Need For Costly Equipment Research Articles

Antibacterial Efficacy of AgNPs synthesized from Aloe vera extract and Staphylococcus aureus Culture Supernatant

Biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is an emerging method that avoids the need for costly equipment and hazardous chemicals. Therefore, in this study, Aloe vera (AV) extract and culture supernatant of Staphylococcus aureus (CS-S. aureus) were used to reduce and stabilise silver nanoparticles. The NPs were characterized using UV–vis spectrophotometry at 445 nm for AV-AgNP and 444.5 nm for CS-S.aureus AgNP, and the presence of silver was confirmed by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that the AV-CS of S. aureus-AgNPs had irregular and spherical shapes, with average sizes of 18.5 nm for AvAgNPs and 7.03 nm for CS-S. aureus-AgNPs. Additionally, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of both AgNPs showed a similar reaction. K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, and S. epidermidis were more sensitive to the AgNPs compared to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In conclusion, our study used a green method to synthesise silver nanoparticles using AV extract and CS of S. aureus. The NPs showed a remarkable antibacterial effect, especially CS-S. aureus-AgNP, which could have application as a treatment against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Timing offset calibration for TOF PET using stationary line source scans at multiple positions

Background. Accurate timing offset calibration is crucial for time-of-flight (TOF) positron emission tomography (PET) to mitigate image artifacts and improve quantitative accuracy. However, existing methods are often time-consuming, complex, or costly.Objective. This paper presents a method for TOF PET timing offset calibration that eliminates the need for costly equipment, phantoms, short-half-life sources, and precise source positioning.Approach. We estimate channel timing offsets using stationary scans of a68Ge line source, typically used for routine quality control, at a minimum of three non-coplanar positions, with each position scanned for two minutes. The line source positions are accurately determined by applying a simple algorithm to their reconstructed images, allowing precise calculation of arrival time differences. Channel timing offsets are estimated by solving a least squares problem. This method is assessed through analyses of phantoms and patient images using a RAYSOLUTION DigitMI 930 scanner.Main results. The estimated timing offsets ranged from -500 ps to 500 ps across all channels. Calibration with a minimum of three scanned positions was sufficient to correct these offsets, achieving less than a 1% discrepancy across various metrics of the image quality (IQ) phantom compared to 12 positions. This calibration significantly reduced edge artifacts in TOF reconstruction of both phantoms and patients. Furthermore, the IQ phantom displayed a 14% increase in average contrast recovery, a 61% reduction in average background variability across all spheres, and a 90% reduction in average residual error. Consistent with the phantom results, patient data revealed enhancements in maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax) from 14% to 55% for lesions measuring 6 mm to 14 mm. The calibration also improved lesion-to-background contrast and eliminated artifacts caused by the spillover effect of the kidneys and bladder.Significance. The proposed method is fast, user-friendly, and cost-effective, effectively improving lesion detection and diagnostic accuracy.

Effect of Microfluidic and Density gradient techniques to select Frozen-thawed Epididymal Sperm from Bighorn rams.

