Human Immunophenotyping via Low-Variance, Low-Bias, Interpretive Regression Modeling of Small, Wide Data Sets: Application to Aging and Immune Response to Influenza Vaccination

PubMed Central

Holmes, Tyson H.; He, Xiao-Song

2016-01-01

Small, wide data sets are commonplace in human immunophenotyping research. As defined here, a small, wide data set is constructed by sampling a small to modest quantity n, 1 < n < 50, of human participants for the purpose of estimating many parameters p, such that n < p < 1,000. We offer a set of prescriptions that are designed to facilitate low-variance (i.e. stable), low-bias, interpretive regression modeling of small, wide data sets. These prescriptions are distinctive in their especially heavy emphasis on minimizing use of out-of-sample information for conducting statistical inference. That allows the working immunologist to proceed without being encumbered by imposed and often untestable statistical assumptions. Problems of unmeasured confounders, confidence-interval coverage, feature selection, and shrinkage/denoising are defined clearly and treated in detail. We propose an extension of an existing nonparametric technique for improved small-sample confidence-interval tail coverage from the univariate case (single immune feature) to the multivariate (many, possibly correlated immune features). An important role for derived features in the immunological interpretation of regression analyses is stressed. Areas of further research are discussed. Presented principles and methods are illustrated through application to a small, wide data set of adults spanning a wide range in ages and multiple immunophenotypes that were assayed before and after immunization with inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV). Our regression modeling prescriptions identify some potentially important topics for future immunological research. 1) Immunologists may wish to distinguish age-related differences in immune features from changes in immune features caused by aging. 2) A form of the bootstrap that employs linear extrapolation may prove to be an invaluable analytic tool because it allows the working immunologist to obtain accurate estimates of the stability of immune parameter estimates with a bare minimum of imposed assumptions. 3) Liberal inclusion of immune features in phenotyping panels can facilitate accurate separation of biological signal of interest from noise. In addition, through a combination of denoising and potentially improved confidence interval coverage, we identify some candidate immune correlates (frequency of cell subset and concentration of cytokine) with B cell response as measured by quantity of IIV-specific IgA antibody-secreting cells and quantity of IIV-specific IgG antibody-secreting cells. PMID:27196789

Set size and culture influence children's attention to number.

PubMed

Cantrell, Lisa; Kuwabara, Megumi; Smith, Linda B

2015-03-01

Much research evidences a system in adults and young children for approximately representing quantity. Here we provide evidence that the bias to attend to discrete quantity versus other dimensions may be mediated by set size and culture. Preschool-age English-speaking children in the United States and Japanese-speaking children in Japan were tested in a match-to-sample task where number was pitted against cumulative surface area in both large and small numerical set comparisons. Results showed that children from both cultures were biased to attend to the number of items for small sets. Large set responses also showed a general attention to number when ratio difficulty was easy. However, relative to the responses for small sets, attention to number decreased for both groups; moreover, both U.S. and Japanese children showed a significant bias to attend to total amount for difficult numerical ratio distances, although Japanese children shifted attention to total area at relatively smaller set sizes than U.S. children. These results add to our growing understanding of how quantity is represented and how such representation is influenced by context--both cultural and perceptual. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

EFFECTS OF STORAGE ON STABILITY AND PATHOGEN REDUCTION IN BIOSOLIDS

EPA Science Inventory

Storage can be an effective means of stabilizing small quantities of wastewater sludge. This paper summarizes the performance of two laboratory-scale sludge storage units and that of four full-scale tanks sampled at four treatment facilities in eastern Nebraska. The bench-scale u...

High efficiency direct detection of ions from resonance ionization of sputtered atoms

DOEpatents

Gruen, Dieter M.; Pellin, Michael J.; Young, Charles E.

1986-01-01

A method and apparatus are provided for trace and other quantitative analysis with high efficiency of a component in a sample, with the analysis involving the removal by ion or other bombardment of a small quantity of ion and neutral atom groups from the sample, the conversion of selected neutral atom groups to photoions by laser initiated resonance ionization spectroscopy, the selective deflection of the photoions for separation from original ion group emanating from the sample, and the detection of the photoions as a measure of the quantity of the component. In some embodiments, the original ion group is accelerated prior to the RIS step for separation purposes. Noise and other interference are reduced by shielding the detector from primary and secondary ions and deflecting the photoions sufficiently to avoid the primary and secondary ions.

High efficiency direct detection of ions from resonance ionization of sputtered atoms

DOEpatents

Gruen, D.M.; Pellin, M.J.; Young, C.E.

1985-01-16

A method and apparatus are provided for trace and other quantitative analysis with high efficiency of a component in a sample, with the analysis involving the removal by ion or other bombardment of a small quantity of ion and neutral atom groups from the sample, the conversion of selected neutral atom groups to photoions by laser initiated resonance ionization spectroscopy, the selective deflection of the photoions for separation from original ion group emanating from the sample, and the detection of the photoions as a measure of the quantity of the component. In some embodiments, the original ion group is accelerated prior to the RIS step for separation purposes. Noise and other interference are reduced by shielding the detector from primary and secondary ions and deflecting the photoions sufficiently to avoid the primary and secondary ions.

Determination of small quantities of fluoride in water: A modified zirconium-alizarin method

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lamar, W.L.; Seegmiller, C.G.

1941-01-01

The zirconium-alizarin method has been modified to facilitate the convenient and accurate determination of small amounts of fluoride in a large number of water samples. Sulfuric acid is used to acidify the samples to reduce the interference of sulfate. The pH is accurately controlled to give the most sensitive comparisons. Most natural waters can be analyzed by the modified procedure without resorting to correction curves. The fluoride content of waters containing less than 500 parts per million of sulfate, 500 parts per million of bicarbonate, and 1000 parts per million of chloride may be determined within a limit of about 0.1 part per million when a 100-ml. sample is used.

10 CFR 40.22 - Small quantities of source material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 10 Energy 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small quantities of source material. 40.22 Section 40.22 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION DOMESTIC LICENSING OF SOURCE MATERIAL General Licenses § 40.22 Small quantities of source material. (a) A general license is hereby issued authorizing commercial and industrial...

Recent Developments in MC-ICP-MS for Uranium Isotopic Determination from Small Samples.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Field, P.; Lloyd, N. S.

2016-12-01

V002: Advances in approaches and instruments for isotope studies Session ID#: 12653 Recent Developments in MC-ICP-MS for Uranium Isotopic Determination from small samples.M. Paul Field 1 & Nicholas S. Lloyd. 1 Elemental Scientific Inc., Omaha, Nebraska, USA. field@icpms.com 2 Thermo Fisher Scientific, Hanna-Kunath-Str. 11, 28199 Bremen, Germany. nicholas.lloyd@thermofisher.com Uranium isotope ratio determination for nuclear, nuclear safeguards and for environmental applications can be challenging due to, 1) the large isotopic differences between samples and 2) low abundance of 234U and 236U. For some applications the total uranium quantities can be limited, or it is desirable to run at lower concentrations for radiological protection. Recent developments in inlet systems and detector technologies allow small samples to be analyzed at higher precisions using MC-ICP-MS. Here we evaluate the combination of Elemental Scientific apex omega desolvation system and microFAST-MC dual loop-loading flow-injection system with the Thermo Scientific NEPTUNE Plus MC-ICP-MS. The inlet systems allow for the automated syringe loading and injecting handling of small sample volumes with efficient desolvation to minimize the hydride interference on 236U. The highest ICP ion sampling efficiency is realized using the Thermo Scientific Jet Interface. Thermo Scientific 1013 ohm amplifier technology allows small ion beams to be measured at higher precision, offering the highest signal/noise ratio with a linear and stable response that covers a wide dynamic range (ca. 1 kcps - 30 Mcps). For nanogram quantities of low enriched and depleted uranium standards the 235U was measured with 1013 ohm amplifier technology. The minor isotopes (234U and 236U) were measured by SEM ion counters with RPQ lens filters, which offer the lowest detection limits. For sample amounts ca. 20 ng the minor isotopes can be moved onto 1013 ohm amplifiers and the 235U onto standard 1011 ohm amplifier. To illustrate the application a set of solutions from environmental particles [1] were analyzed, the use of precise three isotope ratio plots allows for source attribution with increased confidence. [1] Lloyd et al. 2009, J. Anal. At. Spectrom., 24(6), 752-758.

Radiometry in medicine and biology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nahm, Kie-Bong; Choi, Eui Y.

2012-10-01

Diagnostics in medicine plays a critical role in helping medical professionals deliver proper diagnostic decisions. Most samples in this trade are of the human origin and a great portion of methodologies practiced in biology labs is shared in clinical diagnostic laboratories as well. Most clinical tests are quantitative in nature and recent increase in interests in preventive medicine requires the determination of minimal concentration of target analyte: they exist in small quantities at the early stage of various diseases. Radiometry or the use of optical radiation is the most trusted and reliable means of converting biologic concentrations into quantitative physical quantities. Since optical energy is readily available in varying energies (or wavelengths), the appropriate combination of light and the sample absorption properties provides reliable information about the sample concentration through Beer-Lambert law to a decent precision. In this article, the commonly practiced techniques in clinical and biology labs are reviewed from the standpoint of radiometry.

Geology and occurrence of ground water in Lyon County, Minnesota

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rodis, Harry G.

1963-01-01

Large quantities of ground water are available from melt-water channels in the county. Moderate quantities, adequate for domestic and small industrial needs, are available from many of the small isolated deposits of sand and gravel in the till. Small quantities of ground water, adequate only for domestic supply, generally can be obtained from Cretaceous sandstone.

Static, Mixed-Array Total Evaporation for Improved Quantitation of Plutonium Minor Isotopes in Small Samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stanley, F. E.; Byerly, Benjamin L.; Thomas, Mariam R.; Spencer, Khalil J.

2016-06-01

Actinide isotope measurements are a critical signature capability in the modern nuclear forensics "toolbox", especially when interrogating anthropogenic constituents in real-world scenarios. Unfortunately, established methodologies, such as traditional total evaporation via thermal ionization mass spectrometry, struggle to confidently measure low abundance isotope ratios (<10-6) within already limited quantities of sample. Herein, we investigate the application of static, mixed array total evaporation techniques as a straightforward means of improving plutonium minor isotope measurements, which have been resistant to enhancement in recent years because of elevated radiologic concerns. Results are presented for small sample (~20 ng) applications involving a well-known plutonium isotope reference material, CRM-126a, and compared with traditional total evaporation methods.

Optimization of protein buffer cocktails using Thermofluor.

PubMed

Reinhard, Linda; Mayerhofer, Hubert; Geerlof, Arie; Mueller-Dieckmann, Jochen; Weiss, Manfred S

2013-02-01

The stability and homogeneity of a protein sample is strongly influenced by the composition of the buffer that the protein is in. A quick and easy approach to identify a buffer composition which increases the stability and possibly the conformational homogeneity of a protein sample is the fluorescence-based thermal-shift assay (Thermofluor). Here, a novel 96-condition screen for Thermofluor experiments is presented which consists of buffer and additive parts. The buffer screen comprises 23 different buffers and the additive screen includes small-molecule additives such as salts and nucleotide analogues. The utilization of small-molecule components which increase the thermal stability of a protein sample frequently results in a protein preparation of higher quality and quantity and ultimately also increases the chances of the protein crystallizing.

Static, Mixed-Array Total Evaporation for Improved Quantitation of Plutonium Minor Isotopes in Small Samples.

PubMed

Stanley, F E; Byerly, Benjamin L; Thomas, Mariam R; Spencer, Khalil J

2016-06-01

Actinide isotope measurements are a critical signature capability in the modern nuclear forensics "toolbox", especially when interrogating anthropogenic constituents in real-world scenarios. Unfortunately, established methodologies, such as traditional total evaporation via thermal ionization mass spectrometry, struggle to confidently measure low abundance isotope ratios (<10(-6)) within already limited quantities of sample. Herein, we investigate the application of static, mixed array total evaporation techniques as a straightforward means of improving plutonium minor isotope measurements, which have been resistant to enhancement in recent years because of elevated radiologic concerns. Results are presented for small sample (~20 ng) applications involving a well-known plutonium isotope reference material, CRM-126a, and compared with traditional total evaporation methods. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Determination of degree of RBC agglutination for blood typing using a small quantity of blood sample in a microfluidic system.

PubMed

Chang, Yaw-Jen; Ho, Ching-Yuan; Zhou, Xin-Miao; Yen, Hsiu-Rong

2018-04-15

Blood typing assay is a critical test to ensure the serological compatibility of a donor and an intended recipient prior to a blood transfusion. This paper presents a microfluidic blood typing system using a small quantity of blood sample to determine the degree of agglutination of red blood cell (RBC). Two measuring methods were proposed: impedimetric measurement and electroanalytical measurement. The charge transfer resistance in the impedimetric measurement and the power parameter in the electroanalytical measurement were used for the analysis of agglutination level. From the experimental results, both measuring methods provide quantitative results, and the parameters are linearly and monotonically related to the degree of RBC agglutination. However, the electroanalytical measurement is more reliable than the impedimetric technique because the impedimetric measurement may suffer from many influencing factors, such as chip conditions. Five levels from non-agglutination (level 0) to strong agglutination (level 4+) can be discriminated in this study, conforming to the clinical requirement to prevent any risks in transfusion. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Micro Linear Pump with Electromagnetic Actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzumori, Koichi; Furusawa, Hiroaki; Kanda, Takefumi; Yamada, Yoshiaki; Nagata, Takashi

In recent years, research and development of the micro-fluid systems have been activated in the field of chemical technology and biotechnology. Micro-fluid systems are realized by micromachine technology and MEMS technology. Micro pump is an essential element for miniaturization of chemical analysis reaction systems. The aim of this research is development of a micro linear pump which will be built into micro-fluid systems. This pump aims to take a sample of very-small-quantity of liquids. Taking a sample of very-small-quantity of liquids reduce the amount used and waste fluid of a reagent. Full length and diameter of this pump are 32.5mm and 6mm respectively. The features of this pump are (1) the pump is built with actuator, (2) the gap of 7μm between piston and cylinder is achieved through fine machining process, and (3) micro check-valves of 2mm diameter made of stainless-steel film are fabricated and integrated. In this paper, the structure and the characteristics of this pump were shown. And the characteristics after improvement of micro check-valves were shown.

A small quantity of sodium arsenite will kill large cull hardwoods

Treesearch

Francis M. Rushmore

1956-01-01

Although it is well known that sodium arsenite is an effective silvicide, forestry literature contains little information about the minimum quantities of this chemical that are required to kill large cull trees. Such information would be of value because if small quantities of a chemical will produce satisfactory results, small holes or frills in the tree will hold it...

How accurate is the Pearson r-from-Z approximation? A Monte Carlo simulation study.

PubMed

Hittner, James B; May, Kim

2012-01-01

The Pearson r-from-Z approximation estimates the sample correlation (as an effect size measure) from the ratio of two quantities: the standard normal deviate equivalent (Z-score) corresponding to a one-tailed p-value divided by the square root of the total (pooled) sample size. The formula has utility in meta-analytic work when reports of research contain minimal statistical information. Although simple to implement, the accuracy of the Pearson r-from-Z approximation has not been empirically evaluated. To address this omission, we performed a series of Monte Carlo simulations. Results indicated that in some cases the formula did accurately estimate the sample correlation. However, when sample size was very small (N = 10) and effect sizes were small to small-moderate (ds of 0.1 and 0.3), the Pearson r-from-Z approximation was very inaccurate. Detailed figures that provide guidance as to when the Pearson r-from-Z formula will likely yield valid inferences are presented.

Coastal Benthic Optical Properties (CoBOP) of Coral Reef Environments: Effects of Changes in the Spectral Quality and Quantity of the Underwater Light Field and Elevated Temperatures on Small Scale (0.01 to 0.1 m) Optical Properties of Corals

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-01-01

bleaching. 3 Dr. Rowan and I have taken samples from these colonies and Dr. Rowan will process these samples with the hypothesis that zooxanthellae from...non-bleached colonies will be represented by clade A zooxanthellae , a species more resistant to temperature stress. IMPACT/APPLICATIONS Two specific

Nanoparticle functionalised small-core suspended-core fibre - a novel platform for efficient sensing.

PubMed

Doherty, Brenda; Csáki, Andrea; Thiele, Matthias; Zeisberger, Matthias; Schwuchow, Anka; Kobelke, Jens; Fritzsche, Wolfgang; Schmidt, Markus A

2017-02-01

Detecting small quantities of specific target molecules is of major importance within bioanalytics for efficient disease diagnostics. One promising sensing approach relies on combining plasmonically-active waveguides with microfluidics yielding an easy-to-use sensing platform. Here we introduce suspended-core fibres containing immobilised plasmonic nanoparticles surrounding the guiding core as a concept for an entirely integrated optofluidic platform for efficient refractive index sensing. Due to the extremely small optical core and the large adjacent microfluidic channels, over two orders of magnitude of nanoparticle coverage densities have been accessed with millimetre-long sample lengths showing refractive index sensitivities of 170 nm/RIU for aqueous analytes where the fibre interior is functionalised by gold nanospheres. Our concept represents a fully integrated optofluidic sensing system demanding small sample volumes and allowing for real-time analyte monitoring, both of which are highly relevant within invasive bioanalytics, particularly within molecular disease diagnostics and environmental science.

Static, mixed-array total evaporation for improved quantitation of plutonium minor isotopes in small samples

DOE PAGES

Stanley, F. E.; Byerly, Benjamin L.; Thomas, Mariam R.; ...

2016-03-31

Actinide isotope measurements are a critical signature capability in the modern nuclear forensics “toolbox”, especially when interrogating anthropogenic constituents in real-world scenarios. Unfortunately, established methodologies, such as traditional total evaporation via thermal ionization mass spectrometry, struggle to confidently measure low abundance isotope ratios (<10 -6) within already limited quantities of sample. Herein, we investigate the application of static, mixed array total evaporation techniques as a straightforward means of improving plutonium minor isotope measurements, which have been resistant to enhancement in recent years because of elevated radiologic concerns. Furthermore, results are presented for small sample (~20 ng) applications involving a well-knownmore » plutonium isotope reference material, CRM-126a, and compared with traditional total evaporation methods.« less

Preliminary assessment of an economical fugitive road dust sampler for the collection of bulk samples for geochemical analysis.

PubMed

Witt, Emitt C; Wronkiewicz, David J; Shi, Honglan

2013-01-01

Fugitive road dust collection for chemical analysis and interpretation has been limited by the quantity and representativeness of samples. Traditional methods of fugitive dust collection generally focus on point-collections that limit data interpretation to a small area or require the investigator to make gross assumptions about the origin of the sample collected. These collection methods often produce a limited quantity of sample that may hinder efforts to characterize the samples by multiple geochemical techniques, preserve a reference archive, and provide a spatially integrated characterization of the road dust health hazard. To achieve a "better sampling" for fugitive road dust studies, a cyclonic fugitive dust (CFD) sampler was constructed and tested. Through repeated and identical sample collection routes at two collection heights (50.8 and 88.9 cm above the road surface), the products of the CFD sampler were characterized using particle size and chemical analysis. The average particle size collected by the cyclone was 17.9 μm, whereas particles collected by a secondary filter were 0.625 μm. No significant difference was observed between the two sample heights tested and duplicates collected at the same height; however, greater sample quantity was achieved at 50.8 cm above the road surface than at 88.9 cm. The cyclone effectively removed 94% of the particles >1 μm, which substantially reduced the loading on the secondary filter used to collect the finer particles; therefore, suction is maintained for longer periods of time, allowing for an average sample collection rate of about 2 g mi. Copyright © by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America, Inc.

Digital encoding of cellular mRNAs enabling precise and absolute gene expression measurement by single-molecule counting.

PubMed

Fu, Glenn K; Wilhelmy, Julie; Stern, David; Fan, H Christina; Fodor, Stephen P A

2014-03-18

We present a new approach for the sensitive detection and accurate quantitation of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) gene transcripts in single cells. First, the entire population of mRNAs is encoded with molecular barcodes during reverse transcription. After amplification of the gene targets of interest, molecular barcodes are counted by sequencing or scored on a simple hybridization detector to reveal the number of molecules in the starting sample. Since absolute quantities are measured, calibration to standards is unnecessary, and many of the relative quantitation challenges such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) bias are avoided. We apply the method to gene expression analysis of minute sample quantities and demonstrate precise measurements with sensitivity down to sub single-cell levels. The method is an easy, single-tube, end point assay utilizing standard thermal cyclers and PCR reagents. Accurate and precise measurements are obtained without any need for cycle-to-cycle intensity-based real-time monitoring or physical partitioning into multiple reactions (e.g., digital PCR). Further, since all mRNA molecules are encoded with molecular barcodes, amplification can be used to generate more material for multiple measurements and technical replicates can be carried out on limited samples. The method is particularly useful for small sample quantities, such as single-cell experiments. Digital encoding of cellular content preserves true abundance levels and overcomes distortions introduced by amplification.

A Maximum Entropy Test for Evaluating Higher-Order Correlations in Spike Counts

PubMed Central

Onken, Arno; Dragoi, Valentin; Obermayer, Klaus

2012-01-01

Evaluating the importance of higher-order correlations of neural spike counts has been notoriously hard. A large number of samples are typically required in order to estimate higher-order correlations and resulting information theoretic quantities. In typical electrophysiology data sets with many experimental conditions, however, the number of samples in each condition is rather small. Here we describe a method that allows to quantify evidence for higher-order correlations in exactly these cases. We construct a family of reference distributions: maximum entropy distributions, which are constrained only by marginals and by linear correlations as quantified by the Pearson correlation coefficient. We devise a Monte Carlo goodness-of-fit test, which tests - for a given divergence measure of interest - whether the experimental data lead to the rejection of the null hypothesis that it was generated by one of the reference distributions. Applying our test to artificial data shows that the effects of higher-order correlations on these divergence measures can be detected even when the number of samples is small. Subsequently, we apply our method to spike count data which were recorded with multielectrode arrays from the primary visual cortex of anesthetized cat during an adaptation experiment. Using mutual information as a divergence measure we find that there are spike count bin sizes at which the maximum entropy hypothesis can be rejected for a substantial number of neuronal pairs. These results demonstrate that higher-order correlations can matter when estimating information theoretic quantities in V1. They also show that our test is able to detect their presence in typical in-vivo data sets, where the number of samples is too small to estimate higher-order correlations directly. PMID:22685392

Spray-loading: A cryogenic deposition method for diamond anvil cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scelta, Demetrio; Ceppatelli, Matteo; Ballerini, Riccardo; Hajeb, Ahmed; Peruzzini, Maurizio; Bini, Roberto

2018-05-01

An efficient loading technique has been developed for flammable, toxic, or explosive gases which can be condensed at liquid nitrogen temperature and ambient pressure in membrane diamond anvil cells (DACs). This cryogenic technique consists in a deposition of small quantities of the desired gas directly into the sample chamber. The deposition is performed using a capillary that reaches the space between the diamond anvils. The DAC is kept under inert gas overpressure during the whole process, in order to avoid contamination from atmospheric O2, CO2, and H2O. This technique provides significant advantages over standard cryo-loading and gas-loading when the condensation of dangerous samples at liquid nitrogen temperature raises safety concerns because it allows dealing with minimum quantities of condensed gases. The whole procedure is particularly fast and efficient. The "spray-loading" has been successfully used in our laboratory to load several samples including acetylene, ammonia, ethylene, and carbon dioxide/water or red phosphorus/NH3 mixtures.

Polyamines and inorganic ions extracted from woody tissues by freeze-thawing

Treesearch

Rakesh Minocha; Walter C. Shortle

1994-01-01

A simple and fast method for extraction of major inorganic ions (Ca, Mg, Mn, K, and P) and cellular polyamines from small quantities of wood and woody plant tissues is described. The method involves repeated freezing and thawing of samples instead of homogenization or wet ash digestion. The efficiency of extraction of both polyamines and inorganic ions by these methods...

Fostering Early Numerical Skills at School Start in Children at Risk for Mathematical Achievement Problems: A Small Sample Size Training Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hasselhorn, Marcus; Linke-Hasselhorn, Kathrin

2013-01-01

Eight six-year old German children with development disabilities regarding such number competencies as have been demonstrated to be among the most relevant precursor skills for the acquisition of elementary mathematics received intensive training with the program "Mengen, zählen, Zahlen" ["quantities, counting, numbers"] (MZZ,…

Application of a novel combination of near-infrared spectroscopy and a humidity-controlled 96-well plate to the characterization of the polymorphism of imidafenacin.

PubMed

Uchida, Hiroshi; Yoshinaga, Tokuji; Mori, Hirotoshi; Otsuka, Makoto

2010-11-01

This study aimed to apply a currently available chemometric near-infrared spectroscopy technique to the characterization of the polymorphic properties of drug candidates. The technique requires only small quantities of samples and is therefore applicable to drugs in the early stages of development. The combination of near-infrared spectroscopy and a patented 96-well plate divided into 32 individual, humidity-controlled, three-well compartments was used in the characterization of a hygroscopic drug, imidafenacin, which has two polymorphs and one pseudo-polymorph. Characterization was also conducted with powder X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis. The results were compared with those from routinely used conventional analyses. Both the microanalysis and conventional analysis successfully characterised the substance (transformation and relative stability among the two polymorphs and a pseudo-polymorph) depending on the storage conditions. Near-infrared spectroscopic analyses utilizing a humidity-controlled 96-well plate required only small amounts of the sample for characterization under the various conditions of relative humidity. Near-infrared microanalysis can be applied to polymorphic studies of small quantities of a drug candidate. The results also suggest that the method will predict the behaviors of a hygroscopic candidate in solid pharmaceutical preparations at the early stages of drug development. © 2010 The Authors. JPP © 2010 Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain.

Measurement of surface water runoff from plots of two different sizes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joel, Abraham; Messing, Ingmar; Seguel, Oscar; Casanova, Manuel

2002-05-01

Intensities and amounts of water infiltration and runoff on sloping land are governed by the rainfall pattern and soil hydraulic conductivity, as well as by the microtopography and soil surface conditions. These components are closely interrelated and occur simultaneously, and their particular contribution may change during a rainfall event, or their effects may vary at different field scales. The scale effect on the process of infiltration/runoff was studied under natural field and rainfall conditions for two plot sizes: small plots of 0·25 m2 and large plots of 50 m2. The measurements were carried out in the central region of Chile in a piedmont most recently used as natural pastureland. Three blocks, each having one large plot and five small plots, were established. Cumulative rainfall and runoff quantities were sampled every 5 min. Significant variations in runoff responses to rainfall rates were found for the two plot sizes. On average, large plots yielded only 40% of runoff quantities produced on small plots per unit area. This difference between plot sizes was observed even during periods of continuous runoff.

RNA isolation from mammalian cells using porous polymer monoliths: an approach for high-throughput automation.

PubMed

Chatterjee, Anirban; Mirer, Paul L; Zaldivar Santamaria, Elvira; Klapperich, Catherine; Sharon, Andre; Sauer-Budge, Alexis F

2010-06-01

The life science and healthcare communities have been redefining the importance of ribonucleic acid (RNA) through the study of small molecule RNA (in RNAi/siRNA technologies), micro RNA (in cancer research and stem cell research), and mRNA (gene expression analysis for biologic drug targets). Research in this field increasingly requires efficient and high-throughput isolation techniques for RNA. Currently, several commercial kits are available for isolating RNA from cells. Although the quality and quantity of RNA yielded from these kits is sufficiently good for many purposes, limitations exist in terms of extraction efficiency from small cell populations and the ability to automate the extraction process. Traditionally, automating a process decreases the cost and personnel time while simultaneously increasing the throughput and reproducibility. As the RNA field matures, new methods for automating its extraction, especially from low cell numbers and in high throughput, are needed to achieve these improvements. The technology presented in this article is a step toward this goal. The method is based on a solid-phase extraction technology using a porous polymer monolith (PPM). A novel cell lysis approach and a larger binding surface throughout the PPM extraction column ensure a high yield from small starting samples, increasing sensitivity and reducing indirect costs in cell culture and sample storage. The method ensures a fast and simple procedure for RNA isolation from eukaryotic cells, with a high yield both in terms of quality and quantity. The technique is amenable to automation and streamlined workflow integration, with possible miniaturization of the sample handling process making it suitable for high-throughput applications.

Monte Carlo simulation of induction time and metastable zone width; stochastic or deterministic?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kubota, Noriaki

2018-03-01

The induction time and metastable zone width (MSZW) measured for small samples (say 1 mL or less) both scatter widely. Thus, these two are observed as stochastic quantities. Whereas, for large samples (say 1000 mL or more), the induction time and MSZW are observed as deterministic quantities. The reason for such experimental differences is investigated with Monte Carlo simulation. In the simulation, the time (under isothermal condition) and supercooling (under polythermal condition) at which a first single crystal is detected are defined as the induction time t and the MSZW ΔT for small samples, respectively. The number of crystals just at the moment of t and ΔT is unity. A first crystal emerges at random due to the intrinsic nature of nucleation, accordingly t and ΔT become stochastic. For large samples, the time and supercooling at which the number density of crystals N/V reaches a detector sensitivity (N/V)det are defined as t and ΔT for isothermal and polythermal conditions, respectively. The points of t and ΔT are those of which a large number of crystals have accumulated. Consequently, t and ΔT become deterministic according to the law of large numbers. Whether t and ΔT may stochastic or deterministic in actual experiments should not be attributed to change in nucleation mechanisms in molecular level. It could be just a problem caused by differences in the experimental definition of t and ΔT.

Estimates of Marine Debris Accumulation on Beaches Are Strongly Affected by the Temporal Scale of Sampling

PubMed Central

Smith, Stephen D. A.; Markic, Ana

2013-01-01

Marine debris is a global issue with impacts on marine organisms, ecological processes, aesthetics and economies. Consequently, there is increasing interest in quantifying the scale of the problem. Accumulation rates of debris on beaches have been advocated as a useful proxy for at-sea debris loads. However, here we show that past studies may have vastly underestimated the quantity of available debris because sampling was too infrequent. Our study of debris on a small beach in eastern Australia indicates that estimated daily accumulation rates decrease rapidly with increasing intervals between surveys, and the quantity of available debris is underestimated by 50% after only 3 days and by an order of magnitude after 1 month. As few past studies report sampling frequencies of less than a month, estimates of the scale of the marine debris problem need to be critically re-examined and scaled-up accordingly. These results reinforce similar, recent work advocating daily sampling as a standard approach for accurate quantification of available debris in coastal habitats. We outline an alternative approach whereby site-specific accumulation models are generated to correct bias when daily sampling is impractical. PMID:24367607

Simple DNA extraction of urine samples: Effects of storage temperature and storage time.

PubMed

Ng, Huey Hian; Ang, Hwee Chen; Hoe, See Ying; Lim, Mae-Lynn; Tai, Hua Eng; Soh, Richard Choon Hock; Syn, Christopher Kiu-Choong

2018-06-01

Urine samples are commonly analysed in cases with suspected illicit drug consumption. In events of alleged sample mishandling, urine sample source identification may be necessary. A simple DNA extraction procedure suitable for STR typing of urine samples was established on the Promega Maxwell ® 16 paramagnetic silica bead platform. A small sample volume of 1.7mL was used. Samples were stored at room temperature, 4°C and -20°C for 100days to investigate the influence of storage temperature and time on extracted DNA quantity and success rate of STR typing. Samples stored at room temperature exhibited a faster decline in DNA yield with time and lower typing success rates as compared to those at 4°C and -20°C. This trend can likely be attributed to DNA degradation. In conclusion, this study presents a quick and effective DNA extraction protocol from a small urine volume stored for up to 100days at 4°C and -20°C. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fukushima derived radiocesium in subsistence-consumed northern fur seal and wild celery

DOE PAGES

Ruedig, Elizabeth; Duncan, Colleen; Dickerson, Bobette; ...

2015-11-28

In July 2014, our investigative team traveled to St. Paul Island, Alaska to measure concentrations of radiocesium in wild-caught food products, primarily northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus). The 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident released radiocesium into the atmosphere and into the western Pacific Ocean; other investigators have detected Fukushima-derived radionuclides in a variety of marine products harvested off the western coast of North America. We tested two subsistence-consumed food products from St. Paul Island, Alaska for Fukushima-derived radionuclides: 54 northern fur seal, and nine putchki (wild celery, Angelica lucida) plants. Individual northern fur seal samples were below minimummore » detectable activity concentrations of 137Cs and 134Cs, but when composited, northern fur seal tissues tested positive for trace quantities of both isotopes. Radiocesium was detected at an activity concentration of 37.2 mBq 134Cs kg -1 f.w. (95% CI: 35.9–38.5) and 141.2 mBq 137Cs kg -1f.w. (95% CI: 135.5–146.8). The measured isotopic ratio, decay-corrected to the date of harvest, was 0.26 (95% CI: 0.25–0.28). The Fukushima nuclear accident released 134Cs and 137Cs in roughly equal quantities, but by the date of harvest in July 2014, this ratio was 0.2774, indicating that this population of seals has been exposed to small quantities of Fukushima-derived radiocesium. Activity concentrations of both 134Cs and 137Cs in putchki were below detection limits, even for composited samples. Northern fur seal is known to migrate between coastal Alaska and Japan and the trace 134Cs in northern fur seal tissue suggests that the population under study had been minimally exposed Fukushima-derived radionuclides. Despite this inference, the radionuclide quantities detected are small and no impact is expected as a result of the measured radiation exposure, either in northern fur seal or human populations consuming this species.« less

Fukushima derived radiocesium in subsistence-consumed northern fur seal and wild celery

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

Ruedig, Elizabeth; Duncan, Colleen; Dickerson, Bobette

In July 2014, our investigative team traveled to St. Paul Island, Alaska to measure concentrations of radiocesium in wild-caught food products, primarily northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus). The 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident released radiocesium into the atmosphere and into the western Pacific Ocean; other investigators have detected Fukushima-derived radionuclides in a variety of marine products harvested off the western coast of North America. We tested two subsistence-consumed food products from St. Paul Island, Alaska for Fukushima-derived radionuclides: 54 northern fur seal, and nine putchki (wild celery, Angelica lucida) plants. Individual northern fur seal samples were below minimummore » detectable activity concentrations of 137Cs and 134Cs, but when composited, northern fur seal tissues tested positive for trace quantities of both isotopes. Radiocesium was detected at an activity concentration of 37.2 mBq 134Cs kg -1 f.w. (95% CI: 35.9–38.5) and 141.2 mBq 137Cs kg -1f.w. (95% CI: 135.5–146.8). The measured isotopic ratio, decay-corrected to the date of harvest, was 0.26 (95% CI: 0.25–0.28). The Fukushima nuclear accident released 134Cs and 137Cs in roughly equal quantities, but by the date of harvest in July 2014, this ratio was 0.2774, indicating that this population of seals has been exposed to small quantities of Fukushima-derived radiocesium. Activity concentrations of both 134Cs and 137Cs in putchki were below detection limits, even for composited samples. Northern fur seal is known to migrate between coastal Alaska and Japan and the trace 134Cs in northern fur seal tissue suggests that the population under study had been minimally exposed Fukushima-derived radionuclides. Despite this inference, the radionuclide quantities detected are small and no impact is expected as a result of the measured radiation exposure, either in northern fur seal or human populations consuming this species.« less

Fukushima derived radiocesium in subsistence-consumed northern fur seal and wild celery.

PubMed

Ruedig, Elizabeth; Duncan, Colleen; Dickerson, Bobette; Williams, Michael; Gelatt, Thomas; Bell, Justin; Johnson, Thomas E

2016-02-01

In July 2014, our investigative team traveled to St. Paul Island, Alaska to measure concentrations of radiocesium in wild-caught food products, primarily northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus). The 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident released radiocesium into the atmosphere and into the western Pacific Ocean; other investigators have detected Fukushima-derived radionuclides in a variety of marine products harvested off the western coast of North America. We tested two subsistence-consumed food products from St. Paul Island, Alaska for Fukushima-derived radionuclides: 54 northern fur seal, and nine putchki (wild celery, Angelica lucida) plants. Individual northern fur seal samples were below minimum detectable activity concentrations of (137)Cs and (134)Cs, but when composited, northern fur seal tissues tested positive for trace quantities of both isotopes. Radiocesium was detected at an activity concentration of 37.2 mBq (134)Cs kg(-1) f.w. (95% CI: 35.9-38.5) and 141.2 mBq (137)Cs kg(-1) f.w. (95% CI: 135.5-146.8). The measured isotopic ratio, decay-corrected to the date of harvest, was 0.26 (95% CI: 0.25-0.28). The Fukushima nuclear accident released (134)Cs and (137)Cs in roughly equal quantities, but by the date of harvest in July 2014, this ratio was 0.2774, indicating that this population of seals has been exposed to small quantities of Fukushima-derived radiocesium. Activity concentrations of both (134)Cs and (137)Cs in putchki were below detection limits, even for composited samples. Northern fur seal is known to migrate between coastal Alaska and Japan and the trace (134)Cs in northern fur seal tissue suggests that the population under study had been minimally exposed Fukushima-derived radionuclides. Despite this inference, the radionuclide quantities detected are small and no impact is expected as a result of the measured radiation exposure, either in northern fur seal or human populations consuming this species. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

10 CFR 40.22 - Small quantities of source material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 10 Energy 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Small quantities of source material. 40.22 Section 40.22 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION DOMESTIC LICENSING OF SOURCE MATERIAL General Licenses § 40.22 Small... (15.4 lb) of uranium, removed during the treatment of drinking water, at any one time. A person may...

Mitochondrial DNA Targets Increase Sensitivity of Malaria Detection Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification ▿

PubMed Central

Polley, Spencer D.; Mori, Yasuyoshi; Watson, Julie; Perkins, Mark D.; González, Iveth J.; Notomi, Tsugunori; Chiodini, Peter L.; Sutherland, Colin J.

2010-01-01

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) of DNA offers the ability to detect very small quantities of pathogen DNA following minimal tissue sample processing and is thus an attractive methodology for point-of-care diagnostics. Previous attempts to diagnose malaria by the use of blood samples and LAMP have targeted the parasite small-subunit rRNA gene, with a resultant sensitivity for Plasmodium falciparum of around 100 parasites per μl. Here we describe the use of mitochondrial targets for LAMP-based detection of any Plasmodium genus parasite and of P. falciparum specifically. These new targets allow routine amplification from samples containing as few as five parasites per μl of blood. Amplification is complete within 30 to 40 min and is assessed by real-time turbidimetry, thereby offering rapid diagnosis with greater sensitivity than is achieved by the most skilled microscopist or antigen detection using lateral flow immunoassays. PMID:20554824

Crystallization of hard spheres revisited. II. Thermodynamic modeling, nucleation work, and the surface of tension.

PubMed

Richard, David; Speck, Thomas

2018-06-14

Combining three numerical methods (forward flux sampling, seeding of droplets, and finite-size droplets), we probe the crystallization of hard spheres over the full range from close to coexistence to the spinodal regime. We show that all three methods allow us to sample different regimes and agree perfectly in the ranges where they overlap. By combining the nucleation work calculated from forward flux sampling of small droplets and the nucleation theorem, we show how to compute the nucleation work spanning three orders of magnitude. Using a variation of the nucleation theorem, we show how to extract the pressure difference between the solid droplet and ambient liquid. Moreover, combining the nucleation work with the pressure difference allows us to calculate the interfacial tension of small droplets. Our results demonstrate that employing bulk quantities yields inaccurate results for the nucleation rate.

A method for release and multiple strand amplification of small quantities of DNA from endospores of the fastidious bacterium Pasteuria penetrans.

PubMed

Mauchline, T H; Mohan, S; Davies, K G; Schaff, J E; Opperman, C H; Kerry, B R; Hirsch, P R

2010-05-01

To establish a reliable protocol to extract DNA from Pasteuria penetrans endospores for use as template in multiple strand amplification, thus providing sufficient material for genetic analyses. To develop a highly sensitive PCR-based diagnostic tool for P. penetrans. An optimized method to decontaminate endospores, release and purify DNA enabled multiple strand amplification. DNA purity was assessed by cloning and sequencing gyrB and 16S rRNA gene fragments obtained from PCR using generic primers. Samples indicated to be 100%P. penetrans by the gyrB assay were estimated at 46% using the 16S rRNA gene. No bias was detected on cloning and sequencing 12 housekeeping and sporulation gene fragments from amplified DNA. The detection limit by PCR with Pasteuria-specific 16S rRNA gene primers following multiple strand amplification of DNA extracted using the method was a single endospore. Generation of large quantities DNA will facilitate genomic sequencing of P. penetrans. Apparent differences in sample purity are explained by variations in 16S rRNA gene copy number in Eubacteria leading to exaggerated estimations of sample contamination. Detection of single endospores will facilitate investigations of P. penetrans molecular ecology. These methods will advance studies on P. penetrans and facilitate research on other obligate and fastidious micro-organisms where it is currently impractical to obtain DNA in sufficient quantity and quality.

Microfluidic interconnects

DOEpatents

Benett, William J.; Krulevitch, Peter A.

2001-01-01

A miniature connector for introducing microliter quantities of solutions into microfabricated fluidic devices. The fluidic connector, for example, joins standard high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) tubing to 1 mm diameter holes in silicon or glass, enabling ml-sized volumes of sample solutions to be merged with .mu.l-sized devices. The connector has many features, including ease of connect and disconnect; a small footprint which enables numerous connectors to be located in a small area; low dead volume; helium leak-tight; and tubing does not twist during connection. Thus the connector enables easy and effective change of microfluidic devices and introduction of different solutions in the devices.

Effect of sampling rate and record length on the determination of stability and control derivatives

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brenner, M. J.; Iliff, K. W.; Whitman, R. K.

1978-01-01

Flight data from five aircraft were used to assess the effects of sampling rate and record length reductions on estimates of stability and control derivatives produced by a maximum likelihood estimation method. Derivatives could be extracted from flight data with the maximum likelihood estimation method even if there were considerable reductions in sampling rate and/or record length. Small amplitude pulse maneuvers showed greater degradation of the derivative maneuvers than large amplitude pulse maneuvers when these reductions were made. Reducing the sampling rate was found to be more desirable than reducing the record length as a method of lessening the total computation time required without greatly degrading the quantity of the estimates.

Improvement of core drill methods

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

Gatz, J.L.

1975-07-01

This report documents results of a program to evaluate effectiveness of more or less conventional subsurface samplers in obtaining representative and undisturbed samples of noncohesive alluvial materials containing large quantities of gravels and cobbles. This is the first phase of a research program to improve core drill methods. Samplers evaluated consisted of the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory membrane sampler, 4-in. Denison sampler, 6-in. Dension sampler, 5-in. Modified Denison sampler, and 3-in. thinwall drive tube. Small representative samples were obtained with the Dension samplers; no undisturbed samples were obtained. The field work was accomplished in the Rhodes Canyon area, White Sands Misslemore » Range, New Mexico.« less

MANAGEMENT OF HOUSEHOLD AND SMALL-QUANTITY-GENERATOR HAZARDOUS WASTE IN THE UNITED STATES

EPA Science Inventory

The International Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Association (ISWA), an international nongovernmental organization comprising twenty-seven national organizations of waste management professionals, conducted a survey to obtain information regarding household and small-quantity-g...

Lost but can't be neglected: Huge quantities of small microplastics hide in the South China Sea.

PubMed

Cai, Minggang; He, Haixia; Liu, Mengyang; Li, Siwei; Tang, Guowen; Wang, Weimin; Huang, Peng; Wei, Ge; Lin, Yan; Chen, Bin; Hu, Jiahui; Cen, Zhengnan

2018-08-15

Large quantities of microplastics with small particle sizes were found in the South China Sea (SCS). The abundances of microplastics in seawater were 0.045±0.093and 2569±1770particles/m 3 according to the bongo net and pumping sampling methods, respectively. Smaller-size fractions (size<0.3mm) contributed 92% of the number of microplastics to the total load. Continental slope is the largest reservoir of microplastics with an inventory of 295tons. 21 polymer types were found in the samples using the micro Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), among which alkyds (22.5%) and polycaprolactone (PCL) (20.9%) accounted for almost half of the total polymer content. Lighter plastics would not only concentrate upon the coastal area, being more likely to drift further into open seas with ocean currents. The distribution characteristics showed that it was mainly controlled by terrestrial input of the Pearl River. This study, as the first report from SCS on microplastics in water for its distribution and influence factors, provided impetus for further research on the transportation fate and the behavior of this emerging pollutant from coastal zone to the open oceans. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

System for sampling and monitoring microscopic organisms and substances

DOEpatents

Au, Frederick H. F.; Beckert, Werner F.

1976-01-01

A technique and apparatus used therewith for determining the uptake of plutonium and other contaminants by soil microorganisms which, in turn, gives a measure of the plutonium and/or other contaminants available to the biosphere at that particular time. A measured quantity of uncontaminated spores of a selected mold is added to a moistened sample of the soil to be tested. The mixture is allowed to sit a predetermined number of days under specified temperature conditions. An agar layer is then applied to the top of the sample. After three or more days, when spores of the mold growing in the sample have formed, the spores are collected by a miniature vacuum collection apparatus operated under preselected vacuum conditions, which collect only the spores with essentially no contamination by mycelial fragments or culture medium. After collection, the fungal spores are dried and analyzed for the plutonium and/or other contaminants. The apparatus is also suitable for collection of pollen, small insects, dust and other small particles, material from thin-layer chromatography plates, etc.

Integrated Blood Barcode Chips

PubMed Central

Fan, Rong; Vermesh, Ophir; Srivastava, Alok; Yen, Brian K.H.; Qin, Lidong; Ahmad, Habib; Kwong, Gabriel A.; Liu, Chao-Chao; Gould, Juliane; Hood, Leroy; Heath, James R.

2008-01-01

Blood comprises the largest version of the human proteome1. Changes of plasma protein profiles can reflect physiological or pathological conditions associated with many human diseases, making blood the most important fluid for clinical diagnostics2-4. Nevertheless, only a handful of plasma proteins are utilized in routine clinical tests. This is due to a host of reasons, including the intrinsic complexity of the plasma proteome1, the heterogeneity of human diseases and the fast kinetics associated with protein degradation in sampled blood5. Simple technologies that can sensitively sample large numbers of proteins over broad concentration ranges, from small amounts of blood, and within minutes of sample collection, would assist in solving these problems. Herein, we report on an integrated microfluidic system, called the Integrated Blood Barcode Chip (IBBC). It enables on-chip blood separation and the rapid measurement of a panel of plasma proteins from small quantities of blood samples including a fingerprick of whole blood. This platform holds potential for inexpensive, non-invasive, and informative clinical diagnoses, particularly, for point-of-care. PMID:19029914

40 CFR 273.17 - Response to releases.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 273.17 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.17... of universal wastes and other residues from universal wastes. (b) A small quantity handler of...

40 CFR 273.18 - Off-site shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

....18 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.18 Off-site shipments. (a) A small quantity handler of universal waste is prohibited from sending or...

40 CFR 273.18 - Off-site shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

....18 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.18 Off-site shipments. (a) A small quantity handler of universal waste is prohibited from sending or...

40 CFR 273.18 - Off-site shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

....18 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.18 Off-site shipments. (a) A small quantity handler of universal waste is prohibited from sending or...

40 CFR 273.18 - Off-site shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

....18 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.18 Off-site shipments. (a) A small quantity handler of universal waste is prohibited from sending or...

40 CFR 273.18 - Off-site shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

....18 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.18 Off-site shipments. (a) A small quantity handler of universal waste is prohibited from sending or...

Fixed-target protein serial microcrystallography with an x-ray free electron laser

PubMed Central

Hunter, Mark S.; Segelke, Brent; Messerschmidt, Marc; Williams, Garth J.; Zatsepin, Nadia A.; Barty, Anton; Benner, W. Henry; Carlson, David B.; Coleman, Matthew; Graf, Alexander; Hau-Riege, Stefan P.; Pardini, Tommaso; Seibert, M. Marvin; Evans, James; Boutet, Sébastien; Frank, Matthias

2014-01-01

We present results from experiments at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) demonstrating that serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) can be performed to high resolution (~2.5 Å) using protein microcrystals deposited on an ultra-thin silicon nitride membrane and embedded in a preservation medium at room temperature. Data can be acquired at a high acquisition rate using x-ray free electron laser sources to overcome radiation damage, while sample consumption is dramatically reduced compared to flowing jet methods. We achieved a peak data acquisition rate of 10 Hz with a hit rate of ~38%, indicating that a complete data set could be acquired in about one 12-hour LCLS shift using the setup described here, or in even less time using hardware optimized for fixed target SFX. This demonstration opens the door to ultra low sample consumption SFX using the technique of diffraction-before-destruction on proteins that exist in only small quantities and/or do not produce the copious quantities of microcrystals required for flowing jet methods. PMID:25113598

A nonlethal sampling method to obtain, generate and assemble whole blood transcriptomes from small, wild mammals.

PubMed

Huang, Zixia; Gallot, Aurore; Lao, Nga T; Puechmaille, Sébastien J; Foley, Nicole M; Jebb, David; Bekaert, Michaël; Teeling, Emma C

2016-01-01

The acquisition of tissue samples from wild populations is a constant challenge in conservation biology, especially for endangered species and protected species where nonlethal sampling is the only option. Whole blood has been suggested as a nonlethal sample type that contains a high percentage of bodywide and genomewide transcripts and therefore can be used to assess the transcriptional status of an individual, and to infer a high percentage of the genome. However, only limited quantities of blood can be nonlethally sampled from small species and it is not known if enough genetic material is contained in only a few drops of blood, which represents the upper limit of sample collection for some small species. In this study, we developed a nonlethal sampling method, the laboratory protocols and a bioinformatic pipeline to sequence and assemble the whole blood transcriptome, using Illumina RNA-Seq, from wild greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis). For optimal results, both ribosomal and globin RNAs must be removed before library construction. Treatment of DNase is recommended but not required enabling the use of smaller amounts of starting RNA. A large proportion of protein-coding genes (61%) in the genome were expressed in the blood transcriptome, comparable to brain (65%), kidney (63%) and liver (58%) transcriptomes, and up to 99% of the mitogenome (excluding D-loop) was recovered in the RNA-Seq data. In conclusion, this nonlethal blood sampling method provides an opportunity for a genomewide transcriptomic study of small, endangered or critically protected species, without sacrificing any individuals. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Alcohol in the second half of life: do usual quantity and frequency of drinking to intoxication increase with increased drinking frequency?

PubMed

Brunborg, Geir Scott; Østhus, Ståle

2015-02-01

We investigated if increased drinking frequency among adults in the second half of life co-occurred with increased usual quantity and increased intoxication frequency. Two-wave panel study. Norway. Norwegian adults (1017 women and 959 men) aged 40-79 years. Drinking frequency, usual quantity and intoxication frequency was measured by self-report in 2002/03 and again in 2007/08. Information about gender, age and level of education was obtained from the public register. Health was collected by self-report. Because of a significant gender × change in drinking frequency interaction effect on change in intoxication frequency (b = 0.02, P = 0.013), women and men were analysed separately. After adjusting for covariates, women who increase their drinking frequency showed a non-significant decrease in usual quantity [low initial usual quantity (LIUQ): β = -0.01, P = 0.879; high initial usual quantity (HIUQ): β = -0.06, P = 0.164] and a non-significant increase in intoxication frequency (LIUQ: β = 0.04, P = 0.569; HIUQ: β = 0.09, P = 0.251). Men who increased their drinking frequency showed a small decrease in usual quantity (LIUQ: β = -0.06, P = 0.049; HIUQ: β = -0.05, P = 0.002) and a small increase in intoxication frequency (LIUQ: β = 0.05, P = 0.035; HIUQ: β = 0.13, P = 0.004). Among Norwegian adults in the second half of life, increased drinking frequency appears to be associated with a small reduction in usual quantity, and a small increase in frequency of drinking to intoxication. © 2014 Society for the Study of Addiction.

Uranium determination in natural water by the fissiontrack technique

USGS Publications Warehouse

Reimer, G.M.

1975-01-01

The fission track technique, utilizing the neutron-induced fission of uranium-235, provides a versatile analytical method for the routine analysis of uranium in liquid samples of natural water. A detector is immersed in the sample and both are irradiated. The fission track density observed in the detector is directly proportional to the uranium concentration. The specific advantages of this technique are: (1) only a small quantity of sample, typically 0.1-1 ml, is needed; (2) no sample concentration is necessary; (3) it is capable of providing analyses with a lower reporting limit of 1 ??g per liter; and (4) the actual time spent on an analysis can be only a few minutes. This paper discusses and describes the method. ?? 1975.

40 CFR 747.195 - Triethanolamine salt of a substituted organic acid.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., commerce, importer, impurity, Inventory, manufacturer, person, process, processor, and small quantities... control of the processor. (ii) Distribution in commerce is limited to purposes of export. (iii) The processor or distributor may not use the substance except in small quantities solely for research and...

40 CFR 273.13 - Waste management.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 26 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Waste management. 273.13 Section 273...) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.13 Waste management. (a) Universal waste batteries. A small quantity handler of universal waste must manage...

40 CFR 273.19 - Tracking universal waste shipments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 26 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Tracking universal waste shipments... WASTES (CONTINUED) STANDARDS FOR UNIVERSAL WASTE MANAGEMENT Standards for Small Quantity Handlers of Universal Waste § 273.19 Tracking universal waste shipments. A small quantity handler of universal waste is...

Headspace concentrations of explosive vapors in containers designed for canine testing and training: theory, experiment, and canine trials.

PubMed

Lotspeich, Erica; Kitts, Kelley; Goodpaster, John

2012-07-10

It is a common misconception that the amount of explosive is the chief contributor to the quantity of vapor that is available to trained canines. In fact, this quantity (known as odor availability) depends not only on the amount of explosive material, but also the container volume, explosive vapor pressure and temperature. In order to better understand odor availability, headspace experiments were conducted and the results were compared to theory. The vapor-phase concentrations of three liquid explosives (nitromethane, nitroethane and nitropropane) were predicted using the Ideal Gas Law for containers of various volumes that are in use for canine testing. These predictions were verified through experiments that varied the amount of sample, the container size, and the temperature. These results demonstrated that the amount of sample that is needed to saturate different sized containers is small, predictable and agrees well with theory. In general, and as expected, once the headspace of a container is saturated, any subsequent increase in sample volume will not result in the release of more vapors. The ability of canines to recognize and alert to differing amounts of nitromethane has also been studied. In particular, it was found that the response of trained canines is independent of the amount of nitromethane present, provided it is a sufficient quantity to saturate the container in which it is held. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hazardous Waste Management for the Small Quantity Generator. Teacher Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

This instructional package for teaching about the regulations imposed on small quantity generators by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Resource Conservation Recovery Act is organized around ll program objectives: students will be able to (l) determine a hazardous waste from lists or by identifying characteristics; (2) identify…

Heavy metal contents in the sediments of astatic ponds: Influence of geomorphology, hydroperiod, water chemistry and vegetation.

PubMed

Gołdyn, Bartłomiej; Chudzińska, Maria; Barałkiewicz, Danuta; Celewicz-Gołdyn, Sofia

2015-08-01

The contents of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) were analysed in the bottom sediments of 30 small, astatic ponds located in the agricultural landscape of Western Poland. The samples were collected from 118 stations located in patches of four vegetation types. Relationships between the contents of particular elements and four groups of factors (geomorphology, hydroperiod, water quality and vegetation) were tested using Redundancy Analysis (RDA). The most important factors influencing the heavy metal contents were the maximum depth and area of the pond, its hydroperiod, water pH and conductivity values. In general, low quantities of heavy metals were recorded in the sediments of kettle-like ponds (small but located in deep depressions) and high in water bodies of the shore-bursting type (large but shallow). Moreover, quantities of particular elements were influenced by the structure of the vegetation covering the pond. Based on the results, we show which types of astatic ponds are most exposed to contamination and suggest some conservation practices that may reduce the influx of heavy metals. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Integrity of nuclear genomic deoxyribonucleic acid in cooked meat: Implications for food traceability.

PubMed

Aslan, O; Hamill, R M; Sweeney, T; Reardon, W; Mullen, A M

2009-01-01

It is essential to isolate high-quality DNA from muscle tissue for PCR-based applications in traceability of animal origin. We wished to examine the impact of cooking meat to a range of core temperatures on the quality and quantity of subsequently isolated genomic (specifically, nuclear) DNA. Triplicate steak samples were cooked in a water bath (100 degrees C) until their final internal temperature was 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 degrees C, and DNA was extracted. Deoxyribonucleic acid quantity was significantly reduced in cooked meat samples compared with raw (6.5 vs. 56.6 ng/microL; P < 0.001), but there was no relationship with cooking temperature. Quality (A(260)/A(280), i.e., absorbance at 260 and 280 nm) was also affected by cooking (P < 0.001). For all 3 genes, large PCR amplicons (product size >800 bp) were observed only when using DNA from raw meat and steak cooked to lower core temperatures. Small amplicons (<200 bp) were present for all core temperatures. Cooking meat to high temperatures thus resulted in a reduced overall yield and probable fragmentation of DNA to sizes less than 800 bp. Although nuclear DNA is preferable to mitochondrial DNA for food authentication, it is less abundant, and results suggest that analyses should be designed to use small amplicon sizes for meat cooked to high core temperatures.

Determining the maximum charging currents of lithium-ion cells for small charge quantities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grimsmann, F.; Gerbert, T.; Brauchle, F.; Gruhle, A.; Parisi, J.; Knipper, M.

2017-10-01

In order to optimize the operating parameters of battery management systems for electric and hybrid vehicles, great interest has been shown in achieving the maximum permissible charging currents during recuperation, without causing a cell damage due to lithium plating, in relation to the temperature, charge quantity and state of charge. One method for determining these recuperation currents is measuring the cell thickness, where excessively high charging currents can be detected by an irreversible increase in thickness. It is not possible to measure particularly small charge quantities by employing mechanic dial indicators, which have a limited resolution of 1 μm. This is why we developed a measuring setup that has a resolution limit of less than 10 nm using a high-resolution contactless inductance sensor. Our results show that the permissible charging current I can be approximated in relation to the charge quantity x by a correlating function I =a /√{(x) } which is compliant with the Arrhenius law. Small charge quantities therefore have an optimization potential for energy recovery during recuperation.

Method for collecting spores from a mold

DOEpatents

Au, Frederick H. F.; Beckert, Werner F.

1977-01-01

A technique and apparatus used therewith for determining the uptake of plutonium and other contaminants by soil microorganisms which, in turn, gives a measure of the plutonium and/or other contaminants available to the biosphere at that particular time. A measured quantity of uncontaminated spores of a selected mold is added to a moistened sample of the soil to be tested. The mixture is allowed to sit a predetermined number of days under specified temperature conditions. An agar layer is then applied to the top of the sample. After three or more days, when spores of the mold growing in the sample have formed, the spores are collected by a miniature vacuum collection apparatus operated under preselected vacuum conditions, which collect only the spores with essentially no contamination by mycelial fragments or culture medium. After collection, the fungal spores are dried and analyzed for the plutonium and/or other contaminants. The apparatus is also suitable for collection of pollen, small insects, dust and other small particles, material from thin-layer chromatography plates, etc.

Biochip-Based Detection of KRAS Mutation in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

PubMed Central

Kriegshäuser, Gernot; Fabjani, Gerhild; Ziegler, Barbara; Zöchbauer-Müller, Sabine; End, Adelheid; Zeillinger, Robert

2011-01-01

This study is aimed at evaluating the potential of a biochip assay to sensitively detect KRAS mutation in DNA from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissue samples. The assay covers 10 mutations in codons 12 and 13 of the KRAS gene, and is based on mutant-enriched PCR followed by reverse-hybridization of biotinylated amplification products to an array of sequence-specific probes immobilized on the tip of a rectangular plastic stick (biochip). Biochip hybridization identified 17 (21%) samples to carry a KRAS mutation of which 16 (33%) were adenocarcinomas and 1 (3%) was a squamous cell carcinoma. All mutations were confirmed by DNA sequencing. Using 10 ng of starting DNA, the biochip assay demonstrated a detection limit of 1% mutant sequence in a background of wild-type DNA. Our results suggest that the biochip assay is a sensitive alternative to protocols currently in use for KRAS mutation testing on limited quantity samples. PMID:22272089

Rapid separation and purification of uranium and plutonium from dilute-matrix samples

DOE PAGES

Armstrong, Christopher R.; Ticknor, Brian W.; Hall, Gregory; ...

2014-03-11

This work presents a streamlined separation and purification approach for trace uranium and plutonium from dilute (carrier-free) matrices. The method, effective for nanogram quantities of U and femtogram to picogram quantities of Pu, is ideally suited for environmental swipe samples that contain a small amount of collected bulk material. As such, it may be applicable for processing swipe samples such as those collected in IAEA inspection activities as well as swipes that are loaded with unknown analytes, such as those implemented in interlaboratory round-robin or proficiency tests. Additionally, the simplified actinide separation could find use in internal laboratory monitoring ofmore » clean room conditions prior to or following more extensive chemical processing. We describe key modifications to conventional techniques that result in a relatively rapid, cost-effective, and efficient U and Pu separation process. We demonstrate the efficacy of implementing anion exchange chromatography in a single column approach. We also show that hydrobromic acid is an effective substitute in lieu of hydroiodoic acid for eluting Pu. Lastly, we show that nitric acid is an effective digestion agent in lieu of perchloric acid and/or hydrofluoric acid. A step by step procedure of this process is detailed.« less

Utility of feline coronavirus antibody tests.

