection-mode micro-spherical fiber-optic probes for in vitro real-time and single-cell level pH sensing

PubMed Central

Yang, Qingbo; Wang, Hanzheng; Lan, Xinwei; Cheng, Baokai; Chen, Sisi; Shi, Honglan; Xiao, Hai; Ma, Yinfa

2014-01-01

pH sensing at the single-cell level without negatively affecting living cells is very important but still a remaining issue in the biomedical studies. A 70 μm reflection-mode fiber-optic micro-pH sensor was designed and fabricated by dip-coating thin layer of organically modified aerogel onto a tapered spherical probe head. A pH sensitive fluorescent dye 2′, 7′-Bis (2-carbonylethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF) was employed and covalently bonded within the aerogel networks. By tuning the alkoxide mixing ratio and adjusting hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) priming procedure, the sensor can be optimized to have high stability and pH sensing ability. The in vitro real-time sensing capability was then demonstrated in a simple spectroscopic way, and showed linear measurement responses with a pH resolution up to an average of 0.049 pH unit within a narrow, but biological meaningful pH range of 6.12–7.81. Its novel characterizations of high spatial resolution, reflection mode operation, fast response and high stability, great linear response within biological meaningful pH range and high pH resolutions, make this novel pH probe a very cost-effective tool for chemical/biological sensing, especially within the single cell level research field. PMID:25530670

[Microinjection Monitoring System Design Applied to MRI Scanning].

PubMed

Xu, Yongfeng

2017-09-30

A microinjection monitoring system applied to the MRI scanning was introduced. The micro camera probe was used to stretch into the main magnet for real-time video injection monitoring of injection tube terminal. The programming based on LabVIEW was created to analysis and process the real-time video information. The feedback signal was used for intelligent controlling of the modified injection pump. The real-time monitoring system can make the best use of injection under the condition that the injection device was away from the sample which inside the magnetic room and unvisible. 9.4 T MRI scanning experiment showed that the system in ultra-high field can work stability and doesn't affect the MRI scans.

A Simple Device for Lens-to-Sample Distance Adjustment in Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS).

PubMed

Cortez, Juliana; Farias Filho, Benedito B; Fontes, Laiane M; Pasquini, Celio; Raimundo, Ivo M; Pimentel, Maria Fernanda; de Souza Lins Borba, Flávia

2017-04-01

A simple device based on two commercial laser pointers is described to assist in the analysis of samples that present uneven surfaces and/or irregular shapes using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The device allows for easy positioning of the sample surface at a reproducible distance from the focusing lens that conveys the laser pulse to generate the micro-plasma in a LIBS system, with reproducibility better than ±0.2 mm. In this way, fluctuations in the fluence (J cm -2 ) are minimized and the LIBS analytical signals can be obtained with a better precision even when samples with irregular surfaces are probed.

Combining µXANES and µXRD mapping to analyse the heterogeneity in calcium carbonate granules excreted by the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris

PubMed Central

Brinza, Loredana; Schofield, Paul F.; Hodson, Mark E.; Weller, Sophie; Ignatyev, Konstantin; Geraki, Kalotina; Quinn, Paul D.; Mosselmans, J. Frederick W.

2014-01-01

The use of fluorescence full spectral micro-X-ray absorption near-edge structure (µXANES) mapping is becoming more widespread in the hard energy regime. This experimental method using the Ca K-edge combined with micro-X-ray diffraction (µXRD) mapping of the same sample has been enabled on beamline I18 at Diamond Light Source. This combined approach has been used to probe both long- and short-range order in calcium carbonate granules produced by the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris. In granules produced by earthworms cultured in a control artificial soil, calcite and vaterite are observed in the granules. However, granules produced by earthworms cultivated in the same artificial soil amended with 500 p.p.m. Mg also contain an aragonite. The two techniques, µXRD and µXANES, probe different sample volumes but there is good agreement in the phase maps produced. PMID:24365942

Biomedical device prototype based on small scale hydrodynamic cavitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghorbani, Morteza; Sozer, Canberk; Alcan, Gokhan; Unel, Mustafa; Ekici, Sinan; Uvet, Huseyin; Koşar, Ali

2018-03-01

This study presents a biomedical device prototype based on small scale hydrodynamic cavitation. The application of small scale hydrodynamic cavitation and its integration to a biomedical device prototype is offered as an important alternative to other techniques, such as ultrasound therapy, and thus constitutes a local, cheap, and energy-efficient solution, for urinary stone therapy and abnormal tissue ablation (e.g., benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)). The destructive nature of bubbly, cavitating, flows was exploited, and the potential of the prototype was assessed and characterized. Bubbles generated in a small flow restrictive element (micro-orifice) based on hydrodynamic cavitation were utilized for this purpose. The small bubbly, cavitating, flow generator (micro-orifice) was fitted to a small flexible probe, which was actuated with a micromanipulator using fine control. This probe also houses an imaging device for visualization so that the emerging cavitating flow could be locally targeted to the desired spot. In this study, the feasibility of this alternative treatment method and its integration to a device prototype were successfully accomplished.

Live-Cell MicroRNA Imaging through MnO2 Nanosheet-Mediated DD-A Hybridization Chain Reaction.

PubMed

Ou, Min; Huang, Jin; Yang, Xiaohai; He, Xiaoxiao; Quan, Ke; Yang, Yanjing; Xie, Nuli; Li, Jing; Wang, Kemin

2018-01-18

Innovative techniques to visualize native microRNAs (miRNAs) in live cells can dramatically impact current research on the roles of miRNA in biology and medicine. Here, we report a novel approach for live-cell miRNA imaging using a biodegradable MnO 2 nanosheet-mediated DD-A FRET hybridization chain reaction (HCR). The MnO 2 nanosheets can adsorb DNA hairpin probes and deliver them into live cells. After entering cells, the MnO 2 nanosheets are degraded by cellular GSH. Then, the target miR-21 triggers cascaded assembly of the liberated hairpin probes into long dsDNA polymers, which brings each two FAMs (donor) and one TAMRA (acceptor) into close proximity to generate significantly enhanced DD-A FRET signals, which was discovered and proven by our previous report. We think the developed approach can serve as an excellent intracellular miRNAs detection tool, which promises the potential for biological and disease studies. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Measurement of droplet size distribution in core region of high-speed spray by micro-probe L2F

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakaguchi, Daisaku; Le Amida, Oluwo; Ueki, Hironobu; Ishida, Masahiro

2008-03-01

In order to investigate the distribution of droplet sizes in the core region of diesel fuel spray, instantaneous measurement of droplet sizes was conducted by an advanced laser 2-focus velocimeter (L2F). The micro-scale probe of the L2F is made up of two foci and the distance between them is 36 µm. The tested nozzle had a 0.2 mm diameter single-hole. The measurements of injection pressure, needle lift, and crank angle were synchronized with the measurement by the L2F at the position 10 mm downstream from the nozzle exit. It is clearly shown that the droplet near the spray axis is larger than that in the off-axis region under the needle full lift condition and that the spatial distribution of droplet sizes varies temporally. It is found that the probability density distribution of droplet sizes in the spray core region can be fitted to the Nukiyama-Tanasawa distribution in most injection periods.

Optical Oxygen Micro- and Nanosensors for Plant Applications

PubMed Central

Ast, Cindy; Schmälzlin, Elmar; Löhmannsröben, Hans-Gerd; van Dongen, Joost T.

2012-01-01

Pioneered by Clark's microelectrode more than half a century ago, there has been substantial interest in developing new, miniaturized optical methods to detect molecular oxygen inside cells. While extensively used for animal tissue measurements, applications of intracellular optical oxygen biosensors are still scarce in plant science. A critical aspect is the strong autofluorescence of the green plant tissue that interferes with optical signals of commonly used oxygen probes. A recently developed dual-frequency phase modulation technique can overcome this limitation, offering new perspectives for plant research. This review gives an overview on the latest optical sensing techniques and methods based on phosphorescence quenching in diverse tissues and discusses the potential pitfalls for applications in plants. The most promising oxygen sensitive probes are reviewed plus different oxygen sensing structures ranging from micro-optodes to soluble nanoparticles. Moreover, the applicability of using heterologously expressed oxygen binding proteins and fluorescent proteins to determine changes in the cellular oxygen concentration are discussed as potential non-invasive cellular oxygen reporters. PMID:22969334

High-throughput platform assay technology for the discovery of pre-microrna-selective small molecule probes.

PubMed

Lorenz, Daniel A; Song, James M; Garner, Amanda L

2015-01-21

MicroRNAs (miRNA) play critical roles in human development and disease. As such, the targeting of miRNAs is considered attractive as a novel therapeutic strategy. A major bottleneck toward this goal, however, has been the identification of small molecule probes that are specific for select RNAs and methods that will facilitate such discovery efforts. Using pre-microRNAs as proof-of-concept, herein we report a conceptually new and innovative approach for assaying RNA-small molecule interactions. Through this platform assay technology, which we term catalytic enzyme-linked click chemistry assay or cat-ELCCA, we have designed a method that can be implemented in high throughput, is virtually free of false readouts, and is general for all nucleic acids. Through cat-ELCCA, we envision the discovery of selective small molecule ligands for disease-relevant miRNAs to promote the field of RNA-targeted drug discovery and further our understanding of the role of miRNAs in cellular biology.

Recent advancements in chemical luminescence-based lab-on-chip and microfluidic platforms for bioanalysis.

PubMed

Mirasoli, Mara; Guardigli, Massimo; Michelini, Elisa; Roda, Aldo

2014-01-01

Miniaturization of analytical procedures through microchips, lab-on-a-chip or micro total analysis systems is one of the most recent trends in chemical and biological analysis. These systems are designed to perform all the steps in an analytical procedure, with the advantages of low sample and reagent consumption, fast analysis, reduced costs, possibility of extra-laboratory application. A range of detection technologies have been employed in miniaturized analytical systems, but most applications relied on fluorescence and electrochemical detection. Chemical luminescence (which includes chemiluminescence, bioluminescence, and electrogenerated chemiluminescence) represents an alternative detection principle that offered comparable (or better) analytical performance and easier implementation in miniaturized analytical devices. Nevertheless, chemical luminescence-based ones represents only a small fraction of the microfluidic devices reported in the literature, and until now no review has been focused on these devices. Here we review the most relevant applications (since 2009) of miniaturized analytical devices based on chemical luminescence detection. After a brief overview of the main chemical luminescence systems and of the recent technological advancements regarding their implementation in miniaturized analytical devices, analytical applications are reviewed according to the nature of the device (microfluidic chips, microchip electrophoresis, lateral flow- and paper-based devices) and the type of application (micro-flow injection assays, enzyme assays, immunoassays, gene probe hybridization assays, cell assays, whole-cell biosensors). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multifunctional Poly(L-lactide)-Polyethylene Glycol-Grafted Graphene Quantum Dots for Intracellular MicroRNA Imaging and Combined Specific-Gene-Targeting Agents Delivery for Improved Therapeutics.

PubMed

Dong, Haifeng; Dai, Wenhao; Ju, Huangxian; Lu, Huiting; Wang, Shiyan; Xu, Liping; Zhou, Shu-Feng; Zhang, Yue; Zhang, Xueji

2015-05-27

Photoluminescent (PL) graphene quantum dots (GQDs) with large surface area and superior mechanical flexibility exhibit fascinating optical and electronic properties and possess great promising applications in biomedical engineering. Here, a multifunctional nanocomposite of poly(l-lactide) (PLA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-grafted GQDs (f-GQDs) was proposed for simultaneous intracellular microRNAs (miRNAs) imaging analysis and combined gene delivery for enhanced therapeutic efficiency. The functionalization of GQDs with PEG and PLA imparts the nanocomposite with super physiological stability and stable photoluminescence over a broad pH range, which is vital for cell imaging. Cell experiments demonstrate the f-GQDs excellent biocompatibility, lower cytotoxicity, and protective properties. Using the HeLa cell as a model, we found the f-GQDs effectively delivered a miRNA probe for intracellular miRNA imaging analysis and regulation. Notably, the large surface of GQDs was capable of simultaneous adsorption of agents targeting miRNA-21 and survivin, respectively. The combined conjugation of miRNA-21-targeting and survivin-targeting agents induced better inhibition of cancer cell growth and more apoptosis of cancer cells, compared with conjugation of agents targeting miRNA-21 or survivin alone. These findings highlight the promise of the highly versatile multifunctional nanocomposite in biomedical application of intracellular molecules analysis and clinical gene therapeutics.

Highly-sensitive microRNA detection based on bio-bar-code assay and catalytic hairpin assembly two-stage amplification.

PubMed

Tang, Songsong; Gu, Yuan; Lu, Huiting; Dong, Haifeng; Zhang, Kai; Dai, Wenhao; Meng, Xiangdan; Yang, Fan; Zhang, Xueji

2018-04-03

Herein, a highly-sensitive microRNA (miRNA) detection strategy was developed by combining bio-bar-code assay (BBA) with catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA). In the proposed system, two nanoprobes of magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with DNA probes (MNPs-DNA) and gold nanoparticles with numerous barcode DNA (AuNPs-DNA) were designed. In the presence of target miRNA, the MNP-DNA and AuNP-DNA hybridized with target miRNA to form a "sandwich" structure. After "sandwich" structures were separated from the solution by the magnetic field and dehybridized by high temperature, the barcode DNA sequences were released by dissolving AuNPs. The released barcode DNA sequences triggered the toehold strand displacement assembly of two hairpin probes, leading to recycle of barcode DNA sequences and producing numerous fluorescent CHA products for miRNA detection. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the proposed two-stage amplification system could sensitively detect target miRNA ranging from 10 pM to 10 aM with a limit of detection (LOD) down to 97.9 zM. It displayed good capability to discriminate single base and three bases mismatch due to the unique sandwich structure. Notably, it presented good feasibility for selective multiplexed detection of various combinations of synthetic miRNA sequences and miRNAs extracted from different cell lysates, which were in agreement with the traditional polymerase chain reaction analysis. The two-stage amplification strategy may be significant implication in the biological detection and clinical diagnosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly sensitive and selective microRNA detection based on DNA-bio-bar-code and enzyme-assisted strand cycle exponential signal amplification.

PubMed

Dong, Haifeng; Meng, Xiangdan; Dai, Wenhao; Cao, Yu; Lu, Huiting; Zhou, Shufeng; Zhang, Xueji

2015-04-21

Herein, a highly sensitive and selective microRNA (miRNA) detection strategy using DNA-bio-bar-code amplification (BCA) and Nb·BbvCI nicking enzyme-assisted strand cycle for exponential signal amplification was designed. The DNA-BCA system contains a locked nucleic acid (LNA) modified DNA probe for improving hybridization efficiency, while a signal reported molecular beacon (MB) with an endonuclease recognition site was designed for strand cycle amplification. In the presence of target miRNA, the oligonucleotides functionalized magnetic nanoprobe (MNP-DNA) and gold nanoprobe (AuNP-DNA) with numerous reported probes (RP) can hybridize with target miRNA, respectively, to form a sandwich structure. After sandwich structures were separated from the solution by the magnetic field, the RP were released under high temperature to recognize the MB and cleaved the hairpin DNA to induce the dissociation of RP. The dissociated RP then triggered the next strand cycle to produce exponential fluorescent signal amplification for miRNA detection. Under optimized conditions, the exponential signal amplification system shows a good linear range of 6 orders of magnitude (from 0.3 pM to 3 aM) with limit of detection (LOD) down to 52.5 zM, while the sandwich structure renders the system with high selectivity. Meanwhile, the feasibility of the proposed strategy for cell miRNA detection was confirmed by analyzing miRNA-21 in HeLa lysates. Given the high-performance for miRNA analysis, the strategy has a promising application in biological detection and in clinical diagnosis.

A milliKelvin scanning Hall probe microscope for high resolution magnetic imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khotkevych, V. V.; Bending, S. J.

2009-02-01

The design and performance of a novel scanning Hall probe microscope for milliKelvin magnetic imaging with submicron lateral resolution is presented. The microscope head is housed in the vacuum chamber of a commercial 3He-refrigerator and operates between room temperature and 300 mK in magnetic fields up to 10 T. Mapping of the local magnetic induction at the sample surface is performed by a micro-fabricated 2DEG Hall probe equipped with an integrated STM tip. The latter provides a reliable mechanism of surface tracking by sensing and controlling the tunnel currents. We discuss the results of tests of the system and illustrate its potential with images of suitable reference samples captured in different modes of operation.

Method and apparatus for in-situ drying investigation and optimization of slurry drying methodology

DOEpatents

Armstrong, Beth L.; Daniel, Claus; Howe, Jane Y.; Kiggans, Jr, James O.; Sabau, Adrian S.; Wood, III, David L.; Kalnaus, Sergiy

2016-05-10

A method of drying casted slurries that includes calculating drying conditions from an experimental model for a cast slurry and forming a cast film. An infrared heating probe is positioned on one side of the casted slurry and a thermal probe is positioned on an opposing side of the casted slurry. The infrared heating probe may control the temperature of the casted slurry during drying. The casted slurry may be observed with an optical microscope, while applying the drying conditions from the experimental model. Observing the casted slurry includes detecting the incidence of micro-structural changes in the casted slurry during drying to determine if the drying conditions from the experimental model are optimal.

Comparison of joint designs for laser welding of cast metal plates and wrought wires.

PubMed

Takayama, Yasuko; Nomoto, Rie; Nakajima, Hiroyuki; Ohkubo, Chikahiro

2013-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to compare joint designs for the laser welding of cast metal plates and wrought wire, and to evaluate the welded area internally using X-ray micro-focus computerized tomography (micro-CT). Cast metal plates (Ti, Co-Cr) and wrought wires (Ti, Co-Cr) were welded using similar metals. The specimens were welded using four joint designs in which the wrought wires and the parent metals were welded directly (two designs) or the wrought wires were welded to the groove of the parent metal from one or both sides (n = 5). The porosity and gap in the welded area were evaluated by micro-CT, and the maximum tensile load of the welded specimens was measured with a universal testing machine. An element analysis was conducted using an electron probe X-ray microanalyzer. The statistical analysis of the results was performed using Bonferroni's multiple comparisons (α = 0.05). The results included that all the specimens fractured at the wrought wire when subjected to tensile testing, although there were specimens that exhibited gaps due to the joint design. The wrought wires were affected by laser irradiation and observed to melt together and onto the filler metal. Both Mo and Sn elements found in the wrought wire were detected in the filler metal of the Ti specimens, and Ni was detected in the filler metal of the Co-Cr specimens. The four joint designs simulating the designs used clinically were confirmed to have adequate joint strength provided by laser welding.

Mapping of Heavy Metal Ion Sorption to Cell-Extracellular Polymeric Substance-Mineral Aggregates by Using Metal-Selective Fluorescent Probes and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy

PubMed Central

Li, Jianli; Kappler, Andreas; Obst, Martin

2013-01-01

Biofilms, organic matter, iron/aluminum oxides, and clay minerals bind toxic heavy metal ions and control their fate and bioavailability in the environment. The spatial relationship of metal ions to biomacromolecules such as extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in biofilms with microbial cells and biogenic minerals is complex and occurs at the micro- and submicrometer scale. Here, we review the application of highly selective and sensitive metal fluorescent probes for confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) that were originally developed for use in life sciences and propose their suitability as a powerful tool for mapping heavy metals in environmental biofilms and cell-EPS-mineral aggregates (CEMAs). The benefit of using metal fluorescent dyes in combination with CLSM imaging over other techniques such as electron microscopy is that environmental samples can be analyzed in their natural hydrated state, avoiding artifacts such as aggregation from drying that is necessary for analytical electron microscopy. In this minireview, we present data for a group of sensitive fluorescent probes highly specific for Fe3+, Cu2+, Zn2+, and Hg2+, illustrating the potential of their application in environmental science. We evaluate their application in combination with other fluorescent probes that label constituents of CEMAs such as DNA or polysaccharides and provide selection guidelines for potential combinations of fluorescent probes. Correlation analysis of spatially resolved heavy metal distributions with EPS and biogenic minerals in their natural, hydrated state will further our understanding of the behavior of metals in environmental systems since it allows for identifying bonding sites in complex, heterogeneous systems. PMID:23974141

Probing Zeolite Crystal Architecture and Structural Imperfections using Differently Sized Fluorescent Organic Probe Molecules.

PubMed

Hendriks, Frank C; Schmidt, Joel E; Rombouts, Jeroen A; Lammertsma, Koop; Bruijnincx, Pieter C A; Weckhuysen, Bert M

2017-05-05

A micro-spectroscopic method has been developed to probe the accessibility of zeolite crystals using a series of fluorescent 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-1-methylpyridinium iodide (DAMPI) probes of increasing molecular size. Staining large zeolite crystals with MFI (ZSM-5) topology and subsequent mapping of the resulting fluorescence using confocal fluorescence microscopy reveal differences in structural integrity: the 90° intergrowth sections of MFI crystals are prone to develop structural imperfections, which act as entrance routes for the probes into the zeolite crystal. Polarization-dependent measurements provide evidence for the probe molecule's alignment within the MFI zeolite pore system. The developed method was extended to BEA (Beta) crystals, showing that the previously observed hourglass pattern is a general feature of BEA crystals with this morphology. Furthermore, the probes can accurately identify at which crystal faces of BEA straight or sinusoidal pores open to the surface. The results show this method can spatially resolve the architecture-dependent internal pore structure of microporous materials, which is difficult to assess using other characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction. © 2017 The Authors. Published by Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Chemical Dynamics of nano-Aluminum and Iodine Based Oxidizers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Little, Brian; Ridge, Claron; Overdeep, Kyle; Slizewski, Dylan; Lindsay, Michael

2017-06-01

As observed in previous studies of nanoenergetic powder composites, micro/nano-structural features such as particle morphology and/or reactant spatial distance are expected to strongly influence properties that govern the combustion behavior of energetic materials (EM). In this study, highly reactive composites containing crystalline iodine (V) oxide or iodate salts with nano-sized aluminum (nAl) were blended by two different processing techniques and then collected as a powder for characterization. Physiochemical techniques such as thermal gravimetric analysis, calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, high speed photography, pressure profile analysis, temperature programmed reactions, and spectroscopy were employed to characterize these EM with emphasis on correlating the chemical reactivity with inherent structural features and variations in stoichiometry. This work is a continuation of efforts to probe the chemical dynamics of nAl-iodine based composites.

HeI lambda 10830 line: a probe of the accretion/ejection activity in RU Lupi .

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Podio, L.; Garcia, P. J. V.; Bacciotti, F.

Most of the observed lines and continuum emission excesses from Classical T Tauri Stars (CTTSs) take place at the star-disk interface or in the inner disk region. These regions have a complex emission topology still largely unknown. The HeI lambda 10830 line showed to be a powerful instrument to trace both accreting matter, in emission, and outflowing gas via the frequently detected absorption features. To fully exploit the diagnostic potential of this line we performed a spectro-astrometric analysis of the spectra of the TTS RU Lupi, taken with ISAAC at the VLT. The analysis highlighted a displacement with respect to the source of the region where the absorption feature is generated. This indicates the presence of both an inner stellar wind and a collimated micro-jet in the circumstellar region of RU Lupi.

Detection system of capillary array electrophoresis microchip based on optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiaobo; Bai, Haiming; Yan, Weiping

2009-11-01

To meet the demands of the post-genomic era study and the large parallel detections of epidemic diseases and drug screening, the high throughput micro-fluidic detection system is needed urgently. A scanning laser induced fluorescence detection system based on optical fiber has been established by using a green laser diode double-pumped solid-state laser as excitation source. It includes laser induced fluorescence detection subsystem, capillary array electrophoresis micro-chip, channel identification unit and fluorescent signal processing subsystem. V-shaped detecting probe composed with two optical fibers for transmitting the excitation light and detecting induced fluorescence were constructed. Parallel four-channel signal analysis of capillary electrophoresis was performed on this system by using Rhodamine B as the sample. The distinction of different samples and separation of samples were achieved with the constructed detection system. The lowest detected concentration is 1×10-5 mol/L for Rhodamine B. The results show that the detection system possesses some advantages, such as compact structure, better stability and higher sensitivity, which are beneficial to the development of microminiaturization and integration of capillary array electrophoresis chip.

Nano-chemo-mechanical signature of conventional oil-well cement systems: Effects of elevated temperature and curing time

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

Krakowiak, Konrad J., E-mail: kjkrak@mit.edu; Thomas, Jeffrey J., E-mail: JThomas39@slb.com; Musso, Simone, E-mail: SMusso@slb.com

2015-01-15

With ever more challenging (T,p) environments for cementing applications in oil and gas wells, there is a need to identify the fundamental mechanisms of fracture resistant oil well cements. We report results from a multi-technique investigation of behavior and properties of API class G cement and silica-enriched cement systems subjected to hydrothermal curing from 30 °C to 200 °C; including electron probe microanalysis, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry analysis, electron microscopy, neutron scattering (SANS), and fracture scratch testing. The results provide a new insight into the link between system chemistry, micro-texture and micro-fracture toughness. We suggest that the strong correlation found betweenmore » chemically modulated specific surface and fracture resistance can explain the drop in fracture properties of neat oil-well cements at elevated temperatures; the fracture property enhancement in silica-rich cement systems, between 110° and 175 °C; and the drop in fracture properties of such systems through prolonged curing over 1 year at 200 °C.« less

Probing the micro-rheological properties of aerosol particles using optical tweezers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Power, Rory M.; Reid, Jonathan P.

2014-07-01

The use of optical trapping techniques to manipulate probe particles for performing micro-rheological measurements on a surrounding fluid is well-established. Here, we review recent advances made in the use of optical trapping to probe the rheological properties of trapped particles themselves. In particular, we review observations of the continuous transition from liquid to solid-like viscosity of sub-picolitre supersaturated solution aerosol droplets using optical trapping techniques. Direct measurements of the viscosity of the particle bulk are derived from the damped oscillations in shape following coalescence of two particles, a consequence of the interplay between viscous and surface forces and the capillary driven relaxation of the approximately spheroidal composite particle. Holographic optical tweezers provide a facile method for the manipulation of arrays of particles allowing coalescence to be controllably induced between two micron-sized aerosol particles. The optical forces, while sufficiently strong to confine the composite particle, are several orders of magnitude weaker than the capillary forces driving relaxation. Light, elastically back-scattered by the particle, is recorded with sub-100 ns resolution allowing measurements of fast relaxation (low viscosity) dynamics, while the brightfield image can be used to monitor the shape relaxation extending to times in excess of 1000 s. For the slowest relaxation dynamics studied (particles with the highest viscosity) the presence and line shape of whispering gallery modes in the cavity enhanced Raman spectrum can be used to infer the relaxation time while serving the dual purpose of allowing the droplet size and refractive index to be measured with accuracies of ±0.025% and ±0.1%, respectively. The time constant for the damped relaxation can be used to infer the bulk viscosity, spanning from the dilute solution limit to a value approaching that of a glass, typically considered to be >1012 Pa s, whilst the frequencies of the normal modes of the oscillations of the particle can be used to infer surface properties. We will review the use of optical tweezers for studying the viscosity of aerosol particles and discuss the potential use of this micro-rheological tool for probing the fundamental concepts of phase, thermodynamic equilibrium and metastability.

Assembled Cantilever Fiber Touch Trigger Probe for Three-Dimensional Measurement of Microstructures

PubMed Central

Zou, Limin; Ni, He; Zhang, Peng; Ding, Xuemei

2017-01-01

In this paper, an assembled cantilever fiber touch trigger probe was developed for three-dimensional measurements of clear microstructures. The probe consists of a shaft assembled vertically to an optical fiber cantilever and a probing sphere located at the free end of the shaft. The laser is emitted from the free end of the fiber cantilever and converges on the photosensitive surface of the camera through the lens. The position shift of the light spot centroid was used to detect the performance of the optical fiber cantilever, which changed dramatically when the probing sphere touched the objects being measured. Experimental results indicated that the sensing system has sensitivities of 3.32 pixels/μm, 1.35 pixels/μm, and 7.38 pixels/μm in the x, y, and z directions, respectively, and resolutions of 10 nm, 30 nm, and 5 nm were achieved in the x, y, and z, respectively. An experiment on micro slit measurement was performed to verify the high aspect ratio measurement capability of the assembled cantilever fiber (ACF) probe and to calibrate the effective two-point diameter of the probing sphere. The two-point probe sphere diameter was found to be 174.634 μm with a standard uncertainly of 0.045 μm. PMID:29156602

Assembled Cantilever Fiber Touch Trigger Probe for Three-Dimensional Measurement of Microstructures.

PubMed

Zou, Limin; Ni, He; Zhang, Peng; Ding, Xuemei

2017-11-20

In this paper, an assembled cantilever fiber touch trigger probe was developed for three-dimensional measurements of clear microstructures. The probe consists of a shaft assembled vertically to an optical fiber cantilever and a probing sphere located at the free end of the shaft. The laser is emitted from the free end of the fiber cantilever and converges on the photosensitive surface of the camera through the lens. The position shift of the light spot centroid was used to detect the performance of the optical fiber cantilever, which changed dramatically when the probing sphere touched the objects being measured. Experimental results indicated that the sensing system has sensitivities of 3.32 pixels/μm, 1.35 pixels/μm, and 7.38 pixels/μm in the x, y, and z directions, respectively, and resolutions of 10 nm, 30 nm, and 5 nm were achieved in the x, y, and z, respectively. An experiment on micro slit measurement was performed to verify the high aspect ratio measurement capability of the assembled cantilever fiber (ACF) probe and to calibrate the effective two-point diameter of the probing sphere. The two-point probe sphere diameter was found to be 174.634 μm with a standard uncertainly of 0.045 μm.

Associations of Methanotrophs With the Roots and Rhizomes of Aquatic Vegetation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

King, Gary M.

1994-01-01

Results of an in vitro assay revealed that root-associated methane consumption was a common attribute or diverse emergent wetland macrophytes from a variety of habitats. Maximum potential uptake rates (V(sub maxp)) varied between about 1 and 10 micro mol g/ (dry weight) h, with no obvious correlation between rate and gross morphological characteristics of the plants. The V(sub maxp) corresponded to about 2 x 10(exp 18) to 2 x 10(exp 9) methanotrophs g/ (dry weight), assuming that root-associated methanotrophs have cell-specific activities comparable to those of known isolates. V(sub maxp) varied seasonally for an aquatic grass, Calamogrostis canadensis, and for the cattail, Typha latifolia, with highest rates in late summer. V(sub maxp) was well correlated with ambient temperature for C. canadensis but weakly correlated for T. Wifolia. The seasonal changes in V(sub maxp), as well as inferences from apparent half-saturation constants for methane uptake (K(sub app); generally 3 to 6 micro M), indicated that oxygen availability might be more important than methane as a rate determinant. In addition, roots incubated under anoxic conditions showed little or no postanoxia aerobic methane consumption, indicating that root-associated metbanotrophic populations might not tolerate variable oxygen availability. Hybridization of oligodeoxynucleotide probes specific for group 1 or group 2 methylotrophs also varied seasonally. The group 2-specific probe consistently hybridized to a greater extent than the group 1 probe, and the relative amount of group 2 probe hybridization to C. canadensis root extracts was positively correlated with V(sub maxp).

Simultaneous assessment of phase chemistry, phase abundance and bulk chemistry with statistical electron probe micro-analyses: Application to cement clinkers

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

Wilson, William; Krakowiak, Konrad J.; Ulm, Franz-Josef, E-mail: ulm@mit.edu

2014-01-15

According to recent developments in cement clinker engineering, the optimization of chemical substitutions in the main clinker phases offers a promising approach to improve both reactivity and grindability of clinkers. Thus, monitoring the chemistry of the phases may become part of the quality control at the cement plants, along with the usual measurements of the abundance of the mineralogical phases (quantitative X-ray diffraction) and the bulk chemistry (X-ray fluorescence). This paper presents a new method to assess these three complementary quantities with a single experiment. The method is based on electron microprobe spot analyses, performed over a grid located onmore » a representative surface of the sample and interpreted with advanced statistical tools. This paper describes the method and the experimental program performed on industrial clinkers to establish the accuracy in comparison to conventional methods. -- Highlights: •A new method of clinker characterization •Combination of electron probe technique with cluster analysis •Simultaneous assessment of phase abundance, composition and bulk chemistry •Experimental validation performed on industrial clinkers.« less

Analysis of the heterochromatin of Cebus (Primates, Platyrrhini) by micro-FISH and banding pattern comparisons.

PubMed

Nieves, Mariela; De Oliveira, Edivaldo H C; Amaral, Paulo J S; Nagamachi, Cleusa Y; Pieczarka, Julio C; Mühlmann, María C; Mudry, Marta D

2011-04-01

The karyotype of the neotropical primate genus Cebus (Platyrrhini: Cebidae), considered the most ancestral one, shows the greatest amount of heterochromatin described among Platyrrhini genera. Banding techniques and restriction enzyme digestion have previously revealed great variability of quantity and composition of heterochromatin in this genus. In this context, we use fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to analyse this genomic region and discuss its possible role in the diversification of Cebus.We used a heterochromatin probe for chromosome 11 of Cebus libidinosus (11qHe+ CLI probe), obtained by chromosome microdissection. Twenty-six specimens belonging to the families Atelidae, Cebidae, Callitrichidae and Pithecidae (Platyrrhini) were studied. Fourteen out of 26 specimens were Cebus (Cebidae) individuals of C. libidinosus, C. xanthosternos, C. apella, C. nigritus, C. albifrons, C. kaapori and C. olivaceus. In Cebus specimens, we found 6 to 22 positive signals located in interstitial and telomeric positions along the different species. No hybridization signal was observed among the remaining Ceboidea species, thus reinforcing the idea of a Cebus-specific heterochromatin composed of a complex system of repetitive sequences.

A versatile optical profilometer based on conoscopic holography sensors for acquisition of specular and diffusive surfaces in artworks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaburro, Nicola; Marchioro, Giacomo; Daffara, Claudia

2017-07-01

Surface metrology of artworks requires the design of suitable devices for in-situ non-destructive measurement together with reliable procedures for an effective analysis of such non-engineered variegate objects. To advance the state-of-the-art it has been implemented a versatile optical micro-profilometry taking advantage of the adapt- ability of conoscopic holography sensors, able to operate with irregular shapes and composite materials (diffusive, specular, and polychrome) of artworks. The scanning technique is used to obtain wide field and high spatially resolved areal profilometry. The prototype has a modular scheme based on a set of conoscopic sensors, extending the typical design based on a scanning stage and a single probe with a limited bandwidth, thus allowing the collection of heights data from surface with different scales and materials with variegate optical response. The system was optimized by characterizing the quality of the measurement with the probes triggered in continuous scanning modality. The results obtained on examples of cultural heritage objects (2D paintings, 3D height-relief) and materials (pictorial, metallic) demonstrate the versatility of the implemented device.

X-ray fluorescence microscopy artefacts in elemental maps of topologically complex samples: Analytical observations, simulation and a map correction method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Billè, Fulvio; Kourousias, George; Luchinat, Enrico; Kiskinova, Maya; Gianoncelli, Alessandra

2016-08-01

XRF spectroscopy is among the most widely used non-destructive techniques for elemental analysis. Despite the known angular dependence of X-ray fluorescence (XRF), topological artefacts remain an unresolved issue when using X-ray micro- or nano-probes. In this work we investigate the origin of the artefacts in XRF imaging of topologically complex samples, which are unresolved problems in studies of organic matter due to the limited travel distances of low energy XRF emission from the light elements. In particular we mapped Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK293T) cells. The exemplary results with biological samples, obtained with a soft X-ray scanning microscope installed at a synchrotron facility were used for testing a mathematical model based on detector response simulations, and for proposing an artefact correction method based on directional derivatives. Despite the peculiar and specific application, the methodology can be easily extended to hard X-rays and to set-ups with multi-array detector systems when the dimensions of surface reliefs are in the order of the probing beam size.