Gamete preservation of wild species is a priority in conservation programs. However, field techniques to recover sperm from deceased animals may impair its final quality.The cryopreservation process also has its challenges, and the minimal required quality parameters may differ depending on the intended use of the semen.Often, postmortem harvested and cryopreserved sperm may need to undergo a selection process to improve the final quality of the sample. Certain sperm selection techniques that employ centrifugal forces can increase the risk of damaging the cells. In contrast, microfluidics uses hydrostatic pressure and capillary forces, avoiding the need for costly equipment and minimizing cell damage.This study aims to compare sperm motion parameters, morphology, and acrosome integrity of cryopreserved-thawed epididymal bighorn ram sperm using two commercial selection techniques, VetCount Harvester® device (MFD) and BovipureTM (NidaCon International AB, Möndal, Sweden) density gradient centrifugation (DGC).Sperm parameters associated with quality were, progressive motile sperms (PMS), straight velocity (VSL), average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), linearity (LIN), straightness (STR), beat cross frequency (BCF), amplitude of lateral head deviation (ALH) and plasma membrane integrity (PMI). Computer Assisted Sperm Analyzer was used for the semen analysis. Eosin/nigrosine and Spermac stains were used to assess morphology and acrosome integrity, respectively. Two veterinarians counted the total number of morphologically normal sperm with complete acrosome.Mean sperm concentration was higher (P < 0.01) before filtration (129.56 ±53.9 ×106/ml) than DCG (68.42 ±29.18 ×106/ml) and MFD (52.94 ±28.76 ×106/ml). PMS was higher (P <0.01) after selection using the DGC (79.70 ± 11.11) and MFD (81.23 ±5.64) compared to the no sperm-selected controls (45.36 ±14.67). Sperm kinetics parameters (VCL, VSL, VAP, BCF, LIN, and STR) were higher in the DGC (P<0.01). However, ALH (P<0.01) was significantly higher in the MFD and Control. Morphological normal sperm, acrosome integrity, and plasma membrane integrity were higher (P<0.01) in samples processed with DGC and MFD.In conclusion, microfluidics and single-layer centrifugation improved motion parameters, viability, and proportion of morphologically normal sperm with intact acrosomes from frozen-thawed sperm harvested from Bighorn epididymis. The VetCount Harvester® microfluidic device was comparable to DGC and could be an alternative option for sperm selection. Further research is needed to explore the effect of selected sperm using this technique on artificial insemination, re-cryopreservation, and fertility outcomes.

Independent swarm grid vehicle charging by a logical DC-DC converter with hybrid boundary conduction mode

&lt;p&gt;A modern and expanding civilization now takes for granted that future environments will be clean, efficient, and carbon neutral. Energy-efficient electrical loads, such as v ehicle charging now often u sed in schools, companies, and gated communities. Recent articles have focused more on Swarm smart grid technology as a way to transmit power from rooftop solar installations. A major issue with the system is the necessity for inverters and other conversio n equipment. The mechanism consumes part of the power generated by this process. It is possible to utilize the DC supply to power the v ehicle chargers in smart houses, although some tweaks may be necessary. The charging Vehicle is a common task that can sh are by different converter by swarm network. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using a swam nano grid t o interconnect buildings inside a campus or other large business or residential complex, as well as within a gated community. The electricity gr id is monitored by the swam nano grid system, which eliminates the need for costly equipment. The DC - DC converter was being controlled directly by the simple logic controller. M ATLAB Simulink simulates the controlled converter under load and shows the performance of a bidirectional DC-DC converter using waveforms.&lt;/p&gt;

Simplifying the process to perform air temperature and UHI measurements at large scales: Design of a new APP and low-cost Arduino device

The main purpose of Urban Heat Island (UHI) studies and the monitoring of ambient temperatures at large scales is to gather temperature information in a certain area, so as to understand temperature heterogeneity and its drivers or detect locations that lack thermal comfort. However, these studies originate mostly from some research projects, with sufficient budget and manpower to carry out the measurements and the necessary calculations. Thus, there is a scarcity of air temperature information, making it difficult to implement appropriate mitigation actions worldwide.The present work aims to greatly simplify the process to monitor air temperatures and carry out UHI estimations through mobile transects. This is done by introducing the design of a low-cost device and a new APP, which performs automatically most necessary UHI calculations. A web tool based on the Inverse Distance Weighting interpolation method is also included to obtain heat maps. The methodology is illustrated using case studies in Seville (Spain) and New York city (USA). By introducing a straightforward and reproducible methodology, we aim to open the path for a more widespread availability of ambient temperature data anywhere in the world, without the need for costly equipment and many hours of dedication by the researchers.

