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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 991 records · Page 55

Miniature Bioreactor System for Long-Term Cell Culture

A prototype miniature bioreactor system is designed to serve as a laboratory benchtop cell-culturing system that minimizes the need for relatively expensive equipment and reagents and can be operated under computer control, thereby reducing the time and effort required of human investigators and reducing uncertainty in results. The system includes a bioreactor, a fluid-handling subsystem, a chamber wherein the bioreactor is maintained in a controlled atmosphere at a controlled temperature, and associated control subsystems. The system can be used to culture both anchorage-dependent and suspension cells, which can be either prokaryotic or eukaryotic. Cells can be cultured for extended periods of time in this system, and samples of cells can be extracted and analyzed at specified intervals. By integrating this system with one or more microanalytical instrument(s), one can construct a complete automated analytical system that can be tailored to perform one or more of a large variety of assays.

Gonda, Steve R.↗

NASA Tech Briefs, May 2003

Topics covered include: Using Diffusion Bonding in Making Piezoelectric Actuators; Wireless Temperature-Monitoring System; Analog Binaural Circuits for Detecting and Locating Leaks; Mirrors Containing Biomimetic Shape-Control Actuators; Surface-Micromachined Planar Arrays of Thermopiles; Cascade Back-Propagation Learning in Neural Networks; Perovskite Superlattices as Tunable Microwave Devices; Rollable Thin-Shell Nanolaminate Mirrors; Flight Tests of a Ministick Controller in an F/A-18 Airplane; Piezoelectrically Actuated Shutter for High Vacuum; Bio-Inspired Engineering of Exploration Systems; Microscope Cells Containing Multiple Micromachined Wells; Electrophoretic Deposition for Fabricating Microbatteries; Integrated Arrays of Ion-Sensitive Electrodes; Model of Fluidized Bed Containing Reacting Solids and Gases; Membrane Mirrors With Bimorph Shape Actuators; Using Fractional Clock-Period Delays in Telemetry Arraying; Developing Generic Software for Spacecraft Avionics; Numerical Study of Pyrolysis of Biomass in Fluidized Beds; and Assessment of Models of Chemically Reacting Granular Flows.

Source record↗

Method for Fabricating and Packaging an M.Times.N Phased-Array Antenna

A method for fabricating an M.times.N, P-bit phased-array antenna on a flexible substrate is disclosed. The method comprising ink jet printing and hardening alignment marks, antenna elements, transmission lines, switches, an RF coupler, and multilayer interconnections onto the flexible substrate. The substrate of the M.times.N, P-bit phased-array antenna may comprise an integrated control circuit of printed electronic components such as, photovoltaic cells, batteries, resistors, capacitors, etc. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Subbaraman, Harish↗

Ultra Long-Lived, Self-Surveying Autonomous Air Quality Sensing

Environmental sensing will be key to autonomous vehicle operation and crew health monitoring in tended/untended long-duration habitats for Human Space Exploration in deep space. Small wireless sensors, based on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, can provide unprecedented capacity to monitor crew/habitat health. We develop a next-generation, path-to-flight wireless air quality sensor capable of operating for years on a small coin-cell battery without crewmember intervention. Initial steps are taken to integrate a self-surveying capability under development as a NASA Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) project, though final integration was prevented due to COVID-19 center closure.

Raymond S Wagner↗

Next Generation Batteries for Electric Aviation and Space

Energy storage plays a critical part in the success of future NASA missions that desire batteries with higher energy density, higher power, and most critically improved safety. These performance requirements stretch beyond that of electric automobile markets and are required for enabling widespread adoption of electric aviation. One approach to improve the safety and energy is the transition to non-volatile solid-state electrolytes (SSE) which promise many advantages over traditional flammable liquid electrolytes and may also be an enabling technology for next generation chemistries such as lithium-sulfur (Li-S). However, significant manufacturing challenges must be overcome before the adoption of such technology. This study will discuss the development of solid electrolytes specifically designed to meet future NASA electric aviation targets with densified thicknesses between 20-30 microns derived using solvent processing techniques. Films were produced 10-15 times thinner than comparable bulk cold pressed powder electrolytes and achieved thicknesses comparable to commercial polyolefin separators (25 micron) used in commercial liquid containing lithium-ion cells. Furthermore, design and development of novel cathode composites through integration of experiment and a particle dynamics model will be discussed. Beyond aeronautics, unique challenges and requirements exist for energy storage for space applications, which can cover extreme temperatures and material scarcity for in-situ derived materials. Additionally, this talk will briefly cover the need and development of lunar and Martian derived electrode materials for in-situ manufacturing of energy storage devices.