Microscopy and microRaman study of periodically poled domains in deeply thinned lithium niobate wafers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bullen, P. S.; Huang, H.-C.; Yang, H.; Dadap, J. I.; Kymissis, I.; Osgood, R. M.

2016-07-01

The domain structure of poled deeply thinned lithium niobate is investigated as a function of sample thickness. Free-standing samples of thickness from 25 to 500 μm are prepared by a multiple-cycle polish and annealing procedure and then periodically poled. Using these samples and employing micro-Raman scattering and scanning electron, atomic force, and optical microscopy together, the domain broadening and poling voltage are found to vary in a regular and significant manner. The poled domains show a reduction in width spreading of 38% as the sample thickness is reduced from 500 to 25 μm. Micro-Raman probe measurements verify the quality and the uniformity of the poled domains and provide insight into their thickness-dependent poling contrast.

Characterization of beta-phenylethylamine-induced monoamine release in rat nucleus accumbens: a microdialysis study.

PubMed

Nakamura, M; Ishii, A; Nakahara, D

1998-05-22

In vivo microdialysis was used to investigate the effect of beta-phenylethylamine on extracellular levels of monoamines and their metabolites in the nucleus accumbens of conscious rats. At all doses tested (1, 10 and 100 microM), infusion of beta-phenylethylamine through the microdialysis probe significantly increased extracellular levels of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens. These increases were dose-related. The increase in dopamine levels induced by 100 microM beta-phenylethylamine was not affected by co-perfusion of 4 microM tetrodotoxin. The ability of 100 microM beta-phenylethylamine to increase the extracellular level of dopamine was comparable to that of the same dose of methamphetamine. On the other hand, beta-phenylethylamine had a much less potent enhancing effect on 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) than dopamine levels. Only the highest dose (100 microM) caused a statistically significant effect on 5-HT levels. Over the dose range tested (1, 10 and 100 microM), beta-phenylethylamine had no effect on extracellular metabolite levels of dopamine and 5-HT. The results suggest that beta-phenylethylamine increases the efflux of monoamines, preferentially dopamine, without affecting monoamine metabolism, in the nucleus accumbens.

POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBON FORMATION IN OPPOSED FLOW DIFFUSION FLAMES OF ETHANE. (R825412)

EPA Science Inventory

Abstract

The effect of fuel-side carbon density on the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) formation in atmospheric pressure, opposed flow, ethane diffusion flames has been studied using heated micro-probe sampling and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (...

Femtosecond pulsed laser processing of electronic materials: Fundamentals and micro/nano-scale applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Tae-Youl

Ultra-short pulsed laser radiation has been shown to be effective for precision materials processing and surface micro-modification. One of advantages is the substantial reduction of the heat penetration depth, which leads to minimal lateral damage. Other advantages include non-thermal nature of ablation process, controlled ablation and ideal characteristics for precision micro-structuring. Yet, fundamental questions remain unsolved regarding the nature of melting and ablation mechanisms in femtosecond laser processing of materials. In addition to micro engineering problems, nano-structuring and nano-fabrication are emerging fields that are of particular interest in conjunction with femtosecond laser processing. A comprehensive experimental study as well as theoretical development is presented to address these issues. Ultra-short pulsed laser irradiation was used to crystallize 100 nm amorphous silicon (a-Si) films. The crystallization process was observed by time-resolved pump-and-probe reflection imaging in the range of 0.2 ps to 100 ns. The in-situ images in conjunction with post-processed SEM and AFM mapping of the crystallized structure provide evidence for non-thermal ultra-fast phase transition and subsequent surface-initiated crystallization. Mechanisms of ultra-fast laser-induced ablation on crystalline silicon and copper are investigated by time-resolved pump-and-probe microscopy in normal imaging and shadowgraph arrangements. A one-dimensional model of the energy transport is utilized to predict the carrier temperature and lattice temperature as well as the electron and vapor flux emitted from the surface. The temporal delay between the pump and probe pulses was set by a precision translation stage up to about 500 ps and then extended to the nanosecond regime by an optical fiber assembly. The ejection of material was observed at several picoseconds to tens of nanoseconds after the main (pump) pulse by high-resolution, ultra-fast shadowgraphs. The ultrashort laser pulse accompanied by the pre-pulse induces air breakdown that can be detrimental to materials processing. A time-resolved pump-and-probe experiment provides distinct evidence for the occurrence of an air plasma and air breakdown. This highly nonlinear phenomenon takes place before the commencement of the ablation process, which is traced beyond elapsed time of the order of 10 ps with respect to the ablating pulse. The nonlinear refractive index of the generated air plasma is calculated as a function of electron density. The self-focusing of the main pulse is identified by the third order nonlinear susceptibility. A crystalline silicon sample is subjected to two optically separated ultra-fast laser pulses of full-width-half-maximum (FWHM) duration of about 80 femtoseconds. These pulses are delivered at wavelength, lambda = 800 nm. Femtosecond-resolved imaging pump-and-probe experiments in reflective and Schlieren configurations have been performed to investigate plasma dynamics and shock wave propagation during the sample ablation process. By using a diffractive optical element (DOE) for beam shaping, microchannels were fabricated. A super-long working distance objective lens was used to machine silicon materials in the sub-micrometer scale. As an extension of micro-machining, the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method is used to assess the feasibility of using near-field distribution of laser light. Gold coated films were machined with nano-scale dimensions and characterized with atomic force microscopy (AFM).

Antioxidant-spotting in micelles and emulsions.

PubMed

Aliaga, Carolina; López de Arbina, Amaia; Pastenes, Camila; Rezende, Marcos Caroli

2018-04-15

A simple protocol is described for locating the site of action of an antioxidant (AO) in a micro-heterogeneous mixture, based on the pattern of the reactivity curve towards the AO of a series of 4-alkanoyl TEMPO radicals. The resulting cut-off curves yield information regarding the hydrophobic microenvironment surrounding the reactive AO group, and its accessibility by the probe. Convex curves are an indication of an AO located in a more hydrophilic environment, while concave plots originate from AOs in a more hydrophobic location in the micro-heterogeneous system. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Implementing and diagnosing magnetic flux compression on the Z pulsed power accelerator

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

McBride, Ryan D.; Bliss, David E.; Gomez, Matthew R.

2015-11-01

We report on the progress made to date for a Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project aimed at diagnosing magnetic flux compression on the Z pulsed-power accelerator (0-20 MA in 100 ns). Each experiment consisted of an initially solid Be or Al liner (cylindrical tube), which was imploded using the Z accelerator's drive current (0-20 MA in 100 ns). The imploding liner compresses a 10-T axial seed field, B z ( 0 ) , supplied by an independently driven Helmholtz coil pair. Assuming perfect flux conservation, the axial field amplification should be well described by B z ( tmore » ) = B z ( 0 ) x [ R ( 0 ) / R ( t )] 2 , where R is the liner's inner surface radius. With perfect flux conservation, B z ( t ) and dB z / dt values exceeding 10 4 T and 10 12 T/s, respectively, are expected. These large values, the diminishing liner volume, and the harsh environment on Z, make it particularly challenging to measure these fields. We report on our latest efforts to do so using three primary techniques: (1) micro B-dot probes to measure the fringe fields associated with flux compression, (2) streaked visible Zeeman absorption spectroscopy, and (3) fiber-based Faraday rotation. We also mention two new techniques that make use of the neutron diagnostics suite on Z. These techniques were not developed under this LDRD, but they could influence how we prioritize our efforts to diagnose magnetic flux compression on Z in the future. The first technique is based on the yield ratio of secondary DT to primary DD reactions. The second technique makes use of the secondary DT neutron time-of-flight energy spectra. Both of these techniques have been used successfully to infer the degree of magnetization at stagnation in fully integrated Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) experiments on Z [P. F. Schmit et al. , Phys. Rev. Lett. 113 , 155004 (2014); P. F. Knapp et al. , Phys. Plasmas, 22 , 056312 (2015)]. Finally, we present some recent developments for designing and fabricating novel micro B-dot probes to measure B z ( t ) inside of an imploding liner. In one approach, the micro B-dot loops were fabricated on a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB was then soldered to off-the-shelf 0.020- inch-diameter semi-rigid coaxial cables, which were terminated with standard SMA connectors. These probes were recently tested using the COBRA pulsed power generator (0-1 MA in 100 ns) at Cornell University. In another approach, we are planning to use new multi-material 3D printing capabilities to fabricate novel micro B-dot packages. In the near future, we plan to 3D print these probes and then test them on the COBRA generator. With successful operation demonstrated at 1-MA, we will then make plans to use these probes on a 20-MA Z experiment.« less

Measurement method of magnetic field for the wire suspended micro-pendulum accelerometer.

PubMed

Lu, Yongle; Li, Leilei; Hu, Ning; Pan, Yingjun; Ren, Chunhua

2015-04-13

Force producer is one of the core components of a Wire Suspended Micro-Pendulum Accelerometer; and the stability of permanent magnet in the force producer determines the consistency of the acceleration sensor's scale factor. For an assembled accelerometer; direct measurement of magnetic field strength is not a feasible option; as the magnetometer probe cannot be laid inside the micro-space of the sensor. This paper proposed an indirect measurement method of the remnant magnetization of Micro-Pendulum Accelerometer. The measurement is based on the working principle of the accelerometer; using the current output at several different scenarios to resolve the remnant magnetization of the permanent magnet. Iterative Least Squares algorithm was used for the adjustment of the data due to nonlinearity of this problem. The calculated remnant magnetization was 1.035 T. Compared to the true value; the error was less than 0.001 T. The proposed method provides an effective theoretical guidance for measuring the magnetic field of the Wire Suspended Micro-Pendulum Accelerometer; correcting the scale factor and temperature influence coefficients; etc.

Release of cellular tension signals self-restorative ventral lamellipodia to heal barrier micro-wounds

PubMed Central

Martinelli, Roberta; Kamei, Masataka; Sage, Peter T.; Massol, Ramiro; Varghese, Laya; Sciuto, Tracey; Toporsian, Mourad; Dvorak, Ann M.; Kirchhausen, Tomas; Springer, Timothy A.

2013-01-01

Basic mechanisms by which cellular barriers sense and respond to integrity disruptions remain poorly understood. Despite its tenuous structure and constitutive exposure to disruptive strains, the vascular endothelium exhibits robust barrier function. We show that in response to micrometer-scale disruptions induced by transmigrating leukocytes, endothelial cells generate unique ventral lamellipodia that propagate via integrins toward and across these “micro-wounds” to close them. This novel actin remodeling activity progressively healed multiple micro-wounds in succession and changed direction during this process. Mechanical probe-induced micro-wounding of both endothelia and epithelia suggests that ventral lamellipodia formed as a response to force imbalance and specifically loss of isometric tension. Ventral lamellipodia were enriched in the Rac1 effectors cortactin, IQGAP, and p47Phox and exhibited localized production of hydrogen peroxide. Together with Apr2/3, these were functionally required for effective micro-wound healing. We propose that barrier disruptions are detected as local release of isometric tension/force unloading, which is directly coupled to reactive oxygen species–dependent self-restorative actin remodeling dynamics. PMID:23629967

Synthesis and characterization of micro/nanoscopic Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 fibers by electrospinning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Y.; Furlan, R.; Ramos, I.; Santiago-Aviles, J. J.

Micro/nanoscopic Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 fibers were synthesized from commercially available zirconium n-pro-poxide, titanium isopropoxide, and lead 2-ethylhexanoate. Using xylene as a solvent, they were mixed to form a precursor solution with a suitable viscosity for electrospinning. The solution was analyzed using thermo-gravimetric and differential thermal methods. Ultra-fine fibers and mats were electrostatically drawn from the precursor solution. The as-deposited materials were sintered for 2 h at 400, 500, 600, 700 and 800 °C, respectively. Sintered mats or fibers were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), Raman micro-spectrometry and scanning-probe microscopy (SPM). The SEM results revealed that the fibers had diameters varying from hundreds of nanometers to 10 μm. Using AES, the elements Pb, Zr, Ti and O, as well as residual C, were detected on the surface of the fibers. Raman and XRD spectra indicated that the precursors began to transform into the intermediate pyrochlore phase at 400 °C, followed by the perovskite Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 phase above 600 °C. Scanning-probe microscopy (SPM), operated in the piezo-response imaging mode, revealed spontaneous polarization domains in the fibers, with diameters ranging from 100 to 500 nm.

Au nanoparticles/hollow molybdenum disulfide microcubes based biosensor for microRNA-21 detection coupled with duplex-specific nuclease and enzyme signal amplification.

PubMed

Shuai, Hong-Lei; Huang, Ke-Jing; Chen, Ying-Xu; Fang, Lin-Xia; Jia, Meng-Pei

2017-03-15

An ultrasensitive electrochemical biosensor for detecting microRNAs is fabricated based on hollow molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) microcubes. Duplex-specific nuclease, enzyme and electrochemical-chemical-chemical redox cycling are used for signal amplification. Hollow MoS 2 microcubes constructed by ultrathin nanosheets are synthesized by a facile template-assisted strategy and used as supporting substrate. For biosensor assembling, biotinylated ssDNA capture probes are first immobilized on Au nanoparticles (AuNPs)/MoS 2 modified electrode in order to combine with streptavidin-conjugated alkaline phosphatase (SA-ALP). When capture probes hybridize with miRNAs, duplex-specific nuclease cleaves the formative duplexes. At the moment, the biotin group strips from the electrode surface and SA-ALP is incapacitated to attach onto electrode. Then, ascorbic acids induce the electrochemical-chemical-chemical redox cycling to produce electrochemical response in the presence of ferrocene methanol and tris (2-carboxyethyl) phosphine. Under optimum conditions, the proposed biosensor shows a good linear relationship between the current variation and logarithm of the microRNAs concentration ranging from 0.1fM to 0.1pM with a detection limit of 0.086fM (S/N=3). Furthermore, the biosensor is successfully applied to detect target miRNA-21 in human serum samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Numerical Model for Predicting and Managing Heat Dissipation from a Neural Probe

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-10

Distance from Probe Centerline [m] x ‐  3D  Model y ‐  3D  Model r ‐ 2D Model 12 difficult, especially on a micro-scale level. For this reason...of the screws and nuts 180 m across. 20 were of plastic construction. An aluminum sample holder was constructed by the USNA Fabrication Lab...voltage drop across the reference resistor. C. Biosimulant Gel At first, a hydroxyethyl cellulose gel was considered for use as the biosimulant gel, but

Vacuum probe surface sampler

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zahlava, B. A. (Inventor)

1973-01-01

A vacuum probe surface sampler is described for rapidly sampling relatively large surface areas which possess relatively light loading densities of micro-organism, drug particles or the like. A vacuum head with a hollow handle connected to a suitable vacuum source is frictionally attached to a cone assembly terminating in a flared tip adapted to be passed over the surface to be sampled. A fine mesh screen carried by the vacuum head provides support for a membrane filter which collects the microorganisms or other particles. The head assembly is easily removed from the cone assembly without contacting the cone assembly with human hands.

A Fiber Optic Probe for Monitoring Protein Aggregation, Nucleation, and Crystallization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansari, Rafat R.; Suh, Kwang I.; Arabshahi, Alireza; Wilson, William W.; Bray, Terry L.; DeLucas, Lawrence J.

1996-01-01

Protein crystals are experimentally grown in hanging drops in microgravity experiments on-board the Space Shuttle orbiter. The technique of dynamic light scattering (DLS) can be used to monitor crystal growth process in hanging droplets (approx. 30 (L)) in microgravity experiments, but elaborate instrumentation and optical alignment problems have made in-situ applications difficult. In this paper we demonstrate that such experiments are now feasible. We apply a newly developed fiber optic probe to various earth and space (micro- gravity) bound protein crystallization system configurations to test its capability. These include conventional batch (cuvette or capillary) systems, hanging drop method in a six-pack hanging drop vapor diffusion apparatus (HDVDA), a modified HDVDA for temperature- induced nucleation and aggregation studies, and a newly envisioned dynamically controlled vapor diffusion system (DCVDS) configuration. Our compact system exploits the principles of DLS and offers a fast (within a few seconds) means of quantitatively and non-invasively monitoring the various growth stages of protein crystallization. In addition to DLS capability, the probe can also be used for performing single-angle static light scattering measurements. It utilizes extremely low levels of laser power (approx. few (W)) without a need of having any optical alignment and vibration isolation. The compact probe is also equipped with a miniaturized microscope for visualization of macroscopic protein crystals. This new optical diagnostic system opens up enormous opportunity for exploring new ways to grow good quality crystals suitable for x-ray crystallographic analysis and may help develop a concrete scientific basis for understanding the process of crystallization.

Metabolism of endosulfan-alpha by human liver microsomes and its utility as a simultaneous in vitro probe for CYP2B6 and CYP3A4.

PubMed

Casabar, Richard C T; Wallace, Andrew D; Hodgson, Ernest; Rose, Randy L

2006-10-01

Endosulfan-alpha is metabolized to a single metabolite, endosulfan sulfate, in pooled human liver microsomes (Km = 9.8 microM, Vmax = 178.5 pmol/mg/min). With the use of recombinant cytochrome P450 (P450) isoforms, we identified CYP2B6 (Km = 16.2 microM, Vmax = 11.4 nmol/nmol P450/min) and CYP3A4 (Km = 14.4 microM, Vmax = 1.3 nmol/nmol P450/min) as the primary enzymes catalyzing the metabolism of endosulfan-alpha, although CYP2B6 had an 8-fold higher intrinsic clearance rate (CL(int) = 0.70 microl/min/pmol P450) than CYP3A4 (CL(int) = 0.09 microl/min/pmol P450). Using 16 individual human liver microsomes (HLMs), a strong correlation was observed with endosulfan sulfate formation and S-mephenytoin N-demethylase activity of CYP2B6 (r(2) = 0.79), whereas a moderate correlation with testosterone 6 beta-hydroxylase activity of CYP3A4 (r(2) = 0.54) was observed. Ticlopidine (5 microM), a potent CYP2B6 inhibitor, and ketoconazole (10 microM), a selective CYP3A4 inhibitor, together inhibited approximately 90% of endosulfan-alpha metabolism in HLMs. Using six HLM samples, the percentage total normalized rate (% TNR) was calculated to estimate the contribution of each P450 in the total metabolism of endosulfan-alpha. In five of the six HLMs used, the percentage inhibition with ticlopidine and ketoconazole in the same incubation correlated with the combined % TNRs for CYP2B6 and CYP3A4. This study shows that endosulfan-alpha is metabolized by HLMs to a single metabolite, endosulfan sulfate, and that it has potential use, in combination with inhibitors, as an in vitro probe for CYP2B6 and 3A4 catalytic activities.

Signal amplification of microRNAs with modified strand displacement-based cycling probe technology.

PubMed

Jia, Huning; Bu, Ying; Zou, Bingjie; Wang, Jianping; Kumar, Shalen; Pitman, Janet L; Zhou, Guohua; Song, Qinxin

2016-10-24

Micro ribose nucleic acids (miRNAs) play an important role in biological processes such as cell differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis. Therefore, miRNAs are potentially a powerful marker for monitoring cancer and diagnosis. Here, we present sensitive signal amplification for miRNAs based on modified cycling probe technology with strand displacement amplification. miRNA was captured by the template coupled with beads, and then the first cycle based on SDA was repeatedly extended to the nicking end, which was produced by the extension reaction of miRNA. The products generated by SDA are captured by a molecular beacon (MB), which is designed to initiate the second amplification cycle, with a similar principle to the cycling probe technology (CPT), which is based on repeated digestion of the DNA-RNA hybrid by the RNase H. After one sample enrichment and two steps of signal amplification, 0.1 pM of let-7a can be detected. The miRNA assay exhibits a great dynamic range of over 100 orders of magnitude and high specificity to clearly discriminate a single base difference in miRNA sequences. This isothermal amplification does not require any special temperature control instrument. The assay is also about signal amplification rather than template amplification, therefore minimising contamination issues. In addition, there is no need for the reverse transcription (RT) process. Thus the amplification is suitable for miRNA detection.

Kagome fiber based ultrafast laser microsurgery probe delivering micro-Joule pulse energies.

PubMed

Subramanian, Kaushik; Gabay, Ilan; Ferhanoğlu, Onur; Shadfan, Adam; Pawlowski, Michal; Wang, Ye; Tkaczyk, Tomasz; Ben-Yakar, Adela

2016-11-01

We present the development of a 5 mm, piezo-actuated, ultrafast laser scalpel for fast tissue microsurgery. Delivery of micro-Joules level energies to the tissue was made possible by a large, 31 μm, air-cored inhibited-coupling Kagome fiber. We overcome the fiber's low NA by using lenses made of high refractive index ZnS, which produced an optimal focusing condition with 0.23 NA objective. The optical design achieved a focused laser spot size of 4.5 μm diameter covering a 75 × 75 μm 2 scan area in a miniaturized setting. The probe could deliver the maximum available laser power, achieving an average fluence of 7.8 J/cm 2 on the tissue surface at 62% transmission efficiency. Such fluences could produce uninterrupted, 40 μm deep cuts at translational speeds of up to 5 mm/s along the tissue. We predicted that the best combination of speed and coverage exists at 8 mm/s for our conditions. The onset of nonlinear absorption in ZnS, however, limited the probe's energy delivery capabilities to 1.4 μJ for linear operation at 1.5 picosecond pulse-widths of our fiber laser. Alternatives like broadband CaF 2 crystals should mitigate such nonlinear limiting behavior. Improved opto-mechanical design and appropriate material selection should allow substantially higher fluence delivery and propel such Kagome fiber-based scalpels towards clinical translation.

Nanoscale Probing of Thermal, Stress, and Optical Fields under Near-Field Laser Heating

PubMed Central

Tang, Xiaoduan; Xu, Shen; Wang, Xinwei

2013-01-01

Micro/nanoparticle induced near-field laser ultra-focusing and heating has been widely used in laser-assisted nanopatterning and nanolithography to pattern nanoscale features on a large-area substrate. Knowledge of the temperature and stress in the nanoscale near-field heating region is critical for process control and optimization. At present, probing of the nanoscale temperature, stress, and optical fields remains a great challenge since the heating area is very small (∼100 nm or less) and not immediately accessible for sensing. In this work, we report the first experimental study on nanoscale mapping of particle-induced thermal, stress, and optical fields by using a single laser for both near-field excitation and Raman probing. The mapping results based on Raman intensity variation, wavenumber shift, and linewidth broadening all give consistent conjugated thermal, stress, and near-field focusing effects at a 20 nm resolution (<λ/26, λ = 32 nm). Nanoscale mapping of near-field effects of particles from 1210 down to 160 nm demonstrates the strong capacity of such a technique. By developing a new strategy for physical analysis, we have de-conjugated the effects of temperature, stress, and near-field focusing from the Raman mapping. The temperature rise and stress in the nanoscale heating region is evaluated at different energy levels. High-fidelity electromagnetic and temperature field simulation is conducted to accurately interpret the experimental results. PMID:23555566

An integrated eddy current detection and imaging system on a silicon chip

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henderson, H. Thurman; Kartalia, K. P.; Dury, Joseph D.

1991-01-01

Eddy current probes have been used for many years for numerous sensing applications including crack detection in metals. However, these applications have traditionally used the eddy current effect in the form of a physically wound single or different probe pairs which of necessity must be made quite large compared to microelectronics dimensions. Also, the traditional wound probe can only take a point reading, although that point might include tens of individual cracks or crack arrays; thus, conventional eddy current probes are beset by two major problems: (1) no detailed information can be obtained about the crack or crack array; and (2) for applications such as quality assurance, a vast amount of time must be taken to scan a complete surface. Laboratory efforts have been made to fabricate linear arrays of single turn probes in a thick film format on a ceramic substrate as well as in a flexible cable format; however, such efforts inherently suffer from relatively large size requirements as well as sensitivity issues. Preliminary efforts to fully extend eddy current probing from a point or single dimensional level to a two dimensional micro-eddy current format on a silicon chip, which might overcome all of the above problems, are presented.

Application study of the optical biopsy system for small experimental animals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, Hidetoshi; Suzuki, Toshiaki; Morita, Shin-ichi; Maruyama, Atsushi; Shimosegawa, Toru; Matsuura, Yuji; Kanai, Gen'ichi; Ura, Nobuo; Masutani, Koji; Ozaki, Yukihiro

2008-02-01

An optical biopsy system for small experimental animals has been developed. The system includes endoscope probe, portable probe and two kinds of miniaturized Raman probes. The micro Raman probe (MRP) is made of optical fibers and the ball lens hollow optical fiber Raman probe (BHRP) is made of hollow fiber. The former has large focal depth and suitable to measure average spectra of subsurface tissue. The latter has rather small focal depth and it is possible to control focal length by selecting ball lens attached at the probe head. It is suitable to survey materials at the fixed depth in the tissue. The system is applied to study various small animal cancer models, such as esophagus and stomach rat models and subcutaneous mouse models of pancreatic cancers. In the studies of subcutaneous tumor model mouse, it is suggested that protein conformational changes occur in the tumor tissue within few minutes after euthanasia of the mouse. No more change is observed for the following ten minutes. Any alterations in the molecular level are not observed in normal skin, muscle tissues. Since the change completes in such a short time, it is suggested that this phenomenon caused by termination of blood circulation.

Lattice distortion and strain relaxation in epitaxial thin films of multiferroic TbMnO3 probed by X-ray diffractometry and micro-Raman spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Y.; Stender, D.; Medarde, M.; Lippert, T.; Wokaun, A.; Schneider, C. W.

2013-08-01

A detailed structural XRD analysis of (1 1 0)-oriented TbMnO3 thin films grown on (1 1 0)-YAlO3 substrates shows the co-existence of a strained and relaxed "sublayer" within the films due to strain relaxation during epitaxial growth by pulsed laser deposition. The substrate-film lattice mismatch yields a compressive strain anisotropy along the two in-plane directions, i.e. [1 -1 0] and [0 0 1] and a monoclinic distortion. A further manifestation of the growth-induced strain is the hardening of Raman active modes as a result of changed atomic motions along the [1 -1 0] and [0 0 1] directions.

[Apatite-forming ability of pure titanium implant after micro-arc oxidation treatment].

PubMed

Tian, Zhihui; Zhang, Yu; Wang, Lichao; Nan, Kaihui

2013-10-01

To investigate the apatite forming ability of pure titanium implant after micro-arc oxidation treatment in simulated body fluid (SBF) and obtain implants with calcium phosphate (Ca-P) layers. The implants were immersed in (SBF) after micro-arc oxidation treatment for different time lengths, and their apatite forming ability and the morphology and constituents of the Ca-P layers formed on the sample surface were analyzed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy dispersive electron probe. After immersion in SBF, large quantities of Ca-P layers were induced on the surface of the samples. The Ca-P layers were composed of octacalcium phosphate and carbonated hydroxyapatite, and the crystals showed a plate-like morphology with an oriented growth. The implants with micro-arc oxidation treatment show good apatite forming ability on the surface with rich calcium and phosphorus elements. The formed layers are composed of bone-like apatite including octacalcium phosphate and carbonated hydroxyapatite.

Probing molecular dynamics in solution with x-ray valence-to-core spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doumy, Gilles; March, Anne Marie; Tu, Ming-Feng; Al Haddad, Andre; Southworth, Stephen; Young, Linda; Walko, Donald; Bostedt, Christoph

2017-04-01

Hard X-ray spectroscopies are powerful tools for probing the electronic and geometric structure of molecules in complex or disordered systems and have been particularly useful for studying molecules in the solution phase. They are element specific, sensitive to the electronic structure and the local arrangements of surrounding atoms of the element being selectively probed. When combined in a pump-probe scheme with ultrafast lasers, X-ray spectroscopies can be used to track the evolution of structural changes that occur after photoexcitation. Efficient use of hard x-ray radiation coming from high brilliance synchrotrons and upcoming high repetition rate X-ray Free Electron Lasers requires MHz repetition rate lasers and data acquisition systems. High information content Valence-to-Core x-ray emission is directly sensitive to the molecular orbitals involved in photochemistry. We report on recent progress towards fully enabling this photon-hungry technique for the study of time-resolved molecular dynamics, including efficient detection and use of polychromatic x-ray micro-probe at the Advanced Photon Source. Work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Chemical Sciences, Geosciences, and Biosciences Division.

Direct Measurements of Oxygen Gradients in Spheroid Culture System Using Electron Parametric Resonance Oximetry

PubMed Central

Langan, Laura M.; Dodd, Nicholas J. F.; Owen, Stewart F.; Purcell, Wendy M.; Jackson, Simon K.; Jha, Awadhesh N.

2016-01-01

Advanced in vitro culture from tissues of different origin includes three-dimensional (3D) organoid micro structures that may mimic conditions in vivo. One example of simple 3D culture is spheroids; ball shaped structures typically used as liver and tumour models. Oxygen is critically important in physiological processes, but is difficult to quantify in 3D culture: and the question arises, how small does a spheroid have to be to have minimal micro-environment formation? This question is of particular importance in the growing field of 3D based models for toxicological assessment. Here, we describe a simple non-invasive approach modified for the quantitative measurement and subsequent evaluation of oxygen gradients in spheroids developed from a non-malignant fish cell line (i.e. RTG-2 cells) using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) oximetry. Sonication of the paramagnetic probe Lithium phthalocyanine (LiPc) allows for incorporation of probe particulates into spheroid during its formation. Spectra signal strength after incorporation of probe into spheroid indicated that a volume of 20 μl of probe (stock solution: 0.10 mg/mL) is sufficient to provide a strong spectra across a range of spheroid sizes. The addition of non-toxic probes (that do not produce or consume oxygen) report on oxygen diffusion throughout the spheroid as a function of size. We provide evidence supporting the use of this model over a range of initial cell seeding densities and spheroid sizes with the production of oxygen distribution as a function of these parameters. In our spheroid model, lower cell seeding densities (∼2,500 cells/spheroid) and absolute size (118±32 μm) allow control of factors such as pre-existing stresses (e.g. ∼ 2% normoxic/hypoxic interface) for more accurate measurement of treatment response. The applied methodology provides an elegant, widely applicable approach to directly characterize spheroid (and other organoid) cultures in biomedical and toxicological research. PMID:26900704

Direct Measurements of Oxygen Gradients in Spheroid Culture System Using Electron Parametric Resonance Oximetry.

PubMed

Langan, Laura M; Dodd, Nicholas J F; Owen, Stewart F; Purcell, Wendy M; Jackson, Simon K; Jha, Awadhesh N

2016-01-01

Advanced in vitro culture from tissues of different origin includes three-dimensional (3D) organoid micro structures that may mimic conditions in vivo. One example of simple 3D culture is spheroids; ball shaped structures typically used as liver and tumour models. Oxygen is critically important in physiological processes, but is difficult to quantify in 3D culture: and the question arises, how small does a spheroid have to be to have minimal micro-environment formation? This question is of particular importance in the growing field of 3D based models for toxicological assessment. Here, we describe a simple non-invasive approach modified for the quantitative measurement and subsequent evaluation of oxygen gradients in spheroids developed from a non-malignant fish cell line (i.e. RTG-2 cells) using Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) oximetry. Sonication of the paramagnetic probe Lithium phthalocyanine (LiPc) allows for incorporation of probe particulates into spheroid during its formation. Spectra signal strength after incorporation of probe into spheroid indicated that a volume of 20 μl of probe (stock solution: 0.10 mg/mL) is sufficient to provide a strong spectra across a range of spheroid sizes. The addition of non-toxic probes (that do not produce or consume oxygen) report on oxygen diffusion throughout the spheroid as a function of size. We provide evidence supporting the use of this model over a range of initial cell seeding densities and spheroid sizes with the production of oxygen distribution as a function of these parameters. In our spheroid model, lower cell seeding densities (∼2,500 cells/spheroid) and absolute size (118±32 μm) allow control of factors such as pre-existing stresses (e.g. ∼ 2% normoxic/hypoxic interface) for more accurate measurement of treatment response. The applied methodology provides an elegant, widely applicable approach to directly characterize spheroid (and other organoid) cultures in biomedical and toxicological research.

Quantitative microbiological study of human carious dentine by culture and real-time PCR: association of anaerobes with histopathological changes in chronic pulpitis.

PubMed

Martin, F Elizabeth; Nadkarni, Mangala A; Jacques, Nicholas A; Hunter, Neil

2002-05-01

The bacteria found in carious dentine were correlated with the tissue response of the dental pulps of 65 teeth extracted from patients with advanced caries and pulpitis. Standardized homogenates of carious dentine were plated onto selective and nonselective media under anaerobic and microaerophilic conditions. In addition, real-time PCR was used to quantify the recovery of anaerobic bacteria. Primers and fluorogenic probes were designed to detect the total anaerobic microbial load, the genera Prevotella and Fusobacterium, and the species Prevotella melaninogenica, Porphyromonas endodontalis, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Micromonas (formerly Peptostreptococcus) micros. The pulpal pathology was categorized according to the cellular response and degenerative changes. Analysis of cultured bacteria showed a predominance of gram-positive microorganisms, particularly lactobacilli. Gram-negative bacteria were also present in significant numbers with Prevotella spp., the most numerous anaerobic group cultured. Real-time PCR analysis indicated a greater microbial load than that determined by colony counting. The total number of anaerobes detected was 41-fold greater by real-time PCR than by colony counting, while the numbers of Prevotella and Fusobacterium spp. detected were 82- and 2.4-fold greater by real-time PCR than by colony counting, respectively. Real-time PCR also identified M. micros, P. endodontalis, and P. gingivalis in 71, 60, and 52% of carious samples, respectively. Correlation matrices of the real-time PCR data revealed significant positive associations between M. micros and P. endodontalis detection and inflammatory degeneration of pulpal tissues. These anaerobes have been strongly implicated in endodontic infections that occur as sequelae to carious pulpitis. Accordingly, the data suggest that the presence of high levels of these bacteria in carious lesions may be indicative of irreversible pulpal pathology.

An analogue contact probe using a compact 3D optical sensor for micro/nano coordinate measuring machines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Rui-Jun; Fan, Kuang-Chao; Miao, Jin-Wei; Huang, Qiang-Xian; Tao, Sheng; Gong, Er-min

2014-09-01

This paper presents a new analogue contact probe based on a compact 3D optical sensor with high precision. The sensor comprises an autocollimator and a polarizing Michelson interferometer, which can detect two angles and one displacement of the plane mirror at the same time. In this probe system, a tungsten stylus with a ruby tip-ball is attached to a floating plate, which is supported by four V-shape leaf springs fixed to the outer case. When a contact force is applied to the tip, the leaf springs will experience elastic deformation and the plane mirror mounted on the floating plate will be displaced. The force-motion characteristics of this probe were investigated and optimum parameters were obtained with the constraint of allowable physical size of the probe. Simulation results show that the probe is uniform in 3D and its contacting force gradient is within 1 mN µm - 1. Experimental results indicate that the probe has 1 nm resolution,  ± 10 µm measuring range in X - Y plane, 10 µm measuring range in Z direction and within 30 nm measuring standard deviation. The feasibility of the probe has been preliminarily verified by testing the flatness and step height of high precision gauge blocks.

Microbiological and clinical effects of enamel matrix derivative and sustained-release micro-spherical minocycline application as an adjunct to non-surgical therapy in peri-implant mucosal inflammation.