Virtual lab design for active filter circuits

Active filter circuits are a crucial topic in electrical, electronics and signal processing education, but their complexity often poses significant challenges to traditional classroom teaching. Virtual labs provide an immersive and interactive learning experience without the need for costly equipment and materials, offering a solution to these challenges. In this research paper, the approach to designing and implementing a virtual laboratory of active filter circuits using JavaScript is presented. The lab includes a breadboard, function generator, multi-meter, and uses a simulation engine to calculate voltage and frequency values in circuits. The virtual lab was evaluated through user research with engineering and science students, and it was found to be highly effective in teaching active filter circuits. Virtual labs are an essential tool in engineering education, providing increased flexibility and reduced costs.

Microwave-Assisted Lignin Extraction-Utilizing Deep Eutectic Solvents to Their Full Potential.

The current research intended to investigate the suitability of different choline-chloride-based deep eutectic solvents for their role in microwave lignin extraction. Lignin, a widely spread biopolymer in plants and woody structures, is a valuable replacement for fossil-fuel-based materials. While some promising applications have been trialled already, the extraction of this material from its matrix still causes problems. Here, we highlight an efficient and fast method to extract lignin from untreated larch bark with deep eutectic solvents in a standard domestic microwave. We developed a straightforward, green methodology, which can be used on various reaction scales, with materials available to many researchers. Lignin was extracted within only 30 min of microwave irradiation in yields of up to 96%. Compared to traditional deep eutectic extraction by conventional heating, the reaction time was cut by 87% and the energy costs were reduced by 93.5%. The hydrogen bond donors were exchanged and different types, namely acid-based, hydroxyl-based and amide-based donor systems, were evaluated for their suitability concerning microwave lignin extraction. This study presents a novel approach towards energy-efficient and green lignin valorisation, without the inherent need for costly equipment.

The Restored Premolars Biomechanical Behavior: FEM and Experimental Moiré Analyses

This study applied the finite element method (FEM) and the moiré strip projection method to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of healthy and endodontic-treated premolar teeth. The finite element method and the moiré strip projection method were applied to evaluate the influence of restored materials in association with cervical lesions and were considered as strain estimates for a tooth sample with 21 units, under loads of 25, 50, 75, and 100 N, frontal and oblique applied. The focused cases were: tooth H healthy; tooth A-MOD amalgam; tooth AL-MOD amalgam + lesion; tooth ALR-MOD amalgam + injury restored; tooth R-MOD resin; tooth RL-MOD resin + lesion; tooth RLR-MOD resin + injury restored. The results obtained by FEM simulation can be considered perfectly validated by the results presented by the experimental moiré projection analysis, demonstrating that the FEM numerical analysis can be used to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of healthy and endodontically treated teeth. Developing an alternative protocol to generate FEM three-dimensional models will lead to a ready and inexpensive tool since there is no need for costly equipment for tooth extraction prognosis.

Automated analysis of human cardiomyocytes dynamics with holographic image-based tracking for cardiotoxicity screening

This paper proposes a new non-invasive, low-cost, and fully automated platform to quantitatively analyze dynamics of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPS-CMs) at the single-cell level by holographic image-based tracking for cardiotoxicity screening. A dense Farneback optical flow method and holographic imaging informatics were combined to characterize the contractile motion of a single CM, which obviates the need for costly equipment to monitor a CM's mechanical beat activity. The reliability of the proposed platform was tested by single-cell motion characterization, synchronization analysis, motion speed measurement of fixed CMs versus live CMs, and noise sensitivity. The applicability of the motion characterization method was tested to determine the pharmacological effects of two cardiovascular drugs, isoprenaline (166 nM) and E−4031 (500 μM). The experiments were done using single CMs and multiple cells, and the results were compared to control conditions. Cardiomyocytes responded to isoprenaline by increasing the action potential (AP) speed and shortening the resting period, thus increasing the beat frequency. In the presence of E−4031, the AP speed was decreased, and the resting period was prolonged, thus decreasing the beat frequency. The findings offer insights into single hiPS-CMs’ contractile motion and a deep understanding of their kinetics at the single-cell level for cardiotoxicity screening.

