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Lack of Globulin Synthesis during Seed Development Alters Accumulation of Seed Storage Proteins in Rice
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Hye-Jung Lee
Full Text Available The major seed storage proteins (SSPs in rice seeds have been classified into three types, glutelins, prolamins, and globulin, and the proportion of each SSP varies. It has been shown in rice mutants that when either glutelins or prolamins are defective, the expression of another type of SSP is promoted to counterbalance the deficit. However, we observed reduced abundances of glutelins and prolamins in dry seeds of a globulin-deficient rice mutant (Glb-RNAi, which was generated with RNA interference (RNAi-induced suppression of globulin expression. The expression of the prolamin and glutelin subfamily genes was reduced in the immature seeds of Glb-RNAi lines compared with those in wild type. A proteomic analysis of Glb-RNAi seeds showed that the reductions in glutelin and prolamin were conserved at the protein level. The decreased pattern in glutelin was also significant in the presence of a reductant, suggesting that the polymerization of the glutelin proteins via intramolecular disulfide bonds could be interrupted in Glb-RNAi seeds. We also observed aberrant and loosely packed structures in the storage organelles of Glb-RNAi seeds, which may be attributable to the reductions in SSPs. In this study, we evaluated the role of rice globulin in seed development, showing that a deficiency in globulin could comprehensively reduce the expression of other SSPs.
11S Storage globulin from pumpkin seeds: regularities of proteolysis by papain.
Rudakova, A S; Rudakov, S V; Kakhovskaya, I A; Shutov, A D
Limited proteolysis of the ?- and ?-chains and deep cleavage of the ??-subunits by the cooperative (one-by-one) mechanism was observed in the course of papain hydrolysis of cucurbitin, an 11S storage globulin from seeds of the pumpkin Cucurbita maxima. An independent analysis of the kinetics of the limited and cooperative proteolyses revealed that the reaction occurs in two successive steps. In the first step, limited proteolysis consisting of detachments of short terminal peptides from the ?- and ?-chains was observed. The cooperative proteolysis, which occurs as a pseudo-first order reaction, started at the second step. Therefore, the limited proteolysis at the first step plays a regulatory role, impacting the rate of deep degradation of cucurbitin molecules by the cooperative mechanism. Structural alterations of cucurbitin induced by limited proteolysis are suggested to generate its susceptibility to cooperative proteolysis. These alterations are tentatively discussed on the basis of the tertiary structure of the cucurbitin subunit pdb|2EVX in comparison with previously obtained data on features of degradation of soybean 11S globulin hydrolyzed by papain. PMID:25365492
Proteolytic Cleavage at Twin Arginine Residues Affects Structural and Functional Transitions of Lupin Seed 11S Storage Globulin
Capraro, Jessica; Sessa, Fabio; Magni, Chiara; Scarafoni, Alessio; Maffioli, Elisa; Tedeschi, Gabriella; Croy, Ron R. D.; Duranti, Marcello
The 11S storage globulin of white lupin seeds binds to a metal affinity chromatography matrix. Two unusual stretches of contiguous histidine residues, reminiscent of the multiple histidines forming metal binding motifs, at the C-terminal end of 11S globulin acidic chains were hypothesized as candidate elements responsible for the binding capacity. To prove this, the protein was incubated with a lupin seed endopeptidase previously shown to cleave at twin arginine motifs, recurrent in the sequence region of interest. Upon incubation with this enzyme, the loss of metal binding capacity paralleled that of the anti-his-tag reactive polypeptides. The recovered small proteolytic fragment was analyzed by mass spectrometry and N-terminal sequencing and found to correspond to the 24-mer region cleaved off at twin arginine residues and containing the natural his-tag-like region. Similarly, when lupin seeds were germinated for a few days, the his-tag containing 11S globulin chain was converted to a form devoid of such region, suggesting that this mechanism is a part of the natural degradatory process of the protein. The hypothesis that the ordered and controlled dismantling of storage proteins may generate peptide fragments with potential functional roles in plant ontogenesis is presented and discussed. PMID:25658355
Effects of Storage Time on Total Protein and Globulin Concentrations in Bovine Fresh Frozen Plasma Obtained for Transfusion
Proverbio, D.; Spada, E.; Baggiani, L.; Bagnagatti De Giorgi, G.; Roggero, N.; Belloli, A.; Pravettoni, D.; Perego, R.
To evaluate the effects of storage conditions on total protein (TP) and globulin fractions in fresh frozen bovine plasma units prepared and stored for transfusion, TP and globulin fractions were evaluated in fresh plasma and at 1 month and 6 and 12 months after blood collection in plasma stored at ?20°C. Significant differences in concentrations were found in the median concentration of total protein (P = 0.0336), between 0 months and 1 month (P = 0.0108), 0 and 6 months (P = 0.0023), and 0 and 12 months (P = 0.0027), in mean concentration (g/dL) of albumin (P = 0.0394), between 0 months and 1 month (P = 0.0131), 0 and 6 months (P = 0.0035), and 0 and 12 months (P = 0.0038), and beta-2 fraction (P = 0.0401), between 0 and 6 months (P = 0.0401) and 0 and 12 months (P = 0.0230). This study suggests that total gamma globulin concentration in bovine frozen plasma is stable for 12 months at ?20°C. Total protein, ALB, and beta-2 fraction have significantly different concentrations (g/dL) when compared to prestorage. This study has shown IgG protein fraction stability in bovine fresh frozen plasma collected for transfusion; therefore, bovine fresh frozen plasma seems to be suitable for the treatment of hypogammaglobulinemia (failure of passive transfer) in calves when stored for 12 months at ?20°C. PMID:25767825
Diversification of 13S globulins, allergenic seed storage proteins, of common buckwheat.
Sano, Madoka; Nakagawa, Mariko; Oishi, Akifumi; Yasui, Yasuo; Katsube-Tanaka, Tomoyuki
The ? polypeptide of the 13S globulin subunit of common buckwheat is the counterpart of the major allergenic ? polypeptide. Trypsin digestibility varies between variants of the ? polypeptide with and without a tandem repeat insert. To evaluate the intra-species diversity of 13S globulin, the comprehensive screening of a genomic DNA library was performed, resulting in the isolation of 14 and 3 genes for Met-poor and Met-rich subunits, respectively. Although most tandem repeat units were 45 bp in length, the two-repeat gene Glb2B and all one-repeat genes contained an additional 3 bp. Secondary structure predictions and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the sense strand of Glb2B-CCG, the additional 3 bp-deletion clone of Glb2B, formed a more rigid secondary structure than that of the wild-type. Thus, the large intra-species variation of 13S globulin revealed in this study and its diversification might be attributable to the unique nature of the tandem repeat sequences. PMID:24594174
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
... as: Testosterone-estrogen Binding Globulin; TeBG Formal name: Sex Hormone Binding Globulin Related tests: Testosterone , Free Testosterone, ... Get Tested? To evaluate whether the concentration of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is affecting the amount ...
The molecular biology and biochemistry of rice endosperm ?-globulin
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The author's first objective was to isolate a cDNA clone that encodes the rice endosperm ?-globulin. Purified antibodies against a rice storage protein, ?-globulin, were used to screen a ?gt11 cDNA expression library constructed from immature rice seed endosperm. The cDNA insert of clone 4A1 (identified by antibody screening) was used as a probe to identify long cDNA inserts in the library. The deduced amino acid sequence of clone A3-12 cDNA insert (identified by cDNA screening) contained the amino acid sequences of three cyanogen bromide peptides fragment of ?-globulin. The calculated molecular weight and amino acid composition of the deduced amino acid sequence were similar to the ?-globulin protein. Northern blot analysis indicated that mRNA of one size, approximately 1.0 kb, is expressed. Southern genomic blot analysis revealed one band with EcoRI or Hind III digestion. Cell-free translation and immunoprecipitation showed that the initial translation product is approximately 2,000 daltons larger than the mature protein. The amino acid sequence of ?-globulin revealed limited regions of similarities with wheat storage proteins. The author concludes that the cDNA insert in clone A3-12 contained the entire coding region of ?-globulin protein and that ?-globulin is encoded by a single gene. My second objective was to inhibit the degradation of ?-globulin in the salt extract of rice flour. The salt extract of rice flour contained an acid protease whose optimal d an acid protease whose optimal pH was 3 for 3H-casein hydrolysis. A polypeptide with molecular weight of 20,000 was immunologically reactive with ?-globulin antibodies and is produced by limited proteolysis in the extract. Pepstatin inhibited the proteolysis of 3H-casein and slowed the proteolysis of ?-globulin
Vicilins (7S storage globulins) of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) seeds bind to chitinous structures of the midgut of Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) larvae
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
M.P., Sales; P.P., Pimenta; N.S., Paes; M.F., Grossi-de-Sá; J., Xavier-Filho.
Full Text Available The presence of chitin in midgut structures of Callosobruchus maculatus larvae was shown by chemical and immunocytochemical methods. Detection by Western blotting of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) seed vicilins (7S storage proteins) bound to these structures suggested that C. maculatus-susceptible vicil [...] ins presented less staining when compared to C. maculatus-resistant vicilins. Storage proteins present in the microvilli in the larval midgut of the bruchid were recognized by immunolabeling of vicilins in the appropriate sections with immunogold conjugates. These labeling sites coincided with the sites labeled by an anti-chitin antibody. These results, taken together with those previously published showing that the lower rates of hydrolysis of variant vicilins from C. maculatus-resistant seeds by the insect's midgut proteinases and those showing that vicilins bind to chitin matrices, may explain the detrimental effects of variant vicilins on the development of C. maculatus larvae.
Purification of equine Gc-globulin
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Houen, Gunnar; Pihl, Tina Holberg
Objectives With the aim of producing antibodies for an equine Group specific component (Gc)-globulin assay, the protein was purified from normal equine plasma. Methods Equine Gc-globulin was purified from healthy horse plasma using ion exchange chromatography (Q-Sepharose, CM-Sepharose) and preparative PAGE. Results Equine Gc-globulin has successfully been purified from healthy horse plasma and rabbits and mice are being immunized to produce specific antibodies. Conclusions Purification of equine Gc-globulin and the production of specific antibodies will make it possible to develop an assay for measuring Gc-globulin in horses. Studies in rodents and humans have shown that Gc-globulin is a multifunctional acute phase plasma protein, which removes actin from the blood by binding it and facilitating its clearance from the circulation by the liver. As such, Gc-globulin prevents hyper coagulation, shock and death in human patients with massive actin release caused by severe tissue injuries like physical trauma, sepsis, endotoxemia, or liver failure. Gc-globulin is consumed in this process, and the plasma concentration of free Gc-globulin hence decreases rapidly after tissue injury and has shown to be a sensitive marker of acute tissue injury and fatal outcome in humans. Patients with a low plasma concentration of Gc-globulin due to severe tissue injury might potentially benefit from infusions with purified Gc-globulin [1]. With an equine Gc-globulin assay, future studies will investigate the concentration of Gc-globulin in colic horses with intestinal ischemia were Gc-globulin might be useful as a diagnostic and prognostic marker. Horses with intestinal ischemia often die, despite of expensive surgical treatment, because of endotoxemia and shock, therefore these horses potentially could benefit from Gc-globulin infusions.
Schiřdt, Frank Vinholt
This doctoral thesis is based on seven previously published papers and reports on the role of the actin-scavenger Gc-globulin in acute and chronic liver diseases. Gc-globulin is synthesized in the liver and is a multifunctional protein; however, its main physiologic function is presumably actin binding and actin scavenging. Actin is a major cellular protein released during cell necrosis that may cause fatal formation of actin-containing thrombi in the circulation if the actin scavenging capacity of Gc-globulin is exceeded. In my studies, I found serum Gc-globulin levels to be reduced in liver disease, most so in patients with acute liver failure (ALF). In patients admitted with acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose, Gc-globulin concentrations were lower in patients with hepatic encephalopathy than in those without and the levels nadired at approximately 60-72 hours after acetaminophen ingestion, corresponding with the peak in aminotransferese levels (and thus, hepatic necrosis). In patients with ALF, admission Gc-globulin was significantly lower in 47 nonsurvivors than in 30 survivors, 26% and 46% of normal, respectively (P<0.001). The predictive value of outcome using a Gc-globulin cutoff level of 100 mg/L equaled that of the internationally accepted King's College Hospital criteria. The prognostic value of Gc-globulin was confirmed in a separate study including 106 patients from the United States with nonacetaminophen-induced ALF now using an automated nephelometric assay whereas the prognostic value seemed less obvious for acetaminophen-induced ALF. Multiple organ failure (MOF) is a frequent complication of ALF. In ALF patients with deep coma (hepatic encephalopathy grade III or IV) Gc-globulin levels correlated inversely with the number of failing organs. Levels were lower in patients who later developed MOF than in those who did not. Surprisingly, kinetic studies in patients with ALF and acute on chronic liver disease showed Gc-globulin production to be 7-fold increased in these conditions. Despite this increase Gc-globulin levels were severely reduced and the reduction must therefore be due to a highly increased consumption of Gc-globulin - probably because of hepatocyte necrosis and removal from the circulation of Gc-globulin:actin complexes or because of its role in immune-related functions. Patients with chronic liver disease had reduced Gc-globulin levels, but the reduction was less pronounced than in ALF. After liver transplantation, Gc-globulin concentrations normalized within two weeks, in contrast to the continuous decrease in albumin levels suggesting a very different regulation of these two phylogenetically related proteins. It remains to be studied if lack of Gc-globulin contributes to the pathogenesis of patients with ALF or chronic liver disease. Future studies should focus on the potential value of Gc-globulin substitution in these patients. PMID:19232164
Structural and functional analysis of various globulin proteins from soy seed.
Singh, Amandeep; Meena, Megha; Kumar, Dhiraj; Dubey, Ashok K; Hassan, Md Imtaiyaz
Storage proteins of soybean mostly consist of globulins, which are classified according to their sedimentation coefficient. Among 4 major types: 2S, 7S, 11S, and 15S of globulins, 7S and 11S constitute major fraction. The 11S fraction consists only of glycinin and 7S fraction majorly consists of ?-conglycinin, small amounts of ?-conglycinin and basic 7S globulin (Bg7S). Glycinin exist as a hexamer while ?-conglycinin as a trimer and Bg7S as a tetramer. Glycinin subunits are coded by 5 genes of a family, whereas about 15 genes are present for ?-conglycinin subunits. Bg7S gene is present in four copies in soybean genome. Synthesis of all proteins takes place as a single polypeptide chain, which is cleaved after folding to yield different chains or subunits. Glycinin and ?-Conglycinin are made for storage purpose. However, Bg7S has potential xylanase inhibition activity and protein kinase activity. Primary structure of Bg7S reveals 12 conserved cysteine residues involved in forming 6 disulfide bonds, which provides appreciable stability to protein. Secondary structure is predominately rich in ?-sheets with few alpha helices. Bg7S shares structural similarity with various aspartic-proteases. In this review, our aim is to discuss sequence, structure, and function of various globulins present in Glycine max. PMID:24915310
Regulation of the globulins of lupin seed
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Seeds of Lupinus angustifolius contain three globulins, conglutins ?, ?, ? with methionine contents of 0.2, 0.0 and 1.3%, which can be resolved and estimated by electrophoresis on cellulose acetate. It is suggested that a significant improvement in sulphur-amino acid content of lupin seed could be achieved by selecting varieties rich in conglutins ? and ?. This lupin, grown in the virtual absence of sulphate and visibly sulphur deficients, produces viable seeds with about the normal protein content but with most of the usual conglutins ? and ? replaced by conglutin ?. As would be expected, these seeds are very low in methionine because they contain mostly conglutin ?. This appears to be the first report of a dramatic change in the proportions of individual legume globulins following manipulation of plant nutrition. (author)
Crystallization of seed globulins from legumes.
Hennig, M; Schlesier, B
Seeds contain large quantities of proteins and are therefore main food sources. In the last century, protein extracts of legume seeds were dialysed against distilled water and in some cases small crystals of pure protein appeared. However, those crystals were generally of poor quality with respect to X-ray diffraction. Recently, the crystallization of some of them was improved and the structures of two 7S globulins, phaseolin from Phaseolus vulgaris and canavalin from Canavalia ensiformis, have been determined at 3.0 and 2.6 A resolution, respectively. Efforts to improve the quality of the phaseolin crystals resulted in three new crystal forms which will be discussed in this paper. The only high-resolution X-ray analysis of a seed globulin from legumes is that of narbonin, a 2S protein from Vicia narbonensis. The crystal structure at 1.8 A shows a very compact packing in layers of molecules. The intermolecular contacts include salt bridges and hydrophobic clusters that might facilitate both the aggregation of the molecules and their crystallization. Because the seed globulins appear in large quantities in the protein bodies of the seeds, efficient packing of the molecules similar to the crystal packing can be assumed. PMID:15299427
Contrasting globulin and cysteine proteinase gene expression patterns reveal fundamental developmental differences between zygotic and somatic embryos of oil palm.
Aberlenc-Bertossi, Frédérique; Chabrillange, Nathalie; Duval, Yves; Tregear, James
Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) somatic embryos differ from zygotic embryos in that they accumulate only small amounts of storage proteins. We compared the balance between deposition and degradation of storage proteins during zygotic or somatic embryogenesis and germinative growth in the two types of embryos. During mid to late zygotic embryogenesis, storage proteins accumulated and globulin 7S (GLO7A) gene transcripts were detected, whereas neither protease activity nor cysteine proteinase (CPR) gene transcripts were detected. Globulin degradation occurred after 8 days of in vitro germination in zygotic embryos and was accompanied by a decrease in GLO7A transcripts. Transcripts of three cysteine proteinase genes of the papain family were detected as early as Day 2 of in vitro germination. Several proteolytically active protein bands were identified by zymography, and CPR-like proteins were detected with an antibody raised against the Vicia sativa L. cysteine proteinase CPR1. Protease activities and CPR-like proteins were observed from Day 8 onward when globulin degradation occurred. During somatic embryogenesis and subsequent germinative growth, only small amounts of storage proteins accumulated, even though GLO7A transcripts were detected. Two of the three cysteine proteinase genes were expressed throughout both somatic embryogenesis and germinative growth. Protease activities and CPR-like protein species were detected in somatic embryos at several developmental stages. In contrast to zygotic embryogenesis, the accumulation of globulins and their subsequent mobilization appear to be concomitant processes during somatic embryogenesis, which could explain the low accumulation of storage proteins in somatic embryos. PMID:18519247
Genetics Home Reference: Inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency
... conditions appear to be more common in the Australian Aborigine population and in the Bedouin population of ... for Health Professionals What glossary definitions help with understanding inherited thyroxine-binding globulin deficiency? cell ; chromosome ; deficiency ; ...
Multiple Vacuolar Sorting Determinants Exist in Soybean 11S Globulin
Maruyama, Nobuyuki; Mun, Leong Ching; Tatsuhara, Miyuki; Sawada, Machiko; Ishimoto, Masao; Utsumi, Shigeru
The sorting determinants of glycinin, a soybean (Glycine max) 11S globulin, which mediates protein targeting to the protein storage vacuole (PSV), were investigated in maturing soybean cotyledons by transient expression assays. A C-terminal stretch of 10 amino acids of A1aB1b, a glycinin group I subunit, was sufficient to direct green fluorescent protein (GFP) to the PSV. This peptide may correspond to a C-terminal vacuolar sorting determinant (ctVSD). Because functional inhibition of this putative ctVSD of A1aB1b did not block PSV sorting of A1aB1b, we used the three-dimensional structure of A1aB1b to identify candidates for a sequence-specific determinant (ssVSD). We found that the sequence downstream of disordered region 4 could direct GFP to the PSV and that Ile-297 is critical for sorting. However, functional inhibition of the ctVSD, combined with the Ile297Gly mutation, did not abolish the vacuolar sorting of A1aB1b, suggesting that A1aB1b has a third sorting determinant in addition to ctVSD and ssVSD. A glycinin group II subunit, A3B4, lacked a ctVSD but contained a VSD reminiscent of an ssVSD and an additional sorting determinant. We also demonstrate, by expression of dominant negative mutants of small GTPases and drug treatment experiments, that the trafficking of A1aB1b is COPII vesicle–dependent and wortmannin- and brefeldin A–sensitive. PMID:16617100
In vivo effects of horse and rabbit antithymocyte globulin in patients with severe aplastic anemia.
Feng, Xingmin; Scheinberg, Phillip; Biancotto, Angelique; Rios, Olga; Donaldson, Sarah; Wu, Colin; Zheng, Haiyun; Sato, Kazuya; Townsley, Danielle M; McCoy, J Philip; Young, Neal S
We recently reported that rabbit antithymocyte globulin was markedly inferior to horse antithymocyte globulin as a primary treatment for severe aplastic anemia. Here we expand on our findings in this unique cohort of patients. Rabbit antithymocyte globulin was detectable in plasma for longer periods than horse antithymocyte globulin; rabbit antithymocyte globulin in plasma retained functional capacity to bind to lymphocytes for up to 1 month, horse antithymocyte globulin for only about 2 weeks. In the first week after treatment there were much lower numbers of neutrophils in patients treated with rabbit antithymocyte globulin than in patients receiving horse antithymocyte globulin. Both antithymocyte globulins induced a "cytokine storm" in the first 2 days after administration. Compared with horse antithymocyte globulin, rabbit antithymocyte globulin was associated with higher levels of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 4 during the first 3 weeks. Besides a much lower absolute number and a lower relative frequency of CD4(+) T cells, rabbit antithymocyte globulin induced higher frequencies of CD4(+)CD38(+), CD3(+)CD4(-)CD8(-) T cells, and B cells than did horse antithymocyte globulin. Serum sickness occurred around 2 weeks after infusion of both types of antithymocyte globulin. Human anti-antithymocyte globulin antibodies, especially of the IgM subtype, correlated with serum sickness, which appeared concurrently with clearance of antithymocyte globulin in blood and with the production of cytokines. In conclusion, rabbit and horse antithymocyte globulins have very different pharmacokinetics and effects on neutrophils, lymphocyte subsets, and cytokine release. These differences may be related to their efficacy in suppressing the immune system and restoring hematopoiesis in bone marrow failure. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT00260689. PMID:24907357
Characterisation of different digestion susceptibility of lupin seed globulins.
Czubinski, Jaroslaw; Dwiecki, Krzysztof; Siger, Aleksander; Neunert, Grazyna; Lampart-Szczapa, Eleonora
This study describes in vitro digestion of lupin seed globulins by pancreatin, trypsin and chymotrypsin. Lupin seed globulins turned out to be almost totally susceptible to chymotrypsin digestion. When panceratin or trypsin were used for digestion of lupin seed globulins, ?-conglutin appeared to be resistant to proteolysis. Different fluorescence spectroscopic methods such as fluorescence anisotropy, fluorescence lifetimes and fluorescence quenching measurements were used for detailed characterisation of this phenomenon. A potential reason for ?-conglutin insensitivity to digestion may be related to the fact that lysine, as well as arginine, are positively charged at cell physiological pH. Simultaneously, flavonoids at this pH are partially ionised, which may lead to the occurrence of ionic interactions between these molecules at pH 7.5. The confirmation of this explanation may be the fact that ?-conglutin and vitexin form a static complex, which was observed using fluorescence quenching measurements. PMID:24054261
SERS spectroscopy and multivariate analysis of globulin in human blood
Wang, J.; Zeng, Y. Y.; Lin, J. Q.; Lin, L.; Wang, X. C.; Chen, G. N.; Huang, Z. F.; Li, B. H.; Zeng, H. S.; Chen, R.
Globulin plays a significant role in body processes, acts as an important marker for disease diagnosis and determines blood type. Moreover, recent reports about the strong association between cancer risk and blood type imply that further studying these relationships may yield new findings on the biological mechanisms of tumorigenesis. In this paper, we propose and evaluate the efficacy of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for the determination of this important globulin derived from human blood. Comparing globulins from different blood types by utilizing SERS spectroscopy and multivariate analysis, we show that primary structures of globulins from different blood types are similar to each other, but subtle differences in structures which may be vital for determining blood type are still observed. The abilities of globulins from different blood types to approach silver surfaces seem to differ, which also indicates that there are structural differences in blood type related globulins. Furthermore, this method differentiates blood type A from type B, type A from type O, type B from type O, type AB from type A, type AB from type B, and type AB from type O with sensitivities and specificities as follows: (90.0%, 95.0%), (80.0%, 83.9%), (95.0%, 90.3%), (97.3%, 96.7%), (94.6%, 95.5%), (100%, 100%), suggesting a potential feasibility for use in blood type identification. Our method sheds new light on blood type analysis, paves the way for the study of relationships between cancer risk and blood types, and expands the flexibility of SERS for useful applications in the life sciences.
21 CFR 866.5160 - Beta-globulin immunolog-ical test system.
...beta globulins (serum protein) in serum and other body fluids. Beta -globulin proteins include beta -lipoprotein, transferrin, glycoproteins, and complement, and are rarely associated with specific pathologic disorders. (b)...
Treatment of neonatal sepsis with intravenous immune globulin
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Brocklehurst, Peter; Farrell, Barbara
Neonatal sepsis is a major cause of death and complications despite antibiotic treatment. Effective adjunctive treatments are needed. Newborn infants are relatively deficient in endogenous immunoglobulin. Meta-analyses of trials of intravenous immune globulin for suspected or proven neonatal sepsis suggest a reduced rate of death from any cause, but the trials have been small and have varied in quality.
Progressive vaccinia treated with ribavirin and vaccinia immune globulin.
Kesson, A M; Ferguson, J K; Rawlinson, W D; Cunningham, A L
A 67-year-old man with metastatic melanoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia was inadvertently given a vaccinia melanoma oncolysate vaccination. He developed progressive vaccinia at the site of inoculation. The lesion started to heal only when he was treated with ribavirin. Vaccinia immune globulin was administered and appeared to help control the initial lesion and limit the development of satellite lesions. PMID:9356807
Changes of gamma-globulin optical spectra and possible mechanisms of its physiological action in organism under gamma-irradiation
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Effect of gamma-radiation on the solutions of bull gamma-globulin (?-Gl) is studied. 57Co source with the rate of gamma radiation 630 Gy/h was used for irradiation. Absorption spectra and their derivatives of high orders (SHOD) were recorded in numerical form by means of UV-VIS-spectrophotometer based on a computer. It is shown that SHOD firstly described in this work are the prospective method for characteristics of the state of ?-Gl preparations, assessment of the presence of impurities in them, and revealing the structural alterations in ?-Gl during storage or under environmental emergency conditions
Rabbit antithymocyte globulin versus horse antithymocyte globulin for treatment of acquired aplastic anemia: a retrospective analysis.
Vallejo, Carlos; Montesinos, Pau; Polo, Marta; Cuevas, Beatriz; Morado, Marta; Rosell, Ana; Xicoy, Blanca; Díez, José L; Salamero, Olga; Cedillo, Ángel; Martínez, Pablo; Rayón, Consolación
Studies comparing rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG) and horse ATG (hATG) in patients with aplastic anemia (AA) have shown conflicting results. These studies included fewer than 60 subjects in the rATG arm with relatively short follow-up. A total of 169 patients treated with rATG and 62 treated with hATG were included in this retrospective analysis, across 33 centers. Patients were treated with rATG or hATG plus cyclosporine A. Over half were classified, as having severe AA (SAA) or very severe AA (VSAA), and the mean follow-up was 45 months. There was no significant difference detected in cumulative response to treatment or survival between the rATG and hATG groups. The response to treatment was 63 % in the rATG group versus 66 % in the hATG group at 3 months. By 12 months, this pattern had reversed, and 84 % of rATG patients had responded to treatment versus 76 % in the hATG group (n.s.). Early mortality due to infection tended to be higher with rATG compared to hATG (n.s). rATG and hATG would seem to be therapeutically equivalent in SAA and VSAA. However, patients treated with rATG may take longer to respond than those treated with hATG and may also require more active prevention of early infections. PMID:25672649
Pregnancy discovered after smallpox vaccination: Is vaccinia immune globulin appropriate?
Napolitano, Peter G; Ryan, Margaret A K; Grabenstein, John D
Smallpox vaccination just before conception or during pregnancy can result, in rare instances, in fetal vaccinia from viral infection of the fetus. Approximately 50 cases have been documented, despite literally billions of people having been vaccinated. This live viral vaccine has a wider array of rare but serious medical side effects (eg, eczema vaccinatum, progressive vaccinia, encephalitis, myopericarditis) compared with other vaccines that are given currently to the public. In response to recent world events, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United States Department of Defense established a preoutbreak smallpox vaccination program. Because no actual outbreak has yet occurred, some investigators have proposed prophylactic treatment with vaccinia immune globulin for pregnancies that are exposed to smallpox vaccine to prevent fetal vaccinia. We review the existing medical literature to access the risks of fetal vaccinia in these pregnancies and the controversy regarding the prophylactic use of vaccinia immune globulin. PMID:15592266
Towards Engineering Hormone-Binding Globulins as Drug Delivery Agents
Chan, Wee Lee; Zhou, Aiwu; Read, Randy J.
The treatment of many diseases such as cancer requires the use of drugs that can cause severe side effects. Off-target toxicity can often be reduced simply by directing the drugs specifically to sites of diseases. Amidst increasingly sophisticated methods of targeted drug delivery, we observed that Nature has already evolved elegant means of sending biological molecules to where they are needed. One such example is corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), the major carrier of the anti-inflammat...
Cutaneous Finding in Anti Thymocyte Globulin Induced Serum Sickness
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Mehran Karimi
Full Text Available Polyclonal anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG is used as an immunosuppressive agent in the treatment of aplastic anemia (AA. Serum sickness is a recognized side effect of ATG. We observed abnormal skin manifestation in patient with aplastic anemia who had been treated with ATG. We conclude that abnormal immune function caused by aplastic anemia and ATG and corticosteroids may aggravate the signs of serum sickness.
Cutaneous Finding in Anti Thymocyte Globulin Induced Serum Sickness
Mehran Karimi; Seyed Hesamedin Nabavizadeh; Reza Amin
Polyclonal anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) is used as an immunosuppressive agent in the treatment of aplastic anemia (AA). Serum sickness is a recognized side effect of ATG. We observed abnormal skin manifestation in patient with aplastic anemia who had been treated with ATG. We conclude that abnormal immune function caused by aplastic anemia and ATG and corticosteroids may aggravate the signs of serum sickness.
Worsening Bradycardia Following Antithymocyte Globulin Treatment of Severe Aplastic Anemia
Godown, Justin; Deal, Allison M.; Riley, Kathy; Bailliard, Frederique; Blatt, Julie
Immunosuppressive regimens, which include antithymocyte globulin (ATG), are widely used for the treatment of severe aplastic anemia (SAA). However, bradycardia has been reported only as a rare side effect of ATG therapy in the manufacturer's product information and, in rare cases, in the adult literature. We present an adolescent with SAA and preexisting bradycardia who underwent immunosuppression therapy with ATG, methylprednisolone, and tacrolimus and developed profound sinus bradycardia wi...
Simplified method for measuring sex-hormone binding globulin
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
We describe a simple, rapid method for measurement of sex-hormone binding globulin. Serial dilutions of pregnancy serum are prepared in serum from males that has been pre-treated by heating to 60 degrees C for 1 h to destroy endogenous binding globulin, which is then determined by a long-used technique to yield a set of ''standards.'' In the assay itself, a fixed amount of [3H]-labeled and unlabeled dihydrotestosterone is incubated with standard or unknown, and the bound fraction precipitated with saturated ammonium sulfate. A plot of percent of the steroid bound vs standard dilution yields a sigmoid curve, from which the results in unknowns can be read by simple extrapolation. Within-assay CVs for pools of serum from men, women, and women in late pregnancy were 6.56, 9.59, and 8.4%, respectively. Between-assay CVs for the same pools were 8.05, 9.5, and 11.5%, respectively. The correlation between results obtained by this method and those of the older technique was 0.95 for samples from non-pregnant subjects and 0.73 for those from pregnant women. Our procedure is simpler and faster than previous methods and accurately measures the differences in the globulin in sera from men, women, and pregnant women. Forty to 50 samples can be assayed in a working day
The effect of 60Co gamma radiation on human serum gamma-globulin
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The effect of 60Co gamma radiation on human serum gamma-globulin was studied in vitro experiments. Solutions of 0.5 percent gamma-globulin were exposed to 0.2, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.9 Mrad doses 60Co gamma irradiation. Experiments showed that electrophoretic mobility of serum gamma-globulin decreased after gamma irradiation. No significant change in gamma-globulin UV absorption spectrum was observed at 0.2, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.9 Mrad doses. Gamma-globulin becomes progressively less soluble in water as the radiation doses is increased. Radiation induced transformation into insoluble gamma-globulin agregates and scission products. (author)
Gc globulin as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in horses : A Ph.d. project
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Pihl, Tina Holberg
Group specific (Gc) globulin also known as vitamin D-binding protein is part of the extracellular actin-scavenging system that removes actin from the circulation. Actin is an intracellular structural protein, which is released to blood in patients with tissue injury and cell death. Circulating actin forms filaments, which cause microthrombi and endothelial injury. These effects of circulating actin are extremely harmful, and high levels of free actin are potentially lethal. Gc-globulin binds to actin and removes it from the circulation via the reticuloendothelial system. Plasma concentrations of Gc-globulin decrease after conditions causing tissue injury and cell death, for example physical trauma, sepsis, experimentally induced endotoxemia or liver failure. In humans, decreases in Gc-globulin levels are observed within 60 minutes after trauma. Studies in humans and laboratory rodents have shown that very low concentration of plasma Gc-globulin are related to an increased risk of developing shock and lethal complications of trauma. Gc-globulin is thus a prognostic marker in intensive care medicine. It has been suggested that treatment with Gc-globulin to patients with severe tissue injury can prevent development of shock and thereby increase survival chances. The in vivo toxicity of Gc-globulin infusion is currently being investigated in horses and other species. Gc-globulin has been demonstrated in horse plasma and its structure closely resembles that of human Gc-globulin. Gc-globulin concentrations in horses under clinical conditions have never previously been investigated. The Ph.D. project focuses on Gc-globulin as a prognostic marker in horses with acute abdominal pain.
Nuzhat Sultana; Rahila Najam
This study assessed the effect of oral administration of Aloe vera and was to evaluate total serum protein, albumin and globulin concentrations as well as albumin / globulin (A / G) ratio. Twenty rabbits weighing 1000 – 1800 g were divided into 2 groups. Each group consisted of ten animals. One served as control and other group served as experimental group. Results show that animals after 07, 15 and 30 days dosing of Aloe vera showed highly significant decrease in total protein and globulin a...
Subcellular localization of the 2S globulin narbonin in seeds of Vicia narbonensis.
Steffens, P; Van, H N; Hillmer, S; Saalbach, I; Müntz, K
Narbonin is a 2S protein from the globulin fraction of narbon bean (Vicia narbonensis L.) cotyledons. Its amino acid composition and the pattern of its regulated accumulation in developing seeds led to the suggestion that narbonin could be a storage protein. Therefore, it was expected to be present in protein bodies of the storage tissue cells. Comparison of the cDNA-derived amino acid sequence with a directly determined partial N-terminal sequence revealed that the primary translation product of narbonin mRNA lacks a transient N-terminal signal peptide (V.H. Nong et al., 1995, Plant Mol Biol 28: 61 - 72). Narbonin polypeptides that had been synthesized in a cell-free translation system supplemented with dog pancreas microsomes were not protected against degradation by posttranslationally added proteases (protease protection assay). In accordance with the lack of a signal peptide this indicates that the polypeptide was not cotranslationally sequestered into the microsomes. The protein-body fraction that had been isolated from mature narbon bean cotyledons by a non-aqueous gradient centrifugation procedure was free of narbonin; this was found in the soluble cell fraction. In electron micrographs, narbonin could be localized in the cytoplasm using the immuno gold-labelling technique. Previously, it had already been shown that narbonin is too slowly degraded during narbon bean germination to act as a storage protein. From all these results it has to be concluded that narbonin is a cytoplasmic protein which does not belong to the storage proteins in the restricted sense. Other possible functions are discussed. PMID:9299790
Experience with antilymphocyte globulin in 144 renal transplant recipients.
Lundgren, G; Collste, L; Groth, C G; Krzymansky, M; Magnusson, G; Quadracci, L; Ringdén, O; Svehag, S E
In patients receiving cadaveric kidneys and treated with antilymphocyte globulin (ALG) the one-year graft survival 59%. The corresponding figures with living related donors were 87% and 83%, respectively. Side effects of ALG, of which allergic reactions were the most common, prompted its withdrawal in 33% of the cases. All patients studied developed antibodies against horse gammaglobulin when tested with a passive haemagglutination inhibition technique. ALG seems to act upon the T-cells since the number of cells forming rosettes with sheep red blood cells was reduced. PMID:792849
Potential drug interaction between Rho(D) immune globulin and live virus vaccine.
Holmes, Amy; Wright, Debra
Women often receive Rho(D) immune globulin as well as a live virus vaccine in the immediate postpartum period. The immune globulin product has the potential to interfere with appropriate immune response to the vaccine. Here we describe our approach to identifying and following up on this often overlooked potential drug interaction. PMID:25495973
Homologous radioimmunoassay for guinea pig corticosteroid-binding globulin
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A rapid, specific, and sensitive (requiring only 20 fmole of antigen equivalent to 0.007) ?l of serum) radioimmunoassay (RIA) was developed for the measurement of guinea pig corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG). CBG was purified to homogeneity from guinea pig serum by affinity chromatography and used for immunization, as the standard and as the radiolabeled trace in the RIA. The antiserum to CBG was raised in rabbits. It was judged specific by immunoelectrophoresis and by comparison of RIA values with steroid-binding assay profiles obtained on serum separated on the basis of size and ion-exchange properties. The results of the radioimmunoassays agree with those of a steroid-binding assay run on identical samples. The sensitivity of the assay allows detection of CBG in serial serum samples, other biologic fluids such as milk, and cell culture supernatants
Plasma-binding globulins and acute stress response.
Breuner, C W; Lynn, S E; Julian, G E; Cornelius, J M; Heidinger, B J; Love, O P; Sprague, R S; Wada, H; Whitman, B A
Within studies of acute stress physiology an increase in glucocorticoid secretion is thought to be the primary mediator of tissue response to stress. Corticosteroid-binding globulin may regulate tissue availability of steroids, but has not been considered a dynamic component of the acute stress response. Here, we examined CBG level over the common 60-minute time frame in an acute capture and handling protocol to investigate whether CBG capacity is dynamic or static over short stressors. Using a comparative approach, we measured CBG response to capture and handling stress in nine species of birds, representing five orders and nine families. CBG capacity significantly declined within 30 - 60 minutes of capture in five of the nine species examined. This decline may serve to significantly increase the level of corticosterone reaching tissues during acute stress. PMID:16700008
Studies on the role of glycosylation for human corticosteroid-binding globulin: Comparison with that for thyroxine-binding globulin
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The role of glycosylation on the secretion and the stability of human corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG) was studied. Cells of the human hepatoma line were labeled by [35S]methionine in presence of or absence of tunicamycin (TM). Media or cells were harvested at 0, 3, 6, and 20 h after the addition of excess unlabeled methionine. Media and cell lysates were incubated with anti-CBG serum and immune complexes were precipitated with Staphylococcus aureus protein A (Pansorbin). Immunoprecipitates were analyzed by fluorography after sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Immunoprecipitation of T4-binding globulin (TBG) was also carried out with anti-TBG serum. Fluorographic analysis revealed three forms of CBG: CBG1, a glycosylated, mature, and secretory form with apparent mol wt of 70 K; CBG2, a glycosylated precursor which due to incomplete carbohydrate processing has an apparent mol wt of 54 K; and CBG3, a nonglycosylated form consisting of the 40 K core protein. In absence of TM, CBG1 was observed in media and CBG2 was detected in cell lysates. The proportion of CBG1 increased during the chase, whereas that of CBG2 decreased, indicating that CBG was secreted after processing of the oligosaccharides on CBG2. In presence of TM, CBG3 was found both in media and cell lysates. The sum of CBG3 in the medium and the cell lysate decreased during the chase, whereas that of CBG1 and CBG2 remained unchanged. Similar to CBG, TBG1 (mature form, 60 ed. Similar to CBG, TBG1 (mature form, 60 K) and TBG2 (partially processed glycosylated form, 54 K) were observed in media and cell lysates, respectively, in absence of TM. However, TBG3 (nonglycosylated, 44 K) was not detected in medium. These results indicate that glycosylation is not a key factor for the secretion of CBG but is important for its stability. On the other hand the glycosylation is indispensable for the secretion of TBG
SIFAT FUNGSIONAL PRODUK INTERAKSI FRAKSI GLOBULIN 7S KOMAK (Dolichos lablab DAN GUM XANTAN [Functional Properties of the Interaction Product Between Globulin of 7S Fraction of Lablab Bean (Dolichos lablab with Xantan Gum
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Full Text Available Lablab bean (Dolichos lablab seeds is a potential source of protein globulin.The bean's protein content is 20.86 %, and the amount of globulin was more than 60% from the total protein, having major fractions of 7S and 11S. The objectives of this research were to explore the 7S globulin fractions, to study interaction between 7S globulin fractions with xanthan gum, and to observe the functional properties of the product of the interaction. The research was conducted in 2 steps. The first step was to fractionate the 7S fractions from globulin. The second steps was to interact 7S globulin fraction with xanthan gum. The yield of these interaction were examined for its physicochemical and functional properties. The results showed that the 7S globulin fractions could be interacted by xanthan gum at pH 7. The interacted product of globulin 7S fraction 10 % with xanthan gum 0,75 % had good functional properties than globulin 7S fraction, such as oil holding capacity, foaming capacity, and emulsion activity. Water holding capacity could not be detected because the yield became soluble. However,the foaming and emulsifying stability were still lower than those of soybean protein isolates. The research concluded that xanthan gum could be used to improve the physicochemical and functional properties of globulin 7S fraction.
Allosteric Modulation of Hormone Release from Thyroxine and Corticosteroid-binding Globulins*
Qi, Xiaoqiang; Loiseau, Franc?ois; Chan, Wee Lee; Yan, Yahui; Wei, Zhenquan; Milroy, Lech-gustav; Myers, Rebecca M.; Ley, Steven V.; Read, Randy J.; Carrell, Robin W.; Zhou, Aiwu
The release of hormones from thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) and corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) is regulated by movement of the reactive center loop in and out of the ?-sheet A of the molecule. To investigate how these changes are transmitted to the hormone-binding site, we developed a sensitive assay using a synthesized thyroxine fluorophore and solved the crystal structures of reactive loop cleaved TBG together with its complexes with thyroxine, the thyroxine fluorophores, furosemi...
The effect of immune globulin on the response to trivalent oral poliovirus and yellow fever vaccinations
Kaplan, Jonathan E.; Nelson, David B.; Schonberger, Lawrence B.; Hatch, Milford H.; Monath, Thomas P.; Lazuick, John S.; Calisher, Charles H.; Rosa, Franz W.
To assess whether immune globulin may be administered concurrently with trivalent oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) or yellow fever vaccine, antibody responses were studied in Peace Corps volunteers embarking for overseas duty in 1978. Of 200 volunteers who received OPV, 192 (96%) had pre-existing neutralizing antibody to at least 2 poliovirus types; of 160 yellow fever vaccinees, 24 (15%) had pre-existing 17D yellow fever antibody. Each volunteer received 5 ml of immune globulin, 0-7 days before...
Safety Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacokinetic Assessment of Human Gc Globulin (Vitamin D Binding Protein)
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Pihl, Tina Holberg; JŘrgensen, Charlotte Svaerke
Gc globulin is an important protein of the plasma actin-scavenger system. As such, it has been shown to bind free actin and prevent hypercoagulation and shock in patients with massive actin release resulting from severe tissue injuries. Treatment of such patients with Gc globulin could therefore potentially be life-saving. This article presents pre-clinical toxicology experiments conducted on purified plasma-derived human Gc globulin. The Gc globulin formulation was shown to be stable for at least 4 years with full retention of actin-binding capacity. In vitro studies did not reveal activation of the kallikrein system or the complement system and cellular studies showed no toxic effects on a variety of human cell lines. In vivo studies showed no acute toxic effects in mice, rats or guinea pigs upon intravenous infusion. A 14-day local tolerance study in rabbits showed no adverse effects, and 14-day toxicity studies in rats and horses did not show any unwanted reactions. In a 14-day toxicology study in beagle dogs, formation of antibodies was seen and in the end of the study period, three out of four dogs showed clinical immunological reactions, which could be ascribed to the formation of antibodies. The half-life, T, for human Gc globulin was 12 hr in rats, 16 hr in horses and 30 hr in dogs. The safety profile of plasma-derived Gc globulin is concluded to be consistent to that required for use in man.
Hepatitis B Immune Globulin in Liver Transplantation Prophylaxis: An Update
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Payam Dindoost
Full Text Available Context: Liver transplantation is the best treatment option for end-stage liver disease following hepatitis B (HBV infection. However, the high rate of recurrence of HBV infection following transplantation is a disadvantage of this option.Evidence Acquisition: Over the past 2 decades, the gold standard of prophylactic treatment for the prevention of HBV re-infection following liver transplantation has been the administration of low- to high-dose hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIg along with an antiviral agent to induce passive immunity.Results: The effectiveness of HBIg in preventing the recurrence of HBV depends on the dosage, route of administration, and duration of HBIg treatment, and the viremic status at the time of transplantation. There is currently no consensus on a standardized recommendation for therapeutic options that include HBIg administration.Conclusion: This review attempts to summarize the available data on the feasibility of such options. Most recent studies support the use of long-term combination therapy of HBIg and antiviral NAs (especially new agents.
Thermal denaturation of sunflower globulins in low moisture conditions
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
DSC analysis in pressure resisting pans of sunflower oil cake makes appear the endothermic peak of sunflower globulins denaturation. Its temperature decreases from 189.5 to 119.9 deg. C while the corresponding enthalpy increases from 2.6 to 3.3 J/g of sample, or from 6.7 to 12.2 J/g of dry protein, when the samples moisture content varies from 0 to 30.0% of the total weight. The plot of the denaturation temperature versus the moisture content is not linear but has a rounded global shape and seems to follow the hydration behavior of the proteins, modeled with the sorption isotherm. As it can be seen on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs, protein corpuscles 'melt' after such a thermal treatment and large aggregates form by coagulation. Moisture dependence of the 'fusion' temperature of native proteic organization, in low moisture conditions, offers so a new characterization method for the use of vegetable proteins in agro-materials
Towards Engineering Hormone-Binding Globulins as Drug Delivery Agents
Chan, Wee Lee; Zhou, Aiwu; Read, Randy J.
The treatment of many diseases such as cancer requires the use of drugs that can cause severe side effects. Off-target toxicity can often be reduced simply by directing the drugs specifically to sites of diseases. Amidst increasingly sophisticated methods of targeted drug delivery, we observed that Nature has already evolved elegant means of sending biological molecules to where they are needed. One such example is corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), the major carrier of the anti-inflammatory hormone, cortisol. Targeted release of cortisol is triggered by cleavage of CBG's reactive centre loop by elastase, a protease released by neutrophils in inflamed tissues. This work aimed to establish the feasibility of exploiting this mechanism to carry therapeutic agents to defined locations. The reactive centre loop of CBG was altered with site-directed mutagenesis to favour cleavage by other proteases, to alter the sites at which it would release its cargo. Mutagenesis succeeded in making CBG a substrate for either prostate specific antigen (PSA), a prostate-specific serine protease, or thrombin, a key protease in the blood coagulation cascade. PSA is conspicuously overproduced in prostatic hyperplasia and is, therefore, a good way of targeting hyperplastic prostate tissues. Thrombin is released during clotting and consequently is ideal for conferring specificity to thrombotic sites. Using fluorescence-based titration assays, we also showed that CBG can be engineered to bind a new compound, thyroxine-6-carboxyfluorescein, instead of its physiological ligand, cortisol, thereby demonstrating that it is possible to tailor the hormone binding site to deliver a therapeutic drug. In addition, we proved that the efficiency with which CBG releases bound ligand can be increased by introducing some well-placed mutations. This proof-of-concept study has raised the prospect of a novel means of targeted drug delivery, using the serpin conformational change to combat the problem of off-target effects in the treatment of diseases. PMID:25426859
Immune Reconstitution After Antithymocyte Globulin-Conditioned Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Bosch, Mark; Dhadda, Manveer; Hoegh-Petersen, Mette; Liu, Yiping; Hagel, Laura M; Podgorny, Peter; Ugarte-Torres, Alejandra; Khan, Faisal M.; Luider, Joanne; Auer-Grzesiak, Iwona; Mansoor, Adnan; Russell, James A; Daly, Andrew; Stewart, Douglas A.; Maloney, David; Boeckh, Michael; Storek, Jan
Background Antithymocyte globulin (ATG) has been increasingly used to prevent graft-vs-host disease (GVHD), however, its impact on immune reconstitution is relatively unknown. Here we studied (1) immune reconstitution after ATG-conditioned hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), (2) determined factors influencing the reconstitution, and (3) compared it to non-ATG-conditioned HCT. Methods Immune cell subset counts were determined at 1–24 months posttransplant in 125 HCT recipients who received ATG during conditioning. The subset counts were also determined in 46 non-ATG-conditioned patients (similarly treated). Results (1) Reconstitution after ATG-conditioned HCT was fast for innate immune cells, intermediate for B cells and CD8 T cells, and very slow for CD4 T cells and invariant NKT (iNKT) cells. (2) Faster reconstitution after ATG-conditioned HCT was associated with higher number of cells of the same subset transferred with the graft in case of memory B cells, naďve CD4 T cells, naďve CD8 T cells, iNKT cells and myeloid dendritic cells; lower recipient age in case of naďve CD4 T cells and naďve CD8 T cells; cytomegalovirus recipient seropositivity in case of memory/effector T cells; absence of GVHD in case of naďve B cells; lower ATG serum levels in case of most T cell subsets including iNKT cells, and higher ATG levels in case of NK cells and B cells. (3) Compared to non-ATG-conditioned HCT, reconstitution after ATG-conditioned HCT was slower for CD4 T cells, and faster for NK cells and B cells. Conclusions ATG worsens reconstitution of CD4 T cells but improves reconstitution of NK and B cells. PMID:22985195
Open controlled therapeutic trial of intravenous immune globulin in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
Achiron, A; Pras, E; Gilad, R; Ziv, I; Mandel, M; Gordon, C R; Noy, S; Sarova-Pinhas, I; Melamed, E
Ten patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis were treated with intravenous immune globulin, 0.4 g/kg per day for 5 consecutive days, and then with additional booster doses of immune globulin of 0.4 g/kg, once every 2 months, for the next 12 months. Ten untreated patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis who were matched with the study patients for age, disease duration, and number of attacks per year served as controls. Immune globulin treatment was well tolerated, with no side effects. The exacerbation rate decreased from 3.7 +/- 1.2 exacerbations per year before treatment to 1.0 +/- 0.7 exacerbations per year during the treatment in the immune globulin-treated patients, while it remained unaltered in the controls. The posttreatment Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale score decreased from a mean of 4.45 to 4.15, whereas in controls it increased from 3.55 to 3.75. The results suggest that immune globulin suppresses the ongoing pathologic process in multiple sclerosis and may be a promising treatment to prevent disease exacerbations. PMID:1449400
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Nuzhat Sultana
Full Text Available This study assessed the effect of oral administration of Aloe vera and was to evaluate total serum protein, albumin and globulin concentrations as well as albumin / globulin (A / G ratio. Twenty rabbits weighing 1000 – 1800 g were divided into 2 groups. Each group consisted of ten animals. One served as control and other group served as experimental group. Results show that animals after 07, 15 and 30 days dosing of Aloe vera showed highly significant decrease in total protein and globulin and highly significant decrease in Albumin after 15 and 30 days of dosing of Aloe vera in comparison to control animals group. It is concluded that the long-term use of Aloe vera may cause hypoglobinemia and hypoalbuminemia at 30 days of dosing and it could be due to the liver diseases, evidence of hepatotoxicity induced Aloe vera also reported in previous studies.
Comparison of horse and rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin in immunosuppressive therapy for refractory cytopenia of childhood
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Yoshimi, Ayami; van den Heuvel-Eibrink, Marry M
Refractory cytopenia of childhood is the most common subtype of myelodysplastic syndrome in children. In this paper, we compared the outcome of immunosuppressive therapy using horse anti-thymocyte globulin (n = 46) with that using rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (n = 49) in 95 patients with refractory cytopenia of childhood and hypocellular bone marrow. The response rate at 6 months was 74% for horse anti-thymocyte globulin and 53% for rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (p = 0.04). The inferior response in the rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin group resulted in lower 4-year-transplantation-free (69% vs. 46%; p = 0.003) and failure-free (58% vs. 48%; p = 0.04) survival in this group compared with those in the horse anti-thymocyte globulin group. However, because of successful second-line hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, overall survival was comparable between groups (91% vs. 85%, p = ns). The cumulative incidence of relapse (15% vs. 9%, p = ns) and clonal evolution (12% vs. 4%, p = ns) at 4 years was comparable between groups. Our results suggest that the outcome of immunosuppressive therapy with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin is inferior to that of horse anti-thymocyte globulin. Although immunosuppressive therapy is an effective therapy in selected patients with refractory cytopenia of childhood, the long-term risk of relapse or clonal evolution remains. (ClinicalTrial.gov identifiers: NCT00662090).
Radio-immunoassay for serum thyroxine-binding-globulin in blood serum. Results in normal subjects
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A thyroxine-binding-globulin radio-immunoassay in blood serum has been set up. The standard used has been determined by gravimetry, its maximal thyroxine-binding capacity is 0,96 mole of thyroxine per mole of TBG. Serum concentration of TBG has been measured in 159 euthyroid normals. The mean value of the concentration is 20 mg/l
Is the sex hormone binding globulin related to preeclampsia independent of insulin resistance
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Objective: To evaluate the association between Sex Hormone Binding Globulin and preeclampsia in Iranian women considering the probable confounding effect of insulin resistance. Methods: The case-control study was conducted at the Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Iran, and comprised pregnant women who received prenatal care at Amiralmomenin Hospital in 2011. Cases represented patients admitted because of preeclampsia, while controls were randomly selected eligible pregnant women without hypertension and/or proteinuria. Fasting blood sugar and insulin were assessed for all participants as well as their blood concentration of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin. The Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance Score was used. The correlation between dependant and independent variables was reported by crude and adjusted odds ratio applying logistic regression models. SPSS 16.0 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Of the 100 pregnant women in the study, 45(45%) were cases. Insulin resistance was found to be significantly more frequent in the cases compared to the controls (adjusted odds ratio=2.78; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.11, 6.90; p<0.01). There was a significant reverse correlation between level of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin in blood and being a case of preeclampsia (adjusted odds ratio=0.99; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.98, 1.00; p=0.04). Conclusion: Independent of insulin resistance, every 1nmol/l increase in Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, decreases the odds of preeclampsia by 1%, notifying Sex Hormone Binding Globulin as an important biomarker about its etiology and prediction. (author)
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S. B. Cheknev
Full Text Available Synthesis of mRNAs for the key immunoactive cytokines was studied in mononuclear cells (MNC from human peripheral blood, using reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction, after incubation of isolated cells with human serum ?-globulin, zinc ions, or zinc-?-globulin metal complexes. A constitutive presence of interferon-? (IFN? and interleukin-18 (IL-18 mRNA was shown in MNC of all of the subjects observed, whereas IFN?, IL-4, or IL-8 mRNA synthesis was not detectable. Expression of IL-1?, IL-2, IL-6 ? IL-10 was revealed in only a half of cases. It has been shown that pure ?-globulins did induce IFN? gene expression and enhance transcriptional activity of IL-1? and IL-2 genes. Zinc cations did also promote transcription of IL-1? gene, along with reduced synthesis of IL-2 and IFN? mRNA, compared to the ?-globulin. In presence of ?-globulin-zinc complexes, IL-1? mRNA was synthesized at the same level, as following induction with control ?-globulin, whereas IL-2 gene expression was reduced, and IFN? mRNA synthesis was abolished. The results are discussed in terms of immune response polarization in presence of ?-globulins and their metal complexes with zinc.
Transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin messenger RNA activities during turpentine-induced inflammation in the rat.
Faict, D; Verhoeven, G; Mertens, B; De Moor, P
Previously we have shown that the serum concentration of transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin markedly decreases during turpentine-induced inflammation. In the present study transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin mRNA from healthy rats and from animals with inflammation was translated in a rabbit reticulocyte lysate system. Female rats had higher levels of translatable transcortin mRNA than male animals and the level of mRNA for transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin decreased rapidly during inflammation. These results indicate that the sex difference in the serum level of transcortin and the changes in serum transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin during inflammation are mainly determined by differences in the mRNAs in the liver. PMID:2413280
Tissue typing, antilymphocyte globulin, and prophylactic graft irradiation in cadaver kidney transplantation.
Myburgh, J A; Goldberg, B; Meyers, A M; van Blerk, P J; Gecelter, L; Mieny, C J; Browde, S; Shapiro, M; Zoutendyk, A; Anderson, C G
In a series of 27 recipients of cadaver kidney grafts, 26 were at the time of writing alive, 3 to 25 months after transplantation, and 25 patients were alive with functioning first grafts. The one-year patient survival in 18 patients was 94% and the one-year graft survival was 89%. There was no beneficial correlation between tissue matching and the frequency of major early rejection episodes or graft function 12 or more months after transplantation. Antilymphocyte globulin administration was associated with a lower incidence of early rejection episodes, but this was not statistically significant. A combination of prophylactic graft irradiation and antilymphocyte globulin administration for at least the first two weeks was associated with a significantly reduced frequency of major early rejection episodes and appreciably better graft function at 12 months. This effect could not be ascribed to better tissue matching. PMID:4919023
Effect of inclusion of cashew globulin (Anacardium occidentale) to a casein diet on lipid parameters in rats.
Prabha, S P; Rajamohan, T
The effect of inclusion of cashew globulin to a casein diet on lipid metabolism was studied in rats fed diets with two levels of cashew globulin meal. Inclusion of cashew globulin to a casein diet produced lower levels of total cholesterol, triacylglycerol and phospholipids in the serum and tissues and lower levels of serum lipoprotein cholesterol. There was decreased cholesterogenesis in the liver as evidenced by decreased activity of HMG CoA reductase and decreased release of lipoproteins into circulation. Rats fed cashew globulin along with casein also showed higher activity of LPL in the heart and adipose tissue and higher activity of LCAT. Increased hepatic diversion of cholesterol to bile acid synthesis and increased excretion of bile acids and sterols were also observed in these groups. Activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme was decreased in rats fed cashew globulin along with casein. This study demonstrates that cashew globulins included in the diet of rats are able to alter lipid metabolism which results in lower levels of lipid parameters in the serum and tissues. PMID:10890760
Rapid irreversible encephalopathy associated with anti-D immune globulin treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
Christopher, Kenneth; Horkan, Clare; Barb, Ilie T; Arbelaez, Christian; Hodgdon, Travis A; Yodice, Paul C
Intravenous Rho (D) immune globulin (IV RhIG, WinRho SDF) has been shown to be a safe treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Common side effects of IV RhIG include mild hemolysis, febrile reaction, and headache. Significant hemolysis with renal impairment following IV RhIG has been reported. We report a case of irreversible encephalopathy 48 hr following an infusion of IV RhIG for treatment of ITP. PMID:15495245
Postexposure Prevention of Progressive Vaccinia in SCID Mice Treated with Vaccinia Immune Globulin ?
Fisher, R. W.; Reed, J.L.; Snoy, P J; Mikolajczyk, M. G.; Bray, M.; Scott, D E; M. C.; Kennedy
A recently reported case of progressive vaccinia (PV) in an immunocompromised patient has refocused attention on this condition. Uniformly fatal prior to the licensure of vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) in 1978, PV was still fatal in about half of VIG-treated patients overall, with a greater mortality rate in infants and children. Additional therapies would be needed in the setting of a smallpox bioterror event, since mass vaccination following any variola virus release would inevitably result...
N-Glycans Modulate the Function of Human Corticosteroid-Binding Globulin*
Sumer-Bayraktar, Zeynep; Kolarich, Daniel; Campbell, Matthew P.; Ali, Sinan; Packer, Nicolle H.; Thaysen-Andersen, Morten
Human corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG), a heavily glycosylated protein containing six N-linked glycosylation sites, transports cortisol and other corticosteroids in blood circulation. Here, we investigate the biological importance of the N-glycans of CBG derived from human serum by performing a structural and functional characterization of CBG N-glycosylation. Liquid chromatography-tandem MS-based glycoproteomics and glycomics combined with exoglycosidase treatment revealed 26 complex ty...
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Ivica Strelec
Full Text Available Applicability of electrophoretic separations of albumins/globulins, followed by nonspecific protein staining and specific glycoprotein and aminopeptidase detection has been examined for barley variety discrimination. Albumins/globulins extracted from dry grains and green malt of six barley varieties were separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (10 % T, pH=8.9 of native and sodium dodecyl sulfate denatured proteins, and by isoelectric focusing in pH gradient of 3.5-9.5 and 4.0-6.5. Analysis of dry grain extracts gave better results than green malt extracts. Obtained data indicate that SDS-PAGE of albumins/globulins and IEF in pH gradient 3.5-9.5 followed by Coomassie Blue staining could be useful in Croatian barley variety discrimination. Angora barley could be clearly distinguished from the other varieties which were grouped as follows: Rodnik/Sladoran, Barun/Rex, and Martin. Glycoprotein patterns did not improve the recognition of individual varieties. Broad specificity, phenylalanine and leucine preferring, and arginine specific aminopeptidase were not found as applicable markers for discrimination of examined barley varieties.
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S. B. Cheknev
Full Text Available Abstract. Conformational changes of human serum ?-globulin were studied during and after its binding with copper and zinc ions, using molecular ultrafiltration and differential spectrophotometry. The contents of nonbound metals in the filtrate were evaluated, resp., with sodium diethyl thyocarbamate and o-phenanthroline. It has been shown that copper and zinc exhibited common biological properties during their interactions with protein, but the binding differed sufficiently under similar experimental conditions. E.g., it was confirmed that copper was more active at the external sites of ?-globulin molecule, whereas zinc demonstrated tropicity for the areas of protein intraglobular compartments. The metal-binding sites have been described that differ in their parameters of interactions with cations and their spatial location within globular domains. Approaches are suggested for dynamic analysis of saturation for these differently located sites by the metal ions. We discuss the issues of altered conformational state of the ?-globulin molecule during the binding of cations, as well as potential usage of these data in clinical immunology.
Gc-globulin (vitamin D-binding protein) enhances the neutrophil chemotactic activity of C5a and C5a des Arg.
Kew, R. R.; Webster, R. O.
Several serum proteins have been shown to be important in modulating leukocyte chemotaxis and inflammation. We investigated the possibility that the multifunctional serum protein Gc-globulin (vitamin D-binding protein) may also enhance the neutrophil chemotactic activity of complement-derived peptides. Purified Gc-globulin by itself did not induce chemotaxis of human neutrophils. However, as little as 0.01 nM Gc-globulin greatly enhanced the neutrophil chemotactic activity of C5a and its deri...
Thyroxine-binding globulin radioimmunoassay using a purified standard. Comparison of the results with those obtained from the maximal binding capacity of serum from thyroxine
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The authors studied the binding of thyroxine in the serum. They determined from the analysis of the curvilinear Scatchard plot the affinity constant between thyroxine-binding globulin and thyroxine, and the maximal thyroxine binding capacity of thyroxine-binding globulin. After having prepared a highly purified thyroxine-binding globulin standard the authors determined the serum concentration of this protein by a radioimmunoassay. They compared the results of this assay with the results obtained from the maximal binding capacity for thyroxine. They found these two different determinations of thyroxine binding globulin concentration, which were analyzed as a function of the results reported in various papers, to be in excellent agreement
Detection of ?2u-globulin in rat pup preputial gland by Maldi-tof mass spectrometry
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Ponnirul PONMANICKAM,Gnanasekaran JEBAMERCY, Govindaraju ARCHUNAN, Soundrapandian KANNAN
Full Text Available The ?2u-globulin, a soluble protein identified in the urine and preputial gland of adult male rat is reported to be pheromone carrier. The pup preputial gland plays a significant role in chemical communication for mother-young interaction; however, the presence of a pheromone-carrying protein in the pup preputial gland has not been confirmed. Therefore, the present study was carried out to identify the ?2u-globulin in the pup preputial gland by Matrix Assisted laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF. The preputial glands of prepubertal rats were subjected to one-dimensional SDS-PAGE. In-gel trypsin digestion of a 18 kDa band was carried out and analyzed by MALDI-TOF. The results of a MASCOT search showed the presence of ?2u-globulin in the18 kDa band. In contrast to the report of the synthesis of this protein only in adult rats, the identification of this protein in pup preputial gland is significant. The results suggest that synthesis of ?2u-globulin in the rat preputial gland starts in the prepubertal stage itself. In prepubertal rats, the preputial gland is a source of pheromone for performing anogenital licking behaviour by the mother rat. Since ?2u-globulin belongs to the lipocalin (ligand carrier family, it might carry the volatile for processing pheromonal communication in mother-pup bonding in rat [Current Zoology 55(4: 296–300, 2009].