PubMed

Faramarzi, Masumeh; Goharfar, Zahra; Pourabbas, Reza; Kashefimehr, Atabak; Shirmohmmadi, Adileh

2015-08-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the microbial and clinical effects of mechanical debridement (MD) alone or in combination with the application of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and sustained-release micro-spherical minocycline (MSM) for treatment of peri-implant mucosal infl ammation (PIMI). Subjects with at least one implant with PIMI were included and divided into control and two different test groups. In all three groups, MD was performed. In the MSM group, following MD, MSM was placed subgingivally around the implants. In the EMD group, after MD, EMD was placed in the sulcus around the implants. Sampling of peri-implant crevicular fl uid for microbial analysis with real-time polymerase chain reaction and recording of probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were performed prior to as well as two weeks and three months after treatment. Median values and interquartile range were estimated for each variable during the various assessment intervals of the study. In all groups, at two weeks and three months, the counts of Porphyromonas gingivalis decreased significantly compared to baseline. Levels of P. gingivalis were significantly reduced in MSM (P<0.001) and EMD (P=0.026) groups compared to the control group. Also, clinical parameters improved significantly at two weeks and three months. Reduction of PD was significant in MSM (P<0.001) and EMD (P<0.001) groups. The decrease in BOP in the MSM, EMD, and control groups was 60%, 50%, and 20%, respectively. The use of MSM and EMD can be an adjunctive treatment for management of PIMI and improves clinical parameters and reduces P. gingivalis burden three months after treatment.

Nano-cone optical fiber array sensors for MiRNA profiling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yunshan; Senapati, Satyajyoti; Stoddart, Paul; Howard, Scott; Chang, Hsueh-Chia

2013-09-01

Up/down regulation of microRNA panels has been correlated to cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Frequent miRNA profiling at home can hence allow early cancer diagnosis and home-use chronic disease monitoring, thus reducing both mortality rate and healthcare cost. However, lifetime of miRNAs is less than 1 hour without preservation and their concentrations range from pM to mM. Despite rapid progress in the last decade, modern nucleic acid analysis methods still do not allow personalized miRNA profiling---Real-time PCR and DNA micro-array both require elaborate miRNA preservation steps and expensive equipment and nano pore sensors cannot selectively quantify a large panel with a large dynamic range. We report a novel and low-cost optical fiber sensing platform, which has the potential to profile a panel of miRNA with simple LED light sources and detectors. The individual tips of an optical imaging fiber bundle (mm in diameter with 7000 fiber cores) were etched into cones with 10 nm radius of curvature and coated with Au. FRET (Forster Resonant Energy Transfer) hairpin oligo probes, with the loop complementary to a specific miRNA that can release the hairpin, were functionalized onto the conic tips. Exciting light in the optical fiber waveguide is optimally coupled to surface plasmonics on the gold surface, which then converges to the conic tips with two orders of magnitude enhancement in intensity. Unlike nanoparticle plasmonics, tip plasmonics can be excited over a large band width and hence the plasmonic enhanced fluorescence signal of the FRET reporter is also focused towards the tip--- and is further enhanced with the periodic resonant grid of the fiber array which gives rise to pronounced standing wave interference patterns. Multiplexing is realized by functionalizing different probes onto one fiber bundle using a photoactivation process.

Competitive Endogenous RNAs in Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

that there is a negative correlation between GAS5 and miR-21, and microRNAs silence target genes via RISC complex carrying AGO2, next we asked whether...GAS5 directly interacts with miR-12 in the RISC complex. Thus, we synthesized GAS5 RNA probe and labeled with biotin and then mixed with cellular

Development of a Fiber-Optics Microspatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy Sensor for Probing Layered Materials.

PubMed

Vandenabeele, Peter; Conti, Claudia; Rousaki, Anastasia; Moens, Luc; Realini, Marco; Matousek, Pavel

2017-09-05

Microspatially offset Raman spectroscopy (micro-SORS) has been proposed as a valuable approach to sample molecular information from layers that are covered by a turbid (nontransparent) layer. However, when large magnifications are involved, the approach is not straightforward, as spatial constraints exist to position the laser beam and the objective lens with the external beam delivery or, with internal beam delivery, the maximum spatial offset achievable is restricted. To overcome these limitations, we propose here a prototype of a new micro-SORS sensor, which uses bare glass fibers to transfer the laser radiation to the sample and to collect the Raman signal from a spatially offset zone to the Raman spectrometer. The concept also renders itself amenable to remote delivery and to the miniaturization of the probe head which could be beneficial for special applications, e.g., where access to sample areas is restricted. The basic applicability of this approach was demonstrated by studying several layered structure systems. Apart from proving the feasibility of the technique, also, practical aspects of the use of the prototype sensor are discussed.

Hydrogen motion in Zircaloy-4 cladding during a LOCA transient

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elodie, T.; Jean, D.; Séverine, G.; M-Christine, B.; Michel, C.; Berger, P.; Martine, B.; Antoine, A.

2016-04-01

Hydrogen and oxygen are key elements influencing the embrittlement of zirconium-based nuclear fuel cladding during the quench phase following a Loss Of Coolant Accident (LOCA). The understanding of the mechanisms influencing the motion of these two chemical elements in the metal is required to fully describe the material embrittlement. High temperature steam oxidation tests were performed on pre-hydrided Zircaloy-4 samples with hydrogen contents ranging between 11 and 400 wppm prior to LOCA transient. Thanks to the use of both Electron Probe Micro-Analysis (EPMA) and Elastic Recoil Detection Analysis (μ-ERDA), the chemical elements partitioning has been systematically quantified inside the prior-β phase. Image analysis and metallographic examinations were combined to provide an average oxygen profile as well as hydrogen profile within the cladding thickness after LOCA transient. The measured hydrogen profile is far from homogeneous. Experimental distributions are compared to those predicted numerically using calculations derived from a finite difference thermo-diffusion code (DIFFOX) developed at IRSN.

Retrieval analysis of different orthodontic brackets: the applicability of electron microprobe techniques for determining material heterogeneities and corrosive potential

PubMed Central

HOLST, Alexandra Ioana; HOLST, Stefan; HIRSCHFELDER, Ursula; von SECKENDORFF, Volker

2012-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to investigate the applicability of micro-analytical methods with high spatial resolution to the characterization of the composition and corrosion behavior of two bracket systems. Material and methods The surfaces of six nickel-free brackets and six nickel-containing brackets were examined for signs of corrosion and qualitative surface analysis using an electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA), prior to bonding to patient's tooth surfaces and four months after clinical use. The surfaces were characterized qualitatively by secondary electron (SE) images and back scattered electron (BSE) images in both compositional and topographical mode. Qualitative and quantitative wavelength-dispersive analyses were performed for different elements, and by utilizing qualitative analysis the relative concentration of selected elements was mapped two-dimensionally. The absolute concentration of the elements was determined in specially prepared brackets by quantitative analysis using pure element standards for calibration and calculating correction-factors (ZAF). Results Clear differences were observed between the different bracket types. The nickel-containing stainless steel brackets consist of two separate pieces joined by a brazing alloy. Compositional analysis revealed two different alloy compositions, and reaction zones on both sides of the brazing alloy. The nickel-free bracket was a single piece with only slight variation in element concentration, but had a significantly rougher surface. After clinical use, no corrosive phenomena were detectable with the methods applied. Traces of intraoral wear at the contact areas between the bracket slot and the arch wire were verified. Conclusion Electron probe microanalysis is a valuable tool for the characterization of element distribution and quantitative analysis for corrosion studies. PMID:23032212

Micro ion frequency standard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwindt, Peter D. D.; Jau, Yuan-Yu; Partner, Heather; Serkland, Darwin K.; Boye, Robert; Fang, Lu; Casias, Adrian; Manginell, Ronald P.; Moorman, Matthew; Prestage, John; Yu, Nan

2011-06-01

We are developing a highly miniaturized trapped ion clock to probe the 12.6 GHz hyperfine transition in the 171Yb+ ion. The clock development is being funded by the Integrated Micro Primary Atomic Clock Technology (IMPACT) program from DARPA where the stated goals are to develop a clock that consumes 50 mW of power, has a size of 5 cm3, and has a long-term frequency stability of 10-14 at one month. One of the significant challenges will be to develop miniature single-frequency lasers at 369 nm and 935 nm and the optical systems to deliver light to the ions and to collect ion fluorescence on a detector.

Cubesat Application for Planetary Entry (CAPE) Missions: Micro-Reentry Capsule (MIRCA)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Esper, Jaime

2014-01-01

The Cubesat Application for Planetary Entry Missions (CAPE) concept describes a high-performing Cubesat system which includes a propulsion module and miniaturized technologies capable of surviving atmospheric entry heating, while reliably transmitting scientific and engineering data. The Micro Return Capsule (MIRCA) is CAPEs first planetary entry probe flight prototype. Within this context, this paper briefly describes CAPEs configuration and typical operational scenario, and summarizes ongoing work on the design and basic aerodynamic characteristics of the prototype MIRCA vehicle. CAPE not only opens the door to new planetary mission capabilities, it also offers relatively low-cost opportunities especially suitable to university participation.

Microstructural characterization of aluminum alloys using Weck's reagent, part I: Applications

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

Gao, Li, E-mail: gao.l.ab@m.titech.ac.jp; Harada, Yohei, E-mail: harada.y.ah@m.titech.ac.jp; Kumai, Shinji, E-mail: kumai.s.aa@m.titech.ac.jp

This paper focuses on the applications of a color etchant for aluminum alloys named Weck's reagent. The Al phase shows different colors from location to location after being etched by Weck's reagent. It is proved that Weck's reagent is very sensitive to the micro-segregations of Ti, Si and Mg in Al alloys so that characterization of the micro-segregations can be qualitatively realized which is usually done by electronic probe techniques. With the help of this characterization method, we are able to evaluate solid fractions for the semi-solid processed Al alloy with a better accuracy by excluding the Al grain growthmore » during water quenching. To understand this reagent better, the color change during etching is investigated by applying different etching times at room temperature (25 °C). Among those results, 12 s shows the best color contrast after etching. Finally, we repeat the 12 second etching for four times through repeating a polishing–etching process. The result exhibits that Weck's reagent has a satisfying re-producibility with stable color and color distribution for the four times etching result. The second part of this study covers the coloring mechanism of Weck's reagent by characterizing the etched surface via various characterization methods. - Highlights: • The applications of Weck's reagent for Al alloys are introduced in detail. • Detailed relationship between micro-segregations in Al phase and the color difference revealed by Weck's reagent are studied. • Etching time has a strong influence on the color revealed by Weck's reagent. • Besides micro-segregation, grain boundaries can also be visualized by Weck's reagent, which was proved by EBSD analysis.« less

Auraptene, a citrus coumarin, inhibits 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced tumor promotion in ICR mouse skin, possibly through suppression of superoxide generation in leukocytes.

PubMed

Murakami, A; Kuki, W; Takahashi, Y; Yonei, H; Nakamura, Y; Ohto, Y; Ohigashi, H; Koshimizu, K

1997-05-01

Coumarin-related compounds, auraptene and umbelliferone, have been isolated from the cold-pressed oil of natsumikan (Citrus natsudaidai HAYATA), and tested as inhibitors of tumor promoter 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced Epstein-Barr virus activation in Raji cells. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of auraptene (18 microM) was almost equal to that of genistein. Umbelliferone, which lacks a geranyloxyl group present in auraptene, was less active (IC50 = 450 microM). In a two-stage carcinogenesis experiment with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a] anthracene (topical application at 0.19 mumol) and TPA (topical application at 1.6 nmol) in ICR mouse skin, topical application of auraptene (at 160 nmol) significantly reduced tumor incidence and the numbers of tumors per mouse by 27% (P < 0.01) and 23% (P < 0.05), respectively. Auraptene at a concentration of 50 microM markedly suppressed superoxide (O2-) generation induced by 100 microM TPA in differentiated human promyelocytic HL-60 cells. Having no O2(-)-scavenging potential, auraptene may inhibit the multicomponent NADPH oxidase system. Inhibition of intracellular hydroperoxide formation in differentiated HL-60 cells by auraptene was also confirmed by flow-cytometric analysis using 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate as a fluorescence probe. Quantitative analyses using high-performance liquid chromatography showed the occurrence of auraptene not only in both the peels and sarcocarps of natsumikan, but also in those of hassaku orange (C. hassaku) and grapefruit (C. paradisi), and even in their bottled fresh juice form. These results indicate that auraptene is a chemopreventer of skin tumorigenesis, and implies that suppression of leukocyte activation might be the mechanism through which it inhibits tumor promotion.

Micro-Pressure Sensors for Future Mars Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Catling, David C.

1996-01-01

The joint research interchange effort was directed at the following principal areas: u further development of NASA-Ames' Mars Micro-meteorology mission concept as a viable NASA space mission especially with regard to the science and instrument specifications u interaction with the flight team from NASA's New Millennium 'Deep-Space 2' (DS-2) mission with regard to selection and design of micro-pressure sensors for Mars u further development of micro-pressure sensors suitable for Mars The research work undertaken in the course of the Joint Research Interchange should be placed in the context of an ongoing planetary exploration objective to characterize the climate system on Mars. In particular, a network of small probes globally-distributed on the surface of the planet has often been cited as the only way to address this particular science goal. A team from NASA Ames has proposed such a mission called the Micrometeorology mission, or 'Micro-met' for short. Surface pressure data are all that are required, in principle, to calculate the Martian atmospheric circulation, provided that simultaneous orbital measurements of the atmosphere are also obtained. Consequently, in the proposed Micro-met mission a large number of landers would measure barometric pressure at various locations around Mars, each equipped with a micro-pressure sensor. Much of the time on the JRI was therefore spent working with the engineers and scientists concerned with Micro-met to develop this particular mission concept into a more realistic proposition.

Resolving colocalization of bacteria and metal(loid)s on plant root surfaces by combining fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with multiple-energy micro-focused X-ray fluorescence (ME μXRF).

PubMed

Honeker, Linnea K; Root, Robert A; Chorover, Jon; Maier, Raina M

2016-12-01

Metal(loid)-contamination of the environment due to anthropogenic activities is a global problem. Understanding the fate of contaminants requires elucidation of biotic and abiotic factors that influence metal(loid) speciation from molecular to field scales. Improved methods are needed to assess micro-scale processes, such as those occurring at biogeochemical interfaces between plant tissues, microbial cells, and metal(loid)s. Here we present an advanced method that combines fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with synchrotron-based multiple-energy micro-focused X-ray fluorescence microprobe imaging (ME μXRF) to examine colocalization of bacteria and metal(loid)s on root surfaces of plants used to phytostabilize metalliferous mine tailings. Bacteria were visualized on a small root section using SytoBC nucleic acid stain and FISH probes targeting the domain Bacteria and a specific group (Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, or Actinobacteria). The same root region was then analyzed for elemental distribution and metal(loid) speciation of As and Fe using ME μXRF. The FISH and ME μXRF images were aligned using ImageJ software to correlate microbiological and geochemical results. Results from quantitative analysis of colocalization show a significantly higher fraction of As colocalized with Fe-oxide plaques on the root surfaces (fraction of overlap 0.49±0.19) than to bacteria (0.072±0.052) (p<0.05). Of the bacteria that colocalized with metal(loid)s, Actinobacteria, known for their metal tolerance, had a higher correlation with both As and Fe than Alphaproteobacteria or Gammaproteobacteria. This method demonstrates how coupling these micro-techniques can expand our understanding of micro-scale interactions between roots, metal(loid)s and microbes, information that should lead to improved mechanistic models of metal(loid) speciation and fate. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Exploring Chondrule and CAI Rims Using Micro- and Nano-Scale Petrological and Compositional Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cartwright, J. A.; Perez-Huerta, A.; Leitner, J.; Vollmer, C.

2017-12-01

As the major components within chondrites, chondrules (mm-sized droplets of quenched silicate melt) and calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAI, refractory) represent the most abundant and the earliest materials that solidified from the solar nebula. However, the exact formation mechanisms of these clasts, and whether these processes are related, remains unconstrained, despite extensive petrological and compositional study. By taking advantage of recent advances in nano-scale tomographical techniques, we have undertaken a combined micro- and nano-scale study of CAI and chondrule rim morphologies, to investigate their formation mechanisms. The target lithologies for this research are Wark-Lovering rims (WLR), and fine-grained rims (FGR) around CAIs and chondrules respectively, present within many chondrites. The FGRs, which are up to 100 µm thick, are of particular interest as recent studies have identified presolar grains within them. These grains predate the formation of our Solar System, suggesting FGR formation under nebular conditions. By contrast, WLRs are 10-20 µm thick, made of different compositional layers, and likely formed by flash-heating shortly after CAI formation, thus recording nebular conditions. A detailed multi-scale study of these respective rims will enable us to better understand their formation histories and determine the potential for commonality between these two phases, despite reports of an observed formation age difference of up to 2-3 Myr. We are using a combination of complimentary techniques on our selected target areas: 1) Micro-scale characterization using standard microscopic and compositional techniques (SEM-EBSD, EMPA); 2) Nano-scale characterization of structures using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and elemental, isotopic and tomographic analysis with NanoSIMS and atom probe tomography (APT). Preliminary nano-scale APT analysis of FGR morphologies within the Allende carbonaceous chondrite has successfully discerned complex chondritic mineralogies and compositional differences across boundaries, which is one of the first applications of in-situ APT techniques to chondrites. Further data reduction will allow us to characterize the exact phases present, and further chondrite analyses are in progress.

An Array-Based Analysis of MicroRNA Expression Comparing Matched Frozen and Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded Human Tissue Samples

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiao; Chen, Jiamin; Radcliffe, Tom; LeBrun, Dave P.; Tron, Victor A.; Feilotter, Harriet

2008-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that suppress gene expression at the posttranscriptional level via an antisense RNA-RNA interaction. miRNAs used for array-based profiling are generally purified from either snap-frozen or fresh samples. Because tissues found in most pathology departments are available only in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) states, we sought to evaluate miRNA derived from FFPE samples for microarray analysis. In this study, miRNAs extracted from matched snap-frozen and FFPE samples were profiled using the Agilent miRNA array platform (Agilent, Santa Clara, CA). Each miRNA sample was hybridized to arrays containing probes interrogating 470 human miRNAs. Seven cases were compared in either duplicate or triplicate. Intrachip and interchip analyses demonstrated that the processes of miRNA extraction, labeling, and hybridization from both frozen and FFPE samples are highly reproducible and add little variation to the results; technical replicates showed high correlations with one another (Kendall tau, 0.722 to 0.853; Spearman rank correlation coefficient, 0.891 to 0.954). Our results showed consistent high correlations between matched frozen and FFPE samples (Kendall tau, 0.669 to 0.815; Spearman rank correlation coefficient, 0.847 to 0.948), supporting the use of FFPE-derived miRNAs for array-based, gene expression profiling. PMID:18832457

Near-field vector intensity measurements of a small solid rocket motor.

PubMed

Gee, Kent L; Giraud, Jarom H; Blotter, Jonathan D; Sommerfeldt, Scott D

2010-08-01

Near-field vector intensity measurements have been made of a 12.7-cm diameter nozzle solid rocket motor. The measurements utilized a test rig comprised of four probes each with four low-sensitivity 6.35-mm pressure microphones in a tetrahedral arrangement. Measurements were made with the rig at nine positions (36 probe locations) within six nozzle diameters of the plume shear layer. Overall levels at these locations range from 135 to 157 dB re 20 microPa. Vector intensity maps reveal that, as frequency increases, the dominant source region contracts and moves upstream with peak directivity at greater angles from the plume axis.

Dual-energy micro-CT imaging for differentiation of iodine- and gold-based nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badea, C. T.; Johnston, S. M.; Qi, Y.; Ghaghada, K.; Johnson, G. A.

2011-03-01

Spectral CT imaging is expected to play a major role in the diagnostic arena as it provides material decomposition on an elemental basis. One fascinating possibility is the ability to discriminate multiple contrast agents targeting different biological sites. We investigate the feasibility of dual energy micro-CT for discrimination of iodine (I) and gold (Au) contrast agents when simultaneously present in the body. Simulations and experiments were performed to measure the CT enhancement for I and Au over a range of voltages from 40-to-150 kVp using a dual source micro-CT system. The selected voltages for dual energy micro-CT imaging of Au and I were 40 kVp and 80 kVp. On a massconcentration basis, the relative average enhancement of Au to I was 2.75 at 40 kVp and 1.58 at 80 kVp. We have demonstrated the method in a preclinical model of colon cancer to differentiate vascular architecture and extravasation. The concentration maps of Au and I allow quantitative measure of the bio-distribution of both agents. In conclusion, dual energy micro-CT can be used to discriminate probes containing I and Au with immediate impact in pre-clinical research.

In vivo small animal micro-CT using nanoparticle contrast agents

PubMed Central

Ashton, Jeffrey R.; West, Jennifer L.; Badea, Cristian T.

2015-01-01

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most valuable modalities for in vivo imaging because it is fast, high-resolution, cost-effective, and non-invasive. Moreover, CT is heavily used not only in the clinic (for both diagnostics and treatment planning) but also in preclinical research as micro-CT. Although CT is inherently effective for lung and bone imaging, soft tissue imaging requires the use of contrast agents. For small animal micro-CT, nanoparticle contrast agents are used in order to avoid rapid renal clearance. A variety of nanoparticles have been used for micro-CT imaging, but the majority of research has focused on the use of iodine-containing nanoparticles and gold nanoparticles. Both nanoparticle types can act as highly effective blood pool contrast agents or can be targeted using a wide variety of targeting mechanisms. CT imaging can be further enhanced by adding spectral capabilities to separate multiple co-injected nanoparticles in vivo. Spectral CT, using both energy-integrating and energy-resolving detectors, has been used with multiple contrast agents to enable functional and molecular imaging. This review focuses on new developments for in vivo small animal micro-CT using novel nanoparticle probes applied in preclinical research. PMID:26581654

Quantification of Sheet Resistance in Boron-Diffused Silicon Using Micro-Photoluminescence Spectroscopy at Room Temperature

DOE PAGES

Nguyen, Hieu T.; Johnston, Steve; Paduthol, Appu; ...

2017-09-01

A micro-photoluminescence-based technique is presented, to quantify and map sheet resistances of boron-diffused layers in silicon solar cell precursors with micron-scale spatial resolution at room temperature. The technique utilizes bandgap narrowing effects in the heavily-doped layers, yielding a broader photoluminescence spectrum at the long-wavelength side compared to the spectrum emitted from lightly doped silicon. By choosing an appropriate spectral range as a metric to assess the doping density, the impacts of photon reabsorption on the analysis can be avoided; thus, an accurate characterization of the sheet resistance can be made. This metric is demonstrated to be better representative of themore » sheet resistance than the surface doping density or the total dopant concentration of the diffused layer. The technique is applied to quantify sheet resistances of 12-um-wide diffused fingers in interdigitated back-contact solar cell precursors and large diffused areas. The results are confirmed by both 4-point probe and time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry measurements. Lastly, the practical limitations associated with extending the proposed technique into an imaging mode are presented and explained.« less

Quantification of Sheet Resistance in Boron-Diffused Silicon Using Micro-Photoluminescence Spectroscopy at Room Temperature

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

Nguyen, Hieu T.; Johnston, Steve; Paduthol, Appu

A micro-photoluminescence-based technique is presented, to quantify and map sheet resistances of boron-diffused layers in silicon solar cell precursors with micron-scale spatial resolution at room temperature. The technique utilizes bandgap narrowing effects in the heavily-doped layers, yielding a broader photoluminescence spectrum at the long-wavelength side compared to the spectrum emitted from lightly doped silicon. By choosing an appropriate spectral range as a metric to assess the doping density, the impacts of photon reabsorption on the analysis can be avoided; thus, an accurate characterization of the sheet resistance can be made. This metric is demonstrated to be better representative of themore » sheet resistance than the surface doping density or the total dopant concentration of the diffused layer. The technique is applied to quantify sheet resistances of 12-um-wide diffused fingers in interdigitated back-contact solar cell precursors and large diffused areas. The results are confirmed by both 4-point probe and time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry measurements. Lastly, the practical limitations associated with extending the proposed technique into an imaging mode are presented and explained.« less

Altered MicroRNA Expression Profile in Exosomes during Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

PubMed Central

Zhang, Shui-Jun; Zhao, Chen; Qiu, Bin-Song; Gu, Hai-Feng; Hong, Jian-Fei; Cao, Li; Chen, Yu; Xia, Bing; Bi, Qin; Wang, Ya-Ping

2014-01-01

The physiological role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in osteoblast differentiation remains elusive. Exosomal miRNAs isolated from human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) culture were profiled using miRNA arrays containing probes for 894 human matured miRNAs. Seventy-nine miRNAs (∼8.84%) could be detected in exosomes isolated from BMSC culture supernatants when normalized to endogenous control genes RNU44. Among them, nine exosomal miRNAs were up regulated and 4 miRNAs were under regulated significantly (Relative fold>2, p<0.05) when compared with the values at 0 day with maximum changes at 1 to 7 days. Five miRNAs (miR-199b, miR-218, miR-148a, miR-135b, and miR-221) were further validated and differentially expressed in the individual exosomal samples from hBMSCs cultured at different time points. Bioinformatic analysis by DIANA-mirPath demonstrated that RNA degradation, mRNA surveillance pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, RNA transport were the most prominent pathways enriched in quantiles with differential exosomal miRNA patterns related to osteogenic differentiation. These data demonstrated exosomal miRNA is a regulator of osteoblast differentiation. PMID:25503309

Effects of Tungsten Addition on the Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Fe-3.5B Alloy in Liquid Zinc

PubMed Central

Liu, Xin; Wang, Mengmeng; Yin, Fucheng; Ouyang, Xuemei; Li, Zhi

2017-01-01

The effects of tungsten addition on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of Fe-3.5B alloys in a liquid zinc bath at 520 °C were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and electron probe micro-analysis. The microstructure evolution in different alloys is analyzed and discussed using an extrapolated Fe-B-W ternary phase diagram. Experimental results show that there are three kinds of borides, the reticular (Fe, W)2B, the rod-like (Fe, W)3B and flower-like FeWB. The addition of tungsten can refine the microstructure and improve the stability of the reticular borides. Besides, it is beneficial to the formation of the metastable (Fe, W)3B phase. The resultant Fe-3.5B-11W (wt %) alloy possesses excellent corrosion resistance to liquid zinc. When tungsten content exceeds 11 wt %, the formed flower-like FeWB phase destroys the integrity of the reticular borides and results in the deterioration of the corrosion resistance. Also, the corrosion failure resulting from the spalling of borides due to the initiation of micro-cracks in the grain boundary of borides is discussed in this paper. PMID:28772759

Temperature impact on the micro structure of tungsten exposed to He irradiation in LHD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernard, Elodie; Sakamoto, Ryuichi; Tokitani, Masayuki; Masuzaki, Suguru; Hayashi, Hiromi; Yamada, Hiroshi; Yoshida, Naoaki

2017-02-01

A new temperature controlled material probe was designed for the exposure of tungsten samples to helium plasma in the LHD. Samples were exposed to estimated fluences of ∼1023 m-2 and temperatures ranging from 65 to 600 °C. Transmission Electron Microscopy analysis allowed the study of the impact of He irradiation under high temperatures on tungsten micro structure for the first time in real-plasma exposure conditions. Both dislocation loops and bubbles appeared from low to medium temperatures and saw an impressive increase of size (factor 4 to 6) most probably by coalescence as the temperature reaches 600 °C, with 500 °C appearing as a threshold for bubble growth. Annealing of the samples up to 800 C highlighted the stability of the dislocation damages formed by helium irradiation at high surface temperature, as bubbles and dislocation loops seem to conserve their characteristics. Additional studies on cross-sections showed that bubbles were formed much deeper (70-100 nm) than the heavily damaged surface layer (10-20 nm), raising concern about the impact on the material mechanical properties conservation and potential additional trapping of hydrogen isotopes.

Carbon nanotube enhanced label-free detection of microRNAs based on hairpin probe triggered solid-phase rolling-circle amplification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Qianqian; Wang, Ying; Deng, Ruijie; Lin, Lei; Liu, Yang; Li, Jinghong

2014-12-01

The detection of microRNAs (miRNAs) is imperative for gaining a better understanding of the functions of these biomarkers and has great potential for the early diagnosis of human disease. High sensitivity and selectivity for miRNA detection brings new challenges. Herein, an ultrasensitive protocol for electrochemical detection of miRNA is designed through carbon nanotube (CNT) enhanced label-free detection based on hairpin probe triggered solid-phase rolling-circle amplification (RCA). Traditionally, RCA, widely applied for signal enhancement in the construction of a variety of biosensors, has an intrinsic limitation of ultrasensitive detection, as it is difficult to separate the enzymes, templates, and padlock DNAs from the RCA products in the homogeneous solution. We purposely designed a solid-phase RCA strategy, using CNTs as the solid substrate, integrated with a hairpin structured probe to recognize target miRNA. In the presence of miRNA the stem-loop structure will be unfolded, triggering the CNT based RCA process. Due to the efficient blocking effect originating from the polymeric RCA products, the label-free assay of miRNA exhibits an ultrasensitive detection limit of 1.2 fM. Furthermore, the protocol possesses excellent specificity for resolving lung cancer-related let-7 family members which have only one-nucleotide variations. The high sensitivity and selectivity give the method great potential for applications in online diagnostics and in situ detection in long-term development.The detection of microRNAs (miRNAs) is imperative for gaining a better understanding of the functions of these biomarkers and has great potential for the early diagnosis of human disease. High sensitivity and selectivity for miRNA detection brings new challenges. Herein, an ultrasensitive protocol for electrochemical detection of miRNA is designed through carbon nanotube (CNT) enhanced label-free detection based on hairpin probe triggered solid-phase rolling-circle amplification (RCA). Traditionally, RCA, widely applied for signal enhancement in the construction of a variety of biosensors, has an intrinsic limitation of ultrasensitive detection, as it is difficult to separate the enzymes, templates, and padlock DNAs from the RCA products in the homogeneous solution. We purposely designed a solid-phase RCA strategy, using CNTs as the solid substrate, integrated with a hairpin structured probe to recognize target miRNA. In the presence of miRNA the stem-loop structure will be unfolded, triggering the CNT based RCA process. Due to the efficient blocking effect originating from the polymeric RCA products, the label-free assay of miRNA exhibits an ultrasensitive detection limit of 1.2 fM. Furthermore, the protocol possesses excellent specificity for resolving lung cancer-related let-7 family members which have only one-nucleotide variations. The high sensitivity and selectivity give the method great potential for applications in online diagnostics and in situ detection in long-term development. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Preparation of the chemically modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), characterization of the CNTs and modified CNTs, preparation of the circular probe, gel electrophoresis of the RCA products, and DNA probes as noted in the text. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr05243a

Oxalate-curcumin-based probe for micro- and macroimaging of reactive oxygen species in Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Yang, Jian; Zhang, Xueli; Yuan, Peng; Yang, Jing; Xu, Yungen; Grutzendler, Jaime; Shao, Yihan; Moore, Anna; Ran, Chongzhao

2017-11-21

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible neurodegenerative disorder that has a progression that is closely associated with oxidative stress. It has long been speculated that the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in AD brains is much higher than that in healthy brains. However, evidence from living beings is scarce. Inspired by the "chemistry of glow stick," we designed a near-IR fluorescence (NIRF) imaging probe, termed CRANAD-61, for sensing ROS to provide evidence at micro- and macrolevels. In CRANAD-61, an oxalate moiety was utilized to react with ROS and to consequentially produce wavelength shifting. Our in vitro data showed that CRANAD-61 was highly sensitive and rapidly responsive to various ROS. On reacting with ROS, its excitation and emission wavelengths significantly shifted to short wavelengths, and this shifting could be harnessed for dual-color two-photon imaging and transformative NIRF imaging. In this report, we showed that CRANAD-61 could be used to identify "active" amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) surrounded by high ROS levels with two-photon imaging (microlevel) and to provide relative total ROS concentrations in AD brains via whole-brain NIRF imaging (macrolevel). Lastly, we showed that age-related increases in ROS levels in AD brains could be monitored with our NIRF imaging method. We believe that our imaging with CRANAD-61 could provide evidence of ROS at micro- and macrolevels and could be used for monitoring ROS changes under various AD pathological conditions and during drug treatment.

Use of micro-lightguide spectrophotometry for evaluation of microcirculation in the small and large intestines of horses without gastrointestinal disease.

PubMed

Reichert, Christof; Kästner, Sabine B R; Hopster, Klaus; Rohn, Karl; Rötting, Anna K

2014-11-01

To evaluate the use of a micro-lightguide tissue spectrophotometer for measurement of tissue oxygenation and blood flow in the small and large intestines of horses under anesthesia. 13 adult horses without gastrointestinal disease. Horses were anesthetized and placed in dorsal recumbency. Ventral midline laparotomy was performed. Intestinal segments were exteriorized to obtain measurements. Spectrophotometric measurements of tissue oxygenation and regional blood flow of the jejunum and pelvic flexure were obtained under various conditions that were considered to have a potential effect on measurement accuracy. In addition, arterial oxygen saturation at the measuring sites was determined by use of pulse oximetry. 12,791 single measurements of oxygen saturation, relative amount of hemoglobin, and blood flow were obtained. Errors occurred in 381 of 12,791 (2.98%) measurements. Most measurement errors occurred when surgical lights were directed at the measuring site; covering the probe with the surgeon's hand did not eliminate this error source. No measurement errors were observed when the probe was positioned on the intestinal wall with room light, at the mesenteric side, or between the mesenteric and antimesenteric side. Values for blood flow had higher variability, and this was most likely caused by motion artifacts of the intestines. The micro-lightguide spectrophotometry system was easy to use on the small and large intestines of horses and provided rapid evaluation of the microcirculation. Results indicated that measurements should be performed with room light only and intestinal motion should be minimized.

Institutional Transfer and the Management of Risk in Higher Education. WISCAPE Working Paper

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deil-Amen, Regina; Goldrick-Rab, Sara

2009-01-01

By probing the micro-level interactions and experiences shaping students' thoughts, behaviors, and decisions during college the authors hope to generate a better picture of how individuals enact the intersection of their own agency with their given social context. Such insights may enable a more accurate and meaningful interpretation of the…

Dividing to unveil protein microheterogeneities: A Traveling Wave Ion Mobility study

PubMed Central

Halgand, F.; Habchi, Johnny; Cravello, Laetitia; Martinho, Marlène; Guigliarelli, Bruno; Longhi, Sonia

2011-01-01

Over-expression of a protein in a foreign host is often the only route toward an exhaustive characterization especially when purification from the natural source(s) is hardly achievable. The key issue in these studies relies on quality control of the purified recombinant protein to precisely determining its identity as well as any undesirable micro-heterogeneities. While standard proteomics approaches preclude unbiased search for modifications, the optional technique of top down MSMS requires the use of highly accurate and highly resolved experiments to reveal subtle sequence modifications. In the present study, the top down MSMS approach combined with Traveling Wave Ion Mobility (TWIM) separation was evaluated for its ability to achieve high sequence coverage and to reveal subtle micro-heterogeneities that were hitherto only accessible with FTICR-MS instruments. The power of this approach is herein illustrated in an in-depth analysis of both wt and K496C variant of the recombinant X domain (XD, aa 459-507) of the measles virus phosphoprotein expressed in E. coli. Using top down MSMS combined to TWIM, we show that XD samples occasionally exhibit a micro-heterogeneity that could not be anticipated from the nucleotide sequence of the encoding constructs and that likely reflects a genetic drift, neutral or not, occurring during expression. In addition, an MTSL nitroxide probe that was grafted on the K496C XD variant was shown to undergo oxidation and/or protonation in the ESI source leading to artifactual mass increases. PMID:21800924

Hybrid Systems: Cold Atoms Coupled to Micro Mechanical Oscillators =

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montoya Monge, Cris A.