On-line polymerisation monitoring in scCO2: a reliable and inexpensive sampling method in high pressure applications

A versatile and reliable on-line sampling system for polymerisation reactions in supercritical fluids was developed. By withdrawing a small volume of a high-pressure reaction mixture and expanding it in a controlled volume, reliable kinetic data were obtained for a range of reactions in scCO2, avoiding the need for costly equipment or setup modifications. All experiments were carried out in a stainless-steel high-pressure autoclave with mechanical stirring and a volume of 60 ml. With the polymerisation of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in scCO2 being widely adopted for research in the past, the free-radical and RAFT controlled dispersion polymerisations of MMA were analysed in detail using the sampling system as a proof-of-concept. Additionally, initial implementation of the sampling system to a range of different reactions showed the facile applicability of the monitoring method.

Heterogeneous Immunoassay Using Channels and Droplets in a Digital Microfluidic Platform.

This work presents a heterogeneous immunoassay using the integrated functionalities of a channel and droplets in a digital microfluidic (DMF) platform. Droplet functionality in DMF allows for the programmable manipulation of discrete sample and reagent droplets in the range of nanoliters. Pressure-driven channels become advantageous over droplets when sample must be washed, as the supernatant can be thoroughly removed in a convenient and rapid manner while the sample is immobilized. Herein, we demonstrate a magnetic bead-based, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using ~60 nL of human interleukin-6 (IL-6) sample. The wash buffer was introduced in the form of a wall-less virtual electrowetting channel by a syringe pump at the flow rate of 10 μL/min with ~100% bead retention rate. Critical parameters such as sample wash flow rate and bead retention rate were optimized for reliable assay results. A colorimetric readout was analyzed in the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) color space without the need for costly equipment. The concepts presented in this work are potentially applicable in rapid neonatal disease screening using a finger prick blood sample in a DMF platform.

Abstract 5365: Combining enzymatic DNA fragmentation with NGS library construction results in high quality, high yield libraries

Abstract The use of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of human genetics, identifying the molecular events that contribute to human disease, and supporting drug development targeted towards precision medicine. Continued advancement relies on overcoming the limitations and bottlenecks associated with NGS. In this work, we have focused on NGS library preparation, where the requirement for expensive equipment and numerous steps can lead to sample loss, errors, and limited throughput. Specifically, we have developed a library construction method that integrates enzymatic DNA fragmentation into the workflow and combines fragmentation with end repair and dA-tailing in a single step. Integrating these reactions eliminates the need for costly equipment to shear DNA and reduces the number of sample transfers and losses. Adaptor ligation is also carried out in the same tube, after which a single cleanup step is performed. For low input samples, PCR amplification is performed prior to sequencing. This method is compatible with a broad range of DNA inputs and insert sizes. Libraries generated using this streamlined method with inputs ranging from 500 pg to 500 ng of intact DNA show no significant difference in coverage uniformity or sequence quality metrics, compared to libraries generated with mechanically sheared DNA. Similarly, libraries generated to contain insert sizes that range from 150bp to 1kb display no significant difference in sequence quality from each other or from those generated with mechanically sheared DNA. Finally, this streamlined method generates libraries of substantially higher yields than those generated using mechanically fragmented DNA, allowing the use of lower DNA inputs and fewer PCR cycles. The ability to generate high quality NGS libraries from intact DNA without the need for costly equipment and numerous cleanup or liquid transfer steps substantially reduces the time, cost and errors associated with library construction. In addition, these advances will enable greater use and adoption of NGS technologies in clinical and diagnostic settings. Citation Format: Fiona Stewart, Lynne Apone, Vaishnavi Panchapakesa, Karen Duggan, Timur Shtatland, Bradley Langhorst, John Murdoch, Christine Sumner, Christine Rozzi, Pingfang Liu, Keerthana Krishnan, Deyra Rodriguez, Joanna Bybee, Danielle Rivizzigno, Laurie Mazzola, Eileen Dimalanta, Theodore Davis. Combining enzymatic DNA fragmentation with NGS library construction results in high quality, high yield libraries [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 5365. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-5365

Identifying the third dimension in 2D fluoroscopy to create 3D cardiac maps.