PubMed

Addie, Diane D; le Poder, Sophie; Burr, Paul; Decaro, Nicola; Graham, Elizabeth; Hofmann-Lehmann, Regina; Jarrett, Oswald; McDonald, Michael; Meli, Marina L

2015-02-01

Eight different tests for antibodies to feline coronavirus (FCoV) were evaluated for attributes that are important in situations in veterinary practice. We compared four indirect immunofluorescent antibody tests (IFAT), one enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (FCoV Immunocomb; Biogal) and three rapid immunochromatographic (RIM) tests against a panel of samples designated by consensus as positive or negative. Specificity was 100% for all but the two IFATs based on transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), at 83.3% and 97.5%. The IFAT and ELISA tests were best for obtaining an antibody titre and for working in the presence of virus. The RIM tests were the best for obtaining a result quickly (10-15 mins); of these, the Speed F-Corona was the most sensitive, at 92.4%, followed by FASTest feline infectious peritonitis (FIP; 84.6%) and Anigen Rapid FCoV antibody test (64.1%). Sensitivity was 100% for the ELISA, one FCoV IFAT and one TGEV IFAT; and 98.2% for a second TGEV IFA and 96.1% for a second FCoV IFAT. All tests worked with effusions, even when only blood products were stipulated in the instruction manual. The ELISA and Anigen RIM tests were best for small quantities of sample. The most appropriate FCoV antibody test to use depends on the reason for testing: in excluding a diagnosis of FIP, sensitivity, specificity, small sample quantity, rapidity and ability to work in the presence of virus all matter. For FCoV screening, speed and sensitivity are important, and for FCoV elimination antibody titre is essential. © ISFM and AAFP 2014.

Expression of pleiotrophin in small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Wang, H Q; Wang, J

2015-01-01

Pleiotrophin (PTN) is a kind of heparin binding growth factor closely related to tumor progression. This study aimed to discuss the significance of the expression of PTN in benign and malignant lung cancer tissues, especially small cell lung cancer. Lung cancer samples were collected for study and lung tissue samples with benign lesions were taken as controls. The expression of PTN was detected using tissue chip combined with the immunohistochemical method, and the differences of small cell lung cancer with non-small cell lung cancer and benign lesion tissue were compared. It was found that PTN expression was mainly located in the cytoplasm and membrane of cells; PTN expression in the lung cancer group was higher than that in the control group (p < 0.01), and PTN expression in the small cell cancer group was higher than that in the squamous carcinoma group and glandular cancer group (p < 0.05). In addition, PTN expression quantity in patients with lung cancer were in close correlation with TNM staging, pathological type and tumor differentiation degree (p < 0.05). PTN was found to express abnormally high in lung cancer, especially small cell lung cancer tissue. PTN is most likely to be a new tumor marker for diagnosis and prognosis of lung cancer.

Large number discrimination by mosquitofish.

PubMed

Agrillo, Christian; Piffer, Laura; Bisazza, Angelo

2010-12-22

Recent studies have demonstrated that fish display rudimentary numerical abilities similar to those observed in mammals and birds. The mechanisms underlying the discrimination of small quantities (<4) were recently investigated while, to date, no study has examined the discrimination of large numerosities in fish. Subjects were trained to discriminate between two sets of small geometric figures using social reinforcement. In the first experiment mosquitofish were required to discriminate 4 from 8 objects with or without experimental control of the continuous variables that co-vary with number (area, space, density, total luminance). Results showed that fish can use the sole numerical information to compare quantities but that they preferentially use cumulative surface area as a proxy of the number when this information is available. A second experiment investigated the influence of the total number of elements to discriminate large quantities. Fish proved to be able to discriminate up to 100 vs. 200 objects, without showing any significant decrease in accuracy compared with the 4 vs. 8 discrimination. The third experiment investigated the influence of the ratio between the numerosities. Performance was found to decrease when decreasing the numerical distance. Fish were able to discriminate numbers when ratios were 1:2 or 2:3 but not when the ratio was 3:4. The performance of a sample of undergraduate students, tested non-verbally using the same sets of stimuli, largely overlapped that of fish. Fish are able to use pure numerical information when discriminating between quantities larger than 4 units. As observed in human and non-human primates, the numerical system of fish appears to have virtually no upper limit while the numerical ratio has a clear effect on performance. These similarities further reinforce the view of a common origin of non-verbal numerical systems in all vertebrates.

Polonium-210 analyses of vegetables, cured and uncured tobacco, and associated soils.

PubMed

Berger, K C; Erhardt, W H; Francis, C W

1965-12-24

Analysis of the edible portion of vegetables and samples of green leaf tobacco failed to show polonium-210. The cured samples of leaf tobacco and the soils that were analyzed all contained small quantities of the element. Muck soils contained three times as much Po(210) as did mineral soils. Solutions used commonly to extract "available" forms of many mineral elements failed to extract a detectable amount of Po(2l0). Indications are that Po(210) or its radioactive precursors are not taken up from the soil directly by plant roots but rather by sorption in dead, moist plant materials at the atmosphere-plant interface.

Chemical Waste Management for the Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimmer, Steven W.

1999-06-01

Management of hazardous chemical wastes generated as a part of the curriculum poses a significant task for the individual responsible for maintaining compliance with all rules and regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation while maintaining the principles of OSHA's Lab Standard and the Hazard Communication Standard. For schools that generate relatively small quantities of waste, an individual can effectively manage the waste program without becoming overly burdened by the EPA regulations required for those generating large quantities of waste, if given the necessary support from the institution.

A recommended procedure for the preparation of oriented clay-mineral specimens for X-ray diffraction analysis; modifications to Drever's filter-membrane peel technique

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pollastro, R.M.

1982-01-01

Extremely well-oriented clay mineral mounts for X-ray diffraction analysis can be prepared quickly and without introducing segregation using the filter-membrane peel technique. Mounting problems encountered with smectite-rich samples can be resolved by using minimal sample and partial air-drying of the clay film before transfer to a glass slide. Samples containing small quantities of clay can produce useful oriented specimens if Teflon masks having more restrictive areas are inserted above the membrane filter during clay deposition. War]page and thermal shock of glass slides can be controlled by using a flat, porous, ceramic plate as a holding surface during heat treatments.

Impact of storage induced outgassing organic contamination on laser induced damage of silica optics at 351 nm.

PubMed

Bien-Aimé, K; Belin, C; Gallais, L; Grua, P; Fargin, E; Néauport, J; Tovena-Pecault, I

2009-10-12

The impact of storage conditions on laser induced damage density at 351 nm on bare fused polished silica samples has been studied. Intentionally outgassing of polypropylene pieces on silica samples was done. We evidenced an important increase of laser induced damage density on contaminated samples demonstrating that storage could limit optics lifetime performances. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Gas Chromatography -Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) have been used to identify the potential causes of this effect. It shows that a small quantity of organic contamination deposited on silica surface is responsible for this degradation. Various hypotheses are proposed to explain the damage mechanism. The more likely hypothesis is a coupling between surface defects of optics and organic contaminants.

Processing and testing of high toughness silicon nitride ceramics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tikare, Veena; Sanders, William A.; Choi, Sung R.

1993-01-01

High toughness silicon nitride ceramics were processed with the addition of small quantities of beta-Si3N4 whiskers in a commercially available alpha-Si3N4 powder. These whiskers grew preferentially during sintering resulting in large, elongated beta-grains, which acted to toughen the matrix by crack deflection and grain pullout. The fracture toughness of these samples seeded with beta-Si3N4 whiskers ranged from 8.7 to 9.5 MPa m(exp 0.5) depending on the sintering additives.

A Natural Way to Stay Sweet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

A revolutionary, low-calorie sugar is now available to the food and beverage market, offering an all-natural alternative to table sugar and artificial sweeteners. Tagatose, a sugar that appears in nature in small quantities, began its unusual journey to the commercial market nearly 30 years ago, when Dr. Gilbert V. Levin invented a life detection experiment to place aboard NASA s Mars Viking 1 and Viking 2 landers. The experiment involved using radiation-laced nutrients to determine the presence of microbial life in Martian soil samples.

Microscale atmospheric pollution of Pogranichny settlement (Primorsky region, Russia)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kholodov, Aleksei; Ugay, Sergey; Drozd, Vladimir; Agoshkov, Alexander; Golokhvast, Kirill

2017-10-01

The paper discusses the study of atmospheric particulate matter in the small urban settlement Pogranichny by means of laser granulometry of snow water. The atmosphere of this settlement is polluted with particles under 10 μm (PM10) to a certain extent. We found microparticles potentially hazardous to health in significant quantities (from 176.3% to 24.9%) in 4 sampling points out of 9. Large particles (sized over 400 μm) dominate on the most territory of the settlement reaching 78.1%.

Ultrasonic characterization of single drops of liquids

DOEpatents

Sinha, Dipen N.

1998-01-01

Ultrasonic characterization of single drops of liquids. The present invention includes the use of two closely spaced transducers, or one transducer and a closely spaced reflector plate, to form an interferometer suitable for ultrasonic characterization of droplet-size and smaller samples without the need for a container. The droplet is held between the interferometer elements, whose distance apart may be adjusted, by surface tension. The surfaces of the interferometer elements may be readily cleansed by a stream of solvent followed by purified air when it is desired to change samples. A single drop of liquid is sufficient for high-quality measurement. Examples of samples which may be investigated using the apparatus and method of the present invention include biological specimens (tear drops; blood and other body fluid samples; samples from tumors, tissues, and organs; secretions from tissues and organs; snake and bee venom, etc.) for diagnostic evaluation, samples in forensic investigations, and detection of drugs in small quantities.

Spatial and mesoscopic fluctuations in glassy dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chamon, Claudio C.; Cugliandolo, Leticia F.

2004-05-01

One of the striking properties of a glassy system is that many material properties depend on its age, i.e., the time since the system entered its glassy phase. In this this talk we shall review some recent progress (work in collaboration with H. E. Castillo, P. Charbonneau, J. L. Iguain, M. P. Kennett, D. R. Reichman and M. Sellitto) in understanding local aging, through the study of local observable quantities, which reveal that there are spatial heterogeneities and fluctuations in the aging process of macroscopic systems. We show that a number of universal properties are shared by many non-equilibrium systems, both with and without quenched disorder, such as the 3D Edwards-Anderson model and some kinetically constrained non-interacting 2D and 3D spin models, for example. Similar scaling relations are found for mesoscopic sample-to-sample fluctuations of global quantities in small size systems. We discuss how the emergence of a symmetry in aging systems, time-reparametrization invariance, could be responsible for the observed universal behavior of the local and mesoscopic non-equilibrium fluctuations.

Dry particle generation with a 3-D printed fluidized bed generator

DOE PAGES

Roesch, Michael; Roesch, Carolin; Cziczo, Daniel J.

2017-06-02

We describe the design and testing of PRIZE (PRinted fluidIZed bed gEnerator), a compact fluidized bed aerosol generator manufactured using stereolithography (SLA) printing. Dispersing small quantities of powdered materials – due to either rarity or expense – is challenging due to a lack of small, low-cost dry aerosol generators. With this as motivation, we designed and built a generator that uses a mineral dust or other dry powder sample mixed with bronze beads that sit atop a porous screen. A particle-free airflow is introduced, dispersing the sample as airborne particles. The total particle number concentrations and size distributions were measured duringmore » different stages of the assembling process to show that the SLA 3-D printed generator did not generate particles until the mineral dust sample was introduced. Furthermore, time-series measurements with Arizona Test Dust (ATD) showed stable total particle number concentrations of 10–150 cm -3, depending on the sample mass, from the sub- to super-micrometer size range. Additional tests with collected soil dust samples are also presented. PRIZE is simple to assemble, easy to clean, inexpensive and deployable for laboratory and field studies that require dry particle generation.« less

Dry particle generation with a 3-D printed fluidized bed generator

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

Roesch, Michael; Roesch, Carolin; Cziczo, Daniel J.

We describe the design and testing of PRIZE (PRinted fluidIZed bed gEnerator), a compact fluidized bed aerosol generator manufactured using stereolithography (SLA) printing. Dispersing small quantities of powdered materials – due to either rarity or expense – is challenging due to a lack of small, low-cost dry aerosol generators. With this as motivation, we designed and built a generator that uses a mineral dust or other dry powder sample mixed with bronze beads that sit atop a porous screen. A particle-free airflow is introduced, dispersing the sample as airborne particles. The total particle number concentrations and size distributions were measured duringmore » different stages of the assembling process to show that the SLA 3-D printed generator did not generate particles until the mineral dust sample was introduced. Furthermore, time-series measurements with Arizona Test Dust (ATD) showed stable total particle number concentrations of 10–150 cm -3, depending on the sample mass, from the sub- to super-micrometer size range. Additional tests with collected soil dust samples are also presented. PRIZE is simple to assemble, easy to clean, inexpensive and deployable for laboratory and field studies that require dry particle generation.« less

Analysis of sediment production from two small semiarid basins in Wyoming

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rankl, J.G.

1987-01-01

Data were collected at two small, semiarid basins in Wyoming to determine the relation between rainfall, runoff, and sediment production. The basins were Dugout Creek tributary and Saint Marys Ditch tributary. Sufficient rainfall and runoff data were collected at Dugout Creek tributary to determine the source of sediment and the dominant sediment production processes. Because runoff from only one storm occurred in Saint Marys Ditch tributary, emphasis of the study was placed on the analysis of data collected at Dugout Creek tributary. At Dugout Creek tributary, detailed measurements were made to establish the source of sediment. To determine the quantity of material removed from headcuts during the study, two headcuts were surveyed. Aerial photographs were used to define movement of all headcuts. The total quantity of sediment removed from all headcuts between September 26, 1982, and September 26, 1983, was estimated to be 1,220 tons, or 15%-25% of the estimated total sediment load passing the streamflow-gaging station. A soil plot was used to sample upland erosion. A rainfall and runoff modeling system was used to evaluate the interaction between the physical processes which control sediment production. The greatest change in computed sediment load was caused by changing the parameter values for equations used to compute the detachment of sediment particles by rainfall and overland flow resulted in very small changes in computed sediment load. The upland areas were the primary source of sediment. A relationship was developed between the peak of storm runoff and the total sediment load for that storm runoff. The sediment concentration used to compute the total sediment load for the storm runoff was determined from sediment samples collected by two automatic pumping samplers. The coefficient of variation of the relationship is 34% with a 0.99 correlation coefficient. (Author 's abstract)

Seasoning small quantities of lumber

Treesearch

E.F. Rasmussen

1965-01-01

The owner of a small quantity of green lumber or logs is often confronted with seasoning it to a state of dryness suitable for use in furniture, wood carving, or other handiwork. He cannot follow the practice of commercial mills, which employ dry kilns for the purpose. because kilns are too costly. On the other hand, air seasoning outdoors usually does not dry lumber...

Evaluation of a Class of Simple and Effective Uncertainty Methods for Sparse Samples of Random Variables and Functions

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

Romero, Vicente; Bonney, Matthew; Schroeder, Benjamin

When very few samples of a random quantity are available from a source distribution of unknown shape, it is usually not possible to accurately infer the exact distribution from which the data samples come. Under-estimation of important quantities such as response variance and failure probabilities can result. For many engineering purposes, including design and risk analysis, we attempt to avoid under-estimation with a strategy to conservatively estimate (bound) these types of quantities -- without being overly conservative -- when only a few samples of a random quantity are available from model predictions or replicate experiments. This report examines a classmore » of related sparse-data uncertainty representation and inference approaches that are relatively simple, inexpensive, and effective. Tradeoffs between the methods' conservatism, reliability, and risk versus number of data samples (cost) are quantified with multi-attribute metrics use d to assess method performance for conservative estimation of two representative quantities: central 95% of response; and 10 -4 probability of exceeding a response threshold in a tail of the distribution. Each method's performance is characterized with 10,000 random trials on a large number of diverse and challenging distributions. The best method and number of samples to use in a given circumstance depends on the uncertainty quantity to be estimated, the PDF character, and the desired reliability of bounding the true value. On the basis of this large data base and study, a strategy is proposed for selecting the method and number of samples for attaining reasonable credibility levels in bounding these types of quantities when sparse samples of random variables or functions are available from experiments or simulations.« less

Chimpanzees Sometimes See Fuller as Better: Judgments of Food Quantities Based on Container Size and Fullness

PubMed Central

Parrish, Audrey E.; Beran, Michael J.

2014-01-01

The context in which food is presented can alter quantity judgments leading to sub-optimal choice behavior. Humans often over-estimate food quantity on the basis of how food is presented. Food appears larger if plated on smaller dishes than larger dishes and liquid volumes appear larger in taller cups than shorter cups. Moreover, smaller but fuller containers are preferred in comparison to larger, but less full containers with a truly larger quantity. Here, we assessed whether similar phenomena occur in chimpanzees. Four chimpanzees chose between two amounts of food presented in different sized containers, a large (2 oz.) and small (1 oz.) cup. When different quantities were presented in the same-sized cups or when the small cup contained the larger quantity, chimpanzees were highly accurate in choosing the larger food amount. However, when different-sized cups contained the same amount of food or the smaller cup contained the smaller amount of food (but looked relatively fuller), the chimpanzees often showed a bias to select the smaller but fuller cup. These findings contribute to our understanding of how quantity estimation and portion judgment is impacted by the surrounding context in which it is presented. PMID:24374384

Zinc and copper mineralization of the Vazante area, Minas Gerais, Brazil

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moore, Samuel L.

1956-01-01

A large body of zinc and copper mineralization is exposed in a line of low hills about 5 kilometers east of the small village of Vazante in the northwestern part of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The Vazante area can be reached by roads leading north from the State of Sao Paulo, via Araxa; west from Balo Horizonte, Minas Gerais; and south from Paracatu, Minas Gerais. The deposit is in branching, sub-parallel fault breccia zones. Calamine (H2Zn2SiO5), and willomite (ZnSiO4), along with small quantities of smithsonite (ZnCO3), form the matrix of the fault breccia. The zinc mineralization is cut by narrow veins of chalcocite in platy crystal aggregate thought to be pseudomorphous after covellite. The chalcocite veins contain small quantities of sphalterite, galena, covellite and calamine. Faults that contain breccia zones displace shale and dolomite. The sedimentary rocks are thought to be Silurian in age. The fault breccia zones have a regional trend of N 40 degrees E and crop out over a strike length of more than four kilometers. The mineralization of the fault zones was observed to continue to the north for an additional four kilometers. The mineralized fault breccia zones range from a few meters to 60 meters in width. A large ore body is indicated that from available samples may average 35 percent zinc.

Statistical computation of tolerance limits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wheeler, J. T.

1993-01-01

Based on a new theory, two computer codes were developed specifically to calculate the exact statistical tolerance limits for normal distributions within unknown means and variances for the one-sided and two-sided cases for the tolerance factor, k. The quantity k is defined equivalently in terms of the noncentral t-distribution by the probability equation. Two of the four mathematical methods employ the theory developed for the numerical simulation. Several algorithms for numerically integrating and iteratively root-solving the working equations are written to augment the program simulation. The program codes generate some tables of k's associated with the varying values of the proportion and sample size for each given probability to show accuracy obtained for small sample sizes.

Hydrodynamic Electron Flow and Hall Viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scaffidi, Thomas; Nandi, Nabhanila; Schmidt, Burkhard; Mackenzie, Andrew P.; Moore, Joel E.

2017-06-01

In metallic samples of small enough size and sufficiently strong momentum-conserving scattering, the viscosity of the electron gas can become the dominant process governing transport. In this regime, momentum is a long-lived quantity whose evolution is described by an emergent hydrodynamical theory. Furthermore, breaking time-reversal symmetry leads to the appearance of an odd component to the viscosity called the Hall viscosity, which has attracted considerable attention recently due to its quantized nature in gapped systems but still eludes experimental confirmation. Based on microscopic calculations, we discuss how to measure the effects of both the even and odd components of the viscosity using hydrodynamic electronic transport in mesoscopic samples under applied magnetic fields.

Hydrodynamic Electron Flow and Hall Viscosity.

PubMed

Scaffidi, Thomas; Nandi, Nabhanila; Schmidt, Burkhard; Mackenzie, Andrew P; Moore, Joel E

2017-06-02

In metallic samples of small enough size and sufficiently strong momentum-conserving scattering, the viscosity of the electron gas can become the dominant process governing transport. In this regime, momentum is a long-lived quantity whose evolution is described by an emergent hydrodynamical theory. Furthermore, breaking time-reversal symmetry leads to the appearance of an odd component to the viscosity called the Hall viscosity, which has attracted considerable attention recently due to its quantized nature in gapped systems but still eludes experimental confirmation. Based on microscopic calculations, we discuss how to measure the effects of both the even and odd components of the viscosity using hydrodynamic electronic transport in mesoscopic samples under applied magnetic fields.

Freshwater DOM quantity and quality from a two-component model of UV absorbance

USGS Publications Warehouse

Carter, Heather T.; Tipping, Edward; Koprivnjak, Jean-Francois; Miller, Matthew P.; Cookson, Brenda; Hamilton-Taylor, John

2012-01-01

We present a model that considers UV-absorbing dissolved organic matter (DOM) to consist of two components (A and B), each with a distinct and constant spectrum. Component A absorbs UV light strongly, and is therefore presumed to possess aromatic chromophores and hydrophobic character, whereas B absorbs weakly and can be assumed hydrophilic. We parameterised the model with dissolved organic carbon concentrations [DOC] and corresponding UV spectra for c. 1700 filtered surface water samples from North America and the United Kingdom, by optimising extinction coefficients for A and B, together with a small constant concentration of non-absorbing DOM (0.80 mg DOC L-1). Good unbiased predictions of [DOC] from absorbance data at 270 and 350 nm were obtained (r2 = 0.98), the sum of squared residuals in [DOC] being reduced by 66% compared to a regression model fitted to absorbance at 270 nm alone. The parameterised model can use measured optical absorbance values at any pair of suitable wavelengths to calculate both [DOC] and the relative amounts of A and B in a water sample, i.e. measures of quantity and quality. Blind prediction of [DOC] was satisfactory for 9 of 11 independent data sets (181 of 213 individual samples).

Free-ranging dogs assess the quantity of opponents in intergroup conflicts.

PubMed

Bonanni, Roberto; Natoli, Eugenia; Cafazzo, Simona; Valsecchi, Paola

2011-01-01

In conflicts between social groups, the decision of competitors whether to attack/retreat should be based on the assessment of the quantity of individuals in their own and the opposing group. Experimental studies on numerical cognition in animals suggest that they may represent both large and small numbers as noisy mental magnitudes subject to scalar variability, and small numbers (≤4) also as discrete object-files. Consequently, discriminating between large quantities, but not between smaller ones, should become easier as the asymmetry between quantities increases. Here, we tested these hypotheses by recording naturally occurring conflicts in a population of free-ranging dogs, Canis lupus familiaris, living in a suburban environment. The overall probability of at least one pack member approaching opponents aggressively increased with a decreasing ratio of the number of rivals to that of companions. Moreover, the probability that more than half of the pack members withdrew from a conflict increased when this ratio increased. The skill of dogs in correctly assessing relative group size appeared to improve with increasing the asymmetry in size when at least one pack comprised more than four individuals, and appeared affected to a lesser extent by group size asymmetries when dogs had to compare only small numbers. These results provide the first indications that a representation of quantity based on noisy mental magnitudes may be involved in the assessment of opponents in intergroup conflicts and leave open the possibility that an additional, more precise mechanism may operate with small numbers.

Secondary metabolites and metal content dynamics in Teucrium montanum L. and Teucrium chamaedrys L. from habitats with serpentine and calcareous substrate.

PubMed

Zlatić, Nenad M; Stanković, Milan S; Simić, Zoran S

2017-03-01

The purpose of this comparative analysis is the determination of the total quantity of metals (Mg, Ca, K, Ni, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cr and Pb) in soil samples, above ground plant parts and tea made of plants Teucrium montanum and T. chamaedrys from different serpentine and calcareous habitats as well as of the total quantity of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. The obtained results showed that the quantities of certain metals (Mg, Fe, Ni and Mn) in the soil from the serpentine habitats were greater in comparison with other metals (Ca, Zn and Pb) which were more frequently found in the soil from the calcareous habitats. The results demonstrated that the analysed plant samples from the serpentine habitats contained higher quantity of Fe, Ni and Cr as opposed to the plant samples from the calcareous habitats which contained greater quantity of Ca and Zn. Although the studied species accumulate analysed metals in different quantities, depending on the substrate type, they are not hyperaccumulators of these metals. The use of these species from serpentine habitats for tea preparation is safe to a great extent, because in spite of the determined metal absorption by plant organs, the tea does not contain dangerous quantity of heavy metals. The results showed greater total quantity of phenolic compounds and the higher level of antioxidant activity in the plant samples from serpentine habitats in comparison with the samples from calcareous habitats, which is an indicator of one of the mechanisms of adaptation to the serpentine habitat conditions.

Microfluidic interconnects

DOEpatents

Benett, William J.; Krulevitch, Peter A.

2001-01-01

A miniature connector for introducing microliter quantities of solutions into microfabricated fluidic devices, and which incorporates a molded ring or seal set into a ferrule cartridge, with or without a compression screw. The fluidic connector, for example, joins standard high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) tubing to 1 mm diameter holes in silicon or glass, enabling ml-sized volumes of sample solutions to be merged with .mu.l-sized devices. The connector has many features, including ease of connect and disconnect; a small footprint which enables numerous connectors to be located in a small area; low dead volume; helium leak-tight; and tubing does not twist during connection. Thus the connector enables easy and effective change of microfluidic devices and introduction of different solutions in the devices.

Linear actuation using milligram quantities of CL-20 and TAGDNAT.

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

Snedigar, Shane; Salton, Jonathan Robert; Tappan, Alexander Smith

2009-07-01

There are numerous applications for small-scale actuation utilizing pyrotechnics and explosives. In certain applications, especially when multiple actuation strokes are needed, or actuator reuse is required, it is desirable to have all gaseous combustion products with no condensed residue in the actuator cylinder. Toward this goal, we have performed experiments on utilizing milligram quantities of high explosives to drive a millimeter-diameter actuator with a stroke of 30 mm. Calculations were performed to select proper material quantities to provide 0.5 J of actuation energy. This was performed utilizing the thermochemical code Cheetah to calculate the impetus for numerous propellants and tomore » select quantities based on estimated efficiencies of these propellants at small scales. Milligram quantities of propellants were loaded into a small-scale actuator and ignited with an ignition increment and hot wire ignition. Actuator combustion chamber pressure was monitored with a pressure transducer and actuator stroke was monitored using a laser displacement meter. Total actuation energy was determined by calculating the kinetic energy of reaction mass motion against gravity. Of the materials utilized, the best performance was obtained with a mixture of 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitro-2,4,6,8,10,12-hexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) and bis-triaminoguanidinium(3,3{prime}dinitroazotriazolate) (TAGDNAT).« less

Small Body GN and C Research Report: G-SAMPLE - An In-Flight Dynamical Method for Identifying Sample Mass [External Release Version

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carson, John M., III; Bayard, David S.

2006-01-01

G-SAMPLE is an in-flight dynamical method for use by sample collection missions to identify the presence and quantity of collected sample material. The G-SAMPLE method implements a maximum-likelihood estimator to identify the collected sample mass, based on onboard force sensor measurements, thruster firings, and a dynamics model of the spacecraft. With G-SAMPLE, sample mass identification becomes a computation rather than an extra hardware requirement; the added cost of cameras or other sensors for sample mass detection is avoided. Realistic simulation examples are provided for a spacecraft configuration with a sample collection device mounted on the end of an extended boom. In one representative example, a 1000 gram sample mass is estimated to within 110 grams (95% confidence) under realistic assumptions of thruster profile error, spacecraft parameter uncertainty, and sensor noise. For convenience to future mission design, an overall sample-mass estimation error budget is developed to approximate the effect of model uncertainty, sensor noise, data rate, and thrust profile error on the expected estimate of collected sample mass.

Microextraction techniques combined with capillary electrophoresis in bioanalysis.

PubMed

Kohler, Isabelle; Schappler, Julie; Rudaz, Serge

2013-01-01

Over the past two decades, many environmentally sustainable sample-preparation techniques have been proposed, with the objective of reducing the use of toxic organic solvents or substituting these with environmentally friendly alternatives. Microextraction techniques (MEs), in which only a small amount of organic solvent is used, have several advantages, including reduced sample volume, analysis time, and operating costs. Thus, MEs are well adapted in bioanalysis, in which sample preparation is mandatory because of the complexity of a sample that is available in small quantities (mL or even μL only). Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a powerful and efficient separation technique in which no organic solvents are required for analysis. Combination of CE with MEs is regarded as a very attractive environmentally sustainable analytical tool, and numerous applications have been reported over the last few decades for bioanalysis of low-molecular-weight compounds or for peptide analysis. In this paper we review the use of MEs combined with CE in bioanalysis. The review is divided into two sections: liquid and solid-based MEs. A brief practical and theoretical description of each ME is given, and the techniques are illustrated by relevant applications.

Estimation of the Use of Antibiotics in the Small Ruminant Industry in the Netherlands in 2011 and 2012

PubMed Central

Santman-Berends, Inge; Luttikholt, Saskia; den Brom, René Van; Schaik, Gerdien Van; Gonggrijp, Maaike; Hage, Han; Vellema, Piet

2014-01-01

The aim of this study was to estimate the quantity of antibiotics and classes of antibiotics used in the small ruminant industry in the Netherlands in 2011 and 2012. Twelve large veterinary practices, located throughout the Netherlands were selected for this study. All small ruminant farms associated with these practices that had complete records on the quantity of antibiotics prescribed were included. The veterinary practices provided data on all antibiotics prescribed, and the estimated animal used daily dose of antibiotics per year (AUDD/Y) was calculated for each farm. The median AUDD/Y in small ruminant farms was zero in both years (mean 0.60 in 2011, and 0.62 in 2012). The largest quantity of antibiotic use was observed in the professional goat industry (herds of ≥32 goats) with a median AUDD/Y of 1.22 in 2011 and 0.73 in 2012. In the professional sheep industry (flocks of ≥32 sheep), the median AUDD/Y was 0 in 2011 and 0.10 in 2012. In the small scale industry (flocks or herds of <32 sheep or goats), the median AUDD/Y never exceeded 0. The most frequently prescribed antibiotics in the small scale industry and professional sheep farms belonged to the penicillin class. In professional goat farms, antibiotics of the aminoglycoside class were most frequently prescribed. This study provides the first assessment on the quantity of antibiotic use in the small ruminant industry. Given a comparable attitude towards antibiotic use, these results might be valid for small ruminant populations in other north-western European countries as well. The antibiotic use in the small ruminant industry appeared to be low, and is expected to play a minor role in the development of antibiotic resistance. Nevertheless, several major zoonotic bacterial pathogens are associated with the small ruminant industry, and it remains important that antibiotics are used in a prudent way. PMID:25115998

Syringe filtration methods for examining dissolved and colloidal trace element distributions in remote field locations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shiller, Alan M.

2003-01-01

It is well-established that sampling and sample processing can easily introduce contamination into dissolved trace element samples if precautions are not taken. However, work in remote locations sometimes precludes bringing bulky clean lab equipment into the field and likewise may make timely transport of samples to the lab for processing impossible. Straightforward syringe filtration methods are described here for collecting small quantities (15 mL) of 0.45- and 0.02-microm filtered river water in an uncontaminated manner. These filtration methods take advantage of recent advances in analytical capabilities that require only small amounts of waterfor analysis of a suite of dissolved trace elements. Filter clogging and solute rejection artifacts appear to be minimal, although some adsorption of metals and organics does affect the first approximately 10 mL of water passing through the filters. Overall the methods are clean, easy to use, and provide reproducible representations of the dissolved and colloidal fractions of trace elements in river waters. Furthermore, sample processing materials can be prepared well in advance in a clean lab and transported cleanly and compactly to the field. Application of these methods is illustrated with data from remote locations in the Rocky Mountains and along the Yukon River. Evidence from field flow fractionation suggests that the 0.02-microm filters may provide a practical cutoff to distinguish metals associated with small inorganic and organic complexes from those associated with silicate and oxide colloids.

Quantity Representation in Children and Rhesus Monkeys: Linear Versus Logarithmic Scales

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beran, Michael J.; Johnson-Pynn, Julie S.; Ready, Christopher

2008-01-01

The performances of 4- and 5-year-olds and rhesus monkeys were compared using a computerized task for quantity assessment. Participants first learned two quantity anchor values and then responded to intermediate values by classifying them as similar to either the large anchor or the small anchor. Of primary interest was an assessment of where the…

Electrodeposition as an alternate method for preparation of environmental samples for iodide by AMS

DOE PAGES

Adamic, M. L.; Lister, T. E.; Dufek, E. J.; ...

2015-03-25

This paper presents an evaluation of an alternate method for preparing environmental samples for 129I analysis by accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) at Idaho National Laboratory. The optimal sample preparation method is characterized by ease of preparation, capability of processing very small quantities of iodide, and ease of loading into a cathode. Electrodeposition of iodide on a silver wire was evaluated using these criteria. This study indicates that the electrochemically-formed silver iodide deposits produce ion currents similar to those from precipitated silver iodide for the same sample mass. Furthermore, precipitated silver iodide samples are usually mixed with niobium or silver powdermore » prior to loading in a cathode. Using electrodeposition, the silver is already mixed with the sample and can simply be picked up with tweezers, placed in the sample die, and pressed into a cathode. The major advantage of this method is that the silver wire/electrodeposited silver iodide is much easier to load into a cathode.« less

The potential protective effect of friendship on the association between childhood adversity and psychological distress in adulthood: A retrospective, preliminary, three-wave population-based study.

PubMed

Sheikh, Mashhood Ahmed

2018-01-15

Previous studies that assessed the mediating role of social support in the association between childhood adversity and psychological distress based their inferences on very small, selective samples, which makes it impossible to generalise the findings to general population. The aim of this paper was to assess the mediating role of quantity and quality of social support in adulthood in the association between childhood adversity and psychological distress in adulthood. The study has a three-wave design; the present analysis used longitudinal data collected from 1994 to 2008 within the framework of the Tromsø Study (N = 4530), a representative prospective cohort study of men and women. Quantity and quality of social support were measured at a mean age of 54.7 years, and psychological distress in adulthood was measured at a mean age of 61.7 years. Mediation analysis was used to assess the indirect effect of childhood adversity (via quantity and quality of social support) on psychological distress in adulthood. Childhood adversity was associated with deficits in quantity and quality of social support in adulthood (p < 0.05). Childhood adversity and deficits in quantity and quality of social support were associated with psychological distress in adulthood (p < 0.05). Quantity and quality of social support significantly (p < 0.05) mediated the association between childhood adversity and psychological distress in adulthood. Childhood adversity was assessed retrospectively and social support was measured with two items. Interventions aimed at reducing social isolation may alleviate the burden carried by survivors of childhood adversity. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of Grab, Air, and Surface Results for Radiation Site Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glassford, Eric Keith

2011-12-01

The use of proper sampling methods and sample types for evaluating sites believed to be contaminated with radioactive materials is necessary to avoid misrepresenting conditions at the site. This study was designed to investigate if the site characterization, based upon uranium contamination measured in different types of samples, is dependent upon the mass of the sample collected. A bulk sample of potentially contaminated interior dirt was collected from an abandoned metal processing mill that rolled uranium between 1948 and 1956. The original mill dates from 1910 and has a dirt floor. The bulk sample was a mixture of dirt, black and yellow particles of metal dust, and small fragments of natural debris. Small mass (approximately 0.75 grams (g)) and large mass (approximately 70g) grab samples were prepared from the bulk sample material to simulate collection of a "grab" type sample. Air sampling was performed by re-suspending a portion of the bulk sample material using a vibration table to simulate airborne contamination that might be present during site remediation. Additionally, samples of removable contaminated surface dust were collected on 47 mm diameter filter paper by wiping the surfaces of the exposure chamber used to resuspend the bulk material. Certified reference materials, one containing a precisely known quantity of U 3O8 and one containing a known quantity of natural uranium, were utilized to calibrate the gamma spectrometry measurement system. Non-destructive gamma spectrometry measurements were used to determine the content of uranium-235 (235U) at 185 keV and 143 keV, thorium-234 (234Th) at 63 keV, and protactinium-234m (234mPa) at 1001 keV in each sample. Measurement of natural uranium in small, 1 g samples is usually accomplished by radiochemical analysis in order to measure alpha particles emitted by 238U, 235U, and 234U. However, uranium in larger bulk samples can also be measured non-destructively using gamma spectrometry to detect the low energy photons from 234Th and 234mPa, the short-lived decay products of 238U, and 235U. Two sided t-tests and coefficient of variation were used to compare sampling types. The large grab samples had the lowest calculated coefficient of variation results for activity and atom percentage. The wipe samples had the highest calculated coefficient of variation of mean specific activity (dis/sec/g) for all three energies. The air filter samples had the highest coefficient of variation calculation for mean atom percentage, for both uranium isotopes examined. The data indicated that the large mass sample was the most effective at characterizing the rolling mill radioactive site conditions, since this would indicate which samples had the smallest variations compared to the mean. Additionally, measurement results of natural uranium in the samples indicate that the distribution of radioactive contamination at the sampling location is most likely non-homogeneous and that the size of the sample collected and analyzed must be sufficiently large to insure that the analytical results are truly representative of the activity present.

Modifications of the Mesoscopic Structure of Cellulose in Paper Degradation

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

Missori, Mauro; Bicchieri, Marina; Mondelli, Claudia

2006-12-08

Paper is the main component of a huge quantity of cultural heritage. It is primarily composed of cellulose that undergoes significant degradation with the passage of time. By using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), we investigated cellulose's supramolecular structure, which allows access to degradation agents, in ancient and modern samples. For the first time, SANS data were interpreted in terms of water-filled pores, with their sizes increasing from 1.61 nm up to 1.97 nm in natural and artificially aged papers. The protective effect of gelatine sizing was also observed.

Modifications of the Mesoscopic Structure of Cellulose in Paper Degradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Missori, Mauro; Mondelli, Claudia; de Spirito, Marco; Castellano, Carlo; Bicchieri, Marina; Schweins, Ralf; Arcovito, Giuseppe; Papi, Massimiliano; Castellano, Agostina Congiu

2006-12-01

Paper is the main component of a huge quantity of cultural heritage. It is primarily composed of cellulose that undergoes significant degradation with the passage of time. By using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), we investigated cellulose’s supramolecular structure, which allows access to degradation agents, in ancient and modern samples. For the first time, SANS data were interpreted in terms of water-filled pores, with their sizes increasing from 1.61 nm up to 1.97 nm in natural and artificially aged papers. The protective effect of gelatine sizing was also observed.

EurEAs_Gplex--A new SNaPshot assay for continental population discrimination and gender identification.

PubMed

Daca-Roszak, P; Pfeifer, A; Żebracka-Gala, J; Jarząb, B; Witt, M; Ziętkiewicz, E

2016-01-01

Assays that allow analysis of the biogeographic origin of biological samples in a standard forensic laboratory have to target a small number of highly differentiating markers. Such markers should be easy to multiplex and the assay must perform well in the degraded and scarce biological material. SNPs localized in the genome regions, which in the past were subjected to differential selective pressure in various populations, are the most widely used markers in the studies of biogeographic affiliation. SNPs reflecting biogeographic differences not related to any phenotypic traits are not sufficiently explored. The goal of our study was to identify a small set of SNPs not related to any known pigmentation/phenotype-specific genes, which would allow efficient discrimination between populations of Europe and East Asia. The selection of SNPs was based on the comparative analysis of representative European and Chinese/Japanese samples (B-lymphocyte cell lines), genotyped using the Infinium HumanOmniExpressExome microarray (Illumina). The classifier, consisting of 24 unlinked SNPs (24-SNP classifier), was selected. The performance of a 14-SNP subset of this classifier (14-SNP subclassifier) was tested using genotype data from several populations. The 14-SNP subclassifier differentiated East Asians, Europeans and Africans with ∼100% accuracy; Palestinians, representative of the Middle East, clustered with Europeans, while Amerindians and Pakistani were placed between East Asian and European populations. Based on these results, we have developed a SNaPshot assay (EurEAs_Gplex) for genotyping SNPs from the 14-SNP subclassifier, combined with an additional marker for gender identification. Forensic utility of the EurEAs_Gplex was verified using degraded and low quantity DNA samples. The performance of the EurEAs_Gplex was satisfactory when using degraded DNA; tests using low quantity DNA samples revealed a previously not described source of genotyping errors, potentially important for any SNaPshot-based assays. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Variation of organic matter quantity and quality in streams at Critical Zone Observatory watersheds

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, Matthew P.; Boyer, Elizabeth W.; McKnight, Diane M.; Brown, Michael G.; Gabor, Rachel S.; Hunsaker, Carolyn T.; Iavorivska , Lidiia; Inamdar, Shreeram; Kaplan, Louis A.; Johnson, Dale W.; Lin, Henry; McDowell, William H.; Perdrial, Julia N.

2016-01-01

The quantity and chemical composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in surface waters influence ecosystem processes and anthropogenic use of freshwater. However, despite the importance of understanding spatial and temporal patterns in DOM, measures of DOM quality are not routinely included as part of large-scale ecosystem monitoring programs and variations in analytical procedures can introduce artifacts. In this study, we used consistent sampling and analytical methods to meet the objective of defining variability in DOM quantity and quality and other measures of water quality in streamflow issuing from small forested watersheds located within five Critical Zone Observatory sites representing contrasting environmental conditions. Results show distinct separations among sites as a function of water quality constituents. Relationships among rates of atmospheric deposition, water quality conditions, and stream DOM quantity and quality are consistent with the notion that areas with relatively high rates of atmospheric nitrogen and sulfur deposition and high concentrations of divalent cations result in selective transport of DOM derived from microbial sources, including in-stream microbial phototrophs. We suggest that the critical zone as a whole strongly influences the origin, composition, and fate of DOM in streams. This study highlights the value of consistent DOM characterization methods included as part of long-term monitoring programs for improving our understanding of interactions among ecosystem processes as controls on DOM biogeochemistry.

A technique for extracting blood samples from mice in fire toxicity tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bucci, T. J.; Hilado, C. J.; Lopez, M. T.

1976-01-01

The extraction of adequate blood samples from moribund and dead mice has been a problem because of the small quantity of blood in each animal and the short time available between the animals' death and coagulation of the blood. These difficulties are particularly critical in fire toxicity tests because removal of the test animals while observing proper safety precautions for personnel is time-consuming. Techniques for extracting blood samples from mice were evaluated, and a technique was developed to obtain up to 0.8 ml of blood from a single mouse after death. The technique involves rapid exposure and cutting of the posterior vena cava and accumulation of blood in the peritoneal space. Blood samples of 0.5 ml or more from individual mice have been consistently obtained as much as 16 minutes after apparent death. Results of carboxyhemoglobin analyses of blood appeared reproducible and consistent with carbon monoxide concentrations in the exposure chamber.

An empirical analysis of the quantitative effect of data when fitting quadratic and cubic polynomials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Canavos, G. C.

1974-01-01

A study is made of the extent to which the size of the sample affects the accuracy of a quadratic or a cubic polynomial approximation of an experimentally observed quantity, and the trend with regard to improvement in the accuracy of the approximation as a function of sample size is established. The task is made possible through a simulated analysis carried out by the Monte Carlo method in which data are simulated by using several transcendental or algebraic functions as models. Contaminated data of varying amounts are fitted to either quadratic or cubic polynomials, and the behavior of the mean-squared error of the residual variance is determined as a function of sample size. Results indicate that the effect of the size of the sample is significant only for relatively small sizes and diminishes drastically for moderate and large amounts of experimental data.

Mechanical properties of irradiated beryllium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beeston, J. M.; Longhurst, G. R.; Wallace, R. S.; Abeln, S. P.

1992-10-01

Beryllium is planned for use as a neutron multiplier in the tritium breeding blanket of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). After fabricating samples of beryllium at densities varying from 80 to 100% of the theoretical density, we conducted a series of experiments to measure the effect of neutron irradiation on mechanical properties, especially strength and ductility. Samples were irradiated in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) to a neutron fluence of 2.6 × 10 25 n/m 2 ( E > 1 MeV) at an irradiation temperature of 75°C. These samples were subsequently compression-tested at room temperature, and the results were compared with similar tests on unirradiated specimens. We found that the irradiation increased the strength by approximately four times and reduced the ductility to approximately one fourth. Failure was generally ductile, but the 80% dense irradiated samples failed in brittle fracture with significant generation of fine particles and release of small quantities of tritium.

Matching algorithm of missile tail flame based on back-propagation neural network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Da; Huang, Shucai; Tang, Yidong; Zhao, Wei; Cao, Wenhuan

2018-02-01

This work presents a spectral matching algorithm of missile plume detection that based on neural network. The radiation value of the characteristic spectrum of the missile tail flame is taken as the input of the network. The network's structure including the number of nodes and layers is determined according to the number of characteristic spectral bands and missile types. We can get the network weight matrixes and threshold vectors through training the network using training samples, and we can determine the performance of the network through testing the network using the test samples. A small amount of data cause the network has the advantages of simple structure and practicality. Network structure composed of weight matrix and threshold vector can complete task of spectrum matching without large database support. Network can achieve real-time requirements with a small quantity of data. Experiment results show that the algorithm has the ability to match the precise spectrum and strong robustness.

ALK in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Pathobiology, Epidemiology, Detection from Tumor Tissue and Algorithm Diagnosis in a Daily Practice

PubMed Central

Hofman, Paul

2017-01-01

Patients with advanced-stage non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) harboring an ALK rearrangement, detected from a tissue sample, can benefit from targeted ALK inhibitor treatment. Several increasingly effective ALK inhibitors are now available for treatment of patients. However, despite an initial favorable response to treatment, in most cases relapse or progression occurs due to resistance mechanisms mainly caused by mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of ALK. The detection of an ALK rearrangement is pivotal and can be done using different methods, which have variable sensitivity and specificity depending, in particular, on the quality and quantity of the patient’s sample. This review will first highlight briefly some information regarding the pathobiology of an ALK rearrangement and the epidemiology of patients harboring this genomic alteration. The different methods used to detect an ALK rearrangement as well as their advantages and disadvantages will then be examined and algorithms proposed for detection in daily routine practice. PMID:28805682

Globally maximizing, locally minimizing: unsupervised discriminant projection with applications to face and palm biometrics.

PubMed

Yang, Jian; Zhang, David; Yang, Jing-Yu; Niu, Ben

2007-04-01

This paper develops an unsupervised discriminant projection (UDP) technique for dimensionality reduction of high-dimensional data in small sample size cases. UDP can be seen as a linear approximation of a multimanifolds-based learning framework which takes into account both the local and nonlocal quantities. UDP characterizes the local scatter as well as the nonlocal scatter, seeking to find a projection that simultaneously maximizes the nonlocal scatter and minimizes the local scatter. This characteristic makes UDP more intuitive and more powerful than the most up-to-date method, Locality Preserving Projection (LPP), which considers only the local scatter for clustering or classification tasks. The proposed method is applied to face and palm biometrics and is examined using the Yale, FERET, and AR face image databases and the PolyU palmprint database. The experimental results show that UDP consistently outperforms LPP and PCA and outperforms LDA when the training sample size per class is small. This demonstrates that UDP is a good choice for real-world biometrics applications.

Spectrophotometric catalytic determination of small amounts of rhenium in mineralized rocks and molybdenite

USGS Publications Warehouse

Simon, F.O.; Grimaldi, F.S.

1962-01-01

Rhenium is determined by spectrophotometry of the tellurium sol formed by the reduction of tellurate by stannous chloride under the catalytic influence of rhenium. A detailed investigation of the conditions for high sensitivity and stability at lowest concentration levels of rhenium is presented as well as the behavior of 26 ions. The method is applied to the determination of some tenths of 1 p.p.m. or more of rhenium in a 1-mg. aliquot of mineralized rocks, mixtures of molybdenite and rocks, and molybdenite concentrates. The practical quantity limit of detection is 2 ?? 10-10 gram of rhenium. Samples are decomposed with a mixture of CaO, CaCl2, and MgO. On leaching, most constituents of the sample are precipitated either as calcium salts or hydroxides, except for rhenium and a small amount of molybdenum which pass into the filtrate. Residual molybdenum is removed by extraction with 8-quinolinol in chloroform. Better than 95% recoveries are obtained with two fusions with flux.

ALK in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Pathobiology, Epidemiology, Detection from Tumor Tissue and Algorithm Diagnosis in a Daily Practice.

PubMed

Hofman, Paul

2017-08-12

Patients with advanced-stage non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) harboring an ALK rearrangement, detected from a tissue sample, can benefit from targeted ALK inhibitor treatment. Several increasingly effective ALK inhibitors are now available for treatment of patients. However, despite an initial favorable response to treatment, in most cases relapse or progression occurs due to resistance mechanisms mainly caused by mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of ALK. The detection of an ALK rearrangement is pivotal and can be done using different methods, which have variable sensitivity and specificity depending, in particular, on the quality and quantity of the patient's sample. This review will first highlight briefly some information regarding the pathobiology of an ALK rearrangement and the epidemiology of patients harboring this genomic alteration. The different methods used to detect an ALK rearrangement as well as their advantages and disadvantages will then be examined and algorithms proposed for detection in daily routine practice.

Optical determination of crystal phase in semiconductor nanocrystals

PubMed Central

Lim, Sung Jun; Schleife, André; Smith, Andrew M.

2017-01-01

Optical, electronic and structural properties of nanocrystals fundamentally derive from crystal phase. This is especially important for polymorphic II–VI, III–V and I-III-VI2 semiconductor materials such as cadmium selenide, which exist as two stable phases, cubic and hexagonal, each with distinct properties. However, standard crystallographic characterization through diffraction yields ambiguous phase signatures when nanocrystals are small or polytypic. Moreover, diffraction methods are low-throughput, incompatible with solution samples and require large sample quantities. Here we report the identification of unambiguous optical signatures of cubic and hexagonal phases in II–VI nanocrystals using absorption spectroscopy and first-principles electronic-structure theory. High-energy spectral features allow rapid identification of phase, even in small nanocrystals (∼2 nm), and may help predict polytypic nanocrystals from differential phase contributions. These theoretical and experimental insights provide simple and accurate optical crystallographic analysis for liquid-dispersed nanomaterials, to improve the precision of nanocrystal engineering and improve our understanding of nanocrystal reactions. PMID:28513577

Ultrasonic characterization of single drops of liquids

DOEpatents

Sinha, D.N.

1998-04-14

Ultrasonic characterization of single drops of liquids is disclosed. The present invention includes the use of two closely spaced transducers, or one transducer and a closely spaced reflector plate, to form an interferometer suitable for ultrasonic characterization of droplet-size and smaller samples without the need for a container. The droplet is held between the interferometer elements, whose distance apart may be adjusted, by surface tension. The surfaces of the interferometer elements may be readily cleansed by a stream of solvent followed by purified air when it is desired to change samples. A single drop of liquid is sufficient for high-quality measurement. Examples of samples which may be investigated using the apparatus and method of the present invention include biological specimens (tear drops; blood and other body fluid samples; samples from tumors, tissues, and organs; secretions from tissues and organs; snake and bee venom, etc.) for diagnostic evaluation, samples in forensic investigations, and detection of drugs in small quantities. 5 figs.

Ultrasonic characterization of single drops of liquids

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

Sinha, D.N.

Ultrasonic characterization of single drops of liquids is disclosed. The present invention includes the use of two closely spaced transducers, or one transducer and a closely spaced reflector plate, to form an interferometer suitable for ultrasonic characterization of droplet-size and smaller samples without the need for a container. The droplet is held between the interferometer elements, whose distance apart may be adjusted, by surface tension. The surfaces of the interferometer elements may be readily cleansed by a stream of solvent followed by purified air when it is desired to change samples. A single drop of liquid is sufficient for high-qualitymore » measurement. Examples of samples which may be investigated using the apparatus and method of the present invention include biological specimens (tear drops; blood and other body fluid samples; samples from tumors, tissues, and organs; secretions from tissues and organs; snake and bee venom, etc.) for diagnostic evaluation, samples in forensic investigations, and detection of drugs in small quantities. 5 figs.« less

Measurement of refractive index of photopolymer for holographic gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Eriko; Mizuno, Jun; Fujikawa, Chiemi; Kodate, Kashiko

2007-02-01

We have made attempts to measure directly the small-scale variation of optical path lengths in photopolymer samples. For those with uniform thickness, the measured quantity is supposed to be proportional to the refractive index of the photopolymer. The system is based on a Mach-Zehnder interferometer using phase-locking technique and measures the change in optical path length during the sample is scanned across the optical axis. The spatial resolution is estimated to be 2μm, which is limited by the sample thickness. The path length resolution is estimated to be 6nm, which corresponds to the change in refractive index less than 10 -3 for the sample of 10μm thick. The measurement results showed clearly that the refractive index of photopolymer is not simply proportional to the exposure energy, contrary to the conventional photosensitive materials such as silver halide emulsion and dichromated gelatine. They also revealed the refractive index fluctuation in uniformly exposed photopolymer sample, which explains the milky appearance that sometimes observed in thick samples.

Process Analyzer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1994-01-01

The ChemScan UV-6100 is a spectrometry system originally developed by Biotronics Technologies, Inc. under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract. It is marketed to the water and wastewater treatment industries, replacing "grab sampling" with on-line data collection. It analyzes the light absorbance characteristics of a water sample, simultaneously detects hundreds of individual wavelengths absorbed by chemical substances in a process solution, and quantifies the information. Spectral data is then processed by ChemScan analyzer and compared with calibration files in the system's memory in order to calculate concentrations of chemical substances that cause UV light absorbance in specific patterns. Monitored substances can be analyzed for quality and quantity. Applications include detection of a variety of substances, and the information provided enables an operator to control a process more efficiently.

Little Evidence That Time in Child Care Causes Externalizing Problems During Early Childhood in Norway

PubMed Central

Zachrisson, Henrik Daae; Dearing, Eric; Lekhal, Ratib; Toppelberg, Claudio O.

2012-01-01

Associations between maternal reports of hours in child care and children’s externalizing problems at 18 and 36 months of age were examined in a population-based Norwegian sample (n = 75,271). Within a sociopolitical context of homogenously high-quality child care, there was little evidence that high quantity of care causes externalizing problems. Using conventional approaches to handling selection bias and listwise deletion for substantial attrition in this sample, more hours in care predicted higher problem levels, yet with small effect sizes. The finding, however, was not robust to using multiple imputation for missing values. Moreover, when sibling and individual fixed-effects models for handling selection bias were used, no relation between hours and problems was evident. PMID:23311645

Electrokinetic high pressure hydraulic system

DOEpatents

Paul, Phillip H.; Rakestraw, David J.; Arnold, Don W.; Hencken, Kenneth R.; Schoeniger, Joseph S.; Neyer, David W.

2001-01-01

An electrokinetic high pressure hydraulic pump for manipulating fluids in capillary-based systems. The pump uses electro-osmotic flow to provide a high pressure hydraulic system, having no moving mechanical parts, for pumping and/or compressing fluids, for providing valve means and means for opening and closing valves, for controlling fluid flow rate, and manipulating fluid flow generally and in capillary-based systems (Microsystems), in particular. The compact nature of the inventive high pressure hydraulic pump provides the ability to construct a micro-scale or capillary-based HPLC system that fulfills the desire for small sample quantity, low solvent consumption, improved efficiency, the ability to run samples in parallel, and field portability. Control of pressure and solvent flow rate is achieved by controlling the voltage applied to an electrokinetic pump.

Electrokinetic high pressure hydraulic system

DOEpatents

Paul, Phillip H.; Rakestraw, David J.; Arnold, Don W.; Hencken, Kenneth R.; Schoeniger, Joseph S.; Neyer, David W.

2003-06-03

An electrokinetic high pressure hydraulic pump for manipulating fluids in capillary-based system. The pump uses electro-osmotic flow to provide a high pressure hydraulic system, having no moving mechanical parts, for pumping and/or compressing fluids, for providing valve means and means for opening and closing valves, for controlling fluid flow rate, and manipulating fluid flow generally and in capillary-based systems (microsystems), in particular. The compact nature of the inventive high pressure hydraulic pump provides the ability to construct a micro-scale or capillary-based HPLC system that fulfills the desire for small sample quantity, low solvent consumption, improved efficiency, the ability to run samples in parallel, and field portability. Control of pressure and solvent flow rate is achieved by controlling the voltage applied to an electrokinetic pump.

Quantity, topics, methods and findings of randomised controlled trials published by German university departments of general practice - systematic review.

PubMed

Heinmüller, Stefan; Schneider, Antonius; Linde, Klaus

2016-04-23

Academic infrastructures and networks for clinical research in primary care receive little funding in Germany. We aimed to provide an overview of the quantity, topics, methods and findings of randomised controlled trials published by German university departments of general practice. We searched Scopus (last search done in April 2015), publication lists of institutes and references of included articles. We included randomised trials published between January 2000 and December 2014 with a first or last author affiliated with a German university department of general practice or family medicine. Risk of bias was assessed with the Cochrane tool, and study findings were quantified using standardised mean differences (SMDs). Thirty-three trials met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen were cluster-randomised trials, with a majority investigating interventions aimed at improving processes compared with usual care. Sample sizes varied between 6 and 606 clusters and 168 and 7807 participants. The most frequent methodological problem was risk of selection bias due to recruitment of individuals after randomisation of clusters. Effects of interventions over usual care were mostly small (SMD <0.3). Sixteen trials randomising individual participants addressed a variety of treatment and educational interventions. Sample sizes varied between 20 and 1620 participants. The methodological quality of the trials was highly variable. Again, effects of experimental interventions over controls were mostly small. Despite limited funding, German university institutes of general practice or family medicine are increasingly performing randomised trials. Cluster-randomised trials on practice improvement are a focus, but problems with allocation concealment are frequent.

Redshift Space Distortion on the Small Scale Clustering of Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Hyunbae; Sabiu, Cristiano; Li, Xiao-dong; Park, Changbom; Kim, Juhan

2018-01-01

The positions of galaxies in comoving Cartesian space varies under different cosmological parameter choices, inducing a redshift-dependent scaling in the galaxy distribution. The shape of the two-point correlation of galaxies exhibits a significant redshift evolution when the galaxy sample is analyzed under a cosmology differing from the true, simulated one. In our previous works, we can made use of this geometrical distortion to constrain the values of cosmological parameters governing the expansion history of the universe. This current work is a continuation of our previous works as a strategy to constrain cosmological parameters using redshift-invariant physical quantities. We now aim to understand the redshift evolution of the full shape of the small scale, anisotropic galaxy clustering and give a firmer theoretical footing to our previous works.

Magnetic field generation by pointwise zero-helicity three-dimensional steady flow of an incompressible electrically conducting fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rasskazov, Andrey; Chertovskih, Roman; Zheligovsky, Vladislav

2018-04-01

We introduce six families of three-dimensional space-periodic steady solenoidal flows, whose kinetic helicity density is zero at any point. Four families are analytically defined. Flows in four families have zero helicity spectrum. Sample flows from five families are used to demonstrate numerically that neither zero kinetic helicity density nor zero helicity spectrum prohibit generation of large-scale magnetic field by the two most prominent dynamo mechanisms: the magnetic α -effect and negative eddy diffusivity. Our computations also attest that such flows often generate small-scale field for sufficiently small magnetic molecular diffusivity. These findings indicate that kinetic helicity and helicity spectrum are not the quantities controlling the dynamo properties of a flow regardless of whether scale separation is present or not.

Falling Behind: International Scrutiny of the Peaceful Atom

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-02-01

confused with critical masses .5 Significant quantity values currently in use by the IAEA are given in Table 1. In a previous Natural Resources... actinides and fission products would not add significantly to the plutonium mass , the state could divert the spiked plutonium to a small clandestine...and manufacturing processes and should not be 152 confused with critical masses . Significant quantities are used in establishing the quantity

An optimised protocol for isolation of RNA from small sections of laser-capture microdissected FFPE tissue amenable for next-generation sequencing.

PubMed

Amini, Parisa; Ettlin, Julia; Opitz, Lennart; Clementi, Elena; Malbon, Alexandra; Markkanen, Enni

2017-08-23

Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue constitutes a vast treasury of samples for biomedical research. Thus far however, extraction of RNA from FFPE tissue has proved challenging due to chemical RNA-protein crosslinking and RNA fragmentation, both of which heavily impact on RNA quantity and quality for downstream analysis. With very small sample sizes, e.g. when performing Laser-capture microdissection (LCM) to isolate specific subpopulations of cells, recovery of sufficient RNA for analysis with reverse-transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) or next-generation sequencing (NGS) becomes very cumbersome and difficult. We excised matched cancer-associated stroma (CAS) and normal stroma from clinical specimen of FFPE canine mammary tumours using LCM, and compared the commonly used protease-based RNA isolation procedure with an adapted novel technique that additionally incorporates a focused ultrasonication step. We successfully adapted a protocol that uses focused ultrasonication to isolate RNA from small amounts of deparaffinised, stained, clinical LCM samples. Using this approach, we found that total RNA yields could be increased by 8- to 12-fold compared to a commonly used protease-based extraction technique. Surprisingly, RNA extracted using this new approach was qualitatively at least equal if not superior compared to the old approach, as Cq values in RT-qPCR were on average 2.3-fold lower using the new method. Finally, we demonstrate that RNA extracted using the new method performs comparably in NGS as well. We present a successful isolation protocol for extraction of RNA from difficult and limiting FFPE tissue samples that enables successful analysis of small sections of clinically relevant specimen. The possibility to study gene expression signatures in specific small sections of archival FFPE tissue, which often entail large amounts of highly relevant clinical follow-up data, unlocks a new dimension of hitherto difficult-to-analyse samples which now become amenable for investigation.