Batteries↗

A Conservative Finite-Volume Based Interface-Tracking Algorithm Using the Signed Distance Function

Methods for tracking an interface between two fluid phases are developed to ensure desired fluid properties, conservation, and stability are preserved in a finitevolume (FV) discretization. Here, the interface is tracked using a level set method where the signed distance function implicitly defines the interface. Marching methods are used to evaluate the value of the signed distance function, including a novel initialization method to initialize any implicit function to the signed distance function around sharp corners in the level set. Global conservation and consistency with a set of governing equations is enforced by a compression coefficient that measures the volumetric compression or expansion due to inaccuracies in the level set evaluation. A redistribution method is integrated into the volume correction to eliminate the small-cell instability while maintaining global conservation. This suite of methods is implemented and tested using static uniform velocity, and potential flow cases with multiple interface geometries. Results show these methods achieve up to second order accuracy, and are conservative. The application for these methods is intended to track the interface of a 3D printing filament in a finite-volume discretization of the all-speed Navier-Stokes equations.

42 ENGINEERING↗

INTS6 promotes colorectal cancer progression by activating of AKT and ERK signaling

Highlights: • INTS6 is upregulated in colorectal cancer and correlated with poor prognosis. • INTS6 promotes the growth of colorectal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. • INTS6 affects the cell cycle distribution of colorectal cancer cells. • INTS6 activates the AKT and ERK signaling in colorectal cancer. INTS6 (integrator complex subunit 6) has been reported as a tumor suppressor in many cancers. However, the expression and biological function of INTS6 in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been investigated yet. In this study, we found that INTS6 expression was significantly increased in CRC tissues when compared with normal tissues and was associated with poor prognosis. Downregulation of INTS6 induced G1/S-phase cell cycle arrest, and markedly suppressed the growth of CRC cells and the derived tumors, while overexpression of INTS6 showed opposite effect. Mechanism study revealed that INTS6 increased the levels of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT) and ERK (p-ERK), and the growth-promoting effect of INTS6 was inhibited by AKT and ERK inhibitors. Besides, INTS6 also affected the expression of two targets of PI3K/AKT and MAPK signaling, c-Myc and CDK2, which contributed to cell cycle alteration. Altogether, the present study has revealed the oncogenic role of INTS6 in CRC, providing a novel therapeutic target for this malignant cancer.

60 APPLIED LIFE SCIENCES↗

Application of Shift Ex-Core Calculations to a Detailed MSR Model

This report documents the collaborative research conducted between Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) on applying the Monte Carlo neutronics code Shift to calculate the radiation dose rates for a detailed molten salt reactor (MSR) model based on the Molten Salt Breeder Reactor (MSBR). In this work scope, the ANL and ORNL teams worked together and applied Shift to calculate the radiological environments of this detailed MSR facility modeled with explicit geometries. The radiological conditions within the MSR facility were modeled for when the reactor is at two different operation modes: normal full power and drained state. The FW-CADIS hybrid method in Shift was applied successfully to calculate the ex-core neutron and gamma dose rates for the MSBR at full power. Dose rate maps showed that in the current MSBR numerical model, potential pathways exist for neutrons and gammas to stream through the 8-foot concrete shield to reach the top of the MSBR reactor cell. Neutron and gamma dose rates within the drain cell were also calculated for the MSBR at the drained state by integrating the source terms obtained from an ORIGEN-S depletion calculation into the Shift simulation. The results indicate that in the drained state, the delayed gammas from the depleted fuel salt are the main contributors to the dose rates, which suggests that a steel liner in the tank model must be added for calculating the dose rates in the drain cell.

21 SPECIFIC NUCLEAR REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS↗

The 19th Project Integration Meeting

The Flat-Plate Solar Array Project is described. Project analysis and integration is discussed. Technology research in silicon material, large-area silicon sheet and environmental isolation; cell and module formation; engineering sciences, and module performance and failure analysis. It includes a report on, and copies of visual presentations made at, the 19th Project Integration Meeting held at Pasadena, California, on November 11, 1981.