Three-dimensional cardiac mapping is important for optimal visualization of the heart during cardiac ablation for the treatment of certain arrhythmias. However, many hospitals and clinics worldwide cannot afford the high cost of the current mapping systems. We set out to determine if, using predefined algorithms, comparable 3D cardiac maps could be created by a new device that relies on data generated from single-plane fluoroscopy and patient recording and monitoring systems, without the need for costly equipment, infrastructure changes, or specialized catheters. The study included phantom and animal experiments to compare the prototype test device, Navik 3D, with the existing CARTO 3 System. The primary endpoint directly compared: (a) the 3D distance between the Navik 3D-simulated ablation location and the back-projected ground truth location of the pacing and mapping catheter electrode, and (b) the same distance for CARTO. The study's primary objective was considered met if the 95% confidence lower limit was greater than 0.75% for the Navik 3D-CARTO difference between the 2 distances, or less than or equal to 2 mm. Study results showed that the Navik 3D performance was equivalent to the CARTO system, and that accurate 3D cardiac maps can be created using data from equipment that already exists in all electrophysiology labs.

Hydrothermal growth of textured BaxSr1−xTiO3 films composed of nanowires

A novel method for synthesis of Barium Strontium Titanate (BST) films with a high degree of texture is developed with a two-step hydrothermal reaction and without the need for costly equipment. The dielectric constant and ferroelectric properties of the film can be tuned by varying the Ba : Sr molar ratio of the materials. The maximum ambient temperature dielectric constant of these BST films can reach 811 when the Ba molar fraction ("x" in BaxSr1-xTiO3) is 0.71, which corresponds with the tetragonal to cubic phase transition of the solid solution. The ferroelectric behavior of the Ba0.91Sr0.09TiO3 film is confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM).

Transparent Adult Zebrafish as a Tool for In Vivo Transplantation Analysis

The zebrafish is a useful model for understanding normal and cancer stem cells, but analysis has been limited to embryogenesis due to the opacity of the adult fish. To address this, we have created a transparent adult zebrafish in which we transplanted either hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells or tumor cells. In a hematopoiesis radiation recovery assay, transplantation of GFP-labeled marrow cells allowed for striking in vivo visual assessment of engraftment from 2 hr-5 weeks posttransplant. Using FACS analysis, both transparent and wild-type fish had equal engraftment, but this could only be visualized in the transparent recipient. In a tumor engraftment model, transplantation of RAS-melanoma cells allowed for visualization of tumor engraftment, proliferation, and distant metastases in as little as 5 days, which is not seen in wild-type recipients until 3 to 4 weeks. This transparent adult zebrafish serves as the ideal combination of both sensitivity and resolution for in vivo stem cell analyses.

Combined histochemistry and autofluorescence for identifying lignin distribution in cell walls

Histological staining methods commonly used for detecting cellulose and lignin in cell walls were combined with epifluorescence microscopy to visualize differences in lignification between and within cellular elements. We tested our approach on sections of one-year-old branches of Fraxinus ornus L., Myrtus communis L., Olea europaea L., Pistacia lentiscus L. and Rhamnus alaternus L., containing both normal and tension wood. Sections were subjected to various staining techniques, viz. safranin O, safranin O/fast green FCF, and alcoholic solutions of safranin O/astra blue, according to the commonly accepted protocols. Stained and unstained sections were compared using both light and epifluorescence microscopy. Safranin O with or without counterstaining hid the strong fluorescence of vessel walls, cell corners and middle lamellae allowing the secondary wall fibers to fluoresce more clearly. Epifluorescence microscopy applied to stained sections showed more cell wall details than autofluorescence of unstained sections or white light microscopy of counterstained sections. This simple approach proved reliable and valuable for detecting differences in lignification in thick sections without the need for costly equipment.