Selenium Treatment Technologies

EPA Science Inventory

Selenium (Se) is a metalloid that is a dietary requirement in small quantities, but toxic at higher quantities. It also is known to bioaccumulate. In oxic environments, it exists as selenate (+6) and selenite (+4), both of which are soluble. Selenite will sorb more strongly to...

Special nuclear material simulation device

DOEpatents

Leckey, John H.; DeMint, Amy; Gooch, Jack; Hawk, Todd; Pickett, Chris A.; Blessinger, Chris; York, Robbie L.

2014-08-12

An apparatus for simulating special nuclear material is provided. The apparatus typically contains a small quantity of special nuclear material (SNM) in a configuration that simulates a much larger quantity of SNM. Generally the apparatus includes a spherical shell that is formed from an alloy containing a small quantity of highly enriched uranium. Also typically provided is a core of depleted uranium. A spacer, typically aluminum, may be used to separate the depleted uranium from the shell of uranium alloy. A cladding, typically made of titanium, is provided to seal the source. Methods are provided to simulate SNM for testing radiation monitoring portals. Typically the methods use at least one primary SNM spectral line and exclude at least one secondary SNM spectral line.

Lithium Storage Performance of Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticle Synthesized with the Assistance of Triblock Copolymer P123.

PubMed

Yao, J H; Li, Y W; Song, X B; Zhang, Y F; Yan, J

2018-05-01

The ZnFe2O4 samples with the triblock copolymer P123 (P123) additive quantity of 0 wt.%, 2 wt.%, 5 wt.%, 8 wt.% and 10 wt.% were prepared by a very facile homogeneous precipitation method followed by high temperature sintering. The microstructures of the prepared samples were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The results revealed that the five prepared samples are all normal spinel zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4); the sample with the P123 additive quantity of 8 wt.% has the smallest particle size among the five samples. The lithium storage performances of the prepared samples are characterized by cyclic voltammograms (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and charge-discharge tests. The results demonstrated that adding proper amount of P123 can obviously improve the lithium storage performances of zinc ferrite spinel powder. But excessive P123 can induce the particle agglomerates so that the lithium storage performance of sample decays significantly. The ZnFe2O4 sample with the P123 additive quantity of 8 wt.% exhibited the highest electrochemical activity, the best rate performance, and superior cycling stability. For example, after 50 charge/discharge cycles under a current density of 120 mA g-1, the ZnFe2O4 sample with the P123 additive quantity of 8 wt.% can retain a specific discharge capacity of 468 mAh g-1, much higher than that of for the ZnFe2O4 sample with the P123 additive quantity of 0 wt.% (224 mAh g-1).

Coal lithotypes before and after saturation with CO2; insights from micro- and mesoporosity, fluidity, and functional group distribution

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mastalerz, Maria; Drobniak, A.; Walker, R.; Morse, D.

2010-01-01

Four lithotypes, vitrain, bright clarain, clarain, and fusain, were hand-picked from the core of the Pennsylvanian Springfield Coal Member (Petersburg Formation) in Illinois. These lithotypes were analyzed petrographically and for meso- and micropore characteristics, functional group distribution using FTIR techniques, and fluidity. High-pressure CO2 adsorption isotherm analyses of these lithotypes were performed and, subsequently, all samples were reanalyzed in order to investigate the effects of CO2. After the high-pressure adsorption isotherm analysis was conducted and the samples were reanalyzed, there was a decrease in BET surface area for vitrain from 31.5m2/g in the original sample to 28.5m2/g, as determined by low-pressure nitrogen adsorption. Bright clarain and clarain recorded a minimal decrease in BET surface area, whereas for fusain there was an increase from 6.6m2/g to 7.9m2/g. Using low-pressure CO2 adsorption techniques, a small decrease in the quantity of the adsorbed CO2 is recorded for vitrain and bright clarain, no difference is observed for clarain, and there is an increase in the quantity of the adsorbed CO2 for fusain. Comparison of the FTIR spectra before and after CO2 injection for all lithotypes showed no differences with respect to functional group distribution, testifying against chemical nature of CO2 adsorption. Gieseler plastometry shows that: 1) softening temperature is higher for the post-CO2 sample (389.5??C vs. 386??C); 2) solidification temperature is lower for the post-CO2 sample (443.5??C vs. 451??C); and 3) the maximum fluidity is significantly lower for the post-CO2 sample (4 ddpm vs. 14 ddpm). ?? 2010 Elsevier B.V.

Thermodynamics of quantum systems with multiple conserved quantities

PubMed Central

Guryanova, Yelena; Popescu, Sandu; Short, Anthony J.; Silva, Ralph; Skrzypczyk, Paul

2016-01-01

Recently, there has been much progress in understanding the thermodynamics of quantum systems, even for small individual systems. Most of this work has focused on the standard case where energy is the only conserved quantity. Here we consider a generalization of this work to deal with multiple conserved quantities. Each conserved quantity, which, importantly, need not commute with the rest, can be extracted and stored in its own battery. Unlike the standard case, in which the amount of extractable energy is constrained, here there is no limit on how much of any individual conserved quantity can be extracted. However, other conserved quantities must be supplied, and the second law constrains the combination of extractable quantities and the trade-offs between them. We present explicit protocols that allow us to perform arbitrarily good trade-offs and extract arbitrarily good combinations of conserved quantities from individual quantum systems. PMID:27384384

Principles and Applications of the qPlus Sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giessibl, Franz J.

The concept of the atomic force microscope (AFM) is a very simple one: map the surface of a sample by a sharp probe that scans over the surface similar to the finger of a blind person that reads Braille characters. In AFM, the role of that finger is taken by the probe tip that senses the presence of the sample surface by detecting the force between the tip of the probe and a sample. The qPlus sensor is a self sensing cantilever based on a quartz tuning fork that supplements the traditional microfabricated cantilevers made of silicon. Quartz tuning forks are used in the watch industry in quantities of billions annually, with the positive effects on quality and perfection. Three properties of these quartz-based sensors simplify the AFM significantly: (1) the piezoelectricity of quartz allows simple self sensing, (2) the mechanical properties of quartz show very small variations with temperature, and (3) the given stiffness of many quartz tuning forks is close to the ideal stiffness of cantilevers. The key properties of the qPlus sensor are a large stiffness that allows small amplitude operation, the large size that allows to mount single-crystal probe tips, and the self-sensing piezoelectric detection mechanism.

Confocal Raman Microscopy for in Situ Measurement of Octanol-Water Partitioning within the Pores of Individual C18-Functionalized Chromatographic Particles.

PubMed

Kitt, Jay P; Harris, Joel M

2015-05-19

Octanol-water partitioning is one of the most widely used predictors of hydrophobicity and lipophilicity. Traditional methods for measuring octanol-water partition coefficients (K(ow)), including shake-flasks and generator columns, require hours for equilibration and milliliter quantities of sample solution. These challenges have led to development of smaller-scale methods for measuring K(ow). Recent advances in microfluidics have produced faster and smaller-volume approaches to measuring K(ow). As flowing volumes are reduced, however, separation of water and octanol prior to measurement and detection in small volumes of octanol phase are especially challenging. In this work, we reduce the receiver volume of octanol-water partitioning measurements from current practice by six-orders-of-magnitude, to the femtoliter scale, by using a single octanol-filled reversed-phase, octadecylsilane-modified (C18-silica) chromatographic particle as a collector. The fluid-handling challenges of working in such small volumes are circumvented by eliminating postequilibration phase separation. Partitioning is measured in situ within the pore-confined octanol phase using confocal Raman microscopy, which is capable of detecting and quantifying a wide variety of molecular structures. Equilibration times are fast (less than a minute) because molecular diffusion is efficient over distance scales of micrometers. The demonstrated amount of analyte needed to carry out a measurement is very small, less than 50 fmol, which would be a useful attribute for drug screening applications or testing of small quantities of environmentally sensitive compounds. The method is tested for measurements of pH-dependent octanol-water partitioning of naphthoic acid, and the results are compared to both traditional shake-flask measurements and sorption onto C18-modified silica without octanol present within the pores.

Levels of Non-Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether Brominated Flame Retardants in Residential House Dust Samples and Fire Station Dust Samples in California

PubMed Central

Brown, F Reber; Whitehead, Todd P; Park, June-Soo; Metayer, Catherine; Petreas, Myrto X

2014-01-01

Eleven novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs) were analyzed in dust samples from California homes as a part of the Northern California Childhood Leukemia Study (NCCLS) and from the living quarters of California fire stations as a part of the Firefighter Occupational Exposure (FOX) study using high resolution gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The eleven NBFRs, were: α- and β-1,2-dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane (α- and β-DBE-DBCH), 2-bromoallyl 2,3,6-tribromophenylether (BATE), pentabromotoluene (PBT), pentabromoethylbenzene (PBEB), 2,3-dibromopropyl 2,4,6-tribromophenyl ether (TBP-DBPE), hexabromobenzene (HBB), 2-ethylhexyl-2,3,4,5-tetrabromobenzoate (EH-TBB), 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane (BTBPE), bis(2-ethylhexyl) tetrabromophthalate (BEH-TEBP), and decabromodiphenylethane (DBDPE). Six of the seven NBFRs that are produced in relatively small quantities (i.e., α−, β−DBE-DBCH, BATE, PBEB, PBT, TBP-DBPE) were measured close to or below the limit of quantitation (0.64 ng/g) in both the NCCLS and FOX samples, and the seventh, HBB, was measured at median concentrations of 1.85 ng/g and 9.40 ng/g in the NCCLS and FOX samples, respectively. The remaining four NBFRs, EH-TBB, BEH-TEBP, BTBPE, and DBDPE, are produced in higher quantities, and were detected at median concentrations of 337 ng/g, 186 ng/g, 22.3, ng/g, and 82.8 ng/g, respectively in the NCCLS samples, and at median concentrations of 2687 ng/g, 2076 ng/g, 28.4 ng/g, and 161 ng/g, respectively, in the FOX samples. Concentrations of NBFRs in the NCCLS and FOX dust samples were several times lower than concentrations of PBDEs previously measured in the same samples. Concentrations of NBFRs in the NCCLS and FOX dust samples were generally comparable to concentrations of NBFRs in other studies of house dust from the US and Canada. PMID:25261858

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

Eckardt, N.A.; Pell, E.J.

Leaf senescence is characterized by loss of the major photosynthetic enzyme, Ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (Rubisco). Exposure to ozone (O[sub 3]) is often associated with a premature decline in the quantity of this enzyme. Declines in Rubisco quantity could arise through inhibition of synthesis or enhancement of degradation. Several experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of O[sub 3] on these events in immature and mature leaves of potato. The effect of O[sub 3] on Rubisco synthesis was investigated indirectly by measuring the relative quantities of mRNA for the rubisco large (rbcL) and small (rbcS) subunits following a 5 hour exposuremore » to 0.309 [mu]L L[sup [minus]1] O[sup 3] or charcoal-filtered air. O[sup 3] treatment was associated with a significant loss in rbcS mRNA in immature and mature potato leaves sampled immediately following the exposure. After the O[sup 3] exposure, a set of plants was placed in the dark at 30 C for two days. Levels of rbcS mRNA declined rapidly during the first twelve hours of dark incubation, thus declines in Rubisco quantity following two days of dark incubation were ascribed to degradation. Enhanced degradation due to O[sub 3] during the dark incubation was observed in the mature leaves, but not in the immature leaves. We conclude that O[sub 3] can cause both inhibited synthesis and enhanced degradation of Rubisco, and the response in dependent on leaf age.« less

Drinking, Cigarette Smoking, and Employment Among American College Freshmen at a Four-Year University.

PubMed

Bono, Rose S; Barnes, Andrew J; Dick, Danielle M; Kendler, Kenneth S

2017-01-28

For American college students, alcohol and cigarette use are important health concerns, and employment concurrent with school attendance is on the rise. Given the lifelong importance of employment and substance use trajectories begun in college, parsing out the relationship between the two is meaningful. This study's purpose is to determine whether employment during college is associated with substance use. Cross-sectional associations between employment (work hours, earnings) and substance use (drinking frequency, drinking quantity, smoking frequency) were estimated using partial proportional odds models in a sample of N = 1457 freshmen attending a large, public 4-year university in 2011, after accounting for demographics, personality, social environment, and parental influences. Working 10 more hours and earning $50 more per week as a freshman had modest positive associations with higher smoking frequency and with moderate drinking frequency and quantity prior to adjustment. After adjustment, work hours remained modestly associated with moderate drinking frequency and quantity. No adjusted associations were found among employment measures and smoking or between weekly earnings and drinking frequency. Different relationships emerged for moderate versus heavy alcohol use frequency and quantity. Both employment and substance use are commonplace among college freshmen. After extensive controls for potential confounders, the relationship between the two appears modest. Employment may yet play a role in college student substance use, but work hours and earnings are likely only small parts of a larger web of influences on drinking and smoking.

Drinking, Cigarette Smoking, and Employment among American College Freshmen at a Four-Year University

PubMed Central

Bono, Rose S.; Barnes, Andrew J.; Dick, Danielle M.; Kendler, Kenneth S.

2017-01-01

Background For American college students, alcohol and cigarette use are important health concerns, and employment concurrent with school attendance is on the rise. Given the lifelong importance of employment and substance use trajectories begun in college, parsing out the relationship between the two is meaningful. Objectives This study’s purpose is to determine whether employment during college is associated with substance use. Methods Cross-sectional associations between employment (work hours, earnings) and substance use (drinking frequency, drinking quantity, smoking frequency) were estimated using partial proportional odds models in a sample of N=1457 freshmen attending a large, public 4-year university in 2011, after accounting for demographics, personality, social environment, and parental influences. Results Working 10 more hours and earning $50 more per week as a freshman had modest positive associations with higher smoking frequency and with moderate drinking frequency and quantity prior to adjustment. After adjustment, work hours remained modestly associated with moderate drinking frequency and quantity. No adjusted associations were found among employment measures and smoking or between weekly earnings and drinking frequency. Different relationships emerged for moderate versus heavy alcohol use frequency and quantity. Conclusions Both employment and substance use are commonplace among college freshmen. After extensive controls for potential confounders, the relationship between the two appears modest. Employment may yet play a role in college student substance use, but work hours and earnings are likely only small parts of a larger web of influences on drinking and smoking. PMID:27754728

Natural products phytotoxicity A bioassay suitable for small quantities of slightly water-soluble compounds.

PubMed

Dornbos, D L; Spencer, G F

1990-02-01

A large variety of secondary metabolites that can inhibit germination and/or seedling growth are produced by plants in low quantities. The objective of this study was to develop a bioassay capable of reliably assessing reductions in germination percentage and seedling length of small-seeded plant species caused by exposure to minute quantities of these compounds. The germination and growth of alfalfa (Medicago saliva), annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), and velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti) were evaluated against six known phytotoxins from five chemical classes; cinmethylin (a herbicidal cineole derivative) was selected as a comparison standard. Each phytotoxin, dissolved in a suitable organic solvent, was placed on water-agar in small tissue culture wells. After the solvent evaporated, imbibed seeds were placed on the agar; after three days, germination percentages and seedling lengths were measured. Compared to a commonly used filter paper procedure, this modified agar bioassay required smaller quantities of compound per seed for comparable bioassay results. This bioassay also readily permitted the measurement of seedling length, a more sensitive indicator of phytotoxicity than germination. Seedling length decreased sigmoidally as the toxin concentration increased logarithmically. Phytotoxicity was a function of both compound and plant species. Cinmethylin, a grass herbicide, reduced the length of annual ryegrass seedlings by 90-100%, whereas that of alfalfa and velvetleaf was inhibited slightly. The agar bioassay facilitated the rapid and reliable testing of slightly water-soluble compounds, requiring only minute quantities of each compound to give reproducible results.

Novel immunoassay formats for integrated microfluidic circuits: diffusion immunoassays (DIA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weigl, Bernhard H.; Hatch, Anson; Kamholz, Andrew E.; Yager, Paul

2000-03-01

Novel designs of integrated fluidic microchips allow separations, chemical reactions, and calibration-free analytical measurements to be performed directly in very small quantities of complex samples such as whole blood and contaminated environmental samples. This technology lends itself to applications such as clinical diagnostics, including tumor marker screening, and environmental sensing in remote locations. Lab-on-a-Chip based systems offer many *advantages over traditional analytical devices: They consume extremely low volumes of both samples and reagents. Each chip is inexpensive and small. The sampling-to-result time is extremely short. They perform all analytical functions, including sampling, sample pretreatment, separation, dilution, and mixing steps, chemical reactions, and detection in an integrated microfluidic circuit. Lab-on-a-Chip systems enable the design of small, portable, rugged, low-cost, easy to use, yet extremely versatile and capable diagnostic instruments. In addition, fluids flowing in microchannels exhibit unique characteristics ('microfluidics'), which allow the design of analytical devices and assay formats that would not function on a macroscale. Existing Lab-on-a-chip technologies work very well for highly predictable and homogeneous samples common in genetic testing and drug discovery processes. One of the biggest challenges for current Labs-on-a-chip, however, is to perform analysis in the presence of the complexity and heterogeneity of actual samples such as whole blood or contaminated environmental samples. Micronics has developed a variety of Lab-on-a-Chip assays that can overcome those shortcomings. We will now present various types of novel Lab- on-a-Chip-based immunoassays, including the so-called Diffusion Immunoassays (DIA) that are based on the competitive laminar diffusion of analyte molecules and tracer molecules into a region of the chip containing antibodies that target the analyte molecules. Advantages of this technique are a reduction in reagents, higher sensitivity, minimal preparation of complex samples such as blood, real-time calibration, and extremely rapid analysis.

MIG-seq: an effective PCR-based method for genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping using the next-generation sequencing platform

PubMed Central

Suyama, Yoshihisa; Matsuki, Yu

2015-01-01

Restriction-enzyme (RE)-based next-generation sequencing methods have revolutionized marker-assisted genetic studies; however, the use of REs has limited their widespread adoption, especially in field samples with low-quality DNA and/or small quantities of DNA. Here, we developed a PCR-based procedure to construct reduced representation libraries without RE digestion steps, representing de novo single-nucleotide polymorphism discovery, and its genotyping using next-generation sequencing. Using multiplexed inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers, thousands of genome-wide regions were amplified effectively from a wide variety of genomes, without prior genetic information. We demonstrated: 1) Mendelian gametic segregation of the discovered variants; 2) reproducibility of genotyping by checking its applicability for individual identification; and 3) applicability in a wide variety of species by checking standard population genetic analysis. This approach, called multiplexed ISSR genotyping by sequencing, should be applicable to many marker-assisted genetic studies with a wide range of DNA qualities and quantities. PMID:26593239

Technical note: Headspace analysis of explosive compounds using a novel sampling chamber.

PubMed

DeGreeff, Lauryn; Rogers, Duane A; Katilie, Christopher; Johnson, Kevin; Rose-Pehrsson, Susan

2015-03-01

The development of instruments and methods for explosive vapor detection is a continually evolving field of interest. A thorough understanding of the characteristic vapor signatures of explosive material is imperative for the development and testing of new and current detectors. In this research a headspace sampling chamber was designed to contain explosive materials for the controlled, reproducible sampling and characterization of vapors associated with these materials. In a detonation test, the chamber was shown to contain an explosion equivalent to three grams of trinitrotoluene (TNT) without damage to the chamber. The efficacy of the chamber in controlled headspace sampling was evaluated in laboratory tests with bulk explosive materials. Small quantities of TNT, triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and hexamethylene triperoxide diamine (HMTD) were separately placed in the sampling chamber, and the headspace of each material was analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) with online cryogenic trapping to yield characteristic vapor signatures for each explosive compound. Chamber sampling conditions, temperature and sampling time, were varied to demonstrate suitability for precise headspace analysis. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Importance sampling variance reduction for the Fokker–Planck rarefied gas particle method

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

Collyer, B.S., E-mail: benjamin.collyer@gmail.com; London Mathematical Laboratory, 14 Buckingham Street, London WC2N 6DF; Connaughton, C.

The Fokker–Planck approximation to the Boltzmann equation, solved numerically by stochastic particle schemes, is used to provide estimates for rarefied gas flows. This paper presents a variance reduction technique for a stochastic particle method that is able to greatly reduce the uncertainty of the estimated flow fields when the characteristic speed of the flow is small in comparison to the thermal velocity of the gas. The method relies on importance sampling, requiring minimal changes to the basic stochastic particle scheme. We test the importance sampling scheme on a homogeneous relaxation, planar Couette flow and a lid-driven-cavity flow, and find thatmore » our method is able to greatly reduce the noise of estimated quantities. Significantly, we find that as the characteristic speed of the flow decreases, the variance of the noisy estimators becomes independent of the characteristic speed.« less

Nutrients, suspended sediment, and pesticides in waters of the Red River of the North Basin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, 1970-90

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tornes, L.H.; Brigham, M.E.

1994-01-01

A relatively large fraction of stream samples had detectable quantities of 2,4-D, a- and y-HCH, and atrazine. These samples covered time spans of as much as 15 years and were from sites downstream from large drainage basins; however, concentrations were well below US EPA MCLs. One county-level study showed higher 2,4-D concentrations at upstream sites than at the outlet from a small basin. This indicates that downstream sites may fail to show impaired water-quality and the fate of pesticides used in the basin. Following the 1972 ban on DDT, concentrations of DDT in fish samples from the Red River of the North quickly decreased. Fish concentrations of DDE and DDD decreased more slowly. Low levels of DDE and DDD were detected in fish 14 years after the DDT ban.

77 FR 28259 - Mailings of Lithium Batteries

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-14

... containing lithium metal or lithium-ion cells or batteries and applies regardless of quantity, size, watt... ``lithium content'' for secondary lithium-ion batteries when describing maximum quantity limits. In addition...-ion (Rechargeable) Cells and Batteries [Revise 10.20.6 as follows:] Small consumer-type lithium-ion...

EBUS-TBNA Provides Highest RNA Yield for Multiple Biomarker Testing from Routinely Obtained Small Biopsies in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients - A Comparative Study of Three Different Minimal Invasive Sampling Methods

PubMed Central

Schmid-Bindert, Gerald; Wang, Yongsheng; Jiang, Hongbin; Sun, Hui; Henzler, Thomas; Wang, Hao; Pilz, Lothar R.; Ren, Shengxiang; Zhou, Caicun

2013-01-01

Background Multiple biomarker testing is necessary to facilitate individualized treatment of lung cancer patients. More than 80% of lung cancers are diagnosed based on very small tumor samples. Often there is not enough tissue for molecular analysis. We compared three minimal invasive sampling methods with respect to RNA quantity for molecular testing. Methods 106 small biopsies were prospectively collected by three different methods forceps biopsy, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA), and CT-guided core biopsy. Samples were split into two halves. One part was formalin fixed and paraffin embedded for standard pathological evaluation. The other part was put in RNAlater for immediate RNA/DNA extraction. If the pathologist confirmed the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC), the following molecular markers were tested: EGFR mutation, ERCC1, RRM1 and BRCA1. Results Overall, RNA-extraction was possible in 101 out of 106 patients (95.3%). We found 49% adenocarcinomas, 38% squamouscarcinomas, and 14% non-otherwise-specified(NOS). The highest RNA yield came from endobronchial ultrasound guided needle aspiration, which was significantly higher than bronchoscopy (37.74±41.09 vs. 13.74±15.53 ng respectively, P = 0.005) and numerically higher than CT-core biopsy (37.74±41.09 vs. 28.72±44.27 ng respectively, P = 0.244). EGFR mutation testing was feasible in 100% of evaluable patients and its incidence was 40.8%, 7.9% and 14.3% in adenocarcinomas, squamouscarcinomas and NSCLC NOS subgroup respectively. There was no difference in the feasibility of molecular testing between the three sampling methods with feasibility rates for ERCC1, RRM1 and BRCA1 of 91%, 87% and 81% respectively. Conclusion All three methods can provide sufficient tumor material for multiple biomarkers testing from routinely obtained small biopsies in lung cancer patients. In our study EBUS guided needle aspiration provided the highest amount of tumor RNA compared to bronchoscopy or CT guided core biopsy. Thus EBUS should be considered as an acceptable option for tissue acquisition for molecular testing. PMID:24205040

Improvements in sub-grid, microphysics averages using quadrature based approaches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chowdhary, K.; Debusschere, B.; Larson, V. E.

2013-12-01

Sub-grid variability in microphysical processes plays a critical role in atmospheric climate models. In order to account for this sub-grid variability, Larson and Schanen (2013) propose placing a probability density function on the sub-grid cloud microphysics quantities, e.g. autoconversion rate, essentially interpreting the cloud microphysics quantities as a random variable in each grid box. Random sampling techniques, e.g. Monte Carlo and Latin Hypercube, can be used to calculate statistics, e.g. averages, on the microphysics quantities, which then feed back into the model dynamics on the coarse scale. We propose an alternate approach using numerical quadrature methods based on deterministic sampling points to compute the statistical moments of microphysics quantities in each grid box. We have performed a preliminary test on the Kessler autoconversion formula, and, upon comparison with Latin Hypercube sampling, our approach shows an increased level of accuracy with a reduction in sample size by almost two orders of magnitude. Application to other microphysics processes is the subject of ongoing research.

Hoping for More: The Influence of Outcome Desirability on Information Seeking and Predictions about Relative Quantities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scherer, Aaron M.; Windschitl, Paul D.; O'Rourke, Jillian; Smith, Andrew R.

2012-01-01

People must often engage in sequential sampling in order to make predictions about the relative quantities of two options. We investigated how directional motives influence sampling selections and resulting predictions in such cases. We used a paradigm in which participants had limited time to sample items and make predictions about which side of…

Mineralogical, crystallographic and morphological characteristics of natural kaolins from the Ivory Coast (West Africa)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sei, J.; Morato, F.; Kra, G.; Staunton, S.; Quiquampoix, H.; Jumas, J. C.; Olivier-Fourcade, J.

2006-10-01

Thirteen clay samples from four deposits in the Ivory Coast (West Africa) were studied using X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and chemical analysis. Mineralogical, crystallographic and morphological characteristics of these samples are given. Kaolinite is the principal mineral but other minerals are present in small quantities: illite, quartz, anatase and iron oxides (oxides and oxyhydroxides). The crystallographic, morphological and surface characteristics are influenced by the presence of these impurities. In particular, the presence of iron oxides was associated with reduced structural ordering and thermal stability of kaolinite and increased specific surface area. These clays could be used in the ceramics industry to make tiles and bricks, and also in agronomy as supports for chemical fertilizers or for environmental protection by immobilising potentially toxic waste products.

Isolation and purification of rabbit mesenchymal stem cells using an optimized protocol.

PubMed

Lin, Chunbo; Shen, Maorong; Chen, Weiping; Li, Xiaofeng; Luo, Daoming; Cai, Jinhong; Yang, Yuan

2015-11-01

Mesenchymal stem cells were first isolated and grown in vitro by Friedenstein over 40 yr ago; however, their isolation remains challenging as they lack unique markers for identification and are present in very small quantities in mesenchymal tissues and bone marrow. Using whole marrow samples, common methods for mesenchymal stem cell isolation are the adhesion method and density gradient fractionation. The whole marrow sample adhesion method still results in the nonspecific isolation of mononuclear cells, and activation and/or potential loss of target cells. Density gradient fractionation methods are complicated, and may result in contamination with toxic substances that affect cell viability. In the present study, we developed an optimized protocol for the isolation and purification of mesenchymal stem cells based on the principles of hypotonic lysis and natural sedimentation.

Hydrodynamic Electron Flow and Hall Viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scaffidi, Thomas; Moll, Philip; Kushwaha, Pallavi; Nandi, Nabhanila; Schmidt, Burkhard; MacKenzie, Andrew; Moore, Joel

In metallic samples of small enough size and sufficiently strong electron-electron scattering, the viscosity of the electron gas can become the dominant process governing transport. In this regime, momentum is a long-lived quantity whose evolution is described by an emergent hydrodynamical theory for which bounds on diffusion were conjectured based on an holographic correspondence. Furthermore, breaking time-reversal symmetry can lead to the appearance of an odd component to the viscosity called the Hall viscosity which has attracted a lot of attention recently due to its quantized nature in gapped systems but still eludes experimental confirmation. Based on microscopic calculations, we discuss how to measure the effects of both the even and odd components of the viscosity using hydrodynamic electronic transport in mesoscopic samples under applied magnetic fields. Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.

Aposematism in Archips cerasivoranus not linked to the sequestration of host-derived cyanide.

PubMed

Fitzgerald, T D; Stevens, M A; Miller, S; Jeffers, P

2008-10-01

This study addressed the question of how caterpillars of Archips cerasivoranus feeding upon Prunus virginiana cope with the cyanogenic compounds of their food. Analysis by ion chromatography showed that young and aged leaves of P. virginiana consumed by the caterpillars during spring have hydrogen cyanide potentials (HCN-ps) of 2,473 +/- 130 ppm and 1,058 +/- 98 ppm, respectively. Although less than 3% of the cyanide released as the caterpillars feed escapes into the atmosphere, the larva's bright-yellow aposematic coloration and conspicuous activity can not be attributed to the sequestration of cyanide. Only six of 25 samples of the caterpillars' defensive regurgitants collected from 12 field colonies contained cyanide (17.6 +/- 6.54 ppm), less than 5% of the quantity previously reported to occur in the regurgitant of the tent caterpillar M. americanum. Only seven of 13 caterpillars assayed had detectable quantities of cyanide in their bodies (3.9 +/- 0.9 ppm). The fecal pellets that encase the cocoon contained no cyanide, nor did the frass that litters the leaf shelters. The small quantities of cyanide that occur in the caterpillar compared to the HCN-p of ingested plant material appear attributable to paced bouts of feeding and the maintenance of a highly alkaline foregut that inhibits cyanogenesis.

The Dynamics of Pheromone Gland Synthesis and Release: a Paradigm Shift for Understanding Sex Pheromone Quantity in Female Moths.

PubMed

Foster, Stephen P; Anderson, Karin G; Casas, Jérôme

2018-05-10

Moths are exemplars of chemical communication, especially with regard to specificity and the minute amounts they use. Yet, little is known about how females manage synthesis and storage of pheromone to maintain release rates attractive to conspecific males and why such small amounts are used. We developed, for the first time, a quantitative model, based on an extensive empirical data set, describing the dynamical relationship among synthesis, storage (titer) and release of pheromone over time in a moth (Heliothis virescens). The model is compartmental, with one major state variable (titer), one time-varying (synthesis), and two constant (catabolism and release) rates. The model was a good fit, suggesting it accounted for the major processes. Overall, we found the relatively small amounts of pheromone stored and released were largely a function of high catabolism rather than a low rate of synthesis. A paradigm shift may be necessary to understand the low amounts released by female moths, away from the small quantities synthesized to the (relatively) large amounts catabolized. Future research on pheromone quantity should focus on structural and physicochemical processes that limit storage and release rate quantities. To our knowledge, this is the first time that pheromone gland function has been modeled for any animal.

SAFETY ANALYSIS REPORT FOR PACKAGING, MODEL 9977, ADDENDUM 3, JUSTIFICATION FOR SMALL GRAM QUANTITY CONTENTS

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

Abramczyk, G.

2011-10-31

This Addendum establishes a new family of content envelopes consisting of small quantities of radioactive materials. These content envelopes and specific packing configurations are shown to be subcritical. However, the dose rates of some payloads must be measured and shown to comply with applicable radiation limits. Authorization for shipment of the content envelop requires acceptance of this Addendum by the DOE-HQ certifying official as a supplement to the 9977 SARP Revision 2 and DOE-HQ's subsequent revision of the CoC Revision 10 (which is based on SARP Addendum 2 and SARP Addendum 4) to authorize the additional content envelope. The Smallmore » Gram Quantity Content Envelopes and packing configurations will be incorporated in the next revision of the 9977 SARP.« less

A law of order estimation and leading-order terms for a family of averaged quantities on a multibaker chain system

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

Ishida, Hideshi, E-mail: ishida@me.es.osaka-u.ac.jp

2014-06-15

In this study, a family of local quantities defined on each partition and its averaging on a macroscopic small region, site, are defined on a multibaker chain system. On its averaged quantities, a law of order estimation in the bulk system is proved, making it possible to estimate the order of the quantities with respect to the representative partition scale parameter Δ. Moreover, the form of the leading-order terms of the averaged quantities is obtained, and the form enables us to have the macroscopic quantity in the continuum limit, as Δ → 0, and to confirm its partitioning independency. Thesemore » deliverables fully explain the numerical results obtained by Ishida, consistent with the irreversible thermodynamics.« less

Small-volume potentiometric titrations: EPR investigations of Fe-S cluster N2 in mitochondrial complex I.

PubMed

Wright, John J; Salvadori, Enrico; Bridges, Hannah R; Hirst, Judy; Roessler, Maxie M

2016-09-01

EPR-based potentiometric titrations are a well-established method for determining the reduction potentials of cofactors in large and complex proteins with at least one EPR-active state. However, such titrations require large amounts of protein. Here, we report a new method that requires an order of magnitude less protein than previously described methods, and that provides EPR samples suitable for measurements at both X- and Q-band microwave frequencies. We demonstrate our method by determining the reduction potential of the terminal [4Fe-4S] cluster (N2) in the intramolecular electron-transfer relay in mammalian respiratory complex I. The value determined by our method, E m7 =-158mV, is precise, reproducible, and consistent with previously reported values. Our small-volume potentiometric titration method will facilitate detailed investigations of EPR-active centres in non-abundant and refractory proteins that can only be prepared in small quantities. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Modality-independent representations of small quantities based on brain activation patterns.

PubMed

Damarla, Saudamini Roy; Cherkassky, Vladimir L; Just, Marcel Adam

2016-04-01

Machine learning or MVPA (Multi Voxel Pattern Analysis) studies have shown that the neural representation of quantities of objects can be decoded from fMRI patterns, in cases where the quantities were visually displayed. Here we apply these techniques to investigate whether neural representations of quantities depicted in one modality (say, visual) can be decoded from brain activation patterns evoked by quantities depicted in the other modality (say, auditory). The main finding demonstrated, for the first time, that quantities of dots were decodable by a classifier that was trained on the neural patterns evoked by quantities of auditory tones, and vice-versa. The representations that were common across modalities were mainly right-lateralized in frontal and parietal regions. A second finding was that the neural patterns in parietal cortex that represent quantities were common across participants. These findings demonstrate a common neuronal foundation for the representation of quantities across sensory modalities and participants and provide insight into the role of parietal cortex in the representation of quantity information. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Platinum/Tin Oxide/Silica Gel Catalyst Oxidizes CO

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Upchurch, Billy T.; Davis, Patricia P.; Schryer, David R.; Miller, Irvin M.; Brown, David; Van Norman, John D.; Brown, Kenneth G.

1991-01-01

Heterogeneous catalyst of platinum, tin oxide, and silica gel combines small concentrations of laser dissociation products, CO and O2, to form CO22 during long times at ambient temperature. Developed as means to prevent accumulation of these products in sealed CO2 lasers. Effective at ambient operating temperatures and installs directly in laser envelope. Formulated to have very high surface area and to chemisorb controlled quantities of moisture: chemisorbed water contained within and upon its structure, makes it highly active and very longlived so only small quantity needed for long times.

Transfer of Invasive Species Associated with the Movement of Military Equipment and Personnel

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-07-01

are examples of each type of violation, and what actions to take upon discovery of the violation. 3.7.1. Petty Violations: 3.7.1.1. Pornographic ...ERDC/EL TR-07-8 64 4.5.2.1. Pornographic magazines 4.5.2.2. A small quantity of an unauthorized war trophy. 4.5.2.3. Ammunition. 4.5.2.4. A...upon discovery of the violation. 5.6.2. Petty Violations: 5.6.2.1. Pornographic magazines 5.6.2.2. A small quantity of an unauthorized war trophy

A colorimeter for measurement of picomole quantities of urea.

PubMed

Vurek, G G; Knepper, M A

1982-04-01

We described a new colorimeter for the measurement of picomole quantities of urea in nanoliter volume fluid samples. The diacetyl monoxime reaction was used to produce a colored product from urea. The method is capable of resolving differences of 10 pmoles between samples containing 0 to 225 pmoles.

7 CFR 17.5 - Contracts between commodity suppliers and importers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... substantial increase in freight costs to the participant; (B) For small quantities offered at additional... purposes of this section, “lowest landed cost” means the combination of commodity price and ocean freight... the quantity which must be shipped on privately owned U.S.-flag commercial vessels, as determined by...

7 CFR 17.5 - Contracts between commodity suppliers and importers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... substantial increase in freight costs to the participant; (B) For small quantities offered at additional... purposes of this section, “lowest landed cost” means the combination of commodity price and ocean freight... the quantity which must be shipped on privately owned U.S.-flag commercial vessels, as determined by...

7 CFR 17.5 - Contracts between commodity suppliers and importers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... substantial increase in freight costs to the participant; (B) For small quantities offered at additional... purposes of this section, “lowest landed cost” means the combination of commodity price and ocean freight... the quantity which must be shipped on privately owned U.S.-flag commercial vessels, as determined by...

7 CFR 17.5 - Contracts between commodity suppliers and importers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... substantial increase in freight costs to the participant; (B) For small quantities offered at additional... purposes of this section, “lowest landed cost” means the combination of commodity price and ocean freight... the quantity which must be shipped on privately owned U.S.-flag commercial vessels, as determined by...

Determining lead, cadmium and mercury in cosmetics using sweeping via dynamic chelation by capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Chen, Kuan-Ling; Jiang, Shiuh-Jen; Chen, Yen-Ling

2017-03-01

International limits have been established for metal impurities in cosmetics to prevent overexposure to heavy metal ions. Sweeping via dynamic chelation was developed using capillary electrophoresis to analyze lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) impurities in cosmetics. The sweeping via dynamic chelation mechanism involves a large volume of metal ions being swept by a small quantity of chelating agents that were electrokinetically injected into the capillary to chelate metal ions and increase the detection sensitivity. The optimized conditions were as follows: Firstly, the capillary was rinsed by a 0.6 mM TTAB solution to reverse the EOF. The sample solution, which was diluted using 25 mM ammonium acetate (pH 6.0), was injected into the capillary using a pressure of 3.5 psi for 99.9 s. Then, EDTA was injected at -25 kV for 1 min from the EDTA buffer (25 mM ammonium acetate containing 0.6 mM TTAB and 5 mM EDTA), and the metal ions were swept and stacked simultaneously. Finally, the separation was performed at -20 kV using a separation buffer (100 mM ammonium acetate (pH 6.0)). A small quantity of chelating agents introduced into the capillary could yield 33-, 50- and 100-fold detection improvements for Pb, Cd and Hg, respectively, more sensitive than conventional capillary zone electrophoresis. Correlation coefficients greater than 0.998 indicated that this method exhibited good linearity. The relative standard deviation and relative error were less than 8.7%, indicating high precision and accuracy. The recovery value of the homemade lotion, which was employed to simulate the real sample matrix, was 93-104%, which indicated that the sample matrix does not affect the quantitative results. Finally, commercial cosmetics were employed to demonstrate the feasibility of the method to determine Pb, Cd and Hg without complicated sample pretreatment. Graphical Abstract The procedure of analyzing metal ions in cosmetics by sweeping via dynamic chelation.

Improved method for analysis of RNA present in long-term preserved thyroid cancer tissue of atomic bomb survivors.

PubMed

Hamatani, Kiyohiro; Eguchi, Hidetaka; Mukai, Mayumi; Koyama, Kazuaki; Taga, Masataka; Ito, Reiko; Hayashi, Yuzo; Nakachi, Kei

2010-01-01

Since many thyroid cancer tissue samples from atomic bomb (A-bomb) survivors have been preserved for several decades as unbuffered formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens, molecular oncological analysis of such archival specimens is indispensable for clarifying the mechanisms of thyroid carcinogenesis in A-bomb survivors. Although RET gene rearrangements are the most important targets, it is a difficult task to examine all of the 13 known types of RET gene rearrangements with the use of the limited quantity of RNA that has been extracted from invaluable paraffin-embedded tissue specimens of A-bomb survivors. In this study, we established an improved 5' rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) method using a small amount of RNA extracted from archival thyroid cancer tissue specimens. Three archival thyroid cancer tissue specimens from three different patients were used as in-house controls to determine the conditions for an improved switching mechanism at 5' end of RNA transcript (SMART) RACE method; one tissue specimen with RET/PTC1 rearrangement and one with RET/PTC3 rearrangement were used as positive samples. One other specimen, used as a negative sample, revealed no detectable expression of the RET gene tyrosine kinase domain. We established a 5' RACE method using an amount of RNA as small as 10 ng extracted from long-term preserved, unbuffered formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded thyroid cancer tissue by application of SMART technology. This improved SMART RACE method not only identified common RET gene rearrangements, but also isolated a clone containing a 93-bp insert of rare RTE/PTC8 in RNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded thyroid cancer specimens from one A-bomb survivor who had been exposed to a high radiation dose. In addition, in the papillary thyroid cancer of another high-dose A-bomb survivor, this method detected one novel type of RET gene rearrangement whose partner gene is acyl coenzyme A binding domain 5, located on chromosome 10p. We conclude that our improved SMART RACE method is expected to prove useful in molecular analyses using archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples of limited quantity.

A semi-nested real-time PCR method to detect low chimerism percentage in small quantity of hematopoietic stem cell transplant DNA samples.

PubMed

Aloisio, Michelangelo; Bortot, Barbara; Gandin, Ilaria; Severini, Giovanni Maria; Athanasakis, Emmanouil

2017-02-01

Chimerism status evaluation of post-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation samples is essential to predict post-transplant relapse. The most commonly used technique capable of detecting small increments of chimerism is quantitative real-time PCR. Although this method is already used in several laboratories, previously described protocols often lack sensitivity and the amount of the DNA required for each chimerism analysis is too high. In the present study, we compared a novel semi-nested allele-specific real-time PCR (sNAS-qPCR) protocol with our in-house standard allele-specific real-time PCR (gAS-qPCR) protocol. We selected two genetic markers and analyzed technical parameters (slope, y-intercept, R2, and standard deviation) useful to determine the performances of the two protocols. The sNAS-qPCR protocol showed better sensitivity and precision. Moreover, the sNAS-qPCR protocol requires, as input, only 10 ng of DNA, which is at least 10-fold less than the gAS-qPCR protocols described in the literature. Finally, the proposed sNAS-qPCR protocol could prove very useful for performing chimerism analysis with a small amount of DNA, as in the case of blood cell subsets.

Identification of proteins in renaissance paintings by proteomics.

PubMed

Tokarski, Caroline; Martin, Elisabeth; Rolando, Christian; Cren-Olivé, Cécile

2006-03-01

The presented work proposes a new methodology based on proteomics techniques to identify proteins in old art paintings. The main challenging tasks of this work were (i) to find appropriate conditions for extracting proteins from the binding media without protein hydrolysis in amino acids and (ii) to develop analytical methods adapted to the small sample quantity available. Starting from microsamples of painting models (ovalbumin-based, which is the major egg white protein, and egg-based paintings), multiple extraction solutions (HCl, HCOOH, NH3, NaOH) and conditions (ultrasonic bath, mortar and pestle, grinding resin) were evaluated. The best results were obtained using a commercial kit including a synthetic resin, mortar and pestle to grind the sample in an aqueous solution acidified with trifluoroacetic acid at 1% with additional multiple steps of ultrasonic baths. The resulting supernatant was analyzed by MALDI-TOF in linear mode to verify the efficiency of the extraction solution. An enzymatic hydrolysis step was also performed for protein identification; the peptide mixture was analyzed by nanoLC/nanoESI/Q-q-TOF MS/MS with an adapted chromatographic run for the low sample quantity. Finally, the developed methodology was successfully applied to Renaissance art painting microsamples of approximately 10 microg from Benedetto Bonfigli's triptych, The Virgin and Child, St. John the Baptist, St. Sebastian (XVth century), and Niccolo di Pietro Gerini's painting, The Virgin and Child (XIVth century), identifying, for the first time and without ambiguity, the presence of whole egg proteins (egg yolk and egg white) in a painting binder.

Interpretation of frequency modulation atomic force microscopy in terms of fractional calculus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sader, John E.; Jarvis, Suzanne P.

2004-07-01

It is widely recognized that small amplitude frequency modulation atomic force microscopy probes the derivative of the interaction force between tip and sample. For large amplitudes, however, such a physical connection is currently lacking, although it has been observed that the frequency shift presents a quantity intermediate to the interaction force and energy for certain force laws. Here we prove that these observations are a universal property of large amplitude frequency modulation atomic force microscopy, by establishing that the frequency shift is proportional to the half-fractional integral of the force, regardless of the force law. This finding indicates that frequency modulation atomic force microscopy can be interpreted as a fractional differential operator, where the order of the derivative/integral is dictated by the oscillation amplitude. We also establish that the measured frequency shift varies systematically from a probe of the force gradient for small oscillation amplitudes, through to the measurement of a quantity intermediate to the force and energy (the half-fractional integral of the force) for large oscillation amplitudes. This has significant implications to measurement sensitivity, since integrating the force will smooth its behavior, while differentiating it will enhance variations. This highlights the importance in choice of oscillation amplitude when wishing to optimize the sensitivity of force spectroscopy measurements to short-range interactions and consequently imaging with the highest possible resolution.

Nebulization Reflux Concentrator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cofer, Wesley R., III; Collins, V. G.

1986-01-01

Nebulization reflux concentrator extracts and concentrates trace quantities of water-soluble gases for subsequent chemical analysis. Hydrophobic membrane and nebulizing nozzles form scrubber for removing trace quantities of soluble gases or other contaminants from atmosphere. Although hydrophobic membrane virtually blocks all transport of droplets, it offers little resistance to gas flow; hence, device permits relatively large volumes of gas scrubbed efficiently with very small volumes of liquid. This means analyzable quantities of contaminants concentrate in extracting solutions in much shorter times than with conventional techniques.

Characterization of small microsatellite loci isolated in endangered Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) for use in non-invasive sampling

USGS Publications Warehouse

Oyler-McCance, Sara J.; Fike, Jennifer A.

2011-01-01

Primers for 10 microsatellite loci were developed specifically to amplify low quantity and quality DNA in the endangered Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis). In a screen of 20 individuals from a population in Missouri, the 10 loci were found to have levels of variability ranging from seven to 18 alleles. No loci were found to be linked, although two loci revealed significant departures from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. These microsatellite loci will be applicable for population genetic analyses and for use in mark-recapture studies that utilize DNA collected non-invasively from fecal pellets, which will ultimately aid in management efforts.

DEVILS DEN ROADLESS AREA, VERMONT.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Slack, John F.; Sabin, Andrew E.

1984-01-01

A mineral-resource survey was made of the Devils Den Roadless Area, Vermont, Geochemical sampling found traces of gold, copper, barium, lead, molybdenum, silver, tin, and thorium in rocks, stream sediments, and panned concentrates, but not in sufficient quantities to identify any resource potential. The only apparent resources are nonmetallic commodities including abundant rock suitable for crushihg, and very small deposits of sand and gravel and marble; these also occur outside the roadless area. The area was also evaluated for bedrock uranium and thorium deposits, but not anomalously high radioactive bedrock was found. A potential may exist for oil or natural gas at great depth, but this cannot be evaluated by the present study.

The 'relics of Joan of Arc': a forensic multidisciplinary analysis.

PubMed

Charlier, P; Poupon, J; Eb, A; De Mazancourt, P; Gilbert, T; Huynh-Charlier, I; Loublier, Y; Verhille, A M; Moulheirat, C; Patou-Mathis, M; Robbiola, L; Montagut, R; Masson, F; Etcheberry, A; Brun, L; Willerslev, E; de la Grandmaison, G Lorin; Durigon, M

2010-01-30

Archaeological remains can provide concrete cases, making it possible to develop, refine or validate medico-legal techniques. In the case of the so-called 'Joan of Arc's relics' (a group of bone and archaeological remains known as the 'Bottle of Chinon'), 14 specialists analysed the samples such as a cadaver X of carbonised aspect: forensic anthropologist, medical examiners, pathologists, geneticists, radiologist, biochemists, palynologists, zoologist and archaeologist. Materials, methods and results of this study are presented here. This study aims to offer an exploitable methodology for the modern medico-legal cases of small quantities of human bones of carbonised aspect. 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of equipment performance on data quality from the National Atmospheric Deposition Program/National Trends Network and the Mercury Deposition Network

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wetherbee, Gregory A.; Rhodes, Mark F.

2013-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey Branch of Quality Systems operates the Precipitation Chemistry Quality Assurance project (PCQA) to provide independent, external quality-assurance for the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP). NADP is composed of five monitoring networks that measure the chemical composition of precipitation and ambient air. PCQA and the NADP Program Office completed five short-term studies to investigate the effects of equipment performance with respect to the National Trends Network (NTN) and Mercury Deposition Network (MDN) data quality: sample evaporation from NTN collectors; sample volume and mercury loss from MDN collectors; mercury adsorption to MDN collector glassware, grid-type precipitation sensors for precipitation collectors, and the effects of an NTN collector wind shield on sample catch efficiency. Sample-volume evaporation from an NTN Aerochem Metrics (ACM) collector ranged between 1.1–33 percent with a median of 4.7 percent. The results suggest that weekly NTN sample evaporation is small relative to sample volume. MDN sample evaporation occurs predominantly in western and southern regions of the United States (U.S.) and more frequently with modified ACM collectors than with N-CON Systems Inc. collectors due to differences in airflow through the collectors. Variations in mercury concentrations, measured to be as high as 47.5 percent per week with a median of 5 percent, are associated with MDN sample-volume loss. Small amounts of mercury are also lost from MDN samples by adsorption to collector glassware irrespective of collector type. MDN 11-grid sensors were found to open collectors sooner, keep them open longer, and cause fewer lid cycles than NTN 7-grid sensors. Wind shielding an NTN ACM collector resulted in collection of larger quantities of precipitation while also preserving sample integrity.

Origin of variolitic lavas: Evidence for variolites in axial part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, 6oN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharkov, Evgenii; Krssivskaya, Irina; Chistyakov, Alexei

2010-05-01

Fragment of variolitic lavas was dredged in axial part of the MAR at 6oN during 10th cruise of R/V "Akademik Ioffe" (2001-2002). It is rock where rounded globules of andesite (icelandite) with light trachyandesite rims are enclosed in high-Ti picrobasalt matrix. The sample can be subdivided in two different structural parts, or "layers". One of them densely saturated by globules, which closely adjoin to each other, merge in clumpy congregations with small quantity of matrix material in interstices. In the other part of the sample matrix predominates. Isolated, sometimes sticked together globules "swim" in the matrix and their quantity and size quickly decrease to the sample edge, where only small rare globules occur. Boundary between both parts, even if irregular due to rounded shape of closed globules, nevertheless is well-defined and has small bays of the matrix material. So, globules were moved in picrobasalt melt and floated up to the surface of the lava flow. It is shown that formation of the leucocratic rims was evidently linked with thermal diffusion phenomenon (Soret principle) in cooling heterogeneous melt. According to this principle, components in solutions and melts, placed in thermal gradient, are redistributed for leveling of internal energy in that way, when light elements migrate to hot parts and heavy ones to cold. Experimental studies of thermal diffusion in samples of MORB showed enlarge of Si, Al, Na and K concentration to side of hot area of melt and Fe, Mg, Ca, etc. to cold one; resulting melts were Qtz-normative andesites and Ne-normative picrite (Walker, DeLong, 1982). The same picture we saw in our sample: enrichment of external zone of globules by Si, Al, and, especially, by high-mobile Na, which diffusion rate in silicate melts in some order higher than speed of remaining elements (Watson, 1982; Borisov, 2008). Simultaneously, this zone impoverished by Fe, Ca and Mg, which were concentrated in rear of rims, forming internal zoning of globules with careless boundaries. Effect of thermal diffusion in more important for Fe; as a result #mg in trachyandesite rims higher than in andesite cores of globules. It suggests that origin of variolites was linked with intersection by ascended column of picrobasaltic magma of existed at that time in crust above small shallow magmatic chamber with residual melt of andesite (icelandite) in composition, which was involved in general upwards current. Because ascending of magmas in axial part of the MAR was whirl (Sharkov et al., 2008), alien melt was dispersed on small drops, but, however, had not time to dissolved in host picrite melt. Formation of proper variolites was occurred in process of moving and cooling of such heterogeneous lava on oceanic floor.. From this follows that axial parts of low-spreading ridges have very complicate structure, where different melts can coexist. There are no any evidence of liquid immiscibility the variolite origin The same petrological features are typical for classic Paleoproterozoic variolites of the Yal-Guba, Onega Lake, Karelia, which are also pillow-lavas. They were firstly described by F.Yu. Levinson-Lessing in 1920th. We conclude that variolite formation are linked with complex magmatic systems where small shallow magma chambers with evolved melt were intersected by streams of new magma portions from deep-seated source. Indispensable condition for variolites is contrasting composition of the magmas which allow to clearly see this phenomenon.

Birthday Cake Activity Structured Arrangement for Helping Children Determining Quantities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mariana, Neni

2010-01-01

Few researches have been concerned about relation between children's spatial thinking and number sense. Narrowing for this small research, we focused on one component of spatial thinking, that is structuring objects, and one component of number senses, that is cardinality by determining quantities. This study focused on a design research that was…

Separation of the Carotenoid Bixin from Annatto Seeds Using Thin-Layer and Column Chromatography

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCullagh, James V.; Ramos, Nicholas

2008-01-01

In this experiment the carotenoid bixin is isolated from annatto ("Bixa orellana") seeds using column chromatography. The experiment has several key advantages over previous pigment separation experiments. First, unlike other experiments significant quantities of the carotenoid (typically 20 to 25 mg) can be isolated from small quantities of plant…

Infants Make Quantity Discriminations for Substances

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hespos, Susan J.; Dora, Begum; Rips, Lance J.; Christie, Stella

2012-01-01

Infants can track small groups of solid objects, and infants can respond when these quantities change. But earlier work is equivocal about whether infants can track continuous substances, such as piles of sand. Experiment 1 ("N" = 88) used a habituation paradigm to show infants can register changes in the size of piles of sand that they…

IODINE AND THE THYROID

PubMed Central

Swingle, W. W.

1919-01-01

1. Amphibian metamorphosis depends upon the amount of iodine secured by the larvæ; the greater the quantity the more rapid the differentiation. 2. Bromine is physiologically inert when fed even in large quantities to frog larvæ, hence it cannot be substituted for iodine. Bromine feeding has no effect on the thyroid. 3. Iodine is the active constituent of the thyroid gland, in the Anura at any rate, and functions within the body by stimulating intracellular oxidations; it is apparently specific in its action. 4. The basal metabolism of patients suffering from athyreosis, whose metabolism is 40 per cent below normal, is very likely held at this figure and prevented from sinking lower to the death point by the introduction of iodine into the body through food and water. 5. The thyroid gland is an organ the function of which is the extraction from the circulation, storage, and supplying to the organism, under the pressure of its needs, the small quantities of iodine taken into the body. The chief function of this gland then is the utilization of iodine in small quantities. PMID:19871773

Rapid DNA analysis for automated processing and interpretation of low DNA content samples.

PubMed

Turingan, Rosemary S; Vasantgadkar, Sameer; Palombo, Luke; Hogan, Catherine; Jiang, Hua; Tan, Eugene; Selden, Richard F

2016-01-01

Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis of casework samples with low DNA content include those resulting from the transfer of epithelial cells from the skin to an object (e.g., cells on a water bottle, or brim of a cap), blood spatter stains, and small bone and tissue fragments. Low DNA content (LDC) samples are important in a wide range of settings, including disaster response teams to assist in victim identification and family reunification, military operations to identify friend or foe, criminal forensics to identify suspects and exonerate the innocent, and medical examiner and coroner offices to identify missing persons. Processing LDC samples requires experienced laboratory personnel, isolated workstations, and sophisticated equipment, requires transport time, and involves complex procedures. We present a rapid DNA analysis system designed specifically to generate STR profiles from LDC samples in field-forward settings by non-technical operators. By performing STR in the field, close to the site of collection, rapid DNA analysis has the potential to increase throughput and to provide actionable information in real time. A Low DNA Content BioChipSet (LDC BCS) was developed and manufactured by injection molding. It was designed to function in the fully integrated Accelerated Nuclear DNA Equipment (ANDE) instrument previously designed for analysis of buccal swab and other high DNA content samples (Investigative Genet. 4(1):1-15, 2013). The LDC BCS performs efficient DNA purification followed by microfluidic ultrafiltration of the purified DNA, maximizing the quantity of DNA available for subsequent amplification and electrophoretic separation and detection of amplified fragments. The system demonstrates accuracy, precision, resolution, signal strength, and peak height ratios appropriate for casework analysis. The LDC rapid DNA analysis system is effective for the generation of STR profiles from a wide range of sample types. The technology broadens the range of sample types that can be processed and minimizes the time between sample collection, sample processing and analysis, and generation of actionable intelligence. The fully integrated Expert System is capable of interpreting a wide range or sample types and input DNA quantities, allowing samples to be processed and interpreted without a technical operator.

Effect of genetic and nongenetic factors on chemical composition of individual milk samples from dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) under intensive management.

PubMed

Nagy, P; Fábri, Zs N; Varga, L; Reiczigel, J; Juhász, J

2017-11-01

The aims of the present study were to monitor the changes in gross chemical composition of individual dromedary camel milk over a 5-yr period, to provide reference values, and to determine the effect of genetic and nongenetic factors influencing camel milk composition under intensive management. A total of 1,528 lactating dromedary camels were included in the study. Animals were fed a constant diet and were milked twice a day in a herringbone parlor. Milk samples were collected at monthly intervals using a sampling device and then fat, protein, lactose, total solids (TS), and solids-nonfat (SNF) concentrations of raw camel milk were determined with an automatic milk analyzer. For each milk sample, production parameters were recorded and quantities (grams) of milk constituents were calculated. The overall mean quantity and fat, protein, lactose, SNF, and TS concentrations of the morning milk were 4.0 kg, 2.58%, 2.95%, 4.19%, 8.08%, and 10.46%, respectively. Milk quantity showed a positive correlation with lactose and a negative correlation with all other components. Parity exerted a strong effect on all milk parameters. Primiparous dromedaries (n = 60) produced less milk with higher concentrations of components than did multiparous animals (n = 1,468). Milk composition varied among the 7 breeds tested, but none of the genotypes was found to be superior to the others in this respect. We detected a significant, yet small calf sex-biased difference in milk yield and composition. Stage of lactation and season strongly influenced milk yield and all milk components. We also found a significant interaction between month postpartum (mPP) and month of the year. The concentration of all milk components decreased from 1 to 5 mPP. Later, lactose concentration and quantity continued to decrease parallel with decreasing milk production. The concentration of other components showed a temporary increase in mid lactation, from 6 to 11 mPP, and in late lactation, from 18 to 23 mPP. Mean fat, protein, SNF, and TS concentrations showed a high seasonal variation (9.5 to 28.7%), with the lowest and highest values being measured during summer and winter, respectively. This seasonal variation was independent of nutrition and may reflect an endogenous circannual rhythm. We observed a noticeable variation among years. Dromedary camels could provide a useful in vivo model to study the homeorhetic regulation of mammary cell function by endogenous and environmental factors. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sensitive determination of phenolic acids in extra-virgin olive oil by capillary zone electrophoresis.

PubMed

Carrasco Pancorbo, Alegría; Cruces-Blanco, Carmen; Segura Carretero, Antonio; Fernández Gutiérrez, Alberto

2004-11-03

A sensitive, rapid, efficient, and reliable method for the separation and determination of phenolic acids by capillary zone electrophoresis has been carried out. A detailed method optimization was carried out to separate 14 different compounds by studying parameters such as pH, type and concentration of buffer, applied voltage, and injection time. The separation was performed within 16 min, using a 25 mM sodium borate buffer (pH 9.6) at 25 kV with 8 s of hydrodynamic injection. With this method and using a liquid-liquid extraction system, with recovery values around 95%, it has been possible to detect small quantities of phenolic acids in olive oil samples. This is apparently the first paper showing the quantification of this specific family of phenolic compounds in virgin olive oil samples.

Testing of commonly used mixing and sampling procedures to evaluate fertilizer blends prepared with matched and mismatched particle sizes.