Mcdonald, R. R.↗

Modeling of single-event upset in bipolar integrated circuits

The results of work done on the quantitative characterization of single-event upset (SEU) in bipolar random-access memories (RAMs) have been obtained through computer simulation of SEU in RAM cells that contain circuit models for bipolar transistors. The models include current generators that emulate the charge collected from ion tracks. The computer simulation results are compared with test data obtained from a RAM in a bipolar microprocessor chip. This methodology is applicable to other bipolar integrated circuit constructions in addition to RAM cells.

Zoutendyk, J. A.↗

Bi-fated tendon-to-bone attachment cells are regulated by shared enhancers and KLF transcription factors

The mechanical challenge of attaching elastic tendons to stiff bones is solved by the formation of a unique transitional tissue. Here, we show that murine tendon-to-bone attachment cells are bi-fated, activating a mixture of chondrocyte and tenocyte transcriptomes, under regulation of shared regulatory elements and Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) transcription factors. High-throughput bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of humeral attachment cells revealed expression of hundreds of chondrogenic and tenogenic genes, which was validated by in situ hybridization and single-molecule ISH. ATAC sequencing showed that attachment cells share accessible intergenic chromatin areas with either tenocytes or chondrocytes. Epigenomic analysis revealed enhancer signatures for most of these regions. Transgenic mouse enhancer reporter assays verified the shared activity of some of these enhancers. Finally, integrative chromatin and motif analyses and transcriptomic data implicated KLFs as regulators of attachment cells. Indeed, blocking expression of both Klf2 and Klf4 in developing limb mesenchyme impaired their differentiation.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Correlative single-cell hard X-ray computed tomography and X-ray fluorescence imaging

Abstract X-ray computed tomography (XCT) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging are two non-invasive imaging techniques to study cellular structures and chemical element distributions, respectively. However, correlative X-ray computed tomography and fluorescence imaging for the same cell have yet to be routinely realized due to challenges in sample preparation and X-ray radiation damage. Here we report an integrated experimental and computational workflow for achieving correlative multi-modality X-ray imaging of a single cell. The method consists of the preparation of radiation-resistant single-cell samples using live-cell imaging-assisted chemical fixation and freeze-drying procedures, targeting and labeling cells for correlative XCT and XRF measurement, and computational reconstruction of the correlative and multi-modality images. With XCT, cellular structures including the overall structure and intracellular organelles are visualized, while XRF imaging reveals the distribution of multiple chemical elements within the same cell. Our correlative method demonstrates the feasibility and broad applicability of using X-rays to understand cellular structures and the roles of chemical elements and related proteins in signaling and other biological processes.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Transcriptional network orchestrating regional patterning of cortical progenitors

We uncovered a transcription factor (TF) network that regulates cortical regional patterning in radial glial stem cells. Screening the expression of hundreds of TFs in the developing mouse cortex identified 38 TFs that are expressed in gradients in the ventricular zone (VZ). We tested whether their cortical expression was altered in mutant mice with known patterning defects (Emx2, Nr2f1, and Pax6), which enabled us to define a cortical regionalization TF network (CRTFN). To identify genomic programming underlying this network, we performed TF ChIP-seq and chromatin-looping conformation to identify enhancer–gene interactions. To map enhancers involved in regional patterning of cortical progenitors, we performed assays for epigenomic marks and DNA accessibility in VZ cells purified from wild-type and patterning mutant mice. This integrated approach has identified a CRTFN and VZ enhancers involved in cortical regional patterning in the mouse.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

Fermi liquid viscosity in a finite geometry

Forced flow of a Fermi liquid is studied for a cell geometry consisting of two planes with a separation on the order of mean free path. An approximate transport equation is used to derive an integral equation for the velocity profile, which is solved numerically. Results for the total flux through the cell, which determines the dissipation, are given as a function of the Knudsen number N (ratio of cell thickness to mean free path). Effects of specular reflection at the boundaries are considered. It is found that the dissipation has a minimum at N approximately equal to 1/2, and behaves linearly for N greater than or equal to 3. Implications for present experimentation are discussed.

Jaffe, J. E.↗

Proceedings of the 24th Project Integration Meeting

Progress made by the Flat-Plate Solar Array Project is described. Reports on silicon sheet growth and characterization, silicon material, process development, high-efficiency cells, environmental isolation, engineering sciences, and reliability physics are presented along with copies of visual presentations made at the 24th Project Integration Meeting.