Micro mechanical oscillators can serve as probes in precision measurements, as transducers to mediate photon-phonon interactions, and when functionalized with magnetic material, as tools to manipulate spins in quantum systems. This dissertation includes two projects where the interactions between cold atoms and mechanical oscillators are studied. In one of the experiments, we have manipulated the Zeeman state of magnetically trapped Rubidium atoms with a magnetic micro cantilever. The results show a spatially localized effect produced by the cantilever that agrees with Landau-Zener theory. In the future, such a scalable system with highly localized interactions and the potential for single-spin sensitivity could be useful for applications in quantum information science or quantum simulation. In a second experiment, work is in progress to couple a sample of optically trapped Rubidium atoms to a levitated nanosphere via an optical lattice. This coupling enables the cooling of the center-of-mass motion of the nanosphere by laser cooling the atoms. In this system, the atoms are trapped in the optical lattice while the sphere is levitated in a separate vacuum chamber by a single-beam optical tweezer. Theoretical analysis of such a system has determined that cooling the center-of-mass motion of the sphere to its quantum ground state is possible, even when starting at room temperature, due to the excellent environmental decoupling achievable in this setup. Nanospheres cooled to the quantum regime can provide new tests of quantum behavior at mesoscopic scales and have novel applications in precision sensing.

Identification of glucose-fermenting bacteria in a full-scale enhanced biological phosphorus removal plant by stable isotope probing.

PubMed

Nielsen, Jeppe Lund; Nguyen, Hien; Meyer, Rikke Louise; Nielsen, Per Halkjær

2012-07-01

Microbiology in wastewater treatment has mainly been focused on problem-causing filamentous bacteria or bacteria directly involved in nitrogen and phosphorus removal, and to a lesser degree on flanking groups, such as hydrolysing and fermenting bacteria. However, these groups constitute important suppliers of readily degradable substrates for the overall processes in the plant. This study aimed to identify glucose-fermenting bacteria in a full-scale enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), and to determine their abundance in similar WWTPs. Glucose-fermenting micro-organisms were identified by an in situ approach using RNA-based stable isotope probing. Activated sludge was incubated anaerobically with (13)C(6)-labelled glucose, and (13)C-enriched rRNA was subsequently reverse-transcribed and used to construct a 16S rRNA gene clone library. Phylogenetic analysis of the library revealed the presence of two major phylogenetic groups of gram-positive bacteria affiliating with the genera Tetrasphaera, Propionicimonas (Actinobacteria), and Lactococcus and Streptococcus (Firmicutes). Specific oligonucleotide probes were designed for fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to specifically target the glucose-fermenting bacteria identified in this study. The combination of FISH with microautoradiography confirmed that Tetrasphaera, Propionicimonas and Streptococcus were the dominant glucose fermenters. The probe-defined fermenters were quantified in 10 full-scale EBPR plants and averaged 39 % of the total biovolume. Tetrasphaera and Propionicimonas were the most abundant glucose fermenters (average 33 and 4 %, respectively), while Streptococcus and Lactococcus were present only in some WWTPs (average 1 and 0.4 %, respectively). Thus the population of actively metabolizing glucose fermenters seems to occupy a relatively large component of the total biovolume.

Detection of Nucleic Acids in Complex Samples via Magnetic Microbead-assisted Catalyzed Hairpin Assembly and "DD-A" FRET.

PubMed

Fang, Hongmei; Xie, Nuli; Ou, Min; Huang, Jin; Li, Wenshan; Wang, Qing; Liu, Jianbo; Yang, Xiaohai; Wang, Kemin

2018-05-21

Nucleic acids, as one kind of significant biomarkers, have attracted tremendous attention and exhibited immense value in fundamental studies and clinical applications. In this work, we developed a fluorescent assay for detecting nucleic acids in complex samples based on magnetic microbead (MMB)-assisted catalyzed hairpin assembly (CHA) and donor donor-acceptor fluorescence resonance energy transfer ("DD-A" FRET) signaling mechanism. Three types of DNA hairpin probes were employed in this system, including Capture, H1 (double FAM-labelled probe as FRET donor) and H2 (TAMRA-labelled probe as FRET acceptor). Firstly, the Captures immobilized on MMBs bound to targets in complex samples, and the sequences in Captures that could trigger catalyzed hairpin assembly (CHA) were exposed. Then, target-enriched MMBs complexes were separated and resuspended in the reaction buffer containing H1 and H2. As a result, numerous H1-H2 duplexes were formed during CHA process, inducing an obvious FRET signal. In contrast, CHA could not be trigger and the FRET signal was weak while target was absent. With the aid of magnetic separation and "DD-A" FRET, it was demonstrated to effectively eliminate errors from background interference. Importantly, this strategy realized amplified detection in buffer, with detection limits of microRNA as low as 34 pM. Furthermore, this method was successfully applied to detect microRNA-21 in serum and cell culture media. The results showed that our method has the potential for biomedical research and clinical application.

Sol-Gel Deposition of Iridium Oxide for Biomedical Micro-Devices

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Cuong M.; Rao, Smitha; Yang, Xuesong; Dubey, Souvik; Mays, Jeffrey; Cao, Hung; Chiao, Jung-Chih

2015-01-01

Flexible iridium oxide (IrOx)-based micro-electrodes were fabricated on flexible polyimide substrates using a sol-gel deposition process for utilization as integrated pseudo-reference electrodes for bio-electrochemical sensing applications. The fabrication method yields reliable miniature on-probe IrOx electrodes with long lifetime, high stability and repeatability. Such sensors can be used for long-term measurements. Various dimensions of sol-gel iridium oxide electrodes including 1 mm × 1 mm, 500 μm × 500 μm, and 100 μm × 100 μm were fabricated. Sensor longevity and pH dependence were investigated by immersing the electrodes in hydrochloric acid, fetal bovine serum (FBS), and sodium hydroxide solutions for 30 days. Less pH dependent responses, compared to IrOx electrodes fabricated by electrochemical deposition processes, were measured at 58.8 ± 0.4 mV/pH, 53.8 ± 1.3 mV/pH and 48 ± 0.6 mV/pH, respectively. The on-probe IrOx pseudo-reference electrodes were utilized for dopamine sensing. The baseline responses of the sensors were higher than the one using an external Ag/AgCl reference electrode. Using IrOx reference electrodes integrated on the same probe with working electrodes eliminated the use of cytotoxic Ag/AgCl reference electrode without loss in sensitivity. This enables employing such sensors in long-term recording of concentrations of neurotransmitters in central nervous systems of animals and humans. PMID:25686309

A multifunctional force microscope for soft matter with in situ imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roberts, Paul; Pilkington, Georgia A.; Wang, Yumo; Frechette, Joelle

2018-04-01

We present the multifunctional force microscope (MFM), a normal and lateral force-measuring instrument with in situ imaging. In the MFM, forces are calculated from the normal and lateral deflection of a cantilever as measured via fiber optic sensors. The motion of the cantilever is controlled normally by a linear micro-translation stage and a piezoelectric actuator, while the lateral motion of the sample is controlled by another linear micro-translation stage. The micro-translation stages allow for travel distances that span 25 mm with a minimum step size of 50 nm, while the piezo has a minimum step size of 0.2 nm, but a 100 μm maximum range. Custom-designed cantilevers allow for the forces to be measured over 4 orders of magnitude (from 50 μN to 1 N). We perform probe tack, friction, and hydrodynamic drainage experiments to demonstrate the sensitivity, versatility, and measurable force range of the instrument.

Optogenetic activation of neocortical neurons in vivo with a sapphire-based micro-scale LED probe.

PubMed

McAlinden, Niall; Gu, Erdan; Dawson, Martin D; Sakata, Shuzo; Mathieson, Keith

2015-01-01

Optogenetics has proven to be a revolutionary technology in neuroscience and has advanced continuously over the past decade. However, optical stimulation technologies for in vivo need to be developed to match the advances in genetics and biochemistry that have driven this field. In particular, conventional approaches for in vivo optical illumination have a limitation on the achievable spatio-temporal resolution. Here we utilize a sapphire-based microscale gallium nitride light-emitting diode (μLED) probe to activate neocortical neurons in vivo. The probes were designed to contain independently controllable multiple μLEDs, emitting at 450 nm wavelength with an irradiance of up to 2 W/mm(2). Monte-Carlo stimulations predicted that optical stimulation using a μLED can modulate neural activity within a localized region. To validate this prediction, we tested this probe in the mouse neocortex that expressed channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) and compared the results with optical stimulation through a fiber at the cortical surface. We confirmed that both approaches reliably induced action potentials in cortical neurons and that the μLED probe evoked strong responses in deep neurons. Due to the possibility to integrate many optical stimulation sites onto a single shank, the μLED probe is thus a promising approach to control neurons locally in vivo.

Intra-opeartive OCT imaging and sensing devices for clinical translation (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yu

2017-02-01

Stereotactic procedures that require insertion of needle-based instruments into the brain serve important roles in a variety of neurosurgical interventions, such as biopsy, catheterization, and electrode placement. A fundamental limitation of these stereotactic procedures is that they are blind procedures in that the operator does not have real-time feedback as to what lies immediately ahead of the advancing needle. Therefore, there is a great clinical need to navigate the instrument safely and accurately to the targets. Towards that end, we developed a forwarding-imaging needle-type optical coherence tomography (OCT) probe for avoiding the hemorrhage and guiding neurosurgical interventions. The needle probe has a thin diameter of 0.7 mm. The feasibility of vessel detection and neurosurgical guidance were demonstrated on sheep brain in vivo and human brain ex vivo. In addition, we further reduced the probe size to 0.3 mm using an optical Doppler sensing (ODS) fiber probe that can integrate with microelectrode recording (MER) to detect the blood vessels lying ahead to improve the safety of this procedure. Furthermore, to overcome the field-of-view limitation of OCT probe, we developed an MRI-compatible OCT imaging probe for neurosurgery. MRI/OCT multi-scale imaging integrates micro-resolution optical imaging with wide-field MRI imaging, and has potential to further improve the targeting accuracy.

Visualizing phase transition behavior of dilute stimuli responsive polymer solutions via Mueller matrix polarimetry.

PubMed

Narayanan, Amal; Chandel, Shubham; Ghosh, Nirmalya; De, Priyadarsi

2015-09-15

Probing volume phase transition behavior of superdiluted polymer solutions both micro- and macroscopically still persists as an outstanding challenge. In this regard, we have explored 4 × 4 spectral Mueller matrix measurement and its inverse analysis for excavating the microarchitectural facts about stimuli responsiveness of "smart" polymers. Phase separation behavior of thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and pH responsive poly(N,N-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) and their copolymers were analyzed in terms of Mueller matrix derived polarization parameters, namely, depolarization (Δ), diattenuation (d), and linear retardance (δ). The Δ, d, and δ parameters provided useful information on both macro- and microstructural alterations during the phase separation. Additionally, the two step action ((i) breakage of polymer-water hydrogen bonding and (ii) polymer-polymer aggregation) at the molecular microenvironment during the cloud point generation was successfully probed via these parameters. It is demonstrated that, in comparison to the present techniques available for assessing the hydrophobic-hydrophilic switch over of simple stimuli-responsive polymers, Mueller matrix polarimetry offers an important advantage requiring a few hundred times dilute polymer solution (0.01 mg/mL, 1.1-1.4 μM) at a low-volume format.

Dynamic Heterogeneous Multiscale Filtration Model: Probing Micro- and Macroscopic Filtration Characteristics of Gasoline Particulate Filters.

PubMed

Gong, Jian; Viswanathan, Sandeep; Rothamer, David A; Foster, David E; Rutland, Christopher J

2017-10-03

Motivated by high filtration efficiency (mass- and number-based) and low pressure drop requirements for gasoline particulate filters (GPFs), a previously developed heterogeneous multiscale filtration (HMF) model is extended to simulate dynamic filtration characteristics of GPFs. This dynamic HMF model is based on a probability density function (PDF) description of the pore size distribution and classical filtration theory. The microstructure of the porous substrate in a GPF is resolved and included in the model. Fundamental particulate filtration experiments were conducted using an exhaust filtration analysis (EFA) system for model validation. The particulate in the filtration experiments was sampled from a spark-ignition direct-injection (SIDI) gasoline engine. With the dynamic HMF model, evolution of the microscopic characteristics of the substrate (pore size distribution, porosity, permeability, and deposited particulate inside the porous substrate) during filtration can be probed. Also, predicted macroscopic filtration characteristics including particle number concentration and normalized pressure drop show good agreement with the experimental data. The resulting dynamic HMF model can be used to study the dynamic particulate filtration process in GPFs with distinct microstructures, serving as a powerful tool for GPF design and optimization.

Geometric approach to the design of an imaging probe to evaluate the iridocorneal angle structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Xun Jie Jeesmond; V. K., Shinoj; Murukeshan, V. M.; Baskaran, M.; Aung, Tin

2017-06-01

Photographic imaging methods allow the tracking of anatomical changes in the iridocorneal angle structures and the monitoring of treatment responses overtime. In this work, we aim to design an imaging probe to evaluate the iridocorneal angle structures using geometrical optics. We first perform an analytical analysis on light propagation from the anterior chamber of the eye to the exterior medium using Snell's law. This is followed by adopting a strategy to achieve uniform near field irradiance, by simplifying the complex non-rotational symmetric irradiance distribution of LEDs tilted at an angle. The optimization is based on the geometric design considerations of an angled circular ring array of 4 LEDs (or a 2 × 2 square LED array). The design equation give insights on variable parameters such as the illumination angle of the LEDs, ring array radius, viewing angle of the LEDs, and the working distance. A micro color CCD video camera that has sufficient resolution to resolve the iridocorneal angle structures at the required working distance is then chosen. The proposed design aspects fulfil the safety requirements recommended by the International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection.

mESAdb: microRNA Expression and Sequence Analysis Database

PubMed Central

Kaya, Koray D.; Karakülah, Gökhan; Yakıcıer, Cengiz M.; Acar, Aybar C.; Konu, Özlen

2011-01-01

microRNA expression and sequence analysis database (http://konulab.fen.bilkent.edu.tr/mirna/) (mESAdb) is a regularly updated database for the multivariate analysis of sequences and expression of microRNAs from multiple taxa. mESAdb is modular and has a user interface implemented in PHP and JavaScript and coupled with statistical analysis and visualization packages written for the R language. The database primarily comprises mature microRNA sequences and their target data, along with selected human, mouse and zebrafish expression data sets. mESAdb analysis modules allow (i) mining of microRNA expression data sets for subsets of microRNAs selected manually or by motif; (ii) pair-wise multivariate analysis of expression data sets within and between taxa; and (iii) association of microRNA subsets with annotation databases, HUGE Navigator, KEGG and GO. The use of existing and customized R packages facilitates future addition of data sets and analysis tools. Furthermore, the ability to upload and analyze user-specified data sets makes mESAdb an interactive and expandable analysis tool for microRNA sequence and expression data. PMID:21177657

mESAdb: microRNA expression and sequence analysis database.

PubMed

Kaya, Koray D; Karakülah, Gökhan; Yakicier, Cengiz M; Acar, Aybar C; Konu, Ozlen

2011-01-01

microRNA expression and sequence analysis database (http://konulab.fen.bilkent.edu.tr/mirna/) (mESAdb) is a regularly updated database for the multivariate analysis of sequences and expression of microRNAs from multiple taxa. mESAdb is modular and has a user interface implemented in PHP and JavaScript and coupled with statistical analysis and visualization packages written for the R language. The database primarily comprises mature microRNA sequences and their target data, along with selected human, mouse and zebrafish expression data sets. mESAdb analysis modules allow (i) mining of microRNA expression data sets for subsets of microRNAs selected manually or by motif; (ii) pair-wise multivariate analysis of expression data sets within and between taxa; and (iii) association of microRNA subsets with annotation databases, HUGE Navigator, KEGG and GO. The use of existing and customized R packages facilitates future addition of data sets and analysis tools. Furthermore, the ability to upload and analyze user-specified data sets makes mESAdb an interactive and expandable analysis tool for microRNA sequence and expression data.

In Situ Trace Element Analysis of an Allende Type B1 CAI: EK-459-5-1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jeffcoat, C. R.; Kerekgyarto, A.; Lapen, T. J.; Andreasen, R.; Righter, M.; Ross, D. K.

2014-01-01

Variations in refractory major and trace element composition of calcium, aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs) provide constraints on physical and chemical conditions and processes in the earliest stages of the Solar System. Previous work indicates that CAIs have experienced complex histories involving, in many cases, multiple episodes of condensation, evaporation, and partial melting. We have analyzed major and trace element abundances in two core to rim transects of the melilite mantle as well as interior major phases of a Type B1 CAI (EK-459-5-1) from Allende by electron probe micro-analyzer (EPMA) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to investigate the behavior of key trace elements with a primary focus on the REEs Tm and Yb.

Nanoplasmonic probes of RNA folding and assembly during pre-mRNA splicing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Anh H.; Lee, Jong Uk; Sim, Sang Jun

2016-02-01

RNA splicing plays important roles in transcriptome and proteome diversity. Herein, we describe the use of a nanoplasmonic system that unveils RNA folding and assembly during pre-mRNA splicing wherein the quantification of mRNA splice variants is not taken into account. With a couple of SERS-probes and plasmonic probes binding at the boundary sites of exon-2/intron-2 and intron-2/exon-3 of the pre-mature RNA of the β-globin gene, the splicing process brings the probes into the plasmonic bands. For plasmonic probes, a plasmon shift increase of ~29 nm, corresponding to intron removal and exon-2 and exon-3 connection to form the mRNA molecule, is measured by plasmonic coupling. The increased scattering intensity and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) fingerprinting reveal the clear dynamics of pre-mRNA splicing. Moreover, a time-resolved experiment of individual RNA molecules exhibited a successful splicing and an inhibited splicing event by 33 μM biflavonoid isoginkgetin, a general inhibitor of RNA splicing. The results suggest that the RNA splicing is successfully monitored with the nanoplasmonic system. Thus, this platform can be useful for studying RNA nanotechnology, biomolecular folding, alternative splicing, and maturation of microRNA.

Handheld probe for portable high frame photoacoustic/ultrasound imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daoudi, K.; van den Berg, P. J.; Rabot, O.; Kohl, A.; Tisserand, S.; Brands, P.; Steenbergen, W.

2013-03-01

Photoacoustics is a hybrid imaging modality that is based on the detection of acoustic waves generated by absorption of pulsed light by tissue chromophors. In current research, this technique uses large and costly photoacoustic systems with a low frame rate imaging. To open the door for widespread clinical use, a compact, cost effective and fast system is required. In this paper we report on the development of a small compact handset pulsed laser probe which will be connected to a portable ultrasound system for real-time photoacoustic imaging and ultrasound imaging. The probe integrates diode lasers driven by an electrical driver developed for very short high power pulses. It uses specifically developed highly efficient diode stacks with high frequency repetition rate up to 10 kHz, emitting at 800nm wavelength. The emitted beam is collimated and shaped with compact micro optics beam shaping system delivering a homogenized rectangular laser beam intensity distribution. The laser block is integrated with an ultrasound transducer in an ergonomically designed handset probe. This handset is a building block enabling for a low cost high frame rate photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging system. The probe was used with a modified ultrasound scanner and was tested by imaging a tissue mimicking phantom.

Propulsion Instruments for Small Hall Thruster Integration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Lee K.; Conroy, David G.; Spanjers, Greg G.; Bromaghim, Daron R.

2001-01-01

Planning and development are underway for the propulsion instrumentation necessary for the next AFRL electric propulsion flight project, which includes both a small Hall thruster and a micro-PPT. These instruments characterize the environment induced by the thruster and the associated data constitute part of a 'user's manual' for these thrusters. Several instruments probe the back-flow region of the thruster plume, and the data are intended for comparison with detailed numerical models in this region. Specifically, an ion probe is under development to determine the energy and species distributions, and a Langmuir probe will be employed to characterize the electron density and temperature. Other instruments directly measure the effects of thruster operation on spacecraft thermal control surfaces, optical surfaces, and solar arrays. Specifically, radiometric, photometric, and solar-cell-based sensors are under development. Prototype test data for most sensors should be available, together with details of the instrumentation subsystem and spacecraft interface.

Molecular Imaging of Apoptosis: From Micro to Macro

PubMed Central

Zeng, Wenbin; Wang, Xiaobo; Xu, Pengfei; Liu, Gang; Eden, Henry S.; Chen, Xiaoyuan

2015-01-01

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is involved in numerous human conditions including neurodegenerative diseases, ischemic damage, autoimmune disorders and many types of cancer, and is often confused with other types of cell death. Therefore strategies that enable visualized detection of apoptosis would be of enormous benefit in the clinic for diagnosis, patient management, and development of new therapies. In recent years, improved understanding of the apoptotic machinery and progress in imaging modalities have provided opportunities for researchers to formulate microscopic and macroscopic imaging strategies based on well-defined molecular markers and/or physiological features. Correspondingly, a large collection of apoptosis imaging probes and approaches have been documented in preclinical and clinical studies. In this review, we mainly discuss microscopic imaging assays and macroscopic imaging probes, ranging in complexity from simple attachments of reporter moieties to proteins that interact with apoptotic biomarkers, to rationally designed probes that target biochemical changes. Their clinical translation will also be our focus. PMID:25825597

Cell Signaling Experiments Driven by Optical Manipulation

PubMed Central

Difato, Francesco; Pinato, Giulietta; Cojoc, Dan

2013-01-01

Cell signaling involves complex transduction mechanisms in which information released by nearby cells or extracellular cues are transmitted to the cell, regulating fundamental cellular activities. Understanding such mechanisms requires cell stimulation with precise control of low numbers of active molecules at high spatial and temporal resolution under physiological conditions. Optical manipulation techniques, such as optical tweezing, mechanical stress probing or nano-ablation, allow handling of probes and sub-cellular elements with nanometric and millisecond resolution. PicoNewton forces, such as those involved in cell motility or intracellular activity, can be measured with femtoNewton sensitivity while controlling the biochemical environment. Recent technical achievements in optical manipulation have new potentials, such as exploring the actions of individual molecules within living cells. Here, we review the progress in optical manipulation techniques for single-cell experiments, with a focus on force probing, cell mechanical stimulation and the local delivery of active molecules using optically manipulated micro-vectors and laser dissection. PMID:23698758

An electrochemical biosensor for microRNA-196a detection based on cyclic enzymatic signal amplification and template-free DNA extension reaction with the adsorption of methylene blue.

PubMed

Guo, Jing; Yuan, Changjing; Yan, Qi; Duan, Qiuyue; Li, Xiaolu; Yi, Gang

2018-05-15

A simple and sensitive electrochemical biosensor was developed for microRNA-196a detection, which is of important diagnostic significance for pancreatic cancer. It was based on cyclic enzymatic signal amplification (CESA) and template-free DNA extension reaction. In the presence of microRNA-196a, duplex-specific nuclease (DSN) catalyzed the digestion of the 3'-PO 4 terminated capture probe (CP), resulting in the target recycling amplification. Meanwhile, the 3'-OH terminal of CP was exposed. Then, template-free DNA extension reaction was triggered by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT), producing amounts of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). After ssDNA absorbed numerous methylene blue (MB), an ultrasensitive electrochemical readout was obtained. Based on this dual amplification mechanism, the proposed biosensor exhibited a high sensitivity for detection of microRNA-196a down to 15 aM with a linear range from 0.05 fM to 50 pM. This biosensor displayed high specificity, which could discriminate target microRNAs from one base mismatched microRNAs. It also showed good reproducibility and stability. Furthermore, it was successfully applied to the determination of microRNA-196a in plasma samples. In conclusion, with the excellent analytical performance, this biosensor might have the potential for application in clinical diagnostics of pancreatic cancer. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Indentation induced mechanical and electrical response in ferroelectric crystal investigated by acoustic mode AFM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, H. F.; Zeng, H. R.; Ma, X. D.; Chu, R. Q.; Li, G. R.; Luo, H. S.; Yin, Q. R.

2005-01-01

The mechanical and electrical response of Pb (Mg1/3Nb2/3)- O3-PbTiO3 single crystals to micro-indentation are investigated using the newly developed low frequency scanning probe acoustic microscopy which is based on the atomic force microscope. There are three ways to release the stress produced by indentation. Plastic deformation emerged directly underneath the indentor and along the indentation diagonals. In addition, indentation-induced micro-cracks and new non-180° domain structures which are perpendicular to each other are also observed in the indented surface. Based on the experimental results, the relationship between the cracks and the domain patterns was discussed.

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

Khromova, Irina; Kužel, Petr; Brener, Igal

Monocrystalline titanium dioxide (TiO 2) micro-spheres support two orthogonal magnetic dipole modes at terahertz (THz) frequencies due to strong dielectric anisotropy. For the first time, we experimentally detected the splitting of the first Mie mode in spheres of radii inline imagem through near-field time-domain THz spectroscopy. By fitting the Fano lineshape model to the experimentally obtained spectra of the electric field detected by the sub-wavelength aperture probe, we found that the magnetic dipole resonances in TiO 2 spheres have narrow linewidths of only tens of gigahertz. Lastly, anisotropic TiO 2 micro-resonators can be used to enhance the interplay of magneticmore » and electric dipole resonances in the emerging THz all-dielectric metamaterial technology.« less

And There Was Light: Prospects for the Creation of Micro- and Nanostructures through Maskless Photolithography.

PubMed

Rühe, J

2017-09-26

In photolithographic processes, the light inducing the photochemical reactions is confined to a small volume, which enables direct writing of micro- and nanoscale features onto solid surfaces without the need of a predefined photomask. The direct writing process can be used to generate topographic patterns through photopolymerization or photo-cross-linking or can be employed to use light to generate chemical patterns on the surface with high spatial control, which would make such processes attractive for bioapplications. The prospects of maskless photolithography technologies with a focus on two-photon lithography and scanning-probe-based photochemical processes based on scanning near-field optical microscopy or beam pen lithography are discussed.

Comparison of a portable micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry for the ancient ceramics analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Papadopoulou, D. N.; Zachariadis, G. A.; Anthemidis, A. N.; Tsirliganis, N. C.; Stratis, J. A.

2004-12-01

Two multielement instrumental methods of analysis, micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (micro-XRF) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) were applied for the analysis of 7th and 5th century B.C. ancient ceramic sherds in order to evaluate the above two methods and to assess the potential to use the current compact and portable micro-XRF instrument for the in situ analysis of ancient ceramics. The distinguishing factor of interest is that micro-XRF spectrometry offers the possibility of a nondestructive analysis, an aspect of primary importance in the compositional analysis of cultural objects. Micro-XRF measurements were performed firstly directly on the ceramic sherds with no special pretreatment apart from surface cleaning (micro-XRF on sherds) and secondly on pressed pellet disks which were prepared for each ceramic sherd (micro-XRF on pellet). For the ICP-AES determination of elements, test solutions were prepared by the application of a microwave-assisted decomposition procedure in closed high-pressure PFA vessels. Also, the standard reference material SARM 69 was used for the efficiency calibration of the micro-XRF instrument and was analysed by both methods. In order to verify the calibration, the standard reference materials NCS DC 73332 and SRM620 as well as the reference materials AWI-1 and PRI-1 were analysed by micro-XRF. Elemental concentrations determined by the three analytical procedures (ICP-AES, micro-XRF on sherds and micro-XRF on pellets) were statistically treated by correlation analysis and Student's t-test (at the 95% confidence level).

Imaging collector channel entrance with a new intraocular micro-probe swept-source optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Xin, Chen; Chen, Xiaoya; Li, Meng; Shi, Yan; Wang, Huaizhou; Wang, Ruikang; Wang, Ningli

2017-09-01

To describe the use of a newly developed side-viewing catheter probe to provide the cross-sectional images of collector channel entrance (CCE), achieved by swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). A side-viewing SS-OCT catheter probe was developed that has a core probe diameter of 0.15 mm and an outer diameter of 0.25 mm, for the purpose of imaging CCEs within eye globe. Cadaver eyes harvested from swine and human were used to demonstrate its feasibility. For porcine eyes, the probe imaged the CCE by accessing the region of the aqueous plexus (AP) as well as along the inner wall (IW) of the trabecular meshwork (TM). For human eyes, the CCE images were captured by placing the probe within the lumen of the Schlemm's canal (SC) and along its IW. With the optical coherence tomography (OCT) catheter probe, the CCE is well delineated as optically empty areas within the highly scattering sclera. In porcine eyes, images captured in the region of the AP demonstrate a large cavity with delicate tissue strands around the probe. The CCE can be identified at the outer margin of the AP. When imaged along the IW, the TM is discernable but difficult to be distinguished from the AP. In the human limbal regions, when placed within the lumen of the SC, the catheter probe fully occupies the potential space. TM is highly compact. The CCE can be identified at the outer wall of the SC. When imaged along the IW of TM, the SC and CCE can be identified. The intraocular SS-OCT catheter probe is feasible to provide the CCE images, indicating useful clinical applications to assist glaucoma surgery. © 2017 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Numerical simulation and experimental research on interaction of micro-defects and laser ultrasonic signal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Hualing; Zheng, Bin; Liu, Hui

2017-11-01

In the present research, the mechanism governing the interaction between laser-generated ultrasonic wave and the micro-defects on an aluminum plate has been studied by virtue of numerical simulation as well as practical experiments. Simulation results indicate that broadband ultrasonic waves are caused mainly by surface waves, and that the surface waves produced by micro-defects could be utilized for the detection of micro-defects because these waves reflect as much information of the defects as possible. In the research, a laser-generated ultrasonic wave testing system with a surface wave probe has been established for the detection of micro-defects, and the surface waves produced by the defects with different depths on an aluminum plate have been tested by using the system. The interaction between defect depth and the maximum amplitude of the surface wave and that between defect depth and the center frequency of the surface wave have also been analyzed in detail. Research results indicate that, when the defect depth is less than half of the wavelength of the surface wave, the maximum amplitude and the center frequency of the surface wave are in linear proportion to the defect depth. Sound consistency of experimental results with theoretical simulation indicates that the system as established in the present research could be adopted for the quantitative detection of micro-defects.

Intraoperative Ultrasound to Assess for Pancreatic Duct Injuries

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

cholecystocholangiopancreatography is often nondiagnostic, gastroenterologists may not be available for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP...10MHz.We use the SonoSite MicroMaxx SLT 10-5 MHz 52mm broadband linear array intraoperative US probe ( FUJIFILM SonoSite, Inc., Bothell, WA). The duct...Intraoperative US Availability Is gastroenterology available? Is the fluoroscopic and endoscopic equipment available? Is MRCP available? Is a

Front-end receiver electronics for a matrix transducer for 3-D transesophageal echocardiography.

PubMed

Yu, Zili; Blaak, Sandra; Chang, Zu-yao; Yao, Jiajian; Bosch, Johan G; Prins, Christian; Lancée, Charles T; de Jong, Nico; Pertijs, Michiel A P; Meijer, Gerard C M

2012-07-01

There is a clear clinical need for creating 3-D images of the heart. One promising technique is the use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). To enable 3-D TEE, we are developing a miniature ultrasound probe containing a matrix piezoelectric transducer with more than 2000 elements. Because a gastroscopic tube cannot accommodate the cables needed to connect all transducer elements directly to an imaging system, a major challenge is to locally reduce the number of channels, while maintaining a sufficient signal-to-noise ratio. This can be achieved by using front-end receiver electronics bonded to the transducers to provide appropriate signal conditioning in the tip of the probe. This paper presents the design of such electronics, realizing time-gain compensation (TGC) and micro-beamforming using simple, low-power circuits. Prototypes of TGC amplifiers and micro-beamforming cells have been fabricated in 0.35-μm CMOS technology. These prototype chips have been combined on a printed circuit board (PCB) to form an ultrasound-receiver system capable of reading and combining the signals of three transducer elements. Experimental results show that this design is a suitable candidate for 3-D TEE.

Probing the Structure-Activity Relationship of the Natural Antifouling Agent Polygodial against both Micro- and Macrofoulers by Semisynthetic Modification.

PubMed

Moodie, Lindon W K; Trepos, Rozenn; Cervin, Gunnar; Larsen, Lesley; Larsen, David S; Pavia, Henrik; Hellio, Claire; Cahill, Patrick; Svenson, Johan

2017-02-24

The current study represents the first comprehensive investigation into the general antifouling activities of the natural drimane sesquiterpene polygodial. Previous studies have highlighted a high antifouling effect toward macrofoulers, such as ascidians, tubeworms, and mussels, but no reports about the general antifouling effect of polygodial have been communicated before. To probe the structural and chemical basis for antifouling activity, a library of 11 polygodial analogues was prepared by semisynthesis. The library was designed to yield derivatives with ranging polarities and the ability to engage in both covalent and noncovalent interactions, while still remaining within the drimane sesquiterpene scaffold. The prepared compounds were screened against 14 relevant marine micro- and macrofouling species. Several of the polygodial analogues displayed inhibitory activities at sub-microgram/mL concentrations. These antifouling effects were most pronounced against the macrofouling ascidian Ciona savignyi and the barnacle Balanus improvisus, with inhibitory activities observed for selected compounds comparable or superior to several commercial antifouling products. The inhibitory activity against the microfouling bacteria and microalgae was reversible and significantly less pronounced than for the macrofoulers. This study illustrates that the macro- and microfoulers are targeted by the compounds via different mechanisms.

Surface-adaptable all-metal micro-four-point probe with unique configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, J. K.; Choi, Y. S.; Lee, D. W.

2015-07-01

In this paper, we propose a surface-adaptable all-metal micro-four-point probe (μ4PP) with a unique configuration. The μ4PP consists of four independent metallic sub-cantilevers with sharp Cu tips, and an SU-8 body structure to support the sub-cantilevers. The tip height is approximately 15 μm, and the tips are fabricated by anisotropic wet-etching of silicon followed by Cu electroplating. Each metallic cantilever connected to the SU-8 body structure acts as a flexible spring, so that the conducting tip can make gentle, non-destructive contact with fragile surfaces. To enhance the adhesion between the metallic sub-cantilevers and the SU-8 body, mushroom-shaped Cu structures were fabricated using an under-baked and under-exposed photolithography process. Various μ4PPs were designed and fabricated to verify their diverse range of applications, and preliminary experiments were performed using these fabricated μ4PPs. The resultant flexibility and reliability were experimentally confirmed on several samples, such as a polymer cantilever, a graphene flake, and curved metallic surfaces. We also expect that the proposed μ4PP will be suitable for measuring the anisotropic characteristics of crystal materials or the Hall effect in semiconductors.

Determination of total antioxidant capacity by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) using fluorescein as the fluorescence probe: First Action 2012.23.

PubMed

Ou, Boxin; Chang, Tony; Huang, Dejian; Prior, Ronald L

2013-01-01

An improved method for the measurement of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) was developed and validated using fluorescein (3',6'-dihydroxyspiro[isobenzofuran-1[3H], 9'[9H]-xanthen]-3-one) as a new fluorescence probe (ORAC(FL)). Randomly methylated beta-cyclodextrin (RMCD) was introduced as the water-solubility enhancer for lipophilic antioxidants. 7% RMCD (w/v) in 50% acetone-H2O mixture sufficiently solubilized vitamin E compounds and other lipophilic phenolic antioxidants in 75 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). Results indicated that fluorescein shows excellent photostability under the plate reader conditions. This ORAC(FL) was validated through linearity, precision, accuracy, and ruggedness. The validation results demonstrated that the ORACFL assay is reliable and robust. The mean of intraday and interday CVs were <15%; for hydrophilic ORAC, LOD and LOQ are 5 and 6.25 microM, respectively; for lipophilic ORAC, LOD and LOQ are 6.25 and 12.5 microM, respectively. It is concluded that unlike other popular methods, the ORAC(FL) assay provides a direct measure of total antioxidant capacity against the peroxyl radicals.