PubMed

Hall, William L; Ramsey, Charles; Falls, J Harold

2014-01-01

Bulk blending of dry fertilizers is a common practice in the United States and around the world. This practice involves the mixing (either physically or volumetrically) of concentrated, high analysis raw materials. Blending is followed by bagging (for small volume application such as lawn and garden products), loading into truck transports, and spreading. The great majority of bulk blended products are not bagged but handled in bulk and transferred from the blender to a holding hopper. The product is then transferred to a transport vehicle, which may, or may not, also be a spreader. If the primary transport vehicle is not a spreader, then there is another transfer at the user site to a spreader for application. Segregation of materials that are mismatched due to size, density, or shape is an issue when attempting to effectively sample or evenly spread bulk blended products. This study, prepared in coordination with and supported by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Fertilizer and Agrochemical Association, looks at the impact of varying particle size as it relates to blending, sampling, and application of bulk blends. The study addresses blends containing high ratios of N-P-K materials and varying (often small) quantities of the micronutrient Zn.

Bayesian pedigree inference with small numbers of single nucleotide polymorphisms via a factor-graph representation.

PubMed

Anderson, Eric C; Ng, Thomas C

2016-02-01

We develop a computational framework for addressing pedigree inference problems using small numbers (80-400) of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Our approach relaxes the assumptions, which are commonly made, that sampling is complete with respect to the pedigree and that there is no genotyping error. It relies on representing the inferred pedigree as a factor graph and invoking the Sum-Product algorithm to compute and store quantities that allow the joint probability of the data to be rapidly computed under a large class of rearrangements of the pedigree structure. This allows efficient MCMC sampling over the space of pedigrees, and, hence, Bayesian inference of pedigree structure. In this paper we restrict ourselves to inference of pedigrees without loops using SNPs assumed to be unlinked. We present the methodology in general for multigenerational inference, and we illustrate the method by applying it to the inference of full sibling groups in a large sample (n=1157) of Chinook salmon typed at 95 SNPs. The results show that our method provides a better point estimate and estimate of uncertainty than the currently best-available maximum-likelihood sibling reconstruction method. Extensions of this work to more complex scenarios are briefly discussed. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Modified T-history method for measuring thermophysical properties of phase change materials at high temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Omaraa, Ehsan; Saman, Wasim; Bruno, Frank; Liu, Ming

2017-06-01

Latent heat storage using phase change materials (PCMs) can be used to store large amounts of energy in a narrow temperature difference during phase transition. The thermophysical properties of PCMs such as latent heat, specific heat and melting and solidification temperature need to be defined at high precision for the design and estimating the cost of latent heat storage systems. The existing laboratory standard methods, such as differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), use a small sample size (1-10 mg) to measure thermophysical properties, which makes these methods suitable for homogeneous elements. In addition, this small amount of sample has different thermophysical properties when compared with the bulk sample and may have limitations for evaluating the properties of mixtures. To avoid the drawbacks in existing methods, the temperature - history (T-history) method can be used with bulk quantities of PCM salt mixtures to characterize PCMs. This paper presents a modified T-history setup, which was designed and built at the University of South Australia to measure the melting point, heat of fusion, specific heat, degree of supercooling and phase separation of salt mixtures for a temperature range between 200 °C and 400 °C. Sodium Nitrate (NaNO3) was used to verify the accuracy of the new setup.

Quantity and quality of ground-water discharge to the South Platte River, Denver to Fort Lupton, Colorado, August 1992 through July 1993

USGS Publications Warehouse

McMahon, P.B.; Lull, K.J.; Dennehy, K.F.; Collins, J.A.

1995-01-01

Water-quality studies conducted by the Metro Wastewater Reclamation District have indicated that during low flow in segments of the South Platte River between Denver and Fort Lupton, concentrations of dissolved oxygen are less than minimum concen- trations set by the State of Colorado. Low dissolved-oxygen concentrations are observed in two reaches of the river-they are about 3.3 to 6.4 miles and 17 to 25 miles downstream from the Metro Waste- water Reclamation District effluent outfalls. Concentrations of dissolved oxygen recover between these two reaches. Studies conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey have indicated that ground-water discharge to the river may contribute to these low dissolved-oxygen concentrations. As a result, an assessment was made of the quantity and quality of ground-water discharge to the South Platte River from Denver to Fort Lupton. Measurements of surface- water and ground-water discharge and collections of surface water and ground water for water-quality analyses were made from August 1992 through January 1993 and in May and July 1993. The quantity of ground-water discharge to the South Platte River was determined indirectly by mass balance of surface-water inflows and outflows and directly by instantaneous measurements of ground-water discharge across the sediment/water interface in the river channel. The quality of surface water and ground water was determined by sampling and analysis of water from the river and monitoring wells screened in the alluvial aquifer adjacent to the river and by sampling and analysis of water from piezometers screened in sediments underlying the river channel. The ground-water flow system was subdivided into a large-area and a small-area flow system. The precise boundaries of the two flow systems are not known. However, the large-area flow system is considered to incorporate all alluvial sediments in hydrologic connection with the South Platte River. The small- area flow system is considered to incorporate the alluvial aquifer in the vicinity of the river. Flow-path lengths in the large-area flow system were considered to be on the order of hundreds of feet to more than a mile, whereas in the small-area flow system, they were considered to be on the order of feet to hundreds of feet. Mass-balance estimates of incremental ground-water discharge from the large- area flow system ranged from -27 to 17 cubic feet per second per mile in three reaches of the river; the median rate was 4.6 cubic feet per second per mile. The median percentage of surface-water discharge derived from ground-water discharge in the river reaches studied was 13 percent. Instantaneous measurements of ground-water discharge from the small-area flow system ranged from -1,360 to 1,000 cubic feet per second per mile, with a median value of -5.8 cubic feet per second per mile. Hourly measurements of discharge from the small-area flow system indicated that the high rates of discharge were transient and may have been caused by daily fluctuations in river stage due to changing effluent-discharge rates from the Metro Wastewater Reclamation District treatment plant. Higher river stages caused surface water to infiltrate bed sediments underlying the river channel, and lower river stages allowed ground water to discharge into the river. Although stage changes apparently cycled large quantities of water in and out of the small- area flow system, the process probably provided no net gain or loss of water to the river. In general, mass balance and instantaneous measurements of ground-water discharge indicated that the ground- water flow system in the vicinity of the river consisted of a large-area flow system that provided a net addition of water to the river and a small- area flow system that cycled water in and out of the riverbed sediments, but provided no net addition of water to the river. The small-area flow system was superimposed on the large-area flow system. The median values of pH and dissolved oxygen

Water resources of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

USGS Publications Warehouse

Handy, A.H.; Stark, J.R.

1984-01-01

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in a water-rich area. It borders Lake Michigan and several small streams flow through the park to the lake. Small lakes are numerous within the park and near its boundaries. Ground water is available at most places in the park and wells yield as much as 100 gallons per minute. Water from streams, lakes, wells, and springs is of good quality. Dissolved solids range from 35 to 180 mg/L in lakes, from 145 to 214 mg/L in streams, and from 136 to 468 mg/L in groundwater. Analyses of samples for pesticides and trace metals indicate that no pesticides are present in the water, and that concentrations of trace metals do not exceed recommended drinking-water standards. Surface and ground water are available in sufficient quantity in most areas of the park for the development of water supplies for visitor 's centers, campgrounds, picnic areas, and other park facilities.

SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC DETERMINATION OF ULTRA-SMALL QUANTITIES OF NICKEL IN INDIUM (in Russian)

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

Peshkova, V.M.; Bochkova, V.M.; Astakhova, E.K.

1961-09-01

alpha -Benzil doxime permits the determination of nickel by measuring optical density in the region of maximum absortption (at 275 m mu ), after the reagent excess is removed by washing the extract with alkali. Conditions were found for the spectrophotometric determination of ultra-small quantities (down to 0.005 gamma ) of nickel with alpha -benzil dioxime in the soultion of its pure salt, in the presence of cobalt and copper. A method was developed for the determination of traces of nickel down to 5 x 10 /sup -7%/ in metallic indium. The reproducibility of method is +25%. (auth)

Quantities for assessing high photon doses to the body: a calculational approach.

PubMed

Eakins, Jonathan S; Ainsbury, Elizabeth A

2018-06-01

Tissue reactions are the most clinically significant consequences of high-dose exposures to ionising radiation. However, currently there is no universally recognized dose quantity that can be used to assess and report generalised risks to individuals following whole body exposures in the high-dose range. In this work, a number of potential dose quantities are presented and discussed, with mathematical modelling techniques employed to compare them and explore when their differences are most or least manifest. The results are interpreted to propose the average (D GRB ) of the absorbed doses to the stomach, small intestine, red bone marrow, and brain as the optimum quantity for informing assessments of risk. A second, maximally conservative dose quantity (D Max ) is also suggested, which places limits on any under-estimates resulting from the adoption of D GRB . The primary aim of this work is to spark debate, with further work required to refine the final choice of quantity or quantities most appropriate for the full range of different potential exposure scenarios.

Memory for Multiple Cache Locations and Prey Quantities in a Food-Hoarding Songbird

PubMed Central

Armstrong, Nicola; Garland, Alexis; Burns, K. C.

2012-01-01

Most animals can discriminate between pairs of numbers that are each less than four without training. However, North Island robins (Petroica longipes), a food-hoarding songbird endemic to New Zealand, can discriminate between quantities of items as high as eight without training. Here we investigate whether robins are capable of other complex quantity discrimination tasks. We test whether their ability to discriminate between small quantities declines with (1) the number of cache sites containing prey rewards and (2) the length of time separating cache creation and retrieval (retention interval). Results showed that subjects generally performed above-chance expectations. They were equally able to discriminate between different combinations of prey quantities that were hidden from view in 2, 3, and 4 cache sites from between 1, 10, and 60 s. Overall results indicate that North Island robins can process complex quantity information involving more than two discrete quantities of items for up to 1 min long retention intervals without training. PMID:23293622

Memory for multiple cache locations and prey quantities in a food-hoarding songbird.

PubMed

Armstrong, Nicola; Garland, Alexis; Burns, K C

2012-01-01

Most animals can discriminate between pairs of numbers that are each less than four without training. However, North Island robins (Petroica longipes), a food-hoarding songbird endemic to New Zealand, can discriminate between quantities of items as high as eight without training. Here we investigate whether robins are capable of other complex quantity discrimination tasks. We test whether their ability to discriminate between small quantities declines with (1) the number of cache sites containing prey rewards and (2) the length of time separating cache creation and retrieval (retention interval). Results showed that subjects generally performed above-chance expectations. They were equally able to discriminate between different combinations of prey quantities that were hidden from view in 2, 3, and 4 cache sites from between 1, 10, and 60 s. Overall results indicate that North Island robins can process complex quantity information involving more than two discrete quantities of items for up to 1 min long retention intervals without training.

Proteomic Challenges: Sample Preparation Techniques for Microgram-Quantity Protein Analysis from Biological Samples

PubMed Central

Feist, Peter; Hummon, Amanda B.

2015-01-01

Proteins regulate many cellular functions and analyzing the presence and abundance of proteins in biological samples are central focuses in proteomics. The discovery and validation of biomarkers, pathways, and drug targets for various diseases can be accomplished using mass spectrometry-based proteomics. However, with mass-limited samples like tumor biopsies, it can be challenging to obtain sufficient amounts of proteins to generate high-quality mass spectrometric data. Techniques developed for macroscale quantities recover sufficient amounts of protein from milligram quantities of starting material, but sample losses become crippling with these techniques when only microgram amounts of material are available. To combat this challenge, proteomicists have developed micro-scale techniques that are compatible with decreased sample size (100 μg or lower) and still enable excellent proteome coverage. Extraction, contaminant removal, protein quantitation, and sample handling techniques for the microgram protein range are reviewed here, with an emphasis on liquid chromatography and bottom-up mass spectrometry-compatible techniques. Also, a range of biological specimens, including mammalian tissues and model cell culture systems, are discussed. PMID:25664860

Dissolved metals and associated constituents in abandoned coal-mine discharges, Pennsylvania, USA. Part 1: Constituent quantities and correlations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cravotta, C.A.

2008-01-01

Complete hydrochemical data are rarely reported for coal-mine discharges (CMD). This report summarizes major and trace-element concentrations and loadings for CMD at 140 abandoned mines in the Anthracite and Bituminous Coalfields of Pennsylvania. Clean-sampling and low-level analytical methods were used in 1999 to collect data that could be useful to determine potential environmental effects, remediation strategies, and quantities of valuable constituents. A subset of 10 sites was resampled in 2003 to analyze both the CMD and associated ochreous precipitates; the hydrochemical data were similar in 2003 and 1999. In 1999, the flow at the 140 CMD sites ranged from 0.028 to 2210 L s-1, with a median of 18.4 L s-1. The pH ranged from 2.7 to 7.3; concentrations (range in mg/L) of dissolved (0.45-??m pore-size filter) SO4 (34-2000), Fe (0.046-512), Mn (0.019-74), and Al (0.007-108) varied widely. Predominant metalloid elements were Si (2.7-31.3 mg L-1), B ( C > P = N = Se) were not elevated in the CMD samples compared to average river water or seawater. Compared to seawater, the CMD samples also were poor in halogens (Cl > Br > I > F), alkalies (Na > K > Li > Rb > Cs), most alkaline earths (Ca > Mg > Sr), and most metalloids but were enriched by two to four orders of magnitude with Fe, Al, Mn, Co, Be, Sc, Y and the lanthanide rare-earth elements, and one order of magnitude with Ni and Zn. The ochre samples collected at a subset of 10 sites in 2003 were dominantly goethite with minor ferrihydrite or lepidocrocite. None of the samples for this subset contained schwertmannite or was Al rich, but most contained minor aluminosilicate detritus. Compared to concentrations in global average shale, the ochres were rich in Fe, Ag, As and Au, but were poor in most other metals and rare earths. The ochres were not enriched compared to commercial ore deposits mined for Au or other valuable metals. Although similar to commercial Fe ores in composition, the ochres are dispersed and present in relatively small quantities at most sites. Nevertheless, the ochres could be valuable for use as pigment.

Operation and cost of a small dehumidification dry kiln

Treesearch

Richard D. Bergman

2008-01-01

Obtaining small quantities of custom kiln-dried lumber can be an expensive process for an individual woodworker. Building and operating a small kiln capable of drying custom cuts of lumber (such as slabs, bowl blanks) gives woodworkers another option. Our approach was to build and operate a small dehumidification dry kiln. The four charges of lumber ranged from 600 to...

Analytical test results for archived core composite samples from tanks 241-TY-101 and 241-TY-103

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

Beck, M.A.

1993-07-16

This report describes the analytical tests performed on archived core composite samples form a 1.085 sampling of the 241-TY-101 (101-TY) and 241-TY-103 (103-TY) single shell waste tanks. Both tanks are suspected of containing quantities of ferrocyanide compounds, as a result of process activities in the late 1950`s. Although limited quantities of the composite samples remained, attempts were made to obtain as much analytical information as possible, especially regarding the chemical and thermal properties of the material.

Laser capture microdissection of embryonic cells and preparation of RNA for microarray assays.

PubMed

Redmond, Latasha C; Pang, Christopher J; Dumur, Catherine; Haar, Jack L; Lloyd, Joyce A

2014-01-01

In order to compare the global gene expression profiles of different embryonic cell types, it is first necessary to isolate the specific cells of interest. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a step-by-step protocol to perform laser capture microdissection (LCM) on embryo samples and obtain sufficient amounts of high-quality RNA for microarray hybridizations. Using the LCM/microarray strategy on mouse embryo samples has some challenges, because the cells of interest are available in limited quantities. The first step in the protocol is to obtain embryonic tissue, and immediately cryoprotect and freeze it in a cryomold containing Optimal Cutting Temperature freezing media (Sakura Finetek), using a dry ice-isopentane bath. The tissue is then cryosectioned, and the microscope slides are processed to fix, stain, and dehydrate the cells. LCM is employed to isolate specific cell types from the slides, identified under the microscope by virtue of their morphology. Detailed protocols are provided for using the currently available ArcturusXT LCM instrument and CapSure(®) LCM Caps, to which the selected cells adhere upon laser capture. To maintain RNA integrity, upon removing a slide from the final processing step, or attaching the first cells on the LCM cap, LCM is completed within 20 min. The cells are then immediately recovered from the LCM cap using a denaturing solution that stabilizes RNA integrity. RNA is prepared using standard methods, modified for working with small samples. To ensure the validity of the microarray data, the quality of the RNA is assessed using the Agilent bioanalyzer. Only RNA that is of sufficient integrity and quantity is used to perform microarray assays. This chapter provides guidance regarding troubleshooting and optimization to obtain high-quality RNA from cells of limited availability, obtained from embryo samples by LCM.

PIXE and PGAA - Complementary methods for studies on ancient glass artefacts (from Byzantine, late medieval to modern Murano glass)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Constantinescu, Bogdan; Cristea-Stan, Daniela; Szőkefalvi-Nagy, Zoltán; Kovács, Imre; Harsányi, Ildikó; Kasztovszky, Zsolt

2018-02-01

Combined external milli-beam Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) and Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis (PGAA) analysis was applied to characterize the composition of paste and colorants from some fragments of Byzantine bracelets (10th-12th Centuries AD), late medieval (17th-18th Centuries AD) and modern Murano glass pieces. As fluxes, PGAA revealed the samples are soda-lime glass, except four samples - two medieval vessel white shards and two dark Byzantine fragments of bracelets - which have potash flux. Aluminium was detected in various proportions in all samples indicating different sources for the added sand. The presence of Magnesium is relevant only in one bracelet fragment suggesting the use of plant (wood?) ash and confirming that the Byzantine bracelet is manufactured from the mixture of both types of glass (natron and plant ash based). PGAA also indicated the presence of low quantities of Cadmium, high level of Arsenic and Lead (possibly lead arsenate) in one medieval sample and of ZnO in Murano glass, and of CoO traces (maximum 0.1%) in all blue-colored Byzantine, late medieval to modern Murano glass artefacts. PIXE confirmed the use of small quantities of CoO for blue color, indicated Manganese combined with Iron for dark glass, Copper for green, Lead, Tin and an Arsenic compound (orpiment?) for yellow and in the case of modern Murano glass Selenium and Cadmium to obtain a reddish color. Despite PIXE - PIGE combination is probably the best one for glass analysis, our external milli-PIXE - PGAA methods proved to be adequate complementary tools to determine many chemical elements from glass composition - Si, Na, K, Ca, Al, Mg, various metallic oxides.

Laser Capture Microdissection of Embryonic Cells and Preparation of RNA for Microarray Assays

PubMed Central

Redmond, Latasha C.; Pang, Christopher J.; Dumur, Catherine; Haar, Jack L.; Lloyd, Joyce A.

2014-01-01

In order to compare the global gene expression profiles of different embryonic cell types, it is first necessary to isolate the specific cells of interest. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a step-by-step protocol to perform laser capture microdissection (LCM) on embryo samples and obtain sufficient amounts of high-quality RNA for microarray hybridizations. Using the LCM/microarray strategy on mouse embryo samples has some challenges, because the cells of interest are available in limited quantities. The first step in the protocol is to obtain embryonic tissue, and immediately cryoprotect and freeze it in a cryomold containing Optimal Cutting Temperature freezing media (Sakura Finetek), using a dry ice–isopentane bath. The tissue is then cryosectioned, and the microscope slides are processed to fix, stain, and dehydrate the cells. LCM is employed to isolate specific cell types from the slides, identified under the microscope by virtue of their morphology. Detailed protocols are provided for using the currently available ArcturusXT LCM instrument and CapSure® LCM Caps, to which the selected cells adhere upon laser capture. To maintain RNA integrity, upon removing a slide from the final processing step, or attaching the first cells on the LCM cap, LCM is completed within 20 min. The cells are then immediately recovered from the LCM cap using a denaturing solution that stabilizes RNA integrity. RNA is prepared using standard methods, modified for working with small samples. To ensure the validity of the microarray data, the quality of the RNA is assessed using the Agilent bioanalyzer. Only RNA that is of sufficient integrity and quantity is used to perform microarray assays. This chapter provides guidance regarding troubleshooting and optimization to obtain high-quality RNA from cells of limited availability, obtained from embryo samples by LCM. PMID:24318813

Preparation, purification and analyses of thirteen alkali-stable dinucleotides from ribonucleic acid

PubMed Central

Trim, A. R.; Parker, Janet E.

1970-01-01

Of the 16 alkali-stable dinucleotides known to be obtained by hydrolysis of commercial yeast RNA with alkali, 13 were prepared in quantities of the order of 10mg or more. The samples, with only one exception, contain at least 90% of dinucleotide, and spectroscopic constants and nucleotide-sequence determinations, although not conclusive, indicate a high degree of purity of these products. The small dinucleotide fraction in 150g of RNA hydrolysed with alkali (1–2% of the total nucleotides) was separated from the mononucleotides by stepwise ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE-cellulose columns and resolved into seven fractions containing from one to four different dinucleotides by electrophoresis on paper at pH3.0. These fractions were resolved into their constituent dinucleotides by chromatography in ammonium sulphate. Contamination of the products by impurities from the paper was minimized by washing it before using it for chromatography or electrophoresis and, by using a thick grade of paper (Whatman no. 17), it was possible to handle and purify relatively large quantities of nucleotides. PMID:5435489

The effect of urban green on small-area (healthy) life expectancy.

PubMed

Jonker, M F; van Lenthe, F J; Donkers, B; Mackenbach, J P; Burdorf, A

2014-10-01

Several epidemiological studies have investigated the effect of the quantity of green space on health outcomes such as self-rated health, morbidity and mortality ratios. These studies have consistently found positive associations between the quantity of green and health. However, the impact of other aspects, such as the perceived quality and average distance to public green, and the effect of urban green on population health are still largely unknown. Linear regression models were used to investigate the impact of three different measures of urban green on small-area life expectancy (LE) and healthy life expectancy (HLE) in The Netherlands. All regressions corrected for average neighbourhood household income, accommodated spatial autocorrelation, and took measurement uncertainty of LE, HLE as well as the quality of urban green into account. Both the quantity and the perceived quality of urban green are modestly related to small-area LE and HLE: an increase of 1 SD in the percentage of urban green space is associated with a 0.1-year higher LE, and, in the case of quality of green, with an approximately 0.3-year higher LE and HLE. The average distance to the nearest public green is unrelated to population health. The quantity and particularly quality of urban green are positively associated with small-area LE and HLE. This concurs with a growing body of evidence that urban green reduces stress, stimulates physical activity, improves the microclimate and reduces ambient air pollution. Accordingly, urban green development deserves a more prominent place in urban regeneration and neighbourhood renewal programmes. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Effects of selected low-impact-development (LID) techniques on water quality and quantity in the Ipswich River Basin, Massachusetts-Field and modeling studies

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zimmerman, Marc J.; Barbaro, Jeffrey R.; Sorenson, Jason R.; Waldron, Marcus C.

2010-01-01

During the months of August and September, flows in the Ipswich River, Massachusetts, dramatically decrease largely due to groundwater withdrawals needed to meet increased residential and commercial water demands. In the summer, rates of groundwater recharge are lower than during the rest of the year, and water demands are higher. From 2005 to 2008, the U.S. Geological Survey, in a cooperative funding agreement with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, monitored small-scale installations of low-impact-development (LID) enhancements designed to diminish the effects of storm runoff on the quantity and quality of surface water and groundwater. Funding for the studies also was contributed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Targeted Watersheds Grant Program through a financial assistance agreement with Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. The monitoring studies examined the effects of (1) replacing an impervious parking lot surface with a porous surface on groundwater quality, (2) installing rain gardens and porous pavement in a neighborhood of 3 acres on the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff, and (3) installing a 3,000-square foot (ft2) green roof on the quantity and quality of stormwater runoff. In addition, the effects of broad-scale implementation of LID techniques, reduced water withdrawals, and water-conservation measures on streamflow in large areas of the basin were simulated using the U.S. Geological Survey's Ipswich River Basin model. From June 2005 to 2007, groundwater quality was monitored at the Silver Lake town beach parking lot in Wilmington, MA, prior to and following the replacement of the conventional, impervious-asphalt surface with a porous surface consisting primarily of porous asphalt and porous pavers. Changes in the concentrations of the water-quality constituents, phosphorus, nitrogen, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, nickel, zinc, and total petroleum hydrocarbons, were monitored. Increased infiltration of precipitation did not result in discernible increases in concentrations of these potential groundwater contaminants. Concentrations of dissolved oxygen increased slightly in groundwater profiles following the removal of the impervious asphalt parking lot surface. In Wilmington, MA, in a 3-acre neighborhood, stormwater runoff volume and quality were monitored to determine the ability of selected LID enhancements (rain gardens and porous paving stones) to reduce flows and loads of the above constituents to Silver Lake. Flow-proportional water-quality samples were analyzed for nutrients, metals, total petroleum hydrocarbons, and total-coliform and Escherichia coli bacteria. In general, when all storms were considered, no substantial decreases were observed in runoff volume as a result of installing LID enhancements. However, the relation between rainfall and runoff did provide some insight into how the LID enhancements affected the effective impervious area for the neighborhood. A decrease in runoff was observed for storms of 0.2 inches (in.) or less of precipitation, which indicated a reduction in effective impervious area from approximately 10 percent to about 4.5 percent for the 3-acre area. Water-quality-monitoring results were inconclusive; there were no statistically significant differences in concentrations or loads when the pre- and post-installation-period samples were compared. Three factors were probably most important in minimizing differences: (1) the small decrease in effective impervious area, (2) the differences in the size of storms sampled for water-quality constituents before and after installation of the infiltration enhancing measures, and (3) small sample sizes. In a third field study, the characteristics of runoff from a vegetated 'green' roof and a conventional, rubber-membrane roof were compared. The amount of precipitation and the length of the antecedent dry period were the two primary factors affecting the gre

A new small-angle X-ray scattering set-up on the crystallography beamline I711 at MAX-lab.

PubMed

Knaapila, M; Svensson, C; Barauskas, J; Zackrisson, M; Nielsen, S S; Toft, K N; Vestergaard, B; Arleth, L; Olsson, U; Pedersen, J S; Cerenius, Y

2009-07-01

A small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) set-up has recently been developed at beamline I711 at the MAX II storage ring in Lund (Sweden). An overview of the required modifications is presented here together with a number of application examples. The accessible q range in a SAXS experiment is 0.009-0.3 A(-1) for the standard set-up but depends on the sample-to-detector distance, detector offset, beamstop size and wavelength. The SAXS camera has been designed to have a low background and has three collinear slit sets for collimating the incident beam. The standard beam size is about 0.37 mm x 0.37 mm (full width at half-maximum) at the sample position, with a flux of 4 x 10(10) photons s(-1) and lambda = 1.1 A. The vacuum is of the order of 0.05 mbar in the unbroken beam path from the first slits until the exit window in front of the detector. A large sample chamber with a number of lead-throughs allows different sample environments to be mounted. This station is used for measurements on weakly scattering proteins in solutions and also for colloids, polymers and other nanoscale structures. A special application supported by the beamline is the effort to establish a micro-fluidic sample environment for structural analysis of samples that are only available in limited quantities. Overall, this work demonstrates how a cost-effective SAXS station can be constructed on a multipurpose beamline.

Evaluation of the composition of the binder bridges in matrix granules prepared with a small-scale high-shear granulator.

PubMed

Bajdik, János; Baki, Gabriella; Szent-Királlyi, Zsuzsanna; Knop, Klaus; Kleinebudde, Peter; Pintye-Hódi, Klára

2008-11-04

The aim of this work was to evaluate the binder bridges which can form in hydrophilic matrix granules prepared with a small-scale high-shear granulator. Matrices contained hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) as a matrix-forming agent, together with lactose monohydrate and microcrystalline cellulose as filler. Water was used as granulating liquid. A 2(4) full factorial design was used to evaluate the effects of the operational parameters (impeller speed, chopper speed, dosing speed and wet massing time) on the granulation process. The temperature of the sample increased relevantly during the preparation in the small-scale apparatus. The same setup induced different temperature increases for different amounts of powder. This alteration enhances the solubility of lactose and decreases that of HPMC, and thus the quantities of the dissolved components can vary. Accordingly, changes in composition of the binder bridge can occur. Since exact determination of the dissolution of these materials during granulation is difficult, the consequences of the changes in solubility were examined. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermomechanical analysis (TMA) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements were made to evaluate the films prepared from liquids with different ratios of soluble materials. The DSC and XRD measurements confirmed that the lactose lost its crystalline state in the film. The TMA tests revealed that increase of the quantity of lactose in the film decreased the glass transition temperature of the film; this may be attributed to the interaction of the additives. At a lactose content of 37.5%, a second glass transition appeared. This phenomenon may be indicative of a separate amorphous lactose phase.

Immediate Small Number Perception : Evidence from a New Numerical Carry-Over Procedure

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Demeyere, Nele; Humphreys, Glyn W.

2012-01-01

Evidence is presented for the immediate apprehension of exact small quantities. Participants performed a quantification task (are the number of items greater or smaller than?), and carry-over effects were examined between numbers requiring the same response. Carry-over effects between small numbers were strongly affected by repeats of pattern and…

Progress Towards an Indirect Neutron Capture Capability at LANSCE

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

Koehler, Paul E.; Ullmann, John Leonard; Couture, Aaron Joseph

2017-09-20

There are many neutron-capture cross sections of importance to radiochemical diagnostics and nuclear forensics which are beyond the reach of direct measurements. Hence, we have been developing an apparatus on flight path (FP) 13 at target 1 at LANSCE for tightly constraining these cross sections via determination of the underlying physical quantities. FP-13 was initially a cold-neutron beam line for materials science and therefore required substantial modification for use for nuclear physics. In FY17, we made several improvements to FP-13, demonstrated improved performance due to these changes via measurements on a variety of samples, identified a few more needed improvements,more » and reconfigured the beam line to implement the most important of these. New measurements to assess the impact of the most recent improvement will commence when beam is restored to LANSCE. Although FP-13 has not yet reached the performance required for small radioactive samples, measurements on a gold sample have led to an important science result which we are preparing for publication.« less

Quantifying adsorption-induced deformation of nanoporous materials on different length scales

PubMed Central

Morak, Roland; Braxmeier, Stephan; Ludescher, Lukas; Hüsing, Nicola; Reichenauer, Gudrung

2017-01-01

A new in situ setup combining small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and dilatometry was used to measure water-adsorption-induced deformation of a monolithic silica sample with hierarchical porosity. The sample exhibits a disordered framework consisting of macropores and struts containing two-dimensional hexagonally ordered cylindrical mesopores. The use of an H2O/D2O water mixture with zero scattering length density as an adsorptive allows a quantitative determination of the pore lattice strain from the shift of the corresponding diffraction peak. This radial strut deformation is compared with the simultaneously measured macroscopic length change of the sample with dilatometry, and differences between the two quantities are discussed on the basis of the deformation mechanisms effective at the different length scales. It is demonstrated that the SANS data also provide a facile way to quantitatively determine the adsorption isotherm of the material by evaluating the incoherent scattering contribution of H2O at large scattering vectors. PMID:29021735

Nonlinear electrodynamics of high-temperature superconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zutic, Igor

We investigate the effects of nonlinear electrodynamics in unconventional superconductors. These effects can serve as fingerprints to identify the symmetry of the superconducting pairing state and to provide information about the unknown pairing mechanism in High Temperature Superconductors (HTSC). In the Meissner regime, at low temperatures, a nonlinear magnetic response arises from the presence of lines on the Fermi surface where the superconducting energy gap is very small or zero. This can be used to perform "node spectroscopy", that is, as a sensitive bulk probe to locate the angular position of those lines. We first compute the nonlinear magnetic moment as a function of applied field and geometry, assuming d-wave pairing and anisotropic penetration depth, for realistic finite sample. Our novel, numerically implemented, perturbative procedure exploits the small ratio of the penetration depths to the sample size and substantially reduces the computational work required. We next generalize these considerations to other candidates for the energy gap and to perform node spectroscopy. In calculating the nonlinear supercurrent response, we include the effects of orthorhombic distortion and a-b plane anisotropy. Analytic results presented demonstrate a systematic way to experimentally distinguish order parameters of different symmetries, including cases with mixed symmetry (for example, d+s and s+id). We finally extend our findings to the case of low frequency harmonic magnetic field. The nonlinear magnetic response for various physical quantities generates higher harmonics of the frequency of the applied field. We discuss how examination of the field and angular dependences of these harmonics allows determination of the structure of the energy gap. We show how to distinguish nodes from small minima ("quasinodes"). Gaps with nodal lines give rise to universal power law field dependences for the nonlinear magnetic moment and torque. They both have separable temporal and angular dependences. In contrast, with gap functions which only have quasinodes, these quantities do not display power laws in the applied field, and their temporal and angular dependences are not separable. We discuss how to perform measurements so as to maximize the nonlinear signal, and how to determine the gap function symmetry.

What Per Cent Cruise?

Treesearch

George M. Furnival

1953-01-01

Cruising timber is ordinarily a job of sampling, in which the quantity of timber on a tract is estimated from the quantity on a part of the tract. The difficulty is to determine what part (per cent) of the tract should be sampled to attain a given level of accuracy. This article gives a rule-ofthumb that can be applied with fair reliability to most Southern forests....

Coxiella burnetii Infections in Small Ruminants and Humans in Switzerland.

PubMed

Magouras, I; Hunninghaus, J; Scherrer, S; Wittenbrink, M M; Hamburger, A; Stärk, K D C; Schüpbach-Regula, G

2017-02-01

The recent Q fever epidemic in the Netherlands raised concerns about the potential risk of outbreaks in other European countries. In Switzerland, the prevalence of Q fever in animals and humans has not been studied in recent years. In this study, we describe the current situation with respect to Coxiella (C.) burnetii infections in small ruminants and humans in Switzerland, as a basis for future epidemiological investigations and public health risk assessments. Specific objectives of this cross-sectional study were to (i) estimate the seroprevalence of C. burnetii in sheep and goats, (ii) quantify the amount of bacteria shed during abortion and (iii) analyse temporal trends in human C. burnetii infections. The seroprevalence of C. burnetii in small ruminants was determined by commercial ELISA from a representative sample of 100 sheep flocks and 72 goat herds. Herd-level seroprevalence was 5.0% (95% CI: 1.6-11.3) for sheep and 11.1% (95% CI: 4.9-20.7) for goats. Animal-level seroprevalence was 1.8% (95% CI: 0.8-3.4) for sheep and 3.4% (95% CI: 1.7-6) for goats. The quantification of C. burnetii in 97 ovine and caprine abortion samples by real-time PCR indicated shedding of >10 4 bacteria/g in 13.4% of all samples tested. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting C. burnetii quantities in a large number of small ruminant abortion samples. Annual human Q fever serology data were provided by five major Swiss laboratories. Overall, seroprevalence in humans ranged between 1.7% and 3.5% from 2007 to 2011, and no temporal trends were observed. Interestingly, the two laboratories with significantly higher seroprevalences are located in the regions with the largest goat populations as well as, for one laboratory, with the highest livestock density in Switzerland. However, a direct link between animal and human infection data could not be established in this study. © 2015 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

The endothelial sample size analysis in corneal specular microscopy clinical examinations.

PubMed

Abib, Fernando C; Holzchuh, Ricardo; Schaefer, Artur; Schaefer, Tania; Godois, Ronialci

2012-05-01

To evaluate endothelial cell sample size and statistical error in corneal specular microscopy (CSM) examinations. One hundred twenty examinations were conducted with 4 types of corneal specular microscopes: 30 with each BioOptics, CSO, Konan, and Topcon corneal specular microscopes. All endothelial image data were analyzed by respective instrument software and also by the Cells Analyzer software with a method developed in our lab. A reliability degree (RD) of 95% and a relative error (RE) of 0.05 were used as cut-off values to analyze images of the counted endothelial cells called samples. The sample size mean was the number of cells evaluated on the images obtained with each device. Only examinations with RE < 0.05 were considered statistically correct and suitable for comparisons with future examinations. The Cells Analyzer software was used to calculate the RE and customized sample size for all examinations. Bio-Optics: sample size, 97 ± 22 cells; RE, 6.52 ± 0.86; only 10% of the examinations had sufficient endothelial cell quantity (RE < 0.05); customized sample size, 162 ± 34 cells. CSO: sample size, 110 ± 20 cells; RE, 5.98 ± 0.98; only 16.6% of the examinations had sufficient endothelial cell quantity (RE < 0.05); customized sample size, 157 ± 45 cells. Konan: sample size, 80 ± 27 cells; RE, 10.6 ± 3.67; none of the examinations had sufficient endothelial cell quantity (RE > 0.05); customized sample size, 336 ± 131 cells. Topcon: sample size, 87 ± 17 cells; RE, 10.1 ± 2.52; none of the examinations had sufficient endothelial cell quantity (RE > 0.05); customized sample size, 382 ± 159 cells. A very high number of CSM examinations had sample errors based on Cells Analyzer software. The endothelial sample size (examinations) needs to include more cells to be reliable and reproducible. The Cells Analyzer tutorial routine will be useful for CSM examination reliability and reproducibility.

Estimating risk and rate levels, ratios and differences in case-control studies.

PubMed

King, Gary; Zeng, Langche

2002-05-30

Classic (or 'cumulative') case-control sampling designs do not admit inferences about quantities of interest other than risk ratios, and then only by making the rare events assumption. Probabilities, risk differences and other quantities cannot be computed without knowledge of the population incidence fraction. Similarly, density (or 'risk set') case-control sampling designs do not allow inferences about quantities other than the rate ratio. Rates, rate differences, cumulative rates, risks, and other quantities cannot be estimated unless auxiliary information about the underlying cohort such as the number of controls in each full risk set is available. Most scholars who have considered the issue recommend reporting more than just risk and rate ratios, but auxiliary population information needed to do this is not usually available. We address this problem by developing methods that allow valid inferences about all relevant quantities of interest from either type of case-control study when completely ignorant of or only partially knowledgeable about relevant auxiliary population information.

Grain-size analysis of volcanic ash for the rapid assessment of respiratory health hazard.

PubMed

Horwell, Claire J

2007-10-01

Volcanic ash has the potential to cause acute and chronic respiratory diseases if the particles are sufficiently fine to enter the respiratory system. Characterization of the grain-size distribution (GSD) of volcanic ash is, therefore, a critical first step in assessing its health hazard. Quantification of health-relevant size fractions is challenging without state-of-the-art technology, such as the laser diffractometer. Here, several methods for GSD characterization for health assessment are considered, the potential for low-cost measurements is investigated and the first database of health-pertinent GSD data is presented for a suite of ash samples from around the world. Methodologies for accurate measurement of the GSD of volcanic ash by laser diffraction are presented by experimental analysis of optimal refractive indices for different magmatic compositions. Techniques for representative sampling of small quantities of ash are also experimentally investigated. GSD results for health-pertinent fractions for a suite of 63 ash samples show that the fraction of respirable (<4 microm) material ranges from 0-17 vol%, with the variation reflecting factors such as the style of the eruption and the distance from the source. A strong correlation between the amount of <4 and <10 microm material is observed for all ash types. This relationship is stable at all distances from the volcano and with all eruption styles and can be applied to volcanic plume and ash fallout models. A weaker relationship between the <4 and <63 microm fractions provides a novel means of estimating the quantity of respirable material from data obtained by sieving.

Research on the effects of urbanization on small stream flow quantity

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-12-01

This study is a preliminary investigation into the feasibility of using simple techniques to evaluate the effects of urbanization on flood flows in small streams. A number of regression techniques and computer simulation techniques were evaluated, an...

Water quality and benthic fauna biodiversity in a unique small wetland at Messinia, Greece.

PubMed

Gritzalis, Konstantinos C; Anastasopoulou, Evangelia; Georgiopoulos, Nikolaos A; Markogianni, Vasiliki V; Skoulikidis, Nikolaos Th

2015-01-01

The wetland of Aghios Floros is located in the Prefecture of Messinia (S. W. Peloponnese, Greece) and occupies a small area, covered permanentlywith water. Flooding of the surrounding area is defended by an artificial channel that discharge large quantity of water into Pamisos River in whose river basin the Aghios Floros station belongs. At the sampling site various physico-chemical and conventional pollution parameters as well as hydrochemical variables were measured during the wet and the dry period of 2011. The hydromorphological and multihabitat approach of RIVPACS method was applied in situ, which gives an overall image of the landscape. The site was classified as 'Good' according to the Greek River Nutrient Classification System (GR.NCS) and the benthic macroinvertebrate fauna assemblages that dominated the area pointed out a 'Good' biological status as well. The biotic and abiotic sample processing, carried out in compliance with the demands of the Water Framework Directive, in general revealed high ecological status of the station. Specifically, a rich diversity and abundance of some macroinvertebrate families was recorded and regarding the aquatic flora the area is dominated by the water lilies species of Nymphaea alba which are unique in the area of Peloponnese.

Identification of superficial defects in reconstructed 3D objects using phase-shifting fringe projection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Madrigal, Carlos A.; Restrepo, Alejandro; Branch, John W.

2016-09-01

3D reconstruction of small objects is used in applications of surface analysis, forensic analysis and tissue reconstruction in medicine. In this paper, we propose a strategy for the 3D reconstruction of small objects and the identification of some superficial defects. We applied a technique of projection of structured light patterns, specifically sinusoidal fringes and an algorithm of phase unwrapping. A CMOS camera was used to capture images and a DLP digital light projector for synchronous projection of the sinusoidal pattern onto the objects. We implemented a technique based on a 2D flat pattern as calibration process, so the intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the camera and the DLP were defined. Experimental tests were performed in samples of artificial teeth, coal particles, welding defects and surfaces tested with Vickers indentation. Areas less than 5cm were studied. The objects were reconstructed in 3D with densities of about one million points per sample. In addition, the steps of 3D description, identification of primitive, training and classification were implemented to recognize defects, such as: holes, cracks, roughness textures and bumps. We found that pattern recognition strategies are useful, when quality supervision of surfaces has enough quantities of points to evaluate the defective region, because the identification of defects in small objects is a demanding activity of the visual inspection.

Inhalation studies on the effects of tremolite and brucite dust in rats

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

Davis, J.M.; Addison, J.; Bolton, R.E.

1985-05-01

Samples of commercially used asbestos, especially chrysotile, are frequently contaminated by small amounts of other fibrous minerals. Among these are tremolite and brucite although pure tremolite is also produced commercially in relatively small quantities. In order to determine how harmful commercially exploited tremolite might be in comparison with other asbestos types and to explore the possibility that small amounts of tremolite and brucite as contaminants could significantly affect the pathogenicity of industrially used chrysotile, long-term animal inhalation and injection studies using rats were undertaken with what were considered to be mineralogically pure samples of these minerals. Rats treated with tremolitemore » developed very high levels of pulmonary fibrosis as well as 16 carcinomas and two mesotheliomas in a group of 39 animals. Tremolite thus proved to be the most dangerous mineral that the authors have studied. Animals treated with brucite developed moderate levels of pulmonary fibrosis and two carcinomas. Both tremolite and brucite produced mesotheliomas in greater than 90% of animals following i.p. injection. However, it was found that the supposedly pure brucite in fact contained 10% chrysotile, a level of contamination that could well have been responsible for the pathological changes found in both inhalation and intraperitoneal injection studies. The greatest care should be exercised by industry in handling tremolite or materials contaminated with it.« less

A Kinetic Study Using Evaporation of Different Types of Hand-Rub Sanitizers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinhas, Allan R.

2010-01-01

Alcohol-based hand-rub sanitizers are the types of products that hospital professionals use very often. These sanitizers can be classified into two major groups: those that contain a large quantity of thickener, and thus are a gel, and those that contain a small quantity of thickener, and thus remain a liquid. In an effort to create a laboratory…

Moisture content impacts the stability of DNA adsorbed onto gold microparticles.

PubMed

Smyth, Tyson J; Betker, Jamie; Wang, Wei; Anchordoquy, Thomas J

2011-11-01

Particle-mediated epidermal delivery (PMED) of small quantities of DNA (0.5-4.0 μg) has been reported to both induce an immune response and protect against disease in human subjects. In order for the PMED of DNA to be a viable technique for vaccination, the adsorbed DNA must be stable during shipping and storage. Here, we report that the storage stability of plasmid DNA adsorbed to 2-μm gold particles is strongly dependent on sample water content. Gold/DNA samples stored at 60°C and 6% relative humidity (RH) maintained supercoil content after 4-month storage, whereas storage at higher RHs facilitated degradation. Storage with desiccants had stabilizing effects on DNA similar to storage at 6% RH. However, storage with "indicating" Drierite and phosphorus pentoxide resulted in enhanced rates of DNA degradation. Copyright © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

[A non-invasive portable blood-glucose monitoring system: sampling of suction effusion fluid].

PubMed

Arai, T; Kayashima, S; Kikuchi, M; Kaneyoshi, A; Itoh, N

1995-04-01

We developed a new portable transcutaneous blood glucose monitoring system using non-invasive collection of suction effusion fluid (SEF) from human skin. A ion sensitive field effect transistor (ISFET) sensor was employed to measure glucose concentration in a very small quantity of the SEF. The system was composed of a couple of portions. One structure was a suction cell, and the other was a main frame. The suction cell included the ISFET glucose sensor, a dilution mechanism, and a sucking interface to human skin. The main frame contained a dilution solution reservoir, a liquid waste reservoir, a fluid pump, a vacuum pump, a micro processor, batteries, and a user interface. The system is self-contained for portable usage during up to 6 hrs monitoring. This system may be the first blood glucose monitoring equipment which does not use blood sampling.

Segregation Behavior of Sulfur and Other Impurities Onto the Free Surfaces of ED-Ni Deposits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panda, Binayak; Jerman, Gregory; Gentz, Steven J. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

Most researchers attribute grain boundary embrittlement in electro-deposited Nickel (ED-Ni) to the presence of small quantities of Sulfur as an impurity. It occurs in a highly mobile form that segregates to the grain boundaries. Evaluation of Sulfur segregation requires that a sample be fractured through the grain boundaries. However, this action may not always be possible. ED-Ni is inherently tough at ambient temperature, especially if a low level of Sulfur was intentionally maintained. A new method was developed to study Sulfur and other migrant species to the grain boundaries, which also migrate to free surfaces. A test specimen is heated by a quartz lamp within the sample preparation chamber, allowing the mobile species to migrate to polished free surfaces. There the mobile species are analyzed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) also known as Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA).

Microbial Contamination of Allende and Murchison Carbonaceous Chondrites; Developing a Protocol for Life Detection in Extraterrestrial Materials Using Biotechnology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steele, A.; Whitby, C.; Griffin, C.; Toporski, J. K. W.; Westall, F.; Saunders, J. R.; McKay, D. S.

2001-01-01

The arguments used to refute the McKay et al., (1996) hypothesis of possible Martian life in ALH84001 failed to use contamination of the meteorite as a source. This has worrying implications for our ability to detect terrestrial microbiota in meteorites and therefore any potential extraterrestrial biosignatures in both meteorites and possible returned samples. We report on imaging and microbial culturing of both Allende and Murchison carbonaceous chondrites and on the use of molecular biology techniques on a sample of Allende. Contaminating fungi and bacteria were observed (in the case of Murchison) and cultured from both meteorites. DNA was successfully extracted and subsequent PCR showed the presence of both bacterial and fungal DNA although no Archaea were detected. These results show that it is possible to use molecular biological techniques on very small quantities (300 mg) of extraterrestrial material.

Segregation Behavior of Sulfur and Other Impurities onto the Free Surfaces of ED-NI Deposits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Panda, B.; Jerman, G.

2001-01-01

Most researchers attribute grain boundary embrittlement in electro-deposited nickel (ED-Ni) to the presence of small quantities of sulfur as an impurity. It occurs in a highly mobile form that segregates to the grain boundaries. Evaluation of sulfur segregation requires that a sample be fractured through the grain boundaries. However, this action may not always be possible. ED-Ni is inherently tough at ambient temperature, especially if a low level of sulfur was intentionally maintained. A new method was developed to study sulfur and other migrant species to the grain boundaries, which also migrate to free surfaces. A test specimen is heated by a quartz lamp within the sample preparation chamber, allowing the mobile species to migrate to polished free surfaces. There the mobile species are analyzed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) also known as Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA).

Microplate-Based Method for High-Throughput Screening (HTS) of Chromatographic Conditions Studies for Recombinant Protein Purification.

PubMed

Carvalho, Rimenys J; Cruz, Thayana A

2018-01-01

High-throughput screening (HTS) systems have emerged as important tools to provide fast and low cost evaluation of several conditions at once since it requires small quantities of material and sample volumes. These characteristics are extremely valuable for experiments with large number of variables enabling the application of design of experiments (DoE) strategies or simple experimental planning approaches. Once, the capacity of HTS systems to mimic chromatographic purification steps was established, several studies were performed successfully including scale down purification. Here, we propose a method for studying different purification conditions that can be used for any recombinant protein, including complex and glycosylated proteins, using low binding filter microplates.

Orbiter thermal pressure drop characteristics for shuttle orbiter thermal protection system components: High density tile, low density tile, densified low density tile, and strain isolation pad

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawing, P. L.; Nystrom, D. M.

1980-01-01

Pressure drop tests were conducted on available samples of low and high density tile, densified low density tile, and strain isolation pads. The results are presented in terms of pressure drop, material thickness and volume flow rate. Although the test apparatus was only capable of a small part of the range of conditions to be encountered in a Shuttle Orbiter flight, the data serve to determine the type of flow characteristics to be expected for each material type tested; the measured quantities also should serve as input for initial venting and flow through analysis.

Laser heating and detection of bilayer microcantilevers for non-contact thermodynamic measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burke, Brian G.; LaVan, David A.

2013-01-01

We describe a method for optical detection (frequency and position) and heating of bilayer microcantilevers (BMCs) to high temperatures at fast heating rates (106°C/s to 109°C/s) for non-contact thermodynamic measurements of small quantities of materials in the femtogram range. The current experimental apparatus with a 2 μm × 10 μm BMC achieves a deflection sensitivity of 0.1 Å, heating rate of 3.0 × 106°C/s, and heat sensitivity of 18 pJ in a 3 kHz bandwidth in air. By measuring the resonant frequency shift after sample loading, we achieve a mass resolution of 2.67 fg.

The Point Lookout Sandstone: a tale of two cores, or petrology, diagenesis, and reservoir properties of Point Lookout Sandstone, Southern Ute Indian Reservation, San Juan Basin, Colorado

USGS Publications Warehouse

Keighin, C.W.; Zech, R.S.; Dunbar, R.W.

1993-01-01

The Point Lookout sandstones are quartz-rich, fine to very-fine grained, and contain moderately variable quantities of potassium feldspar (2 to 20 modal percent) and lithic fragments (9 to 20 modal percent). Locally, sandstone is tightly cemented by carbonate cement; clays are not important as cementing agents, although they significantly reduce permeability of some samples. Pores are small; many are intergranular micropores between crystals of authigenic clay. Depositional environments are highly variable and range from lower shoreface to coastal plain and include minor deltaic environments. The best reservoir characteristics are generally in the upper shoreface sandstones. -from Authors

Microfluidic devices, systems, and methods for quantifying particles using centrifugal force

DOEpatents

Schaff, Ulrich Y.; Sommer, Gregory J.; Singh, Anup K.

2015-11-17

Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward microfluidic systems, apparatus, and methods for measuring a quantity of cells in a fluid. Examples include a differential white blood cell measurement using a centrifugal microfluidic system. A method may include introducing a fluid sample containing a quantity of cells into a microfluidic channel defined in part by a substrate. The quantity of cells may be transported toward a detection region defined in part by the substrate, wherein the detection region contains a density media, and wherein the density media has a density lower than a density of the cells and higher than a density of the fluid sample. The substrate may be spun such that at least a portion of the quantity of cells are transported through the density media. Signals may be detected from label moieties affixed to the cells.

Microsystem strategies for sample preparation in biological detection.

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

James, Conrad D.; Galambos, Paul C.; Bennett, Dawn Jonita

2005-03-01

The objective of this LDRD was to develop microdevice strategies for dealing with samples to be examined in biological detection systems. This includes three sub-components: namely, microdevice fabrication, sample delivery to the microdevice, and sample processing within the microdevice. The first component of this work focused on utilizing Sandia's surface micromachining technology to fabricate small volume (nanoliter) fluidic systems for processing small quantities of biological samples. The next component was to develop interfaces for the surface-micromachined silicon devices. We partnered with Micronics, a commercial company, to produce fluidic manifolds for sample delivery to our silicon devices. Pressure testing was completedmore » to examine the strength of the bond between the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and the silicon chip. We are also pursuing several other methods, both in house and external, to develop polymer-based fluidic manifolds for packaging silicon-based microfluidic devices. The second component, sample processing, is divided into two sub-tasks: cell collection and cell lysis. Cell collection was achieved using dielectrophoresis, which employs AC fields to collect cells at energized microelectrodes, while rejecting non-cellular particles. Both live and dead Staph. aureus bacteria have been collected using RF frequency dielectrophoresis. Bacteria have been separated from polystyrene microspheres using frequency-shifting dielectrophoresis. Computational modeling was performed to optimize device separation performance, and to predict particle response to the dielectrophoretic traps. Cell lysis is continuing to be pursued using microactuators to mechanically disrupt cell membranes. Novel thermal actuators, which can generate larger forces than previously tested electrostatic actuators, have been incorporated with and tested with cell lysis devices. Significant cell membrane distortion has been observed, but more experiments need to be conducted to determine the effects of the observed distortion on membrane integrity and cell viability. Finally, we are using a commercial PCR DNA amplification system to determine the limits of detectable sample size, and to examine the amplification of DNA bound to microspheres. Our objective is to use microspheres as capture-and-carry chaperones for small molecules such as DNA and proteins, enabling the capture and concentration of the small molecules using dielectrophoresis. Current tests demonstrated amplification of DNA bound to micron-sized polystyrene microspheres using 20-50 microliter volume size reactions.« less

Hydrologic conditions at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Idaho, emphasis; 1974-1978

USGS Publications Warehouse

Barraclough, Jack T.; Lewis, Barney D.; Jensen, Rodger G.

1981-01-01

Aqueous chemical and radioactive wastes have been discharged to shallow ponds and to shallow or deep wells on the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) since 1952 and has affected the quality of the ground water in the underlying Snake River Plain aquifer. Ongoing studies conducted from 1974 through 1978 have shown the perpetuation of a perched ground-water zone in the basalt underlying the waste disposal ponds at the INEL 's Test Reactor Area and of several waste plumes in the regional aquifer created by deep well disposal at the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant (ICPP). The perched zone contains tritium, chromium-51, cobalt-60, strontium-90, and several nonradioactive chemicals. Tritium has formed the largest waste plume south of the ICPP, and accounts for 95 percent of the total radioacticity disposed of through the ICPP disposal well. Waste plumes with similar configurations and flowpaths contain sodium, chloride, and nitrate. Strontium-90, iodine-129, and cesium-137 are also discharged through the well but they are sorbed from solution as they move through the aquifer or are discharged in very small quantities. Strontium-90 and iodine-129 have formed small waste plumes and cesium-137 is not detectable in ground-water samples. Radionuclide plume size and concentrations therein are controlled by aquifer flow conditions, the quantity discharged, radioactive decay, sorption, dilution by dispersion, and perhaps other chemical reactions. Chemical wastes are subject to the same processes except for radioactive decay. (USGS)

How much for a dime bag? An exploration of youth drug markets.

PubMed

Harrison, Lana D; Erickson, Patricia G; Korf, Dirk J; Brochu, Serge; Benschop, Annemieke

2007-09-01

Relatively little is known about how youth obtain marijuana and other drugs. The Drugs, Alcohol and Violence International (DAVI) study explored youthful drug markets among samples of school students, detained youth, and school dropouts (ages 14-17 years) in the greater metropolitan areas of Philadelphia, Toronto, Montreal, and Amsterdam. Students frequently reported sharing drugs, either getting them from others or giving them to others for free. Sharing was less common among the more drug-involved detainees and dropouts. Marijuana was typically obtained either outdoors or in a house or apartment. Few youth reported getting marijuana at school. In Amsterdam, where marijuana can be purchased in small quantities in coffeeshops, this was the most common place to get marijuana, even though 18 is the legal age for purchase. Alcohol was also most likely to be obtained in stores or restaurants across all the sites, even though none were of legal age except those in Amsterdam age 16 or older. Youth most often reported purchasing marijuana in nickel, dime or other small bags, which are not standardized units. The exception again was Amsterdam, where youth most often reported quantities in grams or joints, which is how it is sold in coffeeshops. The lack of standardization of units makes economic cost estimates suspect. Even standardized units such as alcohol present problems since youth report a wide range of 'typical purchases.' Survey data can, however, more aptly describe drug market characteristics such as general location of purchase, and relationship with the seller.

The Shell Seeker: What Is the Quantity of Shell in the Lido di Venezia Sand? A Calibration DRIFTS Experiment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pezzolo, Alessandra De Lorenzi

2011-01-01

In this experiment, students are given a fanciful application of the standard addition method to evaluate the approximate quantity of the shell component in a sample of sand collected on the Lido di Venezia seashore. Several diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectra are recorded from a sand sample before and after addition of…

76 FR 37835 - Petitions for Modification of Application of Existing Mandatory Safety Standards

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-28

... small quantity of steel turnings, or other small magnetic particles, will be embedded in the top of the..., Cementation USA, to apply the 500 feet per minute requirement to the man-riding conveyance as well as the...

Quantity discounts on a virtual good: The results of a massive pricing experiment at King Digital Entertainment

PubMed Central

Levitt, Steven D.; List, John A.; Neckermann, Susanne; Nelson, David

2016-01-01

We report on a natural field experiment on quantity discounts involving more than 14 million consumers. Implementing price reductions ranging from 9–70% for large purchases, we found remarkably little impact on revenue, either positively or negatively. There was virtually no increase in the quantity of customers making a purchase; all the observed changes occurred for customers who already were buyers. We found evidence that infrequent purchasers are more responsive to discounts than frequent purchasers. There was some evidence of habit formation when prices returned to pre-experiment levels. There also was some evidence that consumers contemplating small purchases are discouraged by the presence of extreme quantity discounts for large purchases. PMID:27382146

Sample storage-induced changes in the quantity and quality of soil labile organic carbon

PubMed Central

Sun, Shou-Qin; Cai, Hui-Ying; Chang, Scott X.; Bhatti, Jagtar S.

2015-01-01

Effects of sample storage methods on the quantity and quality of labile soil organic carbon are not fully understood even though their effects on basic soil properties have been extensively studied. We studied the effects of air-drying and frozen storage on cold and hot water soluble organic carbon (WSOC). Cold- and hot-WSOC in air-dried and frozen-stored soils were linearly correlated with those in fresh soils, indicating that storage proportionally altered the extractability of soil organic carbon. Air-drying but not frozen storage increased the concentrations of cold-WSOC and carbohydrate in cold-WSOC, while both increased polyphenol concentrations. In contrast, only polyphenol concentration in hot-WSOC was increased by air-drying and frozen storage, suggesting that hot-WSOC was less affected by sample storage. The biodegradability of cold- but not hot-WSOC was increased by air-drying, while both air-drying and frozen storage increased humification index and changed specific UV absorbance of both cold- and hot-WSOC, indicating shifts in the quality of soil WSOC. Our results suggest that storage methods affect the quantity and quality of WSOC but not comparisons between samples, frozen storage is better than air-drying if samples have to be stored, and storage should be avoided whenever possible when studying the quantity and quality of both cold- and hot-WSOC. PMID:26617054

Determination of Micro-Quantities of Chrysotile Asbestos by Dye Adsorption

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Markham, M. Clare; Wosczyna, Karen

1976-01-01

Airborne asbestos is analyzed by differential dye adsorption. Quantities can be estimated down to 100 mg. For industrial use, asbestos samples must be separated from interfering minerals by density flotation. (Author/BT)

The individual and combined influence of the "quality" and "quantity" of family meals on adult body mass index.

PubMed

Berge, Jerica M; Wickel, Katharine; Doherty, William J

2012-12-01

Although there is a well-established literature showing a positive association between the frequency of family meals and child and adolescent healthful dietary intake and lower body mass index (BMI), little is known about the association between family meal frequency (quantity) and adult health outcomes and whether quality (distractions) of family meals influences adult BMI. This study investigates the association between the quantity and quality of family meals and adult BMI. Data were from a nationally representative sample of 4,885 adults ages 25 to 64 years (56% female), from which an analytic sample of 1,779 parents was drawn for the current study. Multiple linear regression was used to test the relationship between family meal frequency and quality of family meals and adult BMI, controlling for sociodemographics. Interactions between family meal quantity and quality were also examined. The quantity of family meals and the quality of family meals were both independently related to adult BMI. Specifically, the frequency of family meals was associated with lower adult BMI and lower quality of family meals was associated with higher adult BMI. The interaction between quantity and quality was not statistically significant. Results suggest that both the quantity and quality of family meals matter for adult BMI, but one is not dependent on the other. Health care providers who work with families may want to consider promoting the importance of the quality and quantity of family meals to benefit the entire family.

Enzyme catalysis with small ionic liquid quantities.

PubMed

Fischer, Fabian; Mutschler, Julien; Zufferey, Daniel

2011-04-01

Enzyme catalysis with minimal ionic liquid quantities improves reaction rates, stereoselectivity and enables solvent-free processing. In particular the widely used lipases combine well with many ionic liquids. Demonstrated applications are racemate separation, esterification and glycerolysis. Minimal solvent processing is also an alternative to sluggish solvent-free catalysis. The method allows simplified down-stream processing, as only traces of ionic liquids have to be removed.

iMAST Quarterly, Number 3, 2000

DTIC Science & Technology

2000-01-01

components which depend on evaporating unit capabilities. There are three components (EB-gun, water cooled copper crucible and vacuum chamber) in the EB-PVD...Ion Implantation and Ion Plating electromagnetic deflected through 180 or 2700. Similarly, evaporant material is placed in a water-cooled copper ... crucible , which could be either pocket type for small quantity evaporation application or continuous ingot feeding through the crucible for larger quantity

DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT OF VACUUM SALT DISTILLATION AT THE SAVANNAH RIVER SITE

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

Pierce, R.; Pak, D.; Edwards, T.