Laboratory medicine parameter. Utilizing monospecific antihuman globulin to test blood-group compatibility.
Milam, J D
When using polyspecific antihuman globulin (AHG) reagents to detect unexpected antibodies or for crossmatching, reactivity in the AHG phase may be due exclusively to the AHG anticomplement component. A lengthy evaluation may be needed to prove that the reactivity is caused by a "nuisance" antibody, one that is clinically insignificant. Clinically significant transfusion intolerance is rare when caused by blood group alloantibodies, which are detected only with AHG sera that contain anticomplement activity. Using monospecific anti-IgG AHG reagents to detect unexpected antibodies offers reliability while avoiding interference from some common and clinically insignificant IgM complement-fixing antibodies, and thereby saves time and expense. PMID:7639184
What role is there for antithymocyte globulin in allogeneic nonmyeloablative canine hematopoietic cell transplantation?
Diaconescu, Razvan; Little, Marie-Terese; LEISENRING, Wendy; Yunusov, Murad; Hogan, William J; Sorror, Mohamed L.; Baron, Frédéric; Storb, Rainer
We investigated whether pretransplantation immunosuppression with canine-specific rabbit antithymocyte globulin (ATG), combined with a suboptimal dose of 1 Gy of total body irradiation (TBI), would permit engraftment of canine dog leukocyte antigen-identical marrow. Cumulative ATG doses of 2 to 5 mg/kg produced a T-cell depletion of 1 log in the peripheral blood and 50% in the lymph nodes. Serum levels of ATG peaked on days 4 to 6 after initiation of therapy and became undetectable by day 13 ...
Narbonin, a 2 S globulin from Vicia narbonensis L. Crystallization and preliminary crystallographic data.
Hennig, M; Schlesier, B; Pfeffer, S; Höhne, W E
A seed globulin from Vicia narbonensis L. has been crystallized by vapour diffusion induced pH-shift. Crystals are suitable for high-resolution X-ray structural analysis and diffract to better than 1.5 A. Narbonin crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21 with alpha = 46.9 A, b = 75.5 A, c = 50.9 A, alpha = gamma = 90 degrees, beta = 120.5 degrees. The protein consists of one polypeptide chain that does not coincide with the subunits of legumin or vicilin after SDS/polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and has a relative molecular mass of about 33,000. PMID:2231708
Rapid encephalopathy associated with anti-D immune globulin treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
Golla, Sunitha; Horkan, Clare; Dogaru, Grigore; Teske, Thomas E; Christopher, Kenneth
Rho (D) immune globulin intravenous (IV RhIG, WinRho SDF) has been shown to be a safe treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. Common side effects of IV RhIG include mild hemolysis, febrile reaction and headache. Significant hemolysis with renal impairment is infrequently noted. A single case of irreversible encephalopathy following IV RhIG has been reported. We report a second case of encephalopathy following an infusion of IV RhIG for treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. PMID:18957844
WinRho: Rh immune globulin prepared by ion exchange for intravenous use.
Bowman, J. M.; Friesen, A D; J.M. Pollock; W. E. Taylor
An Rh immune globulin [Rh IgG] for intravenous use, WinRho, has been prepared by the Winnipeg Rh Institute by a modification of the ion-exchange column method of Hoppe and colleagues. When administered to Rh-negative male and nonpregnant female volunteers WinRho was found to be nonpyrogenic, nontoxic, safe and protective against Rh alloimmunization. In a clinical trial with 240 microgram given at about 28 weeks' gestation and 120 microgram given after delivery to Rh-negative women at risk of ...
Apoptosis and complement-mediated lysis of myeloma cells by polyclonal rabbit antithymocyte globulin
Zand, Martin S.; Vo, Thuong; Pellegrin, Tina; Felgar, Raymond; Liesveld, Jane L.; Ifthikharuddin, Jainulabdeen J.; Abboud, Camille N.; Sanz, Ignacio; Huggins, Jennifer
Current monoclonal antibody therapies for multiple myeloma have had limited success, perhaps due to narrow target specificity. We have previously described the ability of polyclonal rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG) to induce caspase- and cathepsin-mediated apoptosis in human B and plasma cells. We now extend this observation to myeloma cells. Complement independent cell death was measured after addition of rATG (1-1000 ?g/mL) to cultures of myeloma cell lines or primary CD138+ isolates f...
Further experience with antihuman lymphocyte globulin (Behring): no effect on cadaveric renal graft survival.
Groth, C G; Berg, B; Collste, H; Lundgren, G; Magnusson, G; Ringdén, O
In 1977 we reported that 1 year cadaveric renal graft survival was improved in patients treated with high dose anti-human lymphocyte globulin (AHLG) (Behring). Such a beneficial effect of this agent was not confirmed in the present study with an enlarged series of patients and with a longer follow-up time. Nor was there any gain in respect of renal function or any steroid sparing effect. The only indication of an immunosuppressive effect is that the rejection episodes possibly occurred later in the patients given the high dose AHLG. PMID:7034185
Testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, calculated free testosterone, and oestradiol in male vegans and omnivores.
Key, TJ; Roe, L; THOROGOOD, M; Moore, JW; Clark, GM; Wang, DY
Total testosterone (T), total oestradiol (E2) and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) concentrations were measured in plasma samples from fifty-one male vegans and fifty-seven omnivores of similar age. Free T concentration was estimated by calculation. In comparison with the omnivores, the vegans had 7% higher total T (P = 0.250), 23% higher SHBG (P = 0.001), 3% lower free T (P = 0.580), and 11% higher E2 (P = 0.194). In a subset of eighteen vegans and twenty-two omnivores for whom 4 d diet r...
Eaton, William W.
Described are technological considerations affecting storage of energy, particularly electrical energy. The background and present status of energy storage by batteries, water storage, compressed air storage, flywheels, magnetic storage, hydrogen storage, and thermal storage are discussed followed by a review of development trends. Included are…
Rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin induction in renal transplantation: review of the literature
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Andress L
Full Text Available Leah Andress,1 Anjali Gupta,2 Nida Siddiqi,3 Kwaku Marfo2,3 1University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Buffalo, 2Montefiore Medical Center, The University Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine Department of Abdominal Organ Transplant Program, Bronx, 3Montefiore Medical Center, Department of Pharmacy, Bronx, NY, USA Abstract: Rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG has proven benefit as induction therapy in renal transplant recipients, achieving reduced acute rejection rates and better short-term allograft function, with slightly higher rates of complications such as infections and malignancy. Compared with other agents, the most benefit from rATG induction has been observed in renal transplant recipients at high immunologic risk for rejection. However, in special populations, such as pediatrics, the elderly, and hepatitis C-positive and human immunodeficiency virus-positive renal transplant recipients, additional information is needed to delineate the absolute benefit of rATG induction compared with other induction agents. Selection of rATG as the choice of induction therapy in renal transplant recipients should be guided by a cost-effective approach in balancing efficacy, safety, and cost. This review summarizes the published literature on efficacy, safety, and cost of rATG induction in renal transplantation. Keywords: anti-thymocyte globulin, renal transplantation, induction therapy
In vitro thyroid testing in populations with low thyroxine binding globulin capacity
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Total thyroxine (T4) concentration in serum is a reliable indicator of thyroid function in most individuals, but it is affected by altered concentrations of thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) in serum. Within certain limits, the variations in total TBG binding capacity (TBGTOTAL) caused by the fluctuations in the concentration of this binding globulin in serum can be modulated by calculating the free thyroxine index (FT4I) as the product of T4 and the in vitro uptake of triiodothyronine by a secondary binder (T3U). This calculation is empirically based on the facts that free TBG binding capacity (TBGFREE) is inversely related to T3U and that T4 and T3U show opposite behaviour when measured in sera with altered TBG: a low T4 in serum with reduced TBGTOTAL is compensated by a high value for T3U, while an elevated T4 in serum with increased TBGTOTAL is compensated by a low value for T3U. In both cases the product of T4 and T3 renders a normal FT4I value, showing a certain association with the concentration of free T4 in serum (FT4). In fact, this index has been shown to be superior than several FT4 assay systems in the assessment of thyroid status in clinical euthyroid subjects with relatively high or low T3U
Influence of administered indigenous microorganisms on uptake of [Iodine-125] ?-globulin in vivo by intestinal segments of neonatal calves
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Ten calves less than 14 h of age (average 8.6 h) were anaesthetized, and the intestine was ligated into segments 10 cm in length at 3-cm intervals beginning 1.8 m anterior to the ileocecal junction and proceeding proximally. Seven treatments were assigned in random order to segments in three successive sections of the small intestine. Segments received 1 ml of viable bacteria of intestinal origin, autoclaved bacteria of intestinal origin, or sterile microbiological broth at zero time; then after 4 h they were injected with iodine-125 labeled ?-globulin. After an additional 1.5 h, the experiment was ended and uptake assayed. Two treatments measured anaerobic microbial growth after 4 h incubation with 1 ml of either sterile broth or live bacteria culture. Residual [iodine-125]?-globulin was measured in segments receiving 1 ml of sterile broth or live bacteria culture with 5.5-h incubation followed by 15-s exposure to labeled ?-globulin. Uptake was lowest in segments receiving live bacteria as compared to segments receiving sterile inocula. Number of bacteria per gram of tissue was correlated negatively with uptake. Low corticosteroids in serum were associated with low uptake of ?-globulin
Therapeutic effect of spleen cells incubated with placental globulin and dexamethasone on mice irradiated with ?-rays
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Adult male (C57 x LACA) F1 mice were irradiated with 9.5 Gy of ?-rays and injected with spleen cells, either non-incubated or incubated with placental globulin (PG) and dexamethasone (DXM). Mice of the control group were irradiated only. All animals in the control group died within 28 days after irradiation, while all mice treated with non-incubated spleen cells died even much earlier than the controls-within 9 days after irradiation. The 30-day-survival rate of mice injected with incubated spleen cells was 77.1%. The spleen index in mice treated with non-incubated spleen cells (2.44 ± 0.27) was higher than that in mice injected with incubated spleen cells (1.25 ± 0.14). These experiments showed that PG and DXM could reduce the severencess of GVHD in the treated mice, and, therefore, in creased their survival rate
Spectroscopic investigation of interaction between bovine gamma globulin and gold nanoparticles
Sharma, Ankita; Ghosh, Kalyan S.; Singh, Bhanu P.; Gathania, Arvind K.
The interaction of Citrate-capped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with Bovine gamma globulin (BGG) was studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), UV-Visible and Fluorescence spectroscopy. FTIR has confirmed the conjugation of AuNPs and BGG. Fluorescence quenching of tryptophan has confirmed the strong interaction between BGG and AuNPs. UV-Visible and Fluorescence spectroscopy have investigated the extent of interaction by determining the binding constants. Binding constants evaluated from UV-Visible and Fluorescence data are in good agreement with each other. An independent class of binding site on BGG for AuNPs has been predicted, where AuNPs interact with a highly solvent accessible tryptophan residue.
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans arising at a Rho(D) immune globulin injection site.
Hirano, Stefanie A; Torosky, Cyndi M
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare soft tissue tumor arising in the dermis. It is notorious for high rates of local recurrence despite its low metastatic potential. Although the etiology is unknown, DFSP often is considered to arise within scars and at sites of prior vaccination or trauma. Clinically, DFSP can be highly variable and mimic other soft tissue proliferations. We present a case of recurrent DFSP arising at the site of a Rho(D) immune globulin (Rhlg) injection that was administered 7 years prior. We also discuss the diagnostic challenges of DFSP as well as the indolent and locally recurrent nature of the tumor. This case serves to remind dermatologists of the highly variable clinical appearance of DFSP as well as to warn against presumptive diagnoses of lesions that mimic keloids and hypertrophic scars. PMID:23270191
Identification and preliminary characterization of vaccinia virus (Dryvax) antigens recognized by vaccinia immune globulin.
Jones-Trower, Agnes; Garcia, Alonzo; Meseda, Clement A; He, Yong; Weiss, Carol; Kumar, Arunima; Weir, Jerry P; Merchlinsky, Michael
Using vaccinia immune globulin (VIG), a high-titer antibody preparation from immunized subjects, we demonstrate that the humoral immune response in humans is directed against numerous antigens in the Dryvax vaccine strain. Western blot and immunoprecipitation analyses revealed highly antigenic proteins associated with both the extracellular enveloped virus and intracellular mature virus forms. The modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA), a new generation smallpox vaccine that is attenuated for replication in humans, expresses most, but not all, of the major vaccinia antigens recognized by antibodies in VIG, lacking the highly antigenic protein corresponding to the A-type inclusion body protein. Since new-generation smallpox vaccines such as MVA will require extensive comparison to traditional smallpox vaccines in animal models of immunogenicity and protection, we compared the vaccinia virus antigens recognized by VIG to those recognized by sera from Dryvax and MVA immunized mice. The humoral immune response in immunized mice is qualitatively similar to that in humans. PMID:16165184
The families of papain- and legumain-like cysteine proteinases from embryonic axes and cotyledons of Vicia seeds: developmental patterns, intracellular localization and functions in globulin proteolysis.
Fischer, J; Becker, C; Hillmer, S; Horstmann, C; Neubohn, B; Schlereth, A; Senyuk, V; Shutov, A; Müntz, K
Families of papain- and legumain-like cysteine proteinases (CPR) were found in Vicia seeds. cDNAs and antibodies were used to follow organ specificity and the developmental course of CPR-specific mRNAs and polypeptides. Four papain-like cysteine proteinases (CPR1, CPR2, proteinase A and CPR4) from vetch seeds (Vicia sativa L.) were analysed. CPR2 and its mRNA were already found in dry embryonic axes. CPR1 was only detected there during early germination. Both CPR1 and CPR2 strongly increased later during germination. In cotyledons, both CPR1 and CPR2 were only observed one to two days later than in the axis. Proteinase A was not found in axes. In cotyledons it could only be detected several days after seeds had germinated. CPR4 mRNA and polypeptide were already present in embryonic axes and cotyledons during seed maturation and decreased in both organs during germination. Purified CPR1, CPR2 and proteinase A exhibited partially different patterns of globulin degradation products in vitro. Although the cDNA-deduced amino acid sequence of the precursor of proteinase A has an N-terminal signal peptide, the enzyme was not found in vacuoles whereas the other papain-like CPRs showed vacuolar localization. Four different legumain-like cysteine proteinases (VsPB2, proteinase B, VnPB1 and VnPB2) of Vicia species were analysed. Proteinase B and VnPB1 mRNAs were detected in cotyledons and seedling organs after seeds had germinated. Proteinase B degraded globulins isolated from mature vetch seeds in vitro. VsPB2 and proteinase B are localized to protein bodies of maturing seeds and seedlings, respectively, of V. sativa. Like VsPB2 from V sativa, also VnPB2 of V. narbonensis corresponds to vacuolar processing enzymes (betaVPE). Based on these results different functions in molecular maturation and mobilization of storage proteins could be attributed to the various members of the CPR families. PMID:10949376
NCI-Black-Reiter (NBR) male rats fail to develop renal disease following exposure to agents that induce alpha-2u-globulin (alpha2u) nephropathy
Dietrich, Daniel R.; Swenberg, James A.
The NCI-Black-Reiter (NBR) rat is the only strain of male rat known not to synthesize the hepatic form of the low molecular weight protein, ?2u-globulin. In previous studies, NBR rats were shown not to develop renal disease when exposed to decalin, a compound known to induce ?2u-globulin nephropathy in other rat strains. The objective of this study was to show that the presence of ?2u-globulin (?2u) is essential for the development of this syndrome in rats exposed to 2,2,4-trimethylpentan...
Response of transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin to turpentine-induced inflammation in the rat: influence of corticosteroids and prolactin.
Faict, D; Vandoren, G; De Moor, P; Lesaffre, E; Verhoeven, G
Evidence is presented that (transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin react as negative acute-phase proteins in the rat. Thirty-six hours after turpentine injection, the serum concentration of these proteins showed a two- to threefold decrease. Thereafter, transcortin rapidly returned to normal values, whereas alpha 2u-globulin remained low. This reaction pattern was still present after adrenalectomy, adrenalectomy and administration of glucocorticoids, and after treatment with bromocriptine, a suppressor of prolactin secretion. It is concluded that changes in the secretion of glucocorticoids and prolactin are not required for the observed turpentine-induced decrease of transcortin and alpha 2u-globulin. PMID:6196428
Treatment of severe aplastic anemia with a combination of horse antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine, with or without sirolimus: a prospective randomized study
Scheinberg, Phillip; Wu, Colin O.; Nunez, Olga; Scheinberg, Priscila; Boss, Carol; Sloand, Elaine M.; Young, Neal S.
As mentioned above, the combination of antithymocyte globulin of horse origin and cyclosporine A is the standard treatment for aplastic anemia in patients not eligible for bone marrow transplantation. The authors hypothesized that the addition of sirolimus to standard horse antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine A would improve response rates in severe aplastic anemia, due to its complementary and synergistic properties to cyclosporine A. Despite a theoretical rationale for its use, unfortun...
Fasting induces the generation of serum thyronine-binding globulin in Zucker rats
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Five-month-old lean and obese Zucker rats were fasted for up to 7 days (lean rats) or 28 days (obese rats), and serum total and free T4 and T3 concentrations, percent free T4 and T3 by equilibrium dialysis, and the binding of [125I] T4 to serum proteins by gel electrophoresis were measured. In the lean rats, a 4- or 7-day fast resulted in significant decreases in serum total and free T4 and T3 concentrations. There was a decrease in the percent free T3 after 7 days of starvation. In contrast, a 4- or 7-day fast did not alter any of these variables in the obese rats. However, after 14 or more days of starvation, serum total T4 and T3 concentrations increased, and the percent free T4 and T3 decreased, resulting in no change in the serum free T4 or T3 concentrations in the obese rats. The percent of [125I]T4 bound to serum thyronine-binding globulin increased and the percent bound to thyronine-binding prealbumin decreased with the duration of the fast in both the lean and obese rats. The increase in serum thyronine-binding globulin binding of T4 can explain the increase in serum total T4 and T3 concentrations, the decrease in percent free T4 and T3, and the normal free hormone concentration in the long term fasted obese rats. The findings in the lean rats appear to be due to a combination of the known central hypothyroidism that occurs during 4-7 days of fasting and the fasting-induced changes in T4 binding in serum. Changes in T4 and T3 binding in in serum. Changes in T4 and T3 binding in serum during fasting in the rat must be considered when the effects of fasting on serum concentrations of the thyroid hormones, thyroid hormone kinetics, and the peripheral action of the thyroid hormones are evaluated
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This document represents a synthesis relative to tritium storage. After indicating the main storage particularities as regards tritium, storages under gaseous and solid form are after examined before establishing choices as a function of the main criteria. Finally, tritium storage is discussed regarding tritium devices associated to Fusion Reactors and regarding smaller devices
Progressive Vaccinia: Case Description and Laboratory-Guided Therapy With Vaccinia Immune Globulin, ST-246, and CMX001
Lederman, Edith R.; Davidson, Whitni; Groff, Harold L; Smith, Scott K.; Warkentien, Tyler; LI, Yu; Wilkins, Kimberly A.; Kevin L. Karem; Akondy, Rama S.; Ahmed, Rafi; Frace, Michael; Shieh, Wun-Ju; Zaki, Sherif; Hruby, Dennis E.; Painter, Wendy P.
Progressive vaccinia (PV) is a rare but potentially lethal complication that develops in smallpox vaccine recipients with severely impaired cellular immunity. We describe a patient with PV who required treatment with vaccinia immune globulin and who received 2 investigational agents, ST-246 and CMX001. We describe the various molecular, pharmacokinetic, and immunologic studies that provided guidance to escalate and then successfully discontinue therapy. Despite development of resistance to ST...
Effect of anthrax immune globulin on response to BioThrax (anthrax vaccine adsorbed) in New Zealand white rabbits.
Malkevich, Nina V; Basu, Subhendu; Rudge, Thomas L; Clement, Kristin H; Chakrabarti, Ajoy C; Aimes, Ronald T; Nabors, Gary S; Skiadopoulos, Mario H; Ionin, Boris
Development of anthrax countermeasures that may be used concomitantly in a postexposure setting requires an understanding of the interaction between these products. Anthrax immune globulin intravenous (AIGIV) is a candidate immunotherapeutic that contains neutralizing antibodies against protective antigen (PA), a component of anthrax toxins. We evaluated the interaction between AIGIV and BioThrax (anthrax vaccine adsorbed) in rabbits. While pharmacokinetics of AIGIV were not altered by vaccination, the vaccine-induced immune response was abrogated in AIGIV-treated animals. PMID:23979740
Binding of ochratoxin a to a urinary globulin: A new concept to account for gender difference in rat nephrocarcinogenic responses
Judit Nagy; Peter G. Mantle
SDS-gradient mini-gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting of urine of rats given ochratoxin A (OTA), showed OTA binding to an α2u-globulin. Perceived potential internalised delivery of OTA to proximal tubule epithelia by the carrier, specific only to adult male rats and augmenting other uptake mechanisms, suggests that some experimental nephrotoxicological data may not be appropriate for human risk assessment. Reexamination of female rat renal tumour histopathology of the NTP high dose OTA ...
Retrospective diagnosis of Q fever in a country abattoir by the use of specific IgM globulin estimations
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Murphy, A.M.; Hunt, J.G.
Twenty-two cases of pyrexial illness which occurred amongst workers in a country abattoir were investigated retrospectively for Q fever, brucellosis, and leptospirosis. In 18, the illness was shown to be Q fever. No diagnoses were established for the other four. The demonstration of circulating Q-fever-specific IgM globulin was instrumental in establishing the diagnosis in many of the cases.
Oestradiol and sex hormone-binding globulin in premenopausal and post-menopausal meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans
Thomas, HV; Davey, GK; Key, TJ
Endogenous oestradiol is strongly associated with breast cancer risk but its determinants are poorly understood. To test the hypothesis that vegetarians have lower plasma oestradiol and higher sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) than meat-eaters we assayed samples from 640 premenopausal women (153 meat-eaters, 382 vegetarians, 105 vegans) and 457 post-menopausal women (223 meat-eaters, 196 vegetarians, 38 vegans). Vegetarians and vegans had lower mean body mass indices (BMI) and lower plasma ...
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells Lack the 185,000-Dalton Macromolecular Insoluble Cold Globulin Present on Normal B Lymphocytes
Simmonds, Mary A.; Sobczak, Gloria; Hauptman, Stephen P.
We have recently characterized two lymphocyte-associated membrane proteins which have been termed 225,000-dalton and 185,000-dalton macromolecular insoluble cold globulin (225-MICG and 185-MICG, respectively) to distinguish their major physicochemical properties. These proteins differ antigenically, structurally, and in their cellular distribution. T cells can be distinguished by the synthesis and presence in the plasma membrane of 225-MICG, Null cells by the appearance of 185-MICG, and B cel...
Yeast-recombinant hepatitis B vaccine: efficacy with hepatitis B immune globulin in prevention of perinatal hepatitis B virus transmission
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A yeast-recombinant hepatitis B vaccine was licensed recently by the Food and Drug administration and is now available. To assess the efficacy of the yeast-recombinant vaccine, the authors administered the vaccine in combination with hepatitis B immune globulin to high-risk newborns. If infants whose mothers were positive for both hepatitis B surface antigen and the e antigen receive no immunoprophylaxis, 70% to 90% become infected with the virus, and almost all become chronic carriers. Among infants in this study who received hepatitis B immune globulin at birth and three 5-+g doses of yeast-recombinant hepatitis B vaccine, only 4.8% became chronic carriers, a better than 90% level of protection and a rate that is comparable with that seen with immune globulin and plasma-derived hepatitis B vaccine. Hepatitis surface antigen and antibodies were detected by radioimmunoassay. These data suggest that, in this high-risk setting, the yeast-recombinant vaccine is as effective as the plasma-derived vaccine in preventing hepatitis B virus infection and the chronic carrier state
How Changes in Affinity of Corticosteroid-binding Globulin Modulate Free Cortisol Concentration
Chan, Wee Lee; Carrell, Robin W.; Zhou, Aiwu
Context: Recent studies of corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) indicate that it does not merely transport cortisol passively but also actively regulates its release in the circulation. We show how CBG binding affinity can vary to give changes in free cortisol concentration in a physiologically relevant range. Objective: The objective was to determine how the binding affinity of plasma CBG is affected by glycosylation, changes in body temperature, and the conformational change induced by proteases at sites of inflammation. Design: Binding assays were performed over a range of temperatures with plasma and recombinant CBG to determine the contribution of glycosylation. The role of conformational change was assessed by measuring binding affinities of plasma CBG before and after reactive loop cleavage by neutrophil elastase. Main Outcome Measures: Determination of binding constants allows calculation of clinically relevant changes in CBG saturation and free cortisol concentrations. Results: On reactive loop cleavage at inflammation sites, CBG can continue to act as a buffered source of cortisol, although with a much reduced affinity, to give a potential quadrupling of free cortisol. Predicted increases in systemic free cortisol resulting from elevated body temperatures, previously reported based on affinity measurements using nonglycosylated recombinant CBG, were shown here to be considerably increased using glycosylated plasma CBG, with a doubling for every 2°C rise in body temperature. Conclusions: The ability of CBG to modulate free cortisol levels in blood must be considered in the understanding and management of disease processes, as illustrated here with predictable changes in inflammation and fever. PMID:23783094
Postexposure Prevention of Progressive Vaccinia in SCID Mice Treated with Vaccinia Immune Globulin ?
Fisher, R. W.; Reed, J. L.; Snoy, P. J.; Mikolajczyk, M. G.; Bray, M.; Scott, D. E.; Kennedy, M. C.
A recently reported case of progressive vaccinia (PV) in an immunocompromised patient has refocused attention on this condition. Uniformly fatal prior to the licensure of vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) in 1978, PV was still fatal in about half of VIG-treated patients overall, with a greater mortality rate in infants and children. Additional therapies would be needed in the setting of a smallpox bioterror event, since mass vaccination following any variola virus release would inevitably result in exposure of immunocompromised people through vaccination or contact with vaccinees. Well-characterized animal models of disease can support the licensure of new products when human studies are not ethical or feasible, as in the case of PV. We chose vaccinia virus-scarified SCID mice to model PV. As in immunocompromised humans, vaccinia virus-scarified SCID animals develop enlarging primary lesions with minimal or no inflammation, eventual distal virus spread, and lethal outcomes if left untreated. Postexposure treatment with VIG slowed disease progression, caused local lesion regression, and resulted in the healthy survival of most of the mice for more than 120 days. Combination treatment with VIG and topical cidofovir also resulted in long-term disease-free survival of most of the animals, even when initiated 7 days postinfection. These results support the possibility that combination treatments may be effective in humans and support using this SCID model of PV to test new antibody therapies and combination therapies and to provide further insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of PV. PMID:21106779
Anti-Cryptococcal-Globulin-Latex Production for Rapid Detection of Cryptococcus neoformans Polysaccharide Antigen in Cryptococcosis
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F Zaini
Full Text Available Cryptococcosis has become the fourth leading life-threatening opportunistic infection in patients with AIDS, but also occurs in non-AIDS patients. In view of the increasing numbers of infection during last decade in Iran, use of rapid, sensitive and specific test for diagnosis of cryptococcal disease has become important than ever. We aimed to produce the reagents for latex cryptococcal antigen test. The antigen was prepared from NCPF 3168 strain of Cryptococcus neoformans. Anticapsular antiserum of C. neoformans raised in rabbits and latex carboxylate- modified beads were coated with antiserum. The maximally- reactive globulin dilution was obtained at dilution of 1:400. For evaluation of efficacy of reagents, challenged 38 BALB/C mice and other 38 mice were used as controls. The mice were bled and autopsied. Brain, heart and lung were checked by direct, histopathological and cultural examination for cryptococcosis. The sera from case and control mice were tested with Immunomycologic (Immy kit and also our produced reagents (OPR for detection of cryptococcal antigen. Moreover, 15 cerebrospinal fluid and 15 serum samples from patients with cryptococcal meningitis, 30 with aspergillosis, 30 with suspected other fungal infections, and 30 from healthy individuals were tested as well. The results showed that the sensitivity (97.3% and specificity (100% of OPR was quite comparable with those of Immy kit . Therefore, it could be regarded as a substitute for commercial kits.
Vaccinia immune globulin: current policies, preparedness, and product safety and efficacy.
Wittek, Riccardo
In 1980 the World Health Organization declared that smallpox was eradicated from the world, and routine smallpox vaccination was discontinued. Nevertheless, samples of the smallpox virus (variola virus) were retained for research purposes, not least because of fears that terrorist groups or rogue states might also have kept samples in order to develop a bioweapon. Variola virus represents an effective bioweapon because it is associated with high morbidity and mortality and is highly contagious. Since September 11, 2001, countries around the world have begun to develop policies and preparedness programs to deal with a bioterror attack, including stockpiling of smallpox vaccine. Smallpox vaccine itself may be associated with a number of serious adverse events, which can often be managed with vaccinia immune globulin (VIG). VIG may also be needed as prophylaxis in patients for whom pre-exposure smallpox vaccine is contraindicated (such as those with eczema or pregnant women), although it is currently not licensed in these cases. Two intravenous formulations of VIG (VIGIV Cangene and VIGIV Dynport) have been licensed by the FDA for the management of patients with progressive vaccinia, eczema vaccinatum, severe generalized vaccinia, and extensive body surface involvement or periocular implantation following inadvertent inoculation. PMID:16564720
Relation of cigarette smoking in males of different ages to sex hormone binding globulin and testosterone
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The relationship of cigarette smoking, age, total testosterone free testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were examined by solid phase radioimmunoassay in 90 randomly chosen healthy males of different ages. The serum levels of these hormones were investigated for smokers compared with non-smokers, of the same ages in 3 groups (adolescent males, middle aged males, and old aged males). Results indicated that cigarette smokers showed increased serum levels of testosterone (60.0% higher, P> 0.05), free testosterone (51.0 higher, P > 0.005) in young adolescent males group, testosterone (27.8% higher, P > 0.001), free testosterone (21.3% higher, P > 0.001) in middle aged males group, and testosterone (21.0% higher, P > 0.001), free testosterone (16.8% higher, P > 0.4) in old ages males group. SHBG was calculated as a mean of free and total testosterone in each group. smokers showed higher mean values of SHBG than non-smokers. Age was positively associated with serum SHBG, it was found that SHBG increased by 17.2% from the youngest (> 18 years) to the oldest age (> 65 years)
Interactions among impulsiveness, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and androgen receptor gene CAG repeat length.
Aluja, Anton; García, Luís F; Martí-Guiu, Maite; Blanco, Eduardo; García, Oscar; Fibla, J; Blanch, Ŕngel
Impulsive personality phenotype has been extensively related with genetic and hormonal factors. This study has two objectives: a) to analyse the interactions between testosterone levels and CAG repeat length polymorphism as a modulator of androgen receptor (AR) sensitivity with regard to impulsiveness traits, and b) to evaluate the contribution of other biological variables as Luteinising Hormone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (LF, FSH, SHBG) and albumin in the relationship between testosterone levels and AR CAG length polymorphism with impulsiveness. A sample of 105 healthy males (mean age 26.71±9.68 SEM) was analysed resulting in three groups of subjects according to CAG repeat lengths. Impulsiveness was measured through the Barratt's Impulsiveness Personality Scale, including three components: Motor Impulsiveness, Cognitive Impulsiveness and Non-Planning Impulsiveness. A series of ANOVAS and linear regression models predicting impulsiveness scales were conducted. Age, hormones, CAG repeat length and hormone×CAG repeat interactions were included in the regression models as independent variables. Results show that subjects with short or medium CAG repeat length tended to show higher impulsiveness phenotypes compared to long CAG repeat. The interaction between Free Testosterone and CAG, and between SHBG and CAG accounted for differences on impulsiveness (R: .47, R(2): .22 and R: .43; R(2): .18, respectively).This pattern was especially observed for the short CAG repeat group and Motor Impulsiveness. PMID:25890275
Postprandial free fatty acids stimulate activity of human corticosteroid binding globulin.
Haourigui, M; Sakr, S; Martin, M E; Thobie, N; Girard-Globa, A; Benassayag, C; Nunez, E A
The effect of postprandial variation of free fatty acids (FFA) on serum corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG) properties and cortisol (hydrocortisone) concentrations were explored in 11 women (20-30 yr) during 8 h after an oral load of tallow (26% C16:0, 18% C18:0, and 43% C18:1), oleic-sunflower (oleic-SF; 73% C18:1), sunflower (SF; 67% C18:2), and mixed oil (MO; 39% C18:1 and 48% C18:2). Serum FFA increased little after SF and MO but more than doubled in the late postprandial period (6 and 8 h) after oleic-SF (due to monounsaturated FFA) or tallow (due to saturated and monounsaturated FFA). CBG concentrations remained unchanged, but in relation with the postprandial elevation of serum FFA, CBG binding activity was increased after tallow or oleic-SF as a result of a combined two- to threefold increase in affinity constant and a 50% reduction in binding sites. Immunological and in vitro binding studies showed the changes in CBG behavior to be conformational and to be mediated mainly by monounsaturated FFA, especially C18:1. The modifications of CBG properties were associated with sustained high concentrations of cortisol (suppression of midday decrease) 6 and 8 h after tallow or oleic-SF. Thus dietary FFA may have an impact on bioavailability of glucocorticoids. PMID:8572198
Postexposure prevention of progressive vaccinia in SCID mice treated with vaccinia immune globulin.
Fisher, R W; Reed, J L; Snoy, P J; Mikolajczyk, M G; Bray, M; Scott, D E; Kennedy, M C
A recently reported case of progressive vaccinia (PV) in an immunocompromised patient has refocused attention on this condition. Uniformly fatal prior to the licensure of vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) in 1978, PV was still fatal in about half of VIG-treated patients overall, with a greater mortality rate in infants and children. Additional therapies would be needed in the setting of a smallpox bioterror event, since mass vaccination following any variola virus release would inevitably result in exposure of immunocompromised people through vaccination or contact with vaccinees. Well-characterized animal models of disease can support the licensure of new products when human studies are not ethical or feasible, as in the case of PV. We chose vaccinia virus-scarified SCID mice to model PV. As in immunocompromised humans, vaccinia virus-scarified SCID animals develop enlarging primary lesions with minimal or no inflammation, eventual distal virus spread, and lethal outcomes if left untreated. Postexposure treatment with VIG slowed disease progression, caused local lesion regression, and resulted in the healthy survival of most of the mice for more than 120 days. Combination treatment with VIG and topical cidofovir also resulted in long-term disease-free survival of most of the animals, even when initiated 7 days postinfection. These results support the possibility that combination treatments may be effective in humans and support using this SCID model of PV to test new antibody therapies and combination therapies and to provide further insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of PV. PMID:21106779
Combined N-glycome and N-glycoproteome analysis of the Lotus japonicus seed globulin fraction shows conservation of protein structure and glycosylation in legumes
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Dam, Svend Secher; Thaysen-Andersen, Morten
Legume food allergy, such as allergy toward peanuts and soybeans, is a health issue predicted to worsen as dietary advice recommends higher intake of legume-based foods. Lotus japonicus (Lotus) is an established legume plant model system for studies of symbiotic and pathogenic microbial interactions and, due to its well characterized genotype/phenotype and easily manipulated genome, may also be suitable for studies of legume food allergy. Here we present a comprehensive study of the Lotus N-glycoproteome. The global and site-specific N-glycan structures of Lotus seed globulins were analyzed using mass spectrometry-based glycomics and glycoproteomics techniques. In total, 19 N-glycan structures comprising high mannose (?20%), pauci-mannosidic (?40%), and complex forms (?40%) were determined. The pauci-mannosidic and complex N-glycans contained high amounts of the typical plant determinants ?-1,2-xylose and ?-1,3-fucose. Two abundant Lotus seed N-glycoproteins were site-specifically profiled; a predicted lectincontaining two fully occupied N-glycosylation sites carried predominantly pauci-mannosidic structures in different distributions. In contrast, Lotus convicilin storage protein 2 (LCP2) carried exclusively high mannose N-glycans similar to its homologue, Ara h 1, which is the major allergen in peanut. In silico investigation confirmed that peanut Ara h 1 and Lotus LCP2 are highly similar at the primary and higher protein structure levels. Hence, we suggest that Lotus has the potential to serve as a model system for studying the role of seed proteins and their glycosylation in food allergy.
What the world's religions teach, applied to vaccines and immune globulins.
Grabenstein, John D
For millennia, humans have sought and found purpose, solace, values, understanding, and fellowship in religious practices. Buddhist nuns performed variolation against smallpox over 1000 years ago. Since Jenner developed vaccination against smallpox in 1796, some people have objected to and declined vaccination, citing various religious reasons. This paper reviews the scriptural, canonical basis for such interpretations, as well as passages that support immunization. Populous faith traditions are considered, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Subjects of concern such as blood components, pharmaceutical excipients of porcine or bovine origin, rubella strain RA 27/3, and cell-culture media with remote fetal origins are evaluated against the religious concerns identified. The review identified more than 60 reports or evaluations of vaccine-preventable infectious-disease outbreaks that occurred within religious communities or that spread from them to broader communities. In multiple cases, ostensibly religious reasons to decline immunization actually reflected concerns about vaccine safety or personal beliefs among a social network of people organized around a faith community, rather than theologically based objections per se. Themes favoring vaccine acceptance included transformation of vaccine excipients from their starting material, extensive dilution of components of concern, the medicinal purpose of immunization (in contrast to diet), and lack of alternatives. Other important features included imperatives to preserve health and duty to community (e.g., parent to child, among neighbors). Concern that 'the body is a temple not to be defiled' is contrasted with other teaching and quality-control requirements in manufacturing vaccines and immune globulins. Health professionals who counsel hesitant patients or parents can ask about the basis for concern and how the individual applies religious understanding to decision-making about medical products, explain facts about content and processes, and suggest further dialog with informed religious leaders. Key considerations for observant believers for each populous religion are described. PMID:23499565
Serum free thyroxine and thyroxine-binding globulin concentrations in early phase of subacute thyroiditis.
Shigemasa, C; Abe, K; Taniguchi, S; Mitani, Y; Ueta, Y; Urabe, K; Adachi, T; Tanaka, T; Yoshida, A; Mashiba, H
Serum total thyroxine (T4), total triiodothyronine (T3), T4-binding globulin (TBG), free T4(FT4) and free T3(FT3) concentrations and the T3-uptake(T3-U) value were estimated in 11 patients with subacute thyroiditis, and compared with the same parameters in 11 patients with Graves' disease, whose serum T4 concentrations were similar to the former group. Seven patients with subacute thyroiditis, who were treated with dicrofenac sodium alone, were investigated as to the sequential changes in serum parameters during their clinical courses. The mean serum T3-U value and FT4, T3 and FT3 concentrations in patients with subacute thyroiditis were increased, but all were significantly lower than those in patients with Graves' disease (p less than 0.01, p less than 0.001, p less than 0.001 and p less than 0.001, respectively). Three patients with subacute thyroiditis, who showed shorter duration of symptoms than 10 days, had serum TBG excess. Thus the mean (+/- SD) serum TBG concentration (26.5 +/- 8.4 micrograms/ml) was significantly higher than that (18.3 +/- 2.9 micrograms/ml) in patients with Graves' disease (p less than 0.02). The ratios of serum T3 to T4 and FT3 to FT4 in patients with subacute thyroiditis were also significantly lower than those in patients with Graves' disease (p less than 0.001 and p less than 0.001, respectively). The serum FT4 in 7 patients treated with dicrofenac sodium alone decreased to the normal range after 3 to 8 weeks from the onset of the illness. In 3 patients with TBG excess and one patient (TBG; 29.0 micrograms/ml), serum TBG declined in consequence of the serum FT4 normalization.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:3131131
Intravenous immune globulin in hereditary inclusion body myopathy: a pilot study
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Dorward Heidi
Full Text Available Abstract Background Hereditary Inclusion Body Myopathy (HIBM is an autosomal recessive, adult onset, non-inflammatory neuromuscular disorder with no effective treatment. The causative gene, GNE, codes for UDP-N-acetylglucosamine 2-epimerase/N-acetylmannosamine kinase, which catalyzes the first two reactions in the synthesis of sialic acid. Reduced sialylation of muscle glycoproteins, such as ?-dystroglycan and neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM, has been reported in HIBM. Methods We treated 4 HIBM patients with intravenous immune globulin (IVIG, in order to provide sialic acid, because IgG contains 8 ?mol of sialic acid/g. IVIG was infused as a loading dose of 1 g/kg on two consecutive days followed by 3 doses of 400 mg/kg at weekly intervals. Results For all four patients, mean quadriceps strength improved from 19.0 kg at baseline to 23.2 kg (+22% directly after IVIG loading to 25.6 kg (+35% at the end of the study. Mean shoulder strength improved from 4.1 kg at baseline to 5.9 kg (+44% directly after IVIG loading to 6.0 kg (+46% at the end of the study. The composite improvement for 8 other muscle groups was 5% after the initial loading and 19% by the end of the study. Esophageal motility and lingual strength improved in the patients with abnormal barium swallows. Objective measures of functional improvement gave variable results, but the patients experienced improvements in daily activities that they considered clinically significant. Immunohistochemical staining and immunoblotting of muscle biopsies for ?-dystroglycan and NCAM did not provide consistent evidence for increased sialylation after IVIG treatment. Side effects were limited to transient headaches and vomiting. Conclusion The mild benefits in muscle strength experienced by HIBM patients after IVIG treatment may be related to the provision of sialic acid supplied by IVIG. Other sources of sialic acid are being explored as treatment options for HIBM.
Thyroxine binding to serum thyronine-binding globulin in thyroidectomized adult and normal neonatal rats
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The amount of tracer [125I]T4 bound to serum thyronine-binding globulin (TBG) was measured by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in adult thyroidectomized (TX) rats and normal 1-day to 4-week-old rat puts. Thyroidectomy was associated with the appearance of significant amounts of [125I]T4 binding to serum TBG in lean rats, but not in obese Zucker rats. Treatment of the TX rats in vivo with replacement doses of T4 prevented this increase in TBG binding, but enrichment of serum from TX rats with T4 did not. Significant amounts of tracer [125I]T4 binding to TBG was present in serum from 1- to 3-week-old normal rat pups, but not in 1-day- or 4-week-old pups. There were significantly higher levels of TBG binding of [125I]T4 in serum from 2-week-old rat pups raised in litters of 16 pups compared to those raised in litters of 4 pups. All manipulations that result in the appearance of TBG in rat serum also result in either weight loss or a slowing in the rate of growth, suggesting that the appearance of TBG in rat serum has a nutritional component. This possibility is further supported by the observations that increases in TBG binding of [125I]T4 are not found in obese Zucker rats fed a low protein-high carbohydrate diet for 14 days or fasted for 7 days, or after thyroidectomy, perhaps owing to the large stores of fuel in the obese rat
WinRho: Rh immune globulin prepared by ion exchange for intravenous use.
Bowman, J M; Friesen, A D; Pollock, J M; Taylor, W E
An Rh immune globulin [Rh IgG] for intravenous use, WinRho, has been prepared by the Winnipeg Rh Institute by a modification of the ion-exchange column method of Hoppe and colleagues. When administered to Rh-negative male and nonpregnant female volunteers WinRho was found to be nonpyrogenic, nontoxic, safe and protective against Rh alloimmunization. In a clinical trial with 240 microgram given at about 28 weeks' gestation and 120 microgram given after delivery to Rh-negative women at risk of Rh immunization WinRho was effective in preventing Rh immunization. Of the 870 women carrying Rh-positive fetuses who were treated with WinRho during pregnancy and were not tested several months after delivery 14 would have shown evidence of Rh immunization by the time of delivery if WinRho had been ineffective; none showed such evidence. Of the 1122 women carrying Rh-positive fetuses who were retested 4 to 6 months after delivery 83 would have shown evidence of Rh immunization at that time if WinRho had been ineffective; only 1 showed such evidence. The efficiency of yield of anti-D with the modified method of production, the fct that it can be given intravenously (a route that causes the patient less discomfort and immediately results in high anti-D levels) and the lower levels of contaminating IgA and IgM make WinRho the preparation of choice for preventing Rh immunization. PMID:6161687
Low-dose rabbit anti-thymoglobin globulin versus basiliximab for induction therapy in kidney transplantation.
Patel, Himanshu V; Kute, Vivek B; Vanikar, Aruna V; Shah, Pankaj R; Gumber, Manoj R; Engineer, Divyesh P; Trivedi, Hargovind L
We conducted a single-center prospective double-arm open-labeled study on kidney transplant patients from 2010 to 2011 to evaluate the efficacy of induction therapy using low, single-dose rabbit-antithymocyte globulin (r-ATG), 1.5 mg/kg on Day 0 (n = 80, 60 males, mean age 35.9 years), versus basiliximab (Interleukin-2 blocker) 20 mg on Days 0 and 4 (n = 20, 12 males, mean age 45.1 years) on renal allograft function in terms of serum creatinine (SCr), rejection and infection episodes and patient/graft survival and cost. Demographic and post-transplant follow-up including immunosuppression was similar in both groups. In the r-ATG group, donors were unrelated (spouse, n = 25), deceased (n = 31) and parents/siblings (others), with a mean HLA match of 1.58. Donors in the basiliximab group were living unrelated (spouse, n = 15) and deceased (n = 5), with a mean HLA match of 1.56. No patient/graft was lost in the r-ATG group over a mean of one year follow-up, and the mean SCr was 1.28 mg/dL with 7.5% acute rejection (AR) episodes; infections were also not observed. In the basiliximab group, over the same period of follow-up, there was 95% death-censored graft survival, and the mean SCr was 1.23 mg/dL with 10% AR episodes. One patient died due to bacterial pneumonia and one succumbed to coronary artery disease; one graft was lost due to uncontrolled acute humoral and cellular rejection. The cost of r-ATG and basiliximab were $600 and $2500, respectively. We conclude that induction immunosuppressive therapy with a low-dose r-ATG may be a better option as compared with basiliximab in terms of graft function, survival and cost benefit in kidney transplant patients. PMID:24969194
A sensitive and specific method for determining testosterone estradiol binding globulin (TeBG)
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A simple, rapid and highly sensitive method for measuring TeBG and how it can be used for obtaining a Free Testosterone Index (FTI) is described. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is used instead of testosterone owing to its higher affinity for this globulin. Non-specific binding (NSB) is estimated by incubating the plasma samples in parallel, with and without a 100-fold excess of cold DHT. To determine the level at which TeBG becomes saturated and to work far from this region of the curve, where sensitivity diminishes, hot-only experiments were performed. Saturation was found to occur beyond 1000 pg DHT. Control normal sera were compared with samples from hypogonadic patients and Scatchard plots were done to find a parallel between the two groups and a point of maximal discrimination among them at about 500 pg DHT. Since an excellent reproducibility between experiments was found, Scatchard plots were not routinely done and only the binding capacity of a control normal pool at the point of maximal discrimination was compared to that of the unknown sample and calculated as follows: TeBG binding capacity = DHT bound by the normal pool/DHT bound by the unknown. The FTI is obtained by multiplying the total testosterone by the TeBG binding capacity. Total testosterone (Tt), TeBG and FTI were analysed in 38 normal volunteers classified according to age in four groups: 20-30 (n=13), 40-50 (n=7), 50-60 (n=8), 60-70 (n=10). Although a slight difference was observed when Tt was compareifference was observed when Tt was compared between the different age groups (P<0.05), there was a much higher significant difference for TeBG and FTI (P<0.0001). (author)
Purification and properties of squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) corticosteroid binding globulins
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), a serum glycoprotein which binds glucocorticoids and progestins with high affinity, is widely distributed throughout the animal world. Although its charge and size characteristics have largely been conserved across species, the authors found the behavior of CBG in squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) serum during fractionation by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis or Sephadex chromatography was consistent with a molecule about twice the size of that found in most species. To more fully understand the basis for this difference, they purified the protein by sequential affinity and DEAE-Sepharose chromatographies. The final product was obtained in greater than 60% yield and was found to migrate as a single homogeneous band when examined by electrophoresis. The steroid binding specificity of the purified protein was identical with that of the protein in the starting serum. In contrast to the single protein band observed following electrophoresis under normal conditions, separations in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) resolved the pure protein into two bands: one at 54,000 daltons and one at 57,000 daltons. Unlike other species, squirrel monkey CBG exists as a dimer in its native state. Antibodies were generated against the purified material and tested for cross-reactivity against the sera from other species by both radioimmunodiffusion and radioimmunoassay techniques. Only serum from titi monkeys was observed to cross-reactm titi monkeys was observed to cross-react when examined by radioimmunoassay. Taken together, the results suggest that New World monkey CBG's are distinct from those of other species in both size and immunologic characteristics
Effects of corticosterone pellets on baseline and stress-induced corticosterone and corticosteroid-binding-globulin.
Müller, Claudia; Almasi, Bettina; Roulin, Alexandre; Breuner, Creagh W; Jenni-Eiermann, Susanne; Jenni, Lukas
Exogenous administration of glucocorticoids is a widely used and efficient tool to investigate the effects of elevated concentrations of these hormones in field studies. Because the effects of corticosterone are dose and duration-dependent, the exact course of plasma corticosterone levels after exogenous administration needs to be known. We tested the performance of self-degradable corticosterone pellets (implanted under the skin) in elevating plasma corticosterone levels. We monitored baseline (sampled within 3min after capture) total corticosterone levels and investigated potential interactions with corticosteroid-binding-globulin (CBG) capacity and the endogenous corticosterone response to handling in Eurasian kestrel Falco tinnunculus and barn owl Tyto alba nestlings. Corticosterone pellets designed for a 7-day-release in rodents elevated circulating baseline total corticosterone during only 2-3 days compared to placebo-nestlings. Highest levels occurred 1-2days after implantation and levels decreased strongly thereafter. CBG capacity was also increased, resulting in a smaller, but still significant, increase in baseline free corticosterone levels. The release of endogenous corticosterone as a response to handling was strong in placebo-nestlings, but absent 2 and 8 days after corticosterone pellet implantation. This indicates a potential shut-down of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis after the 2-3 days of elevated baseline corticosterone levels. 20 days after pellet implantation, the endogenous corticosterone response to handling of nestlings implanted with corticosterone pellets attained similar levels as in placebo-nestlings. Self-degradable pellets proved to be an efficient tool to artificially elevate circulating baseline corticosterone especially in field studies, requiring only one intervention. The resulting peak-like elevation of circulating corticosterone, the concomitant elevation of CBG capacity, and the absence of an endogenous corticosterone response to an acute stressor have to be taken into account. PMID:18996387
Human sex hormone-binding globulin gene expression- multiple promoters and complex alternative splicing
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Rosner William
Full Text Available Abstract Background Human sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG regulates free sex steroid concentrations in plasma and modulates rapid, membrane based steroid signaling. SHBG is encoded by an eight exon-long transcript whose expression is regulated by a downstream promoter (PL. The SHBG gene was previously shown to express a second major transcript of unknown function, derived from an upstream promoter (PT, and two minor transcripts. Results We report that transcriptional expression of the human SHBG gene is far more complex than previously described. PL and PT direct the expression of at least six independent transcripts each, resulting from alternative splicing of exons 4, 5, 6, and/or 7. We mapped two transcriptional start sites downstream of PL and PT, and present evidence for a third SHBG gene promoter (PN within the neighboring FXR2 gene; PN regulates the expression of at least seven independent SHBG gene transcripts, each possessing a novel, 164-nt first exon (1N. Transcriptional expression patterns were generated for human prostate, breast, testis, liver, and brain, and the LNCaP, MCF-7, and HepG2 cell lines. Each expresses the SHBG transcript, albeit in varying abundance. Alternative splicing was more pronounced in the cancer cell lines. PL- PT- and PN-derived transcripts were most abundant in liver, testis, and prostate, respectively. Initial findings reveal the existence of a smaller immunoreactive SHBG species in LNCaP, MCF-7, and HepG2 cells. Conclusion These results extend our understanding of human SHBG gene transcription, and raise new and important questions regarding the role of novel alternatively spliced transcripts, their function in hormonally responsive tissues including the breast and prostate, and the role that aberrant SHBG gene expression may play in cancer.
Outcomes of immunosuppressant therapy with lower dose of antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine in aplastic anemia.
Malhotra, Pankaj; Bodh, Vijay; Guru Murthy, Guru Subramanian; Datta, Anup Kumar; Varma, Neelam; Varma, Subhash
Objective Immunosuppressant therapy (IST) with antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and cyclosporine is an established treatment option for patients with aplastic anemia (AA), who are not eligible for allogeneic stem cell transplantation. However, data on the dose of ATG and its efficacy from the developing countries is minimal. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of all AA patients (age >12 years), treated with equine ATG and cyclosporine from a single center in India. Patients who received or were eligible for stem cell transplantation were excluded. The overall response rate (ORR) to IST was calculated at 3 and 6 months. We also determined the influence of using a lower dose of Atgam ATG (25 mg/kg/day × 4 days) and compared its efficacy against the standard dose of locally manufactured Thymogam ATG (40 mg/kg/day × 4 days). Factors influencing the ORR were analyzed using Fisher's exact test with a significant P < 0.05. Results Thirty-nine patients with AA treated with ATG and cyclosporine were studied. Median age was 31 years with a male:female ratio of 0.85:1. The ORR was 58% at 3 months, 77% at 6 months and was similar with lower dose Atgam and standard dose Thymogam. On multivariate analysis of ORR at 6 months, the interval between the onset of symptoms to the initiation of therapy was close to attaining statistical significance (odds ratio 23.53, P value 0.053) while the other variables did not attain significance. Conclusions IST with equine ATG in a lower dose (25 mg/kg/day × 4 days) and cyclosporine is a feasible and effective treatment option for AA in resource-constrained settings. PMID:25181305
Rabbit antithymocyte globulin as first-line therapy for severe aplastic anemia.
Zhang, Li; Jing, Liping; Zhou, Kang; Wang, Huijun; Peng, Guangxin; Li, Yang; Li, Yuan; Li, Jianping; Ye, Lei; Shi, Lihui; Fan, Huihui; Zhao, Xin; Wang, Jianxiang; Zhang, Fengkui
Rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG) was proven effective as salvage therapy for refractory aplastic anemia (AA), or for relapse after initial therapy with horse ATG (hATG). Several clinical trials were performed to assess the efficiency of rATG as a first-line therapy for AA patients; however, their results were variable. The aim of the present study was to assess hematologic response and survival in severe AA (SAA) and very severe AA (VSAA) patients treated with rATG and cyclosporin A (CsA) in our center. The factors involved in these outcomes were also explored. A total of 292 patients with newly diagnosed, acquired SAA or VSAA received a combination of rATG and CsA as first-line therapy, and the results were retrospectively assessed. The median age was 18 years (range = 2-73 years). The early death rate was 5.5%, and the total response rates were 49.0% (143 responders), 60.3% (176 responders), 65.8% (192 responders), and 68.5% (200 responders) at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively, after immunosuppressive therapy. In multivariate analysis, initial response to granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) was the predictive factor for response to therapy at 12 months. Median follow-up of surviving patients was 34 months (range = 0-117 months). Five-year overall survival was 83.2%, and the 5-year, event-free survival was 67.2%. Independent prognostic factors for overall survival were neutrophil count and achievement of any response following rATG therapy. Our results indicate that rATG/CsA is a safe and effective first-line treatment for SAA/VSAA. PMID:25583265
Associations between sex hormone binding globulin and metabolic syndrome parameters in premenopausal obese women
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Akin Fulya
Full Text Available Background and Aims: The aim of this study was to determine sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG concentrations in premenopausal obese women and to evaluate the relationships between sex hormones and features of the metabolic syndrome (MetS. Settings and Design: Retrospective cross-sectional analysis was carried out on 350 obese patients aged 25 to 69 years referred to the Department of Endocrinology, Pamukkale University in 2002-2003. Materials and Methods: 125 premenopausal euthyroid patients were eligible for this study. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the body mass index (BMI: Group I, women with BMI < 30 kg/m 2 (n = 17 and Group II,, women with BMI ? 30 kg/m 2 (n = 108. Median SHBG concentration of Group I was 50.1 nmol/L. Group II was divided into two subgroups according to the median SHBG concentration of Group I: subjects with high SHBG levels (SHBG concentration ? median level of the control group, i.e ? 50.1 nmol/L and subjects with low SHBG levels (< 50.1 nmol/L. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 9.0 software (SPSS Inc.. Results: No significant difference was found in mean age between the low and high SHBG groups. The low SHBG group was significantly heavier, and with higher waist circumference than the high SHBG group. In the low SHBG group, fasting glucose, postprandial glucose and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT and free androgen index (FAI were significantly higher. Lipid profile, blood pressure, uric acid, insulin and HOMA were found similar between two groups. Linear regression analyses revealed that body mass index and FAI were significant, being independent predictors of SHBG concentrations in premenopausal women. (r = 0.365, r square = 0.134. Conclusions: It is concluded that low SHBG concentrations may indicate visceral obesity and glucose intolerance in premenopausal women.
WinRho: Rh immune globulin prepared by ion exchange for intravenous use.
Bowman, J M; Friesen, A D; Pollock, J M; Taylor, W E
An Rh immune globulin [Rh IgG] for intravenous use, WinRho, has been prepared by the Winnipeg Rh Institute by a modification of the ion-exchange column method of Hoppe and colleagues. When administered to Rh-negative male and nonpregnant female volunteers WinRho was found to be nonpyrogenic, nontoxic, safe and protective against Rh alloimmunization. In a clinical trial with 240 microgram given at about 28 weeks' gestation and 120 microgram given after delivery to Rh-negative women at risk of Rh immunization WinRho was effective in preventing Rh immunization. Of the 870 women carrying Rh-positive fetuses who were treated with WinRho during pregnancy and were not tested several months after delivery 14 would have shown evidence of Rh immunization by the time of delivery if WinRho had been ineffective; none showed such evidence. Of the 1122 women carrying Rh-positive fetuses who were retested 4 to 6 months after delivery 83 would have shown evidence of Rh immunization at that time if WinRho had been ineffective; only 1 showed such evidence. The efficiency of yield of anti-D with the modified method of production, the fct that it can be given intravenously (a route that causes the patient less discomfort and immediately results in high anti-D levels) and the lower levels of contaminating IgA and IgM make WinRho the preparation of choice for preventing Rh immunization. PMID:6161687
Clinical outcomes after hepatitis C infection from contaminated anti-D immune globulin. Irish Hepatology Research Group.
LENUS (Irish Health Repository)
Kenny-Walsh, E
BACKGROUND AND METHODS: In February 1994, batches of anti-D immune globulin used in Ireland during 1977 and 1978 to prevent Rh isoimmunization were found to be contaminated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) from a single infected donor. In March 1994, a national screening program was initiated for all women who had received anti-D immune globulin between 1970 and 1994. Of the 62,667 women who had been screened when this study began, 704 (1.1 percent) had evidence of past or current HCV infection, and 390 of those 704 (55 percent) had positive tests for serum HCV RNA on reverse-transcription-polymerase-chain-reaction analysis. All 390 were offered a referral for clinical assessment and therapy. We evaluated 376 of these 390 women (96 percent); the other 14 were not seen at one of the designated treatment centers. RESULTS: The mean (+\\/-SD) age of the 376 women was 45+\\/-6 years at the time of screening. They had been infected with hepatitis C for about 17 years. A total of 304 women (81 percent) reported symptoms, most commonly fatigue (248 [66 percent]). Serum alanine aminotransferase concentrations were slightly elevated (40 to 99 U per liter) in 176 of 371 women (47 percent), and the concentrations were 100 U per liter or higher in 31 (8 percent). Liver biopsies showed inflammation in 356 of 363 women (98 percent); in most cases the inflammation was slight (41 percent) or moderate (52 percent). Although the biopsy samples from 186 of the 363 women (51 percent) showed evidence of fibrosis, only 7 women (2 percent) had probable or definite cirrhosis. Two of the seven reported excessive alcohol consumption. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the women with HCV infection 17 years after receiving HCV-contaminated anti-D immune globulin had evidence of slight or moderate hepatic inflammation on liver biopsy, about half had fibrosis, and 2 percent had probable or definite cirrhosis.
Adsorptive properties of albumin, fibrinogen, and gamma-globulin on fluorinated diamond-like carbon films coated on PTFE.
Ozeki, K; Nagashima, I; Hirakuri, K K; Masuzawa, T
Fluorinated diamond-like carbon (F-DLC) films were deposited on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) using radio frequency (RF) plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) by changing the ratio of tetrafluoromethane (CF(4)) and methane (CH(4)). To enhance the adhesion strength of the F-DLC film to the PTFE substrate, the PTFE surface was modified with a N(2) plasma pre-treatment. XPS analysis of the films showed that the C-C bond decreased with increases in the CF(4) ratio, whereas the C-F bond increased with the CF(4) ratio. The F/C ratio of the film also increased with the CF(4) ratio. The pull-out test showed that the adhesion strengths of the films (CF(4)-0-60%) were improved with the plasma pre-treatment. In the film without the plasma pre-treatment, adhesion strength increased with the CF(4) ratio. In contrast, in the case with the plasma pre-treatment, the adhesion strength of the F-DLC film decreased with the increased CF(4) ratio. Regarding the adsorption of albumin, fibrinogen, and gamma-globulin, the amount of adsorbed albumin on the film decreased with an increasing CF(4) ratio, and the amount of adsorbed fibrinogen and gamma-globulin increased with the CF(4) ratio. The CF(4)-0% DLC film showed the most adsorbed albumin and the least adsorbed fibrinogen and gamma-globulin. This indicates that the CF(4)-0% DLC film has higher anti-thrombogenicity than the F-DLC film. PMID:20101441
Biological Activity of an Intravenous Preparation of Human Vaccinia Immune Globulin in Mouse Models of Vaccinia Virus Infection
Shearer, Jeffry D.; Siemann, Linda; Gerkovich, Mary; Robert V. House
The biological activity of a new intravenous (i.v.) preparation of human vaccinia immune globulin (VIGIV) was evaluated in two mouse models of vaccinia virus (VV) infection. In a mouse tail lesion model, female CD-1 mice were inoculated i.v. with 7 × 104 PFU of VV to produce >10 lesions per tail 8 days later. In a mouse lethality model, female severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice were inoculated i.v. with 3 × 104 PFU of VV to produce 100% mortality within 45 days. The ability of VIGI...
Progressive vaccinia: case description and laboratory-guided therapy with vaccinia immune globulin, ST-246, and CMX001.
Lederman, Edith R; Davidson, Whitni; Groff, Harold L; Smith, Scott K; Warkentien, Tyler; Li, Yu; Wilkins, Kimberly A; Karem, Kevin L; Akondy, Rama S; Ahmed, Rafi; Frace, Michael; Shieh, Wun-Ju; Zaki, Sherif; Hruby, Dennis E; Painter, Wendy P; Bergman, Kimberly L; Cohen, Jeffrey I; Damon, Inger K
Progressive vaccinia (PV) is a rare but potentially lethal complication that develops in smallpox vaccine recipients with severely impaired cellular immunity. We describe a patient with PV who required treatment with vaccinia immune globulin and who received 2 investigational agents, ST-246 and CMX001. We describe the various molecular, pharmacokinetic, and immunologic studies that provided guidance to escalate and then successfully discontinue therapy. Despite development of resistance to ST-246 during treatment, the patient had resolution of PV. This case demonstrates the need for continued development of novel anti-orthopoxvirus pharmaceuticals and the importance of both intensive and timely clinical and laboratory support in management of PV. PMID:22904336
Expression of biologically active human corticosteroid binding globulin by insect cells: acquisition of function requires glycosylation and transport.