Flow-through compression cell for small-angle and ultra-small-angle neutron scattering measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hjelm, Rex P.; Taylor, Mark A.; Frash, Luke P.; Hawley, Marilyn E.; Ding, Mei; Xu, Hongwu; Barker, John; Olds, Daniel; Heath, Jason; Dewers, Thomas

2018-05-01

In situ measurements of geological materials under compression and with hydrostatic fluid pressure are important in understanding their behavior under field conditions, which in turn provides critical information for application-driven research. In particular, understanding the role of nano- to micro-scale porosity in the subsurface liquid and gas flow is critical for the high-fidelity characterization of the transport and more efficient extraction of the associated energy resources. In other applications, where parts are produced by the consolidation of powders by compression, the resulting porosity and crystallite orientation (texture) may affect its in-use characteristics. Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and ultra SANS are ideal probes for characterization of these porous structures over the nano to micro length scales. Here we show the design, realization, and performance of a novel neutron scattering sample environment, a specially designed compression cell, which provides compressive stress and hydrostatic pressures with effective stress up to 60 MPa, using the neutron beam to probe the effects of stress vectors parallel to the neutron beam. We demonstrate that the neutron optics is suitable for the experimental objectives and that the system is highly stable to the stress and pressure conditions of the measurements.

Electrochemical DNA sensor for Neisseria meningitidis detection.

PubMed

Patel, Manoj K; Solanki, Pratima R; Kumar, Ashok; Khare, Shashi; Gupta, Sunil; Malhotra, Bansi D

2010-08-15

Meningitis sensor based on nucleic acid probe of Neisseria meningitidis has been fabricated by immobilization of 5'-thiol end labeled single stranded deoxyribonucleic acid probe (ssDNA-SH) onto gold (Au) coated glass electrode. This ssDNA-SH/Au electrode hybridized with the genomic DNA (G-dsDNA/Au) and amplified DNA (PCR-dsDNA/Au) has been characterized using atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and electrochemical techniques. The ssDNA-SH/Au electrode can specifically detect upto 10-60 ng/microl of G-dsDNA-SH/Au and PCR-dsDNA-SH/Au of meningitis within 60s of hybridization time at 25 degrees C by cyclic voltammetry (CV) using methylene blue (MB) as electro-active DNA hybridization indicator. The values of sensitivities of the G-dsDNA-SH/Au and PCR-dsDNA-SH/Au electrodes have been determined as 0.0115 microA/ng cm(-2) and 0.0056 microA/ng cm(-2), respectively with regression coefficient (R) as 0.999. This DNA bioelectrode is stable for about 4 months when stored at 4 degrees C. Copyright 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

High BAALC expression associates with other molecular prognostic markers, poor outcome, and a distinct gene-expression signature in cytogenetically normal patients younger than 60 years with acute myeloid leukemia: a Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) study

PubMed Central

Langer, Christian; Radmacher, Michael D.; Ruppert, Amy S.; Whitman, Susan P.; Paschka, Peter; Mrózek, Krzysztof; Baldus, Claudia D.; Vukosavljevic, Tamara; Liu, Chang-Gong; Ross, Mary E.; Powell, Bayard L.; de la Chapelle, Albert; Kolitz, Jonathan E.; Larson, Richard A.; Marcucci, Guido

2008-01-01

BAALC expression is considered an independent prognostic factor in cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia (CN-AML), but has yet to be investigated together with multiple other established prognostic molecular markers in CN-AML. We analyzed BAALC expression in 172 primary CN-AML patients younger than 60 years of age, treated similarly on CALGB protocols. High BAALC expression was associated with FLT3-ITD (P = .04), wild-type NPM1 (P < .001), mutated CEBPA (P = .003), MLL-PTD (P = .009), absent FLT3-TKD (P = .005), and high ERG expression (P = .05). In multivariable analysis, high BAALC expression independently predicted lower complete remission rates (P = .04) when adjusting for ERG expression and age, and shorter survival (P = .04) when adjusting for FLT3-ITD, NPM1, CEBPA, and white blood cell count. A gene-expression signature of 312 probe sets differentiating high from low BAALC expressers was identified. High BAALC expression was associated with overexpression of genes involved in drug resistance (MDR1) and stem cell markers (CD133, CD34, KIT). Global microRNA-expression analysis did not reveal significant differences between BAALC expression groups. However, an analysis of microRNAs that putatively target BAALC revealed a potentially interesting inverse association between expression of miR-148a and BAALC. We conclude that high BAALC expression is an independent adverse prognostic factor and is associated with a specific gene-expression profile. PMID:18378853

Buckling analysis of planar compression micro-springs

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

Zhang, Jing; Sui, Li; Shi, Gengchen

2015-04-15

Large compression deformation causes micro-springs buckling and loss of load capacity. We analyzed the impact of structural parameters and boundary conditions for planar micro-springs, and obtained the change rules for the two factors that affect buckling. A formula for critical buckling deformation of micro-springs under compressive load was derived based on elastic thin plate theory. Results from this formula were compared with finite element analysis results but these did not always correlate. Therefore, finite element analysis is necessary for micro-spring buckling analysis. We studied the variation of micro-spring critical buckling deformation caused by four structural parameters using ANSYS software undermore » two constraint conditions. The simulation results show that when an x-direction constraint is added, the critical buckling deformation increases by 32.3-297.9%. The critical buckling deformation decreases with increase in micro-spring arc radius or section width and increases with increase in micro-spring thickness or straight beam width. We conducted experiments to confirm the simulation results, and the experimental and simulation trends were found to agree. Buckling analysis of the micro-spring establishes a theoretical foundation for optimizing micro-spring structural parameters and constraint conditions to maximize the critical buckling load.« less

Large Area MEMS Based Ultrasound Device for Cancer Detection.

PubMed

Wodnicki, Robert; Thomenius, Kai; Hooi, Fong Ming; Sinha, Sumedha P; Carson, Paul L; Lin, Der-Song; Zhuang, Xuefeng; Khuri-Yakub, Pierre; Woychik, Charles

2011-08-21

We present image results obtained using a prototype ultrasound array which demonstrates the fundamental architecture for a large area MEMS based ultrasound device for detection of breast cancer. The prototype array consists of a tiling of capacitive Micro-Machined Ultrasound Transducers (cMUTs) which have been flip-chip attached to a rigid organic substrate. The pitch on the cMUT elements is 185 um and the operating frequency is nominally 9 MHz. The spatial resolution of the new probe is comparable to production PZT probes, however the sensitivity is reduced by conditions that should be correctable. Simulated opposed-view image registration and Speed of Sound volume reconstruction results for ultrasound in the mammographic geometry are also presented.

Ion beams provided by small accelerators for material synthesis and characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mackova, Anna; Havranek, Vladimir

2017-06-01

The compact, multipurpose electrostatic tandem accelerators are extensively used for production of ion beams with energies in the range from 400 keV to 24 MeV of almost all elements of the periodic system for the trace element analysis by means of nuclear analytical methods. The ion beams produced by small accelerators have a broad application, mainly for material characterization (Rutherford Back-Scattering spectrometry, Particle Induced X ray Emission analysis, Nuclear Reaction Analysis and Ion-Microprobe with 1 μm lateral resolution among others) and for high-energy implantation. Material research belongs to traditionally progressive fields of technology. Due to the continuous miniaturization, the underlying structures are far beyond the analytical limits of the most conventional methods. Ion Beam Analysis (IBA) techniques provide this possibility as they use probes of similar or much smaller dimensions (particles, radiation). Ion beams can be used for the synthesis of new progressive functional nanomaterials for optics, electronics and other applications. Ion beams are extensively used in studies of the fundamental energetic ion interaction with matter as well as in the novel nanostructure synthesis using ion beam irradiation in various amorphous and crystalline materials in order to get structures with extraordinary functional properties. IBA methods serve for investigation of materials coming from material research, industry, micro- and nano-technology, electronics, optics and laser technology, chemical, biological and environmental investigation in general. Main research directions in laboratories employing small accelerators are also the preparation and characterization of micro- and nano-structured materials which are of interest for basic and oriented research in material science, and various studies of biological, geological, environmental and cultural heritage artefacts are provided too.

PET imaging of β-glucuronidase activity by an activity-based 124I-trapping probe for the personalized glucuronide prodrug targeted therapy.

PubMed

Su, Yu-Cheng; Cheng, Ta-Chun; Leu, Yu-Ling; Roffler, Steve R; Wang, Jaw-Yuan; Chuang, Chih-Hung; Kao, Chien-Han; Chen, Kai-Chuan; Wang, Hsin-Ell; Cheng, Tian-Lu

2014-12-01

Beta-glucuronidase (βG) is a potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis and prodrug therapy. The ability to image βG activity in patients would assist in personalized glucuronide prodrug cancer therapy. However, whole-body imaging of βG activity for medical usage is not yet available. Here, we developed a radioactive βG activity-based trapping probe for positron emission tomography (PET). We generated a (124)I-tyramine-conjugated difluoromethylphenol beta-glucuronide probe (TrapG) to form (124)I-TrapG that could be selectively activated by βG for subsequent attachment of (124)I-tyramine to nucleophilic moieties near βG-expressing sites. We estimated the specificity of a fluorescent FITC-TrapG, the cytotoxicity of tyramine-TrapG, and the serum half-life of (124)I-TrapG. βG targeting of (124)I-TrapG in vivo was examined by micro-PET. The biodistribution of (131)I-TrapG was investigated in different organs. Finally, we imaged the endogenous βG activity and assessed its correlation with therapeutic efficacy of 9-aminocamptothecin glucuronide (9ACG) prodrug in native tumors. FITC-TrapG showed specific trapping at βG-expressing CT26 (CT26/mβG) cells but not in CT26 cells. The native TrapG probe possessed low cytotoxicity. (124)I-TrapG preferentially accumulated in CT26/mβG but not CT26 cells. Meanwhile, micro-PET and whole-body autoradiography results demonstrated that (124)I-TrapG signals in CT26/mβG tumors were 141.4-fold greater than in CT26 tumors. Importantly, Colo205 xenografts in nude mice that express elevated endogenous βG can be monitored by using infrared glucuronide trapping probes (NIR-TrapG) and suppressed by 9ACG prodrug treatment. (124)I-TrapG exhibited low cytotoxicity allowing long-term monitoring of βG activity in vivo to aid in the optimization of prodrug targeted therapy. ©2014 American Association for Cancer Research.

Micro-patterning and characterization of PHEMA-co-PAM-based optical chemical sensors for lab-on-a-chip applications.

PubMed

Zhu, Haixin; Zhou, Xianfeng; Su, Fengyu; Tian, Yanqing; Ashili, Shashanka; Holl, Mark R; Meldrum, Deirdre R

2012-10-01

We report a novel method for wafer level, high throughput optical chemical sensor patterning, with precise control of the sensor volume and capability of producing arbitrary microscale patterns. Monomeric oxygen (O(2)) and pH optical probes were polymerized with 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and acrylamide (AM) to form spin-coatable and further crosslinkable polymers. A micro-patterning method based on micro-fabrication techniques (photolithography, wet chemical process and reactive ion etch) was developed to miniaturize the sensor film onto glass substrates in arbitrary sizes and shapes. The sensitivity of fabricated micro-patterns was characterized under various oxygen concentrations and pH values. The process for spatially integration of two sensors (Oxygen and pH) on the same substrate surface was also developed, and preliminary fabrication and characterization results were presented. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that poly (2-hydroxylethyl methacrylate)-co-poly (acrylamide) (PHEMA-co-PAM)-based sensors had been patterned and integrated at the wafer level with micron scale precision control using microfabrication techniques. The developed methods can provide a feasible way to miniaturize and integrate the optical chemical sensor system and can be applied to any lab-on-a-chip system, especially the biological micro-systems requiring optical sensing of single or multiple analytes.

Environmental monitoring of Micro Prespa Lake basin (Western Macedonia, Greece): hydrogeochemical characteristics of water resources and quality trends.

PubMed

Tziritis, Evangelos P

2014-07-01

The Micro Prespa basin is a trilateral catchment area of significant importance with a unique ecosystem closely related to the homonymous lake. In this frame, a fully operational monitoring project was carried out including continuous real-time measurements in Micro Prespa Lake with the use of a multi-sensor probe, as well as periodical sampling and analyses of all available water systems for an extended set of 85 parameters. Four main interacting water systems were identified, including alluvial and karstic aquifers, Micro Prespa Lake and adjacent drainage network. The results outlined that general environmental conditions are satisfying in respect to the relative legislation and the hydrogeochemical signatures. However, trends of environmental pressures were ascertained as a result of natural (geogenic) factors, embracing seasonal peaks for Ni, Pb, and NH4 mainly in groundwater systems. Based on chlorophyll a records, Micro Prespa is classified as oligotrophic to slightly mesotrophic, subjected to seasonal variations. Heavy metal concentrations are low, except Ni which appears to have elevated values during the dry hydrological period. Finally, the hydrogeochemistry of drainage network is primarily influenced by surface runoff of the surrounding mountainous areas, hence elevated phosphorus values of the Aghios Germanos stream are possibly linked with the leaching of the granitic formations on the east.

MICRO/NANO-STRUCTURAL EXAMINATION AND FISSION PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION IN NEUTRON IRRADIATED AGR-1 TRISO FUEL

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

van Rooyen, I. J.; Lillo, T. M.; Wen, H. M.

Advanced microscopic and microanalysis techniques were developed and applied to study irradiation effects and fission product behavior in selected low-enriched uranium oxide/uranium carbide TRISO-coated particles from fuel compacts in six capsules irradiated to burnups of 11.2 to 19.6% FIMA. Although no TRISO coating failures were detected during the irradiation, the fraction of Ag-110m retained in individual particles often varied considerably within a single compact and at the capsule level. At the capsule level Ag-110m release fractions ranged from 1.2 to 38% and within a single compact, silver release from individual particles often spanned a range that extended from 100% retentionmore » to nearly 100% release. In this paper, selected irradiated particles from Baseline, Variant 1 and Variant 3 type fueled TRISO coated particles were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy, Atom Probe Tomography; Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy; Precession Electron Diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), High Resolution Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) examinations and Electron Probe Micro-Analyzer. Particle selection in this study allowed for comparison of the fission product distribution with Ag retention, fuel type and irradiation level. Nano sized Ag-containing features were predominantly identified in SiC grain boundaries and/or triple points in contrast with only two sitings of Ag inside a SiC grain in two different compacts (Baseline and Variant 3 fueled compacts). STEM and HRTEM analysis showed evidence of Ag and Pd co-existence in some cases and it was found that fission product precipitates can consist of multiple or single phases. STEM analysis also showed differences in precipitate compositions between Baseline and Variant 3 fuels. A higher density of fission product precipitate clusters were identified in the SiC layer in particles from the Variant 3 compact compared with the Variant 1 compact. Trend analysis shows precipitates were randomly distributed along the perimeter of the IPyC-SiC interlayer but only weakly associated with kernel protrusion and buffer fractures. There has been no evidence that the general release of silver is related to cracks or significant degradation of the microstructure. The results presented in this paper provide new insights to Ag transport mechanism(s) in intact SiC layer of TRISO coated particles.« less

Computational Characterization of Exogenous MicroRNAs that Can Be Transferred into Human Circulation

PubMed Central

Shu, Jiang; Chiang, Kevin; Zempleni, Janos; Cui, Juan

2015-01-01

MicroRNAs have been long considered synthesized endogenously until very recent discoveries showing that human can absorb dietary microRNAs from animal and plant origins while the mechanism remains unknown. Compelling evidences of microRNAs from rice, milk, and honeysuckle transported to human blood and tissues have created a high volume of interests in the fundamental questions that which and how exogenous microRNAs can be transferred into human circulation and possibly exert functions in humans. Here we present an integrated genomics and computational analysis to study the potential deciding features of transportable microRNAs. Specifically, we analyzed all publicly available microRNAs, a total of 34,612 from 194 species, with 1,102 features derived from the microRNA sequence and structure. Through in-depth bioinformatics analysis, 8 groups of discriminative features have been used to characterize human circulating microRNAs and infer the likelihood that a microRNA will get transferred into human circulation. For example, 345 dietary microRNAs have been predicted as highly transportable candidates where 117 of them have identical sequences with their homologs in human and 73 are known to be associated with exosomes. Through a milk feeding experiment, we have validated 9 cow-milk microRNAs in human plasma using microRNA-sequencing analysis, including the top ranked microRNAs such as bta-miR-487b, miR-181b, and miR-421. The implications in health-related processes have been illustrated in the functional analysis. This work demonstrates the data-driven computational analysis is highly promising to study novel molecular characteristics of transportable microRNAs while bypassing the complex mechanistic details. PMID:26528912

Computational Characterization of Exogenous MicroRNAs that Can Be Transferred into Human Circulation.

PubMed

Shu, Jiang; Chiang, Kevin; Zempleni, Janos; Cui, Juan

2015-01-01

MicroRNAs have been long considered synthesized endogenously until very recent discoveries showing that human can absorb dietary microRNAs from animal and plant origins while the mechanism remains unknown. Compelling evidences of microRNAs from rice, milk, and honeysuckle transported to human blood and tissues have created a high volume of interests in the fundamental questions that which and how exogenous microRNAs can be transferred into human circulation and possibly exert functions in humans. Here we present an integrated genomics and computational analysis to study the potential deciding features of transportable microRNAs. Specifically, we analyzed all publicly available microRNAs, a total of 34,612 from 194 species, with 1,102 features derived from the microRNA sequence and structure. Through in-depth bioinformatics analysis, 8 groups of discriminative features have been used to characterize human circulating microRNAs and infer the likelihood that a microRNA will get transferred into human circulation. For example, 345 dietary microRNAs have been predicted as highly transportable candidates where 117 of them have identical sequences with their homologs in human and 73 are known to be associated with exosomes. Through a milk feeding experiment, we have validated 9 cow-milk microRNAs in human plasma using microRNA-sequencing analysis, including the top ranked microRNAs such as bta-miR-487b, miR-181b, and miR-421. The implications in health-related processes have been illustrated in the functional analysis. This work demonstrates the data-driven computational analysis is highly promising to study novel molecular characteristics of transportable microRNAs while bypassing the complex mechanistic details.

Visual test of subparts per billion-level mercuric ion with a gold nanoparticle probe after preconcentration by hollow fiber supported liquid membrane.

PubMed

Tan, Zhi-qiang; Liu, Jing-fu

2010-05-15

With the combination of the gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based visual test with hollow fiber supported liquid membrane (HFSLM) extraction, a highly sensitive and selective method was developed for field detection of mercuric ion (Hg(2+)) in environmental waters. Hg(2+) in water samples was extracted through HFSLM and trapped in the aqueous acceptor and then visually detected based on the red-to-blue color change of 3-mercaptopropionic acid-functionalized AuNP (MPA-AuNP) probe. The highest extraction efficiency of Hg(2+) was obtained by using a 600 mL sample (pH 8.0, 2.0% (w/v) NaCl), approximately 35 microL of acceptor (10 mM of 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid, pH 4.0) filled in the lumen of a polypropylene hollow fiber tubing (55 cm in length, 50 microm wall thickness, 280 microm inner diameter), a liquid membrane of 2.0% (w/v) trioctycphosphine oxide in undecane, and a shaking rate of 250 rpm. The chromegenic reaction was conducted by incubating the mixture of MPA-AuNP stock solution (12 microL, 15 nM), Tris-borate buffer solution (18 microL, 0.2 M, pH 9.5), and acceptor (30 microL) at 30 degrees C for 1 h. The detection limit can be adjusted to 0.8 microg/L Hg(2+) (corresponding to an enrichment factor of approximately 1000 in the HFSLM) and 2.0 microg/L Hg(2+) (the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency limit of [Hg(2+)] for drinkable water) by using extraction times of 3 and 1 h, respectively. The proposed method is extremely specific for Hg(2+) with tolerance to at least 1000-fold of other environmentally relevant heavy and transition metal ions and was successfully applied to detect Hg(2+) in a certified reference water sample, as well as real river, lake, and tap water samples.

Modification of adenylate cyclase by photoaffinity analogs of forskolin

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

Ho, L.T.; Nie, Z.M.; Mende, T.J.

1989-01-01

Photoaffinity labeling analogs of the adenylate cyclase activator forskolin (PF) have been synthesized, purified and tested for their effect on preparations of membrane-bound, Lubrol solubilized and forskolin affinity-purified adenylate cyclase (AC). All analogs of forskolin significantly activated AC. However, in the presence of 0.1 to 0.3 microM forskolin, the less active forskolin photoaffinity probes at 100 microM caused inhibition. This inhibition was dose-dependent for PF, suggesting that PF may complete with F for the same binding site(s). After cross-linking (125I)PF-M to either membrane or Lubrol-solubilized AC preparations by photolysis, a radiolabeled 100-110 kDa protein band was observed after autoradiography followingmore » SDS-PAGE. F at 100 microM blocked the photoradiolabeling of this protein. Radioiodination of forskolin-affinity purified AC showed several protein bands on autoradiogram, however, only one band (Mr = 100-110 kDa) was specifically labeled by (125I)PF-M following photolysis. The photoaffinity-labeled protein of 100-110 kDa of AC preparation of rat adipocyte may be the catalytic unit of adenylate cyclase of rat adipocyte itself as supported by the facts that (a) no other AC-regulatory proteins are known to be of this size, (b) the catalytic unit of bovine brain enzyme is in the same range and (c) this PF specifically stimulates AC activity when assayed alone, and weekly inhibits forskolin-activation of cyclase. These studies indicate that radiolabeled PF probes may be useful for photolabeling and detecting the catalytic unit of adenylate cyclase.« less

Oxalate-curcumin–based probe for micro- and macroimaging of reactive oxygen species in Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

Yang, Jian; Zhang, Xueli; Yang, Jing; Xu, Yungen; Grutzendler, Jaime; Shao, Yihan; Moore, Anna; Ran, Chongzhao

2017-01-01

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an irreversible neurodegenerative disorder that has a progression that is closely associated with oxidative stress. It has long been speculated that the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in AD brains is much higher than that in healthy brains. However, evidence from living beings is scarce. Inspired by the “chemistry of glow stick,” we designed a near-IR fluorescence (NIRF) imaging probe, termed CRANAD-61, for sensing ROS to provide evidence at micro- and macrolevels. In CRANAD-61, an oxalate moiety was utilized to react with ROS and to consequentially produce wavelength shifting. Our in vitro data showed that CRANAD-61 was highly sensitive and rapidly responsive to various ROS. On reacting with ROS, its excitation and emission wavelengths significantly shifted to short wavelengths, and this shifting could be harnessed for dual-color two-photon imaging and transformative NIRF imaging. In this report, we showed that CRANAD-61 could be used to identify “active” amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) surrounded by high ROS levels with two-photon imaging (microlevel) and to provide relative total ROS concentrations in AD brains via whole-brain NIRF imaging (macrolevel). Lastly, we showed that age-related increases in ROS levels in AD brains could be monitored with our NIRF imaging method. We believe that our imaging with CRANAD-61 could provide evidence of ROS at micro- and macrolevels and could be used for monitoring ROS changes under various AD pathological conditions and during drug treatment. PMID:29109280

Highly sensitive MicroRNA 146a detection using a gold nanoparticle-based CTG repeat probing system and isothermal amplification.

PubMed

Le, Binh Huy; Seo, Young Jun

2018-01-25

We have developed a gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based CTG repeat probing system displaying high quenching capability and combined it with isothermal amplification for the detection of miRNA 146a. This method of using a AuNP-based CTG repeat probing system with isothermal amplification allowed the highly sensitive (14 aM) and selective detection of miRNA 146a. A AuNP-based CTG repeat probing system having a hairpin structure and a dT F fluorophore exhibited highly efficient quenching because the CTG repeat-based stable hairpin structure imposed a close distance between the AuNP and the dT F residue. A small amount of miRNA 146a induced multiple copies of the CAG repeat sequence during rolling circle amplification; the AuNP-based CTG repeat probing system then bound to the complementary multiple-copy CAG repeat sequence, thereby inducing a structural change from a hairpin to a linear structure with amplified fluorescence. This AuNP-based CTG probing system combined with isothermal amplification could also discriminate target miRNA 146a from one- and two-base-mismatched miRNAs (ORN 1 and ORN 2, respectively). This simple AuNP-based CTG probing system, combined with isothermal amplification to induce a highly sensitive change in fluorescence, allows the detection of miRNA 146a with high sensitivity (14 aM) and selectivity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nondestructive Analysis of Astromaterials by Micro-CT and Micro-XRF Analysis for PET Examination

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeigler, R. A.; Righter, K.; Allen, C. C.

2013-09-01

Here we discuss our recent investigations into the applications of micro-CT and micro-XRF analyses with Apollo samples and ANSMET meteorites and assess the usefulness of these techniques in future PET.

Single laser based pump-probe technique to study plasma shielding during nanosecond laser ablation of copper thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nammi, Srinagalakshmi; Vasa, Nilesh J.; Gurusamy, Balaganesan; Mathur, Anil C.

2017-09-01

A plasma shielding phenomenon and its influence on micromachining is studied experimentally and theoretically for laser wavelengths of 355 nm, 532 nm and 1064 nm. A time resolved pump-probe technique is proposed and demonstrated by splitting a single nanosecond Nd3+:YAG laser into an ablation laser (pump laser) and a probe laser to understand the influence of plasma shielding on laser ablation of copper (Cu) clad on polyimide thin films. The proposed nanosecond pump-probe technique allows simultaneous measurement of the absorption characteristics of plasma produced during Cu film ablation by the pump laser. Experimental measurements of the probe intensity distinctly show that the absorption by the ablated plume increases with increase in the pump intensity, as a result of plasma shielding. Theoretical estimation of the intensity of the transmitted pump beam based on the thermo-temporal modeling is in qualitative agreement with the pump-probe based experimental measurements. The theoretical estimate of the depth attained for a single pulse with high pump intensity value on a Cu thin film is limited by the plasma shielding of the incident laser beam, similar to that observed experimentally. Further, the depth of micro-channels produced shows a similar trend for all three wavelengths, however, the channel depth achieved is lesser at the wavelength of 1064 nm.

Electrical Conductivity Measurement of Granulite Under Mid to Lower Crustal Pressure-Temperature Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fuji-Ta, K.; Katsura, T.; Tainosho, Y.

2003-12-01

We have developed a technique to measure electrical conductivity of crustal rocks with relatively low conductivity and complicated mineral components in order to compare with results given by Magneto-Telluric (MT) measurements. A granulite from Hidaka Metamorphic Belt (HMB) in Hokkaido, Japan at high temperature and pressure conditions was obtained. The granulite sample was ground and sintered under the conditions similar to those of mid to lower crust. We have observed smooth and reversible change of conductivity with temperature up to about 900 K at 1 GPa. Through the qualitative and quantitative evaluations using Electron Probe Micro Analysis (EPMA), microstructures of the sintered sample were inspected. This inspection is essential to confirm the sample was not affected by chemical interaction of minerals. We also examined the role of accessory minerals in the rock, and the mechanisms of electrical conductivity paths in _gdry_h or _gbasic_h rocks should be reconsidered. Finally, results from electrical conductivity measurements were consistent with the electrical conductivity structures suggested by the former MT data analysis.

The irradiation behavior of atomized U-Mo alloy fuels at high temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Jong-Man; Kim, Ki-Hwan; Kim, Chang-Kyu; Meyer, M. K.; Hofman, G. L.; Strain, R. V.

2001-04-01

Post-irradiation examinations of atomized U-10Mo, U-6Mo, and U-6Mo-1.7Os dispersion fuels from the RERTR-3 experiment irradiated in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) were carried out in order to investigate the fuel behavior of high uranium loading (8 gU/cc) at a high temperature (higher than 200°C). It was observed after about 40 at% BU that the U-Mo alloy fuels at a high temperature showed similar irradiation bubble morphologies compared to those at a lower temperature found in the RERTR-1 irradiation result, but there was a thick reaction layer with the aluminum matrix which was found to be greatly affected by the irradiation temperature and to a lesser degree by the fuel composition. In addition, the chemical analysis for the irradiated U-Mo fuels using the Electron Probe Micro Analysis (EPMA) method were conducted to investigate the compositional changes during the formation of the reaction product.

Experimental study and thermodynamic modeling of the Al–Co–Cr–Ni system

DOE PAGES

Gheno, Thomas; Liu, Xuan L.; Lindwall, Greta; ...

2015-09-21

In this study, a thermodynamic database for the Al–Co–Cr–Ni system is built via the Calphad method by extrapolating re-assessed ternary subsystems. A minimum number of quaternary parameters are included, which are optimized using experimental phase equilibrium data obtained by electron probe micro-analysis and x-ray diffraction analysis of NiCoCrAlY alloys spanning a wide compositional range, after annealing at 900 °C, 1100 °C and 1200 °C, and water quenching. These temperatures are relevant to oxidation and corrosion resistant MCrAlY coatings, where M corresponds to some combination of nickel and cobalt. Comparisons of calculated and measured phase compositions show excellent agreement for themore » β–γ equilibrium, and good agreement for three-phase β–γ–σ and β–γ–α equilibria. An extensive comparison with existing Ni-base databases (TCNI6, TTNI8, NIST) is presented in terms of phase compositions.« less

A split recognition mode combined with cascade signal amplification strategy for highly specific, sensitive detection of microRNA.

PubMed

Wang, Rui; Wang, Lei; Zhao, Haiyan; Jiang, Wei

2016-12-15

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are vital for many biological processes and have been regarded as cancer biomarkers. Specific and sensitive detection of miRNAs is essential for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Herein, a split recognition mode combined with cascade signal amplification strategy is developed for highly specific and sensitive detection of miRNA. The split recognition mode possesses two specific recognition processes, which are based on toehold-mediated strand displacement reaction (TSDR) and direct hybridization reaction. Two recognition probes, hairpin probe (HP) with overhanging toehold domain and assistant probe (AP), are specially designed. Firstly, the toehold domain of HP and AP recognize part of miRNA simultaneously, accompanied with TSDR to unfold the HP and form the stable DNA Y-shaped junction structure (YJS). Then, the AP in YJS can further act as primer to initiate strand displacement amplification, releasing numerous trigger sequences. Finally, the trigger sequences hybridize with padlock DNA to initiate circular rolling circle amplification and generate enhanced fluorescence responses. In this strategy, the dual recognition effect of split recognition mode guarantees the excellent selectivity to discriminate let-7b from high-homology sequences. Furthermore, the high amplification efficiency of cascade signal amplification guarantees a high sensitivity with the detection limit of 3.2 pM and the concentration of let-7b in total RNA sample extracted from Hela cells is determined. These results indicate our strategy will be a promising miRNA detection strategy in clinical diagnosis and disease treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nonlinear system analysis in bipolar integrated circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, T. F.; Whalen, J. J.

1980-01-01

Since analog bipolar integrated circuits (IC's) have become important components in modern communication systems, the study of the Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) effects in bipolar IC amplifiers is an important subject for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) engineering. The investigation has focused on using the nonlinear circuit analysis program (NCAP) to predict RF demodulation effects in broadband bipolar IC amplifiers. The audio frequency (AF) voltage at the IC amplifier output terminal caused by an amplitude modulated (AM) RF signal at the IC amplifier input terminal was calculated and compared to measured values. Two broadband IC amplifiers were investigated: (1) a cascode circuit using a CA3026 dual differential pair; (2) a unity gain voltage follower circuit using a micro A741 operational amplifier (op amp). Before using NCAP for RFI analysis, the model parameters for each bipolar junction transistor (BJT) in the integrated circuit were determined. Probe measurement techniques, manufacturer's data, and other researcher's data were used to obtain the required NCAP BJT model parameter values. An important contribution included in this effort is a complete set of NCAP BJT model parameters for most of the transistor types used in linear IC's.

Applications and theory of electrokinetic enrichment in micro-nanofluidic chips.

PubMed

Chen, Xueye; Zhang, Shuai; Zhang, Lei; Yao, Zhen; Chen, Xiaodong; Zheng, Yue; Liu, Yanlin

2017-09-01

This review reports the progress on the recent development of electrokinetic enrichment in micro-nanofluidic chips. The governing equations of electrokinetic enrichment in micro-nanofluidic chips are given. Various enrichment applications including protein analysis, DNA analysis, bacteria analysis, viruses analysis and cell analysis are illustrated and discussed. The advantages and difficulties of each enrichment method are expatiated. This paper will provide a particularly convenient and valuable reference to those who intend to research the electrokinetic enrichment based on micro-nanofluidic chips.

Status of ion sources at National Institute of Radiological Sciences.

PubMed

Kitagawa, A; Fujita, T; Goto, A; Hattori, T; Hamano, T; Hojo, S; Honma, T; Imaseki, H; Katagiri, K; Muramatsu, M; Sakamoto, Y; Sekiguchi, M; Suda, M; Sugiura, A; Suya, N

2012-02-01

The National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) maintains various ion accelerators in order to study the effects of radiation of the human body and medical uses of radiation. Two electrostatic tandem accelerators and three cyclotrons delivered by commercial companies have offered various life science tools; these include proton-induced x-ray emission analysis (PIXE), micro beam irradiation, neutron exposure, and radioisotope tracers and probes. A duoplasmatron, a multicusp ion source, a penning ion source (PIG), and an electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS) are in operation for these purposes. The Heavy-Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba (HIMAC) is an accelerator complex for heavy-ion radiotherapy, fully developed by NIRS. HIMAC is utilized not only for daily treatment with the carbon beam but also for fundamental experiments. Several ECRISs and a PIG at HIMAC satisfy various research and clinical requirements.

The solid-solution region for the langasite-type Ca3TaGa3Si2O14 crystal as determined by a lever rule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Hengyu; Uda, Satoshi; Maeda, Kensaku; Nozawa, Jun; Koizumi, Haruhiko; Fujiwara, Kozo

2015-04-01

A lever rule was applied to data concerning the compositions and proportions of secondary phases coexisting with a Ca3TaGa3Si2O14 (CTGS) matrix to determine the boundary compositions of the solid-solution region for CTGS at 1320 °C, as a means of ascertaining the solid-solution for the langasite-type phase in the quaternary CaO-Ta2O5-Ga2O3-SiO2 system. The compositions and proportions of secondary phases were assessed by electron probe micro-analysis as well as through back-scattered electron images. The experimental results showed that the narrow solid-solution region for CTGS is located in a Ta-poor, Ga-poor and Si-rich region relative to its stoichiometric composition.

Quantitative assessment of submicron scale anisotropy in tissue multifractality by scattering Mueller matrix in the framework of Born approximation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Nandan Kumar; Dey, Rajib; Chakraborty, Semanti; Panigrahi, Prasanta K.; Meglinski, Igor; Ghosh, Nirmalya

2018-04-01

A number of tissue-like disordered media exhibit local anisotropy of scattering in the scaling behavior. Scaling behavior contains wealth of fractal or multifractal properties. We demonstrate that the spatial dielectric fluctuations in a sample of biological tissue exhibit multifractal anisotropy. Multifractal anisotropy encoded in the wavelength variation of the light scattering Mueller matrix and manifesting as an intriguing spectral diattenuation effect. We developed an inverse method for the quantitative assessment of the multifractal anisotropy. The method is based on the processing of relevant Mueller matrix elements in Fourier domain by using Born approximation, followed by the multifractal analysis. The approach promises for probing subtle micro-structural changes in biological tissues associated with the cancer and precancer, as well as for non-destructive characterization of a wide range of scattering materials.