2010-10-28

The Savannah River Site has a mission to dissolve fissile materials and disposition them. The primary fissile material is plutonium dioxide (PuO{sub 2}). To support dissolution of these materials, the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) designed and demonstrated a vacuum salt distillation (VSD) apparatus using both representative radioactive samples and non-radioactive simulant materials. Vacuum salt distillation, through the removal of chloride salts, increases the quantity of materials suitable for processing in the site's HB-Line Facility. Small-scale non-radioactive experiments at 900-950 C show that >99.8 wt % of the initial charge of chloride salt distilled from the sample boat with recoverymore » of >99.8 wt % of the ceric oxide (CeO{sub 2}) - the surrogate for PuO{sub 2} - as a non-chloride bearing 'product'. Small-scale radioactive testing in a glovebox demonstrated the removal of sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl) from 13 PuO{sub 2} samples. Chloride concentrations were distilled from a starting concentration of 1.8-10.8 wt % to a final concentration <500 mg/kg chloride. Initial testing of a non-radioactive, full-scale production prototype is complete. A designed experiment evaluated the impact of distillation temperature, time at temperature, vacuum, product depth, and presence of a boat cover. Significant effort has been devoted to mechanical considerations to facilitate simplified operation in a glovebox.« less

An accurate bacterial DNA quantification assay for HTS library preparation of human biological samples.

PubMed

Seashols-Williams, Sarah; Green, Raquel; Wohlfahrt, Denise; Brand, Angela; Tan-Torres, Antonio Limjuco; Nogales, Francy; Brooks, J Paul; Singh, Baneshwar

2018-05-17

Sequencing and classification of microbial taxa within forensically relevant biological fluids has the potential for applications in the forensic science and biomedical fields. The quantity of bacterial DNA from human samples is currently estimated based on quantity of total DNA isolated. This method can miscalculate bacterial DNA quantity due to the mixed nature of the sample, and consequently library preparation is often unreliable. We developed an assay that can accurately and specifically quantify bacterial DNA within a mixed sample for reliable 16S ribosomal DNA (16S rDNA) library preparation and high throughput sequencing (HTS). A qPCR method was optimized using universal 16S rDNA primers, and a commercially available bacterial community DNA standard was used to develop a precise standard curve. Following qPCR optimization, 16S rDNA libraries from saliva, vaginal and menstrual secretions, urine, and fecal matter were amplified and evaluated at various DNA concentrations; successful HTS data were generated with as low as 20 pg of bacterial DNA. Changes in bacterial DNA quantity did not impact observed relative abundances of major bacterial taxa, but relative abundance changes of minor taxa were observed. Accurate quantification of microbial DNA resulted in consistent, successful library preparations for HTS analysis. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Peeling off effects in vertically aligned Fe3C filled carbon nanotubes films grown by pyrolysis of ferrocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boi, Filippo S.; Medranda, Daniel; Ivaturi, Sameera; Wang, Jiayu; Guo, Jian; Lan, Mu; Wen, Jiqiu; Wang, Shanling; He, Yi; Mountjoy, Gavin; Willis, Maureen A. C.; Xiang, Gang

2017-06-01

We report the observation of an unusual self-peeling effect which allows the synthesis of free standing vertically aligned carbon nanotube films filled with large quantities of Fe3C and small quantities of γ-Fe crystals. We demonstrate that this effect depends on the interplay of three main factors: (1) the physical interactions between the chosen substrate surface and grown carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which is fixed by the composition of the used substrate (111 SiO2/Si or quartz), (2) the CNT-CNT Van der Waals interactions, and (3) the differential thermal contraction between the grown CNT film and the used substrate, which is fixed by the cooling rate differences between the grown film and the used quartz or Si/SiO2 substrates. The width and stability of these films are then further increased to cm-scale by addition of small quantities of toluene to the ferrocene precursor.

Structure of the Small Amplitude Motion on Transversely Sheared Mean Flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldstein, Marvin E.; Afsar, Mohamed Z.; Leib, Stewart J.

2013-01-01

This paper considers the small amplitude unsteady motion of an inviscid non-heat conducting compressible fluid on a transversely sheared mean flow. It extends a previous result given in Goldstein (1978(b) and 1979(a)) which shows that the hydrodynamic component of the motion is determined by two arbitrary convected quantities in the absence of solid surfaces or other external sources. The result is important because it can be used to specify appropriate boundary conditions for unsteady surface interaction problems on transversely sheared mean flows in the same way that the vortical component of the Kovasznay (1953) decomposition is used to specify these conditions for surface interaction problems on uniform mean flows. But unlike the Kovasznay (1953) case the arbitrary convected quantities no longer bear a simple relation to the physical variables. One purpose of this paper is to derive a formula that relates these quantities to the (physically measurable) vorticity and pressure fluctuations in the flow.

Bayesian Methods for the Physical Sciences. Learning from Examples in Astronomy and Physics.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andreon, Stefano; Weaver, Brian

2015-05-01

Chapter 1: This chapter presents some basic steps for performing a good statistical analysis, all summarized in about one page. Chapter 2: This short chapter introduces the basics of probability theory inan intuitive fashion using simple examples. It also illustrates, again with examples, how to propagate errors and the difference between marginal and profile likelihoods. Chapter 3: This chapter introduces the computational tools and methods that we use for sampling from the posterior distribution. Since all numerical computations, and Bayesian ones are no exception, may end in errors, we also provide a few tips to check that the numerical computation is sampling from the posterior distribution. Chapter 4: Many of the concepts of building, running, and summarizing the resultsof a Bayesian analysis are described with this step-by-step guide using a basic (Gaussian) model. The chapter also introduces examples using Poisson and Binomial likelihoods, and how to combine repeated independent measurements. Chapter 5: All statistical analyses make assumptions, and Bayesian analyses are no exception. This chapter emphasizes that results depend on data and priors (assumptions). We illustrate this concept with examples where the prior plays greatly different roles, from major to negligible. We also provide some advice on how to look for information useful for sculpting the prior. Chapter 6: In this chapter we consider examples for which we want to estimate more than a single parameter. These common problems include estimating location and spread. We also consider examples that require the modeling of two populations (one we are interested in and a nuisance population) or averaging incompatible measurements. We also introduce quite complex examples dealing with upper limits and with a larger-than-expected scatter. Chapter 7: Rarely is a sample randomly selected from the population we wish to study. Often, samples are affected by selection effects, e.g., easier-to-collect events or objects are over-represented in samples and difficult-to-collect are under-represented if not missing altogether. In this chapter we show how to account for non-random data collection to infer the properties of the population from the studied sample. Chapter 8: In this chapter we introduce regression models, i.e., how to fit (regress) one, or more quantities, against each other through a functional relationship and estimate any unknown parameters that dictate this relationship. Questions of interest include: how to deal with samples affected by selection effects? How does a rich data structure influence the fitted parameters? And what about non-linear multiple-predictor fits, upper/lower limits, measurements errors of different amplitudes and an intrinsic variety in the studied populations or an extra source of variability? A number of examples illustrate how to answer these questions and how to predict the value of an unavailable quantity by exploiting the existence of a trend with another, available, quantity. Chapter 9: This chapter provides some advice on how the careful scientist should perform model checking and sensitivity analysis, i.e., how to answer the following questions: is the considered model at odds with the current available data (the fitted data), for example because it is over-simplified compared to some specific complexity pointed out by the data? Furthermore, are the data informative about the quantity being measured or are results sensibly dependent on details of the fitted model? And, finally, what about if assumptions are uncertain? A number of examples illustrate how to answer these questions. Chapter 10: This chapter compares the performance of Bayesian methods against simple, non-Bayesian alternatives, such as maximum likelihood, minimal chi square, ordinary and weighted least square, bivariate correlated errors and intrinsic scatter, and robust estimates of location and scale. Performances are evaluated in terms of quality of the prediction, accuracy of the estimates, and fairness and noisiness of the quoted errors. We also focus on three failures of maximum likelihood methods occurring with small samples, with mixtures, and with regressions with errors in the predictor quantity.

Quantifying cannabis: A field study of marijuana quantity estimation.

PubMed

Prince, Mark A; Conner, Bradley T; Pearson, Matthew R

2018-06-01

The assessment of marijuana use quantity poses unique challenges. These challenges have limited research efforts on quantity assessments. However, quantity estimates are critical to detecting associations between marijuana use and outcomes. We examined accuracy of marijuana users' estimations of quantities of marijuana they prepared to ingest and predictors of both how much was prepared for a single dose and the degree of (in)accuracy of participants' estimates. We recruited a sample of 128 regular-to-heavy marijuana users for a field study wherein they prepared and estimated quantities of marijuana flower in a joint or a bowl as well as marijuana concentrate using a dab tool. The vast majority of participants overestimated the quantity of marijuana that they used in their preparations. We failed to find robust predictors of estimation accuracy. Self-reported quantity estimates are inaccurate, which has implications for studying the link between quantity and marijuana use outcomes. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Chemical characterization of territorial marking fluid of male Bengal tiger, Panthera tigris.

PubMed

Burger, B V; Viviers, M Z; Bekker, J P I; le Roux, M; Fish, N; Fourie, W B; Weibchen, G

2008-05-01

The territorial marking fluid of the male Bengal tiger, Panthera tigris, consists of a mixture of urine and a small quantity of lipid material that may act as a controlled-release carrier for the volatile constituents of the fluid. Using gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, 98 volatile compounds and elemental sulfur were identified in the marking fluid. Another 16 volatiles were tentatively identified. The majority of these compounds were alkanols, alkanals, 2-alkanones, branched and unbranched alkanoic acids, dimethyl esters of dicarboxylic acids, gamma- and delta-lactones, and compounds containing nitrogen or sulfur. Several samples of the marking fluid contained pure (R)-3-methyl-2-octanone, (R)-3-methyl-2-nonanone, and (R)-3-methyl-2-decanone, but these ketones were partly or completely racemized in other samples. The gamma-lactone (S)-(+)-(Z)-6-dodecen-4-olide and the C(8) to C(16) saturated (R)-gamma-lactones and (S)-delta-lactones were present in high enantiomeric purities. The chiral carboxylic acids, 2-methylnonanoic acid, 2-methyldecanoic acid, 2-methylundecanoic acid, and 2-ethylhexanoic acid were racemates. Cadaverine, putrescine, and 2-acetylpyrroline, previously reported as constituents of tiger urine, were not detected. The dominant contribution of some ketones, fatty acids, and lactones to the composition of the headspace of the marking fluid suggests that these compounds may be important constituents of the pheromone. Although it constitutes only a small proportion, the lipid fraction of the fluid contained larger quantities of the volatile organic compounds than the aqueous fraction (urine). The lipid derives its role as controlled-release carrier of the chemical message left by the tiger, from its affinity for the volatiles of the marking fluid. Six proteins with masses ranging from 16 to 69 kDa, inter alia, the carboxylesterase-like urinary protein known as cauxin, previously identified in the urine of the domestic cat and other felid species, were identified in the urine fraction of the marking fluid.

[Distribution form of nutrients in roof runoff].

PubMed

Wang, Biao; Li, Tian; Meng, Ying-Ying; Ren, Zhong-Jia; Cao, Bing-Yin

2008-11-01

6 rainfall-runoff events were examined from a concrete roof by a traffic artery in Shanghai to characterize the particle-bound and dissolved nutrients in roof runoff and to get more knowledge about roof runoff pollutants and lay the theoretic foundation for the selection of roof runoff purification method. Results indicated that event mean concentration (EMC) of TN ranges between 4.208 mg/L and 8.427 mg/L compared to 0.078-0.185 mg/L for TP. DN and PP are respectively the primary forms of TN and TP. During the runoff, the number ratio of small particles is gradually increased. The dynamic behavior of TP is similar to TSS, but the TN-TSS relationship in the course of runoff is not obvious. The increase of both PN/TSS and the number ration of small particles showed that nitrogen (microgramme per gram particle weight) attached to small particles is more than large particles. Regression analysis between TSS and TP & PP of samples in the early 10 min of runoff results in a high R2, but the relationship between TSS and TP & PP of samples in the entire runoff is not as close as the early 10 min, which reflects that the phosphorus quantity attached to the particle changes from the perspective of the entire course of runoff. First flush of TP is stronger than TN because the load discharge of dissolved nutrients is more stable than particle nutrients. In addition, more nitrogen absorbed by the unit mass small particles to a certain degree weakens the first flush of TN.

Seafood prices reveal impacts of a major ecological disturbance

PubMed Central

Smith, Martin D.; Oglend, Atle; Kirkpatrick, A. Justin; Asche, Frank; Bennear, Lori S.; Craig, J. Kevin; Nance, James M.

2017-01-01

Coastal hypoxia (dissolved oxygen ≤ 2 mg/L) is a growing problem worldwide that threatens marine ecosystem services, but little is known about economic effects on fisheries. Here, we provide evidence that hypoxia causes economic impacts on a major fishery. Ecological studies of hypoxia and marine fauna suggest multiple mechanisms through which hypoxia can skew a population’s size distribution toward smaller individuals. These mechanisms produce sharp predictions about changes in seafood markets. Hypoxia is hypothesized to decrease the quantity of large shrimp relative to small shrimp and increase the price of large shrimp relative to small shrimp. We test these hypotheses using time series of size-based prices. Naive quantity-based models using treatment/control comparisons in hypoxic and nonhypoxic areas produce null results, but we find strong evidence of the hypothesized effects in the relative prices: Hypoxia increases the relative price of large shrimp compared with small shrimp. The effects of fuel prices provide supporting evidence. Empirical models of fishing effort and bioeconomic simulations explain why quantifying effects of hypoxia on fisheries using quantity data has been inconclusive. Specifically, spatial-dynamic feedbacks across the natural system (the fish stock) and human system (the mobile fishing fleet) confound “treated” and “control” areas. Consequently, analyses of price data, which rely on a market counterfactual, are able to reveal effects of the ecological disturbance that are obscured in quantity data. Our results are an important step toward quantifying the economic value of reduced upstream nutrient loading in the Mississippi Basin and are broadly applicable to other coupled human-natural systems. PMID:28137850

Seafood prices reveal impacts of a major ecological disturbance.

PubMed

Smith, Martin D; Oglend, Atle; Kirkpatrick, A Justin; Asche, Frank; Bennear, Lori S; Craig, J Kevin; Nance, James M

2017-02-14

Coastal hypoxia (dissolved oxygen ≤ 2 mg/L) is a growing problem worldwide that threatens marine ecosystem services, but little is known about economic effects on fisheries. Here, we provide evidence that hypoxia causes economic impacts on a major fishery. Ecological studies of hypoxia and marine fauna suggest multiple mechanisms through which hypoxia can skew a population's size distribution toward smaller individuals. These mechanisms produce sharp predictions about changes in seafood markets. Hypoxia is hypothesized to decrease the quantity of large shrimp relative to small shrimp and increase the price of large shrimp relative to small shrimp. We test these hypotheses using time series of size-based prices. Naive quantity-based models using treatment/control comparisons in hypoxic and nonhypoxic areas produce null results, but we find strong evidence of the hypothesized effects in the relative prices: Hypoxia increases the relative price of large shrimp compared with small shrimp. The effects of fuel prices provide supporting evidence. Empirical models of fishing effort and bioeconomic simulations explain why quantifying effects of hypoxia on fisheries using quantity data has been inconclusive. Specifically, spatial-dynamic feedbacks across the natural system (the fish stock) and human system (the mobile fishing fleet) confound "treated" and "control" areas. Consequently, analyses of price data, which rely on a market counterfactual, are able to reveal effects of the ecological disturbance that are obscured in quantity data. Our results are an important step toward quantifying the economic value of reduced upstream nutrient loading in the Mississippi Basin and are broadly applicable to other coupled human-natural systems.

Star formation trends in high-redshift galaxy surveys: the elephant or the tail?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stringer, Martin; Cole, Shaun; Frenk, Carlos S.; Stark, Daniel P.

2011-07-01

Star formation rate and accumulated stellar mass are two fundamental physical quantities that describe the evolutionary state of a forming galaxy. Two recent attempts to determine the relationship between these quantities, by interpreting a sample of star-forming galaxies at redshift of z˜ 4, have led to opposite conclusions. Using a model galaxy population, we investigate possible causes for this discrepancy and conclude that minor errors in the conversion from observables to physical quantities can lead to a major misrepresentation when applied without awareness of sample selection. We also investigate, in a general way, the physical origin of the correlation between star formation rate and stellar mass within the hierarchical galaxy formation theory.

Measurement system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Turner, J. W. (Inventor)

1973-01-01

A measurement system is described for providing an indication of a varying physical quantity represented by or converted to a variable frequency signal. Timing pulses are obtained marking the duration of a fixed number, or set, of cycles of the sampled signal and these timing pulses are employed to control the period of counting of cycles of a higher fixed and known frequency source. The counts of cycles obtained from the fixed frequency source provide a precise measurement of the average frequency of each set of cycles sampled, and thus successive discrete values of the quantity being measured. The frequency of the known frequency source is made such that each measurement is presented as a direct digital representation of the quantity measured.

Comparison of different mass spectrometry techniques in the measurement of L-[ring-13C6]phenylalanine incorporation into mixed muscle proteins

PubMed Central

Zabielski, Piotr; Ford, G. Charles; Persson, X. Mai; Jaleel, Abdul; Dewey, Jerry D.; Nair, K Sreekumaran

2013-01-01

Precise measurement of low enrichment of stable isotope labeled amino-acid tracers in tissue samples is a prerequisite in measuring tissue protein synthesis rates. The challenge of this analysis is augmented when small sample size is a critical factor. Muscle samples from human participants following an 8 hour intravenous infusion of L-[ring-13C6]phenylalanine and a bolus dose of L-[ring-13C6]phenylalanine in a mouse were utilized. Liquid Chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), Gas Chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) and Gas Chromatography/Mass spectrometry (GC/MS) were compared to the Gas Chromatography-Combustion-Isotope Ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS), to measure mixed muscle protein enrichment of [ring13C6]phenylalanine enrichment. The sample isotope enrichment ranged from 0.0091 to 0.1312 Molar Percent excess (MPE). As compared with GC/C/IRMS, LC/MS/MS, GC/MS/MS and GC/MS showed coefficients of determination of R2 = 0.9962 and R2 = 0.9942, and 0.9217 respectively. However, the precision of measurements (coefficients of variation) for intra-assay are 13.0%, 1.7%, 6.3% and 13.5% and for inter-assay are 9.2%, 3.2%, 10.2% and 25% for GC/C/IRMS, LC/MS/MS, GC/MS/MS and GC/MS respectively. The muscle sample sizes required to obtain these results were 8μg, 0.8μg, 3μg and 3μg for GC/C/IRMS, LC/MS/MS, GC/MS/MS, and GC/MS respectively. We conclude that LC/MS/MS is optimally suited for precise measurements of L-[ring-13C6]phenylalanine tracer enrichment in low abundance and in small quantity samples. PMID:23378099

Chlamydia and gonorrhoea contamination of clinic surfaces.

PubMed

Lewis, Natasha; Dube, Gail; Carter, Christine; Pitt, Rachel; Alexander, Sarah; Ison, Catherine A; Harding, Jan; Brown, Louise; Fryer, John; Hodson, James; Ross, Jonathan

2012-10-01

Nucleic acid amplification tests, with their ability to detect very small amounts of nucleic acid, have become the principle diagnostic tests for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) in many sexual health clinics. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent of surface contamination with CT and GC within a city centre sexual health clinic and to evaluate the potential for contamination of containers used for the collection of self-taken swabs. Surface contamination with CT and GC was assessed by systematically sampling 154 different sites within one clinic using transcription-mediated amplification (TMA), quantitative PCR and culture. The caps of containers used by patients to collect self-taken samples were also tested for CT and GC using TMA. Of the 154 sites sampled, 20 (13.0%) tested positive on TMA. Of these, five (3.2%) were positive for CT alone, 11 (7.1%) for GC alone and four (2.6%) for both CT and GC. The proportion of GC TMA-positive test results differed by gender, with 11 (18.3%) positive results from the male patient clinic area compared with one (1.6%) from the female area (p=0.002). Positive samples were obtained from a variety of locations in the clinic, but the patient toilets were more likely to be contaminated than examination rooms (p=0.015). Quantitative PCR and culture assays were negative for all samples. 46 caps of the containers used for self-taken swabs were negative for both CT and GC on TMA testing. Surface contamination with chlamydial and gonococcal rRNA can occur within sexual health clinics, but the quantity of nucleic acid detected is low and infection risk to patients and staff is small. There remains a potential risk of contamination of patient samples leading to false-positive results.

Technique for ultrasonic cleaning with volatile solvents eliminates need for hoods or condensers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pipersky, E.

1969-01-01

Technique ultrasonically cleans small quantities of small mechanical parts in organic solvents without the need for vapor removal equipment. Parts are placed in a thin plastic bag with the solvent and then suspended in a cleaning tank containing the water-detergent solution.

Fluorspar

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, M.

2002-01-01

In 2001, one mine in Utah produced a small quantity of fluorspar. The majority of fluorspar consumed in the United States continued to come from imports or material purchased from the US National Defense Stockpile (NDS). In addition, a small amount of synthetic fluorspar (CaF2) was produced from industrial waste streams.

Time Processing in Dyscalculia

PubMed Central

Cappelletti, Marinella; Freeman, Elliot D.; Butterworth, Brian L.

2011-01-01

To test whether atypical number development may affect other types of quantity processing, we investigated temporal discrimination in adults with developmental dyscalculia (DD). This also allowed us to test whether number and time may be sub-served by a common quantity system or decision mechanisms: if they do, both should be impaired in dyscalculia, but if number and time are distinct they should dissociate. Participants judged which of two successively presented horizontal lines was longer in duration, the first line being preceded by either a small or a large number prime (“1” or “9”) or by a neutral symbol (“#”), or in a third task participants decided which of two Arabic numbers (either “1,” “5,” “9”) lasted longer. Results showed that (i) DD’s temporal discriminability was normal as long as numbers were not part of the experimental design, even as task-irrelevant stimuli; however (ii) task-irrelevant numbers dramatically disrupted DD’s temporal discriminability the more their salience increased, though the actual magnitude of the numbers had no effect; in contrast (iii) controls’ time perception was robust to the presence of numbers but modulated by numerical quantity: therefore small number primes or numerical stimuli seemed to make durations appear shorter than veridical, but longer for larger numerical prime or numerical stimuli. This study is the first to show spared temporal discrimination – a dimension of continuous quantity – in a population with a congenital number impairment. Our data reinforce the idea of a partially shared quantity system across numerical and temporal dimensions, which supports both dissociations and interactions among dimensions; however, they suggest that impaired number in DD is unlikely to originate from systems initially dedicated to continuous quantity processing like time. PMID:22194731

Time processing in dyscalculia.

PubMed

Cappelletti, Marinella; Freeman, Elliot D; Butterworth, Brian L

2011-01-01

To test whether atypical number development may affect other types of quantity processing, we investigated temporal discrimination in adults with developmental dyscalculia (DD). This also allowed us to test whether number and time may be sub-served by a common quantity system or decision mechanisms: if they do, both should be impaired in dyscalculia, but if number and time are distinct they should dissociate. Participants judged which of two successively presented horizontal lines was longer in duration, the first line being preceded by either a small or a large number prime ("1" or "9") or by a neutral symbol ("#"), or in a third task participants decided which of two Arabic numbers (either "1," "5," "9") lasted longer. Results showed that (i) DD's temporal discriminability was normal as long as numbers were not part of the experimental design, even as task-irrelevant stimuli; however (ii) task-irrelevant numbers dramatically disrupted DD's temporal discriminability the more their salience increased, though the actual magnitude of the numbers had no effect; in contrast (iii) controls' time perception was robust to the presence of numbers but modulated by numerical quantity: therefore small number primes or numerical stimuli seemed to make durations appear shorter than veridical, but longer for larger numerical prime or numerical stimuli. This study is the first to show spared temporal discrimination - a dimension of continuous quantity - in a population with a congenital number impairment. Our data reinforce the idea of a partially shared quantity system across numerical and temporal dimensions, which supports both dissociations and interactions among dimensions; however, they suggest that impaired number in DD is unlikely to originate from systems initially dedicated to continuous quantity processing like time.

Quantity judgments in the context of risk/reward decision making in striped field mice: first “count,” then hunt

PubMed Central

Panteleeva, Sofia; Reznikova, Zhanna; Vygonyailova, Olga

2013-01-01

We simulated the situation of risky hunting in the striped field mouse Apodemus agrarius in order to examine whether these animals are able to make a choice between small and large quantities of live prey (ants). In the first (preliminary) experiment we investigated to what extent mice were interested in ants as a live prey and how their hunting activity depended on the quantity of these edible but rather aggressive insects. We placed mice one by one into arenas together with ant groups of different quantities, from 10 to 60. Surprisingly, animals, both wild-caught and laboratory-reared, displayed rather skilled predatory attacks: mice killed and ate from 0.37 ± 003 to 4 ± 0.5 ants per minute. However, there was a threshold number of ants in the arenas when rodents expressed signs of discomfort and started to panic, likely because ants bit them. This threshold corresponds to the dynamic density (about 400 individuals per m2 per min) in the vicinity of anthills and ants' routes in natural environment. In the second experiment mice had to choose between different quantities of ants placed in two transparent tunnels. Ants here served both as food items and as a source of danger. As far as we know, this is the first experimental paradigm based on evaluation of quantity judgments in the context of risk/reward decision making where the animals face a trade-off between the hedonistic value of the prey and the danger it presents. We found that when mice have to choose between 5 vs. 15, 5 vs. 30, and 10 vs. 30 ants, they always tend to prefer the smaller quantity, thus displaying the capacity for distinguishing more from less in order to ensure comfortable hunting. The results of this study are ecologically relevant as they reflect situations and challenges faced by free-living small rodents. PMID:23407476

Preparation and structural characterization of vulcanized natural rubber nanocomposites containing nickel-zinc ferrite nanopowders.

PubMed

Bellucci, F S; Salmazo, L O; Budemberg, E R; da Silva, M R; Rodríguez-Pérez, M A; Nobre, M A L; Job, A E

2012-03-01

Single-phase polycrystalline mixed nickel-zinc ferrites belonging to Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 were prepared on a nanometric scale (mean crystallite size equal to 14.7 nm) by chemical synthesis named the modified poliol method. Ferrite nanopowder was then incorporated into a natural rubber matrix producing nanocomposites. The samples were investigated by means of infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and magnetic measurements. The obtained results suggest that the base concentration of nickel-zinc ferrite nanoparticles inside the polymer matrix volume greatly influences the magnetic properties of nanocomposites. A small quantity of nanoparticles, less than 10 phr, in the nanocomposite is sufficient to produce a small alteration in the semi-crystallinity of nanocomposites observed by X-ray diffraction analysis and it produces a flexible magnetic composite material with a saturation magnetization, a coercivity field and an initial magnetic permeability equal to 3.08 emu/g, 99.22 Oe and 9.42 x 10(-5) respectively.

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

Armour, M.A.; Nelson, C.; Sather, P. Briker, Y.

Users of pesticides may have waste or surplus quantities or spills for disposal. One alternative is to deactivate the pesticide at the handling site by using a straightforward chemical reaction. This option can be practical for those who use relatively small quantities of a large variety of pesticides, for example, greenhouse workers, small farmers, and agricultural researchers. This paper describes practical on-site methods for the disposal of spills or small waste quantities of five commonly used pesticides, Diazinon, Chlorpyrifos, Iprodione, 2,4-D, and Captan. These have been tested in the laboratory for the rate of disappearance of the pesticide, the degreemore » of conversion to nontoxic products, the nature and identity of the products, the practicality of the method, and the ease of reproducibility. Methods selected were shown to be safe for the operator, reliable, and reproducible. Greater than 99% of the starting material had to be reacted under reasonable conditions and length of time. Detailed descriptions of the reactions are presented, so that they can be performed with reproducible results. Protective clothing worn during the handling and application of pesticides may become contaminated. Simple laundering does not always remove all of the pesticide residues. Thus, chronic dermal exposure may result from the pesticide-contaminated clothing. Appropriate methods of laundering using specific pretreatments have been determined. 7 refs.« less

27 CFR 40.183 - Record of tobacco products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) TOBACCO MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, CIGARETTE PAPERS AND TUBES... quantities of all tobacco products, by kind (small cigars-large cigars; small cigarettes-large cigarettes... inventory; (e) Removed subject to tax (itemize large cigars by sale price in accordance with § 40.22, except...

46 CFR 25.26-1 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... preparation and extended storage of food. This does not include small alcohol or propane stoves with limited cooking capability, or ice chests or similar devices that are intended for keeping small quantities of food for short durations. High seas means the waters beyond a line three nautical miles seaward of the...

Fluorspar

USGS Publications Warehouse

Miller, M.

2003-01-01

The United States had a small quantity of fluorspar production from one mine in Utah during 2002. Most of the fluorspar consumed in the United States continued to come from imports or material purchased from the National Defense Stockpile (NDS). In addition, a small amount of synthetic fluorspar (CaF2) was produced from industrial waste streams.

27 CFR 40.183 - Record of tobacco products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) TOBACCO MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, CIGARETTE PAPERS AND TUBES... quantities of all tobacco products, by kind (small cigars-large cigars; small cigarettes-large cigarettes... inventory; (e) Removed subject to tax (itemize large cigars by sale price in accordance with § 40.22, except...

27 CFR 40.183 - Record of tobacco products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

..., DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY (CONTINUED) TOBACCO MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS, CIGARETTE PAPERS AND TUBES... quantities of all tobacco products, by kind (small cigars-large cigars; small cigarettes-large cigarettes... inventory; (e) Removed subject to tax (itemize large cigars by sale price in accordance with § 40.22, except...

Hydrologic monitoring of selected streams in coal fields of central and southern Utah; summary of data collected, August 1978-September 1984

USGS Publications Warehouse

Price, Don; Plantz, G.G.

1987-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey conducted a coal-hydrology monitoring program in coal-field areas of central and southern Utah during August 1978-September 1984 to determine possible hydrologic impacts of future mining and to provide a better understanding of the hydrologic systems of the coal resource areas monitored. Data were collected at 19 gaging stations--18 stations in the Price, San Rafael, and Dirty Devil River basins, and 1 in the Kanab Creek Basin. Streamflow data were collected continuously at 11 stations and seasonally at 5 stations. At the other three stations streamflow data were collected continuously during the 1979 water year and then seasonally for the rest of their periods of record. Types of data collected at each station included quantity and quality of streamflow; suspended sediment concentrations; and descriptions of stream bottom sediments, benthic invertebrate, and phytoplankton samples. Also, base flow measurements were made annually upstream from 12 of the gaging stations. Stream bottom sediment sampled at nearly all the monitoring sites contained small to moderate quantities of coal, which may be attributed chiefly to pre-monitoring mining. Streamflow sampled at several sites contained large concentrations of sulfate and dissolved solids. Also, concentrations of various trace elements at 10 stations, and phenols at 18 stations, exceeded the criteria of the EPA for drinking water. This may be attributed to contemporary (water years 1979-84) mine drainage activities. The data collected during the complete water years (1979-84) of monitoring do provide a better understanding of the hydrologic systems of the coal field areas monitored. The data also provide a definite base by which to evaluate hydrologic impacts of continued or increased coal mining in those areas. (Author 's abstract)

A Generalized Approach to Forensic Dye Identification: Development and Utility of Reference Libraries.

PubMed

Groves, Ethan; Palenik, Skip; Palenik, Christopher S

2018-04-18

While color is arguably the most important optical property of evidential fibers, the actual dyestuffs responsible for its expression in them are, in forensic trace evidence examinations, rarely analyzed and still less often identified. This is due, primarily, to the exceedingly small quantities of dye present in a single fiber as well as to the fact that dye identification is a challenging analytical problem, even when large quantities are available for analysis. Among the practical reasons for this are the wide range of dyestuffs available (and the even larger number of trade names), the low total concentration of dyes in the finished product, the limited amount of sample typically available for analysis in forensic cases, and the complexity of the dye mixtures that may exist within a single fiber. Literature on the topic of dye analysis is often limited to a specific method, subset of dyestuffs, or an approach that is not applicable given the constraints of a forensic analysis. Here, we present a generalized approach to dye identification that ( 1 ) combines several robust analytical methods, ( 2 ) is broadly applicable to a wide range of dye chemistries, application classes, and fiber types, and ( 3 ) can be scaled down to forensic casework-sized samples. The approach is based on the development of a reference collection of 300 commercially relevant textile dyes that have been characterized by a variety of microanalytical methods (HPTLC, Raman microspectroscopy, infrared microspectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and visible microspectrophotometry). Although there is no single approach that is applicable to all dyes on every type of fiber, a combination of these analytical methods has been applied using a reproducible approach that permits the use of reference libraries to constrain the identity of and, in many cases, identify the dye (or dyes) present in a textile fiber sample.

Membrane vesicles in sea water: heterogeneous DNA content and implications for viral abundance estimates

PubMed Central

Biller, Steven J; McDaniel, Lauren D; Breitbart, Mya; Rogers, Everett; Paul, John H; Chisholm, Sallie W

2017-01-01

Diverse microbes release membrane-bound extracellular vesicles from their outer surfaces into the surrounding environment. Vesicles are found in numerous habitats including the oceans, where they likely have a variety of functional roles in microbial ecosystems. Extracellular vesicles are known to contain a range of biomolecules including DNA, but the frequency with which DNA is packaged in vesicles is unknown. Here, we examine the quantity and distribution of DNA associated with vesicles released from five different bacteria. The average quantity of double-stranded DNA and size distribution of DNA fragments released within vesicles varies among different taxa. Although some vesicles contain sufficient DNA to be visible following staining with the SYBR fluorescent DNA dyes typically used to enumerate viruses, this represents only a small proportion (<0.01–1%) of vesicles. Thus DNA is packaged heterogeneously within vesicle populations, and it appears that vesicles are likely to be a minor component of SYBR-visible particles in natural sea water compared with viruses. Consistent with this hypothesis, chloroform treatment of coastal and offshore seawater samples reveals that vesicles increase epifluorescence-based particle (viral) counts by less than an order of magnitude and their impact is variable in space and time. PMID:27824343

Marine debris contamination along undeveloped tropical beaches from northeast Brazil.

PubMed

Santos, Isaac R; Friedrich, Ana Cláudia; Ivar do Sul, Juliana Assunção

2009-01-01

We hypothesize that floating debris leaving polluted coastal bays accumulate on nearby pristine beaches. We examined composition, quantities and distribution of marine debris along approximately 150 km of relatively undeveloped, tropical beaches in Costa do Dendê (Bahia, Brazil). The study site is located south of Salvador City, the largest urban settlement from NE Brazil. Strong spatial variations were observed. Plastics accounted for 76% of the sampled items, followed by styrofoam (14%). Small plastic fragments resultant from the breakdown of larger items are ubiquitous all over the area. Because the dominant littoral drift in Bahia is southward, average beach debris densities (9.1 items/m) along Costa do Dendê were threefold higher than densities previously observed north of Salvador City. River-dominated and stable beaches had higher debris quantities than unstable, erosional beaches. Areas immediately south of the major regional embayments (Camamu and Todos os Santos) were the preferential accumulation sites, indicating that rivers draining populous areas are the major source of debris to the study site. Our results provide baseline information for future assessments. Management actions should focus on input prevention at the hydrographic basin level rather than on cleaning services on beaches.

Large-scale preparation of plasmid DNA.

PubMed

Heilig, J S; Elbing, K L; Brent, R

2001-05-01

Although the need for large quantities of plasmid DNA has diminished as techniques for manipulating small quantities of DNA have improved, occasionally large amounts of high-quality plasmid DNA are desired. This unit describes the preparation of milligram quantities of highly purified plasmid DNA. The first part of the unit describes three methods for preparing crude lysates enriched in plasmid DNA from bacterial cells grown in liquid culture: alkaline lysis, boiling, and Triton lysis. The second part describes four methods for purifying plasmid DNA in such lysates away from contaminating RNA and protein: CsCl/ethidium bromide density gradient centrifugation, polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation, anion-exchange chromatography, and size-exclusion chromatography.

Method for providing a low density high strength polyurethane foam

DOEpatents

Whinnery, Jr., Leroy L.; Goods, Steven H.; Skala, Dawn M.; Henderson, Craig C.; Keifer, Patrick N.

2013-06-18

Disclosed is a method for making a polyurethane closed-cell foam material exhibiting a bulk density below 4 lbs/ft.sup.3 and high strength. The present embodiment uses the reaction product of a modified MDI and a sucrose/glycerine based polyether polyol resin wherein a small measured quantity of the polyol resin is "pre-reacted" with a larger quantity of the isocyanate in a defined ratio such that when the necessary remaining quantity of the polyol resin is added to the "pre-reacted" resin together with a tertiary amine catalyst and water as a blowing agent, the polymerization proceeds slowly enough to provide a stable foam body.

Comparison of metal release from various metallic biomaterials in vitro.

PubMed

Okazaki, Yoshimitsu; Gotoh, Emiko

2005-01-01

To investigate the metal release of each base and alloying elements in vitro, SUS316L stainless steel, Co-Cr-Mo casting alloy, commercially pure Ti grade 2, and Ti-6Al-4V, V-free Ti-6Al-7Nb and Ti-15Zr-4Nb-4Ta alloys were immersed in various solutions, namely, alpha-medium, PBS(-), calf serum, 0.9% NaCl, artificial saliva, 1.2 mass% L-cysteine, 1 mass% lactic acid and 0.01 mass% HCl for 7d. The difference in the quantity of Co released from the Co-Cr-Mo casting alloy was relatively small in all the solutions. The quantities of Ti released into alpha-medium, PBS(-), calf serum, 0.9% NaCl and artificial saliva were much lower than those released into 1.2% L-cysteine, 1% lactic acid and 0.01% HCl. The quantity of Fe released from SUS316L stainless steel decreased linearly with increasing pH. On the other hand, the quantity of Ti released from Ti materials increased with decreasing pH, and it markedly attenuated at pHs of approximately 4 and higher. The quantity of Ni released from stainless steel gradually decreased with increasing pH. The quantities of Al released from the Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-7Nb alloys gradually decreased with increasing pH. A small V release was observed in calf serum, PBS(-), artificial saliva, 1% lactic acid, 1.2% l-cysteine and 0.01% HCl. The quantity of Ti released from the Ti-15Zr-4Nb-4Ta alloy was smaller than those released from the Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-7Nb alloys in all the solutions. In particular, it was approximately 30% or smaller in 1% lactic acid, 1.2% L-cysteine and 0.01% HCl. The quantity of (Zr + Nb + Ta) released was also considerably lower than that of (Al + Nb) or (Al + V) released. Therefore, the Ti-15Zr-4Nb-4Ta alloy with its low metal release in vitro is considered advantageous for long-term implants. Copyright 2004 Elsevier Ltd.

Optofluidic Cell Selection from Complex Microbial Communities for Single-Genome Analysis

PubMed Central

Landry, Zachary C.; Giovanonni, Stephen J.; Quake, Stephen R.; Blainey, Paul C.

2013-01-01

Genetic analysis of single cells is emerging as a powerful approach for studies of heterogeneous cell populations. Indeed, the notion of homogeneous cell populations is receding as approaches to resolve genetic and phenotypic variation between single cells are applied throughout the life sciences. A key step in single-cell genomic analysis today is the physical isolation of individual cells from heterogeneous populations, particularly microbial populations, which often exhibit high diversity. Here, we detail the construction and use of instrumentation for optical trapping inside microfluidic devices to select individual cells for analysis by methods including nucleic acid sequencing. This approach has unique advantages for analyses of rare community members, cells with irregular morphologies, small quantity samples, and studies that employ advanced optical microscopy. PMID:24060116

Exchange and spin-orbit induced phenomena in diluted (Ga,Mn)As from first principles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kudrnovský, J.; Drchal, V.; Turek, I.

2016-08-01

Physical properties induced by exchange interactions (Curie temperature and spin stiffness) and spin-orbit coupling (anomalous Hall effect, anisotropic magnetoresistance, and Gilbert damping) in the diluted (Ga,Mn)As ferromagnetic semiconductor are studied from first principles. Recently developed Kubo-Bastin transport theory and nonlocal torque operator formulation of the Gilbert damping as formulated in the tight-binding linear muffin-tin orbital method are used. The first-principles Liechtenstein mapping is employed to construct an effective Heisenberg Hamiltonian and to estimate Curie temperature and spin stiffness in the real-space random-phase approximation. Good agreement of calculated physical quantities with experiments on well-annealed samples containing only a small amount of compensating defects is obtained.

CITICO CREEK WILDERNESS STUDY AREA, TENNESSEE.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Slack, John F.; Behum, Paul T.

1984-01-01

A mineral-resource survey of the Citico Creek Wilderness Study Area, in easternmost Tennessee, indicated that the area offers little promise for the occurrence of metallic mineral resources. Geochemical sampling found traces of gold, copper, cobalt, barium, arsenic, lead, zinc, and thorium in rocks, stream sediments, and panned concentrates, but not in sufficient quantities to indicate the presence of metallic mineral deposits. The only apparent resources are nonmetallic commodities including rock suitable for construction materials, and small amounts of sand and gravel; however, these commodities are found in abundance outside the study area. The potential for oil and natural gas at great depths could not be evaluated by this study. Deep drilling would test the potential for hydrocarbon resources underlying the metamorphic rocks.

Combined alternating gradient force magnetometer and susceptometer system

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

Pérez, M.; Mendizábal Vázquez, I. de; Aroca, C.

2015-01-15

We report the design, fabrication, and characterization of a new system that combines the performances of two different types of magnetic characterization systems, Alternating Gradient Force Magnetometers (AGFM) and susceptometers. The flexibility of our system is demonstrated by its capability to be used as any of them, AGFM or susceptometer, without any modification in the experimental set-up because of the electronics we have developed. Our system has a limit of sensitivity lower than 5 × 10{sup −7} emu. Moreover, its main advantage is demonstrated by the possibility of measuring small quantities of materials under DC or AC magnetic fields thatmore » cannot properly be measured with a commercial vibrating sample magnetometers or AGFM.« less

Brief Report: A mass spectrometry assay to simultaneously analyze ROS1 and RET fusion gene expression in non-small cell lung cancer

PubMed Central

Wijesinghe, Priyanga; Bepler, Gerold

2014-01-01

Introduction ROS1 and RET gene fusions were recently discovered in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) as potential therapeutic targets with small molecule kinase inhibitors. The conventional screening methods of these fusions are time consuming and require samples of high quality and quantity. Here, we describe a novel and efficient method by coupling the power of multiplexing PCR and the sensitivity of mass spectrometry. Methods The multiplex mass spectrometry platform simultaneously tests samples for the expression of nine ROS1 and six RET fusion genes. The assay incorporates detection of wild-type exon junctions immediately upstream and downstream of the fusion junction to exclude false negative results. To flag false positives, the system also comprises two independent assays for each fusion gene junction. Results The characteristic mass spectrometric peaks of the gene fusions were obtained using engineered plasmid constructs. Specific assays targeting the wild-type gene exon junctions were validated using cDNA from lung tissue of healthy individuals. The system was further validated using cDNA derived from NSCLC cell lines that express endogenous fusion genes. The expressed ROS1-SLC34A2 and CCDC6-RET gene fusions from the NSCLC cell lines HCC78 and LC-2/ad, respectively, were accurately detected by the novel assay. The assay is extremely sensitive, capable of detecting an event in test specimens containing 0.5% positive tumors. Conclusion The novel multiplexed assay is robustly capable of detecting 15 different clinically relevant RET and ROS1 fusion variants. The benefits of this detection method include exceptionally low sample input, high cost efficiency, flexibility, and rapid turnover. PMID:25384172

43 CFR 3430.4-4 - Environmental costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... and analyzing baseline data on surface water quality and quantity (collecting and analyzing samples...). (2) Groundwater—costs of collecting and analyzing baseline data on groundwater quality and quantity... analyzing baseline air quality data (purchasing rain, air direction, and wind guages and air samplers and...

43 CFR 3430.4-4 - Environmental costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... and analyzing baseline data on surface water quality and quantity (collecting and analyzing samples...). (2) Groundwater—costs of collecting and analyzing baseline data on groundwater quality and quantity... analyzing baseline air quality data (purchasing rain, air direction, and wind guages and air samplers and...

43 CFR 3430.4-4 - Environmental costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... and analyzing baseline data on surface water quality and quantity (collecting and analyzing samples...). (2) Groundwater—costs of collecting and analyzing baseline data on groundwater quality and quantity... analyzing baseline air quality data (purchasing rain, air direction, and wind guages and air samplers and...

43 CFR 3430.4-4 - Environmental costs.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... and analyzing baseline data on surface water quality and quantity (collecting and analyzing samples...). (2) Groundwater—costs of collecting and analyzing baseline data on groundwater quality and quantity... analyzing baseline air quality data (purchasing rain, air direction, and wind guages and air samplers and...

[Effects of small hydropower substitute fuel project on forest ecosystem services].

PubMed

Yu, Hai Yan; Zha, Tong Gang; Nie, Li Shui; Lyu, Zhi Yuan

2016-10-01

Based on the Forest Ecosystem Services Assessment Standards (LY/T 1721－2008) issued by the State Forestry Administration, this paper evaluated four key functions of forest ecosystems, i.e., water conservation, soil conservation, carbon fixation and oxygen release, and nutrient accumulation. Focusing on the project area of Majiang County in Guizhou Province, this study provided some quantitative evidence that the implementation of the small hydropower substituting fuel project had positive effects on the values and material quantities of ecosystem service functions. The results showed that the small hydropower substituting fuel project had a significant effect on the increase of forest ecosystem services. Water conservation quantity of Pinus massoniana and Cupressus funebris plantations inside project area was 20662.04 m 3 ·hm -2 ·a -1 , 20.5% higher than outside project area, with soil conservation quantity of 119.1 t·hm -2 ·a -1 , 29.7% higher than outside project area, carbon fixation and oxygen release of 220.49 t·hm -2 ·a -1 , 40.2% higher than outside project area, and forest tree nutrition accumulation of 3.49 t·hm -2 ·a -1 , 48.5% higher than outside project area. Small hydropower substituting fuel project for increasing the quota of forest ecosystem service function value was in the order of carbon fixation and oxygen release function (71400 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ) > water conservation function (60100 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ) > tree nutrition accumulation function (13800 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ) > soil conservation function (8100 yuan·hm -2 ·a -1 ). Small hydropower substituting fuel project played an important role for improving the forest ecological service function value and realizing the sustainable development of forest.

System for characterizing semiconductor materials and photovoltaic devices through calibration

DOEpatents

Sopori, Bhushan L.; Allen, Larry C.; Marshall, Craig; Murphy, Robert C.; Marshall, Todd

1998-01-01

A method and apparatus for measuring characteristics of a piece of material, typically semiconductor materials including photovoltaic devices. The characteristics may include dislocation defect density, grain boundaries, reflectance, external LBIC, internal LBIC, and minority carrier diffusion length. The apparatus includes a light source, an integrating sphere, and a detector communicating with a computer. The measurement or calculation of the characteristics is calibrated to provide accurate, absolute values. The calibration is performed by substituting a standard sample for the piece of material, the sample having a known quantity of one or more of the relevant characteristics. The quantity measured by the system of the relevant characteristic is compared to the known quantity and a calibration constant is created thereby.

System for characterizing semiconductor materials and photovoltaic devices through calibration

DOEpatents

Sopori, B.L.; Allen, L.C.; Marshall, C.; Murphy, R.C.; Marshall, T.

1998-05-26

A method and apparatus are disclosed for measuring characteristics of a piece of material, typically semiconductor materials including photovoltaic devices. The characteristics may include dislocation defect density, grain boundaries, reflectance, external LBIC, internal LBIC, and minority carrier diffusion length. The apparatus includes a light source, an integrating sphere, and a detector communicating with a computer. The measurement or calculation of the characteristics is calibrated to provide accurate, absolute values. The calibration is performed by substituting a standard sample for the piece of material, the sample having a known quantity of one or more of the relevant characteristics. The quantity measured by the system of the relevant characteristic is compared to the known quantity and a calibration constant is created thereby. 44 figs.

Plastic particles in coastal pelagic ecosystems of the Northeast Pacific ocean.

PubMed

Doyle, Miriam J; Watson, William; Bowlin, Noelle M; Sheavly, Seba B

2011-02-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the distribution, abundance and characteristics of plastic particles in plankton samples collected routinely in Northeast Pacific ecosystems, and to contribute to the development of ideas for future research into the occurrence and impact of small plastic debris in marine pelagic ecosystems. Plastic debris particles were assessed from zooplankton samples collected as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) ongoing ecosystem surveys during two research cruises in the Southeast Bering Sea in the spring and fall of 2006 and four research cruises off the U.S. west coast (primarily off southern California) in spring, summer and fall of 2006, and in January of 2007. Nets with 0.505 mm mesh were used to collect surface samples during all cruises, and sub-surface samples during the four cruises off the west coast. The 595 plankton samples processed indicate that plastic particles are widely distributed in surface waters. The proportion of surface samples from each cruise that contained particles of plastic ranged from 8.75 to 84.0%, whereas particles were recorded in sub-surface samples from only one cruise (in 28.2% of the January 2007 samples). Spatial and temporal variability was apparent in the abundance and distribution of the plastic particles and mean standardized quantities varied among cruises with ranges of 0.004-0.19 particles/m³, and 0.014-0.209 mg dry mass/m³. Off southern California, quantities for the winter cruise were significantly higher, and for the spring cruise significantly lower than for the summer and fall surveys (surface data). Differences between surface particle concentrations and mass for the Bering Sea and California coast surveys were significant for pair-wise comparisons of the spring but not the fall cruises. The particles were assigned to three plastic product types: product fragments, fishing net and line fibers, and industrial pellets; and five size categories: <1 mm, 1-2.5 mm, >2.5-5 mm, >5-10 mm, and >10 mm. Product fragments accounted for the majority of the particles, and most were less than 2.5 mm in size. The ubiquity of such particles in the survey areas and predominance of sizes <2.5 mm implies persistence in these pelagic ecosystems as a result of continuous breakdown from larger plastic debris fragments, and widespread distribution by ocean currents. Detailed investigations of the trophic ecology of individual zooplankton species, and their encounter rates with various size ranges of plastic particles in the marine pelagic environment, are required in order to understand the potential for ingestion of such debris particles by these organisms. Ongoing plankton sampling programs by marine research institutes in large marine ecosystems are good potential sources of data for continued assessment of the abundance, distribution and potential impact of small plastic debris in productive coastal pelagic zones. © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on migrant shorebirds using rocky intertidal habitats of Prince William Sound, Alaska, during spring, 1989. Exxon Valdez oil spill state/federal natural resource damage assessment final report

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

Martin, P.D.

1993-12-01

A minimum of a few 10,000`s of surfbirds (Aphriza virgata) and black turnstones (Arenaria melanocephala) used rocky intertidal habitats of southwestern Prince William sound in spring 1989. Virtually all the shorebirds were found using shorelines, primarily on northern Montague Island, subjectively classified in the field as lightly oiled or unoiled. Surfbirds and black turnstones preyed mainly on herring eggs, blue mussels, and barnacles. Samples of these prey items from oiled areas contained petroleum-derived hydrocarbons, as did at some of the samples from the relatively clean portions of Montague Island. The results of chemical analysis of a small sample of shorebirdmore » liver tissues provided only limited support for the hypothesis that shorebirds had ingested significant quantities of petroleum-derived hydrocarbons. Surfbirds and black turnstones probably escaped significant population impacts as a result of the EVOs because shorelines which received heavy use by these species were largely spared contamination.« less

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) with atmospheric pressure ion mobility spectrometry for drug detection.

PubMed

Roscioli, Kristyn M; Tufariello, Jessica A; Zhang, Xing; Li, Shelly X; Goetz, Gilles H; Cheng, Guilong; Siems, William F; Hill, Herbert H

2014-04-07

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) was coupled to an ambient pressure drift tube ion mobility time-of-flight mass spectrometer (IM-TOFMS) for the direct analysis of active ingredients in pharmaceutical samples. The DESI source was also coupled with a standalone IMS demonstrating potential of portable and inexpensive drug-quality testing platforms. The DESI-IMS required no sample pretreatment as ions were generated directly from tablets and cream formulations. The analysis of a range of over-the-counter and prescription tablet formations was demonstrated for amphetamine (methylphenidate), antidepressant (venlafaxine), barbiturate (Barbituric acid), depressant (alprazolam), narcotic (3-methylmorphine) and sympatholytic (propranolol) drugs. Active ingredients from soft and liquid formulations, such as Icy Hot cream (methyl salicylate) and Nyquil cold medicine (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, doxylamine) were also detected. Increased sensitivity for selective drug responses was demonstrated through the formation of sodiated adduct ions by introducing small quantities of NaCl into the DESI solvent. Of the drugs and pharmaceuticals tested in this study, 68% (22 total samples) provided a clear ion mobility response at characteristic mobilities either as (M + H)(+), (M - H)(-), or (M + Na)(+) ions.

A simple method for the analysis of particle sizes of forage and total mixed rations.

PubMed

Lammers, B P; Buckmaster, D R; Heinrichs, A J

1996-05-01

A simple separator was developed to determine the particle sizes of forage and TMR that allows for easy separation of wet forage into three fractions and also allows plotting of the particle size distribution. The device was designed to mimic the laboratory-scale separator for forage particle sizes that was specified by Standard S424 of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers. A comparison of results using the standard device and the newly developed separator indicated no difference in ability to predict fractions of particles with maximum length of less than 8 and 19 mm. The separator requires a small quantity of sample (1.4 L) and is manually operated. The materials on the screens and bottom pan were weighed to obtain the cumulative percentage of sample that was undersize for the two fractions. The results were then plotted using the Weibull distribution, which proved to be the best fit for the data. Convenience samples of haycrop silage, corn silage, and TMR from farms in the northeastern US were analyzed using the forage and TMR separator, and the range of observed values are given.

Mitigating agricultural impacts on groundwater using distributed managed aquifer recharge ponds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, C. M.; Russo, T. A.; Fisher, A. T.; Racz, A. J.; Wheat, C. G.; Los Huertos, M.; Lockwood, B. S.

2010-12-01

Groundwater is likely to become increasingly important for irrigated agriculture due to anticipated changes to the hydrologic cycle associated with climate change. Protecting the quantity and quality of subsurface water supplies will require flexible management strategies that can enhance groundwater recharge. We present results from a study of managed aquifer recharge (MAR) in central coastal California, and propose the use of distributed, small-scale (1-5 ha) MAR systems to improve the quantity and quality of recharge in agricultural basins. Our field site is located in a basin where the primary use of groundwater is irrigation for agriculture, and groundwater resources are increasingly threatened by seawater intrusion and nutrient contamination from fertilizer application. The MAR system we are monitoring is supplied by stormwater and irrigation runoff of variable quality, which is diverted from a wetland during periods of high flow. This MAR system delivers approximately 1x106 m3 of recharge annually to the underlying aquifer, a portion of which is recovered and distributed to growers during the dry season. Our sampling and measurements (at high spatial and temporal resolution) show that a significant percentage of the nitrogen load added during MAR operation is eliminated from recharge during shallow infiltration (~30% to 60%, ~40 kg NO3-N/d). Isotopic analyses of the residual nitrate indicate that a significant fraction of the nitrate load reduction is attributable to denitrification. When normalized to infiltration pond area, this system achieves a mean load reduction of 7 kg NO3-N/d/ha, which compares favorably with the nitrogen load reduction efficiency achieved by treatment wetlands receiving agricultural runoff. Much of the reduction in nitrogen load occurs during periods of rapid infiltration (0.2 to 2.0 m/day), as demonstrated with point measurements of infiltration rate collocated with fluid samples. These results suggest that developing a network of small-scale MAR ponds could be a useful strategy for improving groundwater conditions in this basin. Although the efficiency of small recharge ponds can be high, numerous projects would be needed to impact the overall water balance of a basin such as ours. We are applying a GIS-based approach to assess how small-scale MAR systems could be distributed to achieve significant benefit. This analysis involves determining where topography, soil type, land ownership, groundwater conditions, and cropping practices are the most favorable for locating recharge systems. Results of this work should be applicable to other basins facing similar challenges, ultimately helping to improve the sustainability of groundwater supplies.

Evaluation of a digital food photography atlas used as portion size measurement aid in dietary surveys in Greece.

PubMed

Naska, Androniki; Valanou, Elisavet; Peppa, Eleni; Katsoulis, Michail; Barbouni, Anastasia; Trichopoulou, Antonia

2016-09-01

To evaluate how well respondents perceive digital images of food portions commonly consumed in Greece. The picture series was defined on the basis of usual dietary intakes assessed in earlier large-scale studies in Greece. The evaluation included 2218 pre-weighed actual portions shown to participants, who were subsequently asked to link each portion to a food picture. Mean differences between picture numbers selected and portions actually shown were compared using the Wilcoxon paired signed-rank test. The effect of personal characteristics on participants' selections was evaluated through unpaired t tests (sex and school years) or through Tukey-Kramer pairwise comparisons (age and food groups). Testing of participants' perception of digital food images used in the Greek national nutrition survey. Individuals (n 103, 61 % females) aged 12 years and over, selected on the basis of the target population of the Greek nutrition survey using convenience sampling. Individuals selected the correct or adjacent image in about 90 % of the assessments and tended to overestimate small and underestimate large quantities. Photographs of Greek traditional pies and meat-based pastry dishes led participants to perceive the amounts in the photos larger than they actually were. Adolescents were more prone to underestimating food quantities through the pictures. The digital food atlas appears generally suitable to be used for the estimation of average food intakes in large-scale dietary surveys in Greece. However, individuals who consistently consume only small or only large food portions may have biased perceptions in relation to others.

High Throughput Microplate Respiratory Measurements Using Minimal Quantities Of Isolated Mitochondria

PubMed Central

Rogers, George W.; Brand, Martin D.; Petrosyan, Susanna; Ashok, Deepthi; Elorza, Alvaro A.; Ferrick, David A.; Murphy, Anne N.

2011-01-01

Recently developed technologies have enabled multi-well measurement of O2 consumption, facilitating the rate of mitochondrial research, particularly regarding the mechanism of action of drugs and proteins that modulate metabolism. Among these technologies, the Seahorse XF24 Analyzer was designed for use with intact cells attached in a monolayer to a multi-well tissue culture plate. In order to have a high throughput assay system in which both energy demand and substrate availability can be tightly controlled, we have developed a protocol to expand the application of the XF24 Analyzer to include isolated mitochondria. Acquisition of optimal rates requires assay conditions that are unexpectedly distinct from those of conventional polarography. The optimized conditions, derived from experiments with isolated mouse liver mitochondria, allow multi-well assessment of rates of respiration and proton production by mitochondria attached to the bottom of the XF assay plate, and require extremely small quantities of material (1–10 µg of mitochondrial protein per well). Sequential measurement of basal, State 3, State 4, and uncoupler-stimulated respiration can be made in each well through additions of reagents from the injection ports. We describe optimization and validation of this technique using isolated mouse liver and rat heart mitochondria, and apply the approach to discover that inclusion of phosphatase inhibitors in the preparation of the heart mitochondria results in a specific decrease in rates of Complex I-dependent respiration. We believe this new technique will be particularly useful for drug screening and for generating previously unobtainable respiratory data on small mitochondrial samples. PMID:21799747

Toward new instruments for measurement of low concentration hydrogen sulfide in small-quantity aqueous solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xiao Chu; Qing Wu, Dong; Sammynaiken, R.; Yang, Wei; Wang, Rui; Zhang, W. J.

2008-11-01

Endogenously generated hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been found to play some important physiological roles in the nervous and cardiovascular systems, such as a neuromodulator and a vasorelaxant. These roles are in contrast to our common perception that H2S is toxic. However, whether H2S plays a positive or negative role is dependent on the H2S concentration levels in mammals. This further puts a high demand on the accurate measurement of H2S in mammals with a further desire to be real time, continuous and in vivo. Existing methods for H2S measurement require a large number of tissue samples with complex procedures, and these methods are extremely invasive. The development of new in vivo and real-time methods for measuring H2S is, however, a great challenge. In the present study, we proposed and examined five potential H2S measurement methods: (1) atomic force microscopy with coating materials, (2) Raman spectroscopy on the H2S solutions, (3) gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (with the static headspace technique) on the H2S solutions, (4) mass spectroscopy on unfunctionalized carbon nanotubes treated with the H2S solutions and (5) Raman spectroscopy on unfunctionalized carbon nanotubes treated with the H2S solutions. Our study concluded that method (5) is the most promising one for detecting low concentration H2S in small-quantity aqueous solutions in terms of measurement resolution and non-invasiveness, but the method is not very robust.