Ghose-Dastidar, J; Ross, J. B.; GREEN, R
Human corticosteroid binding globulin (hCBG) is a 50- to 55-kDa serum glycoprotein that binds cortisol and progesterone with high affinity. To map the steroid-binding domain and to investigate the folding pathways of hCBG, we have established an expression system based on infection of insect cells with a recombinant baculovirus encoding hCBG. Infected Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells secrete immunoreactive hCBG at high levels (16-24 pmol per 10(6) cells per 40 h), and the recombinant protein...
Female hyperandrogenemia and normal serum levels of testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Karina, Danilowicz; Oscar D, Bruno; Daniela, Mana; Hector A, Serra; Graciela, Cross; Jorge A, Rey.
Full Text Available Con frecuencia los valores de referencia utilizados para las evaluaciones bioquímicas endocrinológicas son los sugeridos por los kits utilizados, a pesar de las recomendaciones de que cada laboratorio debiera obtener sus propios valores de normalidad. Nuestros objetivos fueron (i) analizar los rango [...] s de referencia para testosterona (T) y globulina ligadora de esteroides sexuales (SHBG) apropiados para nuestro laboratorio y población, y (ii) analizar su influencia en la evaluación de la hiperandrogenemia. Se midió T y SHBG y se calculó testosterona libre y biodisponible en un grupo (a) control de 30 mujeres no hiperandrogénicas, (b) 87 mujeres no seleccionadas donantes de sangre, (c) 53 mujeres con hiperandrogenismo, y (d) 38 mujeres con desórdenes hiperandrogénicos pero sin hiperandrogenemia de acuerdo a los rangos de normalidad sugeridos por el kit. La concentración media de SHBG fue significativamente diferente entre los cuatro grupos. Los niveles de SHBG fueron significativamente más altos en las mujeres controles seleccionadas (grupo a). Tomando en consideración los resultados obtenidos en este grupo y estableciendo los rangos de referencia adecuados, 12 de 38 mujeres (31.6%) hiperandrogénicas sin hiperandrogenemia (grupo d) fueron recategorizadas como con exceso androgénico bioquímico. De igual manera, al analizar mujeres normopesas no seleccionadas, en edad reproductiva (grupo b), 4 de 63 (6.4%) pudieron ser definidas como hiperandrogénicas. Utilizando valores adecuados de referencia para SHBG, se mejora la precisión del diagnóstico de exceso androgénico. Abstract in english It is well known that the reference values usually employed for endocrine biochemical measurements are those suggested by the suppliers of commercial kits despite their advice that each laboratory should set its own reference values. Our objectives were to (i) determine reference ranges for serum te [...] stosterone (T) and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) appropriate to our laboratory and population, and (ii) to analyze their influence on evaluating hyperandrogenemia. SHBG and T were measured, and free and bioavailable testosterone calculated, in (a) 30 selected non-hyperandrogenic women, (b) 87 non-selected healthy female blood donors, (c) 53 women with hyperandrogenism, and (d) 38 women with hyperandrogenic disorders but without biochemical hyperandrogenemia according to normal ranges suggested by the kit manufacturer. Mean serum SHBG concentrations were significantly different among all four groups. SHBG levels were significantly higher in selected normal women (group a). Using our results for this selected control group as new reference values, 12 out of 38 (31.6%) women with hyperandrogenic disorders without apparent hyperandrogenemia (group d) were recategorized as hyperandrogenemic. Similarly, 4 out of 63 (6.4%) non-selected, normal weight, women (group b), were recategorized as hyperandrogenic. Therefore, the diagnosis of hyperandrogenemia would improve accuracy by using customized reference SHBG values instead of those suggested by the suppliers.
Brunet, Yves
Energy storage examines different applications such as electric power generation, transmission and distribution systems, pulsed systems, transportation, buildings and mobile applications. For each of these applications, proper energy storage technologies are foreseen, with their advantages, disadvantages and limits. As electricity cannot be stored cheaply in large quantities, energy has to be stored in another form (chemical, thermal, electromagnetic, mechanical) and then converted back into electric power and/or energy using conversion systems. Most of the storage technologies are examined: b
Trends in anti-D immune globulin for childhood immune thrombocytopenia: usage, response rates, and adverse effects.
Long, Michelle; Kalish, Leslie A; Neufeld, Ellis J; Grace, Rachael F
In 2010, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added a black box warning to anti-D immune globulin (Rho(D) immune globulin, anti-D) for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) to warn of the complications related to severe hemolysis. The objective of this retrospective medical record review was to examine recent trends in anti-D use to treat ITP and rates of adverse events in a single large pediatric hematology program. Over a 7-year period, 176 (35%) of 502 ITP patients at our center received anti-D. Anti-D was the second most commonly prescribed drug for ITP from 2003 to 2010 overall and was given first most frequently (41%). Sixty-four percent of patients responded to anti-D, but 36% had adverse effects, including five patients requiring hospitalization. From 2003 to 2010, the use of anti-D as an initial therapy for ITP significantly decreased (P < 0.001). This trend preceded the 2010 FDA black box warning. In our experience, anti-D was associated with a significant number of adverse effects when used as a treatment for ITP, although none were life-threatening. Despite recent guidelines suggesting anti-D therapy for initial treatment for ITP, anti-D therapy for ITP has significantly decreased over the past 7 years. PMID:22190130
Protection against botulinum toxins provided by passive immunization with botulinum human immune globulin: evaluation using an inhalation model.
Gelzleichter, T R; Myers, M A; Menton, R G; Niemuth, N A; Matthews, M C; Langford, M J
Pentavalent botulinum toxoid adsorbed (ABCDE) vaccine is intended to protect military personnel from battlefield exposures to botulinum serotypes A-E. To determine the neutralizing antibody levels in serum that are indicative of protection against aerosolized botulinum toxins, a guinea pig model of passive antibody transfer was developed. Botulinum immune globulin (BIG), derived from plasma of vaccinated volunteers, was administered to guinea pigs by intraperitoneal injection to attain neutralizing antibody levels in serum of ca. 0.25 U ml(-1). Control groups were treated with vaccinia immune globulin (VIG), with dosages normalized to antibody content. Neutralizing antibody levels were determined by a mouse bioassay. Twenty-four hours after BIG treatment, animals were challenged with lethal levels (target of 25 x LCt(50)) of botulinum toxins by an inhalation route. Protection was defined as 80% or greater survival for BIG-treated animals. If protective, additional groups were treated with progressively smaller BIG dosages (75% decreases per iteration) and challenged with 25 x LCt(50) until protection was no longer afforded. Greater than 80% survival was observed at target levels of 0.25 U ml(-1) for all five serotypes. Breakthrough mortality (>20%) was observed at test levels of 0.05, 0. 004, 0.015, 0.014 and 0.003 U ml(-1) for serotypes A-E, respectively. These results, along with neutralizing antibody measurements from clinical trials, can be used to predict human efficacy following vaccination with pentavalent botulinum toxoid adsorbed (ABCDE) vaccine. PMID:10594898
Isoforms of thyroxine-binding globulin as a model for molecular epidemiology of human cancer risk
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The novel field of molecular epidemiology of human cancer risk has added a new branch to classical epidemiology by providing a direct link between human cancer and carcinogen exposure. It was estimated that about 80% of cancers are due to environmental factors. The blood proteins are almost certainly targets for modification in human cancer, and their identification and characterization will be of primary importance in the development of the new and rapidly evolving field of molecular epidemiology. Among blood proteins that are altered in human cancer, TBG occupies a special place because the level of human blood TBG is the most sensitive to intensification of biosynthesis and proliferation processes in organisms in different types of cancer. The increase of TBG concentration in cancer can be result from both activation of TBG biosynthesis in liver or altering of post translation glycosylation that prolongs protein survival time. The molecular basis for the change in the properties of TBG in cancer is unknown. These distinctive changes could have important consequences for the function of TBG in cancer and may help to develop more precise markers for monitoring pathological progression in this disease. Considerable variability and subtlety can occur in the carbohydrate composition and structure of serum glycoproteins in disease. This can be either as a major change, such as an increase in the number of oligosaccharide branches at a particular glycosylation site or as a minor change such as the addition of an extra fucose or sialic acid residue. Increased fucosylation has also been reported for transferrin and alpha-fetoprotein in liver cancer; thyroglobulin in thyroid cancer, IgG in myeloma, haptoglobin in ovarian cancer. The last own studies have shown that in clinically healthy teenagers born in Khojniki (137 Cs 185-555 kBq/m), we have found an unusual thyroid profile exhibiting increased levels of total triiodothyronine (T3), total thyroxine (T4), and thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) by 50-60%, but no elevation in free T4, as compared with similar control groups of from Minsk. One of the reasons for the euthyroid syndrome in teenagers from the contaminated region was shown to be the blood isoforms in TBG. These isoforms differed in the structure of the carbohydrate components and as a rule are characterized by a prolonged circulation time. Using specific affinity chromatography, with subsequent immunological assay we shown that a certain amount of serum TBG-molecules in persons from Khojniki contains a high level of TBG (about 30% higher than the control group) containing fucosyalated biantennary sugar chains with more prolonged survival time. Previous findings showed that increased levels of fucosylation are observed for some serum glycoproteins in the blood of tumour patients. We provide evidence for variations in the TBGfuc which are contained in the serum TBG pool of patients suffering from cancer with various localisation. Thus, analysis of TBGfuc may be regarded as a prognostic marker in the determination of risk groups. The molecular mechanism of increased activity of fucosyl transferases will be discussed. We propose to measure the level of TBG fucosylated to assess the human cancer risk and habitants of contaminated region of Belarus. (authors)
Effects of a major androgen-dependent urinary protein, ?2u-globulin on the pituitary-gonadal axis and hypothalamic monoamines in adult male mice
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of alpha-2u-globulin, a sex-dependent male rat urinary protein on pituitary-gonadal functions and hypothalamic monamine contents in male mice. Adult male mice, maintained under standardized laboratory conditions were injected subcutaneously with alpha-2u-globulin or with vehicle daily for 14 days and killed 16 h after the last injection. Plasma levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T) and testicular levels of T were measured by radioimmunoassays. The concentrations of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-HT) in medial basal hypothalamus (MBH) and anterior hypothalamus (AH) were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Administration of alpha-2u-globulin led to a significant increase in plasma FSH and LH levels. In the MBH of alpha-2u-globulin treated mice, there were significant elevations of NE, DA and 5-HT contents. In the AH, both DA and 5-HT contents were decreased while NE content remained unaltered
Temporal relationships between plasma cortisol, corticosteriod-binding globulin (CBG), and the free cortisol index (FCI) in pigs in response to adrenal stimulation or suppression
In swine, more than 60% of cortisol in circulation is bound to its carrier glycoprotein, porcine corticosteroid-binding globulin (pCBG), and is considered biologically inactive. Limitations exist when only total plasma cortisol levels are used to assess the stress response in swine in situations whe...
Effect of phosphorus on the composition and accumulation of 7S and 11S globulin subunits during seed development of three soybean varieties
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
J, Han; W.G, Jie; B.Y, Cai.
Full Text Available Three soybean varieties (Dongnong 42, high-protein cultivar; Hefeng 25, medium-protein; and Dongnong 46, low-protein cultivar) grown under different P conditions were investigated in order to evaluate the effect of P on the composition and accumulation of 7S and 11S globulin subunits. The soybean se [...] eds were planted in pots and fertilized with 0.033 g of N and K2O per kg soil. Four levels of P treatment were designed, which were P1, P2, P3 and P4 (i.e., 0, 0.033, 0.067, and 0.100 g of phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) per kilogram of soil). The composition of extractable proteins was determined by conducting SDS-PAGE. No significant differences were observed between the varieties with regard to the molecular weights of the globulin subunits. After the subunits were formed, their concentrations gradually increased under different P treatments, reached a peak at 70 d post-anthesis (DPA), and then declined during maturity. The concentrations of the 7S and 11S globulins and other subunits in Dongnong 42 and Hefeng 25 were the highest under the P3 treatment, while they were the highest in Dongnong 46 under the P2 treatment. Under the same P treatment, the concentrations were high in Dongnong 42 and low in Dongnong 46 and Hefeng 25. Significant differences were observed in the concentrations of 7S and 11S globulin subunits between the varieties and levels of P treatments, especially under the P3 treatment. Alpha subunit was mainly in relation with the P-nutrition in the three varieties. These findings suggested that the; optimal combination of cultivarsand P treatment; levels could contribute to the increased concentrations of both soybean globulins and their subunits.
Effect of phosphorus on the composition and accumulation of 7S and 11S globulin subunits during seed development of three soybean varieties
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
J, Han; W.G, Jie; B.Y, Cai.
Full Text Available Three soybean varieties (Dongnong 42, high-protein cultivar; Hefeng 25, medium-protein; and Dongnong 46, low-protein cultivar) grown under different P conditions were investigated in order to evaluate the effect of P on the composition and accumulation of 7S and 11S globulin subunits. The soybean se [...] eds were planted in pots and fertilized with 0.033 g of N and K2O per kg soil. Four levels of P treatment were designed, which were P1, P2, P3 and P4 (i.e., 0, 0.033, 0.067, and 0.100 g of phosphorus pentoxide (P2O5) per kilogram of soil). The composition of extractable proteins was determined by conducting SDS-PAGE. No significant differences were observed between the varieties with regard to the molecular weights of the globulin subunits. After the subunits were formed, their concentrations gradually increased under different P treatments, reached a peak at 70 d post-anthesis (DPA), and then declined during maturity. The concentrations of the 7S and 11S globulins and other subunits in Dongnong 42 and Hefeng 25 were the highest under the P3 treatment, while they were the highest in Dongnong 46 under the P2 treatment. Under the same P treatment, the concentrations were high in Dongnong 42 and low in Dongnong 46 and Hefeng 25. Significant differences were observed in the concentrations of 7S and 11S globulin subunits between the varieties and levels of P treatments, especially under the P3 treatment. Alpha subunit was mainly in relation with the P-nutrition in the three varieties. These findings suggested that the; optimal combination of cultivarsand P treatment; levels could contribute to the increased concentrations of both soybean globulins and their subunits.
Intractable Seizure in a Case with Parry-Romberg Syndrome and Good Response to Intravenous Immune Globulin
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F Ashrafzadeh
Full Text Available Objective: Parry-Romberg syndrome is a rare disorder associated with unilateral facial atrophy involving skin, subcutaneous tissue, skeletal muscles and bone. Occasionally, there is central nervous system involvement with epilepsy being the most common manifestation. Case report: In this article, we report a 12 year-old boy with Parry-Romberg syndrome. He had seizures since he was 5 years old, since 1 year ago the seizure attacks were refractory in spite of taking several antiepileptic drugs. Significant improvement was obtained after administration of intravenous immune-globulin (IVIG. Conclusion: IVIG may be of benefit when seizures in Parry-Romberg syndrome are intractable and resistant to antiepileptic drugs.
Binding of a monoclonal antibody E12 to Gc globulin (vitamin D-binding protein) is inhibited by actin.
Osawa, M; Sabbatini, A R; Erukhimov, J; Werner, P A; Galbraith, R M
A monoclonal antibody, E12, to human Gc globulin was raised in murine somatic cell using purified Gc. The antibody was subtyped IgG2b kappa and had a kd of 3.0 x 10(-8) M for antigen Gc. Monospecificity for Gc was demonstrated by Western blotting of normal human serum using nondenaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. As judged by ELISA, actin inhibited binding of E12 to Gc in dose-dependent fashion. Affinity chromatography studies further showed that ternary complexes of actin-Gc-E12 were not formed, and actin displaced Gc from Gc-E12 complexes. Proteolytic digestion of Gc with trypsin showed that the monoclonal antibody E12 reacted with the major 30-kDa tryptic fragment containing the amino terminal fragment of Gc, but actin did not react with this fragment. These results indicate that interaction of actin with Gc causes conformational changes which inhibit binding of E12. PMID:1384710
The effect of IgM-enriched human Ig and rabbit antithymocyte globulin on the stimulation of mononuclear cells.
Eiermann, T H; Sahm, H; Freitag, C; Zander, A R
Whether IgM-enriched intravenous Ig (pentaglobin) is a useful adjunct treatment for graft versus host disease (GvHD) prophylaxis in allogeneic stem-cell transplantation is unclear. Clinical data with the use of a five-agent GvHD prevention regimen, including pentaglobin and antithymocyte globulin (ATG), are encouraging. In vitro both have been reported to modulate alloreactive T cells. We compared their inhibitory effect on the phytohemagglutinin-induced lymphocyte proliferation. ATG blocked the proliferation of lymphocytes at lower doses and much stronger than pentaglobin. The combination of both was not different from ATG alone. In pentaglobin, glucose used as stabiliser, caused the effect. Starting at a concentration of 40 mg/dL glucose, glucose alone showed a dose-dependent inhibition of phytohemaglutinin (PHA)-induced proliferation. For the in vivo application of pentaglobin, the results suggest that pentaglobin does not inhibit the proliferation of T cells. PMID:11902339
Long-term outcome of 25 children and adolescents with severe aplastic anemia treated with antithymocyte globulin
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
C.R., de-Medeiros; R.C., Ribeiro; M.A., Bittencourt; J., Zanis-Neto; R., Pasquini.
Full Text Available Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is probably an immune-mediated disorder, and immunosuppressive therapy is recommended for patients with no available donor for bone marrow transplant. Between October 1984 and November 1987, 25 consecutive children and adolescents with SAA with no HLA-compatible marrow d [...] onor received equine antithymocyte globulin (ATG) (15 mg kg-1 day-1) for 10 days. The patients were evaluated 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after starting ATG treatment. Thereafter, patients were evaluated yearly until July 1998. Median age was 10 years (range, 1.5-20 years), granulocyte counts on referral ranged from 0.032 to 1.4 x 10(9)/l (median 0.256 x 10(9)/l), and 12 patients had granulocyte counts
Serum testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin and total calcium levels predict the calcaneal speed of sound in men
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Kok-Yong Chin
Full Text Available OBJECTIVES: Variations in sex hormones and the calcium balance can influence bone health in men. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between the calcaneal speed of sound and biochemical determinants of bone mass, such as sex hormones, parathyroid hormones and serum calcium. METHODS: Data from 549 subjects from the Malaysian Aging Male Study, which included Malay and Chinese men aged 20 years and older residing in the Klang Valley, were used for analysis. The subjects' calcaneal speed of sound was measured, and their blood was collected for biochemical analysis. Two sets of multiple regression models were generated for the total/bioavailable testosterone and estradiol to avoid multicollinearity. RESULTS: The multiple regression results revealed that bioavailable testosterone and serum total calcium were significant predictors of the calcaneal speed of sound in the adjusted model. After adjustment for ethnicity and body mass index, only bioavailable testosterone remained significant; the total serum calcium was marginally insignificant. In a separate model, the total testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin were significant predictors, whereas the total serum calcium was marginally insignificant. After adjustment for ethnicity and body mass index (BMI, the significance persisted for total testosterone and SHBG. After further adjustment for age, none of the serum biochemical determinants was a significant predictor of the calcaneal speed of sound. CONCLUSION: There is a significant age-dependent relationship between the calcaneal speed of sound and total testosterone, bioavailable testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin in Chinese and Malay men in Malaysia. The relationship between total serum calcium and calcaneal speed of sound is ethnicity-dependent.
Serum testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin and total calcium levels predict the calcaneal speed of sound in men
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Kok-Yong, Chin; Ima-Nirwana, Soelaiman; Isa Naina, Mohamed; Wan Zurinah Wan, Ngah.
Full Text Available OBJECTIVES: Variations in sex hormones and the calcium balance can influence bone health in men. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between the calcaneal speed of sound and biochemical determinants of bone mass, such as sex hormones, parathyroid hormones and serum calcium. METHODS: [...] Data from 549 subjects from the Malaysian Aging Male Study, which included Malay and Chinese men aged 20 years and older residing in the Klang Valley, were used for analysis. The subjects' calcaneal speed of sound was measured, and their blood was collected for biochemical analysis. Two sets of multiple regression models were generated for the total/bioavailable testosterone and estradiol to avoid multicollinearity. RESULTS: The multiple regression results revealed that bioavailable testosterone and serum total calcium were significant predictors of the calcaneal speed of sound in the adjusted model. After adjustment for ethnicity and body mass index, only bioavailable testosterone remained significant; the total serum calcium was marginally insignificant. In a separate model, the total testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin were significant predictors, whereas the total serum calcium was marginally insignificant. After adjustment for ethnicity and body mass index (BMI), the significance persisted for total testosterone and SHBG. After further adjustment for age, none of the serum biochemical determinants was a significant predictor of the calcaneal speed of sound. CONCLUSION: There is a significant age-dependent relationship between the calcaneal speed of sound and total testosterone, bioavailable testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin in Chinese and Malay men in Malaysia. The relationship between total serum calcium and calcaneal speed of sound is ethnicity-dependent.
van Hage-Hamsten, M; Johansson, S G
The interest in allergy to storage mites has increased over the past few years. Storage mites feed on a variety of substances and they can be found in many different products such as grain, flour, hay and straw, but also in house dust samples. The more common genera are Lepidoglyphus, Tyrophagus, Glycyphagus, Acarus and Blomia. Several species of storage mites have been shown to cause IgE-mediated sensitization among rural workers, who to a varying extent develop asthma, rhinitis or conjunctivitis when exposed to barn dust. However, a number of studies have reported on sensitization to storage mites also among urban people, indicating that sensitization is not restricted to individuals with occupational exposure. Regarding the allergenic relationship between storage mites and house dust mites, there appears to be a limited allergenic cross-reactivity between the two species. However, both species also possess their own unique allergens. Further research on identification and characterization of storage mite allergens and their cross-reactivity is required to understand the complexity of epitopes and allergens. PMID:1493741
The 11S globulin Sin a 2 from yellow mustard seeds shows IgE cross-reactivity with homologous counterparts from tree nuts and peanut
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Sirvent Sofía
Full Text Available Abstract Background The 11S globulin Sin a 2 is a marker to predict severity of symptoms in mustard allergic patients. The potential implication of Sin a 2 in cross-reactivity with tree nuts and peanut has not been investigated so far. In this work, we studied at the IgG and IgE level the involvement of the 11S globulin Sin a 2 in cross-reactivity among mustard, tree nuts and peanut. Methods Eleven well-characterized mustard-allergic patients sensitized to Sin a 2 were included in the study. A specific anti-Sin a 2 serum was obtained in rabbit. Skin prick tests (SPT, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA, immunoblotting and IgG or IgE-inhibition immunoblotting experiments using purified Sin a 2, Sin a 1, Sin a 3, mustard, almond, hazelnut, pistachio, walnut or peanut extracts were performed. Results The rabbit anti-Sin a 2 serum showed high affinity and specificity to Sin a 2, which allowed us to demonstrate that Sin a 2 shares IgG epitopes with allergenic 11S globulins from tree nuts (almond, hazelnut, pistachio and walnut but not from peanut. All the patients included in the study had positive skin prick test to tree nuts and/or peanut and we subdivided them into two different groups according to their clinical symptoms after ingestion of such allergenic sources. We showed that 11S globulins contain conserved IgE epitopes involved in cross-reactivity among mustard, tree nuts and peanut as well as species-specific IgE epitopes. Conclusions The allergenic 11S globulin Sin a 2 from mustard is involved in cross-reactivity at the IgE level with tree nuts and peanut. Although the clinical relevance of the cross-reactive IgE epitopes present in 11S globulins needs to be investigated in further detail, our results contribute to improve the diagnosis and management of mustard allergic patients sensitized to Sin a 2.
Synergistic effect of immune gamma-globulin fraction on protection by antibiotic against corneal ulcers in experimental mice infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Kawaharajo, K; Homma, J Y
Synergistic effects of immune gamma-globulin fraction containing antibodies of OPE, protease and elastase of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on the activities of antibiotic, dibekacin (DKB), in the cornea of mice were examined for the purpose of studying therapy for corneal ulcers due to Pseudomonal infection. In the case of the intramuscular injection, a medium effective dose (ED50) of DKB alone against corneal ulcers caused by strain IID 1210 of P. aeruginosa in experimental mice was 620 mug per mouse. When 15.6 to 18.7 mg of gamma-globulin fraction was subcutaneously given to each mouse prior to the infection with strain IID 1210, opacity instead of severe ulcers was observed only in the central area of cornea. The immune gamma-globulin fraction was far more effective in the protection of cornea from the infection than the calf serum that showed no antibody titer against OEP, protease and elastase. The ED50 values of DKB's combined with the immune gamma-globulin, Fr. 1 and Fr. 2, and the calf serum were 34 and 73, and 480 mug per mouse respectively. There was found no statistical difference in ED50 value between DKB combined with the calf serum and one without it. There was, however, significant difference in ED50 value between DKB's combined with Fr. 1 and Fr. 2, and one with the calf serum. When DKB alone is dropped in the eye of mouse for the protection, the ED50 value was 15 mug per mouse. When 1.56 to 1.87 mg of the immune gamma-globulin fraction was dropped in the eye after the infection with P. aeruginosa, there was observed no protection against corneal ulcers. the ED50 values of DKB's combined with Fr. 1, Fr. 2 and the calf serum were 0.96, 0.94 and 13 mug per mouse, respectively. There was no significant difference between the ED50 values of 0.96 and 0.94 mug, and between 15 and 18 mug. There was, however, significant difference between the former ED50 values (0.96 and 0.94 mug) and the latter ones (15 and 18 mug). The combination of DKB and the immune gamma-globulin fraction was found to be superior to the combination of DKB and the calf serum in the therapeutic effect on corneal ulcers caused by strain IID 1210 of P. aeruginosa. PMID:822190
Cloning and computer analysis of the promoter region of the legumin-like storage protein gene from buckwheat, Fagopyrum esculentum Moench
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Milisavljevi? Mira
Full Text Available Using the modified 5'-RACE approach, a fragment containing the 955 bp long 5'- regulatory region of the buckwheat storage globulin gene (FeLEG1 has been amplified from the genomic DNA of buckwheat. The entire fragment was sequenced and the sequence analyzed by computer prediction of cis-regulatory elements possibly involved in tissue specific and developmentally controlled seed storage protein gene expression. The promoter obtained might be interesting not only for fundamental research, but also as a useful tool for biotechnological application.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Mukundan, Rangachary [Los Alamos National Lab. (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
Energy storage technology is critical if the U.S. is to achieve more than 25% penetration of renewable electrical energy, given the intermittency of wind and solar. Energy density is a critical parameter in the economic viability of any energy storage system with liquid fuels being 10 to 100 times better than batteries. However, the economical conversion of electricity to fuel still presents significant technical challenges. This project addressed these challenges by focusing on a specific approach: efficient processes to convert electricity, water and nitrogen to ammonia. Ammonia has many attributes that make it the ideal energy storage compound. The feed stocks are plentiful, ammonia is easily liquefied and routinely stored in large volumes in cheap containers, and it has exceptional energy density for grid scale electrical energy storage. Ammonia can be oxidized efficiently in fuel cells or advanced Carnot cycle engines yielding water and nitrogen as end products. Because of the high energy density and low reactivity of ammonia, the capital cost for grid storage will be lower than any other storage application. This project developed the theoretical foundations of N2 catalysis on specific catalysts and provided for the first time experimental evidence for activation of Mo 2N based catalysts. Theory also revealed that the N atom adsorbed in the bridging position between two metal atoms is the critical step for catalysis. Simple electrochemical ammonia production reactors were designed and built in this project using two novel electrolyte systems. The first one demonstrated the use of ionic liquid electrolytes at room temperature and the second the use of pyrophosphate based electrolytes at intermediate temperatures (200 – 300 şC). The mechanism of high proton conduction in the pyrophosphate materials was found to be associated with a polyphosphate second phase contrary to literature claims and ammonia production rates as high as 5X 10-8 mol/s/cm2 were achieved.
Expression, purification and preliminary crystallization of amaranth 11S proglobulin seed storage protein from Amaranthus hypochondriacus L
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
High level expression of soluble amaranth 11S proglobulin in Escherichia coli and its purification are described. Crystallization of the recombinant protein and crystal data collection are also presented. 11S globulin is one of the major seed storage proteins in amaranth. Recombinant protein was produced as up to ?80% of the total bacterial protein using Escherichia coli Rosetta-gami (DE3) containing pET21d with amaranth 11S globulin cDNA. The best expression condition was at 302 K for 20 h using LB medium containing 0.5 M NaCl. The recombinant protein was easily separated from most of the Escherichia coli proteins by precipitation with 0–40% ammonium sulfate solution. It formed aggregates at low temperature and at low salt concentrations. This behaviour may imply that it has a more hydrophobic nature than other 11S seed globulins. The crystals diffracted to 6 Ĺ resolution and belonged to space group P63, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 97.6, c = 74.8 Ĺ, ? = 120.0°. One subunit of a trimer was estimated to be present in the asymmetric unit, assuming a Vsol of 41%. To obtain the complete structure solution, experiments to improve crystallization and flash-cooling conditions are in progress
Production of the Growth Factors GM-CSF, G-CSF, and VEGF by Human Peripheral Blood Cells Induced with Metal Complexes of Human Serum ?-Globulin Formed with Copper or Zinc Ions
Cheknev, Sergey B.; Apresova, Maria A.; Moryakova, Nadezhda A.; Efremova, Irina E.; Mezdrokhina, Anna S.; Piskovskaya, Lidya S.; Babajanz, Alla A.
As it was established in our previous studies, the proteins of human serum ?-globulin fraction could interact with copper or zinc ions distributed in the periglobular space, form metal complexes, and become able to perform effector functions differing due to the conformational shifts from those mediated by them in native conformation of their Fc regions. In the present work we have evaluated ability of the ?-globulin metal complexes formed with copper or zinc ions in the conditions like to ...
Vanderstar, John
Classifies and briefly describes several types of optical storage media available today--read-only and write-once analog disks, read-only and write-once digital disks and erasable disks. The appropriateness of CD-ROM (compact disk read-only memory) for use in libraries of developing nations is discussed in terms of users' information needs and…
Virus de la inmunodeficiencia felina (VIF): evaluación de las globulinas en pacientes infectados espontáneamente / Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV): study of globulins in patients with natural infections
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
N, Gómez; M. A., Gisbert; L, Ramayo; A, Bratanich; V, Castillo; A, Suraniti.
Full Text Available Fueron estudiadas las posibles correlaciones de parámetros tales como la Alfa glicoproteína ácida (AGP, proteína de fase aguda), fracciones electroforéticas de las proteínas séricas y títulos de Toxoplasma gondii en gatos infectados por el Virus de Inmunodeficiencia Felina (VIF). Los títulos de Toxo [...] plasma gondii obtenidos por Inmunofluorescencia Indirecta (IFI) no correlacionaron con los valores de Proteínas Totales ni con los de las globulinas. Sí se halló múltiple correlación entre todas las proteínas estudiadas (r: 0,98, p Abstract in english Statistical correlation between parameters such as globulins, Alpha- Glycoprotein AGP, serum proteins fractions by electrophoresis and Toxoplasma gondii titles in cats infected with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) were studied. Indirect Immunofluorecence titles to Toxoplasma gondii did not showe [...] d correlation with Total proteins and globulins. It was observed correlation between all types of proteins studied (r: 0,98, p
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Storage rings are circular machines that store particle beams at a constant energy. Beams are stored in rings without acceleration for a number of reasons (Tab. 1). Storage rings are used in high-energy, nuclear, atomic, and molecular physics, as well as for experiments in chemistry, material and life sciences. Parameters for storage rings such as particle species, energy, beam intensity, beam size, and store time vary widely depending on the application. The beam must be injected into a storage ring but may not be extracted (Fig. 1). Accelerator rings such as synchrotrons are used as storage rings before and after acceleration. Particles stored in rings include electrons and positrons; muons; protons and anti-protons; neutrons; light and heavy, positive and negative, atomic ions of various charge states; molecular and cluster ions, and neutral polar molecules. Spin polarized beams of electrons, positrons, and protons were stored. The kinetic energy of the stored particles ranges from 10-6 eV to 3.5 x 1012 eV (LHC, 7 x 1012 eV planned), the number of stored particles from one (ESR) to 1015 (ISR). To store beam in rings requires bending (dipoles) and transverse focusing (quadrupoles). Higher order multipoles are used to correct chromatic aberrations, to suppress instabilities, and to compensate for nonlinear field errors of dipoles and quadrupoles. Magnetic multipole functions can be combined in magnets. Beams are stored bunched with ra magnets. Beams are stored bunched with radio frequency systems, and unbunched. The magnetic lattice and radio frequency system are designed to ensure the stability of transverse and longitudinal motion. New technologies allow for better storage rings. With strong focusing the beam pipe dimensions became much smaller than previously possible. For a given circumference superconducting magnets make higher energies possible, and superconducting radio frequency systems allow for efficient replenishment of synchrotron radiation losses of large current electron or positron beams. Storage rings have instrumentation to monitor the electrical and mechanical systems, and the beam quality. Computers are used to control the operation. Large storage rings have millions of control points from all systems. The time dependent beam intensity I(t) can often be approximated by an exponential function I(t) = I(0) exp(-t/?) (1) where the decay time ? and, correspondingly, the store time ranges from a few turns to 10 days (ISR). ? can be dominated by a variety of effects including lattice nonlinearities, beam-beam, space charge, intrabeam and Touschek scattering, interaction with the residual gas or target, or the lifetime of the stored particle. In this case, the beam lifetime measurement itself can be the purpose of a storage ring experiment. The main consideration in the design of a storage ring is the preservation of the beam quality over the store length. The beam size and momentum spread can be reduced through cooling, often leading to an increase in the store time. For long store times vacuum considerations are important since the interaction rate of the stored particles with the residual gas molecules is proportional to the pressure, and an ultra-high vacuum system may be needed. Distributed pumping with warm activated NEG surfaces or cold surfaces in machines with superconducting magnets are ways to provide large pumping speeds and achieve low pressures even under conditions with dynamic gas loads. The largest application of storage rings today are synchrotron light sources, of which about 50 exist world wide. In experiments where the beam collides with an internal target or another beam, a storage ring allows to re-use the accelerated beam many times if the interaction with the target is sufficiently small. In hadron collider and ion storage rings store times of many hours or even days are realized, corresponding to up to 1011 turns and thereby target passages. Ref. (3) is the first proposal for a collider storage ring. A number of storage rings exist where the beam itself or its decay products are
Transgenic Rabbits That Overexpress the Neonatal Fc Receptor (FcRn) Generate Higher Quantities and Improved Qualities of Anti-Thymocyte Globulin (ATG)
Baranyi, Mária; Cervenak, Judit; Bender, Balázs; Kacskovics, Imre
Immune suppression with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (rATG) is a well-established therapeutic concept for preventing host rejection of transplanted organs and graft versus host disease. Increasing the efficiency of rATG production by reducing the number of animals would be highly beneficial to lower cost and to improve quality standards. We have developed transgenic (Tg) mice and rabbits that overexpress the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) and have shown an augmented humoral immune response in ...
Therapy of severe aplastic anemia with anti-human thymocyte globulin (ATGAM) with and without HLA-haploidentical bone-marrow infusion.
Kim, K. Y.
Six patients with severe aplastic anemia treated with horse anti-human thymocyte globulin (ATG) and androgen. Four of these patients were only given ATG (ATGAMR), 16 mg/Kg/dose x 10 doses. The remaining two cases received an infusion of maternal HLA-haploidentical marrow cells following ATG therapy. One patient had a complete response, three had a partial response, one showed minimal improvement and two were non-responders. The two patients who received the additional haploidentical marrow ce...
Intravenous immune globulin (10% caprylate-chromatography purified) for the treatment of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (ICE study): a randomised placebo-controlled trial
Hughes, R. A. C.; Donofrio, P.; Bril, V.; Dalakas, M. C.; Deng, C.; Hanna, K.; Hartung, H. P.; Latov, N.; Merkies, I. S. J.; Doorn, P. A.
Background: Short-term studies suggest that intravenous immunoglobulin might reduce disability caused by chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) but long-term effects have not been shown. We aimed to establish whether 10% caprylate-chromatography purified immune globulin intravenous (IGIV-C) has short-term and long-term benefit in patients with CIDP. Methods: 117 patients with CIDP who met specific neurophysiological inflammatory neuropathy cause and treatment (INCAT)...
Leske, Cavin.
Even as home computers are being equipped with hard drives more massive than most users need, the scientific community is facing challenges of inadequate data storage systems. Experiments conducted in research facilities can produce unimaginable amounts of information, and computer scientists are working on ways to handle and manage it.Virtually every modern computer system incorporates several different storage technologies to process data efficiently. A gentle introduction to registers, caches, and other forms of memory is given on this site (1). A more advanced description of computer architecture and memory hierarchy is offered by Sun Microsystems (2). The paper explains the importance of having small, fast caches in the microprocessor to improve performance and reduce the delay of accessing the large, slow hard drive. Colossal Storage (3) is a company specializing in a new method of holographic data storage. While current technologies are hindered by area density, the proposed technology will expand into three dimensions and use the disk's volume to write data. Although the company's homepage is a bit poorly organized, some interesting insights into the technology and several white papers are available. InPhase Technologies is another company exploring holographic storage; however, its goal is to create a device that could be the successor to the DVD. In this article (4), the potential capabilities and specifications of such a device are discussed. A working prototype has already been demonstrated, paving the way for future commercially viable drives based on the technology. A short paper by the Department of Energy Office of Science (5) describes the impending rush of data generated by future scientific applications. It outlines the obstacles that must be overcome, including data mobility, extraction and analysis, and storage hardware. Possibly the most ambitious storage system ever created will be used to capture data from the world's most advanced particle physics facility. The European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) will begin operating its Large Hadron Collider in 2007. The system that will collect and manage data from this instrument is described on this page (6). Documentation about the architecture and operation of the CERN Advanced STORage Manager (CASTOR) is provided. A news article from January 2003 (7) describes a new hard drive that can fit gigabytes of data in a tiny space. Said to measure about an inch wide, the Microdrive will be used in portable multimedia devices like digital video cameras. The second part of the article tells of the IBM Millipede project, which uses nanotechnology to make storage devices with less area than a dime. Satellites that monitor the Earth's environment have provided NASA with over a petabyte (a million gigabytes) of data. This article (8) discusses this remarkable achievement and how the system allows constant access to all of the information.
Total lymphoid irradiation-antithymocyte globulin conditioning and allogeneic transplantation for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and myeloproliferative neoplasms.
Benjamin, Jonathan; Chhabra, Saurabh; Kohrt, Holbrook E; Lavori, Philip; Laport, Ginna G; Arai, Sally; Johnston, Laura; Miklos, David B; Shizuru, Judith A; Weng, Wen-Kai; Negrin, Robert S; Lowsky, Robert
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo HCT) is the only curative therapy for the myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), but treatment toxicity has been a barrier to its more widespread use. The nonmyeloablative regimen of total lymphoid irradiation (TLI) and antithymocyte globulin (ATG) permits the establishment of donor hematopoiesis necessary for the graft-versus-malignancy effect and is protective against acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), but it has minimal direct cytotoxicity against myeloid diseases. We explored the use of TLI-ATG conditioning to treat 61 patients with allo HCT for MDS (n = 32), therapy-related myeloid neoplasms (n = 15), MPN (n = 9), and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (n = 5). The median age of all patients was 63 years (range, 50 to 73). The cumulative incidence of aGVHD grades II to IV was 14% (95% confidence interval [CI], 4% to 23%) and for grades III to IV, 4% (95% CI, 0 to 9%), and it did not differ between patients who received allografts from related or unrelated donors. The cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality (NRM) at 100 days, 12 months, and 36 months was 0%, 7%, and 11%. Overall survival and progression-free survival were 41% (95% CI, 29% to 53%) and 35% (95% CI, 23% to 48%), respectively. The safety and tolerability of TLI-ATG, as exemplified by its low NRM, provides a foundation for further risk-adapted or prophylactic interventions to prevent disease progression. PMID:24607552
Biological half-life and transfer of maternal corticosteroid-binding globulin to amniotic fluid in the rabbit
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Rabbit corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) from the serum of pregnant and nonpregnant females differs in terms of charge microheterogeneity, and both forms were, therefore, radiolabeled and injected iv into 23- to 27-day pregnant rabbits (n = 6) to assess their biological half-lives and possible transfer to the fetal compartment. After an initially rapid distribution phase, the serum half-lives of both forms of [125I]CBG were essentially identical (approximately 13 h) and did not vary at different gestational ages. There was also no difference in the transfer of either form of [125I]CBG from maternal to fetal compartments in any of the animals studied. Moreover, [125I]CBG showed no sign of degradation and retained its steroid-binding activity in fetal urine and amniotic fluid. Twenty-two hours after administration of [125I]CBG to rabbits (n = 2) at 23 days gestation, its mean level in fetal urine (7 cpm/microliter) and amniotic fluid (2.5 cpm/microliter) was much higher than that in fetal blood (0.6 cpm/microliter). More importantly, the specific activities of [125I]CBG in fetal urine and amniotic fluid were comparable to that in maternal serum, and approximately 2 orders of magnitude higher than that in fetal serum. Taken together, these results suggest that CBG in fetal urine and amniotic fluid is largely of maternal origin, and that maternal CBG crosses the fetal kidney preferentiallyey preferentially
Successful prevention of post-transfusion Rh alloimmunization by intravenous Rho (D) immune globulin (WinRho SD).
Anderson, B; Shad, A T; Gootenberg, J E; Sandler, S G
Alloimmunization to the D blood group antigen following the transfusion of D-positive red blood cells to a D-negative recipient may be prevented in most persons by a prompt and adequate dose of Rho (D) immune globulin (RhIG). Until recently, the only RhIG approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this indication required intramuscular injection, an inconvenient and painful route for the relatively large volume that may be required. We describe the successful prevention of Rh alloimmunization following the unintentional transfusion of D-positive red blood cells to a D-negative infant by the intravenous infusion of WinRho SD, a new RhIG that is FDA-approved for prevention of post-transfusion Rh alloimmunization by intravenous administration. We believe that this more convenient and less painful approach should be the treatment of choice for preventing Rh alloimmunization following the transfusion of D-positive red cells to a D-negative recipient. PMID:10072121
A family of antimicrobial peptides is produced by processing of a 7S globulin protein in Macadamia integrifolia kernels.
Marcus, J P; Green, J L; Goulter, K C; Manners, J M
A new family of antimicrobial peptides has been discovered in Macadamia integrifolia. The first member of this new family to be purified from nut kernels was a peptide of 45 aa residues, termed MiAMP2c. This peptide inhibited various plant pathogenic fungi in vitro. cDNA clones corresponding to MiAMP2c encoded a 666 aa precursor protein homologous to vicilin 7S globulin proteins. The deduced precursor protein sequence contained a putative hydrophobic N-terminal signal sequence (28 aa), an extremely hydrophilic N-proximal region (212 aa), and a C-terminal region of 426 aa which is represented in all vicilins. The hydrophilic portion of the deduced protein contained the sequence for MiAMP2c as well as three additional segments having the same cysteine spacing pattern as MiAMP2c. Each member of the MiAMP2 family (i.e. MiAMP2a, b, c and d) consisted of approximately 50 amino acids and contained a C-X-X-X-C-(10-12)X-C-X-X-X-C motif. Subsequent isolations from seed exudates led to the purification of the predicted family members MiAMP2b and 2d, both of which also exhibited antimicrobial activity in vitro. These results suggest that some vicilins play a role in defence during seed germination. PMID:10571855
Induction of specific unresponsiveness to heart allografts in mongrel dogs treated with total lymphoid irradiation and antithymocyte globulin
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The survival of heterotopic heart allografts was determined in mongrel dogs treated with total lymphoid irradiation (TLI) alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive agents. TLI alone (total dose, 1800 rad) minimally prolonged graft survival as compared with untreated controls. However, marked synergy was observed when TLI was combined with a 10-day post-transplant course of rabbit anti-dog thymocyte globulin (ATG). Approximately 40% of recipients given TLI and ATG showed specific unresponsiveness, as judged by the lack of rejection on serial biopsies for more than 1 year and the prompt rejection of third party hearts. The addition of post-transplant azathioprine (90 to 180 days) to the TLI and ATG regimen increased the mortality of recipients and reduced the fraction of dogs showing specific unresponsiveness. Infusion of donor bone marrow cells at the time of heart transplantation failed to induced specific unresponsiveness in recipients given TLI alone or TLI in combination with post-transplant methotrexate, cyclosporine A, or ATG. The results indicate that the combination of TLI and a brief course of ATG without marrow transplantation was the most effective regimen for the induction of specific unresponsiveness in mongrel dogs
Enhanced efficacy of cidofovir combined with vaccinia immune globulin in treating progressive cutaneous vaccinia virus infections in immunosuppressed hairless mice.
Smee, Donald F; Dagley, Ashley; Downs, Brittney; Hagloch, Joseph; Tarbet, E Bart
The treatment of progressive vaccinia in individuals has involved antiviral drugs, such as cidofovir (CDV), brincidofovir, and/or tecovirimat, combined with vaccinia immune globulin (VIG). VIG is costly, and its supply is limited, so sparing the use of VIG during treatment is an important objective. VIG sparing was modeled in immunosuppressed mice by maximizing the treatment benefits of CDV combined with VIG to determine the effective treatments that delayed the time to death, reduced cutaneous lesion severity, and/or decreased tissue viral titers. SKH-1 hairless mice immunosuppressed with cyclophosphamide and hairless SCID mice (SHO strain) were infected cutaneously with vaccinia virus. Monotherapy, dual combinations (CDV plus VIG), or triple therapy (topical CDV, parenteral CDV, and VIG) were initiated 2 days postinfection and were given every 3 to 4 days through day 11. The efficacy assessment included survival rate, cutaneous lesion severity, and viral titers. Delays in the time to death and the reduction in lesion severity occurred in the following order of efficacy: triple therapy had greater efficacy than double combinations (CDV plus VIG or topical plus parenteral CDV), which had greater efficacy than VIG alone. Parenteral administration of CDV or VIG was necessary to suppress virus titers in internal organs (liver, lung, and spleen). The skin viral titers were significantly reduced by triple therapy only. The greatest efficacy was achieved by triple therapy. In humans, this regimen should translate to a faster cure rate, thus sparing the amount of VIG used for treatment. PMID:25385098
Competitive adsorption of human serum albumin and gamma-globulin from a binary protein mixture onto hexadecyltrichlorosilane coated glass.
Tremsina, Y S; Sevastianov, V I; Petrash, S; Dando, W; Foster, M D
The kinetics of competitive adsorption of proteins onto hexadecyltrichlorosilane coated glass (HTS-glass) from model solutions containing fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled human serum albumin (HSA-FITC) and gamma-globulin (HGG-FITC) were studied by total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) spectroscopy. The processes of displacement of HSA-FITC by HGG are independent of the conformational state of HSA adsorbed onto glass. On HTS-glass, displacement of protein is hindered by the presence of large numbers of CH3-terminated alkyl tails which induce conformational (reorientational) changes in HSA-FITC and HGG-FITC adsorbed from simple solutions. In contrast to HSA, adsorption of HGG onto HTS-glass from a simple solution is characterized by the absence of irreversible adsorption in the initial portion of the kinetic curve. Competition between HSA and HGG-FITC induces replacement of end-on adsorbed HGG-FITC on HTS-glass surface with subsequent desorption of the HGG-FITC into solution. Upon further increase in the HSA concentration in solution the competition of HSA for adsorption sites prevails, which leads to a decrease in the amount of adsorbed HGG-FITC and, consequently, to a decrease in the rate of its displacement. PMID:9493842
Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) induction of ?2u-globulin nephropathy in male, but not female rats
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Male F-344 rats were administered corn oil (vehicle control), d-limonene (positive control, 300 mg/kg), or MIBK (1000 mg/kg) and female F-344 rats corn oil (vehicle control) or MIBK for 10 consecutive days by oral gavage. Approximately 24 h after the final dose the kidneys were excised and the left kidney prepared and evaluated for histological changes including protein (hyaline) droplet accumulation, immunohistochemical staining for ?2u-globulin (?2u), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) to quantitate renal cell proliferation. The right kidney was prepared for quantitation of total protein and ?2u using an ELISA. MIBK elicited an increase in protein droplets, accumulation of ?2u, and renal cell proliferation in male, but not female rats, responses characteristic of ?2u-mediated nephropathy. MIBK produced identical histopathological changes in the male rat kidney when compared to d-limonene, an acknowledged inducer of ?2u-nephropathy except that the grade of severity tended to be slightly lower with MIBK. MIBK did not induce any effects in female rats. Therefore, renal histopathology, along with the other measures of ?2u accumulation, provides additional weight of evidence to support the inclusion of MIBK in the category of chemicals exerting renal effects through a ?2u-nephropathy-mediated mode-of-action
Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) induction of alpha2u-globulin nephropathy in male, but not female rats.
Borghoff, S J; Hard, G C; Berdasco, N M; Gingell, R; Green, S M; Gulledge, W
Male F-344 rats were administered corn oil (vehicle control), d-limonene (positive control, 300mg/kg), or MIBK (1000mg/kg) and female F-344 rats corn oil (vehicle control) or MIBK for 10 consecutive days by oral gavage. Approximately 24h after the final dose the kidneys were excised and the left kidney prepared and evaluated for histological changes including protein (hyaline) droplet accumulation, immunohistochemical staining for alpha2u-globulin (alpha2u), and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) to quantitate renal cell proliferation. The right kidney was prepared for quantitation of total protein and alpha2u using an ELISA. MIBK elicited an increase in protein droplets, accumulation of alpha2u, and renal cell proliferation in male, but not female rats, responses characteristic of alpha2u-mediated nephropathy. MIBK produced identical histopathological changes in the male rat kidney when compared to d-limonene, an acknowledged inducer of alpha2u-nephropathy except that the grade of severity tended to be slightly lower with MIBK. MIBK did not induce any effects in female rats. Therefore, renal histopathology, along with the other measures of alpha2u accumulation, provides additional weight of evidence to support the inclusion of MIBK in the category of chemicals exerting renal effects through a alpha2u-nephropathy-mediated mode-of-action. PMID:19428932
Biological half-life and transfer of maternal corticosteroid-binding globulin to amniotic fluid in the rabbit
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Seralini, G.E.; Underhill, C.M.; Smith, C.L.; Nguyen, V.T.; Hammond, G.L. (Univ. of Western Ontario at Victoria Hospital, London (Canada))
Rabbit corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) from the serum of pregnant and nonpregnant females differs in terms of charge microheterogeneity, and both forms were, therefore, radiolabeled and injected iv into 23- to 27-day pregnant rabbits (n = 6) to assess their biological half-lives and possible transfer to the fetal compartment. After an initially rapid distribution phase, the serum half-lives of both forms of ({sup 125}I)CBG were essentially identical (approximately 13 h) and did not vary at different gestational ages. There was also no difference in the transfer of either form of ({sup 125}I)CBG from maternal to fetal compartments in any of the animals studied. Moreover, ({sup 125}I)CBG showed no sign of degradation and retained its steroid-binding activity in fetal urine and amniotic fluid. Twenty-two hours after administration of ({sup 125}I)CBG to rabbits (n = 2) at 23 days gestation, its mean level in fetal urine (7 cpm/microliter) and amniotic fluid (2.5 cpm/microliter) was much higher than that in fetal blood (0.6 cpm/microliter). More importantly, the specific activities of ({sup 125}I)CBG in fetal urine and amniotic fluid were comparable to that in maternal serum, and approximately 2 orders of magnitude higher than that in fetal serum. Taken together, these results suggest that CBG in fetal urine and amniotic fluid is largely of maternal origin, and that maternal CBG crosses the fetal kidney preferentially.
Antithymocyte globulin use for treatment of biopsy confirmed acute rejection is associated with prolonged renal allograft survival.
Kainz, Alexander; Korbély, Réka; Soleiman, Afschin; Mayer, Bernd; Oberbauer, Rainer
Antithymocyte globuline (ATG) and OKT3 have been used for treatment of severe biopsy confirmed acute renal allograft rejection (BCAR). We report results on graft and patient survival including 399 subjects diagnosed with BCAR treated with either ATG or OKT3. Multivariable analyses including Banff scores were performed following three different strategies to account for confounding variables. Fifty per cent of subjects in the OKT3 group had a functioning graft 6.3 years after diagnosis of BCAR, but 74% of ATG patients' grafts were still functioning at that time point (log rank P = 0.006). Median actual graft survival was only 4.6 years in the OKT3 subjects, but 9.5 years for ATG-treated patients (log rank P = 0.004). Multivariable analysis revealed that the risk for functional graft loss was significantly elevated in the OKT3 compared to ATG patients (HR = 1.79, 95% CI 1.06-3.02, P = 0.029). The risk for actual graft loss, counting death as event, was also significantly elevated in the OKT3 patients (HR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.09-2.74, P = 0.019). The hazard of death was not different between the groups (HR = 1.55, 95% CI 0.87-2.77, P = 0.137). These data suggest that rejecting renal allografts treated with ATG exhibit longer graft survival than OKT3 treated transplant kidneys. Causal inference, however, cannot be drawn from this associational study. PMID:19719467
Measurement for serum thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) and its clinical assessment in diagnosis of thyroid states
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Serum levels of thyroxine (T4)-binding globulin (TBG) were determined by a radioimmunoassay using cellulose-linked antibody to TBG. Values obtained in healthy young adults averaged 1.62 +- 0.25 (SD) mg/100 ml, and no significant difference was detected between males and females. The TBG levels remained within the normal limit in hyperthyroidism while they were significantly increased in hypothyroidism. Interestingly enough, TBG levels were significantly elevated in chronic thyroidities with no overt hypothyroidism. In normal pregnancy, TBG was increased slightly in the first trimester, and markedly in the second and third trimesters. In one case of congenital TBG deficiency, no immunoreactive TBG was detected. It was demonstrated, further, that an inverse relationship (r = -0.7593) existed between the TBG level and serum triiodothyronine uptake index, and that a direct relation (r = +0.6557) was present between the TBG level and T4 in sera from normal subjects and pregnancy. Ratios of T4/TBG were markedly increased in hyperthyroidism, and decreased in hypothyroidism, showing no overlap with the normal subjects, whereas they were below the normal limit in half the cases in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The radioimmunoassay for TBG was useful in evaluating hypothyroid states, because it could differentiate the increase in T4 associated with elevated TBG from hyperthyroidism. (author)dism. (author)
Oestradiol and sex hormone-binding globulin in premenopausal and post-menopausal meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans.
Thomas, H V; Davey, G K; Key, T J
Endogenous oestradiol is strongly associated with breast cancer risk but its determinants are poorly understood. To test the hypothesis that vegetarians have lower plasma oestradiol and higher sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) than meat-eaters we assayed samples from 640 premenopausal women (153 meat-eaters, 382 vegetarians, 105 vegans) and 457 post-menopausal women (223 meat-eaters, 196 vegetarians, 38 vegans). Vegetarians and vegans had lower mean body mass indices (BMI) and lower plasma cholesterol concentrations than meat-eaters, but there were no statistically significant differences between meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans in pre- or post-menopausal plasma concentrations of oestradiol or SHBG. Before adjusting for BMI there were small differences in the direction expected, with the vegetarians and vegans having higher SHBG and lower oestradiol (more noticeable amongst post-menopausal women) than the meat-eaters. These small differences were essentially eliminated by adjusting for BMI. Thus this study implies that the relatively low BMI of vegetarians and vegans does cause small changes in SHBG and in post-menopausal oestradiol, but that the composition of vegetarian diets may not have any additional effects on these hormones. PMID:10424753
Globulina antilinfocítica en el tratamiento de la anemia aplásica severa / Antilymphocyte globulin in the treatment of severe aplastic anemia
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Víctor, Ulloa Perez; Wilson, Ruiz Gil; Luz, Bustamante; Carolina, Tokumura Tokumura.
Full Text Available Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en nuestro hospital en el tratamiento de anemia aplásica severa con globulina antilinfocítica. Materiales y Metodos: Se estudiaron 58 pacientes con AAS diagnosticados entre 1988-1998 de los cuales 25 recibieron Globulina antilinfocítica (GAL), 56% de ellos eran men [...] ores a 20 ańos de edad,19 de los pacientes tratados con GAL son del sexo masculino . Resultado: Respondieron favorablemente 68%(17pacientes),la mayoría de ellos (64%)alcanzaron esta respuesta durante los primeros 6 meses. Un paciente evolucionó a Hemoglobinuria paroxística nocturna (HPN), efectos adversos fueron leves y de corta duración. (Rev Med Hered;1999 ;10:132 - 136 ). Abstract in english Objetive: To report the experience with antilymphocyte globulin in the treatment of severe aplastic anemia. Material and methods: We studied 58 patients with SAA between 1988-1998. Twenty five patients were treated with ALG, 56 % of them were less than 20 years old, nineteen of the patients were mal [...] es. Results:We observed good response in 68% of the patients, the majority of the patients (64%) got a good response during the first 6 months of the follow up. Only one patient evolved into Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria. Side effects were mild and short in duration. (Rev Med Hered; 1999;10:132 - 136 ).
Proteomic and genetic analysis of wheat endosperm albumins and globulins using deletion lines of cultivar Chinese Spring
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Merlino, Marielle; Bousbata, Sabrina
Albumins and globulins from the endosperm of Triticum aestivum L. cv Chinese Spring (CS) were analysed to establish a proteome reference map for this standard wheat cultivar. Approximately, 1,145 Coomassie-stained spots were detected by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE), 410 of which were identified using mass spectrometry and data mining. Salt-soluble endosperm proteins from 67 CS deletion lines were also separated by 2DE (four gels per line). Image analysis of the 268 2DE gels as compared to the CS reference proteome allowed the detection of qualitative and quantitative variations in endosperm proteins due to chromosomal deletions. This differential analysis of spots allowed structural or regulatory genes, encoding 211 proteins, to be located on segments of the 21 wheat chromosomes. In addition, variance analysis of quantitative variations in spot volume showed that the expression of 391 proteins is controlled by one or more chromosome bins with 262 significant increases and 196 significant decreases in spot volume. The spot volume of several proteins was increased or decreased by numerous chromosomal regions and homoeologous-like regulation was revealed for some proteins. Quantitative or qualitative variation in a total of 386 proteins was influenced by genes assigned to at least one chromosomal region, while 66 % of all stained proteins were not found to be influenced by chromosome bins. Proteomics of deletion lines can, therefore, be used to simultaneously analyse the composition and genetics of a complex tissue, such as the wheat endosperm.
Schlapbach, L.; Zu?ttel, A.; Pedersen, Allan Schrřder
The invention relates to the storage of hydrogen. The invention relates especially to storing hydrogen in a clathrate hydrate. The clathrate hydrate according to the present invention originates from a composition, which comprises water and hydrogen, as well as a promotor compound. The promotor compound provides a large reduction of the pressure needed and/or an increase of the temperature needed to form a clathrate hydrate. Also, the desorption of hydrogen gas from the clathrate hydrate is e...
Combined N-glycome and N-glycoproteome analysis of the Lotus japonicus seed globulin fraction shows conservation of protein structure and glycosylation in legumes
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Dam, Svend Secher; Thaysen-Andersen, Morten
Legume food allergy, such as allergy toward peanuts and soybeans, is a health issue predicted to worsen as dietary advice recommends higher intake of legume-based foods. Lotus japonicus (Lotus) is an established legume plant model system for studies of symbiotic and pathogenic microbial interactions and, due to its well characterized genotype/phenotype and easily manipulated genome, may also be suitable for studies of legume food allergy. Here we present a comprehensive study of the Lotus N-glycoproteome. The global and site-specific N-glycan structures of Lotus seed globulins were analyzed using mass spectrometry-based glycomics and glycoproteomics techniques. In total, 19 N-glycan structures comprising high mannose (?20%), pauci-mannosidic (?40%), and complex forms (?40%) were determined. The pauci-mannosidic and complex N-glycans contained high amounts of the typical plant determinants ?-1,2-xylose and ?-1,3-fucose. Two abundant Lotus seed N-glycoproteins were site-specifically profiled; a predicted lectincontaining two fully occupied N-glycosylation sites carried predominantly pauci-mannosidic structures in different distributions. In contrast, Lotus convicilin storage protein 2 (LCP2) carried exclusively high mannose N-glycans similar to its homologue, Ara h 1, which is the major allergen in peanut. In silico investigation confirmed that peanut Ara h 1 and Lotus LCP2 are highly similar at the primary and higher protein structure levels. Hence, we suggest that Lotus has the potential to serve as a model system for studying the role of seed proteins and their glycosylation in food allergy.
Gas storage materials, including hydrogen storage materials
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Mohtadi, Rana F; Wicks, George G; Heung, Leung K; Nakamura, Kenji
A material for the storage and release of gases comprises a plurality of hollow elements, each hollow element comprising a porous wall enclosing an interior cavity, the interior cavity including structures of a solid-state storage material. In particular examples, the storage material is a hydrogen storage material, such as a solid state hydride. An improved method for forming such materials includes the solution diffusion of a storage material solution through a porous wall of a hollow element into an interior cavity.
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
César A.C., Sequeira; Mário R., Pedro.
Full Text Available As baterias alcalinas, as de matérias activas exteriores, as de sódio e as de lítio constituem uma forma excelente para o armazenamento de energia química e podemos encará-las como muito promissoras para aplicaçőes de armazenamento de energia em larga escala. Este artigo inclui alguns comentários pe [...] rtinentes sobre estes sistemas recarregáveis, na sua actual fase de investigaçăo e desenvolvimento. Abstract in english This paper focuses on four generic types of secondary battery - Alkaline batteries, Flow batteries, Sodium batteries, and Lithium batteries - that hold most promise for the storage of energy. [...
Hyperimmune globulins and same-day thrombotic adverse events as recorded in a large healthcare database during 2008-2011.
Menis, Mikhail; Sridhar, Gayathri; Selvam, Nandini; Ovanesov, Mikhail V; Divan, Hozefa A; Liang, Yideng; Scott, Dorothy; Golding, Basil; Forshee, Richard; Ball, Robert; Anderson, Steven A; Izurieta, Hector S
Thrombotic events (TEs) are rare serious complications following administration of hyperimmune globulin (HIG) products. Our retrospective claims-based study assessed occurrence of same-day TEs following administration of HIGs during 2008-2011 and examined potential risk factors using HealthCore's Integrated Research Database (HIRD(SM) ) and laboratory testing of products' procoagulant Factor XIa activity by U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Multivariable regression was used to estimate same-day TE risk for different products. Of 101,956 individuals exposed to 23 different HIG product groups, 86 (0.84 per 1,000 persons) had a TE diagnosis code (DC) recorded on the same day as HIG administration. Unadjusted same-day TE DC rates (per 1,000 persons) ranged from 0.4 to 148.9 for different products. GamaSTAN S/D IG >10 cc had statistically significantly higher same-day TE DC risk compared to Tetanus IG (OR = 57.57; 95% CI = 19.72-168.10). Increased TE risk was also observed with older age (?45 years), prior thrombotic events, and hypercoagulable state(s). Laboratory investigation identified elevated Factor XIa activity for GamaSTAN S/D, HepaGam B, HyperHep B S/D, WinRho SDF, HyperRHO S/D full dose, and HyperTET S/D. Our study, for the first time, identified increase in the same-day TE DC risk with GamaSTAN S/D IG >10 cc and suggests potentially elevated TE risk with other HIGs. PMID:23907744
Genetic evidence that raised sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Perry, John R B; Weedon, Michael N
Epidemiological studies consistently show that circulating sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels are lower in type 2 diabetes patients than non-diabetic individuals, but the causal nature of this association is controversial. Genetic studies can help dissect causal directions of epidemiological associations because genotypes are much less likely to be confounded, biased or influenced by disease processes. Using this Mendelian randomization principle, we selected a common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) near the SHBG gene, rs1799941, that is strongly associated with SHBG levels. We used data from this SNP, or closely correlated SNPs, in 27 657 type 2 diabetes patients and 58 481 controls from 15 studies. We then used data from additional studies to estimate the difference in SHBG levels between type 2 diabetes patients and controls. The SHBG SNP rs1799941 was associated with type 2 diabetes [odds ratio (OR) 0.94, 95% CI: 0.91, 0.97; P = 2 x 10(-5)], with the SHBG raising allele associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. This effect was very similar to that expected (OR 0.92, 95% CI: 0.88, 0.96), given the SHBG-SNP versus SHBG levels association (SHBG levels are 0.2 standard deviations higher per copy of the A allele) and the SHBG levels versus type 2 diabetes association (SHBG levels are 0.23 standard deviations lower in type 2 diabetic patients compared to controls). Results were very similar in men and women. There was no evidence that this variant is associated with diabetes-related intermediate traits, including several measures of insulin secretion and resistance. Our results, together with those from another recent genetic study, strengthen evidence that SHBG and sex hormones are involved in the aetiology of type 2 diabetes.