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

Kitagawa, A.; Fujita, T.; Goto, A.

The National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) maintains various ion accelerators in order to study the effects of radiation of the human body and medical uses of radiation. Two electrostatic tandem accelerators and three cyclotrons delivered by commercial companies have offered various life science tools; these include proton-induced x-ray emission analysis (PIXE), micro beam irradiation, neutron exposure, and radioisotope tracers and probes. A duoplasmatron, a multicusp ion source, a penning ion source (PIG), and an electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS) are in operation for these purposes. The Heavy-Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba (HIMAC) is an accelerator complex for heavy-ionmore » radiotherapy, fully developed by NIRS. HIMAC is utilized not only for daily treatment with the carbon beam but also for fundamental experiments. Several ECRISs and a PIG at HIMAC satisfy various research and clinical requirements.« less

Status of ion sources at National Institute of Radiological Sciencesa)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kitagawa, A.; Fujita, T.; Goto, A.; Hattori, T.; Hamano, T.; Hojo, S.; Honma, T.; Imaseki, H.; Katagiri, K.; Muramatsu, M.; Sakamoto, Y.; Sekiguchi, M.; Suda, M.; Sugiura, A.; Suya, N.

2012-02-01

The National Institute of Radiological Sciences (NIRS) maintains various ion accelerators in order to study the effects of radiation of the human body and medical uses of radiation. Two electrostatic tandem accelerators and three cyclotrons delivered by commercial companies have offered various life science tools; these include proton-induced x-ray emission analysis (PIXE), micro beam irradiation, neutron exposure, and radioisotope tracers and probes. A duoplasmatron, a multicusp ion source, a penning ion source (PIG), and an electron cyclotron resonance ion source (ECRIS) are in operation for these purposes. The Heavy-Ion Medical Accelerator in Chiba (HIMAC) is an accelerator complex for heavy-ion radiotherapy, fully developed by NIRS. HIMAC is utilized not only for daily treatment with the carbon beam but also for fundamental experiments. Several ECRISs and a PIG at HIMAC satisfy various research and clinical requirements.

Glancing-incidence focussed ion beam milling: A coherent X-ray diffraction study of 3D nano-scale lattice strains and crystal defects

DOE PAGES

Hofmann, Felix; Harder, Ross J.; Liu, Wenjun; ...

2018-05-11

Here, this study presents a detailed examination of the lattice distortions introduced by glancing incidence Focussed Ion Beam (FIB) milling. Using non-destructive multi-reflection Bragg coherent X-ray diffraction we probe damage formation in an initially pristine gold micro-crystal following several stages of FIB milling. These experiments allow access to the full lattice strain tensor in the micro-crystal with ~25 nm 3D spatial resolution, enabling a nano-scale analysis of residual lattice strains and defects formed. Our results show that 30 keV glancing incidence milling produces fewer large defects than normal incidence milling at the same energy. However the resulting residual lattice strainsmore » have similar magnitude and extend up to ~50 nm into the sample. At the edges of the milled surface, where the ion-beam tails impact the sample at near-normal incidence, large dislocation loops with a range of Burgers vectors are formed. Further glancing incidence FIB polishing with 5 keV ion energy removes these dislocation loops and reduces the lattice strains caused by higher energy FIB milling. However, even at the lower ion energy, damage-induced lattice strains are present within a ~20 nm thick surface layer. These results highlight the need for careful consideration and management of FIB damage. They also show that low-energy FIB-milling is an effective tool for removing FIB-milling induced lattice strains. This is important for the preparation of micro-mechanical test specimens and strain microscopy samples.« less

Cross-bridge elasticity in single smooth muscle cells

PubMed Central

1983-01-01

In smooth muscle, a cross-bridge mechanism is believed to be responsible for active force generation and fiber shortening. In the present studies, the viscoelastic and kinetic properties of the cross- bridge were probed by eliciting tension transients in response to small, rapid, step length changes (delta L = 0.3-1.0% Lcell in 2 ms). Tension transients were obtained in a single smooth muscle cell isolated from the toad (Bufo marinus) stomach muscularis, which was tied between a force transducer and a displacement device. To record the transients, which were of extremely small magnitude (0.1 microN), a high-frequency (400 Hz), ultrasensitive force transducer (18 mV/microN) was designed and built. The transients obtained during maximal force generation (Fmax = 2.26 microN) were characterized by a linear elastic response (Emax = 1.26 X 10(4) mN/mm2) coincident with the length step, which was followed by a biphasic tension recovery made up of two exponentials (tau fast = 5-20 ms, tau slow = 50-300 ms). During the development of force upon activation, transients were elicited. The relationship between stiffness and force was linear, which suggests that the transients originate within the cross-bridge and reflect the cross-bridge's viscoelastic and kinetic properties. The observed fiber elasticity suggests that the smooth muscle cross-bridge is considerably more compliant than in fast striated muscle. A thermodynamic model is presented that allows for an analysis of the factors contributing to the increased compliance of the smooth muscle cross-bridge. PMID:6413640

Glancing-incidence focussed ion beam milling: A coherent X-ray diffraction study of 3D nano-scale lattice strains and crystal defects

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

Hofmann, Felix; Harder, Ross J.; Liu, Wenjun

Here, this study presents a detailed examination of the lattice distortions introduced by glancing incidence Focussed Ion Beam (FIB) milling. Using non-destructive multi-reflection Bragg coherent X-ray diffraction we probe damage formation in an initially pristine gold micro-crystal following several stages of FIB milling. These experiments allow access to the full lattice strain tensor in the micro-crystal with ~25 nm 3D spatial resolution, enabling a nano-scale analysis of residual lattice strains and defects formed. Our results show that 30 keV glancing incidence milling produces fewer large defects than normal incidence milling at the same energy. However the resulting residual lattice strainsmore » have similar magnitude and extend up to ~50 nm into the sample. At the edges of the milled surface, where the ion-beam tails impact the sample at near-normal incidence, large dislocation loops with a range of Burgers vectors are formed. Further glancing incidence FIB polishing with 5 keV ion energy removes these dislocation loops and reduces the lattice strains caused by higher energy FIB milling. However, even at the lower ion energy, damage-induced lattice strains are present within a ~20 nm thick surface layer. These results highlight the need for careful consideration and management of FIB damage. They also show that low-energy FIB-milling is an effective tool for removing FIB-milling induced lattice strains. This is important for the preparation of micro-mechanical test specimens and strain microscopy samples.« less

Lymph Node Metastases Optical Molecular Diagnostic and Radiation Therapy

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-01

because most imaging is based upon structures and not molecular functions. The one tool commonly used for metastases imaging is nuclear medicine...imaging, which is that micro metastases cannot be visualized at a relevant stage., largely because most imaging is based upon structures and not...evaluate the limits on structural , metabolic and immunologic probes for molecular imaging, and (4) to complete studies on metastatic breast cancer

Hyperspectral small animal fluorescence imaging: spectral selection imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leavesley, Silas; Jiang, Yanan; Patsekin, Valery; Hall, Heidi; Vizard, Douglas; Robinson, J. Paul

2008-02-01

Molecular imaging is a rapidly growing area of research, fueled by needs in pharmaceutical drug-development for methods for high-throughput screening, pre-clinical and clinical screening for visualizing tumor growth and drug targeting, and a growing number of applications in the molecular biology fields. Small animal fluorescence imaging employs fluorescent probes to target molecular events in vivo, with a large number of molecular targeting probes readily available. The ease at which new targeting compounds can be developed, the short acquisition times, and the low cost (compared to microCT, MRI, or PET) makes fluorescence imaging attractive. However, small animal fluorescence imaging suffers from high optical scattering, absorption, and autofluorescence. Much of these problems can be overcome through multispectral imaging techniques, which collect images at different fluorescence emission wavelengths, followed by analysis, classification, and spectral deconvolution methods to isolate signals from fluorescence emission. We present an alternative to the current method, using hyperspectral excitation scanning (spectral selection imaging), a technique that allows excitation at any wavelength in the visible and near-infrared wavelength range. In many cases, excitation imaging may be more effective at identifying specific fluorescence signals because of the higher complexity of the fluorophore excitation spectrum. Because the excitation is filtered and not the emission, the resolution limit and image shift imposed by acousto-optic tunable filters have no effect on imager performance. We will discuss design of the imager, optimizing the imager for use in small animal fluorescence imaging, and application of spectral analysis and classification methods for identifying specific fluorescence signals.

Detection of periodontopathogenic bacteria in pregnant women by traditional anaerobic culture method and by a commercial molecular genetic method.

PubMed

Urbán, Edit; Terhes, Gabriella; Radnai, Márta; Gorzó, István; Nagy, Elisabeth

2010-06-01

To culture facultative and strict anaerobic bacteria is a well-established method for analyzing subgingival plaque samples. Micro-IDent and micro-IDent Plus (HAIN Lifescience GmbH, Nehren, Germany) tests are two commercially available rapid PCR-based methods for the identification and quantification of putative periodontopathogen bacteria. In this study, we compared these commercial PCR-based hybridization methods with conventional anaerobic culture technique. A total of 36 subgingival plaque samples were collected from periodontal pockets of pregnant women with chronic localized periodontitis. Aliquots of these samples were evaluated with species-specific probes provided by micro-IDent and micro-IDent Plus tests simultaneously, and from the same samples anaerobic and capnophylic bacteria were cultured on selective media. The overall agreement between both methods was excellent for Eubacterium nodatum, Tannerella forsythia and Porphyromonas gingivalis (97-92%), fair for Capnocytophaga sp, Eikenella corrodens, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, and Prevotella intermedia (91-89%) and poor for Fusobacterium nucleatum, Parvimonas micra (Micromonas micros), and Campylobacter rectus (86-78%). Discrepancies in the results may be explained by inability of culture method to distinguish between closely related taxa (e.i P. intermedia/Prevotella. nigrescens), and problems of keeping periodontopathogen bacteria viable, which is required for successful detection by standard culture method. Nucleic acid-based methods may replace cultivation method as frequently used methods in microbiological diagnosis of progressive periodontitis, thus micro-IDent and micro-IDent Plus tests can be recommended where culture of periodontopathogenic bacteria is not performed in routine microbiology laboratories to analyze subgingival plaque samples. 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

CYP3A4 activity in four different animal species liver microsomes using 7-benzyloxyquinoline and HPLC/spectrofluorometric determination.

PubMed

Baririan, Narine; Desager, Jean-Pierre; Petit, Martine; Horsmans, Yves

2006-01-23

Some microplate-based direct assays with different fluorometric substrates have been developed, among which 7-benzyloxyquinoline (BOQ) has demonstrated the highest degree of selectivity for CYP3A subfamily. In our study, we firstly developed and validated an efficient, fast and cheap HPLC/spectrofluorometric analytical method to quantify 7-hydroxyquinoline (BOQ metabolite). Secondly, BOQ oxidation rate (1.95 +/- 0.24 microM/mg protein/min) was compared to that of midazolam (MDZ) (1.4 +/- 0.21 microM/mg protein/min), an other specific CYP3A probe. However, the difference did not reach statistically significance (test of Sign; p = 0.125, two tailed). Thirdly, the potential use of BOQ in other species than the rat (mouse, dog and monkey) was studied. The highest BOQ activity was observed in rat microsomes (3.75 micromol/mg protein/min) with lower P450 content (0.3 nmol/mg protein) compared to other species. Finally, the effect of CYP3A enzymes-selective inhibitor ketoconazole on the dealkylation of BOQ in control and dexamethasone (DM)-treated rat microsomes was studied. Ketoconazole inhibition potency was greater in control (IC(50) approximately 21.6 microM) compared to DM induced (IC(50) approximately 32.3 microM) microsomes. At concentrations greater than that considered to be enzyme-selective (e.g., 10-30 microM), ketoconazole inhibitory activity did not rise significantly, and at the maximal concentration tested (1,000 microM) a nearly similar inhibition (76%) was observed than that at 50 microM concentration (68.2%).

Advances in engineering of high contrast CARS imaging endoscopes

PubMed Central

Deladurantaye, Pascal; Paquet, Alex; Paré, Claude; Zheng, Huimin; Doucet, Michel; Gay, David; Poirier, Michel; Cormier, Jean-François; Mermut, Ozzy; Wilson, Brian C.; Seibel, Eric J.

2014-01-01

The translation of CARS imaging towards real time, high resolution, chemically selective endoscopic tissue imaging applications is limited by a lack of sensitivity in CARS scanning probes sufficiently small for incorporation into endoscopes. We have developed here a custom double clad fiber (DCF)-based CARS probe which is designed to suppress the contaminant Four-Wave-Mixing (FWM) background generated within the fiber and integrated it into a fiber based scanning probe head of a few millimeters in diameter. The DCF includes a large mode area (LMA) core as a first means of reducing FWM generation by ~3 dB compared to commercially available, step-index single mode fibers. A micro-fabricated miniature optical filter (MOF) was grown on the distal end of the DCF to block the remaining FWM background from reaching the sample. The resulting probe was used to demonstrate high contrast images of polystyrene beads in the forward-CARS configuration with > 10 dB suppression of the FWM background. In epi-CARS geometry, images exhibited lower contrast due to the leakage of MOF-reflected FWM from the fiber core. Improvements concepts for the fiber probe are proposed for high contrast epi-CARS imaging to enable endoscopic implementation in clinical tissue assessment contexts, particularly in the early detection of endoluminal cancers and in tumor margin assessment. PMID:25401538

Femtosecond-laser-written superficial cladding waveguides in Nd:CaF2 crystal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Rang; Nie, Weijie; Lu, Qingming; Cheng, Chen; Shang, Zhen; Vázquez de Aldana, Javier R.; Chen, Feng

2017-07-01

We report on the superficial cladding waveguides fabricated by direct femtosecond laser writing in Nd: CaF2 crystal with three different groups of parameters. The lowest propagation loss of waveguides has been determined to be 0.7 dB/cm at wavelength of 632.8 nm along TE polarization. The near fundamental modal distributions have been imaged through the end-face coupling technique. The guidance of the waveguides is found to possess low sensitivity on polarization of the probe light. By using a confocal microscope system, the micro-photoluminescence mappings and micro-fluorescence spectra are also obtained, which indicates the photoluminescence features of the Nd3+ ions are well preserved in the waveguide cores after direct femtosecond laser writing.

Extraction of information on macromolecular interactions from fluorescence micro-spectroscopy measurements in the presence and absence of FRET.

PubMed

Raicu, Valerică

2018-06-15

Investigations of static or dynamic interactions between proteins or other biological macromolecules in living cells often rely on the use of fluorescent tags with two different colors in conjunction with adequate theoretical descriptions of Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) and molecular-level micro-spectroscopic technology. One such method based on these general principles is FRET spectrometry, which allows determination of the quaternary structure of biomolecules from cell-level images of the distributions, or spectra of occurrence frequency of FRET efficiencies. Subsequent refinements allowed combining FRET frequency spectra with molecular concentration information, thereby providing the proportion of molecular complexes with various quaternary structures as well as their binding/dissociation energies. In this paper, we build on the mathematical principles underlying FRET spectrometry to propose two new spectrometric methods, which have distinct advantages compared to other methods. One of these methods relies on statistical analysis of color mixing in subpopulations of fluorescently tagged molecules to probe molecular association stoichiometry, while the other exploits the color shift induced by FRET to also derive geometric information in addition to stoichiometry. The appeal of the first method stems from its sheer simplicity, while the strength of the second consists in its ability to provide structural information. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Stability of retained austenite in high carbon steel under compressive stress: an investigation from macro to nano scale

PubMed Central

Hossain, R.; Pahlevani, F.; Quadir, M. Z.; Sahajwalla, V.

2016-01-01

Although high carbon martensitic steels are well known for their industrial utility in high abrasion and extreme operating environments, due to their hardness and strength, the compressive stability of their retained austenite, and the implications for the steels’ performance and potential uses, is not well understood. This article describes the first investigation at both the macro and nano scale of the compressive stability of retained austenite in high carbon martensitic steel. Using a combination of standard compression testing, X-ray diffraction, optical microstructure, electron backscattering diffraction imaging, electron probe micro-analysis, nano-indentation and micro-indentation measurements, we determined the mechanical stability of retained austenite and martensite in high carbon steel under compressive stress and identified the phase transformation mechanism, from the macro to the nano level. We found at the early stage of plastic deformation hexagonal close-packed (HCP) martensite formation dominates, while higher compression loads trigger body-centred tetragonal (BCT) martensite formation. The combination of this phase transformation and strain hardening led to an increase in the hardness of high carbon steel of around 30%. This comprehensive characterisation of stress induced phase transformation could enable the precise control of the microstructures of high carbon martensitic steels, and hence their properties. PMID:27725722

Extraction of information on macromolecular interactions from fluorescence micro-spectroscopy measurements in the presence and absence of FRET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raicu, Valerică

2018-06-01

Investigations of static or dynamic interactions between proteins or other biological macromolecules in living cells often rely on the use of fluorescent tags with two different colors in conjunction with adequate theoretical descriptions of Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) and molecular-level micro-spectroscopic technology. One such method based on these general principles is FRET spectrometry, which allows determination of the quaternary structure of biomolecules from cell-level images of the distributions, or spectra of occurrence frequency of FRET efficiencies. Subsequent refinements allowed combining FRET frequency spectra with molecular concentration information, thereby providing the proportion of molecular complexes with various quaternary structures as well as their binding/dissociation energies. In this paper, we build on the mathematical principles underlying FRET spectrometry to propose two new spectrometric methods, which have distinct advantages compared to other methods. One of these methods relies on statistical analysis of color mixing in subpopulations of fluorescently tagged molecules to probe molecular association stoichiometry, while the other exploits the color shift induced by FRET to also derive geometric information in addition to stoichiometry. The appeal of the first method stems from its sheer simplicity, while the strength of the second consists in its ability to provide structural information.

Arsenic speciation in sinter mineralization from a hydrothermal channel of El Tatio geothermal field, Chile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alsina, Marco A.; Zanella, Luciana; Hoel, Cathleen; Pizarro, Gonzalo E.; Gaillard, Jean-François; Pasten, Pablo A.

2014-10-01

El Tatio geothermal field is the principal natural source of arsenic for the Loa River, the main surface water resource in the hyper-arid Atacama Desert (Antofagasta Region, Northern Chile). Prior investigations by bulk X-ray absorption spectroscopy have identified hydrous ferric oxides as the principal arsenic-containing phase in sinter material from El Tatio, suggesting sorption as the main mechanism for arsenic scavenging by the solid phases of these hot spring environments. Here we examine siliceous sinter material sampled from a hydrothermal channel using synchrotron based X-ray micro-probe techniques, including As and Fe Kα X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF), As K-edge X-ray absorption near edge structure (μ-XANES), and X-ray diffraction (μ-XRD). Least-squares linear fitting of μ-XANES spectra shows that arsenic is predominantly present as arsenate sorbed on hydrous ferric oxides (63% molar proportion), but we also identify nodular arsenide micro-mineralizations (37% molar proportion) similar to loellingite (FeAs2), not previously detected during bulk-scale analysis of the sinter material. Presence of arsenide mineralizations indicates development of anoxic environments on the surface of the siliceous sinter, and suggests a more complex biogeochemistry for arsenic than previously observed for circum-neutral pH brine hot spring environments.

MicroRNA signatures in B-cell lymphomas

PubMed Central

Di Lisio, L; Sánchez-Beato, M; Gómez-López, G; Rodríguez, M E; Montes-Moreno, S; Mollejo, M; Menárguez, J; Martínez, M A; Alves, F J; Pisano, D G; Piris, M A; Martínez, N

2012-01-01

Accurate lymphoma diagnosis, prognosis and therapy still require additional markers. We explore the potential relevance of microRNA (miRNA) expression in a large series that included all major B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) types. The data generated were also used to identify miRNAs differentially expressed in Burkitt lymphoma (BL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) samples. A series of 147 NHL samples and 15 controls were hybridized on a human miRNA one-color platform containing probes for 470 human miRNAs. Each lymphoma type was compared against the entire set of NHLs. BL was also directly compared with DLBCL, and 43 preselected miRNAs were analyzed in a new series of routinely processed samples of 28 BLs and 43 DLBCLs using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. A signature of 128 miRNAs enabled the characterization of lymphoma neoplasms, reflecting the lymphoma type, cell of origin and/or discrete oncogene alterations. Comparative analysis of BL and DLBCL yielded 19 differentially expressed miRNAs, which were confirmed in a second confirmation series of 71 paraffin-embedded samples. The set of differentially expressed miRNAs found here expands the range of potential diagnostic markers for lymphoma diagnosis, especially when differential diagnosis of BL and DLBCL is required. PMID:22829247

Imaging a black hole: MAXIM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cash, W.

With the general acceptance of black holes as real entities the astrophysics community has turned its attention to studying their behavior and properties. Because of the great distance and compact size of the central engine, astronomers are limited to spectroscopic analysis. But to take a picture, or better yet a movie, of the black hole in silhouette against its accretion disk would be a triumph of exploration and scientific inquiry. Probing to the event horizon is best accomplished in the X-ray band, where material primarily radiates in the last orbits before its final plunge. Not only will the signal be bright and minimally confused in the X-ray, but the size of the required interferometer drops dramatically. We describe MAXIM, the Micro-Arcsecond X-ray Imaging Mission, which is now being studied and developed by NASA. We will explain the preliminary mission concept which will use currently existing technology to achieve spatial resolution one million times higher than that of the Hubble Space Telescope and capture the image of an event horizon in a nearby Active Galactic Nucleus. We will also describe the MAXIM Pathfinder. Designed as a stepping stone at resolution of 100 micro-arcseconds, it will demonstrate the techniques of X-ray interferometry and perform groundbreaking science like resolving the coronae of the nearby stars.

Temperature dependent micro-rheology of a glass-forming polymer melt studied by molecular dynamics simulation.

PubMed

Kuhnhold, A; Paul, W

2014-09-28

We present a Molecular Dynamics simulation study of a micro-rheological probing of the glass transition in a polymer melt. Our model system consists of short bead-spring chains and the temperature ranges from well above the glass transition temperature to about 10% above it. The nano-particle clearly couples to the slowing down of the polymer segments and the calculated storage and loss moduli reveal the approach to the glass transition. At temperatures close to the mode coupling Tc of the polymer melt, the micro-rheological moduli measure the local viscoelastic response of the cage of monomers surrounding the nano-particle and no longer reveal the true melt moduli. The incoherent scattering function of the nano-particle exhibits a stretched exponential decay, typical for the α-process in glass forming systems. We find no indication of a strong superdiffusive regime as has been deduced from a recent experiment in the same temperature range but for smaller momentum transfers.

A bio-ballistic micro-jet for drug injection into animal skin using a Nd:YAG laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoh, J. J.; Jang, H.; Park, M.; Han, T.; Hah, J.

2016-01-01

Imaging of the abdominal skin of a guinea pig after injecting a fluorescent probe and biotin via the laser-induced ballistic technique revealed the epidermal and dermal layers which were stained well below 60 \\upmu m underneath the outer layer of the skin. An extensive network of cells was evident in the deeper layer of the stained dermis as the distributed fluorescein isothiocyanate dose was administered by repeated injection using a laser-based micro-jet. We performed optically controlled release of the drug by breaching the guinea pig's skin tissue targeting the region 10-400 \\upmu m beneath the outermost layer. Tissue damage was minimized by reducing the injection volume to approximately 100 nl per pulse. This was done using a micro-jet diameter equal to half of that of a conventional 200 \\upmu m syringe needle. Thus, the optimally controlled delivery of liquid drugs using an irradiated laser pulse was shown to be possible.

High-throughput amplification of mature microRNAs in uncharacterized animal models using polyadenylated RNA and stem-loop reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

PubMed

Biggar, Kyle K; Wu, Cheng-Wei; Storey, Kenneth B

2014-10-01

This study makes a significant advancement on a microRNA amplification technique previously used for expression analysis and sequencing in animal models without annotated mature microRNA sequences. As research progresses into the post-genomic era of microRNA prediction and analysis, the need for a rapid and cost-effective method for microRNA amplification is critical to facilitate wide-scale analysis of microRNA expression. To facilitate this requirement, we have reoptimized the design of amplification primers and introduced a polyadenylation step to allow amplification of all mature microRNAs from a single RNA sample. Importantly, this method retains the ability to sequence reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) products, validating microRNA-specific amplification. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Experimental investigation of the tip based micro/nano machining

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Z.; Tian, Y.; Liu, X.; Wang, F.; Zhou, C.; Zhang, D.

2017-12-01

Based on the self-developed three dimensional micro/nano machining system, the effects of machining parameters and sample material on micro/nano machining are investigated. The micro/nano machining system is mainly composed of the probe system and micro/nano positioning stage. The former is applied to control the normal load and the latter is utilized to realize high precision motion in the xy plane. A sample examination method is firstly introduced to estimate whether the sample is placed horizontally. The machining parameters include scratching direction, speed, cycles, normal load and feed. According to the experimental results, the scratching depth is significantly affected by the normal load in all four defined scratching directions but is rarely influenced by the scratching speed. The increase of scratching cycle number can increase the scratching depth as well as smooth the groove wall. In addition, the scratching tests of silicon and copper attest that the harder material is easier to be removed. In the scratching with different feed amount, the machining results indicate that the machined depth increases as the feed reduces. Further, a cubic polynomial is used to fit the experimental results to predict the scratching depth. With the selected machining parameters of scratching direction d3/d4, scratching speed 5 μm/s and feed 0.06 μm, some more micro structures including stair, sinusoidal groove, Chinese character '田', 'TJU' and Chinese panda have been fabricated on the silicon substrate.

Slurry micro-sampling technique for use in argon-helium microwave induced plasma optical emission spectrometry.

PubMed

Ślachciński, Mariusz

2016-12-01

The Flow Focusing Pneumatic Nebulizer (FFPN) working at low liquid flow rates was evaluated for the elemental analysis in slurried samples by argon-helium microwave induced plasma optical emission spectrometry (MIP-OES). The obtained results achieved were compared with commercially available V-groove Babington type nebulizer (VBPN). A univariate approach and the simplex optimization procedure were used to achieve optimized conditions and derive analytical figures of merit. Analytical performance of the micro nebulization system was characterized by a determination of the limits of detection (LODs), the precision (RSDs) and the wash-out times for Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Pb and Sr. The experimental concentration detection limits for simultaneous determination, calculated as the concentration giving a signal equal to three times of the standard deviation of the blank (LOD, 3σ blank criterion, peak height) were 0.9, 0.2, 0.3, 0.2, 0.3, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.4 and 0.3ngmL -1 for Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Pb and Sr, respectively. The method offers relatively good precision (RSD ranged from 5% to 8%) for micro-slurry sampling analysis. Analyses of the certified reference materials (NRCC DOLT-2, GBW 07302 and SRM 2710) were performed in order to determine the accuracy available with the presented nebulization systems. The measured contents of elements in the reference materials were in satisfactory agreement with the certified values. In addition, these elements were determined in two real samples. Slurry concentration up to 3% m/v (particles <20μm), prepared in 10% m/v HCl through the application of ultrasonic agitation, was used with calibration by the standard addition technique. An ultrasonic probe was used to homogenize the slurry in the polypropylene bottle just before its introduction into the nebulizer. The nebulizers exhibited no clogging problems. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Micro-array versus nano-array platforms: a comparative study for ODN detection based on SPR enhanced ellipsometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Celen, Burcu; Demirel, Gökhan; Piskin, Erhan

2011-04-01

The rapid and sensitive detection of DNA has recently attracted worldwide attention for a variety of disease diagnoses and detection of harmful bacteria in food and drink. In this paper, we carried out a comparative study based on surface plasmon resonance enhanced ellipsometry (SPREE) for the detection of oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) using micro- and nano-array platforms. The micro-arrayed surfaces were fabricated by a photolithography approach using different types of mask having varying size and shape. Well-ordered arrays of high aspect ratio polymeric nanotubes were also obtained using high molecular weight polystyrene (PS) and anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes having 200 nm pore diameters. The SPREE sensors were then prepared by direct coupling of thiolated probe-ODNs, which contain suitable spacer arms, on gold-coated micro- and nano-arrayed surfaces. We experimentally demonstrated that, for the first time, gold-coated free standing polymeric nano-arrayed platforms can easily be produced and lead to a significant sensor sensitivity gain compared to that of the conventional SPREE surfaces of about four times. We believe that such an enhancement in sensor response could be useful for next generation sensor systems.

Non-intrusive measurements of frictional forces between micro-spheres and flat surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Wei-Hsun; Daraio, Chiara; Daraio's Group Team

2014-03-01

We report a novel, optical pump-probe experimental setup to study micro-friction phenomena between micro-particles and a flat surface. We present a case study of stainless steel microspheres, of diameter near 250 μm, in contact with different surfaces of variable roughness. In these experiments, the contact area between the particles and the substrates is only a few nanometers wide. To excite the particles, we deliver an impulse using a pulsed, high-power laser. The reaction force resulting from the surface ablation induced by the laser imparts a controlled initial velocity to the target particle. This initial velocity can be varied between 10-5 to 1 m/s. We investigate the vibrating and rolling motions of the micro-particles by detecting their velocity and displacement with a laser vibrometer and a high-speed microscope camera. We calculate the effective Hamaker constant from the vibrating motion of a particle, and study its relation to the substrate's surface roughness. We analyze the relation between rolling friction and the minimum momentum required to break surface bonding forces. This non-contact and non-intrusive technique could be employed to study a variety of contact and tribology problems at the microscale.

Synchronous detection of ebolavirus conserved RNA sequences and ebolavirus-encoded miRNA-like fragment based on a zwitterionic copper (II) metal-organic framework.

PubMed

Qiu, Gui-Hua; Weng, Zi-Hua; Hu, Pei-Pei; Duan, Wen-Jun; Xie, Bao-Ping; Sun, Bin; Tang, Xiao-Yan; Chen, Jin-Xiang

2018-04-01

From a three-dimensional (3D) metal-organic framework (MOF) of {[Cu(Cmdcp)(phen)(H 2 O)] 2 ·9H 2 O} n (1, H 3 CmdcpBr = N-carboxymethyl-(3,5-dicarboxyl)pyridinium bromide, phen = phenanthroline), a sensitive and selective fluorescence sensor has been developed for the simultaneous detection of ebolavirus conserved RNA sequences and ebolavirus-encoded microRNA-like (miRNA-like) fragment. The results from molecular dynamics simulation confirmed that MOF 1 absorbs carboxyfluorescein (FAM)-tagged and 5(6)-carboxyrhodamine, triethylammonium salt (ROX)-tagged probe ss-DNA (probe DNA, P-DNA) by π … π stacking and hydrogen bonding, as well as additional electrostatic interactions to form a sensing platform of P-DNAs@1 with quenched FAM and ROX fluorescence. In the presence of targeted ebolavirus conserved RNA sequences or ebolavirus-encoded miRNA-like fragment, the fluorophore-labeled P-DNA hybridizes with the analyte to give a P-DNA@RNA duplex and released from MOF 1, triggering a fluorescence recovery. Simultaneous detection of two target RNAs has also been realized by single and synchronous fluorescence analysis. The formed sensing platform shows high sensitivity for ebolavirus conserved RNA sequences and ebolavirus-encoded miRNA-like fragment with detection limits at the picomolar level and high selectivity without cross-reaction between the two probes. MOF 1 thus shows the potential as an effective fluorescent sensing platform for the synchronous detection of two ebolavirus-related sequences, and offer improved diagnostic accuracy of Ebola virus disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparing and probing many-body correlated systems in a Quantum Gas Microscope by engineering arbitrary landscape potentials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rispoli, Matthew; Lukin, Alexander; Ma, Ruichao; Preiss, Philipp; Tai, M. Eric; Islam, Rajibul; Greiner, Markus

2015-05-01

Ultracold atoms in optical lattices provide a versatile tool box for observing the emergence of strongly correlated physics in quantum systems. Dynamic control of optical potentials on the single-site level allows us to prepare and probe many-body quantum states through local Hamiltonian engineering. We achieve these high precision levels of optical control through spatial light modulation with a DMD (digital micro-mirror device). This allows for both arbitrary beam shaping and aberration compensation in our imaging system to produce high fidelity optical potentials. We use these techniques to control state initialization, Hamiltonian dynamics, and measurement in experiments investigating low-dimensional many-body physics - from one-dimensional correlated quantum walks to characterizing entanglement.

Integrating Carbon Nanotubes For Atomic Force Microscopy Imaging Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ye, Qi; Cassell, Alan M.; Liu, Hongbing; Han, Jie; Meyyappan, Meyya

2004-01-01

Carbon nanotube (CNT) related nanostructures possess remarkable electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. To produce these nanostructures for real world applications, a large-scale controlled growth of carbon nanotubes is crucial for the integration and fabrication of nanodevices and nanosensors. We have taken the approach of integrating nanopatterning and nanomaterials synthesis with traditional silicon micro fabrication techniques. This integration requires a catalyst or nanomaterial protection scheme. In this paper, we report our recent work on fabricating wafer-scale carbon nanotube AFM cantilever probe tips. We will address the design and fabrication considerations in detail, and present the preliminary scanning probe test results. This work may serve as an example of rational design, fabrication, and integration of nanomaterials for advanced nanodevice and nanosensor applications.

New insights into micro/nanoscale combined probes (nanoAuger, μXPS) to characterize Ag/Au@SiO2 core-shell assemblies.

PubMed

Ledeuil, J B; Uhart, A; Soulé, S; Allouche, J; Dupin, J C; Martinez, H

2014-10-07

This work has examined the elemental distribution and local morphology at the nanoscale of core@shell Ag/Au@SiO2 particles. The characterization of such complex metal/insulator materials becomes more efficient when using an initial cross-section method of preparation of the core@shell nanoparticles (ion milling cross polisher). The originality of this route of preparation allows one to obtain undamaged, well-defined and planar layers of cross-cut nano-objects. Once combined with high-resolution techniques of characterization (XPS, Auger and SEM), the process appears as a powerful way to minimize charging effects and enhance the outcoming electron signal (potentially affected by the topography of the material) during analysis. SEM experiments have unambiguously revealed the hollow-morphology of the metal core, while Auger spectroscopy observations showed chemical heterogeneity within the particles (as silver and gold are randomly found in the core ring). To our knowledge, this is the first time that Auger nano probe spectroscopy has been used and successfully optimized for the study of some complex metal/inorganic interfaces at such a high degree of resolution (≈12 nm). Complementarily, XPS Au 4f and Ag 3d peaks were finally detected attesting the possibility of access to the whole chemistry of such nanostructured assemblies.

Development and Optical Testing of the Camera, Hand Lens, and Microscope Probe with Scannable Laser Spectroscopy (CHAMP-SLS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mungas, Greg S.; Gursel, Yekta; Sepulveda, Cesar A.; Anderson, Mark; La Baw, Clayton; Johnson, Kenneth R.; Deans, Matthew; Beegle, Luther; Boynton, John

2008-01-01

Conducting high resolution field microscopy with coupled laser spectroscopy that can be used to selectively analyze the surface chemistry of individual pixels in a scene is an enabling capability for next generation robotic and manned spaceflight missions, civil, and military applications. In the laboratory, we use a range of imaging and surface preparation tools that provide us with in-focus images, context imaging for identifying features that we want to investigate at high magnification, and surface-optical coupling that allows us to apply optical spectroscopic analysis techniques for analyzing surface chemistry particularly at high magnifications. The camera, hand lens, and microscope probe with scannable laser spectroscopy (CHAMP-SLS) is an imaging/spectroscopy instrument capable of imaging continuously from infinity down to high resolution microscopy (resolution of approx. 1 micron/pixel in a final camera format), the closer CHAMP-SLS is placed to a feature, the higher the resultant magnification. At hand lens to microscopic magnifications, the imaged scene can be selectively interrogated with point spectroscopic techniques such as Raman spectroscopy, microscopic Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (micro-LIBS), laser ablation mass-spectrometry, Fluorescence spectroscopy, and/or Reflectance spectroscopy. This paper summarizes the optical design, development, and testing of the CHAMP-SLS optics.