Forecasting Science and Technology for the Department of Defense

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

Watson and Francis Crick announced that they had elucidated the structure of DNA and had therefore “discovered the secret of life.” While this was a...an organic chemist, figured out a process by which very small quantities of DNA could be amplified with high fidelity. This process, known as...polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for the first time, allowed scientists to produce DNA in large quantities. Roughly during this period, Leroy Hood and

Microliter-sized ionization device and method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simac, Robert M. (Inventor); Wernlund, Roger F. (Inventor); Cohen, Martin J. (Inventor)

1999-01-01

A microliter-sized metastable ionization device with a cavity, a sample gas inlet, a corona gas inlet and a gas outlet. A first electrode has a hollow and disposed in the cavity and is in fluid communication with the sample gas inlet. A second electrode is in fluid communication with the corona gas inlet and is disposed around the first electrode adjacent the hollow end thereof. A gap forming means forms a corona gap between the first and second electrodes. A first power supply is connected to the first electrode and the second power supply is connected to the second electrode for generating a corona discharge across the corona gap. A collector has a hollow end portion disposed in the cavity which is in fluid communications with the gas outlet for the outgassing and detection of ionized gases. The first electrode can be a tubular member aligned concentrically with a cylindrical second electrode. The gap forming means can be in annular disc projecting radially inwardly from the cylindrical second electrode. The collector can have a tubular opening aligned coaxially with the first electrode and has an end face spaced a short distance from an end face of the first electrode forming a small active volume therebetween for the generation and detection of small quantities of trace analytes.

Methods to maximise recovery of environmental DNA from water samples.

PubMed

Hinlo, Rheyda; Gleeson, Dianne; Lintermans, Mark; Furlan, Elise

2017-01-01

The environmental DNA (eDNA) method is a detection technique that is rapidly gaining credibility as a sensitive tool useful in the surveillance and monitoring of invasive and threatened species. Because eDNA analysis often deals with small quantities of short and degraded DNA fragments, methods that maximize eDNA recovery are required to increase detectability. In this study, we performed experiments at different stages of the eDNA analysis to show which combinations of methods give the best recovery rate for eDNA. Using Oriental weatherloach (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) as a study species, we show that various combinations of DNA capture, preservation and extraction methods can significantly affect DNA yield. Filtration using cellulose nitrate filter paper preserved in ethanol or stored in a -20°C freezer and extracted with the Qiagen DNeasy kit outperformed other combinations in terms of cost and efficiency of DNA recovery. Our results support the recommendation to filter water samples within 24hours but if this is not possible, our results suggest that refrigeration may be a better option than freezing for short-term storage (i.e., 3-5 days). This information is useful in designing eDNA detection of low-density invasive or threatened species, where small variations in DNA recovery can signify the difference between detection success or failure.

Analysis of myosin heavy chain mRNA expression by RT-PCR

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, C.; Haddad, F.; Qin, A. X.; Baldwin, K. M.

1997-01-01

An assay was developed for rapid and sensitive analysis of myosin heavy chain (MHC) mRNA expression in rodent skeletal muscle. Only 2 microg of total RNA were necessary for the simultaneous analysis of relative mRNA expression of six different MHC genes. We designed synthetic DNA fragments as internal standards, which contained the relevant primer sequences for the adult MHC mRNAs type I, IIa, IIx, IIb as well as the embryonic and neonatal MHC mRNAs. A known amount of the synthetic fragment was added to each polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and yielded a product of different size than the amplified MHC mRNA fragment. The ratio of amplified MHC fragment to synthetic fragment allowed us to calculate percentages of the gene expression of the different MHC genes in a given muscle sample. Comparison with the traditional Northern blot analysis demonstrated that our reverse transcriptase-PCR-based assay was reliable, fast, and quantitative over a wide range of relative MHC mRNA expression in a spectrum of adult and neonatal rat skeletal muscles. Furthermore, the high sensitivity of the assay made it very useful when only small quantities of tissue were available. Statistical analysis of the signals for each MHC isoform across the analyzed samples showed a highly significant correlation between the PCR and the Northern signals as Pearson correlation coefficients ranged between 0.77 and 0.96 (P < 0.005). This assay has potential use in analyzing small muscle samples such as biopsies and samples from pre- and/or neonatal stages of development.

Chemical speciation and potential mobility of heavy metals in the soil of former tin mining catchment.

PubMed

Ashraf, M A; Maah, M J; Yusoff, I

2012-01-01

This study describes the chemical speciation of Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, As, and Sn in soil of former tin mining catchment. Total five sites were selected for sampling and subsequent subsamples were collected from each site in order to create a composite sample for analysis. Samples were analysed by the sequential extraction procedure using optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Small amounts of Cu, Cr, and As retrieved from the exchangeable phase, the ready available for biogeochemical cycles in the ecosystem. Low quantities of Cu and As could be taken up by plants in these kind of acidic soils. Zn not detected in the bioavailable forms while Pb is only present in negligible amounts in very few samples. The absence of mobile forms of Pb eliminates the toxic risk both in the trophic chain and its migration downwards the soil profile. The results also indicate that most of the metals have high abundance in residual fraction indicating lithogenic origin and low bioavailability of the metals in the studied soil. The average potential mobility for the metals giving the following order: Sn > Cu > Zn > Pb > Cr > As.

Chemical Speciation and Potential Mobility of Heavy Metals in the Soil of Former Tin Mining Catchment

PubMed Central

Ashraf, M. A.; Maah, M. J.; Yusoff, I.

2012-01-01

This study describes the chemical speciation of Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, As, and Sn in soil of former tin mining catchment. Total five sites were selected for sampling and subsequent subsamples were collected from each site in order to create a composite sample for analysis. Samples were analysed by the sequential extraction procedure using optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Small amounts of Cu, Cr, and As retrieved from the exchangeable phase, the ready available for biogeochemical cycles in the ecosystem. Low quantities of Cu and As could be taken up by plants in these kind of acidic soils. Zn not detected in the bioavailable forms while Pb is only present in negligible amounts in very few samples. The absence of mobile forms of Pb eliminates the toxic risk both in the trophic chain and its migration downwards the soil profile. The results also indicate that most of the metals have high abundance in residual fraction indicating lithogenic origin and low bioavailability of the metals in the studied soil. The average potential mobility for the metals giving the following order: Sn > Cu > Zn > Pb > Cr > As. PMID:22566758

Helioseismology of pre-emerging active regions. III. Statistical analysis

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

Barnes, G.; Leka, K. D.; Braun, D. C.

The subsurface properties of active regions (ARs) prior to their appearance at the solar surface may shed light on the process of AR formation. Helioseismic holography has been applied to samples taken from two populations of regions on the Sun (pre-emergence and without emergence), each sample having over 100 members, that were selected to minimize systematic bias, as described in Paper I. Paper II showed that there are statistically significant signatures in the average helioseismic properties that precede the formation of an AR. This paper describes a more detailed analysis of the samples of pre-emergence regions and regions without emergencemore » based on discriminant analysis. The property that is best able to distinguish the populations is found to be the surface magnetic field, even a day before the emergence time. However, after accounting for the correlations between the surface field and the quantities derived from helioseismology, there is still evidence of a helioseismic precursor to AR emergence that is present for at least a day prior to emergence, although the analysis presented cannot definitively determine the subsurface properties prior to emergence due to the small sample sizes.« less

Stable isotope analysis of molecular oxygen from silicates and oxides using CO2 laser extraction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perry, Eugene

1996-01-01

A laser-excited system for determination of the oxygen isotope composition of small quantities of silicate and oxide minerals was constructed and tested at JSC. This device is the first reported to use a commercially available helium cryostat to transfer and purify oxygen gas quantitatively within the system. The system uses oxygen gas instead of the conventional CO2 for mass spectrometer analyses. This modification of technique permits determination of all three stable oxygen isotopes, an essential requirement for oxygen isotope analysis of meteoritic material. Tests of the system included analysis of standard silicate materials NBS 28 and UWMG2 garnet, six SNC meteorites, and inclusions and chondrules from the Allende meteorite. Calibration with terrestrial standards was excellent. Meteorite values are close to published values and show no evidence of terrestrial oxygen contamination. The one limitation observed is that, in some runs on fine-grained SNC matrix material, sample results were affected by other samples in the sample holder within the reaction chamber. This reemphasizes the need for special precautions in dealing with fine-grained, reactive samples. Performance of the JSC instrument compares favorably with that of any other instrument currently producing published oxygen isotope data.

A Improved and Highly Effective Seabed Surface Sand Sampling Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ying

2017-04-01

In marine geology research, it is necessary to obtain a sufficient quantity of seabed surface samples, while also ensuring that the samples are in their original state. Currently, there are a number of seabed surface sampling devices available, but it is very difficult to obtain sand samples using ordinary seabed surface sampling devices, whereas machine-controlled seabed surface sampling devices are unable to dive into deeper regions of water. To obtain larger quantities of samples in their original states, many researchers have tried to improve seabed surface sampling devices, but these efforts have generally produced ambiguous results. To resolve the aforementioned issue, we have designed an improved and highly effective seabed surface sand sampling device, which incorporates the strengths of a variety of sampling devices; it is capable of diving into deeper water regions to obtain sand samples, and is also suited for use in streams, rivers, lakes and seas with varying levels of flow velocities and depth.

Water-quantity and water-quality aspects of a 500-year flood - Nishnabotna River, southwest Iowa, June 1998

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kolpin, Dana W.; Fischer, Edward E.; Schnoebelen, Douglas J.

2000-01-01

This sampling demonstrates the importance of collecting both water-quantity and water-quality data during flood events to estimate contaminant loads. Potential environmental effects of a flood can only be understood when both components are measured.

Rainfall and runoff quantity and quality data collected at four urban land-use catchments in Fresno, California, October 1981-April 1983

USGS Publications Warehouse

Oltmann, R.N.; Guay, J.R.; Shay, J.M.

1987-01-01

Data were collected as part of the National Urban Runoff Program to characterize urban runoff in Fresno, California. Rainfall-runoff quantity and quality data are included along with atmospheric dry-deposition and street-surface particulate quality data. The data are presented in figures and tables that reflect four land uses: industrial, single-dwelling residential, multiple-dwelling residential, and commercial. A total of 255 storms were monitored for rainfall and runoff quantity. Runoff samples from 112 of these storms were analyzed for physical, organic, inorganic, and biological constituents. The majority of the remaining storms have pH and specific conductance data only. Ninety-two composite rain samples were collected. Of these, 63 were analyzed for physical, inorganic, and (or) organic constituents. The remaining rainfall samples have pH and specific conductance data only. Nineteen atmospheric deposition and 21 street-particulate samples were collected and analyzed for inorganic and organic constituents. The report also details equipment utilization and operation, and discusses data collection methods. (USGS)

Preparation of 152Gd targets from a small quantity of gadolinium oxide in a pyrochemical reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipski, A. R.

1995-02-01

A simple method utilizing small amounts (< 5 mg) of isotopically enriched material for the production of gadolinium targets is discussed. An electrostatically focused e-gun is used in the procedure in which 152Gd 2O 3 powder undergoes reduction-distillation and deposition onto an Fe foil.

Preparation of isotopic molybdenum foils utilizing small quantities of material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipski, A. R.; Lee, L. L.; Liang, J. F.; Mahon, J. C.

1993-09-01

A simple method utilizing a small amount of isotopic material for production of molybdenum foils is discussed. An e-gun is used in the procedure. The Mo powder undergoes reduction-sintering and melting-solidifying steps leading to the creation of a metallic droplet suitable for further cold rolling or vacuum deposition.

Measuring Very Small Quantities: Fascinating Suggestions for Math or Science.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, John Taylor

1989-01-01

Described are several activities for teaching children to determine mass and volume. Included are the masses of a water drop and a grain of rice; the volume of a water drop and small solids; and measuring the width of a hair. Procedures and materials for the activities are discussed. (CW)

A New Synthesis of Tertiary Alkyl N-Arylcarbamates from Isocyanates.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bailey, William J.; Griffith, James R.

1978-01-01

The method involves the dissolution of a small piece of metallic lithium in a small quantity of tertiary alcohol followed by addition to a mixture of the isocyanate and the tertiary alcohol in ether. This should be useful in organic chemistry laboratory courses for the identification of tertiary alcohols. (Author/BB)

29 CFR 779.367 - Commercial stationers may qualify as exempt 13(a)(2) establishments.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... typewriters and certain other small office machines. (b) In determining whether, under the 13(a)(2) exemption... well as businesses, including typewriters, adding machines, small duplicating machines, checkwriters... contractual arrangement involving the sale of a large quantity of goods over a period of time with a...

The DNA isolation method has effect on allele drop-out and on the results of fluorescent PCR and DNA fragment analysis.

PubMed

Nagy, Bálint; Bán, Zoltán; Papp, Zoltán

2005-10-01

The quality and the quantity of isolated DNA have an effect on PCR amplifications. The authors studied three DNA isolation protocols (resin binding method using fresh and frozen amniotic fluid samples, and silica adsorption method using fresh samples) on the quantity and on the quality of the isolated DNA. Amniotic fluid samples were obtained from 20 pregnant women. The isolated DNA concentrations were determined by real-time fluorimeter using SYBRGreen I method. Each sample was studied for the presence of 8 STR markers. The authors compared the number of the detected alleles, electrophoretograms and peak areas. There was a significant difference between the concentration of the obtained DNA and in the peak areas between the three isolation protocols. The numbers of detected alleles were different, we observed the most allele drop outs in the resin type DNA isolation protocol from the fresh sample (detected allele numbers 182), followed by resin binding protocol from the frozen samples (detected allele number 243) and by the silica adsorption method (detected allele number 264). The authors demonstrated that the DNA isolation method has an effect on the quantity and quality of the isolated DNA, and on further PCR amplifications.

Novel differential measurement of natural and added phosphorus in cooked ham with or without preservatives.

PubMed

Cupisti, Adamasco; Benini, Omar; Ferretti, Valerio; Gianfaldoni, Daniela; Kalantar-Zadeh, Kamyar

2012-11-01

Assessment of the quantity and chemical type of phosphorus (P) content in cooked ham products with or without preservatives using a novel biochemical procedure. We examined the quantity and types of P in 40 samples of cooked ham, including 20 without and 20 with P-containing preservatives, which were purchased randomly from a grocery store in Italy. Food samples were analyzed for dry matter, nitrogen, fat, and P content. Novel spectrophotometric methods were used to measure total P and 3 different P subtypes, that is, water-soluble (inorganic) P including added preservatives and natural P derived from phospholipids and phosphoproteins, separately. Compared with hams without preservatives, hams with P-containing preservatives had significantly lower dry matter and protein and fat contents. There was 66% more inorganic P (IP) in ham with preservatives than in samples without preservatives (169 ± 36 vs. 102 ± 16 mg/100 g, P < .001, respectively). There were no significant differences in P contents derived from proteins or lipids. The P-to-protein ratio was higher in ham samples with preservatives than in those without preservatives (16.1 ± 4.0 and 9.8 ± 0.8 mg/g, P < .001). The sum of measured IP and P from phospholipids and phosphoproteins was 91% ± 4% of measured total P (207.1 ± 50.7 vs. 227.2 ± 54.4 mg/100 g), indicating a small portion of unspecified P and/or under measurement. Novel differential dietary P measurement detects added P-containing preservatives. Cooked ham with preservatives has 66% more measurable IP and 64% higher P-to-protein ratio than ham without preservatives. The contribution of food added with P-containing preservatives to global dietary P burden can negatively influence chronic kidney disease outcome and counteract the efficacy of P-binder medications: this is an important topic that warrants additional investigations. Copyright © 2012 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bayesian Model Selection under Time Constraints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoege, M.; Nowak, W.; Illman, W. A.

2017-12-01

Bayesian model selection (BMS) provides a consistent framework for rating and comparing models in multi-model inference. In cases where models of vastly different complexity compete with each other, we also face vastly different computational runtimes of such models. For instance, time series of a quantity of interest can be simulated by an autoregressive process model that takes even less than a second for one run, or by a partial differential equations-based model with runtimes up to several hours or even days. The classical BMS is based on a quantity called Bayesian model evidence (BME). It determines the model weights in the selection process and resembles a trade-off between bias of a model and its complexity. However, in practice, the runtime of models is another weight relevant factor for model selection. Hence, we believe that it should be included, leading to an overall trade-off problem between bias, variance and computing effort. We approach this triple trade-off from the viewpoint of our ability to generate realizations of the models under a given computational budget. One way to obtain BME values is through sampling-based integration techniques. We argue with the fact that more expensive models can be sampled much less under time constraints than faster models (in straight proportion to their runtime). The computed evidence in favor of a more expensive model is statistically less significant than the evidence computed in favor of a faster model, since sampling-based strategies are always subject to statistical sampling error. We present a straightforward way to include this misbalance into the model weights that are the basis for model selection. Our approach follows directly from the idea of insufficient significance. It is based on a computationally cheap bootstrapping error estimate of model evidence and is easy to implement. The approach is illustrated in a small synthetic modeling study.

19 CFR 151.67 - Sampling by importer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... TREASURY (CONTINUED) EXAMINATION, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF MERCHANDISE Wool and Hair § 151.67 Sampling by... quantities from the packages of wool or hair designated for examination, provided the bales or bags are...

19 CFR 151.67 - Sampling by importer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... TREASURY (CONTINUED) EXAMINATION, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF MERCHANDISE Wool and Hair § 151.67 Sampling by... quantities from the packages of wool or hair designated for examination, provided the bales or bags are...

19 CFR 151.67 - Sampling by importer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... TREASURY (CONTINUED) EXAMINATION, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF MERCHANDISE Wool and Hair § 151.67 Sampling by... quantities from the packages of wool or hair designated for examination, provided the bales or bags are...

19 CFR 151.67 - Sampling by importer.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... TREASURY (CONTINUED) EXAMINATION, SAMPLING, AND TESTING OF MERCHANDISE Wool and Hair § 151.67 Sampling by... quantities from the packages of wool or hair designated for examination, provided the bales or bags are...

Chitinolytic and pectinolytic community in the vertical structure of chernozem's zone ecosystems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukacheva, E.; Manucharova, N.

2012-04-01

Chitin is a long-chain polymer of a N-acetylglucosamine and is found in many places throughout the natural world. Pectin is a structural heteropolysaccharide contained in the primary cell walls of terrestrial plants. Roots of the plants and root crops contain pectin. Chitin and pectin are widely distributed throughout the natural world. For this reason it is important to investigate the structural and functional properties of complex organisms, offering degradation of these biopolymers in the terrestrial and soil ecosystems. It is known that ecosystems have their own structure. It is possible to allocate some vertical tiers: phylloplane, litter (soil covering), soil. We investigated chitinolytic and pektinolytic microbial communities dedicated to different layers of the ecosystem of the chernozem zone. Quantity of eukaryote and procaryote organisms increased in the test samples with chitin and pectin. Increasing of eukaryote in samples with pectin was more then in samples with chitin. Also should be noted the significant increasing of actinomycet`s quantity in the samples with chitin in comparison with samples with pectin. The variety and abundance of bacteria in the litter samples increased an order of magnitude as compared to other options investigated. Further prokaryote community was investigated by method FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization). FISH is a cytogenetic technique developed that is used to detect and localize the presence or absence of specific DNA sequences on chromosomes. Quantity of Actinomycets and Firmicutes was the largest among identified cells with metabolic activity in soil samples. Should be noted significant increasing of the quantity of Acidobateria and Bacteroidetes in pectinolytic community and Alphaproteobacteria in chitinolytic community. In considering of the phylogenetic structure investigated communities in samples of the litter should be noted increase in the segment of Proteobacteria. Increasing of this group of microorganisms was also detected in samples of the phylloplane. Also should be noted increasing of Baceroidetes in these samples. Further inoculation from investigated samples was provided. The dominant species of microorganisms were isolated on dense nutrient media. These microorganisms were detected by sequence analysis. Thus the differences of decomposing biopolymers were educed in the microbial communities in the terrestrial and soil ecosystems.

At Birth, Humans Associate "Few" with Left and "Many" with Right.

PubMed

de Hevia, Maria Dolores; Veggiotti, Ludovica; Streri, Arlette; Bonn, Cory D

2017-12-18

Humans use spatial representations to structure abstract concepts [1]. One of the most well-known examples is the "mental number line"-the propensity to imagine numbers oriented in space [2, 3]. Human infants [4, 5], children [6, 7], adults [8], and nonhuman animals [9, 10] associate small numbers with the left side of space and large numbers with the right. In humans, cultural artifacts, such as the direction of reading and writing, modulate the directionality of this representation, with right-to-left reading cultures associating small numbers with right and large numbers with left [11], whereas the opposite association permeates left-to-right reading cultures [8]. Number-space mapping plays a central role in human mathematical concepts [12], but its origins remain unclear: is it the result of an innate bias or does it develop after birth? Infant humans are passively exposed to a spatially coded environment, so experience and culture could underlie the mental number line. To rule out this possibility, we tested neonates' responses to small or large auditory quantities paired with geometric figures presented on either the left or right sides of the screen. We show that 0- to 3-day-old neonates associate a small quantity with the left and a large quantity with the right when the multidimensional stimulus contains discrete numerical information, providing evidence that representations of number are associated to an oriented space at the start of postnatal life, prior to experience with language, culture, or with culture-specific biases. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cost estimating Brayton and Stirling engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fortgang, H. R.

1980-01-01

Brayton and Stirling engines were analyzed for cost and selling price for production quantities ranging from 1000 to 400,000 units per year. Parts and components were subjected to indepth scrutiny to determine optimum manufacturing processes coupled with make or buy decisions on materials and small parts. Tooling and capital equipment costs were estimated for each detail and/or assembly. For low annual production volumes, the Brayton engine appears to have a lower cost and selling price than the Stirling Engine. As annual production quantities increase, the Stirling becomes a lower cost engine than the Brayton. Both engines could benefit cost wise if changes were made in materials, design and manufacturing process as annual production quantities increase.

Butch/Femme Differences in Substance Use and Abuse Among Young Lesbian and Bisexual Women: Examination and Potential Explanations

PubMed Central

Rosario, Margaret; Schrimshaw, Eric W.; Hunter, Joyce

2011-01-01

The current study examined the role of gender atypical self-presentation on the alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use, as well as symptoms of substance abuse, of an ethnically diverse sample of 76 young (ages 14 – 21 years) lesbian and bisexual women who were interviewed between 1993-95 in New York City. Even after controlling for age, sexual identity, and social desirability, young butch women reported drinking alcohol more frequently and in greater quantity, smoking more cigarettes, and using marijuana more frequently than young femme women. Experiences of gay-related stressful events, internalized homophobia, and emotional distress were found to largely account for the butch/femme differences in tobacco and marijuana use, but not in higher levels of alcohol use. Despite the small convenience sample, these findings suggest that intervention efforts to address the higher levels of substance use among young lesbian and bisexual women may increase effectiveness by also addressing experiences of gay-related stress and emotional distress of young butch women. PMID:18649226

Quantification of Endogenous Cholesterol in Human Serum on Paper Using Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Hsieh, Hua-Yi; Li, Li-Hua; Hsu, Ren-Yu; Kao, Wei-Fong; Huang, Ying-Chen; Hsu, Cheng-Chih

2017-06-06

Blood testing for endogenous small metabolites to determine physiological and biochemical states is routine for laboratory analysis. Here we demonstrate that by combining the commercial direct analysis in real time (DART) ion source with an ion trap mass spectrometer, native cholesterol in its free alcohol form is readily detected from a few hundred nanoliters of human serum loaded onto chromatography paper. Deuterium-labeled cholesterol was used as the internal standard to obtain the absolute quantity of the endogenous cholesterol. The amount of the cholesterol measured by this paper-loaded DART mass spectrometry (pDART-MS) is statistically comparable with that obtained by using commercially available fluorometric-enzymatic assay and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Furthermore, sera from 21 participants at three different time points in an ultramarathon were collected to obtain their cholesterol levels. The test requires only very minimal sample preparation, and the concentrations of cholesterol in each sample were acquired within a minute.

Topological and thermal properties of polypropylene composites based on oil palm biomass

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

Bhat, A. H., E-mail: aamir.bhat@petronas.com.my, E-mail: anie-yal88@yahoo.com; Dasan, Y. K., E-mail: aamir.bhat@petronas.com.my, E-mail: anie-yal88@yahoo.com

Roughness on pristine and polymer composite surfaces is of enormous practical importance for polymer applications. This study deals with the use of varying quantity of oil palm ash as a nanofiller in a polypropylene based matrix. The oil palm ash sample was preprocessed to break the particles into small diameter by using ultra sonication before using microfluidizer for further deduction in size and homogenization. The oil palm ash was made to undergo many passes through the microfluidizer for fine distribution of particles. Polypropylene based composites containing different loading percentage oil palm ash was granulated by twin screw extruder and thenmore » injection molded. The surface morphology of the OPA passed through microfluidizer was analyzed by Tapping Mode - Atomic Force Microscopy (TMAFM). Thermal analysis results showed an increase in the activation energy values. The thermal stability of the composite samples showed improvement as compared to the virgin polymer as corroborated by the on-set degradation temperatures and the temperatures at which 50% degradation occurred.« less

Accurate determination of genetic identity for a single cacao bean, using molecular markers with a nanofluidic system, ensures cocoa authentication.

PubMed

Fang, Wanping; Meinhardt, Lyndel W; Mischke, Sue; Bellato, Cláudia M; Motilal, Lambert; Zhang, Dapeng

2014-01-15

Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.), the source of cocoa, is an economically important tropical crop. One problem with the premium cacao market is contamination with off-types adulterating raw premium material. Accurate determination of the genetic identity of single cacao beans is essential for ensuring cocoa authentication. Using nanofluidic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping with 48 SNP markers, we generated SNP fingerprints for small quantities of DNA extracted from the seed coat of single cacao beans. On the basis of the SNP profiles, we identified an assumed adulterant variety, which was unambiguously distinguished from the authentic beans by multilocus matching. Assignment tests based on both Bayesian clustering analysis and allele frequency clearly separated all 30 authentic samples from the non-authentic samples. Distance-based principle coordinate analysis further supported these results. The nanofluidic SNP protocol, together with forensic statistical tools, is sufficiently robust to establish authentication and to verify gourmet cacao varieties. This method shows significant potential for practical application.

Identification of low amount of irradiated spices (red pepper, garlic, ginger powder) with luminescence analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Byeong-Keun; Akram, Kashif; Kim, Cheong-Tae; Kang, Na-Roo; Lee, Jin-Won; Ryang, Jun-Hwan; Kwon, Joong-Ho

2012-08-01

For the identification of irradiated food, current analysis methods have limitations regarding presence and stability of radiation-induced markers. In this study, different spice blends with small quantity of different irradiated (0, 1 and 10 kGy) spice powders, such as red pepper, garlic or ginger, were investigated using PSL and TL techniques. In PSL-based screening analysis, the spice blends containing 10% of irradiated materials (1 or 10 kGy) were determined as intermediate or positive. In TL results, the blends containing 1% of 1 or 10 kGy-irradiated spices showed the typical TL glow curves that could be interpreted as positive. The blends with irradiated garlic powder provided more good results where identification was possible at 0.5% mixing of irradiated sample. However, the TL ratios of all spice blends were <0.1 and only TL glow curve shape and intensity may be used to discriminate the samples having irradiated component.

Intrepid: Exploring the NEA population with a Fleet of Highly Autonomous SmallSat explorers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blacksberg, Jordana; Chesley, Steven R.; Ehlmann, Bethany; Raymond, Carol Anne

2017-10-01

The Intrepid mission concept calls for phased deployment of a fleet of small highly autonomous rendezvous spacecraft designed to characterize the evolution, structure and composition of dozens of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs). Intrepid represents a marked departure from conventional solar system exploration projects, where a single unique and complex spacecraft is typically directed to explore a single target body. In contrast, Intrepid relies on the deployment of a large number of autonomous spacecraft to provide redundancy and ensure that the project goals are achieved at a small fraction of the cost of typical missions.The Intrepid science goals are threefold: (1) to understand the evolutionary processes that govern asteroid physical, chemical and dynamical histories and relate these results to solar system origins and evolution; (2) to facilitate impactor deflection scenarios for planetary defense by statistically characterizing relevant asteroid physical properties; (3) to quantify the presence and extractability of potentially useful resources on a large sample of asteroids. To achieve these goals, the baseline architecture includes multiple modular instruments including cameras, spectrometers, radar sounders, and projectiles that could interact with the target asteroid. Key questions to be addressed are: what is the total quantity of water in each object? How is the water incorporated? Are organics present? What is the asteroid physical structure? How would the object respond to impact/deflection?We have begun development of a miniature infrared point spectrometer, a cornerstone of the Intrepid payload, covering both shortwave infrared (SWIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectral bands. The spectrometer is designed with a compact 2U form-factor, making it both relevant to Intrepid and implementable on a CubeSat. The combination of SWIR and MIR in a single integrated instrument would enable robust compositional interpretations from a single dataset combining both solar reflectance and thermal emission spectroscopy. These measurements would be crucial to determining the quantity and nature of water present.

Effects of timber harvest on water quantity and quality in small watersheds in the Piedmont of North Carolina

Treesearch

Johnny Boggs; Ge Sun; Steven McNulty

2015-01-01

This paired watershed study tested the effects of timber harvest on water quantity and quality in the North Carolina Piedmont physiographic region. Four headwater watersheds at Hill Demonstration Forest (HF1, HF2, HFW1, and HFW2) and two at Umstead Research Farm (UF1 and UF2) were continuously monitored for discharge and water quality from 2007 to 2013. The HF1 and UF1...

Immunocapture and microplate-based activity and quantity measurement of pyruvate dehydrogenase in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaowen; Pervez, Hira; Andersen, Lars W; Uber, Amy; Montissol, Sophia; Patel, Parth; Donnino, Michael W

2015-01-01

Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity is altered in many human disorders. Current methods require tissue samples and yield inconsistent results. We describe a modified method for measuring PDH activity from isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). RESULTS/METHODOLOGY: We found that PDH activity and quantity can be successfully measured in human PBMCs. Freeze-thaw cycles cannot efficiently disrupt the mitochondrial membrane. Processing time of up to 20 h does not affect PDH activity with proteinase inhibitor addition and a detergent concentration of 3.3% showed maximum yield. Sample protein concentration is correlated to PDH activity and quantity in human PBMCs from healthy subjects. Measuring PDH activity from PBMCs is a novel, easy and less invasive way to further understand the role of PDH in human disease.

[Qualitative and quantitative study of Taenia solium posoncospheres in the muscular tissue of pigs with and without cysticercosis].

PubMed

Jiménez Rodríguez, J A; Arteaga, I D; Rojas Wastavino, G; Salazar Schettino, P M

1995-01-01

It was determined the presence of posoncospheres in muscular tissues in 20 natural cysticercotic pigs and in 20 pigs apparently free of Taenia solium metacestodes. Ten differents anatomical regions were dissected, giving 400 samples in total. The animals were slaughtered in Ecatepec, Mexico State, Mexico. The samples were kept in bottles with saline and were processed in the Laboratorio de Biología de Parásitos, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM); cysticercus were counted and later on the resulting muscular mass was grinded and observations were made in the sediment, for posoncospheres search. Mann-Whitney statistical method revealed meaningful differences between postoncospheres in cysticercotic pigs and not apparently cysticercotic pigs. The Linear Correlation Analysis showed no relation between cysticercus quantity and postoncospheres quantity in the same samples. Postoncospheres were found in cysticercotic animals and in those apparently free of cysticercus, in the last group the quantity was bigger.

General administrative rulings and decisions; amendment to the examination and investigation sample requirements; companion document to direct final rule--FDA. Proposed rule.

PubMed

1998-09-25

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is proposing to amend its regulations regarding the collection of twice the quantity of food, drug, or cosmetic estimated to be sufficient for analysis. This action increases the dollar amount that FDA will consider to determine whether to routinely collect a reserve sample of a food, drug, or cosmetic product in addition to the quantity sufficient for analysis. Experience has demonstrated that the current dollar amount does not adequately cover the cost of most quantities sufficient for analysis plus reserve samples. This proposed rule is a companion to the direct final rule published elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register. This action is part of FDA's continuing effort to achieve the objectives of the President's "Reinventing Government" initiative, and it is intended to reduce the burden of unnecessary regulations on food, drugs, and cosmetics without diminishing the protection of the public health.

Mars Sample Return mission utilizing in-situ propellant production

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zubrin, Robert; Price, Steve

1995-01-01

This report presents the results of a study examining the potential of in-situ propellant production (ISPP) on Mars to aid in achieving a low cost Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission. Two versions of such a mission were examined: a baseline version employing a dual string spacecraft, and a light weight version employing single string architecture with selective redundancy. Both systems employed light weight avionics currently being developed by Lockheed Martin, Jet Propulsion Lab and elsewhere in the aerospace community, both used a new concept for a simple, light weight parachuteless sample return capsule, both used a slightly modified version of the Mars Surveyor lander currently under development at Lockheed Martin for flight in 1998, and both used a combination of the Sabatier-electrolysis and reverse water gas shift ISPP systems to produce methane/oxygen propellant on Mars by combining a small quantity of imported hydrogen with the Martian CO2 atmosphere. It was found that the baseline mission could be launched on a Delta 7925 and return a 0.5 kg sample with 82 percent mission launch margin;over and beyond subsystem allocated contingency masses . The lightweight version could be launched on a Mid-Lite vehicle and return a 0.25 kg sample with 11 percent launch margin, over and above subsystem contingency mass allocations.

Generalized estimators of avian abundance from count survey data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Royle, J. Andrew

2004-01-01

I consider modeling avian abundance from spatially referenced bird count data collected according to common protocols such as capture?recapture, multiple observer, removal sampling and simple point counts. Small sample sizes and large numbers of parameters have motivated many analyses that disregard the spatial indexing of the data, and thus do not provide an adequate treatment of spatial structure. I describe a general framework for modeling spatially replicated data that regards local abundance as a random process, motivated by the view that the set of spatially referenced local populations (at the sample locations) constitute a metapopulation. Under this view, attention can be focused on developing a model for the variation in local abundance independent of the sampling protocol being considered. The metapopulation model structure, when combined with the data generating model, define a simple hierarchical model that can be analyzed using conventional methods. The proposed modeling framework is completely general in the sense that broad classes of metapopulation models may be considered, site level covariates on detection and abundance may be considered, and estimates of abundance and related quantities may be obtained for sample locations, groups of locations, unsampled locations. Two brief examples are given, the first involving simple point counts, and the second based on temporary removal counts. Extension of these models to open systems is briefly discussed.

Automated cell disruption is a reliable and effective method of isolating RNA from fresh snap-frozen normal and malignant oral mucosa samples.

PubMed

Van der Vorst, Sébastien; Dekairelle, Anne-France; Irenge, Léonid; Hamoir, Marc; Robert, Annie; Gala, Jean-Luc

2009-01-01

This study compared automated vs. manual tissue grinding in terms of RNA yield obtained from oral mucosa biopsies. A total of 20 patients undergoing uvulectomy for sleep-related disorders and 10 patients undergoing biopsy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were enrolled in the study. Samples were collected, snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen, and divided into two parts of similar weight. Sample grinding was performed on one sample from each pair, either manually or using an automated cell disruptor. The performance and efficacy of each homogenization approach was compared in terms of total RNA yield (spectrophotometry, fluorometry), mRNA quantity [densitometry of specific TP53 amplicons and TP53 quantitative reverse-transcribed real-time PCR (qRT-PCR)], and mRNA quality (functional analysis of separated alleles in yeast). Although spectrophotometry and fluorometry results were comparable for both homogenization methods, TP53 expression values obtained by amplicon densitometry and qRT-PCR were significantly and consistently better after automated homogenization (p<0.005) for both uvula and tumor samples. Functional analysis of separated alleles in yeast results was better with the automated technique for tumor samples. Automated tissue homogenization appears to be a versatile, quick, and reliable method of cell disruption and is especially useful in the case of small malignant samples, which show unreliable results when processed by manual homogenization.

A method for quantitative analysis of standard and high-throughput qPCR expression data based on input sample quantity.

PubMed

Adamski, Mateusz G; Gumann, Patryk; Baird, Alison E

2014-01-01

Over the past decade rapid advances have occurred in the understanding of RNA expression and its regulation. Quantitative polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) have become the gold standard for quantifying gene expression. Microfluidic next generation, high throughput qPCR now permits the detection of transcript copy number in thousands of reactions simultaneously, dramatically increasing the sensitivity over standard qPCR. Here we present a gene expression analysis method applicable to both standard polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) and high throughput qPCR. This technique is adjusted to the input sample quantity (e.g., the number of cells) and is independent of control gene expression. It is efficiency-corrected and with the use of a universal reference sample (commercial complementary DNA (cDNA)) permits the normalization of results between different batches and between different instruments--regardless of potential differences in transcript amplification efficiency. Modifications of the input quantity method include (1) the achievement of absolute quantification and (2) a non-efficiency corrected analysis. When compared to other commonly used algorithms the input quantity method proved to be valid. This method is of particular value for clinical studies of whole blood and circulating leukocytes where cell counts are readily available.

Cosmology and astrophysics from relaxed galaxy clusters - III. Thermodynamic profiles and scaling relations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mantz, A. B.; Allen, S. W.; Morris, R. G.; Schmidt, R. W.

2016-03-01

This is the third in a series of papers studying the astrophysics and cosmology of massive, dynamically relaxed galaxy clusters. Our sample comprises 40 clusters identified as being dynamically relaxed and hot (I.e. massive) in Papers I and II of this series. Here we consider the thermodynamics of the intracluster medium, in particular the profiles of density, temperature and related quantities, as well as integrated measurements of gas mass, average temperature, total luminosity and centre-excluded luminosity. We fit power-law scaling relations of each of these quantities as a function of redshift and cluster mass, which can be measured precisely and with minimal bias for these relaxed clusters using hydrostatic arguments. For the thermodynamic profiles, we jointly model the density and temperature and their intrinsic scatter as a function of radius, thus also capturing the behaviour of the gas pressure and entropy. For the integrated quantities, we also jointly fit a multidimensional intrinsic covariance. Our results reinforce the view that simple hydrodynamical models provide a good description of relaxed clusters outside their centres, but that additional heating and cooling processes are important in the inner regions (radii r ≲ 0.5 r2500 ≈ 0.15 r500). The thermodynamic profiles remain regular, with small intrinsic scatter, down to the smallest radii where deprojection is straightforward (˜20 kpc); within this radius, even the most relaxed systems show clear departures from spherical symmetry. Our results suggest that heating and cooling are continuously regulated in a tight feedback loop, allowing the cluster atmosphere to remain stratified on these scales.

An Artesunate-Containing Antimalarial Treatment Regimen Did Not Suppress Cytomegalovirus Viremia

PubMed Central

Gantt, Soren; Huang, Meei-Li; Magaret, Amalia; Bunts, Lisa; Selke, Stacy; Wald, Anna; Rosenthal, Philip J.; Dorsey, Grant; Casper, Corey

2014-01-01

Background Additional drugs are needed for the treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. Artesunate is an antimalarial drug that has activity against CMV in vitro and in a rodent model. Only a small number of case reports are available describing the clinical effects of artesunate on CMV infection, and these yielded inconsistent results. Objective To evaluate the effect of artesunate on CMV infection, using blood samples collected from children who participated in malaria treatment trials. Study design Quantitative CMV DNA PCR was performed on dried blood spots collected from 494 Ugandan children, who were randomized either to artesunate plus amodiaquine or sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine plus amodiaquine for acute malaria infection. Poisson regression was used to compare treatment regimens with respect to the change in the frequency and quantity of CMV detected that occurred before and after treatment. Results CMV was detected in 11.4% of children immediately prior to treatment and 10.7% 3 days later (p=0.70). The average quantity of CMV was 0.30 log10 copies per million cells higher on day 3 than at treatment initiation (95% CI 0.01 to 0.58, p=0.041). There was no measurable difference in either the frequency or quantity of CMV detected in blood between children randomized to the two treatment arms. Conclusions A standard 3-day artesunate-containing antimalarial regimen had no detectable effect on CMV viremia in children with malaria. Longer treatment courses and/or higher doses of artesunate than those routinely used for malaria may be required for effective treatment of CMV infection. PMID:23827788

NEW APPROACHES TO ESTIMATION OF SOLID-WASTE QUANTITY AND COMPOSITION

EPA Science Inventory

Efficient and statistically sound sampling protocols for estimating the quantity and composition of solid waste over a stated period of time in a given location, such as a landfill site or at a specific point in an industrial or commercial process, are essential to the design ...

PROTOCOL - A COMPUTERIZED SOLID WASTE QUANTITY AND COMPOSITION ESTIMATION SYSTEM: OPERATIONAL MANUAL

EPA Science Inventory

The assumptions of traditional sampling theory often do not fit the circumstances when estimating the quantity and composition of solid waste arriving at a given location, such as a landfill site, or at a specific point in an industrial or commercial process. The investigator oft...

19 CFR 151.13 - Approval of commercial gaugers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... measure, gauge, or sample merchandise (usually merchandise in bulk form) and who deal mainly with animal... quantity, e.g., liters, barrels, or kilograms. HTSUS Product Unit of quantity Headings 1501-1515 Animal and..., the instrument's model and any serial numbers, and the occurrence of all servicing performed on the...

Dialysis Extraction for Chromatography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jahnsen, V. J.

1985-01-01

Chromatographic-sample pretreatment by dialysis detects traces of organic contaminants in water samples analyzed in field with minimal analysis equipment and minimal quantities of solvent. Technique also of value wherever aqueous sample and solvent must not make direct contact.

Nonconservative and reverse spectral transfer in Hasegawa-Mima turbulence

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

Terry, P.W.; Newman, D.E.

1993-01-01

The dual cascade is generally represented as a conservative cascade of enstrophy to short wavelengths through an enstrophy similarity range and an inverse cascade of energy to long wavelengths through an energy similarity range. This picture, based on a proof due to Kraichnan [Phys. Fluids 10, 1417 (1967)], is found to be significantly modified for a spectra of finite extent. Dimensional arguments and direct measurement of spectral flow in Hasegawa-Mima turbulence indicate that for both the energy and enstrophy cascades, transfer of the conserved quantity is accompanied by a nonconservative transfer of the other quantity. The decrease of a givenmore » invariant (energy or enstrophy) in the nonconservative transfer in one similarity range is balanced by the increase of that quantity in the other similarity range, thus maintaining net invariance. The increase or decrease of a given invariant quantity in one similarity range depends on the injection scale and is consistent with that quantity being carried in a self-similar transfer of the other invariant quantity. This leads, in an inertial range of finite size, to some energy being carried to small scales and some enstrophy being carried to large scales.« less

Nonconservative and reverse spectral transfer in Hasegawa--Mima turbulence

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

Terry, P.W.; Newman, D.E.

1993-07-01

The dual cascade is generally represented as a conservative cascade of enstrophy to short wavelengths through an enstrophy similarity range and an inverse cascade of energy to long wavelengths through an energy similarity range. This picture, based on a proof due to Kraichnan [Phys. Fluids [bold 10], 1417 (1967)], is found to be significantly modified for spectra of finite extent. Dimensional arguments and direct measurement of spectral flow in Hasegawa--Mima turbulence indicate that for both the energy and enstrophy cascades, transfer of the conserved quantity is accompanied by a nonconservative transfer of the other quantity. The decrease of a givenmore » invariant (energy or enstrophy) in the nonconservative transfer in one similarity range is balanced by the increase of that quantity in the other similarity range, thus maintaining net invariance. The increase or decrease of a given invariant quantity in one similarity range depends on the injection scale and is consistent with that quantity being carried in a self-similar transfer of the other invariant quantity. This leads, in an inertial range of finite size, to some energy being carried to small scales and some enstrophy being carried to large scales.« less

Fluid-dynamically coupled solid propellant combustion instability - cold flow simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ben-Reuven, M.

1983-10-01

The near-wall processes in an injected, axisymmetric, viscous flow is examined. Solid propellant rocket instability, in which cold flow simulation is evaluated as a tool to elucidate possible instability driving mechanisms is studied. One such prominent mechanism seems to be visco-acoustic coupling. The formulation is presented in terms of a singular boundary layer problem, with detail (up to second order) given only to the near wall region. The injection Reynolds number is assumed large, and its inverse square root serves as an appropriate small perturbation quantity. The injected Mach number is also small, and taken of the same order as the aforesaid small quantity. The radial-dependence of the inner solutions up to second order is solved, in polynominal form. This leaves the (x,t) dependence to much simpler partial differential equations. Particular results demonstrate the existence of a first order pressure perturbation, which arises due to the dissipative near wall processes. This pressure and the associated viscous friction coefficient are shown to agree very well with experimental injected flow data.

Long-term retrievability and safeguards for immobilized weapons plutonium in geologic storage

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

Peterson, P.F.

1996-05-01

If plutonium is not ultimately used as an energy source, the quantity of excess weapons plutonium (w-Pu) that would go into a US repository will be small compared to the quantity of plutonium contained in the commercial spent fuel in the repository, and the US repository(ies) will likely be only one (or two) locations out of many around the world where commercial spent fuel will be stored. Therefore excess weapons plutonium creates a small perturbation to the long-term (over 200,000 yr) global safeguard requirements for spent fuel. There are details in the differences between spent fuel and immobilized w-Pu wastemore » forms (i.e. chemical separation methods, utility for weapons, nuclear testing requirements), but these are sufficiently small to be unlikely to play a significant role in any US political decision to rebuild weapons inventories, or to change the long-term risks of theft by subnational groups.« less

Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge: 2011 Small Business Award

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge 2011 award winner, BioAmber, developed an integrated technology to produce large, commercial quantities of succinic acid by bacterial fermentation, replacing petroleum-based feedstocks.

Controls on dissolved organic carbon quantity and chemical character in temperate rivers of North America

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hanley, Kevin W.; Wollheim, Wilfred M.; Salisbury, Joseph; Huntington, Thomas G.; Aiken, George R.

2013-01-01

Understanding the processes controlling the transfer and chemical composition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in freshwater systems is crucial to understanding the carbon cycle and the effects of DOC on water quality. Previous studies have identified watershed-scale controls on bulk DOC flux and concentration among small basins but fewer studies have explored controls among large basins or simultaneously considered the chemical composition of DOC. Because the chemical character of DOC drives riverine biogeochemical processes such as metabolism and photodegradation, accounting for chemical character in watershed-scale studies will improve the way bulk DOC variability in rivers is interpreted. We analyzed DOC quantity and chemical character near the mouths of 17 large North American rivers, primarily between 2008 and 2010, and identified watershed characteristics that controlled variability. We quantified DOC chemical character using both specific ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA254) and XAD-resin fractionation. Mean DOC concentration ranged from 2.1 to 47 mg C L−1 and mean SUVA254 ranged from 1.3 to 4.7 L mg C−1 m−1. We found a significant positive correlation between basin wetland cover and both bulk DOC concentration (R2 = 0.78; p < 0.0001) and SUVA254 (R2 = 0.91; p < 0.0001), while other land use characteristics were not correlated. The strong wetland relationship with bulk DOC concentration is similar to that found by others in small headwater catchments. However, two watersheds with extremely long surface water residence times, the Colorado and St. Lawrence, diverged from this wetland relationship. These results suggest that the role of riverine processes in altering the terrestrial DOC signal at the annual scale was minimal except in river systems with long surface water residence times. However, synoptic DOC sampling of both quantity and character throughout river networks will be needed to more rigorously test this finding. The inclusion of DOC chemical character will be vital to achieving a more complete understanding of bulk DOC dynamics in large river systems.

Bedside arterial blood gas monitoring system using fluorescent optical sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartnik, Daniel J.; Rymut, Russell A.

1995-05-01

We describe a bedside arterial blood gas (ABG) monitoring system which uses fluorescent optical sensors in the measurement of blood pH, PCO2 and PO2. The Point-of-Care Arterial Blood Gas Monitoring System consists of the SensiCathTM optical sensor unit manufactured by Optical Sensors Incorporated and the TramTM Critical Care Monitoring System with ABG Module manufactured by Marquette Electronics Incorporated. Current blood gas measurement techniques require a blood sample to be removed from the patient and transported to an electrochemical analyzer for analysis. The ABG system does not require removal of blood from the patient or transport of the sample. The sensor is added to the patient's existing arterial line. ABG measurements are made by drawing a small blood sample from the arterial line in sufficient quantity to ensure an undiluted sample at the sensor. Measurements of pH, PCO2 and PO2 are made within 60 seconds. The blood is then returned to the patient, the line flushed and results appear on the bedside monitor. The ABG system offers several advantages over traditional electrochemical analyzers. Since the arterial line remains closed during the blood sampling procedure the patient's risk of infection is reduced and the caregiver's exposure to blood is eliminated. The single-use, disposable sensor can be measure 100 blood samples over 72 hours after a single two-point calibration. Quality Assurance checks are also available and provide the caregiver the ability to assess system performance even after the sensor is patient attached. The ABG module integrates with an existing bedside monitoring system. This allows ABG results to appear on the same display as ECG, respiration, blood pressure, cardiac output, SpO2, and other clinical information. The small module takes up little space in the crowded intensive care unit. Performance studies compare the ABG system with an electrochemical blood gas analyzer. Study results demonstrated accurate and precise blood gas measurement of 100 samples and 72 hour performance without need for re-calibration.

Invited Review Small is beautiful: The analysis of nanogram-sized astromaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zolensky, M. E.; Pieters, C.; Clark, B.; Papike, J. J.

2000-01-01

The capability of modern methods to characterize ultra-small samples is well established from analysis of interplanetary dust particles (IDPs), interstellar grains recovered from meteorites, and other materials requiring ultra-sensitive analytical capabilities. Powerful analytical techniques are available that require, under favorable circumstances, single particles of only a few nanograms for entire suites of fairly comprehensive characterizations. A returned sample of >1,000 particles with total mass of just one microgram permits comprehensive quantitative geochemical measurements that are impractical to carry out in situ by flight instruments. The main goal of this paper is to describe the state-of-the-art in microanalysis of astromaterials. Given that we can analyze fantastically small quantities of asteroids and comets, etc., we have to ask ourselves how representative are microscopic samples of bodies that measure a few to many km across? With the Galileo flybys of Gaspra and Ida, it is now recognized that even very small airless bodies have indeed developed a particulate regolith. Acquiring a sample of the bulk regolith, a simple sampling strategy, provides two critical pieces of information about the body. Regolith samples are excellent bulk samples since they normally contain all the key components of the local environment, albeit in particulate form. Furthermore, since this fine fraction dominates remote measurements, regolith samples also provide information about surface alteration processes and are a key link to remote sensing of other bodies. Studies indicate that a statistically significant number of nanogram-sized particles should be able to characterize the regolith of a primitive asteroid, although the presence of larger components within even primitive meteorites (e.g.. Murchison), e.g. chondrules, CAI, large crystal fragments, etc., points out the limitations of using data obtained from nanogram-sized samples to characterize entire primitive asteroids. However, most important asteroidal geological processes have left their mark on the matrix, since this is the finest-grained portion and therefore most sensitive to chemical and physical changes. Thus, the following information can be learned from this fine grain size fraction alone: (1) mineral paragenesis; (2) regolith processes, (3) bulk composition; (4) conditions of thermal and aqueous alteration (if any); (5) relationships to planets, comets, meteorites (via isotopic analyses, including oxygen; (6) abundance of water and hydrated material; (7) abundance of organics; (8) history of volatile mobility, (9) presence and origin of presolar and/or interstellar material. Most of this information can even be obtained from dust samples from bodies for which nanogram-sized samples are not truly representative. Future advances in sensitivity and accuracy of laboratory analytical techniques can be expected to enhance the science value of nano- to microgram sized samples even further. This highlights a key advantage of sample returns - that the most advanced analysis techniques can always be applied in the laboratory, and that well-preserved samples are available for future investigations.

Characterization of small microsatellite loci for use in non invasive sampling studies of Gunnison Sage-grouse (Centrocercus minimus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Oyler-McCance, Sara J.; St. John, Judy

2010-01-01

Primers for 10 microsatellite loci were developed specifically to amplify low quantity and quality DNA for Gunnison Sage-grouse (Centrocercus minimus), a species that has been petitioned for listing under the US Endangered Species Act. In a screen of 20 individuals from the largest population in the Gunnison Basin, Colorado, the 10 loci were found to have levels of variability ranging from two to seven alleles. No loci were found to be linked, although one locus revealed significant departures from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. These microsatellite loci will be applicable for population genetic analyses and for use in mark recapture studies that utilize DNA collected non invasively from feathers and fecal pellets, which will ultimately aid in management efforts.

Mass Spectrometric Identification of Si-O-H(g) Species from the Reaction of Silica with Water Vapor at Atmospheric Pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Opila, Elizabeth J.; Fox, Dennis S.; Jacobson, Nathan S.

1997-01-01

A high-pressure sampling mass spectrometer was used to detect the volatile species formed from SiO2 at temperatures between 1200C and 1400C in a flowing water vapor/oxygen gas mixture at 1 bar total pressure. The primary vapor species identified was Si(OH)4. The fragment ion Si(OH)3+,' was observed in quantities 3 to 5 times larger than the parent ion Si(OH)4+. The Si(OH)3+ intensity was found to have a small temperature dependence and to increase with the water vapor partial pressure as expected. In addition, SiO(OH)+ believed to be a fragment of SiO(OH)2, was observed. These mass spectral results were compared to the behavior of silicon halides.

Inert gases in twelve particles and one 'dust' specimen from the Lunar-16 sample

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heymann, D.; Yaniv, A.; Lakatos, S.

1974-01-01

Mass spectrography was used to measure inert gases in lunar breccia and basalt particles. The He-4/Ne-20 ratio (mean value of 49) in the breccia was systematically lower than in basalt (mean value of 78). Possibly, this may be due to fractionation of He and Ne during and after breccia formation. Pronounced differences observed in the He-4/Ne-3 ratio are attributed to the presence of variable quantities of cosmogenic He-3. This means that either the solar wind intensity varied in time, or that small-ratio particles were exposed to solar radiation rich in He-3 and/or H-3. The exposure ages of four particles are several hundred million years. The Ar-40/Ar-36 ratio is 0.65 for breccia and basalts.

Dental wear quantity and direction in Chalcolithic and Medieval populations from southwest France.

PubMed

Grimoud, Anne-Marie; Gibbon, Victoria E

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to verify if dental wear changed due to the dietary shift between the Chalcolithic and Middle Ages from relatively hard and fibrous foods to soft cooked cereals. This was accomplished by comparing dental wear quantity and direction between people from two archaeological sites, Les Treilles during the Chalcolithic (mixed subsistence farmers) and Marsan from the Middle Ages (agriculturalists) in southwest France. The materials studied include 65 mandibles, 32 from Les Treilles and 33 from Marsan; 549 teeth were studied. The results show statistically significant difference in wear quantity and direction, the Chalcolithic population (Les Treilles) had the greatest levels of wear in a mainly oblique direction, with the anterior teeth heavily affected by wear. Comparatively, the Medieval sample (Marsan) had lesser levels of wear in a mainly horizontal direction, and the most heavily worn teeth were the molars and incisors. The quantity of wear seems to correlate well with changes in diet, the high level of wear on the anterior teeth in the Chalcolithic sample corresponds with the consumption of a mixed diet of fibrous and tough foods. At Marsan, the lower wear quantity was likely due to a diet of soft boiled cereals, requiring less mastication. However, wear direction appears dependent on several factors and may correlate with more mixed subsistence practices. This study demonstrates the need for additional research into the complex actions of mastication and its effect on dental wear, as well as standardised methodology for the examination of dental wear in archaeological samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

The Application of Quantity Discounts in Army Procurements (Field Test).

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-01

Work Directive (PWD). d. The amended PWD is forwarded to the Procurement and Production (PP) control where quantity increments and delivery schedules are...counts on 97 Army Stock Fund small purchases (less than $10,000) and received 10 I be * 0p cebe * )~ Cb 111 cost effective discounts on 46 or 47.4% of...discount but the computed annualized cost for the QD increment was larger than the computed annualized cost for the EOQ, this was not a cost effective

Flat connections and nonlocal conserved quantities in irrational conformal field theory

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

Halpern, M.B.; Obers, N.A.

1995-03-01

Irrational conformal field theory (ICFT) includes rational conformal field theory as a small subspace, and the affine-Virasoro Ward identities describe the biconformal correlators of ICFT. The Ward identities are reformulated as an equivalent linear partial differential system with flat connections and new nonlocal conserved quantities. As examples of the formulation, the system of flat connections is solved for the coset correlators, the correlators of the affine-Sugawara nests, and the high-level [ital n]-point correlators of ICFT.

Energy carries information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilgin, Irfan; Yang, I.-Sheng

2014-08-01

We show that for every qubit of quantum information, there is a well-defined notion of "the amount of energy that carries it," because it is a conserved quantity. This generalizes to larger systems and any conserved quantities: the eigenvalue spectrum of conserved charges has to be preserved while transferring quantum information. It is possible to "apparently" violate these conservations by losing a small fraction of information, but that must invoke a specific process which requires a large scale coherence. We discuss its implication regarding the black hole information paradox.

Digital ac monitor

DOEpatents

Hart, George W.; Kern, Jr., Edward C.

1987-06-09

An apparatus and method is provided for monitoring a plurality of analog ac circuits by sampling the voltage and current waveform in each circuit at predetermined intervals, converting the analog current and voltage samples to digital format, storing the digitized current and voltage samples and using the stored digitized current and voltage samples to calculate a variety of electrical parameters; some of which are derived from the stored samples. The non-derived quantities are repeatedly calculated and stored over many separate cycles then averaged. The derived quantities are then calculated at the end of an averaging period. This produces a more accurate reading, especially when averaging over a period in which the power varies over a wide dynamic range. Frequency is measured by timing three cycles of the voltage waveform using the upward zero crossover point as a starting point for a digital timer.

Digital ac monitor

DOEpatents

Hart, G.W.; Kern, E.C. Jr.

1987-06-09

An apparatus and method is provided for monitoring a plurality of analog ac circuits by sampling the voltage and current waveform in each circuit at predetermined intervals, converting the analog current and voltage samples to digital format, storing the digitized current and voltage samples and using the stored digitized current and voltage samples to calculate a variety of electrical parameters; some of which are derived from the stored samples. The non-derived quantities are repeatedly calculated and stored over many separate cycles then averaged. The derived quantities are then calculated at the end of an averaging period. This produces a more accurate reading, especially when averaging over a period in which the power varies over a wide dynamic range. Frequency is measured by timing three cycles of the voltage waveform using the upward zero crossover point as a starting point for a digital timer. 24 figs.

Estimating air chemical emissions from research activities using stack measurement data.

PubMed

Ballinger, Marcel Y; Duchsherer, Cheryl J; Woodruff, Rodger K; Larson, Timothy V

2013-03-01

Current methods of estimating air emissions from research and development (R&D) activities use a wide range of release fractions or emission factors with bases ranging from empirical to semi-empirical. Although considered conservative, the uncertainties and confidence levels of the existing methods have not been reported. Chemical emissions were estimated from sampling data taken from four research facilities over 10 years. The approach was to use a Monte Carlo technique to create distributions of annual emission estimates for target compounds detected in source test samples. Distributions were created for each year and building sampled for compounds with sufficient detection frequency to qualify for the analysis. The results using the Monte Carlo technique without applying a filter to remove negative emission values showed almost all distributions spanning zero, and 40% of the distributions having a negative mean. This indicates that emissions are so low as to be indistinguishable from building background. Application of a filter to allow only positive values in the distribution provided a more realistic value for emissions and increased the distribution mean by an average of 16%. Release fractions were calculated by dividing the emission estimates by a building chemical inventory quantity. Two variations were used for this quantity: chemical usage, and chemical usage plus one-half standing inventory. Filters were applied so that only release fraction values from zero to one were included in the resulting distributions. Release fractions had a wide range among chemicals and among data sets for different buildings and/or years for a given chemical. Regressions of release fractions to molecular weight and vapor pressure showed weak correlations. Similarly, regressions of mean emissions to chemical usage, chemical inventory, molecular weight, and vapor pressure also gave weak correlations. These results highlight the difficulties in estimating emissions from R&D facilities using chemical inventory data. Air emissions from research operations are difficult to estimate because of the changing nature of research processes and the small quantity and wide variety of chemicals used. Analysis of stack measurements taken over multiple facilities and a 10-year period using a Monte Carlo technique provided a method to quantify the low emissions and to estimate release fractions based on chemical inventories. The variation in release fractions did not correlate well with factors investigated, confirming the complexities in estimating R&D emissions.

Guidelines for evaluating fish habitat in Wisconsin streams.

Treesearch

Timothy D. Simonson; John Lyons; Paul D. Kanehl

1993-01-01

Describes procedures for evaluating the quality and quantity of habitat for fish in small and medium streams of Wisconsin. Provides detailed guidelines for collecting and analyzing specific quantitative habitat information.