Immune reconstitution following reduced-intensity transplantation with cladribine, busulfan, and antithymocyte globulin: serial comparison with conventional myeloablative transplantation.
Saito, T; Kanda, Y; Nakai, K; Kim, S-W; Arima, F; Kami, M; Tanosaki, R; Tobinai, K; Wakasugi, H; Heike, Y; Mineishi, S; Takaue, Y
The primary object of the conditioning regimen for allogeneic reduced-intensity stem cell transplantation (RIST) is immunosuppression to achieve stable engraftment of donor cells, rather than bone marrow ablation. Therefore, immune reconstitution after RIST might be different from that after conventional stem cell transplantation (CST). In this study, 22 patients underwent RIST and 28 underwent CST. The RIST regimen consisted of cladribine (2-CdA; 0.11 mg/kg/day for 6 days), BU (4 mg/kg/day for 2 days), and rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG; 2.5 mg/kg/day for 2-4 days). The CST group received either the BU (4 mg/kg/day x 4 days)/CY (60 mg/kg/day x 2 days) (n=13) or CY (60 mg/kg/day x 2 days)/TBI (4 Gy/day x 3 days) regimen (n=15). All patients underwent transplantation with G-CSF-mobilized blood stem cells. Engraftment speed after RIST was fast and seven of 22 patients did not require platelet transfusion. We noted that the numbers of CD4+, CD4+CD45RA+, and CD4+CD45RO+ T cells after transplant in the RIST group were significantly lower than those in the CST group (P=0.0001 for both the comparisons). However, the reconstitution of CD20+ B cells was faster in the RIST group (P=0.0001). The response of T cells to PHA stimulation was lower in the RIST group (P=0.0001 on day 30 and P=0.02 on day 90). Nevertheless, there were no significant differences in the incidence of bacterial, fungal, or viral infections between the two groups. We concluded that our RIST regimen might delay laboratory-evaluated T-cell immune reconstitution compared to CST; however, the observed setbacks did not directly translate into clinically significant increases in infectious episodes. PMID:12953133
Genome Wide Association Identifies Common Variants at the SERPINA6/SERPINA1 Locus Influencing Plasma Cortisol and Corticosteroid Binding Globulin
Direk, Nese; Lewis, John G.; Hammond, Geoffrey L.; Hill, Lesley A.; Anderson, Anna; Huffman, Jennifer; Wilson, James F.; Campbell, Harry; Rudan, Igor; Wright, Alan; Hastie, Nicholas; Wild, Sarah H.; Velders, Fleur P.; Hofman, Albert; Uitterlinden, Andre G.; Lahti, Jari; Räikkönen, Katri; Kajantie, Eero; Widen, Elisabeth; Palotie, Aarno; Eriksson, Johan G.; Kaakinen, Marika; Järvelin, Marjo-Riitta; Timpson, Nicholas J.; Davey Smith, George; Ring, Susan M.; Evans, David M.; St Pourcain, Beate; Tanaka, Toshiko; Milaneschi, Yuri; Bandinelli, Stefania; Ferrucci, Luigi; van der Harst, Pim; Rosmalen, Judith G. M.; Bakker, Stephen J. L.; Verweij, Niek; Dullaart, Robin P. F.; Mahajan, Anubha; Lindgren, Cecilia M.; Morris, Andrew; Lind, Lars; Ingelsson, Erik; Anderson, Laura N.; Pennell, Craig E.; Lye, Stephen J.; Matthews, Stephen G.; Eriksson, Joel; Mellstrom, Dan; Ohlsson, Claes; Price, Jackie F.; Strachan, Mark W. J.; Reynolds, Rebecca M.; Tiemeier, Henning; Walker, Brian R.
Variation in plasma levels of cortisol, an essential hormone in the stress response, is associated in population-based studies with cardio-metabolic, inflammatory and neuro-cognitive traits and diseases. Heritability of plasma cortisol is estimated at 30–60% but no common genetic contribution has been identified. The CORtisol NETwork (CORNET) consortium undertook genome wide association meta-analysis for plasma cortisol in 12,597 Caucasian participants, replicated in 2,795 participants. The results indicate that <1% of variance in plasma cortisol is accounted for by genetic variation in a single region of chromosome 14. This locus spans SERPINA6, encoding corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG, the major cortisol-binding protein in plasma), and SERPINA1, encoding ?1-antitrypsin (which inhibits cleavage of the reactive centre loop that releases cortisol from CBG). Three partially independent signals were identified within the region, represented by common SNPs; detailed biochemical investigation in a nested sub-cohort showed all these SNPs were associated with variation in total cortisol binding activity in plasma, but some variants influenced total CBG concentrations while the top hit (rs12589136) influenced the immunoreactivity of the reactive centre loop of CBG. Exome chip and 1000 Genomes imputation analysis of this locus in the CROATIA-Korcula cohort identified missense mutations in SERPINA6 and SERPINA1 that did not account for the effects of common variants. These findings reveal a novel common genetic source of variation in binding of cortisol by CBG, and reinforce the key role of CBG in determining plasma cortisol levels. In turn this genetic variation may contribute to cortisol-associated degenerative diseases. PMID:25010111
Regulation of IgM anti-bovine ?-globulin antibody formation by helper and suppressor T cells in rabbits
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Primary IgM anti-bovine ?-globulin (BGG) antibody formation was studied in rabbits subjected to 500 or 900 R of whole body X-irradiation in combination with one or more of the following conditions: appendectomy (Ax), thymectomy (Tx), shielding of appendix (As) or bone marrow (Bs) during irradiation (X), transfer of 109 appendix or thymus cells (Ac or Tc), and immediate immunization with 200 ?g of alum-precipitated BGG iv. The IgM antibody response was well preserved in AsX rabbits in comparison with X500 rabbits. Conversely, the response was suppressed in AxX500 rabbits although transfer of autologous appendix cells to these animals (AxX500Ac) restored the response. In the group receiving 900 R, there was variable restoration in individual AxX.Ac and AxBsX.Ac rabbits and little or none in AxTxX.Tc, AxTxBsX.Tc, and AxTxBsX.Ac animals. However, simultaneous injections of autologous thymus cells and appendix lymphocytes (AxTxX.Ac.Tc) restored the response completely. The IgM response was somewhat enhanced in AsTxX animals and returned again to the level of normal controls by injecting these animals with autologous thymus cells. However, marked suppression was seen when AsTxX rabbits were injected with neonatal allogeneic thymus cells. A remarkable enhancement of IgM antibody formation was induced in normal rabbits by injection of PHA into the appendiceal artery. On the basis of these results and of histological observations, sults and of histological observations, it was suggested that the rabbit appendix represents a large pool of both B and T cells and that appendix-derived B cells participating in IgM anti-BGG antibody formation are under the regulation of both helper and suppressor T cells
Prediagnostic plasma testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin, IGF-I and hepatocellular carcinoma : Etiological factors or risk markers?
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Lukanova, Annekatrin; Becker, Susen
Elevated pre-diagnostic testosterone and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) concentrations have been proposed to increase risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the metabolism of these hormones is altered as a consequence of liver damage and they may have clinical utility as HCC risk markers. A case-control study was nested within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) cohort and included 125 incident HCC cases and 247 individually matched controls. Testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and IGF-I were analyzed by immunoassays. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated by conditional logistic regression. The area under the receiver operating curves (AUC) was calculated to assess HCC predictive ability of the tested models. After adjustments for epidemiological variables (body mass index, smoking, ethanol intake, hepatitis and diabetes) and liver damage (a score based on albumin, bilirubin, aspartate aminotransaminase, alanine aminotransaminase, gamma-glutamyltransferase and alkaline phosphatase concentrations), only SHBG remained significantly associated with risk (OR for top versus bottom tertile of 3.86 (1.32-11.3), ptrend =0.009). As a single factor SHBG had an AUC of 0.81 (0.75-0.86). A small, but significant increase in AUC was observed when SHBG was added to a model including the liver damage score and epidemiological variables (from 0.89 to 0.91, p=0.02) and a net reclassification of 0.47% (0.45-0.48). The observed associations of HCC with pre-diagnostic SHBG, free testosterone and IGF-I concentrations are in directions opposite to that expected under the etiological hypotheses. SHBG has a potential to be tested as pre-diagnostic risk marker for HCC. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long-term outcome of 25 children and adolescents with severe aplastic anemia treated with antithymocyte globulin
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de-Medeiros C.R.
Full Text Available Severe aplastic anemia (SAA is probably an immune-mediated disorder, and immunosuppressive therapy is recommended for patients with no available donor for bone marrow transplant. Between October 1984 and November 1987, 25 consecutive children and adolescents with SAA with no HLA-compatible marrow donor received equine antithymocyte globulin (ATG (15 mg kg-1 day-1 for 10 days. The patients were evaluated 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after starting ATG treatment. Thereafter, patients were evaluated yearly until July 1998. Median age was 10 years (range, 1.5-20 years, granulocyte counts on referral ranged from 0.032 to 1.4 x 10(9/l (median 0.256 x 10(9/l, and 12 patients had granulocyte counts <0.2 x 10(9/l. At a median follow-up of 9.6 years (range, 8.6-11.8 years, 10 patients (40% remained alive with good marrow function. No morphologic evidence of hematological clonal disorders has been observed, although two patients probably have acquired clonal chromosomal abnormalities (trisomy 8 and del(6q21, respectively. Responses to ATG were observed between 6 weeks and 6 months from the start of treatment in 60% of evaluable patients. The response rate was not different in patients whose granulocyte count at diagnosis was <0.2 x 10(9/l, or in those who were <10 years of age. This study supports the view that, when compared with supportive measures, ATG is an effective treatment for children or adolescents with SAA. Although these results are inferior to those reported for marrow transplantation or more intensive immunosuppressive regimens, these patients who responded to ATG are long-term survivors with stable peripheral blood counts and a low rate of relapse.
A retrospective comparison of cyclophosphamide plus antithymocyte globulin with cyclophosphamide plus busulfan as the conditioning regimen for severe aplastic anemia
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
L.V.M. Ommati
Full Text Available Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT is the treatment of choice for young patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA. The association of antithymocyte globulin (ATG and cyclophosphamide (CY is the most frequently used conditioning regimen for this disease. We performed this retrospective study in order to compare the outcomes of HLA-matched sibling donor AHSCT in 41 patients with SAA receiving cyclophosphamide plus ATG (ATG-CY, N = 17 or cyclophosphamide plus busulfan (BU-CY, N = 24. The substitution of BU for ATG was motivated by the high cost of ATG. There were no differences in the clinical features between the two groups, including age, gender, cytomegalovirus status, ABO match, interval between diagnosis and transplant, and number of total nucleated cells infused. No differences were observed in the time to neutrophil and platelet engraftment, or in the risk of veno-occlusive disease and hemorrhage. However, there was a higher risk of mucositis in the BU-CY group (71 vs 24%, P = 0.004. There were no differences in the incidence of neutrophil and platelet engraftment, acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease, and transplant-related mortality. There was a higher incidence of late rejection in the ATG-CY group (41 vs 4%, P = 0.009. Although the ATG-CY group had a longer follow-up (101 months than the BU-CY group (67 months, P = 0.04, overall survival was similar between the groups (69 vs 58%, respectively, P = 0.32. We conclude that the association BU-CY is a feasible option to the conventional ATG-CY regimen in this population.
A retrospective comparison of cyclophosphamide plus antithymocyte globulin with cyclophosphamide plus busulfan as the conditioning regimen for severe aplastic anemia
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
L.V.M., Ommati; C.A., Rodrigues; A.R., Silva; L.P., Silva; M.L.L.F., Chaufaille; J.S.R., Oliveira.
Full Text Available Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is the treatment of choice for young patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA). The association of antithymocyte globulin (ATG) and cyclophosphamide (CY) is the most frequently used conditioning regimen for this disease. We performed this r [...] etrospective study in order to compare the outcomes of HLA-matched sibling donor AHSCT in 41 patients with SAA receiving cyclophosphamide plus ATG (ATG-CY, N = 17) or cyclophosphamide plus busulfan (BU-CY, N = 24). The substitution of BU for ATG was motivated by the high cost of ATG. There were no differences in the clinical features between the two groups, including age, gender, cytomegalovirus status, ABO match, interval between diagnosis and transplant, and number of total nucleated cells infused. No differences were observed in the time to neutrophil and platelet engraftment, or in the risk of veno-occlusive disease and hemorrhage. However, there was a higher risk of mucositis in the BU-CY group (71 vs 24%, P = 0.004). There were no differences in the incidence of neutrophil and platelet engraftment, acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease, and transplant-related mortality. There was a higher incidence of late rejection in the ATG-CY group (41 vs 4%, P = 0.009). Although the ATG-CY group had a longer follow-up (101 months) than the BU-CY group (67 months, P = 0.04), overall survival was similar between the groups (69 vs 58%, respectively, P = 0.32). We conclude that the association BU-CY is a feasible option to the conventional ATG-CY regimen in this population.
Biological activity of an intravenous preparation of human vaccinia immune globulin in mouse models of vaccinia virus infection.
Shearer, Jeffry D; Siemann, Linda; Gerkovich, Mary; House, Robert V
The biological activity of a new intravenous (i.v.) preparation of human vaccinia immune globulin (VIGIV) was evaluated in two mouse models of vaccinia virus (VV) infection. In a mouse tail lesion model, female CD-1 mice were inoculated i.v. with 7 x 10(4) PFU of VV to produce >10 lesions per tail 8 days later. In a mouse lethality model, female severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice were inoculated i.v. with 3 x 10(4) PFU of VV to produce 100% mortality within 45 days. The ability of VIGIV to reduce tail lesion formation in CD-1 mice and mortality in SCID mice was determined by (i) pretreatment of a lethal VV dose with VIGIV prior to i.v. inoculation into SCID mice and (ii) i.v. administration of VIGIV to CD-1 and SCID mice the day before and up to 8 days after VV infection. VIGIV reduced the proportion of CD-1 mice with >10 tail lesions in a dose-related manner when VIGIV was given 1 day before and up to 1 day after VV inoculation. The pretreatment of VV with VIGIV prolonged survival and decreased mortality. VIGIV (100 and 400 mg/kg) prolonged survival when given up to 4 days after VV inoculation, and the 400-mg/kg dose reduced the mortality rate by 80% when given the day before or immediately after VV inoculation. The biological activity of VIGIV was demonstrated in both the immunocompetent and immunocompromised murine models. The timing of treatment relative to VV inoculation appeared to be important for the demonstration of VIGIV's biological activity. PMID:15980330
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Vladimir Markelov
Full Text Available The article describes the spatial information storage, shows the features of spatial information and of such storage systems formation. Requirements for information storage technologies and for the data management in storage systems are determined. Cartographic information storage and updating features are shown. The article proves that intelligent solutions are the most efficient means of working with large amounts of spatial data.
Production of the growth factors GM-CSF, G-CSF, and VEGF by human peripheral blood cells induced with metal complexes of human serum ? -globulin formed with copper or zinc ions.
Cheknev, Sergey B; Apresova, Maria A; Moryakova, Nadezhda A; Efremova, Irina E; Mezdrokhina, Anna S; Piskovskaya, Lidya S; Babajanz, Alla A
As it was established in our previous studies, the proteins of human serum ?-globulin fraction could interact with copper or zinc ions distributed in the periglobular space, form metal complexes, and become able to perform effector functions differing due to the conformational shifts from those mediated by them in native conformation of their Fc regions. In the present work we have evaluated ability of the ?-globulin metal complexes formed with copper or zinc ions in the conditions like to the physiological ones to induce production or to regulate induction in the culture of freshly isolated human peripheral blood cells (PBC) of granulocyte (G) and granulocyte-macrophage (GM) colony-stimulating factors (CSF) as well as of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The ?-globulin metal complexes formed with both copper and zinc ions were found to similarly reduce production of GM-CSF, G-CSF, and VEGF induced in normal human PBC cultures by the control ?-globulins or by copper and zinc ions used alone. In context of theory and practice of inflammation the properties of the ?-globulin metal complexes might impact the basic knowledge in search of novel approaches to anti-inflammatory drugs development. PMID:25104881
The role of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in conversion of testosterone to 5 ?-dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione in skin from suprapubic area of women. Part 1. In vitro study with skin sections
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The influence of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) on testosterone metabolism into 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione in skin sections from the suprapubic area women of reproductive age was investigated. The SHBG was obtained by precipitating plasma proteins of women in the third trimester of pregnancy with ammonium sulphate. Steroids were isolated from the incubation medium by extraction with acetone and reextraction with ether and purified using column chromatography on aluminum oxide, thin layer chromatography (TLC) on silica gel and following formation of acetyl derivatives the thin layer chromatography on silica gel was again carried out. Individual recovery of androstenedione was calculated using radioisotope and the recovery of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone was determined with gas chromatography. Mean value of identified 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone in the presence of inactive globulin was 52.77 fg/mg, whereas following the addition of active globulin the value decreased to 19.62 fg/mg. Mean value of identified androstenedione in preparations with inactive globulin (62.97 fg/mg), in the presence of active globulin was also reduced to 18.15 fg/mg. (author)
Níveis séricos de globulinas e a intensidade da fibrose hepática em pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica / Serum globulin levels and intensity of hepatic fibrosis in patients with mansonic schistosomiasis
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Henrique S. T., Correia; Ana Lucia C., Domingues; Edmundo P. A., Lopes; Clarice N. L., Morais; Camila, Sarteschi; Izolda M. F., Moura.
Full Text Available CONTEXTO: Tem sido descrita correlaçăo entre os níveis séricos de globulinas e o grau de fibrose hepática nas hepatites crônicas, mas năo se encontram relatos na esquistossomose mansônica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os níveis séricos de globulinas e de IgG, e a intensidade da fibrose periportal mensurada pel [...] a ultrassonografia em pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica. MÉTODOS: Entre novembro de 2006 e fevereiro de 2007, foram estudados 41 pacientes que preencheram ficha clínica e realizaram dosagens de IgG por imunoturbidimetria e de globulinas indiretamente pelo método do biureto. A ultrassonografia foi realizada por um único pesquisador, seguindo os protocolos do Cairo e de Niamey. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi 41 anos, sendo 25 pacientes (61%) do sexo feminino. Dez dos 41 pacientes (24%) apresentaram elevaçăo dos níveis séricos de globulinas e 21 (51%) dos de IgG. Conforme a classificaçăo do Cairo, 21 pacientes apresentaram grau I de fibrose, 18 grau II e 2 grau III, e pela classificaçăo de Niamey 8 apresentavam padrăo C, 20 D e 13 E. Aqueles com graus II ou III de fibrose tiveram maiores níveis de IgG do que os de grau I (P = 0,047), assim como aqueles que apresentaram padrőes D e E em relaçăo ao C (P = 0,011). Năo houve associaçăo entre os níveis de globulinas e o grau ou padrăo de fibrose. CONCLUSĂO: Em pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica, observou-se elevaçăo dos níveis séricos de IgG de acordo com a progressăo do grau e do padrăo de fibrose periportal, mas o mesmo năo se observou com os níveis de globulinas. Abstract in english BACKGROUND: A correlation between the levels of serum globulins and the hepatic fibrosis degree in chronic hepatitis was described, but reports in schistosomiasis mansoni have not been found. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the serum globulins and IgG levels, and periportal fibrosis intensity measured by ult [...] rasound in patients with schistosomiasis mansoni. METHODS: Between November, 2006 and February 2007, 41 patients which were eligible, filled them a questionnaire and had their levels of serum IgG measured by immunoturbidimetry and globulins indirectly measured by the Biuret method. The ultrasound was carried out by a single researcher, according to the Cairo and Niamey protocols. RESULTS: The average age was 41 years old and 25 female patients (61%). Ten patients (24%) from 41 showed serum globulins levels raised and 21 (51%) presented elevated IgG levels. According to the Cairo classification, 21 patients showed grade I of fibrosis, 18 grade II and 2 grade III; and by the Niamey classification 8 showed standard C, 20 D, and 13 E. Those with grade II or III of fibrosis had higher IgG levels than the ones with grade I (P = 0,047), as well as those who showed standards D and E as compared to C (P = 0,011). There was no association between the globulins levels and the intensity of fibrosis. CONCLUSION: In patients with schistosomiasis mansoni, an increase of the IgG serum levels was observed according to the progression from periportal fibrosis intensity, but the same was not founded with globulins levels.
Níveis séricos de globulinas e a intensidade da fibrose hepática em pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica Serum globulin levels and intensity of hepatic fibrosis in patients with mansonic schistosomiasis
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Henrique S. T. Correia
Full Text Available CONTEXTO: Tem sido descrita correlaçăo entre os níveis séricos de globulinas e o grau de fibrose hepática nas hepatites crônicas, mas năo se encontram relatos na esquistossomose mansônica. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os níveis séricos de globulinas e de IgG, e a intensidade da fibrose periportal mensurada pela ultrassonografia em pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica. MÉTODOS: Entre novembro de 2006 e fevereiro de 2007, foram estudados 41 pacientes que preencheram ficha clínica e realizaram dosagens de IgG por imunoturbidimetria e de globulinas indiretamente pelo método do biureto. A ultrassonografia foi realizada por um único pesquisador, seguindo os protocolos do Cairo e de Niamey. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi 41 anos, sendo 25 pacientes (61% do sexo feminino. Dez dos 41 pacientes (24% apresentaram elevaçăo dos níveis séricos de globulinas e 21 (51% dos de IgG. Conforme a classificaçăo do Cairo, 21 pacientes apresentaram grau I de fibrose, 18 grau II e 2 grau III, e pela classificaçăo de Niamey 8 apresentavam padrăo C, 20 D e 13 E. Aqueles com graus II ou III de fibrose tiveram maiores níveis de IgG do que os de grau I (P = 0,047, assim como aqueles que apresentaram padrőes D e E em relaçăo ao C (P = 0,011. Năo houve associaçăo entre os níveis de globulinas e o grau ou padrăo de fibrose. CONCLUSĂO: Em pacientes com esquistossomose mansônica, observou-se elevaçăo dos níveis séricos de IgG de acordo com a progressăo do grau e do padrăo de fibrose periportal, mas o mesmo năo se observou com os níveis de globulinas.BACKGROUND: A correlation between the levels of serum globulins and the hepatic fibrosis degree in chronic hepatitis was described, but reports in schistosomiasis mansoni have not been found. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the serum globulins and IgG levels, and periportal fibrosis intensity measured by ultrasound in patients with schistosomiasis mansoni. METHODS: Between November, 2006 and February 2007, 41 patients which were eligible, filled them a questionnaire and had their levels of serum IgG measured by immunoturbidimetry and globulins indirectly measured by the Biuret method. The ultrasound was carried out by a single researcher, according to the Cairo and Niamey protocols. RESULTS: The average age was 41 years old and 25 female patients (61%. Ten patients (24% from 41 showed serum globulins levels raised and 21 (51% presented elevated IgG levels. According to the Cairo classification, 21 patients showed grade I of fibrosis, 18 grade II and 2 grade III; and by the Niamey classification 8 showed standard C, 20 D, and 13 E. Those with grade II or III of fibrosis had higher IgG levels than the ones with grade I (P = 0,047, as well as those who showed standards D and E as compared to C (P = 0,011. There was no association between the globulins levels and the intensity of fibrosis. CONCLUSION: In patients with schistosomiasis mansoni, an increase of the IgG serum levels was observed according to the progression from periportal fibrosis intensity, but the same was not founded with globulins levels.
14C-labeled pulegone and metabolites binding to alpha2u-globulin in kidneys of male F-344 rats.
Ferguson, Ling-Jen Chen; Lebetkin, Edward H; Lih, Fred B; Tomer, Kenneth B; Parkinson, Horace D; Borghoff, Susan J; Burka, Leo T
Pulegone is a major constituent of pennyroyal oil and a minor component of peppermint oil. Pulegone is biotransformed to menthofuran and menthones (diastereomeric menthone and isomenthone) in pennyroyal and peppermint as well as in rodents. Pulegone and menthofuran are hepatotoxic to rodents, and menthones are less toxic. The metabolism and disposition of pulegone and menthofuran were previously studied in rodents, and higher concentrations of pulegone- and menthofuran-derived radioactivity were observed in male than female rat kidney. One explanation is the association of pulegone and metabolites with a male rat-specific protein, alpha2u-globulin. To test this hypothesis, male and female rats were dosed orally with 14C-labeled pulegone (80 mg/kg, 120 microCi/kg) or menthofuran (60 mg/kg, 120 microCi/kg) or menthones (80 mg/kg, 120 microCi/kg) in corn oil, and the kidney cytosol was prepared 24 h after dosing. An equilibrium dialysis experiment showed that in all three studies the radioactivity was associated with kidney cytosol proteins of male but not female rats. The chemicals present in the male rat kidney cytosol after dialysis were extracted with dichloromethane and characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). All parent compounds were detected, and the metabolites characterized included piperitone from pulegone or menthones treatment, menthones and possibly 8-hydroxymenthones from pulegone treatment, and mintlactones (diastereomeric mintlactone and isomintlactone) and 7a-hydroxymintlactone from menthofuran treatment. Analysis of the male rat kidney cytosol by a gel filtration column demonstrated that the retention was due to reversible binding of these chemicals with the male rat-specific protein alpha2u-globulin. However, binding of pulegone and/or metabolites to alpha2u-globulin did not produce accumulation of this protein in the kidney. PMID:17687727
Sensitization with 7S Globulins from Peanut, Hazelnut, Soy or Pea Induces IgE with Different Biological Activities Which Are Modified by Soy Tolerance
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Kroghsbo, Stine; BŘgh, Katrine Lindholm
Background: It is not known why some foods sensitizing via the gastrointestinal tract are prevalent allergenic foods and others are not. Eating habits, processing, and the food matrix have been suggested to influence the allergenicity of a given food. Factors related to protein structure, such as stability to digestion, have also been suggested. 7S globulins from peanut, hazelnut, soy, and pea were studied to determine whether related proteins would induce a similar sensitization when removed from their 'normal' matrix. Methods: Brown Norway rats (soy tolerant or nontolerant) were immunized i.p. 3 times with 100 ?g purified peanut, hazelnut, soy, or pea 7S without adjuvant. Sera were analyzed for specific antibodies by different ELISAs (IgG1, IgG2a, and IgE), inhibition ELISA, and rat basophilic leukemia cell assay. Results: The 4 related 7S globulins induced a response with an almost identical level of specific antibodies, but peanut 7S induced IgE of higher avidity than hazelnut and pea 7S which, again, hada higher avidity than IgE induced by soy 7S. Soy tolerance reduced the functionality of IgE without influencing antibody titers. Conclusions: Although the 4 7S globulins are structurally related allergens, they induce antibodies with different antigen-binding characteristics. Peanut 7S induces IgE of a higher avidity than hazelnut and pea 7S which, again, has a higher avidity than IgE induced by soy 7S. We also show that soy tolerance influences the function of antibodies to peanut 7S. These findings may help explain how antibodies of different clinical significances can develop in different individuals sensitized to the same allergen.Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel
Safe Storage of Pesticides Esta página Web está disponible en espańol Improper pesticide storage and disposal can be hazardous to human health and ... storage needs by buying only the amount of pesticide that you will need in the near future ...
A case of non-regenerative immune-mediated anemia treated by combination therapy of human immune globulin and mycophenolate mofetil in a dog
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M. Yuki
Full Text Available A 12-year-old female Shih Tzu dog was referred with diarrhea. Hematological examination indicated severe non-regenerative anemia. Bone marrow aspiration smears and core biopsy specimens revealed normal bone marrow. Based on those results, non-regenerative immune-mediated anemia was diagnosed. The dog was initially treated using prednisolone and cyclosporine. However, this treatment regimen did not prove effective. Nevertheless, the patient achieved a good hematological response after the administration of a combination therapy of human immune globulin and mycophenolate mofetil. Such a combination therapy may prove effective against non-regenerative immune-mediated anemia.
Use of sodium salicylate as a blocking agent for cortisol-binding-globulin in a radioimmunoassay for cortisol on unextracted plasma
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This report describes investigations into the use of sodium salicylate as a cortisol-binding-globulin blocking agent and the subsequent development of a radioimmunoassay for cortisol on unextracted plasma. Cortisol antiserum was raised against a cortisol 3-0-(carboxy-methyl) oxime-bovine serum albumin conjugate. A 125I-labelled cortisol-tyrosine methyl ester conjugate was also prepared for use in the assay. The radioimmunoassay developed involved no pre-treatment or extraction of the samples before analysis and was extremely simple to perform. Comparison with another radioimmunoassay for cortisol and with the Mattingly fluorimetric assay gave good correlation. (author)
Rationality analysis of delivery method for hepatitis B immune globulin in patients with chronic HBV infection after liver transplantation
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WEI Xianyi
Full Text Available ObjectiveTo analyze the rationality of delivery method for hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV infection after liver transplantation and to investigate the guiding principle for medication. MethodsForty-four cases of hepatitis B-related liver transplantation who participated in the phase IV clinical trial of HBIG for intravenous injection from August 2008 to December 2010 were analyzed. These patients were divided into severe liver disease group, liver cancer group, and liver cirrhosis group. The positive rates of HBV DNA and HBeAg were compared between groups by chi-square test. The HBV DNA level was compared by analysis of variance. The correlation between blood concentration and half-life of HBIG at different doses and dosing intervals was analyzed by Pearson?s correlation test. The titer of anti-HBs at one week after operation was compared between HBeAg-negative group and HBeAg-positive group and between high-HBV DNA group and low-HBV DNA group by t test. Cases of reinfection were also monitored. Results There were no significant differences in the positive rates of HBV DNA and HBeAg between the severe liver disease group, liver cancer group, and liver cirrhosis group (?2=4.871, P=0.088; ?2=1.079, P=0.583. No significant differences in mean HBV DNA level were found between these groups (F=0.895, P=0.418. The Pearson?s correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the blood concentration and half-life of HBIG (r=0.988, P=0.012. The tier of anti-HBs showed no significant differences between HBeAg-negative group and HBeAg-positive group and between high-HBV DNA group and low-HBV DNA group one week after operation (t=1.757, P=0.087. No cases of reinfection were found during the observation period. ConclusionIt is necessary to give HBIG 4000 IU during operation and 2000 IU daily for 6 days after operation, and the dose should be increased appropriately when the patients have relatively high viral load in serum. For the patients whose serological markers of hepatitis B become negative, the antibody level can be maintained at about 100 IU/L until the next administration if 600 IU of HBIG is given once a month by intramuscular injection.
Identification, characterization and expression of novel Sex Hormone Binding Globulin alternative first exons in the human prostate
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de Torres Inés
Full Text Available Abstract Background The human Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG gene, located at 17p13.1, comprises, at least, two different transcription units regulated by two different promoters. The first transcription unit begins with the exon 1 sequence and is responsible for the production of plasma SHBG by the hepatocytes, while the second begins with an alternative exon 1 sequence, which replaces the exon 1 present in liver transcripts. Alternative exon 1 transcription and translation has only been demonstrated in the testis of transgenic mice containing an 11-kb human SHBG transgene and in the human testis. Our goal has been to further characterize the 5' end of the SHBG gene and analyze the presence of the SHBG alternative transcripts in human prostate tissue and derived cell lines. Results Using a combination of in silico and in vitro studies, we have demonstrated that the SHBG gene, along with exon 1 and alternative exon 1 (renamed here exon 1A, contains four additional alternative first exons: the novel exons 1B, 1C, and 1E, and a previously identified exon 1N, which has been further characterized and renamed as exon 1D. We have shown that these four alternative first exons are all spliced to the same 3' splice site of SHBG exon 2, and that exon 1A and the novel exon 1B can be spliced to exon 1. We have also demonstrated the presence of SHBG transcripts beginning with exons 1B, 1C and 1D in prostate tissues and cell lines, as well as in several non-prostatic cell lines. Finally, the alignment of the SHBG mammalian sequences revealed that, while exons 1C, 1D and 1E are very well conserved phylogenetically through non-primate mammal species, exon 1B probably aroused in apes due to a single nucleotide change that generated a new 5' splice site in exon 1B. Conclusion The identification of multiple transcription start sites (TSS upstream of the annotated first exon of human SHBG, and the detection of the alternative transcripts in human prostate, concur with the prediction of the ENCODE (ENCyclopedia of DNA Elements project, and suggest that the regulation of SHBG is much more complex than previously reported.
Safety and efficacy of indigenous equine antithymocyte globulin along with cyclosporine in subjects with acquired aplastic anemia.
Agarwal, M B; Jijina, Farah; Shah, Sandip; Malhotra, Pankaj; Damodar, Sharat; Ross, Cecil
To confirm the safety and efficacy of an indigenous equine antithymocyte globulin (eATG) along with cyclosporine in Indian subjects with acquired aplastic anaemia. Subjects >2 years old with acquired aplastic anaemia were enrolled at six hospitals between April 2011 and February 2013, after approval from respective Ethics Committees. Equine ATG at a dose of 40 mg/kg/day was infused for 4 days. Efficacy analysis defined a priori, was in subjects, who had completed eATG treatment and followed-up on day 90 and/or 180. Complete response (CR) was defined as-transfusion independent, haemoglobin ?11 g/dL, absolute neutrophil count (ANC) >1.5 10(9)/L and platelet ?150 10(9)/L; partial response (PR) was transfusion independent, haemoglobin ?8 g/dL, ANC >0.5 10(9)/L and platelet ?20 10(9)/L; non responders were transfusion dependent. Lymphocyte subsets (CD 2, 3, 4 and 8) in the blood were tested on days 0 (pre eATG infusion), 3, 5, 7, 14 and 21 after eATG. Of the 30 subjects (two children <12 years old) enrolled, 19 completed day 90 and 18 completed day 180 visit. Of the remaining 11 subjects, two died on days 12 and 45 due to septicaemia and pneumonia, one was withdrawn after the first dose of eATG due to jaundice and eight were lost to follow-up. The median age was 30 (9-58) years and weight was 57 (26-84) kg. On day 90, 12 of 30 subjects responded (CR 1, PR 11) and 15 of 30 (CR 2, PR 13) on day 180. The most common adverse event was fever related to eATG infusion. There were two serious adverse events (acute renal failure, febrile neutropenia) and both recovered with treatment. There were no unusual adverse events noted during the study period. Blood T lymphocytes showed a mean decrease of 91 % from baseline that recovered by day 21. We conclude that eATG is safe and in combination with cyclosporine showed overall response in 50 % of enrolled subjects. The trial was registered with the clinical trial registry-india (Registration no. CTRI/2012/03/002498). PMID:25825555
Mass storage management system
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The author describes the application that the author developed during the time the author worked for Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility, which creates an integrated storage environment. The application is built as a layer on top of the current storage manager (OSM), hiding details from the end user and manages access to all storage elements. A simple set of commands allows users to manipulate and move data between all storage elements of the system as well as to storage devices on remote machines
Sunflower storage proteins are transported in dense vesicles that contain proteins homologous to the pumpkin vacuolar sorting receptor PV 72
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
María Isabel, Molina; Marisa, Otegui; Silvana, Petruccelli.
Full Text Available Storage proteins are transported to a special storage compartments in seeds by Golgi dependent or independent pathways depending on the plant species. The aim of this work was to study the sunflower storage protein transport pathway and identified component of the sorting machinery. Immature sunflow [...] er seeds were analyzed by subcellular fractionation (using percoll and sucrose gradients) and electron microscopy. The vesicles isolated with percoll, have precursors of 11S globulins, ?-TIP, ?-TIP, BiP, and two proteins that have homology to the pumpkin vacuolar sorting receptor PV72. Sucrose isolated vesicles have the same composition than percoll ones, except for the lack of BiP and the presence of only one protein that has reactivity with pea VSR BP80. Electronic micrographies of developing seeds show that the formation of electron dense aggregates starts in the endoplasmic reticulum, and that these aggregates are very abundant in the trans-Golgi apparatus, where release of dense vesicles happens. These vesicles contain a homolog of PV72 in their membranes. Storage proteins are also detected in multivesicular bodies whose membranes have reactivity with PV72 serum. All these results indicated that sunflower storage proteins are transported to protein storage vacuoles by a Golgi dependent pathway in a process in which homologous of PV72 are involved.
The effect of triiodothyronine (L-T3) and weight loss on sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in hirsute obese women
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The effect of a 60-day period of treatment with L-T3 (200 ?g/day) was evaluated in hirsute obese women and normal controls. The obese patients were also submitted to a low calorie high protein. Mean initial weight significantly declined with a significant lowering of the mean DHEA-S leves. There was changes in serum T3 rose in both obese and normal patients. Serum sex-hormone binding globulin levels at baseline studies were significantly higher in normal controls than in obese patients. At the end of de 60-day period of L-T3 administration it was observed in both groups a 2-4 fold increase in serum SHBG levels but normal controls had significantly higher mean values than obese individuals. (M.A.C.)
A controlled trial of antihuman lymphocyte globulin (Behring) in cadaveric renal transplantation: improvement in graft and patient survival at one year using a high-dose regimen.
Groth, C G; Berg, B; Collste, H; Lundgren, G; Magnusson, G; Ringdén, O; Pieper, R
A controlled study of the effect of antihuman lymphocyte globulin (AHLG) on patient and kidney transplant survival has been performed. The AHLG was administered as an adjuvant to the routine immunosuppressive drugs in either high (30 mg/kg) or low (15 mg/kg) doses, control patients received no AHLG. The clinical condition of the recipients and the quality and the degree of immunological compatibility of the transplants were comparable. During the period of the study, the results of all first-time cadaver-kidney transplantations to non-diabetic uraemic patients were included. The actuarial graft survival rates at 12 months for the three groups (high dose, low dose and control) were 67%, 49% and 35%. The corresponding patient survival rates were 91%, 66% and 65% respectively. The difference between the results in the high dose AHLG and in the control group was significant (p less than 0.05). PMID:356230
Childhood polyclonal T cell lymphocytosis with neutropenia: effects of antilymphocyte globulin and granulocyte colony stimulating factor in vitro and in vivo.
Laurie, A S; Gibson, F M; Josten, K M; Talbot, P J; Rutherford, T R; Lilleyman, J S; Gordon-Smith, E C
The pathogenesis of the neutropenia that occurs in some patients with chronic T cell lymphocytosis is not well understood. We have investigated a 15-year-old girl with this syndrome. Initial committed bone marrow progenitor numbers (CFUgm) were low but markedly increased in vitro following T cell depletion. Similarly a transient correction of neutropenia was observed following in vivo lymphocyte depletion with antilymphocyte globulin. A sustained neutrophil recovery was achieved with daily therapy using recombinant human granulocyte colony stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) despite persistence of the lymphocytosis; during successful therapy CFUgm numbers remained low, and were not increased by the in vitro addition of rhG-CSF. These observations suggest the possibility of an inhibitory regulatory mechanism specifically acting on neutrophil granulopoiesis. PMID:1374632
Porcine antilymphocyte globulin (p-ALG) plus cyclosporine A (CsA) treatment in acquired severe aplastic anemia: a retrospective multicenter analysis.
Wei, Jia; Huang, Zhiping; Guo, Jingming; Zhang, Youshan; Wang, Chunyan; Zhu, Xianmin; Zhang, Yicheng
Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is a life-threatening bone marrow failure syndrome characterized by pancytopenia and hypocellular bone marrow. Antithymocyte globulin (ATG) is the drug of choice for immunosuppressive therapy (IST) in patients with SAA ineligible for allogeneic stem cell transplantation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of porcine antilymphocyte globulin (p-ALG) plus CsA in the treatment of acquired SAA. Clinical information of 69 SAA patients treated with p-ALG plus CsA was collected and retrospectively analyzed for early mortality, response rate, survival rate, side effects, and other complications. The median age at diagnosis was 27 years (range 14 to 52). The overall response rate was 76.8 % with a 90-day median response time (range 30?~?360 days). Overall response rates at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months were 63.8, 73.9, 76.8, 75.4, and 75.4 %, respectively. The median follow-up time for surviving patients was 24 months (range 4?~?44 months) and the 2-year overall survival (OS) rate was 88.4 %. The disease-free survival (DFS) rate at 2 years was 85.5 %. Older age (?45 years), very (v)SAA subgroup, and lower baseline absolute lymphocyte count (<1?×?10(9)/L) were independent unfavorable predictors of overall survival (p?0.05). Less than one third of patients had serum sickness or allergic reaction during ALG therapy, but symptoms could easily be relieved by steroid treatment; 27.54 % had mild hepatic impairment. Taken together, p-ALG showed similar efficacy and safety profiles to rabbit or horse ATG in IST of acquired SAA. It can be a suitable alternative preparation for rabbit ATG with the great advantage of lower medical expenses. PMID:25666078
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Storage represents one of the key elements among the different modulation tools. How the problem of storage is put forward in Europe in front of the increasing uncertainty of the gas demand and prices? What are the policies implemented by storage facility operators? To what extend storage can amortize gas prices volatility or allow the market actors to take the best profit of this volatility? These are the questions debated at this workshop by four specialists of this domain. (J.S.)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Donakowski, T.D.; Tison, R.R.
Storage technologies are characterized for solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels. Emphasis is placed on storage methods applicable to Integrated Community Energy Systems based on coal. Items discussed here include standard practice, materials and energy losses, environmental effects, operating requirements, maintenance and reliability, and cost considerations. All storage systems were found to be well-developed and to represent mature technologies; an exception may exist for low-Btu gas storage, which could have materials incompatability.
Jiehui Ju; Jiyi Wu; Jianqing Fu; Zhijie Lin; Jianlin Zhang
Cloud storage is a new concept come into being simultaneously with cloud computing, and can be divided into public cloud storage, private cloud storage and hybrid cloud storage. This article gives a quick introduction to cloud storage. It covers the key technologies in Cloud Computing and Cloud Storage. Google GFS massive data storage system and the popular open source Hadoop HDFS were detailed introduced to analyze the principle of Cloud Storage technology. As an important technology area an...
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Electric power is often produced in locations far from the point of utilization which creates a challenge in stabilizing power grids, particularly since electricity cannot be stored. The production of decentralized electricity by renewable energy sources offers a greater security of supply while protecting the environment. Wind power holds the greatest promise in terms of environmental protection, competitiveness and possible applications. It is known that wind energy production is not always in phase with power needs because of the uncertainty of wind. For that reason, energy storage is the key for the widespread integration of wind energy into the power grids. This paper proposed various energy storage methods that can be used in combination with decentralized wind energy production where an imbalance exists between electricity production and consumption. Energy storage can play an essential role in bringing value to wind energy, particularly if electricity is to be delivered during peak hours. Various types of energy storage are already in use or are being developed. This paper identified the main characteristics of various electricity storage techniques and their applications. They include stationary or embarked storage for long or short term applications. A comparison of characteristics made it possible to determine which types of electricity storage are best suited for wind energy. These include gravity energy; thermal energy; compressed air energy; coupled stornergy; compressed air energy; coupled storage with natural gas; coupled storage with liquefied gas; hydrogen storage for fuel cells; chemical energy storage; storage in REDOX batteries; storage by superconductive inductance; storage in supercondensers; and, storage as kinetic energy. 21 refs., 21 figs
Xu, Linda; Loughlin, Tanya
Understand cloud computing and save your organization time and money! Cloud computing is taking IT by storm, but what is it and what are the benefits to your organization? Hitachi Data Systems' Cloud Storage For Dummies provides all the answers, With this book, you discover a clear explanation of cloud storage, and tips for how to choose the right type of cloud storage for your organization's needs. You also find out how cloud storage can free up valuable IT resources, saving time and money. Cloud Storage For Dummies presents useful information on setting up a
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The stationary fuel storage tank is immersed below the water level in the spent fuel storage pool. In it there is placed a fuel assembly within a cage. Moreover, the storage tank has got a water filling and a gas buffer. The water in the storage tank is connected with the pool water by means of a filter, a surge tank and a water purification facility, temperature and pressure monitoring being performed. In the buffer compartment there are arranged catalysts a glow plugs for recombination of radiolysis products into water. The supply of water into the storage tank is performed through the gas buffer compartment. (DG)
Globulina beta do líquido cefalorraqueano no prognóstico de processos inflamatórios do sistema nervoso central / The beta-globulin content of the cerebrospinal fluid and the evaluation of the prognosis in inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
A., Spina-França.
Full Text Available Foi feita avaliaçăo do comportamento da globulina beta do LCR em processos inflamatórios do SNC e/ou de seus envoltórios no sentido de verificar até que ponto podem ser úteis para o prognóstico as informaçőes obtidas. Essa avaliaçăo foi baseada no fato de a concentraçăo dessa globulina no LCR estar [...] relacionada ao metabolismo do paręnquima nervoso, aumentando em condiçőes que acarretem seu sofrimento. Os proteinogramas do LCR de 45 pacientes com processos inflamatórios do SNC e/ou de seus envoltórios, distribuídos em 6 grupos de casos, foram analisados segundo a possibilidade de o processo inflamatório estar acarretando, ou năo, sofrimento do paręnquima encefálico. A análise dos resultados mostrou que o estudo da concentraçăo da globulina beta no LCR fornece elementos que permitem avaliar o comprometimento do paręnquima encefálico nessas condiçőes, aduzindo dados úteis para a avaliaçăo prognóstica. A intensidade do aumento da concentraçăo dessa globulina no LCR era maior do que a do aumento da concentraçăo de albumina nos casos em que o processo inflamatório determinava comprometimento do paręnquima encefálico. Abstract in english The CSF proteins of 45 patients with inflammatory diseases of the CNS were studied in order to evaluate the information that the beta-globulin content may bring about the occurrence of involvement of brain tissue. The material was distributed in 6 groups according to the diagnosis of the cases: 10 p [...] atients had spinal cord and/or radicular inflammatory disease, associated or not with leptomeningeal involvement (group 1); 5 had acute leptomeningitis (group 2); in 5 the diagnosis of tuberculous meningo-encephalitis was made (group 3); in 10, of cysticercosis of the CNS (group 4); in 5, of neurosyphilis (group 5); in 10, of encephalitides (group 6). Total protein content was determined by the turbidimetric method of the trichloroacetic acid. The protein fractions were analyzed through paper strip electrophoresis. The results were evaluated in respect to normal values previously reported. The high gamma-globulin content of the CSF in inflammatory processes of the CNS hinders the evaluation of the changes occurring in the content of the other globulins; the interference of such factor is more marked when the inflammatory process is chronic. In such conditions the evaluation of the content of the other globulin fractions is better achieved by comparison with the albumin content, the values reported for each globulin being statistically compared to those obtained for the albumin fraction. By this procedure it was shown that in all 45 cases changes in the alpha-globulin content were not different from that found for the albumin fraction and it was concluded that these data bring no evidences indicating interference of other factors than those related to the blood-CSF barrier for the explanation of the changes in the alpha-globulins content of the samples studied. Significant differences were found in respect to beta and gamma globulins. The changes found in the gamma-globulin support the possibility that the increase of this globulin is conditioned by the local production. Data concerning to beta-globulin in the cases of groups 5 and 6 showed that the increases in the amount of this globulin were more marked than those observed for the albumin. This difference was statistically significant. It brings evidence of participation of a different factor in the explanation of the finding other than those accepted for the albumin fraction. The discussion on the nature of this factor supports the possibility of its relation to the changes in the protein metabolism of the brain, since the damage of the latter was present in the cases of these groups of patients. These data are in agreement to the findings on the changes registered in the content of this globulin in the CSF in degenerative diseases as it is reported in the literature. The changes in the beta-globulin content of the CSF which are more marked than those found in the albumin con
Pump storage. Requirements and comparsion with other storage technologies
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The use of renewable energy sources has strongly increased in recent years. Because of the high volatility of these sources, an appropriate energy storage capacity as well as the provision of fast and flexible regulating power is necessary. Both can be supplied by pump storage power plants. The pump storage situation is Germany is discussed. The demand of energy storage is roughly estimated and the status quo of pump storage in Germany is described. Pump storage is compared to other storage technologies (compressed air storage, mobile batteries, hydrogen storage and power-to-gas storage) in terms of efficiency, response time and costs.
Pump storage. Requirements and comparsion with other storage technologies
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Ruprecht, Albert [Stuttgart Univ. (Germany). Inst. of Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulic Machinery
The use of renewable energy sources has strongly increased in recent years. Because of the high volatility of these sources, an appropriate energy storage capacity as well as the provision of fast and flexible regulating power is necessary. Both can be supplied by pump storage power plants. The pump storage situation is Germany is discussed. The demand of energy storage is roughly estimated and the status quo of pump storage in Germany is described. Pump storage is compared to other storage technologies (compressed air storage, mobile batteries, hydrogen storage and power-to-gas storage) in terms of efficiency, response time and costs.
Sex hormone binding globulin decrease as potential pathogenetic factor for hirsutism in adolescent girls / Disminución de la globulina transportadora de hormonas sexuales como factor patogénico de hirsutismo en la adolescencia
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Graciela, Cross; Karina, Danilowics; Martha, Kral; Anne, Caufriez; Georges, Copinschi; Oscar D., Bruno.
Full Text Available Se investigaron 252 mujeres con peso normal, de 13 a 39 ańos de edad, para evaluar si un descenso exagerado en los niveles de la globulina transportadora de hormonas sexuales ("sex hormone binding globulin"; SHBG) puede tener un rol en el desarrollo de hirsutismo. Este signo fue evaluado con la esca [...] la de Ferriman y Gallwey (FG), empleando un criterio riguroso de normalidad 4) y controles (FG Abstract in english We investigated 252 non-obese female subjects aged 13-39 years to evaluate if an exaggerated descent of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels during adolescence can play a role in the development of hirsutism. Body hair was assessed according to Ferriman and Gallwey (FG), with a stringent crite [...] rion of normality of 4) and controls (FG
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The report of a committee to study the questions surrounding possible acquisition of a large mass-storage device is presented. The current computing environment at BNL and justification for an online large mass storage device are briefly discussed. Possible devices to meet the requirements of large mass storage are surveyed, including future devices. The future computing needs of BNL are prognosticated. 2 figures, 4 tables
Griffee, Bill
Digital distribution of media has grown increasingly important as an additional requirement is to have this media available to multiple users. Traditionally, servers have filled this role in companies by providing storage that can be accessed by other devices on a network, typically through file sharing or serving or via a storage area network, while providing other services as well. Network attached storage (NAS) systems expand upon traditional servers in that they are built specifically wit...
A simple and rapid Hepatitis A Virus (HAV titration assay based on antibiotic resistance of infected cells: evaluation of the HAV neutralization potency of human immune globulin preparations
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Kaplan Gerardo G
Full Text Available Abstract Background Hepatitis A virus (HAV, the causative agent of acute hepatitis in humans, is an atypical Picornaviridae that grows poorly in cell culture. HAV titrations are laborious and time-consuming because the virus in general does not cause cytopathic effect and is detected by immunochemical or molecular probes. Simple HAV titration assays could be developed using currently available viral construct containing selectable markers. Results We developed an antibiotic resistance titration assay (ARTA based on the infection of human hepatoma cells with a wild type HAV construct containing a blasticidin (Bsd resistance gene. Human hepatoma cells infected with the HAV-Bsd construct survived selection with 2 ?g/ml of blasticidin whereas uninfected cells died within a few days. At 8 days postinfection, the color of the pH indicator phenol red in cell culture media correlated with the presence of HAV-Bsd-infected blasticidin-resistant cells: an orange-to-yellow color indicated the presence of growing cells whereas a pink-to-purple color indicated that the cells were dead. HAV-Bsd titers were determined by an endpoint dilution assay based on the color of the cell culture medium scoring orange-to-yellow wells as positive and pink-to-purple wells as negative for HAV. As a proof-of-concept, we used the ARTA to evaluate the HAV neutralization potency of two commercially available human immune globulin (IG preparations and a WHO International Standard for anti-HAV. The three IG preparations contained comparable levels of anti-HAV antibodies that neutralized approximately 1.5 log of HAV-Bsd. Similar neutralization results were obtained in the absence of blasticidin by an endpoint dilution ELISA at 2 weeks postinfection. Conclusion The ARTA is a simple and rapid method to determine HAV titers without using HAV-specific probes. We determined the HAV neutralization potency of human IG preparations in 8 days by ARTA compared to the 14 days required by the endpoint dilution ELISA. The ARTA reduced the labour, time, and cost of HAV titrations making it suitable for high throughput screening of sera and antivirals, determination of anti-HAV antibodies in human immune globulin preparations, and research applications that involve the routine evaluation of HAV titers.
Functional characterization of acetylated Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa HBK) kernel globulin / Caracterizaçao funcional das globulinas de amęndoa de castanha-do-Pará após a acetilaçăo
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Cíntia Maria Pinto, Ramos; Pushkar Singh, Bora.
Full Text Available Farinha desengordurada de amęndoa de castanha-do-Pará, fonte rica de proteína de alta qualidade, vem sendo, atualmente, aproveitada apenas na formulaçăo de raçăo animal. Uma das possíveis maneiras de melhorar seu aproveitamento para o consumo humano é através do melhoramento de suas propriedades fun [...] cionais. No presente trabalho, mudanças em algumas propriedades funcionais da globulina de castanha-do-Pará, após acetilaçăo, aos níveis de 58,6, 66,2 e 75,3% foram estudadas. A solubilidade da globulina acetilada aumentou acima de pH 6,0, porém diminuiu na faixa de pH 3,0 a 4,0. As capacidades de absorçăo de água e de óleo como também a viscosidade, melhoraram com o aumento de grau de acetilaçăo. O grau de modificaçăo também influenciou a capacidade de emulsificaçăo: reduziu em pH 3,0, e aumentou nos pHs 7,0 e 9,0. A máxima atividade de emulsăo (aproximadamente 62,2%) foi observada em pH 3,0 seguida de pH 9,0 e a mínima foi observada (11,8%) em pH 5,0. A estabilidade de emulsăo também apresentou o comportamento similar ŕ atividade de emulsăo. Abstract in english Defatted Brazil nut kernel flour, a rich source of high quality proteins, is presently being utilized in the formulation of animal feeds. One of the possible ways to improve its utilization for human consumption is through improvement in its functional properties. In the present study, changes in so [...] me of the functional properties of Brazil nut kernel globulin were evaluated after acetylation at 58.6, 66.2 and 75.3% levels. The solubility of acetylated globulin was improved above pH 6.0 but was reduced in the pH range of 3.0-4.0. Water and oil absorption capacity, as well as the viscosity increased with increase in the level of acetylation. Level of modification also influenced the emulsifying capacity: decreased at pH 3.0, but increased at pH 7.0 and 9.0. Highest emulsion activity (approximately 62.2%) was observed at pH 3.0 followed by pH 9.0 and pH 7.0 and least (about 11.8%) at pH 5.0. Emulsion stability also followed similar behavior as that of emulsion activity.
Functional characterization of acetylated Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa HBK kernel globulin Caracterizaçao funcional das globulinas de amęndoa de castanha-do-Pará após a acetilaçăo
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Cíntia Maria Pinto Ramos
Full Text Available Defatted Brazil nut kernel flour, a rich source of high quality proteins, is presently being utilized in the formulation of animal feeds. One of the possible ways to improve its utilization for human consumption is through improvement in its functional properties. In the present study, changes in some of the functional properties of Brazil nut kernel globulin were evaluated after acetylation at 58.6, 66.2 and 75.3% levels. The solubility of acetylated globulin was improved above pH 6.0 but was reduced in the pH range of 3.0-4.0. Water and oil absorption capacity, as well as the viscosity increased with increase in the level of acetylation. Level of modification also influenced the emulsifying capacity: decreased at pH 3.0, but increased at pH 7.0 and 9.0. Highest emulsion activity (approximately 62.2% was observed at pH 3.0 followed by pH 9.0 and pH 7.0 and least (about 11.8% at pH 5.0. Emulsion stability also followed similar behavior as that of emulsion activity.Farinha desengordurada de amęndoa de castanha-do-Pará, fonte rica de proteína de alta qualidade, vem sendo, atualmente, aproveitada apenas na formulaçăo de raçăo animal. Uma das possíveis maneiras de melhorar seu aproveitamento para o consumo humano é através do melhoramento de suas propriedades funcionais. No presente trabalho, mudanças em algumas propriedades funcionais da globulina de castanha-do-Pará, após acetilaçăo, aos níveis de 58,6, 66,2 e 75,3% foram estudadas. A solubilidade da globulina acetilada aumentou acima de pH 6,0, porém diminuiu na faixa de pH 3,0 a 4,0. As capacidades de absorçăo de água e de óleo como também a viscosidade, melhoraram com o aumento de grau de acetilaçăo. O grau de modificaçăo também influenciou a capacidade de emulsificaçăo: reduziu em pH 3,0, e aumentou nos pHs 7,0 e 9,0. A máxima atividade de emulsăo (aproximadamente 62,2% foi observada em pH 3,0 seguida de pH 9,0 e a mínima foi observada (11,8% em pH 5,0. A estabilidade de emulsăo também apresentou o comportamento similar ŕ atividade de emulsăo.
Underground thermal energy storage
Lee, Kun Sang
""Underground Thermal Energy Storage"" (UTES) provide us with a flexible tool to combat global warming through conserving energy while utilizing natural renewable energy resources. Primarily, they act as a buffer to balance fluctuations in supply and demand of low temperature thermal energy. ""Underground Thermal Energy Storage"" provides an comprehensive introduction to the extensively-used energy storage method. ""Underground Thermal Energy Storage"" gives a general overview of UTES from basic concepts and classifications to operation regimes. As well as discussing general procedures for des
... or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or bleeding after childbirth Abnormal bleeding after surgery, circumcision, or dental work Diagnosis The diagnosis of storage pool deficiencies requires ...
Functional Implication of an Arg307Gly Substitution in Corticosteroid-Binding Globulin, a Candidate Gene for a Quantitative Trait Locus Associated With Cortisol Variability and Obesity in Pig
Guyonnet-dupe?rat, Ve?ronique; Geverink, Nicoline; Plastow, Graham S.; Evans, Gary; Ousova, Olga; Croisetie?re, Christian; Foury, Aline; Richard, Elodie; Morme?de, Pierre; Moisan, Marie-pierre
We previously reported that corticosteroid-binding globulin gene (Cbg) may be the causal gene of a quantitative trait locus associated with cortisol levels, fat deposition, and muscle content in a pig intercross. Sequence analysis of parental animals allowed us to identify four amino-acid substitutions. Here we have examined if any of these single amino acid substitutions could be responsible for the difference in CBG binding and affinity for cortisol between the parental breeds, using in vit...
The role of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in conversion of testosterone to 5 ?-dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione in skin from suprapubic area of women. Part 2. In vitro study with skin homogenates
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The influence of the sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and of microsomal supernatant (cytosol) on 3H-testosterone transformation into 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone by skin microsomes of the suprapubic area of women in reproductive age was studied. Microsomal fractions were incubated with different forms of cytosol and with active and inactive globulin. Steroids, following isolation from the incubation material, were purified with the use of column and thin layer chromotographies. Individual recovery of identified androstenedione was calculated using radioisotopes, and the recovery of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone was determined with gas chromatography. The transformation of 3H-testosterone into 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione by skin microsomes in the presence of active globulin has become significantly reduced. Microsomal supernatant (cytosol) has not changed the quantity of identified 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, whereas the quantity of formed androstenedione has slightly decreased. The lack of cyprosterone influence on 5 alpha reductase activity and a slight decrease in 17-dehydrogenase activity in the skin microsomal fraction were found. (author)
Pulsed electrical energy storage systems
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The starting point of any pulsed power setup is the energy storage system. This article discusses the characteristics of various energy storage devices useful for high power pulse discharges. The energy storage systems discussed are capacitative storage such as capacitor and Marx bank, inductive storage systems and explosively driven flux compression generators. (author)
Transient grades 3 to 4 acute hepatitis is a common complication of rabbit antithymocyte globulin (thymoglobulin) administered before allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
Médiavilla, Clémence; Vigouroux, Stéphane; Tabrizi, Reza; Pigneux, Arnaud; Duclos, Cédric; Mohr, Catherine; Robles, Margot; Milpied, Noël
Because antithymocyte globulin (ATG) is increasingly used to prevent graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), we performed a retrospective study in adult patients transplanted at our center between January 2008 and December 2012 to explore incidence, characteristics, potential risk factors, and consequences of severe acute hepatotoxicity (SAH) of rabbit ATG (Thymoglobulin) defined as a grade 3 to 4 increase of transaminases. Two hundred twelve patients were included. SAH was diagnosed in 55 patients, representing an incidence of 26%. SAH occurred at a median time of 2 days (range, 1 to 3) after ATG administration, reaching maximum median levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase of 8.7 × upper limit of normal (ULN; range, 1.2 to 160) and 11.7 × ULN (range, 4-100), respectively. The International Normalized Ratio was beyond the normal range in 44% of patients. Transaminases decreased below 2 × ULN after a median time of 9 days. We do not report any deleterious impact of SAH on survival, nonrelapse mortality, relapse, or GVHD. Blood systolic pressure SAH. We believe physicians should be aware of this common toxicity immediately after the administration of ATG to avoid any potential hepatotoxic drug before the resolution and to prevent any risk of hemorrhagic accident. PMID:25536216
In Situ Neutron Reflectivity Studies of Adsorption of Serum Albumin and ?-Globulin Proteins onto Self-Assembled Monolayers with Different Monolayer Density
Petrash, S.; Foster, M. D.; Zhao, B.; Brittain, W. J.; Majkrzak, C. F.
Neutron reflectivity technique is a powerful tool for the in situ studies of adsorption phenomena on well-defined surfaces. It has been previously shown by our group that albumin adsorption tenacity on self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) can be significantly increased if the lateral density of alkyl chains in monolayer is reduced. In situ neutron reflectivity studies of protein adsorption onto deuterated SAMs with different monolayer density reveal the probable cause of the increased adsorption tenacity. The neutron scattering length density (SLD) profiles show that the albumin molecules penetrate into the alkyl chain region of the less dense, incomplete monolayers. This penetration was evidenced by a noticeable decrease in SLD of the alkyl chain region of the ``incomplete'' SAM. No penetration was observed when albumin adsorbed onto the surfaces of fully formed, ``complete'' SAMs. When a different protein, human ?-globulin was adsorbed onto ``complete'' and ``incomplete'' SAMs, no interpenetration was observed for either monolayer. These results show that self-assembly of alkylchlorosilanes can be used to tailor surfaces to tenaciously adsorb a specific protein.
Treatment of acute graft-versus-host disease with prednisolone: significant survival advantage for day +5 responders and no advantage for nonresponders receiving anti-thymocyte globulin.