Elemental mapping of large samples by external ion beam analysis with sub-millimeter resolution and its applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Silva, T. F.; Rodrigues, C. L.; Added, N.; Rizzutto, M. A.; Tabacniks, M. H.; Mangiarotti, A.; Curado, J. F.; Aguirre, F. R.; Aguero, N. F.; Allegro, P. R. P.; Campos, P. H. O. V.; Restrepo, J. M.; Trindade, G. F.; Antonio, M. R.; Assis, R. F.; Leite, A. R.

2018-05-01

The elemental mapping of large areas using ion beam techniques is a desired capability for several scientific communities, involved on topics ranging from geoscience to cultural heritage. Usually, the constraints for large-area mapping are not met in setups employing micro- and nano-probes implemented all over the world. A novel setup for mapping large sized samples in an external beam was recently built at the University of São Paulo employing a broad MeV-proton probe with sub-millimeter dimension, coupled to a high-precision large range XYZ robotic stage (60 cm range in all axis and precision of 5 μ m ensured by optical sensors). An important issue on large area mapping is how to deal with the irregularities of the sample's surface, that may introduce artifacts in the images due to the variation of the measuring conditions. In our setup, we implemented an automatic system based on machine vision to correct the position of the sample to compensate for its surface irregularities. As an additional benefit, a 3D digital reconstruction of the scanned surface can also be obtained. Using this new and unique setup, we have produced large-area elemental maps of ceramics, stones, fossils, and other sort of samples.

Radar signal analysis of ballistic missile with micro-motion based on time-frequency distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jianming; Liu, Lihua; Yu, Hua

2015-12-01

The micro-motion of ballistic missile targets induces micro-Doppler modulation on the radar return signal, which is a unique feature for the warhead discrimination during flight. In order to extract the micro-Doppler feature of ballistic missile targets, time-frequency analysis is employed to process the micro-Doppler modulated time-varying radar signal. The images of time-frequency distribution (TFD) reveal the micro-Doppler modulation characteristic very well. However, there are many existing time-frequency analysis methods to generate the time-frequency distribution images, including the short-time Fourier transform (STFT), Wigner distribution (WD) and Cohen class distribution, etc. Under the background of ballistic missile defence, the paper aims at working out an effective time-frequency analysis method for ballistic missile warhead discrimination from the decoys.

A novel dual-detector micro-spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Otto, Thomas; Saupe, Ray; Stock, Volker; Bruch, Reinhard; Gruska, Bernd; Gessner, Thomas

2005-01-01

Infrared analysis is a well-established tool for measuring composition and purity of various materials in industrial-, medical- and environmental applications. Traditional spectrometers, for example Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Instruments are mainly designed for laboratory use and are generally, too large, heavy, costly and delicate to handle for remote applications. With important advances in the miniaturization, ruggedness and cost efficiency we have designed and created a new type of a micromirror spectrometer that can operate in harsh temperature and vibrating environments This device is ideally suited for environmental monitoring, chemical and biological applications as well as detection of biological warfare agents and sensing in important security locations In order to realize such compact, portable and field-deployable spectrometers we have applied MOEMS technology. Thus our novel dual detector micro mirror system is composed of a scanning micro mirror combined with a diffraction grating and other essential optical components in order to miniaturize the basic modular set-up. Especially it periodically disperses polychromatic radiation into its spectral components, which are measured by a combination of a visible (VIS) and near infrared (NIR) single element detector. By means of integrated preamplifiers high-precise measurements over a wide dynamic wavelength range are possible. In addition the spectrometer, including the radiation source, detectors and electronics can be coupled to a minimum-volume liquid or gas-flow cell. Furthermore a SMA connector as a fiber optical input allows easy attachment of fiber based probes. By utilizing rapid prototyping techniques, where all components are directly integrated, the micro mirror spectrometer is manufactured for the 700-1700 nm spectral range. In this work the advanced optical design and integration of the electronic interface will be reviewed. Furthermore we will demonstrate the performance of the system and present characteristic measurement results. Finally advanced packaging issues and test results of the device will be discussed.

Synchronous fluorescence based biosensor for albumin determination by cooperative binding of fluorescence probe in a supra-biomolecular host-protein assembly.

PubMed

Patra, Digambara

2010-01-15

A synchronous fluorescence probe based biosensor for estimation of albumin with high sensitivity and selectivity was developed. Unlike conventional fluorescence emission or excitation spectral measurements, synchronous fluorescence measurement offered exclusively a new synchronous fluorescence peak in the shorter wavelength range upon binding of chrysene with protein making it an easy identification tool for albumin determination. The cooperative binding of a fluorescence probe, chrysene, in a supramolecular host-protein assembly during various albumin assessments was investigated. The presence of supramolecular host molecules such as beta-cyclodextrin, curucurbit[6]uril or curucurbit[7]uril have little influence on sensitivity or limit of detection during albumin determination but reduced dramatically interference from various coexisting metal ion quenchers/enhancers. Using the present method the limit of detection for BSA and gamma-Globulin was found to be 0.005 microM which is more sensitive than reported values. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A rapid, ratiometric, enzyme-free, and sensitive single-step miRNA detection using three-way junction based FRET probes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Qingying; Liu, Lin; Yang, Cai; Yuan, Jing; Feng, Hongtao; Chen, Yan; Zhao, Peng; Yu, Zhiqiang; Jin, Zongwen

2018-03-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are single stranded endogenous molecules composed of only 18-24 nucleotides which are critical for gene expression regulating the translation of messenger RNAs. Conventional methods based on enzyme-assisted nucleic acid amplification techniques have many problems, such as easy contamination, high cost, susceptibility to false amplification, and tendency to have sequence mismatches. Here we report a rapid, ratiometric, enzyme-free, sensitive, and highly selective single-step miRNA detection using three-way junction assembled (or self-assembled) FRET probes. The developed strategy can be operated within the linear range from subnanomolar to hundred nanomolar concentrations of miRNAs. In comparison with the traditional approaches, our method showed high sensitivity for the miRNA detection and extreme selectivity for the efficient discrimination of single-base mismatches. The results reveal that the strategy paved a new avenue for the design of novel highly specific probes applicable in diagnostics and potentially in microscopic imaging of miRNAs in real biological environments.

All-optical optoacoustic microscopy based on probe beam deflection technique.

PubMed

Maswadi, Saher M; Ibey, Bennett L; Roth, Caleb C; Tsyboulski, Dmitri A; Beier, Hope T; Glickman, Randolph D; Oraevsky, Alexander A

2016-09-01

Optoacoustic (OA) microscopy using an all-optical system based on the probe beam deflection technique (PBDT) for detection of laser-induced acoustic signals was investigated as an alternative to conventional piezoelectric transducers. PBDT provides a number of advantages for OA microscopy including (i) efficient coupling of laser excitation energy to the samples being imaged through the probing laser beam, (ii) undistorted coupling of acoustic waves to the detector without the need for separation of the optical and acoustic paths, (iii) high sensitivity and (iv) ultrawide bandwidth. Because of the unimpeded optical path in PBDT, diffraction-limited lateral resolution can be readily achieved. The sensitivity of the current PBDT sensor of 22 μV/Pa and its noise equivalent pressure (NEP) of 11.4 Pa are comparable with these parameters of the optical micro-ring resonator and commercial piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers. Benefits of the present prototype OA microscope were demonstrated by successfully resolving micron-size details in histological sections of cardiac muscle.

Integrated sensing and actuation of dielectric elastomer actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Zhihang; Chen, Zheng

2017-04-01

Dielectric elastomer (DE) is a type of soft actuating material, the shape of which can be changed under electrical voltage stimuli. DE materials have great potential in applications involving energy harvesters, micro-manipulators, and adaptive optics. In this paper, a stripe DE actuator with integrated sensing and actuation is designed and fabricated, and characterized through several experiments. Considering the actuator's capacitor-like structure and its deform mechanism, detecting the actuator's displacement through the actuator's circuit feature is a potential approach. A self-sensing scheme that adds a high frequency probing signal into actuation signal is developed. A fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm is used to extract the magnitude change of the probing signal, and a non-linear fitting method and artificial neural network (ANN) approach are utilized to reflect the relationship between the probing signal and the actuator's displacement. Experimental results showed this structure has capability of performing self-sensing and actuation, simultaneously. With an enhanced ANN, the self-sensing scheme can achieve 2.5% accuracy.

High spatial resolution and high brightness ion beam probe for in-situ elemental and isotopic analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Long, Tao; Clement, Stephen W. J.; Bao, Zemin; Wang, Peizhi; Tian, Di; Liu, Dunyi

2018-03-01

A high spatial resolution and high brightness ion beam from a cold cathode duoplasmatron source and primary ion optics are presented and applied to in-situ analysis of micro-scale geological material with complex structural and chemical features. The magnetic field in the source as well as the influence of relative permeability of magnetic materials on source performance was simulated using COMSOL to confirm the magnetic field strength of the source. Based on SIMION simulation, a high brightness and high spatial resolution negative ion optical system has been developed to achieve Critical (Gaussian) illumination mode. The ion source and primary column are installed on a new Time-of-Flight secondary ion mass spectrometer for analysis of geological samples. The diameter of the ion beam was measured by the knife-edge method and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results show that an O2- beam of ca. 5 μm diameter with a beam intensity of ∼5 nA and an O- beam of ca. 5 μm diameter with a beam intensity of ∼50 nA were obtained, respectively. This design will open new possibilities for in-situ elemental and isotopic analysis in geological studies.

In vivo near-infrared imaging of fibrin deposition in thromboembolic stroke in mice.

PubMed

Zhang, Yi; Fan, Shufeng; Yao, Yuyu; Ding, Jie; Wang, Yu; Zhao, Zhen; Liao, Lei; Li, Peicheng; Zang, Fengchao; Teng, Gao-Jun

2012-01-01

Thrombus and secondary thrombosis plays a key role in stroke. Recent molecular imaging provides in vivo imaging of activated factor XIII (FXIIIa), an important mediator of thrombosis or fibrinolytic resistance. The present study was to investigate the fibrin deposition in a thromboembolic stroke mice model by FXIIIa-targeted near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging. The experimental protocol was approved by our institutional animal use committee. Seventy-six C57B/6J mice were subjected to thromboembolic middle cerebral artery occlusion or sham operation. Mice were either intravenously injected with the FXIIIa-targeted probe or control probe. In vivo and ex vivo NIRF imaging were performed thereafter. Probe distribution was assessed with fluorescence microscopy by spectral imaging and quantification system. MR scans were performed to measure lesion volumes in vivo, which were correlated with histology after animal euthanasia. In vivo significant higher fluorescence intensity over the ischemia-affected hemisphere, compared to the contralateral side, was detected in mice that received FXIIIa-targeted probe, but not in the controlled mice. Significantly NIRF signals showed time-dependent processes from 8 to 96 hours after injection of FXIIIa-targeted probes. Ex vivo NIRF image showed an intense fluorescence within the ischemic territory only in mice injected with FXIIIa-targeted probe. The fluorescence microscopy demonstrated distribution of FXIIIa-targeted probe in the ischemic region and nearby micro-vessels, and FXIIIa-targeted probe signals showed good overlap with immune-fluorescent fibrin staining images. There was a significant correlation between total targeted signal from in vivo or ex vivo NIRF images and lesion volume. Non-invasive detection of fibrin deposition in ischemic mouse brain using NIRF imaging is feasible and this technique may provide an in vivo experimental tool in studying the role of fibrin in stroke.

In Vivo Near-Infrared Imaging of Fibrin Deposition in Thromboembolic Stroke in Mice

PubMed Central

Zhang, Yi; Fan, Shufeng; Yao, Yuyu; Ding, Jie; Wang, Yu; Zhao, Zhen; Liao, Lei; Li, Peicheng; Zang, Fengchao; Teng, Gao-Jun

2012-01-01

Objectives Thrombus and secondary thrombosis plays a key role in stroke. Recent molecular imaging provides in vivo imaging of activated factor XIII (FXIIIa), an important mediator of thrombosis or fibrinolytic resistance. The present study was to investigate the fibrin deposition in a thromboembolic stroke mice model by FXIIIa–targeted near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging. Materials and Methods The experimental protocol was approved by our institutional animal use committee. Seventy-six C57B/6J mice were subjected to thromboembolic middle cerebral artery occlusion or sham operation. Mice were either intravenously injected with the FXIIIa-targeted probe or control probe. In vivo and ex vivo NIRF imaging were performed thereafter. Probe distribution was assessed with fluorescence microscopy by spectral imaging and quantification system. MR scans were performed to measure lesion volumes in vivo, which were correlated with histology after animal euthanasia. Results In vivo significant higher fluorescence intensity over the ischemia-affected hemisphere, compared to the contralateral side, was detected in mice that received FXIIIa-targeted probe, but not in the controlled mice. Significantly NIRF signals showed time-dependent processes from 8 to 96 hours after injection of FXIIIa-targeted probes. Ex vivo NIRF image showed an intense fluorescence within the ischemic territory only in mice injected with FXIIIa-targeted probe. The fluorescence microscopy demonstrated distribution of FXIIIa-targeted probe in the ischemic region and nearby micro-vessels, and FXIIIa-targeted probe signals showed good overlap with immune-fluorescent fibrin staining images. There was a significant correlation between total targeted signal from in vivo or ex vivo NIRF images and lesion volume. Conclusion Non-invasive detection of fibrin deposition in ischemic mouse brain using NIRF imaging is feasible and this technique may provide an in vivo experimental tool in studying the role of fibrin in stroke. PMID:22272319

Feasibility study for combination of field-flow fractionation (FFF)-based separation of size-coded particle probes with amplified surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) tagging for simultaneous detection of multiple miRNAs.

PubMed

Shin, Kayeong; Choi, Jaeyeong; Kim, Yeoju; Lee, Yoonjeong; Kim, Joohoon; Lee, Seungho; Chung, Hoeil

2018-06-29

We propose a new analytical scheme in which field-flow fractionation (FFF)-based separation of target-specific polystyrene (PS) particle probes of different sizes are incorporated with amplified surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) tagging for the simultaneous and sensitive detection of multiple microRNAs (miRNAs). For multiplexed detection, PS particles of three different diameters (15, 10, 5 μm) were used for the size-coding, and a probe single stranded DNA (ssDNA) complementary to a target miRNA was conjugated on an intended PS particle. After binding of a target miRNA on PS probe, polyadenylation reaction was executed to generate a long tail composed of adenine (A) serving as a binding site to thymine (T) conjugated Au nanoparticles (T-AuNPs) to increase SERS intensity. The three size-coded PS probes bound with T-AuNPs were then separated in a FFF channel. With the observation of extinction-based fractograms, separation of three size-coded PS probes was clearly confirmed, thereby enabling of measuring three miRNAs simultaneously. Raman intensities of FFF fractions collected at the peak maximum of 15, 10 and 5 μm PS probes varied fairy quantitatively with the change of miRNA concentrations, and the reproducibility of measurement was acceptable. The proposed method is potentially useful for simultaneous detection of multiple miRNAs with high sensitivity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design and fabrication of a polyimide-based microelectrode array: application in neural recording and repeatable electrolytic lesion in rat brain.

PubMed

Chen, You-Yin; Lai, Hsin-Yi; Lin, Sheng-Huang; Cho, Chien-Wen; Chao, Wen-Hung; Liao, Chia-Hsin; Tsang, Siny; Chen, Yi-Fan; Lin, Si-Yue

2009-08-30

The design and testing of a new microelectrode array, the NCTU (National Chiao Tung University) probe, was presented. Evaluation results showed it has good biocompatibility, high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR: the root mean square of background noise to the average peak-to-peak amplitude of spikes) during chronic neural recordings, and high reusability for electrolytic lesions. The probe was a flexible, polyimide-based microelectrode array with a long shaft (14.9 mm in length) and 16 electrodes (5 microm-thick and 16 microm in radius); its performance in chronic in vivo recordings was examined in rodents. To improve the precision of implantation, a metallic, impact-resistant layer was sandwiched between the polyimide layers to strengthen the probe. The three-dimensional (3D) structure of electrodes fabricated by electroplating produced rough textures that increased the effective surface area. The in vitro impedance of electrodes on the NCTU probe was 2.4+/-0.52 MOmega at 1 kHz. In addition, post-surgical neural recordings of implanted NCTU probes were conducted for up to 40 days in awake, normally behaving rats. The electrodes on the NCTU probe functioned well and had a high SNR (range: 4-5) with reliable in vivo impedance (<0.7 MOmega). The electrodes were also robust enough to functionally record events, even after the anodal current (30 microA, 10s) was repeatedly applied for 60 times. With good biocompatibility, high and stable SNR for chronic recording, and high tolerance for electrolytic lesion, the NCTU probe would serve as a useful device in future neuroscience research.

The Instrumented Frisbee(Registered TradeMark) as a Prototype for Planetary Entry Probes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lorenz, Ralph D.

2005-01-01

A Frisbee has been equipped with sensors, batteries and micro-controllers for data acquisition to record its translational accelerations and attitude motion. The experiments explore the capabilities and limitations of sensors on a rapidly-rotating platform moving in air, and illustrate several of the complex gyrodynamic aspects of frisbee flight. The experiments constitute an instructive exercise in aerospace vehicle systems integration and in attitude reconstruction.

Spider Silk: From Protein-Rich Gland Fluids to Diverse Biopolymer Fibers

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-06

characterize the protein-rich fluid in the various spider silk producing glands. We have been using a battery of magnetic resonance methods including...solution and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and micro imaging (MRI) in combination with wide angle and small angle X-ray diffraction...range of magnetic resonance methods. We successfully developed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques with localized spectroscopy to probe the silk

Rapid Identification of Micro-Organisms.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-08-26

mixed cell populations to which this technology has been applied, although many similarities exist as well. In most applications of flow cytometry, it...specific nucleic acid sequences detectable with DNA probes, are applicable only to organisms previously know to and available to the laboratory workers...peak of phycoerythrin, and the 585/593 nm yellow emission from He-Ne lasers now in development is well suited for excitation of phycocyanin . Any of the

Analysis of the Multi Strategy Goal Programming for Micro-Grid Based on Dynamic ant Genetic Algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, J. P.; Niu, D. X.

Micro-grid is one of the key technologies of the future energy supplies. Take economic planning. reliability, and environmental protection of micro grid as a basis for the analysis of multi-strategy objective programming problems for micro grid which contains wind power, solar power, and battery and micro gas turbine. Establish the mathematical model of each power generation characteristics and energy dissipation. and change micro grid planning multi-objective function under different operating strategies to a single objective model based on AHP method. Example analysis shows that in combination with dynamic ant mixed genetic algorithm can get the optimal power output of this model.

A Micro-Thermal Sensor for Focal Therapy Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Natesan, Harishankar; Hodges, Wyatt; Choi, Jeunghwan; Lubner, Sean; Dames, Chris; Bischof, John

2016-02-01

There is an urgent need for sensors deployed during focal therapies to inform treatment planning and in vivo monitoring in thin tissues. Specifically, the measurement of thermal properties, cooling surface contact, tissue thickness, blood flow and phase change with mm to sub mm accuracy are needed. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate that a micro-thermal sensor based on the supported “3ω” technique can achieve this in vitro under idealized conditions in 0.5 to 2 mm thick tissues relevant to cryoablation of the pulmonary vein (PV). To begin with “3ω” sensors were microfabricated onto flat glass as an idealization of a focal probe surface. The sensor was then used to make new measurements of ‘k’ (W/m.K) of porcine PV, esophagus, and phrenic nerve, all needed for PV cryoabalation treatment planning. Further, by modifying the sensor use from traditional to dynamic mode new measurements related to tissue vs. fluid (i.e. water) contact, fluid flow conditions, tissue thickness, and phase change were made. In summary, the in vitro idealized system data presented is promising and warrants future work to integrate and test supported “3ω” sensors on in vivo deployed focal therapy probe surfaces (i.e. balloons or catheters).

Ductile cutting of silicon microstructures with surface inclination measurement and compensation by using a force sensor integrated single point diamond tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yuan-Liu; Cai, Yindi; Shimizu, Yuki; Ito, So; Gao, Wei; Ju, Bing-Feng

2016-02-01

This paper presents a measurement and compensation method of surface inclination for ductile cutting of silicon microstructures by using a diamond tool with a force sensor based on a four-axis ultra-precision lathe. The X- and Y-directional inclinations of a single crystal silicon workpiece with respect to the X- and Y-motion axes of the lathe slides were measured respectively by employing the diamond tool as a touch-trigger probe, in which the tool-workpiece contact is sensitively detected by monitoring the force sensor output. Based on the measurement results, fabrication of silicon microstructures can be thus carried out directly along the tilted silicon workpiece by compensating the cutting motion axis to be parallel to the silicon surface without time-consuming pre-adjustment of the surface inclination or turning of a flat surface. A diamond tool with a negative rake angle was used in the experiment for superior ductile cutting performance. The measurement precision by using the diamond tool as a touch-trigger probe was investigated. Experiments of surface inclination measurement and ultra-precision ductile cutting of a micro-pillar array and a micro-pyramid array with inclination compensation were carried out respectively to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method.

Electrodeposition and Screening of Photoelectrochemical Activity in Conjugated Polymers Using Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy.

PubMed

Aaronson, Barak D B; Garoz-Ruiz, Jesus; Byers, Joshua C; Colina, Alvaro; Unwin, Patrick R

2015-11-24

A number of renewable energy systems require an understanding and correlation of material properties and photoelectrochemical activity on the micro to nanoscale. Among these, conducting polymer electrodes continue to be important materials. In this contribution, an ultrasensitive scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) platform is used to electrodeposit microscale thin films of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) on an optically transparent gold electrode and to correlate the morphology (film thickness and structural order) with photoactivity. The electrochemical growth of P3HT begins with a thin ordered film up to 10 nm thick, after which a second more disordered film is deposited, as revealed by micro-Raman spectroscopy. A decrease in photoactivity for the thicker films, measured in situ immediately following film deposition, is attributed to an increase in bulk film disorder that limits charge transport. Higher resolution ex situ SECCM phototransient measurements, using a smaller diameter probe, show local variations in photoactivity within a given deposit. Even after aging, thinner, more ordered regions within a deposit exhibit sustained enhanced photocurrent densities compared to areas where the film is thicker and more disordered. The platform opens up new possibilities for high-throughput combinatorial correlation studies, by allowing materials fabrication and high spatial resolution probing of processes in photoelectrochemical materials.

The nano-epsilon dot method for strain rate viscoelastic characterisation of soft biomaterials by spherical nano-indentation.

PubMed

Mattei, G; Gruca, G; Rijnveld, N; Ahluwalia, A

2015-10-01

Nano-indentation is widely used for probing the micromechanical properties of materials. Based on the indentation of surfaces using probes with a well-defined geometry, the elastic and viscoelastic constants of materials can be determined by relating indenter geometry and measured load and displacement to parameters which represent stress and deformation. Here we describe a method to derive the viscoelastic properties of soft hydrated materials at the micro-scale using constant strain rates and stress-free initial conditions. Using a new self-consistent definition of indentation stress and strain and corresponding unique depth-independent expression for indentation strain rate, the epsilon dot method, which is suitable for bulk compression testing, is transformed to nano-indentation. We demonstrate how two materials can be tested with a displacement controlled commercial nano-indentor using the nano-espilon dot method (nano-ε̇M) to give values of instantaneous and equilibrium elastic moduli and time constants with high precision. As samples are tested in stress-free initial conditions, the nano-ε̇M could be useful for characterising the micro-mechanical behaviour of soft materials such as hydrogels and biological tissues at cell length scales. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Enzyme-free and isothermal detection of microRNA based on click-chemical ligation-assisted hybridization coupled with hybridization chain reaction signal amplification.

PubMed

Oishi, Motoi

2015-05-01

An enzyme-free and isothermal microRNA (miRNA) detection method has been developed based on click-chemical ligation-assisted hybridization coupled with hybridization chain reaction (HCR) on magnetic beads (MBs). The click-chemical ligation between an azide-modified probe DNA and a dibenzocyclooctyne-modified probe DNA occurred through the hybridization of target miRNA (miR-141). HCR on MBs was performed by the addition of DNA hairpin monomers (H1 and H2). After magnetic separation and denaturation/rehybridization of HCR products ([H1/H2] n ), the resulting HCR products were analyzed by the fluorescence emitted from an intercalative dye, allowing amplification of the fluorescent signal. The proposed assay had a limit of detection of 0.55 fmol, which was 230-fold more sensitive than that of the HCR on the MBs coupled with a conventional sandwich hybridization assay (without click-chemical ligation) (limit of detection 127 fmol). Additionally, the proposed assay could discriminate between miR-141 and other miR-200 family members. In contrast to quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction techniques using enzymes and thermal cycling, this is an enzyme-free assay that can be conducted under isothermal conditions and can specifically detect miR-141 in fetal bovine serum.

Dynamical tests on fiber optic data taken from the riser section of a circulating fluidized bed

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

Taylor, E.M.; Guenther, C.P.; Breault, R.W.

2007-11-01

Dynamical tests have been applied to fiber optic data taken from a cold-flow circulating fluidized bed to characterize flow conditions, identify three time and/or length scales (macro, meso, and micro), and understand the contribution these scales have on the raw data. The characteristic variable analyzed is the raw voltage signal obtained from a fiber-optic probe taken at various axial and radial positions under different loading conditions so that different flow regimes could be attained. These experiments were carried out with the bed material of 812 μm cork particles. The characterization was accomplished through analysis of the distribution of the signalmore » through the third and fourth moments of skewness and excess kurtosis. A generalization of the autocorrelation function known as the average mutual information function was analyzed by examining the function’s first minimum, identifying the point at which successive elements are no longer correlated. Further characterization was accomplished through the correlation dimension, a measure of the complexity of the attractor. Lastly, the amount of disorder of the system is described by a Kolmogorov-type entropy estimate. All six aforementioned tests were also implemented on ten levels of detail coefficients resulting from a discrete wavelet transformation of the same signal as used above. Through this analysis it is possible to identify and describe micro (particle level), meso (clustering or turbulence level), and macro (physical or dimensional level) length scales even though some literature considers these scales inseparable [6]. This investigation also used detail wavelet coefficients in conjunction with ANOVA analysis to show which scales have the most impact on the raw signal resulting from local hydrodynamic conditions.« less

Physical mapping of a pollen modifier locus controlling self-incompatibility in apricot and synteny analysis within the Rosaceae.

PubMed

Zuriaga, Elena; Molina, Laura; Badenes, María Luisa; Romero, Carlos

2012-06-01

S-locus products (S-RNase and F-box proteins) are essential for the gametophytic self-incompatibility (GSI) specific recognition in Prunus. However, accumulated genetic evidence suggests that other S-locus unlinked factors are also required for GSI. For instance, GSI breakdown was associated with a pollen-part mutation unlinked to the S-locus in the apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) cv. 'Canino'. Fine-mapping of this mutated modifier gene (M-locus) and the synteny analysis of the M-locus within the Rosaceae are here reported. A segregation distortion loci mapping strategy, based on a selectively genotyped population, was used to map the M-locus. In addition, a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) contig was constructed for this region using overlapping oligonucleotides probes, and BAC-end sequences (BES) were blasted against Rosaceae genomes to perform micro-synteny analysis. The M-locus was mapped to the distal part of chr.3 flanked by two SSR markers within an interval of 1.8 cM corresponding to ~364 Kb in the peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) genome. In the integrated genetic-physical map of this region, BES were mapped against the peach scaffold_3 and BACs were anchored to the apricot map. Micro-syntenic blocks were detected in apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) LG17/9 and strawberry (Fragaria vesca L.) FG6 chromosomes. The M-locus fine-scale mapping provides a solid basis for self-compatibility marker-assisted selection and for positional cloning of the underlying gene, a necessary goal to elucidate the pollen rejection mechanism in Prunus. In a wider context, the syntenic regions identified in peach, apple and strawberry might be useful to interpret GSI evolution in Rosaceae.

Observing the Sun with micro-interferometric devices: a didactic experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Defrère, D.; Absil, O.; Hanot, C.; Riaud, P.; Magette, A.; Marion, L.; Wertz, O.; Finet, F.; Steenackers, M.; Habraken, S.; Surdej, A.; Surdej, J.

2014-04-01

Measuring the angular diameter of celestial bodies has long been the main purpose of stellar interferometry and was its historical motivation. Nowadays, stellar interferometry is widely used for various other scientific purposes that require very high angular resolution measurements. In terms of angular spatial scales probed, observing distant stars located 10 to 100~pc away with a large hectometric interferometer is equivalent to observing our Sun with a micrometric baseline. Based on this idea, we have manufactured a set of micro-interferometric devices and tested them on the sky. The micro-interferometers consist of a chrome layer deposited on a glass plate that has been drilled by laser lithography to produce micron-sized holes with configurations corresponding to proposed interferometer projects such as CARLINA, ELSA, KEOPS, and OVLA. In this paper, we describe these interferometric devices and present interferometric observations of the Sun made in the framework of Astrophysics lectures being taught at the Liège University. By means of a simple photographic camera placed behind a micro-interferometric device, we observed the Sun and derived its angular size. This experiment provides a very didactic way to easily obtain fringe patterns similar to those that will be obtained with future large imaging arrays. A program written in C also allows to reproduce the various point spread functions and fringe patterns observed with the micro-interferometric devices for different types of sources, including the Sun.

Extracellular cyclic AMP-adenosine pathway in isolated adipocytes and adipose tissue.

PubMed

Strouch, Marci B; Jackson, Edwin K; Mi, Zaichuan; Metes, Nicole A; Carey, Gale B

2005-06-01

Our goal was to evaluate the presence and lipolytic impact of the extracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-adenosine pathway in adipose tissue. Sixteen miniature Yucatan swine (Sus scrofa) were used for these in vitro and in situ experiments. Four microdialysis probes were implanted into subcutaneous adipose tissue and perfused at 2 microL/min with Ringer's solution containing no addition, varying levels of cyclic AMP, 10 microM isoproterenol, or 10 microM isoproterenol plus 1 mM alpha,beta-methylene adenosine 5'-diphosphate (AMPCP), a 5'-nucleotidase inhibitor. Dialysate was assayed for AMP, adenosine, inosine, hypoxanthine, and glycerol. Freshly isolated adipocytes were incubated with buffer, 1 microM isoproterenol, or 1 microM isoproterenol plus 0.1 mM AMPCP, and extracellular levels of AMP, adenosine, inosine, hypoxanthine, and glycerol were measured. Perfusion of adipose tissue with exogenous cyclic AMP caused a significant increase in AMP and adenosine appearance. Perfusion with AMPCP, in the presence or absence of isoproterenol, significantly increased the levels of AMP and glycerol, whereas it significantly reduced the level of adenosine and its metabolites. However, the AMPCP-provoked increase in lipolysis observed in situ and in vitro was not temporally associated with a decrease in adenosine. These data suggest the existence of a cyclic AMP-adenosine pathway in adipocytes and adipose tissue. The role of this pathway in the regulation of lipolysis remains to be clarified.

Naked-eye 3D imaging employing a modified MIMO micro-ring conjugate mirrors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Youplao, P.; Pornsuwancharoen, N.; Amiri, I. S.; Thieu, V. N.; Yupapin, P.

2018-03-01

In this work, the use of a micro-conjugate mirror that can produce the 3D image incident probe and display is proposed. By using the proposed system together with the concept of naked-eye 3D imaging, a pixel and a large volume pixel of a 3D image can be created and displayed as naked-eye perception, which is valuable for the large volume naked-eye 3D imaging applications. In operation, a naked-eye 3D image that has a large pixel volume will be constructed by using the MIMO micro-ring conjugate mirror system. Thereafter, these 3D images, formed by the first micro-ring conjugate mirror system, can be transmitted through an optical link to a short distance away and reconstructed via the recovery conjugate mirror at the other end of the transmission. The image transmission is performed by the Fourier integral in MATLAB and compares to the Opti-wave program results. The Fourier convolution is also included for the large volume image transmission. The simulation is used for the manipulation, where the array of a micro-conjugate mirror system is designed and simulated for the MIMO system. The naked-eye 3D imaging is confirmed by the concept of the conjugate mirror in both the input and output images, in terms of the four-wave mixing (FWM), which is discussed and interpreted.

Micro-patterning and characterization of PHEMA-co-PAM-based optical chemical sensors for lab-on-a-chip applications

PubMed Central

Zhu, Haixin; Zhou, Xianfeng; Su, Fengyu; Tian, Yanqing; Ashili, Shashanka; Holl, Mark R.; Meldrum, Deirdre R.

2012-01-01

We report a novel method for wafer level, high throughput optical chemical sensor patterning, with precise control of the sensor volume and capability of producing arbitrary microscale patterns. Monomeric oxygen (O2) and pH optical probes were polymerized with 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and acrylamide (AM) to form spin-coatable and further crosslinkable polymers. A micro-patterning method based on micro-fabrication techniques (photolithography, wet chemical process and reactive ion etch) was developed to miniaturize the sensor film onto glass substrates in arbitrary sizes and shapes. The sensitivity of fabricated micro-patterns was characterized under various oxygen concentrations and pH values. The process for spatially integration of two sensors (Oxygen and pH) on the same substrate surface was also developed, and preliminary fabrication and characterization results were presented. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that poly (2-hydroxylethyl methacrylate)-co-poly (acrylamide) (PHEMA-co-PAM)-based sensors had been patterned and integrated at the wafer level with micron scale precision control using microfabrication techniques. The developed methods can provide a feasible way to miniaturize and integrate the optical chemical sensor system and can be applied to any lab-on-a-chip system, especially the biological micro-systems requiring optical sensing of single or multiple analytes. PMID:23175599

Microfluidics microFACS for Life Detection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Platt, Donald W.; Hoover, Richard B.

2010-01-01

A prototype micro-scale Fluorescent Activated Cell Sorter (microFACS) for life detection has been built and is undergoing testing. A functional miniature microfluidics instrument with the ability to remotely distinguish live or dead bacterial cells from abiotic particulates in ice or permafrost of icy bodies of the solar system would be of fundamental value to NASA. The use of molecular probes to obtain the bio-signature of living or dead cells could answer the most fundamental question of Astrobiology: Does life exist beyond Earth? The live-dead fluorescent stains to be used in the microFACS instrument function only with biological cell walls. The detection of the cell membranes of living or dead bacteria (unlike PAH's and many other Biomarkers) would provide convincing evidence of present or past life. This miniature device rapidly examine large numbers of particulates from a polar ice or permafrost sample and distinguish living from dead bacteria cells and biological cells from mineral grains and abiotic particulates and sort the cells and particulates based on a staining system. Any sample found to exhibit fluorescence consistent with living cells could then be used in conjunction with a chiral labeled release experiment or video microscopy system to seek addition evidence for cellular metabolism or motility. Results of preliminary testing and calibration of the microFACS prototype instrument system with pure cultures and enrichment assemblages of microbial extremophiles will be reported.