Immunocapture and microplate-based activity and quantity measurement of pyruvate dehydrogenase in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

PubMed Central

Liu, Xiaowen; Pervez, Hira; Andersen, Lars W; Uber, Amy; Montissol, Sophia; Patel, Parth; Donnino, Michael W

2015-01-01

Background Pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activity is altered in many human disorders. Current methods require tissue samples and yield inconsistent results. We describe a modified method for measuring PDH activity from isolated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Results/Methodology We found that PDH activity and quantity can be successfully measured in human PBMCs. Freeze-thaw cycles cannot efficiently disrupt the mitochondrial membrane. Processing time of up to 20 h does not affect PDH activity with proteinase inhibitor addition and a detergent concentration of 3.3% showed maximum yield. Sample protein concentration is correlated to PDH activity and quantity in human PBMCs from healthy subjects. Conclusion Measuring PDH activity from PBMCs is a novel, easy and less invasive way to further understand the role of PDH in human disease. PMID:25826140

Water Source Pollution and Disease Diagnosis in a Nigerian Rural Community.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sangodoyin, A. Y.

1991-01-01

Samples from five water sources (spring, borehole, pond, stream, and well) in rural Nigerian communities were tested. Results include source reliabilities in terms of water quality and quantity, pollution effects upon water quality, epidemiological effects related to water quantity and waste disposal, and impact of water quality improvement upon…

PROTOCOL - A COMPUTERIZED SOLID WASTE QUANTITY AND COMPOSITION ESTIMATION SYSTEM. Project Summary (EPA/600/S2-91/005)

EPA Science Inventory

The assumptions of traditional sampling theory often do not fit the circumstances when estimating the quantity and composition of solid waste arriving at a given location, such as a landfill site, or at a specific point in an industrial or commercial process. The investigator oft...

Small-world behaviour in a system of mobile elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manrubia, S. C.; Delgado, J.; Luque, B.

2001-03-01

We analyze the propagation of activity in a system of mobile automata. A number ρLd of elements move as random walkers on a lattice of dimension d, while with a small probability p they can jump to any empty site in the system. We show that this system behaves as a Dynamic Small World (DSW) and present analytic and numerical results for several quantities. Our analysis shows that the persistence time T* (equivalent to the persistence size L* of small-world networks) scales as T* ~ (ρp)-τ, with τ = 1/(d + 1).

Repeated sampling of genes from a single cell - implications for gravitropism research

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scherp, P.; Hasenstein, K. H.

The need for repeated but independent extractions of mRNA from single cells and plant tissues prompted the development of Solid Phase Gene Extraction (SPGE, patent pending). Oligo dT18 coated glass needles hybridize during a 2 to 3 min sampling time with the poly A+ mRNA. The needle is withdrawn and can be used directly for RT-PCR. Because of the small probe size, no cytoplasm is lost and repeated sampling of the same cell is possible. SPGE of Chara rhizoids and internodal cells showed fluctuations of type and quantity of mRNA in specific areas of the cytoplasm of rhizoids and time-dependent gene expression in internodal cells as a function of light/dark intervals. Despite extensive cytoplasmic streaming, mRNA-samples taken in the vicinity of the nucleus revealed a higher variability than the distal ends of the cell. In rhizoids, the mRNA/cDNA varied between the different zones of cytoplasm. In Arabidopsis, we isolated cDNA species from root tips, shoots and leaves and determined their sequences. Growth studies on SPGE-sampled individuals showed that after a short recovery period, all sampled plants resumed growth with normal growth rates and graviresponse. The data indicate that SPGE is a powerful method to study gene expression in single cells and in tissues of higher plants with high spatial and temporal resolution. Supported by NASA: NAG 2-1423

The Interrelationships of Mathematical Precursors in Kindergarten

PubMed Central

Cirino, Paul T.

2011-01-01

This study evaluated the interrelations among cognitive precursors across quantitative, linguistic, and spatial attention domains that have been implicated for math achievement in young children. The dimensionality of the quantity precursors was evaluated in 286 Kindergarteners via latent variable techniques, and the contribution of precursors from each domain was established for small sums addition. Results showed a five factor structure for the quantity precursors with the major distinction between nonsymbolic and symbolic tasks. The overall model demonstrated good fit, and strong predictive power (R2 = 55%) for addition number combinations. Linguistic and spatial attention domains showed indirect relationships with outcomes, with their effects mediated by symbolic quantity measures. These results have implications for the measurement of mathematical precursors, and yield promise for predicting future math performance. PMID:21194711

CALIFA: a diameter-selected sample for an integral field spectroscopy galaxy survey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walcher, C. J.; Wisotzki, L.; Bekeraité, S.; Husemann, B.; Iglesias-Páramo, J.; Backsmann, N.; Barrera Ballesteros, J.; Catalán-Torrecilla, C.; Cortijo, C.; del Olmo, A.; Garcia Lorenzo, B.; Falcón-Barroso, J.; Jilkova, L.; Kalinova, V.; Mast, D.; Marino, R. A.; Méndez-Abreu, J.; Pasquali, A.; Sánchez, S. F.; Trager, S.; Zibetti, S.; Aguerri, J. A. L.; Alves, J.; Bland-Hawthorn, J.; Boselli, A.; Castillo Morales, A.; Cid Fernandes, R.; Flores, H.; Galbany, L.; Gallazzi, A.; García-Benito, R.; Gil de Paz, A.; González-Delgado, R. M.; Jahnke, K.; Jungwiert, B.; Kehrig, C.; Lyubenova, M.; Márquez Perez, I.; Masegosa, J.; Monreal Ibero, A.; Pérez, E.; Quirrenbach, A.; Rosales-Ortega, F. F.; Roth, M. M.; Sanchez-Blazquez, P.; Spekkens, K.; Tundo, E.; van de Ven, G.; Verheijen, M. A. W.; Vilchez, J. V.; Ziegler, B.

2014-09-01

We describe and discuss the selection procedure and statistical properties of the galaxy sample used by the Calar Alto Legacy Integral Field Area (CALIFA) survey, a public legacy survey of 600 galaxies using integral field spectroscopy. The CALIFA "mother sample" was selected from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) DR7 photometric catalogue to include all galaxies with an r-band isophotal major axis between 45'' and 79.2'' and with a redshift 0.005 < z < 0.03. The mother sample contains 939 objects, 600 of which will be observed in the course of the CALIFA survey. The selection of targets for observations is based solely on visibility and thus keeps the statistical properties of the mother sample. By comparison with a large set of SDSS galaxies, we find that the CALIFA sample is representative of galaxies over a luminosity range of -19 > Mr > -23.1 and over a stellar mass range between 109.7 and 1011.4 M⊙. In particular, within these ranges, the diameter selection does not lead to any significant bias against - or in favour of - intrinsically large or small galaxies. Only below luminosities of Mr = -19 (or stellar masses <109.7 M⊙) is there a prevalence of galaxies with larger isophotal sizes, especially of nearly edge-on late-type galaxies, but such galaxies form <10% of the full sample. We estimate volume-corrected distribution functions in luminosities and sizes and show that these are statistically fully compatible with estimates from the full SDSS when accounting for large-scale structure. For full characterization of the sample, we also present a number of value-added quantities determined for the galaxies in the CALIFA sample. These include consistent multi-band photometry based on growth curve analyses; stellar masses; distances and quantities derived from these; morphological classifications; and an overview of available multi-wavelength photometric measurements. We also explore different ways of characterizing the environments of CALIFA galaxies, finding that the sample covers environmental conditions from the field to genuine clusters. We finally consider the expected incidence of active galactic nuclei among CALIFA galaxies given the existing pre-CALIFA data, finding that the final observed CALIFA sample will contain approximately 30 Sey2 galaxies. Based on observations collected at the Centro Astronómico Hispano Alemán (CAHA) at Calar Alto, operated jointly by the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy and the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (CSIC). Publically released data products from CALIFA are made available on the webpage http://www.caha.es/CALIFA

Assessing rural small community water supply in Limpopo, South Africa: water service benchmarks and reliability.

PubMed

Majuru, Batsirai; Jagals, Paul; Hunter, Paul R

2012-10-01

Although a number of studies have reported on water supply improvements, few have simultaneously taken into account the reliability of the water services. The study aimed to assess whether upgrading water supply systems in small rural communities improved access, availability and potability of water by assessing the water services against selected benchmarks from the World Health Organisation and South African Department of Water Affairs, and to determine the impact of unreliability on the services. These benchmarks were applied in three rural communities in Limpopo, South Africa where rudimentary water supply services were being upgraded to basic services. Data were collected through structured interviews, observations and measurement, and multi-level linear regression models were used to assess the impact of water service upgrades on key outcome measures of distance to source, daily per capita water quantity and Escherichia coli count. When the basic system was operational, 72% of households met the minimum benchmarks for distance and water quantity, but only 8% met both enhanced benchmarks. During non-operational periods of the basic service, daily per capita water consumption decreased by 5.19l (p<0.001, 95% CI 4.06-6.31) and distances to water sources were 639 m further (p ≤ 0.001, 95% CI 560-718). Although both rudimentary and basic systems delivered water that met potability criteria at the sources, the quality of stored water sampled in the home was still unacceptable throughout the various service levels. These results show that basic water services can make substantial improvements to water access, availability, potability, but only if such services are reliable. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

49 CFR 173.199 - Category B infectious substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... this section; (ii) Anticoagulants used to stabilize blood or plasma; or (iii) Small quantities of Class... copy or electronic image of these instructions must be retained by the manufacturer and subsequent...

75 FR 6062 - Manufacturer of Controlled Substances Notice of Registration

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-05

... controlled substances listed in schedules I and II: Drug Schedule Marihuana (7360) I Tetrahydrocannabinols (7370) I Cocaine (9041) I The Institute will manufacture small quantities of cocaine and marihuana...

Isolation and structural characterization of lignin from cotton stalk treated in an ammonia hydrothermal system.

PubMed

Kang, Sumin; Xiao, Lingping; Meng, Lingyan; Zhang, Xueming; Sun, Runcang

2012-11-16

To investigate the potential for the utilization of cotton stalk, ammonia hydrothermal treatment was applied to fractionate the samples into aqueous ammonia-soluble and ammonia-insoluble portions. The ammonia-soluble portion was purified to yield lignin fractions. The lignin fractions obtained were characterized by wet chemistry (carbohydrate analysis) and spectroscopy methods (FT-IR, 13C and 1H-13C HSQC NMR spectroscopy) as well as gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The results showed that the cotton stalk lignin fractions were almost absent of neutral sugars (0.43%-1.29%) and had relatively low average molecular weights (1255-1746 g/mol). The lignin fractions belonged to typical G-S lignin, which was composed predominately of G-type units (59%) and noticeable amounts of S-type units (40%) together with a small amount of H-type units (~1%). Furthermore, the ammonia-extractable lignin fractions were mainly composed of β-0-4' inter-unit linkages (75.6%), and small quantities of β-β' (12.2%), together with lower amounts of β-5' carbon-carbon linkages (7.4%) and p-hydroxycinnamyl alcohol end groups.

Steroid Profiling by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry and High Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry for Adrenal Diseases

PubMed Central

McDonald, Jeffrey G.; Matthew, Susan

2012-01-01

The ability to measure steroid hormone concentrations in blood and urine specimens is central to the diagnosis and proper treatment of adrenal diseases. The traditional approach has been to assay each steroid hormone, precursor, or metabolite using individual aliquots of serum, each with a separate immunoassay. For complex diseases, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and adrenocortical cancer, in which the assay of several steroids is essential for management, this approach is time consuming and costly, in addition to using large amounts of serum. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry profiling of steroid metabolites in urine has been employed for many years but only in a small number of specialized laboratories and suffers from slow throughput. The advent of commercial high-performance liquid chromatography instruments coupled to tandem mass spectrometers offers the potential for medium- to high-throughput profiling of serum steroids using small quantities of sample. Here, we review the physical principles of mass spectrometry, the instrumentation used for these techniques, the terminology used in this field and applications to steroid analysis. PMID:22170384

Driven Microbead Rheology of Fibrin Gels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spero, R. C.; Smith, B.; Cribb, J.; O'Brien, T. E.; Lord, S. T.; Superfine, R.

2006-11-01

The rheological properties of fibrin, the primary structural element in blood clots, have been widely studied at the macroscopic level, because its mechanical properties are critical to its physiological function. Microbead rheology (MBR) shows promise for advancing this field in various ways. First, MBR can be performed on small sample quantities (˜1 uL), which is useful for high-throughput experimentation; second, fibrin's complex structure has a range of length scales, such that large cells may not propagate while small viruses diffuse easily through the mesh. Microbeads from 10 um to under 500 nm can probe these length scales. These characteristics suggest MBR could be useful in screening drugs for disorders involving variant clot rigidity. We report on efforts to measure the rheology of fibrin gels over the course of its polymerization. A magnetic force microscope applies pulsed forces to microbeads suspended in fibrin gels. Beads are monitored on an inverted microscope and their positions tracked by software over the 30-minute course of the gelation. A single mode Jefferies model is used to extract viscosity and elasticity from the beads' creep-recovery.

IAEA Sampling Plan

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

Geist, William H.

2017-09-15

The objectives for this presentation are to describe the method that the IAEA uses to determine a sampling plan for nuclear material measurements; describe the terms detection probability and significant quantity; list the three nuclear materials measurement types; describe the sampling method applied to an item facility; and describe multiple method sampling.

Experiments and modeling of variably permeable carbonate reservoir samples in contact with CO₂-acidified brines

DOE PAGES

Smith, Megan M.; Hao, Yue; Mason, Harris E.; ...

2014-12-31

Reactive experiments were performed to expose sample cores from the Arbuckle carbonate reservoir to CO₂-acidified brine under reservoir temperature and pressure conditions. The samples consisted of dolomite with varying quantities of calcite and silica/chert. The timescales of monitored pressure decline across each sample in response to CO₂ exposure, as well as the amount of and nature of dissolution features, varied widely among these three experiments. For all samples cores, the experimentally measured initial permeability was at least one order of magnitude or more lower than the values estimated from downhole methods. Nondestructive X-ray computed tomography (XRCT) imaging revealed dissolution featuresmore » including “wormholes,” removal of fracture-filling crystals, and widening of pre-existing pore spaces. In the injection zone sample, multiple fractures may have contributed to the high initial permeability of this core and restricted the distribution of CO₂-induced mineral dissolution. In contrast, the pre-existing porosity of the baffle zone sample was much lower and less connected, leading to a lower initial permeability and contributing to the development of a single dissolution channel. While calcite may make up only a small percentage of the overall sample composition, its location and the effects of its dissolution have an outsized effect on permeability responses to CO₂ exposure. The XRCT data presented here are informative for building the model domain for numerical simulations of these experiments but require calibration by higher resolution means to confidently evaluate different porosity-permeability relationships.« less

Using the Bivariate Dale Model to jointly estimate predictors of frequency and quantity of alcohol use.

PubMed

McMillan, Garnett P; Hanson, Tim; Bedrick, Edward J; Lapham, Sandra C

2005-09-01

This study demonstrates the usefulness of the Bivariate Dale Model (BDM) as a method for estimating the relationship between risk factors and the quantity and frequency of alcohol use, as well as the degree of association between these highly correlated drinking measures. The BDM is used to evaluate childhood sexual abuse, along with age and gender, as risk factors for the quantity and frequency of beer consumption in a sample of driving-while-intoxicated (DWI) offenders (N = 1,964; 1,612 men). The BDM allows one to estimate the relative odds of drinking up to each level of ordinal-scaled quantity and frequency of alcohol use, as well as model the degree of association between quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption as a function of covariates. Individuals who experienced childhood sexual abuse have increased risks of higher quantity and frequency of beer consumption. History of childhood sexual abuse has a greater effect on women, causing them to drink higher quantities of beer per drinking occasion. The BDM is a useful method for evaluating predictors of the quantity-frequency of alcohol consumption. SAS macrocode for fitting the BDM model is provided.

Chemical composition of Texas surface waters, 1949

USGS Publications Warehouse

Irelan, Burdge

1950-01-01

This report is the fifth the a series of publications by the Texas Board of Water Engineers giving chemical analyses of the surface waters in the State of Texas. The samples for which data are given were collected between October 1, 1948 and September 30, 1949. During the water year 25 daily sampling stations were maintained by the Geological Survey. Sampled were collected less frequently during the year at many other points. Quality of water records for previous years can be found in the following reports: "Chemical Composition of Texas Surface Waters, 1938-1945," by W. W. Hastings, and J. H. Rowley; "Chemical Composition of Texas Surface Waters, 1946," by W. W. Hastings and B. Irelan; "Chemical Composition of Texas Surface Waters, 1947," by B. Irelan and J. R. Avrett; "Chemical Composition of Texas Surface Waters, 1948," by B. Irelan, D. E. Weaver, and J. R. Avrett. These reports may be obtained from the Texas Board of Water Engineers and Geological Survey at Austin, Texas. Samples for chemical analysis were collected daily at or near points on streams where gaging stations are maintained for measurement of discharge. Most of the analyses were made of 10-day composites of daily samples collected for a year at each sampling point. Three composite samples were usually prepared each month by mixing together equal quantities of daily samples collected for the 1st to the 10th, from the 11th to the 20th, and during the remainder of the month. Monthly composites were made at a few stations where variation in daily conductance was small. For some streams that are subject to sudden large changes in chemical composition, composite samples were made for shorter periods on the basis of the concentration of dissolved solids as indicated by measurement of specific conductance of the daily samples. The mean discharge for the composite period is reported in second-feet. Specific conductance values are expressed as "micromhos, K x 10 at 25° C." Silica, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, sulfate, chloride, and nitrate are reported in parts per million. The quantity of dissolved solids is given in tons per acre-foot, tons per day (if discharge records are available), and parts per million. The total and non-carbonate hardness are reported as parts per million calcium carbonate (CaCO3). For those analyses where sodium and potassium are reported separately, "recent sodium" will include the equivalent quantity of sodium only. In analyses where sodium and potassium were calculated and reported as a combined value, the "percent sodium" will include the equivalent quantity of sodium and potassium. Weighted average analyses are given for most daily sampling stations. The weighted average analysis represent approximately the composition of water that would be found in a reservoir containing all the water passing a given station during the year after through mixing in the reservoir. Samples were analyzed according to method regularly used by the Geological Survey. These methods are essentially the same or are modifications of methods described in recognized authoritative publications for mineral analysis of water samples. These quality of water records have been collected as part of the cooperative investigations of the water resources of Texas conducted by the Geological Survey and the Texas Board of Water Engineers. Much of the work would have been impossible without the support of the following Federal State, and local agencies The United States Bureau of Reclamation, U. S. Corps of Engineers, Brazos River Conservation and Reclamation District, Lower Colorado River Authority, Red Bluff Water Power Control District, City of Amarillo, City of Abilene, and City of Forth Worth. The investigations were under the firection of Burdge Irelan, District Chemist, Austin, Texas. Analyses of water samples were made by Clara J. Carter, Lee J. Freeman, Homer D. Smith, Dorothy M. Suttle, DeForrest E. Weaver, and Clarence T. Welborn. Calculations of weighted averages were made by James R. Avrett, Burdge Irelan, Dorothy M. Suttle, and DeForrest E. Weaver.

Reexamination of the calculation of two-center, two-electron integrals over Slater-type orbitals. II. Neumann expansion of the exchange integrals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lesiuk, Michał; Moszynski, Robert

2014-12-01

In this paper we consider the calculation of two-center exchange integrals over Slater-type orbitals (STOs). We apply the Neumann expansion of the Coulomb interaction potential and consider calculation of all basic quantities which appear in the resulting expression. Analytical closed-form equations for all auxiliary quantities have already been known but they suffer from large digital erosion when some of the parameters are large or small. We derive two differential equations which are obeyed by the most difficult basic integrals. Taking them as a starting point, useful series expansions for small parameter values or asymptotic expansions for large parameter values are systematically derived. The resulting expansions replace the corresponding analytical expressions when the latter introduce significant cancellations. Additionally, we reconsider numerical integration of some necessary quantities and present a new way to calculate the integrand with a controlled precision. All proposed methods are combined to lead to a general, stable algorithm. We perform extensive numerical tests of the introduced expressions to verify their validity and usefulness. Advances reported here provide methodology to compute two-electron exchange integrals over STOs for a broad range of the nonlinear parameters and large angular momenta.

Observed, unknown distributions of clinical chemical quantities should be considered to be log-normal: a proposal.

PubMed

Haeckel, Rainer; Wosniok, Werner

2010-10-01

The distribution of many quantities in laboratory medicine are considered to be Gaussian if they are symmetric, although, theoretically, a Gaussian distribution is not plausible for quantities that can attain only non-negative values. If a distribution is skewed, further specification of the type is required, which may be difficult to provide. Skewed (non-Gaussian) distributions found in clinical chemistry usually show only moderately large positive skewness (e.g., log-normal- and χ(2) distribution). The degree of skewness depends on the magnitude of the empirical biological variation (CV(e)), as demonstrated using the log-normal distribution. A Gaussian distribution with a small CV(e) (e.g., for plasma sodium) is very similar to a log-normal distribution with the same CV(e). In contrast, a relatively large CV(e) (e.g., plasma aspartate aminotransferase) leads to distinct differences between a Gaussian and a log-normal distribution. If the type of an empirical distribution is unknown, it is proposed that a log-normal distribution be assumed in such cases. This avoids distributional assumptions that are not plausible and does not contradict the observation that distributions with small biological variation look very similar to a Gaussian distribution.

Gas chromatograph sample-transfer valve

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, W. S.; Wright, H. W., Jr.

1971-01-01

Slide-type gate valve incorporates sampling volume and transfer passageway for guiding a metered quantity of gas from pressurized test cell to gas chromatograph. Gate is moved by pneumatic bellows-type actuator.

An integrated data analysis approach to investigating measurement equivalence of DSM nicotine dependence symptoms.

PubMed

Rose, Jennifer S; Dierker, Lisa C; Hedeker, Donald; Mermelstein, Robin

2013-04-01

Research identifying nicotine dependence (ND) symptoms most appropriate for measurement of adolescent ND and invariant across the range of smoking exposure is hampered by limited sample size and variability of smoking behavior within independent studies. Integrative data analysis, the process of pooling and analyzing data from multiple studies, produces larger and more heterogeneous samples with which to evaluate measurement equivalence across the full continuum of smoking quantity and frequency. Data from two studies were pooled to obtain a large sample of adolescent and young adult smokers with considerable variability in smoking. We used moderated nonlinear factor analysis, which produces study equivalent ND scores, to simultaneously evaluate whether 14 DSM ND symptoms had equivalent psychometric properties (1) at different levels of smoking frequency and (2) across a continuous range of smoking quantity, after accounting for study differences. Nine of 14 symptoms were equivalent across levels of smoking frequency and quantity in probability of endorsement at different levels of ND and in ability to discriminate between levels of ND severity. A more precise ND factor score accounted for study and smoking related differences in symptom psychometric properties. DSM-IV symptoms may be used to reliably assess ND in young populations across a wide range of smoking quantity and frequency and within both nationally representative and geographically restricted samples with different study designs. Symptoms shared across studies produced an equivalently scaled ND factor score, demonstrating that integrating data for the purpose of studying ND in young smokers is viable. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

METHOD OF DISSOLVING MASSIVE PLUTONIUM

DOEpatents

Facer, J.F.; Lyon, W.L.

1960-06-28

Massive plutonium can be dissolved in a hot mixture of concentrated nitric acid and a small quantity of hydrofluoric acid. A preliminary oxidation with water under superatmospheric pressure at 140 to 150 deg C is advantageous

49 CFR 173.4 - Small quantities for highway and rail.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... hazard classes, are not subject to any other requirements of this subchapter when— (1) The maximum... a package containing a Class 7 (radioactive) material. (2) With the exception of temperature sensing...

Regeneration after clear-cutting second-growth northern hardwoods

Treesearch

Robert W. Wilson; Victor S. Jensen

1954-01-01

Regeneration after clear-cutting second-growth northern hardwoods is often unsatisfactory, in both quantity and species composition. A small area on the Bartlett Experimental Forest near Bartlett, N.H., provides a good example.

Preparation of Protein Samples for NMR Structure, Function, and Small Molecule Screening Studies

PubMed Central

Acton, Thomas B.; Xiao, Rong; Anderson, Stephen; Aramini, James; Buchwald, William A.; Ciccosanti, Colleen; Conover, Ken; Everett, John; Hamilton, Keith; Huang, Yuanpeng Janet; Janjua, Haleema; Kornhaber, Gregory; Lau, Jessica; Lee, Dong Yup; Liu, Gaohua; Maglaqui, Melissa; Ma, Lichung; Mao, Lei; Patel, Dayaban; Rossi, Paolo; Sahdev, Seema; Shastry, Ritu; Swapna, G.V.T.; Tang, Yeufeng; Tong, Saichiu; Wang, Dongyan; Wang, Huang; Zhao, Li; Montelione, Gaetano T.

2014-01-01

In this chapter, we concentrate on the production of high quality protein samples for NMR studies. In particular, we provide an in-depth description of recent advances in the production of NMR samples and their synergistic use with recent advancements in NMR hardware. We describe the protein production platform of the Northeast Structural Genomics Consortium, and outline our high-throughput strategies for producing high quality protein samples for nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies. Our strategy is based on the cloning, expression and purification of 6X-His-tagged proteins using T7-based Escherichia coli systems and isotope enrichment in minimal media. We describe 96-well ligation-independent cloning and analytical expression systems, parallel preparative scale fermentation, and high-throughput purification protocols. The 6X-His affinity tag allows for a similar two-step purification procedure implemented in a parallel high-throughput fashion that routinely results in purity levels sufficient for NMR studies (> 97% homogeneity). Using this platform, the protein open reading frames of over 17,500 different targeted proteins (or domains) have been cloned as over 28,000 constructs. Nearly 5,000 of these proteins have been purified to homogeneity in tens of milligram quantities (see Summary Statistics, http://nesg.org/statistics.html), resulting in more than 950 new protein structures, including more than 400 NMR structures, deposited in the Protein Data Bank. The Northeast Structural Genomics Consortium pipeline has been effective in producing protein samples of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic origin. Although this paper describes our entire pipeline for producing isotope-enriched protein samples, it focuses on the major updates introduced during the last 5 years (Phase 2 of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences Protein Structure Initiative). Our advanced automated and/or parallel cloning, expression, purification, and biophysical screening technologies are suitable for implementation in a large individual laboratory or by a small group of collaborating investigators for structural biology, functional proteomics, ligand screening and structural genomics research. PMID:21371586

A universal reference sample derived from clone vector for improved detection of differential gene expression

PubMed Central

Khan, Rishi L; Gonye, Gregory E; Gao, Guang; Schwaber, James S

2006-01-01

Background Using microarrays by co-hybridizing two samples labeled with different dyes enables differential gene expression measurements and comparisons across slides while controlling for within-slide variability. Typically one dye produces weaker signal intensities than the other often causing signals to be undetectable. In addition, undetectable spots represent a large problem for two-color microarray designs and most arrays contain at least 40% undetectable spots even when labeled with reference samples such as Stratagene's Universal Reference RNAs™. Results We introduce a novel universal reference sample that produces strong signal for all spots on the array, increasing the average fraction of detectable spots to 97%. Maximizing detectable spots on the reference image channel also decreases the variability of microarray data allowing for reliable detection of smaller differential gene expression changes. The reference sample is derived from sequence contained in the parental EST clone vector pT7T3D-Pac and is called vector RNA (vRNA). We show that vRNA can also be used for quality control of microarray printing and PCR product quality, detection of hybridization anomalies, and simplification of spot finding and segmentation tasks. This reference sample can be made inexpensively in large quantities as a renewable resource that is consistent across experiments. Conclusion Results of this study show that vRNA provides a useful universal reference that yields high signal for almost all spots on a microarray, reduces variation and allows for comparisons between experiments and laboratories. Further, it can be used for quality control of microarray printing and PCR product quality, detection of hybridization anomalies, and simplification of spot finding and segmentation tasks. This type of reference allows for detection of small changes in differential expression while reference designs in general allow for large-scale multivariate experimental designs. vRNA in combination with reference designs enable systems biology microarray experiments of small physiologically relevant changes. PMID:16677381

Emissions of C&D refuse in landfills: a European case.

PubMed

López, Ana; Lobo, Amaya

2014-08-01

A field study was developed in a new landfill for refuse from construction and demolition (C&D) material recovery plants of small size (4 Ha.) in Europe, with the aim of evaluating the liquid and gas emissions in this type of facility at a large scale. It included characterization of the materials, monitoring leachate and gas quantity and composition. Besides thermometers, piezometers and sampling ports were placed in several points within the waste. This paper presents the data obtained for five years of the landfill life. The materials disposed were mainly made up of wood and concrete, similar to other C&D debris sites, but the amount of gypsum drywall (below 3% of the waste) was significantly smaller than other available studies, where percentages above 20% had been reported. Leachate contained typical C&D pollutants, such as different inorganic ions and metals, some of which exceeded other values reported in the literature (conductivity, ammonium, lead and arsenic). The small net precipitation in the area and the leachate recirculation into the landfill surface help explain these higher concentrations, thus highlighting the impact of liquid to solid (L/S) ratio on leachate characteristics. In contrast to previous studies, neither odor nuisances nor significant landfill gas over the surface were detected. However, gas samples taken from the landfill inside revealed sulfate reducing and methanogenic activity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A novel device for quantitative measurement of chloride concentration by fluorescence indicator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Junsheng; Wu, Xudong; Chon, Chanhee; Gonska, Tanja; Li, Dongqing

2012-02-01

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening genetic disease. At present, the common method for diagnosis of CF is to detect the chloride concentration in sweat using ion-selective electrodes. However, the current sweat testing methods require a relatively large quantity of sweat sample, at least 25 µL, which is very difficult to obtain, especially for newborns. This paper presents a new method and a new device for rapid detection of the chloride concentration from a small volume of solution. In this method, the chloride concentration is determined quantitatively by the fluorescence intensity of MQAE, a chloride ion fluorescent indicator. In this device, the sample is carried by a small piece of filter paper on a cover glass exposed to an UV LED light source. The resulting fluorescent signals are detected by a Si photodiode. Data acquisition and processing are accomplished by LabVIEW software in a PDA. Based on the Stern-Volmer relationship, the effects of different parameters on the fluorescence intensity were analyzed. The observed significant difference between 40 and 60 mM (the borderline of chloride concentration for CF) is discussed in this paper. The results show that detection can be completed within 10 s. The minimum detectable volume of the chloride solution is 1 μL. The novel method and the device are of great potential for CF diagnosis.

Social Support Networks and HIV/STI Risk Behaviors Among Latino Immigrants in a New Receiving Environment.

PubMed

Althoff, Meghan D; Theall, Katherine; Schmidt, Norine; Hembling, John; Gebrekristos, Hirut T; Thompson, Michelle M; Muth, Stephen Q; Friedman, Samuel R; Kissinger, Patricia

2017-12-01

The objectives of this study were to: (1) describe the quantity and quality of social support networks of Latino immigrants living in a new receiving environment, and (2) determine the role such networks play in their HIV/STI risk behaviors, including substance use. Double incentivized convenience sampling was used to collect egocentric social support network data on 144 Latino immigrants. Latent class analysis was used for data reduction and to identify items best suited to measure quality and quantity of social support. Moderate and high quantity and quality of social support were protective of HIV/STI sexual risk behavior compared to low quantity and quality of support, after adjustment for gender, years in New Orleans and residing with family. Neither measure of social support was associated with binge drinking. The findings suggest that increased quantity and quality of social support decrease HIV/STI sexual risk behaviors but do not influence binge drinking. Interventions that improve the quantity and quality of social support are needed for Latino immigrants.

Endotoxin deposits on the inner surfaces of closed-face cassettes during bioaerosol sampling: a field investigation at composting facilities.

PubMed

Duquenne, Philippe; Simon, Xavier; Demange, Valérie; Harper, Martin; Wild, Pascal

2015-05-01

A set of 270 bioaerosol samples was taken from 15 composting facilities using polystyrene closed-face filter cassettes (CFCs). The objective was to measure the quantity of endotoxin deposits on the inner surfaces of the cassettes (sometimes referred to as 'wall deposits'). The results show that endotoxins are deposited on the inner surfaces of the CFCs through sampling and/or handling of samples. The quantity of endotoxins measured on inner surfaces range between 0.05 (the limit of detection of the method) and 3100 endotoxin units per cassette. The deposits can represent a large and variable percentage of the endotoxins sampled. More than a third of the samples presented a percentage of inner surface deposits >40% of the total quantity of endotoxins collected (filter + inner surfaces). Omitting these inner surface deposits in the analytical process lead to measurement errors relative to sampling all particles entering the CFC sampler, corresponding to a developing consensus on matching the inhalable particulate sampling convention. The result would be underestimated exposures and could affect the decision as to whether or not a result is acceptable in comparison to airborne concentration limits defined in terms of the inhalability convention. The results of this study suggest including the endotoxins deposited on the inner surfaces of CFCs during analysis. Further researches are necessary to investigate endotoxin deposits on the inner cassette surfaces in other working sectors. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Occupational Hygiene Society.

Effects of housing system and age of laying hens on egg performance in fresh pasta production: pasta cooking behaviour.

PubMed

Alamprese, Cristina; Casiraghi, Ernestina; Rossi, Margherita

2011-03-30

Very few studies concern the effects of layer housing systems and age on egg technological properties. Thus the aim of this work was to study the influence of these two factors on egg performance in fresh pasta production, focusing on pasta cooking behaviour. Samples of pasta subjected to analysis were prepared with eggs laid by Hy-Line Brown hens (from 27 to 68 weeks old) housed in cage, barn and organic systems. Higher average values of weight increase and matter loss during pasta cooking were observed for samples prepared with eggs laid by older hens. Such cooking behaviour indicated the development of a weaker pasta protein network, resulting from a decrease in the quantity of albumen protein and an increase in fat content, which is due to the reduction in albumen/yolk ratio during hen aging. The housing system had a significant effect only on matter loss in cooking water, but differences between samples were so small as to be unlikely perceived by consumers. Both hen age and housing system significantly affected pasta cooking behaviour, but the greatest effect was exerted by the hen age. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry.

A time-varying effect model for examining group differences in trajectories of zero-inflated count outcomes with applications in substance abuse research.

PubMed

Yang, Songshan; Cranford, James A; Jester, Jennifer M; Li, Runze; Zucker, Robert A; Buu, Anne

2017-02-28

This study proposes a time-varying effect model for examining group differences in trajectories of zero-inflated count outcomes. The motivating example demonstrates that this zero-inflated Poisson model allows investigators to study group differences in different aspects of substance use (e.g., the probability of abstinence and the quantity of alcohol use) simultaneously. The simulation study shows that the accuracy of estimation of trajectory functions improves as the sample size increases; the accuracy under equal group sizes is only higher when the sample size is small (100). In terms of the performance of the hypothesis testing, the type I error rates are close to their corresponding significance levels under all settings. Furthermore, the power increases as the alternative hypothesis deviates more from the null hypothesis, and the rate of this increasing trend is higher when the sample size is larger. Moreover, the hypothesis test for the group difference in the zero component tends to be less powerful than the test for the group difference in the Poisson component. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

HS-SPME-GC-MS/MS Method for the Rapid and Sensitive Quantitation of 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline in Single Rice Kernels.

PubMed

Hopfer, Helene; Jodari, Farman; Negre-Zakharov, Florence; Wylie, Phillip L; Ebeler, Susan E

2016-05-25

Demand for aromatic rice varieties (e.g., Basmati) is increasing in the US. Aromatic varieties typically have elevated levels of the aroma compound 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP). Due to its very low aroma threshold, analysis of 2AP provides a useful screening tool for rice breeders. Methods for 2AP analysis in rice should quantitate 2AP at or below sensory threshold level, avoid artifactual 2AP generation, and be able to analyze single rice kernels in cases where only small sample quantities are available (e.g., breeding trials). We combined headspace solid phase microextraction with gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS/MS) for analysis of 2AP, using an extraction temperature of 40 °C and a stable isotopologue as internal standard. 2AP calibrations were linear between the concentrations of 53 and 5380 pg/g, with detection limits below the sensory threshold of 2AP. Forty-eight aromatic and nonaromatic, milled rice samples from three harvest years were screened with the method for their 2AP content, and overall reproducibility, observed for all samples, ranged from 5% for experimental aromatic lines to 33% for nonaromatic lines.

Generalized correlation integral vectors: A distance concept for chaotic dynamical systems

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

Haario, Heikki, E-mail: heikki.haario@lut.fi; Kalachev, Leonid, E-mail: KalachevL@mso.umt.edu; Hakkarainen, Janne

2015-06-15

Several concepts of fractal dimension have been developed to characterise properties of attractors of chaotic dynamical systems. Numerical approximations of them must be calculated by finite samples of simulated trajectories. In principle, the quantities should not depend on the choice of the trajectory, as long as it provides properly distributed samples of the underlying attractor. In practice, however, the trajectories are sensitive with respect to varying initial values, small changes of the model parameters, to the choice of a solver, numeric tolerances, etc. The purpose of this paper is to present a statistically sound approach to quantify this variability. Wemore » modify the concept of correlation integral to produce a vector that summarises the variability at all selected scales. The distribution of this stochastic vector can be estimated, and it provides a statistical distance concept between trajectories. Here, we demonstrate the use of the distance for the purpose of estimating model parameters of a chaotic dynamic model. The methodology is illustrated using computational examples for the Lorenz 63 and Lorenz 95 systems, together with a framework for Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling to produce posterior distributions of model parameters.« less

Sensitive and affordable diagnostic assay for the quantitative detection of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) alterations in patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

PubMed

Dama, Elisa; Tillhon, Micol; Bertalot, Giovanni; de Santis, Francesca; Troglio, Flavia; Pessina, Simona; Passaro, Antonio; Pece, Salvatore; de Marinis, Filippo; Dell'Orto, Patrizia; Viale, Giuseppe; Spaggiari, Lorenzo; Di Fiore, Pier Paolo; Bianchi, Fabrizio; Barberis, Massimo; Vecchi, Manuela

2016-06-14

Accurate detection of altered anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) expression is critical for the selection of lung cancer patients eligible for ALK-targeted therapies. To overcome intrinsic limitations and discrepancies of currently available companion diagnostics for ALK, we developed a simple, affordable and objective PCR-based predictive model for the quantitative measurement of any ALK fusion as well as wild-type ALK upregulation. This method, optimized for low-quantity/-quality RNA from FFPE samples, combines cDNA pre-amplification with ad hoc generated calibration curves. All the models we derived yielded concordant predictions when applied to a cohort of 51 lung tumors, and correctly identified all 17 ALK FISH-positive and 33 of the 34 ALK FISH-negative samples. The one discrepant case was confirmed as positive by IHC, thus raising the accuracy of our test to 100%. Importantly, our method was accurate when using low amounts of input RNA (10 ng), also in FFPE samples with limited tumor cellularity (5-10%) and in FFPE cytology specimens. Thus, our test is an easily implementable diagnostic tool for the rapid, efficacious and cost-effective screening of ALK status in patients with lung cancer.

In situ vibrational spectroscopy of adsorbed nitrogen in porous carbon materials.

PubMed

Ray, Paramita; Xu, Enshi; Crespi, Vincent H; Badding, John V; Lueking, Angela D

2018-05-25

This study uses in situ vibrational spectroscopy to probe nitrogen adsorption to porous carbon materials, including single-wall carbon nanotubes and Maxsorb super-activated carbon, demonstrating how the nitrogen Raman stretch mode is perturbed by adsorption. In all porous carbon samples upon N2 physisorption in the mesopore filling regime, the N2 Raman mode downshifts by ∼2 cm-1, a downshift comparable to liquid N2. The relative intensity of this mode increases as pressure is increased to saturation, and trends in the relative intensity parallel the volumetric gas adsorption isotherm. This mode with ∼2 cm-1 downshift is thus attributed to perturbations arising due to N2-N2 interactions in a condensed film. The mode is also observed for the activated carbon at 298 K, and the relative intensity once again parallels the gas adsorption isotherm. For select samples, a mode with a stronger downshift (>4 cm-1) is observed, and the stronger downshift is attributed to stronger N2-carbon surface interactions. Simulations for a N2 surface film support peak assignments. These results suggest that N2 vibrational spectroscopy could provide an indication of the presence or absence of porosity for very small quantities of samples.

Rapid DNA extraction from dried blood spots on filter paper: potential applications in biobanking.

PubMed

Choi, Eun-Hye; Lee, Sang Kwang; Ihm, Chunhwa; Sohn, Young-Hak

2014-12-01

Dried blood spot (DBS) technology is a microsampling alternative to traditional plasma or serum sampling for pharmaco- or toxicokinetic evaluation. DBS technology has been applied to diagnostic screening in drug discovery, nonclinical, and clinical settings. We have developed an improved elution protocol involving boiling of blood spots dried on Whatman filter paper. The purpose of this study was to compare the quality, purity, and quantity of DNA isolated from frozen blood samples and DBSs. We optimized a method for extraction and estimation of DNA from blood spots dried on filter paper (3-mm FTA card). A single DBS containing 40 μL blood was used. DNA was efficiently extracted in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or Tris-EDTA (TE) buffer by incubation at 37°C overnight. DNA was stable in DBSs that were stored at room temperature or frozen. The housekeeping genes GAPDH and beta-actin were used as positive standards for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) validation of general diagnostic screening. Our simple and convenient DBS storage and extraction methods are suitable for diagnostic screening by using very small volumes of blood collected on filter paper, and can be used in biobanks for blood sample storage.

Amendment to examination and investigation sample requirements--FDA. Direct final rule.

PubMed

1998-09-25

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is amending its regulations regarding the collection of twice the quantity of food, drug, or cosmetic estimated to be sufficient for analysis. This action increases the dollar amount that FDA will consider to determine whether to routinely collect a reserve sample of a food, drug, or cosmetic product in addition to the quantity sufficient for analysis. Experience has demonstrated that the current dollar amount does not adequately cover the cost of most quantities sufficient for analysis plus reserve samples. This direct final rule is part of FDA's continuing effort to achieve the objectives of the President's "Reinventing Government" initiative, and is intended to reduce the burden of unnecessary regulations on food, drugs, and cosmetics without diminishing the protection of the public health. Elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register, FDA is publishing a companion proposed rule under FDA's usual procedures for notice and comment to provide a procedural framework to finalize the rule in the event the agency receives any significant adverse comment and withdraws this direct final rule.

Castanea sativa Mill. Flowers amongst the Most Powerful Antioxidant Matrices: A Phytochemical Approach in Decoctions and Infusions

PubMed Central

Carocho, Márcio; Barros, Lillian; Bento, Albino; Morales, Patricia; Ferreira, Isabel C. F. R.

2014-01-01

Infusions and decoction of chestnut tree flowers have been used for different medical purposes, but their phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity are still mostly unknown. Herein, decoctions and infusions of flowers from the two most appreciated chestnut cultivars (longal and judia) in Trás-os-Montes, Portugal, were prepared and characterized with regard to their content in free sugars, organic acids, and phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and hydrolyzable tannins, and their antioxidant activity. Overall, the decoction of the cultivar judia was the sample with both the highest quantity of flavonoids and antioxidant activity. The phenolic compound with the highest abundance in all samples was trigalloyl-HHDP-glucoside, followed by pentagalloyl glucoside. The sample with the highest quantity of total phenolic compounds was judia infusion, closely followed by longal decoction, which also gave the highest quantities of ellagitannins. Regarding sugars and organic acids, the profiles were more similar. These results corroborate ancestral claims of the health benefits of infusions and decoctions of chestnut flowers. PMID:24822186

31 CFR 500.552 - Research samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Research samples. 500.552 Section 500..., Authorizations and Statements of Licensing Policy § 500.552 Research samples. Specific licenses are issued for importation of commodities subject to § 500.204 for bona fide research purposes in sample quantities only. [40...

31 CFR 515.547 - Research samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Research samples. 515.547 Section 515..., Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy § 515.547 Research samples. Specific licenses are issued for importation of Cuban-origin commodities for bona-fide research purposes in sample quantities only. [39 FR...

31 CFR 515.547 - Research samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 3 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Research samples. 515.547 Section 515..., Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy § 515.547 Research samples. Specific licenses are issued for importation of Cuban-origin commodities for bona-fide research purposes in sample quantities only. [39 FR...

31 CFR 515.547 - Research samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 3 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Research samples. 515.547 Section 515..., Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy § 515.547 Research samples. Specific licenses are issued for importation of Cuban-origin commodities for bona-fide research purposes in sample quantities only. [39 FR...

31 CFR 515.547 - Research samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 3 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Research samples. 515.547 Section 515..., Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy § 515.547 Research samples. Specific licenses are issued for importation of Cuban-origin commodities for bona-fide research purposes in sample quantities only. [39 FR...

31 CFR 515.547 - Research samples.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Research samples. 515.547 Section 515..., Authorizations, and Statements of Licensing Policy § 515.547 Research samples. Specific licenses are issued for importation of Cuban-origin commodities for bona-fide research purposes in sample quantities only. [39 FR...

Pb isotopes as an indicator of the Asian contribution to particulate air pollution in urban California.

PubMed

Ewing, Stephanie A; Christensen, John N; Brown, Shaun T; Vancuren, Richard A; Cliff, Steven S; Depaolo, Donald J

2010-12-01

During the last two decades, expanding industrial activity in east Asia has led to increased production of airborne pollutants that can be transported to North America. Previous efforts to detect this trans-Pacific pollution have relied upon remote sensing and remote sample locations. We tested whether Pb isotope ratios in airborne particles can be used to directly evaluate the Asian contribution to airborne particles of anthropogenic origin in western North America, using a time series of samples from a pair of sites upwind and downwind of the San Francisco Bay Area. Our results for airborne Pb at these sites indicate a median value of 29% Asian origin, based on mixing relations between distinct regional sample groups. This trans-Pacific Pb is present in small quantities but serves as a tracer for airborne particles within the growing Asian industrial plume. We then applied this analysis to archived samples from urban sites in central California. Taken together, our results suggest that the analysis of Pb isotopes can reveal the distribution of airborne particles affected by Asian industrial pollution at urban sites in northern California. Under suitable circumstances, this analysis can improve understanding of the global transport of pollution, independent of transport models.

Pb Isotopes as an Indicator of the Asian Contribution to Particulate Air Pollution in Urban California

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

Ewing, Stephanie A.; Christensen, John N.; Brown, Shaun T.

2010-10-25

During the last two decades, expanding industrial activity in east Asia has led to increased production of airborne pollutants that can be transported to North America. Previous efforts to detect this trans-Pacific pollution have relied upon remote sensing and remote sample locations. We tested whether Pb isotope ratios in airborne particles can be used to directly evaluate the Asian contribution to airborne particles of anthropogenic origin in western North America, using a time series of samples from a pair of sites upwind and downwind of the San Francisco Bay Area. Our results for airborne Pb at these sites indicate amore » median value of 29 Asian origin, based on mixing relations between distinct regional sample groups. This trans-Pacific Pb is present in small quantities but serves as a tracer for airborne particles within the growing Asian industrial plume. We then applied this analysis to archived samples from urban sites in central California. Taken together, our results suggest that the analysis of Pb isotopes can reveal the distribution of airborne particles affected by Asian industrial pollution at urban sites in northern California. Under suitable circumstances, this analysis can improve understanding of the global transport of pollution, independent of transport models.« less

Synthetic hydroxyapatites doped with Zn(II) studied by X-ray diffraction, infrared, Raman and thermal analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guerra-López, José R.; Echeverría, Gustavo A.; Güida, Jorge A.; Viña, Raúl; Punte, Graciela

2015-06-01

Calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHap) formation when different amounts of Zn(II) are present in the mother solution has been investigated by atomic absorption, infrared and Raman spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction and thermal analysis (DTA and TG). The studied samples have been synthesized at T=95 °C and pH 9 in air. The analysis of the results have shown that the pure CaHap sample crystallizes in the monoclinic form P21/b. Concentrations up to 20% of Zn(II) in the mother solution, equivalent to smaller concentrations in solid (up to 9.1% in wt), favor the formation of the hexagonal apatite, P63/m, while Zn(II) concentrations higher than 20% in solution help an amorphous phase development where vibrational spectra indicated coexistence of two phases: an apatite and ZnNH4PO4·H2O. Infrared data of thermal treated samples endorse that HPO42- ion had not been incorporated in Zn(II) doped samples during the synthesis process. Present results also allow to conclude that Zn(II) cation exhibits a preference to occupy the Ca2 site of the apatite structure and induces water adsorption and a small quantity of CO32- cation incorporation, leading to formation of a less crystalline Ca deficient apatite.

Marital Conflict and Disruption of Children's Sleep

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

El-Sheikh, Mona; Buckhalt, Joseph, A.; Mize, Jacquelyn; Acebo, Christine

2006-01-01

Marital conflict was examined as a predictor of the quality and quantity of sleep in a sample of healthy 8 to 9 year-olds. Parents and children reported on marital conflict, the quantity and quality of children's sleep were examined through an actigraph worn for 7 consecutive nights, and child sleepiness was derived from child and mother reports.…

Distribution and variability of precipitation chemistry in the conterminous United States, January through December 1983

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rinella, J.F.; Miller, T.L.

1988-01-01

Analysis of atmospheric precipitation samples, collected during the 1983 calendar year from 109 National Trends Network sites in the United States, are presented in this report. The sites were grouped into six geographical regions based on the chemical composition of the samples. Precipitation chemistry in these regions was influenced by proximity to (1) oceans, (2) major industrial and fossil-fuel consuming areas, and (3) major agricultural and livestock areas. Frequency distributions of ionic composition, determined on 10 chemical constituents and on precipitation quantities for each site, showed wide variations in chemical concentrations and precipitation quantities from site to site. Of the 109 sites, 55 had data coverage for the year sufficient to characterize precipitation quality patterns on a nationwide basis. Except for ammonium and calcium, both of which showed largest concentrations in the agricultural midwest and plains states, the largest concentrations and loads generally were in areas that include the heavily industrialized population center of the eastern United States. Except for hydrogen, all chemical ions are inversely related to the quantity of precipitation depth. Precipitation quantities generally account for less than 30% of chemical variation in precipitation samples. However, precipitation quantities account for 30 to 65% of the variations of calcium concentrations in precipitation. In regions where precipitation has a large ionic proportion of hydrogen-ion equivalents, much of the hydrogen-ion concentration could be balanced by sulfate equivalents and partly balanced by nitrite-plus-nitrate equivalents. In the regions where hydrogen-ion equivalents in precipitation were smaller, ammonion-and calcium-ion equivalents were necessary, along with the hydrogen-ion equivalents, to balance the sulfate plus nitrite-plus-nitrate equivalent. (USGS)

Space-Time Data fusion for Remote Sensing Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Braverman, Amy; Nguyen, H.; Cressie, N.

2011-01-01

NASA has been collecting massive amounts of remote sensing data about Earth's systems for more than a decade. Missions are selected to be complementary in quantities measured, retrieval techniques, and sampling characteristics, so these datasets are highly synergistic. To fully exploit this, a rigorous methodology for combining data with heterogeneous sampling characteristics is required. For scientific purposes, the methodology must also provide quantitative measures of uncertainty that propagate input-data uncertainty appropriately. We view this as a statistical inference problem. The true but notdirectly- observed quantities form a vector-valued field continuous in space and time. Our goal is to infer those true values or some function of them, and provide to uncertainty quantification for those inferences. We use a spatiotemporal statistical model that relates the unobserved quantities of interest at point-level to the spatially aggregated, observed data. We describe and illustrate our method using CO2 data from two NASA data sets.

Digital Rock Physics Aplications: Visualisation Complex Pore and Porosity-Permeability Estimations of the Porous Sandstone Reservoir

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Handoyo; Fatkhan; Del, Fourier

2018-03-01

Reservoir rock containing oil and gas generally has high porosity and permeability. High porosity is expected to accommodate hydrocarbon fluid in large quantities and high permeability is associated with the rock’s ability to let hydrocarbon fluid flow optimally. Porosity and permeability measurement of a rock sample is usually performed in the laboratory. We estimate the porosity and permeability of sandstones digitally by using digital images from μCT-Scan. Advantages of the method are non-destructive and can be applied for small rock pieces also easily to construct the model. The porosity values are calculated by comparing the digital image of the pore volume to the total volume of the sandstones; while the permeability values are calculated using the Lattice Boltzmann calculations utilizing the nature of the law of conservation of mass and conservation of momentum of a particle. To determine variations of the porosity and permeability, the main sandstone samples with a dimension of 300 × 300 × 300 pixels are made into eight sub-cubes with a size of 150 × 150 × 150 pixels. Results of digital image modeling fluid flow velocity are visualized as normal velocity (streamline). Variations in value sandstone porosity vary between 0.30 to 0.38 and permeability variations in the range of 4000 mD to 6200 mD. The results of calculations show that the sandstone sample in this research is highly porous and permeable. The method combined with rock physics can be powerful tools for determining rock properties from small rock fragments.

Concurrent studies of the flow of digesta in the duodenum and of exocrine pancreatic secretion of calves. 7. Influence of milk substitutes on abomasal lipolysis and biliary secretion.

PubMed

Ternouth, J H; Thompson, S Y; Edwards-Webb, J D

1980-09-01

1. The abomasal hydrolysis of lipids and the flow of endogenous (biliary) lipids was studied in two Friesian calves given four milk-substitute diets, by sampling the duodenal digesta. The diets were: reconstituted, mildly preheated, spray-dried skim-milk powder with (SKF) or without (SK) margarine fat or with 500 g/kg skim-milk powder in diet SKF replaced by soy-beran flour (ASKF) or fish-protein concentrate (BSKF) together with dried whey. The diets were given ad lib. twice daily from 13 to 37 d of age, each diet being given for six consecutive days. Collections of duodenal digesta from the re-entrant cannula situated caudal to the bile duct were made for 12 h after feeding the 6th and 12th meals for each diet. Samples from one collection only were subjected to detailed analysis of the lipid classes. 2. The inclusion of non-milk protein (ASKF and BSKF) not only increased the rate of passage of lipid through the abomasum but also the proportion of the lipid present as triglyceride particularly, in the first 2 h after feeding. 3. In a 12 h period, 2.3-6.3 g 'polar' lipids (mainly biliary phospholipids) were estimated to have been secreted. The rate of flow was high during the first hour after feeding and constant thereafter. The quantity of 'polar' lipid was not related to the type of milk fed or the duodenal flow of lipid. 4. When diet SK was fed, the small amounts of lipid present were extensively hydrolysed so that free fatty acids represented 700 g/kg lipid of dietary origin passing through the duodenum. When margarine fat was included in the diets (SKF, ASKF and BSKF), the free fatty acids represented only 210 g/kg lipid of dietary origin. 5. The quantities of lipid and nitrogen passing through the duodenum were poorly related to the quantities ingested at the beginning of the 12 h experimental period but were closely related to each other.

DNA quality and quantity from up to 16 years old post-mortem blood stored on FTA cards.

PubMed

Rahikainen, Anna-Liina; Palo, Jukka U; de Leeuw, Wiljo; Budowle, Bruce; Sajantila, Antti

2016-04-01

Blood samples preserved on FTA cards offer unique opportunities for genetic research. DNA recovered from these cards should be stable for long periods of time. However, it is not well established as how well the DNA stored on FTA card for substantial time periods meets the demands of forensic or genomic DNA analyses and especially so for from post-mortem (PM) samples in which the quality can vary upon initial collection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the time-dependent degradation on DNA quality and quantity extracted from up to 16 years old post-mortem bloodstained FTA cards. Four random FTA samples from eight time points spanning 1998 to 2013 (n=32) were collected and extracted in triplicate. The quantity and quality of the extracted DNA samples were determined with Quantifiler(®) Human Plus (HP) Quantification kit. Internal sample and sample-to-sample variation were evaluated by comparing recovered DNA yields. The DNA from the triplicate samplings were subsequently combined and normalized for further analysis. The practical effect of degradation on DNA quality was evaluated from normalized samples both with forensic and pharmacogenetic target markers. Our results suggest that (1) a PM change, e.g. blood clotting prior to sampling, affects the recovered DNA yield, creating both internal and sample-to-sample variation; (2) a negative correlation between the FTA card storage time and DNA quantity (r=-0.836 at the 0.01 level) was observed; (3) a positive correlation (r=0.738 at the level 0.01) was found between FTA card storage time and degradation levels. However, no inhibition was observed with the method used. The effect of degradation was manifested clearly with functional applications. Although complete STR-profiles were obtained for all samples, there was evidence of degradation manifested as decreased peak heights in the larger-sized amplicons. Lower amplification success was notable with the large 5.1 kb CYP2D6 gene fragment which strongly supports degradation of the stored samples. According to our results, DNA stored on FTA cards is rather stable over a long time period. DNA extracted from this storage medium can be used as human identification purposes as the method used is sufficiently sensitive and amplicon sizes tend to be <400 bp. However, DNA integrity was affected during storage. This effect should be taken into account depending on the intended application especially if high quality DNA and long PCR amplicons are required. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Preanalytical Errors in Hematology Laboratory- an Avoidable Incompetence.

PubMed

HarsimranKaur, Vikram Narang; Selhi, Pavneet Kaur; Sood, Neena; Singh, Aminder

2016-01-01

Quality assurance in the hematology laboratory is a must to ensure laboratory users of reliable test results with high degree of precision and accuracy. Even after so many advances in hematology laboratory practice, pre-analytical errors remain a challenge for practicing pathologists. This study was undertaken with an objective to evaluate the types and frequency of preanalytical errors in hematology laboratory of our center. All the samples received in the Hematology Laboratory of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, India over a period of one year (July 2013-July 2014) were included in the study and preanalytical variables like clotted samples, quantity not sufficient, wrong sample, without label, wrong label were studied. Of 471,006 samples received in the laboratory, preanalytical errors, as per the above mentioned categories was found in 1802 samples. The most common error was clotted samples (1332 samples, 0.28% of the total samples) followed by quantity not sufficient (328 sample, 0.06%), wrong sample (96 samples, 0.02%), without label (24 samples, 0.005%) and wrong label (22 samples, 0.005%). Preanalytical errors are frequent in laboratories and can be corrected by regular analysis of the variables involved. Rectification can be done by regular education of the staff.

Organic Carbon Storage in Four Ecosystem Types in the Karst Region of Southwestern China

PubMed Central

Wang, Shijie; Guo, Ke; Yang, Jun; Zhang, Xinshi; Li, Guoqing

2013-01-01

Karst ecosystems are important landscape types that cover about 12% of the world's land area. The role of karst ecosystems in the global carbon cycle remains unclear, due to the lack of an appropriate method for determining the thickness of the solum, a representative sampling of the soil and data of organic carbon stocks at the ecosystem level. The karst region in southwestern China is the largest in the world. In this study, we estimated biomass, soil quantity and ecosystem organic carbon stocks in four vegetation types typical of karst ecosystems in this region, shrub grasslands (SG), thorn shrubbery (TS), forest - shrub transition (FS) and secondary forest (F). The results showed that the biomass of SG, TS, FS, and F is 0.52, 0.85, 5.9 and 19.2 kg m−2, respectively and the corresponding organic cabon storage is 0.26, 0.40, 2.83 and 9.09 kg m−2, respectively. Nevertheless, soil quantity and corresponding organic carbon storage are very small in karst habitats. The quantity of fine earth overlaying the physical weathering zone of the carbonate rock of SG, TS, FS and F is 38.10, 99.24, 29.57 and 61.89 kg m−2, respectively, while the corresponding organic carbon storage is only 3.34, 4.10, 2.37, 5.25 kg m−2, respectively. As a whole, ecosystem organic carbon storage of SG, TS, FS, and F is 3.81, 4.72, 5.68 and 15.1 kg m−2, respectively. These are very low levels compared to other ecosystems in non-karst areas. With the restoration of degraded vegetation, karst ecosystems in southwestern China may play active roles in mitigating the increasing CO2 concentration in the atmosphere. PMID:23451047

Variable Cost to Procure

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-03-12

Procurement Work Directive ( PWV ) Procurement Army, CostL to Procure Cost Differential Secondary (PAS) Cost to Buy Economic Order Quantity Procurement...and Assignment of Buyer h. Solicitation Fffort . ) (1) Procurement Planning ( ) ( ) (?) PWV Review and Small Business Coordination ( (3) Determination

The Individual and Combined Influence of the ‘Quality’ and ‘Quantity’ of Family Meals on Adult Body Mass Index

PubMed Central

Berge, Jerica M.; Wickel, Katharine; Doherty, William J.

2013-01-01

Although there is a well-established literature showing a positive association between the frequency of family meals and child and adolescent healthful dietary intake and lower body mass index (BMI), little is known about the association between family meal frequency (quantity) and adult health outcomes and whether quality (distractions) of family meals influences adult BMI. This study investigates the association between the ‘quantity’ and ‘quality’ of family meals and adult BMI. Data were from a nationally representative sample of 4,885 adults ages 25 to 64 years (56% female), from which an analytic sample of 1779 parents was drawn for the current study. Multiple linear regression was used to test the relationship between family meal frequency and quality of family meals and adult BMI, controlling for socio-demographics. Interactions between family meal quantity and quality were also examined. The quantity of family meals and the quality of family meals were both independently related to adult BMI. Specifically, the frequency of family meals was associated with lower adult BMI and lower quality of family meals was associated with higher adult BMI. The interaction between quantity and quality was not statistically significant. Results suggest that both the quantity and quality of family meals matter for adult BMI, but one is not dependent on the other. Health care providers who work with families may want to consider promoting the importance of the quality and quantity of family meals to benefit the entire family. PMID:23148980

Dynamics of leaf litter humidity, depth and quantity: two restoration strategies failed to mimic ground microhabitat conditions of a low montane and premontane forest in Costa Rica.