Van Lint, Maria Teresa; Milone, Giuseppe; Leotta, Salvatore; Uderzo, Cornelio; Scimč, Rosanna; Dallorso, Sandro; Locasciulli, Anna; Guidi, Stefano; Mordini, Nicola; Sica, Simona; Cudillo, Laura; Fagioli, Franca; Selleri, Carmine; Bruno, Barbara; Arcese, William; Bacigalupo, Andrea
Newly diagnosed patients with acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD, grades I-IV; n = 211) were given 6-methylprednisolone (6MPred) 2 mg/kg per day for 5 consecutive days; 150 patients (71%) tapered 6MPred on day +5 and were considered responders; 61 patients (29%) could not taper their steroid dose and were considered nonresponders. The cumulative incidence of transplant-related mortality (TRM) for responders and nonresponders is, respectively, 27% and 49% (P = .009), and the 5-year survival is 53% and 35% (P = .007). Nonresponders on day +5 (n = 61) were randomized to receive 6MPred 5 mg/kg per day for 10 days alone (n = 34) or in combination with rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG, 6.25 mg/kg in 10 days; n = 27). The 2 groups were balanced for clinical and GvHD characteristics. One month after randomization, 26% had a complete response; 23%, a partial response; 33%, stable GvHD; 10%, worsened; and 8%, died. There was no significant difference in response, TRM, and survival between the non-ATG and ATG group. In conclusion, 5 days of prednisolone as first-line therapy of acute GvHD identifies patients with different risk of TRM, and second-line therapy with a combination of 6MPred + ATG does not improve patient outcome, compared with 6MPred alone. PMID:16449522
Ovarian cancer risk and common variation in the sex hormone-binding globulin gene: a population-based case-control study
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Yeager Meredith
Full Text Available Abstract Background The sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG is a carrier protein that modulates the bio-availability of serum sex steroid hormones, which may be involved in ovarian cancer. We evaluated whether common genetic variation in SHBG and its 3' neighbor ATP1B2, in linkage disequilibrium, is associated with the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Methods The study population included 264 women with ovarian carcinoma and 625 controls participating in a population-based case-control study in Poland. Five common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs in SHGB and five in ATP1B2 were selected to capture most common variation in this region. Results None of the SNPs evaluated was significantly associated with ovarian cancer risk, including the putative functional SNPs SHBG D356N (rs6259 and -67G>A 5'UTR (rs1799941. However, our data were consistent with a decreased ovarian cancer risk associated with the variant alleles for these two SNPs, which have been previously associated with increased circulating levels of SHBG. Conclusion These data do not support a substantial association between common genetic variation in SHBG and ovarian cancer risk.
Elevation of corticosteroid-binding globulin in Obese strain (OS) chickens: possible implications for the disturbed immunoregulation and the development of spontaneous autoimmune thyroiditis
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Basal plasma levels of corticosterone and corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) have been investigated in Obese strain (OS) chickens afflicted with spontaneous autoimmune thyroiditis (SAT). Corticosterone was determined radioimmunologically, and CBG by using a highly sensitive radioligand saturation assay. OS chickens displayed total corticosterone levels not different from healthy normal White Leghorn (NWL) chickens. CBG, however, was found to be twice as high in OS chickens as compared with their healthy counterparts, irrespective of sex or age. This quantitative difference in the CBG level is not compensated for by either altered affinity or specificity of the molecule. Furthermore, no differences were found in the response of OS and NWL lymphocytes to the suppressive effect of glucocorticoids in vitro. It was therefore assumed that OS animals are deficient in free, hormonally active corticosterone. An additional indication for such a diminished glucocorticoid tonus was that in vivo treatment of OS chickens with glucocorticoid hormones, thus increasing the free and active hormone fraction, normalizes the T cell hyperreactivity and significantly reduces thyroid infiltration. Possible pathophysiological implications of a diminished glucocorticoid tonus for spontaneous autoimmunity, as well as possible explanations for the beneficial effects of glucocorticoid treatment on the development of SAT, are discussed
Antibodies against the extracellular enveloped virus B5R protein are mainly responsible for the EEV neutralizing capacity of vaccinia immune globulin.
Bell, Edward; Shamim, Mohammad; Whitbeck, J Charles; Sfyroera, Georgia; Lambris, John D; Isaacs, Stuart N
In the event of smallpox bioterrorism, widespread vaccination may be required. Vaccinia immune globulin (VIG) has been used to treat complications from the smallpox vaccine. While the potency of VIG was defined by its ability to neutralize intracellular mature virus, a second form of vaccinia called the extracellular enveloped virus (EEV) is critical for virus spread in the host. The B5R-protein is one of many EEV-specific proteins. Immunoprecipitation and ELISA revealed that VIG recognizes the B5R-protein. An EEV plaque-reduction assay using a recombinant vaccinia that lacks the majority of the extracellular domain of B5R showed that the ability of VIG to neutralize EEV is principally directed at B5R. In addition, absorbing out the anti-B5R antibody present in VIG through the addition of recombinant B5R protein abrogated VIG's ability to significantly neutralize wild-type EEV. This work demonstrates the prominent role of B5R as a target of EEV-neutralizing activity of human antibodies. PMID:15246280
Final storage without reprocessing
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
After a wet storage of about 40 years the fuel bars are placed in a Cu-rack which is put into a Cu-container, the gaps are filled with Pb, the casing is done in bentonite, the ultimate storage bunkers are 500 m underground in granite or gneiss with a low ground water permeability. (HP)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Sarjeant, W.J.
The properties of capacitors are reviewed in general, including dielectrics, induced polarization, and permanent polarization. Then capacitance characteristics are discussed and modelled. These include temperature range, voltage, equivalent series resistance, capacitive reactance, impedance, dissipation factor, humidity and frequency effects, storage temperature and time, and lifetime. Applications of energy storage capacitors are then discussed. (LEW)
Open systems storage platforms
Collins, Kirby
The building blocks for an open storage system includes a system platform, a selection of storage devices and interfaces, system software, and storage applications CONVEX storage systems are based on the DS Series Data Server systems. These systems are a variant of the C3200 supercomputer with expanded I/O capabilities. These systems support a variety of medium and high speed interfaces to networks and peripherals. System software is provided in the form of ConvexOS, a POSIX compliant derivative of 4.3BSD UNIX. Storage applications include products such as UNITREE and EMASS. With the DS Series of storage systems, Convex has developed a set of products which provide open system solutions for storage management applications. The systems are highly modular, assembled from off the shelf components with industry standard interfaces. The C Series system architecture provides a stable base, with the performance and reliability of a general purpose platform. This combination of a proven system architecture with a variety of choices in peripherals and application software allows wide flexibility in configurations, and delivers the benefits of open systems to the mass storage world.
Mohr, Ulrich
For efficient business continuance and backup of mission- critical data an inter-site storage network is required. Where traditional telecommunications costs are prohibitive for all but the largest organizations, there is an opportunity for regional carries to deliver an innovative storage service. This session reveals how a combination of optical networking and protocol-aware SAN gateways can provide an extended storage networking platform with the lowest cost of ownership and the highest possible degree of reliability, security and availability. Companies of every size, with mainframe and open-systems environments, can afford to use this integrated service. Three mayor applications are explained; channel extension, Network Attached Storage (NAS), Storage Area Networks (SAN) and how optical networks address the specific requirements. One advantage of DWDM is the ability for protocols such as ESCON, Fibre Channel, ATM and Gigabit Ethernet, to be transported natively and simultaneously across a single fiber pair, and the ability to multiplex many individual fiber pairs over a single pair, thereby reducing fiber cost and recovering fiber pairs already in use. An optical storage network enables a new class of service providers, Storage Service Providers (SSP) aiming to deliver value to the enterprise by managing storage, backup, replication and restoration as an outsourced service.
Reversible storage of hydrogen
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In the framework of the reversible hydrogen storage, this laboratory is studying the hydrogen storage and more specifically reversible metallic hydrides. As a light, high mass capacity and economical element, the magnesium seems to be a good solution. The authors presents the operating of this fuel cell and the first results. (A.L.B.)
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Chung, D. [Scientech, Inc., Germantown, MD (United States); Ascanio, X. [Dept. of Energy, Germantown, MD (United States)
The Department of Energy has issued a technical standard for long-term (>50 years) storage and will soon issue a criteria document for interim (<20 years) storage of plutonium materials. The long-term technical standard, {open_quotes}Criteria for Safe Storage of Plutonium Metals and Oxides,{close_quotes} addresses the requirements for storing metals and oxides with greater than 50 wt % plutonium. It calls for a standardized package that meets both off-site transportation requirements, as well as remote handling requirements from future storage facilities. The interim criteria document, {open_quotes}Criteria for Interim Safe Storage of Plutonium-Bearing Solid Materials{close_quotes}, addresses requirements for storing materials with less than 50 wt% plutonium. The interim criteria document assumes the materials will be stored on existing sites, and existing facilities and equipment will be used for repackaging to improve the margin of safety.
Electricity Storage. Technology Brief
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Simbolotti, G. [Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development ENEA, Rome (Italy); Kempener, R. [International Renewable Energy Agency IRENA, Bonn (Germany)
Electricity storage is a key technology for electricity systems with a high share of renewables as it allows electricity to be generated when renewable sources (i.e. wind, sunlight) are available and to be consumed on demand. It is expected that the increasing price of fossil fuels and peak-load electricity and the growing share of renewables will result in electricity storage to grow rapidly and become more cost effective. However, electricity storage is technically challenging because electricity can only be stored after conversion into other forms of energy, and this involves expensive equipment and energy losses. At present, the only commercial storage option is pumped hydro power where surplus electricity (e.g. electricity produced overnight by base-load coal or nuclear power) is used to pump water from a lower to an upper reservoir. The stored energy is then used to produce hydropower during daily high-demand periods. Pumped hydro plants are large-scale storage systems with a typical efficiency between 70% and 80%, which means that a quarter of the energy is lost in the process. Other storage technologies with different characteristics (i.e. storage process and capacity, conversion back to electricity and response to power demand, energy losses and costs) are currently in demonstration or pre-commercial stages and discussed in this brief report: Compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems, Flywheels; Electrical batteries; Supercapacitors; Superconducting magnetic storage; and Thermal energy storage. No single electricity storage technology scores high in all dimensions. The technology of choice often depends on the size of the system, the specific service, the electricity sources and the marginal cost of peak electricity. Pumped hydro currently accounts for 95% of the global storage capacity and still offers a considerable expansion potential but does not suit residential or small-size applications. CAES expansion is limited due to the lack of suitable natural storage sites. Electrical batteries have a large potential with a number of new materials and technologies under development to improve performance and reduce costs. Heat storage is practical in CSP plants. The choice between large-scale storage facilities and small-scale distributed storage depends on the geography and demography of the country, the existing grid and the type and scale of renewable technologies entering the market. While the energy storage market is quickly evolving and expected to increase 20-fold between 2010 and 2020, many electricity storage technologies are under development and need policy support for further commercial deployment. Electricity storage considerations should be an integral part of any plans for electric grid expansion or transformation of the electricity system. Storage also offers key synergies with grid interconnection and methods to smooth the variability of electricity demand (demand side management)
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Department of Energy has issued a technical standard for long-term (>50 years) storage and will soon issue a criteria document for interim (<20 years) storage of plutonium materials. The long-term technical standard, open-quotes Criteria for Safe Storage of Plutonium Metals and Oxides,close quotes addresses the requirements for storing metals and oxides with greater than 50 wt % plutonium. It calls for a standardized package that meets both off-site transportation requirements, as well as remote handling requirements from future storage facilities. The interim criteria document, open-quotes Criteria for Interim Safe Storage of Plutonium-Bearing Solid Materialsclose quotes, addresses requirements for storing materials with less than 50 wt% plutonium. The interim criteria document assumes the materials will be stored on existing sites, and existing facilities and equipment will be used for repackaging to improve the margin of safety
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A space is formed underground by partitioning walls made of radiation shielding material, in which only a storage cell is contained. The storage cell comprises metal blocks made of a heat conductive material such as stainless steels. A great number of holes each having a predetermined diameter are vertically arranged to the metal block, and storage pits are constituted by the holes. Spent nuclear fuels are contained in a first columnar vessel and the first columnar vessel is further contained in a large second columnar vessel. Both of the first columnar vessel and the second columnar vessel are made of a durable metal material such as stainless steels. The second columnar vessel is inserted to the storage pit of the storage cell. With such a constitution, heat emitted from the second columnar vessel is transferred to the metal block by radiation and dissipated from the metal block. Accordingly, a heat dissipation efficiency can be increased. (I.N.)
Electricity storage using a thermal storage scheme
White, Alexander
The increasing use of renewable energy technologies for electricity generation, many of which have an unpredictably intermittent nature, will inevitably lead to a greater demand for large-scale electricity storage schemes. For example, the expanding fraction of electricity produced by wind turbines will require either backup or storage capacity to cover extended periods of wind lull. This paper describes a recently proposed storage scheme, referred to here as Pumped Thermal Storage (PTS), and which is based on "sensible heat" storage in large thermal reservoirs. During the charging phase, the system effectively operates as a high temperature-ratio heat pump, extracting heat from a cold reservoir and delivering heat to a hot one. In the discharge phase the processes are reversed and it operates as a heat engine. The round-trip efficiency is limited only by process irreversibilities (as opposed to Second Law limitations on the coefficient of performance and the thermal efficiency of the heat pump and heat engine respectively). PTS is currently being developed in both France and England. In both cases, the schemes operate on the Joule-Brayton (gas turbine) cycle, using argon as the working fluid. However, the French scheme proposes the use of turbomachinery for compression and expansion, whereas for that being developed in England reciprocating devices are proposed. The current paper focuses on the impact of the various process irreversibilities on the thermodynamic round-trip efficiency of the scheme. Consideration is given to compression and expansion losses and pressure losses (in pipe-work, valves and thermal reservoirs); heat transfer related irreversibility in the thermal reservoirs is discussed but not included in the analysis. Results are presented demonstrating how the various loss parameters and operating conditions influence the overall performance.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Even if the best waste minimization measures are undertaken throughout radioisotope production or usage, significant radioactive wastes arise to make management measures essential. For developing countries with low isotope usage and little or no generation of nuclear materials, it may be possible to handle the generated waste by simply practicing decay storage for several half-lives of the radionuclides involved, followed by discharge or disposal without further processing. For those countries with much larger facilities, longer lived isotopes are produced and used. In this situation, storage is used not only for decay storage but also for in-process retention steps and for the key stage of interim storage of conditioned wastes pending final disposal. The report will serve as a technical manual providing reference material and direct step-by-step know-how to staff in radioisotope user establishments and research centres in the developing Member States without nuclear power generation. Considerations are limited to the simpler storage facilities. The restricted quantities and low activity associated with the relevant wastes will generally permit contact-handling and avoid the need for shielding requirements in the storage facilities or equipment used for handling. A small quantity of wastes from some radioisotope production cells and from reactor cooling water treatment may contain sufficient short lived activity from activated corrosion products to require some separate decay storage before contact-handling is suitable. 16 refs, 12 figs, 8 tabs
Ultrafine hydrogen storage powders
Anderson, Iver E. (Ames, IA); Ellis, Timothy W. (Doylestown, PA); Pecharsky, Vitalij K. (Ames, IA); Ting, Jason (Ames, IA); Terpstra, Robert (Ames, IA); Bowman, Robert C. (La Mesa, CA); Witham, Charles K. (Pasadena, CA); Fultz, Brent T. (Pasadena, CA); Bugga, Ratnakumar V. (Arcadia, CA)
A method of making hydrogen storage powder resistant to fracture in service involves forming a melt having the appropriate composition for the hydrogen storage material, such, for example, LaNi.sub.5 and other AB.sub.5 type materials and AB.sub.5+x materials, where x is from about -2.5 to about +2.5, including x=0, and the melt is gas atomized under conditions of melt temperature and atomizing gas pressure to form generally spherical powder particles. The hydrogen storage powder exhibits improved chemcial homogeneity as a result of rapid solidfication from the melt and small particle size that is more resistant to microcracking during hydrogen absorption/desorption cycling. A hydrogen storage component, such as an electrode for a battery or electrochemical fuel cell, made from the gas atomized hydrogen storage material is resistant to hydrogen degradation upon hydrogen absorption/desorption that occurs for example, during charging/discharging of a battery. Such hydrogen storage components can be made by consolidating and optionally sintering the gas atomized hydrogen storage powder or alternately by shaping the gas atomized powder and a suitable binder to a desired configuration in a mold or die.
Gas Storage Technology Consortium
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Joel L. Morrison; Sharon L. Elder
Gas storage is a critical element in the natural gas industry. Producers, transmission and distribution companies, marketers, and end users all benefit directly from the load balancing function of storage. The unbundling process has fundamentally changed the way storage is used and valued. As an unbundled service, the value of storage is being recovered at rates that reflect its value. Moreover, the marketplace has differentiated between various types of storage services and has increasingly rewarded flexibility, safety, and reliability. The size of the natural gas market has increased and is projected to continue to increase towards 30 trillion cubic feet over the next 10 to 15 years. Much of this increase is projected to come from electric generation, particularly peaking units. Gas storage, particularly the flexible services that are most suited to electric loads, is crucial in meeting the needs of these new markets. To address the gas storage needs of the natural gas industry, an industry-driven consortium was created--the Gas Storage Technology Consortium (GSTC). The objective of the GSTC is to provide a means to accomplish industry-driven research and development designed to enhance the operational flexibility and deliverability of the nation's gas storage system, and provide a cost-effective, safe, and reliable supply of natural gas to meet domestic demand. This report addresses the activities for the quarterly period of April 1, 2007 through June 30, 2007. Key activities during this time period included: (1) Organizing and hosting the 2007 GSTC Spring Meeting; (2) Identifying the 2007 GSTC projects, issuing award or declination letters, and begin drafting subcontracts; (3) 2007 project mentoring teams identified; (4) New NETL Project Manager; (5) Preliminary planning for the 2007 GSTC Fall Meeting; (6) Collecting and compiling the 2005 GSTC project final reports; and (7) Outreach and communications.
Liang, Wen-Chen; Nishino, Ichizo
Lipid storage myopathy (LSM) is pathologically characterized by prominent lipid accumulation in muscle fibers due to lipid dysmetabolism. Although extensive molecular studies have been performed, there are only four types of genetically diagnosable LSMs: primary carnitine deficiency (PCD), multiple acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD), neutral lipid storage disease with ichthyosis, and neutral lipid storage disease with myopathy. Making an accurate diagnosis, by specific laboratory tests including genetic analyses, is important for LSM as some of the patients are treatable: individuals with PCD show dramatic improvement with high-dose oral L-carnitine supplementation and increasing evidence indicates that MADD due to ETFDH mutations is riboflavin responsive. PMID:21046290
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This article gives some overall guidelines for successful operation of cooling thermal storage installations. Electric utilities use rates and other incentives to encourage thermal storage, which not only reduces their system peaks but also transfers a portion of their load from expensive daytime inefficient peaking plants to less expensive nighttime base load high efficiency coal and nuclear plants. There are hundreds of thermal storage installations around the country. Some of these are very successful; others have failed to achieve all of their predicted benefits because application considerations were not properly addressed
CERN. Geneva; Hanushevsky, Andrew
For more than a year, the ATLAS Western Tier 2 (WT2) at SLAC National Accelerator has been successfully operating a two tiered storage system based on Xrootd's flexible cross-cluster data placement framework, the File Residency Manager. The architecture allows WT2 to provide both, high performance storage at the higher tier to ATLAS analysis jobs, as well as large, low cost disk capacity at the lower tier. Data automatically moves between the two storage tiers based on the needs of analysis jobs and is completely transparent to the jobs.
Campardo, Giovanni; Iaculo, Massimo
Memory Mass Storage describes the fundamental storage technologies, like Semiconductor, Magnetic, Optical and Uncommon, detailing the main technical characteristics of the storage devices. It deals not only with semiconductor and hard disk memory, but also with different ways to manufacture and assembly them, and with their application to meet market requirements. It also provides an introduction to the epistemological issues arising in defining the process of remembering, as well as an overview on human memory, and an interesting excursus about biological memories and their organization, to b
International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)
Creation of System for Storage, Operative Control and Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials and Ampoule Sources of Ionizing Radiation (ASIR) on "Baikal-1" stand Complex Meeting the International Requirements of Radioactive Materials Control...
Li, Wen; Vajo, John J.; Cumberland, Robert W.; Liu, Ping
Compositions for hydrogen storage and methods of making such compositions employ an alloy that exhibits reversible formation/deformation of BH.sub.4.sup.- anions. The composition includes a ternary alloy including magnesium, boron and a metal and a metal hydride. The ternary alloy and the metal hydride are present in an amount sufficient to render the composition capable of hydrogen storage. The molar ratio of the metal to magnesium and boron in the alloy is such that the alloy exhibits reversible formation/deformation of BH.sub.4.sup.- anions. The hydrogen storage composition is prepared by combining magnesium, boron and a metal to prepare a ternary alloy and combining the ternary alloy with a metal hydride to form the hydrogen storage composition.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This report includes information from various studies performed under the Wet Storage Task of the Spent Fuel Integrity Project of the Commercial Spent Fuel Management (CSFM) Program at Pacific Northwest Laboratory. An overview of recent developments in the technology of wet storage of spent water reactor fuel is presented. Licensee Event Reports pertaining to spent fuel pools and the associated performance of spent fuel and storage components during wet storage are discussed. The current status of fuel that was examined under the CSFM Program is described. Assessments of the effect of boric acid in spent fuel pool water on the corrosion and stress corrosion cracking of stainless steel and the stress corrosion cracking of stainless steel piping containing stagnant water at spent fuel pools are discussed. A list of pertinent publications is included. 84 references, 21 figures, 11 tables
Kozlova, M.; Salminen, P.
In this paper we study a storage process or a liquid queue in which the input process is the local time of a positively recurrent stationary diffusion in stationary state and the potential output takes place with a constant deterministic rate. For this storage process we find its stationary distribution and compute the joint distribution of the starting and ending times of the busy and idle periods. This work completes and extends to a more general setting the results in Man...
Serum levels of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) are not predictive of prostate cancer diagnosis and aggressiveness: results from an italian biopsy cohort
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Cosimo, De Nunzio; Riccardo, Lombardo; Simone, Albisinni; Mauro, Gacci; Andrea, Tubaro.
Full Text Available Purpose To explore the association between serum levels of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) and the risk of developing prostate cancer (PCa) as well as high grade disease in men undergoing prostate biopsy. Materials and Methods Between 2006 and 2012, we prospectively enrolled 740 patients with [...] no history of PCa undergoing prostate biopsy. Before biopsy general data of the patient DRE, PSA and BMI were recorded. The risk of detecting cancer and high grade cancer was assessed as a function of SHBG using crude and adjusted logistic regressions. Results Serum levels of SHBG were not associated with an increased risk of PCa or high grade disease. Age (OR 1.027 95% CI 1.003-1.052 p = 0.027), DRE (OR 3.391 95% CI 2.258-5.092 p = 0.000) and PSA (OR 1.078 95% CI 1.037-1.120 p = 0.000) were found to be independent predictors of prostate cancer risk. Age (OR 1.051 95% CI 1.009-1.095 p = 0.016), DRE (OR 2.519 95% CI 1.384-4.584 p = 0.000), BMI (OR 1.098 95% CI 1.011-1.193 p = 0.027) and PSA (OR 1.074 95% CI 1.014-1.137 p = 0.015) were found to be independent predictors of high grade disease. Conclusions In our cohort of patients, serum levels of SHBG are not predictive of PCa or high grade disease. According to our experience SHBG should not be considered a biomarker in PCa diagnosis neither a marker for high grade disease.
Low levels of sex hormone-binding globulin and hyperproinsulinemia as markers of increased pancreatic ß-cell demand in men
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
A.F. Reis
Full Text Available Low levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG are considered to be an indirect index of hyperinsulinemia, predicting the later onset of diabetes mellitus type 2. In the insulin resistance state and in the presence of an increased pancreatic ß-cell demand (e.g. obesity both absolute and relative increases in proinsulin secretion occur. In the present study we investigated the correlation between SHBG and pancreatic ß-cell secretion in men with different body compositions. Eighteen young men (30.0 ± 2.4 years with normal glucose tolerance and body mass indexes (BMI ranging from 22.6 to 43.2 kg/m2 were submitted to an oral glucose tolerance test (75 g and baseline and 120-min blood samples were used to determine insulin, proinsulin and C-peptide by specific immunoassays. Baseline SHBG values were significantly correlated with baseline insulin (r = -0.58, P28 kg/m2, N = 8 and nonobese (BMI Ł25 kg/m2, N = 10 groups, significantly lower levels of SHBG were found in the obese subjects. The obese group had significantly higher baseline proinsulin, C-peptide and 120-min proinsulin and insulin levels. For the first time using a specific assay for insulin determination, a strong inverse correlation between insulinemia and SHBG levels was confirmed. The finding of a strong negative correlation between SHBG levels and pancreatic ß-cell secretion, mainly for the 120-min post-glucose load proinsulin levels, reinforces the concept that low SHBG levels are a suitable marker of increased pancreatic ß-cell demand.
Impact of Pre-Transplant Anti-T Cell Globulin (ATG) on Immune Recovery after Myeloablative Allogeneic Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation
Servais, Sophie; Menten-Dedoyart, Catherine; Beguin, Yves; Seidel, Laurence; Gothot, André; Daulne, Coline; Willems, Evelyne; Delens, Loďc; Humblet-Baron, Stéphanie; Hannon, Muriel; Baron, Frédéric
Background Pre-transplant infusion of rabbit anti-T cell globulin (ATG) is increasingly used as prevention of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT). However, the precise impact of pre-transplant ATG on immune recovery after PBSCT is still poorly documented. Methods In the current study, we compared immune recovery after myeloablative PBSCT in 65 patients who either received (n = 37) or did not (n = 28) pre-transplant ATG-Fresenius (ATG-F). Detailed phenotypes of circulating T, B, natural killer (NK) and invariant NKT (iNKT) cells were analyzed by multicolor flow cytometry at serial time-points from day 40 to day 365 after transplantation. Thymic function was also assessed by sjTREC quantification. Serious infectious events were collected up to 2 years post-transplantation. Results Pre-transplant ATG-F had a prolonged (for at least up to 1-year) and selective negative impact on the T-cell pool, while it did not impair the recovery of B, NK nor iNKT cells. Among T cells, ATG-F selectively compromised the recovery of naďve CD4+, central memory CD4+ and naďve CD8+ cells, while it spared effector memory T and regulatory T cells. Levels of sjTRECs were similar in both cohorts at 1-year after PBSCT, suggesting that ATG-F unlikely impaired thymopoiesis at long-term after PBSCT. Finally, the incidence and rate of serious infections were similar in both groups, while ATG-F patients had a lower incidence of grade II-IV acute graft-versus-host disease. Conclusions Pre-transplant ATG-F induces long-lasting modulation of the circulating T-cell pool after myeloablative PBSCT, that may participate in preventing graft-versus-host disease without deeply compromising anti-pathogen defenses. PMID:26098781
Efficacy, safety, and dose response of intravenous anti-D immune globulin (WinRho SDF) for the treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in children.
Freiberg, A; Mauger, D
We analyzed data from 20 children treated for acute or chronic idiopathic (immune) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) at a single institution to determine the relationship between dose of intravenous anti-D immune globulin (WinRho SDF; Nabi, Boca Raton, FL), increase in platelet count, and decrease in hemoglobin in the therapy of ITP. Higher doses of anti-D were clearly associated with a greater therapeutic response in the platelet count, with no increase in hemolysis for both acute and chronic ITP. A significant correlation was found between dose and peak increase in platelet count measured in the 14 days following administration. This effect was present for both acute ITP (17 infusions, P = .0001) and chronic ITP (30 infusions, P = .038). Although hemolysis was seen in nearly all infusions, with a median hemoglobin fall of 1.9 g/dL (range, 0 to 4.2), the decrease in hemoglobin was greater than 2.5 for only three infusions, and the largest fall in hemoglobin (4.2) was in a child with an underlying hemolytic anemia. Furthermore, for both acute and chronic ITP there was no relationship between the decrease in hemoglobin and the dose given (P = .22), nor between the increase in platelet count and fall in hemoglobin (P = .27). This analysis supports the use of higher doses of anti-D for the treatment of ITP, and demonstrates the need for a trial of high-dose anti-D (>100 microg/kg) in acute and chronic ITP. PMID:9523746
Associations of sex hormone-binding globulin and testosterone with diabetes among men and women (the Saku Diabetes study: a case control study
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Goto Atsushi
Full Text Available Abstract Background Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG levels and sex hormones have been implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. As fatty liver has been suggested to be a major determinant of SHBG levels, we examined whether the associations of SHBG and testosterone with diabetes were independent of fatty liver. Methods We conducted a case–control study that included 300 diabetes cases (215 men and 85 women and 300 matched controls from the Saku cohort study. Diabetes was defined by either fasting plasma glucose levels ?126 mg/dL, 2-h post-load glucose levels ?200 mg/dL after a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test, or diabetes diagnosed by physicians. We fitted conditional logistic regression models to examine the associations between SHBG and total testosterone levels with diabetes by sex. To evaluate the impact of fatty liver, we used the fatty liver index (FLI, a validated measure derived from serum triglyceride levels, body mass index (BMI, waist circumference, and ?-glutamyltransferase levels. Results After adjusting for age, family history of diabetes, smoking, physical activity, BMI, and FLI, SHBG levels were inversely associated with diabetes among women (odds ratio [OR] comparing the highest with the lowest quartiles, 0.13 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.02–0.96], but not among men. Similar patterns were observed in a subgroup analysis restricted to postmenopausal women"(OR, 0.12 [95% CI, 0.01–1.17]. In contrast, testosterone levels were inversely associated with diabetes among men (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.23–0.89], but not among women. Conclusions Our findings suggest that SHBG in women and testosterone in men may be inversely associated with diabetes.
Serum sex hormone-binding globulin, a determinant of cardiometabolic disorders independent of abdominal obesity and insulin resistance in elderly men and women.
Onat, Altan; Hergenç, Gülay; Karabulut, Ahmet; Albayrak, Sinan; Can, Günay; Kaya, Zekeriya
Serum sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is related to cardiometabolic disorders; but whether or not this relationship is purely secondary to hyperinsulinemia and/or obesity, which down-regulates SHBG, is unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the association of SHBG and total testosterone with atherogenic dyslipidemias, metabolic syndrome (MS), and diabetes among predominantly elderly Turkish adults. After appropriate exclusions, 777 randomly selected male and female subjects with available measurements of both variables were eligible and were analyzed cross-sectionally, with diabetic subjects analyzed separately. Free testosterone was calculated. Metabolic syndrome was identified by the modified criteria of the Adult Treatment Panel III. Metabolic syndrome was identified in half the sample, which had a median age of 58 years. The odds of low SHBG concentrations (diabetes were examined by regression analyses in standard models including age, smoking status, presence of abdominal obesity, and insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance). In both sexes, low SHBG was associated independently with high triglyceride/low high-density lipoprotein dyslipidemia and with MS, at significant 2.2- to 4.5-fold odds ratios, independent of waist circumference or homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index. Low SHBG among women was additionally associated with the likelihood of hypertriglyceridemia with elevated apolipoprotein B and-at borderline significance-with that of diabetes, again when adjusted for the same confounders. In an elderly population with prevalent MS, low SHBG levels significantly associate with high triglyceride/low high-density lipoprotein dyslipidemia, MS, and, in women alone, diabetes and a dyslipidemia marking small dense low-density lipoprotein particles, all independent of abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. Low SHBG may be an important independent factor for cardiometabolic risk, particularly in women. PMID:17884445
Characterization of a monoclonal antibody to human serum vitamin D binding protein (Gc globulin): recognition of an epitope hidden in membranes of circulating monocytes.
McLeod, J F; Kowalski, M A; Haddad, J G
We have developed a murine hybridoma cell line that secretes a monoclonal antibody directed to the serum human vitamin D binding protein (hDBP), a 58,000-dalton alpha-globulin with a high avidity for 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and globular actin. This immunoglobulin G1 kappa-light chain antibody was produced by the fusion of the spleen cells from BALB/c mice, immunized with purified hDBP, with SP2/0-AG4 myeloma cells. The antibody was easily removed from the supernatant of hybridoma cultures or mouse ascites fluid by Protein A affinity chromatography. Apparent serum monospecificity was demonstrated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing gels transblotted to nylon membranes and overlayed with purified MAK 89 antibody and radioiodinated Protein A. The affinity of the antibody is high [dissociation constant (Kd) = 2.6 X 10(-11) M]. Parallel displacement of tracer by hDBP and human serum was observed. The sera from various species displaced the hDBP tracer in the following potency: monkey more than cat more than dog more than guinea pig. RIAs for DBP from several species are feasible with this antibody. This antibody does not, in contrast to polyclonal anti-hDBP antiserum, bind to viable monocytes. However, the MAK 89 antibody does bind to the membranes of well washed, fixed, and permeant circulating monocytes. Surface membrane radioiodination of monocytes and immunoprecipitation of the detergent lysates with the antibody demonstrates a protein with molecular weight equivalent to hDBP. The epitope recognized, therefore, appears to be hidden in the viable cells, suggesting an intimate and intricate association of the hDBP and monocyte plasma membrane. PMID:2424747
Association between serum levels and pentanucleotide polymorphism in the sex hormone binding globulin gene and cardiovascular risk factors in females with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Baldani, Dinka Pavicic; Skrgatic, Lana; Cerne, Jasmina Ziva; Oguic, Sasa Kralik; Gersak, Blaz Matija; Gersak, Ksenija
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of TAAAA repeat allele length on the levels of serum sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The study included 91 females with PCOS and 99 healthy controls. Phenotypic hyperandrogenism, body mass index and waist?to?hip ratio (WHR) were recorded. Hormonal profiles, fasting insulin and glucose levels, lipid profiles and C?reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured. Genotyping of TAAAA repeat polymorphisms in the SHBG gene was performed. No significant difference was found in the frequency and distribution of TAAAA repeat alleles between PCOS patients and controls (P=0.739). In PCOS patients, SHBG levels were inversely correlated with serum C?reactive protein (CRP) levels (R=-0.489, P<0.001). PCOS patients with long TAAAA repeat alleles had significantly lower serum SHBG and free testosterone levels, yet higher CRP levels than patients with short allele repeats. A multiple linear regression model using the number of TAAAA repeats, waist?to?hip ratio, a homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance and age as independent predictors explained 44.8% of the variability in serum SHBG levels. In this model, TAAAA repeat polymorphism was found to be the only reliable predictor of serum SHBG levels (P<0.001). In conclusion, the TAAAA repeat polymorphism was shown to not be a major determinant of the PCOS status, although it influenced serum SHBG levels in females with PCOS. A strong independent association existed between serum SHBG and CRP levels. CRP is an established risk factor of cardiovascular disease and a marker of low?grade inflammation, typical of atherogenesis. This may be one of the pathways by which low SHBG levels affect cardiovascular risk. PMID:25530260
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
When a country becomes self-sufficient in part of the nuclear cycle, as production of fuel that will be used in nuclear power plants for energy generation, it is necessary to pay attention for the best method of storing the spent fuel. Temporary storage of spent nuclear fuel is a necessary practice and is applied nowadays all over the world, so much in countries that have not been defined their plan for a definitive repository, as well for those that already put in practice such storage form. There are two main aspects that involve the spent fuels: one regarding the spent nuclear fuel storage intended to reprocessing and the other in which the spent fuel will be sent for final deposition when the definitive place is defined, correctly located, appropriately characterized as to several technical aspects, and licentiate. This last aspect can involve decades of studies because of the technical and normative definitions at a given country. In Brazil, the interest is linked with the storage of spent fuels that will not be reprocessed. This work analyses possible types of storage, the international panorama and a proposal for future construction of a spent nuclear fuel temporary storage place in the country. (author)
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Himanshu Verma,
Full Text Available Efficient and economic energy storage, if implemented in the current power infrastructure on a large scale, could bring about some of the greatest changes in the power industry in decades. Additionally, energy storage would improve the reliability and dynamic stability of the power system by providing stable, abundant energy reserves that require little ramp time and are less susceptible to varying fuel prices or shortages. Energy storage can shift the higher peak load to off-peak hours in order to level the generation requirement, allowing generators to run more efficiently at a stable power level, potentially decreasing the average cost of electricity. Additionally, increased energy storage capacity can avoid generation capacity, decrease transmission congestion, and help enable distributed generation such as residential solar and wind systems.In this paper energy storage methods are discussed in such a way to provide a detailed overview of how each of the energy storage devices work so that the reader is able to get a better feel for the potential benefits and drawbacks of each device.
Superconducting magnetic energy storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Superconducting inductors provide a compact and efficient means of storing electrical energy without an intermediate conversion process. Energy storage inductors are under development for diurnal load leveling and transmission line stabilization in electric utility systems and for driving magnetic confinement and plasma heating coils in fusion energy systems. Fluctuating electric power demands force the electric utility industry to have more installed generating capacity than the average load requires. Energy storage can increase the utilization of base-load fossil and nuclear power plants for electric utilities. Superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems, which will store and deliver electrical energy for load leveling, peak shaving, and the stabilization of electric utility networks are being developed. In the fusion area, inductive energy transfer and storage is also being developed by LASL. Both 1-ms fast-discharge theta-pinch and 1-to-2-s slow tokamak energy transfer systems have been demonstrated. The major components and the method of operation of an SMES unit are described, and potential applications of different size SMES systems in electric power grids are presented. Results are given for a 1-GWh reference design load-leveling unit, for a 30-MJ coil proposed stabilization unit, and for tests with a small-scale, 100-kJ magnetic energy storage system. The results of the fusion energy storage and transfer tests are also presented. The common technology base for the systems is discussed
Short term thermal energy storage
Abhat, A.
The present paper reviews the problem of short term thermal energy storage for low temperature solar heating applications. The techniques of sensible and latent heat storage are discussed, with particular emphasis on the latter. Requirements for hot water storage subsystems are provided and the importance of stratification in hot water storage tanks is described. Concerning latent heat storage, both material and heat exchanger aspects are considered in detail. The example of a passively opera...
Caracterizaçăo e hidrólise in vitro da globulina principal de grăo-de-bico (Cicer arietinum L., var. IAC-Marrocos Characterization and in vitro tryptic hydrolysis of the major globulin from chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Valdir A. Neves
Full Text Available No presente estudo procedeu-se ao isolamento e caracterizaçăo da fraçăo globulina majoritária (11 S de grăo-de-bico, var. IAC-Marrocos. A globulina majoritária extraída foi isolada por cromatografia de filtraçăo em gel e de troca-iônica mostrando apenas uma banda de proteína na eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida. A globulina majoritária, após passagem em coluna de Sephadex, revelou duas bandas protéicas de 55 e 52,5kDa e tręs bandas menores em gel de poliacrilamida dodecilsulfato de sódio. Na presença de 2-mercaptoetanol 6 polipeptídios na faixa de 18 a 42kDa foram revelados na eletroforese. A globulina isolada foi submetida ŕ açăo da tripsina e quimotripsina onde a forma nativa mostrou-se resistente ŕ açăo enzimática enquanto o aquecimento (96 e 121°C/15min năo foi suficiente para aumentar a susceptibilidade ŕ hidrólise, significativamente. Adiçăo de NaCl 0,3M levou a um aumento da estabilidade estrutural com menor susceptibilidade ŕ digestăo proteolítica, fato em parte perdido com o aquecimento. As hidrólises foram acompanhadas por eletroforese em gel de poliacrilamida dodecilsulfato de sódio.The isolation and characterization of the major globulin fraction (11 S from Chickpea, vc IAC-Marrocos, were evaluated. The major globulin was extracted, isolated by gel filtration and ion-exchange chromatography showing only one protein band on PAGE. The globulin, after Sephadex elution, revealed two protein bands of 55 and 52.5kDa and three minor bands on SDS-PAGE. In the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol six polypeptides were revealed on SDS-PAGE in the range of 18 to 42kDa. The isolated native globulin shown to be resistant to trypsin and chymotrypsin however heating at 96 and 121şC/15min was not sufficient to increase the hydrolysis significantly. The proteolytic susceptibility of the enzymes was reduced by 0.3M NaCl addition at the assay. The salt concentration was sufficient to stabilize the native protein structure that was lost after heating as demonstrated on SDS-PAGE.
Extended storage of spent fuel
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This document is the final report on the IAEA Co-ordinated Research Programme on the Behaviour of Spent Fuel and Storage Facility Components during Long Term Storage (BEFAST-II, 1986-1991). It contains the results on wet and dry spent fuel storage technologies obtained from 16 organizations representing 13 countries who participated in the co-ordinated research programme. Considerable quantities of spent fuel continue to arise and accumulate. Many countries are investigating the option of extended spent fuel storage prior to reprocessing or fuel disposal. Wet storage continues to predominate as an established technology with the construction of additional away-from-reactor storage pools. However, dry storage is increasingly used with most participants considering dry storage concepts for the longer term. Depending on the cladding type options of dry storage in air or inert gas are proposed. Dry storage is becoming widely used as a supplement to wet storage for zirconium alloy clad oxide fuels. Storage periods as long as under wet conditions appear to be feasible. Dry storage will also continue to be used for Al clad and Magnox type fuel. Enhancement of wet storage capacity will remain an important activity. Rod consolidation to increase wet storage capacity will continue in the UK and is being evaluated for LWR fuel in the USA, and may start in some other countries. High density storage racks have been successfully introduced in many existing pools and are planned for future facilities. For extremely long wet storage (?50 years), there is a need to continue work on fuel integrity investigations and LWR fuel performance modelling. it might be that pool component performance in some cases could be more limiting than the FA storage performance. It is desirable to make concerted efforts in the field of corrosion monitoring and prediction of fuel cladding and poll component behaviour in order to maintain good experience of wet storage. Refs, figs and tabs
Energy storage connection system
Benedict, Eric L.; Borland, Nicholas P.; Dale, Magdelena; Freeman, Belvin; Kite, Kim A.; Petter, Jeffrey K.; Taylor, Brendan F.
A power system for connecting a variable voltage power source, such as a power controller, with a plurality of energy storage devices, at least two of which have a different initial voltage than the output voltage of the variable voltage power source. The power system includes a controller that increases the output voltage of the variable voltage power source. When such output voltage is substantially equal to the initial voltage of a first one of the energy storage devices, the controller sends a signal that causes a switch to connect the variable voltage power source with the first one of the energy storage devices. The controller then causes the output voltage of the variable voltage power source to continue increasing. When the output voltage is substantially equal to the initial voltage of a second one of the energy storage devices, the controller sends a signal that causes a switch to connect the variable voltage power source with the second one of the energy storage devices.
Nuclear fuel storage facilities
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Purpose: To enable a great amount of fuels to be stored in a separate building from an earthquake-proof building, by floating and anchoring, in a lake, a storage facility comprising a housing having a fuel containing pool and a building covering the pool. Constitution: A housing having a fuel storage pool in the inside is constituted with inner and outer shells and a plurality of partition plates provided between them, and a building is mounted above the housing for covering the pool. The storage facility having such housing and building is floated and anchored in a lake. This enables to provide a floatable housing for the fuel storage building which flows on the lake of sea-water or river water, whereby storage facility of optional capacity with no restriction on its circumference can be designed. Further, since the facility is of a floating type, no earthquake-proof design is required where it is placed in a lake with no waves. (Moriyama, K.)
Radioactive waste storage issues
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In the United States we generate greater than 500 million tons of toxic waste per year which pose a threat to human health and the environment. Some of the most toxic of these wastes are those that are radioactively contaminated. This thesis explores the need for permanent disposal facilities to isolate radioactive waste materials that are being stored temporarily, and therefore potentially unsafely, at generating facilities. Because of current controversies involving the interstate transfer of toxic waste, more states are restricting the flow of wastes into - their borders with the resultant outcome of requiring the management (storage and disposal) of wastes generated solely within a state's boundary to remain there. The purpose of this project is to study nuclear waste storage issues and public perceptions of this important matter. Temporary storage at generating facilities is a cause for safety concerns and underscores, the need for the opening of permanent disposal sites. Political controversies and public concern are forcing states to look within their own borders to find solutions to this difficult problem. Permanent disposal or retrievable storage for radioactive waste may become a necessity in the near future in Colorado. Suitable areas that could support - a nuclear storage/disposal site need to be explored to make certain the health, safety and environment of our citizens now, and that of future generations, will be protected
Technology Roadmap: Energy Storage
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Energy storage technologies are valuable components in most energy systems and could be an important tool in achieving a low-carbon future. These technologies allow for the decoupling of energy supply and demand, in essence providing a valuable resource to system operators. There are many cases where energy storage deployment is competitive or near-competitive in today's energy system. However, regulatory and market conditions are frequently ill-equipped to compensate storage for the suite of services that it can provide. Furthermore, some technologies are still too expensive relative to other competing technologies (e.g. flexible generation and new transmission lines in electricity systems). One of the key goals of this new roadmap is to understand and communicate the value of energy storage to energy system stakeholders. This will include concepts that address the current status of deployment and predicted evolution in the context of current and future energy system needs by using a ''systems perspective'' rather than looking at storage technologies in isolation.
Evolution of clustered storage
CERN. Geneva; Van de Vyvre, Pierre
The session actually featured two presentations: * Evolution of clustered storage by Lance Hukill, Quantum Corporation * ALICE DAQ - Usage of a Cluster-File System: Quantum StorNext by Pierre Vande Vyvre, CERN-PH the second one prepared at short notice by Pierre (thanks!) to present how the Quantum technologies are being used in the ALICE experiment. The abstract to Mr Hukill's follows. Clustered Storage is a technology that is driven by business and mission applications. The evolution of Clustered Storage solutions starts first at the alignment between End-users needs and Industry trends: * Push-and-Pull between managing for today versus planning for tomorrow * Breaking down the real business problems to the core applications * Commoditization of clients, servers, and target devices * Interchangeability, Interoperability, Remote Access, Centralized control * Oh, and yes, there is a budget and the "real world" to deal with This presentation will talk through these needs and trends, and then ask the question, ...
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Purpose: To contain a plurality of fuel assemblies effectively and efficiently in a defined space. Constitution: A plurality of fuel storage racks each containing a plurality of fuel assemblies are contained in a row to a fresh fuel chamber within a nuclear reactor building. Plate-like safety curtains comprising neutron absorbers made of stainless steels are disposed between the racks while being attached to side plates of the racks. This can enables to sufficiently maintain the subcriticality of fuel assembles even when the distance between the racks is reduced, whereby the storage capacity is increased and the safety is improved even if water should intrude to the inside of the storage facility. (Sekiya, K.)
Heard, H. G.
This paper has five purposes. First, to focus upon the key relationships that bound the technology choices for large, archival, digital storage devices; second, to identify the motivations for selecting the optical technology for a petabit-exabit level storage system (10 to the 15th to 10 to the 18th bits); third, to present a generic example and a specific implementation of a terabit-level optical storage device; fourth, to characterize the global design space constraints that will allow one to build a technology-limited optical store; and fifth, to sketch the outline of the BYTERON concept, a wideband 10 to the 16th to 10 to the 17th bit optical store concept and contrast its performance to that of an optical store that is in operation today
Contributions to final storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Editor: atw 12(2005) featured three separate articles dealing with the summary report compiled by the German Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) about Conceptual and Technical Safety Issues of the Final Storage of Radioactive Waste - Comparison of Host Rock Varieties, and with the way that report had been written. The report incorporated the findings of 12 expert opinions dealing with twelve questions formulated by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety (BMU) about the final storage of radioactive waste. The contribution in this issue of atw by Dr. Ulrich Kleemann (BfS), who is also the author of one of the articles in atw 12(2005), comments upon the other two contributions under the title of 'Science Torn between Interests - a Contribution to the Discussion about Aspects of Technical Safety in Final Storage'. (orig.)
Cryogen thermal storage matrix
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This patent describes a thermal storage matrix for the collection and storage of liquid and solid cryogens for use in conjunction with the cooling of detectors by liquid or solid cryogen. It comprises: multiple layers of at least one highly adsorbent material which effectively adsorbs liquid cryogens and at least one relatively porous material which exhibits high thermal conductivity at cryogenic conditions and transfers heat in and out of the matrix and allows a path for a gas, generated as a liquid cryogen evaporates, to escape, without blowing the liquid out from the at least one highly adsorbent material
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Full Text Available In this paper you will find an overview of systems and energy storage techniques and a comparison of the important characteristics of them. Delocalized electricity production and the introduction of variable, fluctuating sources (renewable energy: solar, wind turbines, etc. increase the difficulty of stabilizing the power network, mainly due to a supply-demand imbalance. It is therefore convenient to generate the energy, transmit it, convert it, and then store it if need be. More than ever then, the storage of electrical energy has become a necessity.
Electrochemical energy storage
Tarascon, Jean-Marie
The electrochemical storage of energy has become essential in assisting the development of electrical transport and use of renewable energies. French researchers have played a key role in this domain but Asia is currently the market leader. Not wanting to see history repeat itself, France created the research network on electrochemical energy storage (RS2E) in 2011. This book discusses the launch of RS2E, its stakeholders, objectives, and integrated structure that assures a continuum between basic research, technological research and industries. Here, the authors will cover the technological
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This paper briefly outlines the status of wet storage of spent fuels in the United States. The following information is presented: number of LWR fuel assemblies in wet storage; location, type, cladding and failed fuel of stored spent fuel assemblies; storage capabilities; current trend (extend burnup); basis for assessing spent fuel behavior in wet storage; handling operations with spent fuel. The report summarizes that there have been no problems encountered in the storage of spent fuels in pools, and that there is no evidence of fuel cladding degrading in wet storage
Economics of dry storage systems
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This paper postulates a dry storage application suitable as a regional away-from-reactor storage (AFR), develops an economical system design concept and estimates system costs. The system discussed uses the experience gained in the dry storage research activities and attempts to present a best foot forward system concept. The major element of the system is the Receiving and Packaging Building. In this building fuel assemblies are removed from transportation casks and encapsulated for storage. This facility could be equally applicable to silo, vault, or caisson storage. However the caisson storage concept has been chosen for discussion purposes
Spent-fuel-storage alternatives
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
The Spent Fuel Storage Alternatives meeting was a technical forum in which 37 experts from 12 states discussed storage alternatives that are available or are under development. The subject matter was divided into the following five areas: techniques for increasing fuel storage density; dry storage of spent fuel; fuel characterization and conditioning; fuel storage operating experience; and storage and transport economics. Nineteen of the 21 papers which were presented at this meeting are included in this Proceedings. These have been abstracted and indexed. (ATT)
Effects of human thyroxine-binding globulin and prealbumin on the reverse flow of thyroid hormones from extravascular space into the bloodstream in rabbits
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A plasma fraction rich in thyroid hormone-binding globulin (hTBG, human thyropexin) was injected iv into rabbits in order to see whether thyroid hormone concentrations in plasma would increase by return of T3 and T4 from the extravascular space. For this purpose, both [125I]T3 and [131I]T4 were simultaneously injected. After 1 h, or after 16 h in another series of experiments, 50 mg hTBG were injected iv. Thereafter, the mean radioactivity of both [125I]T3 and [131I]T4 in the plasma rose, and reached its peak 20-30 min after hTBG injection; [125I]T3 and [131I]T4 returned to the preinjection value slowly, after more than 3 h. When hTBG was injected 15-16 h after the radioactive hormones, the mean radioactivity of [125I]T3 reached its peak about 1 h after hTBG injection and returned to the base value after approximately 5.5 h, [131I]T4 reached its peak about 1 h after hTBG injection and returned to the base value within 12 h. After injection of hTBG, total T4 and T3 concentrations in plasma increased about 3- to 5-fold over the base values. At the same time, the percentage of both, free T4 and free T3 dropped instantly whereas absolute free T4 and free T3 values remained almost constant. After injection of 500 mg transthyretin (hTBPA), a similar flux of [125I]T3 and [131I]T4 was observed, whereas 500 mg human serum albumin were ineffective. These marked effects of injected hTBG and hTBPA on the serum levels of [125I]T3, [131I]T4, and total T3 indicate that reentry of T3, and total T3 indicate that reentry of T3 and T4 into the intravascular compartment is an important component of thyroid hormone distribution and transport. As can be anticipated from the animal experiments, the efficiency of plasmapheresis or hemofiltration methods may be improved by previous application of large doses of hTBPA or hTBG in cases of thyrotoxicosis
NV Energy Electricity Storage Valuation
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Ellison, James F.; Bhatnagar, Dhruv; Samaan, Nader A.; Jin, Chunlian
This study examines how grid-level electricity storage may benet the operations of NV Energy in 2020, and assesses whether those benets justify the cost of the storage system. In order to determine how grid-level storage might impact NV Energy, an hourly production cost model of the Nevada Balancing Authority (\\BA") as projected for 2020 was built and used for the study. Storage facilities were found to add value primarily by providing reserve. Value provided by the provision of time-of-day shifting was found to be limited. If regulating reserve from storage is valued the same as that from slower ramp rate resources, then it appears that a reciprocating engine generator could provide additional capacity at a lower cost than a pumped storage hydro plant or large storage capacity battery system. In addition, a 25-MW battery storage facility would need to cost $650/kW or less in order to produce a positive Net Present Value (NPV). However, if regulating reserve provided by storage is considered to be more useful to the grid than that from slower ramp rate resources, then a grid-level storage facility may have a positive NPV even at today's storage system capital costs. The value of having storage provide services beyond reserve and time-of-day shifting was not assessed in this study, and was therefore not included in storage cost-benefit calculations.
Alvarez, Alejandro; Furano, Fabrizio; Hellmich, Martin; Keeble, Oliver; Rocha, Ricardo; CERN. Geneva. IT Department
The Disk Pool Manager (DPM) is a lightweight solution for grid enabled disk storage management. Operated at more than 240 sites it has the widest distribution of all grid storage solutions in the WLCG infrastructure. It provides an easy way to manage and configure disk pools, and exposes multiple interfaces for data access (rfio, xroot, nfs, gridftp and http/dav) and control (srm). During the last year we have been working on providing stable, high performant data access to our storage system using standard protocols, while extending the storage management functionality and adapting both configuration and deployment procedures to reuse commonly used building blocks. In this contribution we cover in detail the extensive evaluation we have performed of our new HTTP/WebDAV and NFS 4.1 frontends, in terms of functionality and performance. We summarize the issues we faced and the solutions we developed to turn them into valid alternatives to the existing grid protocols - namely the additional work required to prov...
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
R. J. Waters; R. Ochoa; K. D. Fritz; D. W. Craig
The Idaho Nuclear Technology and Engineering Center (INTEC) at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory contains radioactive liquid waste in underground storage tanks at the INTEC Tank Farm Facility (TFF). INTEC is currently treating the waste by evaporation to reduce the liquid volume for continued storage, and by calcination to reduce and convert the liquid to a dry waste form for long-term storage in calcine bins. Both treatment methods and activities in support of those treatment operations result in Newly Generated Liquid Waste (NGLW) being sent to TFF. The storage tanks in the TFF are underground, contained in concrete vaults with instrumentation, piping, transfer jets, and managed sumps in case of any liquid accumulation in the vault. The configuration of these tanks is such that Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations apply. The TFF tanks were assessed several years ago with respect to the RCRA regulations and they were found to be deficient. This study considers the configuration of the current tanks and the RCRA deficiencies identified for each. The study identifies four potential methods and proposes a means of correcting the deficiencies. The cost estimates included in the study account for construction cost; construction methods to minimize work exposure to chemical hazards, radioactive contamination, and ionizing radiation hazards; project logistics; and project schedule. The study also estimates the tank volumes benefit associated with each corrective action to support TFF liquid waste management planning.
Salamon, S; Maxwell, W M
Storage of ram semen in liquid and frozen state, the diluents used for both methods, processing, cooling, freezing and thawing of semen are reviewed. Factors influencing the fertility of stored semen and methods used for improvement are discussed, and fertility results of long-term frozen stored ram semen are also given. PMID:10924821
Interim onsite radwaste storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The problems associated with state compacts for disposing of radioactive waste are well known. Presently, it appears that no compact will be capable of receiving waste by January 1996. Most compacts and independent states are essentially at ground zero. Politics, the open-quotes Not in MY backyardclose quotes (NIMBY) factor, poor public relations, public mistrust, public unawareness of engineering radwaste disposal, unfavorable media hype, and a multitude of other issues will delay projects even further. The financial burden imposed on electric utility rate payers is monumental. An economical and viable solution is onsite radwaste storage at nuclear stations. For example, the Bechtel design can store waste for $32/ft3, whereas burial costs per cubic foot are approximately $300.00/ft3 for a LSA box, $350.00/ft3 for low-level resins, and $570.00/ft3 for high-level resins, plus transportation costs of approximately $2.00 per mile. This Bechtel onsite radwaste storage is designed for maximum radwaste storage per square foot. In the overall design, emphasis was placed upon operations, maintenance, health physics, personnel, radiation exposure, and economics. Many utility personnel were consulted for their input. The final design has encompassed most of these views to provide the optimum onsite storage facility
This presentation looks at the topic of storing hydrogen for use as fuel. Compressed, liquid and other storage methods are examined. This presentation includes useful graphics to help your students understand the various methods of storing and using hydrogen. This presentation may be downloaded in Microsoft PowerPoint file format.
Inertial storage for satellites
Eisenhaure, D.
A new system is being developed that performs satellite attitude control, attitude reference, and energy storage utilizing inertia wheels. The baseline approach consists of two counter rotating flywheels suspended in specially designed magnetic bearings, spin axis motor/generators, and a control system. The control system regulates the magnetic bearings and spin axis motor/generators and interacts with other satellite subsystems (photovoltaic array, star trackers, Sun sensors, magnetic torquers, etc.) to perform the three functions. Existing satellites utilize separate subsystems to perform attitude control, provide attitude reference, and store energy. These functions are currently performed using reaction or momentum wheels, gyros, batteries, and devices that provide an absolute reference (Sun sensors and star trackers). A Combined Attitude, Reference, and Energy Storage (CARES) system based on high energy density inertial energy storage wheels (flywheels) has potential advantages over existing technologies. Even when used only for energy storage, this system offers the potential for substantial improvements in life, energy efficiency, and weight over existing battery technologies. Utilizing this same device for both attitude control and attitude reference would result in significant additional savings in overall satellite weight and complexity.
Knapp, Henry H., III
This module on heat storage is one of six in a series intended for use as supplements to currently available materials on solar energy and energy conservation. Together with the recommended texts and references (sources are identified), these modules provide an effective introduction to energy conservation and solar energy technologies. The module…
Beyond DVD: Holographic Storage
Whitmer, Clair
InPhase Technologies is exploring holographic storage; however, its goal is to create a device that could be the successor to the DVD. In this article, the potential capabilities and specifications of such a device are discussed. A working prototype has already been demonstrated, paving the way for future commercially viable drives based on the technology.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Idaho Nuclear Technology and Engineering Center (INTEC) at the Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory contains radioactive liquid waste in underground storage tanks at the INTEC Tank Farm Facility (TFF). INTEC is currently treating the waste by evaporation to reduce the liquid volume for continued storage, and by calcination to reduce and convert the liquid to a dry waste form for long-term storage in calcine bins. Both treatment methods and activities in support of those treatment operations result in Newly Generated Liquid Waste (NGLW) being sent to TFF. The storage tanks in the TFF are underground, contained in concrete vaults with instrumentation, piping, transfer jets, and managed sumps in case of any liquid accumulation in the vault. The configuration of these tanks is such that Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) regulations apply. The TFF tanks were assessed several years ago with respect to the RCRA regulations and they were found to be deficient. This study considers the configuration of the current tanks and the RCRA deficiencies identified for each. The study identifies four potential methods and proposes a means of correcting the deficiencies. The cost estimates included in the study account for construction cost; construction methods to minimize work exposure to chemical hazards, radioactive contamination, and ionizing radiation hazards; project logistics; and project schedule. The study also estimates the tank volumes benefit associated with each corrective action to support TFF liquid waste management planning
Phosphonium chloride for thermal storage
Sutton, J. G.; Heimlich, P. F.; Tepper, E. H.
Development of systems for storage of thermal energy is discussed. Application of phosphonium chloride for heat storage through reversible dissociation is described. Chemical, physical, and thermodynamic properties of phosphonium chloride are analyzed and dangers in using phosphonium chloride are explained.
Underground Storage Tanks in Iowa
Iowa State University GIS Support and Research Facility — Underground storage tank (UST) sites which store petroleum in Iowa. Includes sites which have been reported to DNR, and have active or removed underground storage...
Radiatioactive Contamination in Storage Vaults
International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)
Determination of Radioactive Contamination and Conditions for Radioactive Wastes Storage in Interim Storage Ficilities (Vaults) of the Siberian Group of Chemical Enterprises (SGCE) for Substantiation of Measures for Safe Decommissioning of Plutonium-Production Reactors (PUGR)
Optical storage ring for atoms
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The possibility of stable localization of atoms in an optical storage ring is shown. The storage ring is formed by light fields, the pressure of which cools and compresses the beam of atoms injected into the ring
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Ateniese, Giuseppe; Dagdelen, Özgür
Entangled cloud storage enables a set of clients {P_i} to "entangle" their files {f_i} into a single clew c to be stored by a (potentially malicious) cloud provider S. The entanglement makes it impossible to modify or delete significant part of the clew without affecting all files in c. A clew keeps the files in it private but still lets each client P_i recover his own data by interacting with S; no cooperation from other clients is needed. At the same time, the cloud provider is discouraged from altering or overwriting any significant part of c as this will imply that none of the clients can recover their files. We provide theoretical foundations for entangled cloud storage, introducing the notion of an entangled encoding scheme that guarantees strong security requirements capturing the properties above. We also give a concrete construction based on privacy-preserving polynomial interpolation, along with protocols for using the encoding scheme in practice. Protocols for cloud storage find applicationin the cloud setting, where clients store their files on a remote server and need to be ensured that the cloud provider will not delete their data illegitimately. Current solutions, e.g., based on Provable Data Possession and Proof of Retrievability, catch a malicious server "after-the-fact", meaning that the server needs to be challenged regularly to provide evidence that the clients' files are stored at a given time. Entangled storage makes all clients equal and with the same rights: It makes it financially inconvenient for a cloud provider to alter specific files and exclude certain "average" customers, since doing so would undermine all customers in the system, even those considered "important" and, thus, profitable. Therefore, entangled storage schemes offer security "before-the-fact".
Silo Storage Preconceptual Design
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Stephanie L. Austad; Patrick W. Bragassa; Kevin M Croft; David S Ferguson; Scott C Gladson; Annette L Shafer; John H Weathersby
The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has a need to develop and field a low-cost option for the long-term storage of a variety of radiological material. The storage option's primary requirement is to provide both environmental and physical protection of the materials. Design criteria for this effort require a low initial cost and minimum maintenance over a 50-year design life. In 1999, Argonne National Laboratory-West was tasked with developing a dry silo storage option for the BN-350 Spent Fuel in Aktau Kazakhstan. Argon's design consisted of a carbon steel cylinder approximately 16 ft long, 18 in. outside diameter and 0.375 in. wall thickness. The carbon steel silo was protected from corrosion by a duplex coating system consisting of zinc and epoxy. Although the study indicated that the duplex coating design would provide a design life well in excess of the required 50 years, the review board was concerned because of the novelty of the design and the lack of historical use. In 2012, NNSA tasked Idaho National Laboratory (INL) with reinvestigating the silo storage concept and development of alternative corrosion protection strategies. The 2012 study, "Silo Storage Concepts, Cathodic Protection Options Study" (INL/EST-12-26627), concludes that the option which best fits the design criterion is a passive cathotic protection scheme, consisting of a carbon steel tube coated with zinc or a zinc-aluminum alloy encapsulated in either concrete or a cement grout. The hot dipped zinc coating option was considered most efficient, but the flame-sprayed option could be used if a thicker zinc coating was determined to be necessary.
A Review of Encryption Storage
Chaowen Chang; Min Liang; Hongzhao Kou; Zhigang Si
Information leakage leads to very serious consequences. Encryption storage is an effective means of ensuring information security. We summarize several typical encryption storage methods: application layer encryption, filter driver encryption, virtual disk encryption and full disk encryption. At last this paper compares these methods in some respects and provides the references for design and research of encryption storage systems.
A Review of Encryption Storage
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Chaowen Chang
Full Text Available Information leakage leads to very serious consequences. Encryption storage is an effective means of ensuring information security. We summarize several typical encryption storage methods: application layer encryption, filter driver encryption, virtual disk encryption and full disk encryption. At last this paper compares these methods in some respects and provides the references for design and research of encryption storage systems.
PC-Cluster based Storage System Architecture for Cloud Storage
Yee, Tin Tin
Design and architecture of cloud storage system plays a vital role in cloud computing infrastructure in order to improve the storage capacity as well as cost effectiveness. Usually cloud storage system provides users to efficient storage space with elasticity feature. One of the challenges of cloud storage system is difficult to balance the providing huge elastic capacity of storage and investment of expensive cost for it. In order to solve this issue in the cloud storage infrastructure, low cost PC cluster based storage server is configured to be activated for large amount of data to provide cloud users. Moreover, one of the contributions of this system is proposed an analytical model using M/M/1 queuing network model, which is modeled on intended architecture to provide better response time, utilization of storage as well as pending time when the system is running. According to the analytical result on experimental testing, the storage can be utilized more than 90% of storage space. In this paper, two parts...