Dual-illumination mode, wide-field probe imaging scheme for imaging irido-corneal angle region inside eye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinoj, V. K.; Murukeshan, V. M.; Hong, Jesmond; Baskaran, M.; Aung, Tin

2015-07-01

Noninvasive medical imaging techniques have generated great interest and high potential in the research and development of ocular imaging and follow up procedures. It is well known that angle closure glaucoma is one of the major ocular diseases/ conditions that causes blindness. The identification and treatment of this disease are related primarily to angle assessment techniques. In this paper, we illustrate a probe-based imaging approach to obtain the images of the angle region in eye. The proposed probe consists of a micro CCD camera and LED/NIR laser light sources and they are configured at the distal end to enable imaging of iridocorneal region inside eye. With this proposed dualmodal probe, imaging is performed in light (white visible LED ON) and dark (NIR laser light source alone) conditions and the angle region is noticeable in both cases. The imaging using NIR sources have major significance in anterior chamber imaging since it evades pupil constriction due to the bright light and thereby the artificial altering of anterior chamber angle. The proposed methodology and developed scheme are expected to find potential application in glaucoma disease detection and diagnosis.

An Engineered Kinetic Amplification Mechanism for Single Nucleotide Variant Discrimination by DNA Hybridization Probes.

PubMed

Chen, Sherry Xi; Seelig, Georg

2016-04-20

Even a single-nucleotide difference between the sequences of two otherwise identical biological nucleic acids can have dramatic functional consequences. Here, we use model-guided reaction pathway engineering to quantitatively improve the performance of selective hybridization probes in recognizing single nucleotide variants (SNVs). Specifically, we build a detection system that combines discrimination by competition with DNA strand displacement-based catalytic amplification. We show, both mathematically and experimentally, that the single nucleotide selectivity of such a system in binding to single-stranded DNA and RNA is quadratically better than discrimination due to competitive hybridization alone. As an additional benefit the integrated circuit inherits the property of amplification and provides at least 10-fold better sensitivity than standard hybridization probes. Moreover, we demonstrate how the detection mechanism can be tuned such that the detection reaction is agnostic to the position of the SNV within the target sequence. in contrast, prior strand displacement-based probes designed for kinetic discrimination are highly sensitive to position effects. We apply our system to reliably discriminate between different members of the let-7 microRNA family that differ in only a single base position. Our results demonstrate the power of systematic reaction network design to quantitatively improve biotechnology.

Fluorescence lifetime imaging of oxygen in dental biofilm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerritsen, Hans C.; de Grauw, Cees J.

2000-12-01

Dental biofilm consists of micro-colonies of bacteria embedded in a matrix of polysaccharides and salivary proteins. pH and oxygen concentration are of great importance in dental biofilm. Both can be measured using fluorescence techniques. The imaging of dental biofilm is complicated by the thickness of the biofilms that can be up to several hundred micrometers thick. Here, we employed a combination of two-photon excitation microscopy with fluorescence lifetime imaging to quantify the oxygen concentration in dental biofilm. Collisional quenching of fluorescent probes by molecular oxygen leads to a reduction of the fluorescence lifetime of the probe. We employed this mechanism to measure the oxygen concentration distribution in dental biofilm by means of fluorescence lifetime imaging. Here, TRIS Ruthenium chloride hydrate was used as an oxygen probe. A calibration procedure on buffers was use to measure the lifetime response of this Ruthenium probe. The results are in agreement with the Stern-Volmer equation. A linear relation was found between the ratio of the unquenched and the quenched lifetime and the oxygen concentration. The biofilm fluorescence lifetime imaging results show a strong oxygen gradient at the buffer - biofilm interface and the average oxygen concentration in the biofilm amounted to 50 μM.

A High Affinity Red Fluorescence and Colorimetric Probe for Amyloid β Aggregates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajasekhar, K.; Narayanaswamy, Nagarjun; Murugan, N. Arul; Kuang, Guanglin; Ågren, Hans; Govindaraju, T.

2016-04-01

A major challenge in the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is its timely diagnosis. Amyloid β (Aβ) aggregates have been proposed as the most viable biomarker for the diagnosis of AD. Here, we demonstrate hemicyanine-based benzothiazole-coumarin (TC) as a potential probe for the detection of highly toxic Aβ42 aggregates through switch-on, enhanced (~30 fold) red fluorescence (Emax = 654 nm) and characteristic colorimetric (light red to purple) optical outputs. Interestingly, TC exhibits selectivity towards Aβ42 fibrils compared to other abnormal protein aggregates. TC probe show nanomolar binding affinity (Ka = 1.72 × 107 M-1) towards Aβ42 aggregates and also displace ThT bound to Aβ42 fibrils due to its high binding affinity. The Aβ42 fibril-specific red-shift in the absorption spectra of TC responsible for the observed colorimetric optical output has been attributed to micro-environment change around the probe from hydrophilic-like to hydrophobic-like nature. The binding site, binding energy and changes in optical properties observed for TC upon interaction with Aβ42 fibrils have been further validated by molecular docking and time dependent density functional theory studies.

Thrombin-activatable fluorescent peptide incorporated gold nanoparticles for dual optical/computed tomography thrombus imaging.

PubMed

Kwon, Sung-Pil; Jeon, Sangmin; Lee, Sung-Hoon; Yoon, Hong Yeol; Ryu, Ju Hee; Choi, Dayil; Kim, Jeong-Yeon; Kim, Jiwon; Park, Jae Hyung; Kim, Dong-Eog; Kwon, Ick Chan; Kim, Kwangmeyung; Ahn, Cheol-Hee

2018-01-01

Thrombosis is an important pathophysiologic phenomenon in various cardiovascular diseases, which can lead to oxygen deprivation and infarction of tissues by generation of a thrombus. Thus, direct thrombus imaging can provide beneficial in diagnosis and therapy of thrombosis. Herein, we developed thrombin-activatable fluorescent peptide (TAP) incorporated silica-coated gold nanoparticles (TAP-SiO 2 @AuNPs) for direct imaging of thrombus by dual near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging, wherein TAP molecules were used as targeted thrombin-activatable peptide probes for thrombin-specific NIRF imaging. The freshly prepared TAP-SiO 2 @AuNPs had an average diameter of 39.8 ± 2.55 nm and they showed the quenched NIRF signal in aqueous condition, due to the excellent quenching effect of TAP molecules on the silica-gold nanoparticle surface. However, 30.31-fold higher NIRF intensity was rapidly recovered in the presence of thrombin in vitro, due to the thrombin-specific cleavage of quenched TAP molecules on the gold particle surface. Furthermore, TAP-SiO 2 @AuNPs were successfully accumulated in thrombus by their particle size-dependent capturing property, and they presented a potential X-ray absorption property in a dose-dependent manner. Finally, thrombotic lesion was clearly distinguished from peripheral tissues by dual NIRF/micro-CT imaging after intravenous injection of TAP-SiO 2 @AuNPs in the in situ thrombotic mouse model, simultaneously. This study showed that thrombin-activatable fluorescent peptide incorporated silica-coated gold nanoparticles can be potentially used as a dual imaging probe for direct thrombus imaging and therapy in clinical applications. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A nonimaging scintillation probe to measure penile hemodynamics.

PubMed

Zuckier, L S; Korupolu, G R; Gladshteyn, M; Sattenberg, R; Goldstein, R; Ricciardi, R; Goodwin, P; Melman, A; Blaufox, M D

1995-12-01

We have developed a penile nonimaging scintillation (PNIS) probe consisting of a plastic well-type scintillation crystal interfaced to a portable computer and acquisition board. This report describes the design of the PNIS probe, performance characteristics, mode of usage and illustrative results which demonstrate its capabilities. With the PNIS probe, penile blood-pool studies were performed in nine patients utilizing 3.7 MBq (100 microCi) autologous 99mTc-labeled red blood cells (RBCs). Venous blood standards were assayed to enable conversion of the count rate to volummetric measurements. Washin of peripherally administered 99mTc-RBCs was mathematically analyzed to estimate penile blood volume and cavernosal flow rate in the flaccid state. The rate of change of penile blood volume after intracavernosal vasodilators was used to generate measures of stimulated flow. A major advantage of this device over the gamma-camera is a 3300-fold increase in count rate sensitivity, which allows for markedly improved temporal resolution while significantly reducing the radiopharmaceutical dosage. Additionally, the PNIS probe is portable, economical and is not dependent on operator-defined regions of interest. Count rate sensitivity is relatively constant within the bore, with the exception of the proximal region adjacent to the opening, where geometric efficiency is reduced. The PNIS probe is an effective device for measuring penile activity in radionuclide studies, allowing for acquisition of time-activity curves of the penis during flaccid washin of peripherally labeled red blood cells and after pharmacologic stimulation to induce erection.

A new compact and low cost Langmuir Probe and associated onboard data handling system for CubeSat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muralikrishna, Polinaya; Domingos, Sinval; Paredes, Andres; Abrahão Dos Santos, Walter

2016-07-01

A new compact and low cost Langmuir Probe and associated onboard data handling system are being developed at Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais for launching on board one of the future 2U CubeSat missions. The system is a simplified and compacted version of the Langmuir Probe payloads launched on board several Brazilian SONDA III rockets and also developed for the Brazilian scientific satellites SACI-1 and SACI-2. The onboard data handling system will have the dual functions of preprocessing the data collected by the Langmuir Probe and acting as the interface between the experiment and the on board computer. The Langmuir Probe sensor in the form of two rectangular stainless steel strips of total surface area of approximately 80cm2 will be deployed soon after the injection of the CubeSat into orbit. A sweep voltage varying linearly from 0V to 3.0V in about 1.5 seconds and then remaining fixed at 3.0V for 1 second will be applied to the LP sensor to obtain both the electron density and electron temperature. A high sensitivity preamplifier will be used to convert the sensor current expected to be in the range of a few nano amperes to a few micro amperes into a varying potential. In order to cover the large dynamic range of the expected sensor current the preamplifier output will be further amplified by a logarithmic amplifier before being sampled and sent to the data handling system. The data handling system is projected to handle 8 analog channels and 4 digital words of 8 bits each. The incoming data will be stored in a RAM and later sent to the on board computer using a serial RS422 communication protocol. The interface unit will process the telecommands received from the on board computer. The interface is also projected to do FFT analysis of the LP sensor data and send the averaged FFT spectral amplitudes in place of the original unprocessed data. The system details are presented here.

Outer planet entry probe system study. Volume 1: Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

General mission considerations and science prospectus, which are of a general nature that applies to several or all planetary applications, are presented. Five probe systems are defined: nominal Jupiter probe system, and Jupiter probe-dedicated alternative probe system, Jupiter spacecraft radiation-compatible alternative probe system, Saturn probe system, and Saturn probe applicability for Uranus. Parametric analysis is summarized for mission analysis of a general nature, and then for specific missions to Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. The program is also discussed from the hardware availability viewpoint and the aspect of commonality.

Miniature injection-molded optics for fiber-optic, in vivo confocal microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chidley, Matthew D.; Liang, Chen; Descour, Michael R.; Sung, Kung-Bin; Richards-Kortum, Rebecca R.; Gillenwater, Ann

2002-12-01

In collaboration with the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin and the UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, a laser scanning fiber confocal reflectance microscope (FCRM) system has been designed and tested for in vivo detection of cervical and oral pre-cancers. This system along with specially developed diagnosis algorithms and techniques can achieve an unprecedented specificity and sensitivity for the diagnosis of pre-cancers in epithelial tissue. The FCRM imaging system consists of an NdYAG laser (1064 nm), scanning mirrors/optics, precision pinhole, detector, and an endoscopic probe (the objective). The objective is connected to the rest of the imaging system via a fiber bundle. The fiber bundle allows the rest of the system to be remotely positioned in a convenient location. Only the objective comes into contact with the patient. It is our intent that inexpensive mass-produced disposable endoscopic probes would be produced for large clinical trials. This paper touches on the general design process of developing a miniature, high numerical aperture, injection-molded (IM) objective. These IM optical designs are evaluated and modified based on manufacturing and application constraints. Based on these driving criteria, one specific optical design was chosen and a detailed tolerance analysis was conducted. The tolerance analysis was custom built to create a realistic statistical analysis for integrated IM lens elements that can be stacked one on top of another using micro-spheres resting in tiny circular grooves. These configurations allow each lens element to be rotated and possibly help compensate for predicted manufacturing errors. This research was supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health (RO1 CA82880). Special thanks go to Applied Image Group/Optics for the numerous fabrication meetings concerning the miniature IM objective.

System design of the Pioneer Venus spacecraft. Volume 3: Systems analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fisher, J. N.

1973-01-01

The mission, systems, operations, ground systems, and reliability analysis of the Thor/Delta baseline design used for the Pioneer Space Probe are discussed. Tradeoff decisions concerning spin axis orientation, bus antenna design, communication system design, probe descent, and reduced science payload are analyzed. The reliability analysis is made for the probe bus mission, large probe mission, and small probe mission. Detailed mission sequences were established to identify critical areas and provide phasing of critical operation.

Label-free technology for the amplified detection of microRNA based on the allosteric hairpin DNA switch and hybridization chain reaction.

PubMed

Cai, Sheng; Cao, Zhijuan; Lau, Choiwan; Lu, Jianzhong

2014-11-21

By using the allosteric hairpin DNA switch, a novel assay for the detection of microRNA (miRNA) let-7a via a hybridization chain reaction (HCR) was introduced. Briefly, the hairpin DNA switch probe is a single-stranded DNA consisting of a streptavidin (SA) aptamer sequence, a target binding sequence and a certain sequence that acts as a trigger of the HCR. In the presence of target let-7a, the hairpin DNA switch would open and expose the stem region sequences, where a part of this sequence acts as initiator sequence strands for the HCR and triggers a cascade of hybridization events that yields nicked double helices analogous to alternating copolymers, another part is the SA aptamer sequence which activates its binding affinity to SA on SA-coated magnetic particles. The hybridization event could be sensitively detected via an instantaneous derivatization reaction between a special chemiluminescence (CL) reagent, 3,4,5-trimethoxylphenylglyoxal (TMPG) and the guanine nucleotides within the target, the hairpin DNA switch probe, and HCR helices to form an unstable CL intermediate for the generation of light. Our results show that the coupling of the hairpin DNA switch probe and the HCR for the amplified detection of let-7a achieves a better performance (e.g. wide linear response range: 0.1-1000 fmol, low detection limit: 0.1 fmol, and high specificity). Furthermore, this approach could be easily applied to the detection of let-7a in human lung cells, and extended to detect other types of miRNA and proteins such as PDGF based on aptamers. We believe such advancements will represent a significant step towards improved diagnostics and more personalized medical treatment.

Stress relaxation of cell walls and the yield threshold for growth: demonstration and measurement by micro-pressure probe and psychrometer techniques.

PubMed

Cosgrove, D J; Van Volkenburgh, E; Cleland, R E

1984-01-01

Theory predicts that, for growing plant cells isolated from a supply of water, stress relaxation of the cell wall should decrease cell turgor pressure (P) until the yield threshold for cell explanation is reached. This prediction was tested by direct P measurements of pea (Pisum sativum L.) stem cortical cells before and after excision of the growing region and isolation of the growing tissue from an external water supply. Cell P was measured with the micro-pressure probe under conditions which eliminated transpiration. Psychrometric measurements of water potential confirmed the pressure-probe measurements. Following excision, P of the growing cells decreased in 1 h by an average of 1.8 bar to a mean plateau value of 2.8 bar, and remained constant thereafter. Treatment with 10(-5) M indole-3-acetic acid or 10(-5) M fusicoccin (known growth stimulants) accelerated the rate of P relaxation, whereas various treatments which inhibit growth slowed down or completely stopped P relaxation in apical segments. In contrast, P of basal (nongrowing) segments gradually increased because of absorption of solutes from the cell-wall free space of the tissue. Such solute absorption also occurred in apical segments, but wall relaxation held P at the yield threshold in those segments which were isolated from an external water supply. These results provide a new and rapid method for measuring the yield threshold and they show that P in intact growing pea stems exceeds the yield threshold by about 2 bar. Wall relaxation is shown here to affect the water potential and turgor pressure of excised growing segments. In addition, solute release and absorption upon excision may influence the water potential and turgor pressure of nongrowing excised plant tissues.

Colorimetric detection of trivalent chromium in aqueous solution using tartrate-capped silver nanoparticles as probe.

PubMed

Xu, Yunbo; Dong, Yangjun; Jiang, Xue; Zhu, Ningning

2013-10-01

This study describes a simple and highly selective method for the colorimetric detection of trivalent chromium (Cr3+) using tartrate-capped silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as probe. The addition of tartrate to the initially prepared AgNPs gives tartrate-stabilized AgNPs ascribing to the electrostatic repulsion of the highly negatively charged tartrate ions covered on the surface of AgNPs. It is found that, in the presence of Cr3+ in aqueous solution, the aggregation of tartrate-stabilized AgNPs occurs. The color of AgNPs suspension changes from yellow to pink and the surface plasmon absorption band broadens and red shifts, which could be applied for the colorimetric detection of Cr3+ in aqueous solution. The utilization of tartrate-stabilized AgNPs as probe substantially increases the selectivity and sensitivity for colorimetric detection of Cr3+. Control experiments with the addition of over 14 other metal ions, such as Pb2+, Zn2+, Cr2O7(2-), Cd2+, Co2+, Cu2+, Al3+, Ni2+, Mn2+, Ba2+, Fe3+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Sr+ do not result in a distinct change in the color or in the spectrum of the suspension, indicating that these metal ions do not interfere with the colorimetric detection of Cr3+. Under the conditions employed here, A502/A393 (ratio of absorption value at 502 nm to 393 nm) is linear with the concentration of Cr3+ within a concentration range from 0.1 to 1.17 microM with a detection limit of 0.06 microM. This study may offer a simple, rapid and sensitive approach to colorimetric detection of Cr3+ in aqueous solution.

MicroRaman measurements for nuclear fuel reprocessing applications

DOE PAGES

Casella, Amanda; Lines, Amanda; Nelson, Gilbert; ...

2016-12-01

Treatment and reuse of used nuclear fuel is a key component in closing the nuclear fuel cycle. Solvent extraction reprocessing methods that have been developed contain various steps tailored to the separation of specific radionuclides, which are highly dependent upon solution properties. The instrumentation used to monitor these processes must be robust, require little or no maintenance, and be able to withstand harsh environments such as high radiation fields and aggressive chemical matrices. Our group has been investigating the use of optical spectroscopy for the on-line monitoring of actinides, lanthanides, and acid strength within fuel reprocessing streams. This paper willmore » focus on the development and application of a new MicroRaman probe for on-line real-time monitoring of the U(VI)/nitrate ion/nitric acid in solutions relevant to used nuclear fuel reprocessing. Previous research has successfully demonstrated the applicability on the macroscopic scale, using sample probes requiring larger solution volumes. In an effort to minimize waste and reduce dose to personnel, we have modified this technique to allow measurement at the microfluidic scale using a Raman microprobe. Under the current sampling environment, Raman samples typically require upwards of 10 mL and larger. Using the new sampling system, we can sample volumes at 10 μL or less, which is a scale reduction of over 1,000 fold in sample size. Finally, this paper will summarize our current work in this area including: comparisons between the macroscopic and microscopic probes for detection limits, optimized channel focusing, and application in a flow cell with varying levels of HNO 3, and UO 2(NO 3) 2.« less

Probing organic residues on Martian regolith simulants using a long-wave infrared Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy linear array detection system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Yang, Clayton S.-C.; Jin, Feng; Jia, Ken; Brown, EiEi; Hömmerich, Uwe; Jia, Yingqing; Trivedi, Sudhir; Wijewarnasuriya, Priyalal; Decuir, Eric; Samuels, Alan C.

2016-09-01

Recently, a mercury-cadmium-telluride (MCT) linear array detection system that is capable of rapidly capturing ( 1-5 second) a broad spectrum of atomic and molecular laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) emissions in the longwave infrarμed region (LWIR, 5.6 to 10 μm) has been developed. Similar to the conventional Ultraviolet (UV)-Visible (Vis) LIBS, a broad band emission spectrum of condensed phase samples covering the entire 5.6 to 10 μm region can be acquired from just a single laser-induced micro-plasma or averaging a few single laser-induced micro-plasmas. This setup has enabled probing samples "as is" without the need for extensive sample preparation and also offers the possibility of a simultaneous UV-Vis and LWIR LIBS measurement. A Martian regolith simulant (JSC Mars-1A) was studied with this novel Vis + LWIR LIBS array system. A broad SiO2 vibrational emission feature around 9.5 μm and multiple strong emission features between 6.5 to 8 μm can be clearly identified. The 6.5 to 8 μm features are possibly from biological impurities of the simulant. JSC Mars-1A samples with organic methyl salicylate (MeS, wintergreen oil) and Dimethyl methyl-phosphonate (DMMP) residues were also probed using the LWIR LIBS array system. Both molecular spectral signature around 6.5 μm and 9.5 μm of Martian regolith simulant and MeS and DMMP molecular signature emissions, such as Aromatic CC stretching band at 7.5 μm, C-CH3O asymmetric deformation at 7.6 μm, and P=O stretching band at 7.9 μm, are clearly observed from the LIBS emission spectra in the LWIR region.

Developing Targeted Hybrid Imaging Probes by Chelator Scaffolding

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Positron emission tomography (PET) as well as optical imaging (OI) with peptide receptor targeting probes have proven their value for oncological applications but also show restrictions depending on the clinical field of interest. Therefore, the combination of both methods, particularly in a single molecule, could improve versatility in clinical routine. This proof of principle study aims to show that a chelator, Fusarinine C (FSC), can be utilized as scaffold for novel dimeric dual-modality imaging agents. Two targeting vectors (a minigastrin analogue (MG11) targeting cholecystokinin-2 receptor overexpression (CCK2R) or integrin αVβ3 targeting cyclic pentapeptides (RGD)) and a near-infrared fluorophore (Sulfo-Cyanine7) were conjugated to FSC. The probes were efficiently labeled with gallium-68 and in vitro experiments including determination of logD, stability, protein binding, cell binding, internalization, and biodistribution studies as well as in vivo micro-PET/CT and optical imaging in U-87MG αVβ3- and A431-CCK2R expressing tumor xenografted mice were carried out. Novel bioconjugates showed high receptor affinity and highly specific targeting properties at both receptors. Ex vivo biodistribution and micro-PET/CT imaging studies revealed specific tumor uptake accompanied by slow blood clearance and retention in nontargeted tissues (spleen, liver, and kidneys) leading to visualization of tumors at early (30 to 120 min p.i.). Excellent contrast in corresponding optical imaging studies was achieved especially at delayed time points (24 to 72 h p.i.). Our findings show the proof of principle of chelator scaffolding for hybrid imaging agents and demonstrate FSC being a suitable bifunctional chelator for this approach. Improvements to fine-tune pharmacokinetics are needed to translate this into a clinical setting. PMID:28462989

Development of radiopaque, biocompatible, antimicrobial, micro-particle fillers for micro-CT imaging of simulated periodontal pockets.

PubMed

Elashiry, M; Meghil, M M; Kalathingal, S; Buchanan, A; Rajendran, M; Elrefai, R; Ochieng, M; Elawady, A; Arce, R M; Sandhage, K H; Cutler, C W

2018-04-01

Approximately 10 9 bacteria can be harbored within periodontal pockets (PP) along with inflammatory byproducts implicated in the pathophysiology of systemic diseases linked to periodontitis (PD). Calculation of this inflammatory burden has involved estimation of total pocket surface area using analog data from conventional periodontal probing which is unable to determine the three-dimensional (3-D) nature of PP. The goals of this study are to determine the radiopacity, biocompatibility, and antimicrobial activity of transient micro-particle fillers in vitro and demonstrate their capability for 3-D imaging of artificial PP (U.S. Patent publication number: 9814791 B2). Relative radiopacity values of various metal oxide fillers were obtained from conventional radiography and micro-computed tomography (μCT) using in vitro models. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays were used to measure the biocompatibility of calcium tungstate (CaWO 4 ) particles by determination of viable keratinocytes percentage (%) after exposure. After introducing an antibacterial compound (K21) to the radiopaque agent, antimicrobial tests were conducted using Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Streptococcus gordonii (S. gordonii) strains and blood agar plates. CaWO 4 micro-particle-bearing fillers exhibited an X-ray radiopacity distinct from tooth structures that enabled 3-D visualization of an artificial periodontal pocket created around a human tooth. MTT assays indicated that CaWO 4 micro-particles are highly biocompatible (increasing the viability of exposed keratinocytes). Radiopaque micro-particle fillers combined with K21 showed significant antimicrobial activity for P. gingivalis and S. gordonii. The plausibility of visualizing PP with 3-D radiographic imaging using new radiopaque, biocompatible, transient fillers was demonstrated in vitro. Antibacterial (or other) agents added to this formula could provide beneficial therapeutic features along with the diagnostic utility. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa AES-1 exhibits increased virulence gene expression during chronic infection of cystic fibrosis lung.

PubMed

Naughton, Sharna; Parker, Dane; Seemann, Torsten; Thomas, Torsten; Turnbull, Lynne; Rose, Barbara; Bye, Peter; Cordwell, Stuart; Whitchurch, Cynthia; Manos, Jim

2011-01-01

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people with cystic fibrosis (CF), adapts for survival in the CF lung through both mutation and gene expression changes. Frequent clonal strains such as the Australian Epidemic Strain-1 (AES-1), have increased ability to establish infection in the CF lung and to superimpose and replace infrequent clonal strains. Little is known about the factors underpinning these properties. Analysis has been hampered by lack of expression array templates containing CF-strain specific genes. We sequenced the genome of an acute infection AES-1 isolate from a CF infant (AES-1R) and constructed a non-redundant micro-array (PANarray) comprising AES-1R and seven other sequenced P. aeruginosa genomes. The unclosed AES-1R genome comprised 6.254Mbp and contained 6957 putative genes, including 338 not found in the other seven genomes. The PANarray contained 12,543 gene probe spots; comprising 12,147 P. aeruginosa gene probes, 326 quality-control probes and 70 probes for non-P. aeruginosa genes, including phage and plant genes. We grew AES-1R and its isogenic pair AES-1M, taken from the same patient 10.5 years later and not eradicated in the intervening period, in our validated artificial sputum medium (ASMDM) and used the PANarray to compare gene expression of both in duplicate. 675 genes were differentially expressed between the isogenic pairs, including upregulation of alginate, biofilm, persistence genes and virulence-related genes such as dihydroorotase, uridylate kinase and cardiolipin synthase, in AES-1M. Non-PAO1 genes upregulated in AES-1M included pathogenesis-related (PAGI-5) genes present in strains PACS2 and PA7, and numerous phage genes. Elucidation of these genes' roles could lead to targeted treatment strategies for chronically infected CF patients.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa AES-1 Exhibits Increased Virulence Gene Expression during Chronic Infection of Cystic Fibrosis Lung

PubMed Central

Naughton, Sharna; Parker, Dane; Seemann, Torsten; Thomas, Torsten; Turnbull, Lynne; Rose, Barbara; Bye, Peter; Cordwell, Stuart; Whitchurch, Cynthia; Manos, Jim

2011-01-01

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people with cystic fibrosis (CF), adapts for survival in the CF lung through both mutation and gene expression changes. Frequent clonal strains such as the Australian Epidemic Strain-1 (AES-1), have increased ability to establish infection in the CF lung and to superimpose and replace infrequent clonal strains. Little is known about the factors underpinning these properties. Analysis has been hampered by lack of expression array templates containing CF-strain specific genes. We sequenced the genome of an acute infection AES-1 isolate from a CF infant (AES-1R) and constructed a non-redundant micro-array (PANarray) comprising AES-1R and seven other sequenced P. aeruginosa genomes. The unclosed AES-1R genome comprised 6.254Mbp and contained 6957 putative genes, including 338 not found in the other seven genomes. The PANarray contained 12,543 gene probe spots; comprising 12,147 P. aeruginosa gene probes, 326 quality-control probes and 70 probes for non-P. aeruginosa genes, including phage and plant genes. We grew AES-1R and its isogenic pair AES-1M, taken from the same patient 10.5 years later and not eradicated in the intervening period, in our validated artificial sputum medium (ASMDM) and used the PANarray to compare gene expression of both in duplicate. 675 genes were differentially expressed between the isogenic pairs, including upregulation of alginate, biofilm, persistence genes and virulence-related genes such as dihydroorotase, uridylate kinase and cardiolipin synthase, in AES-1M. Non-PAO1 genes upregulated in AES-1M included pathogenesis-related (PAGI-5) genes present in strains PACS2 and PA7, and numerous phage genes. Elucidation of these genes' roles could lead to targeted treatment strategies for chronically infected CF patients. PMID:21935417

Intelligent Operation and Maintenance of Micro-grid Technology and System Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Ming; Song, Jinyan; Zhao, Jingtao; Du, Jian

2018-01-01

In order to achieve the micro-grid operation and management, Studying the micro-grid operation and maintenance knowledge base. Based on the advanced Petri net theory, the fault diagnosis model of micro-grid is established, and the intelligent diagnosis and analysis method of micro-grid fault is put forward. Based on the technology, the functional system and architecture of the intelligent operation and maintenance system of micro-grid are studied, and the microcomputer fault diagnosis function is introduced in detail. Finally, the system is deployed based on the micro-grid of a park, and the micro-grid fault diagnosis and analysis is carried out based on the micro-grid operation. The system operation and maintenance function interface is displayed, which verifies the correctness and reliability of the system.

An Alu-based, MGB Eclipse real-time PCR method for quantitation of human DNA in forensic samples.

PubMed

Nicklas, Janice A; Buel, Eric

2005-09-01

The forensic community needs quick, reliable methods to quantitate human DNA in crime scene samples to replace the laborious and imprecise slot blot method. A real-time PCR based method has the possibility of allowing development of a faster and more quantitative assay. Alu sequences are primate-specific and are found in many copies in the human genome, making these sequences an excellent target or marker for human DNA. This paper describes the development of a real-time Alu sequence-based assay using MGB Eclipse primers and probes. The advantages of this assay are simplicity, speed, less hands-on-time and automated quantitation, as well as a large dynamic range (128 ng/microL to 0.5 pg/microL).

Speckle-correlation monitoring of the internal micro-vascular flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimnyakov, D. A.; Khmara, M. B.; Vilensky, M. A.; Kozlov, V. V.; Gorfinkel, I. V.; Zdrajevsky, R. A.

2009-10-01

The results of experimental study of possibility to monitor the micro-vascular blood flow in superficial tissues of various organs with the use of endoscope-based full-field speckle correlometer are presented. The blood microcirculation monitoring was carried out in the course of the laparotomy of abdominal cavity of laboratory animals (rats). Transfer of laser light to the area of interest and scattered radiation from the probed zone to the detector (CMOS camera) was carried out via fiber-optic bundles of endoscopic system. Microscopic hemodynamics was analyzed for small intestine, liver, spleen, kidney, and pancreas under different conditions (normal state, provocated peritonitis and ischemia, administration of vasodilative agents such as papaverine, lidocaine). The prospects and problems of internal monitoring of microvascular flow in laboratory and clinical conditions are discussed.

Focusing and imaging with increased numerical apertures through multimode fibers with micro-fabricated optics.

PubMed

Bianchi, S; Rajamanickam, V P; Ferrara, L; Di Fabrizio, E; Liberale, C; Di Leonardo, R

2013-12-01

The use of individual multimode optical fibers in endoscopy applications has the potential to provide highly miniaturized and noninvasive probes for microscopy and optical micromanipulation. A few different strategies have been proposed recently, but they all suffer from intrinsically low resolution related to the low numerical aperture of multimode fibers. Here, we show that two-photon polymerization allows for direct fabrication of micro-optics components on the fiber end, resulting in an increase of the numerical aperture to a value that is close to 1. Coupling light into the fiber through a spatial light modulator, we were able to optically scan a submicrometer spot (300 nm FWHM) over an extended region, facing the opposite fiber end. Fluorescence imaging with improved resolution is also demonstrated.

Effects of In and Ni Addition on Microstructure of Sn-58Bi Solder Joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mokhtari, Omid; Nishikawa, Hiroshi

2014-11-01

In this study, the effect of adding 0.5 wt.% and 1 wt.% In and Ni to Sn-58Bi solder on intermetallic compound (IMC) layers at the interface and the microstructure of the solder alloys were investigated during reflow and thermal aging by scanning electron microscopy and electron probe micro-analysis. The results showed that the addition of minor elements was not effective in suppressing the IMC growth during the reflow; however, the addition of 0.5 wt.% In and Ni was effective in suppressing the IMC layer growth during thermal aging. The thickening kinetics of the total IMC layer was analyzed by plotting the mean thickness versus the aging time on log-log coordinates, and the results showed the transition point from grain boundary diffusion control to a volume diffusion control mechanism. The results also showed that the minor addition of In can significantly suppress the coarsening of the Bi phase.

A multi-sensor study of the impact of ground-based glaciogenic seeding on clouds and precipitation over mountains in Wyoming. Part I: Project description

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pokharel, Binod; Geerts, Bart

2016-12-01

The AgI Seeding Cloud Impact Investigation (ASCII) campaign was conducted in early 2012 and 2013 over two mountain ranges in southern Wyoming to examine the impact of ground-based glaciogenic seeding on snow growth in winter orographic clouds. The campaign was supported by a network of ground-based instruments, including microwave radiometers, two profiling Ka-band Micro-Rain Radars (MRRs), a Doppler on Wheels (DOW) X-band radar, and a Parsivel disdrometer. The University of Wyoming King Air operated the profiling Wyoming Cloud Radar, the Wyoming Cloud Lidar, and in situ cloud and precipitation particle probes. The characteristics of the orographic clouds, flow field, and upstream stability profiles in 27 intensive observation periods (IOPs) are described here. A composite analysis of the impact of seeding on snow growth is presented in Part II of this study (Pokharel et al., 2017).

The LISA Pathfinder Mission: Sub-picometer Interferometry in Space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slutsky, Jacob; LISA Pathfinder Collaboration

2018-01-01

The European Space Agency’s LISA Pathfinder was a mission built to demonstrate the technologies essential to implement a space-based gravitational wave observatory sensitive in the milli-Hertz frequency band. ESA recently selected the LISA mission as such a future observatory, scheduled to launch in the early 2030s. LISA Pathfinder launched in late 2015 and concluded its final extended mission in July 2017, during which time it placed the two test masses into free fall and successfully measured the relative acceleration between them to a sensitivity that validates a number of critical technologies for LISA. These include drag-free control of the test masses, low noise microNewton thrusters to control the spacecraft, and sub-picometer-level laser metrology in space. The mission also served as a sensitive probe of the environmenal conditions in which LISA will operate. This poster summarizes the recent analysis results, with an eye towards the implications for the LISA mission.

Signature analysis of ballistic missile warhead with micro-nutation in terahertz band

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ming; Jiang, Yue-song

2013-08-01

In recent years, the micro-Doppler effect has been proposed as a new technique for signature analysis and extraction of radar targets. The ballistic missile is known as a typical radar target and has been paid many attentions for the complexities of its motions in current researches. The trajectory of a ballistic missile can be generally divided into three stages: boost phase, midcourse phase and terminal phase. The midcourse phase is the most important phase for radar target recognition and interception. In this stage, the warhead forms a typical micro-motion called micro-nutation which consists of three basic micro-motions: spinning, coning and wiggle. This paper addresses the issue of signature analysis of ballistic missile warhead in terahertz band via discussing the micro-Doppler effect. We establish a simplified model (cone-shaped) for the missile warhead followed by the micro-motion models including of spinning, coning and wiggle. Based on the basic formulas of these typical micro-motions, we first derive the theoretical formula of micro-nutation which is the main micro-motion of the missile warhead. Then, we calculate the micro-Doppler frequency in both X band and terahertz band via these micro-Doppler formulas. The simulations are given to show the superiority of our proposed method for the recognition and detection of radar micro targets in terahertz band.