06/01286 Characteristics of a series-connected two-evaporator refrigerating system: Li, C.-J. and Su, C.-C. Applied Thermal Engineering, 2005, 25, (4), 519–532

A composite radiant wall panel was developed, which collectively performs heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning tasks at moderate temperatures such that low-enthalpy energy resources can be directly utilized. This technology eliminates the need for costly equipment over sizing and supply temperature conditioning, which are all associated with conventional heating and air-conditioning systems if low-enthalpy energy resources are to be used. An analytical life cycle cost minimization algorithm was used to optimize the new technology, which can cluster heat pipes, heat pumps, wind turbines, solar collectors, and desiccant cooling units around it using any waste or alternative energy source. Results indicate that with an optimum design, wherever low-enthalpy energy resources are readily available, this system may cost effectively reduce the fossil fuel dependency and harmful emissions of buildings.

06/01294 Impact of refrigerant flowing resistance on active carbon-ammonia adsorption refrigeration cycle: Wang, W. et al. Applied Thermal Engineering, 2005, 25, (2–3), 451–460

A composite radiant wall panel was developed, which collectively performs heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning tasks at moderate temperatures such that low-enthalpy energy resources can be directly utilized. This technology eliminates the need for costly equipment over sizing and supply temperature conditioning, which are all associated with conventional heating and air-conditioning systems if low-enthalpy energy resources are to be used. An analytical life cycle cost minimization algorithm was used to optimize the new technology, which can cluster heat pipes, heat pumps, wind turbines, solar collectors, and desiccant cooling units around it using any waste or alternative energy source. Results indicate that with an optimum design, wherever low-enthalpy energy resources are readily available, this system may cost effectively reduce the fossil fuel dependency and harmful emissions of buildings.

Cost optimization of a hybrid HVAC system with composite radiant wall panels

A composite radiant wall panel was developed, which collectively performs heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning tasks at moderate temperatures such that low-enthalpy energy resources can be directly utilized. This technology eliminates the need for costly equipment over sizing and supply temperature conditioning, which are all associated with conventional heating and air-conditioning systems if low-enthalpy energy resources are to be used. An analytical life cycle cost minimization algorithm was used to optimize the new technology, which can cluster heat pipes, heat pumps, wind turbines, solar collectors, and desiccant cooling units around it using any waste or alternative energy source. Results indicate that with an optimum design, wherever low-enthalpy energy resources are readily available, this system may cost effectively reduce the fossil fuel dependency and harmful emissions of buildings.

Dynamic Response Indicators of Heat Stress in Shaded and Non-shaded Feedlot Cattle, Part 1: Analyses of Indicators

Heat stress in feedlot cattle can cause decreases in feed intake and growth, and in extreme cases may result in death. Providing shade during hot weather has shown inconsistent results, reducing direct and indirect losses in some areas of the United States, but not in others. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the dynamic responses of feedlot cattle to environmental conditions with and without access to shade, and to determine the most appropriate physiological measurement for monitoring feedlot cattle during hot weather as a guide for improved management. Eight crossbred steers (initially weighing 294·7±10·8 kg) were randomly assigned to one of eight individual pens, where one of two treatments were applied: shade access, or no-shade access. Respiration rate, daily feed intake, and core body temperature were collected, using automated systems during eight periods, for a total of 37 days. The data were analysed using four categories of daily maximum temperature humidity index (maximum I TH ) values (Normal for maximum I TH <74; alert for 74⩽ maximum I TH <78; Danger for 78⩽maximum I TH <84; Emergency for maximum I TH ⩾84). Shade was found to impact the physiological responses in all I TH categories, with the largest impacts in the Danger and Emergency categories. Shade lowered respiration rate and core body temperature during the peak temperature hours of the day. It was concluded that respiration rate is the most appropriate indicator of thermal stress to monitor because it was consistently affected in all I TH categories, it is easy to monitor without the need for costly equipment, and there is little or no lag associated with it.