Modificaçoes bioquímicas e físicas em grăos de feijăo durante o armazenamento Biochemical and physical modifications of bean seeds during storage
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Haiko Enok Sawazaki
Full Text Available Procurou-se estudar parâmetros químicos e físicos que pudessem avaliar, em tręs épocas, a qualidade de grăos de feijăo durante onze meses de armazenamento, utilizando os cultivares Carioca e Rico 23. Eletroforese das fraçőes globulinas em gel de poliacrilamida com sulfato dodecil sódico (SDS, indicou um aumento no final do número de bandas, porém o fato poderia ser conseqüęncia de uma maior concentraçăo protéica da amostra, sendo praticamente mantidos durante o estudo os pesos moleculares das subunidades polipeptídicas principais das proteínas G1 e G2, de cerca de 50.000-43.000 e 18.000 respectivamente. As porcentagens de proteína, umidade e açúcar solúvel năo sofreram alteraçőes sensíveis, enquanto a de lipídio diminuiu e a de fibra aumentou. O teor de amido também aumentou, provavelmente em vista da maior extratibilidade. O índice de peróxido e o teor de ácidos graxos livres aumentaram, sendo comprovada, por este último, a elevaçăo do índice de acidez. A capacidade de hidrataçăo aumentou inicialmente, permanecendo depois constante, e a porcentagem de sementes com tegumento duro năo pareceu sofrer alteraçăo. O comportamento dos dois cultivares foi semelhante.Seeds of dry beans cvs Rico 23 and Carioca, were chemical and physically characterized three times during eleven months of storage. Electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel with SDS of the globulin fraction showed an increase in the number of bands at the third sampling, probably due to a more efficient protein extraction. However, molecular weight of the G1 and G2 subunits were constant, about 50,000 -43,000 and 18,000, respectively. Total protein, soluble sugars and water contents did not change during storage, while fiber increased and lipids decreased. Starch content, as in case of globulin fraction, also increased due to greater extractability. Both free fatty acids content and peroxide value increased, according to the increase of the acidity value. Water absorption capability increased initially and leveled off thereafter. The percentage of seeds with hard coat was not affected by storage. The behaviour of the two cultivars was very similar.
Thermal storage for electric utilities
Swet, C. J.; Masica, W. J.
Applications of the thermal energy storage (TES) principle (storage of sensible heat or latent heat, or heat storage in reversible chemical reactions) in power systems are evaluated. Load leveling behind the meter, load following at conventional thermal power plants, solar thermal power generation, and waste heat utilization are the principal TES applications considered. Specific TES examples discussed include: storage heaters for electric-resistance space heating, air conditioning TES in the form of chilled water or eutectic salt baths, hot water TES, and trans-seasonal storage in heated water in confined aquifers.
Prague Tier-2 storage experience
Hork, Ji; Chudoba, Ji; Kouba, Tom
Main computing and storage facilities for LHC computing in the Czech Republic are situated in Prague Tier-2 site. We participate in grid activities since the beginning of European Data Grid. The recent years were significant in the growth of our storage capacities. In this article we present the decisions in storage solutions, comparison of configurations of the hardware and performance tuning of the software. Our storage facilities vary from enterprise-level SAN infrastructure to in-house built cheap storage servers. We present a comparison of these solutions from the performance, configuration, management and monitoring point of view.
Presencia de cbg (corticosteroid binding globulin) y receptores de estrógeno (fracción alfa) y progesterona en el sistema reproductor de ovejas en distintos estadios del ciclo reproductivo. Estudio inmunohistoquímico / Presence of CBG (Corticosteroid binding globulin) Estrogen Receptors Alpha and Progesterone Receptors Along the Reproductive Tract in Sheep During Different Stages of the Reproductive Cycle. Inmunohistochemestry Study
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Adriana, Vasconcellos Costa; Patricio, Peńa Salazar; Néstor, Sepúlveda Becker; Werner, Miska.
Full Text Available Las hormonas esteroidales sexuales actúan a través de sus receptores permitiendo el desarrollo del tracto genital y determinando su estado morfofuncional. El objetivo del presente estudio fue estudiar la presencia de CBG (corticosteroid binding globulin) y de los receptores de estrógenos alfa y prog [...] esterona en el útero, oviducto y ovario de ovejas cíclicas (n = 3), gestantes (n = 3), y en anestro (n = 3). La evaluación morfológica se realizó con tinción de hematoxilina - eosina (H-E) e inmunohistoquímica, según técnica de Sternberger. Los resultados revelaron para receptores de estrógenos en oveja cíclicas, inmunorreactividad positiva moderada en el epitelio glandular y estroma endometrial y en epitelio superficial y corión de la mucosa oviductal; siendo la inmunorreactividad leve en ovejas gestantes y anéstricas. Los receptores de progesterona mostraron en los 3 órganos inmunorreactividad positiva moderada en ovejas cíclicas e inmunorreactividad leve o negativa en animales acíclicos. La inmunorreactividad para CBG en endometrio fue marcada en ovejas cíclicas, y leves o negativa en gestantes y anéstricas. En ovario se observó en ovejas durante el ciclo, reacción inmunopositiva a la CBG en células foliculares, en el fluido folicular y en células estromales llenas de material granular inmunopositivo dispuestas en forma grupal o aislada. Se concluye que la presencia de los receptores de estrógenos alfa y de progesterona es siempre detectable en útero, oviducto y ovario variando su concentración según el estadio. La presencia de CBG fue constante en los tres órganos durante el ciclo estral y variable en los otros estadios, siendo su participación dentro del proceso reproductivo tema de próximos estudios Abstract in english The steroids hormones operate through their receptors in the development of the genital tract and determine it morphofuncional state. The objective of the present study was to investigate the presence of CBG (corticosteroid binding globulin), estrogens alpha and progesterone receptors in the uterus, [...] oviduct and ovary of sheep during oestrous cycle (n = 3), pregnancy (n = 3), and in anoestrous (n = 3). Cross sections were stained with Hematoxylin-eosin and Inmunohistochemical (ICQ) study was made according to the technique of Sternberger. The results showed for estrogens receptors in sheep on cycle estral, moderate positive immunoreaction in the estroma and on the epithelial cells of endometrial glands and in oviductal superficial epithelium and estroma; the immunoreaction in pregnant and anestrics sheep was low. The progesterone receptors had in the 3 organs moderate immunorreactivity in cycling sheep and immunorreactivity low or negative in acycling animals. The CBG endometrial immunorreaction was high in cycling sheep and low or negative in pregnant and anestrics. The CBG in sheep during the cycle demonstrated a positive reaction at ovarian level in follicular cells, inside follicular liquid, and in stromal cells filled with granulate material disseminated in groups or isolated. In conclusion, the presence of estrogens alpha and progesterone receptors are always detectable in uterus, oviduct and ovary varying their concentration according to the stage The presence of CBG was constant in the three organs during the oestral cycle and variable in the other stages, its participation in the reproductive process is topic for next studies
Desenvolvimento de ensaio imunofluorométrico para a medida da globulina ligadora de tiroxina (thyroxine-binding globulin, TBG e sua aplicaçăo em casos de deficięncia desta proteína Development of an immunofluorometric assay for thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG and its application in cases of protein deficiency
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
José Gilberto H. Vieira
Full Text Available A globulina ligadora de tiroxina (thyroxine-binding globulin, TBG é a principal transportadora de hormônios tiroidianos no soro. Variaçőes na concentraçăo sérica de TBG determinam variaçőes proporcionais nas concentraçőes séricas totais de T4 e T3, sem implicar alteraçőes de funçăo, desde que a fraçăo livre permaneça normal. Várias condiçőes clínicas comuns levam a alteraçőes significativas nos níveis de TBG, sendo as variaçőes mais importantes devidas a defeitos genéticos. Como a TBG é codificada por gene localizado no cromossomo X, os defeitos se manifestam mais facilmente no sexo masculino. Descrevemos o desenvolvimento de ensaio imunofluorométrico para a medida de TBG com base em anticorpos monoclonais, sendo um desenvolvido em nosso laboratório e outro comercial. O método apresenta sensibilidade de 0,8mg/l e coeficientes de variaçăo intra e interensaio inferiores a 10%. O estudo comparativo com método comercial mostrou alta correlaçăo (r = 0,93; n = 48, sendo os valores normais obtidos de 10mg/l a 29mg/l. Estudamos também 20 indivíduos portadores de deficięncia congęnita de TBG, 19 homens e uma mulher, que apresentavam valores normais de TSH e baixos de T4 total; em todos eles os níveis de TBG foram indetectáveis. Já os níveis de T4 livre medidos por método indireto em 16 desses indivíduos mostraram-se elevados em todos, ao passo que, quando medidos por método direto pós-diálise nos quatro restantes, mostraram-se normais. Nossos resultados reforçam a necessidade prática da disponibilidade de ensaio para a medida de TBG para esclarecimento e definiçăo diagnóstica de alguns casos especiais, principalmente quando o ensaio de T4 livre direto, pós-diálise, năo é disponível.Thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG is the main responsible for serum thyroid hormone transport. Serum variations in TBG concentrations determine proportional variations in serum total T4 and T3 concentrations, without implications to function, since the free fraction remains normal. Several frequent clinical conditions lead to significant alterations in the TBG levels, being the most important variations due to genetic defects. Since TBG is codified by a gene localized in the X chromosome, the defects are more often found in males. We describe the development of an immunofluorometric assay for the measurement of TBG based on monoclonal antibodies, being one developed at our laboratories and the other obtained from commercial sources. The method presents sensitivity of 0.8mg/l and intra and inter-assay coefficients of variation of less than 10%. Comparison with a commercial assay showed high correlation (r = 0.93, n = 48, with normal values between 10mg/l and 29 mg/l. We also studied 20 individuals with congenital deficiency of TBG, 19 men and one woman, that presented normal TSH values and low total T4 values; in all of them the TBG values were undetectable. Free T4 values otherwise were high when measured with an indirect method in 16 of the individuals, and normal in the other four patients where they were measured with a direct post-dialysis method. Our results reinforce the practical need for an assay for the measurement of serum TBG for the diagnostic definition of some special cases, mainly when a direct free T4 assay is not available.
Desenvolvimento de ensaio imunofluorométrico para a medida da globulina ligadora de tiroxina (thyroxine-binding globulin, TBG) e sua aplicaçăo em casos de deficięncia desta proteína / Development of an immunofluorometric assay for thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) and its application in cases of protein deficiency
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
José Gilberto H., Vieira; Teresinha T., Tachibana; Leda H., Obara; Sônia K., Nishida; Maria Tereza, Lombardi; Rui M.B., Maciel.
Full Text Available A globulina ligadora de tiroxina (thyroxine-binding globulin, TBG) é a principal transportadora de hormônios tiroidianos no soro. Variaçőes na concentraçăo sérica de TBG determinam variaçőes proporcionais nas concentraçőes séricas totais de T4 e T3, sem implicar alteraçőes de funçăo, desde que a fra [...] çăo livre permaneça normal. Várias condiçőes clínicas comuns levam a alteraçőes significativas nos níveis de TBG, sendo as variaçőes mais importantes devidas a defeitos genéticos. Como a TBG é codificada por gene localizado no cromossomo X, os defeitos se manifestam mais facilmente no sexo masculino. Descrevemos o desenvolvimento de ensaio imunofluorométrico para a medida de TBG com base em anticorpos monoclonais, sendo um desenvolvido em nosso laboratório e outro comercial. O método apresenta sensibilidade de 0,8mg/l e coeficientes de variaçăo intra e interensaio inferiores a 10%. O estudo comparativo com método comercial mostrou alta correlaçăo (r = 0,93; n = 48), sendo os valores normais obtidos de 10mg/l a 29mg/l. Estudamos também 20 indivíduos portadores de deficięncia congęnita de TBG, 19 homens e uma mulher, que apresentavam valores normais de TSH e baixos de T4 total; em todos eles os níveis de TBG foram indetectáveis. Já os níveis de T4 livre medidos por método indireto em 16 desses indivíduos mostraram-se elevados em todos, ao passo que, quando medidos por método direto pós-diálise nos quatro restantes, mostraram-se normais. Nossos resultados reforçam a necessidade prática da disponibilidade de ensaio para a medida de TBG para esclarecimento e definiçăo diagnóstica de alguns casos especiais, principalmente quando o ensaio de T4 livre direto, pós-diálise, năo é disponível. Abstract in english Thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) is the main responsible for serum thyroid hormone transport. Serum variations in TBG concentrations determine proportional variations in serum total T4 and T3 concentrations, without implications to function, since the free fraction remains normal. Several frequent c [...] linical conditions lead to significant alterations in the TBG levels, being the most important variations due to genetic defects. Since TBG is codified by a gene localized in the X chromosome, the defects are more often found in males. We describe the development of an immunofluorometric assay for the measurement of TBG based on monoclonal antibodies, being one developed at our laboratories and the other obtained from commercial sources. The method presents sensitivity of 0.8mg/l and intra and inter-assay coefficients of variation of less than 10%. Comparison with a commercial assay showed high correlation (r = 0.93, n = 48), with normal values between 10mg/l and 29 mg/l. We also studied 20 individuals with congenital deficiency of TBG, 19 men and one woman, that presented normal TSH values and low total T4 values; in all of them the TBG values were undetectable. Free T4 values otherwise were high when measured with an indirect method in 16 of the individuals, and normal in the other four patients where they were measured with a direct post-dialysis method. Our results reinforce the practical need for an assay for the measurement of serum TBG for the diagnostic definition of some special cases, mainly when a direct free T4 assay is not available.
Superconducting magnetic energy storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Fusion power production requires energy storage and transfer on short time scales to create confining magnetic fields and for heating plasmas. The theta-pinch Scyllac Fusion Test Reactor (SFTR) requires 480 MJ of energy to drive the 5-T compression field with a 0.7-ms rise time. Tokamak Experimental Power Reactors (EPR) require 1 to 2 GJ of energy with a 1 to 2-s rise time for plasma ohmic heating. The design, development, and testing of four 300-kJ energy storage coils to satisfy the SFTR needs are described. Potential rotating machinery and homopolar energy systems for both the Reference Theta-Pinch Reactor (RTPR) and tokamak ohmic-heating are presented
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Some basic issues involved in injecting the beam into storage rings with the principal parameters of those studied at the workshop have been considered. The main conclusion is that straightforward adjustments of the storage ring parameters makes injection easy. The largest number of injected turns is fourteen, and the phase space dilution allowance seems adequate to ensure very small beam loss during injection. The adjustments also result in lower bending magnet fields, and high field superconducting magnets (e.g., 5 Tesla) are not necessary. Finally, the impact of the parameters on cost is noted, and a system is considered that cuts the length of the linac in half by using doubly charged ions
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Schloegl, Robert (ed.) [Fritz-Haber-Institute of the Max Planck Society, Berlin (Germany). Dept. of Inorganic Chemistry
The use of regenerative energy in many primary forms leads to the necessity to store grid dimensions for maintaining continuous supply and enabling the replacement of fossil fuel systems. Chemical energy storage is one of the possibilities besides mechano-thermal and biological systems. This work starts with the more general aspects of chemical energy storage in the context of the geosphere and evolves to dealing with aspects of electrochemistry, catalysis, synthesis of catalysts, functional analysis of catalytic processes and with the interface between electrochemistry and heterogeneous catalysis. Top-notch experts provide a sound, practical, hands-on insight into the present status of energy conversion aimed primarily at the young emerging research front.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In order to increase storage capacity and data transfer velocity by about three orders of magnitude compared to CD or magnetic disc it is necessary to work with optical techniques, especially with holography. About 100 TByte can be stored in a waver of an area of 50 cm2 via holograms which corresponds to a density of 2.109 Byte/mm2. Every hologram contains data of 1 MByte, so that parallel-processing is possible for read-out. Using high-speed CCD-arrays a read-out velocity of 1 MByte/?sec can be reached. Further, holographic technics are very important in solid state physics. We will discuss the existence of a space charge field in Sr1-xBaxNb2O6 doped with cerium and the physical properties of metastable states, which are suited for information storage. (author) 19 figs., 9 refs
Welch, Sharon S.
A new holographic image storage device which uses four-wave mixing in two photorefractive crystals is described. Photorefractive crystals promise information storage densities on the order of 10(exp 9) to 10(exp 12) bits per cubic centimeter at real-time rates. Several studies in recent years have investigated the use of photorefractive crystals for storing holographic image information. However, all of the previous studies have focused on techniques for storing information in a single crystal. The disadvantage of using a single crystal is that the read process is destructive. Researchers have developed techniques for fixing the information in a crystal so that it may be read many times. However, when fixed, the information cannot be readily erased and overwritten with new information. It two photorefractive crystals are used, holographic image information may be stored dynamically. That is, the stored image information may be read out more than once, and it may be easily erased and overwritten with new image information.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A description is given of a radiographic apparatus for manipulating a quantity of radioactive material between a stored position and a use position including a capsule of said radioactive material, a storage unit with means defining a passage through it, for storing the capsule in the passage and shielding the surrounding environment from the stored radioactive material, and manipulating means connectible to said storage unit at a first end of said passage for moving said capsule between a stored position within the passage and a use position outside the second end of said passage, the improvement comprising: a shutter mounted on said storage unit for slidng movement transverse to the second end of said passage between first and second limits, said shutter in said first limit blocking said second end, said shutter having a hole through it which registers with said passage when the shutter is in said second limit, shutter-retaining means associated with said passage means adjacent said second end and resilient means cooperating with said retaining means and said storage unit for urging said retaining means to project an end-part toward said shutter, means in said shutter for receiving said end-part when said shutter is in said second limit and thereby retaining said hole in register with said passage, and means coupled to said capsule for pulling said retaining means away from said shutter against the action of said resilient means under control of said manipulating means for withdrawing said end-part from said receiving means and thereby permitting said shutter to move toward said first limit
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Storage Ring Group set out to identify and pursue salient problems in accelerator physics for heavy ion fusion, divorced from any particular reference design concept. However, it became apparent that some basic parameter framework was required to correlate the different study topics. As the Workshop progressed, ring parameters were modified and updated. Consequently, the accompanying papers on individual topics will be found to refer to slightly varied parameters, according to the stage at which the different problems were tackled
Schlögl, Robert; Antonietti, Markus; Arndt, Sebastian; Behrens, Malte; Bill, Eckhard; Brandner, Armin; Centi, Gabriele; Claus, Peter; Cox, Nicholas; DeBeer, Serena; DeMartini, Nikolai; Doblhofer, Karl; Franzke, Thomas; Freund, Hans-Joachim; Gastel, Maurice; Grunwaldt, Jan-Dierk; Hofmann, Gerhard; Hupa, Mikko; Kähler, Kevin; Kunkes, Edward; Loosdrecht, Jan; Lubitz, Wolfgang; Maier, Joachim; Menzel, Dietrich; Muhler, Martin; Murzin, Dmitry Yu; Neese, Frank; Niemantsverdriet, J W (Hans); Nilius, Niklas; Palkovits, Regina; Pantazis, Dimitrios A; Perathoner, Siglinda; Petrenko, Taras; Rossmeisl, Jan; Samuelis, Dominik; Schlögl, Robert; Schomäcker, Reinhard; Schüth, Ferdi; Shaikhutdinov, Shamil; Sterrer, Martin; Strasser, Peter; Trunschke, Annette; Wright, William R H; Ye, Shengfa
Energy - in the headlines, discussed controversially, vital. The use of regenerative energy in many primary forms leads to the necessity to store grid dimensions for maintaining continuous supply and enabling the replacement of fossil fuel systems. This work provides a hands-on insight into the present status of energy conversion and deals with aspects of chemical energy storage considering the geosphere, electrochemistry, catalysis, synthesis of catalysts, functional analysis of catalytic processes and the interface between electrochemistry and heterogeneous catalysis.
Mercer, Carolyn R.; Jankovsky, Amy L.; Reid, Concha M.; Miller, Thomas B.; Hoberecht, Mark A.
NASA's Exploration Technology Development Program funded the Energy Storage Project to develop battery and fuel cell technology to meet the expected energy storage needs of the Constellation Program for human exploration. Technology needs were determined by architecture studies and risk assessments conducted by the Constellation Program, focused on a mission for a long-duration lunar outpost. Critical energy storage needs were identified as batteries for EVA suits, surface mobility systems, and a lander ascent stage; fuel cells for the lander and mobility systems; and a regenerative fuel cell for surface power. To address these needs, the Energy Storage Project developed advanced lithium-ion battery technology, targeting cell-level safety and very high specific energy and energy density. Key accomplishments include the development of silicon composite anodes, lithiated-mixed-metal-oxide cathodes, low-flammability electrolytes, and cell-incorporated safety devices that promise to substantially improve battery performance while providing a high level of safety. The project also developed "non-flow-through" proton-exchange-membrane fuel cell stacks. The primary advantage of this technology set is the reduction of ancillary parts in the balance-of-plant--fewer pumps, separators and related components should result in fewer failure modes and hence a higher probability of achieving very reliable operation, and reduced parasitic power losses enable smaller reactant tanks and therefore systems with lower mass and volume. Key accomplishments include the fabrication and testing of several robust, small-scale nonflow-through fuel cell stacks that have demonstrated proof-of-concept. This report summarizes the project s goals, objectives, technical accomplishments, and risk assessments. A bibliography spanning the life of the project is also included.
In this paper you will find an overview of systems and energy storage techniques and a comparison of the important characteristics of them. Delocalized electricity production and the introduction of variable, fluctuating sources (renewable energy: solar, wind turbines, etc.) increase the difficulty of stabilizing the power network, mainly due to a supply-demand imbalance. It is therefore convenient to generate the energy, transmit it, convert it, and then store it if need be. More than ever t...
Graf, Sebastian
Our life without Internet-based services is hard to imagine: We search for information with Google, share thoughts on Facebook, buy at Amazon and store our pictures on Flickr. Many of these Internet-based services focus on easy exchange of information, providing comfortable and ubiquitous storage and sharing. Relieved from hardware purchases, software bug fixes and infrastructure maintenance, users as well as companies use these cloud-based stores either for free or at low-cost. The price is ...
Radioactive waste storage containers
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Purpose: To obtain storage containers with no destruction risks caused by external temperature changes and requiring neither cooling facility nor running cost. Constitution: Heat dissipation walls are disposed in adjacent with the inside of a concrete container. The heat dissipation walls constitute a vacuum container in which heat pipes having operation fluids sealed therein are disposed. Liquids having heat transfer function due to convection are charged in a space surrounded with the heat dissipation walls in which radioactive wastes are contained. (Ikeda, J.)
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This work, commissioned by the CEGB, studies the feasibility of a combination of short-term pond storage and long-term dry storage of Magnox spent fuel as a cheaper alternative to reprocessing. Storage would be either at the reactor site or a central site. Two designs are considered, based on existing design work done by GEC-ESL and NNC; the capsule design developed by NNC and with storage in passive vaults for up to 100 yrs and the GEC-ESL tube design developed at Wylfa for the interim storage of LWR. For the long-term storage of Magnox spent fuel the GEC-ESL tubed vault all-dry storage method is recommended and specifications for this method are given. (U.K.)
The comparison of the measurement of human serum thyroid globulin auto-antibodies and thyroid peroxidase auto-antibodies by CLIA and RIA
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The serum levels of thyroid globulin auto-antibodies (Anti-TgAb) and thyroid peroxidase auto-antibodies (Anti-TpoAb) in 37 patients with hyperthyroidism, 30 with chronic lymphocytic thyroidism, 36 with other endocrine diseases and 35 healthy persons were determined by chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) and RIA, and the results were compared with each other. The results showed: (1) The within-batch CVs of CLIA and RIA were 3.0% and 10.0%, and the between-batch CVs were 3.9% and 15.0%, respectively; (2) The levels of serum anti-TgAb and Anti-TpoAb in healthy people were 25.9±9.6 U/mL and 31.4±6.7U/mL by CLIA, while those were 11.2±2.8% and 8.7±3.0% by RIA; (3) The levels of serum anti-TgAb and Anti-TpoAb of chronic lymphocytic thyroidism were 292.6±334.1U/mL and 5043.3±3196.1U/mL (n=17) by CLIA, while those were 56.4±11.2% (n=21) and 35.4±6.9% (n=21) by RIA. It showed that levels of anti-TgAb and Anti-TpoAb of chronic lymphocytic thyroidism were much higher than that in healthy people by CLIA (P<0.001). Furthermore, the levels of Anti-TpoAb were more than 100 times of that in health people by CLIA and the specificity of Anti-TpoAb was higher; (4) The levels of anti-TgAb and Anti-TpoAb in hyperthyroid patients were 202.3±506.3U/mL and 452.9±645.8U/mL by CLIA, while those were 28.8±20.0% and 22.6±14.2% by RIA. The levels of Anti-TgAb and Anti-TpoAb in patients with other endocrine disease were 28.7±15.0U/mL and 58.8±45.7U/mL by CLIA, while those were 10.2 CLIA, while those were 10.2±13.3% and 7.9±7.7% by RIA; (5) These is a significant correlation between the two methods: Anti TgAb r=0.695; and Anti-TpoAb r=0.489. This results show that it may be more sensitive and specific test of Anti-TpoAb with CLIA than with RIA. CLIA should be used as a powerful diagnostic tool in clinical because it is simple, quick and without radioisotope
Association between sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and metabolic syndrome among men / Associaçăo entre globulina de ligaçăo a hormônio sexual (SHBG) e síndrome metabólica em homens
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Emmanuela Quental Callou de, Sá; Francisco Carleial Feijó de, Sá; Kelly Cristina, Oliveira; Fausto, Feres; Ieda Therezinha Nascimento, Verreschi.
Full Text Available CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: A síndrome metabólica (SM) consiste em um conjunto de fatores que implicam risco elevado para doenças cardiovasculares. O objetivo foi avaliar a associaçăo entre a globulina ligadora de esteroides sexuais (SHBG), hormônios sexuais e a SM em homens. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: [...] Análise retrospectiva de dados do estudo "Estradiol mas năo testosterona se correlaciona com doença arterial coronariana em homens", conduzido em um hospital em Săo Paulo. MÉTODOS: Foram selecionados pacientes do sexo masculino com idade entre 40 e 70 anos, submetidos a angiografia coronária. A idade, a prevalęncia de dislipidemia, hipertensăo e diabetes, o peso, a altura, cintura e o índice de massa corpórea de cada paciente foram coletados. A definiçăo de SM seguiu os critérios do NCEP-ATPIII. Amostras séricas foram coletadas para análises da glicose, colesterol total, colesterol-HDL (high density lipoprotein), triglicerídeos, albumina, SHBG, estradiol e testosterona total (TT). O colesterol-LDL (low density lipoprotein) foi calculado pela fórmula de Friedewald e as testosteronas livre (TL) e biodisponível (TB) pela fórmula de Vermeulen. RESULTADOS: Entraram no estudo 141 pacientes. A prevalęncia de SM foi significativamente maior no primeiro tercil de SHBG em comparaçăo ao segundo e terceiro tercis. Foi verificada uma associaçăo positiva e significativa ente os valores de SHBG e TT, porém essa associaçăo năo foi verificada entre SHBG e TB e TL. CONCLUSĂO: Baixos níveis séricos de SHBG estiveram associados com alta prevalęncia da SM em pacientes do sexo masculino. Faz-se necessário que estudos avaliem essa associaçăo. Abstract in english CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Metabolic syndrome consists of a set of factors that imply increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. The objective here was to evaluate the association between sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), sex hormones and metabolic syndrome among men. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retros [...] pective analysis on data from the study "Endogenous oestradiol but not testosterone is related to coronary artery disease in men", conducted in a hospital in Săo Paulo. METHODS: Men (aged 40-70) who underwent coronary angiography were selected. The age, weight, height, waist circumference, body mass index and prevalence of dyslipidemia, hypertension and diabetes of each patient were registered. Metabolic syndrome was defined in accordance with the criteria of the Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (NCEP-ATPIII). Serum samples were collected to assess the levels of glucose, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol (high density lipoprotein), triglycerides, albumin, SHBG, estradiol and total testosterone (TT). The levels of LDL-cholesterol (low density lipoprotein) were calculated using Friedewald's formula and free testosterone (FT) and bioavailable testosterone (BT) using Vermeulen's formula. RESULTS: 141 patients were enrolled in the study. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was significantly higher in the first SHBG tercile than in the second and third terciles. A statistically significant positive association between the SHBG and TT values was observed, but no such association was seen between SHBG, BT and FT. CONCLUSION: Low serum levels of SHBG are associated with higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome among male patients, but further studies are required to confirm this association.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Ellison, James; Bhatnagar, Dhruv; Karlson, Benjamin
This report investigates strategies to mitigate anticipated wind energy curtailment on Maui, with a focus on grid-level energy storage technology. The study team developed an hourly production cost model of the Maui Electric Company (MECO) system, with an expected 72 MW of wind generation and 15 MW of distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation in 2015, and used this model to investigate strategies that mitigate wind energy curtailment. It was found that storage projects can reduce both wind curtailment and the annual cost of producing power, and can do so in a cost-effective manner. Most of the savings achieved in these scenarios are not from replacing constant-cost diesel-fired generation with wind generation. Instead, the savings are achieved by the more efficient operation of the conventional units of the system. Using additional storage for spinning reserve enables the system to decrease the amount of spinning reserve provided by single-cycle units. This decreases the amount of generation from these units, which are often operated at their least efficient point (at minimum load). At the same time, the amount of spinning reserve from the efficient combined-cycle units also decreases, allowing these units to operate at higher, more efficient levels.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The present invention provides a condensate storage facility of a nuclear power plant capable of greatly extending the time for keeping plant endurability even upon occurrence of Station Black Out (SBO) and also excellent in view of location condition and economical property. Namely, a nuclear power plant generally comprises an integrated-type reactor building incorporating two reactors. A condensate storage facility thereof comprises a water source for ordinary use and water source for occurrence of severe accidents to be used in common between two reactors and emergency water sources disposed therebelow independently for the two reactors. Since the water source for ordinary use is used in common between the two plants, the total volume of the water source for ordinary use can be reduced compared with a case of independently disposing condensate storage vessels. The reduced amount can be kept in common for the water source for injecting to reactor cores upon occurrence of SBO. Endurability of the plants upon SBO can be improved without increasing the total volume of the water source. (I.S.)
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Environmental contamination from leaking underground storage tanks poses a significant threat to human health and the environment. An estimated five to six million underground storage tanks containing hazardous substances or petroleum products are in use in the US. Originally placed underground as a fire prevention measure, these tanks have substantially reduced the damages from stored flammable liquids. However, an estimated 400,000 underground tanks are thought to be leaking now, and many more will begin to leak in the near future. Products released from these leaking tanks can threaten groundwater supplies, damage sewer lines and buried cables, poison crops, and lead to fires and explosions. As required by the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments (HSWA), the EPA has been developing a comprehensive regulatory program for underground storage tanks. The EPA proposed three sets of regulations pertaining to underground tanks. The first addressed technical requirements for petroleum and hazardous substance tanks, including new tank performance standards, release detection, release reporting and investigation, corrective action, and tank closure. The second proposed regulation addresses financial responsibility requirements for underground petroleum tanks. The third addressed standards for approval of state tank programs
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In a dry spent nuclear fuel storage chamber, an atmosphere in a closed loop comprising storage cell/heated air collecting chamber/cooling air circulation path is filled with gases having a high thermal radiation absorbing performance. Heat released from the spent fuels heats a cylindrical vessel, gases in contact with the peripheral surface thereof and metal blocks constituting the storage cell. Since the gases having highly heat absorbing performance are filled, they are heated by absorbing radiation heat of the spent fuels, to improve the heat dissipation efficiency of the spent fuels. Accordingly, even if the heat generation amount of the spent fuels is great, the temperature elevation can be suppressed since the heat dissipation efficiency of the spent fuels is great due to radiation absorption. In addition, a phenomenon that the temperature of the cylindrical vessel is raised can be suppressed. As a result, fuels or mixed oxide fuels of a high burnup degree having greater heat generation amount compared with usual fuels can be stored safely and economically. (N.H.)
Linear capacity storage devices
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The linearity of information storage in capacitor storage circuits is discussed. The paper describes two storage circuits whose operation is linear over a wide range of output-signal amplitudes. In one of the circuits the error signal is measured by a differential amplifier and, thanks to the high amplification factor of the amplifier, good linearity is obtained. The second circuit was designed for work in the nanosecond pulse-width range. Input pulses of standard width cut off a pentode, in the anode of which there is a memory capacitor. Since the capacitor is charged from the anode supply through a current generator, the charging current remains almost constant during measurement of the capacitor voltage. The pentode has a large internal resistance so that after the end of the input pulse the magnitude of the current through the pentode is almost equal to its initial value, and the charge stored by the capacitor is remembered. The width of the information memory is limited by the output resistance of the current generator and the internal resistance (Ri) of the pentode. To increase the memory width, a diode may be inserted before the capacitor. (author)
Control of storage protein metabolism in the cotyledons of germinating mung beans: role of endopeptidase.
Chrispeels, M J; Boulter, D
The autodigestive proteolytic activity of extracts of cotyledons of mung beans (Phaseolus aureus Roxb.) increased 4- to 5-fold during germination. A similar increase was found in the ability of these extracts to digest added casein or mung bean globulins. The increase occurred after a 2-day lag during the next 2 to 3 days of germination and coincided with the period of rapid storage protein breakdown. To understand which enzyme(s) may be responsible for this increase in proteolytic activity, the hydrolytic activity of cotyledon extracts toward a number of synthetic substrates and proteins was measured. Germination was accompanied by a marked decline in leucine aminopeptidase, while carboxypeptidase increased about 50%. There were no dramatic changes in either alpha-mannosidase or N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, enzymes which may be involved in the metabolism of the carbohydrate moieties of the reserve glycoproteins. The increase in general proteolytic activity was closely paralleled by a 10-fold increase in endopeptidase activity. This activity was inhibited by sulfhydryl reagents such as N-ethylmaleimide. Studies with inhibitors of proteolytic enzymes showed that reagents which blocked sulfhydryl groups also inhibited the rise in general proteolytic activity. Our results suggest that the appearance of a sulfhydryl-type endopeptidase activity is a necessary prerequisite for the rapid metabolism of the reserve proteins which accompanies germination. PMID:16659204
Holographic Optical Data Storage
Timucin, Dogan A.; Downie, John D.; Norvig, Peter (Technical Monitor)
Although the basic idea may be traced back to the earlier X-ray diffraction studies of Sir W. L. Bragg, the holographic method as we know it was invented by D. Gabor in 1948 as a two-step lensless imaging technique to enhance the resolution of electron microscopy, for which he received the 1971 Nobel Prize in physics. The distinctive feature of holography is the recording of the object phase variations that carry the depth information, which is lost in conventional photography where only the intensity (= squared amplitude) distribution of an object is captured. Since all photosensitive media necessarily respond to the intensity incident upon them, an ingenious way had to be found to convert object phase into intensity variations, and Gabor achieved this by introducing a coherent reference wave along with the object wave during exposure. Gabor's in-line recording scheme, however, required the object in question to be largely transmissive, and could provide only marginal image quality due to unwanted terms simultaneously reconstructed along with the desired wavefront. Further handicapped by the lack of a strong coherent light source, optical holography thus seemed fated to remain just another scientific curiosity, until the field was revolutionized in the early 1960s by some major breakthroughs: the proposition and demonstration of the laser principle, the introduction of off-axis holography, and the invention of volume holography. Consequently, the remainder of that decade saw an exponential growth in research on theory, practice, and applications of holography. Today, holography not only boasts a wide variety of scientific and technical applications (e.g., holographic interferometry for strain, vibration, and flow analysis, microscopy and high-resolution imagery, imaging through distorting media, optical interconnects, holographic optical elements, optical neural networks, three-dimensional displays, data storage, etc.), but has become a prominent am advertising, and security medium as well. The evolution of holographic optical memories has followed a path not altogether different from holography itself, with several cycles of alternating interest over the past four decades. P. J. van Heerden is widely credited for being the first to elucidate the principles behind holographic data storage in a 1963 paper, predicting bit storage densities on the order of 1/lambda(sup 3) with source wavelength lambda - a fantastic capacity of nearly 1 TB/cu cm for visible light! The science and engineering of such a storage paradigm was heavily pursued thereafter, resulting in many novel hologram multiplexing techniques for dense data storage, as well as important advances in holographic recording materials. Ultimately, however, the lack of such enabling technologies as compact laser sources and high performance optical data I/O devices dampened the hopes for the development of a commercial product. After a period of relative dormancy, successful applications of holography in other arenas sparked a renewed interest in holographic data storage in the late 1980s and the early 1990s. Currently, with most of the critical optoelectronic device technologies in place and the quest for an ideal holographic recording medium intensified, holography is once again considered as one of several future data storage paradigms that may answer our constantly growing need for higher-capacity and faster-access memories.
Storage Management and Data Acquisition
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Kavya Bhat
Full Text Available Enterprise storage is the computer data storage designed for large-scale, high-technology environments of the modern enterprises which is very time efficient where in stored data can be accessed in less time. When comparing to the consumer storage, it has higher scalability, higher reliability and better fault tolerance. As well, criticality of data varies between enterprises. Challenges faced in current scenario to store big data are in terms of cost, data loss, efficiency while accessing data, maintaining consistency of data and many more. In order to provide better storage solution and data management, the proposed solution came up with platform of Workflow Automation (WFA. WFA is an active management tool which directly allocates storage on storage server based on client request. It depends on a data source i.e., OnCommand Unified Manager (OCUM to monitor the storage components. OCUM acts as a passive reporting tool, which polls all the storage data at different time stamps. The monitored data includes parameters and attributes of storage component like corrupted disk data, normal disk data or may be some lack of storage space. WFA has cache based intelligence and it acquires only relevant data of context from OCUM. Based on this acquired cache data, WFA can provide better storage solutions and data management by which it takes care of conditions like maintaining health of storage and takes appropriate actions like migrating data, replacing corrupted disk etc., The acquired cache data can be queried by filter/ finders to select storage component as a resource on which data is stored. The results of which will work on selective resource, to execute specific task of interest using workflows. Query results return the count of storage components and related information to verify consistency and no data loss from any storage resource. Hence the proposed solution helps in performance tuning of big data storage solutions in terms of data access time, reliability, efficiency, data consistency and security. It reduces the cost of managing storage, enables adherence to best practices for storage processes.
Underground storage tanks and aboveground storage tanks regulatory update
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Petroleum Storage Tank Division was established on September 1, 1989, to administer additional agency functions resulting from legislation enacted by the 71st Texas Legislature, 1989. The primary statutory authority for the Texas Water Commission's regulatory program for underground storage tanks (USTs) and aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) is Subchapter I of Chapter 26, Texas Water Code. This statute was originally enacted by Senate Bill 779 for the 70th Texas Legislature, 1987, and was subsequently amended by House Bill 1588 and House Bill 183 of the 71st Texas Legislature, 1989. House Bill 1588 was established in response to the growing concern for public health and safety, the protection of state waters and financial impacts that may result when a release occurs from an underground or aboveground storage tank. Subsequently, the Petroleum Storage Tank Remediation Fund was created to financially assist storage tank owners and operators in responding to petroleum releases
Terrestrial Energy Storage SPS Systems
Brandhorst, Henry W., Jr.
Terrestrial energy storage systems for the SSP system were evaluated that could maintain the 1.2 GW power level during periods of brief outages from the solar powered satellite (SPS). Short-term outages of ten minutes and long-term outages up to four hours have been identified as "typical" cases where the ground-based energy storage system would be required to supply power to the grid. These brief interruptions in transmission could result from performing maintenance on the solar power satellite or from safety considerations necessitating the power beam be turned off. For example, one situation would be to allow for the safe passage of airplanes through the space occupied by the beam. Under these conditions, the energy storage system needs to be capable of storing 200 MW-hrs and 4.8 GW-hrs, respectively. The types of energy storage systems to be considered include compressed air energy storage, inertial energy storage, electrochemical energy storage, superconducting magnetic energy storage, and pumped hydro energy storage. For each of these technologies, the state-of-the-art in terms of energy and power densities were identified as well as the potential for scaling to the size systems required by the SSP system. Other issues addressed included the performance, life expectancy, cost, and necessary infrastructure and site locations for the various storage technologies.
Low temperature latent heat thermal energy storage - Heat storage materials
Abhat, A.
Heat-of-fusion storage materials for low temperature latent heat storage in the temperature range 0-120 C are reviewed. Organic and inorganic heat storage materials classified as paraffins, fatty acids, inorganic salt hydrates and eutectic compounds are considered. The melting and freezing behavior of the various substances is investigated using the techniques of Thermal Analysis and Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The importance of thermal cycling tests for establishing the long-term stability of the storage materials is discussed. Finally, some data pertaining to the corrosion compatibility of heat-of-fusion substances with conventional materials of construction is presented.
Prevención de la isoinmunización materna al RhD, con gamma-globulina anti-D / Prevention of maternal RhD isoimmunization with anti-D gamma globulin
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Héctor Alfredo, Baptista-González; Fany, Rosenfeld-Mann; Teresita, Leiss-Márquez.
Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Presentar la experiencia institucional en la prevención de la isoinmunización al RhD, mediante el empleo de 150 µg de gamma-globulina anti-D en las mujeres Rh negativo. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se registraron los antecedentes inmunohematológicos de los casos consecutivos de todas las mujeres Rh [...] negativo que acudieron, para su atención médica, al Instituto Nacional de Perinatología entre 1982 y 1995. A las mujeres con riesgo de isoinmunización se les aplicó 150 µg de gamma-globulina anti-D, con fines preventivos. RESULTADOS: En el periodo de estudio ingresaron 4 857 mujeres Rh negativo (4.85% del total de mujeres), de las cuales 629 (13.0%), presentaron isoinmunización al RhD. De estas últimas, 542 (86.2%) ya se encontraron isoinmunizadas desde antes de su ingreso al Instituto. En 22 casos (3.5%), la isoinmunización ocurrió a pesar de que recibieron la dosis adecuada de gamma-globulina anti D. De las 2 605 pacientes (53.6%) sometidas a prevención, a 2 039 se les aplicó una sola dosis, y a 475, hasta dos dosis. En 22 casos se documentó la falla de la prevención; sin embargo, en cuatro de ellos, se registraron embarazos múltiples, y los restantes 18 presentaron patología obstétrica asociada. CONCLUSIONES: Mediante este programa de prevención, consistente en administrar 150 µg de gamma-globulina anti-D por dosis, es posible reducir la isoinmunización a menos de un caso por cada 1 000 mujeres. Los fracasos en la prevención de la isoinmunización se asociaron a condiciones obstétricas agregadas y al incumplimiento de las guías o lineamientos del programa. El texto completo en inglés de este artículo está disponible en: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html Abstract in english OBJECTIVE: To report our experience in preventing RhD maternal isoimmunization by using anti-D gamma globulin among Rh-negative women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 1982 and 1995, immunologic and hematologic data were collected from all Rh-negative women seen at Mexico's National Perinatology Instit [...] ute. Women at risk of Rh isoimmunization were given a prophylactic dose of 150 µg of anti-D gamma globulin. RESULTS: A total of 4 857 Rh-negative women were seen during the study period (4.85% of the total population of women seen at the Institute), 629 (13.0%) of whom developed RhD isoimmunization; 542 (86.2%) of these women were already isoimmunized when first seen at our Institute. Twenty-two women (3.5%) developed isoimmunization even after receiving a proper dose of anti-D gamma globulin. Prophylaxis was given to 2 605 women (53.6%); 2 039 received a single dose, and 475 two doses. Prophylaxis failed in 22 cases; four were women with multiple pregnancy and 18 developed obstetric pathologic conditions. CONCLUSIONS: The use of anti-D gamma globulin resulted in a reduction of maternal Rh isoimmunization to less than one case per 1 000 women. Failures to prevent isoimmunization were associated to additional obstetric conditions and to lack of adherence to prevention guidelines. The English version of this paper is available at: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html
Improving wind power quality with energy storage
Rasmussen, Claus Nygaard
The results of simulation of the influence of energy storage on wind power quality are presented. Simulations are done using a mathematical model of energy storage. Results show the relation between storage power and energy, and the obtained increase in minimum available power from the combination of wind and storage. The introduction of storage enables smoothening of wind power on a timescale proportional to the storage energy. Storage does not provide availability of wind power at all times...
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Rawlins, J.K.
High-level radioactive waste (HLW) stored at the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant (ICPP) in the form of calcine and liquid and liquid sodium-bearing waste (SBW) will be processed to provide a stable waste form and prepare the waste to be transported to a permanent repository. Because a permanent repository will not be available when the waste is processed, the waste must be stored at ICPP in an Interim Storage Facility (ISF). This report documents consideration of an ISF for each of the waste processing options under consideration.
Monitored retrievable storage status
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Department of Energy (DOE) is preparing a proposal for Congressional consideration of the inclusion of a monitored retrievable storage (MRS) facility as part of the Federal Nuclear Waste Management System. The DOE plans to submit the proposal package to the Congress by January 15, 1986. The proposed preferred location of the MRS facility is the former Clinch River Breeder site in the state of Tennessee. If the Congress approves implementation of the MRS proposal, it is estimated that the facility could be licensed and operational in ten years
Compact electron storage rings
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
There have been many recent developments in the area of compact storage rings. Such rings would have critical wavelengths of typically 10 A, achieved with beam energies of several hundreds of MeV and superconducting dipole fields of around 5 Tesla. Although the primary motivation for progress in this area is that of commercial x-ray lithography, such sources might be an attractive source for college campuses to operate. They would be useful for many programs in materials science, solid state, x-ray microscopy and other biological areas. We discuss the properties of such sources and review developments around the world, primarily in the USA, japan and W. Germany
Division SPL, groupe logistique; A. Notar
From 3 January 2000 there will be a security barrier in front of the storage-recycling area in bldg 133, which will be accessible only to authorised staff and contractors.You are reminded that the equipment delivered to this area must be unpolluted and non-radioactive. The cost of recycling the equipment will be debited to the budget code of the Division concerned, with the prior approval of the Group Leader.Reminder relating to equipment salesThe Sales Section is open on Thursdays from 13.30 to 15.00 hours only.SPL DivisionLogistics GroupA. Notari
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Texas Experimental Tokamak (TEXT) Enery Storage System, designed by the Center for Electromechanics (CEM), consists of four 50 MJ, 125 V homopolar generators and their auxiliaries and is designed to power the toroidal and poloidal field coils of TEXT on a two-minute duty cycle. The four 50 MJ generators connected in series were chosen because they represent the minimum cost configuration and also represent a minimal scale up from the successful 5.0 MJ homopolar generator designed, built, and operated by the CEM
Radioactive mixed waste storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Various types of waste have been generated during the 50-year history of the Hanford Site. Regulatory changes in the last 20 years have provided the emphasis for better management of these wastes. Interpretations of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (AEA) (reference 1) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA) (reference 2) have led to the definition of a group of wastes called radioactive mixed wastes (RMW). As a result of the radioactive and hazardous properties of these wastes, special projects have been initiated for the management of RMW. This paper addresses the storage of solid RMW. The management of bulk liquid RMW will not be described
Gas Storage Technology Consortium
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Joel Morrison; Elizabeth Wood; Barbara Robuck
The EMS Energy Institute at The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) has managed the Gas Storage Technology Consortium (GSTC) since its inception in 2003. The GSTC infrastructure provided a means to accomplish industry-driven research and development designed to enhance the operational flexibility and deliverability of the nation's gas storage system, and provide a cost-effective, safe, and reliable supply of natural gas to meet domestic demand. The GSTC received base funding from the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) Oil & Natural Gas Supply Program. The GSTC base funds were highly leveraged with industry funding for individual projects. Since its inception, the GSTC has engaged 67 members. The GSTC membership base was diverse, coming from 19 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. The membership was comprised of natural gas storage field operators, service companies, industry consultants, industry trade organizations, and academia. The GSTC organized and hosted a total of 18 meetings since 2003. Of these, 8 meetings were held to review, discuss, and select proposals submitted for funding consideration. The GSTC reviewed a total of 75 proposals and committed co-funding to support 31 industry-driven projects. The GSTC committed co-funding to 41.3% of the proposals that it received and reviewed. The 31 projects had a total project value of $6,203,071 of which the GSTC committed $3,205,978 in co-funding. The committed GSTC project funding represented an average program cost share of 51.7%. Project applicants provided an average program cost share of 48.3%. In addition to the GSTC co-funding, the consortium provided the domestic natural gas storage industry with a technology transfer and outreach infrastructure. The technology transfer and outreach were conducted by having project mentoring teams and a GSTC website, and by working closely with the Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI) to jointly host technology transfer meetings and occasional field excursions. A total of 15 technology transfer/strategic planning workshops were held.
Regulated underground storage tanks
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This guidance package is designed to assist DOE Field operations by providing thorough guidance on the underground storage tank (UST) regulations. [40 CFR 280]. The guidance uses tables, flowcharts, and checklists to provide a ''roadmap'' for DOE staff who are responsible for supervising UST operations. This package is tailored to address the issues facing DOE facilities. DOE staff should use this guidance as: An overview of the regulations for UST installation and operation; a comprehensive step-by-step guidance for the process of owning and operating an UST, from installation to closure; and a quick, ready-reference guide for any specific topic concerning UST ownership or operation
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This report is a joint effort of Gesellschaft fuer Strahlen- und Umweltforschung mbH Muenchen and Gesellschaft fuer Kernforschung mbH Karlsruhe, presenting a survey of the work performed in 1974 in the field of disposal of radioactive waste. The mining and construction work is discussed, which was carried out both underground and above at the ASSE Salt Mine near Remlingen and which was done for repair, maintenance and expansion of operation in accordance with its future purpose. Moreover, the report gives information on the present status of research and of its results. Also new storage techniques are reported which are currently in the planning stage. (orig.)
Materials for hydrogen storage
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Andreas Züttel
The goal is to pack hydrogen as close as possible, i.e. to reach the highest volumetric density by using as little additional material as possible. Hydrogen storage implies the reduction of an enormous volume of hydrogen gas. At ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure, 1 kg of the gas has a volume of 11 m3. To increase hydrogen density, work must either be applied to compress the gas, the temperature decreased below the critical temperature, or the repulsion reduced by the interaction of hydrogen with another material.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A brief overview of synchrotron storage rings for heavy ions, which are presently under construction in different accelerator laboratories is given. Ions ranging from protons up to uranium ions at MeV/nucleon energies will be injected into these rings using multiturn injection from the accelerators available or being built in these laboratories. After injection, it is planned to cool the phase space distribution of the ions by merging them with cold electron beams or laser beams, or by using stochastic cooling. Some atomic physics experiments planned for these rings are presented
Experimental aquifer heat storage
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Carotenuto, A.; Fucci, F.; La Fianza, G.; Reale, F. (Naples Univ. (Italy). Dipt. di Energetica Cassino Univ. (Italy). Facolta' di Ingegneria)
A natural thermal energy accumulation plant is described which is being implemented within the grounds of the C.I.R.A. (Italian Center for Aerospace Research). The feasibility study involves the evaluation of the thermal energy storage efficiency of an aquifer which has suitable characteristics. A methodology is given for the estimation of particular parameters used to assess the suitability of the aquifer as a thermal energy reservoir. Numerical results are presented and a preliminary evaluation of the aquifer efficiency is carried out. Finally, a description of the aquifer hydrogeological parameters and the drilling device design data are given.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
High-level radioactive waste (HLW) stored at the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant (ICPP) in the form of calcine and liquid and liquid sodium-bearing waste (SBW) will be processed to provide a stable waste form and prepare the waste to be transported to a permanent repository. Because a permanent repository will not be available when the waste is processed, the waste must be stored at ICPP in an Interim Storage Facility (ISF). This report documents consideration of an ISF for each of the waste processing options under consideration
Sex hormone binding globulin decrease as potential pathogenetic factor for hirsutism in adolescent girls Disminución de la globulina transportadora de hormonas sexuales como factor patogénico de hirsutismo en la adolescencia
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Graciela Cross
Full Text Available We investigated 252 non-obese female subjects aged 13-39 years to evaluate if an exaggerated descent of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG levels during adolescence can play a role in the development of hirsutism. Body hair was assessed according to Ferriman and Gallwey (FG, with a stringent criterion of normality of 4 and controls (FG Se investigaron 252 mujeres con peso normal, de 13 a 39 ańos de edad, para evaluar si un descenso exagerado en los niveles de la globulina transportadora de hormonas sexuales ("sex hormone binding globulin"; SHBG puede tener un rol en el desarrollo de hirsutismo. Este signo fue evaluado con la escala de Ferriman y Gallwey (FG, empleando un criterio riguroso de normalidad 4 y controles (FG < 4, ciclos menstruales regulares, sin acné. En adolescentes de 15-18 ańos, los valores de SHBG fueron menores en las "hirsutas", los niveles de FT fueron similares en ambos grupos y el índice de FG correlacionó inversamente con SHBG. En las mujeres de 19-39 ańos, los niveles de FT fueron mayores en las "hirsutas", los valores de SHBG fueron similares en ambos grupos y FG correlacionó positivamente con FT. Los valores más bajos de SHBG se observaron entre 15 y 18 ańos, pero la pendiente de disminución a partir de los valores de 13-14 ańos fue mayor en el grupo de "hirsutas". Los valores de FT se incrementaron progresivamente con la edad, pero el aumento fue mayor en el grupo de "hirsutas". Estos resultados sugieren un rol importante del descenso de SHBG en la adolescencia vs. un incremento más acentuado de los niveles de testosterona en las adultas, como factores que condicionan el desarrollo del hirsutismo en esos dos diferentes periodos de la vida.
IAEA spent fuel storage glossary
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The aim of this glossary is to provide a basis for improved international understanding of terms used in the important area of spent fuel storage technology. The glossary is the product of an IAEA Consultant Group with valuable input from a substantial list of reviewers. The glossary emphasizes fuel storage relevant to power reactors, but is also widely applicable to research reactors. The intention is to define terms from current technologies. Terms are limited to those directly related to spent fuel storage
Storage Phosphors for Medical Imaging
Peter Willems; Dirk Vandenbroucke; Paul Leblans
Computed radiography (CR) uses storage phosphor imaging plates for digital imaging. Absorbed X-ray energy is stored in crystal defects. In read-out the energy is set free as blue photons upon optical stimulation. In the 35 years of CR history, several storage phosphor families were investigated and developed. An explanation is given as to why some materials made it to the commercial stage, while others did not. The photo stimulated luminescence mechanism of the current commercial storage phos...
Article for thermal energy storage
Salyer, Ival O. (Dayton, OH)
A thermal energy storage composition is provided which is in the form of a gel. The composition includes a phase change material and silica particles, where the phase change material may comprise a linear alkyl hydrocarbon, water/urea, or water. The thermal energy storage composition has a high thermal conductivity, high thermal energy storage, and may be used in a variety of applications such as in thermal shipping containers and gel packs.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This paper presents a novel idea of storage ring for the accumulation of intense beams of light and heavy ions at low energy. The new concept is a natural development of the combined features used in a conventional storage ring and an ion trap, and is basically a linear RFQ bend on itself. In summary the advantages are: smaller beam dimensions, higher beam intensity, and a more compact storage device
The Fermilab data storage infrastructure
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Fermilab, in collaboration with the DESY laboratory in Hamburg, Germany, has created a petabyte scale data storage infrastructure to meet the requirements of experiments to store and access large data sets. The Fermilab data storage infrastructure consists of the following major storage and data transfer components: Enstore mass storage system, DCache distributed data cache, ftp and Grid ftp for primarily external data transfers. This infrastructure provides a data throughput sufficient for transferring data from experiments' data acquisition systems. It also allows access to data in the Grid framework
The Petascale Data Storage Institute
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Gibson, Garth [Carnegie Mellon University; Long, Darrell [The Regents of the University of California, Santa Cruz; Honeyman, Peter [University of Michigan at Ann Arbor; Grider, Gary [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Kramer, William [National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center; Shalf, John [National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center; Roth, Philip [Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Felix, Evan [Pacific Northwest National Laboratory; Ward, Lee [Sandia National Laboratory
Petascale computing infrastructures for scientific discovery make petascale demands on information storage capacity, performance, concurrency, reliability, availability, and manageability. The Petascale Data Storage Institute focuses on the data storage problems found in petascale scientific computing environments, with special attention to community issues such as interoperability, community buy-in, and shared tools. The Petascale Data Storage Institute is a collaboration between researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, University of Michigan, and the University of California at Santa Cruz.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The availability of a reliable, accurate and cost-effective real-time personnel dosimetry system is fascinating to radiation workers. Electronic dosimeters are contemplated to meet this demand of active dosimetry. The development of direct ion storage (DIS) dosimeters, a member of the electronic dosimeter family, for personnel dosimetry is also an attempt in this direction. DIS dosimeter is a hybrid of the well-established technology of ion chambers and the latest advances in data storage using metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) analog memory device. This dosimeter is capable of monitoring legal occupational radiation doses of gamma, X-rays, beta and neutron radiation. Similar to an ion chamber, the performance of the dosimeter for a particular application can be optimized through the selection of appropriate wall materials. The use of the floating gate of a MOSFET as one of the electrodes of the ion chamber allows the miniaturization of the device to the size of a dosimetry badge and avoids the use of power supplies during dose accumulation. The concept of the device, underlying physics and the design of the DIS dosimeter are discussed. The results of preliminary testing of the device are also provided
Welding Plutonium Storage Containers
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The outer can welder (OCW) in the FB-Line Facility at the Savannah River Site (SRS) is a Gas Tungsten Arc Weld (GTAW) system used to create outer canisters compliant with the Department of Energy 3013 Standard, DOE-STD-3013-2000, Stabilization, Packaging, and Storage of Plutonium-Bearing Materials. The key welding parameters controlled and monitored on the outer can welder Data Acquisition System (DAS) are weld amperage, weld voltage, and weld rotational speed. Inner 3013 canisters from the Bagless Transfer System that contain plutonium metal or plutonium oxide are placed inside an outer 3013 canister. The canister is back-filled with helium and welded using the outer can welder. The completed weld is screened to determine if it is satisfactory by reviewing the OCW DAS key welding parameters, performing a helium leak check, performing a visual examination by a qualified weld inspector, and performing digital radiography of the completed weld. Canisters with unsatisfactory welds are cut open and repackaged. Canisters with satisfactory welds are deemed compliant with the 3013 standard for long-term storage
Underground storage tank program
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Underground storage tanks, UST'S, have become a major component of the Louisville District's Environmental Support Program. The District's Geotechnical and Environmental Engineering Branch has spear-headed an innovative effort to streamline the time, effort and expense for removal, replacement, upgrade and associated cleanup of USTs at military and civil work installations. This program, called Yank-A-Tank, creates generic state-wide contracts for removal, remediation, installation and upgrade of storage tanks for which individual delivery orders are written under the basic contract. The idea is to create a ''JOC type'' contract containing all the components of work necessary to remove, reinstall or upgrade an underground or above ground tank. The contract documents contain a set of generic specifications and unit price books in addition to the standard ''boiler plate'' information. Each contract requires conformance to the specific regulations for the state in which it is issued. The contractor's bid consists of a bid factor which in the multiplier used with the prices in the unit price book. The solicitation is issued as a Request for Proposal (RPP) which allows the government to select a contractor based on technical qualification an well as bid factor. Once the basic contract is awarded individual delivery orders addressing specific areas of work are scoped, negotiated and awarded an modifications to the original contract. The delivery orders utilize the prepriced The delivery orders utilize the prepriced components and the contractor's factor to determine the value of the work
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Some basic issues involved in injecting the beam into storage rings with the principal parameters of those studied at the workshop have been considered. The main conclusion is that straightforward adjustments of the storage ring parameters makes injection easy. The largest number of injected turns is fourteen, and the phase space dilution allowance seems adequate to ensure very small beam loss during injection. The adjustments also result in lower bending magnet fields, and high field superconducting magnets (e.g., 5 Tesla) are not necessary. The design changes do not necessarily affect the Keil-Schnell criterion for stability of the longitudinal microwave instability, although that criterion appears to be irrelevant. Because the beams are expected to be unstable, but with slow growth rates, the vacuum chamber impedances required to give equal risetimes for the various designs are compared for systems posing various degrees of difficulty for injection. Finally, the impact of the parameters on cost is noted, and a system is considered that cuts the length of the linac in half by using doubly charged ions
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Woike, T. [Koeln Univ., Inst. fuer Kristallography, Koeln (Germany)
In order to increase storage capacity and data transfer velocity by about three orders of magnitude compared to CD or magnetic disc it is necessary to work with optical techniques, especially with holography. About 100 TByte can be stored in a waver of an area of 50 cm{sup 2} via holograms which corresponds to a density of 2.10{sup 9} Byte/mm{sup 2}. Every hologram contains data of 1 MByte, so that parallel-processing is possible for read-out. Using high-speed CCD-arrays a read-out velocity of 1 MByte/{mu}sec can be reached. Further, holographic technics are very important in solid state physics. We will discuss the existence of a space charge field in Sr{sub 1-x}Ba{sub x}Nb{sub 2}O{sub 6} doped with cerium and the physical properties of metastable states, which are suited for information storage. (author) 19 figs., 9 refs.
Flywheel energy storage workshop
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
O`Kain, D.; Carmack, J. [comps.
Since the November 1993 Flywheel Workshop, there has been a major surge of interest in Flywheel Energy Storage. Numerous flywheel programs have been funded by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), by the Department of Energy (DOE) through the Hybrid Vehicle Program, and by private investment. Several new prototype systems have been built and are being tested. The operational performance characteristics of flywheel energy storage are being recognized as attractive for a number of potential applications. Programs are underway to develop flywheels for cars, buses, boats, trains, satellites, and for electric utility applications such as power quality, uninterruptible power supplies, and load leveling. With the tremendous amount of flywheel activity during the last two years, this workshop should again provide an excellent opportunity for presentation of new information. This workshop is jointly sponsored by ARPA and DOE to provide a review of the status of current flywheel programs and to provide a forum for presentation of new flywheel technology. Technology areas of interest include flywheel applications, flywheel systems, design, materials, fabrication, assembly, safety & containment, ball bearings, magnetic bearings, motor/generators, power electronics, mounting systems, test procedures, and systems integration. Information from the workshop will help guide ARPA & DOE planning for future flywheel programs. This document is comprised of detailed viewgraphs.