Tustin, D.↗

Li/CFx Cells Optimized for Low-Temperature Operation

Some developments reported in prior NASA Tech Briefs articles on primary electrochemical power cells containing lithium anodes and fluorinated carbonaceous (CFx) cathodes have been combined to yield a product line of cells optimized for relatively-high-current operation at low temperatures at which commercial lithium-based cells become useless. These developments have involved modifications of the chemistry of commercial Li/CFx cells and batteries, which are not suitable for high-current and low-temperature applications because they are current-limited and their maximum discharge rates decrease with decreasing temperature. One of two developments that constitute the present combination is, itself, a combination of developments: (1) the use of sub-fluorinated carbonaceous (CFx wherein x<1) cathode material, (2) making the cathodes thinner than in most commercial units, and (3) using non-aqueous electrolytes formulated especially to enhance low-temperature performance. This combination of developments was described in more detail in High-Energy-Density, Low- Temperature Li/CFx Primary Cells (NPO-43219), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 31, No. 7 (July 2007), page 43. The other development included in the present combination is the use of an anion receptor as an electrolyte additive, as described in the immediately preceding article, "Additive for Low-Temperature Operation of Li-(CF)n Cells" (NPO- 43579). A typical cell according to the present combination of developments contains an anion-receptor additive solvated in an electrolyte that comprises LiBF4 dissolved at a concentration of 0.5 M in a mixture of four volume parts of 1,2 dimethoxyethane with one volume part of propylene carbonate. The proportion, x, of fluorine in the cathode in such a cell lies between 0.5 and 0.9. The best of such cells fabricated to date have exhibited discharge capacities as large as 0.6 A h per gram at a temperature of 50 C when discharged at a rate of C/5 (where C is the magnitude of the current, integrated for one hour, that would amount to the nominal charge capacity of a cell).

Smart, Marshall C.↗

High voltage solar cell power generating system

A laboratory solar power system regulated by on-panel switches has been delivered for operating high power (3 kW), high voltage (15,000 volt) loads (communication tubes, ion thrusters). The modular system consists of 26 solar arrays, each with an integral light source and cooling system. A typical array contains 2,560 series-connected cells. Each light source consists of twenty 500-watt tungsten iodide lamps providing plus or minus 5 percent uniformity at one solar constant. An array temperature of less than 40 C is achieved using an infrared filter, a water-cooled plate, a vacuum hold-down system, and air flushing.

Levy, E., Jr.↗

Overview of the Life Science Glovebox (LSG) Facility and the Research Performed in the LSG

The Life Science Glovebox (LSG) is a rack facility currently under development with a projected availability for International Space Station (ISS) utilization in the FY2018 timeframe. Development of the LSG is being managed by the Marshal Space Flight Center (MSFC) with support from Ames Research Center (ARC) and Johnson Space Center (JSC). The MSFC will continue management of LSG operations, payload integration, and sustaining following delivery to the ISS. The LSG will accommodate life science and technology investigations in a "workbench" type environment. The facility has a.Ii enclosed working volume that is held at a negative pressure with respect to the crew living area. This allows the facility to provide two levels of containment for handling Biohazard Level II and lower biological materials. This containment approach protects the crew from possible hazardous operations that take place inside the LSG work volume. Research investigations operating inside the LSG are provided approximately 15 cubic feet of enclosed work space, 350 watts of28Vdc and l IOVac power (combined), video and data recording, and real time downlink. These capabilities will make the LSG a highly utilized facility on ISS. The LSG will be used for biological studies including rodent research and cell biology. The LSG facility is operated by the Payloads Operations Integration Center at MSFC. Payloads may also operate remotely from different telescience centers located in the United States and different countries. The Investigative Payload Integration Manager (IPIM) is the focal to assist organizations that have payloads operating in the LSG facility. NASA provides an LSG qualification unit for payload developers to verify that their hardware is operating properly before actual operation on the ISS. This poster will provide an overview of the LSG facility and a synopsis of the research that will be accomplished in the LSG. The authors would like to acknowledge Ames Research Center, Johnson Space Center, Teledyne Brown Engineering, MOOG-Bradford Engineering and the entire LSG Team for their inputs into this abstract.

Cole, J. Michael↗