PubMed

Barrientos, Zaidett

2012-09-01

Little is known about how restoration strategies affect aspects like leaf litter's quantity, depth and humidity. I analyzed leaf litter's quantity, depth and humidity yearly patterns in a primary tropical lower montane wet forest and two restored areas: a 15 year old secondary forest (unassisted restoration) and a 40 year old Cupressus lusitanica plantation (natural understory). The three habitats are located in the Rio Macho Forest Reserve, Costa Rica. Twenty litter samples were taken every three months (April 2009-April 2010) in each habitat; humidity was measured in 439g samples (average), depth and quantity were measured in five points inside 50x50cm plots. None of the restoration strategies reproduced the primary forest leaf litter humidity, depth and quantity yearly patterns. Primary forest leaf litter humidity was higher and more stable (mean=73.2), followed by secondary forest (mean=63.3) and cypress plantation (mean=52.9) (Kruskall-Wallis=77.93, n=232, p=0.00). In the primary (Kruskal-Wallis=31.63, n=78, p<0.001) and secondary (Kruskal-Wallis=11.79, n=75, p=0.008) forest litter accumulation was higher during April due to strong winds. In the primary forest (Kruskal-wallis=21.83, n=78, p<0.001) and the cypress plantation (Kruskal-wallis=39.99, n=80, p<0.001) leaf litter depth was shallow in October because heavy rains compacted it. Depth patterns were different from quantity patterns and described the leaf litter's structure in different ecosystems though the year. September 01.

Study on preparation of ultrafine amorphous particles by chemical reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Xu; Yusheng, Xu; Huali, Jiang; Qing, Xue

1993-04-01

Ultrafine amorphous FeNiB powder was prepared by potassium borohydride reduction by mixing the aqueous solutions in a bath of supersonic oscillator. Different mixing ratios of potassium borohydride to metal salt were applied. Analysis of the composition of the sample and the Fe 2+ and Ni 2+ remaining in the filtrate after preparation shows that a quantity of KBH 4 about 1.5 times the stoichiometrical quantity is enough. Mössbauer measurements were performed at room temperature and it was found that excess KBH 4 makes no distinct difference in the spectra of the samples.

Determining quantity and quality of retained oil in mature marly chalk and marlstone of the Cretaceous Niobrara Formation by low-temperature hydrous pyrolysis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lewan, Michael; Sonnenfeld, Mark D.

2017-01-01

Low-temperature hydrous pyrolysis (LTHP) at 300°C (572°F) for 24 h released retained oils from 12- to 20-meshsize samples of mature Niobrara marly chalk and marlstone cores. The released oil accumulated on the water surface of the reactor, and is compositionally similar to oil produced from the same well. The quantities of oil released from the marly chalk and marlstone by LTHP are respectively 3.4 and 1.6 times greater than those determined by tight rock analyses (TRA) on aliquots of the same samples. Gas chromatograms indicated this difference is a result of TRA oils losing more volatiles and volatilizing less heavy hydrocarbons during collection than LTHP oils. Characterization of the rocks before and after LTPH by programmable open-system pyrolysis (HAWK) indicate that under LTHP conditions no significant oil is generated and only preexisting retained oil is released. Although LTHP appears to provide better predictions of quantity and quality of retained oil in a mature source rock, it is not expected to replace the more time and sample-size efficacy of TRA. However, LTHP can be applied to composited samples from key intervals or lithologies originally recognized by TRA. Additional studies on duration, temperature, and sample size used in LTHP may further optimize its utility.

Thinning young oak stands for small mine timbers - at a profit

Treesearch

Stanley M. Filip

1949-01-01

Young red oak-white oak stands in the Anthracite Forest Region of Pennsylvania occupy nearly 3/4 million acres of land (fig. 1). At present they are a source of lagging, forepoles, and small props used in the coal mines. Under good cutting practice, a substantial quantity of these mine timbers could be produced by thinning these stands, which would at the same time...

Annealed importance sampling with constant cooling rate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giovannelli, Edoardo; Cardini, Gianni; Gellini, Cristina; Pietraperzia, Giangaetano; Chelli, Riccardo

2015-02-01

Annealed importance sampling is a simulation method devised by Neal [Stat. Comput. 11, 125 (2001)] to assign weights to configurations generated by simulated annealing trajectories. In particular, the equilibrium average of a generic physical quantity can be computed by a weighted average exploiting weights and estimates of this quantity associated to the final configurations of the annealed trajectories. Here, we review annealed importance sampling from the perspective of nonequilibrium path-ensemble averages [G. E. Crooks, Phys. Rev. E 61, 2361 (2000)]. The equivalence of Neal's and Crooks' treatments highlights the generality of the method, which goes beyond the mere thermal-based protocols. Furthermore, we show that a temperature schedule based on a constant cooling rate outperforms stepwise cooling schedules and that, for a given elapsed computer time, performances of annealed importance sampling are, in general, improved by increasing the number of intermediate temperatures.

Method of synthesizing and growing copper-indium-diselenide (CuInSe.sub.2) crystals

DOEpatents

Ciszek, Theodore F.

1987-01-01

A process for preparing CuInSe.sub.2 crystals includes melting a sufficient quantity of B.sub.2 O.sub.3 along with stoichiometric quantities of Cu, In, and Se in a crucible in a high pressure atmosphere of inert gas to encapsulate the CuInSe.sub.2 melt and confine the Se to the crucible. Additional Se in the range of 1.8 to 2.2 percent over the stoichiometric quantity is preferred to make up for small amounts of Se lost in the process. The crystal is grown by inserting a seed crystal through the B.sub.2 O.sub.3 encapsulate into contact with the CuInSe.sub.2 melt and withdrawing the seed upwardly to grow the crystal thereon from the melt.

Disruption mitigation by injection of small quantities of noble gas in ASDEX Upgrade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pautasso, G.; Bernert, M.; Dibon, M.; Duval, B.; Dux, R.; Fable, E.; Fuchs, J. C.; Conway, G. D.; Giannone, L.; Gude, A.; Herrmann, A.; Hoelzl, M.; McCarthy, P. J.; Mlynek, A.; Maraschek, M.; Nardon, E.; Papp, G.; Potzel, S.; Rapson, C.; Sieglin, B.; Suttrop, W.; Treutterer, W.; The ASDEX Upgrade Team; The EUROfusion MST1 Team

2017-01-01

The most recent experiments of disruption mitigation by massive gas injection in ASDEX Upgrade have concentrated on small—relatively to the past—quantities of noble gas injected, and on the search for the minimum amount of gas necessary for the mitigation of the thermal loads on the divertor and for a significant reduction of the vertical force during the current quench. A scenario for the generation of a long-lived runaway electron beam has been established; this allows the study of runaway current dissipation by moderate quantities of argon injected. This paper presents these recent results and discusses them in the more general context of physical models and extrapolation, and of the open questions, relevant for the realization of the ITER disruption mitigation system.

Development of marijuana and tobacco detectors using potassium-40 gamma-ray emissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirby, John A.; Lindquist, Roy P.

1994-10-01

Measurements were made at the Otay Mesa, CA, border crossing between November 30 and December 4, 1992, to demonstrate proof of concept and the practicality of using potassium 40 (K40) gamma emissions to detect the presence of marijuana in vehicles. Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory personnel, with the assistance of the EPA, set up three large volume gamma ray detectors with lead brick shielding and collimation under a stationary trailer and pickup truck. Measurements were performed for various positions and quantities of marijuana. Also, small quantities of marijuana, cigarettes, and other materials were subjected to gamma counting measurements under controlled geometry conditions to determine their K40 concentration. Larger quantities of heroin and cocaine were subjected to undefined geometry gamma counts for significant K40 gamma emissions.

A system for conducting igneous petrology experiments under controlled redox conditions in reduced gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Richard J.

1987-01-01

The Space Shuttle and the planned Space Station will permit experimentation under conditions of reduced gravitational acceleration offering experimental petrologists the opportunity to study crystal growth, element distribution, and phase chemistry. In particular the confounding effects of macro and micro scale buoyancy-induced convection and crystal settling or flotation can be greatly reduced over those observed in experiments in the terrestrial laboratory. Also, for experiments in which detailed replication of the environment is important, the access to reduced gravity will permit a more complete simulation of processes that may have occurred on asteroids or in free space. A technique that was developed to control, measure, and manipulate oxygen fugacities with small quantities of gas which are recirculated over the sample. This system could be adaptable to reduced gravity space experiments requiring redox control.

Miniaturized flow injection analysis system

DOEpatents

Folta, James A.

1997-01-01

A chemical analysis technique known as flow injection analysis, wherein small quantities of chemical reagents and sample are intermixed and reacted within a capillary flow system and the reaction products are detected optically, electrochemically, or by other means. A highly miniaturized version of a flow injection analysis system has been fabricated utilizing microfabrication techniques common to the microelectronics industry. The microflow system uses flow capillaries formed by etching microchannels in a silicon or glass wafer followed by bonding to another wafer, commercially available microvalves bonded directly to the microflow channels, and an optical absorption detector cell formed near the capillary outlet, with light being both delivered and collected with fiber optics. The microflow system is designed mainly for analysis of liquids and currently measures 38.times.25.times.3 mm, but can be designed for gas analysis and be substantially smaller in construction.

Thin Film Electrodes for Rare Event Detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Odgers, Kelly; Brown, Ethan; Lewis, Kim; Giordano, Mike; Freedberg, Jennifer

2017-01-01

In detectors for rare physics processes, such as neutrinoless double beta decay and dark matter, high sensitivity requires careful reduction of backgrounds due to radioimpurities in detector components. Ultra pure cylindrical resistors are being created through thin film depositions onto high purity substrates, such as quartz glass or sapphire. By using ultra clean materials and depositing very small quantities in the films, low radioactivity electrodes are produced. A new characterization process for cylindrical film resistors has been developed through analytic construction of an analogue to the Van Der Pauw technique commonly used for determining sheet resistance on a planar sample. This technique has been used to characterize high purity cylindrical resistors ranging from several ohms to several tera-ohms for applications in rare event detectors. The technique and results of cylindrical thin film resistor characterization will be presented.

Multiplex picoliter-droplet digital PCR for quantitative assessment of DNA integrity in clinical samples.

PubMed

Didelot, Audrey; Kotsopoulos, Steve K; Lupo, Audrey; Pekin, Deniz; Li, Xinyu; Atochin, Ivan; Srinivasan, Preethi; Zhong, Qun; Olson, Jeff; Link, Darren R; Laurent-Puig, Pierre; Blons, Hélène; Hutchison, J Brian; Taly, Valerie

2013-05-01

Assessment of DNA integrity and quantity remains a bottleneck for high-throughput molecular genotyping technologies, including next-generation sequencing. In particular, DNA extracted from paraffin-embedded tissues, a major potential source of tumor DNA, varies widely in quality, leading to unpredictable sequencing data. We describe a picoliter droplet-based digital PCR method that enables simultaneous detection of DNA integrity and the quantity of amplifiable DNA. Using a multiplex assay, we detected 4 different target lengths (78, 159, 197, and 550 bp). Assays were validated with human genomic DNA fragmented to sizes of 170 bp to 3000 bp. The technique was validated with DNA quantities as low as 1 ng. We evaluated 12 DNA samples extracted from paraffin-embedded lung adenocarcinoma tissues. One sample contained no amplifiable DNA. The fractions of amplifiable DNA for the 11 other samples were between 0.05% and 10.1% for 78-bp fragments and ≤1% for longer fragments. Four samples were chosen for enrichment and next-generation sequencing. The quality of the sequencing data was in agreement with the results of the DNA-integrity test. Specifically, DNA with low integrity yielded sequencing results with lower levels of coverage and uniformity and had higher levels of false-positive variants. The development of DNA-quality assays will enable researchers to downselect samples or process more DNA to achieve reliable genome sequencing with the highest possible efficiency of cost and effort, as well as minimize the waste of precious samples. © 2013 American Association for Clinical Chemistry.

Losing Sleep over It: Daily Variation in Sleep Quantity and Quality in Canadian Students' First Semester of University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Galambos, Nancy L.; Dalton, Andrea L.; Maggs, Jennifer L.

2009-01-01

Daily covariation of sleep quantity and quality with affective, stressful, academic, and social experiences were observed in a sample of Canadian 17-19-year-olds in their first year of university. Participants (N = 191) completed web-based checklists for 14 consecutive days during their first semester. Multilevel models predicting sleep quantity…

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

Barrett, Christopher A.; Martinez, Alonzo; McNamara, Bruce K.

International Atom Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguard verification measures in gaseous centrifuge enrichment plants (GCEPs) rely on environmental sampling, non-destructive assay (NDA), and destructive assay (DA) sampling and analysis to determine uranium enrichment. UF6 bias defect measurements are made by DA sampling and analysis to assure that enrichment is consistent with declarations. DA samples are collected from a limited number of cylinders for high precision, offsite mass spectrometer analysis. Samples are typically drawn from a sampling tap into a UF6 sample bottle, then packaged, sealed, and shipped under IAEA chain of custody to an offsite analytical laboratory. Future DA safeguard measuresmore » may require improvements in efficiency and effectiveness as GCEP capacities increase and UF6 shipping regulations become increasingly more restrictive. The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) DA sampler concept and Laser Ablation Absorption Ratio Spectrometry (LAARS) assay method are under development to potentially provide DA safeguard tools that increase inspection effectiveness and reduce sample shipping constraints. The PNNL DA sampler concept uses a handheld sampler to collect DA samples for either onsite LAARS assay or offsite laboratory analysis. The DA sampler design will use a small sampling planchet that is coated with an adsorptive film to collect controlled quantities of UF6 gas directly from a cylinder or process sampling tap. Development efforts are currently underway at PNNL to enhance LAARS assay performance to allow high-precision onsite bias defect measurements. In this paper, we report on the experimental investigation to develop adsorptive films for the PNNL DA sampler concept. These films are intended to efficiently capture UF6 and then stabilize the collected DA sample prior to onsite LAARS or offsite laboratory analysis. Several porous material composite films were investigated, including a film designed to maximize the chemical adsorption and binding of gaseous UF6 onto the sampling planchet.« less

A Improved Seabed Surface Sand Sampling Device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, X.

2017-12-01

In marine geology research it is necessary to obtain a suf fcient quantity of seabed surface samples, while also en- suring that the samples are in their original state. Currently,there are a number of seabed surface sampling devices available, but we fnd it is very diffcult to obtain sand samples using these devices, particularly when dealing with fne sand. Machine-controlled seabed surface sampling devices are also available, but generally unable to dive into deeper regions of water. To obtain larger quantities of seabed surface sand samples in their original states, many researchers have tried to improve upon sampling devices,but these efforts have generally produced ambiguous results, in our opinion.To resolve this issue, we have designed an improved andhighly effective seabed surface sand sampling device that incorporates the strengths of a variety of sampling devices. It is capable of diving into deepwater to obtain fne sand samples and is also suited for use in streams, rivers, lakes and seas with varying levels of depth (up to 100 m). This device can be used for geological mapping, underwater prospecting, geological engineering and ecological, environmental studies in both marine and terrestrial waters.

21 CFR 524.1880 - Prednisolone-neomycin sulfate ophthalmic ointment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... of cats and dogs, such as those associated with allergic reactions or gross irritants. A small quantity of the ointment should be expressed into the conjunctival sac four times a day for 7 days. After 7...

21 CFR 524.1880 - Prednisolone-neomycin sulfate ophthalmic ointment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... of cats and dogs, such as those associated with allergic reactions or gross irritants. A small quantity of the ointment should be expressed into the conjunctival sac four times a day for 7 days. After 7...

40 CFR 257.29 - [Reserved

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES AND PRACTICES Disposal Standards for the Receipt of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) Wastes at Non-Municipal Non-Hazardous Waste Disposal Units...

General Permits for Ocean Dumping

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

General permits are issued by EPA for the ocean dumping of certain materials that will have a minimal adverse environmental impact and are generally disposed of in small quantities. Information includes examples and ocean disposal sites for general permits

Oxygen carrier for gas chromatographic analysis of inert gases in propellants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cannon, W. A.

1972-01-01

Gas chromatographic determination of small quantities of inert gases in reactive propellants is discussed. Operating conditions used for specific analyses of helium in diborane and nitrogen in oxygen difluoride are presented in tabular form.

49 CFR 173.4 - Small quantities for highway and rail.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... (radioactive) material. (v) Thirty (30) mL water capacity (1.8 cubic inches) for authorized Division 2.2....2 mm (0.008 inch), or earthenware, glass, or metal; (3) Each inner receptacle with a removable...

40 CFR 257.7 - [Reserved

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES AND PRACTICES Disposal Standards for the Receipt of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) Wastes at Non-Municipal Non-Hazardous Waste Disposal Units...

Letter re: Bio - Lab, Plants 2 and 4, Conyers, Rockdale County

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

September 24, 1999 letter to Jeffrey T. Pallas from Jennifer R. Kaduck enclosing information about conditionally exempt small quantity generator requirements for Bio - Lab Plants 2 and 4 in Conyers, Rockdale County, Georgia.

"Magic Eraser" Flame Tests

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Landis, Arthur M.; Davies, Malonne I.; Landis, Linda

2009-01-01

Cleaning erasers are used to support methanol-fueled flame tests. This safe demonstration technique requires only small quantities of materials, provides clean colors for up to 45 seconds, and can be used in the classroom or the auditorium. (Contains 1 note.)

The Sagnac-configured fiber optic calorimeter: An investigation of an improved non-destructive methodology for determining the thermal power output of heat-producing nuclear materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bayliss, Stephen Carlton

An essential component in an ever-expanding global nuclear economy is the nondestructive assay (NDA) of nuclear materials. Accurate accounting of these materials helps to insure the safe handling and disposal of them and the accurate monitoring of these materials can help prevent their diversion. A particularly useful and important NDA technique has proven to be isothermal calorimetry. With state-of-the-art calorimeters, heat rates as low as a few milliwatts can be measured, which correspond to approximately one gram of plutonium or one milligram of tritium; two materials of particular interest. In addition, calorimetry is relatively insensitive to the matrix of the sample. This work reports on the development of a calorimeter technique based on fiber optics, which can greatly increase the sensitivity of the calorimeter compared with present day devices. Specifically, this device uses an optical fiber configuration based on the Sagnac interferometer. Fundamentally, the optical fiber is replacing the resistive wire used in conventional calorimeters. The optical fiber is wrapped around two "thermels;" a reference and a sample thermel; the thermal sample to be measured is placed in the sample thermel. The light within the optical fiber of the sample arm experiences a change in phase due to the change in the index of refraction caused by the thermal load. When this light mixes with the light from the reference arm, a change in the light intensity results. An electro-optic receiver converts the time-varying light intensity to a time-varying voltage output. It is this voltage output that is stored and analyzed. A prototype fiber calorimeter has been built and proved capable of measuring heat loads in the microwatt regime. This sensitivity represents a factor of a one thousand-fold improvement over conventional calorimeters. This would allow plutonium samples as small as one milligram to be measured and microgram quantities of tritium. In addition, gram quantities of 93% enriched uranium could be measured for the first time using calorimetry. This device has not been optimized with respect to background interferences (room thermal loads and acoustics), but indications are that the sensitivity could be improved further with more development.

Optimization of preservation and storage time of sponge tissues to obtain quality mRNA for next-generation sequencing.

PubMed

Riesgo, Ana; Pérez-Porro, Alicia R; Carmona, Susana; Leys, Sally P; Giribet, Gonzalo

2012-03-01

Transcriptome sequencing with next-generation sequencing technologies has the potential for addressing many long-standing questions about the biology of sponges. Transcriptome sequence quality depends on good cDNA libraries, which requires high-quality mRNA. Standard protocols for preserving and isolating mRNA often require optimization for unusual tissue types. Our aim was assessing the efficiency of two preservation modes, (i) flash freezing with liquid nitrogen (LN₂) and (ii) immersion in RNAlater, for the recovery of high-quality mRNA from sponge tissues. We also tested whether the long-term storage of samples at -80 °C affects the quantity and quality of mRNA. We extracted mRNA from nine sponge species and analysed the quantity and quality (A260/230 and A260/280 ratios) of mRNA according to preservation method, storage time, and taxonomy. The quantity and quality of mRNA depended significantly on the preservation method used (LN₂) outperforming RNAlater), the sponge species, and the interaction between them. When the preservation was analysed in combination with either storage time or species, the quantity and A260/230 ratio were both significantly higher for LN₂-preserved samples. Interestingly, individual comparisons for each preservation method over time indicated that both methods performed equally efficiently during the first month, but RNAlater lost efficiency in storage times longer than 2 months compared with flash-frozen samples. In summary, we find that for long-term preservation of samples, flash freezing is the preferred method. If LN₂ is not available, RNAlater can be used, but mRNA extraction during the first month of storage is advised. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

[A study on the method of DNA extraction from unbuffered formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples].

PubMed

Tian, Zi-Qiang; Liu, Jun-Feng; Zhang, Shao-Wei; Li, Bao-Qing; Wang, Fu-Shun; Zhang, Yue-Feng

2004-03-01

Unbuffered formalin is widely used to fix resected specimens in China. The DNA in unbuffered formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues is usually degraded seriously, so the extraction of DNA from these samples is difficult. This study was conducted to seek an optimal method to extract DNA from these samples. Fifteen blocks of esophageal carcinoma resected in Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University in 2000 were selected. The cells were lyzed by proteinase K digestion or heating under different pH values, then DNA was extracted by phenol:chloroform. After that, four parameters (deparaffined by xylene or histolene; digested for 48 h or 72 h at 37 degrees C or 56 degrees C; extracted by salting-out or phenol:chloroform) were optimized according to the principle of cross design. At last, the quality of obtained DNA was analyzed with electrophoresis and PCR amplification. The quality and quantity of DNA obtained by proteinase K digestion (the average yield is 17.88 microg) were better than that of heating under different pH (7-12)(P< 0.05). The quality and quantity of DNA digested at 56 degrees C were better than that at 37 degrees C, and similarly, digestion for 72 hours was better than that for 48 hours. The methods of deparaffin and extraction had no obvious influence on the quality and quantity of DNA. By means of NaCl salting-out after proteinase K digestion, more reliable quality of DNA can be obtained from unbuffered formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples. Furthermore,digestion for three days at 56 degrees C is more likely to obtain DNA with high quality and quantity.

Electronic Cigarette Refill Liquids: Child-Resistant Packaging, Nicotine Content, and Sales to Minors.

PubMed

Buettner-Schmidt, Kelly; Miller, Donald R; Balasubramanian, Narayanaganesh

2016-01-01

To determine the accuracy of the labeled quantity of the nicotine content of the e-liquids sold in unlicensed vape stores, whether the packaging of e-liquids sold within the vape stores was child-resistant, whether minors were present within vape stores, and whether sales to minors occurred. This study was conducted across North Dakota prior to implementation of a new e-cigarette state law and provided a baseline assessment before enactment of the new legal requirements. We tested samples of e-liquids and performed observations in 16 stores that were selling e-cigarettes but were not legally required to be licensed for tobacco retail. The e-liquids were analyzed for nicotine content using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography method for nicotine analysis. Of the 70 collected e-liquid samples that claimed to contain nicotine, 17% contained more than the labeled quantity and 34% contained less than the labeled quantity by 10% or more, with one sample containing 172% more than the labeled quantity. Of the 94 e-liquid containers sampled, only 35% were determined to be child-resistant. Minors were present in stores, although no sales to minors occurred. Mislabeling of nicotine in e-liquids is common and exposes the user to the harmful effects of nicotine. The lack of child-resistant packaging for this potentially toxic substance is a serious public health problem. E-cigarettes should be included in the legal definition of tobacco products, child-resistant packaging and nicotine labeling laws should be enacted and strictly enforced, and vape stores should be licensed by states. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Electronic Cigarette Refill Liquids: Child-Resistant Packaging, Nicotine Content, and Sales to Minors2

PubMed Central

Buettner-Schmidt, Kelly; Miller, Donald R.; Balasubramanian, Narayanaganesh

2016-01-01

Purpose To determine the accuracy of the labeled quantity of the nicotine content of the e-liquids sold in unlicensed vape stores, whether the packaging of e-liquids sold within the vape stores was child-resistant, whether minors were present within vape stores, and whether sales to minors occurred. This study was conducted across North Dakota prior to implementation of a new e-cigarette state law and provided a baseline assessment before enactment of the new legal requirements. Design and Methods We tested samples of e-liquids and performed observations in 16 stores that were selling e-cigarettes but were not legally required to be licensed for tobacco retail. The e-liquids were analyzed for nicotine content using a validated high-performance liquid chromatography method for nicotine analysis. Results Of the 70 collected e-liquid samples that claimed to contain nicotine, 17% contained more than the labeled quantity and 34% contained less than the labeled quantity by 10% or more, with one sample containing 172% more than the labeled quantity. Of the 94 e-liquid containers sampled, only 35% were determined to be child-resistant. Minors were present in stores, although no sales to minors occurred. Conclusions Mislabeling of nicotine in e-liquids is common and exposes the user to the harmful effects of nicotine. The lack of child-resistant packaging for this potentially toxic substance is a serious public health problem. E-cigarettes should be included in the legal definition of tobacco products, child-resistant packaging and nicotine labeling laws should be enacted and strictly enforced, and vape stores should be licensed by states. PMID:27079973

ID-SERS Based Reference Method for Quantification of Large Biomolecules on a Single Chip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yaghobian, Fatemeh; Stosch, Rainer; Henrion, André; Güttler, Bernd

2010-08-01

Accuracy and precision of quantitative SERS results have been significantly increased by applying a method based on the so-called isotope-dilution (ID) principle. In this ID-SERS approach, an isotopically labeled analogue of the target molecule (isotopologue) is spiked to the sample at a known concentration. Due to the slight difference in their molar masses, some Raman bands of the heavier isotopologue are red-shifted with respect to the same signals resulting from the unlabelled compound. As a result, spectra evaluation is reduced to the determination of intensity ratios rather than absolute intensities, and the unknown quantity of the analyte can be calculated from the known quantity of the standard. This procedure is of particular interest in the development of highly accurate reference procedures for metrology in chemistry. Because the sample is spiked prior to any further treatment, potential loss of material or matrix effects would equally affect both isotopologues, without influencing the final result. The method has been successfully applied for quantifying small diagnostic marker molecules like creatinine at their relevant serum concentration levels using silver colloids as SERS substrates. Now, the ID-SERS approach has been realized as a "one-chip" approach using "Bio-chips" made of intrinsically grown spherical silver nanoparticles with gaps less than 10 nm in between (Fig. 1). In addition, the scope of the method has been extended to larger biomolecules like peptides which will be shown using the example of the human growth-hormone (hGH) peptide T12 at physiologically relevant serum concentration levels (Fig. 2). Further developments towards the quantification of full proteins will also be reported.

Pilot installation for the thermo-chemical characterisation of solid wastes

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

Marculescu, C.; Antonini, G.; Badea, A.

The increasing production and the large variety of wastes require operators of thermal treatment units to continuously adapt the installations or the functioning parameters to the different physical and chemical properties of the wastes. Usually, the treated waste is encountered in the form of heterogeneous mixtures. The classical tests such as thermogravimetry and calorimetric bomb operate component by component, separately. In addition to this, they can analyse only small quantities of waste at a time (a few grams). These common tests are necessary but insufficient in the global waste analysis in the view further thermal treatment. This paper presents anmore » experimental installation, which was designed and built at the CNRS Science Division, Department of Industrial Methods, Compiegne University of Technology, France. It allows the determination of waste thermal and chemical properties by means of thermal treatment. Also, it is capable of continuously analysing significant quantities of waste (up to 50 kg/h) as compared to the classical tests and it can work under various conditions: {center_dot}oxidant or reductive atmosphere (on choice); {center_dot}variable temperature between 400 and 1000 deg. C; {center_dot}independently set residence time of treated sample in the installation and flow conditions. The installation reproduces the process conditions from incinerators or pyrolysis reactors. It also provides complete information on the kinetics of the waste thermal degradation and on the pollutant emissions. Using different mixtures of components present in the municipal solid waste and also in the reconstituted MSW samples, we defined a series of criteria for characterising waste behaviour during the stages of the main treatment process such as: feeding, devolatilisation/oxidation, advancement, solid residue evacuation, and pollutants emission.« less

Bridging the energy gap: Anadromous blueback herring feeding in the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, New York

USGS Publications Warehouse

Simonin, P.W.; Limburg, K.E.; Machut, L.S.

2007-01-01

Adult blueback herring Alosa aestivalis (N = 116) were collected during the 1999, 2000, and 2002-2004 spawning runs from sites on the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, and gut contents were analyzed. Thirty-four fish (33% of those examined) were found to contain food material. Food items were present in 41% of Mohawk River samples and 11% of Hudson River samples; all Hudson River fish containing food were captured in small tributaries above the head of tide. Hudson River fish predominantly consumed zooplankton, while Mohawk River fish consumed benthic aquatic insects in large quantities, including Baetidae, Ephemeridae, and Chironomidae. Using stable isotope analysis and a mixing model, we found that fish collected later in the season had significantly decreased marine-derived C. Condition indices of later-season fish were equal to or greater than those of fish collected earlier in the season. Blueback herring in this system may face increased energy requirements as they migrate farther upstream during spawning runs, and feeding may provide energy subsidies needed to maintain fitness over their expanded migratory range. ?? Copyright by the American Fisheries Society 2007.

Low bioavailability of ergotamine tartrate after oral and rectal administration in migraine sufferers.

PubMed Central

Ibraheem, J J; Paalzow, L; Tfelt-Hansen, P

1983-01-01

Fifteen migraine patients were administered 2 mg ergotamine tartrate in a partial cross-over design as a single, oral tablet, rectal suppository and rectal solution. Eight of these patients were in a previous investigation given 0.5 mg ergotamine tartrate intravenously. The blood samples were taken up to 54 h after oral and suppository while it was followed for only 3 h after rectal solution. The chemical analysis was performed by applying h.p.l.c. method with a limit of sensitivity of 0.1 ng/ml ergotamine base in plasma. No ergotamine was detected in the blood samples after the oral route, whereas small and very variable quantities was found in blood after the rectal route. Regular calculation of bioavailability could therefore not be performed. An estimate of the maximal possible bioavailability was found to yield a mean value of 2% (tablets); 5% (suppositories) and 6% (rectal solution). Rectal solution elicited faster absorption and the extent of absorption was significantly higher (P less than 0.05) than for the suppository. PMID:6419759

Surface treatment of polypropylene (PP) film by 50 Hz dielectric barrier discharge produced in air and argon/air mixture at atmospheric pressure

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

Joshi, Ujjwal Man, E-mail: umjoshi@gmail.com; Subedi, Deepak Prasad, E-mail: deepaksubedi2001@yahoo.com

Thin films of polypropylene (PP) are treated for improving hydrophilicity using non-thermal plasma generated by 50 Hz line frequency dielectric barrier discharge produced in air and argon/air mixture at atmospheric pressure. PP samples before and after the treatments are studied using contact angle measurements, surface free energy calculations and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Distilled water (H{sub 2}O), glycerol (C{sub 3}H{sub 8}O{sub 3}) and diiodomethane (CH{sub 2}I{sub 2}) are used as test liquids. The contact angle measurements between test liquids and PP samples are used to determine total surface free energy using sessile drop technique. PP films show a remarkable increase inmore » surface free energy after plasma treatment. SEM analysis of the plasma-treated PP films shows that plasma treatment introduces greater roughness on the surface leading to the increased surface free energy. Furthermore, it is found that introducing a small quantity of argon can enhance the surface treatment remarkably.« less

Mercury and water-quality data from Rink Creek, Salmon River, and Good River, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, November 2009-October 2011

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nagorski, Sonia A.; Neal, Edward G.; Brabets, Timothy P.

2013-01-01

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve (GBNPP), Alaska, like many pristine high latitude areas, is exposed to atmospherically deposited contaminants such as mercury (Hg). Although the harmful effects of Hg are well established, information on this contaminant in southeast Alaska is scarce. Here, we assess the level of this contaminant in several aquatic components (water, sediments, and biological tissue) in three adjacent, small streams in GBNPP that drain contrasting landscapes but receive similar atmospheric inputs: Rink Creek, Salmon River, and Good River. Twenty water samples were collected from 2009 to 2011 and processed and analyzed for total mercury and methylmercury (filtered and particulate), and dissolved organic carbon quantity and quality. Ancillary stream water parameters (discharge, pH, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, and temperature) were measured at the time of sampling. Major cations, anions, and nutrients were measured four times. In addition, total mercury was analyzed in streambed sediment in 2010 and in juvenile coho salmon and several taxa of benthic macroinvertebrates in the early summer of 2010 and 2011.

Isolation and characterization of two new methanesulfonic acid-degrading bacterial isolates from a Portuguese soil sample.

PubMed

De Marco, P; Murrell, J C; Bordalo, A A; Moradas-Ferreira, P

2000-02-01

Two novel bacterial strains that can utilize methanesulfonic acid as a source of carbon and energy were isolated from a soil sample collected in northern Portugal. Morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular biological characterization of the two isolates indicate that strain P1 is a pink-pigmented facultative methylotroph belonging to the genus Methylobacterium, while strain P2 is a restricted methylotroph belonging to the genus Hyphomicrobium. Both strains are strictly aerobic, degrade methanesulfonate, and release small quantities of sulfite into the medium. Growth on methanesulfonate induces a specific polypeptide profile in each strain. This, together with the positive hybridization to a DNA probe that carries the msm genes of Methylosulfonomonas methylovora strain M2, strongly endorses the contention that a methanesulfonic acid monooxygenase related to that found in the previously known methanesulfonate-utilizing bacteria is present in strains P1 and P2. The isolation of bacteria containing conserved msm genes from diverse environments and geographical locations supports the hypothesis that a common enzyme may be globally responsible for the oxidation of methanesulfonate by natural methylotrophic communities.

A Microfluidic Long-Period Fiber Grating Sensor Platform for Chloride Ion Concentration Measurement

PubMed Central

Wang, Jian-Neng

2011-01-01

Optical fiber sensors based on waveguide technology are promising and attractive in chemical, biotechnological, agronomy, and civil engineering applications. A microfluidic system equipped with a long-period fiber grating (LPFG) capable of measuring chloride ion concentrations of several sample materials is presented. The LPFG-based microfluidic platform was shown to be effective in sensing very small quantities of samples and its transmitted light signal could easily be used as a measurand. The investigated sample materials included reverse osmosis (RO) water, tap water, dilute aqueous sample of sea sand soaked in RO water, aqueous sample of sea sand soaked in RO water, dilute seawater, and seawater. By employing additionally a chloride ion-selective electrode sensor for the calibration of chloride-ion concentration, a useful correlation (R2 = 0.975) was found between the separately-measured chloride concentration and the light intensity transmitted through the LPFG at a wavelength of 1,550 nm. Experimental results show that the sensitivity of the LPFG sensor by light intensity interrogation was determined to be 5.0 × 10−6 mW/mg/L for chloride ion concentrations below 2,400 mg/L. The results obtained from the analysis of data variations in time-series measurements for all sample materials show that standard deviations of output power were relatively small and found in the range of 7.413 × 10−5−2.769 × 10−3 mW. In addition, a fairly small coefficients of variations were also obtained, which were in the range of 0.03%–1.29% and decreased with the decrease of chloride ion concentrations of sample materials. Moreover, the analysis of stability performance of the LPFG sensor indicated that the random walk coefficient decreased with the increase of the chloride ion concentration, illustrating that measurement stability using the microfluidic platform was capable of measuring transmitted optical power with accuracy in the range of −0.8569 mW/ h to −0.5169 mW/ h. Furthermore, the bias stability was determined to be in the range of less than 6.134 × 10−8 mW/h with 600 s time cluster to less than 1.412 × 10−6 mW/h with 600 s time cluster. Thus, the proposed LPFG-based microfluidic platform has the potential for civil, chemical, biological, and biochemical sensing with aqueous solutions. The compact (3.5 × 4.2 cm), low-cost, real-time, small-volume (∼70 μL), low-noise, and high-sensitive chloride ion sensing system reported here could hopefully benefit the development and applications in the field of chemical, biotechnical, soil and geotechnical, and civil engineering. PMID:22164091

How to leverage a bad inventory situation.

PubMed

Horsfall, G A

1998-11-01

Small manufacturing companies have a hard time taking advantage of the price breaks that result from large purchase orders. Besides the greater amount of money involved, purchasing large quantities of items demands additional space for storing the items. This article describes a company that created separate inventory management and finance company to provide inventory management services to itself and to market these services to other small companies in its area.

Changes in the character of stream water dissolved organic carbon during flushing in three small watersheds, Oregon.

Treesearch

Eran Hood; Michael N. Gooseff; Sherri L. Johnson

2006-01-01

The hydrologic and biogeochemical responses of forested watersheds to inputs of rainfall and snowmelt can be an indicator of internal watershed function. In this study, we assess how the quantity and quality, both chemical and spectroscopic, of stream water DOC changes in response to a 6-day storm event during the wet season of 2003 in three small (2...

Opto-Acoustic Telephone Study.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-01

teristics of tie’use:, the response of the TALK acutciertoncusbtwnthlgtadechnism cslf e flat acoss the oihe band a small quantity of suspended carbonized ... carbonized fiber in which sound is .generated by the local gas/fiber expansion and contraction. Sound is coupled from the small absorptive chamber to...matrix of carbonized cotton fibers suspended in air. This combination may be regarded as a .pseudo gas." To model the photo acoustic U effect in the

Determination of 238u/235u, 236u/238u and uranium concentration in urine using sf-icp-ms and mc-icp-ms: an interlaboratory comparison.

PubMed

Parrish, Randall R; Thirlwall, Matthew F; Pickford, Chris; Horstwood, Matthew; Gerdes, Axel; Anderson, James; Coggon, David

2006-02-01

Accidental exposure to depleted or enriched uranium may occur in a variety of circumstances. There is a need to quantify such exposure, with the possibility that the testing may post-date exposure by months or years. Therefore, it is important to develop a very sensitive test to measure precisely the isotopic composition of uranium in urine at low levels of concentration. The results of an interlaboratory comparison using sector field (SF)-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and multiple collector (MC)-ICP-MS for the measurement of uranium concentration and U/U and U/U isotopic ratios of human urine samples are presented. Three urine samples were verified to contain uranium at 1-5 ng L and shown to have natural uranium isotopic composition. Portions of these urine batches were doped with depleted uranium (DU) containing small quantities of U, and the solutions were split into 100 mL and 400 mL aliquots that were subsequently measured blind by three laboratories. All methods investigated were able to measure accurately U/U with precisions of approximately 0.5% to approximately 4%, but only selected MC-ICP-MS methods were capable of consistently analyzing U/U to reasonable precision at the approximately 20 fg L level of U abundance. Isotope dilution using a U tracer demonstrates the ability to measure concentrations to better than +/-4% with the MC-ICP-MS method, though sample heterogeneity in urine samples was shown to be problematic in some cases. MC-ICP-MS outperformed SF-ICP-MS methods, as was expected. The MC-ICP-MS methodology described is capable of measuring to approximately 1% precision the U/U of any sample of human urine over the entire range of uranium abundance down to <1 ng L, and detecting very small amounts of DU contained therein.

Highly Sensitive and High-Throughput Method for the Analysis of Bisphenol Analogues and Their Halogenated Derivatives in Breast Milk.

PubMed

Niu, Yumin; Wang, Bin; Zhao, Yunfeng; Zhang, Jing; Shao, Bing

2017-12-06

The structural analogs of bisphenol A (BPA) and their halogenated derivatives (together termed BPs) have been found in the environment, food, and even the human body. Limited research showed that some of them exhibited toxicities that were similar to or even greater than that of BPA. Therefore, adverse health effects for BPs were expected for humans with low-dose exposure in early life. Breast milk is an excellent matrix and could reflect fetuses' and babies' exposure to contaminants. Some of the emerging BPs may present with trace or ultratrace levels in humans. However, existing analytical methods for breast milk cannot quantify these BPs simultaneously with high sensitivity using a small sampling weight, which is important for human biomonitoring studies. In this paper, a method based on Bond Elut Enhanced Matrix Removal-Lipid purification, pyridine-3-sulfonyl chloride derivatization, and liquid chromatography electrospray tandem mass spectrometry was developed. The method requires only a small quantity of sample (200 μL) and allowed for the simultaneous determination of 24 BPs in breast milk with ultrahigh sensitivity. The limits of quantitation of the proposed method were 0.001-0.200 μg L -1 , which were 1-6.7 times lower than the only study for the simultaneous analysis of bisphenol analogs in breast milk based on a 3 g sample weight. The mean recoveries ranged from 86.11% to 119.05% with relative standard deviation (RSD) ≤ 19.5% (n = 6). Matrix effects were within 20% with RSD < 10% for six different lots of samples. The proposed method was successfully applied to 20 breast milk samples. BPA, bisphenol F (BPF), bisphenol S (BPS), and bisphenol AF (BPAF) were detected. BPA was still the dominant BP, followed by BPF. This is the first report describing the occurrence of BPF and BPAF in breast milk.

Development and implementation of a laboratory spray device and rainfall simulator for retention research using small amounts of agroformulations.

PubMed

Zwertvaegher, Ingrid Ka; Van Daele, Inge; Verheesen, Peter; Peferoen, Marnix; Nuyttens, David

2017-01-01

Rainfall greatly affects the retention of foliar-applied agroformulations. Improving their resistance to wash-off is therefore of great importance in spray applications. When developing such formulations, small-scale laboratory assays are generally required. A set-up for retention studies using only small amounts of agroformulations (<0.5 L) was developed. The set-up consists of a spray device and a rainfall simulator. The effect of rain quantity (1, 3, 6 mm) on the spray retention of agroformulations was evaluated using this set-up. The data showed that uniform and repeatable spraying was achieved with the small-scale spray device (coefficient of variation 23.4%) on potato pot plants (Solanum tuberosum L.). Rain quantity significantly affected the spray retention. Approximately 40% of the initial deposition was lost after 1 mm of rain at an intensity of 25 mm h -1 . Additional losses decreased with increasing volumes of rain (65 and 80% loss after 3 and 6 mm of rain respectively). Future studies could implement the set-up to evaluate the effect of different rainfall characteristics and formulations on spray retention in order to improve the rainfastness of agroformulations. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Trophic niches of sympatric tropical tuna in the Western Indian Ocean inferred by stable isotopes and neutral fatty acids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sardenne, Fany; Bodin, Nathalie; Chassot, Emmanuel; Amiel, Aurélien; Fouché, Edwin; Degroote, Maxime; Hollanda, Stéphanie; Pethybridge, Heidi; Lebreton, Benoit; Guillou, Gaël; Ménard, Frédéric

2016-08-01

This study examined the trophic ecology of three sympatric tropical tuna species (bigeye BET, skipjack SKJ, and yellowfin YFT) sampled in the Western Indian Ocean throughout 2013. Specifically we explored inter-specific resource partitioning and ontogenetic variability using neutral fatty acids and stable isotope analysis of liver and muscle from small (⩽100 cm fork length, FL) and large (>100 cm FL) tuna collected in mixed schools at the surface by purse-seine. Both biochemical tracers were used to calculate trophic niche indices that collectively revealed high potential for resource overlap, especially among small tuna. Resource overlap appeared strongest between BET and YFT, with SKJ tissues having high carbon isotope (δ13C) values (-17 ± 0.3‰), lower nitrogen isotope (δ15N) values (11.4 ± 0.6‰), and higher relative proportion of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) than the two other species, indicating a different diet. Size was found to be a strong predictor for most biochemical tracers in the three species with δ13C, δ15N and total lipid content in the liver. In the larger species (YFT and BET), proportions of mono-unsaturated fatty acids typically increased with size, while quantities of PUFA decreased. In addition to ontogenetic variability, trophic markers were shown to vary between sampling area and season: higher lipid reserves and δ15N values, and lower δ13C values occurred during monsoon periods around Seychelles than in the Mozambique Channel (parted from about 1500 km). Our multi-tracer approach reveals the magnitude of potential competitive interactions in mixed tropical tuna schools at both small and large sizes and demonstrates that ontogenetic niche differentiation acts as a major factor of coexistence in tropical tuna.

Seasonal Progression of the Deposition of Black Carbon by Snowfall at Ny-Ålesund, Spitsbergen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, P. R.; Kondo, Y.; Goto-Azuma, K.; Tsukagawa, Y.; Fukuda, K.; Koike, M.; Ohata, S.; Moteki, N.; Mori, T.; Oshima, N.; Førland, E. J.; Irwin, M.; Gallet, J.-C.; Pedersen, C. A.

2018-01-01

Deposition of black carbon (BC) aerosol in the Arctic lowers snow albedo, thus contributing to warming in the region. However, the processes and impacts associated with BC deposition are poorly understood because of the scarcity and uncertainties of measurements of BC in snow with adequate spatiotemporal resolution. We sampled snowpack at two sites (11 m and 300 m above sea level) at Ny-Ålesund, Spitsbergen, in April 2013. We also collected falling snow near the surface with a windsock from September 2012 to April 2013. The size distribution of BC in snowpack and falling snow was measured using a single-particle soot photometer combined with a characterized nebulizer. The BC size distributions did not show significant variations with depth in the snowpack, suggesting stable size distributions in falling snow. The BC number and mass concentrations (CNBC and CMBC) at the two sites agreed to within 19% and 10%, respectively, despite the sites' different snow water equivalent (SWE) loadings. This indicates the small influence of the amount of SWE (or precipitation) on these quantities. Average CNBC and CMBC in snowpack and falling snow at nearly the same locations agreed to within 5% and 16%, after small corrections for artifacts associated with the sampling of the falling snow. This comparison shows that the dry deposition was a small contributor to the total BC deposition. CMBC were highest (2.4 ± 3.0 μg L-1) in December-February and lowest (1.2 ± 1.2 μg L-1) in September-November.

Critical phenomena and chemical potential of a charged AdS black hole

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Shao-Wen; Liang, Bin; Liu, Yu-Xiao

2017-12-01

Inspired by the interpretation of the cosmological constant from the boundary gauge theory, we here treat it as the number of colors N and its conjugate quantity as the associated chemical potential μ in the black hole side. Then the thermodynamics and the chemical potential for a five-dimensional charged AdS black hole are studied. It is found that there exists a small-large black hole phase transition of van der Waals type. The critical phenomena are investigated in the N2-μ chart. The result implies that the phase transition can occur for large number of colors N , while is forbidden for small number. This to some extent implies that the interaction of the system increases with the number. In particular, in the reduced parameter space, all the thermodynamic quantities can be rescaled with the black hole charge such that these reduced quantities are charge-independent. Then we obtain the coexistence curve and the phase diagram. The latent heat is also numerically calculated. Moreover, the heat capacity and the thermodynamic scalar are studied. The result indicates that the information of the first-order black hole phase transition is encoded in the heat capacity and scalar. However, the phase transition point cannot be directly calculated with them. Nevertheless, the critical point linked to a second-order phase transition can be determined by either the heat capacity or the scalar. In addition, we calculate the critical exponents of the heat capacity and the scalar for the saturated small and large black holes near the critical point.

Pigment identification in artwork using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry.

PubMed

Goltz, D M; Coombs, J; Marion, C; Cloutis, E; Gibson, J; Attas, M; Choo-Smith, L-P; Collins, C

2004-06-17

The use of a sampling technique is described for the identification of metals from inorganic pigments in paint. The sampling technique involves gently contacting a cotton swab with the painted surface to physically remove a minute quantity ( approximately 1-2mug) of pigment. The amount of material removed from the painted surface is invisible to the unaided eye and does not cause any visible effect to the painted surface. The cotton swab was then placed in a 1.5ml polystyrene beaker containing HNO(3) to extract pigment metals prior to analysis using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). GFAAS is well suited for identifying pigment metals since it requires small samples and many pigments consist of main group elements (e.g. Al) as well as transition metals (e.g. Zn, Fe and Cd). Using Cd (cadmium red) as the test element, the reproducibility of sampling a paint surface with the cotton swab was approximately 13% in either a water or oil medium. To test the feasibility of cotton sampling for pigment identification, samples were obtained from paintings (watercolour and oil) of a local collection. Raman spectra provided complementary information to the GFAAS, which together are essential for positive identification of some pigments. For example, GFAAS indicated the presence of Cu, but the Raman spectra positively identified the modern copper pigment phthalocyanine green (Cu(C(32)Cl(16)N(8)). Both Raman spectroscopy and GFAAS were useful for identifying ZnO as a white pigment.

A Comparative Study of Serum Exosome Isolation Using Differential Ultracentrifugation and Three Commercial Reagents.

PubMed

Helwa, Inas; Cai, Jingwen; Drewry, Michelle D; Zimmerman, Arthur; Dinkins, Michael B; Khaled, Mariam Lotfy; Seremwe, Mutsa; Dismuke, W Michael; Bieberich, Erhard; Stamer, W Daniel; Hamrick, Mark W; Liu, Yutao

2017-01-01

Exosomes play a role in cell-to-cell signaling and serve as possible biomarkers. Isolating exosomes with reliable quality and substantial concentration is a major challenge. Our purpose is to compare the exosomes extracted by three different exosome isolation kits (miRCURY, ExoQuick, and Invitrogen Total Exosome Isolation Reagent) and differential ultracentrifugation (UC) using six different volumes of a non-cancerous human serum (5 ml, 1 ml, 500 μl, 250 μl, 100 μl, and 50 μl) and three different volumes (1 ml, 500 μl and 100 μl) of six individual commercial serum samples collected from human donors. The smaller starting volumes (100 μl and 50 μl) are used to mimic conditions of limited availability of heterogeneous biological samples. The isolated exosomes were characterized based upon size, quantity, zeta potential, CD63 and CD9 protein expression, and exosomal RNA (exRNA) quality and quantity using several complementary methods: nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) with ZetaView, western blot, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the Agilent Bioanalyzer system, and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Our NTA results showed that all isolation techniques produced exosomes within the expected size range (40-150 nm). The three kits, though, produced a significantly higher yield (80-300 fold) of exosomes as compared to UC for all serum volumes, except 5 mL. We also found that exosomes isolated by the different techniques and serum volumes had similar zeta potentials to previous studies. Western blot analysis and TEM immunogold labelling confirmed the expression of two common exosomal protein markers, CD63 and CD9, in samples isolated by all techniques. All exosome isolations yielded high quality exRNA, containing mostly small RNA with a peak between 25 and 200 nucleotides in size. ddPCR results indicated that exosomes isolated from similar serum volumes but different isolation techniques rendered similar concentrations of two selected exRNA: hsa-miR-16 and hsa-miR-451. In summary, the three commercial exosome isolation kits are viable alternatives to UC, even when limited amounts of biological samples are available.

Speciated Elemental and Isotopic Characterization of Atmospheric Aerosols - Recent Advances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shafer, M.; Majestic, B.; Schauer, J.

2007-12-01

Detailed elemental, isotopic, and chemical speciation analysis of aerosol particulate matter (PM) can provide valuable information on PM sources, atmospheric processing, and climate forcing. Certain PM sources may best be resolved using trace metal signatures, and elemental and isotopic fingerprints can supplement and enhance molecular maker analysis of PM for source apportionment modeling. In the search for toxicologically relevant components of PM, health studies are increasingly demanding more comprehensive characterization schemes. It is also clear that total metal analysis is at best a poor surrogate for the bioavailable component, and analytical techniques that address the labile component or specific chemical species are needed. Recent sampling and analytical developments advanced by the project team have facilitated comprehensive characterization of even very small masses of atmospheric PM. Historically; this level of detail was rarely achieved due to limitations in analytical sensitivity and a lack of awareness concerning the potential for contamination. These advances have enabled the coupling of advanced chemical characterization to vital field sampling approaches that typically supply only very limited PM mass; e.g. (1) particle size-resolved sampling; (2) personal sampler collections; and (3) fine temporal scale sampling. The analytical tools that our research group is applying include: (1) sector field (high-resolution-HR) ICP-MS, (2) liquid waveguide long-path spectrophotometry (LWG-LPS), and (3) synchrotron x-ray absorption spectroscopy (sXAS). When coupled with an efficient and validated solubilization method, the HR-ICP-MS can provide quantitative elemental information on over 50 elements in microgram quantities of PM. The high mass resolution and enhanced signal-to-noise of HR-ICP-MS significantly advance data quality and quantity over that possible with traditional quadrupole ICP-MS. The LWG-LPS system enables an assessment of the soluble/labile components of PM, while simultaneously providing critical oxidation state speciation data. Importantly, the LWG- LPS can be deployed in a semi-real-time configuration to probe fine temporal scale variations in atmospheric processing or sources of PM. The sXAS is providing complementary oxidation state speciation of bulk PM. Using examples from our research; we will illustrate the capabilities and applications of these new methods.

Modified RNA-seq method for microbial community and diversity analysis using rRNA in different types of environmental samples

PubMed Central

Yan, Yong-Wei; Zou, Bin; Zhu, Ting; Hozzein, Wael N.

2017-01-01

RNA-seq-based SSU (small subunit) rRNA (ribosomal RNA) analysis has provided a better understanding of potentially active microbial community within environments. However, for RNA-seq library construction, high quantities of purified RNA are typically required. We propose a modified RNA-seq method for SSU rRNA-based microbial community analysis that depends on the direct ligation of a 5’ adaptor to RNA before reverse-transcription. The method requires only a low-input quantity of RNA (10–100 ng) and does not require a DNA removal step. The method was initially tested on three mock communities synthesized with enriched SSU rRNA of archaeal, bacterial and fungal isolates at different ratios, and was subsequently used for environmental samples of high or low biomass. For high-biomass salt-marsh sediments, enriched SSU rRNA and total nucleic acid-derived RNA-seq datasets revealed highly consistent community compositions for all of the SSU rRNA sequences, and as much as 46.4%-59.5% of 16S rRNA sequences were suitable for OTU (operational taxonomic unit)-based community and diversity analyses with complete coverage of V1-V2 regions. OTU-based community structures for the two datasets were also highly consistent with those determined by all of the 16S rRNA reads. For low-biomass samples, total nucleic acid-derived RNA-seq datasets were analyzed, and highly active bacterial taxa were also identified by the OTU-based method, notably including members of the previously underestimated genus Nitrospira and phylum Acidobacteria in tap water, members of the phylum Actinobacteria on a shower curtain, and members of the phylum Cyanobacteria on leaf surfaces. More than half of the bacterial 16S rRNA sequences covered the complete region of primer 8F, and non-coverage rates as high as 38.7% were obtained for phylum-unclassified sequences, providing many opportunities to identify novel bacterial taxa. This modified RNA-seq method will provide a better snapshot of diverse microbial communities, most notably by OTU-based analysis, even communities with low-biomass samples. PMID:29016661

21 CFR 524.1883 - Prednisolone sodium phosphate-neomycin sulfate ophthalmic ointment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... of cats and dogs, such as those associated with allergic reactions or gross irritants.1 1 These... information. (2) A small quantity of the ointment should be expressed into the conjunctival sac 4 times a day...

21 CFR 524.1883 - Prednisolone sodium phosphate-neomycin sulfate ophthalmic ointment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... of cats and dogs, such as those associated with allergic reactions or gross irritants.1 1 These... information. (2) A small quantity of the ointment should be expressed into the conjunctival sac 4 times a day...

21 CFR 524.1883 - Prednisolone sodium phosphate-neomycin sulfate ophthalmic ointment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... of cats and dogs, such as those associated with allergic reactions or gross irritants.1 1 These... information. (2) A small quantity of the ointment should be expressed into the conjunctival sac 4 times a day...

21 CFR 524.1883 - Prednisolone sodium phosphate-neomycin sulfate ophthalmic ointment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... of cats and dogs, such as those associated with allergic reactions or gross irritants.1 1 These... information. (2) A small quantity of the ointment should be expressed into the conjunctival sac 4 times a day...

40 CFR 257.30 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Section 257.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES AND PRACTICES Disposal Standards for the Receipt of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) Wastes at Non-Municipal Non-Hazardous Waste...

40 CFR 257.30 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Section 257.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES AND PRACTICES Disposal Standards for the Receipt of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) Wastes at Non-Municipal Non-Hazardous Waste...

40 CFR 257.30 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Section 257.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES AND PRACTICES Disposal Standards for the Receipt of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) Wastes at Non-Municipal Non-Hazardous Waste...

40 CFR 257.30 - Recordkeeping requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Section 257.30 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) SOLID WASTES CRITERIA FOR CLASSIFICATION OF SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITIES AND PRACTICES Disposal Standards for the Receipt of Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) Wastes at Non-Municipal Non-Hazardous Waste...

40 CFR 273.8 - Applicability-household and conditionally exempt small quantity generator waste.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... managing the wastes listed below may, at their option, manage them under the requirements of this part: (1... section together with universal waste regulated under this part must manage the commingled waste under the...

40 CFR 273.8 - Applicability-household and conditionally exempt small quantity generator waste.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... managing the wastes listed below may, at their option, manage them under the requirements of this part: (1... section together with universal waste regulated under this part must manage the commingled waste under the...

40 CFR 273.8 - Applicability-household and conditionally exempt small quantity generator waste.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... managing the wastes listed below may, at their option, manage them under the requirements of this part: (1... section together with universal waste regulated under this part must manage the commingled waste under the...

40 CFR 273.8 - Applicability-household and conditionally exempt small quantity generator waste.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... managing the wastes listed below may, at their option, manage them under the requirements of this part: (1... section together with universal waste regulated under this part must manage the commingled waste under the...

40 CFR 273.8 - Applicability-household and conditionally exempt small quantity generator waste.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... managing the wastes listed below may, at their option, manage them under the requirements of this part: (1... section together with universal waste regulated under this part must manage the commingled waste under the...

Percolation and epidemics in a two-dimensional small world

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Newman, M. E.; Jensen, I.; Ziff, R. M.

2002-02-01

Percolation on two-dimensional small-world networks has been proposed as a model for the spread of plant diseases. In this paper we give an analytic solution of this model using a combination of generating function methods and high-order series expansion. Our solution gives accurate predictions for quantities such as the position of the percolation threshold and the typical size of disease outbreaks as a function of the density of ``shortcuts'' in the small-world network. Our results agree with scaling hypotheses and numerical simulations for the same model.

Direct PCR amplification of DNA from human bloodstains, saliva, and touch samples collected with microFLOQ® swabs.

PubMed

Ambers, Angie; Wiley, Rachel; Novroski, Nicole; Budowle, Bruce

2018-01-01

Previous studies have shown that nylon flocked swabs outperform traditional fiber swabs in DNA recovery due to their innovative design and lack of internal absorbent core to entrap cellular materials. The microFLOQ ® Direct swab, a miniaturized version of the 4N6 FLOQSwab ® , has a small swab head that is treated with a lysing agent which allows for direct amplification and DNA profiling from sample collection to final result in less than two hours. Additionally, the microFLOQ ® system subsamples only a minute portion of a stain and preserves the vast majority of the sample for subsequent testing or re-analysis, if desired. The efficacy of direct amplification of DNA from dilute bloodstains, saliva stains, and touch samples was evaluated using microFLOQ ® Direct swabs and the GlobalFiler™ Express system. Comparisons were made to traditional methods to assess the robustness of this alternate workflow. Controlled studies with 1:19 and 1:99 dilutions of bloodstains and saliva stains consistently yielded higher STR peak heights than standard methods with 1ng input DNA from the same samples. Touch samples from common items yielded single source and mixed profiles that were consistent with primary users of the objects. With this novel methodology/workflow, no sample loss occurs and therefore more template DNA is available during amplification. This approach may have important implications for analysis of low quantity and/or degraded samples that plague forensic casework. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Kinetics of Poliovirus Shedding following Oral Vaccination as Measured by Quantitative Reverse Transcription-PCR versus Culture

PubMed Central

Begum, Sharmin; Uddin, Md Jashim; Platts-Mills, James A.; Liu, Jie; Kirkpatrick, Beth D.; Chowdhury, Anwarul H.; Jamil, Khondoker M.; Haque, Rashidul; Petri, William A.; Houpt, Eric R.

2014-01-01

Amid polio eradication efforts, detection of oral polio vaccine (OPV) virus in stool samples can provide information about rates of mucosal immunity and allow estimation of the poliovirus reservoir. We developed a multiplex one-step quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR) assay for detection of OPV Sabin strains 1, 2, and 3 directly in stool samples with an external control to normalize samples for viral quantity and compared its performance with that of viral culture. We applied the assay to samples from infants in Dhaka, Bangladesh, after the administration of trivalent OPV (tOPV) at weeks 14 and 52 of life (on days 0 [pre-OPV], +4, +11, +18, and +25 relative to vaccination). When 1,350 stool samples were tested, the sensitivity and specificity of the quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay were 89 and 91% compared with culture. A quantitative relationship between culture+/qPCR+ and culture−/qPCR+ stool samples was observed. The kinetics of shedding revealed by qPCR and culture were similar. qPCR quantitative cutoffs based on the day +11 or +18 stool samples could be used to identify the culture-positive shedders, as well as the long-duration or high-frequency shedders. Interestingly, qPCR revealed that a small minority (7%) of infants contributed the vast majority (93 to 100%) of the total estimated viral excretion across all subtypes at each time point. This qPCR assay for OPV can simply and quantitatively detect all three Sabin strains directly in stool samples to approximate shedding both qualitatively and quantitatively. PMID:25378579