Electrochemical hydrogen Storage Systems
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
As the global need for energy increases, scientists and engineers have found a possible solution by using hydrogen to power our world. Although hydrogen can be combusted as a fuel, it is considered an energy carrier for use in fuel cells wherein it is consumed (oxidized) without the production of greenhouse gases and produces electrical energy with high efficiency. Chemical storage of hydrogen involves release of hydrogen in a controlled manner from materials in which the hydrogen is covalently bound. Sodium borohydride and aminoborane are two materials given consideration as chemical hydrogen storage materials by the US Department of Energy. A very significant barrier to adoption of these materials as hydrogen carriers is their regeneration from 'spent fuel,' i.e., the material remaining after discharge of hydrogen. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) formed a Center of Excellence for Chemical Hydrogen Storage, and this work stems from that project. The DOE has identified boron hydrides as being the main compounds of interest as hydrogen storage materials. The various boron hydrides are then oxidized to release their hydrogen, thereby forming a 'spent fuel' in the form of a lower boron hydride or even a boron oxide. The ultimate goal of this project is to take the oxidized boron hydrides as the spent fuel and hydrogenate them back to their original form so they can be used again as a fuel. Thus this research is essentially a boron hydride recycling project. In this report, research directed at regeneration of sodium borohydride and aminoborane is described. For sodium borohydride, electrochemical reduction of boric acid and sodium metaborate (representing spent fuel) in alkaline, aqueous solution has been investigated. Similarly to literature reports (primarily patents), a variety of cathode materials were tried in these experiments. Additionally, approaches directed at overcoming electrostatic repulsion of borate anion from the cathode, not described in the previous literature for electrochemical reduction of spent fuels, have been attempted. A quantitative analytical method for measuring the concentration of sodium borohydride in alkaline aqueous solution has been developed as part of this work and is described herein. Finally, findings from stability tests for sodium borohydride in aqueous solutions of several different compositions are reported. For aminoborane, other research institutes have developed regeneration schemes involving tributyltin hydride. In this report, electrochemical reduction experiments attempting to regenerate tributyltin hydride from tributyltin chloride (a representative by-product of the regeneration scheme) are described. These experiments were performed in the non-aqueous solvents acetonitrile and 1,2-dimethoxyethane. A non-aqueous reference electrode for electrolysis experiments in acetonitrile was developed and is described. One class of boron hydrides, called polyhedral boranes, became of interest to the DOE due to their ability to contain a sufficient amount of hydrogen to meet program goals and because of their physical and chemical safety attributes. Unfortunately, the research performed here has shown that polyhedral boranes do not react in such a way as to allow enough hydrogen to be released, nor do they appear to undergo hydrogenation from the spent fuel form back to the original hydride. After the polyhedral boranes were investigated, the project goals remained the same but the hydrogen storage material was switched by the DOE to ammonia borane. Ammonia borane was found to undergo an irreversible hydrogen release process, so a direct hydrogenation was not able to occur. To achieve the hydrogenation of the spent ammonia borane fuel, an indirect hydrogenation reaction is possible by using compounds called organotin hydrides. In this process, the organotin hydrides will hydrogenate the spent ammonia borane fuel at the cost of their own oxidation, which forms organotin halides. To enable a closed-loop cycle, our task was then to be able to hydrogenate the organotin halides back to th
Electrochemical hydrogen Storage Systems
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Dr. Digby Macdonald
As the global need for energy increases, scientists and engineers have found a possible solution by using hydrogen to power our world. Although hydrogen can be combusted as a fuel, it is considered an energy carrier for use in fuel cells wherein it is consumed (oxidized) without the production of greenhouse gases and produces electrical energy with high efficiency. Chemical storage of hydrogen involves release of hydrogen in a controlled manner from materials in which the hydrogen is covalently bound. Sodium borohydride and aminoborane are two materials given consideration as chemical hydrogen storage materials by the US Department of Energy. A very significant barrier to adoption of these materials as hydrogen carriers is their regeneration from 'spent fuel,' i.e., the material remaining after discharge of hydrogen. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) formed a Center of Excellence for Chemical Hydrogen Storage, and this work stems from that project. The DOE has identified boron hydrides as being the main compounds of interest as hydrogen storage materials. The various boron hydrides are then oxidized to release their hydrogen, thereby forming a 'spent fuel' in the form of a lower boron hydride or even a boron oxide. The ultimate goal of this project is to take the oxidized boron hydrides as the spent fuel and hydrogenate them back to their original form so they can be used again as a fuel. Thus this research is essentially a boron hydride recycling project. In this report, research directed at regeneration of sodium borohydride and aminoborane is described. For sodium borohydride, electrochemical reduction of boric acid and sodium metaborate (representing spent fuel) in alkaline, aqueous solution has been investigated. Similarly to literature reports (primarily patents), a variety of cathode materials were tried in these experiments. Additionally, approaches directed at overcoming electrostatic repulsion of borate anion from the cathode, not described in the previous literature for electrochemical reduction of spent fuels, have been attempted. A quantitative analytical method for measuring the concentration of sodium borohydride in alkaline aqueous solution has been developed as part of this work and is described herein. Finally, findings from stability tests for sodium borohydride in aqueous solutions of several different compositions are reported. For aminoborane, other research institutes have developed regeneration schemes involving tributyltin hydride. In this report, electrochemical reduction experiments attempting to regenerate tributyltin hydride from tributyltin chloride (a representative by-product of the regeneration scheme) are described. These experiments were performed in the non-aqueous solvents acetonitrile and 1,2-dimethoxyethane. A non-aqueous reference electrode for electrolysis experiments in acetonitrile was developed and is described. One class of boron hydrides, called polyhedral boranes, became of interest to the DOE due to their ability to contain a sufficient amount of hydrogen to meet program goals and because of their physical and chemical safety attributes. Unfortunately, the research performed here has shown that polyhedral boranes do not react in such a way as to allow enough hydrogen to be released, nor do they appear to undergo hydrogenation from the spent fuel form back to the original hydride. After the polyhedral boranes were investigated, the project goals remained the same but the hydrogen storage material was switched by the DOE to ammonia borane. Ammonia borane was found to undergo an irreversible hydrogen release process, so a direct hydrogenation was not able to occur. To achieve the hydrogenation of the spent ammonia borane fuel, an indirect hydrogenation reaction is possible by using compounds called organotin hydrides. In this process, the organotin hydrides will hydrogenate the spent ammonia borane fuel at the cost of their own oxidation, which forms organotin halides. To enable a closed-loop cycle, our task was then to be able to hydrogenate the organoti
Multi personal computer storage system. The solution of PACS storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Objective: According to the characteristics of digital medicine and demand of digitized management in hospital, the authors establish a storage system which is cheap, highly expansible, and reliable. Methods: The multi personal computer storage system (MPCSS) was constructed by assembling the hardware and software. The image data were archived from major server to storage PC by using NEUSOFT-PACS archiving manage system and backup on storage PC. The authors simulated the situation that the data on storage PC was lost and restored the data. The authors also expanded the storage system to enlarge its capacity. Results: Average transfer rate from MPCSS was 27.7 Mbit/s(1 byte = 8 bit); average cost for this system was 74 RMB/G; six cases in the 187 repeated reading of 100 patients failed. MPCSS can store backup and restore the image data, and can expand the storage size. Conclusion: MPCSS is very cheap compared with other high capacity systems or devices. It is feasible and suitable for digital image storage
A review of pumped energy storage schemes
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The comparative advantages and costs of pumped water storage, steam accumulators, storage of boiler feedwater , and compressed air storage in caverns are described. Boiler feedwater storage in caverns and pumped water storage are most economical. All systems are costly enough to justify developing reactors with load following capabilities. (E.C.B.)
Optical Storage Performance Modeling and Evaluation.
Behera, Bailochan; Singh, Harpreet
Evaluates different types of storage media for long-term archival storage of large amounts of data. Existing storage media are reviewed, including optical disks, optical tape, magnetic storage, and microfilm; three models are proposed based on document storage requirements; performance analysis is considered; and cost effectiveness is discussed.…
Spent fuel storage - dry storage options and issues
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The increase in the number of nuclear energy power generation facilities will require the ability to store the spent nuclear fuel for a long period until the host countries develop reprocessing or disposal options. Plants have storage pools which are closely associated with the operating units. These are excellent for short term storage, but require active maintenance and operations support which are not desirable for the long term. Over the past 25 years, dry storage options have been developed and implemented throughout the world. In recent years, protection against terrorist attack has become an increasing source of design objectives for these facilities, as well as the main nuclear plant. This paper explores the current design options of dry storage cask systems and examines some of the current design issues for above ground , in-ground, or below-ground storage of spent fuel in dry casks. (author)
Licensing of spent fuel dry storage and consolidated rod storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The results of this study, performed by Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) and sponsored by the US Department of Energy (DOE), respond to the nuclear industry's recommendation that a report be prepared that collects and describes the licensing issues (and their resolutions) that confront a new applicant requesting approval from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for dry storage of spent fuel or for large-scale storage of consolidated spent fuel rods in pools. The issues are identified in comments, questions, and requests from the NRC during its review of applicants' submittals. Included in the report are discussions of (1) the 18 topical reports on cask and module designs for dry storage fuel that have been submitted to the NRC, (2) the three license applications for dry storage of spent fuel at independent spent fuel storage installations (ISFSIs) that have been submitted to the NRC, and (3) the three applications (one of which was later withdrawn) for large-scale storage of consolidated fuel rods in existing spent fuel storage pools at reactors that were submitted tot he NRC. For each of the applications submitted, examples of some of the issues (and suggestions for their resolutions) are described. The issues and their resolutions are also covered in detail in an example in each of the three subject areas: (1) the application for the CASTOR V/21 dry spent fuel storage cask, (2) the application for the ISFSI for dry storage of spent fuel at Surry, and (3) thstorage of spent fuel at Surry, and (3) the application for full-scale wet storage of consolidated spent fuel at Millstone-2. The conclusions in the report include examples of major issues that applicants have encountered. Recommendations for future applicants to follow are listed. 401 refs., 26 tabs
High Temperature Aquifer Storage
Ueckert, Martina; Niessner, Reinhard; Baumann, Thomas
Combined heat and power generation (CHP) is highly efficient because excess heat is used for heating and/or process energy. However, the demand of heat energy varies considerably throughout the year while the demand for electrical energy is rather constant. It seems economically and ecologically highly beneficial for municipalities and large power consumers such as manufacturing plants to store excess heat in groundwater aquifers and to recuperate this energy at times of higher demand. Apart from the hydrogeological conditions, high transmissivity and favorable pressure gradients, the hydrochemical conditions are crucial for long-term operation. Within the project High Temperature Aquifer Storage, scientists investigate storage and recuperation of excess heat energy into the bavarian Malm aquifer. After one year of planning, construction, and the successful drilling of a research well to 495 m b.s.l. the first large scale heat storage test in the Malm aquifer was finished just before Christmas 2014. An enormous technical challenge was the disruption of the carbonate equilibrium - modeling results indicated a carbonate precipitation of 10-50 kg/d in the heat exchangers. The test included five injection pulses of hot water (60 °C up to 110 °C) and four tracer pulses, each consisting of a reactive and a conservative fluorescent dye. Injection and production rates were 15 L/s. About 4 TJ of heat energy were necessary to achieve the desired water temperatures. Electrical conductivity, pH and temperature were recorded at a bypass where also samples were taken. A laboratory container at the drilling site was equipped for the analysis of the concentration of the tracers and the cation concentrations at sampling intervals of down to 15 minutes. Additional water samples were taken and analyzed for major ions and trace elements in the laboratory. The disassembled heat exchanger proved that precipitation was successfully prevented by adding CO2 to the water before heating. Energy recovery during the first pulses was above 35 % and rising. As a side effect of the extremely good hydraulic conditions, the research well was flowing freely with 20 L/s which resulted in a significant mixing of the injected water with formation waters during production. The recovery rates for the tracers were above 60 % depending on the type of tracer.
Gulliksson, H
Present platelet storage media often designated platelet additive solutions (PAS) basically contain acetate, citrate and phosphate and recently also potassium and magnesium. However, there seems to be an increasing interest in developing PASs that can be used also after further reduction of residual plasma content below 15-20% plasma. Inclusion of glucose but also calcium and bicarbonate in such solutions have been suggested to improve platelet (PLT) storage, especially when plasma content is reduced to very low levels. Results from a limited number of studies using novel PAS alternatives have been presented during the last years, such as InterSol-G, PAS-5, M-sol, PAS-G and SAS. Most of them are experimental solutions. The combined results presented in those studies suggest that presence of glucose may be necessary during PLT storage, primarily to maintain ATP at acceptable levels. At plasma inclusion below 15-20%, the content of glucose will generally be too low to support PLT metabolism for more than a few days making glucose addition in PAS necessary. Significant effects associated with presence of calcium was observed in PLTs stored in PAS with 5% inclusion but not with 20-35% plasma inclusion, suggesting that the content of plasma could be of importance. Bicarbonate only seems to be of importance for pH regulation, primarily when plasma inclusion is reduced to about 5%. Reduction in rate of glycolysis was observed in some PAS alternatives containing potassium and magnesium but not in others. Differences in pH or in concentrations of the various compounds included in PAS may be possible explanations. Additionally, novel PAS containing glucose, calcium and bicarbonate does not seem to be associated with improved in vitro results as compared to SSP+ or CompoSol when PLTs are stored with 35% plasma inclusion. The results would then also suggest that excess of glucose in novel PAS environment may not be associated with additional positive effects on PLT metabolism. This review is based on the few publications on novel PAS available, and additional studies would be needed in the future. PMID:24976010
Advanced spent fuel storage pools
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Spent fuel from power reactors is currently stored either in at-reactor spent fuel storage pools or in independent spent fuel storage installations using wet or dry storage technology. Most of the spent fuel generated up to now is stored in spent fuel pools. The assumption that wet storage is expensive due to the need of active cooling systems and generation of waste had caused vendors to look favorable at dry storage systems. One of the latest achievements in wet storage technology is used in FRAMATOME ANP's wet storage facility as currently designed for the new spent fuel storage building at Goesgen Nuclear Power Station Switzerland. It provides a passive cooling system which reliably removes the heat generated by the spent fuel by natural circulation through air cooled heat exchanger. Due to the passive nature of the operating system, the number of active components which require maintenance is substantially reduced. The frequency of maintenance activities can be determined under consideration of actual usage due to advanced acquisition methodology of operational data. This usually leads to a considerable reduction of human intervention and the time needed to act in radiation areas reducing considerably waste generation and dose burden to personnel. Due to the fact that maintenance and repair concepts are available, it can be predicted, if correctly applied, such pools to be operable for extended periods of time. (author)
Study of mined storage caverns
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
All available information concerning 75 mined storage caverns as well as the investigative techniques utilized to determine the feasibility of a cavern site is presented. Potential new storage caverns may be for products such as high or low vapor pressure petroleum products, other chemical products, aid industrial or nuclear waste
Electrochemistry and Storage Panel Report
Stedman, J. K.; Halpert, G.
Design and performance requirements for electrochemical power storage systems are discussed and some of the approaches towards satisfying these constraints are described. Geosynchronous and low Earth orbit applications, radar type load constraints, and high voltage systems requirements are addressed. In addition, flywheel energy storage is discussed.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This article examines the development of the Rocky Point pumped storage project near Gunnison, Colorado. The topics discussed in the article include the state-of-the-art pumped storage technology and a description of the project, permitting challenges in achieving four separate approvals to build the project, and addressing public concerns about the nature of the project
Nanostructured materials for hydrogen storage
Williamson, Andrew J. (Pleasanton, CA); Reboredo, Fernando A. (Pleasanton, CA)
A system for hydrogen storage comprising a porous nano-structured material with hydrogen absorbed on the surfaces of the porous nano-structured material. The system of hydrogen storage comprises absorbing hydrogen on the surfaces of a porous nano-structured semiconductor material.
Tribology of magnetic storage systems
Bhushan, Bharat
The construction and the materials used in different magnetic storage devices are defined. The theories of friction and adhesion, interface temperatures, wear, and solid-liquid lubrication relevant to magnetic storage systems are presented. Experimental data are presented wherever possible to support the relevant theories advanced.
Superconducting energy storage
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Giese, R.F.
This report describes the status of energy storage involving superconductors and assesses what impact the recently discovered ceramic superconductors may have on the design of these devices. Our description is intended for R&D managers in government, electric utilities, firms, and national laboratories who wish an overview of what has been done and what remains to be done. It is assumed that the reader is acquainted with superconductivity, but not an expert on the topics discussed here. Indeed, it is the author`s aim to enable the reader to better understand the experts who may ask for the reader`s attention, support, or funding. This report may also inform scientists and engineers who, though expert in related areas, wish to have an introduction to our topic.
This is the Website of the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR), a high-luminosity 6+6 GeV electron-positron collider at the Wilson Synchrotron Laboratory, Cornell University. Highlights of the site include a searchable index of colliding beam notes (.ps) from 1975 to the present, descriptions and examples of computer codes developed by the lab's Superconducting Radio-Frequency Group, and daily CESR status. Also featured is a page on CESR operating parameters such as bending radius, energy width, beam emittance, etc., and a CESR parameter plot page where users can choose plot style and content (radiation, beam size, or temperature). Some useful information, such as electronic reprints and images, can also be found on the CESR staff pages.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Purpose: To cool irradiated fuels at an early stage and maintain the subcriticality even if water in the pit is removed. Constitution: The storage facility of the invention comprises a space between rack cells for irradiated fuel racks, concrete walls formed by casting and solidifying fresh concrete containing materials of a large neutron absorbing performance to the space between rack cells and pit walls, heat exchangers, conduits for guiding cooling water to below the rack cells, recycling pumps for pumping up the cooling water and plugs for sealing the rack cells. Since those rack cells containing already cooled spent fuels and empty rack cells are sealed with the plugs, cooling water uprises only in the not-cooled fuel racks to perform early cooling. Further, if water is eliminated in the pits, there is no risk that the fuel assemblies reach to the criticality due the presence of concrete walls. (Kawakami, Y.)
Reversible hydrogen storage materials
Ritter, James A. (Lexington, SC); Wang, Tao (Columbia, SC); Ebner, Armin D. (Lexington, SC); Holland, Charles E. (Cayce, SC)
In accordance with the present disclosure, a process for synthesis of a complex hydride material for hydrogen storage is provided. The process includes mixing a borohydride with at least one additive agent and at least one catalyst and heating the mixture at a temperature of less than about 600.degree. C. and a pressure of H.sub.2 gas to form a complex hydride material. The complex hydride material comprises MAl.sub.xB.sub.yH.sub.z, wherein M is an alkali metal or group IIA metal, Al is the element aluminum, x is any number from 0 to 1, B is the element boron, y is a number from 0 to 13, and z is a number from 4 to 57 with the additive agent and catalyst still being present. The complex hydride material is capable of cyclic dehydrogenation and rehydrogenation and has a hydrogen capacity of at least about 4 weight percent.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The storage vessel of the present invention can effectively utilize after heat generated by decay of spent fuels discharged from a reactor. Namely, the storage vessel is constituted with radiation shielding materials and comprises following members. (1) A chamber in which air is circulated and discharged from an air exhaustion port. (2) Storage tubes for containing spent fuels and disposed in the inside of the chamber. (3) An after heat recovering device disposed in the vicinity of an air exhaustion port for recovering the heat transferred from the storage tubes to the air which circulates in the inside of the chamber. Further, the after heat recovering device also comprises a heat exchanger for recovering heat of the air, a heat pump utilizing the recovered heat. The heat recovered by those members can be utilized for air conditioning and supply of warm water to storage facilities and peripheries thereof. (I.S.)
IAEA spent fuel storage programme
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This paper reviews the IAEA's activities subsequent to 1976 when interim storage of spent fuel was recognized as a special need for many Member States. This need resulted from the lack of decisions relating to the management of the back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle. The lack of decisive action can be traced to various economic, political, and technical considerations. The need for interim storage of spent nuclear fuel, regardless of the approach taken for final disposition, has been recognized. The general conclusions of INFCE Working Group No. 6 (spent fuel storage) are: (1) fuel assemblies have been stored in water basins for approximately 20 years with no significant problems, but safety studies should continue; (2) dry storage technique studies that are underway must continue; and (3) additional alternatives for expansion of capacities in existing storage pools are being considered
Optical Storage Developments--Write-Once Media.
Edwards, Ian C.
Discusses the user benefits of write-once optical storage devices; describes typical applications in archival storage, one-off complex instruction sets, and information storage and retrieval systems; and identifies current trends toward standardization of equipment. (CLB)
Nanotechnology for Data Storage Applications
Sarid, Dror; McCarthy, Brendan; Jabbour, Ghassan
This chapter considers atomic force microscopy (AFM) as an enabling technology for data storage applications, considering already existing technologies such as hard disk drives (HDD), optical disk drives (ODD) and flash memories that currently dominate the nonvolatile data storage market, together with future devices based on magnetoresistive and phase change effects. The issue at hand is the question of whether the novel AFM-based storage, dubbed probe storage, can offer a competing approach to the currently available technologies by playing the role of a disruptive technology. Probe storage will be contrasted to HDD and ODD, which are purely mechanical as they are based on a rotating disk that uses just a single probe to address billions of bits of data, and nonvolatile random-access memory (RAM) that has no moving parts yet requires billions of interconnects. In particular, capacity, areal density, transfer rate, form factor and the cost of various data storage devices will be discussed and the unique opportunity offered by probe storage in employing massive parallelism will be outlined. It will be shown that probe storage bridges the gap between HDD, ODD and other nonvolatile RAM, drawing from the strength of each one of these and adding a significant attribute neither of these has; namely, the possibility of addressing a very large number of nanoscale bits of data in parallel. This chapter differs from the other chapters in this book in that it addresses the important issue of whether a given scientific effort, namely, probe storage, is mature enough to evolve into a commercially viable technology. The answer seems to indicate that there is indeed a huge niche in the data storage arena that such a technology is uniquely qualified to fill, which is large enough to justify a major investment in research and development. Indeed, as other chapters indicate, such an effort is developing at a rapid pace, with hopes of having a viable product within a few years.
Isolamento da globulina majoritária, digestibilidade in vivo e in vitro das proteínas do tremoço-doce (Lupinus albus L.), var. Multolupa / Isolation of major globulin, in vivo and in vitro digestibility of proteins from sweet lupin (Lupinus albus L.) var. Multolupa
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Valdir Augusto, Neves; Sinézio Inácio, Silva Jr.; Maraiza Aparecida da, Silva.
Full Text Available Os objetivos do trabalho foram isolar, purificar e estudar algumas propriedades da fraçăo globulina majoritária de tremoço-doce, var. Multolupa; assim como avaliar as características de digestibilidade da farinha e fraçőes isoladas. As fraçőes protéicas foram separadas por fracionamento diferencial [...] com uso de diferentes solventes. A globulina majoritária de tremoço-doce foi isolada, purificada por cromatografia em Q-Sepharose, revelando um único pico de proteína. Apresentou um peso molecular de 162,5 ± 10,0 kDa, determinado por cromatografia em Sephacryl S-300, e subunidades entre 20-70 kDa em PAGE-SDS. A solubilidade em funçăo do pH e concentraçőes de NaCl revelaram curva típica dessa fraçăo. A digestibilidade da proteína da farinha e das fraçőes albumina, globulina e glutelina foi avaliada por experimentos in vitro e in vivo e se revelou alta para a fraçăo globulina, seguida pela glutelina, albumina e farinha. A digestibilidade in vivo da fraçăo globulina, tanto aparente quanto verdadeira, năo diferiu significativamente daquela determinada para a caseína. Apesar da alta digestibilidade da fraçăo majoritária e fraçőes protéicas, a utilizaçăo como única fonte de proteína nas dietas revelou valores baixos de RPLR (razăo protéica líquida relativa), indicando ser insuficiente para sustentar o crescimento dos animais, comparativamente ŕ caseína. Abstract in english The aim of the present work was to isolate, purify and study some properties of the major globulin fraction from sweet lupin, var. Multolupa; as well as to evaluate the digestibility features of flour and isolated fractions. The protein fractions were separated by differential fractionation with dif [...] ferent solvents. The lupin major globulin was isolated, purified by Q-Sepharose chromatography when it showed only one protein peak. The major protein presented a molecular weight of 162.5 ± 10.0 kDa, determined on Sephacryl S-300 chromatography; and subunits between 20 to 70 kDa on SDS-PAGE. The protein solubility in relation to pH and NaCl concentrations showed a typical S-like curve for globulins. The flour and the isolated protein fractions, albumins, globulins and glutelins were evaluated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. The in vitro and in vivo digestibility assays revealed a high digestibility for the globulin, followed by glutelin, albumin and the flour. The globulin in vivo digestibility did not differ significantly from that obtained to casein. Despite the high digestibility encountered for the major protein fraction and protein fractions, the use as the only protein source in the diets revealed low values for RNPR (relative net protein ratio), showing it to be insufficient in terms of sustaining the growth of animals, comparatively to casein.
Isolamento da globulina majoritária, digestibilidade in vivo e in vitro das proteínas do tremoço-doce (Lupinus albus L., var. Multolupa Isolation of major globulin, in vivo and in vitro digestibility of proteins from sweet lupin (Lupinus albus L. var. Multolupa
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Valdir Augusto Neves
Full Text Available Os objetivos do trabalho foram isolar, purificar e estudar algumas propriedades da fraçăo globulina majoritária de tremoço-doce, var. Multolupa; assim como avaliar as características de digestibilidade da farinha e fraçőes isoladas. As fraçőes protéicas foram separadas por fracionamento diferencial com uso de diferentes solventes. A globulina majoritária de tremoço-doce foi isolada, purificada por cromatografia em Q-Sepharose, revelando um único pico de proteína. Apresentou um peso molecular de 162,5 ± 10,0 kDa, determinado por cromatografia em Sephacryl S-300, e subunidades entre 20-70 kDa em PAGE-SDS. A solubilidade em funçăo do pH e concentraçőes de NaCl revelaram curva típica dessa fraçăo. A digestibilidade da proteína da farinha e das fraçőes albumina, globulina e glutelina foi avaliada por experimentos in vitro e in vivo e se revelou alta para a fraçăo globulina, seguida pela glutelina, albumina e farinha. A digestibilidade in vivo da fraçăo globulina, tanto aparente quanto verdadeira, năo diferiu significativamente daquela determinada para a caseína. Apesar da alta digestibilidade da fraçăo majoritária e fraçőes protéicas, a utilizaçăo como única fonte de proteína nas dietas revelou valores baixos de RPLR (razăo protéica líquida relativa, indicando ser insuficiente para sustentar o crescimento dos animais, comparativamente ŕ caseína.The aim of the present work was to isolate, purify and study some properties of the major globulin fraction from sweet lupin, var. Multolupa; as well as to evaluate the digestibility features of flour and isolated fractions. The protein fractions were separated by differential fractionation with different solvents. The lupin major globulin was isolated, purified by Q-Sepharose chromatography when it showed only one protein peak. The major protein presented a molecular weight of 162.5 ± 10.0 kDa, determined on Sephacryl S-300 chromatography; and subunits between 20 to 70 kDa on SDS-PAGE. The protein solubility in relation to pH and NaCl concentrations showed a typical S-like curve for globulins. The flour and the isolated protein fractions, albumins, globulins and glutelins were evaluated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. The in vitro and in vivo digestibility assays revealed a high digestibility for the globulin, followed by glutelin, albumin and the flour. The globulin in vivo digestibility did not differ significantly from that obtained to casein. Despite the high digestibility encountered for the major protein fraction and protein fractions, the use as the only protein source in the diets revealed low values for RNPR (relative net protein ratio, showing it to be insufficient in terms of sustaining the growth of animals, comparatively to casein.
Plutonium storage: Requirements and challenges
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The retirement of large numbers of nuclear weapons will necessitate management of unprecedented quantities of excess plutonium. In addition, surplus material and residues from previous weapon production activities comprise a substantial quantity of concentrated plutonium that exists in a variety of chemical forms. Storage of plutonium for an indefinite period will be necessary until a decision regarding ultimate disposition is made. Selection of the most suitable storage option(s) for this interim period is complicated by technical issues, nuclear proliferation concerns, contingency planning, political factors, and uncertainty regarding the length of the interim period. Options for excess plutonium include storage as intact weapon components and storage as extracted nuclear material. Specific advantages for storage of excess material in a variety of chemical forms have been presented. In this paper, technical issues associated with various storage options are examined with emphasis on relevant physical and chemical properties of candidate materials. Technology and facility requirements for preparing and certifying storage forms are considered and recommendations, based on our assessment of options, are presented
Opportunities in independent gas storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The range of business opportunities currently available for the midstream oil and gas business were discussed with particular focus on storage opportunities. Alberta Energy Co. (AEC) Ltd.'s two midstream business units include AEC Pipelines and Gas Processing, and AEC Storage and Hub Services. These two businesses provide the company with good investment returns, stable cash flow, and some significant strategic synergies with their exploration and production businesses. In 1988, the AECO C Hub in southeastern Alberta was created as an outgrowth of AEC's gas production operations on the Suffield block, where they had depleted gas reservoirs with high rock quality suitable for high deliverability storage. With the AECO C Hub, AEC was able to offer firm storage contracts of from 1 to 20 years, and to introduce short term interruptible parking and lending services, title exchange, a spot price index for greater price discovery, and an electronic nomination system. AEC is currently completing construction of their second commercial storage facility, the Wild Goose project, in northern California. Debottlenecking' the Western Canada supply basin should provide additional opportunities for further expansion not only for AEC but also for other midstream service providers. Opportunities are especially available in the areas of new storage facilities to serve location-specific needs, replacement of declining storage capacity, replacement of retiring facilities, techn replacement of retiring facilities, technological optimization of existing facilities, more flexible, higher deliverability facilities and commercial optimization of existing facilities. A map of the hubs and market centres of North America are included. 5 figs
Lithium ion storage between graphenes
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Chan Yue
Full Text Available Abstract In this article, we investigate the storage of lithium ions between two parallel graphene sheets using the continuous approximation and the 6-12 Lennard-Jones potential. The continuous approximation assumes that the carbon atoms can be replaced by a uniform distribution across the surface of the graphene sheets so that the total interaction potential can be approximated by performing surface integrations. The number of ion layers determines the major storage characteristics of the battery, and our results show three distinct ionic configurations, namely single, double, and triple ion forming layers between graphenes. The number densities of lithium ions between the two graphenes are estimated from existing semi-empirical molecular orbital calculations, and the graphene sheets giving rise to the triple ion layers admit the largest storage capacity at all temperatures, followed by a marginal decrease of storage capacity for the case of double ion layers. These two configurations exceed the maximum theoretical storage capacity of graphite. Further, on taking into account the charge-discharge property, the double ion layers are the most preferable choice for enhanced lithium storage. Although the single ion layer provides the least charge storage, it turns out to be the most stable configuration at all temperatures. One application of the present study is for the design of future high energy density alkali batteries using graphene sheets as anodes for which an analytical formulation might greatly facilitate rapid computational results.
Nuclear materials management storage study
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Office of Weapons and Materials Planning (DP-27) requested the Planning Support Group (PSG) at the Savannah River Site to help coordinate a Departmental complex-wide nuclear materials storage study. This study will support the development of management strategies and plans until Defense Programs' Complex 21 is operational by DOE organizations that have direct interest/concerns about or responsibilities for nuclear material storage. They include the Materials Planning Division (DP-273) of DP-27, the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Facilities (DP-60), the Office of Weapons Complex Reconfiguration (DP-40), and other program areas, including Environmental Restoration and Waste Management (EM). To facilitate data collection, a questionnaire was developed and issued to nuclear materials custodian sites soliciting information on nuclear materials characteristics, storage plans, issues, etc. Sites were asked to functionally group materials identified in DOE Order 5660.1A (Management of Nuclear Materials) based on common physical and chemical characteristics and common material management strategies and to relate these groupings to Nuclear Materials Management Safeguards and Security (NMMSS) records. A database was constructed using 843 storage records from 70 responding sites. The database and an initial report summarizing storage issues were issued to participating Field Offices and DP-27 for comment. This report presents the background for the Storage Study and an initial, unclassified summary of storage issues and concerns identified by the sites
ICI optical data storage tape: An archival mass storage media
Ruddick, Andrew J.
At the 1991 Conference on Mass Storage Systems and Technologies, ICI Imagedata presented a paper which introduced ICI Optical Data Storage Tape. This paper placed specific emphasis on the media characteristics and initial data was presented which illustrated the archival stability of the media. More exhaustive analysis that was carried out on the chemical stability of the media is covered. Equally important, it also addresses archive management issues associated with, for example, the benefits of reduced rewind requirements to accommodate tape relaxation effects that result from careful tribology control in ICI Optical Tape media. ICI Optical Tape media was designed to meet the most demanding requirements of archival mass storage. It is envisaged that the volumetric data capacity, long term stability and low maintenance characteristics demonstrated will have major benefits in increasing reliability and reducing the costs associated with archival storage of large data volumes.
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Limited demand and high cost has prevented the construction of hard rock caverns in this country for a number of years. The storage of natural gas in mined caverns may prove technically feasible if the geology of the targeted market area is suitable; and economically feasible if the cost and convenience of service is competitive with alternative available storage methods for peak supply requirements. It is believed that mined cavern storage can provide the advantages of high delivery rates and multiple fill-withdrawal cycles in areas where salt cavern storage is not possible. In this research project, PB-KBB merged advanced mining technologies and gas refrigeration techniques to develop conceptual designs and cost estimates to demonstrate the commercialization potential of the storage of refrigerated natural gas in hard rock caverns. Five regions of the U.S.A. were studied for underground storage development and PB-KBB reviewed the literature to determine if the geology of these regions was suitable for siting hard rock storage caverns. Area gas market conditions in these regions were also studied to determine the need for such storage. Based on an analysis of many factors, a possible site was determined to be in Howard and Montgomery Counties, Maryland. The area has compatible geology and a gas industry infrastructure for the nearby market populous of Baltimore and Washington D.C.. As Gas temperature is lowered, the compressibility of the gas reaches an optimum value. The compressibility of the gas, and the resultant gas density, is a function of temperature and pressure. This relationship can be used to commercial advantage by reducing the size of a storage cavern for a given working volume of natural gas. This study looks at this relationship and and the potential for commercialization of the process in a storage application. A conceptual process design, and cavern design were developed for various operating conditions. Potential site locations were considered and a typical plant layout was developed. In addition a geomechanical review of the proposed cavern design was performed, evaluating the stability of the mine rooms and shafts, and the effects of the refrigerated gas temperatures on the stability of the cavern. Capital and operating cost estimates were also developed for the various temperature cases considered. The cost estimates developed were used to perform a comparative market analysis of this type of gas storage system to other systems that are commercially used in the region of the study.
Zito, Ralph
Energy Storage: A New Approach presents practical solutions to the problem of energy storage on a massive scale. This revolutionary book describes technologies that include basic chemical concepts that engineers have been practicing for years, but presents new material that could transform the energy industry. Regardless where power is generated from-oil, natural gas, coal, solar, wind, or any of the other emerging sources- energy storage is something that the industry MUST learn and practice. With the world energy demand increasing, mostly due to industrial growth in China
Neutron scattering and hydrogen storage
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
A.J. Ramirez-Cuesta
Full Text Available Hydrogen has been identified as a fuel of choice for providing clean energy for transport and other applications across the world and the development of materials to store hydrogen efficiently and safely is crucial to this endeavour. Hydrogen has the largest scattering interaction with neutrons of all the elements in the periodic table making neutron scattering ideal for studying hydrogen storage materials. Simultaneous characterisation of the structure and dynamics of these materials during hydrogen uptake is straightforward using neutron scattering techniques. These studies will help us to understand the fundamental properties of hydrogen storage in realistic conditions and hence design new hydrogen storage materials.
Troubleshooting vSphere storage
Preston, Mike
This is a step-by-step example-oriented tutorial aimed at showing the reader how to troubleshoot a variety of vSphere storage problems, and providing the reader with solutions that can be completed with minimal effort and time in order to limit damage to work.If you are a vSphere administrator, this is the book for you. This book will provide you with 'need to know' information about the various storage transports that ESXi utilizes, the tools and techniques we can use to identify problems, and the fundamental knowledge and steps to take to troubleshoot storage-related issues. Prior knowledge
Storage of pork by irradiation
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In this paper the study of storage of pork, irradiated with Co-60 gamma rays, is recommended. The changes of the appearance and the main qualitative indexes of pork, irradiated with 1.5 M rad radiation and after two month's storage, were analysed. The evaluation of storage, transportation and nutritional acceptability of the two kinds of irradiated pork products was made. Systematic toxicological tests of rats and dogs, fed with irradiated pork, were given. The comparison of the economic facilitation of refrigerated pork and irradiated pork was made. (author)
Dictionary of Storage Networking Terminology
Hot standby? Beat Effort? Parity Raid? What are we talking about? These are storage networking terms, all defined in the online dictionary provided by Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA). Members of SNIA have contributed to and reviewed this site, with the result being a comprehensive dictionary of common storage networking terms. Each entry has hyperlinked cross references, and many entries include a context keyword. SNIA notes that users should recognize that, in this rapidly evolving field, new terminology is constantly being introduced, and common usage is shifting, so the dictionary is updated regularly.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The present invention concerns a liquid metal storage tank used for an FBR type reactor plant. It comprises a tank main body disposed in a pit chamber, a sealing tub disposed at an upper outer circumferential surface of the tank main body, a roof portion which closes the opening a the upper end of the pit chamber, a sealing partitioning cylinder suspended from the lower surface of the roof and having its lower end extended to the inside of the tub and a sealing liquid metal filled in the tub. The tank main body is kept at a high temperature by the liquid metal while the roof in the upper portion of the pit chamber is kept at a low temperature. Further, since the tank main body and the inside of the pit chamber are sealed by the sealing partitioning cylinder, no large thermal stresses are caused to the wall of the tank main body. Even if hydrogen gases are generated in the tank main body, since they can be released to the inside of the pit chamber, the integrity of the tank can be maintained, even if abrupt pressure elevation is caused in the tank main body. (I.S.)
Conductive lithium storage electrode
Chiang, Yet-Ming; Chung, Sung-Yoon; Bloking, Jason T; Andersson, Anna M
A compound comprising a composition A.sub.x(M'.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.y(XD.sub.4).sub.z, A.sub.x(M'.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.y(DXD.sub.4).sub.z, or A.sub.x(M'.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.y(X.sub.2D.sub.7).sub.z, (A.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.xM'.sub.y(XD.sub.4).sub.z, (A.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.xM'.sub.y(DXD.sub.4).sub.z, or (A.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.xM'.sub.y(X.sub.2D.sub.7).sub.z. In the compound, A is at least one of an alkali metal and hydrogen, M' is a first-row transition metal, X is at least one of phosphorus, sulfur, arsenic, molybdenum, and tungsten, M'' any of a Group IIA, IIIA, IVA, VA, VIA, VIIA, VIIIA, IB, IIB, IIIB, IVB, VB, and VIB metal, D is at least one of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, or a halogen, 0.0001zero. The compound can be used in an electrochemical device including electrodes and storage batteries.
Conductive lithium storage electrode
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Chiang, Yet-Ming; Chung, Sung-Yoon; Bloking, Jason T; Andersson, Anna M
A compound comprising a composition A.sub.x(M'.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.y(XD.sub.4).sub.z, A.sub.x(M'.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.y(DXD.sub.4).sub.z, or A.sub.x(M'.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.y(X.sub.2D.sub.7).sub.z, (A.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.xM'.sub.y(XD.sub.4).sub.z, (A.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.xM'.sub.y(DXD.sub.4).sub.z, or (A.sub.1-aM''.sub.a).sub.xM'.sub.y(X.sub.2D.sub.7).sub.z. In the compound, A is at least one of an alkali metal and hydrogen, M' is a first-row transition metal, X is at least one of phosphorus, sulfur, arsenic, molybdenum, and tungsten, M'' any of a Group IIA, IIIA, IVA, VA, VIA, VIIA, VIIIA, IB, IIB, IIIB, IVB, VB, and VIB metal, D is at least one of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, or a halogen, 0.0001
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Arjun A. Abhyankar
Full Text Available Increasing energy consumption, shrinking resources and rising energy costs will have significant impact on our standard of living for future generations. In this situation, the development of alternative, cost effective sources of energy has to be a priority. This project presents the advanced technology and some of the unique features of a novel solar system that utilizes solar energy for space heating and water heating purpose in residential housing and commercial buildings. The improvements in solar technology offers a significant cost reduction, to a level where the solar system can compete with the energy costs from existing sources. The main goal of the project is to investigate new or advanced solutions for storing heat in systems providing heating. which can be achieved using phase change material(PCM.A phase change material with a melting/solidification temperature of 50şC to 60şC is used for solar heat storage. When the PCM undergoes the phase change, it can absorb or release a large amount of energy as latent heat. This heat can be used for further applications like water heating and space heating purposes. Thus solar thermal energy is widely use
Caracterización electroforética de las globulinas del grano fermentado de tres tipos de cacao / ELECTROPHORETIC CHARACTERIZATION OF GLOBULINS FROM FERMENTED GRAINS OF THREE TYPES OF COCOA / CARACTERIZAÇĂO ELETROFORÉTICA DAS GLOBULINAS DO GRĂO FERMENTADO DE TRES TIPOS DE CACAU
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Ligia, Ortiz de Bertorelli; Henry, Maldonado; Pablo, Parra; Lucía, Graziani de Farińas.
Full Text Available Caracterizaram-se eletroforéticamente as globulinas do grăo fermentado dos cacaus tipo crioulo, forasteiro e trinitário da localidade de Cumboto, estado Aragua, Venezuela, para o qual foram colhidas vagens de duas plantas por cada tipo de cacau, na razăo de tręs frutos por planta, nos lotes El Paraí [...] so, La Vega de Santa Cruz e La Isleta. Vagens săs de cada tipo de cacau foram processadas manualmente para retirada dos grăos e submetidas a um processo de fermentaçăo durante 5 dias. A polpa dos grăos fermentados foi eliminada, e os cotilédones foram secados em uma estufa por 48h a 40°C, seguido de um processo de moenda. As globulinas foram extraídas com soluçăo 0,5M NaCl e analisadas eletroforéticamente por PAGE-SDS unidimensional em gel de placa de poliacrilamida 20%. Os resultados revelaram variaçőes significativas (p Abstract in spanish Se caracterizaron electroforéticamente las globulinas del grano fermentado de los cacaos tipo criollo, forastero y trinitario de la localidad de Cumboto, estado Aragua, Venezuela, para lo cual fueron cosechadas mazorcas de dos plantas por cada tipo de cacao, a razón de tres frutos por planta, en las [...] parcelas El Paraíso, La Vega de Santa Cruz y La Isleta. Mazorcas sanas de cada tipo de cacao fueron desgranadas manualmente y sometidas a un proceso de fermentación durante 5 días. A los granos fermentados se les eliminó la pulpa, y los cotiledones fueron secados en una estufa por 48h a 40şC, seguido de un proceso de molienda. Las globulinas fueron extraídas con solución 0,5M NaCl y analizadas electroforéticamente por PAGE-SDS unidimensional en gel de placa de poliacrilamida 20%. Los resultados revelaron variaciones significativas (p Abstract in english The globulins of the fermented grain of the criollo, forastero and trinitario cocoa types in the Cumboto area, Aragua state, Venezuela were characterized by electrophoresis. Pods from two plants, three fruits per plant, were harvested for each type of cocoa in El Paraíso, La Vega de Santa Cruz and L [...] a Isleta parcels. Healthy pods corresponding to each type of cocoa were manually flailed and underwent a fermentation process for a period of five days. The pulp was removed from the fermented grains, and the cotiledons were dried in an oven for 48h at 40şC. This was followed by a grinding process. The globulins were extracted using 0.5M NaCl and were analyzed by unidimensional PAGE-SDS electrophoresis in a 20% poliacrilamide plate gel. The results revealed significant variations (p
Storage of Weapon Plutonium Waste
International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)
Development of quantitative criteria of suitability of rock massif for safe long-term storage of waste from weapon Plutonium production illustrated by the underground mining working at Krasnoyarsk Integrated Mining and Chemical Works.
Old radioactive waste storage sites
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
After a recall of the regulatory context for the management of old sites used for the storage of radioactive wastes with respect with their activity, the concerned products, the disposal or storage type, this document describes AREVA's involvement in the radioactive waste management process in France. Then, for the different kinds of sites (currently operated sites having radioactive waste storage, storage sites for uranium mineral processing residues), it indicates their location and name, their regulatory status and their control authority, the reference documents. It briefly presents the investigation on the long term impact of uranium mineral processing residues on health and environment, evokes some aspects of public information transparency, and presents the activities of an expertise group on old uranium mines. The examples of the sites of Bellezane (uranium mineral processing residues) and COMURHEX Malvesi (assessment of underground and surface water quality at the vicinity of this installation) are given in appendix
The first two weeks of October have seen storage ring people from accelerator Laboratories throughout the world at CERN to study the fundamental problems of very high energy protonproton colliding beam machines.
ALICE bags data storage accolades
ComputerWorld has recognized CERN with an award for the 'Best Practices in Storage' for ALICE's data acquisition system, in the category of 'Systems Implementation'. The award was presented to the ALICE DAQ team on 18 April at a ceremony in San Diego, CA. (Top) ALICE physicist Ulrich Fuchs. (Bottom) Three of the five storage racks for the ALICE Data Acquisition system (Photo Antonio Saba). Between 16 and19 April, one thousand people from data storage networks around the world gathered to attend the biannual Storage Networking World Conference. Twenty-five companies and organizations were celebrated as finalists, and five of those were given honorary awards-among them CERN, which tied for first place in the category of Systems Implementation for the success of the ALICE Data Acquisition System. CERN was one of five finalists in this category, which recognizes the winning facility for 'the successful design, implementation and management of an interoperable environment'. 'Successful' could include documentati...
Complex Hydrides for Hydrogen Storage
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Slattery, Darlene; Hampton, Michael
This report describes research into the use of complex hydrides for hydrogen storage. The synthesis of a number of alanates, (AIH4) compounds, was investigated. Both wet chemical and mechano-chemical methods were studied.
Photovoltaic power systems energy storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Basically, the solar photovoltaic power system consists of: Array of solar panels; Charge/voltage stabilizer; Blocking diode and Storage device. The storage device is a very important part of the system due to the necessity to harmonize the inevitable time shift between energy supply and demand. As energy storage, different devices can be utilized, such as hydropumping, air or other gas compression, flywheel, superconducting magnet, hydrogen generation and so on, but actually secondary (rechargeable) electrochemical cells appear to be the best storage device, due to the direct use for recharge of the d.c. current provided by the solar panels, without any intermediate step of energy transformation and its consequent loss of efficiency
Analysis of cloud storage prices
Mastroeni, Loretta; Naldi, Maurizio
Cloud storage is fast securing its role as a major repository for both consumers and business customers. Many companies now offer storage solutions, sometimes for free for limited amounts of capacity. We have surveyed the pricing plans of a selection of major cloud providers and compared them using the unit price as the means of comparison. All the providers, excepting Amazon, adopt a bundling pricing scheme; Amazon follows instead a block-declining pricing policy. We compar...
Jenike, A. W.; Carson, J. W.
Reliable feeding of coal from storage bins to process requires the knowledge of the behavior of coal during flow. The study of the flow of bulk solids was undertaken in the 1950's and led to the development of flow ability testing equipment and of the Mass Flow concept of design for reliable flow. The theory has since been expanded to two-phase, solids-gas system, and has found world wide application in the design of storage and feeding systems.
Compressed air energy storage system
Ahrens, Frederick W. (Naperville, IL); Kartsounes, George T. (Naperville, IL)
An internal combustion reciprocating engine is operable as a compressor during slack demand periods utilizing excess power from a power grid to charge air into an air storage reservoir and as an expander during peak demand periods to feed power into the power grid utilizing air obtained from the air storage reservoir together with combustible fuel. Preferably the internal combustion reciprocating engine is operated at high pressure and a low pressure turbine and compressor are also employed for air compression and power generation.
Lithium ion storage between graphenes
Chan Yue; Hill James
Abstract In this article, we investigate the storage of lithium ions between two parallel graphene sheets using the continuous approximation and the 6-12 Lennard-Jones potential. The continuous approximation assumes that the carbon atoms can be replaced by a uniform distribution across the surface of the graphene sheets so that the total interaction potential can be approximated by performing surface integrations. The number of ion layers determines the major storage characteristics of the ba...
Towards a community cloud storage
Liu, Ying; Vlassov, Vladimir; Navarro Moldes, Leandro
Community Clouds, usually built upon community networks, operate in a more disperse environment compared to a data center Cloud, with lower capacity and less reliable servers separated by a more heterogeneous and less predictable network interconnection. These differences raise challenges when deploying Cloud applications in a community Cloud. Open Stack Swift is an open source distributed storage system, which provides stand alone highly available and scalable storage from Open Stack Cloud c...
AB Levitator and Electricity Storage
Bolonkin, Alexander
The author researched this new idea - support of flight by any aerial vehicles at significant altitude solely by the magnetic field of the planet. It is shown that current technology allows humans to create a light propulsion (AB engine) which does not depend on air, water or ground terrain. Simultaniosly, this revolutionary thruster is a device for the storage of electricity which is extracted and is replenished (during braking) from/into the storage with 100 percent effici...
CASTOR: CERN Advanced Storage Manager
Possibly the most ambitious storage system ever created will be used to capture data from the world's most advanced particle physics facility. The European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) will begin operating its Large Hadron Collider in 2007. The system that will collect and manage data from this instrument is described on this page. Documentation about the architecture and operation of the CERN Advanced STORage Manager (CASTOR) is provided.
Advances in information storage systems
Bhushan, Bharat
The series Advances in Information Storage Systems covers a wide range of interdisciplinary technical areas, related to magnetic or optical storage systems. The following nonexhaustive list is indicative of the scope of the topics: Friction, Adhesion, Wear and Lubrications, Coatings, Solid Mechanics, Air Flow, Contamination, Instrumentation, Dynamics, Shock and Vibration, Controls, Head and Suspension Design, Actuators, Spindle and Actuator Motors and Bearings, Structure of Thin Films, Corrosion, Long-Term Reliability, Materials and Processing, Manufacturing and Automation, Economics.This volu
Data Storage Control System Design
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Yury Yurievich Shumilov
Full Text Available The paper presents a methodology for evaluating and improving the effectiveness of storage management during the development of automated control systems. The description of the storage management system in terms of queuing theory is proposed. The model of the system and the criteria for efficient processing of requests to read and write data are provided. The authors also propose the partitioning of stored data and the use of several software solutions to improve the system performance.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The industrial storage of CO2 is comprised of three steps: - capture of CO2 where it is produced (power plants, cement plants, etc.); - transport (pipe lines or boats); - storage, mainly underground, called geological sequestration... Three types of reservoirs are considered: - salted deep aquifers - they offer the biggest storage capacity; - exhausted oil and gas fields; - non-exploited deep coal mine streams. The two latter storage types may allow the recovery of sellable products, which partially or totally offsets the storage costs. This process is largely used in the petroleum industry to improve the productivity of an oil field, and is called FOR (Enhanced Oil Recovery). A similar process is applied in the coal mining industry to recover the imprisoned gas, and is called ECBM (Enhanced Coal Bed methane). Two storage operations have been initiated in Norway and in Canada, as well as research programmes in Europe, North America, Australia and Japan. International organisations to stimulate this technology have been created such as the 'Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum' and 'the Intergovernmental Group for Climate Change'. This technology will be taken into account in the instruments provided by the Tokyo Protocol. (author)
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Gamze Can
Full Text Available Storage of human breast milk by freezing or refrigeration of milk has been recommended especially at some social circumstances of most mothers who are regularly separated from their infants because of work. The greatest fear that has hindered the prospects of in - vitro storage of breast milk for any considerable period of time is the possibility of bacterial contamination and growth of infectious pathogens in the stored milk, there by rendering them unsafe for human consumption. The storage container can influence the cell content of milk, as the cells adhere to the walls of a glass container but not to polyethylene or polypropylene containers. Bacteriological examination of refrigerated milks has proven their safety for human consumption for even up to 72 h. For a storage over longer periods up to 1 month, freezing at - 20 0C could be recommended, but the most preferred method, especially for longer storage would be fresh freezing at - 70 0C, if affordable or available. The nutrient value of human milk is essentially unchanged, but the immunological properties are reduced by various storage techniques. Boiling and microwave radiation have not been recommended. [TAF Prev Med Bull. 2007; 6(5: 375-379
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Gamze Can
Full Text Available Storage of human breast milk by freezing or refrigeration of milk has been recommended especially at some social circumstances of most mothers who are regularly separated from their infants because of work. The greatest fear that has hindered the prospects of in - vitro storage of breast milk for any considerable period of time is the possibility of bacterial contamination and growth of infectious pathogens in the stored milk, there by rendering them unsafe for human consumption. The storage container can influence the cell content of milk, as the cells adhere to the walls of a glass container but not to polyethylene or polypropylene containers. Bacteriological examination of refrigerated milks has proven their safety for human consumption for even up to 72 h. For a storage over longer periods up to 1 month, freezing at - 20 0C could be recommended, but the most preferred method, especially for longer storage would be fresh freezing at - 70 0C, if affordable or available. The nutrient value of human milk is essentially unchanged, but the immunological properties are reduced by various storage techniques. Boiling and microwave radiation have not been recommended. [TAF Prev Med Bull 2007; 6(5.000: 375-379
Lightweight hydride storage materials
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Thomas, G.J.; Guthrie, S.E.; Bauer, W. [Sandia National Labs., Livermore, CA (United States)
The need for lightweight hydrides in vehicular applications has prompted considerable research into the use of magnesium and its alloys. Although this earlier work has provided some improved performance in operating temperature and pressure, substantial improvements are needed before these materials will significantly enhance the performance of an engineered system on a vehicle. We are extending the work of previous investigators on Mg alloys to reduce the operating temperature and hydride heat of formation in light weight materials. Two important results will be discussed in this paper: (1) a promising new alloy hydride was found which has better pressure-temperature characteristics than any previous Mg alloy and, (2) a new fabrication process for existing Mg alloys was developed and demonstrated. The new alloy hydride is composed of magnesium, aluminum and nickel. It has an equilibrium hydrogen overpressure of 1.3 atm. at 200{degrees}C and a storage capacity between 3 and 4 wt.% hydrogen. A hydrogen release rate of approximately 5 x 10{sup -4} moles-H{sub 2}/gm-min was measured at 200{degrees}C. The hydride heat of formation was found to be 13.5 - 14 kcal/mole-H{sub 2}, somewhat lower than Mg{sub 2}Ni. The new fabrication method takes advantage of the high vapor transport of magnesium. It was found that Mg{sub 2}Ni produced by our low temperature process was better than conventional materials because it was single phase (no Mg phase) and could be fabricated with very small particle sizes. Hydride measurements on this material showed faster kinetic response than conventional material. The technique could potentially be applied to in-situ hydride bed fabrication with improved packing density, release kinetics, thermal properties and mechanical stability.
Compartmentalized storage tank for electrochemical cell system
Piecuch, Benjamin Michael (Inventor); Dalton, Luke Thomas (Inventor)
A compartmentalized storage tank is disclosed. The compartmentalized storage tank includes a housing, a first fluid storage section disposed within the housing, a second fluid storage section disposed within the housing, the first and second fluid storage sections being separated by a movable divider, and a constant force spring. The constant force spring is disposed between the housing and the movable divider to exert a constant force on the movable divider to cause a pressure P1 in the first fluid storage section to be greater than a pressure P2 in the second fluid storage section, thereby defining a pressure differential.
40 CFR 280.220 - Ownership of an underground storage tank or underground storage tank system or facility or...
...Ownership of an underground storage tank or underground storage tank system or facility or property on which an underground storage tank or underground storage tank system...OPERATORS OF UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS (UST) Lender Liability...
Seasonal sensible thermal energy storage solutions
Lavinia Gabriela SOCACIU
The thermal energy storage can be defined as the temporary storage of thermal energy at high or low temperatures. Thermal energy storage is an advances technology for storing thermal energy that can mitigate environmental impacts and facilitate more efficient and clean energy systems. Seasonal thermal energy storage has a longer thermal storage period, generally three or more months. This can contribute significantly to meeting society`s need for heating and cooling. The objectives of thermal...
Característica leucocitária, relaçăo albumina/globulina, proteína plasmática e fibrinogęnio de bovinos da raça Nelore, confinados e terminados a pasto Leukocyte characteristic, albumin/globulin relation, plasmatic protein and fibrinogen of bovines of the Nelore race confined and grazing
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Ediane Batista da Silva
Full Text Available Esse trabalho avaliou as mudanças na contagem de leucócitos e algumas proteínas séricas de bovinos confinados e terminados a pasto. De 120 amostras sangüíneas coletadas, 60 foram obtidas de bovinos Nelores machos confinados e 60 de animais com as mesmas características, porém manejados extensivamente. As amostras foram obtidas por ocasiăo do abate desses animais. Os parâmetros estudados foram contagem de leucócitos, razăo albumina/globulina e concentraçăo de fibrinogęnio plasmático. Na análise dos dados empregou-se estatística descritiva, obtendo-se as médias, desvio padrăo e coeficiente de variaçăo para todos as variáveis avaliadas e posteriormente comparou-se as médias por meio de teste năo-paramétrico. Os bovinos terminados a pasto apresentaram maior nível de globulina e fibrinogęnio (P>0,05 quando comparados com os confinados (globulina: pastejo=3,29g dL-1 0,76; confinamento 2,99g dL-1±0,60 e Fibrinogęnio: pastejo=872mg dL-1±610; confinamento=633mg dL-1±319. O número de leucócitos total foi de 7,64±2,15 em bovinos confinados e de 7,72±1,84 nos terminados a pasto. Năo houve diferença (P>0,05 entre essa variável e a contagem diferencial de leucócitos bem como na proteína sérica total (g dL-1 dos bovinos terminados a pasto (6,10±0,53 e dos confinados (5,96±0,49. O nível de albumina dos bovinos confinados (3,01g dL-1±0,43 e a razăo A/G (1,07±8,91 foram maiores quando comparados com os bovinos terminados a pasto (2,82g dL-1±0,45 e (0,95±0,38 respectivamente. O nível mais elevado de albumina nos bovinos confinados sugere que eles foram submetidos a uma dieta nutricional mais adequada. O constante desafio imunológico sofrido pelos animais terminados a pasto pode ter sido responsável pelo elevado nível de globulina e fibrinogęnio. Esses resultados indicaram que, apesar das adversidades que os bovinos confinados săo submetidos, eles năo apresentaram alteraçőes correlacionadas com esse fato.This research aimed to evaluate the changes in the white blood cell count and some serum proteins of confined cattle (CC and grass cattle (GC. From the 120 blood samples collected, 60 were obtained from confined Nelore male bovines and 60 from animals with the same characteristics but managed extensively. Samples were obtained at the moment of slaughter. Parameters studied were the white blood cell count, serum albumin/globulin ratio and concentration of plasma fibrinogen. Descriptive statistics was used in the analysis of the data, and the averages, standard deviation and coefficient of variation calculated for all parameters evaluated. The comparisons between averages were made by non-parametric test. The grazing cattle showed higher levels of globulin and fibrinogen when compared to the confined ones (globulin: GC=3.29g dL-1±0.76; CC=2.99g dL-1±0.60 and Fibrinogen: GC=872mg dL-1±610; CC=633mg dL-1±319. The total number of white blood cells mL-1 was 7.64±2.15 in confined cattle and 7.72±1.84 in grazing cattle. There was no significant difference between this variable and differential white blood cell count as well as the total serum protein (g dL-1 from grazing cattle (6.10±0.53 and confined cattle (5.96±0.49. The level of albumin from confined cattle (3.01g dL-1± 0.43 and the A/G ratio (1.07±8.91 were greater when compared to the grazing bovines (2.82g dL-1±0.45 and (0.95±0.38 respectively. The higher serum levels of albumin found in confined herd suggest that they were subjected to a more adequate nutritional diet. The constant immunological challenge suffered by the GC could be responsible for the elevated serum levels of globulin and fibrinogen. These results showed that although feedlots present a stressful environment they did not show any blood alterations correlated to this fact.
Using fludarabine to reduce exposure to alkylating agents in children with sickle cell disease receiving busulfan, cyclophosphamide, and antithymocyte globulin transplant conditioning: results of a dose de-escalation trial.
Horan, John T; Haight, Ann; Dioguardi, Jacqueline Lagerlof; Brown, Clark; Grizzle, Audrey; Shelman, Chiani; Kanter, Julie; Hale, Greg; Nieder, Michael; Benton, Melody; Kasow, Kimberly A; Abraham, Allistair; Chiang, Kuang-Yueh
High-dose busulfan, cyclophosphamide, and antithymocyte globulin (BU-CY-ATG) is the most commonly used conditioning regimen in HLA-matched related hematopoietic cell transplantation for children with sickle cell disease. Disease-free survival with this regimen is now approximately 95%; however, it produces significant morbidity. We hypothesized we could create a less toxic regimen by adding fludarabine (FLU) to BU-CY-ATG and reduce the dosages of busulfan and cyclophosphamide. We conducted a multicenter dose de-escalation trial with the objective of decreasing the doses of busulfan and cyclophosphamide by 50% and 55%, respectively. Using day +28 donor-predominant chimerism as a surrogate endpoint for sustained engraftment, we completed the first 2 of 4 planned levels, enrolling 6 patients at each and reducing the total dose of cyclophosphamide from 200 mg/kg to 90 mg/kg. On the third level, which involved a reduction of i.v. busulfan from 12.8 mg/kg to 9.6 mg/kg, the first 2 patients had host-predominant T cell chimerism, which triggered trial-stopping rules. All 14 patients survive disease-free. No patients suffered severe regimen-related toxicity. Our results suggest BU-FLU-CY-ATG using lower dose CY could be a less toxic yet effective regimen. Further evaluation of this regimen in a full-scale clinical trial is warranted. PMID:25617808
Radioimmunoassay of ''free thyroxin'' in dried blood spots on filter paper - preliminary observations on the effective differentiation of subjects with congenital hypothyroidism from those with subnormal thyroxin-binding globulin and normal subjects
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In this sensitive, simple method for measuring ''free thyroxin'' (FT4) in eluates of dried blood spots on filter paper by use of a radioimmunoassay kit (Amerlex Free T4 RIA), the measurable range of FT4 is 1.8 to 57 ng/L (equivalent to the concentration in serum), or 7 to 237 fg/tube. The mean coefficients of variation for within assay-within spots, within assay-between spots, and between assays were 5.3%, 5.0%, and 6.2%, respectively. FT4 in blood spotted on filter paper is stable for at least a month when dried and kept at either -200C, 40C, room temperature (about 250C), or 370C. The results for FT4 in dried blood spots correlated closely with the free-T4 concentration in serum (r = 0.99). The method can be used to differentiate cases of primary and secondary hypothyroidism from normal subjects and those with subnormal thyroxin-binding globulin. This method may be useful in screening for congenital hypothyroidism, because sample-retesting is not necessary
Característica leucocitária, relaçăo albumina/globulina, proteína plasmática e fibrinogęnio de bovinos da raça Nelore, confinados e terminados a pasto / Leukocyte characteristic, albumin/globulin relation, plasmatic protein and fibrinogen of bovines of the Nelore race confined and grazing
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Ediane Batista da, Silva; Maria Clorinda Soares, Fioravanti; Luiz Antônio Franco da, Silva; Eugęnio Gonçalves de, Araújo; Liliana Borges de, Menezes; Marina Pacheco, Miguel; Dirson, Vieira.
Full Text Available Esse trabalho avaliou as mudanças na contagem de leucócitos e algumas proteínas séricas de bovinos confinados e terminados a pasto. De 120 amostras sangüíneas coletadas, 60 foram obtidas de bovinos Nelores machos confinados e 60 de animais com as mesmas características, porém manejados extensivament [...] e. As amostras foram obtidas por ocasiăo do abate desses animais. Os parâmetros estudados foram contagem de leucócitos, razăo albumina/globulina e concentraçăo de fibrinogęnio plasmático. Na análise dos dados empregou-se estatística descritiva, obtendo-se as médias, desvio padrăo e coeficiente de variaçăo para todos as variáveis avaliadas e posteriormente comparou-se as médias por meio de teste năo-paramétrico. Os bovinos terminados a pasto apresentaram maior nível de globulina e fibrinogęnio (P>0,05) quando comparados com os confinados (globulina: pastejo=3,29g dL-1 0,76; confinamento 2,99g dL-1±0,60 e Fibrinogęnio: pastejo=872mg dL-1±610; confinamento=633mg dL-1±319). O número de leucócitos total foi de 7,64±2,15 em bovinos confinados e de 7,72±1,84 nos terminados a pasto. Năo houve diferença (P>0,05) entre essa variável e a contagem diferencial de leucócitos bem como na proteína sérica total (g dL-1) dos bovinos terminados a pasto (6,10±0,53) e dos confinados (5,96±0,49). O nível de albumina dos bovinos confinados (3,01g dL-1±0,43) e a razăo A/G (1,07±8,91) foram maiores quando comparados com os bovinos terminados a pasto (2,82g dL-1±0,45) e (0,95±0,38) respectivamente. O nível mais elevado de albumina nos bovinos confinados sugere que eles foram submetidos a uma dieta nutricional mais adequada. O constante desafio imunológico sofrido pelos animais terminados a pasto pode ter sido responsável pelo elevado nível de globulina e fibrinogęnio. Esses resultados indicaram que, apesar das adversidades que os bovinos confinados săo submetidos, eles năo apresentaram alteraçőes correlacionadas com esse fato. Abstract in english This research aimed to evaluate the changes in the white blood cell count and some serum proteins of confined cattle (CC) and grass cattle (GC). From the 120 blood samples collected, 60 were obtained from confined Nelore male bovines and 60 from animals with the same characteristics but managed exte [...] nsively. Samples were obtained at the moment of slaughter. Parameters studied were the white blood cell count, serum albumin/globulin ratio and concentration of plasma fibrinogen. Descriptive statistics was used in the analysis of the data, and the averages, standard deviation and coefficient of variation calculated for all parameters evaluated. The comparisons between averages were made by non-parametric test. The grazing cattle showed higher levels of globulin and fibrinogen when compared to the confined ones (globulin: GC=3.29g dL-1±0.76; CC=2.99g dL-1±0.60 and Fibrinogen: GC=872mg dL-1±610; CC=633mg dL-1±319). The total number of white blood cells mL-1 was 7.64±2.15 in confined cattle and 7.72±1.84 in grazing cattle. There was no significant difference between this variable and differential white blood cell count as well as the total serum protein (g dL-1) from grazing cattle (6.10±0.53) and confined cattle (5.96±0.49). The level of albumin from confined cattle (3.01g dL-1± 0.43) and the A/G ratio (1.07±8.91) were greater when compared to the grazing bovines (2.82g dL-1±0.45) and (0.95±0.38) respectively. The higher serum levels of albumin found in confined herd suggest that they were subjected to a more adequate nutritional diet. The constant immunological challenge suffered by the GC could be responsible for the elevated serum levels of globulin and fibrinogen. These results showed that although feedlots present a stressful environment they did not show any blood alterations correlated to this fact.
Antithymocyte globulin for the prevention of graft-versus-host disease after unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia: results from the multicenter German cooperative study group.
Basara, N; Baurmann, H; Kolbe, K; Yaman, A; Labopin, M; Burchardt, A; Huber, C; Fauser, A A; Schwerdtfeger, R
A total of 155 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) received hematopoietic stem cell transplants from unrelated donors after standard conditioning. Clinical outcome after the use of two different antithymocyte globulins for the prevention of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) was analyzed in a retrospective study as follows: rabbit ATG (Thymoglobulin Sangstat/Genzyme, n=49, median age 42 years, 53% in CR, further ATG-S); rabbit ATG (ATG-Fresenius, n=38, median age 42 years, 58% in CR, further ATG-F) or no ATG (n=68, median age 36 years, 55% in CR). The groups were comparable regarding disease status at transplant, age, CMV status and cytogenetics. Grade III-IV acute GvHD was found in 15% in the ATG and 27% in the no ATG group (P=0.44). The most important independent risk factors for chronic GvHD (cGvHD) were the use of ATG, disease status at transplant and conditioning. cGvHD developed significantly more frequently in no ATG group. With the median follow-up of 34 months, the 5-year survival is 42% for those transplanted in CR. To conclude, these data demonstrate that the transplants performed in CR, with ATG, are associated with a good outcome, low incidence of cGvHD and no increase of relapse. PMID:15821768
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
The concept of a muon storage ring based Neutrino Source (Neutrino Factory) has sparked considerable interest in the High Energy Physics community. Besides providing a first phase of a muon collider facility, it would generate more intense and well collimated neutrino beams than currently available. The BNL-AGS or some other proton driver would provide an intense proton beam that hits a target, produces pions that decay into muons. The muons must be cooled, accelerated and injected into a storage ring with a long straight section where they decay. The decays occurring in the straight sections of the ring would generate neutrino beams that could be directed to detectors located thousands of kilometers away, allowing studies of neutrino oscillations with precisions not currently accessible. For example, with the neutrino source at BNL, detectors at Soudan, Minnesota (1,715 km), and Gran Sasso, Italy (6,527 km) become very interesting possibilities. The feasibility of constructing and operating such a muon-storage-ring based Neutrino-Factory, including geotechnical questions related to building non-planar storage rings (e.g. at 8{degree} angle for BNL-Soudan, and 3{degree} angle for BNL-Gran Sasso) along with the design of the muon capture, cooling, acceleration, and storage ring for such a facility is being explored by the growing Neutrino Factory and Muon Collider Collaboration (NFMCC). The authors present overview of Neutrino Factory concept based on a muon storage ring, its components, physics opportunities, possible upgrade to a full muon collider, latest simulations of front-end, and a new bowtie-muon storage ring design.
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The concept of a muon storage ring based Neutrino Source (Neutrino Factory) has sparked considerable interest in the High Energy Physics community. Besides providing a first phase of a muon collider facility, it would generate more intense and well collimated neutrino beams than currently available. The BNL-AGS or some other proton driver would provide an intense proton beam that hits a target, produces pions that decay into muons. The muons must be cooled, accelerated and injected into a storage ring with a long straight section where they decay. The decays occurring in the straight sections of the ring would generate neutrino beams that could be directed to detectors located thousands of kilometers away, allowing studies of neutrino oscillations with precisions not currently accessible. For example, with the neutrino source at BNL, detectors at Soudan, Minnesota (1,715 km), and Gran Sasso, Italy (6,527 km) become very interesting possibilities. The feasibility of constructing and operating such a muon-storage-ring based Neutrino-Factory, including geotechnical questions related to building non-planar storage rings (e.g. at 8degree angle for BNL-Soudan, and 3degree angle for BNL-Gran Sasso) along with the design of the muon capture, cooling, acceleration, and storage ring for such a facility is being explored by the growing Neutrino Factory and Muon Collider Collaboration (NFMCC). The authors present overview of Neutrino Factory concept based on a muon storage ring, its components, physics opportunities, possible upgrade to a full muon collider, latest simulations of front-end, and a new bowtie-muon storage ring design
Kalisman, M; Kalisman, A
The entire face of modern medical and surgical practice is being significantly affected by the application of technologic developments to the practice of surgery--developments that will tie together such areas as information management and processing, robotics, communication networks, and computerized surgical equipment. The achievements in these areas will create a sophisticated, fully automatic system that will assist the plastic surgeon in many aspects of work, such as regular office activities, doctor-patient interaction, professional updating, communication, and even assistance during the operational process itself. It will be as simple as dialing a telephone today. When it is necessary to consult with other colleagues, a combined vocal and visual consulting network in other medical centers as well as consulting computerized expert systems will be available all day and night as part of the communication services. The plastic surgical expert systems will store valuable information, based on the knowledge of the best human experts, on any important subtopics and will be accessed in a very friendly way. This will be an invaluable tool for the residents in training, for emergency room work, and for just getting a second opinion, even for the more experienced practitioner. All the electronic mail, professional magazines, and any other required professional information will flow between central and personal retrieval systems. The doctor, at a desired time in the privacy and comfort of his or her own home or office, can read the mail, make required changes to suit his or her needs, and store, send back, or distribute information, all in a speedy and efficient manner. The simulation of a planned surgery will give the surgeon the ability to prepare and will prevent difficulties during complicated procedures through the luxury of a dry run, without any sequelae if certain expected outcomes fail to materialize. The preprogrammed control of sophisticated surgical equipment and the use of robotics would generate new operational possibilities for more complicated surgeries, which are now prevented owing to the surgeon's physical limitations. Information urgently required during the operation as a result of an unexpected situation will be available immediately from storage and retrieval systems, and real-time vocal and visual consulting with expert colleagues, often in remote locations, will bring the operations process itself to a new era.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) PMID:3720187
Differential response to sulfur nutrition of two common bean genotypes differing in storage protein composition.
Pandurangan, Sudhakar; Sandercock, Mark; Beyaert, Ronald; Conn, Kenneth L; Hou, Anfu; Marsolais, Frédéric
It has been hypothesized that the relatively low concentration of sulfur amino acids in legume seeds might be an ecological adaptation to nutrient poor, marginal soils. SARC1 and SMARC1N-PN1 are genetically related lines of common bean (dry bean, Phaseolus vulgaris) differing in seed storage protein composition. In SMARC1N-PN1, the lack of phaseolin and major lectins is compensated by increased levels of sulfur-rich proteins, resulting in an enhanced concentration of cysteine and methionine, mostly at the expense of the abundant non-protein amino acid, S-methylcysteine. To identify potential effects associated with an increased concentration of sulfur amino acids in the protein pool, the response of the two genotypes to low and high sulfur nutrition was evaluated under controlled conditions. Seed yield was increased by the high sulfate treatment in SMARC1N-PN1. The seed concentrations of sulfur, sulfate, and S-methylcysteine were altered by the sulfur treatment in both genotypes. The concentration of total cysteine and extractible globulins was increased specifically in SMARC1N-PN1. Proteomic analysis identified arcelin-like protein 4, lipoxygenase-3, albumin-2, and alpha amylase inhibitor beta chain as having increased levels under high sulfur conditions. Lipoxygenase-3 accumulation was sensitive to sulfur nutrition only in SMARC1N-PN1. Under field conditions, both SARC1 and SMARC1N-PN1 exhibited a slight increase in yield in response to sulfur treatment, typical for common bean. PMID:25750649
Storage ring working group report
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Over the last two decades great progress has been made in the development of storage rings with small transverse emittance. It is now a good time to consider the possibility of achieving very short bunches m storage rings. From the perspective of synchrotron radiation source development, there are at least two motivations for obtaining short electron bunches: (1) the generation of sub- picosecond x-ray pulses and (2) the coherent emission of sub- picosecond pulses of far infrared radiation. A useful short-term goal is the experimental study of bunches with 1 ps rms length both at high (approx-gt 1 GeV) and low (approx-lt 150 MeV) electron energies. Experiments on 1 ps bunches are now feasible and can yield new insight into the high frequency impedance of storage rings and the associated phenomena which can result in bunch lengthening. Achievement of 1 ps bunches can also be expected to allow the first observation of coherent synchrotron radiation in a storage ring, in the millimeter wavelength regime. A longer-term objective is the realization of 100 fs bunches. Achievement of this goal not only will advance understanding of storage rings but will open up new opportunities in synchrotron radiation based research at both x-ray and far infrared wavelengths. It is now an appropriate time to carry forward theoretical investigations clarifying the fundamental limitations on bunch length, and to devise schemes to minimize it
Allocations for Heterogenous Distributed Storage
Ntranos, Vasileios; Dimakis, Alexandros G
We study the problem of storing a data object in a set of data nodes that fail independently with given probabilities. Our problem is a natural generalization of a homogenous storage allocation problem where all the nodes had the same reliability and is naturally motivated for peer-to-peer and cloud storage systems with different types of nodes. Assuming optimal erasure coding (MDS), the goal is to find a storage allocation (i.e, how much to store in each node) to maximize the probability of successful recovery. This problem turns out to be a challenging combinatorial optimization problem. In this work we introduce an approximation framework based on large deviation inequalities and convex optimization. We propose two approximation algorithms and study the asymptotic performance of the resulting allocations.
High density energy storage capacitor
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The Nova laser system will use 130 MJ of capacitive energy storage and have a peak power capability of 250,000 MW. This capacitor bank is a significant portion of the laser cost and requires a large portion of the physical facilities. In order to reduce the cost and volume required by the bank, the Laser Fusion Program funded contracts with three energy storage capacitor producers: Aerovox, G.E., and Maxwell Laboratories, to develop higher energy density, lower cost energy storage capacitors. This paper describes the designs which resulted from the Aerovox development contract, and specifically addresses the design and initial life testing of a 12.5 kJ, 22 kV capacitor with a density of 4.2 J/in3 and a projected cost in the range of 5 cents per joule
Spent fuel element storage facility
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Purpose: To always keep water level of a spent fuel cask pit equal with water level of spent fuel storage pool by means of syphon principle. Constitution: The pool water of a spent fuel storage pool is airtightly communicated through a pipe with the pool water of a spent fuel cask, and a gate is provided between the pool and the cask. Since cask is conveyed into the cask pit as the gate close while conveying, the pool water level is raised an amount corresponding to the volume of the cask, and water flow through scattering pipe and the communication pipe to the storage pool. When the fuel is conveyed out of the cask, the water level is lowered in the amount corresponding to the volume in the cask pit, and the water in the pool flow through the communication pipe to the cask pit. (Sekiya, K.)
Optical storage in quantized media
Djotyan, G. P.; Sandor, N.; Bakos, J. S.; Sörlei, Zs.
The schemes of storing of images in quantum states of atoms being used nowadays are based on electromagnetically induced transparency. The images are stored in the collective atomic coherence with the storage time limited by different relaxation processes in the system with the transverse relaxation being the most detrimental among them. In this communication, we present a method of coherent writing of optical information (a transverse image) into the populations instead of the coherences of the metastable atomic states. The method is based on an action of a sequence of frequency chirped laser pulses on an atom with lambda-structure of working levels. Such storage results in drastic increase of the storage time. The reading out of the stored information is performed by measuring the population of one of the metastable atomic states.
Hydrogen energy storage: preliminary analysis
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A preliminary analysis of the energy storage during off-peak periods by means of electrolytic hydrogen has been carried out. Electrolytic hydrogen and oxygen are produced during off-peak hours at low cost and then used to generate peak-power. Hydrogen and oxygen are stored in gaseous or liquid phase. The reconversion to electric power is performed by means of traditional engines or fuel cells. The components considered are either already commercial or mid-term commercial but they are not specifically designed for hydrogen energy storage plants. At any rate, performance achievable in the next future are very high compared with current energy storage systems. 4 figs., 4 tabs., 23 refs
GPUs as Storage System Accelerators
Al-Kiswany, Samer; Ripeanu, Matei
Massively multicore processors, such as Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), provide, at a comparable price, a one order of magnitude higher peak performance than traditional CPUs. This drop in the cost of computation, as any order-of-magnitude drop in the cost per unit of performance for a class of system components, triggers the opportunity to redesign systems and to explore new ways to engineer them to recalibrate the cost-to-performance relation. This project explores the feasibility of harnessing GPUs' computational power to improve the performance, reliability, or security of distributed storage systems. In this context, we present the design of a storage system prototype that uses GPU offloading to accelerate a number of computationally intensive primitives based on hashing, and introduce techniques to efficiently leverage the processing power of GPUs. We evaluate the performance of this prototype under two configurations: as a content addressable storage system that facilitates online similarity detectio...
Onsite storage - projections versus reality
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
In November 1990, the political situation erupted between the States of Michigan and South Carolina, and the Midwest Low-Level Radioactive Waste Compact Commission, over the disposal of low-level radioactive waste (LLRW). As a result of this debacle, the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant and all other radioactive waste generators in the state of Michigan were forced into the temporary onsite storage mode. This paper characterizes the realities of 4-plus years of onsite low-level radioactive waste storage experiences versus our original expectations. Included in this discussion are our initial radioactive material building (RMB) volume and inventory projections, the current RMB volume and inventory statistics, physical limitations, storage issues, and future RMB volume projections. At the time of this writing, the Cook Nuclear Plant is preparing to participate in a mid-1995 joint venture with EPRI for the characterization of several older dry, active waste (DAW) boxes. Characterization will include visual inspections, along with gas sampling and analysis
Nanoconfined hydrides for energy storage
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Nielsen, Thomas K; Besenbacher, Flemming
The world in the 21(st) century is facing increasing challenges within the development of more environmentally friendly energy systems, sustainable and 'green chemistry' solutions for a variety of chemical and catalytic processes. Nanomaterials science is expected to contribute strongly by the development of new nanotools, e.g. for improving the performance of chemical reactions. Nanoconfinement is of increasing interest and may lead to significantly enhanced kinetics, higher degree of stability and/or more favourable thermodynamic properties. Nanoconfined chemical reactions may have a wide range of important applications in the near future, e.g. within the merging area of chemical storage of renewable energy. This review provides selected examples within nanoconfinement of hydrogen storage materials, which may serve as an inspiration for other research fields as well. Selected nanoporous materials, methods for preparation of nanoconfined systems and their hydrogen storage properties are reviewed.
Energy storage in evaporated brine
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
MacDonald, R. Ian
We propose storage of electrical energy in brine solutions by using the energy to enhance natural evaporation. Using properties of existing industrial evaporation technologies and estimates of power regeneration from brine by pressure retarded osmosis, efficiency near 100% is calculated. Modelling indicates that systems ranging from 50kW to 50MW output may be practical, with storage capacities of hours to days. The method appears to have potential to be economically competitive with other technologies over a wide range of capacity. It may present a large new application area that could aid the development of salinity-based power generation technology.
Energy storage for power systems
Ter-Gazarian, Andrei
The supply of energy from primary sources is not constant and rarely matches the pattern of demand from consumers. Electricity is also difficult to store in significant quantities. Therefore, secondary storage of energy is essential to increase generation capacity efficiency and to allow more substantial use of renewable energy sources that only provide energy intermittently. Lack of effective storage has often been cited as a major hurdle to substantial introduction of renewable energy sources into the electricity supply network.This 2nd edition, without changing the existing structure of the
Large energy storage systems handbook
Barnes, Frank S
In the current push to convert to renewable sources of energy, many issues raised years ago on the economics and the difficulties of siting energy storage are once again being raised today. When large amounts of wind, solar, and other renewable energy sources are added to existing electrical grids, efficient and manageable energy storage becomes a crucial component to allowing a range of eco-friendly resources to play a significant role in our energy system. In order to fulfill our intended goal of diminishing dependence on non-renewable sources of energy and reducing our carbon footprint, we
Low energy ion storage devices
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
While high energy physicists have found it expedient to store ions at increasingly higher energies in devices of greater size and complexity, atomic physicists have generally attempted to store ions at ever lower energies, and often in miniaturized containers. However, many of the techniques used at both high and low energies are analogous or related. Three basic means of ion containment have been used: the dc electrostatic trap, the Penning-type trap with uniform magnetic field and quadrupole dc potential, and the radio-frequency quadrupole trap in either the cylindrically symmetric or storage-ring configurations. Each trapping configuration has characteristic advantages or drawbacks for particular measurements. Each method is described
Storage SPAR for deepwater Brazil
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This paper discusses the Chevron Genesis SPAR (floating production system), the first deep water development to utilize a spar configured for full drilling and production capabilities and how it was redesigned to include storage for use in offshore Brazil. Three storage volumes were considered. A general description with schematics and the structural configuration were developed. The suggested system operation is discussed as well as additional items relating to the environment, discharge system, wax / paraffin formation, tank inspection and off loading. This paper should be of interest to those involved with deep water developments in general, and specifically those considering the application of the spar concept. (author)
Seasonal heat storage in aquifers
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Seasonal storage of hot water in natural aquifers (porous layers of gravel sand) may be used to meet part of the demand of a district heating system in the winter season by means of excess heat produced by combined heat and power plants in the summer season. Risoe National Laboratory, Denmark, participates in a joint project on aquifer storage together with laboratories at the Technical University of Denmark and the Geological Survey of Denmark. The project includes geological exploration, construction and test run of a pilot plant and development of mathematical models. (author)
Storage containers for radioactive material
Groh, Edward F. (Naperville, IL); Cassidy, Dale A. (Valparaiso, IN); Dates, Leon R. (Elmwood Park, IL)
A radioactive material storage system for use in the laboratory having a flat base plate with a groove in one surface thereof and a hollow pedestal extending perpendicularly away from the other surface thereof, a sealing gasket in the groove, a cover having a filter therein and an outwardly extending flange which fits over the plate, the groove and the gasket, and a clamp for maintaining the cover and the plate sealed together, whereby the plate and the cover and the clamp cooperate to provide a storage area for radioactive material readily accessible for use or
Optical storage in lithium niobate
Alphonse, G. A.
Holographic storage and retrieval using photorefractive media (electro-optic ferroelectric materials), particularly iron-doped lithium niobate with its enhanced sensitivity, are discussed. Refractive index changes induced by exposure to light render the materials useful for read-write memories and read-write memory simulation. Resolution, dark storage time, write and erase times, reversibility, and noise levels of the materials are examined. The laser source, deflection system, hololens, page composer, and detector array of the holographic memory system are described. High SNR and two orders of magnitude improvement in speed are reported over earlier experimental prototypes, but the system is still too slow to meet practical needs.
Catalyzed borohydrides for hydrogen storage
Au, Ming (Augusta, GA)
A hydrogen storage material and process is provided in which alkali borohydride materials are created which contain effective amounts of catalyst(s) which include transition metal oxides, halides, and chlorides of titanium, zirconium, tin, and combinations of the various catalysts. When the catalysts are added to an alkali borodydride such as a lithium borohydride, the initial hydrogen release point of the resulting mixture is substantially lowered. Additionally, the hydrogen storage material may be rehydrided with weight percent values of hydrogen at least about 9 percent.
Fast storage of nuclear quadrupole resonance signals
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Fast multichannel storage of nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) signals is described. Analog-to-digital converter, arithmetic-logical unit, internal memory device (IMD) selection-storage unit and control unit are the storage main units. The storage is based on 43 microcircuits and provides for record and storage of NQR-signals at the contributed operation with Mera-60 microcomputer. Time of analog-to-digital conversion and signal recording into IMD is ? 1 mks. Capacity of analog-to-digital converter constitutes 8-10 bits. IMD capacity is 4 K bitsx16. Number of storage channels is 4
Energy storage: a review of recent literature
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Recent literature on the technological and economic status of reversible energy storage has been reviewed. A broad range of research and development activities have been pursued between 1975 and the present. Most of this work has concentrated on improving technical and economic performance of previously known storage technologies. Hydraulic pumped storage with both reservoirs above ground and compressed air storage (1 plant) are the only methods that have been adopted by electric utilities. The need for electrical energy storage in Canada has not been acute because of the large proportion of hydraulic generation which incorporates some storge and, in most cases, can readily be used for load-following. Residential heat storage in ceramic room heaters has been used in Europe for several years. For Canadian climatic and market conditions larger, central heating units would be required. Residential heat storage depends upon utilities offering time-of-use rates and none in Canada do so at present. Most seasonal storage concepts depend upon storage of low-grade heat for district heating. The cost of energy storage is highly dependent upon annual energy throughput and hence favours smaller capacity systems operating on frequent charge/discharge cycles over long-term storage. Capital costs of energy storage methods from the literature, expressed in constant dollars, are compared graphically and tentative investment costs are presented for several storage methods
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
To estimate the extent of thermal oxidative aging of the crosslinked and surface coated polyethylene pellets used as a latent heat thermal storage material, their deterioration was investigated by applying the heating-cooling cycle which simulated the daily insolation over 6 months (8-hour holding at 150 deg C as the highest temperature in a day followed by 5-hour holding at 30 deg C as the lowest one). The degradation, e.g., the lowering of heat of crystallization and in crystallization temperature, is thought to be caused by both the decrease in molecular weight of polyethylene due to thermal oxidative decomposition and the crosslinking between produced radicals. With the increase in the degree of crosslinking and branching in a molecular chain which has low bond dissociation energy, thermal deterioration of polyethylene proceeds more rapidly. Polyethylene pellets can endure long periods of practical heat cycling as a thermal storage material when they are treated with radical scavengers under proper control of their crosslinking degrees. The repeating heat storage experiments by using the developed polyethylene thermal storage material were performed and very promising results were obtained. (author)
Information Support for Storage Decommission
International Science & Technology Center (ISTC)
Decision - Making Information Support of Territory Remediation in the Course of Decommissioning Temporary Radioactive Waste Storage Sites in the Northwestern Region of Russia. Elaboration of an Environmental Monitoring System for Enterprises Involved in Treating and Storing Low- and Intermediate- Radioactive Wastes in the Region
Above- and underground storage tanks
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Storage tanks are the primary means of storing liquid, fluid and gas products. Federal and state environmental regulations, as well as local building and fire codes, take into account leaks and spills, tank emissions, underground tank seepage and safety issues, and they define standards for tank manufacturers and owners. For specific regulatory information pertaining to your application, contact the local authorities having jurisdiction. Storage tanks listed within this product guide have been classified as underground or aboveground, with subcategories including modular, process and temporary tanks. Tank construction materials include aluminum, carbon steel, concrete, fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) and stainless steel. A variety of accessories, including automatic tank gauging systems, level monitors, leak detectors, overfill protection and tank inspection systems, also are listed. Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) have less than 10 percent of their tank volume and piping below ground. Available in both vertical and horizontal configurations, they can be either erected in the field or fabricated in a factory. Underground storage tanks (USTs) are primarily used to contain regulated substances; USTs have at least 10% of their tank volume and piping buried belowground. Common UST construction materials include carbon steel, coated steel, cathodically protected steel and FRP. USTs are required to have corrosion protection, spill and overfill prevention and control anill and overfill prevention and control and release detection in place by December 1998
Photon Production Within Storage Capsules
Rittmann, P D
This report provides tables and electronic worksheets that list the photon production rate within SrF2 and CsC1 storage capsules, particularly the continuous spectrum of bremsstrahlung photons from the slowing down of the emitted electrons (BREMCALC).
Development of organic storage system
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Organic Storage System is designed to absorb the massive data flow with low TCO. The system scales unlimitedly to store the data that keeps growing, and undergoes metabolic change to provide data longevity. Its high-data-mobility feature enables quick replication and migration for disaster recovery and self-healing. (author)
Metal Materials for Hydrogen Storage.
Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database
Soukup, Karel; Rogut, J.; Ludwik-Pardala, M.; Wiatkowski, M.; Šolcová, Olga
Prague : JHI, 2008, s. 73-74. [Symposium on Catalysis /40./. Prague (CZ), 03.11.2008-05.11.2008] Grant ostatní: RFCR(XE) CT/2007/00006 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z40720504 Keywords : hydrogen storage * redox of metal oxide * transport properties Subject RIV: CF - Physical ; Theoretical Chemistry
Underground storage of carbon dioxide
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Tanaka, Shoichi [Univ. of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku (Japan)
Desk studies on underground storage of CO{sub 2} were carried out from 1990 to 1991 fiscal years by two organizations under contract with New Energy and Indestrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). One group put emphasis on application of CO{sub 2} EOR (enhanced oil recovery), and the other covered various aspects of underground storage system. CO{sub 2} EOR is a popular EOR method in U.S. and some oil countries. At present, CO{sub 2} is supplied from natural CO{sub 2} reservoirs. Possible use of CO{sub 2} derived from fixed sources of industries is a main target of the study in order to increase oil recovery and storage CO{sub 2} under ground. The feasibility study of the total system estimates capacity of storage of CO{sub 2} as around 60 Gton CO{sub 2}, if worldwide application are realized. There exist huge volumes of underground aquifers which are not utilized usually because of high salinity. The deep aquifers can contain large amount of CO{sub 2} in form of compressed state, liquefied state or solution to aquifer. A preliminary technical and economical survey on the system suggests favorable results of 320 Gton CO{sub 2} potential. Technical problems are discussed through these studies, and economical aspects are also evaluated.
Enhancing hydrogen spillover and storage
Yang, Ralph T; Li, Yingwei; Lachawiec, Jr., Anthony J
Methods for enhancing hydrogen spillover and storage are disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes doping a hydrogen receptor with metal particles, and exposing the hydrogen receptor to ultrasonication as doping occurs. Another embodiment of the method includes doping a hydrogen receptor with metal particles, and exposing the doped hydrogen receptor to a plasma treatment.
Mixed Logic and Storage Operators
Nour, Karim
In 1990 J-L. Krivine introduced the notion of storage operators. They are $\\lambda$-terms which simulate call-by-value in the call-by-name strategy and they can be used in order to modelize assignment instructions. J-L. Krivine has shown that there is a very simple second order type in AF2 type system for storage operators using G\\"odel translation of classical to intuitionistic logic. In order to modelize the control operators, J-L. Krivine has extended the system AF2 to the classical logic. In his system the property of the unicity of integers representation is lost, but he has shown that storage operators typable in the system AF2 can be used to find the values of classical integers. In this paper, we present a new classical type system based on a logical system called mixed logic. We prove that in this system we can characterize, by types, the storage operators and the control operators. We present also a similar result in the M. Parigot's $\\lambda\\mu$-calculus.
Mclean, Robert A.; Duffy, Joseph F.
Optical data storage tape is now a commercial reality. The world's first successful development of a digital optical tape system is complete. This is based on the Creo 1003 optical tape recorder with ICI 1012 write-once optical tape media. Several other optical tape drive development programs are underway, including one using the IBM 3480 style cartridge at LaserTape Systems. In order to understand the significance and potential of this step change in recording technology, it is useful to review the historical progress of optical storage. This has been slow to encroach on magnetic storage, and has not made any serious dent on the world's mountains of paper and microfilm. Some of the reasons for this are the long time needed for applications developers, systems integrators, and end users to take advantage of the potential storage capacity; access time and data transfer rate have traditionally been too slow for high-performance applications; and optical disk media has been expensive compared with magnetic tape. ICI's strategy in response to these concerns was to concentrate its efforts on flexible optical media; in particular optical tape. The manufacturing achievements, media characteristics, and media lifetime of optical media are discussed.
Inductive line energy storage generator
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The inductive energy storage (IES) generator has long been considered to be the most efficient system for energy usage in large pulsed power system at the MA level. A number of parameters govern the efficiency of energy transfer between the storage capacitors and the load, and the level of current deliverable to the load. For high power system, the energy storage capacitors are arranged as a Marx generator. The primary constraints are the inductances in the various parts of the circuit, in particular, the upstream inductance between the Marx and the POS, and the downstream inductance between the POS and the load. This paper deals with the effect of replacing part of the upstream inductance with a transmission line and introduces the new concept of an inductive line for energy storage (ILES). Extensive parametric scans were carried out on circuit simulations to investigate the effect of this upstream transmission line. A model was developed to explain the operation of the ILES design based on the data obtained. Comparison with an existing IES generator shows that the ILES design offers a significant improvement in the maximum current and hence energy delivered to an inductive load. (author). 5 figs., 1 ref
Radiological dose assessment for vault storage concepts
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Richard, R.F.
This radiological dose assessment presents neutron and photon dose rates in support of project W-460. Dose rates are provided for a single 3013 container, the ``infloor`` storage vault concept, and the ``cubicle`` storage vault concept.
...SYSTEM REGULATION Handling, Storage, Distribution, and Installation § 820.150 Storage...other adverse effects pending use or distribution and to ensure that no obsolete...a manner to facilitate proper stock rotation, and its condition shall be...
Energy conservation through energy storage [electronic resource].
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The R&D programme Efficient Energy End-Use Technologies contains 14 different Implementing Agreements (IAs) of which one is the IA on energy storage (Energy Conservation through Energy Storage : ECES IA)
Grains storage using a field technique
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Gourgue, H.
Full Text Available Maize or other grains can be protected from insects during storage by filling empty drums, and adding a few handfuls of dry laterite soil. The tap is then rescrewed. The drum is ready for storage.
Improving wind power quality with energy storage
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Rasmussen, Claus Nygaard
The results of simulation of the influence of energy storage on wind power quality are presented. Simulations are done using a mathematical model of energy storage. Results show the relation between storage power and energy, and the obtained increase in minimum available power from the combination of wind and storage. The introduction of storage enables smoothening of wind power on a timescale proportional to the storage energy. Storage does not provide availability of wind power at all times, but allows for a certain fraction of average power in a given timeframe to be available with high probability. The amount of storage capacity necessary for significant wind power quality improvement in a given period is found to be 20 to 40% of the energy produced in that period. The necessary power is found to be 80 to 100% of the average power of the period.
Investigation of Genetic Variants, Birthweight and Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Function Suggests a Genetic Variant in the SERPINA6 Gene Is Associated with Corticosteroid Binding Globulin in the Western Australia Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study
Anderson, Laura N.; Briollais, Laurent; Atkinson, Helen C.; Marsh, Julie A.; Xu, Jingxiong; Connor, Kristin L.; Matthews, Stephen G.; Pennell, Craig E.; Lye, Stephen J.
Background The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulates stress responses and HPA dysfunction has been associated with several chronic diseases. Low birthweight may be associated with HPA dysfunction in later life, yet human studies are inconclusive. The primary study aim was to identify genetic variants associated with HPA axis function. A secondary aim was to evaluate if these variants modify the association between birthweight and HPA axis function in adolescents. Methods Morning fasted blood samples were collected from children of the Western Australia Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) at age 17 (n?=?1077). Basal HPA axis function was assessed by total cortisol, corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). The associations between 124 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within 16 HPA pathway candidate genes and each hormone were evaluated using multivariate linear regression and penalized linear regression analysis using the HyperLasso method. Results The penalized regression analysis revealed one candidate gene SNP, rs11621961 in the CBG encoding gene (SERPINA6), significantly associated with total cortisol and CBG. No other candidate gene SNPs were significant after applying the penalty or adjusting for multiple comparisons; however, several SNPs approached significance. For example, rs907621 (p?=?0.002) and rs3846326 (p?=?0.003) in the mineralocorticoid receptor gene (NR3C2) were associated with ACTH and SERPINA6 SNPs rs941601 (p?=?0.004) and rs11622665 (p?=?0.008), were associated with CBG. To further investigate our findings for SERPINA6, rare and common SNPs in the gene were imputed from the 1,000 genomes data and 8 SNPs across the gene were significantly associated with CBG levels after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Birthweight was not associated with any HPA outcome, and none of the gene-birthweight interactions were significant after adjustment for multiple comparisons. Conclusions Our study suggests that genetic variation in the SERPINA6 gene may be associated with altered CBG levels during adolescence. Replication of these findings is required. PMID:24691024
Donor killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genotype-patient cognate KIR ligand combination and antithymocyte globulin preadministration are critical factors in outcome of HLA-C-KIR ligand-mismatched T cell-replete unrelated bone marrow transplantation.
Yabe, Toshio; Matsuo, Keitaro; Hirayasu, Kouyuki; Kashiwase, Koichi; Kawamura-Ishii, Sumiyo; Tanaka, Hidenori; Ogawa, Atsuko; Takanashi, Minoko; Satake, Masahiro; Nakajima, Kazunori; Tokunaga, Katsushi; Inoko, Hidetoshi; Saji, Hiroo; Ogawa, Seishi; Juji, Takeo; Sasazuki, Takehiko; Kodera, Yoshihisa; Morishima, Yasuo
We previously reported the potent adverse effects of killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) ligand mismatch (KIR-L-MM) on the outcome of T cell-replete unrelated hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (UR-HSCT) through the Japan Marrow Donor Program. Other UR-HSCT studies have yielded inconsistent results. To address this discrepancy, we evaluated candidate factors contributing to the effects of KIR-L-MM on transplantation outcomes in retrospectively selected hematologic malignancy cases with uniform graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis (n = 1489). KIR-L-MM in the graft-versus-host direction (KIR-L-MM-G) was associated with a higher incidence of acute GVHD (aGVHD; P < .002) and a lower overall survival (OS; P < .0001) only without the preadministration of antithymocyte globulin (ATG). Furthermore, in KIR-L-MM-G, the donor KIR2DS2 gene with the patient cognate C1 ligand was associated with a higher incidence of aGVHD (P = .012). Multivariate analysis by Cox proportional hazard models suggested that donor 2DS2 and ATG preadministration were critical factors in grade III-IV aGVHD (hazard ratio = 1.96; 95% confidence interval = 1.01-3.80; P = .045, and hazard ratio = 0.56; 95% confidence interval = 0.31-0.99; P = .047, respectively). These results indicate that the adverse effects of KIR-L-MM-G depend on combination of donor-activating KIR genotype-patient cognate KIR ligand type and no ATG preadministration, thereby suggesting the importance of these factors in UR-HSCT and in leukemia treatment using natural killer (NK) cell alloreactivity. PMID:18158964
Recovery of antibody production in human allogeneic marrow graft recipients: influence of time posttransplantation, the presence or absence of chronic graft-versus-host disease, and antithymocyte globulin treatment.
Witherspoon, R P; Storb, R; Ochs, H D; Fluornoy, N; Kopecky, K J; Sullivan, K M; Deeg, J H; Sosa, R; Noel, D R; Atkinson, K; Thomas, E D
One-hundred fifty-three recipients of HLA-identical sibling marrow transplants for aplastic anemia or hematologic malignancy were injected with bacteriophage phi X174 (phage), pneumococcal polysaccharide antigen (PPA), or keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH). Antibody levels were determined several times in the 6 wk after injection. Multiple regression techniques were used to determine what factors played significant roles in the antibody response. The most significant factors were the time elapsed from transplantation, chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), and antithymocyte globulin (ATG) treatment. All patients had low antibody responses to all antigens in the first 180 days from transplant. Beyond 180 days patients without chronic GVHD showed antibody responses indistinguishable from those of normal donors. However, patients with chronic GVHD had the following impairments: (1) primary response to phage, (2) conversion from IgM to IgG in secondary response to phage, (3) secondary response to KLH, and (4) response to PPA. ATG treatment given to patients either prophylactically or therapeutically for acute GVHD was followed by lower primary responses to phage in the first 180 days and poor ability to switch from IgM to IgG antibody in the secondary response beyond 180 days postgrafting. Other factors did not yield additional significant information about ability to predict antibody responses including diagnosis, conditioning regimen, treatment in or out of laminar air flow rooms, transplantation, pretransplant refractoriness of the recipient to platelet transfusions from random donors, donor age or donor sex, and steroid administration for treatment for prevention of GVHD. The data indicate that, given enough time after transplantation, the ability to produce normal antibody function recovers except in those patients experiencing chronic GVHD. PMID:6454452
In vitro digestibility of globulins from sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb.) nuts by mammalian digestive proteinases / Digestibilidade in vitro de globulinas das amęndoas de sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb.) por proteinases digestivas de mamíferos
Scientific Electronic Library Online (English)
Sandra Maria Silveira, Denadai; Priscila Aiko, Hiane; Sergio, Marangoni; Paulo Aparecido, Baldasso; Ana Maria Rauen de Oliveira, Miguel; Maria Lígia Rodrigues, Macedo.
Full Text Available Amęndoas cruas de Sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb.) colhidas no Brasil foram analisadas para se determinar a composiçăo centesimal, o perfil de aminoácidos de suas proteínas, a digestibilidade protéica in vitro e a presença de fatores antinutricionais, para avaliar o seu potencial como complemento a [...] limentar protéico. As amęndoas apresentaram quantidades adequadas de aminoácidos essenciais, ácidos graxos e minerais; no entanto, baixo teor de fibra foi observado. No presente estudo, a presença de lectinas ou inibidores de proteinases, quando detectada, apresentou baixos níveis. A digestibilidade in vitro de globulinas, in natura ou aquecidas, por proteinases digestivas de mamíferos foi realizada utilizando-se tripsina + quimotripsina + peptidase, obtendo-se valores aproximados de 71,5 e 73,5%, respectivamente. Estes resultados sugerem que as amęndoas de sapucaia podem ser utilizadas como complemento alimentar de proteínas, sendo um potencial agente nutricional. Abstract in english Sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb.) raw nuts collected from Brazil were analyzed to determine the proximate composition, amino acid profile of protein fractions, in vitro protein digestibility and antinutritional factors in order to evaluate their potential as a protein alimentary complement. The nuts [...] contained adequate amounts of essential amino acids, fatty acids and minerals. In the present study, no hemagglutinating or inhibitory activities were observed in any of the samples investigated, indicating low or non-detectable levels of proteinase inhibitors or lectins in the samples. In vitro digestibility of in natura and heated nut globulins by mammalian digestive proteinases was carried out using trypsin + chymotrypsin + peptidase, with resulting mean values of approximately 70.30 and 71.35%, respectively. Taken together, the results suggest that sapucaia nuts may provide a new source of protein to use as a potential nutritional agent.
In vitro digestibility of globulins from sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb. nuts by mammalian digestive proteinases Digestibilidade in vitro de globulinas das amęndoas de sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb. por proteinases digestivas de mamíferos
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Sandra Maria Silveira Denadai
Full Text Available Sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb. raw nuts collected from Brazil were analyzed to determine the proximate composition, amino acid profile of protein fractions, in vitro protein digestibility and antinutritional factors in order to evaluate their potential as a protein alimentary complement. The nuts contained adequate amounts of essential amino acids, fatty acids and minerals. In the present study, no hemagglutinating or inhibitory activities were observed in any of the samples investigated, indicating low or non-detectable levels of proteinase inhibitors or lectins in the samples. In vitro digestibility of in natura and heated nut globulins by mammalian digestive proteinases was carried out using trypsin + chymotrypsin + peptidase, with resulting mean values of approximately 70.30 and 71.35%, respectively. Taken together, the results suggest that sapucaia nuts may provide a new source of protein to use as a potential nutritional agent.Amęndoas cruas de Sapucaia (Lecythis pisonis Camb. colhidas no Brasil foram analisadas para se determinar a composiçăo centesimal, o perfil de aminoácidos de suas proteínas, a digestibilidade protéica in vitro e a presença de fatores antinutricionais, para avaliar o seu potencial como complemento alimentar protéico. As amęndoas apresentaram quantidades adequadas de aminoácidos essenciais, ácidos graxos e minerais; no entanto, baixo teor de fibra foi observado. No presente estudo, a presença de lectinas ou inibidores de proteinases, quando detectada, apresentou baixos níveis. A digestibilidade in vitro de globulinas, in natura ou aquecidas, por proteinases digestivas de mamíferos foi realizada utilizando-se tripsina + quimotripsina + peptidase, obtendo-se valores aproximados de 71,5 e 73,5%, respectivamente. Estes resultados sugerem que as amęndoas de sapucaia podem ser utilizadas como complemento alimentar de proteínas, sendo um potencial agente nutricional.
Investigation of whether the acute hemolysis associated with Rho(D) immune globulin intravenous (human) administration for treatment of immune thrombocytopenic purpura is consistent with the acute hemolytic transfusion reaction model
Gaines, Ann Reed; Lee-Stroka, Hallie; Byrne, Karen; Scott, Dorothy E.; Uhl, Lynne; Lazarus, Ellen; Stroncek, David F.
BACKGROUND Immune thrombocytopenic purpura and secondary thrombocytopenia patients treated with Rho(D) immune globulin intravenous (human; anti-D IGIV) have experienced acute hemolysis, which is inconsistent with the typical presentation of extravascular hemolysis—the presumed mechanism of action of anti-D IGIV. Although the mechanism of anti-D-IGIV–associated acute hemolysis has not been established, the onset, signs/symptoms, and complications appear consistent with the intravascular hemolysis of acute hemolytic transfusion reactions (AHTRs). In transfusion medicine, the red blood cell (RBC) antigen-antibody incompatibility(-ies) that precipitate AHTRs can be detected in vitro with compatibility testing. Under the premise that anti-D-IGIV–associated acute hemolysis results from RBC antigen-antibody–mediated complement activation, this study evaluated whether the incompatibility(-ies) could be detected in vitro with a hemolysin assay, which would support the AHTR model as the hemolytic mechanism. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Seven anti-D IGIV lots were tested to determine the RBC antibody identities in those lots, including four lots that had been implicated in acute hemolytic episodes. Hemolysin assays were performed that tested each of 73 RBC specimens against each lot, including the RBCs of one patient who had experienced acute hemolysis after anti-D IGIV administration. RESULTS Only two anti-D IGIV lots contained RBC antibodies beyond those expected. No hemolysis endpoint was observed in any of the hemolysin assays. CONCLUSION Although the findings did not support the AHTR model, the results are reported to contribute knowledge about the mechanism of anti-D-IGIV–associated acute hemolysis and to prompt continued investigation into cause(s), prediction, and prevention of this potentially serious adverse event. PMID:19220820
Storage of hemopoietic stem cells
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Pamphilon Derwood
Full Text Available Background: Autologous, and in some cases allogeneic, hemopoietic stem cells (HSC are stored for varying periods of time prior to infusion. For periods of greater than 48 h, storage requires cryopreservation. It is essential to optimize cell storage and ensure the quality of the product for subsequent reinfusion. Methods: A number of important variables may affect the subsequent quality of infused HSC and therapeutic cells (TC. This review discusses these and also reviews the regulatory framework that now aims to ensure the quality of stem cells and TC for transplantation. Results: Important variables included cell concentration, temperature, interval from collection to cryopreservation, manipulations performed. They also included rate of freezing and whether controlled-rate freezing was employed. Parameters studied were type of cryoprotectant utilized [dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO is most commonly used, sometimes in combination with hydroxyethyl starch (HES]; and storage conditions. It is also important to assess the quality of stored stem cells. Measurements employed included the total cell count (TNC, mononuclear cell count (MNC, CD34+ cells and colony-forming units - granulocyte macrophage (CFU-GM. Of these, TNC and CD34+ are the most useful. However, the best measure of the quality of stored stem cells is their subsequent engraftment. The quality systems used in stem cell laboratories are described in the guidance of the Joint Accreditation Committee of ISCT (Europe and the EBMT (JACIE and the EU Directive on Tissues and Cells plus its supporting commission directives. Inspections of facilities are carried out by the appropriate national agencies and JACIE. Conclusion: For high-quality storage of HSC and TC, processing facilities should use validated procedures that take into account critical variables. The quality of all products must be assessed before and after storage.
Electricity Storage for Intermittent Renewable Sources
Rugolo, Jason; Aziz, Michael J.
With sufficient electricity storage capacity, any power production profile may be mapped onto any desired supply profile. We present a framework to determine the required storage power as a function of time for any power production profile, supply profile, and targeted system efficiency, given the loss characteristics of the storage system. We apply the framework to the electrochemical storage of intermittent renewable power, employing a simplifying linear response approximation that permits ...
Thermal Energy Storage Potential in Supermarkets
Ohannessian, Roupen
The objective of this research is to evaluate the potential of thermal energy storage in supermarkets with CO2 refrigeration systems. Suitable energy storage techniques are investigated and the seasonal storage technology of boreholes is chosen to be the focus of the study. The calculations are done for five supermarket refrigeration systems with different combinations of heating systems and borehole thermal energy storage control strategies. The two heating systems analyzed are the ground so...
Efficiency of Compressed Air Energy Storage
Elmegaard, Brian; Brix, Wiebke
The simplest type of a Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) facility would be an adiabatic process consisting only of a compressor, a storage and a turbine, compressing air into a container when storing and expanding when producing. This type of CAES would be adiabatic and would if the machines were reversible have a storage efficiency of 100%. However, due to the specific capacity of the storage and the construction materials the air is cooled during and after compression in practice,...
Which way for Europe's gas storage market?
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This slide show presents in a first part the 2013 Situation of the European gas storage market (Capacity, Gas Demand vs. Gas Storage, Spreads and Volatility, LNG effect, Storage Price, Utilization of Storage Facilities, Security of supply). The future of European Gas Demand and Supply are presented in a second part (Demand and Supply Factors, Market Liberalization, Estimates of European UGS Needs by 2030, Planned Working Gas Capacities in Europe)
Storage States in Ultracold Collective Atoms
Wang, Kaige; Zhu, Shiyao
We present a complete theoretical description of atomic storage states in the multimode framework by including spatial coherence in atomic collective operators and atomic storage states. We show that atomic storage states are Dicke states with the maximum cooperation number. In some limits, a set of multimode atomic storage states has been established in correspondence with multimode Fock states of the electromagnetic field. This gives better understanding of both the quantu...
Superconducting magnetic energy storage, possibilities and limitations
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Energy storage is of great importance for the exploitation of new energy sources as well as for the better utilisation of conventional ones. Several proposals in recent years have suggested that superconducting magnets could be used as energy storage in large electricity networks. It is a purpose of this note to point out that the requirements which have to be met by energy storage in a large electricity network place serious limitation on the possible use of superconducting energy storage. (author)
Development of Seasonal Storage in Denmark : Status of Storage Programme 1997-2000
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Heller, Alfred
National survey on seasonal (thermal, large-scale) storage activities in Denmark. A storage programme under the Danish Energy Agency. Programme background, objectives, activities, projects and results.Technologies presented: Pit water storage, gravel water storage with pipe heat exchangers, lining materials for pit and lid designs.
Pit Water Storage Ottrupgaard : A follow up
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Heller, Alfred
The pit water storage, a seasonal thermal storage, was built in 1993 with floating lid and hybrid clay-polymer for pit lining. The storage was leaking severe and solutions were to be found. In the paper solutions for pit lining and floating lids are discussed, cost estimations given and coming projects sketched.
Field data logger with EPROM storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A data logger using electrically programmable read-only memory for data storage is described. The storage capacity is sufficient to record measurements from eight instruments at 30-min intervals for almost ten days. This approach provides a moderately priced alternative to data loggers using magnetic tape or floppy disks when only modest data-storage capacity is needed
Selection of formulae concerning proton storage rings
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This compilation of formulae concerning proton storage rings covers bunched beams as well as coasting beams. Some formulae are common to both storage rings and proton synchrotrons. Where meaningful, the application of a particular formula to the CERN Intersecting Storage Rings (ISR) is given. (Auth.)
46 CFR 112.55-15 - Capacity of storage batteries.
...2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Capacity of storage batteries. 112.55-15 Section 112...LIGHTING AND POWER SYSTEMS Storage Battery Installation § 112.55-15 Capacity of storage batteries. (a) A storage battery...
40 CFR 761.65 - Storage for disposal.
...2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Storage for disposal. 761.65 Section 761.65 Protection...COMMERCE, AND USE PROHIBITIONS Storage and Disposal § 761.65 Storage for disposal. This section applies to the storage...
Management and storage of spent fuel from CEA research reactors
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
CEA research reactors and their interim spent fuel storage facilities are described. Long-term solutions for spent fuel storage problems, involving wet storage at PEGASE or dry storage at CASCAD, are outlined in some detail. (author)
Synthesis long life storage studies surface storage of vitrified wastes
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This document is realized in the framework of the axis 3 of the law of 1991 on the radioactive wastes management. It justifies the choices concerning long time surface storage installation of vitrified wastes, called high activity wastes. The long time of the installation would reach 300 years at the maximum. These wastes represent 1 % at the maximum, of radioactive wastes in France but 95 % of the whole radioactivity. Three main objectives were followed: provide a permanent containment of radionuclides; give the possibility of wastes containers retrieval at all the time; minimize the maintenance and the control. The results allow to conclude that the long time surface storage of high activity wastes is feasible. (A.L.B.)
Neutrino oscillations and electron-capture storage-ring experiments
Potzel, Walter
Oscillations in the electron-capture (EC) decay rate observed in storage-ring experiments are reconsidered in connection with the neutrino mass difference. Taking into account that - according to Relativity Theory - time is slowed down in the reference frame of the orbiting charged particles as compared to the neutral particles (neutrinos) moving on a rectilinear path after the EC decay, we derive a value of $\\Delta m^{2}_{21}=(0.768\\pm0.012)\\cdot10^{-4} eV^{2}$ for the neutrino mass-squared difference which fully agrees with that observed in other neutrino-oscillation experiments. To further check the connection between EC-decay oscillations and $\\Delta m^{2}_{21}$ we suggest experiments with different orbital speeds, i.e., different values of the Lorentz factor.
Ocean carbon uptake and storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Full text: The ocean contains about 95% of the carbon in the atmosphere, ocean and land biosphere system, and is of fundamental importance in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. In the 1990s an international research effort involving Australia was established to determine the uptake and storage of anthropogenic C02 for all major ocean basins. The research showed that about 118 of the 244 + 20 billion tons of the anthropogenic carbon emitted through fossil fuel burning and cement production has been stored in the ocean since preindustrial times, thus helping reduce the rate of increase in atmospheric C02. The research also showed the terrestrial biosphere has been a small net source of C02 (39 ± 28 billion tons carbon) to the atmosphere over the same period. About 60% of the total ocean inventory of the anthropogenic C02 was found in the Southern Hemisphere, with most in the 300S to 500S latitude band. This mid-latitude band is where surface waters are subducted as Mode and Intermediate waters, which is a major pathway controlling ocean C02 uptake. High storage (23% of the total) also occurs in the North Atlantic, associated with deep water formation in that basin. The ocean uptake and storage is expected to increase in the coming decades as atmospheric C02 concentrations rise. However, a number of feedback mechanisms associated with surface warming, changes in circulation, and biological effects are likely to impact on the upta effects are likely to impact on the uptake capacity. The accumulation or storage-of the C02 in the ocean is also the major driver of ocean acidification with potential to disrupt marine ecosystems. This talk will describe the current understanding of the ocean C02 uptake and storage and a new international research strategy to detect how the ocean uptake and storage will evolve on interannual through decadal scales. Understanding the ocean response to increasing atmospheric C02 will be a key element in managing future C02 increases and establishing stabilisation targets for atmospheric C02. Combined with atmospheric data the ocean research will also provide a major and independent constraint to assess the carbon uptake associated with the land biosphere
Modular design expands applications of pumped storage
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Eastwood, J.E.; Olsen, D. (Pacific Turbine Systems, Inc., San Francisco, CA (US))
Pumped storage is widely recognized as the most efficient available technology for the storage of electrical energy. Escalating regulatory difficulties, together with high costs and long construction times, however, have led many utilities to abandon pumped storage as a resource option. Modular hydroelectric pumped storage (MHPS) is a proprietary design approach revolving around two man-made reservoirs which standardizes major components of plant engineering and construction. Key elements of the design are outlined, new applications of pumped storage resulting from this approach are discussed, and preliminary indications of the effect of the design approach on permitting, costs and schedules are presented.
Nanomaterials for electrochemical energy storage
Liu, Nian; Li, Weiyang; Pasta, Mauro; Cui, Yi
The development of nanotechnology in the past two decades has generated great capability of controlling materials at the nanometer scale and has enabled exciting opportunities to design materials with desirable electronic, ionic, photonic, and mechanical properties. This development has also contributed to the advance in energy storage, which is a critical technology in this century. In this article, we will review how the rational design of nanostructured materials has addressed the challenges of batteries and electrochemical capacitors and led to high-performance electrochemical energy storage devices. Four specific material systems will be discussed: i) nanostructured alloy anodes for Li-batteries, ii) nanostructured sulfur cathodes for Li-batteries, iii) nanoporous openframework battery electrodes, and iv) nanostructured electrodes for electrochemical capacitors.
Corneal storage at room temperature.
Sachs, U; Goldman, K; Valenti, J; Kaufman, H E
Short-term eye banking is based mainly on moist chamber and McCarey-Kaufman medium (M-K medium) preservation. Both involve a controlled 4 C temperature for storage. Warming the cornea to room temperature, however, drastically affects the endothelial viability. On enzymatic staining and histological study, the M-K medium-stored rabbit corneas had more normal endothelium than did "moist chamber" eyes when storage was prolonged for seven days at room temperature. In human corneas that were kept at 4 C for 24 hours and then exposed to a temperature of 25 C, destruction of organelles had occurred by six hours and was increased by 12 hours. Corneas that were kept in M-K medium had relatively intact endothelium after four days, but cell disruption and vacuolation was present by the seventh day. The M-K medium, therefore, affords protection to tissue warmed to room temperature, where metabolic activity is resumed. PMID:350203
Hydrogen storage in nanostructured materials
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Assfour, Bassem
Hydrogen is an appealing energy carrier for clean energy use. However, storage of hydrogen is still the main bottleneck for the realization of an energy economy based on hydrogen. Many materials with outstanding properties have been synthesized with the aim to store enough amount of hydrogen under ambient conditions. Such efforts need guidance from material science, which includes predictive theoretical tools. Carbon nanotubes were considered as promising candidates for hydrogen storage applications, but later on it was found to be unable to store enough amounts of hydrogen under ambient conditions. New arrangements of carbon nanotubes were constructed and hydrogen sorption properties were investigated using state-of-the-art simulation methods. The simulations indicate outstanding total hydrogen uptake (up to 19.0 wt.% at 77 K and 5.52wt.% at 300 K), which makes these materials excellent candidates for storage applications. This reopens the carbon route to superior materials for a hydrogen-based economy. Zeolite imidazolate frameworks are subclass of MOFs with an exceptional chemical and thermal stability. The hydrogen adsorption in ZIFs was investigated as a function of network geometry and organic linker exchange. Ab initio calculations performed at the MP2 level to obtain correct interaction energies between hydrogen molecules and the ZIF framework. Subsequently, GCMC simulations are carried out to obtain the hydrogen uptake of ZIFs at different thermodynamic conditions. The best of these materials (ZIF-8) is found to be able to store up to 5 wt.% at 77 K and high pressure. We expected possible improvement of hydrogen capacity of ZIFs by substituting the metal atom (Zn{sup 2+}) in the structure by lighter elements such as B or Li. Therefore, we investigated the energy landscape of LiB(IM)4 polymorphs in detail and analyzed their hydrogen storage capacities. The structure with the fau topology was shown to be one of the best materials for hydrogen storage. Its total hydrogen uptake at 77 K and 100 bar amounts to 7.8 wt.% comparable to the total uptake reported of MOF-177 (10 wt.%), which is a benchmark material for high pressure and low temperature H{sub 2} adsorption. Covalent organic frameworks are new class of nanoporous materials constructed solely from light elements (C, H, B, and O). The number of adsorption sites as well as the strength of adsorption are essential prerequisites for hydrogen storage in porous materials because they determine the storage capacity and the operational conditions. Currently, to the best of our knowledge, no experimental data are available on the position of preferential H{sub 2} adsorption sites in COFs. Molecular dynamics simulations were applied to determine the position of preferential hydrogen sites in COFs. Our results demonstrate that H{sub 2} molecule adsorbed at low temperature in seven different adsorption sites in COFs. The calculated adsorption energies are about 3 kJ/mol, comparable to that found for MOF systems. The gravimetric uptake for COF-108 reached 4.17 wt.% at room temperature and 100 bar, which makes this class of materials promising for hydrogen storage applications. (orig.)
Advanced optical disk storage technology
Haritatos, Fred N.
There is a growing need within the Air Force for more and better data storage solutions. Rome Laboratory, the Air Force's Center of Excellence for C3I technology, has sponsored the development of a number of operational prototypes to deal with this growing problem. This paper will briefly summarize the various prototype developments with examples of full mil-spec and best commercial practice. These prototypes have successfully operated under severe space, airborne and tactical field environments. From a technical perspective these prototypes have included rewritable optical media ranging from a 5.25-inch diameter format up to the 14-inch diameter disk format. Implementations include an airborne sensor recorder, a deployable optical jukebox and a parallel array of optical disk drives. They include stand-alone peripheral devices to centralized, hierarchical storage management systems for distributed data processing applications.
Energy Storage for Aerospace Applications
Perez-Davis, Marla E.; Loyselle, Patricia L.; Hoberecht, Mark A.; Manzo, Michelle A.; Kohout, Lisa L.; Burke, Kenneth A.; Cabrera, Carlos R.
The NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) has long been a major contributor to the development and application of energy storage technologies for NASAs missions and programs. NASA GRC has supported technology efforts for the advancement of batteries and fuel cells. The Electrochemistry Branch at NASA GRC continues to play a critical role in the development and application of energy storage technologies, in collaboration with other NASA centers, government agencies, industry and academia. This paper describes the work in batteries and fuel cell technologies at the NASA Glenn Research Center. It covers a number of systems required to ensure that NASAs needs for a wide variety of systems are met. Some of the topics covered are lithium-based batteries, proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, and nanotechnology activities. With the advances of the past years, we begin the 21st century with new technical challenges and opportunities as we develop enabling technologies for batteries and fuel cells for aerospace applications.
Microwavable thermal energy storage material
Salyer, Ival O. (Dayton, OH)
A microwavable thermal energy storage material is provided which includes a mixture of a phase change material and silica, and a carbon black additive in the form of a conformable dry powder of phase change material/silica/carbon black, or solid pellets, films, fibers, moldings or strands of phase change material/high density polyethylene/ethylene-vinyl acetate/silica/carbon black which allows the phase change material to be rapidly heated in a microwave oven. The carbon black additive, which is preferably an electrically conductive carbon black, may be added in low concentrations of from 0.5 to 15% by weight, and may be used to tailor the heating times of the phase change material as desired. The microwavable thermal energy storage material can be used in food serving applications such as tableware items or pizza warmers, and in medical wraps and garments.
Soft material for optical storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The aim of transforming electronic networking into optical networking is producing a major effort in studying all optical processing and as a consequence in investigating the nonlinear optical properties of materials for this purpose. In this research area soft materials like polymers and liquid crystals are more and more attractive because they are cheap and they are more easily integrated in microcircuits hardware with respect to the well-known highly nonlinear crystals. Since optical processing spans a too wide field to be treated in one single paper, the authors will focus on one specific subject within this field and give a review of the most recent advances in studying the soft-materials properties interesting for the storage of optical information. The efforts in research of new materials and techniques for optical storage are motivated by the need to store and retrieve large amounts of data with short access time and high data rate at a competitive cost
Electric energy storage - Overview of technologies
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Energy storage is a challenging and costly process, as electricity can only be stored by conversion into other forms of energy (e.g. potential, thermal, chemical or magnetic energy). The grids must be precisely balanced in real time and it must be made sure that the cost of electricity is the lowest possible. Storage of electricity has many advantages, in centralized mass storages used for the management of the transmission network, or in decentralized storages of smaller dimensions. This article presents an overview of the storage technologies: mechanical storage in hydroelectric and pumped storage power stations, compressed air energy storage (CAES), flywheels accumulating kinetic energy, electrochemical batteries with various technologies, traditional lead acid batteries, lithium ion, sodium sulfur (NaS) and others, including vehicle to grid, sensible heat thermal storage, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), super-capacitors, conversion into hydrogen... The different technologies are compared in terms of cost and level of maturity. The development of intermittent renewable energies will result in a growing need for mechanisms to regulate energy flow and innovative energy storage solutions seem well positioned to develop. (author)
Costing of spent nuclear fuel storage
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
This report deals with economic analysis and cost estimation, based on exploration of relevant issues, including a survey of analytical tools for assessment and updated information on the market and financial issues associated with spent fuel storage. The development of new storage technologies and changes in some of the circumstances affecting the costs of spent fuel storage are also incorporated. This report aims to provide comprehensive information on spent fuel storage costs to engineers and nuclear professionals as well as other stakeholders in the nuclear industry. This report is meant to provide informative guidance on economic aspects involved in selecting a spent fuel storage system, including basic methods of analysis and cost data for project evaluation and comparison of storage options, together with financial and business aspects associated with spent fuel storage. After the review of technical options for spent fuel storage in Section 2, cost categories and components involved in the lifecycle of a storage facility are identified in Section 3 and factors affecting costs of spent fuel storage are then reviewed in the Section 4. Methods for cost estimation and analysis are introduced in Section 5, and other financial and business aspects associated with spent fuel storage are discussed in Section 6.
Portable storage and data loss
Farrell, Stephen
Data loss or leakage occurs in many organizations, frequently with significant impacts, both in terms of incident-handling costs and of damage to the organization's reputation. In this paper, the author considers information leakage related to portable storage - for example, your laptop hard-disk - and what might best mitigate that. This article briefly considers some recent incidents, describe practical mitigation steps, and look at how we might plan, in advance, for handling such events.
Nuclear Astrophysics in Storage Rings
Bertulani, C. A.
Nuclear reaction cross sections are usually very small in typical astrophysical environments. It has been one of the major challenges of experimental nuclear astrophysics to assess the magnitude of these cross sections in the laboratory. For a successful experiment high luminosity beams are needed. Increasing the target width, one also increases the reaction yields. But, this is of limited use due to multiple scattering in the target. Storage rings are a very good way to ove...
Complex hydrides for hydrogen storage
Zidan, Ragaiy
A hydrogen storage material and process of forming the material is provided in which complex hydrides are combined under conditions of elevated temperatures and/or elevated temperature and pressure with a titanium metal such as titanium butoxide. The resulting fused product exhibits hydrogen desorption kinetics having a first hydrogen release point which occurs at normal atmospheres and at a temperature between 50.degree. C. and 90.degree. C.
Hydrogen storage and generation system
Dentinger, Paul M. (Sunol, CA); Crowell, Jeffrey A. W. (Castro Valley, CA)
A system for storing and generating hydrogen generally and, in particular, a system for storing and generating hydrogen for use in an H.sub.2/O.sub.2 fuel cell. The hydrogen storage system uses the beta particles from a beta particle emitting material to degrade an organic polymer material to release substantially pure hydrogen. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, beta particles from .sup.63Ni are used to release hydrogen from linear polyethylene.
Neutron scattering and hydrogen storage
Ramirez-cuesta, Aj; Jones, Mo; David, Wif
Hydrogen has been identified as a fuel of choice for providing clean energy for transport and other applications across the world and the development of materials to store hydrogen efficiently and safely is crucial to this endeavour. Hydrogen has the largest scattering interaction with neutrons of all the elements in the periodic table making neutron scattering ideal for studying hydrogen storage materials. Simultaneous characterisation of the structure and dynamics of these materials during ...
ASTRID - the Aarhus storage ring
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
A small heavy-ion storage ring is presently under construction in Aarhus. The ring will be injected with singly-charged low-energy ions from a 200 kV ion accelerator and at a later stage with multiply-charged high-energy ions from an EN tandem accelerator. Conversion of the ring into a synchrotron radiation source by the addition of a 100 MeV microtron electron injector is now in the planning stage. (orig.)